Belgian psychedelic black metal act Wolvennest embarks on a new sonic odyssey with their third album, “The Dark Path Towards the Light.” This offering marks a significant departure from their previous work, venturing into more atmospheric and introspective territory. Does “The Dark Path Towards the Light” illuminate a new path for Wolvennest, or does it leave the listener wandering in the shadows? Let’s delve into the album’s cryptic depths and unearth its hidden treasures.
A Departure from Previous Haunts: Embrace the Unknown
Fans familiar with Wolvennest’s sprawling, drone-heavy epics on albums like “Void” (2017) and “Temple” (2020) might be surprised by the brevity and focus of “The Dark Path Towards the Light.” Clocking in at just over 40 minutes, the album prioritizes atmosphere and emotional impact over extended instrumental explorations. This shift in approach might initially disconcert some listeners, but it ultimately leads to a more focused and engaging listening experience.
A Tapestry of Genres Woven with Black Metal Threads:
While black metal remains the foundation of Wolvennest’s sound, “The Dark Path Towards the Light” incorporates elements of gothic rock, funeral doom, noise, and even hints of ambient electronica. This genre-bending approach creates a unique and captivating soundscape that is both unsettling and strangely beautiful. Sharon Shazzula’s vocals remain a highlight, shifting between chilling whispers, anguished screams, and spoken word passages that add a theatrical flair to the music.
Haunting Melodies and Ritualistic Rhythms:
Despite its brevity, “The Dark Path Towards the Light” is not lacking in memorable moments. Tracks like “Lost Civilizations” weave haunting melodies with folk-tinged elements, creating a sense of ancient mystery. The title track utilizes a minimalist approach, relying on atmospheric keyboards and mournful vocals to evoke a sense of introspective darkness. The drumming, particularly on tracks like “Deathless Love,” utilizes a ritualistic and hypnotic approach, drawing the listener deeper into the album’s sonic vortex.
A Guest Appearance that Adds Depth:
The inclusion of D.G. (vocalist of the influential black metal band Misþyrming) on the track “The Timeless All and Nothing” adds another layer of intrigue. His signature raspy screams create a stark contrast with Shazzula’s vocals, highlighting the album’s exploration of darkness and despair.
A Cohesive Yet Enigmatic Listening Experience:
“The Dark Path Towards the Light” is a cohesive listen, with each track seamlessly flowing into the next. However, the album’s cryptic nature and lack of readily apparent hooks might leave some listeners wanting more in terms of immediate gratification. This is an album that rewards repeated listens, as its subtleties and complexities reveal themselves over time.
A Bold Step Forward for Wolvennest:
“The Dark Path Towards the Light” is a bold and ambitious album that marks a significant evolution for Wolvennest. While it might not be for everyone, particularly those seeking a more traditional black metal experience, the album’s atmospheric depth, genre-bending experimentation, and introspective themes make it a rewarding listen for open-minded listeners. With “The Dark Path Towards the Light,” Wolvennest has taken a step towards a new horizon, leaving behind the familiar and venturing into the unknown. Will you follow them on this enigmatic journey?
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