CD Darkthrone – Ravishing Grimness

Originally released in 1999, Ravishing Grimness captures Norwegian legends Darkthrone at a pivotal moment in their evolution. This 2011 Peaceville reissue presents a more refined, yet undeniably heavy take on the duo’s signature black metal sound. Moving beyond the "Unholy Trinity" era, this album showcases the band pushing their boundaries with longer, epic compositions and a production style that allows the guitars to grind with immense weight.

The album is characterized by a "strategic" blend of abrasive melodies and hypnotic, Celtic Frost-influenced riffing. It features standout tracks like the rampaging "The Beast," the atmospheric title track, and the ferocious closer "To the Death"—a blast of icy grimness that incorporates a distinct Slayer-esque thrash influence. Throughout the record, Fenriz’s metaphorical and violent lyricism is delivered through commanding, gruff vocals, while Nocturno Culto’s guitar work weaves a dark, subtle cloak of sound.

This special 2-CD reissue includes:

• Disc 1: The classic studio album, featuring "The Beast" and "Ravishing Grimness."
• Disc 2 (Commentary Disc): A rare and candid conversation between Fenriz and Nocturno Culto. Listeners gain unique insight into the recording process as the duo discusses their experiences and the different directions they were exploring at the turn of the millennium.

Whether you are a completist or a newcomer, this reissue is an essential document of one of black metal's most influential acts transition into a new era of darkness.