Album Of The Week: Ereb Altor's tenth Scandinavian rager 'Hälsingemörker'

 

Ereb Altor have been one of my favorite, and perhaps favorite, Scandinavian metal band since I heard their masterful By Honour release way back when they were labelmates with Strega-era SubRosa! I believe I found out about both from one advert on the back of Terrorizer and both bands expanded my taste forever! 

Ereb Altor return with their newest and big milestone TENTH album Hälsingemörker , and what a return it is. After a string of mouth watering (for battle) singles, the new album is truly special.

Like Ensiferum's recent "Winter Storm Vigilantes" hit appearing early on Winter Storm, Ereb Altor waste no time and frontload the album with bangers. "Valkyrian Fate" opens with a riff as catchy as Judas Priest and with memorable, gruff yet melodic moments that prove yet again how this band is always growing and celebrating different facets of classic metal lore. They have covered so much ground over the years, from Viking Doom to blackened Bathory to charred metal to power flirtation and classic moments galore. It still thrills me to listen to them and wonder what will encompass each new release, while still knowing they will always stay the metal course. 

This is a meaty and long album, a record that like Axioma Ethica Odini from mighty Enslaved, which will reward your understanding with many deeper insights if you give it your undivided fealty and attention. Rich in Swedish folklore and full of outstanding and passionate performances that overtake you completely, this record will kick you on your ass. Especially the "Träldom" 3:15 mark, holy fuck...so metal. Very recommended release.