Origin : Norway
Genre : Black Metal / Ambient
Release : 2012
Album downloads only available to members
Album Info / Review
Intro:
Burzum’s “Umskiptar,” released in 2012, arrived not as a triumphant return, but as another stark testament to Varg Vikernes’ singular, unyielding vision. Emerging from his years of incarceration, this album functions less as a collection of songs and more as a sonic manifestation of ancient Nordic lore and the raw, untamed spirit of the wilderness. “Umskiptar” translates to “The Great Change,” a fitting title for an album that delves into themes of transformation, both personal and societal, filtered through a lens of pagan philosophy and a profound, almost primal connection to the earth. The production is intentionally lo-fi, embracing a raw, unpolished aesthetic that amplifies the album’s inherent bleakness and sense of isolation. This is not an album designed for easy listening; it demands immersion, a willingness to confront its often-abrasive textures and hypnotic, repetitive structures.
Track Analysis:
“Umskiptar” is structured as a continuous sonic journey, with tracks flowing into one another, creating an immersive, almost ritualistic experience.
“Blóðstokkinn” (The Blood-Soaked) opens the album with a desolate, shimmering guitar riff that slowly builds in intensity, underpinned by a driving, yet surprisingly melodic bassline. The vocals, when they arrive, are a guttural roar, conveying a sense of ancient fury and primal struggle.
“For My Vargr” (For My Wolf) plunges into a more aggressive territory. The drumming is relentless, a thunderous onslaught that propels the track forward with a visceral energy. The guitar work here is sharp and biting, weaving dissonant melodies that evoke images of a harsh, unforgiving landscape.
“Feigð” (Doom) offers a brief respite, a more atmospheric piece characterized by a mournful, clean guitar melody. The sense of melancholy is palpable, hinting at the inevitable decay and sorrow that permeates the album’s themes.
“Galdra” (Magic) returns to a more tempestuous sound. The riff is repetitive and hypnotic, drawing the listener into a trance-like state. The vocals are more layered here, adding a strange, otherworldly quality.
“Svarte Hjerte” (Black Heart) is perhaps the album’s most overtly aggressive track. The blast beats are deafening, and the guitar riff is a relentless wall of sound. The raw, unfiltered aggression is unsettling and cathartic in equal measure.
“Til Hel og tilbake igjen” (To Hel and Back Again) is a lengthy, sprawling epic. It shifts dynamically, moving from moments of crushing brutality to passages of stark, almost ambient beauty. The spoken-word sections, delivered in a deep, resonant voice, further enhance the narrative and thematic depth.
“Elegí” (Elegy) provides another moment of introspective somberness. The clean guitar work is delicate and sorrowful, creating a poignant reflection on loss and mortality.
“MótiRískr” (Mother’s Fury) erupts with renewed ferocity. The riff is aggressive and driving, with the vocals returning to their raw, unadulterated power.
“Föddr Ok Éldr” (Born and Old) is a more melodic and expansive track. The guitar lines are more intricate, and the overall atmosphere is one of grand, sweeping vistas.
“Starfr” (Starry) is a relatively short but impactful piece, building to a crescendo of distorted guitars and powerful drumming.
“Frøya” is an instrumental piece that closes the album. It is more atmospheric and contemplative, featuring a clean, arpeggiated guitar melody that gradually fades into silence, leaving a lingering sense of unresolved tension and primal resonance.
Conclusion:
“Umskiptar” is a potent and uncompromising statement from Burzum. It is an album that eschews conventional song structures and polished production in favor of raw emotional expression and a deep, almost spiritual connection to its thematic core. The album’s power lies in its relentless intensity, its bleak beauty, and its unwavering commitment to Varg Vikernes’ unique artistic vision. While challenging and at times abrasive, it offers a profound and immersive experience for those willing to venture into its dark, ancient heart. It is a testament to the enduring power of primal expression in metal, a stark reminder of the untamed forces that can be channeled through distorted guitars and guttural vocals.
Rating: 4.2/5
Highlight Track: Til Hel og tilbake igjen
