AngL
Ihsahn · 2008
47 min · 9 tracks · progressive metal
A complex tapestry of progressive metal and haunting melodies interwoven with dark, introspective themes.
Top tracks — play these first
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Misanthrope — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its aggressive yet melodic approach, establishing Ihsahn's signature style of blending harsh and clean vocals.
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Scarab — Featuring intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, this track exemplifies Ihsahn's ability to merge complexity with accessibility, highlighting his growth as a composer.
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Threnody — As one of the more atmospheric pieces, Threnody showcases Ihsahn's skill in creating emotional depth through layered instrumentation and haunting vocal delivery.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases intricate compositions and a blend of vocal styles, solidifying its place in progressive metal.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that contrast with heavier sections, such as the transition from 'Emancipation' to 'Malediction'.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo progression
- immersive sonic complexity
- challenging listening experience
- thoughtful in-order engagement
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification
- seek quick, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- AngL is Ihsahn's third solo album, following his acclaimed release, The Adversary in 2006. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation as a pioneering force in the progressive and black metal scenes after leaving Emperor, exploring more intricate compositions and personal themes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Misanthrope 4:58
- 2 Scarab 5:17
- 3 Unhealer 6:17
- 4 Emancipation 5:27
- 5 Malediction 4:19
- 6 Alchemist 4:19
- 7 Elevator 5:07
- 8 Threnody 5:08
- 9 Monolith 6:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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