When I put those headphones on in December of 1998, I knew I was listening to something special. That something special turned out to be Extol’s “Burial.” As fate would have it, the band would go on to pen remarkable albums and even join the Century Media Records fold, which is arguably the big-time for a metal band. “Synergy,” the group’s prior outing, was invariably different from the progressive death album “Undeceived”; so, it was obvious that the band began to discard their death metal leanings in favor of a Believer-esque, thrash approach. “The Blueprint Dives” is even further away from their uber-heavy platters, and – though it’s a good release – it doesn’t measure up to other entries in their fine catalog.

I was dismayed when I found out that Ole Borud (guitar, vocals) and Christer Espevoll (guitar) were leaving the band. But, I was also relieved to hear that two, recognizable figures entered the foray. As you can imagine, this major change shaped the band’s songwriting tremendously. The thrashiness is still in place, but to a lesser degree. Clean vocals are also present, but are not up to snuff with Ole Borud’s excellent vox. All other instrumentation is adequate, though it seems that Husvik (drums) is much more subdued on this go-around. Moreover, it was a mistake to open “The Blueprint Dives” with the pedestrian “Gloriana.” Tradition is: Extol’s openings have always been astounding, and the aforementioned definitely falters in this facet. However, “Soul Deprived” follows successfully and doesn’t sound too far removed from the days surrounding “Synergy.” “In Reversal” is good too; it’s a dreamier exemplification that tends to have a penchant for meandering. “Pearl” actually sounds similar to Mortal until Sveen’s (guitar) vocalizations appear. It is here that the vox are truly emotive and subsequently brilliant. “From the Everyday Mountain Top” is sort of inconsequential, while “Another Adam’s Escape” is a jazzy excursion.

Y’know, I can’t fathom enjoying “The Blueprint Dives” as much as the other opuses in the Extol discography. I hope that it’ll grow on me in time, but I suspect that it won’t. For Extol fans, though, their latest output simply has to be listened to. Nevertheless, individuals that have preconceived notions about this will most assuredly be left disappointed. After all, this isn’t your older brother’s Extol.

[This review was first published on the now defunct scandinavianmetal.info webzine]