Album Review: Dimholt – MetaForm (Self Released)

Bulgarian black metal veterans Dimholt are preparing to independently release their third album, MetaForm, on 13th December

Dimholt is a Bulgarian black metal band formed in 2003 in Burgas by Woundheir (vocals) and Asen (guitars). Initially a duo, they expanded to a full line-up and released their demo Aegri Somnia in 2007, followed by the EP Live Somnia in 2010. Known for combining atmospheric, cosmic, and metaphysical themes with aggressive black metal, Dimholt has shared stages with international and regional acts including Cradle of Filth, Rotting Christ, Batushka, Kathaarsys, and Austere.

Their debut album, Liberation Funeral (2013), was recorded with Thomas “TT” Tannenberger (Abigor), and their sophomore effort, Epistēmē (2018), saw them collaborating with Déhá at Opus Magnum Studios (Belgium) for mixing and mastering. During the pandemic, the band focused on composing new material, culminating in their third album, MetaForm (2024), continuing their collaboration with Déhá. Over two decades, Dimholt has earned recognition for their meticulous production, dynamic compositions, and live performances across Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Serbia, and beyond.

Now, with MetaForm, Dimholt look to refine their signature blend of aggression and atmosphere, creating a vast, introspective journey for listeners merging raw black metal ferocity with intricate, atmospheric layering.

Dimholt is Woundheir on vocals, Asen and Rumen on guitars, Yavor on bass and Stanimir on drums.

MetaForm comes with 8 tracks on it and the opening track, the title track MetaForm immediately sets the tone for Dimholt’s new album. It is dark and gloomy for sure, but there is definitely a modern tint and at times, almost a post-black metal soundscape. The vocals are dark, deep and growled, delivered with plenty of power and depth. Strong drum patterns and cold riffs add a blackened foundation, but little drops of melody enhance the atmosphere, even if that atmosphere feels predominantly suffocating and oppressive.

Radiance of Dying Light sees Dimholt raise the pace and intensity with furious drum blasts and urgent riff patterns. It is harsh, heavy, and does a great job balancing traditional black metal with modern atmospheric touches. The lead guitars bring that modern edge, with some really impressive melodic work that sits either alongside or under the foundation of darkness. That use of melody also ensures that the song never becomes too repetitive or predictable.

Totem is next and is a firm favourite of mine. I love the atmospheric intro and the transition from that into the gates of hell opening is excellent. The track evolves continuously, moving into darker and more devilish pace and intensity, and then the lead guitars introduce melody to really elevate things, all while the vocals bark at us maniacally. It is Dimholt at their most dynamic so far on MetaForm.

Reality in Timeless Comatose is a standout track that really delivers on atmosphere and darkness. The vocals slow down and use more extended roars and growls, which is a welcome change as the tone does not shift dramatically across MetaForm. It is well written, the drums are excellent, and there is more strong riff and lead guitar work on display. Subtle pace changes also help to keep things away from repetition.

The Horrors of Maddened Eyes is a fascinating track full of highlights. I particularly love the little downward guitar melody at the very start. The tapping drum beat that follows is excellent, as is the transition from a more progressive, almost post-black sound into an explosion of icy black metal. I like the change in pace too, and I could listen to the intertwining guitar melodies all day.

To Embrace Profound Stillness keeps MetaForm firmly within the same stylistic space but also manages to ensure it has enough unique elements to stand out. There are different backing vocals that add needed variation to the vocal tone, and a really memorable melodic slow-down that still feels dark and threatening, but offers some respite while also working as a strong contrast before the return to full black metal aggression. It is an atmosphere-heavy track with all musicians working together seamlessly to create a wall of sound that fully envelops you.

Our penultimate track is Tomb of Molten Stars and there are no surprises stylistically. The pace and intensity definitely lift here though, and the rolling drumbeat will certainly have your head moving. The riffs and drums are excellent once again, and I really appreciate the small touches, such as the single cymbal hit just before the vocals kick in. It may seem like a small detail, but it adds so much to the transition and shows Dimholt’s attention to detail. The driving melody sits neatly alongside the heavier foundation too. It is a top track and one of my favourites on MetaForm.

We reach the end with Tapestry of Shapeless Eternity. It is common these days for a final album track to be stylistically different, as bands often like to test the waters with acoustic, orchestral or experimental touches. Dimholt avoid that temptation here and instead stick to what they know and do best, delivering a black metal track that honours tradition whilst embracing modern elements. It is dark, intense and atmospheric, with powerful vocals and strong riffs and drumming. That driving melody is still there, pulling everything together and highlighting key moments. It is a longer track, but clever pacing choices, like the dark and gentler slow-down, break it up at just the right time and provide contrast before shifting back into heavier territory. It is a fitting closer to MetaForm.

Dimholt have delivered something special with MetaForm. It is undeniably rooted in traditional black metal, but the modern touches, atmospheric depth and melodic richness elevate it well beyond the ordinary. There is a risk of repetition for those less familiar with the genre, especially when it comes to the vocal tone and delivery, which only occasionally shift pace or style. However, the quality of the song writing, the clever use of melody, the dynamic flow from track to track and the sheer weight of atmosphere ensure that genuine repetition is rare. Instead, MetaForm feels cohesive, immersive and consistently engaging. It is a strong release, full of nuance, power and expression, and one that confirms Dimholt as a major force in black metal.

Track List:

1. MetaForm
2. Radiance of Dying Light
3. Totem
4. Reality in Timeless Comatose
5. The Horrors of Maddened Eyes
6. To Embrace Profound Stillness
7. Tomb of Molten Stars
8. Tapestry of Shapeless Eternity

Dimholt Links

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