I don’t speak Danish myself, but couldn’t Afgrundsprofeti simply be translated as “the doctrine of how we all go plunging into the abyss”? Loosely interpreted, of course. And it might actually fit quite well. Afgrundsprofeti, the latest release by Danish Frelser, arrives simultaneously with other Danish black metal works via the Vendetta label. Names like Morild and Kold spring to mind – whether subtly or not. You’ll find my thoughts, as ever, on the familiar favourite haunt of many a metal enthusiast.
This is only the debut full-length from this three-piece collective, who hail from the Sjælland region. As is often the case in the black metal world (and well beyond it) the band members are familiar with each other, having played together in other projects. That kind of musical kinship forges bonds in its own right. Speaking for myself, my greying hair already betrays just how important it is to surround yourself with like-minded souls to give shape and sound to life through music. I suspect it’s no different for the musicians in Frelser. Names like Genocide Doctrine or Serpent’s Lair might not immediately ring a bell, but that’s hardly the point.
Judging by the names the members have adopted, I did wonder whether we might expect hints of death metal or even grind. And yet, the first gritty tones, laced with a venomous lead line and that churning bass, don’t really point in that direction. The overall feel is occult, ritualistic even. The title track is a perfect example of vicious monotony, carried by a varied vocal palette that bubbles and gurgles its way up from the depths. In terms of atmosphere, it reminds me somewhat of Nubivagant, though vocally, Frelser offers something quite different. And then there’s the bass guitar, so finely tuned and prominently present, introduced right from the very first track.
I couldn’t tell you what it would sound like if a knife whispered to you, but Knivene hvisker might just offer a clue. It certainly doesn’t sound like actual whispering. Once again, we’re treated to a sound that’s deceptively simple, yet hard-hitting and relentless. Redder! Frelser! You could shout it out to the one who’s pulled you from the mire time and again. Or you could just crank up this pounding, steaming track. You won’t regret it. Nor will you regret being carried for a few minutes by the unexpected interplay between acoustic guitar and (what I believe is ) cello in Elsker du stadig din næste?
Vendetta Records, and I’ve written this many times before, has a real nose for quality. Frelser, and in particular their latest blackened offering Afgrundsprofeti, is yet another shining example of this. It’s a truly powerful record, featuring distinctly Danish black metal with its own unique flavour and character. Outstanding.
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