Desideratum (Anaal Nathrakh album)

Desideratum is the eighth studio album by British extreme metal band Anaal Nathrakh, released on October 28, 2014, by Metal Blade Records. The album continues Anaal Nathrakh's established sound of combining black metal, death metal, grindcore, and industrial influences.

The title, Desideratum, is a Latin word meaning "something that is needed or wanted." In the context of the album, the band has stated it represents a dark and misanthropic yearning, a desire for something terrible and destructive. Lyrically, the album explores themes of nihilism, misanthropy, the futility of human existence, and the inherent darkness of humanity.

Musically, Desideratum features Mick Kenney's characteristic wall-of-sound production and blast beat drumming, as well as Dave Hunt's signature extreme vocals, ranging from high-pitched shrieks to guttural growls. The album also incorporates elements of melody and clean vocals, albeit sparingly, to create a dynamic and unsettling atmosphere.

Desideratum received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its intensity, originality, and uncompromising nature. It is considered by many fans to be one of Anaal Nathrakh's strongest and most representative albums. The album spawned several singles, including "Idol," which became a fan favorite.