When it comes to Fenriz and all his works, i become a mere fan-boy in awe (Fenriz and Darkthrone, to me, disappeared around '96, so what some people might still consider as one and the other, does not exist for me at all). This is also one of the first black metal albums i recognised as a serious work of art.

This album has a delicious crisp wall-like guitar-sound and unbelievably cold inhuman howling as recitation of Fenriz' Satanic poetry. The soundscape creates an empty space for itself in which to exist and haunt. The execution is suitably laid back but strong, furious and chaotic. The compositions appear to have some sort of structure, but it is hard to grasp exactly. And yet unlike, for example, in Abigor's music you will not lose the thread even if you play this in the background.

Fenriz' poetry is among the best, if not --the-- best, of black metal lyricism. And if need be, would stand straight and tall in comparison to more distinguished and recognised forms of poetry such as those of John Milton or David Tibet (from Current 93 fame). On all counts that matter and those that do not. Strength and purity of intent, form of expression (in relation to content) and content itself.

The picture on the cover is silly, though. Other than that, there is not much of artwork in the booklet. Lyrics and boring facts.

All in all, this album is almost perfect (what the imperfections are, i could not say, but there are better Darkthrone albums. So...)

"my Mind cut my Winged Weapons / the Teeth that was my Pride / and from the Forest all would hear / Wisdom Opens the Gate for the King"

© 2001 rotblood