Horna / Behexen

Album overview

The collaborative album "Horna / Behexen" was released in 2008, featuring two of Finland's prominent black metal bands, Horna and Behexen. This split album showcases the raw intensity and distinctive styles of both bands, presenting a unique glimpse into the Finnish black metal scene. Horna, known for their relentless sound and atmospheric compositions, teamed up with Behexen, who are recognized for their dark, occult-themed lyrics and relentless energy. The album was released under the label, Blooddawn Productions, which has a reputation for supporting the underground metal scene. Recording for "Horna / Behexen" took place at various studios, allowing each band to maintain their individual sound while contributing to the collaborative effort. The album includes tracks that are emblematic of each band's style, with Horna's songs showcasing their melodic yet aggressive approach, while Behexen delivers a more traditional, raw black metal sound. Culturally, this album is significant as it highlights the camaraderie and shared ethos among Finnish black metal bands, which often explore themes of darkness, nature, and existentialism. The album serves as a testament to the underground scene's resilience, encapsulating the spirit of black metal in the late 2000s.

Review

"Horna / Behexen" is a powerful testament to the collaborative spirit within the black metal genre. The album opens with Horna's track, which immediately immerses the listener in a world of dark melodies and aggressive riffs, showcasing their ability to blend aggression with atmosphere. The production quality is commendable, capturing the raw energy of the bands without sacrificing clarity. Behexen's contribution complements Horna's sound with a more traditional approach, characterized by its relentless pace and grim lyrical themes. The lyrics delve into occult imagery and themes of despair, aligning perfectly with the visceral soundscapes they create. The seamless transition between the two bands' tracks offers a cohesive listening experience, maintaining the listener's engagement throughout the album. Artistically, the album reflects a shared vision between the two bands, rooted in the ethos of black metal while allowing room for individual expression. The collaboration not only showcases their respective strengths but also emphasizes the broader narrative of Finnish black metal's influence on the genre as a whole.

Highlights

• Powerful and immersive soundscapes that define Finnish black metal.
• Strong lyrical themes that resonate with the genre's core values.
• Seamless collaboration that showcases the strengths of both bands.

Weak points

• Some listeners may find the raw production style less appealing.
• Tracks may feel repetitive in structure for those unfamiliar with black metal conventions.
• Lack of variety in tempo and dynamics across the album.

Overall evaluation

"Horna / Behexen" is a compelling split album that effectively captures the essence of two stalwarts of Finnish black metal. Its raw energy and thematic depth make it a notable entry in the genre's discography. Personal rating: 8/10 ```