HULDER – VERBOLGEN

The journey begins with the introductory piece 'Drie Raven', where the crackling of a fire and warmly played acoustic guitar immediately establish the album's atmosphere. Folk-inspired instrumentation, including drums, hurdy-gurdy, and flute, gives the composition a calm, ritualistic character, creating the impression of an ancient ceremony unfolding before the listener.

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The first full composition, 'The Crowning', wastes no time shifting away from the calm introduction, erupting into relentless blast beats and melodic yet melancholic riffs. Sinister whispers cut through the dense wall of sound, gradually giving way to increasingly grim vocal deliveries accompanied by fast, forceful drumming. A spoken-word passage, delivered with commanding conviction, feels like a warning of what is yet to come. Around the midpoint, the return of folk instrumentation adds another layer to an already rich and diverse soundscape.

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The title track, 'Verbolgen', opens with a raw, old-school black metal approach before plunging into a piercing scream and relentless drumming. Performed in Dutch, the sharp and commanding vocal delivery leaves little room for mercy, perfectly complementing the song's uncompromising atmosphere. Beneath the aggressive surface, subtle melodic undertones emerge throughout the composition, adding depth without diminishing its ferocity. 'In Blood and in Earth' immediately draws the listener into its atmosphere, making it one of the album's standout moments. A howling wind and delicate guitar melodies, enriched by prominent folk elements, create a haunting opening before relentless drumming breaks the silence. Throughout the composition, subtle melodic undertones weave beneath warm yet raw riffs, while the fierce and expressive vocal delivery adds another layer of intensity to the song. For me, it is one of Verbolgen's strongest compositions and a clear personal highlight.

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A brief hissing introduction soon gives way to dark, brooding vocals and relentless blast beats in 'View From Nemeton'. Throughout the composition, the sinister vocal performance remains commanding, while powerful drumming, a thick, suffocating bass, and melodic riffs create an overwhelming wall of sound that leaves the listener barely a moment to breathe. A short, trance-like vocal passage offers a fleeting glimpse of relief before the song plunges back into its controlled, aggressive chaos. 

'The Glow of Dawn' brings Verbolgen to a powerful conclusion. Blending the cold rawness of black metal with the melancholic beauty of folk, the entirely instrumental composition demonstrates HULDER's remarkable ability to convey emotion and tell a compelling story without relying on vocals. Ominous melodies and dark, evocative guitar work maintain the album's mysterious atmosphere throughout, culminating in a finale that is both beautiful and profoundly powerful. Although the regular album may have reached its conclusion, two bonus tracks are still waiting to be discovered. 

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'A Beacon from Darkened Skies' opens with a guitar riff that feels centuries old, carrying a profound sense of ancient wisdom before the song erupts into HULDER's familiar blend of aggressive instrumentation and fierce vocals. At key moments, the relentless assault is interrupted by a haunting choir in the background and slower, more deliberate melodies, creating a striking contrast that further enriches the composition. I could not resist listening to the second bonus track as well, and I am glad I did. 

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'Zonnesteen' is one of the most emotionally resonant pieces on the album. Ritualistic chants, performed by multiple intertwining voices, are accompanied by thoughtful, restrained drumming, creating the feeling of taking part in an ancient ceremony capable of transforming those who witness it. It is a beautifully crafted composition that lingers long after the final note, leaving a deep and lasting emotional impression.

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With Verbolgen, HULDER delivers an immersive black metal album that masterfully balances raw aggression with haunting folk influences and remarkable emotional depth. Memorable songwriting, outstanding vocal performances, and a captivating ritualistic atmosphere make every composition feel purposeful, while the exceptional bonus tracks further elevate an already compelling experience. Verbolgen is another outstanding chapter in HULDER's growing legacy and an essential listen for fans of atmospheric and traditional black metal.

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SCORE 9/10

REVIEWED BY SWAMPY