Out via Napalm Records which initially specializes in releasing Folk Metal and Black Metal units (but later expands in terms of genre diversity), Germany’s very own Nachtblut drop their seventh studio album entitled Todschick after previously having achieved a milestone regarding their previous release Vanitas, which peaked at #19 on the German album charts.

Nachtblut – Photoshooting 07.04.2024 K?ln

On this musical trajectory of theirs, they managed to expand their soundscapes into a more extensive and eclectic level; even though generally aligned towards Dark Metal, there are also elements of Industrial and Gothic Rock being incorporated into this album, as well as the feature of 1980s synth-laden sounds. Most of the Gothic Rock parts of this album are deeply rooted in Germany’s renowned Gothic Rock scene, with Das Ich, Xmal Deutschland, and Pink Turns Blue being some of the notable names. When it comes to metal-related inclinations, they blend Melodic and Extreme Metal elements with meticulous orchestrations on this album, resulting in sounds that would intensely reminisce their listeners of Cradle of Filth and Celtic Frost. It is hauntingly melodic and enigmatic, but also has its own aggressive parts on its own terms. Production-wise, the magic work was done by Chris Harms, the front figure for Lord of the Lost which were once famous for its Eurovision participation back in the days.

Thematically, this album explores discourses regarding societal issues, death, and escapism using philosophical passages. One of the societal issues being discussed as a theme on this album happens to be the phenomenon of doom-scrolling and social media hyperrealities, which Nachtblut is very critical towards. The discourse is then conveyed in the song “Das Leben der Anderen”. Another topic that they covered on this album is the one surrounding the cycles of war and destruction– as envisaged on the song “Manchmal kommen sie wieder”.

This album is a captivating blend of catchy new-wave synths and dark, vast expanses of explosive riffs– making it a release that redefines the charm of darkness on its own terms.  On the deluxe wooden box set of this album, there comes a bonus CD with 7 tracks featuring numerous guest performers from the many sides and spectrums of the German Extreme Metal scene; namely Frank Herzig of Schattenmann fame, Freki of Varg fame, Tetzel of Asenblut/All For Metal fame, and Eric Fish of Subway to Sally fame. Overall, Todschick is a striking attempt to blend the synth-infused Darkwave/Gothic perplexities with the ever-transgressive ferocity of Extreme Metal sounds.

Buy the album here:
https://napalmrecordsamerica.com/nachtblut

9 / 10
RALKA SKJERSETH
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