CoC : Bak De Syv Fjell - Bak De Syv Fjell : Review

Bak De Syv Fjell - _Bak De Syv Fjell_
(Frostscald, 2009)
by: Nikola Shahpazov (8.5 out of 10)

It may have taken more than a decade, but finally we have it -- a re-release of the now legendary EP by Bergen-based project Bak De Syv Fjell. Originally issued on vinyl in 1997 and limited to a 1000 copies, these two tracks are a fine example of the tendencies (both musical and conceptual) that dominated the Norwegian black metal scene in the mid-'90s. Bak De Syv Fjell's sound and approach to songwriting is much akin to that of short-lived projects Storm and Isengard or early Ulver: a folk-tinged and less aggressive breed of black metal emphasizing on melody and epic atmosphere.

Both "From Haavardstun" and "De Siste Tanker" are well balanced between melodic guitar leads, tremollo picking, galloping drums (handled by Einar Selvik of Gorgoroth and Det Hedenske Folk fame) and fine male vocals, with only a slight keyboard undercurrent. The production is not as crisp and clear as are the standards today but is somewhat representative of its times. Haavard's evocative vocals fit the music perfectly, compensating lack of proper training with emotion.

This resurrected EP delivers just nine minutes of music that easily rivals classic releases _Nordavind_ and _Hostmorke_, making us wish the rumours of a Bak De Syv Fjell reunion and approaching proper debut are very true.

(article published 2/5/2010)