Vredensdal: the dark and mysterious yet undeniably mighty force in the United State Black Metal scene, has, and with much anticipation, released a 6th release, an EP entitled “Resurrecting The Wolf”

The sound of creaking and groaning of chains against iron versus the raw elements of nature create an unnerving atmosphere, before the enormous weight of Black Winter Nights comes to bear immediately with devastating drums, grooving bass lines backing icy arpeggiating guitar work. Chilling yet textured vocals belt out the tale of brutal loss and survival. One is struck with the energy of Watain with the mournful elements of Naglfar.

This is turned upside down on the following track Post-Industrial Necrofolk, and absolutely masterful work of acoustic black metal that surpasses anything one may have heard crafted under this genre. The sheer adroit strumming and picking against a dark and unforgiving scales and rhythms confound the senses, unsure of whether to be in awe or fear.

The calming acoustics are cut short by the inferno that is Resurrecting the Wolf a classic black metal track of fury, self-reflection, myth and inner strength. The riffs on this track are undeniable in their force and energy, Goblin Reaper’s vocals tearing through the spirit beckoning power to surface with unrelenting might.

Vredensdal continues to set the standard for music in this genre, with a wide range of instruments being utilized to their highest and best use: communicating strong emotions, power, and the celebration of darkness. A perfect balance of raw energy and accessible production is met here, in what I believe is one of the best releases of the year.