“Hammerheart” saw Bathory’s full transition into the
folk/doomy genre that would eventually become known as Viking metal. Again, I
don’t actually recognize Viking metal as its own genre, but rather a
description of a sound too blurred to say definitively which genre it falls
under (similar to speed metal). In any case, Bathory’s transition from a raw,
blackened thrash outfit to a refined Viking sound is nothing short of observing
the metamorphosis of a musical caterpillar transforming into a butterfly.
I will say that, the main difference in Quorthon’s stylistic
change is that, the appreciation factor is more of an acquired taste. For
instance, “Bathory” was a straight forward, blast of blackened thrash intent on
destroying whoever listened. “Under the Sign of the Black Mark” was a black
metal classic with various layers of sounds incorporated to give it a deep atmosphere.
What they have in common is that, it only takes one listen to fully become
hooked with either of those albums. By the third listen, you already know which
section of which song is your favorite and prepare for it accordingly. With
“Hammerheart” one cannot simply listen to the album once and fully grasp what
it is Quorthon is trying to orchestrate. There are far too many layers of
sound, emotion and story incorporated that the album requires multiple listens
before one can even begin to appreciate the basis of his ideals. The length of
the songs is another reason, as a lot can occur within a 9-11 minutes’ span,
much of that getting overlooked if you’re not focused on that song at hand.
I remember my first listen of “Hammerheart” left me
disappointed. I was hoping for more black metal infused with folk/Viking sound,
but that was not the case. Upon my second listen, knowing what to expect sound
wise, I was still not convinced, as I was merely listening to the music, not
hearing what it was trying to convey. It probably took me a good four or five
listens before I began to appreciate the pounding drums, the amazing use of
horns, the fluctuation of harsh and clean vocals, all while keeping with the
folk/Viking overtones that was the basis of the album in the first place.
“Hammerherat” is indeed a fine album. I wouldn’t go as far
as say it is a masterpiece or even Bathory’s best effort, but solid,
nonetheless. There is plenty to admire on this landmark (for Viking metal’s
sake) album, but you will only notice it over time. If you’re in the boat that
thinks, “this album missed the mark” that could very well be your final
opinion, which is fine. But, I find many people who share this opinion may want
to give the album another in-depth listen and try to focus on the layers of
sound within. Maybe you’ll discover a new appreciated for the album, maybe you
won’t. In any case, I certainly recommend “Hammerheart” to those looking to
broaden their metal horizons.
Rating: 4.5
