Semen Datura - Einsamkeit

January 17, 2010

Reviewer: Kesh

Many of the German-speaking countries seem to get overshadowed many times by the more over-the-top and boisterous Scandinavian and English metal acts, but bands like Belphegor and Bethlehem do manage to break through and show they have a presence. Semen Datura do the same with their 2009 release, Einsamkeit.

While to some the album might not sound very “black metal”, with it’s more mellow sound than the usual black metal fare, what Semen Datura might be lacking in heaviness they more than make up for with the nihilistic themes found on their latest offering. It’s more melodic than some of the other bands mentioned above, yet still very practical, and it delivers the goods, being more thought-provoking and less abrasive than their black metal peers.

The one song that stands out the most to me is the track “Vineta”, which is so different and unique because of its acoustic nature, that it stands on its own legs and gives the album its teeth. The following track, “Rieke Stadt,” blends very well with “Vineta”, the two tracks supporting each other and carrying the album forward. “Einsamkeit” (“Solitude” in English) and “Mental Outlaw” are also very well-written and powerful songs on the album. The four above-mentioned tracks are the strongest tracks, and they give Einsamkeit its power.

While it’s a very strong song that I do like, “Mental Outlaw” somewhat caused me to have a brain cramp, due to the fact that it is the only song written in English on an otherwise German album. This breaks up the flow of the album, which might throw some listeners off while being welcomed by others.

Einsamkeit is a very good listen but leaves room to speculate whether or not the album will stick in your mind. There are definitely plenty of songs on the album that stand out and are solid selling points, but people who are turned off by listening to music that they don’t understand will want to stay away. With only one track in English, this album might possibly make you feel ostracized. But don’t feel discouraged if you want to hear something different and don’t mind that you can’t understand the lyrics, as I am pretty sure that Semen Datura will become a welcome addition to your music collection.

Release Date: October 16, 2009
Label: ATMF Records

TRACK LISTING

1.  Fons et Origo
2.  Unter bleigrauen Wolkenlasten
3.  Einsamkeit
4.  Mental Outlaw
5.  Marschbefehl
6.  Psychokrieg
7.  Witwenmacher
8.  Vineta (unplugged)
9.  Rieke Stadt
10.  Arkona

Total playing time:  47:37

*By clicking "Submit" you agree to the following Terms of Use. You agree not to post any material that is obscene, slanderous, or threatening, or that may violate any law of your country of origin or the United States or of international law. Should you wish to restrict viewing of your email address by third parties, you must select "Hide My Email." You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Metal Psalter from any claims, actions, suits, damages, or other costs arising out of any breach of these Terms of Use.

*Comments: