Withershin - The Hungering Void

June 18, 2010

Withershin is yet another Swedish band in a long, arduous line of black metal bands that are vying for their place in the metal scene amidst a ton of come-lately Johnny boys and otherwise inane, vapid pretenders. While most of these bands are riding the coattails of Dissection, Entombed, Morbid, Vinterland and Dark Funeral, some bands pop up on the radar and surprise and delight the over-saturated metal brain. Withershin’s EP The Hungering Void is a pleasant, if somewhat predictable surprise for my ears.

Coming off a decent LP called Ashen Banners back in ’08, the three songs herein are as black the coal in a young Paul Ledney’s Xmas stocking, with some death metal influence sprinkled on top like a nice period to a chocolate soufflé (don’t ask). As especially evident in the title track, the speedy delivery couples with an evil aura for an EP that shows the advancement of the band since its initial full-length. While not as densely atmospheric as Dissection or Vinterland, Withershin should not be dismissed as a pretender per se; the music they create is for both black and death metal camps to enjoy. While I find the black metal feel more in line with the band’s description, a “black-death” tag wouldn’t be uncalled for here.

“Crossing the Threshold” has a severe Euronymous guitar tone over the verses, and the dim sensations the song creates are pretty tangible and interesting enough to warrant a mid-high grade from this fan who’s heard it all, seen it all and wants no more of seen it all, heard it all. This offering here is well-produced and complete with raspy, “airy” vocals from “Nine” that are common, yet very acceptable considering the music in review. I don’t find much disappointment in way of being entertained, yet if you’re especially hard on your black metal and long for the old days of purity and fresh ideas you might be disappointed.

The Hungering Void is a CD I would recommend to the casual black metal fan who likes the newer bands and the old schooler who realizes that there is no reinvention of the wheel here, just good music without complete or total transparency. I hope another full-length comes our way soon because I’m interested to see what a sophomore release has in store.

Release Date: June 1, 2010
Label: Canonical Hours

TRACK LISTING

1.  Wherein I Exalt
2.  The Hungering Void
3.  Crossing The Threshold

Total playing time: 15:15

*By clicking "Submit" you agree to the following Terms of Use. You agree not to post any material that is obscene, slanderous, or threatening, or that may violate any law of your country of origin or the United States or of international law. Should you wish to restrict viewing of your email address by third parties, you must select "Hide My Email." You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Metal Psalter from any claims, actions, suits, damages, or other costs arising out of any breach of these Terms of Use.

*Comments:

Reviewer: Chris