The Pitch: The latest black metal opus from Icelandic band Misþyrming via Norma Evangelium Diaboli. FFO: Mgla, Taake, UADA
What I Like: Algleymi is the much anticipated sophomore effort from a band that ripped its way into the scene with their debut album Söngvar elds og óreiðu ("Songs of fire and chaos"). I am interested to hear the reactions of those who have been following Misþyrming since then, because Algleymi feels like a different album entirely. Whereas Söngvar felt like an insidious, ever-twisting nightmare labyrinth, this new effort is lush with melody and far more aligned with the likes of UADA than Deathspell Omega. Bright guitars ring out in gothic ecstacy to craft black metal anthems reminiscent of the likes of Taake and Murg. Quite honestly, it's night and day, and for some I can see that potentially upsetting certain listeners. That said, I really enjoy this album. While I too was expecting more dark and ominous chaos worship, there is no denying the grandeur of these tracks. I feel a profound range of emotions over the runtime, and most of all it just gives me further insight into the dynamic potential of Misþyrming as a band.
Critiques: If there is one objective downside to the direction of this album, it's that it lacks much of its predecessor's unique identity. While Söngvar was pretty one of a kind, Algleymi's comparatively more streamlined, traditional approach does less to differentiate Misþyrming from their peers. As a result, I'm unsure if this album will be as memorable in the end. Furthermore, there are some parts I'd go so far as to call dull. For instance, "Og er haustið líður undir lok" is among the shortest tracks on the album and yet it seems to drag on forever.
The Verdict: Don't get me wrong, Misþyrming still bring the icy cold melancholy, especially on the titular closer, but if you were in dire need of more experimental sadomasochism, these aren't the droids you're looking for. On the other hand, if you can shift your expectations and just want some great black metal (something kind of lacking this year, imo) in a melodic style, Algleymi should not disappoint. Buy it HERE.
Flight's Fav's: Orgia, Ísland steingelda krummaskuð, Algleymi
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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