Solefald describe their music as "red music with black edges," but those of us who actually speak like human beings will undoubtedly prefer a description which actually means something - 'experimental, progressive Black Metal,' perhaps? Admittedly, trying to label Solefald is a difficult business - I'm not sure if I even regard them as 'Black Metal,' since their lyrics and attitude are certainly not very typical of the genre (they said in a recent Terrorizer interview "the main theme of our album has to be the cycle of being," which is evident in the cover painting, 'The Return Of The Sun.')
Musically, there are evident elements of the 'demonic fairground mixed with prog rock' style of Arcturus, along with more chaotic, Black Metal-inspired sections. The vocals alternate between harsh screams and clean singing - singing which reminds me of Emperor's 'Anthems..,' This Empty Flow, and even 1980s pop music like Depeche Mode or something. There's also some normal speaking used during the more subdued moments in the album.
The sound is quite original, but I must admit that I'm not quite as fond of this album as I was the first few times I listened to it. There's a lot going on in the songs, but sometimes it doesn't seem to gel together as well as I would have liked. It's definitly full of variation, however - 'Philosophical Revolt' sounds like typical Black Metal one minute, then there's hand clapping along with weird off-the-beat, almost Reggae-like keyboard the next. 'The Macho Vehicle' is another standout song, sounding quite similar to Arcturus. 'Countryside Bohemians' and 'Tequila Sunrise,' however are overlong and a little pretentious in their attempt to be moody. The lyrics are also a bit "aren't we sophisticated."
All in all, however, this is worth seeking out - especially if you're after something a bit different. Unfortunately, I sometimes found this album 'interesting' rather than especially rewarding or enjoyable.
Having said that, songs like 'Philosophical Revolt' and 'The Macho Vehicle' are quite memorable, and if you like bands like In The Woods or Arcturus then this is worth buying.
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