Mock - Mock (2007)

   Mock was one of the lesser known names of the Norwegian black metal scene. That's partly due to their alternative imaginations, cause while by music they followed the concept and style features of Norwegian black, by sound they didn't. It might sound like a secondary thing, but in a scene where very specific features gaining style determining roles (such as in the Swedish death metal scene), other alternatives or experiments are rarely welcome. In some cases it could work (like in case of Mayhem for instance), but it's not usual.
    Mock's approach was similar though, they tried to redefine the style by their own perspective. Most things they just simply imported from the local scene, like for instance the strong melodic, sometimes epic atmosphere and Viking age references, but similarly clear sound couldn't be heard often in Norwegian black metal. Except Mayhem of course, but Mock sounded way softer. Even the bass lines could be clearly heard, and they also taking part actively in the diversity of the themes! The self-titled album was basically a compilation, that includes their one and only EP "Vinterandet" and their songs from a split release, both from 1995. Mock didn't count as something extraordinary if it's about the concept or by extremity, or by the skills of the musicians. They just focused on the basic main essence of the style. But their redefining endeavor and better sound quality made them easily distinguishable from other Norwegian black metal bands at the time. Mock's music might be an interesting and rare gem for the fans of the genre.