Sagenland - Oale Groond

There is so much interesting black metal coming out of the Netherlands right now. Not the least of which is Sagenland, a black metal band who have been around for nearly 20 years but are just now releasing their debut full length. A product of passion for classic Scandinavian black metal and inspired by the legends emerging from the region around the bands home city of Twente, Sagenland have found a unique position for themselves as masters of a style that, thirty years after its inception remains vibrant with interesting possibilities to unlock.

One of the most engaging pieces of Oale Groond is the focus on bass playing. The performances here are melodic and thoughtful. The bass has a great place in the mix and it really ads a breadth to the performance that I think many of the bands peers are really lacking. It's such a pleasure to lose oneself in the madness of a track like 'Leste Gedichte (Twentse earde)' where, even if one doesn't speak the local dialect these lyrics are written in, one gets a sense of the grander story they are trying to tell.  There is a strong sense of tradition throughout this record as Sagenland build on the myth and magic of their home region. It makes for a fascinating offering. 

Though this album may be very much focused on a niche within a niche, for those of us who remain loyal to the kvlt it is a fascinating offering with potent songs and blazing guitars. Sagenland may not be breaking new ground, but that's not the point of Oale Groond. This is a record focused on conjuring up images of old and forgotten legends that have gone on to shape our world and it succeeds in doing exactly that. Join me in getting lost in the might and magic as Sagenlad uncover mythic and fascinating new layers of the past. 

Pre-order the album!

https://heidenshart.bandcamp.com/album/oale-groond