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ENSLAVED
(NORWAY)
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HEIMDAL
(2023)
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LABEL:
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GENRE:
BLACK METAL
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TAGS:
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"Enslaved asserts its supremacy in Viking Metal with "Heimdal", a new epic of the god Heimdal with a rich and elaborate music."
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5/5
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If you're not an expert in Nordic mythology, you may miss the subtleties of the epic tale told on "Heimdal", but rest assured, Norwegian band Enslaved's bassist/vocalist Grutle Kjelison himself admits that it took him some time to understand the scope of the esoteric antics proposed by the band's multi-instrumentalist genius, Ivan Bjornson.
That being said, although ultra-romanticized in Hollywood style, fans of the Avengers and Thor in particular may find it easier to get on board, Heimdal being the guardian of Asgard who is supposed to sound the alarm for Ragnarok and kill Loki. Nordic mythology being at the heart of Enslaved's universe, "Heimdal", the band's sixteenth album, allows to continue to categorize their music as Viking Metal if one really wants to. But it would be very simplistic to stick this label on them and to qualify their music as progressive metal or black metal, as their music is so rich. Although the growled vocals may remind us the demonic screams of some Black Metal tracks, there is never any question of Satanism in Enslaved.
The opening track, 'Behind The Mirror', sets the tone for what is to come. Everything is there, or almost: progressive Metal decor, alternating growls and vocal harmonies, atmospheric keyboard layers, guitar solo. It serves as a launching pad for the excellent 'Congelia', a beautiful piece of music which, under its contemporary Death Metal allure, is a marvel containing all the magic of Enslaved, provided that one accepts to be embarked in the adventures of the god Heimdal. The Norwegians' music requires a certain amount of letting go, but it's worth it.
'Forest Dweller' could have been co-written by Opeth, but Enslaved prove that they are no match for the big names in the metal hall of fame, and in their 30-year career, the band now have a wealth of experience that commands respect. 'Kingdom' is one of those songs that is absolutely essential in an album. It is the cornerstone that sets the record straight for those who still doubt that Enslaved is first and foremost a Rock band that is at home in all styles.
"Heimdal" can be listened to over and over again, the infinite richness of its music discovering itself as the tracks go by. A major album which, let's hope for Enslaved, will have the reception it deserves. - Official website
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TRACK LISTING:
01. Behind The Mirror
02. Congelia
03. Forest Dweller
04. Kingdom
05. The Eternal Sea
06. Caravans To The Outer Worlds
07. Gangandi
08. Heimdal
LINEUP:
Arve Isdal: Guitares
Grutle Kjellson: Chant / Basse
Håkon Vinje: Chant / Claviers
Ivar Bjørnson: Guitares / Effets
Iver Sandøy : Batterie
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READERS
4.3/5 (3 view(s))
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STAFF:
4.5/5 (2 view(s))
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