EXCLUSIVE VIDEO PREMIERE: POLREHEXSE’S POLDERSABBAT
Godendac presents a new entity entitled Polrehexse, joining the ranks with the likes of Imagine A Boot, Netansatan, and Les Guillotines Délirés. As with the aforementioned projects, Polrehexse is more or less raw black metal, with multiple other influences woven into the mix. “Poldersabbat” is not for the faint of heart, but it is definitely for those who appreciate their music both abrasive and exploratory.
The title of the track we’re premiering today can be divided into two parts. To paraphrase the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a polder is essentially a low lying piece of land reclaimed from the sea, especially in the Netherlands. The same source suggests that sabbat references a ritual or sabbath for witches. I’m not really sure how to put that together for meaning in the song, but thankfully the anonymous artist has provided some insight. They write:
On “Poldersabbat” Polrehexse leads the witches of Zwavelpolder in celebration. Dancing on the bones of men. Men of God. Men of Power. Men. Poldersabbat is a rite of freedom.
Thus, the track track is about a witch’s celebration and ritual in a specific polder. I understand the meaning to be at least partly metaphor, as a statement against misogyny, against what men are doing in this world, and fighting to gain freedom from that.
Musically, the track (and the album as a whole) combines many elements. Really, the most black metal parts are the lyrics, which are raw rasps, and the vibes, which do feel quite black metal to me. However, tremolo picked riffs and blastbeats are in short supply. Instead, the artist concocts this witches’ brew using elements of noise, industrial, synth, and even techno. This truly is the most rave-worthy, danceable harshness I’ve ever heard.
The video shows the sabbat ritual in question, all in black and white (perhaps found footage) which is clearly dated by the clothing worn and the stop motion devils involved. It’s a fascinating short film set to the music of the track. Give it a run through, and then maybe another one:
This track, and indeed this album may piss off some black metal purists (which is a great bonus feature), but is sure to appeal to those of us who enjoy some experimentation in our music. The full album, Poldersabbat will be available May 1st through Godendac and on cassette via Fiadh Productions.
