Review: ZAHN ‘Purpur’
The Berlin-based post-noise-rock power trio ZAHN exemplifies how seasoned musicians, each with a rich history in bands of a certain considerable musical calibre, can coalesce to forge a sound that is both distinctly their own and beautifully ‘contaminated’ by their individual pasts. Formed in early 2020, ZAHN has impressively distilled the diverse sonic achievements cultivated by their members’ prior projects, creating a unique sonic landscape in which each musician’s influence contributes to a compelling, albeit distinct, sound.
My own introduction to this fascinating dynamic came through their multifaceted bass player and multi-instrumentalist, Chris Bruer, who also expertly helms his Sozius PR. Bruer, together with guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Felix Gebhard and drummer Nic Stockmann, plays an important role in the band’s image as well as their music.
Their sound is characterised by a mix of post-noise-rock, which combines energetic guitar riffs with experimental sounds and rhythms. Although musically it shows a deep understanding of various genres, they make each song unique. The intricate way they layer different sounds, coupled with the palpable chemistry between the three musicians, creates an exceptionally dynamic listening experience that easily involves us in exploring the profound complexities embedded within their music.
With three albums and an EP already shaping their distinctive journey, the profound feeling of well-being is exquisitely distilled into a multifarious sound that truly knows no boundaries. This unrestricted way of working manifests itself in a splendid, often surprising, blend. It seamlessly weaves the intricate textures of post-rock with the pulsating rhythms of hypnotic electro kraut, all infused with a considerable, intriguing dose of experimental atmospheric feels.
It’s within this unique sonic alchemy that one finds exhilarating moments, akin to the thrilling sensation of driving a Maserati alone through vast, cinematic landscapes. Yet the music is imbued with intricate, evolving grooves reminiscent of Tortoise, making every listen an unmissable journey that brings immense joy through a dark, breathing air.
eight tracks that move with a powerful, almost crushing groove, interspersed with moments that feel epic…
The release of Purpur (Purple), the band’s third album, arrived three years after their previous work, Adria, marking a continuation of the musical path set by their 2021 self-titled debut. While the core sound remains familiar, this new offering is coloured by a noticeable shift, a progression layered with a heavy noise that hints at doom. From the very beginning, the music grabs you by the throat. The production choice avoids anything weak or spread out; instead, the sound is tightly packed, rough around the edges, yet beautifully enhanced by thoughtful electronic elements.
This is an album built on a foundation of solid, slow and at times tumultuous rhythms, presenting eight tracks that move with a powerful, almost crushing groove, interspersed with moments that feel epic, like scenes from a movie. The depth of Purpur is further enhanced by the inclusion of notable guest musicians such as Fabian Bremer from the German band AUA, and Norwegian, now Sweden-based, Kjetil Nernes of dark noise-rockers Årabrot, who lend their talents to the record. These contributions successfully amplify the album’s overall mood, which is characterised by a compelling mixture of magnetic attraction.
Every tune on the record possesses its own distinct sonic structure. These individual soundscapes feel weighty as they unfold, sometimes conveying a sense of intense struggle or darkness, yet they never lose their underlying current of deep emotion. Trying to single out one track that stands above the rest is a near-impossible task, as the entire collection feels meticulously put together. Each piece was clearly constructed with the intent to leave a lasting impact.
The way the music settles in your thoughts is reminiscent of the colour purple itself – deep, pervasive, and unforgettable. The dark, unshakable, and looming sound works its way into your mental space through its dense texture and relentless, yet meaningful, rhythmic drive. It’s an experience crafted to be absorbed wholly, where every note and layer contribute to the album’s complete and captivating vision. So, while ZAHN might be a relatively new entity on the scene, its sonic identity is already remarkably fully realised, bearing the unmistakable marks of its members’ extensive and impactful musical trajectories.
Label: Crazysane Records
Band Links: Facebook | Bandcamp | Spotify | Instagram
Scribed by: Domenico ‘Mimmo’ Caccamo
