Slechtvalk - Falconry (2000)
This is an amazing release from the Dutch black metalband Slechtvalk! "Falconry" is a cd that is sure to stay in my disc changer for a long time to come!! The overall style is "symphonic" or "atmospheric" black metal similar in style to Antestor or Dimmu Borgir. The music is mostly mid-paced (with a couple of fast songs) with talented and original guitar work. Slechtvalk mastermind, Shamgar, plays all the instruments and does all the vocals (a talented man indeed!). The cd has a very doomy feel and might even appeal to fans of bands like Paramecium also. Keyboards are used to their full effect giving this recording a dark and gothic tone at times. People that are into the older school of black metal might not appreciate the extreme use of the keyboards, but in my opinion, the quality of the keyboard playing only serves to add another dimension to the overall sound and quality of this cd. The guitar work is executed very well and has a melodic feel yet retaining that harsh and grim sound that black metal is known for. The overall guitar work here reminds me a bit of Kekal. At times the guitars are forced to take a backseat to the keyboards but they are still very present throughout. Slechtvalk has quickly rose to the top of my favorite bands list and I look forward to hearing what will be next. -- Review by Norm