ENSLAVED’S PROGGIEST MOMENTS SO FAR…

Convoys To noThingness

From Monumension

(2001)

The beginnings of prog stirrings are here. There’s a real sense of ominous introspection as the song builds to a climactic overload, yet it then moves into more eerily somnambulant scenery.

This shows a genuine desire to experiment.

The Crossing

From Below The Lights (2003)

A complex maze of torturous metallic passion coupled to a more dense and atmospheric appreciation that owes much to Van der

Graaf Generator. This is an agitating composition that never settles and is always challenging the listener to remain involved.

rooTs of The MounTain

From RIITIIR (2012) This is where the band displayed an authority so reminiscent of Opeth. There are sparks of the old Enslaved gruffness, but this is butted up against a colourful ambience that’s evocative yet also claustrophobic. There’s little doubt the band are revelling in their self-imposed artistic freedom.

saCred horse

From E (2017)

Folk essence meets psychedelia on a track that gives vent to Enslaved’s desire to push the envelope like never before. This is a stunning cognisance of the way in which nature should be allowed to develop without interference.

It’s the soundtrack to a symbiotic relationship between human and animal.

hiindsiighT

From E (2017)

This comes across as if the band have let their imaginations take over and spontaneously created a tapestry of sound. But underlying this is a distinct discipline. Enslaved display a penchant for what jamming on ideas can achieve, but always within a framework, albeit a flexible one. It’s the joy of artistry mapped out within the necessity of focus. MD