In the land of mathematical formulae, Finnish + Pagan + Black Metal will never equal warmth or cosiness, yet while the ambient beginning of this atmospheric adventure suggests cold winds, there is an alluring mysticism in the lapping waters. “Descension” leads to “The Way of the Spirits”, which enters more traditional black metal territory. It is of the patient kind which emits a monotonous and unforgiving riff, yet it rises into higher and darker territories after a chintzy guitar solo. Progress is blood-sapping with a lofty keyboard ring from a higher plane, then expands into an all-embracing and inspiring soundscape of desperation and majesty.
As “Autumn (Metsäpirrti part II)” gets going, it’s hard not to think of a dark fantasy world. If what has gone before is good, this burns into the soul with its irrepressible rhythm and magnetic power. The world being depicted is laced with power and enormity. Each ascent up the scale evokes enormity and new adventures. “Autumn (Metsäpirrti part II)” has Enslaved written all over it in its progression and fire. But Ancestors Blood, whose third full release this is alongside numerous splits and demos, have plenty of tricks of their own, infusing the controlled fire and majesty of “Elegies” with journeys into dark and magical territories.
Unlike many black metal albums, which concentrate on fire or putrid atmospheres, here we are led to lofty heights without a moment’s compromise. Mid-album, the instrumental title track gives us a darkened “Oxygène” and serves as an appetiser to the ten minute “Rite of Passage”. The bleak musical canvas has the feel of Burzum. This is a grisly and electrifying journey in which we are swept along, glorious passage by glorious passage. In spite of this eminently dark world inhabited by fear and death, there is such clarity in the sound and purpose in each of these passages which are ablaze with richness. Each track has a powerful platform from which to launch the ferocity. There is never stagnation as the tracks burst into instrumental splendour or slow down funereally. The transitions are seamless and consistent with the ever burning flames. Everything hangs together perfectly from the vibrant riffs and drumming to the gnarled vocals. As “Descension” brought us into this album, the cosmic and equally mystical “Ascension takes us out”. Cosmic it is, but there are thunder and suggestions of war in the wavy and even calming soundscape, underlining the sophistication of this work.
The conception and structures of these black anthems are immaculate. The level of power and creativity in the creation of these dark but clear images is awe-inspiring. “Hyperborea” is a breath-taking journey.
(9/10 Andrew Doherty)
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