Bornholm - Primaeval Pantheons

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What is so called “Pagan Black Metal?”

To be honest, the definition that fits in the best way is simple: the fusion of the whole Black Metal sonority with Pagan elements. It can be done exclusively on lyrics or in the music itself, without tearing apart the aggressiveness and the rawness of Black Metals main features. In light of these words, we can say that the Hungarian band BORNHOLM is a fine example of what Pagan Black Metal means. Their new album, “Primaeval Pantheons”, is really very good.

They mix the rawness and aggressiveness of shrieked vocals and nasty guitars with a good technical work from bass guitars and drums, and some good keyboards parts, to create something darkened and morbid, but with some Pagan melodies here and there. Of course, this way was used before by many bands, but these guys know how to turn their songs really tasteful for our ears and minds. Viktor “Max” Scheer made a fine work as producer, and taking part on the recording and mixing of the album, and Paul Ericksen worked on the mastering, so we can say that the album has the right sound quality for it: a mix between the rawness of Black Metal with a good level of clarity. Péter Sallai made a good artwork for the album as well.

The aggressiveness shown on “Eye of Knowledge” (with very good guitars and keyboards parts), good technical work of bass guitar and drums of “Runes of Power” (excellent slow tempos), the excellent Pagan vocals on “Old”, the brutality on “Iron Crown”, and the climatic “Imperium (Divus Rex)” can be pointed as their finest moments on the album. But all songs are very good. “Primaeval Pantheons” is a great album, and I truly recommend it to all Pagan Metal fans.

Originality: 5
Songwriting: 8
Memorability: 6
Production: 8