Let me tell you, discovering Dagdrøm from Germany was an experience I’ll never forget. The details of how I first stumbled upon their music are a bit hazy—perhaps it was through a recommendation on Discord, or maybe I just came across their debut album, Schauder, while exploring new releases on Bandcamp. Regardless, this album has become a staple in my listening routine. Surprisingly, it hasn’t received the attention it truly deserves within the metal community, which is unfortunate, considering that Schauder is undoubtedly one of the most impressive melodic black metal albums to surface this year.
Unlike the conventional sounds of bands like Sarastus, known for their second wave influences, or the cosmic vibes of Silent Millenia, Dagdrøm offers a distinct emotional resonance. Their music is driven by heavy post-metal riffs and an uplifting atmosphere that’s infused with a sense of longing. Don’t let the hopeful undertones mislead you; Schauder isn’t a cheerful album. Even though the grooves are intricate and the melodies shine brightly, the album exudes a profound sense of yearning and sorrow. Although I cannot access the lyrics or understand German, it’s abundantly clear that Schauder is a deeply personal creation, overflowing with raw emotion and heartfelt expression.
The album's true brilliance lies in its balance and fluidity. Each composition is crafted to reflect the natural ebb and flow of human emotions, transitioning seamlessly through experiences of love, sorrow, grief, and remembrance. When I listen to standout tracks such as the opening piece "Ascheregen," the heart-wrenching duo "Atme" and "Flüsse," or the exhilarating "Tagtraum" and "Freund," I am captivated by the sublime way these transitions unfold. Ascendant tremolo melodies gracefully give way to crushing riffs and aggressive percussive beats, only to be lifted back into the heavens by airy leads. These breathtaking shifts are not merely repeated but evolve and vary, influenced by the musical journeys preceding them (just listen for the haunting harmonies that conclude "Flüsse"). Thanks to this thoughtful songwriting approach, Schauder glides effortlessly through its expansive 50-minute duration, making it incredibly easy to listen to multiple times.
However, do not let the album’s beauty and smoothness deceive you. Schauder is packed with fierce riffs, varied tempos, and intense screams. Dagdrøm’s debut is a formidable force, full of sharp claws and teeth ready to tear through any preconceptions. Early standouts like "Ascheregen" and powerful late tracks such as "Ära" and "Kalte Fliesen" showcase this intensity, proving that a black metal band connected to their emotions can be just as menacing—if not more so—than those who maintain a cool detachment. Instead of being distant or aloof, Schauder is intimate, vulnerable, and expressive while still delivering dynamic, energetic, and captivating songs. This combination is what sets it apart in the genre.
So, if you ever find yourself wanting to recommend something to me, especially within the shadowy realms of black metal, let Dagdrøm be your benchmark. They may be newcomers in the scene and might stray from traditional melodic black metal conventions, but don’t overlook Schauder. Missing out on this album would be a mistake!
Must-Listen Tracks: "Ascheregen," "Atme," "Flüsse," "Kalte Fliesen"
