During the beginning of the setting of Black Metal foundations in the 80's by the hands of VENOM, BATHORY and HELLHAMMER, a lot of Punk Rock/Hardcore influences could be felt in their music, especially on their debut releases. And these influences can be felt of early releases of German Thrash Metal trio, and these are the foundations of Black/Thrash Metal. Even on MAYHEM's and DARKTHRONE's early release this can be felt, as well on the Dutch quintet GRAFJAMMER's "De Zoute Kwel".

These influences create a hooking energy that can bind any extreme Metal fan, and can be found on the quintet's songs. It's a form of Old School Black Metal from the 90's, but in an actual and updated format, with aggressive fast parts contrasting with some slower moments. Of course, this formula isn't new at all, but in the hands of these guys, the result is something really great, catchy and tasteful. The production of "De Zoute Kwel" was done in a way that the band could use the organic and simple set of instrumental tunes of the past, but with a modern outfit given by the actual tech devices from studios. So it's a sonority that preserves the crude and aggressive approach of the past, but in a way that even a dummy can understand.

The brutal and fast "Jajempriester" (with some parts influenced by Thrash/Black Metal bands as SODOM on "Obsessed by Cruelty" days, especially due the hooking and sharp guitar riffs), the oppressive technical approach of "Affreus. Infaam. Abject", the dense and morbid ambience created by slow tempos show on "Zelfverminkers & Spiritusdrinkers" (very good work on bass guitar and drums) and on "De Bakboordshand" (this one shows an excellent work on vocals), the fine melodic touch presented on "Bijbelgordelgesel", and the intense and morbid "Kolkgat" are the best ones to begin with. The others are excellent as well.

Listen to "De Zoute Kwel", and become a GRAFJAMMER fan. It's as easy as these words say.