About this album
Where they were
By the time 'Exile' was released in January 1997, Anorexia Nervosa had established themselves in the French black metal scene with their debut album, 'Sodomizing the Archedangel' (1996). This sophomore effort marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating more intricate arrangements and orchestral elements that would define their style moving forward.
Why it matters
'Exile' is notable for pushing the boundaries of black metal by integrating symphonic elements and complex compositions, which garnered significant attention within the underground metal community. The album's unique blend of genres contributed to the emergence of symphonic black metal as a distinct subgenre, influencing subsequent artists and receiving critical acclaim in various underground publications.
Essential tracks
- "Delusive Complexion: Sequence 4: Divert the Necessities of the Body" — This brief yet haunting interlude encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of existential dread and bodily decay, serving as a chilling pivot point.
- "Burning Tongue: Sequence 3: Acclaim New Master: Action 3: Slave" — This track exemplifies the band's fusion of aggressive instrumentation and orchestral arrangements, showcasing their signature sound with an intense emotional impact.
- "Man-Machine: Sequence 3: Flesh Goes Out Without Grace" — The sprawling composition delves into themes of mortality and transformation, reflecting the album's overarching narrative through its intricate structure and dynamic shifts.
Release Date
January 1, 1997
Artist Origin
France
Tracklist
- 1 Prologue: To Exclude From the Cycle of Generations 5:30
- 2 Delusive Complexion: Sequence 1: Spiritu Fornicationis: Action 1: Distressing Amnios 6:36
- 3 Delusive Complexion: Sequence 2: Say the World That Fall in the Sky: Action 2: Gnostic Wails 3:35
- 4 Delusive Complexion: Sequence 3: The Unveiled Mirror: Action 3: Other Wails 2:50
- 5 Delusive Complexion: Sequence 4: Divert the Necessities of the Body 1:10
- 6 Burning Tongue: Sequence 1: Against the Sail: Action 1: Vertebrae Embryo 1:20
- 7 Burning Tongue: Sequence 2: Faith: Action 2: Discordant Effects of Suicides 3:00
- 8 Burning Tongue: Sequence 3: Acclaim New Master: Action 3: Slave 7:37
- 9 Burning Tongue: Sequence 4: First Tasting of Faecal Matter 2:21
- 10 Man-Machine: Sequence 1: Some Miracle of Entrails: Action 1: Not Showed 4:32
- 11 Man-Machine: Sequence 2: Spirit of the Valley: Action 2: Enclose 4:44
- 12 Man-Machine: Sequence 3: Flesh Goes Out Without Grace 6:40
- 13 Epilogue: Running of Mental Fluids 0:50
