If you know Sammath, you probably know J. Kruitwagen‘s other project Kaeck.
Although lesser known than the mighty Sammath this illustrious act already released two well acclaimed albums, named “Stormkult” (2015) and “Het zwarte Dictaat” (2021). Now, they have polished their battle armour, sharpened their swords and are back with their 3rd offering called “Gruwelijk Onthaal”. Consisting of seven tracks, including te thrilling intro “Het huilend Altaar” we are treated upon (slightly) over thirty minutes of mad kept fun.
While Sammath is more focused on terror (and war) it seems that Kaeck gets their kicks from other topics which are more satanic and medieval. Musically, these culprits implement harsh and grim riffs together with keyboards. And this works excellently on this album, creating a sinister, spooky and haunting vibe. Just listen to the deadly riffs and eerie dosed keyboards on “Ondermaanse Contracten” and you will concur.
When listening to the different tracks it is not only pure Black Metal what is being offered. Just listen to the (well crafted) riffs on “Door gespleten Tongen” and you will notice that the riffs are more Death Metal orientated. They are heavy as ten ton brick, and to be frank: it really works making it a harsh and heavy track laced with atmosphere.
It feels like you are in a 70’ies horror when “Nachteling van het nieuwe Duister” starts. The mid- tempo track is highly enjoyable. It is crude, simple yet does not miss its mark. Once again, the keyboards make sure there is a haunting atmosphere, which I love.
“Paterhexolimaat” is straight in your face and consists of well dosed fast and mid-section riffs. The haunting middle part makes sure you are on the edge of your seat. “De ijzeren Hand van het Benedenwaartse” (I love Dutch lyrics in Black Meal) on the other hand is as ferocious and venomous as the hounds of hell, while “Bloedend Verraad” is a superb and epic closing track of this accomplished album.
J. Kruitwagen and his comrades R. Nillisen (bass), Frostbite (drums) and Oovenmeester (vocals) have delivered a top notch Black Metal album from my native soil. If there are any remarks it is the fact that the album is (relatively) short, and the fact that I am not a huge fan of Oovenmeester‘s vocals (although I must admit it really fits as an ingredient of the poisonous concoction brewed by Kaeck on this album).
But besides these small remarks I really enjoyed this album. So don’t be bothered with it. The loads of atmosphere in combination with relentless riffs, pummeling drums and well dosed keyboards remind me of the good old nineties, and that can’t be a bad thing now is it? Satan should be pleased with this one. And it again proves that the Netherlands provides fertile ground for excellent Black Metal bands. Really looking forward hearing these songs live on stage. And so should you! Meanwhile: listen this album, good stuff!
Score: 8,1 / 10
Label: Folter Records
Release date: 19th of September 2025
Reviewer: Erik
Tracklist:
- Het huilend Altaar
- Door gespleten Tongen bezworen
- Ondermaanse Contracten
- De Nachtelingen van het nieuwe Duister
- Paterhexolimaat
- De Ijzeren Hand van het Benedenwaartse
- Bloedend Verraad
