This Basque outfit, active in the black metal scene since 1997, has been quiet for a good seven years. Only now does Numen return with their fifth album Erre. Before that, alongside the four full-length albums, the last of which was 2019’s Iluntasuna besarkatu nuen betiko, the band released a couple of EP’s. It goes without saying that this collective celebrates the rich cultural and historical heritage of its homeland.
As expected, we had already been treated to a few singles. Now the full album is finally spinning, released through the French label Les Acteurs De L’Ombre Productions. A label that has been on a remarkable run over the past months or indeed, years. Time and again, it has been putting out black metal records of the highest calibre. I suspect things will be no different with these Basque veterans. The translation of the album title also makes me think that things might well go up in flames.
When a band is so deeply rooted in its own culture and historical background, I imagine traditional themes and, quite possibly, traditional instruments will find their way into the music. That certainly piqued my curiosity. The accompanying promotional text mentions the use of the ancient local language and states that the central theme revolves around the witch hunts and the Inquisition of the 17th century. Fascinating subject matter, to say the least.
With the help of a razor-sharp yet wonderfully rich production, we become reacquainted with these Basques. Kez beteriko zeru penatua is the first black metal epic, stretching close to ten minutes, and it is presented in an intensely aggressive and biting manner. The band is not afraid to explore more expressive angles, facets and dimensions. Lander’s bass is given a relatively free role, wandering enthusiastically through every corner of the compositions. What Sistre delivers behind the drum kit is enough to leave you both exhilarated and overwhelmed. Good grief. Numen pelts you with a barrage of sliding riffs, effortlessly battering your ears bar after bar. The band closes this opening track with a deeply felt and impeccably executed acoustic guitar passage. Before you even have time to scratch your ear, the next track is already tearing through the atmosphere at full speed. Aritz gleefully spews and vomits forth the copious lyrics over the various sections, though fortunately he leaves enough room from time to time for the instruments to speak for themselves.
Aside from the acoustic guitar, I have yet to detect many other traditional instruments, and I am already at Errautsen azken arnasa. Nor are traditional themes particularly clearly woven into the compositions. Everything sounds forceful, aggressive and brutally uncompromising. The proverbial cat among the Basque pigeonhouse goes by the name of Hustasuna – Oroitzapen galduen putzua. It is impressive how the band manages to drag us from one rhythm into another. One moment you are being bludgeoned into submission; the next, you are carried away by something that almost resembles a waltz. The closing track Euria infernuko sutan initially showcases that same quality. And then… just when you no longer think a more traditional theme is going to appear, it finally does make its entrance. Excellent.
Yes, people! With Erre this Basque Numen has set everything ablaze. Their highly expressive and brutally intense brand of black metal is of an exceptionally high standard. A physical purchase is mandatory. Outstanding!
Score:
90/100
Label:
Les Acteurs De L'Ombre Productions, 2026
Tracklisting:
- Kez beteriko zeru penatua
- Negu itxian Urtarril hotza
- Errautsen azken arnasa
- Hustasuna – Oroitzapen galduen putzua
- Euria infernuko sutan
Line-up:
- Aritz – Vocals
- Jabo – Guitar
- Lander – Bass guitar
- Eol – Keyboard, vocals
- Sistre – Drums
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