Here we are back in the shadowy Swiss enclave of the Helvetic Underground Committee and in the grand scheme of things the duo behind Ateiggär (Initiator of ideas) must be overlords of the organisation. Both are in Arkhaaik, Kvelgeyst, Ungfell and live in Dakhma as well as singularly in other groups within the movement. As far as this project is concerned, they have been releasing just singles and an EP up to this point and Tyrannemord which I believe refers to the killing of a tyrant is their debut album. This all ties in with the narrative of the album which we are told concerns the grizzly historical theme of the “assassination of Leo Armenius, the fifth of his name and ruler of the Byzantine Empire.” Apparently, the slaying happened at Midnight mass on Xmas eve when disguised as choristers threw off their robes and put him to the sword. Naturally you can look this grim affair up and see just why he got what was coming to him as well as the castrating of his four sons or pass it by and concentrate on the music.
The hills are alive with the momentary sound of birdsong at beginning and end but it’s the dynamic and driving black metal between that takes up the running time here. Damn good it is too. The Germanic titles of these seven tracks tells the story of dark places and silent enemies and musically it is absolutely-massive (the ever-reliable Greg Chandler at the controls again). Swaggering and violent passages flow with at first backing horn accompaniments and rolling timpani drums. The vocals are clean and austere with a baritone clamour from Fauth Temenkeel who also delivers everything apart from the drums which is left to Fauth Lantav. Both coordinate a combined presence that is never short of expression. There are snare clashes, bombastic poundings, and great melody from all the instruments. Atmosphere is added from swirling keyboards and at times especially towards conclusion there are chime effects which I have to admit being a sucker for.
This isn’t really one for a track-by-track dissection as the barraging and windswept effect is present throughout and it needs to be heard as a whole, something that shouldn’t be a problem as it is all so vigorous and unlike our subject matter lively. Guitars at full rage are similar to early battle hewn Enslaved and the drumming brings to mind Helheim. There are a couple of melodic interludes allowing guitars to jangle but heft and weight are never far away. There’s even a patch of female chanting amidst the full-blooded fury of ‘Iserni Plag’ and our two Fauth’s are never short of ideas. Despite origins, the frosty climate of second wave Norse black metal is incredibly strong here and this is a debut album that lovers of it and horrible histories are strongly encouraged to dive headlong into. A gripping, fast-paced ride is guaranteed.
(8.5/10 Pete Woods)
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