Norwegian melodic death-metallers, Haunted By Silhouettes are back at it again with their upcoming EP release, No Man Isle. Formed in 2013, this is the band’s 3rd EP release following two full album releases in 2018 and 2019. There’s a lot to like here and I desperately wish that this was a full-length album, but as they say, it’s better to leave the audience wanting more. Haunted By Silhouettes are Mathias Jamtli Rye (vocals), Stian Hoel Fossen (guitar), Per Kristian Grimsland (guitar), Ola Kjøren Nilsen (bass), and Håvard Bustad (drums). No Man Isle is due for release on May 6, 2022, via Eclipse Records.
No Man Isle was planned from the get-go as a concept story inspired by 16th-century English poet, John Donne. The EP delivers on poetic concepts, emphasizing emotional and atmospheric themes.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the final and title track, No Man Isle – a reference to the poem No Man is an Island. This is a killer song with the harrowing second vocals are excellent, and the closing leaves me wanting more.
Flock is my favorite track on the EP. It’s a layered and groovy track with vocals reminiscent of Randy Blythe of Lamb of God fame. You can listen to the single here. Icon is head-bang material with clear metalcore vibes, though it’s also progressive in nature with an atmospheric mid-section and a haunting outro. Selkie has this interesting piano intro and introduces a rhythmic chug reminiscent of Dethklok. You can also listen to this single here.
This is a great offering from Haunted By Silhouettes and it’s cool to see bands taking inspiration from 16th-century poets. It demonstrates what all true metalheads have known, we’ve far more depth to our repertoire than we’re given credit for. Could you imagine John Donne’s response to listening to a Norwegian death metal band’s music inspired by his works!
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Do yourself a favor and give the singles a listen and then the full EP when it’s released in May. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it just as much as I.
Tracklist:
- Departure
- Flock
- Icon
- Selkie (feat. Bjorn Strid)
- No Man Isle
Haunted By Silhouettes: Facebook
Release Year: 2022
Label: Eclipse Records
Category: EP
Country: Norway
Reviewed by Phil Bergersen
