Though it wll no doubt anger many to hear this, I must confess, with the first few tracks of this excellent Norwegian band's artfully - packaged release, I was convinced I was listening to the 'real' follow-up to Dimmu Borgir's "Enthrone Darkness Triumphant"! Or, at least, what the next Borgir CD should sound like...

The similar melodies and crisp production, though quite similar, soon evolve into a decidedly more raw direction, leaving the likeness to Roxette on steroids far behind...

In particular, the technical drum work is outstanding, while the guitar riffs are eerily reminiscent of Galder's work in Old Man's Child. Could it just be the new, slightly more commercially acceptable 'Norwegian sound'? The keyboards have me thinking yes, while the vocals are pure and charged with energy.

Not to leave of with the comparisons, I could have sworn the intro to track 4, 'Speak the Word of the Winds' was straight from a Cradle of Filth release! The blistering pace and supreme vocals save this track, as well as the rest of the CD.

Track 5, 'With Excellence' is just that - and then some! An all out riff war, much more believable - arguably, in spite of the over-produced sound and majestic synth work.

Fans of Mystic Circle will enjoy this work, no doubt as will followers of O.M.C. and Dimmu - yet there is enough viciousness to satisfy even the tastes of this die-hard Darkthrone fan. It must be the vocals - in my humble opinion, the saving grace of the entire project.

This will sell well...

Hails!

© 2000 lorjef