Even though Cross Bringer originally hails from Russia, the band consists of members from different parts of the world.
Vocalist Lina is known as the relentless frontwoman of Predatory Void, while on this record, drums are handled by Michael Kadnar, whom we know from Downfall of Gaia. Tim de Gieter (Doodseskader and ex-Amenra) was also involved in the vocal production, which makes sense since Lina lives in Belgium while the rest of the band is scattered elsewhere.
Healismus Aeternus is the band’s second album. Their 2020 release, The Signs of Delusion, was already an impressive record, and with this new one, they deliver once again—this time with a slightly more polished sound but no less aggression. Fast, aggressive, modern Black Metal with influences from Post-Hardcore and Blackened Crust Punk—essentially a chaotic and hellish cocktail that somehow manages to be uplifting.
Through all the aggression, there are moments of contrast—Lina’s clean vocals or calming ambient sections, such as at the end of Structural Imbalance. However, any sense of peace is quickly shattered by the following track, The Vessel. The speed and relentless drum fills hit like a barrage, making it difficult to stay focused at times—this is definitely not an album for the faint of heart.
If you’re into bands like Black Birch and Wiegedood, this record is a surefire hit. It proves that Black Metal doesn’t always need to sound raw, gritty, or like it was recorded in a bathroom to get its message across. That being said, you should be prepared for outside influences, such as the strong Hardcore elements in Perpetual Servantship, which even has a hint of Dutch band Tenzij de Horde.
If you’re looking for something different while still embracing the aggression and fury we all love, this album definitely deserves a spot in your playlist—or better yet, in your record collection. Absolutely worth it.
90/100
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