Verletzen are a band from Wales, UK that have been active since 2016. Their latest effort, ‘Usurping the Throne Under the Crown of Blasphemy’ was released by Wulfhere Productions who also took it upon them re-release the 2023 album ‘The Blackened Crusade’ on limited cassette and CD.
Musically, Verletzen can be described as Scandinavian‑inspired second‑wave Black Metal with raw, gritty production. The trio on this album consistists of bassist Azog, drummer Demetae and guitarist/vocalist Nazgul who has also been active in Cwlt Draig. As a matter of fact, some critics frame the album within Welsh Black Metal tradition, comparing Verletzen to Cwlt Draig and Iselder.
What we hear on this album is raw Black Metal that emphasizes aggression, authenticity, and strong songwriting. The album with a mere 31 minutes in playing time is a bit short though, but the quality of the material compensates for it. It consists of two intro/outro tracks and eight songs.
Opener ‘Longing for the Old World’ is a 6+ minutes blast with Atmospheric Black Metal passages, a Wolves in the Throne Room-like atmosphere here and there vocal wise and somber male choral elements. The overall sound is improved, even polished compared to earlier releases while retaining an atmospheric freezing rawness. It also misses the Dungeon Synth elements of earlier releases.
In all, we get convincing raw second‑wave riffing, with strong and relentless drumming and atmospheric layering, a medieval/Welsh romanticism in tone, brought with high energy and conviction.
Not bad at all plus the music tends to grow on you.
Fans of the genre really need to check out this promising album. The music can be heard on the usual media/music channels. And do check out ‘The Blackened Crusade’ from 2023 in case you’ve never heard that one.
