Δευτέρα 14 Ιουλίου 2025

REVIEW: GRIFFAR - Monastery

 


GRIFFAR - Monastery


Non Serviam Records


It is often disheartening to witness exceptionally talented bands toil for years to achieve a breakthrough, while less deserving acts gain widespread recognition. French extreme metal outfit GRIFFAR, however, deserves to transcend this narrative and firmly establish themselves as a premier force in the blackened death metal scene. Their debut full-length album, “Monastery”, released fourteen years after the band's inception, is a testament to their deliberate artistic evolution and meticulous sound sculpting.


Despite “Monastery” being their inaugural release as GRIFFAR, the band's lineup comprises seasoned veterans from the black and death metal circuits, with members having contributed to influential acts such as “Loudblast”, “Code”, “Drakhian”, “Enthroned”, “Fornication”, “Seth”, and “Taake”. This wealth of experience is undeniably evident in their masterful songwriting and commanding musicality.



GRIFFAR's sound is a sophisticated fusion of death and black metal, with the latter often dominating the compositions. What truly distinguishes them is their remarkable melodic sensibility. They possess an extraordinary ability to perfectly balance the inherent extremity and brutality of their genre with enchanting melodic lines and captivating dark atmospheres. Beyond this stylistic synthesis, the musicianship within GRIFFAR is exceptional. Their technical prowess allows for the delivery of intricate themes and patterns, showcasing true craftsmanship in their elaborate tunes and stunning guitar riffs. This technical dexterity significantly enhances the variety and powerful character of their music.


“Monastery” stands out as one of the most compelling and intense atmospheric blackened death metal albums released in recent memory. It comes highly recommended, particularly for enthusiasts of Dissection and Naglfar. This album is a potent declaration from a band that has honed its craft, and it is poised to leave a lasting impact.


Christine  Parastatidou


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