THRONE
OF KATARSIS - Ved Graven
Candlelight
Records
For those already initiated into the dark sonic world
of THRONE OF KATARSIS, their third album, “Ved Graven”, released in 2011,
offers a familiar, unyielding journey. It seamlessly continues the band's
unwavering dedication to the raw, true Norwegian black metal sound that has
defined their previous works. Newcomers to the band will find themselves equally
at home, as the influences are stark and immediately recognizable: THRONE OF
KATARSIS openly pays homage to black metal titans like DARKTHRONE and BURZUM.
“Ved Graven” is an album that will undoubtedly
resonate deeply with fans of pure, old-school Norwegian black metal,
particularly those who appreciate lengthy compositions and hold the
aforementioned pioneers in high esteem. What slightly distinguishes THRONE OF
KATARSIS from many of their more primitive black metal peers is their nuanced
approach to tempo. While many bands in this style lean heavily on relentless
speed, the majority of “Ved Graven”'s tracks are mid-paced, driven by dark,
heavy, distorted riffs that cultivate a profoundly doomed and epic atmosphere.
This isn't to say the album lacks intensity; up-tempo sections and blast beats
do appear, but their purpose is to amplify the songs' inherent extremity and
underscore their pervasive somberness, rather than serving as the primary mode
of attack.
Ultimately, your enjoyment of “Ved Graven” hinges on
your preference for monolithic, primitive black metal versus a more diverse or
melodic approach. Even if you fall into the former category, a listen is highly
recommended before making a final judgment. The black metal landscape, even in 2011,
was saturated with bands treading similar ground, and THRONE OF KATARSIS
manages to carve out a subtle distinction. Personally, while individual
sections of the songs captured my attention, the overall experience of “Ved
Graven” felt rather monotonous and one-dimensional. By the album's conclusion,
I found myself fatigued and, as such, will be passing on this one.
Christine
Parastatidou
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