GRIEF by Zeal & Ardor – album review

Monster Shop Score: 80/100

Zeal & Ardor’s latest album, GRIEF, presents a compelling tapestry of sound that both captivates and challenges its listeners. Known for their unique fusion of African American spirituals with the ferocity of black metal, the band continues to push musical boundaries, offering an album that is as emotionally charged as it is sonically diverse. While GRIEF might not entirely eclipse the brilliance of their previous works, it certainly stands as a testament to their evolving artistry and relentless pursuit of innovation.

Background and Context

Zeal & Ardor, the brainchild of Swiss-American musician Manuel Gagneux, burst onto the scene with their genre-defying blend of spirituals and black metal. Their debut album, Devil is Fine, and its follow-up, Stranger Fruit, established them as pioneers of a sound that marries the past’s pain with the present’s fury. GRIEF, released on August 23, 2024, under Redacted GmbH, sees the band exploring new thematic and sonic territories. Inspired by a local tradition from Gagneux’s hometown of Basel, Switzerland, the album weaves narratives of resistance and defiance against oppressive forces, reflecting the struggles of the working class.

Musical Style and Themes

The album opens with The Bird, The Lion, and the Wildkin, a track that sets an eerie tone with its haunting whistled motif, transitioning into a rich blend of blues, electronica, and metal. This thematic complexity continues with Fend You Off, where explosive choruses and layered vocal harmonies drive home the urgency of its message. Kilonova stands out with its hypnotic grunge-like grooves, while Are You the Only One Now? offers a fascinating mix of acoustic elements and frantic undertones, echoing influences from Radiohead and Darkthrone.

Tracks like Go Home My Friend and Clawing Out bring a darker, industrial feel reminiscent of Nine Inch Nails, showcasing the band’s ability to evoke vivid imagery through sound. The album’s most infectious track, Thrill, captivates with its catchy hooks, while Une Ville Vide provides a nostalgic respite with its chiptune-inspired electronic sounds. The stark piano-driven Solace emerges as a standout, highlighting Gagneux’s vocal prowess and emotional depth.

Critical Evaluation of GRIEF by Zeal & Ardor

While some critics have pointed out a lack of cohesion in GRIEF, this album’s strength lies in its raw emotional honesty and willingness to explore new musical landscapes. The incorporation of live band members in the creative process has resulted in a more organic and dynamic sound, as evident in tracks like Fend You Off and Kilonova. However, the album does occasionally falter in maintaining a consistent narrative thread, leaving some tracks feeling disjointed.

Nevertheless, GRIEF remains a bold addition to Zeal & Ardor’s discography, reflecting their growth as a band and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of genre. It may not yet surpass the cohesive brilliance of their previous self-titled album, but it undeniably cements their status as innovators in the world of rock and metal. As listeners delve into the intricate layers of GRIEF, they are invited to reflect on themes of struggle and resilience, making it a thought-provoking journey worth taking.

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