Rewarding for patient progressive black metal fans - A review of Enslaved's Utgard

Enslaved is a band that has always thought outside the box and offered a rather progressive take on black metal inspired by Norse mysticism, mythology and spirituality. This is why some people consider the band members pioneers while others have difficulties processing the complex music. Utgard exemplifies such conflicting reactions perfectly.

The quintet's fifteenth album contains several highlights. ''Sequence'' for instance is a surprisingly fluid song despite its numerous ideas varying from cold black metal passages to moments domineered by atmospheric electronic effects and percussive elements. ''Homebound'' is one of the band's fastest and most energetic songs with vibrant rhythm section and unchained vocals without forgetting about more atmospheric guitar melodies that make for an apocalyptic ride. The highly atmospheric and almost space rock influenced closer ''Distant Season'' even unleashes cinematic vibes that will leave a lasting impression.

Other experiments might however go a notch too far. The atmospheric choirs, dramatic clean vocals and almost sacral atmosphere in the opener ''Fires in the Dark'' makes me think of bands like Batushka. This complex tune is a grower but misplaced as an album opener. The dystopian soundscapes in ''Urjotun'' feel quite elegiac and recall groups such as Killing Joke or Ministry. The lack of structure might even draw influences from the krautrock genre. These influences sound very interesting on paper but the final result is rather difficult to digest.

In the end, Enslaved offers courageous progressive black metal on Utgard. It should appeal to listeners who like to take their time discovering an album and let it grow on them. Despite the band's open-minded approach, some experiments might go too far and sound incompatible or even inaccessible at first contact. This is why the album can be described as brave, diversified and intriguing but not as the group's greatest hour.

Final rating: 75%