Striborg - Mysterious Semblance (Re-release)
Displeased Records

file under black/pagan metal

Roel F.: After a way too lengthy intro, the way too lengthy first track of the re-release of ‘Mysterious Semblance,’ which dates back to 2004, commences. Empty your mind, and let the good music wash over you. Alas, nothing could be farther from the truth. Because Striborg does not make good music, let alone thought-through music.

‘Mysterious Semblance’ has the thinnest guitar sound ever (on a par with Ulver’s ‘Nattens Madrigal’ perhaps): there is no actual sound to hear, just an annoying buzz. Songs lack any form of dynamics, and chord progression is practically non-existent. Sometimes, during an unnatural break, all of a sudden there seems to be some bass, but it sounds as if it is being hit at random. I shall not mention the drumming, other than the fact that they come across as if a construction worker is repeatedly smashing an iron tool on a concrete wall. As is widely known, the vocals are accompanied by the most irritating echo and the keyboards are perhaps the least upsetting, even though they are still nowhere near good. It is obvious: this is only for people who do not have ears.

Rating: 15/100 (details)

http://www.myspace.com/striborg