Helga's debut album Wrapped in Mist is an intense and captivating journey, weaving together Swedish folk, progressive metal, and blackened post-rock elements. The band is comprised by vocalist and main composer Helga Gabriel, guitarists Cai Sumption and Cameron Gledhill, drummer and multi-percussionist Sami Javed, and bassist Ryan Fairclough. Helga's mesmerizing performance is a standout, blending angelic and diabolical tones with an incredible melodic range that evokes deep emotions.


From the opening notes of "Skogen Mumlar," it's clear that Helga is something special. This track encapsulates the band's essence: polyrhythms, hypnotic vocals, chugging riffs, and folk-inspired percussion, all culminating in an unexpected melodic twist that sets the tone for the album.


"Burden" grabbed me instantly, with its spectacular melodic segments seamlessly blending Swedish and English vocals amidst a dark post-rock canvas. The song's orchestral nuances are a testament to the band's ability to craft beautiful, complex music. "Water" offers a calmer respite, with Helga's vocals adopting a storytelling tone, tempered by pop nuances that hint at mainstream appeal, yet remain dark and haunting.


"If Death Comes Now" showcases the band's atmospheric side, with intricate guitar arpeggios and licks by Gledhill and Sumption while the rhythmic section provides the perfect balance of complexity and melody.


Helga's black metal influences shine in "Farväl," where growling vocals merge flawlessly with delicate clear tones and a stunning cello performance courtesy of guest musician Bruno Serroni. "Alive Again" offers a poignant glimpse into Helga's personal struggles, with a beautiful, mellow tune that showcases the band's versatility.


The album's second half continues to explore the depths of Helga's sound. "Vast and Wild" brings back the hypnotic beauty of "Burden," complemented by a string section and grand piano cameo by Antonio Guerra. "Som En Trumma" is an instrumental grove that could make deep forest-sounding Swedish folk danceable.


The title track "Wrapped in Mist" and "Mountain Song" cement Helga's ability to balance darkness and beauty, recalling a heavier and darker Sigur Rós, a tormented Dolores O'Riordan, later era Opeth, and Anathema, with heavy folk elements. A breathtaking segment in the title track showcases the band's mastery, as strings and percussions collide, bridging the gap between folk and heavy worlds.


With Wrapped in Mist, Helga has created an outstanding debut that will resonate with fans of neo-folk-metal and beyond. This talented bunch of musicians has what it takes to shine brightly in the future.


Track Listing:
- Skogen Mumlar (4:23)
- Burden (4:57)
- Water (3:55)
- If Death Comes Now (3:58)
- Farfäl (4:34)
- Alive Again (3:35)
- Vast and Wild (4:04)
- Som en Trumma (4:26)
- Mountain Song (5:34)
- Wrapped in Mist (6:41)
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