By: AvNatten

Posted: Dec 2, 2005

I can still recall the first time I heard Sweden's Mörk Gryning on Century Media's "Feuersturm" compilation many years ago. This year, a decade after their first release the band have released an album through Black Lodge and have decided to simply title it "Mörk Gryning". I must add that this is a posthumous release for the band decided to call it quits earlier this year (The band disbanded, and then got back together to make and record this last album, cited pressure from the fans, ed).

Have the Swede's effectively delivered raw blackened metal this time around? That may be up to each listener's own personal taste but I for one found some enjoyment in this album and the track 'Into Oblivion' in particular. 'The Aurora' shows the band blistering forth with aggression only to break down into a doom inspired pace change complete with droning guitars and then they're off again full speed ahead. 'Disguise My Parting' gives the listener an ear full of interesting pace shifts and showcases the band mixing doses of thrash in with their black metal. One may be caught off guard though by the hidden track, which is a strange dance remix.

The production has been done well, falling somewhere between clean and raw which suits the music well. Mörk Gryning rip through the tracks utilizing fast and furious drumming and double pedal work, hard hitting guitars that soar and sear while also often break down into a melody, as well as a weighty bass that provides the low notes in proper dosage. Vocals are handled in the usual blackened death metal style but do offer a little diversity once in a while. The keyboards are used effectively as well by staying low and close to the music without becoming overpowering. There are a lot of twists and turns contained within the disc that separate Mörk Gryning from the rest of the pack. "Mörk Gryning" is a solid release from the band and is a fitting final act to end their story with.

Rating: 7/10

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