Aus Jenen Tagen
As I said several times before, it is a difficult task for new bands to establish themselves in the genre of pagan (black) metal, as this genre is highly competitive. Due to the high pressure it is not sufficient to publish a solid performed record, it has to be an exceptional one. The reviews for the debut record of Thorondir let oneself doubt, that the new record is one of those great pieces, but do they apply?
Too short, too transparent and too unmatured, these were the main points of criticism concerning their debut record Düsterwald, which aren’t good omen. We take those points as a checklist, to review the latest record and as soon as we start, we realize, that the playing time was extended from the previous 28 minutes and the new record has a total playing time of round about an hour.
We have to reach back a bit to discuss the next point on the list. We could see “too transparent” compositional, as that was one of the major points of criticism. The composition in general improved a lot, as they finally set some epic atmosphere to music like they wanted to do on their debut. This adds two positive points to the record: The epicness fills the sound and the atmosphere smoothes away some minor difficulties in the sound.
If we see “too transparent” as “to predictable”, this point still fully applies. The melodies have matured a lot compared to the ones they used on their debut, but they still vary too little and there is never any surprise. The composition knows how to appeal but it is too straight-lined and there is nothing that would stay in your ear.
The last point on the list “too unmatured” applied to the compositions and, as we mentioned before, to the musical execution. While the rhythm instruments already did well on their debut, the guitars were another major point of criticism. They improved a lot but they are still playing some weird notes from time to time. The only real point of criticism are the keys, as they still seem to be too present, too tacky and too standard. The vocals are still well done, but they lack the right staging.
Conclustion:
Aus Jenen Tagen is a quite solid record, but nothing more. They developed a lot after they released their debut record, but there are still some flaws. The compositions need to mature and, which is of overriding importance, start to take shape. The record lacks a unique characteristic, but Thorondir is on the right way.
Rating: 65/100
Date of release: June, 3rd 2011
Tracklist:
1. Ewige Reise 2:36
2. Bündnis 6:08
3. Reich Der Toten 6:12
4. Fremdes Land 6:57
5. Weltenbaum 4:36
6. Tillenschatz 4:14
7. Middsommar 4:37
8. Rauher Kulm 4:18
9. Nebelhauch 1:38
10. Heymoar 5:08
11. Weiße Frau 6:27
12. Wodan 6:07
Total Playing Time: 1:03:10
