ALBUM REVIEW: Still – Finsterforst
For over twenty years, FINSTERFORST have been expanding upon their own genre known as black forest metal. Consistently developing and evolving ideas that makes them tricky to pin down. Their identity revolves around the fusion of many different aspects including, folk, black metal, industrial and anything else that seems to work within their lyrical and musical concept. The individuality shines through on each of their albums yet here on Still they appear to have grown into their grandeur and produced a record of lush immersion. Taking everything to another level and absolutely nailing it.
To describe FINSTERFORST as folk metal is both accurate but simultaneously misses the point. They offer up an extremely rich layered tapestry of extreme metal that undeniable has its roots in traditional sounds but has become something so much more. While the seven-person line-up does feature an accordion, the immersive orchestral passages, crushing guitars and dominant, industrial style rhythms eclipse the concept of singular folk stylings. Previous albums have sought to evoke the influences from the band and bring together a plethora of styles to produce something grand.
Album opener Obduktion gives us a swirling, evocative introduction to the band’s first new album in seven years. And it picks up well from the sound of predecessor Zerfall. However, the production is grander, the ideas bolder and the execution all together better. They are captivating and it’s a good thing because they’re not known for short punchy radio hits. Obduktion is no different. It takes us to a bleak soundscape yet is also uplifting with its power. From here, we’re taken on a path that includes industrial with the bold rhythmic swagger of Herbstwanderung. Almost impossible to not get swept along with its rhythmic pace, even when the dynamics shift and they offer up moment of introspection. It makes the final crescendo all the more impactful.
Still is an album that weaves together a tale told by combining elements that one would not ordinarily think would sit together so seamlessly. For example, the utterly imperious cover of PINK FLOYD’s Another Brick In The Wall Pt. II. At first glance, this would seem to have come completely from left field given the expansive brutalism that forms the core of the bands sound. However, they take it, tailor it and turn it into a sinister, dark and heavyweight. It’s something that gives the impression that the band were having fun with adapting it to fit their style and they carry it off with aplomb.
FINSTERFORST have undoubtedly offered up their most complete and fully realised work to date. Still encases everything that the band have been working on for the past two decades. We’re given insight into the roots of the band’s sound, but along the way they have expertly crafted in various other elements to develop and define a unique sound. The new album showcases them at a unified best. Not afraid to deliver an extended composition that ensnares the imagination as on the epic Leere which can sit comfortably alongside new take on a beloved rock classic. It’s a majestic album, full of moments of grandiose opulence and musical storytelling. Yet at no point does it devolve into simple self-indulgence. Every note has a purpose, every song a meaning and the collective whole stands as testament to FINSTERFORST’s quest for a fully immersive vision.
Rating: 8/10
Still is out now via AOP Records.
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