Courtsleet – Hope’s Apparition (2014)

Arriving from Gavin Turner (ex- A Forest of Stars), today we have one-man Courtsleet and ‘their’ two-track debut EP: “Hope’s Apparition”. In this intense release we get a perfect combination of atmospheric Casacadian-like Black Metal with some Shoegazing thrown into the mix. For all fans of Austere, Wolves in the Throne Room, etc., this EP will blow you away.

Opening with the 10-minute monolithic “What Was I When Your Journey Began?”, Courtsleet slowly builds up momentum with creepy atmospherics and very precise songwriting. The band’s sound is both raw and melodic, allowing the melodic elements to seep in through the savage Black Metal riffs, picture Wolves in the Throne Room meets An Autumn for Crippled Children.

The second track in this release is a darker and more intense piece named “Proplyd for a Lifelong Nostalgia”. This song is defined by crushing drumming, relentless riffing, and a very thick and oppressive atmosphere. Being the heaviest (and longest) track of this EP, we are quite pleased on how well Courtsleet composes and develops its songs, making them emotional rollercoasters from beginning to end.

If you like Black Metal with a super thick layer of atmosphere and are a fan of acts like Austere, WIITR, etc., Courtsleet is one name you should keep an eye out for. With a relentless approach to songwriting and excellent instrumentation, “Hope’s Apparition” is one of those releases that will grab you by the throat and never let go. So go and pick up the digital version of this release at the band’s bandcamp and start enjoying.

Label: Self-Released

Release: January 14th, 2014

Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal

Country: UK