After their 2020 debut album, Conduit, Proscription from Kuopio, Finland, returns with their second full-length release, Desolate Divine. Finland boasts an unparalleled history of producing exceptional bands across nearly every metal genre, particularly considering its size. However, Proscription bends the formula by incorporating US talent with the vocals of ChristButcher. Desolate Divine is firmly rooted in blackened death metal, evoking the spirit of bands like Lvcifyre, Sulphur Aeon, and Omega Vortex, and for a relatively young band, they absolutely deliver.

The album blends genuine aggression with a more traditional death metal sound, yet incorporates black metal elements through blast-heavy drumming and evil-sounding riffs that add balance and nuance. While “cavemen riffs” abound—pleasing fans of the heavier side—the black metal influence makes it more accessible to listeners who prefer their death metal with a darker edge. My personal highlights include ‘The Midnight God’ and ‘Heave Ho Ye Igneous Leviathan’, the latter especially notable for its reminiscence of Akercocke’s Choronzon. ‘Before the Prephorescent Dawn’ stands out for its interplay of high and low growling, offering a dynamic vocal experience.

The title track, ‘Desolate Divine’, is arguably the purest death metal song on the album, channeling the spirit of bands like Immolation. ‘Not but Dust’ surprises with an entirely acoustic interlude, creating a moment of calm amidst the chaos. Leading into the closer, ‘The Great Deceiver’, the second longest track on the album and my third favorite, Proscription shines with clear vocal enunciation that enhances the listening experience. I’m genuinely excited to see where this band heads next—and I have to mention, the vinyl artwork is absolutely sick.

Overall, Proscription is carving their own path in one of the most competitive—and most beautiful—metal scenes on the planet.

Release Date: August 29th, 2025
Dark Descent Records
Reviewed By: Angelica Ramirez
Review Score: 7