It has been two years since the last Withershin release, and the band has managed to present us with a three song EP entitled The Hungering Void. While this release definitely feels like something to fill the "hungering void" for their fans, it's still a solid Black Metal effort that incorporates a nice hint of Death Metal that doesn't necessarily overpower the release. However, does the music on this EP stand a chance in this slowly growing style, and furthermore, is it really even worth the time to track down?
The Hungering Void consists on only three songs total that push the release length just over fifteen minutes total, which is about where you would expect an EP to stand, but given that it's only three songs, one would wonder if the band is able to successfully craft long, creative songs that hook the listener and keep him or her attention from start to finish, or if the band stretches track lengths or adds filler material to the mix. While the first track, "Wherein I Exalt" is the only track that causes worry like this due to it's six and a half minute track length, the song is a nicely woven tapesty of Black and Death Metal that gets right in your face with it's hard hitting guitars and intense drumming, balancing the two styles well through the song until the end, where you are greeted with a rather long audio sample of a man sharpening a blade with whispers in the background as a man's scream ushers in the fantastic guitar solo that kicks off the title track "The Hungering Void". This little audio sample is the only thing on this release that would raise some concern about the release, as it does manage to build up a tense environment, but just feels like it could have been shorter then what it was.
While both of those tracks are great, the band's real Black Metal roots show through on the closing track, "Crossing the Threshold", which is another great song that goes at a much slower pace and feels a little more desolate compare to the other two, lacking any feeling of intimidation. While this is also a great song and stands out well, it seems to clash a bit on this release given the previous two songs. Other then that, there's nothing too original or different about the album, but the musicianship on these tracks are just great. One of the finer parts about this release is the bass tracks, both what the bass plays, as well as it's level. The bass is played with a little more of a twanging sound then some bands of this style would use, it's just loud enough that you can subtly hear it, and at certain moments of the song, when it's not really just playing the same chords as the guitar, it works out well and almost brings a whole other layer to the EP that greatly compliments the slightly melodic guitar work.
This follow up EP by Withershin actually proves to be a well constructed EP that is definitely worth a listen. If you haven't heard this band before, then The Hungering Void is a good place to start and to begin watching this band. It's obvious this band has what it takes to stand out in this style, so expect great things to come from this Swedish four piece. Hopefully the band will issue a new full-length soon, as this EP is just not enough and leaves you hungry for more.
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