For the past seven years (good grief, has it
been that long?), the Emperial hordes have kept the listeners happy with
various other bands, projects, tours, reunions and cameos. Ihsahn
has accomplished nothing less through those years than his other brothers-in-arms.
Having released an EP & full-length in Peccatum and an album in Hardingrock
(both with his wife, Ihriel), Ihsahn now serves up his second solo effort
entitled, “angL.” There are 9 new songs and a bit over 45 minutes
to enjoy here. The songs are all over 4 minutes and under 7, so there is
a nice balance. Much like his roles in the past, Ihsahn handles most of
the song-writing (whence- a solo project). So you can get a clear picture,
in essence, of how this may have progressed from “The Adversary.”
Asgeir Mickelson (Borknagar / Spiral Architect), again, appears on the album
as Ihsahn’s drumming wizard and Lars Norberg (Spiral Architect / Satyricon)
is the album’s rhythmatic bass backbone. There is also a guest appearance
from Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth / Bloodbath) on the track "Unhealer",
which is fantastic! The album has many "angles", so to speak.
Each song seems to gel nicely next to each other without sounding that similar.
There are notable aggressive parts and also nice melodic hooks scattered
about where you wouldn't expect them. I quite enjoy the subtle acoustic
parts as well. This is, basically, an all-around splendid performance from
one of metal's best musicians. A disappointment this is not. Ihsahn lives
on, stronger than ever!!
Rating: 98
Reviewed By: Thomas Mitchell |
