🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: A Poison to the Firmament
Track 2: All Days Are Black
🎸 Album Review:
Swedish black metal outfit Heljarmadr makes a triumphant return with their latest offering, ‘A Poison to the Firmament’. Released in 2021, this two-track EP showcases the band’s signature blend of raw aggression and melodic intricacy. Heljarmadr, known for their intense and atmospheric soundscapes, delves deeper into themes of darkness, despair, and defiance in this brief yet impactful release.
The title track, “A Poison to the Firmament”, sets the tone for the entire EP with its blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and Heljarmadr’s chilling vocal delivery. The song wastes no time in plunging the listener into a maelstrom of blackened fury, as the band weaves a tapestry of bleak melodies and relentless aggression. The haunting atmosphere created by the atmospheric guitar work adds an eerie depth to the track, enhancing the overall sense of impending doom.
“All Days Are Black”, the second track on the EP, continues the onslaught with its relentless pace and unrelenting intensity. Heljarmadr’s vocals alternate between guttural growls and piercing screams, adding layers of emotion and brutality to the song. The intricate guitar work shines through in this track, demonstrating the band’s ability to balance ferocity with melody. The relentless drumming drives the song forward, creating a sense of urgency and desperation that permeates the entire track.
In comparison to Heljarmadr’s previous albums, ‘A Poison to the Firmament’ feels like a natural progression of their sound. While the band stays true to their black metal roots, they also explore new territories and experiment with different textures and dynamics. The EP showcases a more refined and focused approach to songwriting, with each track packing a punch in terms of intensity and emotional depth.
The production on ‘A Poison to the Firmament’ is top-notch, capturing the raw energy and visceral power of Heljarmadr’s performance. The mix is balanced, allowing each instrument to shine through while maintaining the overall cohesion of the sound. The EP has a dark and brooding atmosphere that envelops the listener from start to finish, immersing them in a world of turmoil and despair.
Standout tracks on the EP include the title track, “A Poison to the Firmament”, which serves as a powerful opener that sets the tone for the rest of the release. The track’s relentless energy and haunting melodies make it a standout moment that showcases Heljarmadr at the height of their powers. “All Days Are Black” is another highlight, with its dynamic shifts and intense atmosphere keeping the listener on the edge of their seat throughout.
Overall, ‘A Poison to the Firmament’ is a testament to Heljarmadr’s evolution as a band and their unwavering commitment to creating uncompromising black metal music. The EP is a brief yet potent glimpse into the dark and twisted world that the band inhabits, leaving a lasting impact on the listener long after the final notes fade away. With its raw intensity, haunting melodies, and thematic depth, ‘A Poison to the Firmament’ solidifies Heljarmadr’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the black metal scene.