The most overused phrase used in the music business is “going back to one’s roots.”  That is exactly what Dornenreich does on their latest album Flammentriebe.  Since their debut Nicht um zu sterben back in 1997, Dornenreich has been refining their sound while maintaining their ambience and with the exception of In Luft Geritzt, their black metal sound.  Flammentriebe is the band going back to their early days in a way while maintaining the elements that the band has become known for, such as atmosphere.

Dornenreich’s atmosphere development wasn’t truly evident until In Luft Geritzt, when their most somber parts combined with Eviga’s haunting whispers and vocals came to the forefront.  Seemingly on Flammentriebe, Dornenreich has put together those elements along with what they have done on albums previous to that to create a memorable album full of emotion.  The metal elements aren’t ignored, either, as the band utilizes it to make a harsh contrast with the deliberate, yet haunting atmosphere.  The opening moments to “Flammenmensch” offer a strong contrast between the styles that Dornenreich utilize, from the soft, yet haunting whispers to the harsh, black metal guitars and vocals.  Throughout the song, spoken word parts are interspersed to give the listener a brief respite before going back into full force.  The return to their origins continues with “Der wunde Trieb,” which for those who have listened to Dornenreich since the beginning, should sound familiar, since the raw emotions of black metal are on display in a manner that only Dornenreich can capture perfectly.  “Fährte der Nacht” is a little more straightforward musically, though the violins and acoustic guitars on the song offer a nice twist that puts the band’s stamp on the album as a whole.  Flammentriebe combines elements from In Luft Geritzt and its earlier albums while keeping that delicate balance to create what could be their best album yet.  The only true complaint about the album is that it is too short, although it won’t feel that way when listening to it all the way through.

Dornenreich has long been known for creating some of the most haunting melodies in the metal music scene.  Flammentriebe continues that tradition, taking what it has learned from their own albums and making something that outshines even their previous bests.  Dornenreich has truly stepped up their game, which says a lot about their high standards and as a result, could very well be in the discussion for year-end honors.

TRACK LISTING

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*Comments:

1.  Flammenmensch
2.  Der wunde Trieb
3.  Tief im Land
4.  Wolfpuls
5.  Wandel Geschehe
6.  Fährte der Nacht
7.  In allem Wieben
8.  Erst deine Träne löscht den Brand

Total playing time:  46:54

Release Date: February 11, 2011
Label: Prophecy Productions

Dornenreich - Flammentriebe

Reviewer: Peter

May 2, 2011