...on the Way of the Hunting Moon

In 2003, the same year that Enslaved released ‘Below the Lights,’ Bornholm came forth with their self-released debut, ‘On the Way of the Hunting Moon.’ Though they do not have the same kind of following as bands like Enslaved, this album proves they are worthy of the same kind of recognition.

It starts off with some somber acoustics reverberating over the sound of a chill wind, then plummets into a blackened storm of crashing drums and distorted guitar. The vocals come out in a raspy croak that cuts through the waves of guitar. The sound that Bornholm creates is natural and genuine. It could be likened to what oldschool black metal might sound like if it followed a path into the 21st century that didn’t lead to a mainstream or experimental sound.

The atmosphere of this album is great: cold, solemn, and rendered with strength and conviction. The instruments work well together even if total harmony isn’t always the goal. There are also some keyboards on this album, if I’m not mistaken, but they are so subtle they almost get by under the radar. They stay under the wing of the guitars, not venturing out and doing anything fancy, but adding to the atmosphere and contributing to a fuller sound.

The sound is comparable to that of Kampfar’s and their ilk. Beneath the tumult of the blackened sounds there is actually some original melodies ingrained in the woodwork. I would not call this melodic black metal, it’s still cold and jagged around the edges, but the fact that the definition of melody is ‘a sequence of notes that is musically satisfying’ makes it an appropriate descriptor in conveying the sound Bornholm wields.

‘On the Way of the Hunting Moon,’ their first full-length release, puts Bornholm in league with Norwegian initiators such as Enslaved, Immortal, and Emperor. If you like full-bodied, genuine black metal then you won’t be disappointed with Hungary’s Bornholm. Each song on this album contributes to a satisfying experience.