review: XIV Dark Centuries

XIV Dark Centuries

Waldvolk

Einheit Produktionen

February 28th, 2020

Given the quality of the newest work of the band (est. 1998), it is worthwhile not to let it go without commentary. The music is supposedly folk/pagan, but the tempo is headbanging and rocking in melodic black metal kind of ways; very memorable and easy to enjoy while being a quality album featuring German-language lyrics. The vocals are shrieked but are on the lower, gruffer ranges for a good, ear-friendly sound, and in spots there is some folk singing and a bit of other voices. The band does not fit the stereotype of pagan bands that often have long segments of non-song, experimental tangents, and that in general often are incapable of keeping their music song-focused, as if they just cannot have enough concentration and discipline to stay on point with their songs. This work is about 45 minutes and it’s 11 tracks, of which the longest is just under six minutes, and two others stay within the 5:30 mark, while the rest stay more along the lines of 3-4:30 or 3:-5:00. In other words, the band is very aware that the fans want songs. The people want good, rocking tunes and they will run towards bands that are able to write disciplined compositions that catch one’s attention without having to torture oneself listening for nine or ten minutes before a melody shows up. The guitar melodies stand out a lot and fans will be surprised by how good the melodies are. The winning, upbeat melodies will go a long way towards convincing the listeners. Listen to “Ich bin das Feuer” (“I am the Fire”) and see how long it is before you declare it your new favorite song. Or “Runibergun.” Or “Skogafulka.” Ridiculously good. A huge victory for the German group. Tremendous. Contagious.

xivdarkcenturies.bandcamp.com/album/waldvolk