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The early ‘90s Norwegian black metal band Tulus, formed in 1991, has long held a cult status in the underground scene. Now, their classic 1996 debut album is being resurrected with a long-awaited limited vinyl reissue! Soulseller Records proudly presents this special edition, pressed on ultra-clear vinyl and limited to just 500 copies. This release features a double-sided inner sleeve and includes the 1991 Portastudio Recording and Samlerens Kammer demo as bonus material—17 tracks of pure black energy!
Tulus' Pure Black Energy stands as an unsung gem in the Norwegian black metal underground. Released in 1996, this debut album may not have achieved the widespread recognition of its peers, but it remains a compelling listen, embodying a raw, unfiltered essence that speaks to the band's sincerity. Free from excessive embellishments, Pure Black Energy strips black metal down to its core, relying on an unpretentious mix of aggressive riffing, unrelenting percussion, and an eerily organic atmosphere.
Sonically, the album leans into an unpolished, immediate production style that places the listener right in the midst of the chaos. Unlike the cavernous reverb of early Darkthrone or the theatrical grandeur of later Satyricon, Tulus opts for a close, dry mix that enhances the intensity of each track. The guitars deliver an energetic barrage of tremolo-picked riffs, interspersed with moments of punk-infused galloping rhythms that lend a unique cadence to the album. Beneath the tremolo storms, bass lines emerge with surprising clarity, adding unexpected melody and a touch of mournful atmosphere to the controlled aggression.
Tracks such as Kaldt highlight Tulus’ ability to weave deceptively simple yet deeply evocative compositions. A stark bass motif transitions into bleak string arrangements, shifting the mood from outright fury to something eerily melancholic. The band's ability to balance aggression with subtle melodic flourishes sets them apart from many of their contemporaries, creating a listening experience that remains engaging despite its seemingly straightforward approach.
While Pure Black Energy may not have the high drama or commercial breakthrough of some of its Norwegian counterparts, it exudes an undeniable authenticity. There is no pretense here—only a band fully committed to their craft, channeling raw emotion through their instruments with an almost primitive conviction. More than two decades later, its unrefined yet calculated approach still holds weight, making it a hidden treasure for those willing to dig beyond the usual black metal canon.
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