Drakon Ho Megas may be a fresh, uprising band from Greece, but their sound is definitely harking back to the Hellenic days of old, with classic Mediterranean black metal firing from all cylinders, albeit with a stronger emphasis on symphonic/choral elements.

Right from the start, there seems to be a stark focus on a more engrossing, grandiose production, pushing the material into darker pits and deeper circles of hell, adequate to the rather overt satanic themes presented.

Inevitably, there’s comparisons to be made with the subgenre’s evergreens; Kawir and early Varathron still seem to be important cornerstones in this band’s writing, but their distinct influences have been pushed back compared to the debut, as the symphonic components and chorals have increased their presence on many tracks.

The combination of said symphonic elements and dual-attack growling/male chorals work very well, especially when accompanied by deliberately understated melodic lead playing that’s unpretentiously widening the motifs whenever necessary.

Floga Records 2023