Burzum – Umskiptar

Releasedate: 21-05-2012; Label: Byelobog
By: Sabine van Gameren

Varg Vikernes has been known as the man that has been in jail, hard to skip on that fact. But since he is released various releases has seen light and “Umskiptar” is his latest.

“Umskiptar” has a strong connection with his previous release, while many may hope to hear Varg go back further in time which in a certain way he did. The album has been divided into two parts as it seems. The first part contains the sound you got use to from the album “Fallen”. The second part of the album seem to become calmer every song, some more minimalistic. Ending in such a way is a bit of a surprise, some may lose interest but this radiates that Burzum makes music you can really crawl into, feel in ecstasy and “Umskiptar” highlights that.
Lyrically, we are listening to a Norse poem. The instrumentals are giving an intense touch to it all, even though the words may not be understandable for those who don’t speak the language. The story behind it, the lyrics and Varg’s comments on it can be found on his website.
“Umskiptar” is an album that gives an unexpected twist to your expectations, a surprise. If you expect the Black metal label on it, skip it. A tag on this album won’t do any good at all.

Tracklist: 01. Blóðstokkinn 02. Jóln 03. Alfadanz 04. Hit helga Tré 05. Æra 06. Heiðr 07. Valgaldr 08. Galgviðr 09. Surtr Sunnan 10. Gullaldr 11. Níðhöggr

Links:
Burzum Official