Das Schwarze Einmaleins cover

Das Schwarze Einmaleins

Saltatio Mortis · 2013

50 min · 13 tracks · medieval metal

A dynamic fusion of medieval instrumentation and modern metal energy that transports listeners to a fantastical realm.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Krieg kennt keine Sieger — This track stands out for its poignant commentary on the futility of war, combining powerful lyrics with anthemic choruses that resonate deeply.
  • →
    Der Kuss — With its haunting melodies and lyrical exploration of love and loss, this song encapsulates the emotional depth present throughout the album.
  • →
    Galgenballade — This track showcases Saltatio Mortis's signature storytelling approach, weaving a tale of fate and consequence with both dark humor and melodic flair.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album effectively merges medieval elements with metal, showcasing strong craftsmanship and thematic depth.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong, driving rhythm that persists through the first half, before transitioning to more melodic and atmospheric sections in the latter tracks.
  • Several tracks feature traditional medieval instruments like flutes and lutes interwoven with electric guitar riffs, creating a distinct sound blend.
  • The lyrics often reference historical and mythical themes, enhancing the album's narrative quality and immersive experience.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo flow throughout
  • dark yet celebratory atmosphere
  • historical themes with modern twist
  • engaging narrative through tracks

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its unique sound and significant chart debut.
Career context
By the time of its release in 2013, Saltatio Mortis had solidified their presence in the medieval metal genre with several successful albums. 'Das Schwarze Einmaleins' is their sixth studio album and follows the acclaimed 'Sturm aufs Paradies,' showcasing their evolving sound while maintaining their thematic focus on historical and mythical narratives.
Stylistic neighbors
In Extremo· Schandmaul· Korpiklaani

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Früher war alles besser 3:57
  • 2 Wachstum über alles 3:41
  • 3 Krieg kennt keine Sieger 3:47
  • 4 Der Kuss 3:30
  • 5 My Bonnie Mary 3:23
  • 6 Sandmann 4:11
  • 7 Satans Fall 3:58
  • 8 Idol 4:24
  • 9 IX 4:13
  • 10 Galgenballade 4:10
  • 11 Abrakadabra 4:33
  • 12 Nur ein Traum 3:27
  • 13 Randnotiz 2:47

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata