The Netherlands is just a dot on the world map. But when it comes to extreme metal the amount of quality releases is massive. Exactly on this day, there is something brewing in the Dutch Black Metal underground. This time it concerns Hellevaerder which is no exception to the above mentioned.
Formed eight years ago, these lads and lady are up to its second full length called “Fakkeldragers” which means torch bearers. Curious as I am, it is time to find out whether they can carry the torch of unholy Black Metal flame with grace. Shall we?
The answer is: yes!!!, they can. When listening to their newest concoction you can hear they have grown as musicians. The Dutch lyrics sung (or better said screamed) by Miranda Visser are fierce and powerful and the compositions which are strong contain atmosphere and are rooted firmly in the past without forgetting to have a glance at the future horizon. The riffs are enthralling yet powerful and Daan Bleumink (also known from his solo project Duindwaler, see review) together with Bas Cuperus, Arjen Kleiss (known from Infantry) and Luuk Steemers on bass manage to surprise me with a formidable album.
The production of “Fakkeldragers” is rusty, gritty yet accessible enough on the eardrums. With “Een bepantserde Kroon”, which means an armored crown, Hellevaerder goes full throttle with its venomous yet hypnotizing guitar, bass loops and rolling drums. When Miranda steps in, her powerful vocals proofs to be a real asset for this band. She screams her lungs out but also can be mesmerizing with her spoken words.
“Krijgers van het Niets” is in the same vein and is as venomous as arsenic. Follow up, “De Laatste Dageraad” (The last Dawn) is a slower track which haunts you with its clean vocals combined with black scream. A great atmosphere is present and sees to it that you have a welcome breather before the intensity of “Handen geketend in IJzer” plows through your eardrums.
Aggressiveness and atmosphere go hand in hand on the title track. While gradually building up momentum with its cold yet epic guitar parts and pounding drums.
“Schaduwen van Satijn” is a relatively short composition but paves the way in splendid manner for “Waar wij Vlammen trotseren” and “In de Ban der Lusten”. This is the last track of the album and makes sure there is a fitting ending and contains some great epic riffs and dark atmosphere.
I can conclude that “Fakkeldragers” is a logic and well-balanced step forward for Hellevaerder. It contains solid songwriting and very enjoyable tracks. This band has ripened and is (in my humble opinion) ready to break through the ranks of the Dutch Black metal scene. And aided with great live performance (thanks for the chocolate 😉) they have claimed their own seat on the Black Metal table. And deservedly so. Check this album out, see them live and buy their merch. They deserve it! And so do you! Oh, and before I forget: The cd version contains an extra track so make your choice wisely.
Score: 8,2 / 10
Release date: 19 June 2025
Label: Void Wanderer Productions / Zwaertgevegt / War Productions
Review made by: Erik
Track list:
- Een bepantserde kroon
- Krijgers van het niets
- De laatste dageraad
- Handen geketend in ijzer
- Fakkeldragers
- Schaduwen van satijn
- Waar wij vlammen trotseren
- In de ban der lusten
- Akelig gefluister (bonustrack CD)
