APHOTIC are a band who continue to defy logic. After several tremendous releases, they remain unsigned and this split with the earlier version of APHOTIC, DUSK, is no exception.

In fact, APHOTIC only continue to become a more impressive, yet equally ignored, force within the Death/Doom. Their four song portion of the split is quite possibly their most impressive material to date, as they continue to evolve. The material is altogether heavier, further embracing the Death aspect of their Death/Doom style, all without compromising the ever prevalent atmosphere that is quintessential for this band.

As for the DUSK portion of the disc (a band that, up until this point, I was completely unfamiliar with, aside from the APHOTIC connection) and I was completely blown away. Quite a bit rougher and grittier than APHOTIC, some of the passages almost come off as guttural and at times almost feels oppressingly heavy. Intertwined with serene passages and a light sprinkle of keys, the five tracks here compliment APHOTIC’s side perfectly.

I still don’t understand what anyone is waiting for in terms of signing this fantastic band. (Online June 9, 2005)