The undefinable force of nature that is Borknagar have returned with their twelfth full-length offering. The Norwegian outfit since its beginnings in 1995 has taken the boundaries of black metal and broken them with a natural evolution that incorporates its signature extreme sound, wonderful seventies-infused progression, and elements of folk, traditional and Avant-Garde art.
From the inherent beauty of ‘’Nordic Anthem’’ to the excellence that is ‘’Stars Ablaze’’, ‘’ Fall’’ is a monument to both their expression and their black metal intensity that still lingers within their veins, the ability to encapsulate the wonderful transcendent riffs with Double kick percussion and dynamics just feels perfect, with the juxtaposition of vocals styles capturing the experience. ‘’Unraveling’ perfectly combines the union of dual vocal techniques. ‘’Afar’ on first listening burns with black metal intensity, then the organic keys linger, adding depth to the wonderfully clean sung chorus. This album is full of texture and depth capturing the essence of nature such as the rousing power that is ‘’Moon.”
Some of the instrumentation is so sublime and addictive as on the’’ The Wild Lingers’’ that Fall commands repeat listening, ‘’Northward ‘’is a tour de force of everything that is their formidable talent. It is a track that moves, stirring, evocative and the culmination of pure metal and emotion, proud of its heritage both audible and metaphorical yet continues to strive forward. Each track is an epic creation yet delivered with heartfelt sincerity that is alluring, and unrestrained, each wonderful chapter a part of a complete adventure. Comparisons are superfluous and useless; this is their testimony.
Fall is not just a record; it is an experience that is as captivating as it is addictive and passionate. Borknagar has created a melodic extreme-infused success that is essential listening for the ardent lover of music. A celebration of excellent musicianship and belief. Highly recommended!
Borknagar: Facebook
Release Year: 2024
Label: Century Media
Category: Album
Country: Norway
Reviewed by Sparky
