The seventh album from Polish progressive gothic outfit Asgaard is also their first for a decade, when the trio released Stairs to Nowhere. Having formed in 1994, it was 1998 when they produced their debut record When The Twilight Set In Again. Over the next two decades the band have developed a cult following across the globe, rightly drawing comparisons with the likes of Opeth, Katatonia, Amorphis, Anathema and Moonspell.
What If …? sees the band change their sound with the introduction of even more melancholic songs which incorporate electronics and rock rather than straight up metal that may have been more expected. It’s an album that also sees the band deliver two tracks in their native Polish, a brave move when looking to release a new record. Drenched in delicious harmonies and intricate, small flicks and tricks are shared throughout the songs.
The album opens with “Sisyphus”, who in Greek mythology was doomed for all eternity to repeatedly push a boulder up the hill for all eternity as punishment for cheating. It contains a dark theme and some interesting tempo changes. Vocalist Przemysław Tomasz Olbryt provides a deep soulful voice with plenty of melody, and one can hear the comparison with Jonas Renske of Katatonia. He’s no copycat though, merely possessing similar tones and intonations which bring an elegant feel to each song. Whilst the electronics and keyboards play a pivotal role, there remains a deep metal resonation although one has to work a little harder to locate it at times. The guitar and drums get a better workout on “Creeping Miss Lunacy”, a song that does echo Katatonia’s recent output. Soulful, melancholic and dramatic.
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Both tracks recorded in Polish work well within the whole vibe of the album. The utilisation of string sections adds depth and feeling to the tracks, making them both more emotional and mysterious. The title track oozes emotion, romance and nostalgia, creating imagery which is underpinned by the beautifully crafted and performed music. Olbryt’s natural accent adds even more to the album, his honest and resonating vocals quickly grabbing the attention. There is however, much more to explore and enjoy.
“Blind Man’s Bluff” is case in point. A jagged, staccato rhythm, sharp guitar work leads into a dark, sinister track that has demonic screams and laughter in the background to intensify the atmosphere. And if you want a complete contrast, then the closing track “Not Ever Again” with its pulsing electro/industrial vibe takes a different path completely, sitting at a complete different angle from the other tracks on the album. And yet, it still fits in rather well. The version I reviewed also included the radio cuts of “Sny na jawie” and “W sercu nieświata” which provide a nice bonus.
What If…? is rich with melodies, big choruses and expertly crafted music. It’s asks questions and ponders dilemmas. With detailed artwork and excellent graphic design courtesy of Bartłomiej Trzos, it’s a triumphant return from a band whose praises should be sung loudly.
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What If…? is out on February 18th
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