Craig Bannerman isn’t one to shy away from weighty themes, but his latest offering, ‘DAIMONION’, arrives with an explicit caution, signalling a venture into profoundly dark spiritual territory. Where previous tracks like ‘Unto The Death’ and ‘Thief On A Cross’ showcased a powerful, orchestrated take on heavy metal, ‘DAIMONION’ feels like an altogether different and far more unsettling proposition.
The track opens with Craig’s signature prophetic spoken word, this time delivering a stark and evocative rendition of Matthew 12:43. The biblical verse, "when the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none," hangs heavy in the air, setting a distinctly ominous tone. From this point, the sonic landscape shifts, taking on a significantly heavier and more confrontational edge than some of his earlier work.
While familiar melodic metal elements, including the spacious choral moments, weave their way through the initial stages, creating a sense of dramatic tension, the track undergoes a striking transformation. It descends into what can only be described as a rapturous, black metal-inspired onslaught. This deliberate sonic shift mirrors the lyrical content, embodying the spiritual torment and demonic deception that Craig explicitly addresses.
As the artist himself explains, "’DAIMONION’ is a deliberately raw, confrontational piece that sits sonically within black metal." Knowing the genre's associations with spiritual rebellion and nihilism, Craig’s intent becomes clear: to confront this darkness head-on with a contrasting message of faith. The juxtaposition of harshness and beauty, spiritual torment and divine lament, is palpable throughout the track. The inclusion of a soprano and what sounds like a child-like choir adds a layer of poignant beauty, intentionally highlighting lost innocence and the hope for redemption.
‘DAIMONION’ is not designed for easy listening. It is intentionally uncomfortable and sorrowful, serving as a stark warning. The track’s structure, moving from a more melodic base into intense, raw aggression, reflects the biblical passage it draws from – a soul cleansed but left empty, leading to a deeper and more terrible affliction.
As Craig explains, ‘DAIMONION’ is more than just a song, it’s a "spiritual lament and testimony" rooted in real encounters with spiritual oppression. It’s a bold and uncompromising artistic statement, a sonic proclamation of Christ’s light in a forsaken space, ultimately culminating in a sense of judgment. This is a track that demands attention and contemplation, leaving the listener with a profound and unsettling message.
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