Origin : Norway
Genre : Black Metal
Release : 2001
Album downloads only available to members
Album Info / Review
Intro:
The Norwegian black metal scene, a crucible forged in icy fjords and fueled by an unyielding spirit of sonic transgression, birthed many entities that would go on to define its grim trajectory. Among these, Darkthrone stands as a monolithic force, their discography a testament to relentless artistic evolution and a steadfast refusal to bow to fleeting trends. Following the raw, lo-fi catharsis of *Panzerfaust*, *Plaguewielder* (1995) arrived not as a departure, but as a descent into a more primal, suffocating, and undeniably heavier iteration of their established sound. This album is not for the faint of heart; it’s a visceral assault, a sonic plague unleashed upon the unsuspecting listener, characterized by a deliberate crudeness that amplifies its oppressive atmosphere.
Track Analysis:
“Twisted Crypt of Corruption” opens the album with a churning, mid-paced riff, immediately establishing a sense of dread. The guitar tone is thick and distorted, bordering on muddy, yet this serves to enhance the claustrophobic feel. Fenriz’s drumming is a relentless, almost tribal pounding, eschewing blast beats for a more deliberate, impactful approach. Nocturno Culto’s vocals are a guttural rasp, laced with an undeniable venom, spewing forth lyrics that paint vivid images of decay and damnation. The song builds gradually, incorporating moments of dissonant melody that cling like a parasitic infection.
“Demilitarization” injects a slightly more aggressive tempo, but the core ethos remains. The riffs are angular and abrasive, creating a disorienting sonic landscape. The bassline is a rumbling, distorted presence, anchoring the chaos without offering any solace. The song’s structure is less conventional, with abrupt shifts in dynamics that keep the listener on edge. There’s a palpable sense of unease woven into every note.
“The Serpent’s Unholy Touch” is a masterclass in atmospheric oppression. The tempo slows considerably, allowing the dissonant chords to ring out with agonizing clarity. The riff is hypnotic and suffocating, reminiscent of a slow, inevitable march towards oblivion. Nocturno’s vocal performance here is particularly chilling, a desperate, almost mournful cry against the encroaching darkness.
“Winds of Mayhem” sees a return to a more driving rhythm, though the production keeps it firmly rooted in the abrasive. The guitar work is sharp and biting, delivering a more direct, albeit still grim, attack. The song possesses a relentless momentum, a relentless march through a desolate wasteland.
“Death of the Sacred” is an exercise in pure sonic malevolence. The riff is a monolithic, crushing force, delivered with a deliberate, almost lumbering pace. The drums are a thunderous, percussive barrage, each hit landing with the weight of a falling tombstone. The vocal delivery is a raw, untamed roar, a primal scream of defiance against an uncaring universe.
“In Thine Dark Embrace” returns to a more mid-paced, doomy territory. The riff is a slow, grinding descent into madness, punctuated by dissonant leads that skitter like insects in the shadows. The atmosphere is thick with despair, a suffocating blanket of sonic misery.
“Plaguewielder” itself is the album’s namesake and its grim centerpiece. It’s a sprawling, epic track that encapsulates the album’s essence. The riffing is varied, shifting from crushing, slow passages to more urgent, aggressive bursts. The song feels like a journey through a plague-ravetted landscape, with moments of bleak beauty interspersed with sheer sonic horror. The guitar solos, when they appear, are not flashy displays of technicality, but rather raw, emotive bursts of noise and dissonance that perfectly complement the overall mood.
“The White Volcano” closes the album with a sense of lingering dread. The riffing is more melodic in its bleakness, offering a final, haunting passage before the album fades into silence. It’s a somber, reflective conclusion, leaving the listener with a profound sense of emptiness.
Conclusion:
*Plaguewielder* is a pivotal work in Darkthrone’s discography, marking a significant step in their evolution towards a more raw, oppressive, and ultimately heavier sound. It’s an album that prioritizes atmosphere and primal aggression over technicality and polished production. The deliberate crudeness of the recording, the guttural vocals, and the suffocating riffing coalesce to create an experience that is both unsettling and deeply compelling. This is black metal stripped bare, its core essence of darkness and despair laid out for all to witness. It’s a testament to Darkthrone’s unwavering commitment to their grim artistic vision.
Rating: 4.5 / 5
Highlight Track: “Plaguewielder”
