Crank this to 9.3 of 11 - Editors' Pick
Released: 2020
Genre: Metal, Post Metal
Sounds Like: Cult of Luna, Ghost Brigade
Not sure we would label this one ‘suicidal black metal’, in fact, fuck that, we want to be around a long time to enjoy the journey that Stockholm, Sweden stalwarts, Kall,bring to the table on their latest album Brand. The six-piece act features members from Lifelover, Trist, and Canopy and create what is certainly overcast black metal, but with tremendous post-rock clarity. The band’s second full-length is a markedly improved work of art that dives deep into rich melodies and progressive metal tangents. Sofia’s saxophone sprinkled throughout the album adds a dimension of psychedelia that works impressively.
We were taken off-guard at first listen, but the dramatic contrast it lands across the dark guttural vocals of Kim Carlsson is exceptionally original. Most impressive is the band’s ability to keep us entertained throughout the mid-tiered 17 minute track ‘Fukta din Aska’ and then almost 13 minute majestic ride in "Hide Below".
Track Listing:
1. Rise (7:25)
2. Fervour (7:03)
3. Eld (6:20)
4. Fukta din Aska (17:18)
5. Hide Below (12:54)
6. Fall (8:38)
Standout Track:
"Fervour" shines above the six tracks. Not only does the track mark the debut of the saxophone underpinning but the track melds black desperate vocals with jazz experimental psychedelia. "Fervour" is a unique and wonderful off-branching bringing the strongest melodies of the lot. The contrast of bright fire with dark melancholy is what takes this track to the next level.
Adult Beverage Pairing:
Wildfire Cocktail - This flaming Brand cocktail is bludgeoned with Bacardi 151 rum and sweetened by using a mix of Midori and Watermelon Vodka to make a melon martini to lift those dark thoughts. Perfect for your next Kall listening party.
Ingredients:
1 ounce Midori (or Any Melon Liqueur)
1/2 ounce Watermelon Vodka
1 ounce Vodka
1/4 ounce Simple Syrup
1 teaspoon Bacardi 151 (optional)
Ice
ROTATION RECAP:
Captivation and Variety
9.1 out of 11
Vocal Prowess
8.7 out of 11
Weight of the Heavy
9.6 out of 11
Fretwork Prowess
9.2 out of 11
Percussive Vision
8.9 out of 11
Originality
9.2 out of 11
Overall Album Flow
9.2 out of 11
Contrast
9.3 out of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
9.5 out of 11
Production Value
9.1out of 11
Final Thoughts:
Kall has taken a dramatic leap forward with Brand. Metal fans who may dabble within the black metal genre may find this album most appealing as it offers such a variety of angles. The clarity that these six artists bring is impressive and loaded with chemistry. We will avoid the genre labeling here and encourage you to give this several turns for its variety and rich texture.
Band Members:
H. - Lead guitar
Fix - Rhythm guitar
Kim - Vocals
Phil A. Cirone- Bass
Peter - Drums
Sofia - Saxophone