« Das Seelenbrechen »
Candlelight Records
2013
Ihsahn had slowly introduced progressive elements into the Emperor musical lexicon that eventually was best suited for solo work after 2001’s, Prometheus…. Four albums into his own discography, fans have begun to understand his musical vision, albeit with mixed results. So what to make of Ihsahn’s latest album, Das Seelenbrechen? Clearly, Ihsahn isn’t someone to rest on his laurels and release “run-of-the-mill” material, but a man with a vision and the confidence to challenge listeners time and time again. How far has he thought outside the box this time?
Beginning the album with Hilber, Ihsahn knows how to build tension by layering various ideas, and creating manic, jilted rhythms. Centering around one central theme, the instruments encircle the core in a beautifully, uncomfortable way. In fact, many of the songs on Das Seelenbrchen are “uncomfortable”. Tacit 2, Sub Alter and See all display a very eclectic side to Ihsahn’s pension for progressive music, even going as far as introducing electronic ideas. Bathed in spastic drumming and walls of noise, these songs perfectly divide the album between the chaos and serenity others offer contrarily.
Vocally, Ihsahn swings between his trademark rasp and clean style which meld wonderfully in numbers, like Regen, a soft piano piece that rises in intensity to full on epic guitar solos and dramatic choir. Likewise, Tacit continues the flare for the dramatic with rich trumpet and grandiose power while M demonstrates Ihsahn’s enthusiasm for Pink Floyd! However, as Pulse and Rec, sound a bit misplaced, even unnecessary, the album continues to intrigue; where is he going next?
Being such a legendary figure in Black Metal’s history, should fans idly accept anything Ihsahn releases? Absolutely, yes! Das Seelenbrechen is never boring enough to abandon completely. Songs are never predictable but challenge the listener to repeat listens. For all the bands that repeatedly churn out expected albums and keep the Metal genre stagnant, let Ihsahn’s latest work inspire you!
Standout Tracks: Regen, Nacl, Tacit, M
9/10
Chris
