Angantyr / Nasheim – Angantyr / Nasheim [Split]

Four exclusive cuts from two of the most important black metal bands around – Angantyr from Denmark and elusive Swedish duo Nasheim. The latter keep a ridiculously low profile, so this split presents a rare opportunity to sample their majestic fare. While Nasheim contribute just one track, ‘Sövande Mjöd Vill Jag Tömma’ clocks in at a whopping 25 minutes and is worth the price of admission on its own.

I recently acquired the vinyl version of Nasheim’s demo anthology ‘Evighet/Undergång’, which is superb, but this solitary tune is even better and, for me at least, steals the show on this long-awaited union (in the works for three years, apparently).

Unlike his partners in crime, Angantyr mastermind Ynleborgaz has been in relative uber-productive mode of late, with two acclaimed LPs unleashed in the past three years. The great Dane delivers raw yet atmospheric blackness that falls somewhere between early Emperor, early Enslaved and nirvana (the place; not the band). The 13-minute ‘Edvoren’ is mid-tempo and more addictive than picking your nose in the middle of the night when it’s dark and there’s no point getting out of bed.

Accusations of filler could be hurled at the (genuinely impressive) live track but – all in all – this is a stellar release and showcases two northern enigmas at their cold, uncalculated best. Even if you don’t surrender to the considerable charm of Angantyr, ‘Sövande Mjöd Vill Jag Tömma’ will seduce you and then blow you away. Available in both digital and vinyl format, too.