Every generation a band emerges as a leading light, a driving force that defines their particular genre; often imitated but never to be replicated. Where Dark Throne fit into this description is greatly debated amongst those who claim to think they know better, but what is for certain, the shock waves and influence they have created over nearly two decades is unquestionable and undeniable, and any debate to the contrary should be left to those who know no better.

F.O.A.D is the bands 13th album in what has been an immeasurably productive and creative decade and a half. From the bands early, now totally revered releases, “Soulside Journey” and “A Blaze In The Northern Sky” to date the name of Dark Throne has signified all that is extreme and vital in the world of Black Metal. While the world has however moved on since the bands early release, as have to be fair Dark Throne, the genre that has come to be know as Black Metal has become more congested, if not a little confused over the passing of time. More and more bands vying for their fifteen minutes of fame and all trying to out do the next, and all the while Dark Throne have persisted and battled for their art.

"F.O.A.D" of Fuck Of And Die to give the album it's full title, follows on from the direction taken on the bands previous release "The Cult Is Alive". Berated by some who saw the album as a blasphemy to the name Dark Throne. Gone were many of the Black Metal trademarks that had characterized Dark Throne's sound for the past decade, and which had brought them the level of success they now enjoy. In their place a more punk influence, nay even NWOBHM flavour had begun to emerge. Much like "The Cult Is Alive", "F.O.A.D" is a watershed release for the Kolbotn twosome, demonstrating a style change not seen in the bands music since the monumental jump between "Soulside Journey" and "A Blaze In The Northern Sky".

Gone are the trappings of the 'old' Dark Throne, and in comes a new leaner more 'traditional' sounding record. None of the bands potency or ability to create a melting pot of sounds and styles as been lost however, nor has that instantly recognisable vibe you only get with a Dark Throne release. Some will see this release as final proof positive that Nocturno Culto and Fenriz have, dare I utter the words, sold out? While in reality F.O.A.D  offers up as much subversive spite filled venom as any of the bands previous releases and for those that can't see beyond the bands progression and development as a negative thing should return to "Transilvanian Hunger" and pretend it is 1994 all over again. Music of this calibre should be commended not condemned. Still as nasty as Satan's arm pit and twice as nasty; Dark Throne mellowing.....never in this lifetime.