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Heimdalls Wacht > Der Untergang der alten Welt > Reviews
Heimdalls Wacht - Der Untergang der alten Welt

In kalte Schatten versunken ... - 88%

BloodIronBeer, March 10th, 2008

Heimdalls Wacht plays a melodic, cold style of black metal which doesn’t need to fall into minimalist stereotypes in order to exude atmosphere.

At times a thundering blast, other times a trance inducing serenade, and other times just plain epic, this album is without doubt keen on variety. The first track's first riff is almost punk , and two tracks later you're in a trance with the bass intro to "In kalte Schatten versunken ..." (a fitting title, translating to "In Cold Shadows absorbed ...") Another two tracks and the epic "Weltenbrand" is upon you. Yet another two tracks and you'll find a nearly U.S. heavy metal sounding song - the track still obviously bears the black metal production, and the majority of the track is accompanied by harsh vocals, however there are gang vocals singing along during the chorus. What a catchy track.

One odd tidbit I've noticed is some inconsistency in the vocals. They're louder on some tracks, and much quieter on others. Some tracks they're almost animalistic, and sometimes they're not so harsh. My guess would be this is actually intentional, because it certainly fits the music.

But anyway. Needless to say, there is a lot of variety. Riffs that bludgeon you into the ground go back to back with atmospheric parts. It works well to balance out the album nicely. Each respective style comes across vividly.

The album as a whole reflects a bittersweet and powerful essence. It truly is "in kalte Schatten versunken". It also stands as one of the best black metal albums I've heard in a while.



{Originally written for www.metalcrypt.com}