Band: Graven
Album: March of the Broken
Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal
Country: Italy
Label: Independent
Released: June 10, 2025
Introduction
Graven is a one man, black metal project from Ramini, Italy.
The Album
Tracklist:
- Uncharted Dreams
- The Light That Failed
- A Hundred Deaths
- March of the Broken
- Our Wounds, Our Crown
March of the Broken was conceived as a conceptual album. It’s lyrical themes follow a group of survivors from their homeland, in search of a far off promised land. Their search however only yields despair and madness. But through this turmoil they are eventually able to regain themselves and in the end start anew. The story is also an allegory for Graven’s personal struggles and his journey to reclaiming himself through this adversity.
The lyrics are very well written and convey the story in a way as if each song is a chapter. The production is excellent, and the musicianship throughout the album is accomplished. There’s nothing over the top here but it’s polished and concise.
The melodic guitar riff that is the central theme of The light that Failed is one of my favorites from the album. But my overall favorite tracks are A Hundred Deaths and March of the Broken.
The songs flow very well together and overall the music paints a very vivid picture along with the album’s lyrics.
Conclusion
As the debut album from a solo project this is an excellent step into the realm of atmospheric black metal. The lyrical narrative and musical backdrop makes for an engaging listen.
BMZ Rating: 6 – Above Average: This album shows promise with several standout moments. It shines in places, either through memorable tracks or other unique aspects like vocals, drums etc.
Support Graven here: https://gravenlp.bandcamp.com/album/march-of-the-broken
Your thoughts on Graven
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