This is the debut album from Icelandic black metallers Forsmán.
Brenndar Rústir & Fuðrandi Fjörur is the 46-minute follow up to 2021’s promising debut EP Dönsum i Logans Ljóma. Containing members of Misþyrming and Múr, Forsmán’s brand of esoteric black metal is a very potent one.
If cold, lethal, atypical black metal is your thing, then Forsmán are for you. This is modern black metal, rooted in harsh Icelandic darkness, but not restricted to it. Through esoteric dissonance and classic razor-sharp blackened ice, Forsmán deliver a masterclass in contemporary black metal depth.
Brenndar Rústir & Fuðrandi Fjörur is dense with distorted malice and carries a weighty darkness that permeates every aspect of the music. It’s intense, bringing together icy tension and malevolent atmosphere in a storm of otherworldly violence.
The songwriting and delivery conspire to produce songs that are intricate and involved, while retaining an elemental presence that makes for straightforward impactful force. In other words, Forsmán unleash a torrent of blackened aggression, but do so with layers of complexity and detailing. It’s an interesting, uncommon approach, allowing the band to build songs that feel very dense and full. There are a lot of parts to the music, and yet they all come together well, rather than getting in each other’s way.
Recognising that Forsmán construct their songs with layer upon layer of material doesn’t dampen their ease of enjoyment. It’s quite the opposite effect in reality, and it also provides an enduring substance to explore over time. Brenndar Rústir & Fuðrandi Fjörur is a record with many instant charms, yet only reveals its true nature to those that persevere. With every spin something new is revealed, be that a twisted melody, a corrupted hook, a surging majesty, or anything else. Forsmán have created songs that demand the listener pay attention, and reward those that do.
Brenndar Rústir & Fuðrandi Fjörur is more advanced and developed than most debut records. That the band members have experience in a range of other bands is apparent, as this collection of songs is very strong. The quality level of the songwriting, performances, production values, and the overall vision for the music is way above average. Forsmán’s first album is fully formed and ready to dominate.
Brenndar Rústir & Fuðrandi Fjörur is an impressive record. Forsmán’s world is one where violence and force work closely with intricacy and atmosphere.
Essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 