Utburd – The Horrors Untold

When it comes to gloom and powerful melancholy, very few can measure up to the Russians. This is true in poetry, but also very much so in regards to the slower, more distorted genres on the Metal spectrum. Of worthy note I could mention Who Dies in Siberian Slush as well as Istina (both of which are bands that long ago won over my heart), and today, into the spotlight of my attention steps another contender: The one-man band Utburd.

Compared to the two former bands, Utburd is fairly new in the world, having existed as a band for four years as of 2018 (which, incidentally is also the year in which I am making this scribble. But I digress – My apologies). In that time, however, he has released two Full-length records, each with its own focus. The one I have had the pleasure of spinning for the last couple of days is an Atmospheric Black Metal record heavily inspired by the themes, as well as feeling of, early Lovecraftian stories.

This is particularly evident when looking at the names and lyrics of the seven tracks (eight if you count the instrumental bonus track), referencing such iconic characters as Dagon and Pickman (on the songs “Rise of Dagon” and “Pickman’s Triumph” respectively). This was a considerably nice surprise for a big Lovecraft fans like myself – But it should be noted that this is by no means a requirement in order to be able to enjoy the record.

Musically the albums supports the overall feel and themes of its chosen lyrics quite nicely, being somewhat slow, heavily atmospheric and intent upon dragging the listener deep into its musical dream scape. And for a band that has been around for less than half a decade, I would say that The Horrors Untold does an impressively great job in pulling that off.

The music is well-written and well-executed, and it does have the beginning hint of a unique, personal sound; Something that I love and always seek out in a band (to a certain extent, but that is another topic). What it lacks, is experience – And this takes time. But overall, I would say that this lone Russian is off to a great start.

This one-hour long album is recommended for fans of The Great Old Ones, Istina and Cepheide.

https://www.facebook.com/RussianUtburd/