Album Review: Natjager – At Kende Bølge Fra Hav (Last Mile Records)

Danish melodic post-hardcore band Natjager is ready to unleash their second full-length album ‘At kende bølge fra hav’ (roughly translated to ‘To know the wave from the sea’) on May 13th, 2022 via Last Mile Records.

Is this good? It’s a thought that will likely fly through the heads of those experiencing Natjager’s unique sound for the first time. Unique because genre specifics just don’t work for this band. Sure, they have the elements of post-hardcore but that’s far too simple to sum the music up.

However, we must talk about the elephant in the room. The thing that has seen Natjager gain as much hate as love.

We’re, of course, talking about the use of autotune. Something that transforms the vocals. Why do they do this? You’ll have to ask them as when it’s not used, the vocals are solid. However, when it is used, it really stands out for better or worse. Divisive? That’s an understatement.

You’ll know immediately if it is something you can enjoy as it is heavily present on the dreamy opener of Konkylie. Fascinated? You’re in for a wild ride. Puzzled? Stick with it, there’s some serious variety to come. Disgusted? Probably best you don’t listen on.

Honestly? It’s just too jarring and massively overshadows the music. As the album goes on, it does get more palatable to the ears and when used a tad more sparingly, such as on Elendighed and Bjerget, it can offer a more unique style. Even tracks like Batteri 666 and Skygge Og Blide Bølger, that use it a lot, are anthems.

There’s something admirable about Natjager’s decision to do something so wildly different and for many, it will work. If you want variety in metal, you must support what Natjager are attempting here. It’s a modern and alternative style that can be described as crossover music. Anthemic, danceable and fusing poppy outlooks with harder groove.

Music that will draw in those who may not always look to the heavier side for their listening experience. That’s a sizeable audience and even if you find you hate this, you can surely wish them all the success for trying something different.

Natjager – At kende bølge fra hav Full Track Listing:

1. Konkylie
2. Elendighed
3. Alt Under Himlen
4. Skær Her
5. Bjerget
6. Batteri 666
7. Overdosis
8. Skind & Ben
9. Ola
10. K.V.V.H
11. Skygge Og Blide Bølger

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