As my stingy taste in black metal continues to cast a frustrating shadow on the sub genre (in my life), the already in-accessible threshold portrayed by not only the bands, but true cvlt followers of the music, cannot help but negatively influence not only my own perceptions, but also those potentially interested. It's not till one uncovers a truly inspiring and enlightening experience in the realm of this "elite" genre that a connection is born and fueled, arresting the apprehension one (myself) so happened to be struggling with. The war is not won, and the battered predispositions are not dispensed of, but, a spark is ignited. This catalyst is not the disposition, it does not reach an inference, but it does bathe the pilgrim in a rejuvenating spirit of relief.
Atmospheric Black Metal is admittedly more accessible than most of the sub genre and, as it seems to be growing in popularity, we see more and more bands take this route. In the case of Seedna, many similarities can be found which would allow this band to fall into this category, although Forlorn continues to maintain a strong individual identity which is difficult to place in a genre box.
From Sweden, Seedna released their full-length Forlorn on July 15th. The concept of Forlorn as stated by the band is: "…Wishful and moving tale based around the never-ending cycles of life, created using the expression of black metal with enhanced atmospheric elements." This explanation is a fair depiction, but, given the opportunity, I hope to elaborate on why Forlorn is more of a catalyst for metal enthusiasts than just another record being released in a crowed year of excellent competition.
One of the most fascinating songs is "Wander". Not only does the character building pace develop an emotional portrait for the listener, but the image it creates is not all torturous pain, as most black metal would typically exhibit. Instead, ladened within the sorrow, is the clean production and clear instrumentation which I feel has buoyed this album among the vast sea of black metal and the sub genres it encapsulates. The warm production is most evident on this song, and where it may only be a single and solitude beam of hope gently enveloping this album, it presents this spirit of relief, and kindles the spark.
"Frozen" continues with this theme, blending thunderous chaotic mixes with raspy gasps of screaming vocals and ominous over-laid chants. This caldron of a song delivers the darkness anticipated, while reverberating echoes are heard, the cackles (2:30) are the finishing touches to the complete ritual of "Frozen".
This is simply a taste of what Forlorn offers, a listener must behold for themselves what experience it will bring. To also clarify, I am not jaded by the entirety of black metal, mainly wearisome and thirsty for that rare quality which seems so elusive during this period. A fatiguing pilgrim, searching for the perfect baptism in which the spark and shadow meet, and not just trve metal is born, but where new expectations are founded, and for myself, I believe Seedna is starting to do this.
Score: 8.5/10
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