Review: Mork – Dypet

Review by Dagon M.

Mork – Dypet

Record Label: Peaceville Records

Year: 2023

Rating: 10/10

Norway…the end all be all for Second Wave Black Metal. A scene with countless legendary bands that have set on a high standard for what to expect. Thomas Eriksen with his project Mork has been able to place himself in the Black Metal elite since 2004. With his sixth release «Dypet» he moves in a different direction from its Black n’ Roll predecessor. Mid-paced tempos define the album, along with doom elements throughout its misanthropic themes.

Our gaze into the demonic abyss begins with the promptly named «Indre Demoner». An onslaught of Melodic Black Metal, with one-of-a-kind shuttering guitar riffs. «Forført av Kulden» is more bizarre with dark melodies and a distinct bass line. Thomas keeps growling the thought like a demon dragging you to your frozen tomb. «Svik» is an example of what Mork has best to offer. Traditional Norwegian Black Metal with atmospheric elements in the highest degree.

Mork

«Et Kall Fra Dypet» being in speed and aggression. Thundering drums and an overall heaviness keep us back in the 90s. «Høye Murer» features Hjelvik at vocals, intertwined with Thomas to unleash a full array of agony, before the slow paced «Bortgang» takes its place. «Avskum» offers a strong sense of hatred as «Tilbake til Opprinnelsen» analog synths engulfed with high paced riffs signal the ned of our journey.

Mork have yet again added a masterpiece in their carreer. The high quality production while still maintaining its rawness continues in perfect balance. The trademark cathy riffs and drum patterns make their reappearance, appropriately combined with themes of misanthropy, loneliness and inner hell. Also the cover art perfectly visualises the xold soundscapes that are enthralled by the glorification of death.

«Dypet» will be on the discussion for the best Black Metal releases of the year. It is truly a worthy ambassador of what modern day Norwegian Black Metal has to offer