Zornheym
Where Hatred Dwells and Darkness Reigns

Highly anticipated debut from Sweden’s Symphonic Extreme Metal masters is how the label describes the debut album by Swedish band Zornheym. It is an album that is accompanied by a graphic novel to expand on the story of the songs that makes out the concept of this album, an album where the story takes place in the world of sleep depravation and mental instabilities – a well thought out story very well told in stunning graphical material made by skilled artist. And the same can be said about the music made by the band calling themselves Zornheym. I tend to frown when I read about highly anticipated debuts, because that is usually a load of bullshit but this one I can understand more as I was very curious about the album from the first moment I read about it in some press release a while ago. And now I have listened to the album many times.

Symphonic extreme metal is what it is about, and while I have written three similar bands that the members have been in or are in, I also think that Dimmu Borgir feels like a very good comparison. There are grand symphonies, choirs and that sort of pompous and rich feel to the sound, they actually use a string orchestra and their own multi-headed choir to add flair to this album. And they succeed very well I should add. But if you think the melodies delude the heaviness and power of the band, then you are wrong because they are also powerful and the extreme metal from which the originate their compositions feel very powerful and impressive. And the album is also short and to the point, a fact that makes you want to play it again, and perhaps even again once more.

Impressive stuff, I think the sound is excellent – they have certainly put together a very strong production and I would describe this as an album that is without any major weaknesses. Actually, it has no weaknesses that I can find. It feels fresh and exciting, entertaining and good with strong song, strong story and impressive musicianship. Certainly an album that will appeal to whoever is listening and it is probably the best made and one of the most impressive extreme metal releases in 2017 and a strong candidate for a spot on my top ten list over the year’s releases. I would call it an outstanding release.

This is an album I can recommend; it is great on any account. The Swedes have certainly put together an outstanding debut album and I would not be surprised if Zornheym will be a name to remember, a name from which we will probably get more exciting albums. Their debut is certainly quite great, hatred and darkness at its best.

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