I often wonder if some bands from Norway almost wish they were not from that region. Being a new / new-ish band from anywhere in the country can carry a lot of expectations. You have the world basically looking at you through the lens of all that came before you. You have certain criteria or demands imposed on you simply because you are from the country that has, for all intents and purposes, become synonymous with the term Black Metal. Much like the lowly lump of coal, with enough pressure and optimal conditions, maybe you can be that rare diamond that perseveres and shines brightly on the metal scene. So dear readers, I present to you Funeral Harvest. Now, granted the band is composed of members from Italy, Germany, and Norway, they are leading with the Norwegian tag at the forefront.
Having recently finished my review of Nazghor, which brought me strong feelings of Unanimated and their early material. I just had to get back and re-listen to that godly material. So, tying into my Norwegian Black Metal story, I got to listening to other prime releases from that early and vaunted era. Celestial Bloodshed is one I lifted from my vaults. That cover alone (the debut) strikes me as much as their music, so you know that has to be put on rotation, of course. While reminiscing, I realize the bands are indirectly linked to each other. ( I’ll let you do the research) So I was happy to take on the task of offering my opinion and perhaps to spread the gospel on this EP release through Amor Fati Productions. Now I am a huge fan of their prior release ‘Redemptio’, which is just prime esoteric occult Black Metal. The band has elements of Schammasch (but less pompous and avant-garde), later-day Gorgoroth, and, of course, the aforementioned Celestial Bloodshed. It’s this juxtaposition of attributes that the band brings together and draws me into their sound. With 2 instrumental tracks and the added keyboards, this EP follows in a similar path as their debut full-length but offers more in the ambient, instrumental vibe, and more to their ritualistic nature.
At 6 songs and under 30 minutes, it’s an excellent introduction to the band that, given the opportunity, explores a path that is well trodden by their forefathers but offers a sense of new, less-traveled, and unexplored darkness. Having said this, obviously, it’s nothing groundbreaking here, but it’s composed with passion, and there is an underlying current of ominous dread and a lingering darkness that permeates the material as a whole. The band openly states their fondness for Celestial Bloodshed; they also include a cover of said band as well. Be forewarned, this is not a Dark Funeral / Marduk blastfest of evil. This is a more subdued affair, and in the light your black candles sort of way. I feel they respect the era of those who set the bar, and also, it comes across not as a blatant copy. As we all know, with the genre/music in this stage of the game, influences are displayed at different levels, and Funeral Harvest presents their passion with conviction and also a signature of their own. This should be a welcome addition to the Orthodox Black Metal legion.
Production is spot on with all instruments having their moment to shine. Vocalist Nathas must be given notice here as well. His varied and dynamic vocals give the songs a much added depth. He accentuates the atmosphere and mood very astutely. The bass also has that low rumble that follows the guitars for the most part, but there is enough to feel that inner rumble at the core of your being. Also, I must say, the use of ritualistic organs and ambient soundscapes elevates the material. It makes for perhaps listening to the material in near darkness with only the aforementioned candles to set the mood, and who knows? perhaps something more.
