Hulder – Verses In Oath

Hulder manages to tick off most of the points I seem to have been talking about for years now about what makes a truly great band. It is a solo act (meaning that there is no compromise in regard to artistic vision), a clear concept has been formed from the beginning and is being refined more and more as time goes on (this particular band was formed six years ago and has so far amassed an impressive discography in that time consisting of three Demos, six Singles, two EPs and now two Full-lengths) and, perhaps most important of all – Said musician is not only qualified with each of the instruments used, but quite talented as each. As such, I was more than pleasantly surprised when I spun Verses In Oath, the newest release of the US-based Black Metal band. 

Despite hailing from the US at present, I will admit to noticing quite a bit of influence being drawn from the Black Metal scene across the pond (not surprising since I later discovered that Marz, the lone permanent member of the band has Belgian roots) which, combined with the name of the band originally caused me to, incorrectly, assume that I was in for a norse Black Metal treat. But to be honest, as far as the music goes, I was not far off. 

Compared to Scandinavian acts such as Tsjuder, Enslaved and Satyricon, Hulder has succeeded in evolving the genre further while staying true to its roots – Never an easy feat, and the sheer effortless ease with which she has composed the record even made me do a double-take once I realized exactly how young the band as a whole is. And, coming off of re-acquainting myself with all of Emperors discography prior to their upcoming tour, I found myself finding Verses In Oath being a near-perfect fit in that company. The nine tracks (ten if you count the instrumental intro) are self-contained pieces of Belgian history from its darkest medieval past wrapped in distorted guitars, relentless drums and menacing growls. Perhaps a literal world apart from its source-material, but presently at the forefront of my to-play list. 

Hulder is one of those rare gems that somehow manages to fly under your radar for far too long before finally being exposed to the light – Said light in my case being Verses In Oath. And I suspect it will be shining far brighter in the future. 

Recommended for fans of the above-mentioned bands as well as Ieschure, Hades and Moonsorrow. 

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