NATTMANN – Et Jordsmonn Av Døde

The Norwegian black metal duo Nattmann e-mailed us a digital copy of their latest release, namely the 4-track EP sporting the evocative moniker Et Jordsmonn Av Døde, and let me start out by saying that I am grateful to these skilled dudes for doing so. This is a convincing and well-executed little gem that contains some great arrangements and interesting nuances not to mention a plethora of strong riffs that consistently drive the songs forward. Simply put, there is a lot to like about its grim and menacing aura, and I dig the fact that the themes and lyrics of the output revolve around morality, society, and various executions that took place between the 1600s and the late 1800s. There are parts that feel borderline threatening and arguably even portentous, which is superbly highlighted by the keyboards, and while the group’s take on the genre is very much rooted in what may be termed mid-nineties black metal, they have infused these four compositions of theirs with a sense of charisma and personality that makes them a worthwhile listen and anything but derivative. I would have liked a bit more variety with respect to the vocals, but again, this is a solid and musically cohesive piece of work with some excellent melodies to it, and you could certainly do worse than checking this wicked thing out online. Before I forget, it also boasts a good production with punch and clarity to it. Atmosphere is the keyword here.