The portentous white noise that ushers in the return of Thralldom after a ten year wait between albums is more than enough to set the nerves on edge for what may come. Returning from a hiatus, the band have moved on from the extreme black metal of their last release for something a lot more experimental in sound. Cast as Thralldom 3.0, the music on offer on Time Will Bend Into Horror, is a complete reboot of what they have done before as the two-piece explore more inner soundscapes rather than full on brutality.
That brutality is still there, with the explosive riffs of ‘Chronovisions’ and the screams of guttural rage on ‘Stars And Graves’ more than paying respect to their black metal origins. Alongside this is a move into more exploratory fare as Thralldom seek to expand on the possibilities of a black metal palette. Don’t be fooled into thinking that this is another post-black metal release though as the album shares little in common with any band in that playing field.
‘The Corpse Of The Radar Towers Over All’ is a great example of where they merge different styles into one song. The black metal growl is still there, but in place of buzz-saw riffs is something more measured and you can’t help but be impressed by the sound emanating from two musicians. Little moments like the guitar solo at the start of this song, which urges the riff ever onwards keeps things at an exciting level. Later on, more electronic sounds burst forward as the song opens into something much more cavernous.
This album sounds like a lot of care has gone into making it and you get the feeling those ten years weren’t wasted. For an intense listen it’s surprisingly inviting and as it seeps into your consciousness, ever more surprises hit you. It will keep their older fans happy and possibly win over a new crowd through the more experimental side. Its brevity also keeps your interest peaked and leaves you wanting to experience it once again. Who knows what Thralldom will do next and if there will be another ten year wait. Either way, it will surely be worth it.
