Enslaved - Mið (2026)

Just when you think that Enslaved could not get any better, the band drops a release as impressive as “Mið”. While there are certainly enough signature moments from the band’s highly polished Progressive Black/Viking Metal, they still manage to explore new elements to create an even more dynamic and bombastic sound. For over 41 minutes and eight tracks, this release brilliantly explores explosive atmospheres and epic melodic passages, keeping things intense and yet very polished and sonically pleasing.

Opening with the atmospheric “Non-Being”, the release instantly comes to life as “I Am Ice” delivers blistering drumming and powerful riffs. Added to the mix, we have Johan Sara Jr’s vocals, creating a very dynamic mix with the band’s combination of harsh and clear vocals. This track is as explosive as one would imagine, but still delivers some crafty melodic moments, which perfectly blend into its transition to “Solar Will” and “Mountain”. Alongside ripping guitar leads in the latter, and a more melancholic vibe from the former.

As one of the highlights of this release, “Spirit Helper” showcases a very different side of Enslaved with some trippy atmospherics and the brilliantly incorporated vocals of Kevin Kicking Woman. This track is a very unique piece that blends the band’s typical Norse/Viking elements with Native American influences, in a very powerful and well crafted way. The release continues with the dramatic atmospherics of “Parting”, and the headbanging-inducing melodies and dreaminess of “Tales of Trees”.

Closing with another banger in “I Miðju”, Enslaved has managed to deliver another excellent release that is well balanced and paced. The band continues to experiment and enrich their sound while keeping their high-octane melodic and aggressive nature. Working as a perfectly oiled unit, and with the release produced by Ivar, Grutle and Iver, this release masterfully captures the band’s essence while further expanding their aural range to completely uncharted territories for such a band.

Rating: 97/100