Svölk – Svölk ‘Em All (2011)

Playing something called “Bear Metal”, according to what the band says, Svölk delivers us their latest full-length release “Svölk ‘ Em All”. This release is basically their 2009 self-released debut but with three new songs. Through 12 tracks the band delivers a heavy dosage of Stoner Rock/Metal elements with some ‘Nordic redneck attitude’, but it still sounds just like any other Stoner Rock album.

With all the hundreds of Stoner Rock/ Metal albums that come out almost each day, it is very hard to keep listening to the same stuff and like all of it. While Svölk is undoubtedly a solid band and the songs in this album are pretty good, they can’t avoid sounding just like everybody else. The best thing we found about this release is that the band does not try to play (too much) the ‘Southern’ vibe in their music, but this might be what is coming in the future of this band.

Opening with “52”, the band shows their riffing ability immediately and creates a very catchy melody as well. The bass guitar does a great job in keeping things pounding, and the vocals are pretty decent but we still think that The New Black and Chrome Division still do a better job in sounding ‘authentic’. Tracks come and go, all with their unique and interesting melodies but still sounding the same in the Stoner Metal universe.

Before we try to describe all tracks and how they are all very similar, we will just say that for Stoner Rock/Metal fans this release will be pure gold. The guitars are very crunchy and catchy, the vocals are above average, and the overall mood of this album is very festive. While we might not find this album completely amusing, we are pretty sure that most Stoner Rockers will appreciate it considerably more than us.

Release: November 22nd, 2011

Country: Norway