(written by Islander)

We get a lot of first impressions of music before ever hearing a note. In the case of Gryla‘s second album, we see a primitive rendering of a naked Christ under the bleak light of a black sun, about to be stoned by angry men under the observation of a gnarly logo. We see the album’s name, The Redeemer’s Festering Carcass. We see a photo of the sneering performer, who appears just as angry as the assaulting figures in the cover art.

First impressions are followed by second impressions, the music itself. And even though you’ll have some idea of what’s coming if you’ve heard this Norwegian one-man band’s first album (2024’s Jaundiced Hag of the Wood), you’ll have a better idea from the song we’re premiering today — “Banners Soaked in Crimson Essence“. Continue reading »