Asgrauw - Oorsprong

Well, if you are still not familiar with one of the biggest black metal bands in The Netherlands, then there might be something wrong with you if you like Dutch black metal. Asgrauw has been hammering their way to fame since 2010. Armed with 6 full lengths, 2 demo’s and 1 split, Asgrauw is one of the biggest names in the Dutch black metal scene. Releasing on October 31st on vinyl and cassette through Zwaertgevegt, Asgrauw is already close to selling out their pre-orders on vinyl. With releasing a new full length every single two years, ‘Oorsprong’ doesn’t break that cycle either. So let's dive into ‘Oorsprong’.

 

By listening to the first track from ‘Oorsprong’ ‘Kosmische Strijd’, you hear a sound you might not be really familiar with with the addition of synths that are really upfront. Yes, Asgrauw had synths of course on every album but for some reason it really pops out during ‘Oorsprong’. Combine that with the classic Asgrauw sound and you will have such a great experience. It will also help if you speak Dutch so the lyrics will be easier to understand. Like I said in my previous reviews about Asgrauw releases is that Asgrauw has one of the most understandable vocalists in black metal. Not just the demanding vocals but also the harsh-vocals. What draws me in everytime are the demanding vocals that Vaal and Kaos bring to the table. It feels uneasy and suiting at the same time. 

 

At some point ‘Oorsprong’ does have moments where you could classify those moments as atmospheric black metal. Especially during ‘Erfenis’. Maybe because the whole song has gotten less ‘punk-like’ drumming. Yes, this does occur in other parts of the album however it really took my attention during ‘Erfenis’. 

 

‘Oorsprong’ does feel like a whole story that is being told through lyrics and instruments. It sounds more like a whole epic story rather than one song, one story. This story Asgrauw is telling is about the rise of civilization through time. Storytelling through black metal isn’t new and Asgrauw has taken this path in one shape or form earlier however not in such a way. 

 

I absolutely love the whole feeling of ‘Oorsprong’. It feels refreshing to have something like this come from one of my favorite Dutch black metal bands. Even though, there are a lot of old school Asgrauw aspects still to be found in the whole sound of the album. It still has the excellent production you would expect from an Asgrauw album like ‘Facade’ and ‘IJsval’ all have been lately. And to have read that Asgrauw is doing it all by themselves is still mind boggling to say the least. ‘Oorsprong’ will be such a well received album when this will drop on October 31st through Zwaertgevegt. So be sure to check ‘Oorsprong’ when it comes out and perhaps snag a tape or a vinyl to give them the best support they deserve.