Ørjan Stedjeberg, better known by his pseudonym Hoest, has been the driving force behind Bergen-based black metal band TAAKE since its inception.

Now, the band returns with its ninth full-length album, 'En Skog av Nidstang,' a release that continues its legacy of authentic Norwegian black metal while incorporating subtle progressive elements.

The album, like its 2023 predecessor 'Et hav av avstand,' is divided into four chapters that fluidly transition into one another, offering a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

'En Skog av Nidstang' opens with 'Einstoeingen go eg,' where TAAKE balances dramatic energy with sincerity, creating a musical dynamic akin to two children on a teeter-totter seeking equilibrium.

The track sets a tone of raw authenticity, with no forced or formulaic elements.

As the album progresses, the band introduces nuanced prog-tinged riffs, most notably in the opening minutes of 'Enger,' which subtly elevate the sound beyond conventional black metal.

The track 'Autonomy Lost' delivers a distinct Americana-inspired guitar lick before transitioning into the signature Norwegian black metal aesthetic, featuring Hoest's vocal delivery—scathing at times and occasionally shifting into a monotone croon.

The song's repetitive riffs and extended duration build a hypnotic effect, though critics note the album's length may be excessive.

Some segments could have been condensed, and the release might have benefited from a shorter format or additional songwriting.

While 'En Skog av Nidstang' is not without flaws, it stands as a significant creative achievement in TAAKE’s discography and one of the highlights of black metal in 2026.

The album reaffirms the band’s commitment to timeless black metal principles while evolving its sound with thoughtful, subtle innovation."