Review by Luka on August 27, 2001.

The complexity and mystery regarding the early roots of the Norwegian black metal scene is somewhat clarified by this significant album. Oystein Aarseth (Euronymous) and Paul Thind (Typhon) were planning to introduce these black metal bands to the world with "Nordic Metal" long before the former was killed by Varg, and not only is this a testament to the early seeds of black metal, it is a true tribute to Euronymous, featuring the early work of giants-to-be like Emperor, Dissection, Marduk, Arcturus, and Enslaved. I would have liked to see some Satyricon and Ulver here as well, where were they at this time?

Even this early in the scene, it was obvious who the real talents were in black metal. The two songs from Dissection and Emperor blow the rest of the album away. Dissection’s 'Where Dead Angels Lie' is still my favorite black metal song ever. Honorable mentions definitely go for Arcturus and Marduk. The former for it’s innovative, atmospheric creation, and the Marduk for creating the true black metal sound of speed, chaos, and destruction that has yet to be matched. The rest range from horrible and talentless (Ophthalamia) to adequate (Euronymous’ own-Mayhem). It’s all in the same genre, but definitely not in the same range of quality.

This compilation doesn’t seem nearly as concerned with music as with promoting Euronymous’ ideals. The Anti-Christian philosophy is pushed to extremes here, not Norse Paganism which Varg represented. Anti-Varg slogans and over-biased ideas in the booklet are just insane, on the actual CD is a crossed picture of Varg, and any artist who wrote in the booklet made sure to say "Fuck Cunt Khrisna!". I’ll admit I don’t like Burzum but a good deal of bands here are just as bad.

Bottom Line: It may not be the best stuff but you need to have this if you call yourself any kind of black metal fan.

Rating: 6 out of 10