Worshipped By Chaos
(Black Lotus Records)
57:57min
Featuring two former members of EINHERJER and ENSLAVED, Norwegian THUNDRA have grown a six-piece since their conception in 1998. After releasing their debut full-length “Blood Of Your Soul” in 2000, THUNDRA, at least according to the bio, turned towards a more aggressive and complex sound with 2005 recorded “Worshipped By Chaos”. The newest effort sees THUNDRA combine melodic, Black Metal with epic and atmospheric elements due to the use of synthesizers, acoustic guitars, and lots of diversity due to the technically skilled guitar work and clear, growled and screamed vocals. “Worshipped By Chaos” should appeal to fans of BORKNAGAR, VINTERSORG, OLD MAN’S CHILD and ARCTURUS though this album does not meet the weirdness-level of the latter. If you are into dark symphonies with strong Black Metal overtones and a nice melodic approach, THUNDRA might be a good choice for you! The album has a powerful production, some interesting musical ideas and a huge spectrum of different vocal styles plus a dense atmosphere. Not really something I would put into my personal collection yet I have to admit that THUNDRA do their epic, melodic Black Metal thing damn good. www.thundra.tk; www.black-lotus-recs.com
Stefan Franke