Some bands take longer than others to transcend the borders of their native land. Take Baest who, despite two excellent albums (Danse Macabre in 2018 and Venenum in 2019), were wildly successful in Denmark but a well-kept secret elsewhere in Europe. All the more surprising given the group has all the undeniable qualities to spellbind any lover of melodic death metal: a massive sound, perfectly menacing vocals, brutally efficient riffs, and above all, the groove so characteristic of Danish outfits (think of Illdisposed or further back, Dominus, who only won international recognition after becoming Volbeat). However, Necro Sapiens may well be the release that launches Baest into the premiership division. Like many others before them, the Aarhus combo broaches that third-album hurdle with a more accessible version of its sound, with the same violence but more melody (cf. Genesis, Czar, Abattoir...). The “twin guitars” inherited from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal are an integral element of the quintet’s sound, with no lack of high-level soloing. The stunning Goregasm even erects a quasi-progressive structure despite its undeniable brutality, confirming that some of their earliest Scandinavian influences (Death, Morbid Angel) remain anchored in their DNA. In addition, Simon Olsen’s sub-bass vocals haven’t evolved one iota, ensuring that priorities remain priorities. Baest definitely ticks off all the boxes to be able to claim a supporting role at the European level and escape the status of “most talented of the extras”, especially as the group is making its bones as a live band. Let’s hope the spotlight finds them at last. © Charlélie Arnaud/Qobuz