‘Grafroof’ is a split release featuring two short-lived Black Metal bands from The Netherlands. Both bands seem to have released nothing else besides this split and were both fronted by Nachtraaf (Botulistum) and Havoque (Heidenland, ex-Fluisterwoud), with only Doodskrijs additionally featuring Deportator (D.R.E.P., Duivel) on drums. Whilst the split itself was released in 2023, it seems that the recordings all date from the 2000 to 2005 period. Thus ‘Grafroof’ seems to be a posthumous release that serves as a testimony to two forgotten bands united on one cassette. A nice look into the past, or as Mayhem would put it: The past is alive!
Grauwsaem’s tracks are on side A and yield a primitive style of Black Metal. It furthermore consists of two tracks and a rehearsal track (coincidentally a rehearsal version of the first track). Grauwsaem’s side of the split is dominated by a slow style of Black Metal that has similarities with the likes of Hekel or even some Fluisterwoud. So do not expect a heavy emphasis on tremolo riffs, but rather arpeggio driven rhythm sections. The vocals are sung in Dutch and have a raspy but decipherable quality that is nothing special but it is effective. The overall vibe here is one of Death and life’s sombre decay. It serves a good purpose, but unfortunately isn’t compelling enough for endless replays.
Doodskrijs comes next and play mostly mid-paced Black Metal. Their songs offer more variety in the song-writing department. Scattered throughout are some nice guitar solos and Black ‘n’ Roll vibes. Only the closing track Helleveeg breaks from the fashion with its fast pace and is overall more akin to Norsecore Black Metal. It is a shame, however, that this track has a rather incomplete feel. Doodskrijs’ side packs a bigger punch than Grauwsaem’s side, but in the end is unlike to completely blow one’s mind. Furthermore, there are similarities here between the Grauwsaem songs. Leading me to think that both bands were a continuation of each other. Plus, the sound quality of Doodskrijs’ songs is better, so it can be guessed that these records succeeded the ones from Grauwsaem.
All things considered, ‘Grafroof’ is an interesting split and window back in time. Then, Black Metal was still far more underground than what it has become nowadays, despite acts like Dimmu Borgir already having took off to the bigger audiences. With that comes the fact that a lot of ground hadn’t yet been discovered. This is somewhat showing, as most songs share common DNA and ideas. However, releases this these possess a certain charm. If such a charm will work on you is yet to be determined, so please go ahead and give it a try. ‘Grafroof’ is up on Nomad Snakepit’s bandcamp page for those interested.
