In Hindsight: Revisiting Underappreciated Albums

The Enigma of Black Metal Artists

How enigmatic do you like your black metal artists? Do you crave insight into their personal histories and creative processes, or do you prefer their music to arrive shrouded in anonymity, like an unmarked tape nestled in a plastic bag, accompanied by a few foraged feathers for that extra touch of found footage ambiance?

Urzeit: A Mysterious Presence

To those unfamiliar, the Portland-based band Urzeit emerged in 2016, presenting themselves simply as R.F., A.L.N., and M.S. However, maintaining an air of mystery became increasingly challenging as black metal gained traction in the public eye, thanks in part to a surge of writers and bloggers eager to explore the genre. As a result, it didn’t require a particularly skilled investigator to uncover the identities behind Urzeit, and doing so provides a fascinating context for their sole full-length release, Anmoshka.

Connections to the Underground Scene

For the keen-eyed fan, it’s worth noting that A.L.N. continues to create music as the sole recording artist in Mizmor. Tracing the connections among Urzeit’s members reveals a rich tapestry of prolific bands that flourished throughout the 2010s. R.F. was a founding member of the notoriously publicity-shy Vrasubatlat label and contributed to numerous affiliated bands, including Ash Borer, Adzalaan, Triumvir Foul, and Utzalu. M.S. was also involved in these projects and currently plays drums in the impressive Excarnated Entity.

Anmoshka: A Sonic Exploration

Anmoshka serves as a counterpoint to the works of those aforementioned bands. At the time, Ash Borer and Mizmor were delving into grandiosity, crafting elaborate compositions that showcased their growing technical prowess. In contrast, Urzeit seems to have collected the ideas that didn’t quite fit those expansive visions, resulting in music that feels raw and liberated. The album title alludes to the Hindu concept of breaking free from the cycle of life and death, yet it specifically highlights the struggle to do so—emphasizing an earthly existence filled with suffering. This thematic underpinning reverberates throughout the music.

Musical Characteristics

The sound of Anmoshka is characterized by black metal infused with strong melodies, all rendered caustic through mid-fi production. A.L.N.’s vocal performance is unlike anything you’ve likely encountered before, adding a unique texture to the album. The songs often revolve around a handful of core ideas, relying on the intensity and charisma of their delivery to create variation. Tracks like “Anmoshka” and “Bellisunya” exemplify this, allowing listeners to be swept away in the fervor of the performance.

Punkish Presentation and Unique Listening Experience

As an album, Anmoshka hints at a sporadic recording process. The songs transition abruptly, resisting a conventional flow and contributing to a punkish presentation that matches the speed and intensity of the music. This distinctive approach results in a captivating experience, as the album challenges traditional expectations of song structure.

Conclusion

With an abundance of music to explore, Anmoshka stands out as an intriguing listen. Although it may resonate as a 10/10 on certain days, it can also land around a 7/10 when listeners aren’t prepared for its brutal repetition. Nevertheless, it consistently feels vital, capturing a moment where a group of musicians sought to present a cohesive vision amidst a flourishing underground scene. The album remains a hidden gem, waiting to be rediscovered by those willing to delve into its depths.

FAQs

What is the significance of the album title “Anmoshka”?

The title references a Hindu concept that symbolizes the struggle to break free from the cycle of life and death, highlighting themes of earthly suffering and spiritual realization.

Who are the members of Urzeit?

Urzeit consists of members R.F., A.L.N., and M.S., who have been involved in various other notable black metal projects.

How does Anmoshka differ from other black metal albums?

Anmoshka contrasts with the grandiosity seen in contemporary black metal by embracing a raw, punkish aesthetic and a more minimalist approach to song structure.

Where can I listen to Anmoshka?

Anmoshka is available for streaming and purchase on various music platforms.