Enslaved are audio storytellers. They have carved themselves out a unique position as the masters of well-structured progressive death metal. Whereas their peers have continued down the nasty insular path, playing with the theatrics of the satanic pantomime, Enslaved have used Black Metal in a much more refined and authentic way. 

This is an aural landscape of sonic cathedrals and deep oscillating valleys. This is not background music; this is a widescreen cinematic all-encompassing experience that understands that great tunes feed the soul. It is a wondrous musical journey that feels both uplifting and edifying. I often think that they have evolved as far as they can and then they go produce another stunning record like this.