When Michael Kogler started his solo project Karg in 2006, he could hardly have imagined where the journey would take him nearly two decades later. What began as an intimate, introspective one-man endeavor has since evolved into a full-fledged band. With their latest release Marodeur, Karg now presents their eighth studio album. Throughout the years, Kogler has remained the creative core, gradually surrounding himself with like-minded musicians who helped shape his vision. In addition to Karg, he has also found great success with his other band, Harakiri for the Sky, which has carved out a strong reputation within the post-black metal scene.
Karg’s music defies easy categorization. While Black Metal undeniably forms the foundation — with razor-sharp guitars, harrowing screams, and an ethereal, layered production — the band draws from a wide range of influences. They themselves cite genres such as Grunge, Shoegaze, Post-Punk, and modern Hardcore, resulting in a sound that is atmospheric and emotionally charged, constantly balancing fury and melancholy. Still, their roots remain firmly planted in Atmospheric and Melodic Black Metal, within which subtle stylistic detours are explored without losing sight of the greater whole.
This new album features several guest musicians who add extra depth and texture to the compositions. Contributions come from Perchta, Svntarer, and Klara Bachmair of Firtan, whose violin work on several tracks brings a haunting, almost cinematic quality to the music. These elements — the interplay between rage and vulnerability, between calm and eruption make Marodeur a compelling listening experience. Karg now sounds more than ever like a band that knows where it’s going, without forgetting where it came from.
Several standout moments on Marodeur highlight the album’s versatility and emotional depth. Right from the opening track, Schnee ist das Blut der Geister, the listener is immersed in a cold, almost spiritual atmosphere. Perchta’s guest vocals add a haunting layer to the track, amplifying its mystical tone and blending beautifully with the shimmering, frostbitten guitar work.
Further into the album, Annapurna stands out as a dramatic and slow-burning piece that leans more towards Post-Rock territory. Here, Karg shows that it doesn’t always have to be about sheer aggression — the gradual build-up, melancholic melodies, and emotional intensity make this one of the most powerful and moving moments on the record.
The album closes with Anemoia, an aggressive, unrelenting track in which Karg pulls out all the stops one last time. It serves as a fitting climax, encapsulating the entire record in one final, cathartic outburst — from atmospheric passages and raw emotion to full-blown black metal ferocity.
All in all, Marodeur is a striking achievement. A massive album that fluidly shifts between genres and moods without ever losing its coherence. Everything feels intentional and heartfelt, making this latest release from Karg absolutely worth checking out — especially for fans of atmospheric, emotionally charged metal that dares to stray beyond the genre’s typical boundaries.
85/100
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