‘Haunting Calls’ is the debut demo of a new Swedish duo with Dutch connections, yet with this 3-track demo tape the band is distinctly sounding more Northern than typically Dutch – if such a thing even exists. In just over 15 minutes the band takes you on their snow-laden hike through vast and endless forests…
With a fairly uniform pace, Bortglömd leads the way and guides the walk. Ice-cold screeches, mesmerising and repetitive melodies and chilling riffs are the accompaniment. Heidens Hart Records, the label on duty, describes it as a mix between Hädanfärd and Austere/Woods Of Desolation. It could hardly be more accurate. The music obviously leans heavily on atmosphere, which sounds both dark and bleak at the same time. This also keeps it musically akin to bands like Paysage d’Hiver and, for example, the later work of Evilfeast (‘Elegies Of The Stellar Wind’). The overarching terminology here is oppressive atmosphere, with the subdued tempos and vocals tucked deeper into the mix being the biggest determinants of that ambience.
Although the identities of both men are still shrouded in cold mists, it is clear that both are no novices in the business. Their sense of atmosphere and song writing, even within this narrow musical framework, speak volumes. In just over this quarter of an hour of playing time, Bortglömd manages to convince without reservation, leaving us eagerly awaiting new work.
