Vallendusk was one of the first atmospheric black metal bands to come out of Indonesia. They formed in 2011, just when the genre was starting to gain traction. I’ve been a fan of this band since 2012. Their first EP was rough around the edges, but their first full-length, Black Clouds Gathering, amazed me with its epic, melodic quality. Every album they have released since then has been incredible, and their latest, Heralds of Strife, is no exception.
This album proves that the band has become consistent. This makes even more sense when you realize that they’ve had the same lineup since their inception. The production still has that warm yet slightly cloudy quality that produces a grand and powerful atmosphere, as though one were climbing colossal mountains. The drumming is incredibly diverse, ranging from thunderous blast beats to rumbling double bass sections to galloping rhythms to complex mid-paced patterns and fills. The bass is quite high in the mix and makes the music sound bolder and deeper.
The vocals still consist of a harsh rasp that are given an ethereal quality by the production. The band then throws a curve ball by performing clean vocals on “Ethereal Echoes of Devotion”. The guitars are amazing as always. The tremolo riffs still express a plethora of emotions ranging from powerful and epic to dark and foreboding. They are technical, meticulously crafted, and are filled with splendid melodies. They even feel a bit folkish at times. The other riffs tell much the same story. Every single one helps to build a rich and majestic atmosphere that few other bands can match.
Once again, Vallendusk has produced an awesome album and reinforced their reputation as one of the Indonesian metal scene’s finest. Let their talent and consistency serve as inspiration for others, and may they continue to make amazing music long into the future.