Reviews for Borknagar - The Archaic Course:
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the best viking metal album out there. this aint got the speed of enslaved but just makes up for it by the quallity of this recording. i got this nicked and bought the same copy at my local record shop in the second hand section i have bought the same record twice and its worth every penny and more

Review by: unicron



Borknagar - The Archaic Course

Vortex, now in Dimmu Borgir as bassist and backing vocalist, played three years in Borknagar. During that period, they recorded and released two records "The Archaic Course" and "Quintessence". As for their (again) new style containing strong influences of viking metal, it's hard to believe that the same man behind "Borknagar" and "The Olden Domain" is responsible of this mess.

It's also hard to believe that Vortex hasn't made good out of this devastating tragedy. Eight songs and 38 minutes is a long time of misery. With only two decent songs ("Oceans Rise!" and "The Black Token") this record doesn't redempt the promise that was kind of 'held' in Öystein's previous work. "The Black Token" interests me because of Vortex's high vocal capacity, which he's showing off in that song. "Oceans Rise!" has the melody I like.

One of the biggest dissappointments in metal. I suggest that you try out some "The Olden Domain" again. Skip this, but if you like Enslaved, then this is your choice. Don't expect any recommendations from me.

Rating: 1,5 out of 5

Review by: Punisher



I don't agree with Punisher. This albums sounds inferior to "the Olden Domain" at first, and it's hard to find anything of interest. I was really disappointed at first. I gave it a couple of listens, and then put it away for a couple of weeks, before I listened to it again. It's really weird, but this time I really loved it. The muddy production makes it hard to discern it's qualities, but it sticks to your mind anyway, and that makes you listen to this album over and over again. You just get addicted to this album. I have had several hundred of listens to this album, and I'm still not tired of it. It's weird, because the album doesn't have any real standout songs (besides the live friendly Ocean's Rise). My only complaint about this album is that Simen Hæstnes' vocals are too far behind in the mix, and makes it hard to discern what he is saying (impossible on a cheap stereo). Nevertheless, hard to get into, but when you do, you will be rewarded! In my eyes it's the best album from the early era of Borknagar.

Review by: KarmaCop



As i said in my past review of the self titled album, Borknagar can do no wrong and again they proved this.Not as atmospheric as the debut but it makes up for it with melody and the use of clean vocals(Ad Noctum being the best example). Vortex takes charge on vocals on this album and does a great job of it his range is quite impressive. I wouldnt reccomend this as a first Borknagar Buy,But Buy it along the line its well worth it.

Review by: Vladtrovert



This album is almost perfect, but the high-pitched vocals just sound silly.

Review by: fundamentalist1981



As expected with the depart of Garm. I am disappointed. A couple good tracks but a whole lot of boring crap. Blame the new vocalist. He's ok put pales in comparison. Good effort but a huge letdown.

Review by: shanewick



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