"Svekkelse" is the sixth full-length album from the Trondheim based black metal band GJENDOD. It continues where the previous album "Livskramper" quit, but this time, the band has turned it all up a notch. The band never worked with their compositions with such an intensity before. The eight songs presented goes from epic to deranged, from technical to primitive, and from sheer passiveness to outraged despair. The lyrics are inspired by dark local lore and legends, both self-experienced and learned. The album has eight songs, and "Lykkens bortgang" is first. It comes out of the gate with a thick sound, but also audible, animated bass notes and some melody to go along with the aggression. The vocals have a bite to them, and there are also some subtle Folk elements.

"Maktens sodme" uses some uncharacteristic guitar progressions for Black Metal at times. The aggression and fuel are still there, loaded, and the vocals are filthy, but I love some of the variation shown so far. "Uten nade" is another aggressive song that has audible bass notes and clear production…two things you don't always hear in the genre. The half-steps of Black Metal are harrowing however, and the vocals remind you their teeth are sharp. "En staur I hjertet" is the longest song, at eight minutes. Besides some dexterous bass work, the sound is slow, and somber. It's also cold, like the Norwegian winters. Lead guitar breaks sing with emotion…and pain. "En elv av kjott" has a firmer sound and some more odd chord progressions. The vocals rage, echo with intensity, and speak of horrible things.

"Likvekkelsen" hears some of the chaos of the previous song retard to a slower, more powerful grind. A familiar Black Metal sound develops, as harrowing as lighting a church on fire and watching it burn. "Med fjell av ate" mixes in spoken words with the vocal screams, and it's a song with a burning pace and plenty of aggression. The song moves so quick, the vocals barely have a chance to catch up. "Den falske rate" is the final offering. It's another lengthy song with a slow build. The fire starts with just a few sparks and smolders at first, before it becomes a raging beast. Once it reaches the sky, there is no amount of water than can put it out. Overall, I enjoyed the album, and call it Black Metal with a twist…a welcomed twist of some odd chord progressions and animated bass notes that you don't often find in the genre. Come and take a peek into their world on "Svekkelse."