What are people thinking about the new Enslaved album, Isa? Is it a masterpiece or did they go all Borknagar on us? It has this weird alternating effect on me, where on one listen it's genius, and the next it's too eclectic, like they're almost trying too hard to make it eclectic....
Highlights:
1. Vocals are the standout for me - whether growls, screams, or clean, these are quite brilliant, filled with emotion no matter which style
2. The music is varied: they've gone out on a limb and pulled in all the differing influences, great song structuring thru' knowing when to deliver and when to hold back....
Lowlights:
1. I'm getting tired of "eclectic/progressive Black Metal". So very tired. Not even sure of the last time I pulled out any 'new wave' Solefald, Arcturus, or Borknagar, which Isa certainly drifts towards in the very least.
2. The music is varied: perhaps they've gone just a little too far this time round? What next - a cloning attempt of Sigh? That's the only place for Enslaved to go next, unless they decide eventually to either call it quits or fall into the mid-life 'back to our roots' crisis.
I'm listening to it now thinking YESSS!, but tomorrow could be a different day....interestingly, the album gets better the further you listen. Tracks #4 onwards probably contain some of the best material.
Talk people, talk. And be honest - fuck the fact that it's Enslaved, discuss what's on offer in Isa.
Highlights:
1. Vocals are the standout for me - whether growls, screams, or clean, these are quite brilliant, filled with emotion no matter which style
2. The music is varied: they've gone out on a limb and pulled in all the differing influences, great song structuring thru' knowing when to deliver and when to hold back....
Lowlights:
1. I'm getting tired of "eclectic/progressive Black Metal". So very tired. Not even sure of the last time I pulled out any 'new wave' Solefald, Arcturus, or Borknagar, which Isa certainly drifts towards in the very least.
2. The music is varied: perhaps they've gone just a little too far this time round? What next - a cloning attempt of Sigh? That's the only place for Enslaved to go next, unless they decide eventually to either call it quits or fall into the mid-life 'back to our roots' crisis.
I'm listening to it now thinking YESSS!, but tomorrow could be a different day....interestingly, the album gets better the further you listen. Tracks #4 onwards probably contain some of the best material.
Talk people, talk. And be honest - fuck the fact that it's Enslaved, discuss what's on offer in Isa.
Maybe it needs more spins but I'm not a fan.
