🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: 1. Heimvegen
Track 2: 2. The Rivers Mouth
Track 3: 3. Axis of the Worlds
Track 4: 4. Feathers of Eolh
Track 5: 5. Hiindsiight
Track 6: 6. Djupet
Track 7: 7. What Else Is There? (Röyksopp cover)
🎸 Album Review:
Enslaved, the Norwegian progressive black metal band, has consistently pushed the boundaries of their sound over the years, blending elements of black metal, progressive rock, and traditional Norse folk music. Their 2010 album “Heimdal” was a pivotal release that showcased their evolution as musicians and songwriters. Now, with the release of the Deluxe Edition of “Heimdal,” Enslaved has revisited this landmark album with new insights and perspectives, offering fans a fresh take on their already acclaimed work.
“Heimdal Deluxe Edition” opens with the atmospheric and epic track “Heimvegen,” setting the tone for the entire album. The band wastes no time in immersing listeners in their signature blend of aggressive black metal riffing and intricate prog-rock passages. The production on this album is top-notch, with every instrument shining through in the mix. The drumming by Cato Bekkevold is particularly noteworthy, providing a solid backbone for the complex arrangements.
As the album progresses, tracks like “The Rivers Mouth” and “Axis of the Worlds” showcase Enslaved’s ability to seamlessly transition between blistering black metal assaults and melodic, almost hypnotic interludes. The band’s use of clean vocals alongside harsh growls adds depth and emotion to the music, creating a sense of grandeur and introspection.
One of the standout tracks on “Heimdal Deluxe Edition” is “Feathers of Eolh,” a sprawling masterpiece that encapsulates everything that makes Enslaved such a unique and captivating band. The dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, coupled with the intertwining guitar melodies and keyboard textures, create a sense of otherworldly beauty that is both haunting and exhilarating.
“Hiindsiight” is another highlight on the album, with its infectious groove and catchy chorus. This track showcases Enslaved’s ability to craft memorable hooks without sacrificing their progressive edge. The band’s use of folk-inspired melodies and harmonies adds a sense of warmth and familiarity to the otherwise dark and aggressive music.
“Djupet” is a brooding and atmospheric track that delves into the darker realms of Enslaved’s sound. The haunting clean vocals and eerie guitar lines create a sense of unease and foreboding, drawing the listener deeper into the band’s sonic tapestry.
The album closes with a surprising cover of Röyksopp’s “What Else Is There?” Enslaved puts their own unique spin on the electronic pop hit, infusing it with their trademark blend of black metal aggression and progressive sensibilities. The result is a fresh and exciting take on the original song, showcasing the band’s versatility and creativity.
Compared to Enslaved’s previous albums, “Heimdal Deluxe Edition” feels like a culmination of everything the band has been building towards over the years. While their earlier works were more rooted in traditional black metal, this album sees Enslaved embracing a more progressive and experimental approach to their music. The songwriting is more intricate, the performances more dynamic, and the production more polished.
Overall, “Heimdal Deluxe Edition” is a triumph for Enslaved. The band has managed to revisit and reinvigorate one of their most beloved albums, breathing new life into these already powerful songs. The Deluxe Edition offers fans a fresh perspective on familiar material, showcasing Enslaved’s growth and evolution as musicians. With its blend of aggression, melody, and experimentation, this album solidifies Enslaved’s status as one of the most innovative and exciting bands in the metal scene today.