For the longest time many have wondered if when Varg Vikernes was released from prison would he record another Burzum album? The other question was will it be a return to the Black Metal that he use to do so well. In 2009 after his sentence Varg announced he was going to record another Burzum album for a 2010 release.

The album was supposed to be titled "Den Hvite Guden", which in English is "The White God", and stirred up a lot of pre-album controversy. Varg explained in a press release it had nothing to do with racism as many had thought. I suppose this time around he decided to avoid the controversy and he changed the album title to "Belus" which is the name of the White God.

"Belus" starts off with the intro ‘Leukes Renkespill’ (or "Leuke's Scheme") which is pretty much just the sound of marbles being dropped into a tin cup followed by ‘Belus' Død’ ("Belus' Death") a sound we have not heard since the likes of 1994's "Filosofem". The ominous vintage riffs heard will delight many fans and have been awaiting a release like this for some time. Varg seriously must have been sitting on these riffs for years unable to get his hands on a guitar to record them while in prison. Only Varg could come up with genius stuff as hair-raising and cult as this. Third track ‘Glemselens Elv’ or ("The River of Forgetfulness") is the longest on the record clocking in at almost 12 minutes. What you will notice is how so well you can hear bass lines in the opening segments and as well that Varg is not only doing his harsh vocals, but also has introduced some low key singing elements to his music. Even though the track is very long it keeps you entertained and pulls you in more and more by changing the melody around at the 7:19 mark with an awesome tremelo picking solo.

‘Kaimadalthas' Nedstigning’ moves at a faster pace with more of Varg doing his speaking/clean vocals in the chorus. The guitar on the track is as well phenomenal and the end is so melodic. It really has been awhile since riffs this good have been heard coming from Norway.

‘Sverddans’ (or "Sword Dance"), is the one song that differs from the rest of the album but not in a bad way, especially if you like thrash and running around in circle pits. I warn people if you are playing this track on your stereo inside your home you may wanna move the furniture out of the way. Then to top it off the kooky Finntroll like riff in the middle makes it even better.

All in all this album is just a flashback to what was the early 90's Norwegian Black Metal movement and should satisfy anyone that has been looking for true Norwegian Black Metal of today. Another impressive point on this album is Varg did all the guitar, bass, and drum tracks which will make it very hard to tour the U.S., but (hahaha) I wouldn't worry bout that since his prison record will keep him from crossing the border anyway. There are a lot of Euro fans that want to take him out as well. In other words, stay home Varg and take care of your family, we are fine with just listening to your works through a CD.