It’s always wonderful to dig into the Black Metal undergrowth to discover new realities and bring to light amazing releases. I don’t think there’s any need to introduce Ondfodt from Finland, a great band that’s been active for about 15 years and a discography made up almost exclusively of very good full-length albums. For those unfamiliar with them, their offering is classic Black Metal: cold, fast and sharp from the Marduk school, Dark Funeral, Enthroned, Sargeist, Nordjevel, Infernal Angels etc.
Released for Eisenwald, ‘Dimsvall’ continues the path taken by musicians years ago admirably. A crystalline quality gives the right space to instruments and voice: riffs at times wink at melodic school giants such as Dissection and Sacramentum, are the backbone of the album and they are varied and suggestive voice perfect for the instrumental section, which reminds me of many seminal bands but especially Naglfar. The rhythm section with a good sound bass and blasts and slowdowns are very reminiscent of the drumming of Nils Fjellström and Simon Schilling, and weave an excellent foundation for a deadly and scratchy voice.
The album also features various collaborations: a great guitar solo by Alexander Kuoppala (ex- Children of Bodom) on ‘Grymhejtins Ansikt’ and guest vocals by Tom Cattermole from Pravitas (on the track ‘Bakom Blekna Skuggor’) and Mathias “Vreth” Lillmåns (Finntroll, …And Oceans) on ‘Futuria’. Special praise goes to René Thuys (Antzaat, Ars Veneficium, Cirith Gorgor etc.) who created the colorful and evocative cover.
Yet another great record and yet another sign of maturation from a great band.
