As was the case with Parfaxitas, once I heard the first released track by Kråbøl, the epic “Fundaments,” on the sampler TERRATUR COMPENDIUM MMXXIII in March 2023, it became apparent to me that this band would quickly rise to become one of the most lethal forces in black metal. Partially due to “Fundaments,” I also chose the aforementioned comp as one of the best black metal albums of the year. The next song unveiled by Kråbøl, “Perish,” yet another teaser selected from the full-length scorcher to come, likewise proved an unquestionable masterpiece. We reported on that wonderfully destructive gem when it dropped earlier this year. The time has now arrived to send our overflowing gratitude to the Trondheim-based label Terratur Possessions for finally unleashing Kråbøl’s debut, Never, which means “Birchbark.” However, in one sense, Terratur cannot be forgiven for such an act. Both Terratur and Kråbøl debunk the comforting notion that black metal is dead, even if the vast majority of remaining acts in the genre are nothing but a bunch of sad little posers.

Kråbøl is not only a supergroup but also a family project. Like the two men we are about to name, Mr. Brage Kråbøl has proved one of the movement’s top talents. He is known for Enevelde and Misotheist. On Never, he perfectly handles vocal, guitar, and synth duties. His father, Terje, and uncle, Stian, both insanely accomplished Spellemann / “Norwegian Grammy” nominees, provide drums and bass respectively. Stian’s resume includes Minas Tirith / Minas, which he co-founded; Funeral; Tulus; and formerly Khold — he was part of the group’s original lineup, though Khold was originally just Tulus with a name change and a more straight-forward style. Terje remains with the highly recommended Katechon. He has belonged to an impressively long list of other outfits: Minas Tirith / Minas, Bethzaida, Antidepressive Delivery,  Sarke, Faustcoven, etc. Notably, Terje played on Thorns’ historic Trøndertun (1992) demo. Last but not least, M., Brage’s grandfather, blows us away on trumpet.

Given the all-star cast, it is no surprise that each member of the Kråbøl team gives a stellar performance. No one lags behind, and it is apparent that the artistic understanding between the musicians involved was complete. Whereas bass, for example, is an element that is often put to mediocre use by black metal bands, here we have one of the best bassists in the genre, even if Stian might prefer to be referred to as a guitarist and seems to consider himself more of a prog rock artist. Meanwhile, Terje demonstrates how a superior drummer will enhance a record. The trumpet adds wonders when it appears, thus contributing a distinguishing charm. Not many black metal bands have incorporated this instrument, or at least not in a way worthy of remembering. As always, Brage incinerates us with his fire-breathing vocals, packing maximum intensity. His voice is instantly recognizable. At moments, soft, clean chants can be heard. As one expects from this particular lineup, Kråbøl marvelously balances aggression and beauty. The thoroughly sinister atmospheres totally engulf listeners. Laced with gripping melodies, Never keeps audiences firmly under its spell.

Beginning with “Talisman,” Never is a familiar and true product of Trondheim in the best sense, yet it boasts a pleasantly exotic enigmatic appeal in a masterfully subtle way. All six compositions are miraculous in their own right. In combination, they constitute a sonic overdose. Never amounts to a delightfully varied offering. The changes that it hits audiences with always feel organic and never dilute the album’s somber and solemnly ceremonial power. Opening with what may be compared to the sound of a foghorn, “Nattsvarte Brunn” seduces with nice groove as it nails listeners down with its almost velveteen textures that work in unison with its crushing weight and more raw aspects. The sometimes slow burning magic that follows on the partially soothing, though also agonized and destructive, “The Blacken’d Watered Sleep” lends a refreshingly individualistic feel indeed. The finale, “Armodsgrå,” stands as a shimmering triumph. Lovely as a black metal song can come, “Armodsgrå” is a truly unique piece of ear candy that takes its time as it slaughters its victims with ease and grace. Anyone who hasn’t yet taken the journey of Never is missing out on some of the best black metal imaginable. With exceptions by perhaps three other artists, the only extreme releases of 2024 that can even be placed on a shelf beside this one are those that feature Brage.