Stryvigor is an
atmospheric black metal band hailing from the icy cold mountains of Ukraine. “Forgotten
by Ages” is the debut full length outing by the band released on Svarga Music. The music is written in
their native tongue, deriving inspiration of lands unknown to me. Yet, the
music speaks for the band, setting an atmosphere that takes the listener into
its mystical landscape.
The album starts
off with "In the Icy Embrace of North”, an instrumental track which sets the
mood for the complete album ahead, with melancholic and slumbering atmospheric
sounds intermixed with sounds of nature. This allows the listener to settle down
with the feel of the album, before the ferocious black metal attack takes centre
stage.
As the intro
fades into oblivion, “Mysteries of Darkness” starts with a ferocious attack of
black metal riffs and blasting drums. The vocals are harsh and raw, adding the
vibes off being recorded in wilderness among the Ukrainian mountain woods. A hint
off guitar melodies adds its charm to the overall sound as the album
progresses.
The album is
aggressive throughout with the drum work by Rungvar standing out throughout.
The continuous beats, bring out the image of the forces of nature going to war
throughout the album. This is evident in tracks like “Memory of Ages”, which is
one of the best track on the record along with “To Heroes”. The vocals are
filled with power leading the attack, supported with amazing guitar riffs. The keyboard
is subtly used by Khladogard to add its charm to the overall sound and sets up the
atmosphere in a perfect manner. The album ends with an instrumental title track,
slowly fading away into the beautiful nature it pays homage to.
For a band
releasing a debut album, Stryvigor has done a very good job on the album. “Forgotten
by Ages” is an album which can be the gateway for people into the realm of the
Pagan-Atmospheric-Black Metal. With a slow and moody build up, powerful and
aggressive drums, amazing keyboard symphonies and raw vocals, this is an album that
any Atmospheric Black Metal fan is bound to enjoy.
A must listen
for fans of Nokturnal Mortum, Drudkh and Khors.
