Rimthurs
Ödemark
(Archaic Sound)
For those looking for a classic approach to black metal with proper sections of folk more common to its Scandinavian nature, you need not look any further than Sweden’s Rimthurs. Originally conceived in in the mid-nineties, this one-man act released his debut, Svartnar in 2010. According to Metal Archives, that debut has received a 90% (per one review) as opposed to an earlier released demo recording, released a few years earlier. Ödemark has four tracks, but three of those are all parts of the title track itself, with “I Nordenskogens Skugga” following shortly afterwards. These tracks actually range from pieces filled with melodic tremolos and furious blasts, to that of more light-hearted acoustic affairs. Interestingly, project engineer Tommy Holmer (Planet Rain, Undivine) chose to open the disc on a clean note, which might strike some listeners as discomforting to their palette. I’m not sure why it ever would, since the classic formula of black metal is here as kvlt as can ever possibly be, but someone will always find something to complain about these days. I found it unique, even though I won’t say that Holmer’s clean vocals are incredible. The very fact that he is not afraid to use clean pieces to back such a furious composition is certainly worthy of some merit however, and it’s certainly not the sort of thing we hear often in this music.
If you thought that was a bit off-kilter, then you’re really going to be surprised when such a soft and soothing track follows directly after. Several traditional folk instruments are utilized, with a polished production value to boot; which will make some question the very band they’re listening to. Though far be it from me to tell such an adept composer how he should make an album, especially one as close-knit to Scandinavian tradition as this has been. Not only does Holmer have the mood and atmosphere down for such an unexpected set of compositions, but he captures what I feel the essence of this genre is as well. In an age where we are seeing so many segues from black metal into other musical styles (which is healthy, don’t get me wrong) I am quite glad to hear an album where root acts like Bathory and Burzum are given more precedence. Though it may not be as rough and raw as some of you would like, this is still the genuine article in my book and it’ll give open-minded listeners a good helping of traditional folk music as well, which might allow for a greater appreciation of Scandinavian culture as a whole.
