Lords Of Metal Ezine review for "Ars Longa, Vita Brevis...". 85 / 100!!!

"Antiquus Scriptum is a Portuguese band which I havent heard off before and where I still have mixed feelings about. In terms of pace, style, song structure and ambiance it is definitely a black metal album. But it is one that leans heavily on the symphonic pieces and especially with the clean vocals it goes more to sympho or progressive metal. A comparison with other bands was nearly impossible, the early Dimmu Borgir or Emperor comes close but those two bands have a much more different sound. There happens a lot on this album, first of all that has to do with its length which is close to ninety minutes and due to the melodys that change a lot, fortunately without becoming a mess. This album is at times hard as nails with a very aggressive ambiance but suddenly changes to a symphonic piece where the earlier mentioned Norwegian bands could take a lesson from. Personally I am not a big fan of heavy symphonic pieces but this is executed nearly flawless. And that is why I have mixed feelings about it. The music is very tight performed and has a lot of variation, the production would give you the idea you are listening to a recording from the late ninetys but is crystal-clear. Definitely worth the effort." 

(Johan Z. - Lords Of Metal. 85 / 100)

http://www.lordsofmetal.nl/en/reviews/view/id/26146