Album Review: Felled – The Intimate Earth (Transcending Obscurity Records)

Carl Fisher 2 min read

US folk/black metal band Felled will release their brand-new album, The Intimate Earth on July 2nd 2021 via Transcending Obscurity Records.

The utilising of a violin and viola really makes this album stand out in the beauty department. Especially as the black metal edge is so raw sounding. Prominently placed, the string instruments give The Intimate Earth a strong folk metal edge but the over-riding reality of the old-school blackness is present and ever dangerous.

There’s no denying it wouldn’t be so unique sounding if it wasn’t for the fact that they are so prominent but that doesn’t mean they overshadow Felled’s savage side. The rough drum patterns, the scathing riff work, the weighty bass hooks and demonically charged vocal roars ensure that the word ‘savagery’ sits so heavily in the mind.

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After a more ‘to the point’ start with Ember Dream, Felled begin to stretch their musical muscles with the epic pairing of Fire Season on the Outer Rim and The Rite of Passage. Tracks that feature entrancing melodies, dark folkish sounds and an underlying dark, horror element that is enhanced by the black metal side of things.

It’s all about Sphagnum in the Hinterlands though. Where Felled push their beautifying elements to grander heights and take their darker metal side into the pits. For almost 11 minutes, they captivate and enlighten while systematically battering the senses.

Which brings things to the end and The Salt Binding. A monumental finale that comforts and terrifies in equal amount. Wonderful drawling melody, deep and meaningful metal rhythm, plenty of fire and tons of folkish epic soundscapes.

Such a lovely album, the less refined edge really makes it sound more real and Felled truly excel at combining beauty and beastliness.

Felled – The Intimate Earth Full Track Listing:

1. Ember Dream
2. Fire Season on the Outer Rim
3. The Rite of Passage
4. Sphagnum in the Hinterlands
5. The Salt Binding




Links

Bandcamp | Facebook | Transcending Obscurity Records

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Felled - The Intimate Earth (Transcending Obscurity Records)
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