Kerretta - Album Review: Angelm
Auckland's instrumental rock trio, Kerretta, is back, and let me tell you, it couldn’t come at a better time.
Angelm, their first album since 2018's Exiscens, which was a collection of outtakes and unreleased tracks. Known for their heavy, experimental sound, Angelm shows that Kerretta (bassist William Waters, drummer H. Walker, and guitarist David Holmes) are still deeply committed to their signature mix of intensity and atmosphere.
The album’s eight tracks demonstrate that Kerretta has refined their craft without losing the raw energy that first put them on the map.
The opening track, Pan Ultima, sets a haunting tone, reminiscent of Nine Inch Nails' Ghosts I–IV. It’s a slow burn, marked by eerie melodies and sparse instrumentation that gradually layers into something heavier. It has a cinematic quality and serves as a great prelude to what’s to come
Its atmospheric build is both patient and intense, with a sense of anticipation that pulls you in immediately.
Eyes In The Bull Temple is a definite stand out and arguably Angelm most explosive track. Frenetic energy and an aggressive tempo, the distorted guitars hit hard, matched by pulsing basslines and relentless drumming. The song feels electric and veers forward without pause, with the distortion providing a gritty, almost industrial edge. It's a track that shows their ability to channel raw power while maintaining a clear sense of structure amidst the chaos.
Further in, South Am offers a more unconventional moment. The seasick, off-kilter riff that opens the track feels jarring, almost uncomfortable, but in a way that keeps you intrigued and plays with your expectations. The drumming adds to the song’s unbalanced feeling, with unpredictable shifts in tempo that leave you guessing. The track’s ability to take you out of your comfort zone is what makes it so compelling—it’s experimental in the truest sense, refusing to stick to any predictable structure.
Overall, Angelm sees Kerretta pushing the boundaries of their sound, while staying true to their instrumental rock roots. The album is full of heavy, driving riffs, intricate rhythms, and moments of eerie calm. Those deep bass notes provide a solid unrelenting backbone, while the guitar work takes centre stage with its dynamic range.
After a decade wait for a studio album, wait, it’s clear that Kerretta is back and better than ever.
About Kerretta
Compared to driving a Ferrari on magic mushrooms, the three-piece have been nominated for the ‘New Zealand Taite Prize’ (equivalent to the Mercury Award), have shared stages with the likes of The Breeders, Trail of Dead, Mantar, Yob, Pallbearer, Amen Ra, Mono, Explosions In The Sky, This Will Destroy You and have torn through venues in Australia, New Zealand, the US and Europe.
For fans of: Russian Circles, TV On The Radio, QOTSA, Moon Duo, Mogwai.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Kerretta
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