IHSAHN
DOM LAWSON
Pharos
CANDLELIGHT/SPINEFARM
Melodic magnificence from Norway’s chief maverick
Ihsahn dons his ‘mere mortal’ disguise
IF THE PURSUIT of beauty doesn’t seem to be a particularly metal occupation, it’s only because we spend so much time listening to music that revels in aggression, ugliness and darkness. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, of course, but if the steady rise of progressive ideals in heavy music proves anything, it’s that people genuinely do enjoy some light with their shade. Ihsahn knows this better than most, having amassed an extraordinary catalogue of solo albums over the last 15 years, every one of which has offered as much finesse, elegance and melodic refinement as it has riff-driven intensity. Pharos is undoubtedly the zenith of those more restrained musical urges, as Ihsahn explores the mellower, more overtly melodic side of his songwriting. It won’t surprise diehard supporters to learn that it’s absolutely glorious.