This Norwegian band makes extreme metal with the emphasis on Extreme. This is not clear when you listen to the title-song which starts off this album with a dark but not heavy ocean-full of noises. But then follows Revival with fast rolling double-bass, roaring guitars and a pounding bass. This must be the soundtrack of someone being in the middle of a thunderstorm, out on the sea. Lengsel is a black-metal band from Norway and not the kind that tries to be heroes of the keyboards. This is hard, extreme stuff with the focus on the guitars, drums, bass and vocals. Keyboards are only just now and then, so they don't take over. There are extremities in speed, there are dark, raging riffs, monotonously repeated at times like in Coat Of Arms and there are occasional break-downs to gather new breath for the next onslaught. The production of this album is great. Sometimes it's a bit too monotone, though there are variations. At times it's excellent. You just have to sit down and listen to it as it's not easy digestible food.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Josh SpencerIt's strange that Tooth and Nail is signing these Norwegian imports to their Solid State hardcore imprint, first Extol and now, Lengsel (obviously, the fact that the guitarist/ vocalist for Lengsel is also the bassist for Extol had something to do with it). Let's hope T&N head honcho Brandon Ebel continues to be true to his metal roots--he used to work for Frontline, Napalm Death was listed as…Similar sounding releases
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