CoC : Kampfar - Kampfar : Review

Kampfar - _Kampfar_
(Season of Mist, 1996)
by: Drew Snow (8 out of 10)

This self-titled MCD is Kampfar's first release, and shows a lot of promise for the future of this Norwegian viking black metal band. Not particularly "black" so to speak, Kampfar have an extremely majestic, cold, atmospheric sound (though without the heavy use of keyboards and overt atmospheric sections like countrymates Arcturus and Gehenna). The lyrics are, unfortunately, not included in the sparse packaging, but the drawing of a viking and terrific photographs of (presumably) Norwegian landscapes of vast forests and freezing white icebergs which adorn the sleeve are enough to tip one off to Kampfar's lyrical content and ideas. In addition, the song titles are all in Norwegian so the lyrics would figure to follow suit. The album has a grand, full production, especially in the drum department. During the mid-paced parts (the majority of the CD), the drums have a huge, echoing sound which overtakes the rest of the music. Throughout the rest of the three-track opus, clean, "Storm"-like vocals, acoustics, small use of keyboards (except for the keyboard and bass-only third track), typical black metal vocals (similar to Garm's), and the occasional fast section prevail. Overall, for a debut MCD, Kampfar have pulled off quite an album, and I'm looking forward with anticipation to their followup.

(article published 2/1/1997)

ALBUMS
7/11/2008	J Smit	8	Kampfar - Heimgang
1/8/2006	Q Kalis	9	Kampfar - Kvass