Description
Enslaved – The Sleeping Gods – Thorn – Vinyl Record
Enslaved’s The Sleeping Gods – Thorn, released on November 11, 2016, is a compilation album that brings together rare tracks recorded between 2010 and 2011, during the periods of their albums Axioma Ethica Odini and Riitiir. This collection showcases the Norwegian progressive black metal band’s experimental range, blending their early black metal roots with progressive and ambient influences.
The Sleeping Gods – Thorn was co-produced by Enslaved’s founding members Ivar Bjørnson and Grutle Kjellson, alongside long-time collaborator Iver Sandøy. The recording sessions took place at Solslottet Studio in Bergen, as well as the band members’ personal studios and locations in the Valevåg woods on Norway’s southwest coast. This diverse recording approach contributes to the album’s unique sound, merging high-tech and no-tech methods to achieve Enslaved’s signature style.
The album delves into Norse mythology and the esoteric aspects of runes, contrasting polytheistic Norse beliefs with monotheistic religions. Lyrically, it features Norwegian, English, and Old Norse languages, enhancing its rich cultural tapestry. Musically, the compilation nods to various influences, including proto-black metal pioneers like Bathory, 70s and 80s classic rock and heavy metal, progressive rock, world and Norse folk music, 90s Norwegian black metal, modern classical music, and goth rock reminiscent of Fields of the Nephilim.
Critics have praised the album for its diversity and depth. Louder magazine noted that the tracks serve as an introduction to the band’s evolution, with songs like ‘Disintegrator’ and ‘Striker’ reflecting classic black metal sounds, while ‘Synthesis’ and ‘Nordlys’ echo the Floydian elements of their 2008 album Vertebrae. The review concluded that, although the album may lack the cohesiveness of a full-length release, it stands as a fitting testament to Enslaved’s 25 years of dedication to their craft. A valuable collection of rare material, offering insight into Enslaved’s boundless creativity during the early 2010s.
This compilation serves as a significant addition to Enslaved’s discography, offering fans and newcomers alike a glimpse into the band’s experimental phase during a pivotal period in their career.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Heimvegen
Alu Misyrki
Synthesis
Nordlys (instrumental)
The Sleeping Gods
Disintegrator
Striker
