When musicians evolve, it’s often a gamble. Do they lose what made them unique, or do they refine it into something even more compelling? Speglas’s Endarkenment, Being & Death lands firmly in the latter category, and it’s a masterclass in how to grow without sacrificing identity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the band manages to blend death and black metal with heavy metal in a way that feels both familiar and entirely new. Personally, I think this is where so many bands stumble—they either overcomplicate or dilute their sound. Speglas, however, strikes a balance that’s as rare as it is refreshing.
The Evolution of Sound: A Journey, Not a Destination
One thing that immediately stands out is the band’s lineage. Speglas isn’t just a random project; it’s an extension of the Morbus Chron universe, a group that’s been steadily evolving from classic death metal to something far more progressive. This isn’t just a stylistic shift—it’s a narrative of growth. What many people don’t realize is that this kind of evolution often mirrors the personal journeys of the musicians themselves. As they age, their tastes mature, and their music follows suit. Speglas feels like the culmination of years of experimentation, and it’s all the more rewarding for it.
The album’s sound is a tapestry of influences, but it’s the way they’re woven together that’s truly impressive. The Iron Maiden-esque guitar harmonies in tracks like “Dearth” and “Rage upon the Dying Fire” are a nod to classic metal, but they’re layered with blackened riffs and death metal growls. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a high-wire act—too much of one element could throw the whole thing off balance. Yet Speglas pulls it off with a confidence that’s almost unsettling.
The Human Element: What Makes This Album Resonate
What this really suggests is that Speglas isn’t just about technical prowess—it’s about emotion. The clean guitar parts in “Ailing” and the tremolo-heavy “Dies Mali” aren’t just sonic flourishes; they’re moments of vulnerability in an otherwise aggressive soundscape. This raises a deeper question: Can metal be both heavy and beautiful? Speglas answers with a resounding yes. The album’s softer moments don’t feel like concessions—they feel like necessary counterpoints, adding depth to the overall narrative.
Isak Rosemarin’s vocals are a standout here. His raspy growl is powerful but never overwhelming, and it’s a perfect match for the band’s dual-guitar approach. A detail that I find especially interesting is how his delivery feels warm, almost inviting, which is a rarity in a genre often defined by its cold, abrasive edge. It’s as if Speglas is saying, ‘Yes, this is metal, but it’s also human.’
Production: The Unsung Hero
From my perspective, the production on Endarkenment, Being & Death is where the album truly shines. Simon Söderberg’s work is impeccable, particularly in how he balances the drums and bass. These instruments often get lost in the mix, but here they’re front and center, adding a richness that elevates the entire experience. It’s a reminder that production isn’t just about clarity—it’s about creating a space where every element can breathe.
The Broader Implications: Where Does Speglas Fit?
This album isn’t just a standalone release; it’s part of a larger trend in metal. Bands like Tribulation and Chapel of Disease have been pushing similar boundaries, blending genres in ways that challenge traditional definitions. What’s interesting is how Speglas fits into this landscape. They’re not reinventing the wheel, but they’re refining it in a way that feels essential. In a genre often accused of stagnation, this is a breath of fresh air.
Final Thoughts: A Triumph of Balance
In my opinion, Endarkenment, Being & Death is a testament to what happens when musicians trust their instincts. It’s heavy without being oppressive, progressive without being pretentious, and emotional without being overwrought. Personally, I think it’s one of the strongest metal releases in recent memory, and it’s a reminder that evolution doesn’t have to mean leaving your roots behind.
What this album really suggests is that metal, at its best, is a conversation—between genres, between musicians, and between the music and its listeners. Speglas has something to say, and they’ve said it beautifully. If you’re someone who’s ever wondered where metal is headed, this is an album you need to hear. It’s not just a record; it’s a statement.
