1349 returns with ferocity, maintaining their unwavering commitment to the pure essence of black metal. Hailing from Oslo, Norway, the band—comprising Ravn on vocals, Archaon on guitars, Seidemann on bass, and Frost on drums—presents their eighth studio opus, The Wolf and the King. This follow-up to their 2019 release, The Infernal Pathway, offers a refined yet relentless journey into the dark realms they’ve been known for. With the continuity of themes and the harnessing of energy characteristic of the genre’s second wave, 1349 proves once again why they are vital torchbearers of black metal.
The Wolf and the King opens with “The God Devourer,” a blistering track that sets the tone with its relentless speed and malevolent growls. Frost‘s drumming is a pivotal force, driving the track forward with a relentless pace that demands headbanging in unison with its dark rhythms. The precision of the instruments paired with Ravn‘s haunting vocals makes this an unmissable intro.
The pace slightly shifts with “Ash of Ages,” a track that balances between slower, heavy riffs and explosive moments of intensity. The grinding bass and guitar lines create a doomsday atmosphere, enhanced by the powerful yet eerie vocal delivery. It’s a perfect example of how 1349 can navigate through tempos and dynamics without losing their edge.
“Shadow Point,” which was released with a haunting performance video, underscores the band’s ability to blend intricate guitar work with bone-chilling atmospherics. The clean guitar intro creates a sense of suspense before the track plunges into an abyss of thick, overdriven riffs. The interplay between instruments here is particularly noteworthy, providing moments of both clarity and chaos.
Moving forward, “Inferior Pathways” is a relentless onslaught—a track where the pedal is firmly pressed to the metal. The guitars, bass, and drums all coalesce into a punishing assault on the senses, with rapid tempo shifts that keep the listeners on edge. This track encapsulates the raw power and blistering speed that 1349 is renowned for.
“Inner Portal” continues the album’s dark journey, featuring a menacing bassline that sets the stage for the song’s descent into madness. The drumming by Frost is again a highlight, supporting the vicious riffs and vocals that together construct a wall of ominous sound. The track’s complexity is a testament to 1349‘s mastery over their craft.
One of the most unhinged tracks on the album, “The Vessel and The Storm,” showcases 1349‘s ability to deliver black metal that is both furious and meticulously arranged. The harsh vocals and frenetic guitar work meld into a terrifying yet exhilarating experience, reminiscent of a descent into a storm-laden abyss.
While brief, “Obscura” is brimming with potent energy, maintaining the chaotic and aggressive essence of the album. The track features multiple shifts in meter, adding layers of unpredictability and keeping the listener engaged throughout its duration. It’s a stark demonstration of the band’s ability to weave complexity into their unrelenting style.
The album closes with “Fatalist,” a nearly six-minute opus that begins with tribal beats and builds intensity through snarling vocals and blistering instrumentals. The song grows progressively darker and heavier, culminating in a finale that leaves the listener with shivers down their spine. This closing track reflects the maturity and depth 1349 has reached in their musical journey.
At its core, The Wolf and the King is a powerful exploration of the themes of decay and rebirth, drawing metaphors from alchemical allegories where elements consume and transmute one another. Ravn’s insight into personal growth mirrors the band’s evolution, aiming for perpetual improvement and artistic integrity.
Among my favorite tracks are “Shadow Point,” “The God Devourer,” and “Inferior Pathways.” These tracks not only highlight 1349‘s technical prowess but also their ability to craft songs that balance brutality with intricate musical composition.
Rating: 8 out of 10
“The Wolf and the King” Tracklisting:
01 The God Devourer
02 Ash of Ages
03 Shadow Point
04 Inferior Pathways
05 Inner Portal
06 The Vessel and The Storm
07 Obscura
08 Fatalist
1349 Lineup:
Archaon – Guitars
Frost – Drums
Ravn – Vocals
Seidemann – Bass
Recording Studio:
Amper Tone (Oslo, Norway) & NEW CONSTELLATION R.M.P. (Orlando, USA)
Production Credits:
Produced by Jarrett Pritchard & Ravn
Mixed by Jarrett Pritchard & Ravn at NEW CONSTELLATION R.M.P.
Mastered by Jarrett Pritchard at NEW CONSTELLATION R.M.P.
Cover Art: Jordan Barlow
Bio: J. Bennett
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