Thron are a black metal band from Germany and this is their fifth album.
Vurias is the 47-minute, (including bonus track), follow up to 2023’s Dust. That previous record, along with 2018’s Abysmal, firmly cemented Thron as ones to pay attention to, which is why when Vurias appeared I was eager to not let if fall through the cracks.
Vurias is not business as usual for Thron. Sure, the essential components remain, but the band have taken these and expanded their range across these nine songs. Thron have developed an aspect of their music that’s progressive in nature, allowing them to wade into new waters. You can hear influences from 70s prog rock, as well as a more contemporary edge that sits alongside this. Slotting in alongside the core of 90s melodic black metal, this makes Vurias an addictive and very enjoyable listen.
The songs are well-written, full of engaging blackened hooks and interesting ideas and sounds. This is black metal with a firm focus on songcraft, on providing the listener with a mixture of tracks that are song-focused, but also creative and mood-rich. The ultimate aim – one Thron achieve – is to offer up a wealth of memorable and enjoyable experiences for the listener to navigate through as they journey across Vurias‘ darkened soundscapes.
The band’s underlying aggression is tempered by a strong understanding of emotion and atmosphere. Thron ably demonstrate how to create evocative riffs and melodies, incorporating these into an overarching structure that’s dynamic, laced with progressive depth, and richly rendered.
All parts of the album feel high quality and considered. The expressive leads and melodies burn with passion, the vocals are well-performed and characterful, and the drums are far more textured and nuanced than is the norm for the style. In fact, the latter are a part of Vurias that make it particularly satisfying to listen to.
Overall it’s a strong and impressive new record from Thron. There is a lot to explore over the album’s duration; more than enough replay value to keep you coming back for yet another spin. Thron have taken risks in places, but they have paid off handsomely. Vurias offers a lot more than your average, bog standard, run of the mill black metal album.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 