One of the most legendary Black Metal bands has to be Bathory. Still as vibrant and epic as ever, their new masterpiece “Nordland” [The End/Black Mark Records] is as eclectic as it is powerful. It's not just Black Metal anymore….
Bathory continues to evolve. The Black Metal influences are more subtle now, as the act delves more deeply into Gothic, Thrash, and Power Metal elements. Epic instrumentation, somber/slightly discordant acoustic guitars, and melancholic vocals are added to Black Thrash melee.
Songs of primal gloriousness include “Vinterblot,” “Foreverdark Woods,” “Dragons Breath,” “Great Hall Awaits A Fallen Brother,” and the powerful title-track. Bathory is pristine darkness unbound.
Overall, this is another great opus of avant-garde aggression from true masters of the style. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Samael, Venom, Emperor, Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth, Immortal, Acheron, Ancient, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Peace.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2003.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.