Icelandic metal band Sólstafir released a new two-disc record titled Svartir Sandar on Seasons of Mist two weeks ago, and I can’t believe I almost missed it.

They’ve got a really heavy and open atmosphere surrounding their music. The tunes here really build slowly and subtly, and I’d say this stuff would even appeal to those who don’t even consider themselves metal fans. Even when these guys get loud, they stay pretty melodic and accessible.

Above is the track “Ljós í Stormi,” and I was drawn into this song at first listen. It’s a very climactic eleven minutes that are offered up here. The guitar chords are pretty uplifting, but there’s a strong element of pain and sadness coming out in the vocals. There’s something in my head saying that they’re a little off, but I’m finding them pretty likable anyway. Hope you enjoy. Let me know what you think of it.