Funebrarum’s Haunting Return: Beckoning the Void of Eternal Silence

A Decade in the Making

The New Jersey death metal band Funebrarum has taken an impressive hiatus, with their latest album, Beckoning the Void of Eternal Silence, arriving nearly a decade after their previous full-length, The Sleep of Morbid Dreams. In this time, a Maltese family could have raised a child and celebrated their legal drinking age. Interestingly, the recording of Beckoning… was completed long before the pandemic reshaped the world, yet vocalist and guitarist Darryl Kahan remains unfazed by these long gaps in their discography. As he should be, as this album marks a significantly haunting return for the band.

Evolution of Sound

With the lengthy breaks between albums, Funebrarum’s exploration into death-doom feels fitting. They have embraced the synthesizers that hovered around their previous work, elevating them to a more prominent role while slowing the tempo. This shift in sound can be attributed, in part, to guitarist Phil Tougas, who joined the band in 2017 and favors mid-range tempos that enhance the impact of their music. His presence is particularly felt in tracks like “Through the Barren Halls of Grieving Emptiness,” where his solos shine against the backdrop of the band’s slower, more atmospheric compositions.

A Natural Collaboration

Kahan notes that the transition to a more death-doom style was not a forced change but rather a natural evolution that stemmed from collaborative riff exchanges with Tougas. He emphasizes that there was no need for significant adjustments to accommodate the new member, as they shared musical tastes and a vision for Funebrarum’s sound. Kahan describes Tougas as a “great guy” whose talents fit seamlessly into the band, allowing for a collective effort that has pushed their music forward.

The Constancy of Mission

Despite the years that have elapsed since their last release, the fundamental mission of Funebrarum remains unchanged. Kahan reflects on the recording of Beckoning…, stating that while life’s responsibilities took precedence for a time, he always intended to return to the band. This commitment has enabled Funebrarum to evolve authentically, with their sound growing richer without losing its essence. The album’s haunting atmosphere can be attributed to life experiences rather than conscious reinventions.

Maintaining Identity Amidst Change

For many bands, long gaps between albums can lead to an identity crisis, but Kahan embraces the natural progression of Funebrarum. He acknowledges the realities of life—family commitments and other musical projects—while emphasizing that the core of the band remains intact. Kahan expresses his enjoyment in creating and performing death metal, noting that the band’s evolution encapsulates ideas of being heavier, darker, and more dynamic, all while staying true to their roots.

The Essence of Audial Evil

Funebrarum’s exploration of darker themes within their music is consistent with their past. The entity of evil that Kahan refers to is a familiar thread, with Beckoning… infused with elements that evoke a chilling sense of isolation and darkness. Unlike the typical death metal preoccupation with slasher themes or anti-religious sentiments, Funebrarum delves into the existential solitude that can drive one to extreme actions. Their sound remains deeply rooted in death metal while incorporating haunting keyboards reminiscent of symphonic black metal.

The Role of Personal Loss

One of the more poignant aspects of Beckoning… is its connection to personal grief. The track “Into Dark Domains” draws from Kahan’s own experiences, including the loss of a close friend and his father. These themes, while deeply personal, are expressed subtly within the music, allowing the listener to engage with them in a more profound way. Funebrarum recognizes that dealing with death is complex, and their music encapsulates this understanding without overt dramatization.

Conclusion

Funebrarum’s Beckoning the Void of Eternal Silence is not just a return; it is a testament to the band’s resilience and evolution over the years. With its haunting melodies and deeper exploration of themes, the album captures the essence of death metal while pushing boundaries. Kahan’s enthusiasm for the genre and the collaborative spirit of the band ensure that Funebrarum remains a formidable force in the metal scene. The album is now available through Pulverised Records, inviting fans to embrace its dark allure.

FAQs

When was Funebrarum’s latest album released?

Funebrarum’s latest album, Beckoning the Void of Eternal Silence, was released after a long hiatus, with the recording completed in 2019.

What musical style does Funebrarum explore in their new album?

The band has ventured into a death-doom style, incorporating slower tempos and more prominent synth elements while maintaining their death metal roots.

Who is Phil Tougas and what role does he play in the band?

Phil Tougas is a guitarist who joined Funebrarum in 2017. His influence has contributed to the band’s evolution towards a death-doom sound, enhancing their compositions with his guitar work.

How does Funebrarum address themes of loss and grief in their music?

Funebrarum incorporates personal themes of loss and grief subtly within their music, allowing listeners to engage with these emotions without overt dramatization.

Where can I find Funebrarum’s new album?

Beckoning the Void of Eternal Silence is available for purchase through Pulverised Records.