Dimmu Borgir ‎"Eonian" CD

I’ve been following Dimmu Borgir since Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia. Puritanical and Death Cult Armageddon are two incredible albums they continue to stay in heavy rotation for me. In Sorte Diaboli had its moments but Abrahadabra lost my interest. Now finally comes Eonian after a long wait for new material.
Eonian might not grab you right away, but this albums is pretty solid and intricate when you listen a little more closely. The first track, The Unveiling, slows down midway to bring a huge and memorable chorus with a choir heard throughout a lot of the album. The song also introduces a beautifully eerie synthesizer tone which really ties the song together and is also heard on a few of the other songs. Some of the songs, such as Alpha Aeon Omega and Council of Wolves and Snakes also each feature a large choir chorus which are bold and fitting on their own, although initially a first time listener may dismiss it as following the same formula from the first track. The Empyrean Phoenix and I Am Sovereign have more familiar black metal moments. The overall mix on Puritanical and Death Cult were phenomenal under Fredrik Nordström’s production, particularly in Nicholas Barker’s drum tone. Dimmu has gone through some changes over the years in notable members and producers. The kick drums on Eonian are aren’t as punchy and clicky as on earlier releases, but they still sit well and the snare pushes through distinctly. The guitars sound tight and do not get too buried beneath the several other layers. The orchestral and choir parts are mixed in beautifully and the listening experience is not fatiguing despite so much going on at once.
Eonian still has all the elements of a classic Dimmu Borgir album, but this one is more refined and has more attention to detail. Each song takes you on a journey with many changes and surprises. Familiar black metal blast beats lead into detailed and beautifully scored orchestral passages. They have slowed their tempo on many parts, which may be off putting to many Dimmu fans. I was regrettably disappointed with Eonian on my first time casual playing through. However, this album demands repeated listens to really gain a full appreciation and now I have been playing it nonstop.

Official promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?...

Official promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?...

Sample: https://www.youtube.com/watch?...