Kold – Det Falmede Håb

I’ve previously examined the Danish band Kold, having already reviewed both their EP and their most recent full-length album Intet Mere Er , released in early 2023. Their new release, Det Falmede Håb, feels like a logical continuation of their musical journey. I once described their frostbitten black metal as a blend of Ildskær and Der Weg Einer Freiheit. This release, too, is brought to the public by the ever-searching Vendetta Records—a label always on the lookout for underground black metal talent.

The message delivered by Skov, Samsø Jepsen, and Johansen does not possess the deeply rooted cultural and historical layers one might find with a band like Ildskær, but instead exudes the strength and solitude of nature. There’s also an underlying message of connection subtly woven into the music. The two musicians attempt to capture this through atmospheric elements in their compositions—something that becomes readily apparent as you listen.

After a rather pale and particularly frigid intro, the first track, Alt Vi Havde Kært, makes its entrance. At first glance, it feels quite similar to the material found on their earlier works. However, halfway through this lengthy piece, a warm, atmospheric blanket is gently laid down. The plucking of acoustic guitar then drags forth Forvitret Fortid, pulling you, albeit in a rather filthy manner, back into the past, mostly through sonic means. This duo is clearly no stranger to the second wave of Scandinavian black metal.

Det, Du Glemte glides in quietly and almost unnoticed behind its predecessor. Yet the ferocity displayed just a few bars later feels entirely typical. That same venom courses through Solen Går I Hi, a track so intense it feels as though it could choke you. At that point, the sun might as well set for good. The closing track, Uden Øjne, embraces both the raw brutality of black metal and the band’s more introspective, atmospheric side. It strikes a beautiful balance to end the record on.

Thankfully, the colder months are once again on their way. Summer is quietly retreating, and autumn, hopefully followed by a bitter winter, is knocking at the door. It’s time for the leaves to fall again, for the rain to return, and for the harsh weather to take hold. Kold’s latest record, Det Falmede Håb, is the perfect soundtrack to warm yourself by—though, of course, that’s absolutely not the point.

Score:

80/100

Label:

Vendetta Records, 2025

Tracklisting:

  1. Intro
  2. Alt Vi Havde Kært
  3. Forvitret Fortid
  4. Det, Du Glemte
  5. Solen Går I Hi
  6. Uden Øjne

Line-up:

  • Mathias Skov Samsø Jepsen – Drums, vocals
  • Nicklas Johansen – Guitar, bass guitar

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