Wolves’ Winter are an Argentinian black metal band and this is their second album.
The Medivm contains 40 minutes of occult black metal. Wolves’ Winter’s music is melodic black metal that’s swathed in occult mists and arcane auras. The Medivm is an album that’s easy to enjoy if you’re a fan of the style, as Wolves’ Winter know what they’re doing.
The Medivm is an exemplar of well-delivered melodic black metal. It’s sharp and aggressive, with well-crafted songs that strain with melodic might. The songs switch paces from blistering blasting and raging speed to blackened grooves that are lethal. It has a good ear for atmosphere too. The production is satisfying and showcases the music in a darkened light that makes the most of the band’s assets. Basically, it’s just a solid package that Wolves’ Winter have put together.
The record also benefits from a strong vocal performance. I believe that two band members contribute, which is probably part of the reason the vocals are so varied. There are needle-thing screams that pierce savagely, deeper roars that are blunt and malevolent, and a variety of other vocalisations that are delivered with impassioned vitriol.
Imagine old-school Cradle of Filth, but with less symphonics, throw in a touch of Goatwhore, then add in a Finnish black metal influence from the likes of Azaghal and Sargeist, and you have a compelling album in The Medivm.
I have enjoyed my time with The Medivm a great deal. It offers a satisfying and engaging listen throughout. The balance between intensity and melody is well-judged, and Wolves’ Winter know how to write black metal that wields its melody effectively.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 