Asgrauw – Oorsprong

Time goes fast. It is already twelve years ago that I got acquainted with Asgrauw. Their first full length offering “Schijngestalten” still makes a spin in my cd-player quite regularly. The same goes for the albums “Krater”, “Gronspech” and other titles. This Dutch band always managed to create crafty tunes. And with a solid live performance which displays their power it is always a treat to listen to these guys, both on stage, as at home. This Halloween Asgrauw releases their sixth full length offspring “Oorsprong” (roughly translated ‘roots’). And this album won’t disappoint, I can assure you!

What makes Asgrauw so utterly listenable? Well, both Kaos (bass) and Vaal (guitar) are on vocals, seeing to it that there’s more than enough variation, especially on this album. Vocals vary from spoken word, traditional black scream and regular scream. Secondly, Vaal manages to create excellent riffs which remind me of Black Metal released in the glorious nineties.  Also, the Dutch lyrics, inspired by Dutch legends and sagas, are intriguing.  Add a great rhythm section (multi-instrumentalist Batr sure knows how to handle the drum kit) some subtle yet haunting keyboards and eerie samples, et voila: you have a recipe for some great Black Metal.

“Oorsprong” picks up where predecessor “Façade” (2022) has stopped. It delves into ancient history where gods roamed among men and mankind itself was desperately searching to seek control over the earth’s riches which ultimately will lead for empires to rise and fall.

This sonic journey starts with a gloomy cosmic drone sound which sets the mood on “Kosmische Strijd” (Cosmic Battle) before a crafty guitar riffs and great rhythm section builds up momentum and bursts my cd-player in flames. This song is crafted with great detail and has many tempo shifts, resulting in an exhilarating and fitting opening track.

“Eridu” starts with some ambient experimentation before threatening guitars build up tension before bursting loose on all hooves. The pummeling bass and drums make sure that there’s a sense of urgency. And the carefully dosed keyboard provides an additional layer making the song eerie yet very digestible. It reminds me somewhat of Burzum (which is a big compliment).

After a short intro “Apada” starts more aggressive biting you directly at the throat without forgetting atmosphere. Just view and listen to the video and you will concur that this is an excellent and highly enjoyable track showing what Asgrauw is capable of.

“Redres” has the same approach as its predecessor and is fast, fierce yet contains loads of atmosphere. This track sees to it that my mind meanders to long, forgotten times. The same can be said of ”Weeral” where, once more, the haunting keyboard creates a gloomy atmosphere. “Kapoeres” manages to mesmerize with some great riffs keeping me on the edge of my seat while “Erfenis” grasps you from the start with its haunting melodies and ice-cold vocals.

“Heimwee”, which means homesick, actually makes me homesick of this album. Pushing the play button again listening to this album again (and again). The outro of this song is really cool with clever use of a sample of a typical alarm sound us Dutchies should know.

While spinning the outro of “Heimwee” I can only conclude that ”Oorsprong” is a superb album. Recorded and mixed by Batr himself, the album sounds powerful, clear yet not too unpolished (just the way I like it).  It is a fast and at times furious record without forgetting a welcome breather. But mostly it is the superb atmosphere on this record what makes my Black Metal heart tick. This album shows how much Asgrauw has grown over the years. They are one of the flagbearers of Dutch Black Metal and luckily, and well deservedly, have gained more and more recognition during the years.

For now, stop reading this article, get yourself a copy and listen to all the other musical endeavors, such as Sagenland, Meslamtaea, Schavot, and many more, members of this band have to offer. Even better, go to their release show on the first of November (Nieuwe Pul, Uden, Netherland) and enjoy their music live and buy all their stuff over there. Asgrauw certainly deserves it!

Reviewed by: Erik

Score: 8,6 / 10

Release date: 31 October 2024
Label: Hidden Marley Production

Track list:

  1. Kosmische Strijd
  2. Eridu
  3. Apada
  4. Redres
  5. Weeral
  6. Kapoeres
  7. Erfenis
  8. Heimwee

 

 

Erik

"By satan's nutsack: thou shalt read my reviews"

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