Trelldom - .​.​.​by the Shadows​.​.​. (2024)

Unleashing one of the most unexpectedly interesting releases, today we have Trelldom and their long awaited fourth full-length release, titled: “.​.​.​by the Shadows​.​.​.”. While many will be waiting for a traditional Black Metal release, the singles have steered people in a completely different direction as the album is more of an avant-garde/experimental release. Featuring a sound reminding us of the later stages of The 3rd and the Mortal, Lethe, and similar outfits, this release features seven tracks of unconventional and highly engaging music.

Setting a very chaotic and contrived tone with “The Voice of What Whispers”, this release starts its aural explorations with a jazzy and a bit proggy piece that clearly signals this is going to be a very different release than expected. As “Exit Existence”rolls in, we get a sultry sax playing alongside Kristian Eivind Espedal’s (Gaahl) haunting vocals, creating a very eerie and yet intoxicating effect. We particularly love how this track transitions into sinister Black Metal riffs and a heavier nature as it progresses.

As tracks like mysterious “Return the Distance”, the chaotic and heavier “Between the World”, and the madness of “I Drink Out of My Head” keep this release going, it is evidently clear that Trelldom is having fun while exploring tons of different elements, moods, and ideas, we go from haunting clean vocals to playful sax/clarinet elements, to more epic melodies, all in a very cohesive and masterful way. However, this album has a bit of everything for everybody as “Hiding Invisible” has a somber and more chilling vibe than the livelier pieces.

Closing with the fuzzy psychedelic vibe of “By The Shadows”, it is clear that Trelldom will certainly shock the scene with this release. It is as further as one would have expected it from the band’s earlier works and we love it for that. While the singles might have softened the blow to Black Metal fans, this release takes things in a completely different direction and opens the band creatively to exciting and promising directions. The music is great, and this release is one of the most unique of 2024, so keeping an open mind is paramount to enjoying it.

Label: Prophecy Productions

Release: September 13th, 2024

Genre: Avant-garde/Experimental

Country: Norway