Review: Borknagar Further Their Legacy on New Release Fall
Released last week, Norway’s own Borknagar released what may be one of their best albums to date with their 12th full-length LP, Fall. And while they’ve never really made a bad album, but they easily outdo themselves with this latest effort, which honestly feels like a full summary of their career.
Without belaboring the point, I just want to say that when listening to Fall, it’s easy to recognize how Borknagar seamlessly blended prog, black metal, and folk in a way that encompasses the strongest aspects of their sound. It’s a perfect example of how black metal can do that without seeming trite or overwritten, and without sacrificing any elements of their sound.
The album opens up with “Summits,” which hits the listener right away with soaring vocals, intricate guitarwork, and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics paint the picture of climbing a bleak mountain in the middle of a Nordic field. “World of Lies” incorporates a faster tempo and heavier guitar riffs while retaining the melodic sensibilities present throughout the album. It does a great job of transitioning to the beefier part of the record without sacrificing anything on melody.
“Afar” delves deeper into black metal territory, with harsh vocals and a more aggressive tempo, along with a sense of longing. “Moon” showcases the band’s ability to blend heavy and melodic elements seamlessly. The track features a melancholic atmosphere and ethereal vocals, creating a sense of mystery and wonder.
The longest track on the album, “Stars Ablaze” is an epic journey that showcases the band’s full range of influences and abilities. “The Wild Lingers” features more prominent clean vocals and melodic guitar work, creating a sense of hope and optimism. It was initially released as a single before the album came out and it’s a crusher and a great offering of what the full record contains
“Inherit the Earth” showcases Øystein Brun’s clean vocals and features a prominent use of keyboards, creating a more progressive metal soundscape. The album’s closing track, “Fall,” brings the journey to a contemplative and melancholic conclusion.
This record truly continues Borknagar’s signature sound, blending progressive metal, black metal, and folk metal elements to lead to something that showcases the best of what they’re capable of. Even 12 record in, they prove they still have it. Definitely worth a listen if you’re a fan of the band or black metal in general.
Broknagar’s Fall is out now.
