ALBUM REVIEW: Convergence – Shylmagoghnar
With the wealth of technology at our fingertips it is an exciting time to be a musician and even more amazing to see the level of professionalism which can be crafted from home. SHYLMAGOGHNAR is a gleaming example of this as multi-instrumentalist Nimblkorg continues to push the boundaries of invention, writing, recording and producing all of his material single-handedly. His next instalment Convergence is about to be unveiled on November 10th via Napalm Records and is poised to bulldoze its way into many an album of the year list as the fated time draws near.
I Hear The Mountain Weep gets things underway with warm, inviting tones that build in energy and momentum as they progress. The atmosphere provides a soothing clarity amongst the rising heaviness. Each layer is meticulously placed so that they don’t combat one another for prominence. Its extensive runtime evaporates in what feels like a matter of moments as you are greeted with an abundance of impressive lead work and enticing hooks at every turn. Follow The River also chooses to adopt that mesmeric escapism by utilising both light and dark textures impeccably as grisly growls mesh together with vibrant melodies and subtle piano sequences are supplemented by robust bass lines. Threshold injects some additional intensity into the mix as swift riffing combines with galloping drum rhythms. Imagery of charging into battle with weapons held aloft flows through your mind.
Strata possesses plentiful displays of instrumental proficiency to get your adrenaline flowing. The exhilarating thrash-tinged nature also provides an enthralling experience. Gardens Of The Erased throws a curveball into the mix with what resembles an excerpt from an 80s movie soundtrack. Alluring synths flood through your ear canals. As the track advances it brings forth a powerful array of drum sections alongside varying moods and sensations evoked by the electronic experimentation. Egregore returns to the more aggressive side of the spectrum with a sprightly blackened approach. The chaotic symphonies harbour a distinct charm that firmly grasps your attention. Infinion pushes the realms of invention even further by blending an intriguing combination of styles together to keep you guessing.
Convergence delves back down into the dark depths, opting for another round of ferocious growls and amplified heaviness whilst maintaining the trickles of melody flowing throughout. The Sea commences with an ominous spoken segment before transitioning into an inviting folk-driven approach. The immersive, ever-shifting complexities on show provide a particular highlight. Becoming poses as the closing credits, gently bringing proceedings to their conclusion whilst also offering the listener the opportunity to fully appreciate the gravity of what has just occurred. A fitting and fulfilling end for another impressive outing.
Regardless of whether you are already acquainted with the expansive mastery of SHYLMAGOGHNAR, it continues to perplex and astound how such creativity can stem from one human mind. There is a distinct cohesion which neatly ties the tracks together but also plenty of innovation to differentiate each chapter from every other and this is a talent which many will envy. Convergence contains copious experimentation and it is without doubt that this will be a release that many will return to countless times to fully absorb every morsel of artistry.
Rating: 9/10
Convergence is set for release on November 10th via Napalm Records.
Like SHYLMAGOGHNAR on Facebook.