Before heading into the review: First from the name, Tanùn, is the name of a real cave that dwells in the woods and mountains of my homeland, source of inspiration for our local folklore. The main theme is the revenge of nature upon mankind and against modern times, a return to old. I use our folklore from the Alps as metaphors to describe my surroundings and trying to keep that mystical and ancient aura. I describe dreams and mix them with real tales from the elder of my town, old stories and grotesque characters, and put into music. [Vèrfarkas]
The moment the listener hits the play button, they are welcomed by the opening track, Entering the Hive, which envelops them in a world of dripping water and pulsating tribal drums. This intense, moist ambiance wraps around them, seamlessly transitioning into the second track, Scales of the Dragon, and the subsequent four pieces. Together, they embark on a sonic adventure that infuses the listener’s heart and soul with music that is primal, swift, chilling, and fiercely aggressive, embodying the essence of old-school black metal.
Scales of the Dragon is a captivating twenty-five-minute journey, woven through six powerful tracks that exude strength, rawness, and a wickedly nostalgic vibe. This artistic gem is a forbidden fruit, brought to life by a skilled display of devilmanship that conjures a rich tapestry of dark ambiance. The intricate instrumental compositions and arrangements invite listeners into a realm of deep melancholy and thoughtful reflection.
Tanun‘s album Scales of the Dragon delivers a striking and immersive auditory journey. Comprising just six tracks, this collection is carefully crafted, showcasing a seamless arrangement that captivates the listener. Each song presents an instrumental onslaught that resonates deeply, with Vèrfarkas leading the charge through dissonant, tremolo-picked riffs intertwined with haunting melodies. The bass lines rumble beneath, creating a solid foundation, while Vèrfarkas also lends his voice and synth work, delivering lyrics that slice through the air with the ferocity of a dragon. The synth elements infuse the music with an ethereal quality, evoking a sense of grandeur and mystique.
In this dynamic soundscape, the drumming of Okrist propels the music with relentless energy, adding an aggressive edge that drives the compositions forward. The structure of the album evokes a vibe reminiscent of the Norwegian black metal band Satyricon, blending raw intensity with intricate musicality. The production quality is nothing short of exceptional, capturing every nuance of the sound with precision, (“first production of the project, an EP to collect early songs. Scales of the Dragon was recorded at ‘The Lair,’ acoustic guitars and some vocals inside the real Tanun cave.” [Tanun]).
Striking a balance between modern clarity and vintage essence, ensuring that each note resonates with a cold, raw authenticity. Recording in an actual cave further enriches the production, composition, and overall musical experience with an added layer of depth and chilliness. Personally, I believe that recording in such a setting infuses the music with an element of grandeur and enchantment, reminiscent of the Dungeon Synth genre. From the moment the first track begins until the final note fades away, listeners are enveloped in a rich tapestry of sound that lingers long after the music stops.
Tanun‘s album Scales of the Dragon emerges as a formidable, chilling, and unrefined offering that resonates deeply with enthusiasts of old-school and Italian-black metal. Its raw energy and powerful soundscape create an immersive experience that captivates listeners, drawing them into a world where darkness reigns supreme.
As the final track, “Still Standing,” comes to a haunting conclusion, the last echoes linger in the shadows, leaving a profound impact. We want to give a shoutout to Tanun for letting us review their album Scales of the Dragon. Now, we are going to conclude the review by talking about the final three sins and concluding the review.
