Cezary ‘Cezar’ Augustynowicz, (known for his work with the Polish band Christ Agony), returns with his one-man project, Faustus. His debut full-length is entitled Act I (presuming Act II on its way?!), containing six lengthy tracks, all in his native Polish language.

Track listing:

01: Klątwa Wyzwolenia
02: Przywołanie Wiedźm
03: Epifania Mocy
04: Adoracja Magów
05: Piąta Pieczęć
06: Alchemiczne Ognie

Act I is a compelling debut full-length album that fuses elements of black- and death metal with some darker and more dark and Gothic influences. I’m aware of the fact that ‘Cezar’ is not a novice to the scene, but with the release of Act I I think he manages to create its own identity. Obviously, a few traces of the aforementioned Christ Agony can be heard here and there, but rather than replicating Christ Agony’s sound, Act I explores a broader sonic palette. Thus, overall Faustus successfully incorporates all these different influences into something that can be called ‘his own trademark sound’.

Act I is full of crushing and sharp blackened riffing, ferocious and relentless double bass drumming, and deep and almost ritualistic vocals. This is blended in a sophisticated manner, with some dark and melodic symphonies. It resulted in six epic, powerful, passionate and emotional compositions, with lyrical themes deeply rooted in mythology, mystery and dark tales.

The overall atmosphere is cinematic, haunting and engaging, while the production is sharp and raw, yet enough polished to allow each instrument to be equally listenable and present in the overall sound. I very much appreciate the balance of aggression and melody throughout the record.

I hope Act I is just the beginning of something bigger, and I’m eager to hear what this creative and highly-productive man might come up next. In the meantime I continue listening to Act I, record that reveals new secrets and hidden details with each new spin.

Recommended for worshippers of Rotting Christ, Master’s Hammer, Moonspell, Theatres des Vampires, Varathron, Cradle of Filth and similar bands from the 90s who brought the gothic-, with classical overtones, approach to black metal.

For more information on this particular record visit https://faustus2.bandcamp.com/album/act-i