What makes Those Who Caress the Pale by Ved Buens Ende notable?

The album has been noted for its innovative blend of progressive and black metal elements, earning critical acclaim from various music publications. It has influenced numerous artists within the avant-garde metal genre and is often cited in discussions about the evolution of progressive metal in the late '90s. Those Who Caress the Pale is Ved Buens Ende's debut full-length album, released in 1997 after their initial EP. At this point, the band was establishing itself within the burgeoning Norwegian metal scene, marked by an experimental approach that set them apart from contemporaries. This release laid the groundwork for their unique sound that would influence future progressive and avant-garde metal bands.

How many songs are on Those Who Caress the Pale?

Those Who Caress the Pale has 6 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Those Who Caress the Pale

Ved Buens Ende · 1997

36 min · 6 tracks · progressive metal

Darkly atmospheric progressive metal intertwines intricate melodies with haunting, introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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A Mask in the Mirror — This opening track encapsulates the album's haunting atmosphere, merging complex time signatures with lyrical themes of identity and perception. The interplay between serene melodies and aggressive passages showcases the band's technical prowess.
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The Carrier of Wounds — Clocking in at over eight minutes, this track features dynamic shifts that create a journey-like experience, illustrating emotional turmoil through both instrumentation and vocal delivery. Its ambitious structure highlights the band's avant-garde influences.
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Those Who Caress the Pale — The title track serves as a culmination of the album's themes, presenting a rich tapestry of sound that reflects on mortality and existence. Its immersive quality makes it a standout piece that represents the band's artistic vision.

Tracklist

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

1 A Mask in the Mirror 5:25
2 The Carrier of Wounds 8:10
3 You That May Wither 4:37
4 The Plunderer 5:13
5 Those Who Caress the Pale 6:18
6 Insects, Part I 6:38

What to play next

Listen next

…Coiled in Obscurity

2002

Go back to

Written in Waters

1995

Full Ved Buens Ende discography Artists like Ved Buens Ende

progressive metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata