Lantlôs - .neon (2010)

Hailing from Germany (well, the original ‘half’ of the band is from Germany), we get today Lantlôs with their second “.neon”, the band’s second full-length release. And right of the bat, we will tell you that “.neon” is one of the best depressive Post-Black Metal releases we have ever heard. The bleak atmosphere created by this release is unparalleled.

Featuring Neige from Alcest on vocals, Lantlôs has crafted around 40 minutes of pure depressive music that will make Amélie Poulain get sad and depressed. The enchanting melodies crafted on “.neon” are greatly adorned by Neige’s sorrowful vocals, sounding sometimes similar to Alcest, but with a higher dose of jazzy elements that create an intoxicating atmosphere.

The bass guitar is probably what made this release so effective for us, like we mentioned before, it has some jazz elements to it. Lying on top we find the distorted guitars that add the right amount of aggression to the music to make it strong and effective. The drumming is an ever changing chameleon between slower rhythmic sections, to full on Black Metal assaults.

If we tried to compare this band to somebody we would definitely pick Svarti Loghin. Both bands have similar underlying Black Metal foundations, but their focus on depressive and bleak atmospheres help them create aggressive-yet-depressive songs, a feat that is not easily achieved. There are some Alcest hints in some sections, but they quickly fade because “.neon” takes a less surreal approach to music, and focuses on simplicity.

In this times where Post-Black Metal is gaining popularity, we must say that bands should take Lantlôs as an example of how things should be done. You don’t need to use keyboards or any other elements when you can just go down to the basics, immerse yourself in sorrow and start writing simple and effective songs. All song structures in “.neon” are very well crafted, getting the job of transmitting a feeling done in a simple manner.

If you are a depressive music junkie like us, check this album out. If you like Alcest and don’t mind something lest extravagant, then “.neon” will also be right up your alley. In general, people that like well crafted music that is both simple and haunting should check Lantlôs out.

Release: July 13th, 2010

Country: Germany