Min Kniv - 2007 - Av Aske

Out of Norway and the Nidaros scene comes this Black Metal band with their first demo. Three rather long, mid-paced to fast, raw untitled tracks are presented on this tape. Musically this reminds me at times of Skaur, due to some folk inspired instrumental parts on the second track, with parts of the monotony of Burzum and a hint of Darkthrone and Isvind, but it all sounds fresh. This is classic Norwegian Black Metal performed now.

The vocals sound like tormented howls, a bit like a muffled version of Woods of Infinity and the
more insane parts of Famine from Peste Noire.

The soundquality is of good demo quality, slightly muffled, with the guitars in the foreground,
followed by the vocals and in the back the drums. The music is well composed and executed, the drums are simplistic but bring just the right energy to the music. The guitars are sharp and metallic. This is another release of Nidaros Black Metal that brings the listener back to the early days of the scene.

Standout tracks are "II" and "III".

Sunday August 23 2009, by :Vragh:

Armagedda/Woods of Infinity - 2002 - Split 7"

Presented on this split effort is one track by each of these Swedish hordes. The song "At the Edge of Negative Existence" represents Armagedda on this release and has the same feel and sound as their first album, mid-paced, filthy Black Metal with a very harsh sound. Focus is on the guitars and vocals. As before, they play Darkthrone influenced Black Metal. Another masterpiece by this horde, and a track I really appreciate. This track is also included on the Armagedda collection Echoes in Eternity released in 2007.

"Missfostret Tellus" by Woods of Infinity is actually my first encounter with the band, and is a bit different and hard to describe. Depressive Black Metal sounding partly like a soundtrack, partly like some kind of mad vaudeville circus music, with a bit of a folk music influence added is the best I can describe it. This is very interesting. Reminds me somewhat of Arcturus' La Masquerade Infernale.
The focus in the mix is on the vocals, which are more spoken or screamed than sung, the music is slow to mid-paced, with a sad sounding guitar, which adds to the feeling of depression which emanates from this track.

Monday August 23 2004, by :Vragh: