A hidden Mancunian gem, Winterfylleth are without doubt this country’s premier Black Metal act (Cradle of Filth don’t count, what they are doing stopped being Black Metal years ago). They strip away all the malignant doom and satanic pantomime in order to reinvent Black Metal as a strident storytelling tool connecting us with the soul of Albion and our naturalistic roots. They link back to British folklore and the protection of our natural heritage.

In the past, they have brought in dark maudlin folk but with “The Imperious Horizon” they have taken a more anthemic approach and this is their most wide-screen and cinematic record to date. It sweeps in majestic grandeur and reeks of both confidence and splendour. Yes, the guitars still pulsate and the vocals still screech but this is ultimately highly accessible black metal, opening up its charred gates and letting the songs frizzle with opportunity.