THE BEAST

Norwegian black metal pioneers Darkthrone are venturing into doom metal territory with their latest single "Black Dawn Affiliation," a track that promises to enthrall fans with its deep, dark riffs and atmospheric undertones. The single is a glimpse into their forthcoming album, "It Beckons Us All," set for release on April 26.

Delving Into "Black Dawn Affiliation"

Described by band member Fenriz, "Black Dawn Affiliation" showcases a departure into doom-laden landscapes, characterized by slow, heavy riffs reminiscent of Kreator's 1986-era sound. The single features a linear construction, which is a bold choice for a lead track, embodying a continuous, unfolding narrative rather than the traditional verse-chorus structure. Fenriz reveals that the song transitions into its most compelling riff post-intermission, complemented by ethereal synth and hauntingly clean vocals that draw inspiration from classic rock influences like The Doors' "Morrison Hotel."

The track's creation was a hands-on process for both Fenriz and his bandmate Nocturno Culto. The latter emphasizes the organic, studio-born nature of the track, highlighting the effort that went into its vocal layers: "Instead of just taking shortcuts, Fenriz and I recorded three vocal tracks each," Nocturno Culto says, underscoring the meticulous craftsmanship that defines their sound.

Studio Magic and Album Details

"It Beckons Us All" was recorded over two months at Chaka Khan Studios in Oslo, a site previously used by the band for their "Eternal Hails" and "Astral Fortress" albums. The mastering was handled by Jack Control at Enormous Door, with visually striking artwork by Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak.

The album is already generating significant buzz, not least because of the strong camaraderie and satisfaction expressed by the band members regarding the final product. Fenriz shared an anecdote about the moment the album was completed: "[Nocturno Culto] actually shook my hand afterward because he was so pleased. And I don't think we've ever shook hands since I met him for the first time in spring '88."

Anticipation and Availability

Fans eager to dive into Darkthrone's latest creation can pre-order "It Beckons Us All." The single "Black Dawn Affiliation" serves as a powerful teaser of what to expect from the album — a blend of methodical riff construction, serendipitous studio magic, and a matured, darker lyrical theme. https://darkthrone.lnk.to/beckons

With "It Beckons Us All," Darkthrone continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of their genre and exploring new musical territories while staying true to their roots in the black metal scene. This upcoming release is not just a collection of songs; it's an emphatic statement of artistic growth and mutual respect among legendary musicians. Fans old and new should mark their calendars for April 26, when Darkthrone once again beckons the metal community into their profound and haunting musical landscape.