As the evolution of black metal has seen it move from a primarily raw and aggressive form (albeit with plenty of variation and multiple characters even in its infancy) to the sprawling and multifaceted beast it is today, Catalonian’s Foscor have to undergo significant transformation across their duration. Where their earliest works were arguably considered more archetypal, by the release of last year’s Les Irreals Visions (Season Of Mist) the band had fully morphed to a more blackgaze sound, complete with gloomy atmosphere and the balance between heavy and serene.

Following on from that album we see a digital-only release monikered Les Irreals Versions (Season Of Mist) which acts as an almost companion piece, mostly consisting of reworked songs from that album that completely strip away any signs of metal for a much more shoegaze/post-rock vibe, with one brand new song ‘Encenalls De Mort’.

As a result of its shedding of metal influence, …Versions initially feels a lot more soothing and laidback but presents a haunting undertone. Album opener ‘Instants’ quickly showcases this from its near uplifting opening bars which quickly shifts to a much eerier tone (down to its almost cartoon haunted house reminiscent piano part early on).

Influenced by the death and final hours of vocalist Fiar’s grandfather, ‘Encenalls De Mort’ is the most harrowing song on the album, with clearly pained and almost chant-like vocals capturing the feeling of loss so strongly.

Unfortunately, otherwise, …Versions, whilst by no means a bad album, doesn’t feel entirely immersive throughout and ultimately proves forgettable afterwards. It’s a technically proficient album and an interesting direction for them but its one that hasn’t quite been pulled off to give the emotional resonance nor the dreamlike state that this style of music demands.

With its status as a digital-only release, and being a reimagining of previous output, it is hard to consider …Versions as a full on release other than as an accompanying piece to …Visions before it; an album that was the band at their creative peak. Whether …Versions proves groundwork for things to come, or a one-off remains to be seen, but as a competent but not spectacular or grabbing release, it remains a curiosity for the ardent fans, and sadly little more.

5.0/10

CHRIS TIPPELL