VARANG NORD – MYGLA

Title track “Mygla” is an explosive and ritualistic opener, with strings and accordion dragging you into a folky epic that paves the way for the journey into the wilderness. There’s a dramatic flair to it, with catchy and guttural growls painting the imagery of an isolated, culture-rich village. Varang Nord draws you into their world seamlessly, whisking you away into a folk metal tale that carries the atmosphere in its sound alone, steeped in lore and northern tradition unlocked in some deep, ancient forest.

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Paganism and stories of old is the band’s heart and their spirit shines in their performance, full of chants with gusto, electric riffing and the unique, flowing sound of member Jeļena Kaļniša’s accordion. There’s an old sound to the music, feeling so very traditional with orchestral accompaniments blending into the intense aspects of modern metal, with kicking drums, deliciously heavy basslines and crushing riffs. “Vylku Bors” is a gorgeous marching epic that takes all these elements to their fullest and kicks them to 10, a solid track demonstrating the two worlds colliding head-to-head.

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Lead vocalist Maksims Popovs sings with a vigorous ferocity that draws listeners in with strong arms and towering presence, the beating heart of the death metal element of their sound, pumping with adrenaline. His voice is brutal, full of spit and body, such as heard in “Ašņa Ausma” and “Pūrs”. Guest Janis Dregeris adds to the power with a different approach in following track “Trokais Pļāgurs”. 

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Popovs’ and Solovjovs’ guitars flow together, heavy riffing and funky bass paving the path for deep verses. Vjačeslavs Janens’ pounding drums match the sound of the band, alternating in the pace and intensity of more extreme metal techniques, while Kobcev’s percussion adds to the weight. Nothing is drowned out and the mixing is clean. The music is strong on its feet no matter what territory it marches into, its aggressive and folky presence complimented by the occasional pluck of a harp or uplifting accordion solo, a contrast that is heard strongly in “ Moldu Dīvs.”

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“Shrooms” has an explosive start and is amusingly the only track in English, a collaboration with Alex Under. It is addictive and catchy, a fun little track demonstrating just what sound can be created by an accordion – and it is incredible! “ Ziemeļu Uguns” ends Mygla on a high note, ensuring the album solidifies in one's ears and makes a strong, lasting impression.

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The band themselves describe this album as varied in mood, as it was inspired by the ups and downs of life from personal experiences. There is an element of letting go and being enveloped in the music, allowing one to feel their distinct emotion when listening. The energy is frenetic at times, striking the woods with the thunder of the gods. It feels like a journey of discovery, with a vibe for any listener to resonate with. Mygla is a ritualistic listen, a rich feast from the Baltic with intense heart and gusto at its core, which succeeds in blending the old world with the modern. 

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Gaze upon the beautiful album art, chant with the peoples of the woods and run wild with the wolves.

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SCORE 9.5/10

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Reviewed by GhostinthearmoR

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