The King's Eternal Reign: A Review of Burned in Effigy's 'Tyrannus Aeternum'
The king has risen from the ashes, but has he evolved or merely become a shadow of his former glory?
Holdeneye's review of Burned in Effigy's debut, Rex Mortem, praised its unique blend of brutality and beauty, leaving fans eager for more. But with their second album, Tyrannus Aeternum, the band faces the challenge of surpassing their own masterpiece.
Here's the twist: while the album delivers more songs, it falls short of the neoclassical riffs that made their debut so captivating. The band's inspiration from The Black Dahlia Murder is evident, perhaps too much so, with tracks like 'Masquerade' echoing their influence. But is imitation the sincerest form of flattery, or does it hinder the band's originality?
Despite this, the album has its moments. The first half showcases energetic songs with concise structures, though they lack the punch of their predecessor. The dual guitar work and Smedy's vocal prowess continue to impress, especially on tracks like 'Sacrificial Seance' and 'Monstrosity Reborn'.
But here's where it gets controversial: Tyrannus Aeternum suffers from bloat. Clocking in at 45 minutes, the album's length is not the issue, but rather the songs' inability to maintain the 3-4 minute sweet spot of the debut. The second half drags on, delving into death-doom territory, and some tracks fail to engage, lacking the hooks that make a song memorable.
The album's saving grace comes in the form of 'Wage of Exile' and the exceptional 'The Racking'. These tracks harken back to the band's neo-classical roots, showcasing their musical prowess and experimentation. The one-minute interludes, 'Procession' and 'Gallows Hymn', add a unique touch, leaving listeners wanting more.
This album is a conundrum. While it has its strengths, it falls short of the high bar set by Rex Mortem. It's as if the band is searching for its identity, caught between homage and innovation. And this is the part most people miss—should a band stay true to their roots or evolve at the risk of losing their essence?
Rating: 2.5/5.0
DR: 8 | Format: 320 kbps mp3
Self-released, Burned in Effigy's 'Tyrannus Aeternum' is set to intrigue and divide fans when it drops on October 31st, 2025. Will it be a trick or a treat? Only time will tell. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
