With more than 37 releases since 2005, Thou is one of the most prolific bands in heavy music. Four full-lengths, ten EPs, splits, collaborations, demos; Thou does not know how to rest. The amazing thing is that with all of these releases under their belt, the quality doesn’t suffer. The band continues to evolve and push themselves to create increasingly harrowing heavy music. Their sludgy doom is unrivaled. Barghest, meanwhile, attacks metal from a different angle, mixing black metal with a touch of death. These two Baton Rouge, Louisiana bands have finally teamed up to release a split 10-inch on Elder Magick.

This two-song split is comprised of Barghest’s “Application of Malthusian Principle” on side A, and Thou’s “The Mystery of Contradictions” on side B. You may have heard these songs on past releases from both bands, but this split is truly a collector’s item. “The Mystery of Contradictions” was originally released as an Adult Swim single. This version of “The Mystery of Contradictions” is unedited, bringing fans a little more than the previously released version of the song. It’s a noisy, twisted dive into our own egos. “Application of Malthusian Principles” was first released on Barghest’s 2015 EP “Into Weeping Firmament.” This song is a pretty straightforward black metal tune, showcasing what Barghest does best. Barghest’s track also features new bassist Qutaybah and vocalist Daemontis, both of whom joined the band last year. Daemontis vocal performance is a stand out as well.

The artwork and packaging on this 10-inch vinyl release are the icing on the cake. Not only will you not find this split streaming online, but you won’t get the full experience without holding the artwork in your hands while the music plays.

If you’re a fan of either band, you need to own this record.

– Jeremiah Nelson

Thou/Barghest’s Split is available now via Elder Magick Records for $10. You can email eldermagickrecords@gmail.com for details on purchase. Supplies are extremely limited.