In the modern age of black metal, it’s no surprise that we’ve seen the more naturalistic side of the genre bloom in such a way that it cannot be considered anything less than overwhelming at times. The corner of black metal where the woods are the heart of all activity and the very spirit of nature finds a home in the howls and the atmospheres has been a real boon to many who find themselves wandering with the absolute litany of bands out there that keep the style going strong even if it’s oversaturated. New blood, however, can never be something to ignore should it make an entrance that’s eye-catching in any form. In no small way, Autrest’s entry is more than worthy of being held to a high standard much like many acts who have come before it to further add glory to this corner of the genre.

It’s always a sight to see bands like Sojourner take atmospheric black metal to crazy new heights where you can practically see the very spirits of the forest come to life before your eyes as you wander amongst the trees, across the streams, and beneath the stars where grand works of such quality are made, but those records are few and far between with it being far more reasonable to see names like Autrest come before us. Far from a run-of-the-mill creation of atmospheric black metal but still undoubtedly honoring the core pillars of the sound, what’s been brought for within “Follow the Cold Path” is nothing short of what happens when real talent has an eye for what has always made this style an undeniable experience from the beginning with the tenacity and skill to bring to life gloriously. In no small way, the seven tracks that are delivered here are downright magical. This is the kind of black metal that knows precisely what it wanted to be right from the first note with the listener in for an absolute treat should they simply allow “Follow the Cold Path” to take them wherever it will. You’ll be treated to sight coated in a supreme iciness that can effortlessly be jaw-dropping beautiful as it can be rapturing in its raw power that only further adds to the glory that Autrest surprisingly already has with this being but the act’s debut album.

Black metal has never been lacking in noteworthy bands coming out of the woodwork should we look in the right places, but it’s with all that was brought to the table with “Follow the Cold Path” that Autrest has truly set itself apart from much of the common rabble. Whereas I though that it would be from the likes of I, of the Trees and Wind that we would see the most interesting creation of atmospheric black metal in the recent weeks, Autrest has put forth a performance that can easily rival that act for the crown in such a contest with all that is “Follow the Cold Path” an effort that is not one to be missed for any of its visages, sorrows, and gripping wonders.

LISTEN to “Follow the Cold Path” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Autrest on Facebook here.