This is the sixth album from Árstíðir Lífsins, an international, (Germany/Iceland), black metal band.
2020’s epic Saga á tveim tungum II: Eigi fjǫll né firðir was a notable album that introduced me to Árstíðir Lífsins, and I thoroughly enjoyed 20203’s Hermalausaz even more. This means I’ve been looking forward to Aldrlok ever since I became aware of its presence on the blackened horizon.
Clocking in at a mammoth 83 minutes, Aldrlok is not an album constructed for casual listeners. Neither is it the sort of record that rewards brief visits. Rather, it’s an absorbing journey that requires time and immersion to truly appreciate all of its manifold strengths.
Aldrlok is a tale told via black metal that draws from both old-school and modern varieties, including folk elements and classical instrumentation. This is black metal that has been framed out of ancient materials, then fleshed out with expansive influences, contemporary knowledge and expertise, and a beating heart of emotive depth.
Arstidir Lifsins have presented a record that allows the listener deep into their world of multifaceted black metal. The soundscapes encountered on Aldrlok are mesmerising, pulling you in like gravity to ensure that you get the most out of the music’s nuanced experience. It is involved and richly appointed with a range of textures, sounds, and ideas. The well-crafted songs speak of a band that are committed to and skilled at their chosen art.
Highly atmospheric, yet not without furious bite, Aldrlok delivers a compelling and engaging realisation of Arstidir Lifsins’ vision for black metal. Whether it’s aggressive blackened might, pagan chants that boast a potent presence, introspective folk excursions, or affecting beauty born from atmospheric grace, Arstidir Lifsins excel at their craft.
My only (minor) complaint is the occasional use of spoken word, something that I have a deep loathing for. Even when well-performed as they are here, I just don’t care for them. Still, churlish to complain too much as the spoken word is not overabundant here, and to most people it’s probably not an issue anyway.
Quibble aside, Arstidir Lifsins have once again impressed with their extensive approach to folk-enriched black metal. The more I listen to this, the more I enjoy its vast scope and engaging composition. For those with a taste for quality music, this is essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 