England is not exactly known for its black metal, and Christian bands (like Wintersoul) rarely get it right, but this is convincing stuff. Maybe that's because of all the winter, frost, and ice references, but more likely it's because they're talented.
The sound is mostly a mix of two parts Behemoth
The only time they let up slightly is on "Dark Winter Skies", and that is seemingly to introduce a very Celtic Frost
MetalFRO noted some keyboards--outside the intro and outro, I didn't really notice them, so that's a very good sign.
My only complaint, really, is the production on the female vocals. They should be elevating this from "very good" to "freaking amazing", but they don't quite do that. They seem like they were mixed in as an afterthought, and they got lazy with it. They turned everything else down when her voice comes in, like a radio DJ talking before the lyrics start. The problem is most pronounced on "Shades of Terror".
Highlights include "Dawn of Ice Hearts", "Shadows of Death", and "Blood on Ice". As far as song titles go, they're pretty much one-note, but it's a good note.
The Verdict: Aside from poor production on the female vocals, everything about this is excellent, despite the unlikely source. It's going to give Norma Jean
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