To borrow a phrase from Monty Python, “And now for something completely different.”

Consider this: a Spanish band named Inhumankind whose musical instruments solely consist of the flute and the acoustic double bass, and who draw freely in their compositions from a broad range of musical inspirations, including (but not limited to) classical and black metal; with minimalist lyrics that draw upon the left-hand path, voiced in ritualistic fashion by two accomplished women and a vicious death growler; and an album named Self-Extinction that was produced by Colin Marston (who also contributed percussion to one of the tracks). Consider further what the esteemed Mr. Marston has said about the album:

“Existing at the nexus of modern classical music and extreme metal, Inhumankind have a completely unique sound. Aggressively played flute, acoustic bass, and occasional vocals are excellently employed to create compositions that are simultaneously sparse and complicated, awkward and confident. This is one of the most original albums to come across my desk in quite some time!”

And now take a deeper look at the cover painting by Italian master Ettore Aldo Del Vigo.

If you have not become intrigued by now, then your time might be better spent elsewhere. If your interest has been piqued, however (mine sure as hell was), then you will want to experience the two songs from Self-Extinction that we’re presenting today in advance of its March 30 release by I, Voidhanger Records. They might take you far out of your listening comfort zone, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything more original and distinctive this year. Continue reading »