Norwegian black-prog metal pioneers Enslaved have reached another crucial milestone with the release of the ambitious 15th album “Utgard” which in Norse mythology is a landscape where the giants dwell but here represents something more complex or even a realm beyond your own consciousness. 

The solemn chants on “Fires In The Dark” easily convey a gelid atmosphere that matches the band’s Viking spirit and even if the acoustic phrases can add a melancholic shroud while some rhythmic patterns showcase follow an eclectic prog pathway the vicious growls and the inflamed guitar riffs still belong to a primal sonic realm.  

The faster rhythmic rampage throughout “Jettegryta” can certainly channel an arcane black metal essence further amplified by the intensity of the hellish growls yet there are some intriguing prog twists and dazzling keyboards arrangements which add diversity.  

“Sequence” relies on a series of robust guitar driven grooves skillfully entwined with intricate keyboards layers that can create a fascinating contrast between the darkened vibes of the riffage and the luminous atmospheric nuances naturally emphasizing the song’s introspective nature. 

While the raw energy of the fierce guitar riffs and the shattering blackened dynamics hold a significant role, “Flight Of Thought And Memory” offers glowing melodic crescendos and cathartic feelings clearly expressed by the soothing clean vocals and the hazy atmospheric arrangements. 

“Storms Of Utgard” gravitates towards a balanced mixture of complex prog oriented patterns that reach the acme with a particularly alluring guitar solo and savage darkened rhythmic segments amplified by the furious growls successfully evoking an emotional turmoil. 

The journey into and through “Utgard” can be challenging and at the same time enchanting as Enslaved courageously continue to follow a convoluted avant-garde sonic evolution which might often diverge from the style of their early discography but is definitely bound to pleasantly surprise the listeners.