Album Review: Mork

Continuing their ever-evolving journey with their most expressive and diverse work to date, Mork return with their seventh chapter in the form of Syv.

The band's latest creation begins with the album's longest track 'I Tåkens Virvel' which showcases brutal riffs, molded melancholy and melodic passages leading into a more folkier soundscapes on 'Holmgang' which has a particularly icy vocal delivery.

Rooted in the blackness of despair is 'Heksebål' which contains largely progressive elements, described by Mork creator, frontman and mastermind Thomas Eriksen as:

"A depiction of mankind destroying what they don’t understand. Witch-hunts and witches at the stake burned to a crisp. Probably one of the more progressive songs with spellbinding riffs of witchery. May the spell curse those in doubt to a lifetime of bad luck and misery!"

There is also an underlying rawness too that spills into 'Utbrent' with ease.

Containing the most interweaving with melody and pace is 'Med Døden Til Følge' which again is delivered well but does have an ominous presence throughout and moves into the album's hardest-hitting offering 'Ondt Blod.'

Moving into 'Tidens Tann,' there is a definite wave of nostalgia with enriched tones and soundscapes which is a clear dive into the varied nature of this release with 'Til Syvende Og Sist,' further adding to the overall presentation.

This latest chapter concludes with the foreboding 'Omme' which once again showcases the diverse musicianship. The gentle structure of this is in stark contrast to its predecessors but has a natural flow to it. It is also sung entirely in Norwegian which is the only track to do so on the album.

The thematic dive through the contemplations of looming mortality, and digressions through the depths and contrasts of human existence are incredibly poignant at times which really make for an engaging experience.

Rating: 7/10
Released By: Peaceville Records
Release Date: September 20th 2024
FFO: Darkthrone, Mayhem, Immortal, Taake