Album Review: Mist of Misery – Severance (Non Serviam Records)

Swedish symphonic black metallers Mist of Misery will release their upcoming album ‘Severance’ via Non Serviam Records on November 4th, 2022.

Severance is the first Mist of Misery concept album, and it tells a tragic tale which takes place in 19th century rural England.

The band explains:

We are aware that it differs quite a bit from our previous albums but the core elements of Mist Of Misery are still very much present. We hope that it will satisfy our old fans and also bring in new fans. All the tracks for ‘Severance’ were written specifically to fit the story of the album as it is a concept album. Therefore we had to carefully match the atmosphere of the story and the individual songs as the story unfolds. The writing came naturally but we obviously had to carefully decide the order of the songs.

Consistently one of the most exciting bands in black metal, Mist of Misery exude melancholy and drama in unparalleled ways. Expect dark despair, blackened emotion and heavy horror but most importantly, expect to be wowed.

Most bands would crumble under the weight of such expectations but not Mist of Misery who deliver their best work to date. In fact, Severance is one of the best albums of the year in all metal, let alone black metal. It’s a gargantuan tome of dark melodies, savage black heaviness and intricate detail. Where a wealth of instrumental and vocal talents works in twisted harmony making its lengthy runtime disappear like a cold mist as the sun rises. There’s simply no getting distracted or bored with this album as each track has bucketloads of imaginative moments.

Gripping savagery, sumptuous atmosphere and heart-wrenching melodic grandiosity. It’s exhausting to experience because there’s no chance to switch off. Mist of Misery control every twist and turn, dragging the listener through their tundra of desolation. As mentally draining as it is, it’s a journey that everyone needs to experience, even if it’s just once.

Once is all Mist of Misery need though. Listen to the grief-stricken Severance just once and you’ll be hooked. This is an album that goes far beyond the ‘black metal’ sphere, Mist of Misery refusing to let the limitations of a genre hold them back. Something long-term fans will already be aware of but still in awe of how they continue to push forward and strive for excellence.

Pick a track, any single track on this delightful slab of wretchedness, and fall in love. There’s not a single disappointing moment. Every single offering is exceptional; regardless of how lengthy, how elaborate, how heavy, how melodic or how atmospheric it is. In fact, most tracks combine all of this in wonderful examples of intense musical structures and flows. The experience of Severance’s blacker side is icy cold and likely to freeze the heart and soul. Yet, the extravagant melodies deliver warmth that helps create a unique balance. This is Mist of Misery at their highest level. A Mist of Misery inspired to such a creative point, it beggars’ belief.

Once again, they have crafted a stunner that turns the black metal world upside down. They really should be one of the biggest bands in the scene already but maybe, just maybe, this is the album that finally does it. They certainly deserve it.

Mist of Misery – Severance Full Track Listing:

1. An Ode to Solitude
2. The Long Road
3. A Sombre Solace
4. Into the Embrace of Winter
5. A Wasted Life
6. Through Night’s Gloom
7. Oceans of Grief
8. Severance
9. Reflections
10. Towards the Descent

Links

Spotify | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Non Serviam Records