While the Norwegians tended to keep the genre raw and the Finns opted for a chaotic, blisteringly fast approach, Swedish Black Metal was generally more melodic and atmospheric in nature.
Since 2019, Swartadauþuz of Ancient Records has been working on further exploring and preserving this legacy. With a clear vision and deep respect for the classical Swedish school, the trio has steadily evolved, culminating in their third full-length album.
With an immensely thick yet crystal-clear production in which no instrument is pushed to the background, Greve manage to convincingly carry their relatively long compositions. Each track is given the space to unfold organically, without ever sacrificing tension or intensity.
Thanks to this carefully balanced production, the guitar melodies truly shine: icy, immersive, and often hypnotic, yet never excessive. The keyboards are subtly woven into the overall sound, not as a dominant force but as an atmospheric enhancement that adds depth and texture to the compositions. Together, these elements create a rich sonic landscape that feels both epic and suffocating, convincingly continuing the Swedish tradition of melodic and atmospheric Black Metal.
Less bombastic than its predecessor Föllo af svavel, lifvets dimridå, where the sense of menace occasionally risked being overshadowed by its epic scope, this album strikes a far more effective balance. The grandeur is still present, but more tightly controlled, allowing tension and darkness to remain ever-present and giving the compositions greater impact.
This new album is therefore well worth an in-depth listen. Greve demonstrate that they have further refined their sound and are undergoing clear artistic growth without betraying their roots. The record lingers thanks to its strong songwriting, carefully constructed atmospheres, and consistent execution. It would not be surprising to see this release appear on numerous year-end lists, particularly among devotees of melodic and atmospheric Black Metal.
85/100
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