Review by Ben for Rotting Christ - Non Serviam (1994)

A decent if not incredible melodic black metal album that loses momentum about half way through.

As hard as I try, I can't seem to find much to rave about when it comes to early Rotting Christ albums. Considering the high ratings that these releases consistently get, along with my love of all things black metal, it would appear a given that I'd really get into an album like Non Serviam. But I'm afraid it's all a bit underwhelming to me, being mildly enjoyable, chugging mid paced black metal. Sure, there are quite a few nice little melodies that pop up every now and then, but the vocals, drumming and riffs (while decent enough) are just not exceptional in any way. Considering how many amazing black metal albums came out around the same time (including Ulver, Emperor, Mayhem, Burzum, Enslaved etc.), I'm afraid this just doesn't do enough to be considered essential.

While I clearly am not hugely impressed by Non Serviam, I should point out that it's by no means terrible. The Fifth Illusion, Wolfera the Jackal, Non Serviam and Morality of a Dark Age all start the album off nicely, but by the time Where Mortals Have No Pride is chugging along, I'm starting to get just a little bit bored. I gave the debut Thy Mighty Contract a very generous 3.5 stars and I'm going to do the same thing here. It's obviously an album that many fans enjoy, and I can certainly appreciate that there are some above average things going on throughout the album and some cool little melodies. In the end though, I don't imagine this to be an album I'll be reaching for all that much in the future.