Steingrab "Äon" CD (Bonustrack)

Atmospheric German Black Metal Re-released on CD in 2015 through Wolfsgrimm and Deviant Records.

„Äon“ is the first full length by the German band/project Steingrab. I felt as there was kind of a leap from second album Mystik to album number three “Jahre nach der Pest” with Stephan breaking even more away from what might be viewed as traditional black metal. Listening to this album underlines the impression of Steingrab having followed a path of natural progression since the beginning of the project. That being said also this record is different to what one might call an average black metal release.
The goal of Stephan is and always has been to blend contrasting elements, melancholy and aggression, pain and pleasure. A lot of bands throw these kinds of statements out and it often comes across like a pale attempt at making sense of a whole lot of noise. One spin through “Äon” shows that he tried to get his ideas and interpretation of black metal being an immersive form of art out to the world from the very beginning. He had an idea how to work heady conceits into solid heavy music taking the listener on an astonishing journey through space and time.
The riffing is on point with the main chords being pitched against the outstanding lead guitar work. The melodies are dark and eerie and always have that heavily melancholic vibe. There are a lot of calmer moments being used to create certain pictures of loneliness and despair in the listener’s mind. However, there are also lighter moments delivering a glimmer of hope.
The dark yet somehow beautiful lyrics kept in German help highlighting the overall picture. I can only recommend to consume all Steingrab albums in the right circumstances – in fall/winter when the days are shorter and darker while sipping a nice glass of red wine.
The production is also spot on – especially for a DIY album. While I am generally speaking more a fan of punchy and clear mixes the overall sound perfectly fits to the style and overall atmosphere.

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