Helrunar - Frostnacht (2005)

Since its release back in 2005, Helrunar's debut album, 'Frostnacht' has remained a constant favorite of mine and in my own opinion a bit of modern day black metal classic.

While admittedly not the most original in overall sound, this German based band draws a great deal of influence from Norwegian black metal, specifically Ulver's monumental, 'Bergtatt' and Taake's, 'Nattestid Ser Porten Vid.' Throughout the album the riffing is absolutely stunning with a phenomenal sense of melody and atmosphere which is just not found on that many releases. The ferocity and true spirit of black metal is very much present in this bands work too, although it seems to have a greater degree of energy and drive behind it all. Plus the production is quite good for a black metal release.

The Ulver connection is made by the fact that there are several quick acoustic parts within these black metal songs, as well as two purely instrumental acoustic songs, 'Neun Nächte' especially is quite possibly one of the best neo folk songs I've ever heard. However besides these two acoustic songs and the intro there are seven full on black metal songs, which absolutely destroy everything in their path. I love the way these songs shift between blasting energetic parts to more calmer melodic and atmospheric sections, which at least for me makes the whole thing incredibly catchy and easily accessible regardless of my mood.

I can honestly say its a bit hard to pick favorites from this album since all of it is so good and just flows perfectly, but the catchiness of a song like, '...bis die Seele gefriert' is superb or the hard driven and awesome riffing and harmonies within, 'Der Trank des Gehängten' are breathtaking. Likewise I often go to, 'Dreifach Dorn' when I have some frustrations to work out, 'Mimis Brunnr (Grátr Önnor)' when I'm really, really in the mood for something Ulver influenced and definitely the aforementioned, 'Neun Nächte' when I feel melancholy.

With that said I absolutely recommend this album to anyway and everyone that enjoys acoustic infused melodic Pagan black metal with brilliant guitar work, gorgeous melodies and a nearly unmatchable atmosphere.

Helrunar created a classic with this one, and although the follow-up, 'Baldr ok Íss' is quite good too, it seemed to just lack that extra bit of specialness. Earlier this year the band released their third album, 'Sól,' which I haven't gotten my hands on yet, but I surely should soon enough. 'till then.