ÁRSTÍÐIR LÍFSINS originated in Iceland back in 2008, but now also conformed with a few German members. The band name means “The Season Of Life” in the ancient Icelandic language and they have released five other full lenghts so far. Their new two-song EP, with a playing time of over 40 minutes, could be as well a new album. The music is a mixture of Black Metal and Pagan Metal, which to me is actually more or less an atmospheric form of Black Metal, with many soundscapes that could be in a cinematic thriller, combined with parts of melodic and atmospheric Black Metal. I this case, the Black Metal parts are similar to bands like ENSLAVED and a few parts to IMMORTAL, although they also have a progressive approach and all of these with a very powerful production and a killer performance. The two songs at around 20 minutes each have many tempo changes and different atmospheres that flow in such a way that the length of them goes by unnoticed. At times, their Black Metal sound reminds me of the Swedish band DAWN, in a way they sound symphonic and brutal at the same time. This is the kind of release where you will discover new things with every listening, which will appeal to those looking for interesting, well crafted Black Metal with an atmospheric touch and a progressive aura. It will make you check their earlier releases. A great release! www.facebook.com/arstidirlifsins, www.facebook.com/vanrecords