Helfró - Tálgröf

I recently delved into the latest offering from the Icelandic black/death metal outfit, Helfró, and let me tell you, it's an experience that demands attention. Hailing from the cold and desolate landscapes of Reykjavik, this marks their second venture into the dark realms of Blackened Deathmetal, delving into themes of loneliness and addiction with unrelenting ferocity.

From the opening notes, it's clear that Helfró means business. The sheer force and intensity of their sound are nothing short of jaw-dropping. But amidst the chaos, there's a level of precision and craftsmanship that sets them apart. Take track 2, Fláráð fræði, for instance. The riff writing is undeniably unique and ensnares the listener from the get-go. And let's talk about those drums – they're nothing short of masterful. The blast beats hit like a sledgehammer at light speed. while the vocals strike the perfect balance between pitch and aggression.

What truly sets this album apart is its ability to seamlessly blend the raw atmosphere of black metal with the power and aggression of death metal. Tracks like Fangelsaður í tilvist að eilífu", which is an Icelandic phrase that translates to "Imprisoned in existence forever" in English. introduces orchestral elements that add depth and grandeur to the sonic landscape, setting the stage for what's to come.

But it's track 5, Guðlegt réttlæti,  that truly steals the show. From its eerie opening chords to its devilish descent into slower-paced death metal territory, it's a journey through darkness that leaves a lasting impression.

Throughout the album, Helfró showcases their talent for songwriting, effortlessly shifting gears while staying true to the overall vision. Take track 7, for example. Just when you think you have the song figured out, it takes a sudden turn, introducing a catchy tremolo-picked riff that completely changes the tempo and direction. Moreover, when the tremolo-picked riff starts, the drums also change into a very powerful sounding 4/4 styled beat with lovely cymbal work, along with brilliant drum fills. It's moments like these that truly highlight the band's unique sound and vision.

And let's not forget about the production. The overall tone of each instrument is nothing short of stellar, adding another layer of depth to an already immersive listening experience. In a genre where tone is everything, Helfró has certainly nailed it.


Check the latest album here.

Furthermore, the album's seamless integration of diverse musical elements, from the haunting atmospheres to the relentless aggression, adds an extra dimension to its allure. This amalgamation of styles ensures that each track offers a unique sonic experience, keeping listeners engaged and intrigued throughout. By pushing the boundaries of their genre and delivering a work of such intricacy and depth, Helfró solidifies their status as trailblazers in the metal realm. With "Tálgröf," they not only meet but exceed expectations, earning their solid 8/10 rating and further solidifying their position as a dominant force in the metal landscape.

In conclusion, Helfró's latest offering is a force to be reckoned with. It's a relentless onslaught of blackened death metal that demands your attention from start to finish. If you're a fan of the genre, this is one album you don't want to miss. Make sure to keep a close eye on this band for they are masters in their own right.


9-10: Exceptional

7-8: Good, Great

5-6: Average, Decent

3-4: Fair, Mediocre

1-2: Poor, Subpar

Grading system.