One could say the Chapter III is Agathodaimon’s moment of truth. In 1998 this German blackmetal act took the scene by storm and was soon to be labelled as the new sensation in the scene. Therefore expectations for their second album Higher Art of Rebellion ran high and unfortunately the album didn’t bring what many had hoped for. One of major factors being the rather demo-like production. Two years later Agathodaimon is back and to reassure all fans at once..yes the production is completely conform modern day (black)metal standards as the album was recorded in the same studio as Blacken the Angel. But is Chapter III also conform the standards of their debut album? The most obvious difference is the fact that the songs on the new album are more compact (‘An Angel’s Funeral’) and in general very catchy (‘Spirit Soldier’ and ‘Past Shadows’).

The nine tracks form a unity in which the predominant factor is the gothic-like atmosphere. Also more emphasis has been put on the Akaias’ clean vocals (‘Departure’). But the music remains firmly rooted in blackmetal (‘Paradise Beyond’ and ‘Burden of Time’) and their urge to experiment is still there. ‘Sacred Divinity’ sets the listener off on the wrong foot as it starts out as an almost Marillion-like ballad. Agathodaimon has managed to create a mature and well-balanced third album that will satisfy their fans but that will also appeal to a broader audience and I think that they have therefore succeeded in at least equalling their debutalbum musical-wise. I’ll leave it up to the listener to decide which is best!