The word epic is thrown around a lot these days. This common usage threatens to taint and cheapen what it really means to be epic. Here are five songs that embody the word epic in its truest sense, through length, dynamics, and sonic storytelling.
5.
"Capitel V: Bergtatt - Ind i Fjeldkamrene" by Ulver
Even the name of this song is long. The acoustic elements enhance the fable-like quality of this eight minute journey through the last chapter of Ulver's Bergtatt, or Taken into the Mountain.
4. "With Strength I Burn" by Emperor
A dynamic adventure filled with punishing riffs and a good mix of harsh and clean vocals.
3. "Svarte Vidder" by Enslaved
As I may have mentioned before, the opening of this song screams epic. The steady-building melody, augmented by choral synths, readies the listener for deep travels through Norse lore.
2. "Det Som En Gang Var" by Burzum
At 14 minutes and 22 seconds, this song captures the essence of epic. Slowly building black metal riffage combines with enchanting atmospherics to create a world apart.
1. "A Fine Day To Die" by Bathory
I had to go with Bathory on this one. The name says it all. Get ready for a ride through the age of the Vikings.
So, set aside an hour on a rainy day and listen to all five of these epic pieces. You may not come back the same.
Just a quick note: this installment concludes the black metal arc of Metal Mondays. In addition, I may take a break from Metal Mondays for a brief period, but stay tuned for more top 5's in the not-so-distant future.
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