🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Cursed to Nothing but Patience
Track 2: Name Bestowed
Track 3: Hefenfelth
Track 4: He Saw Nine Winters
Track 5: Beset by Weapons
Track 6: Casket of Dust
Track 7: Burden Foretold
Track 8: Take Up My Bones
Track 9: Raise Then the Incorrupt Body
Track 10: Boughs of Trees
🎸 Album Review:
Arð, the atmospheric black metal band hailing from the misty landscapes of Scandinavia, has once again graced us with their latest offering, ‘Untouched By Fire’. This ten-track journey through the dark and mysterious realms of nature and ancient folklore is a testament to the band’s ability to create hauntingly beautiful music that captivates the listener from start to finish.
The album opens with “Cursed to Nothing but Patience”, a track that sets the tone for the entire journey. The haunting guitar melodies intertwine with the thunderous drums to create a sense of impending doom, drawing the listener into the world Arð has crafted. The production on this track is impeccable, allowing every instrument to shine while still maintaining the raw and atmospheric quality that is characteristic of the band’s sound.
As the album progresses, tracks like “Hefenfelth” and “Beset by Weapons” showcase Arð’s ability to seamlessly blend aggression with melancholy. The relentless blast beats and razor-sharp riffs are juxtaposed with moments of ethereal beauty, creating a dynamic listening experience that keeps the listener on the edge of their seat. The contrast between the harsh vocals and the melodic instrumentation adds depth to the overall sound of the album, drawing the listener deeper into the dark and immersive world Arð has created.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Casket of Dust”, a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create atmosphere and emotion with their music. The delicate acoustic guitar work combined with the haunting vocals creates a sense of introspection and longing that is truly captivating. This track serves as a moment of respite amidst the chaos of the rest of the album, allowing the listener to pause and reflect before diving back into the darkness.
In comparison to Arð’s previous albums, ‘Untouched By Fire’ represents a natural progression of their sound. While still retaining the raw and atmospheric quality that fans have come to love, the band has pushed their boundaries and experimented with new textures and dynamics. The addition of acoustic elements and cleaner vocals adds a new dimension to their music, further enhancing the emotional impact of the album.
Overall, ‘Untouched By Fire’ is a mesmerizing journey through the depths of the human soul and the mysteries of the natural world. Arð has once again proven themselves to be masters of their craft, creating a sonic landscape that is both brutal and beautiful. The album is a testament to the band’s growth and evolution, showcasing their ability to push boundaries while staying true to their roots. Fans of atmospheric black metal and dark, introspective music will find much to love in ‘Untouched By Fire’. This is a powerful and haunting album that solidifies Arð’s place as one of the most exciting bands in the genre today.