Kirottu - Barren

If Emperor and Falkenbach had a child, its name would be Barren. The black metal band Kirottu, formed in 2019, released a decent debut in 2021. Since then, the band has taken its time putting together its second album, which represents a clear step forward. The result is an album steeped in worship of early Emperor, but with a distinctly German twist.

That twist brings early Falkenbach to mind, as the folk-tinged and catchy chord progressions are a tasty addition to what could otherwise be mere pastiche. In a sense, Barren combines pre-symphonic black metal — think Emperor’s debut and the period leading up to it — with a slightly more folk-oriented, almost rustic approach.

The production sounds like it came straight from the ’90s, complemented by strong and tense shrieked vocals. In places there is also a touch of old Mayhem, which is certainly no bad thing either. The third track, the title song, is a good example of this.

Barren offers nothing particularly new, but the album’s strength lies precisely in combining old but proven ideas. When the execution works this well, production included, the album is simply a pleasure to listen to. For fans of early Emperor, this is likely to be a direct hit.

Tracklist:
1. Ashen Horse
2. Declaration of Ruin
3. Barren
4. Crimson Velvet Dance
5. Ave Seprentionalis!
6. First Storm
7. The Nightskies Realigned
8. The New Dawn is of Wolves

Links:
https://kirottu.bandcamp.com/
https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Kirottu/3540486529