When it comes to atmospheric Black Metal French based DARKENHÖLD certainly left a positive mark within the scene. Formed in 2008 the band released three full-length albums plus three split releases. Those outputs have found general approval and on album number four thankfully nothing has changed. Since the band is often associated with the term medieval be assured that the medieval aspect is restricted to lyrics, visual art and an atmosphere that is evoked when thinking about ancient times, castles, enchanted forests, myth and mysteries. DARKENHÖLD are not one of those pathetic Medieval Metal bands with lutes and bag-pipes. Instead DARKENHÖLD are deeply rooted in the traditions of Scandinavian Black Metal. Most remarkable trademark of that style are the raspy vocals and the eruptive guitar assaults. The atmospheric aspect is represented by more slower parts, a acoustic guitar makes an appearance here and there. And of course those epic moments, with clean, choral like chanting in the background. Furthermore the guitar melodies are brilliant. Nothing a band like BORKNAGAR has not done before, content-wise. But from my point of view it is really hard to write and play harmonies evoking feelings both of majesty / transcendence but also of grimness. So the archaic core of genuine Black Metal is still present. Additionally the use of the French language gives the songs a special exotic touch. Although "Memoria Sylvarum" is self-financed the production is adequate. For my ears the predecessors "Echoes From The Stonekeeper" And "Castellum" (re-issued in 2018) are a bit more focused, but that is highly specific criticism, since this album is a superb atmospheric Black Metal album. For further information contact: www.facebook.com/darkenhold, www.lesacteursdelombre.net