Hey there my fellow blackmetalheads! Sean here from the Black Metal Archives. Today, we’re diving into The Mist From The Mountains and their latest release, Portal – The Gathering of Storms. If you’re into black metal with icy ferocity and melodic depth, you’re going to love this one.
First off, we have to talk about the album art. Something that helps me gravitate towards a band’s music, is the album art, and The Mist From The Mountain‘s Portal – The Gathering of Storms has an amazing cover. Its a mysterious, expansive nature cover that really sets the mood. It’s all about nature’s raw power and introspective darkness, which ties right into their sound, yet also including a door, that invites you, the perspective listener, into the wilderness that is their album.
Sound-wise, they’ve nailed it. They’re rooted in this second-wave black metal tradition—think Dissection or early Immortal—but they bring a modern, atmospheric twist. The guitars are melodic yet sharp, with that icy tone we love in black metal. The melodies are cinematic and layered, drawing you in. With the inclusion of acoustics and various instruments, its like you are really thrown into the wilderness with their music.
‘And So Flew the Death Crow’. It’s a sprawling opener that pulls you in with its intricate riffs and dynamic shifts. Clocking in at over 10 minutes, it’s an epic journey through somber melodies and relentless intensity. The way the band balances aggression and melody here is just masterful.
Another favorite of mine is ‘Among the Black Waves‘. This track is pure atmosphere. It’s slower in parts but drenched in haunting melodies that evoke imagery of stormy seas and endless horizons. The layered guitars and atmospheric keys really shine, giving the song a hypnotic quality.
The song ‘Sáiva‘ closes the album in spectacular fashion. It’s another 10-minute epic that feels like a summation of everything the band stands for: powerful riffs, ethereal atmospheres, and a sense of storytelling that’s deeply tied to nature and mythology.
The vocals? Absolutely killer. They’ve got this dual approach of searing black metal shrieks paired with deep, almost chanted like clean vocals. That contrast gives the album a primal, ritualistic energy that I honestly have not found anywhere else.
Production-wise, it’s clean but not sterile. Every instrument has space to breathe, from the thunderous drums to the subtle atmospheric keys. It’s a perfect balance of clarity and raw energy.
How does it fit into black metal? The Mist From The Mountains blend the genre’s roots with bold, progressive elements. They’re not afraid to slow things down, bring in acoustic parts, or experiment with vocal layers. It feels timeless and modern at the same time—I feel it is a must-listen for seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Alright, my metal family, that’s my take on The Mist from the Mountains‘ Portal – The Gathering of Storms. It’s the perfect soundtrack for a stormy night or a hike through misty woods. Let me know in the comments what you think of the album, also let me know if there’s another band you think I should review.
Thank you for reading! Until next time, stay heavy, stay frosty, and keep driving through the mist!
