Schöpfungswut

Porta Nigra

"Schöpfungswut" ... Now, I do not pretend to speak German, however after a bit of […]
By Will Travers
February 25, 2020
Porta Nigra - Schöpfungswut album cover

"Schöpfungswut" ... Now, I do not pretend to speak German, however after a bit of a Google search I am led to believe that it means 'The wrath of creation'. In the sphere of Black Metal this can be left to one's own interpretation as to who 'the creator' is. Personally, I would say that this is an anger towards whatever god(s) it is you worship, or for those atheists in the crowd.... Perhaps your parents?

Black Metal has seen a swell in support within recent years, it has suddenly become more available and recognisable with the rise of social media and music streaming services. The stalwarts of the genre, WATAIN, BEHEMOTH or in fact EMPEROR have driven forward the exposure to Black Metal. In fact, some might say that with all the controversy surrounding him that Nergul may have been a huge influence in in bringing a greater normality (for lack of a better word) to the genre.

The album artwork is so simplistic in its nature that it is also very striking. As anyone who has read my previous reviews will be aware, I am a large fan of minimalistic artwork as I find it to be much more appealing and agreeable to the senses as opposed to ones where much more is going on. I also find the 'calmer' the artwork the more memorable it is.

With the opening track "Die Kosmiker" we are instantly subjected to an announcement of the bands name within the opening. The relentless driving force of the double bass and effervescent blast beats are a stereotypical attribute to any successful Black Metal band, these are perfectly accentuated by the presence of another stereotypically aggressive vocal line. The lyrics are all in German, which one would expect from a German band. However, this adds a depth to the sound of the track as German is known to be a particularly aggressive sounding language.

The near trance inducing opening to "Die Entweihung Von Freya" is, in no uncertain terms beautiful. You could just close your eyes and get lost in the guitar runs, they just invite you in to the track before the main body kicks in. It is a deceiving track, I found that it feels it should be much slower than it is, however again due to the skilful drum line, it helped to pick up the pace. With the addition of double tracked vocals, as in all the songs on the album, we again add depth and I must note the importance of this within any song. The addition of different dimensions and a depth of sound are what projects a good band, to become a great band.

Finally, the albums namesake, "Schöpfungswut" is a final all out assault on the listener. With a no bullshit opening that launches you straight into a very classic Black Metal song. With all the ingredients that one would expect to create a very aggressive, disturbing, but ultimately pleasurable sound. I can only imagine the skill it takes to achieve this and I applaud PORTA NIGRA for their efforts.
Overall, I would say that PORTA NIGRA have created an excellent album to add to their discography. With a 90's Black Metal feel that showcases the full talent of all band members they have built on their previous offering, "Kaiserschnitt". "Schöpfungswut" is an enjoyable, versatile and well produced tour de force that I am sure will be enjoyed by fans of the genre all around the world.

9 / 10

Almost Perfect

Songwriting

10

Musicianship

9

Memorability

9

Production

10
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"Schöpfungswut" Track-listing:

1. Die Kosmiker
2. Das Rad des Ixion
3. Die Augen des Basilisken
4. Die Entweihung Von Freya
5. Unser Weg Nach Elysium
6. Schöpfungswut

Porta Nigra Lineup:

O - Drums
Gilles de Rais - Guitars & Bass
André Meyrink aka Tongue - Vocals

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