The keyword to understand this album is balance. Indeed, the Swedish band BLODSRIT play a very traditional form of Black Metal without exaggerating one element to the detriment of another. I feel they were strongly compelled to rekindle with the classicism of the Black Metal of the early 90s, and they have reached this goal with this album (their sophomore one). Unfortunately I missed their first full length (“Ocularis Infernum”, out on the same label in 2003), but still I am glad to have got this one! All the typical elements of a good Black Metal record are present here, the music stays well within the limits of the genre, for the better I think. The guitars sound razor-sharp, the riffs evoke the world beyond and the power of the Horned One enough, the production is crisp and adds crystal clarity to the music. Add to this a good vocal performance which doesn’t fall in the trap of the outré and a superb visual presentation of the album, simple and elegant and which alone could give you the need to buy the record. I detected faint influences from DISSECTION here and there, let’s say BLODSRIT combine the best of the Swedish and Norwegian brands of Black Metal. My only complaint lies in the fact the songs should be a little more memorable, this is a point BLODSRIT have to work on next time to be a recognized leading force in the scene. Also I feel a cover of the CANDLEMASS song ‘Solitude’, yet well done and blackened, was not necessary here (I am tired of this cover version trend). For the moment, it suffices to say that “Helveteshymner” is a damn fine record you should consider to buy. Visit the superb BLODSRIT website at www.blodsrit.se, and above all don’t forget to support this excellent band!