Imagine waiting nearly two decades for a band’s debut album, only to realize they’ve quietly dropped three more since 2020—and you’ve missed one. That’s the story of Course of Fate, a Norwegian progressive metal act that’s been flying under the radar but deserves your attention. After their 2020 release Mindweaver left me buzzing with anticipation, I’m embarrassed to admit I completely overlooked their 2023 follow-up. But now, with Behind the Eclipse, they’re back—and they’ve brought a sound that’s both familiar and boldly evolved.
If Mindweaver was a promise, Behind the Eclipse is the payoff. The band’s signature blend of heavy, lush, and melodic is still intact, but there’s a raw, aggressive edge that feels like a natural next step. Kenneth Henriksen and Fredrik Jacobsen’s guitars are sharper, more unapologetic, while Torstein Guttormsen’s bass finally gets the spotlight it deserves. Per-Morten Bergseth’s drumming remains the backbone, but it’s Eivind Gunnesen’s vocals that steal the show—his smooth delivery now punctuated by unexpected growls that add depth and intensity.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Behind the Eclipse isn’t just heavier; it’s angrier. There’s a melancholic fury woven into tracks like the titanic opener, “Behind the Eclipse,” which boasts an epic chorus that’ll haunt your thoughts for days. And this is the part most people miss—Course of Fate isn’t just about technical prowess; they’re storytellers. The quiet keys, the haunting strings, the lyrics that feel like confessions—it’s all there, creating an emotional core that’s impossible to ignore.
Take “Acolyte,” for example. It starts with a delicate piano melody, only to explode into a thrash-inspired riff that feels both chaotic and calculated. Gunnesen’s vocals shift from aggressive to introspective, mirroring the song’s dynamic structure. It’s a masterclass in balance—a trait that shines throughout the album, from the bitter reflections of “Neverwhere” to the soaring ballad “Don’t Close Your Eyes.”
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: not every moment lands perfectly. Tracks like “Sky Is Falling” and “Hiding from the Light” feel slightly off-kilter. The former hits a little too hard for my taste, while the latter’s slower pace had me questioning if metalcore influences had crept in. But here’s the thing: even when it’s ‘just’ good, it’s still undeniably Course of Fate. The solo in “Sky Is Falling” is a highlight, and the growls in “Hiding from the Light” add a layer of complexity that’s hard to ignore.
At eight tracks and forty-five minutes, Behind the Eclipse is a tight, focused journey that never overstays its welcome. It’s cathartic, empowering, and—most importantly—fun. While it’s not a flawless album, it’s a testament to the band’s growth and consistency. Are Course of Fate finally finding their groove? Absolutely. And should you care? Without a doubt.
But I’ll leave you with this: in a genre often criticized for overcomplicating itself, does Behind the Eclipse strike the right balance between innovation and accessibility? Or is it too aggressive for its own good? Let me know in the comments—I’m curious to hear your take.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: Roar! Rock of Angels Records
Websites: facebook.com/courseoffate
Releases Worldwide: January 30th, 2026
