It goes without saying that black metal has long been at home in the cold embrace of winter. A pairing that has always just made a lot of sense given everything that the two complement off each other, it’s no wonder that we’re still seeing bands from all over come out of the woodwork to add further credence to what this combination can still become. Although, like most things, it still requires the right set of hands to craft the experience with aptitude and quality. Yet, there are those that stand above the rest in embodying what the snow-laden long nights can offer. As one, Nordicwinter’s streak of excellence has yet to end with its latest creation is nothing to scoff at in any form.

One could very easily make the claim that there just isn’t much more to tap into when it comes to black metal of this sort. I cannot help but disagree, and, as if to prove that point, it’s with everything delivered throughout the six tracks of “Solitude” that Nordicwinter showcases that simple truth in a singularly magnificent fashion! This is black metal that’s atmospheric and depressive, but nonethless immersive and enthralling for all that it brings to the table. Doing justice for the sound at large while ensuring the personal flavors of Nordicwinter are given center stage more often than not, it’s throughout “Solitude” that we’re granted an expansive performance which seeks a melancholic air while the very life of the land shrinks away to gather some of the last remnants of warmth that the wilderness has to offer while we huddle together, waiting for better times to return to us. Nordicwinter offers us a creation largely without frills and a strikingly clear vision of what this record was designed to be from the get-go. Straightforward and no less than deadly in its intentions as its capacity for destruction remains consistently undeniable, it’s with “Solitude” that Nordicwinter’s domination over wintry black metal remains unquestionably strong.

The lone man behind Nordicwinter should be incredibly proud of both the reputation he’s made for himself as well as the sheer quality of his works. Nordicwinter has long been nothing to deny or underestimate lest you miss out on one of the most compelling and immersive creations that this corner of black metal has to offer. Without so much as a shred of compromise nor a lapse in talent, “Solitude” is just the latest achievement that Nordicwinter can boast.

LISTEN to “Solitude” on Bandcamp here.

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FOLLOW Nordicwinter on Instagram here.