Enslaved, the Norwegian black metal legends, return with their 16th full-length studio work, “Heimdal”, following the release of “Utgard” in 2020 and the “Caravans to the Outer Worlds” EP in 2021. The album is called after “Heimdal”, possibly the most enigmatic figure in Scandinavian mythology. The record delves into the mysteries of Norse mythology, dealing with themes such as sacrifice, heroism, and spirituality. Enslaved’s use of traditional Scandinavian instruments, such as the Hardanger fiddle and the mouth harp, is prominent throughout the album, giving the songs a distinct texture. Eilif Gundersen from Wardruna makes a guest appearance on horn on, as well.
The album opens with the atmospheric track “Behind the Mirror”. The song builds gradually, with extreme vocals and heavy, creating a sense of anticipation for what’s to come. “Congelia” has a cold blackened vide, and it’s more intense. The lyrical chorus shows the band’s ability to blend aggression and melody harmoniously. “Forest Dweller” is heavily influenced by prog folk rock from the 70s with acoustic guitars, in addition to some “odd” black metal frenzy in the middle. “Kingdom” is a more straightforward track, with heavy riffs and pounding drums, complemented by clean vocals as well. “The Eternal Sea” has a Viking flavor till the 5th minute, when the extreme passage takes over, and after a while it becomes atmospheric again till the end. “Caravans to the Outer Worlds” is a song from the eponymous EP, which was released in 2021. It’s an atmospheric, dark, and dynamic song with psychedelic elements. The album’s title track, “Heimdal”, is a long track that is divided in three parts and borrows the Priest-like riff from “Intermezzo II – The Navigator”, the closing track from the 2021 EP. The song is inspired by the story of Heimdallr, the Norse god who guarded the Rainbow Bridge, and contains lyrics that explore the concepts of responsibility and sacrifice.
The album was produced by the band members Ivar Bjørnson (guitars), Grutle Kjellson (vocals, bass) and Iver Sandøy (drums), mixed by the famed Jens Bogren (Amon Amarth, Amorphis, Fates Warning, Arch Enemy, etc.) and mastered by the renowned Tony Lindgren (Dimmu Borgir, Katatonia, Eluveitie, Kreator, etc.). The production is dynamic and full. The heaviness and atmospheric elements are perfectly balanced, resulting in a captivating and cohesive listening experience.
In a few words, “Heimdal” is a great and varied album that demonstrates Enslaved’s ability to blend various musical styles. Fans of black metal, extreme metal, atmospheric metal, progressive rock/metal, and anyone interested in delving into the mysteries of Norse mythology will undoubtedly dig it.
