Heathen Rites formed in Sweden in 2018 and is the brainchild of Mikael Monks. Drawing inspiration from nature and ancient Nordic folklore, he has crafted an album steeped in tradition whilst drawing from the dark depths of classic doom metal.
With an aura not dissimilar to “Black Sabbath”, the eerie introduction to opening track “Eternal Sleep” builds to a solid slab of an opening riff with a real sense of menace. There’s a melancholy mood across these first cuts. “Midnight Sun” nods to a Judas Priest “Sad Wings Of Destiny” era sound right down to the vocals and there’s a sense of space and freedom but also a weight of emotion. A Celtic Frost buzz in the guitar tone of “Autumn” gives it a grind and is a straight ahead doom piece. With percussion right at the forefront, there’s a tightness that’s makes you sit up and take notice.
Monks takes full advantage of light and dark textures, most apparent on “Gleipner” with a medieval sounding, gently plucked acoustic guitar creating the peace before a dark, enveloping riff lifts the track. There’s a certain beauty to the way the track soars and breathes. The respect for their environment and the inspiration that is drawn is evident and uplifting. Definitely one of the stronger tracks is “The Sons Of The North” – imagine a slowed down Iron Maiden, full of drama and imagery. More melodic than previous tracks and highly anthemic, it’s an absolute belter. The brief closing piece,
“Kulning” is full of the sounds of nature and indigenous chants. Reflecting the ancient richness of their land, it’s a poignant and reflective close to the album.
“Heritage” is a beautifully crafted and focussed work and is much more than a straight-ahead doom album. Inspired and not overdrawn in any way, it transports the listener to another place and another time. Well worth a listen.
(7/10 Johnny Zed)
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