Oh, Sweet Dark Father, I bow down and give you thanks and praise for a new record.
The black metal masters in 1349 have seen fit to bestow their latest offering of pure evil, The Wolf & The King (out now, Season of Mist), upon us.
It has been far too long since we’ve heard from these legends of Norway. Getting my hooks into this disc had me all hopped up like a Texas high school linebacker on beer and painkillers! As soon as I pressed “play,” I knew I would not be disappointed.
With each single the band released, I could feel my excitement building, so naturally, I was in Heaven when I got my grubby mitts on it. The album-opening “The God Devourer” showcases the work of a band that is back and ready to destroy everything in its path — your neck included.
“Ash of Ages” is this guy’s favorite track and is worthy of repeat listens. You add “Inferior Pathways” to this already potent sonic Molotov cocktail thus far, and something will burn: maybe your stereo or your ears.
With “Inner Portal,” I felt strong Behemoth vibes, which is not a bad thing by any means. Hell, we’ve just kicked the sinister vibe up a few notches. “The Vessel and The Storm” is another vital song on a record full of them. This bleeds seamlessly into “Obscura,” setting us up for blood.
Ultimately, the album-closing “Fatalist” is an absolute masterclass in black metal that ticks all the right boxes of darkness. The bottom line is this: 1349 is back with sharpened fangs and an evil thirst. The band is hellbent on evil, fire, and mayhem.
Strike fast and get this album with quickness!
STANDOUT TRACKS: ALL OF THEM
– THE MAESTRO
