Amenra | Artist

Amenra is a Belgian post-metal band formed 1999 in Kortrijk, Belgium, by Colin H. van Eeckhout (vocals), Mathieu Vandekerckhove (guitar), and Kristof Mondy (bass). The three had previously been in the hardcore punk band Spineless. The present day lineup comprises van Eeckhout and Vandekerckhove, together with Lennart Bossu (guitar), Tim de Gieter (bass), and Bjorn Lebon (drums). Amenra's music is characterized by its intense crushing heaviness, and haunting atmosphere, with a dynamic interplay of delicate, ethereal passages and brutal, earth-shaking heaviness building to cathartic crescendos. Lyrically they explore deeply personal and existential topics, reflecting the members' own struggles and experiences, conveyed by Colin H. van Eeckhout's guttural screams and anguished vocals. The band is known for their immersive live shows, which often feature intense visual elements such as projections, lighting effects, and ritualistic performances. 2005 saw the release of the band's debut album, which was also the first in a series of Four albums entitled "Mass", released over a period of 12 years. Standout albums include Mass III (2005), Mass IIII (sic) (2008), Mass V (2012), Mass VI (2017), and de Doorn (2021). Their albums have attracted praise from many metal afficienados. In reviewing the album Mass IIII, one review quotes: "Heavy sludge with some joints of drone, hardcore and old school doom metal. The vocals unique, black and really interesting (sometimes in the clean parts reminds me maynard from Tool). I think after all this album make some other extreme bands (even from the black metal scene) sound like sissies." In 2005, Amenra formed Church of Ra, a collective of collaborating artists which now includes Oathbreaker and the Black Heart Rebellion. Through their music and art Amenra "seeks to create a space for introspection, healing, and transcendence, inviting listeners to confront their innermost emotions and experiences". The band's name is inspired by the Egyptian sun god Amun-Ra, reflecting their interest in themes of spirituality, darkness, and catharsis.

Artist Website: amenra-official.tumblr.com

Featured Albums: Amenra

Related Artists: Absent in Body, Church of Ra, Oathbreaker, Spineless