Review KANONENFIEBER “Die Urkatastrophe”

One of the most exciting newcomers in recent years is Kanonenfieber. The band, which is the brainchild of German musician Noise, hails from Bamberg, Bavaria and is a fairly new project.

Kanonenfieber was formed in 2020 and quickly became the talk of the town. The debut album “Menschenmühle” from 2021 paved the way for Noise and his live band to quickly gain momentum.

Several singles and EPs followed and served as a springboard for the project to catch the attention ofCentury Media. After inking a deal, Kanonenfieber are currently releasing their sophomore album “Die Urkatastrophe” and it is the anticipated great next album.

Like the previous record, “Die Urkatastophe” also focuses lyrically on the First World War. Addressing WW1 created some question marks in the beginning, while it is very clear that the lyrics are addressing the cruelties of war. It is the pain, loss and despair of war that is expressed in the band’s songs. Noise builds the lyrics on factual reports, things that really happened and should serve as a musical memorial to those who lost their lives. War doesn’t reflect glory. War brings decay and death, something we should all remember especially in these strange times.

When it comes to the musical aspect of the album, you can say that Kanonenfieber develop their trademark sound and take it to the next level. The mix of death- and black metal is still the foundation of the album. Furthermore, there is always a sense for melodies included, which makes it easy to connect to the songs. I also have to say that I was reminded of Heaven Shall Burn more than once, and not only because Maik Weichert added a solo to “Waffenbrüder”.

Photo: Stephanie Rifkin/photos_by_tiffany_anne

While “Grossmachtfantasien” is a sinister intro with original spoken words from a time of doom. With “Menschenmuehle” the first blast hits your ears. It is a raging song with a straightforward approach, followed by the heavily pounding “Sturmtrupp”. The way the band translates the cruelty of war into music is impressive, as there is a constant feeling of carefully crafted unease that the songs express.

You can feel the heat, the fear, and the smell of death as you listen to songs like “Der Maulwurf,” which is about the underground mine warfare that began in the fall/winter of 1914 with the start of trench warfare.

“Verdun” is a narrative interlude with explosions in the background. With “Ausblutungsschlacht” and “Als die Waffen kamen” the album comes to an end and what is a genius move of Kanonefieber is the closer. “Als die Waffen kamen” is an acoustic song and therefore a strong contrast to the rest of the album. At the same time the song fits perfectly and provides some food for thought at the end of this masterfully crafted album.

What remains is a very impressive release that can transport the despair of war. It is an oppressive milestone release from a band that has entered the premier league of metal as quickly as only a handful of other bands. “Die Urkatastrophe” is a highlight of 2024 and is important in all aspects.