Drudkh - Eternal Turn of the Wheel DIGI-CD

Drudkh's latest album 'Handful Of Stars' turned out to be something of a wedge within their fan base. While some applauded the band's need to expand their sound, others found it uninspired and felt they were jumping the post black metal bandwagon. I personally enjoyed it, but the argument that they might have strayed from their roots a bit too far may have some truth in it. However, fear not because 'Eternal Turn Of The Wheel' is here now and is sure to convince even the most disillusioned fans out there that they're back.

On 'Eternal Turn Of The Wheel' Drudkh revisits the earliest releases of their discography. Stylistically it is very reminiscent of 'Forgotten Legends', 'Autumn Aurora' and 'The Swan Road'. Drudkh didn't half-ass it though, 'Eternal Turn Of The Wheel' sounds very inspired. Sporting a modern but organic sound (they never sounded better production-wise); the Slavic rendition of Burzum-styled riffs they are renowned for, are permitted to convey the atmosphere without hindrance. The songs on the album use repetition to create a feeling of longing and melancholy much in the same way their debut did, which isn't easy to accomplish. Yet the album doesn't feel as minimalist as 'Forgotten Legends' as the riffs are embellished with either subtle synths or (almost) frivolous cymbal work. This juxtaposition keeps your attention span high throughout the lengthy tracks. 'Eternal Turn Of The Wheel' is convincing proof that Drudkh should stick to their guns when it comes to their stylistic approach since this is really a great record. Highly recommended! Lords of Metal 85/100

Tracks:
1.Eternal Circle
2.Breath of Cold Black Soil
3.When Gods Leave Their Emerald Halls
4.Farewell to Autumn's Sorrowful Birds
5.Night Woven of Snow, Winds and Grey-Haired Stars
Spielzeit: 37:14