Dark Fortress - Ylem

Title: Ylem
Artist: Dark Fortress
Genre: Black Metal Release
Date: 22nd January 2010
Label: Century Media



Album Review

DARK FORTRESS is a German black metal band from Landshut, who was formed in 1994. After a demo and a split release, the first record was put out in 2001, being named ‘Tales From Eternal Dusk’. Since 2004, the most significant cast-problems were solved, so that several live gigs were performed. In 2005, a record contract with Century Media Records was signed, where their two latest albums, ‘Séance’ and ‘Eidolon’ were released. Their first headlining tour rolled through Europe in 2008, and now they are about to put out their newest record, ‘Ylem’.

‘Ylem’ kicks off with a technical, at first slow and then very fast beginning. The song is remarkable for its very melodic and speedy guitar riffs combined with dark vocals. It seems as if DARK FORTRESS, in comparison to their elder works, is somehow veering towards a more progressive, not too catchy and fast direction. Yet, the chorus is very grooving and memorable. The second song presents itself in an out of the ordinary way for the band since the song contains lots of experimental and melodic elements. The vocals are not as heavy and aggressive; there are even at times whispered sections. The drumming sometimes appears rather strange to me since at first I thought that I was listening to two songs concurrently. This is probably allegeable due to the fact that most songs are rather slow or average speeded, so somehow a surprise effect is created. However, the lyrics are pretty easy to understand and most of the choruses are very groove-orientated.

Some fans will surely bewail the lack of celerity, although songs like ‘Silence’, ‘Satan Bled’ or ‘Nemesis’ are really accelerating and thrashing. With ‘Wraith’, the album ends with a song including clean vocals, which are done well but somehow really unusual and unexpected. To sum it up, ‘Dark Fortress’ managed to create a unique album without appearing to repetitive. There are lots of recondite and profound moments, which might need a few more listens. By forging ahead in this manner, they will surely gain supporters as well as haters. For open-minded people, giving this album a try is highly recommended.


Tracklist

01. Ylem
02. As The World Keels Over
03. Osiris
04. Silence
05. Evenfall
06. Redivider
07. Satan Bled
08. Hirudineans
09. Nemesis
10. The Valley
11. Wraith


Line-up

Morean - Vocals
V. Santura - Guitar
Asvargr - Guitar
Seraph - Drums
Draug - Bass
Paymon - Keyboard


Website

www.thetruedarkfortress.com / www.myspace.com/darkfortress


Cover Picture




Rating

Music: 8
Sound: 8
Extras: -
Total: 8 / 10


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