Released on: 23rd September 2022
It might only be an EP but Dark Forests‘ newest release is a neat package of NWOBHM inspired goodness. The record is filled to the brim with technique and talent and is reminiscent of the glory days of Roger Dean and Frank Frazetta sleeves. Albeit a bit more tame than the wild early years of metal, Dark Forest still hit that high fantasy, pseudo-science and magic sound that is characteristic of the metallic highs during S’tanics P’Panic. Titled Ridge & Furrow the EP is a quality blend of anachronistic muses and modern production sensibilities.
Now, is it cheese? Basically. But, it is Gouda cheese and as such a perfect compliment to a meaty sandwich.
As far as the riffs go we have a good combination of palm muted arps and trotting rhythms boiled in with your standard melodic leads. It is all very well composed and condensed, and where the pacing is concerned the tracks blend well. For want of splitting ball hairs, the songs here feel more like they belong on a mini-album than an EP. As the record, lyrically, has a primary focus. And, showcases neither one single track or musical theme. Ball hairs be split, spilled and spoiled.
Ridge & Furrow is a quality release that sings with the virtues of an earlier time in the NWOBHM movement. As a record it is has built on that solid foundation and elevates it into the modern decade. Dark Forest carry their hearts on the albums’ sleeve and thus inspire with natures bounty, and are definitely a talent to keep an eye on.
7/10
