“These are all musicians who are more than competent and have a clear idea of what they want to do with this album.”
Symphonic black metal may as well be one of the most difficult genres to pull off in a satisfying way. Countless have tried, and few have come out on top.
The risks involved with symphonic metal of any kind are that, first, the orchestral elements (whether real or simulated) can easily overpower the rest of the music and make it difficult to enjoy; secondly, the symphonies could be relegated to background noise that isn’t properly integrated with the rest of the compositions, making them come off as an afterthought rather than an important element of the music in question.
Falling for even just one of the aforementioned traps can be a deal breaker for me, and if done properly, it can become an extraordinary experience.
Here is where Pagan Ulver comes in to take on the challenge to the best of their abilities. These are all musicians who are more than competent and have a clear idea of what they want to do with this album, which helps them stay on track without deviating too much from their goal, which is also helped by the brief length of the record.
This release is clearly and unapologetically influenced by the classic ’90s essence of bands like Emperor, Borknagar, Dimmu Borgir, Odium, etc. I can also hear some things that remind me of early Arcturus and recent Blut Aus Nord, especially in the atmospheric approach.
The production and mix are definitely rough around the edges, but thankfully black metal is one of those genres that sounds appealing regardless of how it’s recorded. It’s unclear to me if that is a deliberate choice or just a constraint; be that as it may, I like the way it sounds.
Likewise, I can at times hear the symphonic atmosphere take the lead over the rest of the instruments; this could also be on purpose, and it’s not distracting to me, although I wish it was integrated at a deeper level of the music, as here it often just follows the main melodies of the guitars, although I admit that’s a personal preference of mine.
The closing track “The Crimson Veil” is perhaps where I can hear the most musical creativity, with acoustic guitar, black metal riffs and progressive songwriting, though these elements are present all throughout, sparkling very tastefully across all the tracks.
I can say this album is worth listening to for anyone who loves symphonic or atmospheric black metal reminiscent of the 90s style; on the other hand, I do feel it fails to compare to many of the aforementioned masterpieces it draws its influences from. At the same time, it’s clear that it was never their intention to compare to the classics but to appeal to the same audience.
If their goal was to pay homage to the music and bands they are influenced by, then I consider it very well accomplished, and thus I find it a commendable effort considering this is only their debut. I look forward to seeing what these musicians can bring to the table down the road, as I do believe they have a lot more potential we are yet to see fully bloom.
