Urfaust - Geist Ist Teufel [Demo]

CD released by GoatowaRex.
Tape released by Black Blood Productions.
Vinyl released by Christcrusher Productions, limited to 100 copies.
Also distributed in very limited demo format, without tracks 5 and 6.

1. I
2. II
3. III
4. IV
5. V
6. VI

Download via Rapidshare

Revieed on Metalarchives.com
Dutch Masterclass

Urfaust are slowly, but surely becoming a band who require no introduction. Hailing from The Netherlands, otherwise known as Holland, Urfaust have exploded onto the scene with this undisputed classic of an album. Often when one is reviewing an album, one tends to state how much of a unique released the title is, well in this case that is certainly true and not a cliché whatsoever. If anything, cliché would be the last word used to describe this exquisite band. Urfaust's debut album, entitled "Geist ist Teuful" was released in the summer of 2004. It contains six tracks which span over a period of just under fifty minutes.

It has been well documented in the past, and undoubtedly will be in the future that Urfaust's leading man, Willem uses some of the most unique and awe-inspiring vocals to grace the Black Metal scene. Urfaust blend Raw Black Metal, with a touch of clean vocals. This was totally unexpected, and a shock to the system of first listen. However, the vocals are intoxicating to say the least. Willem blends an innovative style of clean vocals with the use of a more orthodox Black Metal screaming. Urfaust can be described as "raw" due to the highly distorted guitars and haunting screams of Willem, but also because of it's unique eerie atmospheric production. Urfaust ring out at a mid-paced tempo, never a faster pace than that which is perfect for the style Urfaust play. Drum patterns tend to be quite basic and repetitive, which essentially creates a specific type of atmosphere. On occasions the repetitiveness adds to the atmosphere and thus enhances the overall sound of the music. The vocals, as already stated are of extreme importance. They make the music what it is. Willem's vocals are emotive and portray a sense of pain and desperation, which compliments the music to an extent you wouldn't believe. I'd go as far to say that these are some of the best vocals you're likely to hear. The bass is often drown out, but still has its moments in enhancing the affect of the music in general on the listener. However simplistic this may be, it is exceptionally good and certainly worth at least a listen.

Highlight tracks include: Die Kalt Teufelsfaust and Auszug Aller Todlich Seinen Krafte, especially the latter.