Keep Of Kalessin is either an under appreciated cult band or an over hyped clone band, depending on who one speaks with. Mercenary Musik has brought Through Times of War to American audiences for the first time as an official North American release. Originally released on Avantgarde in 1998, it has aged well and is definitely deserving of this re-release. That said, there is not a single track that would feel out of place on Mayhem’s De Mysteriis. From the slow rhythm with lots of reverb to the pounding drums to the deep toned vocals, we have a loyal reproduction of the now standard Norwegian sound. Are they mere imitators? Do they advance the style? No and no, but they create individualized songs that fit well within the Mayhem framework, creating some memorable riffs, moods, and melodies alone the way.

The sound quality is a bit murky, but it is more powerful than De Mysteriis’s sound. The vocals stand out more and the guitars are more powerful. This Trondheim based act, who lifted their name from Ursula K LeGuin’s Earthsea Trilogy, have the musicianship to match mid period Mayhem, and have produced a debut album worthy of shelf space in your collection, though it is not likely to collect dust. Expect to play Times Of War regularly. Memorable songs include “I Choose To Suffer” with its speedy middle section and “Nectarious Red – Itch”, which after eight mayhemic minutes and a two minute pause provides a Burzumesque ending to the album. Look for them on Advantgarde’s Mayhem tribute album.

[Visit the band's website]

---

Comments