Rauhnåcht | Zwischenwelten | Antiq

 

    Rauhnåcht is a one-man black metal project from Austria, founded in 2009 by an artist (Stefan Traunmüller, also in Golden Dawn and numerous other projects) known for his connection with nature and a reclusive, mountain-bound lifestyle. The project began as an extension of the Alpine folk collective Sturmpercht, blending traditional Alpine music with black metal and atmospheric elements. Over time, Rauhnåcht carved out a personal style described by many as alpine black metal—an approach rooted in nature, ancient mysticism, and deep introspection. Albums like “Vortweltschweigen,” “Urzeitgeist,” and “Unterm Gipfelthron” built the foundation of the band’s name. The 2022 ambient release “Winterstille” marked a temporary step away from black metal, showing another side of the artist’s creative vision.

“Zwischenwelten” returns to black metal, but it feels more severe and enigmatic than Rauhnåcht’s previous metal work. The album’s name means “The Worlds Between the Worlds,” and this concept is reflected in both the sound and the atmosphere. High-speed drumming often drives the tracks forward, but under the aggression lies a structure filled with contrasts—between fast and slow, harsh and calm, and the earthly and the spiritual.

There’s a coldness throughout the album that suits its mountainous origin. Echoing vocals, traditional instruments, and subtle field recordings blur the boundary between man and landscape. You get the sense of wandering through winter forests or abandoned shrines, with unseen forces close by. The transitions are long, often meditative, but never without purpose. Even when melodies emerge from the darkness, they don’t offer relief. They serve more as paths to somewhere deeper.

The production avoids being overwhelming. Everything feels carefully placed to serve the larger picture. Each track adds to the idea of a liminal world—neither here nor there, but existing in its own right. Some parts sound almost sacred, while others seem driven by rage and isolation. That combination gives the album a strong identity.

Rauhnåcht does not flood social media or seek public attention. This music comes from a more private, deliberate place. “Zwischenwelten” fits within that vision—an album not made to impress, but to mark a place, an experience, a border. It’s immersive and serious, but not unreachable. Besides this black metal, we miss. It comes straight from the 90s, and you’ll worship it.

Score: 8.5

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