Review
A slow, dramatic buildup of morose orchestral strings and pouring rain introduces "Tridentium," signaling that Dimmu Borgir's penchant for the theatrical remains fully intact on Grand Serpent Rising. Eight years after the divisive Eonian, Shagrath and Silenoz return with a 70-minute comeback that dials back the orchestral extravagance. This 13-track record functions as a "partial reset", focusing on a "newfound earthiness" and ancient aggression.
Critics welcome this return to their early-2000s form. Kerrang! praises the "wild sonic visions" that switch between aggression and grandeur, though they warn that "tinkling piano and ominous choral vocals leave 'The Qryptfarer' dangling over an abyss of gothic campness".
The main drawback lies in the album's massive runtime. Writers argue that the relentless "blackened proggery starts to feel like overload" towards the end. Yet, this remains a triumphant return, proving that while they have refined their songwriting, they are "still a bunch of angry kids at heart".
