Reminiscing, on the period when Scandic metal changed the music world.

In a trip down memory lane for me today, I saw that djmartin linked to a "classic album" review of the album "Tears Laid In Earth" by one of my favourite bands of the 90's.

I still vividly recall discovering both Ulver and The Third and the Mortal (in retrospect this was really the first flowering for me of my interest in specifically Norwegian metal) one Saturday in May 1995, whilst I was working in Perth.

Whilst I disagree with the concept of the music industry constantly reducing the nostaligia timeframe to target 20 somethings with disposable income before they commit to the mortgage path, I can completely concur with the comments made regarding this album and it's impact, influence and the snapshot of a scene in the process of development.

Personally, as much as I adore Kari's voice on this release and the album is fantastic, I strongly prefer the third album by the Third and the Mortal, "In This Room" which, despite lacking Kari's exemplary vocals, I think it showcased something equally unique and was the pinnacle for this act, who I believe technically are still active.

At a party on Saturday night there was lots of talk about the seminal period of Norsk metal, I was glad to hear universal recognition of this act amongst discussion of other classic works like Emperor's In the Nightside Eclipse.