Blackbraid I

The Witch Hawk is here.

Native American history perfectly lends itself to the ethos of black metal. Full of violence, tragedy, hardship, stolen land and culture, relegated to reservations and forgotten. Complete degradation by white America. But through it all Native Americans have managed to maintain some of their traditions and customs. Including a love and appreciation for nature.
I first heard of Blackbraid in Decibel magazine who ranked this album at #4 on their year end list. And rightfully so. Blackbraid I is excellent from start to finish. It's truly hard to believe this is a debut album. All the songs are fully formed and delivered with precision. The production is first rate with all instruments coming through clearly which gives the album a definite power and quality. The man behind the band is Jon "Sgah'gahsowah" Krieger. His lyrics are a deeply personal reflection on what's going on around him. A statement of purpose in a world where it's easy to feel like we have none. His vocal delivery is at the forefront of the music not buried behind layers of guitars. A real standout on the album. The other standout has to be the drumming by collaborator and recording engineer Neil Schneider. Powerful but not overwhelming. Perhaps it was fate for them to meet or maybe just luck. I don't care I'm just glad they did because this album crushes.
This band along with Pan American Native Front represent what I hope is a bright future for Native American black metal. Right now there are few who are doing it better. I'm really looking forward to the next album.