Review: Haeresis - Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum (2025)

Band: Haeresis
Album: Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum
Genre: Post Black Metal
Country: Germany
Label: Vendetta Records
Released: October 10, 2025

Introduction:

Haeresis is a post-black metal project from Berlin, Germany, formed in 2016. The word “haeresis” itself refers to an opinion that contradicts church doctrine. The band was active under the name “Heksenhammer” between 2015 and 2016 and is currently releasing its work through the well-known label Vendetta Records. Most of the members have previously played in several other bands. Over the years, Haeresis has released a self-titled demo, an EP titled “To Drown…,” and several singles. On October 10, 2025, their first full-length album, “Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum,” was released via Vendetta Records, marking a milestone in their discography. Prior to the album’s release, the singles “Echoes of Ashes” and “Eradicate Traciturnity” were unveiled, clearly setting the tone for what to expect from the forthcoming full-length.

Track Listing:
1. Echoes of Ashes
2. I Who Repel All Light
3. Drifting Beyond Time's Grasp
4. Eradicate Taciturnity

The Album:

"If you want peace, prepare for war.” That is what the title stands for, and it perfectly fits the overall concept of the album. Historically, the phrase expresses the idea that deterrence can secure peace: those who are strong and ready to defend themselves are less likely to be attacked. Peace, therefore, is not a state of pure harmony but the result of a balance of power. Its provocation lies in the fact that it does not romanticise peace but treats it as something fragile that must be actively protected. With that in mind, this spirit runs consistently throughout the album. The opener, “Echoes of Ashes,” begins with a dramatic ambient passage before erupting into a wall of blast beats, grounded in a dense atmosphere shaped by bass and guitars. Combined with the harsh vocals of female singer C.G., it immediately becomes clear what kind of journey you are stepping into.

The entire album is marked by hard, aggressive sections carried by a dramatic and oppressive mood. It is melodic yet cold, strongly reminiscent of the kind of black metal once associated with Finland, while still maintaining a distinct and personal twist. Tempo changes add variety to the listening experience, while ambient passages with clean vocals offer brief moments of recovery from the intensity. This combination turns the album into an exceptional experience. The closing track, “Eradicate Traciturnity,” stands out as a particularly strong example of how harmony and chaos can coexist.

The lyrics are dark and existentialist, dealing with despair, decay and the search for redemption. They often focus on the destructive nature of human existence and hopelessness, as seen in lines such as ‘Shadows cast their pall over these days’ or ‘On the knees with bare hands in filth’, which create an atmosphere of destruction and inner struggle. The production is solid and polished, making it unsuitable for listeners who seek raw, lo-fi black metal aesthetics. Despite featuring only four tracks, the album feels complete. You are left with nothing missing once the final note fades.

Conclusion:

Haeresis presents a debut album that fully embodies its title, treating peace and intensity as two sides of the same fragile balance. Drawing from post- and black-metal traditions while maintaining a distinct identity, the band combines aggression, atmosphere, and melody with confidence. Strong songwriting, thoughtful dynamics, and a polished production make "Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum" a defining milestone in their discography. Despite its concise length, the album feels complete and leaves a lasting impression.

BMZ rating: 9 out of 10

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