Review Summary: Hvis Lyset Tar Oss (English: “If The Light Takes Us) is a solo project by Varg Vikernes and a black metal classic. It tells a dark, nihilistic story and it uses all the trademark elements of the genre at their finest.
Have you ever wondered what a tortured wretch of society is, what does he think of his future, friends, family and purpose? No? Have no fear, Hvis Lyset Tar Oss is here to educate you, using guitars whose sound resembles a dentist drilling your tooth, a vocal equivalent to your voice when you are getting sutured in full consciousness and a keyboard as the only source of melody.
DESCRIPTION
Hvis Lyset Tar Oss is a losing battle against the purpose of life, the struggle starts off raw and painful, probably symbolizing that Varg can’t recall when his fight begun. Through painful, but beautifully melancholic riffs, each heavier than its predecessor we find out about his pain and frustration. The album ends with Tomhet (Emptiness), a song without any more guitars or scary grunts. This song has a harsh first part, and although its morbid character is not as intimidating as the previous songs, a certain weight upon the listener soul still remains. In the duration of this track, a weight is gradually lifted from your soul, representing serenity in a meaningless existence.
VALUE
Hvis Lyset Tar Oss is one of the most important pieces for black metal for a lot of reasons, Varg’s idea that albums should be stories is executed flawlessly, any other track order for this album would not work! The hideous, hateful screams are an innovative way to express resentment and they make Burzum distinctive from any other musical project ever. The synthesizer over the rambling guitar noise masterfully creates a forlorn atmosphere in a way foreign to any other black metal bands. But the cherry on the cake (more like the last nail in the coffin) is definitely the last track, Tomhet, its style is almost abandoned by all musicians since the classical era, it has an unblemished gradation and it completely changes your reflection on the author’s state of mind.
NOTES
Varg Vikernes dedicated this album to Fenriz of Darkthrone. Varg is a former member of the infamous black metal act, Mayhem and he holds anti-religious / anti-capitalist beliefs. He is also a convicted church burner and murderer. Some of his influences include Kraftwerk, Iron Maiden, Tschaikowsky, Dead Can Dance, Celtic Frost and Bathory.
