Is there a black metal scene in Iceland as well?! You bet there is—and, believe me, it is a first-class one, my friends! This time around, the Reykjavík-based Myrkviði step into the spotlight with the release of their debut EP, “Harmur”, and we can only be happy to see a young band displaying such impressive talent, musical richnes, and genuine artistic ability. Yes, Myrkviði clearly have a deep appreciation for raw, traditional black metal, but what makes their approach particularly interesting is their strong sense of melody and their ability to create captivating, dark atmospheres. As a result, the listener is treated to merciless, relentless, gloomy and utterly sinister black metal, while at the same time being offered plenty of brighter and highly melodic passages. These contrasting elements are beautifully balanced throughout the EP’s four carefully crafted and thoughtfully arranged compositions. “Harmur” is a release that goes down remarkably easily. It flows naturally, feels fresh from beginning to end and manages to maintain the listener’s interest without ever becoming tiring or excessively repetitive. There is a certain spontaneity and vitality in Myrkviði’s songwriting that makes the EP an enjoyable companion, even for listeners who do not necessarily consider themselves devoted fans of extreme metal. And this is precisely where the band’s greatest strength lies. “Harmur” is by no means a one-dimensional release built solely around aggressive riffs, relentless intensity and the familiar conventions of black metal. Instead, Myrkviði demonstrate genuine musicianship and a remarkable artistic intelligence, incorporating melody, atmosphere, dynamics and emotion into their compositions. The result is a record that can appeal not only to dedicated black metal followers but also to anyone looking for something dark, atmospheric and energetic. With “Harmur,” a new and rather promising hope for the Icelandic black metal scene emerges from this beautiful and mysterious country. Myrkviði have clearly shown that they possess the talent and ideas necessary to go much further, and their debut EP deserves to be heard, supported and appreciated. Now, all that remains is to see where this journey will take them. As for me, I am already looking forward to their first full-length album. If “Harmur” is any indication of what Myrkviði are capable of, their future certainly looks very, very promising!
♦ 8,5/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
