After living for more than half of my life in Denmark, when foreigners mention metal scene in Denmark for me, black metal isn’t exactly the first genre that springs to my mind. In other words; this little country has mostly been known for its death and thrash metal and lately a modern hard-core scene. Once in a while a black metal formation is formed but soon after you never hear of them again. I hope the same will not be the case with Solbrud, a quartet from Denmark, originally going under the moniker of Gargoyle. The band was formed in 2009 by two brothers, namely Tobias & Troels Hjorth, who are still the main and driving force in this unholy gathering.

Solbrud (Helenium) is also their self-titled debut containing only four quite lengthy tracks. Those four epic tracks range from almost eight to fifteen minutes, leaving the space for immersion and relaxation too. On this four-tracker opus this young unit creates some appealing melodies in order to create this atmospheric and melodic black metal sound, which has already become their trademark sound. The overall sound is just like a massive and emotional ear-assault, achieved mainly by using some untraditional sound effects. The rain and storm sounds are also present in their music, drawing the potential listener into their own world of doomish, depressive and melancholic atmosphere. The vocals are mostly shrieked and growled by incorporating both the English and Danish languages.

As a young and upcoming band Solbrud do never pretend to create something particularly original or innovating. They are just proud of their metal roots and bands they feel they owe to pay a tribute. They’ve just done so with their debut, which is definitely a good effort. My personal favourites are the two opening tracks “Bortgang” and “Øde Lagt”, but album as a whole can be highly recommended for fans of Ulver, Alcest, Ludicra, Altar Of Plagues and Wolves In The Throne Room.

For further info go to: http://solbrud.bandcamp.com/


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