If you are familiar with this page you know that here at SoD, when it comes to extreme metal, I really enjoy discovering new things. One of these surprises that I recently found in my mailbox is Jordfäst‘s first album, “Hädanefter“. The band hails from Sweden (yes!) and the review below is dedicated to this fantastic debut album, which will be released by Nordvis Prod on the 7th of May.
Comprising only 2 songs with a span of almost 33 minutes, “Hädanefter” is a very interesting debut album, which contains all the elements Swedish black metal has been known for: atmosphere, melody, coldness, melancholy, excellent musicianship, and last but not least, a huge dose of darkness. I am not talking here about the satanic darkness summoned forth through occult symbols, lyrics or other paraphernalia, but the real, palpable darkness and evil which humans have gone through since the beginning of time. These 2 songs represent a short but intense voyage which takes you, the listener, to a cold and mournful place where superstitions, human tragedies and death meet and strongly intertwine. The beautiful album cover is also enhancing this feeling of desolation, its grey, gloomy colors definitely sending a strong visual message that goes hand in hand with the music on the record.
“Hädanefter” is an album based on atmosphere, not on overwhelming speed and whirlwinds of riffs. Sometimes slow is better and Jordfäst has brilliantly crafted 2 long tracks where the depressive atmosphere so characteristic to the Northern countries plays the main part. The tempos are very well balanced and the band knows exactly when to go full throttle and when to succumb to somber, slower parts. I love this clever approach, as it gives you a full view (and taste) of the desolated landscape Jordfäst takes its inspiration from.
Upon hearing the notes of the 1st track, the first impression was of a heavier (and more evil) version of the newer Tribulation. The overall atmosphere and some of the slower passages reminded me to some extent of the band’s recent albums, but soon after, as “Buren av loppor” progresses, that impression is left behind and we are treated with higher doses of aggression and speed, which clearly set Jordfäst‘s direction. The band’s trademark is definitely set on the second track, “Hädanförd“, which builds the above elements into a flamboyant, even orchestral conclusion, the strongest part being the beautiful cascade of riffs around the 7.39th minute. I really like the rhythm variations the band uses on these 2 long tracks, you can easily feel like there are several songs within songs. This ingenious approach puts you through various moods during the whole 33 minutes of the album and at the end you are left a bit shaken, wanting for more.
One of the most interesting things this album has to offer are the vocals, which vary from the raspy, black metal tone to the clean, chorus like intonations (remember old Ulver ?). Sung only in Swedish, the words have a more special and mysterious feeling, adding another layer of melancholy to the already depressive music. “Hädanefter” is full of atmosphere, inspired by the cold north and the surroundings the band members have been living in. Each guitar riff or vocal part rip your soul apart, biting deeper and deeper into your heart. If the band has been able to create such an effect with only two songs, imagine what would have happened if the album lasted longer.
Overall, Jordfäst‘s “Hädanefter” is a very strong debut album, the perfect soundtrack for your miserable days and nights. This is a rather short but majestic monument of melancholy, an album that will haunt you for a very long time. Check it out as soon as it will be released, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Jordfäst – Hädanefter Track list:
1. Buren av loppor
2. Hädanförd
Band links:
https://www.facebook.com/jordfastband
scrollsofdarmoth.com 
Leave a comment