KREMESS

GRAB offer both, continuity and change, on their sophomore full-length Kremess. The Bavarian black metal project founded by vocalist Grant continues to revolve lyrically around tales and traditions narrated in the local dialect of Germanys southernmost Alpine state: Bavaria. Kremess means funeral feast in that language and death plays a leading role on this album. Musically, GRAB still feature a prominent traditional instrument of their region, the hammered dulcimer. This gets combined with particularly Norwegian strands of black metal such as early GEHENNA, ULVER, and DARKTHRONE as well as taking inspiration from German pioneers of the genre namely NAGELFAR and LUNAR AURORA. Adding to the local sonic colours are many fresh ideas and sounds that came with English guitarist Gnast, who has replaced previous main songwriter Grain in the meantime. A host of guest musicians including members of EMPYRIUM, TRIPTYKON, and DARK FORTRESS among others has further enhanced the musical spectrum. GRAB, meaning old and grey in the local dialect, were conceived by former DARK FORTRESS frontman Grant who wanted to bring a particularly Bavarian expression to black metal. The earlier collaboration between Grant and guitarist Grain resulted in the release of the debut full-length Zeitlang in 2021, which channelled the black metal spirit of the early 90s much to the delight of both critics and fans. With Kremess, GRAB are infusing Bavarian black metal with new power that is bound to expand their growing empire far beyond the borders of their homeland.