ABBATH – Abbath

I know that ‘Immortal’ aka Demonaz and Horgh (not to forget Apolloyon) have finally come public with the story of the dissolution of that mighty band, and if you follow what they say it isn’t very complimentary of Olve Eikemo, otherwise known as Abbath the man. Whatever the politics and history, I have always been a fan but never completely head over heels for Immortal. I don’t know why – I think perhaps too many epic chords left ringing or something somewhere lacking in the song-writing. But… I love Abbath’s frog-croak vocals, the rich and textured guitar sound and the thick and muscular approach to blasting. I am happy to report, then, that all of these things exist on ‘Abbath’ the album. But the news gets even better.

‘Abbath’ contains more mid-paced material than Immortal albums and this, and the ‘slightly less BM’ approach has allowed the guys a bit more freedom to incorporate some more groove and several crafty hooks into the songs. Those familiar with King’s work in Sahg and I will know his skills go beyond what we might be aware of from his BM oeuvre and this time around he produces licks and riffs that make the tracks even catchier. ‘Creature’ is pretty cool behind the kit too. He can blast with the best of them, but again, his feel and groove are exactly what is needed and fit in with this more accessible and rocking take on BM.

Overall, then, a very strong opener from Abbath and up there with the best releases from Abbath the man in his other incarnations. Well worth a try…

http://www.abbath.net/

http://www.season-of-mist.com/