By and large, black metal is not lacking in representation whatsoever. For every possible vein or old school practice that black metal has to boast, there are legions of acts out there seeking to perpetuate the dark splendor that previous albums from past legends have made essential. It oftentimes comes with a high bar that is downright brutal to try and overcome, however. It’s something that requires a good deal of finesse and understanding of the sound in order to really grasp with bands like Ninkharsag of a rare sort that are immensely proficient in this craft.

Long has there been a connection between black metal, winter, and fantastical notions, and it has gotten to a point where one can hardly imagine black metal in any other form when it’s done right. Often do we see those concepts done real justice in the modern state of black metal, and what Ninkharsag delivered within the six tracks of “The Black Swords of Winter” deserve to be hailed as not just a success when it comes to those themes done well, but a creation that wildly succeeds at showcasing what black metal can be when it’s dealt out by undeniable masters. Where immense melody collides with an undeniable level of cold intensity that never once misses the mark, it is the very whole of “The Black Swords of Winter” that we witness an immense knowledge of what it means to be masterfully intimate with black metal of this ilk. Sinking its hooks deep into your flesh and never once letting go, Ninkharsag puts forth what should absolutely be argued as one of the band’s very best performances to date with all of their knowledge, previous experiences, and influences coming together in a single pack of excellence whose fury cannot be denied.

The frozen winds of the north rage perpetually throughout this record with it being well after the record comes to a close that their chill lingers upon the very marrow of your bones. Taking into consideration much of what has always made this corner of black metal such a treat and capitalizing at virtually every turn, Ninkharsag has done nothing short of dominate with all that went into “The Black Swords of Winter”.

LISTEN to “The Black Swords of Winter” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Ninkharsag on Facebook here.