Knüth – Demo IX (MMXXIV) [Demo]

After 11 demos and splits in less than four years, Knüth, a Russian Black Metal duo, fell silent for a couple of years, only to revive the project in 2013 with yet another short and savage demo. For a while it was uncertain whether the revival in 2023 was a one-off, but in 2024 too we are happy to hear from this illustrious troupe again.

With the majority of their rather impressive output only existing out of a maximum of a hand full of tracks with the longest one clocking well below 15 minutes, this newest addition to their musical legacy is no exception. In fact, this is even just one 8-minute track. Musically this is a tad different from its predecessor. While the basic building blocks are more or less the same, the individual elements are all assembled differently. Scrambled, even. The punky-vibe is still there, but definitely less prominent, instead ‘Demo IX’ sounds way more oppressing and as the song progresses, the proverbial noose seems to get tighter and tighter. Floating on an almost droning ambience, the atmosphere is as dark and sinister as it is melancholic and even soothing in a strange way. While not entirely comparable, a somewhat similar tormenting atmosphere and thoroughly wistful mood can be found in some of Nortt’s latest works.

With their considerable discography Knüth has proven never to have been a band that was suitable for the masses, but especially with the last two recordings they turn out to be an act that is able to push darkness into even blacker territories.