ALBUM REVIEW: Faþir – Forndom
Having been four years since the release of Dauðra Dura, Sweden’s FORNDOM has seen a rise within the scene that dotes on experiencing music using traditional instruments, and vocal techniques. Yet, for these artists, it is about so much more than the music, it is about bringing life once again to ancient Scandinavian philosophies and religion. It is about being allowing us to reconnect with nature, and ourselves. L. Swärd of FORNDOM is set to take listeners on another journey through time with Faþir.
Jakten creates an atmosphere that is perfectly balanced between melancholic and peaceful. With a string introduction that glides through in an elegant fashion, Faþir is on track into helping a calmer state of mind. This continues as the album sees Yggdrasil, Finnmarken and Fostersonen through, the inability to lose relaxation is kindly welcomed and a refreshing attribute to have in a piece of music.
Whilst the atmosphere still remains in its aforementioned state, as the album progresses there becomes a level of growing power. New levels layer on top of each other, forming complex patterns that intertwine into a simplistic outlet of expression, and passion for what L. Swärd has for his project. Even then, the power never feels over-bearing, nor does it feel aggressive in any form. It has a more positive, empowering vibe, almost as though a self-worth is discovered, and somehow through the music, it is being actively encouraged.
As this power continues building up, the music becomes perfectly cinematic, Fostersonen and Hel, jag vet mig väntar are stunning examples of how this can come to be. With each moment in these songs alone, there are moments where they can fit any scene, of any atmosphere. If the moment is still in time, action packed, sensual, FORNDOM has crafted something so elegant it can be placed in any setting. It is a talent that should be recognised and applauded, as to get that balance isn’t an easy feat.
As Hemkomst closes the album, there is again, a cinematic feel of an ending. Each song is its own fray, but Hemkomst ties them all together, and creates a bind that is full of strength. Although, it leaves you desiring more because of how well this album has been put together, in terms of making you feel at peace with what has been delivered, it does its job effortlessly, in a powerful yet delicate manner.
Faþir is an album of true beauty, and from start to finish there is no moment when you are unlatched in giving it your sole attention. From the atmospheres and emotions to the soundscapes and adeptness, FORNDOM has done an exceptional job once again. It serves as a beautiful reminder to take more time for ourselves, appreciate the small but significant things that surround our life and forget about the chaos in modern life for a moment. Even if you don’t understand the meaning behind each song, each note will help you understand in your own interpretation. There’s a much deeper need for music that follows a traditional path, purely based off the intense beauty that can be delivered, as FORNDOM has with Faþir.
Rating: 9/10
Faþir is out now via Nordvis Produktion.
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