🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Vaterland (intro)
Track 2: Zwiegestalt
Track 3: Gedankentempeln
Track 4: Jenseits der Menschen
Track 5: Tenebrae
Track 6: Keno (Dark Ages x Celan)
🎸 Album Review:
German avant-garde metal band Seltsame Erden has once again pushed the boundaries of their genre with their latest release, “Gedankentempeln”. This album, which translates to “Thought Temples” in English, is a sonic journey through dark, atmospheric landscapes that delve into themes of introspection, duality, and the human psyche.
From the haunting opening track “Vaterland (intro)”, Seltsame Erden sets the tone for the album with eerie soundscapes and ominous whispers that immediately draw the listener into their world. The transition into “Zwiegestalt” is seamless, with pounding drums and dissonant guitar riffs creating a sense of unease that sets the stage for what’s to come.
The title track, “Gedankentempeln”, serves as the centerpiece of the album, showcasing Seltsame Erden’s ability to blend elements of black metal, industrial, and ambient music seamlessly. The track ebbs and flows, building tension with each passing minute, culminating in a cathartic release that is both beautiful and terrifying.
“Jenseits der Menschen” further explores the band’s fascination with the darker aspects of human nature, with vocalist Anna’s haunting vocals weaving in and out of the dense layers of instrumentation. The track is a highlight of the album, showcasing the band’s ability to create a sense of unease and introspection through their music.
“Tenebrae” serves as a moment of respite on the album, with delicate piano melodies and ethereal vocals creating a sense of melancholy and contemplation. The track provides a brief moment of reflection before diving back into the album’s more intense moments.
The album closes with “Keno (Dark Ages x Celan)”, a collaboration with experimental artist Celan that pushes the boundaries of the band’s sound even further. The track combines elements of spoken word poetry, industrial beats, and distorted guitars to create a truly immersive listening experience that leaves a lasting impact.
In comparison to Seltsame Erden’s previous albums, “Gedankentempeln” represents a significant evolution in their sound. While their earlier work was more rooted in traditional black metal influences, this album sees the band incorporating a wider range of musical styles and textures to create a more immersive and dynamic listening experience.
Overall, “Gedankentempeln” is a bold and ambitious album that showcases Seltsame Erden’s growth as musicians and songwriters. The band’s ability to create dark, atmospheric soundscapes that explore complex themes sets them apart in the metal world, and this album solidifies their position as one of the most innovative bands in the genre.
With “Gedankentempeln”, Seltsame Erden have crafted a truly immersive listening experience that rewards repeated listens and reveals new layers with each spin. This is an album that demands to be experienced in its entirety, from the haunting opening notes to the cathartic conclusion. Get ready to be transported to the dark and introspective world of Seltsame Erden – it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.