EISREGEN is a band that has been around for some 30 years. They are from Tambach-Dietharz/Bad Tabarz, Thuringia in Germany and they play a mix of Gothic, Black and Death Metal. In those years they have thus far given us 16 studio albums, 8 EP's, 2 compilation albums, 3 split CD's and a live album. That is, until this one, "Krebskolonie (Reissue)" is being released. And although they have an extensive list, this is the first time that I heard any of their work. "Krebskolonie" was first on the market way back in 1998, and now they have brought it back to the forefront. The questions now are why this has been chosen to be rereleased and if this feat is justified or not. If that is done because of demand and the original issue not being available anymore, it does make sense.

As for the music that EISREGEN produces, it does house all of the elements that I mentioned in the first paragraph. Gothic, Black and Death Metal are intertwined, mixed and matched wherever possible. What does make the atmosphere and the emotions on "Krebskolonie (Reissue)" come over really authentic is the use of the mother tongue by vocalist Michael "Blutkehle" Roth. It adds another layer of despair and despondence to the Armageddon facing music. The production that the album has been given is acceptable, but I can't help but think that what EISREGEN does on this album could, would and should have benefitted from an even better and more explosive sound. Now it's just a bit too tame, almost like it has been dulled by too many blows.

Such is a pity, because even though I'm not becoming enthralled or excited by what I hear on "Krebskolonie (Reissue)", I also have to admit to myself that this isn't bad at all. But what I do think that this is for a niche market, even within the Metal community. But those who will go for this, will find out that EISREGEN has that vibe that is needed for them to sound real and honest. They have that quality that will get you to listen, that will have you interested, even if this isn't exactly your cup of tea. As an extra you now get five live songs that are blessed with a rather poor sound. This also could have been handled a lot better. Nevertheless, it will give you an idea of what you can expect when you take the plunge and go and see EISREGEN live.