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For over 25 years, Sargeist—helmed by former Horna guitarist and songwriter Shatraug, arguably the most prolific metal musician of his generation—have stood at the forefront of Finland’s ever-fertile black metal scene. Alongside Horna, Sargeist can rightly be considered one of the most influential bands from that scene, which in turn has inspired countless others across the globe throughout this millennium.
As with 2018’s pivotal Unbound—which marked the arrival of former Nightbringer/Demoncy guitarist VJS—Flame Within Flame introduces yet another shift in the lineup. Notably, Spellgoth, longtime frontman for Horna, joins on bass, while drums are handled by the prolific Nur-i-siyah, known for his work with Nawaharjan and Decapitated Christ, among others. And though the band’s “classic” lineup—featuring longstanding co-conspirators Torog (vocals) and Horns (drums)—set a high standard, Shatraug and company march forward undeterred, if not more invigorated than ever.
Indeed, Flame Within Flame is aptly titled: the spirit of Sargeist remains inextinguishable and unquenchable, seemingly limitless in its inspiration, yet always honed with DEADLY precision. From the album’s first moments, the sound is unmistakably classic Sargeist—burning with desperation and darkness. But as one delves deeper into its shimmering, icy textures, a subtle melancholy begins to emerge in the riffcraft of Shatraug and VJS. The result is arguably the band’s most atmospheric work to date, aided by a production that’s both spacious and immediate.
Crucially, Flame Within Flame also marks the return of Shatraug on vocals—something not heard since the earliest Sargeist demos. This return lends an added layer of intensity to an already potent work.
So return—once more—to misery and comfort, through Flame Within Flame.
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