Umbra ", the first full-length album of the Icelander ALMYRKVI offers from the first note on dragging, intensive and lead-heavy tones that do not seem to be from this earth. You feel kidnapped into strange deep-black galaxies, only the punctuated clear vocals provide a few shimmering lights in the oppressive darkness. The songs seem complex - but they are catchy, if you get fully involved with them. There is no room for superficiality here, ALMYRKVI on "Umbra" offer anything but light food, but once you have understood the message, you will be carried away by the energy and dynamics of the music uncompromisingly. Friends of blastbeat orgies should be warned here, however, such passages will be searched for in vain on "Umbra". It's hard to give tips for playing, because the pieces form such a self-contained unit, from which you don't want to tear out a single part. This masterpiece is rounded off by a perfect sound that concentrates on the essentials and avoids any artificial frills. For all those who have now licked blood, it should be noted that ALMYRKVI will perform together with SINMARA and some other congenial bands at the Celebrare Noctem festival in the Alte Schlachthof in Wels on 02.12.2017. Conclusion: Not a work for the masses, but anyone who is willing to deal with music outside the mainstream of metal can and should do so without hesitation!
