Kvelertak cover

Kvelertak

Kvelertak · 2010

74 min · 17 tracks · hardcore punk

A raucous blend of black metal ferocity and punk rock energy that invigorates the spirit of heavy music.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Mjød — This track exemplifies Kvelertak's signature style with its infectious riffs and anthemic chorus, capturing the essence of their energetic sound.
  • →
    Blodtørst — Featuring a relentless pace and ferocious vocals, this song showcases the band's ability to blend melodic elements within aggressive instrumentation.
  • →
    Sjøhyenar (Havets herrer) — The track highlights the band's unique lyrical themes drawn from Norse mythology while maintaining a heavy yet catchy musicality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends genres effectively, showcasing strong songwriting and production but lacks cohesion due to bonus tracks.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features aggressive tempos and heavy guitar riffs, while the second half introduces more melodic elements and varied dynamics.
  • Vocals alternate between harsh screams and clean singing, creating a contrast that enhances the emotional intensity of the tracks.
  • Several songs incorporate traditional Norwegian themes and folklore, which are woven into the lyrics and overall atmosphere.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

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

  • high-energy party ignition
  • cathartic full-volume release
  • frantic urgency throughout tracks
  • late-night adrenaline rush
  • dynamic shifts in intensity

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer mellow and calm sounds
  • seek slow, patient builds

Where this album fits

Career context
Kvelertak's self-titled debut album, released in 2010, marked their introduction to the international metal scene. At this point, the band had garnered attention in Norway but was still establishing their global presence, with this album serving as a crucial launching pad for their career.
Stylistic neighbors
Ghost· High on Fire· Mastodon

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Utrydd dei svake

    The final verse shifts from collective pronouns to a singular address, creating a stark personal connection.

    This pivot intensifies the emotional impact, transforming the song from an anthem into a direct confrontation with individual vulnerabilities.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ulvetid 3:29
  • 2 Mjød 2:31
  • 3 Fossegrim 3:32
  • 4 Blodtørst 3:37
  • 5 Offernatt 4:29
  • 6 Sjøhyenar (Havets herrer) 4:50
  • 7 Sultans of Satan 4:35
  • 8 Nekroskop 5:10
  • 9 Liktorn 5:35
  • 10 Ordsmedar av rang 4:27
  • 11 Utrydd dei svake 6:24
  • 12 Fossegrim (BBC Sessions 2010) 3:25
  • 13 Sjøhyenar (Havets herrer) (BBC Sessions 2010) 4:33
  • 14 Blodtørst (BBC Sessions 2010) 3:43
  • 15 Mjød (BBC Sessions 2010) 2:58
  • 16 Ordsmedar av rang (demo) 4:03
  • 17 Utrydd dei svake (demo) 6:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata