Skognatt
– Rain Eternal
Germany
Self-released
Skognatt is a solo project from Augsburg, Germany, playing atmospheric black metal and are here with their latest EP offering “Rain Eternal.” The music has a very calming affect synonymous with how one’s brain receives tonal signals from the ambience of rain. The title is self-explanatory in that sense, as the music successfully conjures a nostalgic mood that reminds us of bands like Burzum and Xasthur. The two aforementioned references are the immediate progenitors that come to mind while listening to this project. It definitely has a bit of that “depressive/suicidal” atmosphere akin to some bands in that style, albeit with cleaner tones. Simplicity is the key to the quality of Skognatt’s music, but so often people will mistake simplicity as a lack of originality or ideas, although, I can confidently assert that is not the case here, as “Rain Eternal” is compositionally rich, textured, and full of sombre cadences that will take you on a journey far beyond. This whole EP channels a deeply melancholic aura, while also showing a certain level of maturity and distinct traits that’s all its own. “Rain Eternal” is a highly addictive and fully realized work that comes highly recommended for fans of atmospheric black metal. Favourite track: Rain (HT)