Review AVATAR “Don’t Go In the Forest”

The Swedish metal band Avatar formed at the beginning of the new millennium and quickly became one of the most influential bands of the decade. Their debut album, “Thoughts of No Tomorrow”, created a buzz in their home country of Sweden, and it was their move to Entertainment One that allowed them to reach a wider fanbase.

“Hail the Apocalypse” was the band’s fifth album and the springboard to an impressive career, which continues to this day with their latest release, “Don’t Go In the Forest”. Timed perfectly for release on Halloween, the new album showcases the full spectrum of Avatar’s musical journey. It’s not just the music that makes Avatar special, though. It’s also the masquerade that stands out. They are not the first band to use such a gimmick, but in this case it completes the picture perfectly.

Those who are familiar with the band know what to expect, as Avatar continues with their trademark sound. This means that “Don’t Go In the Forest” also features an exciting mix of different styles and influences. Take “In the Airwaves” as an example. It kicks off with a roaring riff and fierce vocals. It’s a melodic death metal-rooted beginning that blows you away. Combined with a hard-hitting rhythm, the song becomes aggressive, with a melodic chorus providing a counterbalance to the immense heaviness.

The opener, “Tonight We Must Be Warriors”, is totally different. The first song on the album is a melodic masterpiece with a whistling intro, while “Captain Goat” blends a shanty vibe with heavy guitar riffs. The first three songs demonstrate the versatility that is taken to the next level with the catchy “Don’t Go In the Forest”.

“Abduction Song” brings back the furious death metal fascination, as the song is an uncompromising blast with some extra twists. What’s missing? Indeed, a ballad: “Howling at the Waves” is the emotive element of “Don’t Go Through the Forest”. The latter showcases the variety of Johannes Eckerström’s vocal range. He can go for clean, melodic vocals as well as barking death metal grunts, and what could easily end up as a fragmented sound experience is, in the end, a musical kaleidoscope in which all the pieces together create the bigger picture. A creepiness runs through each of the songs, acting as an atmospheric bond that connects them. “Magic Lantern” is the album’s finale, blending a Beatles-esque framework with eerie rock and metal outbursts. This again demonstrates Avatar’s musical non-conformity.

“Don’t Go In the Forest” is an album that blossoms immediately while also providing passion for detail. It’s the little effects and twists that ensure lasting enjoyment for listeners. There is always something new to discover, and the subtle eeriness that characterises the album is more reminiscent of Halloween than any of those clownery parties.