Welcome back my fellow blackmetal heads! Sean here at the Black Metal Archives, with a new review for you. We’re diving into a fun one today with KVAEN, the brainchild of Swedish multi-instrumentalist J Björnfot, and they have been a formidable presence in the melodic black metal scene since their debut. Their latest offering, The Formless Fires, released on June 21, 2024, continues to showcase their signature blend of ferocity and melody, solidifying their reputation for delivering high-octane, guitar-driven compositions.
The album opens with the title track, “The Formless Fires,” a quintessential KVAEN piece characterized by highly melodic tremolo riffing and a dynamic interplay between mid-paced stomps and blistering blasts. Björnfot’s legible blackened rasps inject a sense of urgency, setting a compelling tone for the record.
“Traverse the Nether” follows, featuring a guest appearance by Sebastian Ramstedt of Necrophobic and In Aphelion. This track showcases intricate fretwork and punishingly precise drumming, with infectious leads and shifting dynamics that emphasize hook-laden melodies without sacrificing heaviness.
The album’s diversity is further highlighted in tracks like “De Dödas Sång” (“Song of the Dead”) and the epic closer “The Wings of Death.” These songs exhibit ominously atmospheric passages alongside impressively melodious, wailing guitar solos, adding depth to the album’s sonic landscape.
Instrumentally, The Formless Fires is a testament to Björnfot’s prowess. The drumming is punchier than on past outings, contributing to the album’s heavier sound. The production is clean, sharp, and precise, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining the raw intensity characteristic of black metal.
In the context of the black metal genre, KVAEN‘s latest release stands as a compelling blend of traditional elements and melodic innovation. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it offers a well-executed and engaging listening experience that should appeal to fans of melodic black metal.
In summary, The Formless Fires is a solid addition to KVAEN‘s discography, delivering a potent mix of aggression and melody that reaffirms their place in the black metal landscape. For a full listening experience, you can stream the album on their bandcamp page.
