Ruun - Enslaved

Celebrated at the time as a landmark release in progressive extreme metal, Enslaved's 'Ruun' isn't really all that special or innovative, but is still an improvement over the comparatively dull 'Isa.' Most songs are fairly slow paced and full of melodic moments owing more to prog rock than black metal, while almost pop elements prevail in some of the accessible riffs to songs like 'Entroper.' There aren't any weak moments here, but at the same time, few songs really scream out for attention. The opener is intriguing with its heavy bass presence and alternation between growls and clean singing, 'Path to Vanir' is slower and evolves into a gloomy acoustic song ...  Read the complete review