(Norma Evangelium Diaboli)
Total Time: 46:16
It is truly remarkable that a handful of people, from such a small and isolated country, have managed to create such a powerful Black Metal scene. The Icelandic scene was, initially, born and influenced by the sound of Black Metal pioneers DEATHSPELL OMEGA. All of Iceland’s first albums were influenced by the French band. Great albums from bands like SVARTIDAUÐI, SINMARA, ALMYRKVI, REBIRTH OF NEFAST, WORMLUST and many others have evolved the genre and made a dynamic entry into Black Metal worldwide.
But now, with the next albums from all of them, it’s time to consolidate and realise the grandeur and character of an entire scene. So, the time has come for MISÞYRMING and “Algleymi”. Their debut album “Söngvar Elds Og Oreiðu” was a raw, extreme, difficult and demanding release. It was widely acclaimed and a true masterpiece. “Algleymi”, on the other hand, is more polished, more delicate, more melodic and easy listening. But, at the same time, it’s more balanced and synthetically superior. Different, but just as amazing.
The introductory “Orgia” puts you straight to the point. Guitar-oriented Black Metal, awesome vocals, tight sound, flawless production. Great drumming, both arrangement and sound. ‘Með Svipur A Lofti’ and ‘Island, Steingelda Krummaskuð’ keep overall quality to unbelievable heights until the magnificent (and at the same time scary) instrumental interlude ‘Hælið’. The following, “Og Er Haustið Líður Undir Lok”, is more atmospheric, more sensual with that particular introduction reminiscent of KATATONIA (“Discouraged Ones” era). “Allt Sem Eitt Sinn Blómstraði” has a black metal soul, being the fastest track in the album. Then we have two of the best songs of the year, “Alsæla” and “Algleymi”. The first is unconditionally captivating with its guitar melodies and variety. Incredible traditional black metal riff at 0:50 and at 2:20 awesome pure rock ‘n roll spot. Apparently so disparate and yet so matching. Unique composition! The homonymous song has that introductory Deathspell-ish melody, evolves into a sad and pessimistic epic that makes the listener hold his breath…
I don’t have much else to say about MISÞYRMING and their second album. I don’t know if it’s better or worse than their first one. That I do know is that they didn’t follow the familiar path. They evolved, dared and created a true masterpiece. Also, I know that “Algleymi” cant be threatened by anyone as my personal best album for 2019!
Rating: 9/10
Labros Katsakioris
Related Link: MISÞYRMING – Official Page
