Udad - S/T

 

Now this is an interesting one! Udad are a new Norwegian black metal band honoring the masters of old, Darkthrone, Gorgoroth and their like. Their self titled debut album is an impressive offering, a record that transcends many of the bands peers and uses the tropes of the genre to perfection. The project is the brainchild of Thomas Eriksen of Mork. As Mork evolves, Udad is a journey back to traditional nineties black metal with its monochromatic vibes, unapologetic visions and a sense of blasphemy that makes for some wonderfully engaging stuff.

This is black metal done in a way that is eerie, mystical and powerful, fully aware of the power of the genre but leaning into what makes it great. While there are few surprises on Udad it is definitely deeply engaging listening for fans of the underground. This is a record that doesn't rely too much on intensity or violence, but rather vibes, using tremolo picking and pained vocals to craft twisted vibes that will drag listeners into the abyss. It's a record that hints at so much more but which is satisfied in leaning into the bleak visions that make the genre so compelling in the first place. 

I sincerely hope to hear a follow up on Udad. It's an interesting exploration by one of the premier artists in his genre of their roots. It's a record that speaks to a deep knowledge of a music that has fundamentally shaped a lot of us and the execution is fascinating. Udad seems intent on conjuring very specific creepy vibes and drawing listeners ever deeper into the abyss. Letting yourself get swept away in this maelstrom is a delight. 

Pre-order the album!