Lots of bands are evoking the shiny-happy indie rock sounds of the 80s and 90s. The other side of that were sludgemeisters like Melvins, Swans, Skin Yard, etc. Årabrot has been trying to bring those disparate sounds together for two decades.

Årabrot Norwegian Gothic (Pelagic Records)

Far more upbeat and melodic than yer average sludge, these Norwegians are also far too atonal to really fit the cheerier side of things. And this stuff really sounds good when played loud.

After churning through members for some time, this version of Årabrot is founder Kjetil Nernes and Karin Park. The sound hasn't changed nearly as much as the lineup. These are anthemic songs of doom that manage to soar without leaving the ground.

Probably not as innovative as the earlier work, but possibly more vital these days when so few bands are even trying to sound like this. Check it out. If the fit is good, then wander through the back catalog. For those who like their darkness shiny.

Jon Worley