NORSE 'Hellstorm'

As one enters 'Hellstorm' they are immediately plunged into the depths of aggression, juxtaposed with overt melodic ideals as well as a harsh and raw soundscape; that is not only unrelenting, but above all possesses powerful motifs with undertones of melodious composition that is delicate and yet inexorable and clear.

After eighteen months of recording, NORSE has truly succeeded in interlocking their melodic death quality with a blackened atmosphere, by creating their first full length album in which each of the eleven tracks is as distinct from each other as it is unambiguously their own, unique sound.

The first four tracks of 'Hellstorm' can be described as a maniacal and unrelenting trip which only rests with the inclusion of the fifth, untitled track composed by Tim Walker.

The vocal duality of NORSE gives three distinct layers, which not only show their powerful, beastly output, but also the immense talent of Simon Stavrevski’s clean vocal delivery, as evidently heard on 'The Light Of Norse'. Treelo Herrington’s vocals at times have a resemblance to evil in the auditory form, and create an immense correlation with the belligerence of the guitars and drums heard on 'Spewing Forth Arachnoids', which is arguably the heaviest track on the album; underlined by the aforementioned sternness of their guitar and drum work, uniting perfectly with the lyrical content.

'Hellstorm' is an album created to be listened to at the highest volumes, and with a mix that assures each motif will be heard and understood distinctively, it allows the audience to pick up on the smallest intricacies within NORSE’s music.

Tracks such as 'Glory in Death' and 'Flesh Abyss' highlight the talent of the quartet; dexterous solos coupled with Robin 'Frog' Stone’s blasting drum work, before the latter concludes with a striking soundscape progressing into what can be described as a death march atmosphere of the abovementioned fifth track. This interlude is a fantastic addition to 'Hellstorm', allowing the album to progress naturally, leading into the melodious motifs of the opening of 'Father of the Norns', a piece that reminds one of an almost folk metal quality in some instances of its music. 'Father of The Norns' emphasizes the broad spectrum of NORSE, both vocally and musically.

'To Find Orion' once again underlines the dexterity and dynamics of the band, presenting polyrhythmic qualities which ultimately coincide to create a fantastic melodious concept which continues its development to once more define the musical equivalent of aggression.

Listening to an album that holds an abundance of intricate and technical detail, brings forth the question as to whether NORSE is able to translate their music in the live arena; and having witnessed their performances on numerous occasions, it is definitely without question that the quartet are as brutally talented live as they are on this album.

With lyrics that delve on the non fictional experiences, and thoughts of the quartet, their metaphorical use shows their talent both behind the instruments as it does in their ability with language.

The brilliant layering of the vocal lines within the beginning of 'Frozen Deserts of Time' gives an ominous and yet fantastic ambiance with the undertones of an awesome musical progression, that eventually turns to what can described as a commanding cry. Its build up is perfectly contrasted to the final track – ‘War and Her Bastard Sons’ - which opens with soft acoustic work before plunging into the speedy and strong rigor presented by NORSE.

After a long wait, NORSE has truly delivered an album that will please an array of metal fans from an abundance of preferred genres. ‘Hellstorm’ underlines ruthlessly the talent of this band, and beckons attention; bringing forth an abundance of powerful designs and brutal belligerence.

Album: Hellstorm
Year: 2010

Track List:
1. Hellstorm
2. The Light of Norse
3. Glory In Death
4. Flesh Abyss
5. V
6. Father of the Norns
7. Spewing Forth Arachnids
8. To Find Orion
9. Devour The Serpents
10. Frozen Deserts of Time
11. War and Her Bastard Sons

Visit: www.myspace.com/norsemetal