Resonance - EIHWAR - Fabienne Erni
- Sparky
- Mar 4
- 3 min read
EIHWAR - Hugrheim 8/10
Infused with a more contemporary sound than their peers Eiwhwar create addictive soundscapes through modern rhythmic percussion that is has a definite current of electronic industrial run through it. The result is at times introspective and beautiful and at others a percussionist’s dream, full of power and more importantly the trance like effect that is all important to the ritual. The result is electro Nordic folk, a war trance perpetuated by the duo of Mark and Asrunn and their second album is the immersive Hugrheim
As much at home by a forest fire as a strobe lit dance floor, Hugrheim is an album to be enjoyed at any level, it begs to be played loud, the subtleties and nuances become more prominent, the rhythms vibrant, aggressive and Alive, and the result is far more immersive. Eihwar have created a seamless merging of pagan traditional and the modern, the electronic and the timber. The title track bristles with energy, the dual vocals are contrast of styles yet complementary to each other. ‘’Ljósgarðr’’ is its opposite, fragile and introspective, the gradual crescendo rewarding and memorable. ‘’Heill Óðinn’’ is a true highlight of rhythmic percussive power whilst’’ The Lake of the Dead ‘’ is traditional Nordic beauty, the horns precise and the atmosphere all encompassing, ‘’Omenotharena ‘’ (Warrior's Training) is an electric pulse pounding culmination of war drums and EDM.
Whilst much is made of Eihwar’s accessibility, this is an album dedicated to the tenth world of Yggdrasil, shaped by the Hugr, the spirit and mind, and Lute, Folk Guitar, Tagelharpa, can be found within the vast visually creative musical landscapes. Hugrheim offers something new and creative, energetic and dynamic. Transformative and compelling Eihwar is a journey that is distinctive, creative and celebrates the transformative and the spiritual.
Fabienne Erni – Starveil 8/10
Fabienne Erni is the famous voice that is part of Eluveitie and Illumishade, a vocalist who creates evocative emotions as the rich tales it tells. Starveil is the long overdue debut solo album that represents her voice and personality in all its splendour and glory.
An album that captures traditional folk with a modern metal crunch, The title track Starveil captures this beautifully with its melody and fragility imbued with a sense of power and at times wonder that is cinematic and visually captivating. Ritual is a two-voice wonder featuring Lena Scissorhands (Infected Rain) a modern metal attack full of passion and dynamics. I dare you not to be moved by the excellent Stone by Stone where the vocals truly soar against a challenging percussive backdrop, its crescendo rousing, and melody that lingers long after its played. Living and the Dead is another example of excellent vocalization (some of those high notes are simply superb) that never overshadows the music or the story it tells. Single Skys Breath with its diversity, and the strength that is within Never Let go are two more examples of a beguiling album that is both authentic and sumptuous.
Starveil is as heavy as it is beautiful and delicate. An Album of contrasts that is represented by gorgeous vocals and a diverse performance that is personal, intimate, yet commanding and formidable. Full of surprises, it is a modern metal wonder and a traditional tapestry full of texture and wonder (Thalen Muron is revelatory). Fabienne Erni has created an incredible musical experience.
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