Whatever Varg Vikernes' history or beliefs, his music does deserve to be heard (and comprehended) by an objective ear. Sadly, the Count was made the scapegoat for all that happened in Norway in the early 1990's, and therefore his music has sunken into infamy, and little else.

With the release of the two earliest Burzum albums (the full length self titled debut and the 3 song EP "Aske") we can see where Varg was at the beginning of his story, a time when black metal was still fairly young, and still extremely underground.

"Burzum" (and "Aske" as they will be reviewed together as one album), is a first class black metal album. Varg is very qualified to play all the instruments on the album, without resorting to the dreaded technicality that can sometimes kill good, raw black metal.

Varg's vocals (which are present on all Burzum albums except the last three) have to be heard to be believed. The first song on "Burzum" is called "Feeble Screams from Forests Unknown", and the title of this track pretty much describes Varg's vocals.

Overall, a very satisfying that album that deserves a chance from black and death metal fans, whether you think Varg is a genius or a madman (but remember most geniuses are madmen).

Standout tracks: Spell of Destruction, War, My Journey to the Stars, Stemmen Fra Taarnet

Grade for those too lazy or illiterate to read the review: A-

© 2000 raagoonshinnaah