Year: 2021
Total Time: 45:57
Label: Season Οf Mist

For most Norwegians, the name “VREID” might not say much. In contrary the names “WINDIR” and “Valfar” are quite famous. So, for those who are not familiar with the band, VREID was born from WINDIR’s ashes, coming from the three remaining members, right after Valfar’s death in 2004. The truth is that many do not receive this connection, due to VREID’s not so special releases comparing to WINDIR’s albums. Of course, they have carved their own path in Black Metal, with a more Black ‘n’ Roll approach, having released nine full lengths, including this year’s “Wild North West”.

The Norwegians are releasing this album alongside with a movie, which travels us between imagination and reality, in which each song of “Wild North West” has its own story. Quite an interesting and successful project I would say (after watching the film), which also presents us moments quite familiar to WINDIR’s fans. As for the musical part of the record, I would say that VREID release their most “full”, diverse and mature album till now. Each song has its own personality, from the opening title track “Spikes of God”, which moves into Black Metal paths, to the more atmospheric “Wolves At Sea” and “Dazed And Reduced,” which is influenced by GHOST. Also notable is the song “Into the Mountains” which stands out for its feeling and its atmosphere, as it is a song that was written back in 2002 for WINDIR, but was completed and released now, traveling us twenty years back.

VREID in their ninth full-length continue to move on high quality musical levels, presenting us a sound journey from Black Metal to classical Rock and Heavy Metal paths. “Wild North West” exudes a cinematic atmosphere, being one of those albums that, with its adventurous character, requires to sink deep into it in order to be enjoyed…

Rating: 7/10
Editor: Nikos Manousis
Related Link: VREID – Official Page