Welcome back, fellow black metal enthusiasts, to another in-depth review from Black Metal Archives. Today, we delve into the haunting world of Eternal Griefs and their 2020 release, Blanche Monnier. This concept album draws inspiration from the harrowing true story of Blanche Monnier, a woman confined to an attic for 25 years due to a forbidden love. Eternal Griefs masterfully channels this tale into a profound musical journey.
This is quite an interesting one for you to check out because normally we only review bands active, alive and well, however, once in a while, you run across a band that might be inactive, but after one thorough listen of their album, you wish they were back from the dead. This is one of those instances!
Formed in 2008 by Matran and Deineath, Eternal Griefs began their journey with the demo Beginning to Revolution, showcasing their ambient depressive black metal roots. The lineup expanded with Count Infernal in 2012, leading to the creation of Lifeless Desire and the EP Manic Depressive Psychosis. Despite geographical distances, the band members remained committed, culminating in their debut full-length album, Blanche Monnier, released in 2020 under Tough Records.
Blanche Monnier spans approximately 59 minutes, divided into nine tracks that traverse the emotional landscape of its namesake’s tragic life. The album seamlessly blends elements of melodic black metal, post-black metal, and atmospheric depressive black metal, creating a soundscape that mirrors the despair and confinement experienced by Blanche.
Eternal Griefs employs a combination of tremolo-picked guitar riffs, cold synth atmospheres, and shrill, wraith-like vocals to evoke a sense of melancholy and desolation. The percussion, characterized by its synthetic quality, maintains a balance between aggression and somber reflection. While some critics note a generic sound in certain elements, the band’s ability to convey deep sadness and drama remains evident throughout the album.
Let’s talk about some of the album highlights
- “Blanche Monnier“ – The title track stands out with its epic and majestic quality. Despite the medium-thin guitar tones and standard drumming patterns, the song achieves an impressive atmosphere, capturing the essence of Blanche’s tragic existence.
- “My Endless Love (00 45 AM)“ – This track infuses angelic choir-like synths with energetic, emotional melodies, offering a glimpse into moments of hope amidst despair. The interplay between melodic rock elements and black metal foundations showcases the band’s versatility.
- “The Glory of Sorrow“ – Embracing a post-black metal aesthetic, this song reflects a juxtaposition of optimism and impending doom, mirroring the pivotal moments before Blanche’s ultimate downfall. The track’s dynamic shifts in mood and tempo encapsulate the album’s thematic core.
Blanche Monnier is a poignant exploration of human suffering and resilience, encapsulated within the framework of black metal. Eternal Griefs succeeds in translating a harrowing historical narrative into a compelling auditory experience, solidifying its place within the genre’s landscape. For those seeking a blend of historical intrigue and atmospheric black metal, this album is a worthy addition to your collection. I encourage you to run over and stream it now on their Bandcamp page!
Thank you for joining us in this exploration of Eternal Griefs’ Blanche Monnier. Stay tuned to Black Metal Archives for more reviews and deep dives into the abyss of black metal.
Until next time. Stay grim!
