The Dutch Void Wanderer and Portuguese War Productions have proven time and again that they have a sharp eye for underground gems. With each new release, they continue to bring forth high-quality, uncompromising Black Metal, and this time, they’ve turned their attention to the United Kingdom. Their latest offering comes in the form of Timescarred, the debut album by Vintras, a band that, despite being new to the scene, delivers a fully realized and deeply impactful record.
At the core of Vintras is guitarist Rory Strachan, who initially composed several tracks before seeking out like-minded musicians to bring his vision to life. Enter Ali Lauder, known from Ageless Summoning, who took on the responsibility of lyrics and vocals, adding a grim poetic depth to the album’s themes. For the recording process, Robin Stone was recruited on drums, and with that lineup, Timescarred was born. The result is an album that delves into the scars of time—both physical and psychological. The past never truly disappears; it lingers beneath the surface, sometimes manifesting in ways we least expect. Trauma, regret, and the relentless march of time form the album’s conceptual foundation, reflected in both the lyrics and the music’s intense emotional weight.
From the moment the opening track In Death’s Dream begins, it becomes clear that Vintras are here to deliver Black Metal in its purest form, yet with a deep appreciation for the genre’s various sub-styles. There’s no desperate attempt to break new ground, but neither does the band simply repeat the formulaic patterns of their predecessors. Instead, Timescarred stands as a testament to strong songwriting, dynamic compositions, and masterful execution. Each of the six tracks is carefully structured, featuring powerful tempo shifts, commanding riffs, and an eerie, oppressive atmosphere that grips the listener from start to finish.
Two tracks that stand out in particular are Hinterland and Dethrone. Hinterland is a ferocious display of raw aggression, its relentless riffing and vicious drumming embodying the essence of traditional Black Metal while maintaining a sense of progression throughout. Dethrone, on the other hand, is a sprawling epic that slowly builds in intensity, layering intricate melodies over blast beats before culminating in a moment of absolute catharsis. The ability to balance fury with finesse is what makes Timescarred such an engaging listen.
One of the album’s most compelling elements is its use of contrast. Several tracks feature serene, almost meditative intros, lulling the listener into a false sense of calm before unleashing a storm of sound. This technique is executed masterfully, making the heavier sections feel even more devastating in comparison. The closing track, Sorrowed Lands, is perhaps the best example. What begins as a somber, reflective piece gradually escalates into utter desolation, with each passing moment intensifying the feeling of impending doom. The result is a song that doesn’t just end—it lingers, resonating long after the final note fades.
In an era where countless bands flood the scene with uninspired releases, Void Wanderer and War Productions continue to champion high-quality underground Black Metal, and Vintras is no exception. Over the years, both labels have delivered some truly remarkable albums, and Timescarred is yet another bullseye. This is an album that does exactly what it sets out to do—it engulfs the listener in darkness, drags them through the scars of time, and leaves them craving more. If Vintras can deliver something this strong as a debut, their future looks incredibly promising.
90/100
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