Imagine waiting nearly two decades for a band’s debut, only to realize they’ve quietly dropped three albums in the last four years—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 debut Mindweaver left fans buzzing with its potential, the band has returned with Behind the Eclipse, an album that’s both familiar and boldly evolved. But here’s where it gets controversial: while their core sound remains intact, the band has leaned into a more aggressive, raw edge that might polarize longtime listeners. Is it a natural progression or a risky departure? Let’s dive in.
Behind the Eclipse picks up where Mindweaver left off but dials up the intensity. Kenneth Henriksen and Fredrik Jacobsen’s guitars are sharper, grittier, and unapologetically loud, while Torstein Guttormsen’s bass finally takes center stage, adding a weight that was subtly missing before. Per-Morten Bergseth’s drumming remains a powerhouse, anchoring the chaos with precision, and Eivind Gunnesen’s vocals—once smooth and controlled—now incorporate growls that feel both unexpected and thrilling. This isn’t the same band you remember, but it’s undeniably still Course of Fate.
The album’s emotional depth is where it truly shines. Tracks like the title song, “Behind the Eclipse,” are masterclasses in storytelling, blending quiet, haunting keys with explosive choruses that linger in your mind for days. And this is the part most people miss: beneath the aggression lies a melancholic core, a frustration that feels both personal and universal. Take “Acolyte,” for example—it opens with a delicate piano melody before erupting into a thrash-inspired riff, only to pull back into introspection. It’s this dynamic balance that makes Behind the Eclipse so compelling.
That said, not every moment lands perfectly. “Sky Is Falling” feels slightly overbearing, its intensity bordering on overwhelming, while “Hiding from the Light” experiments with a slower pace that, at first, feels out of place. Is Course of Fate flirting with metalcore? Not quite, but the question lingers. Yet, even in these moments, there’s brilliance—the guitar solo in “Sky Is Falling” is a standout, and the growls in “Hiding from the Light” add a layer of complexity that’s hard to ignore. Every track has its strengths, a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess and performance skill.
Clocking in at 45 minutes, Behind the Eclipse is a tightly packed journey that never overstays its welcome. It’s cathartic, empowering, and undeniably fun, even if it occasionally stumbles. Is this their best work yet? That’s up for debate. But one thing’s clear: Course of Fate is finding their groove, and their consistent output is something to celebrate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this album demands a listen—and a conversation. What do you think? Is the new direction a triumph or a misstep? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: Roar! Rock of Angels Records (https://www.roar.gr/)
Websites: facebook.com/courseoffate (https://www.facebook.com/courseoffate/)
Releases Worldwide: January 30th, 2026
