SINISTER GHOST – Reo Tempo

“Vagar mi fai co’ miei pensier su l’orme che vanno al nulla eterno; e intanto fugge questo reo tempo…” — as Ugo Foscolo writes in his celebrated sonnet Alla Sera (In the Evening). In these lines, the poet describes how the coming of evening allows his mind to drift freely, following thoughts that lead toward “eternal nothingness,” a metaphor for death understood not as fear, but as release. At the same time, he reflects on the fleeting nature of life, as this “wicked time” slips away—an existence marked by turmoil, disillusionment, and inner unrest, from which he seeks temporary escape in the stillness of night.

 

A sentiment echoed in Sinister Ghost’s latest EP, Reo Tempo, that takes its name exactly from the famous expression of the Italian poet. Released two years after their previous full-length, What’s Left of Human?, this new work marks a clear conceptual turning point for the band.

While earlier releases were rooted in dark, horror-driven narratives, Reo Tempo now focuses on contemporary issues and social commentary. Themes that once appeared only in passing or through layered imagery now move to the forefront. The approach is direct, critical, and provocative—perfectly matching the band’s sound.

 

Opening track: Who Is God Now? immediately sets the tone. Asmort’s melancholic, pained voice rests on minimal acoustic guitar and piano. This creates a piece that is both intimate and impactful. The lyrics address consumerism and money as symbols of power, greed, and materialism. The EP then dives into the central pillar: Kill That Fetus—The Anti-Life Manifesto. Here, the band returns to full-fledged black metal. Piercing screams, abrasive riffs, and relentless drumming dominate, with more melodic passages interspersed. The provocative narrative reimagines Mary of Nazareth to address issues like sexual violence, abortion, and the weight of religious doctrine. Tracks like Odium Est Via Nostra and Oscar, That Was My Name blend aggression with gothic elements—most notably violin. They also confront harsh topics, such as child soldier exploitation and the superficiality of modern society. The closing instrumental, Op.1, strips everything down to piano and violin. It distills the essence of the record into a final statement: dark, evocative, and uncompromising.

 

This is more than just an EP—it feels like a manifesto. With Reo Tempo, Sinister Ghost takes a significant step forward. Their sonic identity remains largely intact but is enriched with new nuances. The lyrical content evolves dramatically and fully embodies the album’s title. Only time will tell whether this release marks a true turning point or just a transition into a new chapter. Either way, it’s a record that demands to be heard, explored, and understood.