Kvelertak’s Meir translates to ‘more’ in English, and that’s exactly what this manic Norwegian six-piece dish up with their sophomore effort.
More catchy style-blending riffs, more blistering solos, more album artwork from Baroness’s John Dyer Baizley and more raw energy than you’ll find in almost any other band.
“Åpenbaring” is a gripping opener that immediately establishes the improved production level on Meir – Converge’s Kurt Ballou has done a great job behind the mixing desk.
Following up with “Spring Fra Livet,” Kvelertak provide one of the happiest sounding example of blast-beats and overtones. In comparison, “Trepan” and “Snilepisk” sound quite evil, but catchiness isn’t compromised on either example.
Lead single “Bruane Brenn” is perhaps the album’s most memorable song, featuring razor sharp riffs, a pop-happy chorus and a dreamy guitar solo. Afterwards, the band introduce “Evig Vandrar” with a delicate intro that is then shattered by a monstrous vocal effort.
Following an early climax in “Undertro”, Kvelertak keep the audience ensnared with a fun jam on a single riff that wouldn’t sound out of place in an AC/DC song.
The band slow things down with penultimate track “Tordenbrak” which is a nine minute progressive masterpiece, and probably the most unique track on the album. “Kvelertak” is a joyful celebration track, which for many will celebrate putting the album on repeat for a second, third and fourth time.
With their self-titled debut, Kvelertak created an infectious disease, Meir simply increases the potency. It may not have the initial impact its predecessor did, but it is overall the stronger album, and likely the most superb metal release we will see in 2013.
