Bands combining influences like shoegaze, black metal, hardcore and psych rock may be more common than ever, but Tengil do it in a way that, while not entirely groundbreaking, works really well.
At first glance it’s obvious that Tengil’s aesthetic is more soft and indie than it is brutal and in-your-face, in terms of the art they choose to use and the band’s group photos. But don’t let that keep you from giving them a listen if you tend more towards the metal side. They are seriously heavy and talented, and although shouldhavebeens is only the group’s second full -length, they have released a fair amount of singles and done a lot of touring, and know what they are doing when it comes to their sound.
“With a song for dead darlings” is one of the best tracks on the record, standing out for it’s mournful feeling and cool riffs. Almost every song on the album is catchy and strong, and the flow of the record also works really well for those who like to listen all the way through.
This is definitely recommended for fans of post-hardcore and experimental metal. While black metal purists will surely find things to dislike about this one, there is no denying that shouldhavebeens is a unique and catchy record.
