Mork – Dypet

Emerging from the frigid shadows of Norway’s black metal scene, Mork returns with “Dypet,” their sixth full-length album. This offering promises a continuation of the one-man project’s signature sound: raw, atmospheric black metal that worships at the altar of the genre’s second wave. Does “Dypet” dredge up fresh horrors or simply rehash past glories? Let’s delve into the abyss, track by track, and see if Mork drags us into the depths of despair or leaves us wanting more.

A Descent into Abysmal Black Metal:

• Indre Demoner (4:22): The album explodes with a harrowing soundscape. Distorted guitars buzz with a sense of malevolent intent, while blast beats pummel the listener into submission. Vocals, courtesy of mastermind Thomas Eriksen, are a cavernous growl, perfectly capturing the genre’s signature aggression. The lyrics, likely veiled in darkness, might hint at themes of demonic possession and the allure of the abyss.
• Et Kall Fra Dypet (5:17): The album settles into a hypnotic groove. Tremolo-picked guitars create a swirling vortex of sound, while steady drumming propels the listener forward. A melancholic melody emerges amidst the sonic maelstrom, hinting at a deeper emotional core beneath the surface brutality. Eriksen’s vocals maintain their ferocity, but a touch of despair creeps into his delivery. The lyrics likely explore themes of isolation and the beckoning call of the depths.
• Avskum (3:58): A brief moment of chaotic fury arrives. The song explodes with blast beats and dissonant guitar riffs, creating a sense of unbridled rage. The music evokes a feeling of being trapped in a sonic nightmare, a descent into complete madness. Eriksen’s vocals take on a more feral quality, adding to the sense of unhinged aggression. The lyrics are likely a blur of vitriol and hatred, further amplifying the song’s intensity.
• Svik (4:12): A surprising shift emerges. Acoustic guitars and melancholic clean vocals create a moment of unexpected beauty. The song feels like a brief glimpse of lost innocence amidst the album’s relentless darkness. The lyrics, possibly sung in Norwegian, might explore themes of betrayal and the loss of hope.
• Høye Murer (5:28): The album returns to a more traditional black metal approach. A guest vocal appearance by ex-Kvelertak frontman Erlend Hjelvik injects a dose of charismatic aggression. The song features a dynamic range, shifting from moments of blast-beat fury to slower, more atmospheric sections. The use of keyboards adds a touch of unsettling dissonance to the soundscape. The lyrics likely explore themes of claustrophobia and the crushing weight of oppression.
• Tilbake Til Opprinnelsen (5:04): The album closes with a fitting conclusion. The song features a prominent synth melody and a driving drumbeat, creating a sense of otherworldly grandeur. Eriksen’s vocals return to their cavernous growl, but a touch of epic melancholy emerges in his delivery. The lyrics might explore themes of returning to a primal state of existence, a descent back into the abyss from whence we came.

Verdict: 4 out of 5

“Dypet” is a satisfying serving of Norwegian black metal for fans of the genre. Mork delivers a potent blend of aggression, atmosphere, and occasional melodic beauty. The songwriting is solid, with each track offering a unique exploration of the genre’s core tenets. Eriksen proves himself a capable multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, crafting a sonic assault that is both relentless and surprisingly nuanced. The production is raw and organic, perfectly capturing the intensity of the music.

A minor point to consider: Listeners unfamiliar with the lo-fi aesthetics and relentless aggression of black metal might find “Dypet” a bit harsh and inaccessible. The repetitive song structures and reliance on blast beats might alienate some listeners seeking a more dynamic listening experience.

However, for fans of the genre and those seeking a raw and atmospheric journey into the abyss, “Dypet” is a rewarding listen. Mork proves that sometimes the most powerful music emerges from the darkest corners of the human psyche. This album is a testament to the enduring power of Norwegian black metal to shock, disturb, and leave a lasting impression.