In 2006 Sykelig (formerly of Gorgoroth) started Den Saakaldte, what was then a one-man black metal project. Since then it has picked up several Shining members, including singer Niklas Kvarforth, as well as Jormundgand of Dødheimsgard.2008 saw their debut full length Øl, Mørke og Depresjon drop. It's a unique take on depressive black metal, the band employing a saxophone, acoustic guitar, accordion, as well as the occasional dark ambient flirtation.
If you're a fan of Shining, Kvarforth's vocals are as good as ever. The album's production couldn't be much better, and musically it never lost my interest. Compositions rapidly change from quality black metal to an entirely different theme that fits wonderfully while keeping the aura of the album intact. Vocals range from tortured screams to clean singing that devolves back to screams.
The fourth track, "Øde," brings us something genuinely creepy and fun. I won't bother trying to explain it, aside from that it makes me feel like I'm on a haunted playground. Just listen and enjoy.
The only gripe I have is it's pretty short, clocking in at 33 minutes. However, all in all it is a terrific album. At once serious, playful, creepy, and indescribably fun -- how could an album with a title that translates to "Beer, Darkness and Depression" not be?
Verdict: Win
http://www.densaakaldte.com/
1 comment:
I really hope they keep the sax in and expand on it. Ever since hearing Carpathian Forest do it...it just feels right.
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