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Nøkken’s solo project, Is, continues to evolve, challenging listeners’ expectations with its second full-length release, Into My Own. Departing from the windswept, lo-fi atmospheric black metal of its debut, this album ventures boldly into the melancholic realms of doom/death, showcasing a remarkable shift in style. Released by Wolfspell Records, Into My Own carves a distinct path through the dense landscape of heavy music, offering a collection that resonates with emotional depth and polished musicianship.
From the very first notes of "Where It Began," it’s evident that Nøkken has embraced a heavier, more melodic approach. The track unfolds with a blend of sorrowful melodies, layered instrumentation, and a dynamic interplay of growled and clean vocals. The shift in vocal delivery—deep and resonant, at times reminiscent of funeral doom—adds a striking contrast to the crystalline production and intricate arrangements. Tracks like the title piece and “To the Sun” embody this transformation, with plodding, crushing riffs balanced by atmospheric passages and introspective clean guitar interludes.
The album’s greatest strength lies in its emotional resonance. Each song is steeped in melancholy, weaving together themes of loss, reflection, and resilience. The occasional jazzy drumming and post-metal nuances add unexpected textures, making Into My Own feel like a journey as much as an album. While the earlier tracks bristle with energy and tight songwriting, the latter half leans more heavily into atmospheric experimentation, sometimes sacrificing focus for mood.
Though its ties to black metal have all but dissolved, Into My Own proves Nøkken’s versatility as a composer. The album ventures into accessible, doom-laden territories without losing its underground charm. For fans of melancholic metal who value emotional depth over relentless aggression, Into My Own offers a rewarding listen. Highlights like "Where It Began" and "To the Sun" ensure the album leaves a lasting impression, even as it ventures into softer, more introspective terrain.
In Into My Own, Is delivers a work that is as transformative as it is ambitious, embracing new influences while retaining a core sense of authenticity. It’s a record that marks growth—not just in sound, but in the emotional landscapes Nøkken dares to explore.
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