In my opinion, the only Greek band that combines Atmospheric and dark / melodic elements with Black Metal is The Elysian Fields. At least this is what I though until I listened to this perfect Mini EP created by a brilliant band called Sacram. This band exists since 1999, when they released their first Demo called Desert Sea. 8 years later, the band returns with a brilliant Mini EP which is called Far Away and its impossible not to be heard by anyone who is into Atmospheric / Black Metal. With a first listen, it’s obvious that the band not only knows how to create good music, but also that they are high-talented musicians because of the fact that there are many Progressive elements in their music. When we say Progressive, we don’t mean all those classic elements with the never-ending solos etc. All instruments in this EP are heard in the way they should and besides the fact that the songs are characterized by the high duration (the self titled lasts for about 8 minutes) they are very easy to listen to. Melodies are the most powerful characteristic of the band and they usually sound very "funeral like" in the vein of My Dying Bride, but to be honest, the band is more familiar with the sound of The Elysian Fields. Besides that, there are many typical Black Metal groundbreaking parts which they add their own unique atmosphere to the music of Sacram, and also there are some parts that the electric / rhythm guitar stops and the electro/acoustic guitar starts sounding that clearly reminds me of Orphaned Land. The vocals are exclusively brutal and they remind me of Black metal bands and it’s a fact that they fit in the music of the band. The production is strong something that gives even more points in this excellent work. In a few words, Far Away is a brilliant EP which includes only 4 songs but I don’t think that we need more songs in order to come to an end. Atmosphere, melody and the extreme element are combined, creating a sea of thoughts making the listener more than familiar with the music of Sacram. At least this is what I felt. You decide!

Vassilis Mazaris