ASHEN HORDE is a Hollywood based Black Metal band who have released three full lengths and six EP’s. Despite having released one of those full lengths, “
Fallen Cathedrals,” this year, the band is ready for another round with “
Tintregen.” This is my first time hearing the band’s music, but I am definitely intrigued and will for sure being exploring their other offerings. I can’t speak for their previous music, but this release definitely has some Prog in it but also plenty of Blackened rage.
The opening track, “
Roar Of The Wyrm,” begins life firmly planted into the Black Metal side. Higher pitched screams, often times layered with lower growls, present a powerful showing for vocalist
Stevie Boiser. Soon the riffs come out of their initial speedy attack and open up to show off that Prog approach I was talking about earlier. This track approach Black Metal with an eye on musicianship but it is plenty raw enough to satisfy most true Black Metal fans.
“
The Entity,” is brought to life with
Trevor’s guitars that change from Blackened riffs, crunchy sonic attacks, and quick usage of lead. The effect achieved is a bit of dissonant Blackened Prog and it works extremely well. The vocals here are deeper than the first track but they combine effectively with the music, creating a world where underground tendencies meet with more thought-provoking musicianship.
“
The Torture Cycle,” is more harrowing, and crazy than the previous two tracks but that is to be expected with a song title like that. The music also changes up a lot more this time around—style and temp shifts show the band continues to experiment and expand upon their sound as the EP gets closer to ending. There is a lot going on in this track and that is one of the reasons why I say it is probably my favorite of the four. If this is their blueprint for building a better Black Metal band, I can definitely get behind it.
“
Mourning Due,” is the final track of the twenty-minute EP and a good choice for the closer. It contains a lot of vocal variety, in addition to some clean vocals. Clever use of lead guitar in the track’s mid-section further expands their sound but the track’s ending is one of the heavier moments on the album. All in all, this is a great EP and it made me an instant fan of the band. I can’t wait to delve into their past—and I’m definitely looking forward to what they bring in the future.
Songwriting:8
Musicianship: 8
Memorability: 8
Production: 8