The Ruins of Beverast – Tempelschlaf (Review)

This is the seventh album from one-man German black/doom metal metal band The Ruins of Beverast.

For some reason it feels like an age since The Thule Grimoires came out, but it was only actually 2021. As such, the arrival of Tempelschlaf feels like an occasion of note. The artist behind The Ruins of Beverast has amassed a great deal of experience and renown across his career – can Tempelschlaf keep the momentum going?

The answer, as you would expect and hope, is a resounding yes. Tempelschlaf brings adherents of the band’s esoteric arts 59 minutes of new material to immerse themselves in.

The music’s mixture of black and doom metal influences has allowed the artist behind The Ruins of Beverast to craft an album of depth and breadth. It is a psychedelic exploration of harrowing occult soundscapes, yet has a Gothic and avant-garde flair that’s so charismatic that you can almost miss the cloak of darkness descending as Tempelschlaf alters the fabric of time and space around you.

Each song delivers an experience that’s engrossing and transportive. It’s very hypnotic. The songs all have instant and striking personalities that are highly engaging. They provide an entire well-rendered tapestry of Gothic flavour and blackened atmosphere for the listener to intently study.

The music has a keen focus on not just rare atmosphere and Gothic character, but actual songcraft, with melodic and vocal hooks. You can listen to this album secluded away, absorbed in every nuance and subtlety that the songs contain, paying close attention to how they work their undeniable magic. But, you can also launch yourself onto the dancefloor, moving and swaying to its surprisingly catchy and memorable charms, merrily losing yourself in its rhythmic embrace. Either way, you’re on to a winner.

Almost every riff, melody, and vocal is of higher quality than most bands are able to offer up in their entire careers. Hyperbole, I know, but I don’t say it lightly. Tempelschlaf really is that good. It’s an exemplary record, showcasing the merging of black and doom metal influences in a way that immediately makes it apparent that you’re dealing with something special.

Basically, Tempelschlaf is a fantastic record, one that you should absolutely not miss out on.

Essential listening.