It’s time to come clean. I’m a Saukkonen superfan. I think he’s Finland’s response to Dan Swanö, so you can imagine my level of respect for the man. Ever since I heard Deathstar Rising, I’ve enjoyed each one of his projects. However, I won’t lie, it’s been a while since Wolfheart blew me away (like making me so excited that I’d forget to take my meds). Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed almost everything this project has shown us, but I’ve been longing for some change. There’s so much more this formula has to offer. Can Draconian Darkness be the renewal the band needs?
Draconian Darkness takes off from where King of the North left. There are subtle “symphonic” arrangements across all the tracks. I was a bit skeptical at first, but eventually, they grew on me. As usual, cold and darkness are the main themes here. Sometimes I wish there was more thematic exploration, but if it’s not broken, why fix it? Saukkonen is the master of elegant simplicity, after all. However, I’ve always felt that of all his projects, Wolfheart was the most guitar-driven. Draconian Darkness is no exception to this tendency. The headbanging riffs continue to shine in the endless night, and not many things make me happier (though maybe free food does).
The cold and sharp riffs that pierce through your skin are present as usual. There’s also an enjoyable interplay between the harsh and clean vocals. Wolfheart has its own approach to MeloDeath. I’m aware that it can become a bit too self-referential (of self-indulgent), but nobody does it quite like this band. Tracks like “Burning Sky” and “Grave” are highlights that break a bit from the band’s mold, which we can all appreciate. Wouldn’t you love to see Wolfheart go Prog, Be’lakor style, or is it just me?
They definitely hit the gym
Now, about the things I didn’t like so much. I’ve already hinted at it before, but this is the formula for Finnish MeloDeath. I’d love to hear these elements applied to a different theme. How many albums can we digest about the dark and the cold? I mean, in most places, there’s summer too! Then there’s the production issues. The album is a bit too compressed for my taste, especially during the blast beat sections. It takes away texture from such cool riffs. I’d just like more room to breathe. Though I believe this won’t deter most fans from enjoying the Draconian.
Draconian Darkness is what you’ve come to expect from Wolfheart. It’s another fine album from one of the most consistent acts out there, but don’t expect big surprises. This is the musical equivalent of a Nokia phone. It’s not cute or colorful, but it sure is durable and can be used as a weapon. It’s not changing the style, but it’ll get the job done like a complete professional. Yes, that’s the right way to describe this album: a professional release (unlike your “dark synth” school project).
Label: Reigning Phoenix Music
Release date: 6 September, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/WolfheartRealm
Country: Finland
Score: More cold and more darkness, so 3.0/5.0? Quit the scores people!
Metal Eclipse Reviews 