MPIRE OF EVIL creatures of the black I.P.060

Venomous Roots: Mpire Of Evil’s ‘Creatures Of The Black’ (I.P.060)

Today’s entry spotlights a heavy metal EP that boasts a serious pedigree in the extreme metal world. We are looking at the 12-inch release “Creatures Of The Black” by Mpire Of Evil, released on December 30, 2011, via the German label Iron Pegasus Records with the catalog number I.P.060.

This band serves as a formidable supergroup of sorts for fans of the legendary British black/thrash pioneers Venom. The lineup features original Venom guitarist Mantas (Jeff Dunn) and “Prime Evil”-era bassist/vocalist The Demolition Man (Tony Dolan). They are joined on drums by Antton (Antony Lant), who is not only a former Venom drummer but also the brother of Venom frontman Cronos.

“Creatures Of The Black” acts as a tribute to the band’s heavy metal influences. The tracklist features four high-energy cover songs: Judas Priest’s “Exciter,” Motörhead’s “Motorhead,” KISS’s “God Of Thunder,” and AC/DC’s “Hell Ain’t A Bad Place To Be.”

Alongside these tributes, the EP includes two original tracks written by the trio: “Reptile” and the title track “Creatures Of The Black.” These songs showcase the band’s own heavy, thrashing style that carries the torch of their shared musical history. Produced, mixed, and mastered by Mantas himself, I.P.060 is a raw and authentic slab of heavy metal that bridges the gap between classic influences and the legacy of Newcastle’s most extreme sons.