The Pitch: The second full-length from Norwegian black metal duo Gjendød via Helltrhasher Productions. FFO: Darkthrone, Mayhem, Cryfemal
What I Like: Krigsdøger is another raw dose of underproduced, grim black metal inspired by the classic second wave sound. As such, it is appropriately cold, ugly, and depressive. Over the course of the album Gjendød alternate between blazing acts of righteous fury and melancholic, doom-infused trudges through lonely forests. This duality makes for a relatively dynamic listen, even if the down moments conjure some pretty dismal thoughts. All par for the genre, I suppose. Personally, I prefer the cascading, descending tremolos of faster tracks like "Når sårene er renset." That one gives me some early Taake vibes.
Critiques: It's a little dull for me. I'm not as into the depressive side of black metal, so particularly when things slow down I start to check out. Life's too short to manufacture this kind of misery, but I respect that others enjoy this aesthetic more than I.
The Verdict: Krigsdøger isn't always exactly my speed, both literally and figuratively, but even so there are enough high points to warrant some praise. Furthermore, I have massive respect for any band that can conjure such deep feelings of animosity and sorrow. I may not be the target audience, but if you're the masochistic type Gjendød are probably right up your alley.
Flight's Fav's: Når sårene er renset, En pålagt byll, Krigsdøger
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
SUBSCRIBE to our Trench Talk Podcast on iTunes, Castbox, YouTube, and BitChute. You can also like and follow us on the social media of your choice with Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and support us on Patreon.