Black metal has numerous bands that adhere to an all-viciousness-all-the-time policy, but there are also the black metal bands that offer something more nuanced and musical; clearly fall into the latter category. , 's second album, is a folk-influenced black metal recording that does not govern by brute force alone, and if one is looking for nuance, there is plenty of it to be found on melodic tracks such as and But that is not to say that this 2010 release caters to mainstream tastes; will never be mistaken for , and lead singer 's abrasive rasp vocals aren't exactly mainstream. Rather, (a British band in a field dominated by Scandinavians) thrive on an appealing blend of melody, harmony, and metallic aggression. Both are important parts of the equation for , whose lyrics deal with ancient Anglo Saxon mythology (in fact, the band's name means October in Old English). European folk is a prominent influence on this 68-minute CD; aren't quite a folk metal band in the way that , and are folk-metal bands, but they aren't shy about incorporating traditional European folk influences, and that Euro-folk influence only enhances the musicality that they have to offer. Of course, black metal purists are unlikely to become fans; what admirers of melodic black metal consider nuanced and intricate is watered down in the minds of black metal purists. But it's doubtful that 's members are going to lose any sleep over anything the purists have to say about , which is well worth checking out if one appreciates black metal's more musical side. ~ Alex Henderson