Band:	Laster
Album:	De Verste Verte Is Hier
Style:	Atmospheric black metal
Release date:	November 01, 2014
A review by:	X-Ray Rod

01. Alles Wat Mij Bevalt, Ontvalt Me
02. Tot De Tocht Ons Verlicht
03. Ik - Mijn Masker
04. De Verste Verte Is Hier

Being original is an interesting attribute. You don't really need to force it that much and add a frigging sax to the songs. Sometimes you just find a way to play a classic genre with subtle differences. In the world of ambient black metal, Laster does manage to come forward as a band with a sound of their own.

On their debut, Laster uses many hints at other genres in order to add flavour and variety to their music. It might just be a couple of unusual and playful drumbeats (for the genre), some crescendos akin to those from the post metal scene, a strategic use of tempo changes or even some slight gothic tunes coming from the vocals and, at points, catchy riffing. All these hints help the album sound memorable and distinct in comparison with its peers.

Other than that, it's really something you'd come to expect from the genre: Vocals that go from your painful shrieks to deep, sorrowful chants. A pulsing bass that sometimes reminds me of the production of the great Lurker Of Chalice. Just like that album, the bass is the heart of Laster's debut, with its vibrant and warm sound. The production really helps in making the album a cohesive piece in which the songs melt into each other. I found myself finishing it without noticing and just hitting replay more than once.

The big surprise comes without warning at the end. It's hard to not spoil it for you all but it's such a clever way of playing goth tunes with a black metal sound. Somehow it sounds so natural despite being a drastic change. It shows how this album is best served from beginning to end in order to appreciate the hints that give way to that ending. I now wait for another album in which they could use those influences more often, because Laster can definitely capitalize on that combination of styles.