Floris Velthuis is a force of nature in the Dutch black metal scene, constantly pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional music. Fresh off the release of Asgrauw’s latest album at the end of 2024, Velthuis has returned just two months later with Verstrikt in Halflicht, the third full-length album from his project Schavot. This release cements Schavot’s place as a torchbearer of atmospheric black metal, blending the raw energy of the 1990s second wave with a modern, innovative approach.
Schavot first gained attention in 2023 with two standout tracks on the compilation Verloren Vertellingen, which were hailed as some of the finest Dutch black metal offerings of the year. Now, with Verstrikt in Halflicht, Velthuis has assembled a stellar lineup of collaborators, including Daan Bleumink (Duindwaler, Hellevaerder) on vocals and Gerhans Meulenbeld (The Color of Rain, Meslamtaea) on guitar solos, alongside other prominent figures from the Dutch scene. Together, they’ve crafted an album that pays homage to the genre’s roots while forging a distinct identity.
The album is steeped in the dark folklore and history of the Low Countries, with lyrics exploring themes of warriors, mythical creatures, and the struggles of peasants under oppressive rule. These tales of despair and defiance are perfectly matched by the album’s melancholic, atmospheric soundscapes, creating a deeply immersive listening experience.
Verstrikt in Halflicht opens with “Tussen Droom en Werkelijkheid,” a track that begins with a serene, Bathory-inspired ambiance reminiscent of Hammerheart. However, it quickly erupts into a storm of blast beats and melodic riffs, maintaining a delicate balance between fury and tranquility. This contrast sets the tone for the album, which masterfully navigates between aggression and introspection.
The intensity continues with “Geestenjacht,” a dynamic track that blends symphonic keyboards with progressive guitar solos. The result is a nostalgic yet fresh sound that evokes the grandeur of Emperor and Satyricon in their prime. The interplay of calm and chaos throughout the track showcases Schavot’s ability to create music that is both intricate and emotionally resonant.
One of the album’s most compelling moments comes with “Strijdend voor het Bestaan,” where Daan Bleumink’s dual vocal performance adds depth to the narrative of a warrior grappling with the sacrifices he’s made for his lord. The track’s layered storytelling and powerful delivery make it a standout on the album.
The pinnacle of Verstrikt in Halflicht is the epic “Waar Schimmen immer Dolen,” featuring haunting spoken word by Miranda Visser (Hellevaerder). Her voice, combined with the lush instrumentation, creates a mesmerizing and otherworldly atmosphere that lingers long after the track ends. It’s a moment of sheer brilliance, highlighting the album’s emotional and artistic depth.
The collaboration between Void Wanderer Productions and War Productions ensures that Verstrikt in Halflicht is available in stunning physical formats, including vinyl and CD. This attention to detail enhances the overall experience, making the album a must-have for collectors and fans of atmospheric black metal.
In summary, Schavot’s Verstrikt in Halflicht is a triumph, seamlessly blending the raw intensity of classic black metal with modern sophistication. Floris Velthuis and his collaborators have created an album that not only honors the genre’s legacy but also pushes it into exciting new territory. For fans of atmospheric black metal, this is an essential listen and a testament to Velthuis’s unwavering creativity.
90/100
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