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Krieg's 'Ruiner': A Monumental Return Capturing the Essence of American Black Metal


Krieg, an American black metal band, was formed in 1995 in Somers Point, New Jersey. Operating primarily as the project of its sole permanent member, Imperial, also known as Neil Jameson, Krieg is regarded as one of the key contributors to the U.S. black metal scene. The band's sound is characterized by its raw, lo-fi approach, frequently incorporating elements of noise and ambient music. With lyrical themes exploring despair, nihilism, and existential dread, Krieg aligns well within the darker boundaries of the black metal genre.


Over the years, Krieg has released a diverse range of musical works, including multiple studio albums, EPs, splits, and compilations, earning both critical and cult acclaim. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Imperial has remained the constant factor, ensuring the band's musical direction and aesthetic remain consistent. This has cemented Krieg's status as one of the more enduring and influential acts in American black metal.


Adding to this legacy is their latest full-length album "Ruiner," which marks the band's first since 2014's "Transient." "Ruiner" serves as a raw yet articulate manifestation of Krieg's defining style. The nine-year hiatus between full-length releases has not seen the band at rest; rather, a series of splits, collaborations, and EPs have led up to this highly anticipated release.



Masterminded by Neil Jameson, "Ruiner" stands as a remorseless display of black metal, reflecting the trademark savagery and unhinged aura that Krieg is known for. This new album resonates with the same intensity found in their seminal works such as "Destruction Ritual" (2001), "The Black House" (2004), and "Blue Miasma" (2006), while introducing a layer of piercing melancholy, making "Ruiner" a multi-dimensional, emotionally resonant experience.

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