Hey my fellow blackmetal heads! Sean here at the Black Metal Archives. Today, we’re diving into the depths of the German black metal scene with a look at Gleichmacher’s latest release, “Kränkung Fall Verderben.” This album has been making waves since its release in 2022, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts with you.
Gleichmacher is a German black metal band that emerged from the remnants of a previous project called I Am. With “Kränkung Fall Verderben,” they’ve delivered a debut full-length album that clocks in at around 37 minutes, spread across seven intense tracks.
The album kicks off with “Tote Farben,” an 8-minute epic that sets the tone perfectly. It starts with an atmospheric intro before launching into a barrage of driving riffs and blast beats. The energy is palpable, and it immediately grabs your attention.
As we move into “In Flammen,” the band continues to showcase their ability to blend traditional black metal elements with their own unique flair. The track is relentless, yet it incorporates melodic undertones that add depth to the overall sound.
“Blutaltar” and “Odor” maintain the album’s momentum, each offering their own distinctive riffs and atmospheric patterns. The guitar work here is particularly noteworthy, creating rich and haunting melodies that linger long after the tracks have ended.
One of my personal favorites is “Träum Schwarz.” This track stands out with its slightly melancholic yet epic moments, showcasing the band’s range and ability to evoke emotion through their music.
The album concludes with “Endzeit” and “Katharsis,” both of which encapsulate the themes and sounds explored throughout the record. The closing track, “Katharsis,” in particular, serves as a powerful finale, leaving the listener in a state of reflection.
Instrumentally, the band is tight. The drums, handled by C.B., keep the rhythm locked in, whether the tempo is breakneck or more restrained. The guitars and bass create a solid backbone, allowing the lead themes to shine and produce those epic moments we crave in black metal.
In terms of production, the album strikes a balance between rawness and clarity. It’s clear that the band aimed to honor the roots of the genre while offering their own take, and they’ve succeeded in doing so.
Overall, “Kränkung Fall Verderben” is a compelling addition to the black metal genre. If you’re a fan of intense, atmospheric, and memorable black metal, this album is definitely worth your time.
You can find “Kränkung Fall Verderben” streaming, as well as physical copies and merchandise on their bandcamp page. That’s all for today’s review. If you’ve listened to the album, let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to like for more metal reviews and content. Until next time, stay heavy!
