As a music enthusiast and critic, I often find myself drawn to the extreme and the unconventional. So, when I stumbled upon Profane Burial's latest release, 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil', I was intrigued by the promise of a unique black metal experience. Little did I know, this album would be a wild ride through contrasting musical landscapes.
The Alluring Call of Profane Burial
Imagine a summer day in the South, where the heat is so intense it feels like a living entity. In this scorching environment, my mind craved something different, something that would transport me to a frozen realm. And thus, I embarked on a journey with Profane Burial, a Norwegian trio with an intriguing lineup of members from renowned bands.
A Tale of Two Extremes
The opening track, 'Den Fortaptes Krønike', sets the stage for a battle between serenity and chaos. Profane Burial teases us with a melodic guitar passage, luring us into a false sense of calm before unleashing a torrent of black metal fury. It's as if the band is personifying the Huldra, a mythical creature known for her enchanting beauty and deadly nature. This contrast is a recurring theme throughout the album.
The Battle for Cohesion
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' is the frequent collision of opposing musical sections. While Profane Burial excels at crafting individual passages, the abrupt transitions between them create a fragmented listening experience. The isolated piano, grand symphonies, and choirs feel like unexpected visitors in the frigid forest cabin of this album. It's as if the band is trying to merge two distinct musical worlds, but the result is a disjointed journey.
However, there are moments of respite. 'Horror Code, Pt. 2' showcases a more unified approach, with natural tempo changes and a harmonious blend of weeping guitar melodies and backing vocals. This track serves as a reminder of the band's talent and potential for creating a cohesive soundscape.
A Dizzying Adventure
Despite the talent on display, 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' leaves me with a sense of disorientation. The lack of cohesion within tracks creates a listening experience that is more akin to a rollercoaster ride than a smooth musical journey. It's as if the band has an abundance of ideas, but the execution feels rushed, leaving the album feeling jumbled and inconsistent.
Final Thoughts
While Profane Burial's attempt to push the boundaries of black metal is commendable, the result is a mixed bag. The album has its moments of brilliance, but the overall experience is marred by a lack of flow and cohesion. It's a bold and ambitious effort, but one that ultimately leaves me longing for a more refined and cohesive vision. Perhaps, like the heat-induced hallucinations of a Southern summer, this album is best enjoyed in small doses.
Recommended Tracks:
- 'Prognostic Augural Obsolescence'
- 'Triumph of Dreadful Aftermath'
- 'Channeling Epiphany'
Rating: 6/10
Further Exploration:
- Lamentari - 'Ex Umbra In Lucem'
- Aquilus - 'Bellum II'
- Bekor Qilish - 'Consecrated Abysses of Dread'
- Haimad
- Omni
- Strigiform - 'Aconite'
Connect with Profane Burial:
- Bandcamp: https://profaneburial.bandcamp.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProfaneBurial/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profane_burial/
Label: These Hands Melt Records
Band Members:
- Kjetil Ytterhus (vocals & keys)
- André Aaslie (guitar, bass & keys)
- Bjørn Dugstad Rønnow (drums)
With guest appearances by:
- Tom Alexander Trones (lead guitar)
- Torstein Nipe (lead guitar)
