AARA – EN ERGÔ EINAI (2020) CD REVIEW | ATMOSPHERIC BLACK METAL MASTERPIECE

⛤ Black Metal / Atmospheric Black Metal | 12.50€ (Mint)
⛤ Pulse Rating: 9.25 / 10

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As a die-hard metalhead in my mid-40s, I've spent decades sifting through countless records, from underground gems to mainstream phenomena. Yet it's rare that I come across an album that truly resonates on both emotional and auditory levels. AARA's "En Ergô Einai" is one of those rare finds that not only captures the essence of atmospheric black metal but also heightens it to something transcendental.

From the moment I unwrapped the digipak, I was struck by that unmistakable collector's thrill. This kind signals a record destined for a permanent place on my shelf. Released by DEBEMUR MORTI PRODUCTIONS, known for its discerning taste, this album stands out as a remarkable journey that bridges the Enlightenment with shadowy depths.

Having debuted just a year prior, AARA returns with an intensity and clarity that feels almost unreal for a sophomore effort. The trio — BERG, FLUSS, and J. — crafts a fluid musical narrative rich with dazzling tremolo riffs, resonant classical themes, and piercing screams that reverberate in your chest. Each time I spin the disc — especially late at night with my headphones on — I am reminded why I'm a relentless advocate for physical media. There's a palpable magic in holding an album, pouring over the credits, and engaging with the artwork that only enhances the listening experience.

The album's opener, "Arkanum," is a true spectacle — a nine-minute expedition marked by swelling keyboards, intricate acoustic passages courtesy of VINDSVAL, and a ferocious black-metal onslaught that feels like it's tearing through a veil. It's the kind of track that would've been circulated among tape traders in the '90s, a sonic gem that never loses its luster.

Following this is "Stein auf Stein," where melodic prowess shines through dual-guitar harmonies and thundering cymbal work, reminiscent of Cascadian greats — but always tethered to AARA's distinct Swiss melancholy. Each time I revisit this tune, I find myself longing for more, a testament to the intoxicating nature of their melodic craftsmanship.

"Aargesang (Aare II)" takes an avant-garde approach, starting slow with ambient textures that linger perhaps a moment too long. However, when the black metal emerges, it conjures vivid landscapes, short and sharp but profoundly evocative. It's a reminder that even bands as polished as AARA rely heavily on instinct and atmosphere.

"Entelechie" is, without a doubt, the crown jewel of this release. If I were to pinpoint a track that embodies AARA's brilliance, this would be it. A breathtaking interplay of melodies, vibrant bass lines, swirling riffs, and vocals that soar to heavenly heights creates an unrelenting force. The drumming propels the piece forward, chaotic yet alive. It's the kind of song that compels you to share it with friends, holding your breath as you warn, "This might ruin other bands for you."

Finally, "Telôs" closes the album with an emotional impact that's difficult to shake. Melancholic tremolo lines meld with soaring keyboard harmonies, echoing the post-metal hues of bands like HARAKIRI FOR THE SKY or early DEAFHEAVEN — yet undeniably filtered through AARA's philosophical lens. As the track fades, it captures the essence of finality, leaving you in silence to reflect on what you've just experienced.

By the time the last notes fade into silence, it's clear you've witnessed one of the defining atmospheric black metal releases of the last decade. For those who value physical media, this digipak is a must-have—it features stunning artwork and crisp production that breathe life into the album. If you're curating a serious black metal collection, "En Ergô Einai" isn't just an addition; it's foundational. Here at my store, we have a pristine Mint copy, just waiting for the right person to appreciate it as it deserves.

TRACKLIST:
1. Arkanum – 09:01
2. Stein auf Stein – 05:47
3. Aargesang (Aare II) – 05:27
4. Entelechie – 05:58
5. Telôs – 07:37

CREDITS:
- J. – Drums, Recording, Mixing, Mastering
- Berg – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards
- Fluss – Vocals
- Vindsval – Acoustic Guitar (Track 1)
- Michael Handt – Artwork
- Naturmacht Studios – Design

LINKS:
🩸 Bandcamp
🩸 Facebook
🩸 Instagram
🩸 YouTube
🔥 For fans of: HARAKIRI FOR THE SKY, SCHAMMASCH, DEAFHEAVEN, WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM
💀 Label: DEBEMUR MORTI PRODUCTIONS





AARA – ITEMS AVAILABLE AT PULSE RECORDS

Item Format Price Condition Order
AARA – En Ergô Einai (2020 CD, Album, Digipak) CD 12.50€ Mint Order
AARA – Triade I: Eos (2021 CD, Album, Digipak) CD 12.00€ Mint Order
AARA – Triade II: Hemera (2022 CD, Album, Digipak) CD 11.00€ Mint Order
AARA – Eiger (2024 Double White Marble Vinyls, LP, Gatefold) 2xLP 30.00€ Mint Order


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