So what's new this time around? More atmosphere, if you can believe it. Hear the album open with forest and creek sounds and then close with the sound of wind and birds. Also witness a crackling fire and gorgeous, medieval female vocals courtesy of Jessica Kinney (Asva and Eyvind Kang) on "Cleansing." Oh, and there's better production. Lots better. The guitars are higher in the mix, serving to augment the already brilliant composition style of the band, and the drumming just sounds greater, if not more varied in approach (listen ~halfway through the final song for a single point of proof). Clean guitar tones open album closer "I Will Lay Down My Bones Among the Rocks and Roots," sounding like Earth's Hex: Or Printing in the Infernal Method was an influence... until the blast beat and rapid fire picking commences.

Throughout the album vocals are again primarily of the primitive, Black Metal shriek variety, but they are sufficiently low in the mix, so as to accompany the music rather than detract from it. A more direct Immortal vibe is witnessed on the record's final and longest track, truly the highlight of an album without any weak spots. The damn near pastoral guitar at ~5 minutes left in the final song sets the stage for the grand finale. Appearing again to close out the record are the angelic vocals of Jessica Kinney. They truly are beautiful, making one consider finding more of her work. So will the largely and unfortunately unaware world have to wait yet another 18+ months for the next offering from Wolves in the Throne Room? One must hope not. In a word: brilliant.

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 46:24