Solnedgang craft a memorable instrumental rock sound on their new EP, Valkyrie. The London-based Norwegian musician notes that the release is inspired by Norse mythology — from the opening “Folkvangr” symbolism of a “fallen warriors’ journey to Freya’s domain,” to a finale that captures the realm of the dead.
“Folkvangr” compels from the get-go with soaring guitar lines, excelling into a steady percussive backbone as backing waves of distortion emit a hazy engrossment. A lusher guitar line emerges into the one-minute turn, exemplary of the act’s dynamic tonal range, evident throughout the album. The ensuing “Draugr” kickstarts with a grimier rock momentum, with rhythms and muscle-y guitar intensity providing immediate entrancement and into a hard-rocking vigor.
The EP’s dreamiest effort, “Lament” enamors in its gently sporadic guitars and twangy textural charm; its starry-eyed appeal drives into a rousing, more electric finale before another sleepy send-off. “Niflhel” closes the EP with a satiating return to the harder-rocking passion, closing off an EP with an impressively dynamic and melodic instrumental rock sound.
—
“Folkvangr” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
