Is Shadows of the Sun a good place to start with Ulver?

Yes, Shadows of the Sun is recommended as a starting point for new Ulver listeners. Atmospheric soundscapes blend haunting melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a meditative experience that transcends genres. Released on January 1, 2007, 'Shadows of the Sun' marked a significant transition for Ulver, following their previous work 'Blood Inside' from 2005. This album showcases their evolution towards a more experimental and ambient sound, diverging from their earlier black metal roots and solidifying their status as innovative artists in the avant-garde music scene.

Who is Shadows of the Sun for?

Shadows of the Sun works well if you're into haunting, atmospheric soundscapes, introspective late-night listening and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Shadows of the Sun?

Shadows of the Sun has 9 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Shadows of the Sun

Ulver · 2007

39 min · 9 tracks · black metal

Atmospheric soundscapes blend haunting melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a meditative experience that transcends genres.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Eos Start here — Opening with ethereal vocals and serene instrumentation, this track sets a contemplative tone for the album, encapsulating its overarching themes of introspection and existential inquiry.
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Shadows of the Sun — The title track weaves together somber melodies and intricate arrangements, illustrating Ulver's mastery of mood and atmosphere while distilling the essence of the entire album.
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Let the Children Go — This track stands out for its poignant lyrics and minimalist arrangement, capturing a sense of longing while exploring themes of innocence and loss with emotional depth.
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Funebre — An evocative piece that blends dark tones with haunting vocals, it exemplifies Ulver's ability to create profound emotional landscapes, enhancing the overall darkness present in the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album's atmospheric soundscapes and subdued vocals create a unique listening experience that rewards repeat plays.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, atmospheric track that gradually introduces layered instrumentation, setting a meditative tone.
Vocals are often delivered in a subdued manner, blending into the instrumental textures rather than standing out as a focal point.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental passages that allow for gradual development of themes and moods over time.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

haunting, atmospheric soundscapes
introspective late-night listening
gradual builds and payoffs
immersive emotional exploration

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents a significant departure in sound, blending genres and showcasing evolution.
Career context: Released on January 1, 2007, 'Shadows of the Sun' marked a significant transition for Ulver, following their previous work 'Blood Inside' from 2005. This album showcases their evolution towards a more experimental and ambient sound, diverging from their earlier black metal roots and solidifying their status as innovative artists in the avant-garde music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Arcturus· Opeth· Borknagar