Nattens Madrigal (1997, Century Media)
With their third album, the Nordic black metal act continues to explore the werewolf legends
of Europe. Reportedly recorded in a forest, the ultra-raw primitive hellish black metal is
bristling with lycantropic energy. Similar to Darkthrone but with more accoustical instruments
and somewhat better mood control, Ulver nevertheless offer an unique album, which is very
much branded by their own approach. The lyrics are all in Norwegian but English translations
are provided (with some sort of medieval feel to them). "The Madrigal of Night, Eight Hymnes
to the Wolf in Man" is all about screaming guitars, manic drums, and Gram's uncompromising
blackened growls. No keyboards to flatten the brutality of the experience. Some nearly
incomprehensible philosophy by one of the band members provides the rationale behind their
work.
Verdict: a good (but not outstanding) black metal in the more traditional vein
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