Im split on this one so far. My impressions after a second listen is as follow:
1. Leukes Renkespill (Introduksjon)
Not much to say. Not a song just something to start the album.
2. Belus' Død
This one is alright. I like the intro melody even if it does sound a little bit old and tired. Nothing super good but definately not bad either. I do have a feeling that this song might grow on me in time though. I dont think the verse riff is strong enough to be repeated as much as it is though.
3. Glemselens Elv
I really like this one. Good atmosphere. Sadly the clean vocals destroy this one somewhat because they are so out of pitch at times. I cringe when I hear that
It doesnt ruin the whole thing though. Overall really good song.
4. Kaimadalthas' Nedstigning
I think this one is alright. Im not a big fan of the verse but the chorus is pretty nice. The third fourth of the song is really nice as well. Overall ok but nothing special. I would have re-written the verse for sure.
5. Sverddans
This track sound kind of comical on a Burzum album. It sounds like some amateur trying to write a thrash track. He could have scrapped this track easily and I for one wouldnt miss it at all. Awful!
6. Keliohesten
This puts the album back on track. The main riff melody gives me a feeling that makes me associate it with Darkthrones “en vind av sorg” from panzerfaust. Pretty straight forward throughout but I like it.
7. Morgenrøde
I like this song. Slower just like I generally prefer my Burzum to be. More atmosphere that way. I especially like the ending.
8. Belus' Tilbakekomst (Konklusjon)
This together with “glemselens elv” are probably my two favorite tracks on this album. If the whole album was as good as this is it would for sure be one of the top albums of 2010. Sadly I don’t think the whole album lives up to this standard.
Overall I would say Im satisfied but not completely happy. Especially Sverddans is awful to my ears. Id say the second half of the album is the stronger half although there is good stuff on the first half as well.
Standout tracks: Glemselens elv and Belus’ Tilbakekomst
Worst track: Sverddans