Lepra - Tongue of Devil Prayers (2014)

   Since the late '90s/early '00s black metal became evidently the most popular extreme subgenre in Hungary. This might not be surprising, since the style earned pretty wide attention internationally too meanwhile, but in Hungary compared to other extreme styles, the number of black metal bands also giving the absolute majority since then. But unfortunately, the impressive number of bands didn't have stimulating effect on the quality of the music in its local scene, therefore black metal earned an overrated status in Hungary. 
    Lepra's debut could be sorted to the rare gems in this small scene, despite quite evident rip-offs could be discovered on the album. That's also very typical about nearly the whole metal scene in Hungary, but Lepra did manage to give some less usual, genuine features and perspective to their strongly Burzum influenced themes. At one hand deep under the blackened mass, the album has a quite old school, thrash influenced tone, that fortunately didn't come from the limited capabilities of the musicians as usual. And this time-to time revealing ancient feeling ended up as some redefining effect, that turned the album pretty enjoyable. By the vocal style they also refused to follow the ordinary path, cause it's like half way between whispering and suffocating. In total what could be heard on "Tongue of Devil Prayers" is enough old school and tradition following, but includes elements that could be weird for those, who aren't into any kind of experimenting in the style; and very exciting for those who are able to embrace a little bit of weirdness, that isn't exactly the same old weird stuff. The album could easily catch and lead the listener by its simple and very familiar themes. The role of the atmosphere and the themes are balanced, and sound quality is also great. Unlike many fellow black metal bands, Lepra did create something easily distinguishable and outstanding, that made it worth to pay attention to this small scene.