Thy Catafalque – Alfold

Hungarian progressive metal outfit Thy Catafalque returns with “Álföld,” their ninth studio album. The band is renowned for their unique blend of extreme metal, folk influences, and electronic experimentation. Does “Álföld” continue their genre-defying streak, or get lost in a labyrinth of their own creation? Let’s embark on this musical odyssey, track by track, and see if “Álföld” offers a captivating exploration or a confusing mess.

A Blend of Beauty and Brutality on the Hungarian Plains:

• A Csend Hegyei (The Mountains of Silence) (5:12): The album explodes with a startling dissonance. A chaotic black metal intro featuring blast beats and a shrieking vocal attack gives way to a surprisingly melodic section with prominent synth arpeggios. This opening track sets the tone for the album’s unpredictable nature, constantly shifting between aggression and beauty. The lyrics, likely in Hungarian, might establish themes of isolation and the vastness of the plains.
• A Felkelő Hold Országa (The Land of the Rising Moon) (4:32): The album delves deeper into its atmospheric side. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar melody and melancholic flute passages, creating a serene soundscape. Tamás Kátai’s signature clean vocals add a layer of emotional depth. The tranquility is eventually shattered by a burst of heavy riffs and blast beats, showcasing the band’s ability to seamlessly blend genres. The lyrics likely evoke a sense of longing and the beauty of the natural world.
• Szíriusz (Sirius) (4:10): A moment of electronic exploration arrives. The song features a minimalist soundscape built around pulsating synths and programmed drums. Kátai utilizes spoken word passages, adding an element of theatricality to the music. This track serves as a brief interlude, allowing the listener to catch their breath before the sonic assault resumes. The lyrics might be cryptic and metaphorical, hinting at broader themes explored throughout the album.
• Napra Fordul (Turning Towards the Sun) (5:42): The album injects a dose of driving energy. The song features a galloping drumbeat and a catchy folk-inspired melody, reminiscent of Hungarian folk music. Kátai’s clean vocals soar with an anthemic quality, while guest vocalist Martina Veronika Horváth adds a touch of ethereal beauty. The music evokes a sense of hope and resilience, a counterpoint to the album’s darker moments. The lyrics likely celebrate the enduring spirit of the Hungarian people.
• Sötét Vizeken (On Dark Waters) (6:17): The album ventures into progressive metal territory. The song features complex time signatures, intricate guitar work, and impressive drumming, showcasing the band’s technical prowess. Moments of jazz fusion emerge, adding an unexpected layer of sophistication to the soundscape. The relentless energy keeps the listener engaged, while the unexpected twists and turns ensure a sense of surprise. The lyrics might explore themes of facing challenges and navigating the uncertainties of life.
• Néma Vermek (Silent Wounds) (4:58): The album concludes with a chilling atmosphere. The song features distorted guitars and a prominent synthwave bassline, creating a dark and unsettling soundscape. Kátai’s vocals return to a harsh rasp, adding to the sense of unease. The music builds to a chaotic climax before fading away into an unsettling silence. The lyrics likely explore themes of loss, trauma, and the scars that remain long after the wounds have healed.

Verdict: 4.5 out of 5

“Álföld” is a masterclass in genre-bending progressive metal. Thy Catafalque crafts a captivating soundscape that is both beautiful and brutal, serene and chaotic. The songwriting is superb, with each track offering a unique blend of influences and emotions. Kátai proves himself a visionary musician, seamlessly weaving together a tapestry of sound that is both challenging and rewarding. The production is clear and detailed, allowing each instrument to shine through the complex arrangements.

A minor point to consider: Listeners unfamiliar with extreme metal and progressive music might find “Álföld” a bit jarring and inaccessible. The constant shifts in tempo, mood, and genre can be disorienting for some listeners seeking a more cohesive listening experience. The use of Hungarian vocals might also be a barrier for some listeners.

However, for fans of adventurous music and those seeking a journey beyond the confines of genre, “Álföld” is a must-listen. Thy Catafalque proves that metal can be beautiful, folk music can be.