Aeon Winds - An Ode to the Mountains (2025) Hi-Res

Aeon Winds' 2025 release, An Ode to the Mountains, is the Slovakian black metal band's fourth album, offering 60 minutes of symphonic black metal that includes a bonus track. Wonderbox Metal describes the album as playing in an "older style," drawing comparisons to bands such as Aquilus, Emperor, Limbonic Art, and Midnight Odyssey. The review highlights an "epic, vast sound" that is textured and detailed, with significant depth and atmosphere. The music is characterized as "well-written," evoking an "otherworldly thrill" akin to early symphonic black metal.

The album is praised for taking the listener on a journey through "high peaks and dark valleys," with soundscapes that are both majestic and cold, conveying a sense of wonder and threat. Wonderbox Metal notes that Aeon Winds skillfully balances atmospheric depth with aggression, seamlessly integrating hostile streaks within the broader song structures. Guest appearances from members of Ancient, Dødheimsgard, Dordeduh, and Midnight Odyssey are said to enrich the songs with additional vocals, choirs, and violin, contributing significantly to the overall completeness of the music.