In the fall of 2020, Swedish musician Jörgen “Jurg” Ström (ex-Skineater,
ex-Omnicidal, ex-Rimfrost)
set out to create a project that would embrace both the ferocity of black metal
and the beauty of atmospheric soundscapes. Inspired by long walks in the
forests of northern Sweden and guided by influences such as Alcest, Dissection,
and Katatonia, Jord
was born. What began as a solo journey quickly grew into a fully
realized band. After the debut “Sol” (2021) and its follow-up “Måne” (2022), Jord expanded with guitarist Sebastian “Hravn” Svedlund (Rimfrost, Omnicidal,
Sister Sin) and drummer Stefan “Jansson” Jansson (Omnicidal,
ex-Devilicious). Their third release
“Tundra” (2023), recorded at Studio Soundport with
producer Micke Andersson, received
international acclaim and established Jord as
one of the most exciting new names in the Scandinavian scene. And now in 2025, Jord present their fourth chapter “Emellan
Träden”.
“Emellan Träden” carries forward the elements that have defined Jord’s sound – the piercing intensity of black metal, sweeping blackgaze atmospheres, and a deep connection to northern landscapes. The album unfolds with force and serenity, weaving aggressive tremolo riffs, cold melodic passages, and moments where folk-inspired melodies open a path toward something more contemplative. The balance between harsh and soaring vocals, supported by rich layers of guitars and commanding drumming, makes the songs feel like vast soundscapes, each reflecting the shifting seasons and moods of the forest.
Producer Micke Andersson once again plays a vital role in
shaping the sonic character of the album. The sound is expansive, keeping the
raw intensity intact. The interplay between the icy aggression and the
reflective, almost post-rock touches is especially striking, creating an album
that feels both massive and intimate. Tracks like “Hon Kallar” and “The Grave
And Chain” bring forth the band’s heavier edge, while others like “Dimma” and
“Vid Muren” reveal the atmospheric depth and melodic sensibility that Jord have
become known for.
At its heart, “Emellan Träden” feels like a journey into northern solitude – an exploration of light and shadow, silence and storm. It expands on the foundations Jord have been building since their formation, presenting an album that captures the essence of Scandinavian black metal while embracing a more modern, emotional dimension. For fans of Alcest, Vintersorg, Falkenbach, Katatonia, Anathema, and Russian Circles, this release offers a rewarding experience that lingers long after the final note fades.
Score: 8.5
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