American Black Metal Overlords WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM return with a new EP, “Crypt of Ancestral Knowledge.” The EP features four new tracks spanning the scope of WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM's cinematic black metal and dark acoustic folk, as well as two atmospheric industrial tracks that take the band into darker sonic territories. The EP has four songs. The opening tones of “Beholden to Clan” are thick and rich, tinged with symphonic elements, and there is an equal balance between the two primary sounds of Black Metal…anger and despair. The interlude has some harrowing elements, suspended in the air for what seems like days.

“Twin Mouthed Spring” is next. It has mostly somber and depressing tones, and it augmented with clean acoustic guitars at times. The vocals vary from gutturals to shrieks, and the guitar work is excellent. “Initiates of the White Heart” has a mysterious sound in the beginning, as the title suggests. The wolves are hidden behind the throne, growling and hungry, and waiting for their prey. The short “Crown of Stone” closes the album. Talk about tension…and beauty…this song has both, as well as grandiosity on a massive scale, to the point where the listener realizes there are no limitations, except the ones we put on ourselves.

Although only four songs long, WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM remind the listener that they have power, creativity, excitement, and a deep well of songwriting skills. They take advantage of pushing every boundary the genre has to offer, while staying true to their roots and the traditions of the genre, and prove that American Black Metal is just as vital as their overseas genre mates.