Norwegian extreme metal veterans Enslaved unleashed their sixteenth studio album, “Heimdal,” on March 3, 2023, via Nuclear Blast. This release marked a turning point for the band, showcasing their continued evolution and fearless experimentation.
While Enslaved built their foundation on black metal, “Heimdal” ventures far beyond those roots. The album is a genre-bending exploration, incorporating elements of progressive rock, jazz, and even shoegaze. This unexpected fusion creates a captivating and dynamic listening experience.
Longtime fans might be surprised by the album’s direction. Tracks like “Congelia” offer glimpses of Enslaved’s black metal past, with shrieking vocals and tremolo riffs. However, these moments are often interwoven with unconventional instrumentation and atmospheric soundscapes. The title track, “Heimdal,” exemplifies this approach, seamlessly transitioning between black metal intensity and a surprisingly jazzy saxophone solo.
Critical reception for “Heimdal” has been overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers lauded the album’s ambition and artistic merit. MetalSucks called it “Awe-inspiring, spellbinding, and imaginative,” while Ghost Cult praised it as “a grand vision that Enslaved have executed to perfection.” Some critiques, however, found the songwriting on occasion to be predictable.
Despite these minor criticisms, “Heimdal” stands as a testament to Enslaved’s unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries. The album is a bold and successful exploration of new sonic territories, solidifying Enslaved’s position as one of extreme metal’s most innovative and influential bands.
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