🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Howling Primitive Colonies
Track 2: Eon 3
Track 3: Black Dawn Affiliation
Track 4: And in That Moment I Knew the Answer
Track 5: The Bird People of Nordland
Track 6: The Heavy Hand
Track 7: The Lone Pines of the Lost Planet
🎸 Album Review:
Darkthrone, the legendary Norwegian black metal duo comprising Fenriz and Nocturno Culto, has once again emerged from the shadows with their latest opus, ‘It Beckons us All’. Released amidst a shroud of mystery and anticipation, this album marks yet another sonic chapter in the band’s storied career. With a tracklist that reads like incantations from a forbidden grimoire, ‘It Beckons us All’ delves deep into the dark recesses of the human psyche with its raw, unrelenting black metal fury.
From the opening track, “Howling Primitive Colonies,” Darkthrone sets the tone for the album with a relentless assault of blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and venomous vocals. The production is deliberately lo-fi, adding to the primal and gritty atmosphere that permeates the record. The band’s signature sound, characterized by its raw aggression and uncompromising attitude, is on full display here, drawing influences from the early days of black metal while still pushing boundaries and forging their own path.
Thematically, ‘It Beckons us All’ explores dark and introspective themes, delving into concepts of isolation, existential dread, and the allure of the unknown. Tracks like “Eon 3” and “Black Dawn Affiliation” evoke a sense of foreboding and unease, with lyrics that paint vivid images of desolate landscapes and ancient forces at work. Nocturno Culto’s haunting vocals add an eerie dimension to the music, invoking a sense of dread and despair that lingers long after the songs have ended.
Standout tracks on the album include “And in That Moment I Knew the Answer,” a slow-burning epic that showcases Darkthrone’s ability to build tension and atmosphere over the course of a song. The brooding guitar melodies and haunting vocals create a sense of impending doom, culminating in a climax of cathartic release. “The Bird People of Nordland” is another highlight, with its frenetic pace and frenzied energy capturing the primal essence of black metal in its purest form.
Comparing ‘It Beckons us All’ to Darkthrone’s previous albums, it is clear that the band continues to evolve and innovate within the black metal genre. While their early works were more traditional in their approach, the duo has since embraced a more experimental and avant-garde sound, pushing the boundaries of what black metal can be. ‘It Beckons us All’ stands as a testament to their artistic growth and willingness to explore new territories while staying true to their roots.
Overall, ‘It Beckons us All’ is a powerful and immersive listening experience that will captivate fans of black metal and dark music alike. Darkthrone’s uncompromising vision and unwavering dedication to their craft shine through on every track, creating a sonic journey that is both harrowing and exhilarating. With this album, the band proves once again why they are considered pioneers of the black metal genre, and why their influence continues to reverberate throughout the metal world. ‘It Beckons us All’ beckons you to enter its dark and twisted realm, inviting you to embrace the darkness within and confront the shadows that lurk in the depths of your soul.