VINTER
Leonov have been releasing music at a glacial pace, their stately post-metal tending towards solid rather than stellar. Procession, however, sees the Norwegians carving out an album that possesses more grace –and more grit –than anything previous. After the Godspeed!-like blip of Rem the quintet enter a more individualistic space: stark, cinematic and seemingly informed by life in a land endlessly riven and reshaped by the whims of slowly shifting ice. While Leonov are adept at moving from faint flickers to hugely satisfying riff avalanches (check out the title track for proof) it’s in steady restraint and the slow release of tension where Procession’s strengths are really displayed. The propulsive pulse of Mesos, say, or closer Son, which hinges on the subtle ache of Tåran Reindal’s spectral, shimmering voice. ■■■■■■■
FOR FANS OF: Year Of No Light, Bedhead, Blodet
ALEX DELLER