Madder Mortem – Old Eyes, New Heart (Review)

This is the eighth album from Norwegian progressive metal band Madder Mortem.

Old Eyes, New Heart contains 48 minutes of charismatic and professionally rendered progressive metal, with doom and post-metal elements. Madder Mortem have carved a distinct and individual sound for themselves over them years, and on this new record they sound just as striking and vital as ever.

Old Eyes, New Heart is a collection of songs that marry visceral, emotion-rich depth with appealing hooks and remarkable catchiness. The music’s mix of heaviness and texture is captivating, and every song is a wonder to explore and get to know. The true worth of each track is revealed over time at different points; some instantly standout, while others take a slower burn. Taken together, this results in a very well-rounded album that just keeps on giving the more you get to know it. Everything about Old Eyes, New Heart is a cut above the norm. Madder Mortem have created something special here.

Despite the manifold strengths of the music itself and every single instrument, the focal point for Madder Mortem’s music is the exceptional voice of their singer. Her vocals are one of the best out there, and her flawless performance is powerful and filled with nuanced emotion. She has a voice that’s truly individual.

Madder Mortem are the epitome of the sort of band that defy attempts to try to adequately describe them. This is music that needs to be heard, demands to be heard in fact, and my role here is simply to communicate how good this album is to you. If you’re a fan of music that has a well-developed voice of its own, and has the sort of emotional weight and colossal presence that only the best of bands have, then this is for you.

Essential listening.