Wolves In The Throne Room
The Globe, Cardiff
Thurs 28 June
Wolves In The Throne Room, one of the US’s metal scene’s most consistently fascinating acts, bring their terrifically named Invocation Of Lightning tour to Wales’ capital this summer. The Washington natives are touring in support of their sixth full-length, Thrice Woven: a ferocious return from an experimental, synth-heavy period, to the excoriating but atmospheric take on black metal that first propelled them to international recognition.
The band’s 2006 debut LP, Diadem Of 12 Stars, created waves by demonstrating an effective knack for hammering out the relentless, raw savagery of old-school black metal, while overlaying it with melodic, post-rock touches. It was a record that managed to perform the minor miracle of moving an already progressively-inclined genre still further forward, while maintaining a deep appeal to purists still craving the bludgeoning force that initially characterized black metal.
Both the expansive approach and the high esteem of critics and fans have been ever-presents in Wolves In The Throne Room’s 15-year career, along with an aesthetic which channels their deep relationship with their natural environment. This is reflected in song titles such as Woodland Cathedral and Bridge Of Leaves, and which is maintained on Thrice Woven – whether in the forest chorus that precedes album centrepiece Angrboda, or in the medieval-esque painting of an occult woodland ceremony that adorns the cover.
Tickets: £16. Info: 07590 471888 (HR)
photos VELEDA THORSSON