SABBAT envenom I.P.002

Poisoned Chalice: Sabbat’s Classic ‘Envenom’ (I.P. 002)

Today’s spotlight falls on a cornerstone release in the history of Japanese extreme metal: Sabbat’s iconic album “Envenom,” bearing the Iron Pegasus Records catalog number I.P. 002.

While originally released in Japan in 1991, this specific version, I.P. 002, signifies the 1999 reissue (on both LP and CD) by the influential German underground label Iron Pegasus Records. Its very low catalog number highlights it as one of the earliest releases on the label, helping to bring Sabbat’s venomous sound to a wider international audience.

“Envenom” is widely regarded as one of Sabbat’s definitive early albums. It perfectly encapsulates their raw and potent “Blacking Metal” style. The album unleashes a torrent of aggressive thrash riffs heavily inspired by NWOBHM but twisted into a darker, more primitive form, characteristic of early black metal. Gezol’s signature rasping snarls deliver tales steeped in darkness, Satanism, and metal worship.

Tracks like “Satan Bless You,” “Evil Nations,” “Devil Worship,” and “Reek of Cremation” are prime examples of the band’s ferocious energy and unwavering commitment to their extreme sound during this era.

This Iron Pegasus pressing (I.P. 002) is a crucial piece for collectors, representing both a classic Sabbat album and an early, important release for a label dedicated to preserving the spirit of underground metal. “Envenom” remains a benchmark of Japanese black/thrash metal.