“Villfarelse” (I think the title translates as “delusion”)
is the debut full-length album from newly formed Norwegian black
metal band SYN, out today via the mighty Terratur Possessions.
Fully immersed in the tradition of the 90s, the debut is stretched
between the old-school sound of early Ulver and the melting
atmosphere of Vemod, adding to them a specific note of aggression
and melodicity. From the very beginning of the record it is clear
that this is quality Norwegian black metal that will leave a mark
in the minds of connoisseurs of the genre.
With the first track, “Daudatale”, there are memorable cold riffs
that carry the ear to hushed ominous vocals lurking around fast
drums. The lo-fi vibe of the vocals combined with the cleaner
production of the instruments is very enjoyable to experience and
quickly draws the attention to it. Several vocal performances lurk
in the continuation of the song, giving a special nuance to each of
its parts – you will hear both high-pitched classic vocals and
growling obsessive screams, and at the very end of the song you
will also enjoy clean vocals reminiscent of the old tapes
of “Bergtatt – Et Eeventyr i 5 Capitler” and other
influential works of Art.
With this piece, SYN create an atmosphere that leaves you floating
in space in the old-school way – the kind that conjures up images
of cold winter forests and log fires.
And it’s immediately clear to me why the band used one of Theodor
Kittelsen’s paintings, “The Ash Lad and the Dragon” for their cover
artwork – there’s simply no better symbolism for a return to
the mid-90s than the work of the Norwegian artist, who grew into a
real cult in these circles over the years. Smart move. Ever since I
became familiar with the artist’s work I have always found this
particular painting interesting and I wonder what symbolism the
band is putting into it and why they chose it among all of
the other paintings, but I will find out maybe at a later
stage in time (I admit, my curiosity is screaming ).
Throughout its duration, the album ferociously stokes the flames of
days gone by, taking us through vigorous and furious black metal
tracks, emotionally charged and ready to tear the flesh apart with
its arsenal of 90’s frost, creeping melancholy and heartfelt wrath.
The vocals at some moments are so captivating that they usurp the
entire aural space and create an extremely heated atmosphere, while
at others they border on the ritualistic or indulge in their
atmospheric undertones with their cleaner and ethereal appeals.
The variety of vocal demonstrations, all the memorable riffs,
the excellent performance of the individual instruments and the
specific production of the album make it a notable title in the sea
of new music, without a doubt.
With a total of nine chapters, the “Villfarelse” adventure erupts
furiously into space and leads enticingly into ominous atmospheres
where only the brave manage to survive until the end. Intense and
direct, SYN do not hesitate to drag the listener through their
midnight dreams and recreate cold sonic hallucinations through
every riff and cutting howl. A dream by the fire can be as
dangerous, as fascinating… Come closer, traveler.
Score: 10/10
Hear “Villfarelse” down below:
Band: SYN
Album: “Villfarelse”
Release date: December 5th, 2023
Label: Terratur Possessions
Order link: https://bit.ly/47GvoKJ
Mother of THE VOID.
Underground music is the ultimate weapon against mediocrity.
