It’s easy to get excited about any new Rammstein material especially when their last studio album was released way back in 2009 and especially when you know what accompanies it is a spectacular stage show but strip that away and what you’re left with is a compelling, honest, and good old fashioned industrial metal band making sure history does not forget them in a hurry.
First single and track on the album already had heads turning with their ten minute cinematic music video that didn’t shy away from sensitive cultural references. ‘Deutschland’ really sets the tone and ambition on this self-titled album. It feels monstrous, poetic and instantly classic.
The album flows from head-banging ‘Zeig Dich’ industrial action to rave inducing ‘Ausländer’ to the dark depths of ‘Puppe’, an absolutely harrowing track. Parts of the album almost feel as if Till is expelling his inner demons. The change to raspy vocals and eerie guitars make this a stand out nightmarish track. Part of me hopes they play it live.
Rammstein have always kept their titles short and to the point but hidden in the lyrics are Till’s poetic thoughts and upfront political attitude – it’s something people often skip past.
The second half of the album sees the band go into ballard mode and test your inner control to try and stop yourself raising a fist and singing along to ‘Was Ich Liebe’ before heading back into futuristic ‘Weit Weg’. ‘Tattoo’ and ‘Hallomann’ have snippets that remind me of old Marilyn Manson with jagged keys, obscure distressing effects and deep bass lines.
After somewhat of a decline from their previous albums it’s been a worth while wait. Rammstein’s self-titled is a new era for the band and shows that even if you strip away the stage show they’re a band who’s music is still capable to draw in a crowd and feel fresh.
9/10
