Henrik Nordvargr Bjorkk - _Vitagen_
(Essence, 2005)
by: Quentin Kalis (9 out of 10)
Nordvargr is perhaps better known as the mastermind behind black industrialists Mz.412, who are one of the few non-metal acts that have managed to attract the attention of a (limited) segment of the metal community. However, this probably won't appeal to those who enjoyed Mz.412, as Nordvargr explores a totally different aspect of what falls under the unhelpful umbrella term of "underground electronica" -- namely that of dark ambient.

A variety of unconventional 'instruments' have been incorporated into his music -- including an old oiltank, axe, broken electronic equipments and slabs of concrete -- aiding the creation of mesmerizing minimalist dronings. But such minimalism shouldn't be mistaken for simplicity; it takes genuine skill to create what is essentially the audio equivalent of a desert -- dead and empty at first glance, but a wealth of riches will be revealed to those who make the effort. Some spoken voices are present, but they are distorted to such an extent that all humanity is stripped from them, increasing the desolate coldness of the music. The end result is a composition of very bleak and unforgiving music that is amongst the very best this subgenre has to offer. And for Our Readers who enjoy trivia, this was mastered by Peter Andersson, a man of many projects but is undoubtedly best known for his work in Raison d'Être.

Contact: http://www.essence-music.com

(article published 29/9/2005)


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