Ungoliath, which emerged from the mists of metal music in 2002, is an enigmatic band that balances evocative melodies against mystical instrumentation in a singular soundscape. The founder Bane leads Ungoliath with all instruments and vocals, forming haunting pieces that lead listeners to this magical yet turbulent world that has so long fascinated fans.
It is time now, within the borders of Tendalied, that Ungoliath returns with their latest single, “Stormbound Elegy.” The track is a bold step forward, as it retains the band’s trademark black metal fury and rock-inspired melodicism while furthering new emotional terrain.
“Stormbound Elegy” narrates the loneliness of determination one experiences trying to make it through the most severe tempests life throws in their way.
A sharp blast pierces open the song with a scorching trill, as if the protagonist is fighting against the overwhelming forces of nature and one’s inner self. As the track builds in intensity, with frantic time signature changes and fierce tremolo picking, it becomes straightforward that this is the feeling of the band fully merging into the song. Wafting layers of drums and clean electric guitar weave a complex melody, placing the viewer’s attention on the production.
“Stormbound Elegy” finds Ungoliath pushing their 90s black metal roots into the consumption of new territories. Symphonic string arrangements add to the emotional depth by incorporating more of them into their blazing riffs and pummeling rhythms. Likewise, the vocals veer from screams into ethereal cleans that match the depth of feeling the track tries to convey. It’s a technical achievement that should please any kind of metal fan.
The single follows in the Ungoliath tradition of weaving dark and evocative tales from Tendalied, where magic and elemental forces are marshaled just as turbulently as an individual’s emotions and experiences. “Stormbound Elegy” transmutes a physical storm into a metaphor for battling the deepest wounds in life. While it no doubt is anchored in darkness, it reaches out with a touching reminder that even on the solitary nights of our souls, hope, and redemption may yet be found.
I was fully engulfed from the first second to the last, enjoying this brilliant single immensely. Put simply, “Stormbound Elegy” catches Ungoliath at maturity, unlike any other force known in fantasy-inspired metal. I wholeheartedly recommend “Stormbound Elegy” to fans of moving metal that combines epic atmospheres with a visceral feeling. Ungoliath’s latest is bound to stir listeners for years to come. With its return, Ungoliath could not strike at a more opportune or triumphant moment.
