Firtan – Ethos (Philosophical Black Metal)
Hooo boy this was sure to be glorious. Let’s pretend we’ve heard of Firtan before, collectively. Now that that’s covered, consider the cover it self, a beautiful rendition of feminine spirit and strength in the face of suffering, by the ever-dark Nona Limmen. Even such a selection for the visuals speaks volumes of the band’s ability. Or, well, let me be honest, because this is German black metal, after all, with some classical sensibilities added for flavor, so do we really have anything of merit? I’m about to get honest.
I’ve heard this bunch before, actually, so let me stop kidding. I just never liked them; easily categorized under the “yep heard that” subfile deep in a forgotten blog. Leaning heavily in the pagan direction at their earliest, Firtan developed a more nuanced style, but it took time to get there, and the “there” in this case is their latest, Ethos. I’ve heard plenty of bands try to get deep, usually the lyrics being the only avenue where it’s evident, but Firtan have this down in not just the visuals, but also the sound, which is a feat. Ethos shows the band in final form (keep it up) with brooding arrangements broken occasionally with tender touches of classicism. There is a familiarity to Firtan’s latest that can draw in most anyone interested in black metal, yet there’s more under the surface as you peel away the layers, realizing only too late it was your own skin and you’ve laid bare your inner essence to the horror of your soul.
Written by Stanley, Devourer of Souls
Firtan – Ethos
AOP Records
Cover Art: Nona Limmen
4.5 / 5
