Cronian
is a super side-project of sorts, if that is possible considering only two
members. However, those members are Øystein G. Brun of Borknagar
and Andreas Hedlund (also known as Vintersorg). This is their debut release
entitled "Terra" and features 9 tracks, 46 minutes of experi-progressive
metal. I suppose you could lace together a lot of genres in describing this
outfit, as there are many elements herein. Of the obvious assumptions (black
& viking metal), you can also find prog-rock & avantgarde/ambient
pieces that fit the mold of every song. It is pretty much what you would
expect from these two by taking examples from their respective latest releases
of Borknagar’s "Epic" and Vintersorg’s "Focusing
Blur." Moving parallel with black metal and prog-rock simultaneously.
Keyboards seem to be essential parts in grasping a mystical feel, while
remaining aggressive and fresh. The vocals of Vintersorg are like always,
half-clean & half-growled. There appears to be no actual drummer except
for the two members collaborating through their programming expertise. Actually
sounds very decent considering. The guitar sound is very trebly, like Borknagar,
but not nearly as heavy. Maybe take bands like Empyrium, 3rd & the Mortal
or Arcturus as a similar sound in guitar on this album. This is a very deep
exploration of both Andreas' & Øystein’s ideals in the
metal world. Whether you're daring or not... if you love Borknagar and Vintersorg,
you'll probably find this interesting in one-way or another.
Rating: 80
Reviewed By: Thomas Mitchell |
