KHORS - Night Falls Onto The Fronts Of Ours (DIGIPAK CD)

Khors has long been a staple of the Ukrainian black metal scene, and with the release of their sixth album, Night Falls Onto The Fronts Of Ours, they've only solidified their standing. Led by Helg, who is also known for his contributions to other respected underground acts like Ygg and Ulvegr, the band presents an intricate balance of aggression and melody that defines their evolving sound.

Opening with a moody, slightly dissonant atmosphere, the album quickly shifts to more familiar melodic territory, with tracks like "No Oaths No Tears No Knees!" showcasing the band’s signature blend of stirring guitar riffs and epic, triumphant undertones. Throughout the record, moments of melancholy are seamlessly woven into their melodic approach, adding emotional depth without detracting from the overall intensity.

With Night Falls Onto The Fronts Of Ours, Khors revisits the darker, more aggressive style seen on 2012’s Wisdom Of Centuries, but now merges it with the more luminous and textured soundscapes introduced on 2006’s Cold. While the keyboards, once a prominent feature, have taken on a more subtle role compared to earlier releases like Return To Abandoned, they still provide essential layers of atmosphere, complementing the rich guitar work and further enhancing the immersive listening experience.

The album doesn’t rely solely on its atmospheric qualities, however. Tracks like "1664" deliver a heavier, more desolate sound, showcasing the band’s ability to tap into bleak, almost oppressive moods. Meanwhile, their progressive side shines through on "For The Last Time," a track that features complex arrangements and demonstrates how each instrument plays a vital role in the album’s overall dynamic.

While Night Falls Onto The Fronts Of Ours may not emphasize melody or heathen ambiance as strongly as some of their past releases, it remains a compelling and well-crafted album that offers something for both longtime fans and newer listeners. Khors continues to evolve, and this latest effort proves they are as captivating and relevant as ever.