Profane Burial's 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' is a symphony of contrasting elements, a cold embrace amidst the scorching summer heat. The album, a collaboration between members of renowned bands like Borknagar, Trollfest, Funeral, and Haimad, presents a unique blend of symphonic black metal and progressive black metal with harsh vocals. The opening track, 'Den Fortaptes Krønike', sets the tone with a mesmerizing guitar passage, luring listeners into a tranquil state before unleashing a storm of blackened blast beats. This dynamic shift is a hallmark of Profane Burial's style, as they masterfully employ tempo changes and varied instrumentation, showcasing their talent and creativity.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' is the interplay between the black metal and symphonic elements. While the album features passages of isolated piano, grandiose symphonies, and choirs, these elements often appear as isolated guests rather than seamlessly integrated into the overall sound. This fragmentation creates a sense of unease, as the listener is abruptly transported between chaotic black metal and refined symphonic segments, leaving a battered and confused experience. The sudden shifts between these contrasting sections, while intriguing, can be jarring and may detract from the overall cohesion of the album.
However, the penultimate track, 'Horror Code, Pt 2', stands out as a harmonious exception. It showcases a natural transition between tempo changes and incorporates the backing symphony into the black metal, creating a melancholic atmosphere. This unified approach enhances the flow and provides a respite from the fragmentation found in other tracks. The interplay of weeping guitar melodies and backing vocal chorus adds depth and emotion to the composition, making it a standout moment on the album.
Despite the album's overall coherence issues, Profane Burial's 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' is a testament to their immense talent and creativity. The band's ability to blend contrasting elements and create a unique sonic experience is commendable. However, the lack of cohesion within individual tracks may leave listeners feeling dizzy and frustrated, as if they are navigating a frozen forest cabin with a jumbled map. The album's final verdict of 6/10 reflects the mixed feelings it evokes, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the final note fades.
In conclusion, 'Desolate Echoes of Turmoil' is a captivating journey through the realms of black metal and symphonic music, offering a refreshing escape from the mundane. While it may not be a perfect symphony, it is a testament to the band's artistic vision and their ability to push the boundaries of their genre. As the summer heat continues to bear down, this album serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most refreshing experiences come from embracing the unexpected and embracing the cold embrace of contrasting elements.
