Mormieben – ‘De Charybde en Scylla’ (2022)
Rating: 7/10
Release: 3 September 2022
Label: Independent
In addition to aggressiveness, power, melody and wild rhythms, there is another element that should prevail in all styles of folk metal: fun!
From the happiest Scandinavian folk metal to edgy black folk, there should always be a sense of fun and passion – otherwise, what’s the point? Hailing from the famous (for Hellfest) town of Clisson, the crew of MORMIEBEN is the absolute embodiment of this concept.
They decline folk metal on the theme of pirates with choruses, lyrics and instrumentalization to match. Visually, they completely immerse themselves in the concept.
As a preamble, take a look at the cover, then consult the line-up and finally listen to the texts for the Francophiles (which are in French). Musically, it is therefore a mix between moments of everything that is done in the sphere, even if the sextet makes every effort to no longer work in the shadow of the giants of the specialty.
Under the folk, guitars, bass and drums form a really efficient rhythm section. When the singing joins these instruments, it is surprisingly hard-hitting and strangely moving.
The singer carries all the melodies with accuracy – while maintaining the sense of controlled chaos. It is after several listenings that the music of MORMIEBEN gives its full potential and it is therefore strongly advised to listen to it at will without moderation.
As the second effort from an unsigned band, “De Charybde en Scylla” is really interesting. Relentlessly fun and endearing, I hope these Loire Atlantique sailors will continue to tour extensively so that I can attend their live shows.
Until then, set sail on Gerber (which is the name of their claimed home port) for a voyage in search of a rum fountain!
Hoist the sails, the ocean is reaching out to us!
Tracklist
- Gerber
- Nouveaux horizons
- Poursuite en Atlantique
- Encalminés
- Hawaï : l’héritage de James Cook
- Japon : le règne de Wata Tsu Mi
- Singapour : l’odeur de la poudre
- Indes : Jours d’opulence
- Libertalia
- De Charybde en Scylla
- Contre vents et marées
- Le retour du Mormieben