Since the last few years the Icelandic black metal scene has been generating some worthy bands. As a result of the outstanding quality these bands have shaped this underground scene into one of the most innovative hubs of black metal. The sophomore release by the Icelandic black metal outfit Misþyrming will take most fans by storm, Algleymi both incorporates velocity and intensity and is now released through the French underground label Norma Evangelium Diaboli. Beside Sinmara, Carpe Noctem, Almyrkvi and Svartidauði, these Icelandic forerunners of black metal manifest a sheer level of songwriting on the second album. Opening track Orgia proves that Misþyrming are still among the canons of talented black metal bands. The massive blast beats and injected dissonance that flows genuinely into the atmosphere. But how different is Algleymi from the debut album Söngvar elds og óreiðu beside the beautiful melodies and the velocity of the guitar riffs?

Söngvar elds og óreiðu was partially experimenting with ambient interludes and mixing dissonance with tremolo pickings. However Algleymi is quite dynamic and aggressive, and it feels that band has changed naturally. Though the inspirational style of songwriting is betwixt and between the second wave and third wave of black. The high level of tremolo pickings on the second track Með svipur á lofti plods through the fast tempo and chaotic riffage. The melodies and dissonance are arranged in layers giving the songs more particular aspects, while the vocals mostly sound like a frenzied howling the drums burst at incredible speed. Therefore when you listen to the new album of Misþyrming you should expect an exuberant amount of energy and diversity.

The Icelandic bands are mainly accentuated by the use of dissonant riffs and other musical elements. On the third track Ísland, steingelda krummaskuð clearly demonstrates the change in tonality, the track is replete with tuneful melodies and dynamic drumming. What makes the Icelandic black metal scene so different is that most of the bands bring variety to the music. Each and every respectful outfit has its own style and functional tonality. And this what makes them very interesting and matchless. The prominent use of synth on the new album plays a big role in creating the atmosphere, and also adds depth to the song texture. While the melodic textures are largely dominated by the guitars which also emanates some catchy and harmonious segments. 

Algleymi also includes one short but beautiful instrumental track Hælið, which equally brings the mournful tunes and ethereal melodies altogether. There are many reasons why Algleymi is the band’s best album to date, first you can sense the cohesion between the members. Og er haustið líður undir Loki is one unique track that somehow reminds of the early Fintroll. Perhaps the high pitched growls and the pounding drum beats, and the songwriting which set itself apart from most of the third wave of black metal bands. The constant changes on each of the eight tracks propose that the band have been inspired by creativity.

Allt sem eitt sinn blómstraði holds unconventional methods of songwriting, and builds on atmospheric style of black metal. And apart from the quality of the music you can hear the cacophonous of the jarring riffs and rapid blast beats accelerating at full speed. The guitar performance is outstanding and shows an advanced style when it comes to lead guitar segments and solos.

There are many resemblances to the French black metal band Deathspell Omega and Svartidauði and in spite of the similarities the music is brought to effectiveness. The keyboards have this imaginative touch and they are sparsely utilized in some moments. Altogether Algleymi is a fantastic album that melds the modern style of black metal with unprecedented and fresh ideas. The melodic and the catchy rhythm on Alsæla is fulfilled by the impulsive blast beats and the technical aspects that can only be attributed to Deathspell Omega. Closing track Algleymi which gradually reveals its concealed melodies are performed by excellent and high class guitar performance. The main focus here is on the melodies which brings this final track to perfection. Misþyrming’s sophomore album is obtained by the endowment of the individuals, Algleymi is an exceptional record that cannot be repeated by time, this is uncommon and extraordinary output released by this splendid Icelandic outfit. 

Release Date: May 24th, 2019
Label: Norma Evangelium Diaboli
Track list:

1. Orgia
2. Með svipur á lofti
3. Ísland, steingelda krummaskuð
4. Hælið
5. Og er haustið líður undir lok
6. Allt sem eitt sinn blómstraði
7. Alsæla
8. Algleymi