Funeral Winds "Gruzelementen" Cassette

New Era Productions 2021 Limited pro-tape edition

'Gruzelementen' (smithereens) is the 6th album by Funeral Winds.
' One of the great advantages of a “one man band” is the freedom to do what you want in your music not caring about the opinion of others....... “Gruzelementen” turns out to be one of the best releases of the style this year and certainly marks the highest point in FUNERAL WINDS’ long journey into the underground '
Black Metal Terror Magazine

This album is eternally dedicated to Satan and
His Legions, and to those that presence the
True Darkness of the Dark Gods.

'Gruzelementen' was recorded at Necromanteion Studio, Prague, in 2021. All sounds, vocals and instruments, recorded by Hellchrist XUL

Funeral Winds seems to be more productive than ever. Less than a year after 'Essence' we already got a new chapter in the long history of the band called 'Gruzelementen'.
The band started in 1991 and is considered one of the oldest black metal bands from the Netherlands alongside Bestial Summoning, Necro Schizma and Countess a little later. Since 'Essence' Hellchrist is the sole member and instrumentalist of Funeral Winds. Why he never played the drums before on his records is beyond me. His violent drumming technique reminds me a lot of Abbath on 'Battles in the North' and 'Pure Holocaust' with a bit of Sodom thrown into it for the old school touch. Although 'Essence' wasn't the best record it sure was as black as black metal should be. There are some highlights though like 'The Liberating Rays of Death' and 'The Worm God' which makes 'Essence' a more than decent black metal album.
At first 'Gruzelementen' seems to walk the same path. It's short, violent and black as fuck. After a few spins the small details reach the surface which makes this album a bit more special. Everything is a tad better be it the songwriting, the production and even the drumming is slightly more tight.
Looking at the cover-art and listening to the title track there is a strong 'Koude haat' feeling to it. I consider 'Gruzelementen' one of the best Funeral Winds songs he ever recorded.
To wrap this review up, 'Gruzelementen' is a fantastic addition to the Funeral Winds discography and a mandatory purchase if you call yourself a black metal maniac. Be warned. This is for freaks only. Filthy and violent old school black metal the most brutal way.

Sample: