Review by Jack on June 7, 2004.

You have to admire the honesty of a band like Borknagar. With Epic they confirm that they are true to themselves and true to their fans. Recently there have been far too many bands that have cited ‘progression’ in moving forward, but what has really occurred has been ‘digression.’ These bands have take a left hand turn instead of the road that deviates a little, but still remains straight. Borknagar, on the other hand, have truly progressed in every sense of the word and their latest record in Epic is testament to this.

For fans of Empiricism, you are going to find great solace in Epic. Borknagar have not steered away from the progressive black metal formula that was found on Empiricism, but rather, they have refined and sharpened their interpretation of black metal. And let’s face it, Borknagar are a black metal band – you don’t want them to change into a completely different entity that is basically a shadow of what they once were.

However, without the radical deviation that some bands go through Borknagar are still going to be experiencing the problem in attracting new listeners who might not have been too fond of the band with their past outings. Basically, if you didn’t like Empiricism much you probably won’t find too much to crow about with Epic.

All things considered, Epic is a most welcome follow up from a band that realizes what their strengths are and does their best to stick to them. Borknagar have forged a record that will really appeal to their fans.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7
Atmosphere: 8
Production: 7
Originality: 7
Overall: 8

Rating: 7.4 out of 10

Review by Adam M on April 1, 2012.

Borknagar have returned for another Progressive and Folk laced release and a good one it is. There are numerous mood shifts that make this album constantly interesting at every corner. The combination of clean, melodic vocals with the occasional Black Metal rasp makes for an interesting concoction. At times, the band sounds like a pure Black Metal band and at others a more ballad driven atmospheric act. Regardless, the band sounds like they’re laying the foundation for ancient structures at almost every corner of this very strong effort.

The early portions of the release aren’t amazing, but a very strong start for the release in general. 'Frostrite' has more clean vocals than almost any song to be found and is one of the most memorable tracks as well. The release is littered with strong tracks though including a Metallica cover that is probably even superior to the original. In terms of innovation and depth, some of both can be found here. The band expands on the sound of their previous albums slightly, but really maintains what albums like personal favourite "Quintessence" great. The band is generally quite reliable and proves to be easily stronger than the related outfit Vintersorg on "Urd". In terms of musical performances, there is little to be faulted, but epic nature that they form together that is the most noteworthy aspect of this album.

Progressive, yet melodic, the album still doesn’t have quite as many stellar moments as something like "Axioma Ethica Odini" by Enslaved, but it’s only a small step below that. This album is very worthy to anyone that likes inventive and thoughtful music that is wrapped within a very structured framework. There anything overly complex on "Urd", but it is interesting enough to keep you constantly coming back for more.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 9
Innovation: 8
Overall: 8.5

Rating: 8.7 out of 10