Is Wars of the Roses a good place to start with Ulver?

Yes, Wars of the Roses is recommended as a starting point for new Ulver listeners. A haunting exploration of atmospheric soundscapes blending elements of neofolk and experimental rock with introspective lyricism. Released in 2011, Wars of the Roses is Ulver's tenth studio album, following their 2007 release, Shadows of the Sun. At this point, the band had transitioned from their early black metal roots into a broader avant-garde sound, showcasing their continuous evolution as artists. This album further solidified their reputation for genre-defying music that challenges conventional boundaries.

Who is Wars of the Roses for?

Wars of the Roses works well if you're into ethereal soundscapes for contemplation, wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts and haunting vocals evoke deep emotions.

How many songs are on Wars of the Roses?

Wars of the Roses has 7 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Wars of the Roses

Ulver · 2011

45 min · 7 tracks · black metal

A haunting exploration of atmospheric soundscapes blending elements of neofolk and experimental rock with introspective lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Norwegian Gothic — This track encapsulates the ethereal essence of the album, combining haunting melodies with a poignant atmosphere that reflects on Norway's cultural landscape.
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Stone Angels — As the longest track on the album, it serves as an epic culmination of themes present throughout, weaving complex layers of sound that evoke deep emotional responses.
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February MMX Start here — Opening the album, this track sets a contemplative tone with its minimalist instrumentation and reflective lyrics, inviting listeners into the album’s introspective journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's atmospheric depth and unique blend of genres create a compelling listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a spoken word piece that sets a somber tone, followed by tracks that blend layered instrumentation with atmospheric vocals.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections, allowing the soundscapes to evolve gradually over time.
The lyrics are introspective and often abstract, creating a sense of reflection that complements the ambient musical backdrop.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

ethereal soundscapes for contemplation
wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
haunting vocals evoke deep emotions
immersive journey through darkness

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks
seeking instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Marks a notable moment in Ulver's artistic journey with ambitious fusion of styles.
Themes: Norwegian Gothic landscapes· ethereal soundscapes· introspective journeys
Career context: Released in 2011, Wars of the Roses is Ulver's tenth studio album, following their 2007 release, Shadows of the Sun. At this point, the band had transitioned from their early black metal roots into a broader avant-garde sound, showcasing their continuous evolution as artists. This album further solidified their reputation for genre-defying music that challenges conventional boundaries.
Stylistic neighbors: Arcturus· Opeth· Borknagar