Norway's Mork has, for some reason, generally flown under the radar of many fans of the Norwegian black metal scene. This largely one-man project helmed by Thomas Eriksen, has never gotten the respect it deserves. Mork has put about a number of solid releases going back to the 2013, when it released Isebakke.
This first record was, arguably, rather standard in the realm of lo-fi black metal. Lots of second wave 90's sound, but at times slow. However, since that initial release, Mork has grown substantially in its sound. Syv, the newest record, is the band's most diverse and developed record to date, demonstrating just how far Eriksen has come in both songwriting and performance.
No longer embracing the lo-fi production standards of yesteryear, Syv is record that truly embraces a wide array of sounds that are designed to be heard a bit more clearly. The record's opening track, "I Takens Virvel," is slightly atmospheric, and partly black and roll. It's upbeat and aggressive but also nuanced. Brilliant, but understated tremolo picking underscores the resistance to go full fledged speed metal. In this respect, Mork continues on its quest to become more than mere '90s worship. It works.
"Holmgang" introduces some strings to add diverse accents to the soundscape. It juxtaposes so well with Eriksen's blistering vocal track that evokes both the beautiful and the ugly at the same breath. Undoubtedly Norwegian, the folk-inspired violins will whisk you away to the coastal county of Ostfold with its cobblestone streets and 17th century Nordic charm. "Heksebal," is a song with a similar sound with a bit more speed.
"Til Syvende Og Sist" is an instrumental with lots of affect, yes, more strings, and some classical-infused melodies. I don't want to call it symphonic, but there are symphonic elements here that I wasn't particularly expecting yet pleasantly surprised by.
Another surprise is the closing track, "Omme," which is just guitar, strings and clean voice. This track reminds me just a bit of Sweden's Shining in the respect that it's overly melancholy and contemplative. I hope to hear more of this type of work from Mork. It works well.
"Utbrent" is probably the most traditional black metal sounding cut on the record. This particular song, with its vocal cadences, reminds me a bit of fellow Norwegian act, Taake. The song, like all Mork compositions, is entirely in Norwegian and that makes it difficult for some to appreciate, however, with a little help from Google translate and lyric videos, fans can make out the content. "Utbrent" is a song about trying to hold on when you're already burnt out and living has become punishing and burdensome.
Overall this one of the standout black metal records of 2024. The songwriting here as well as the composition is head and shoulders above most black metal that I've been sent over the past eight months. Unfortunately, as black metal continues to get further commoditized and mainstreamed, the genre right now is suffering from an over abundance of outright junk. Mork's newest release both bucks this unfortunate trend and impresses with outstanding musical maturity and growth.
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