Slechtvalk The War That Plagues The Land
Fear Dark Records FD009 2003
By Russell Garwood
Slechtvalk play medieval/fantasy inspired atmospheric black metal, with bombastic symphonics, and epic melodies. The Dutch six-piece of guitarist/vocalists Shamgar and Othar, bassist Nath, drummer Grimbold, soprano Fionnghuala and keyboardist Hydrith have previously released one album, and a split with Indonesias Kekal.
The War That Plagues The Land is a concept alum, comprising eleven well constructed songs, with changing moods to fit the flow of the story. The guitars are melodic, and tend to be fast-paced, save for occasional epic sections, while acoustics are fitting in a relatively varied sound. There are three distinct vocal styles low male singing is used to good effect, creating memorable lines, juxtaposed by a black-metal orientated growl. The soprano vocals often accompany this, creating atmosphere and more melody, while all three are used at times, making for reasonably complex arrangements. The keys are well placed, and not overly-dominant (they are only present in some of the songs), but increase the already-strong atmospheric approach. Varied drums with frequent fills and blasts combine with powerful bass to create a tight rhythm section. Slechvalk are an interesting collective, whose music is by no means revolutionary, yet well worth listening to if you are a fan of the style.
Fear Dark Records FD009 2003
By Russell Garwood
Slechtvalk play medieval/fantasy inspired atmospheric black metal, with bombastic symphonics, and epic melodies. The Dutch six-piece of guitarist/vocalists Shamgar and Othar, bassist Nath, drummer Grimbold, soprano Fionnghuala and keyboardist Hydrith have previously released one album, and a split with Indonesias Kekal.
The War That Plagues The Land is a concept alum, comprising eleven well constructed songs, with changing moods to fit the flow of the story. The guitars are melodic, and tend to be fast-paced, save for occasional epic sections, while acoustics are fitting in a relatively varied sound. There are three distinct vocal styles low male singing is used to good effect, creating memorable lines, juxtaposed by a black-metal orientated growl. The soprano vocals often accompany this, creating atmosphere and more melody, while all three are used at times, making for reasonably complex arrangements. The keys are well placed, and not overly-dominant (they are only present in some of the songs), but increase the already-strong atmospheric approach. Varied drums with frequent fills and blasts combine with powerful bass to create a tight rhythm section. Slechvalk are an interesting collective, whose music is by no means revolutionary, yet well worth listening to if you are a fan of the style.
