Mount Eerie – Wind’s Poem

Sure, hipsters of all shapes and sizes are flocking towards Wolves in the Throne Room, and I think it’s great. But Wind’s Poem is the first time I’ve really heard black metal and indie brought together. It’s not a consistent thing, but it definitely comes in there; the opener “Wind’s Dark Poem” has a healthy dose. This isn’t just a mash-up of styles, though. Whatever black metal influences are here are definitely played for atmosphere and it’s all subservient to Phil Elverum’s (formerly the Microphones) inherent indie folkiness; Wolfmangler-like thrashiness is thrown under the contemplative singer-songwriter bus. Elverum’s no crooner but no screecher. His voice has a sweet simplicity that lets it float perfectly among the dreamy substance of the instrumentation. And if you’re not interested in that craziness, there’s always the softer moments, like serene but stormy “Summons.” I can’t decide whether I prefer the side that goes towards the black noise or away from it, but I suppose it doesn’t really matter because it’s great from top to bottom. Definitely recommended.

Check it: ‘Wind’s Dark Poem’
Buy it: Amazon (mp3)
Check him: P.W. Elverum & Sun

Upon reflection, the Wolfmangler bit may be a little overzealous.