In the realm of extreme music, the Netherlands has carved out a unique niche for itself, producing a diverse array of bands that push the boundaries of sound and style. Among these, Laster stands out as a force to be reckoned with, their music a potent blend of black metal, post-metal, and krautrock, infused with a haunting atmosphere and emotional depth. Their 2023 opus, Andermans Mijne (Dutch for “Others’ Mine”), is a testament to their mastery, a concept album that delves into the depths of human existence, exploring themes of alienation, identity, and the search for meaning.
From the opening notes of “Kunstlicht” (Artificial Light), the listener is plunged into a world of sonic dissonance and unsettling beauty. Joris Meeuwissen’s vocals, a tortured rasp, weave tales of despair and introspection, while the guitars of Meeuwissen and Luuk van der Blom create a dense tapestry of sound that is both harsh and hypnotic. The rhythm section of van der Blom and Ties van der Meer provides a relentless pulse that drives the music forward, creating an atmosphere of tension and unease.
Andermans Mijne is not for the faint of heart. It is a challenging listen, demanding full attention from the listener. However, for those willing to immerse themselves in its dark depths, the album offers a rewarding experience. The music is complex and intricate, yet it is also surprisingly accessible, with melodies that linger long after the final notes have faded.
The album’s title track, “Andermans Mijne,” is a six-minute epic that encapsulates the essence of Laster’s sound. It is a harrowing journey through the labyrinth of the human psyche, exploring themes of alienation and self-doubt. The music is both beautiful and brutal, reflecting the inner turmoil of the protagonist.
The second half of the album continues to explore the album’s themes, with each song offering a different perspective on the human condition. “Poëtische Waarheid” (Poetic Truth) is a scathing indictment of society, while “Wachtmuziek” (Waiting Music) is a melancholic reflection on loss and loneliness. “Achterstevoren” (Backward) is a disorienting and chaotic track that reflects the protagonist’s descent into madness, while “Vorm Alleen” (Only Form) is a more introspective and contemplative piece.
The album concludes with the sprawling ten-minute “Doodgeboren” (Stillborn), a bleak and nihilistic meditation on death and the meaninglessness of existence. It is a fitting conclusion to an album that is as dark and challenging as it is rewarding.
Andermans Mijne is a landmark album in the history of Dutch black metal. It is a complex, challenging, and rewarding album that is sure to appeal to fans of a wide variety of genres. Laster have once again proven themselves to be one of the most innovative and forward-thinking bands in the extreme metal scene.
Recommended for fans of:
- Neurosis
- Godspeed You! Black Emperor
- Deafheaven
- Pelican
- Wolves in the Throne Room
Score: 9.5/10
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