In 2018, Afsky stunned the black metal community with the release of his debut album titled “Sorg” (Sorrow). This solo project by Ole Pedersen Luk, the vocalist and guitarist of the Danish black metal band Solbrud, was formed in 2015. Afsky’s second full-length album, “Ofte Jeg Drømmer Mig Død” (Often I Dream Myself Dead), was released in May by Vendetta Records. Similar to the first album, this work is heavily influenced by Danish folklore and ancient poetry. Ole creatively blends native melodies with black metal riffs, presenting a hauntingly melodic style rarely heard in this genre. The album is atmospheric and rhythmic, yet deeply emotive and melancholic, embodying Ole’s concept of “the suffering of a man deteriorating under the weight of servitude to higher powers,” clearly depicted in the album’s cover art by H.A. Bredekilde.
Worn Out by H.A.Bredekilde
The album predominantly draws from atmospheric black metal elements, occasionally touching on depressive tones, but its unique spatial arrangement also evokes elements of black-doom metal and late ’90s black metal, particularly through its diverse riffing. The track “Altid veltilfreds,” which opens the album, begins with mournful acoustic guitar melodies. Violin accents and whispered vocals gradually give way to fast-paced kicks, maintaining the initial atmosphere while an electric guitar picks up the previous rhythm. It shifts from clean distortion to rhythmic screams and holds the intensity for about two minutes before easing into tranquility.
“Tyende Sang” is another standout piece, combining slow and fast rhythms in succession, blending acoustic and distorted elements like the other tracks. “Bondeplage,” distinct from the rest, starts with a brisk tempo and features fast riffs and unique vocals, making it one of the best recent examples of black metal. I highly recommend experiencing its pleasure multiple times.
