Legends of Evil and Eternal Death

I originally procured this record to get a taste of what Hasjarl was doing before he (with Shaxul) started Deathspell Omega, and I must say that this record is a completely different beast.

The first and most obvious attribute of this album you'll notice is the fact that it is comprised entirely of 4 tracks that last no shorter than twelve minutes. This, combined with the very essence of the music, creates an epic feel that is sustained throughout the entire album. Each track barrels forward relentlessly (and perhaps, repetitively), which ultimately serves as its downfall. Instead of focusing on dramatic tension to instill a sense of dark grandeur, Hirilorn chooses to blast forward at all costs, and in return, renders the vast majority of this record as tedious and boring.

That said, however, the album does have its moments of vicious glory. For example, at the beginning of the album opener (Last Ride on the Winds of Eternity), a haunting classical guitar riff pushes forward, giving way to the very prominent and frequently reused lead riff that is bordering on pure cheese. However, it's the little moments in between the almost painfully weak ones that keep you listening. For example, at 3:13, the song reverts back to an reverb drenched acoustic lick while Shaxul pontificates on his impending doom. Then, with a pained wail, the song kicks into brutal overdrive, guitars colliding together in a wall of sound that sounds at times like an entire string section. Very, very cool.

However, you have to ask yourself if the little moments like those are worth waiting through all the weakness for. Due to the sheer ridiculousness of some of the lead guitar work on this record, this record fails in attaining the height that it seems to attempt. However, it is NOT a terrible record, and if you can get over the aforementioned lead guitar, you might have yourself a new favorite.