ALBUM REVIEW: Oak, Ash and Thorn – Dark Forest

British metallers DARK FOREST have been creating high quality records since 2009, and are back in 2020 with their first studio album in four years, an epic record that blends all the elements of traditional metal with a unique folk twist, recounting legendary tales of English history and folklore. Guitarist, songwriter and founding member Christian Horton was halfway through the creation of the band’s fifth studio album when he came across a copy of Rudyard Kipling’s 1906 fantasy, Puck of Pook’s Hill, a book which depicts English history from the perspective of those who helped shape it. The book inspired Horton, the tales of history, magic and folklore finding their way into the album quite naturally. The three sacred trees of England; Oak, Ash and Thorn made for the perfect choice for the album name, as well as appearing on the mesmerising cover art by Duncan Storr. Rich nordic patterns are carved into the hillside where the three trees stand; lost warriors of British history on every side.  

The record introduces itself gently with Ælfscýne, a short and inspiring instrumental, complete with the sounds of a stream flowing and babbling, birds calling and the vibrant tone of the guitar picking. Exactly appropriate, Ælfscýne sets the optimistic and promising scene of setting off on an expansive, courageous quest. Wayfarer’s Eve follows with the same soft guitar tone but is complemented with a heavier bass and drum sound, drawing in the traditional British elements of NWOBHM. Immediately you can hear the influence of IRON MAIDEN with epic, Bruce Dickinson style vocals from Josh Winnard, complete with the slight strain that he also sings with, and galloping guitar melodies weaved underneath to finish the sound.

Spinning tales of magic and mystery, tracks like The Midnight Folk and Relics continue with the mid-tempo pace and flowing melodies, all the while telling stories of legends and history long forgotten. With the uplifting atmosphere that IRON MAIDEN are so well known for, the musicianship is strong and skilled, with an overall positive energy. 

DARK FOREST show that they are not afraid to try their hand at longer epic tracks, Avalon Rising being the longest so far at over seven minutes. The key to keeping an audience engaged in lengthier songs is adding in variation, and DARK FOREST do just that. Soft, intricate palm muting introduces the track, soon swept into different sections. Complex guitar melodies from Horton and Pat Jenkins at times matching the vocals, and other times running of their own accord, you really do feel like you could be on an epic quest, each part of the journey represented by the sections of the song.

After testing the water with Avalon Rising, DARK FOREST take things up a notch with title track Oak, Ash & Thorn, an epic track at almost 12 minutes long. Things could go wrong here with such a long song but they don’t, as the band show once more their breadth and skill in complex and unique sections. Solitary vocals followed by a chugging build up with guitars that hint at an almost atmospheric sound of bands such as AGALLOCH, the sweeping rhythms and pace make for a track that keeps you hooked until the last. 

The Woodlander and Eadric’s Return quicken the pace to an up-tempo, urgent sound guided by the skill of drummer Adam Sidaway. Folk melodies dancing and swaying with the note choices, we hear more effects such as hoofbeats and even a war horn, weaving the tale as they go. 

DARK FOREST have created something truly special with Oak, Ash and Thorn. Like many bands, they’ve drawn on the influence of IRON MAIDEN and that sound underpins a lot of what they do, but unlike many bands, they’ve added their own unique folk twist to create a fresh sound alongside the traditional. Oak, Ash and Thorn is a beautiful, sweeping tale of magic and mystery, complex and skilled musicianship guides the legendary tales of a long-forgotten past and makes for an absolutely epic album with a unique and uplifting sound.

Rating: 9/10

Oak, Ash and Thorn is set for release April 24th via Cruz Del Sur Music.

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