Let's dive into the world of Profane Burial and their album 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil', a release that has me questioning my own musical instincts and the power of a frigid escape.
In the sweltering heat of the southern US, where even mowing the lawn feels like a risky endeavor, one might expect a certain type of music to dominate the airwaves. But here I am, defying my own cravings for cool, refreshing sounds, and delving into the icy realms of Norwegian black metal.
The Lure of Profane Burial
Profane Burial, a trio from Norway, has an intriguing lineup, featuring members of well-known bands like Borknagar and Trollfest. Their album, 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil', released on a scorching July day, promises a journey into the bleak and the extreme.
The opening track, 'Den Fortaptes Krønike', is a perfect example of how Profane Burial subverts expectations. It begins with a soothing, almost enchanting guitar melody, luring the listener into a false sense of calm. But then, like a mythical Huldra's call, the music erupts into a blast beat frenzy, leaving no escape.
A Tale of Two Extremes
One of the album's standout features is the contrast between the extreme vocals of Kjetil Ytterhus and the intricate instrumentation. Ytterhus delivers a traditional, icy growl, a vocal performance that freezes the listener with its intensity. Meanwhile, the instrumentalists, particularly André Aaslie on guitar, showcase a wide range of techniques, from emotive solos to lurching riffs and harmonized melodies.
However, the album's greatest strength is also its weakness. The frequent shifts between these contrasting sections, without smooth transitions, create a disjointed listening experience. It's as if the album is a collection of brilliant ideas, each fighting for attention, but lacking a cohesive narrative.
The Power of Cohesion
'Horror Code, Pt. 2', the penultimate track, offers a glimpse of what Profane Burial could achieve with a more unified approach. Here, the tempo changes are natural, and the symphonic elements blend seamlessly with the black metal fury. The result is a melancholic atmosphere, a perfect balance of weeping melodies and powerful vocals.
A Frustrating, Yet Intriguing Journey
While 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' provides an escape from the heat, it also leaves the listener feeling a bit battered and confused. The lack of cohesion within tracks creates a dizzying effect, almost like a musical rollercoaster without a clear direction.
Personally, I find this album intriguing precisely because of its flaws. It showcases the band's immense talent and creativity, but also highlights the importance of musical cohesion and the impact it has on the listener's experience.
In my opinion, Profane Burial has the potential to create something truly exceptional if they can harness their ideas and present them in a more unified manner. Until then, 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' remains a fascinating, if frustrating, journey through the extremes of black metal.
