« Fraa Ryfylke » (demo)
Self-Released/Independent
2014
From the frozen tundra and majestic landscapes of Norway, comes SVERDKAMP, a band formed by Nattsvart and produced by NATTSOL member, Venomenon. What SVERDKAMP offer on their first proper demo, « Fraa Ryfylke » is a deeply rich, sonic journey encompassing folky Black Metal peppered with Viking moodiness. First song, « Til Strid » gets right to the chaos in traditional Black Metal fare, including blast beats, raw aggressive guitars but also welcomes melody and baritone clean singing as the rhythm changes often to add unpredictability. While primitive in its production and execution, « Til Strid » conveys a sense of brooding and grimy sensibility similar to old FINNTROLL or KAMPFAR and rises in tension as the song draws to a close.
Veering in the opposite direction, « Daudens Drikkleikarvise« , can be characterized as a drinking song for burly Vikings on a ravaging pillage! Jaunty and « anthemic », the number features gang vocals and an uplifting pulse that swings from the drunken bar stools from which the ideas may have sprung! This is the sound of « brotherhood ». « Hymne til Heimlandet » is strong and forceful in its slower pattern while « Trettemyrane. follows the faster template with the return of the signature Black Metal screech mixed with rousing arrangements that stir one’s emotions. Producer, Venomenon (Nattsol, Man Gremmes Kan) offers guest vocals on « Med Vondt Ska Vondt For« , as well as Draugr Skaldvard, (from Viking band, Thurs) on the last tune to impress. With its penchant for mid-paced Black Metal and proud clean vocals, the number clearly follows the tradition of early ULVER, KAMPFAR and HELHEIM!
SVERDKAMP’s demo, « Fraa Ryfylke » is a must have demo for fans that appreciate their Black Metal primitive and epically inspiring, meshing folk elements and proud crooning. For a demo, the sound could be made « thicker » by pushing the drums to the fore. The caustic guitars tone recalls ULVER’s « Madrigal of the Night« . However, with the diversity of ideas present, there’s no doubt SVERDKAMP’s potential can only rise higher….
Standout Tracks: « Trettemyrane« , « Med Vondt Ska Vondt For »
8/10
Chris
