Firtan - Helios (2026)

As another one of AOP Records incredible finds, Firtan is a German Black Metal outfit that has transitioned from Pagan Black Metal to regular BM over the last couple of releases. With a very expansive and yet chaotic sound, “Helios” continues the band’s evolution with twelve tracks and nearly one hour of high-octane music. Sounding like a mixture of A Forest of Stars with Thyrfing/Vreid elements, the band’s sound is quite dynamic and engaging, keeping things fresh and heavy at the same time.

Opening with the dramatic “Himsa”, the band sets a very lush and enigmatic vibe that quickly develops into heavier territories as “Kalikas Tongue” and “Ambrosia” come around. The band’s general pace is firm and punishing, but it is the atmospheric and melodic passages that make songs in this release more engaging and diverse. For instance, we get lush arrangements with clean vocals, violins and saxophone through this release. The combination of the violin and the heavy guitars, create a very immersive and yet chaotic atmosphere that strongly reminds us of A Forest of Stars in their latest efforts.

While some songs are heavy and direct like the shorter “Wide Open Eye”, others build in more atmospheric foundations with dreamy elements like the album title track. This dynamism is what makes Firtan stand out from the rest of BM bands and have a sound that while rich and diverse, it is cohesive and digestible by most. “The Form Revealed”, “Revealing Prana”, and “The Hierophant" are perfect examples of this, as these songs weave back and forth aggressive onslaughts and more restrained and mature sections that ooze melancholy and maturity.

Closing the release with a cover of Bathory’s “Man of Iron”, the band puts the final touch on a very engaging and expansive release. The mixture of instruments and pace of songs allow “Helios” to have a very regal vibe, perfectly framed alongside lush vocal arrangements and a hearty dose of heaviness. While Fritan is not your typical tremolo-picking outfit, their brand of Black Metal is very dynamic and comprehensive as they incorporate more than your usual set of elements to craft their own signature sound.

Rating: 96/100