Black Absinthe is a heavy metal trio from Canada. “On Earth Or In Hell” is the band’s second album, following the release of their debut album, “Early Signs of Denial,” in 2016. In addition to these albums, the band has also released two EPs and a live album in 2012 and 2014. Now, I am taking on the tough task of reviewing “On Earth Or In Hell,” and it’s no easy job. It’s simply challenging to listen through the entire album – as this is rather poor stuff. Even though it’s not so bad that it’s painful to listen to, the band plays decently, and there are some riffs here and there that work. But the vocals are hard to digest, and the songs are generally of mediocre quality. It gets a bit better as the album progresses when vocalist Jack Cerre starts growling, as it adds better dynamics. There are also some thrash riffs that work well. It’s a shame they don’t stick to this style throughout the whole album, because as it is now, I lose interest in listening to the record. Someone should advise the band on what they excel at and what doesn’t work. If they could weed out their flaws, perhaps Black Absinthe would have functioned well enough for one to endure listening to “On Earth Or In Hell”.
Released March 27th, 2024 independently.
Hell on Earth Metal Zine 