WINTERSOUL - FROZEN STORM APOCALYPSE (*NEW-CD, Nokternal Hemizphear, 2010) elite Christian Black Metal
Tracklist
1 Frostland 0:44
2 Dawn Of The Ice Hearts 3:41
3 Thorns Of Winter 4:53
4 Dark Winter Skies 5:50
5 The Awakening 3:45
6 Shades Of Terror 4:35
7 Shadows Of Death 4:27
8 Blood On Ice 4:05
9 As The Snow Falls... 2:07
I’m writing this review primarily to help listeners who may be unfamiliar with this album but are curious about it. While it may not align with everyone’s expectations—or the sensitivities of the self-appointed gatekeepers—it deserves an honest and informed assessment.
Musically, this album is rooted firmly in black metal, with measured death metal elements that add weight and variety rather than diluting the core sound. The vocals are predominantly traditional black metal—raw and aggressive—with occasional guttural death metal passages. There are also selective uses of female vocals and narration, which add atmosphere and contrast rather than distraction.
For reference, the closest comparisons would be Marduk, with notable elements reminiscent of Krisiun and Immortal. The guitars are unusually thick and heavy for black metal, giving the album a powerful low-end presence, while the production leans more toward later-era Immortal than early lo-fi black metal releases. The result is a clear, forceful sound that emphasizes precision without sacrificing intensity.
The drumming is the standout element here—razor-sharp blast beats, rapid transitions, and lightning-fast fills executed with remarkable control. Anyone who appreciates disciplined, high-velocity percussion will find a lot to admire.
Atmospheric moments are used sparingly but effectively, primarily in the grim, space-laden intro and outro instrumentals. Beyond those moments, this is uncompromising, relentless black metal—cold, brutal, and direct.
Lyrically, the album is equally strong. Each track explores themes of winter, spirituality, and inner conflict, using imagery of cold, darkness, and encroaching stillness to convey struggle and resolve. The conceptual cohesion becomes especially clear when reading the lyrics alongside the music.
While the band is Christian in worldview, the message is handled with restraint and intelligence. Rather than overt preaching, the themes are woven subtly into the atmosphere and storytelling, allowing the music to stand on its own. As expected, purists may object regardless—but the quality of the work speaks for itself.
In summary, this is best described as Winter Metal—grim, grinding black metal in the vein of Marduk and Krisiun, delivered with conviction and skill. This is not music designed to compromise or apologize. You will either embrace it fully or reject it outright.
Either way, it leaves an impact.
You might also like
