Svartthron - Bearer of the Crimson Flame CD

Svartthron propose here a good blend of primitive melancholic Black Metal and ambient. This is mostly slow to mid-paced, not unlike some of the later (just pre-keyboard albums) Burzum, rather monotonic yet effective Black Metal with omnipresent rhythm guitars just slowly shredding along, and rather repetitive, slow drumming - very fitting style in this case. A few acoustic passages do pop up here and there, seamlessly integrated into the Black Metal and ambient parts, the band switching between all styles without skipping a beat. There are a few heavier and slightly faster, more lively tracks as well, but even going through those the overall bleak melancholic atmosphere of the album remains intact. The vocals are low, harsh rasps that just flow along with the music, so undecipherable that they just pretty much blend in. Without really getting too close to doom territory, Bearer of The Crimson Flame is a slow, sometimes crushing slab of depressing melancholy that's perfect for when you're just in that mood. For some added value, check out that cover art while listening to the album - a perfect match. Recommended if this is your kind of stuff. Rating: 4/5

1. Doth Memory Betray 05:54
2. Path's of Failed Light 06:48
3. Of Malignity Carven 07:48
4. Ethereal Murder (in Quiescence) 04:22
5. Bearer of the Crimson Flame 07:20
6. Negation's Blade 05:33
7. Dreams in Ashes 05:08
Spielzeit 42:53