Emperor - Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk (2004 Reissue) (CD)

Review

Once reunited, the guitarists penned an LP that retained its predecessor's grandiose atmosphere but added greater focus and darker textures that cast long shadows. Most impressive is how Ihsahn's neoclassical ambitions became more apparent, with theatrical warblings about Satanism and aggressive keyboard flourishes. Ethereal atmospherics soar over "The Loss and Curse of Reverence," enmeshing themselves with his harsh vocals and drummer Trym's incessant blastbeats. - Rolling Stone 5/5