Review: DARKTHRONE – “Dark Thrones and Black Flags”

Darkthrone – “Dark Thrones and Black Flags” [Peaceville] … the infamous duo of Fenriz and Nocturno Culto return to deliver more “tr00” “kvlt” Norwegian Black Metal … well, sort of … this, their 13th album, is more in the tradition of 2007’s F.O.A.D., with heavy Punk and Trad Metal influences, plus it’s likewise graced with Dennis Dread’s artwork … while they may be looking backward as they write these new songs, one thing hasn’t changed:  grimy, uneven, low-fi production (depending on your viewpoint, this will either please or frustrate) … overall, it’s okay at face value, with a few memorable tracks to make you raise your fist and chant over a roaring campfire … the title track (8) is an instrumental … FCC OK … Try 1, 3, 4, 5, 7 … 2008Nov04

01. The Winds They Called The Dungeon Shaker
02. Oath Minus
03. Hiking Metal Punks
04. Blacksmith Of The North (Keep That Ancient Fire)
05. Norway In September
06. Grizzly Trade
07. Hanging Out In Haiger
08. Dark Thrones And Black Flags
09. Launchpad To Nothingness
10. Witch Ghetto