What makes Panzerfaust by Darkthrone notable?

'Panzerfaust' is significant for its influence on the second wave of black metal, showcasing a lo-fi production aesthetic that became a hallmark of the genre. The album received critical acclaim, with publications like Metal Hammer and Terrorizer praising its raw intensity and thematic depth, solidifying Darkthrone's status within the underground metal scene. Released on June 6, 1995, 'Panzerfaust' marks Darkthrone's fourth studio album, following the influential 'Transilvanian Hunger.' At this point in their career, the band had firmly established themselves as pioneers of the black metal genre, moving further away from their death metal roots and embracing a more primitive sound.

Who is Panzerfaust for?

Panzerfaust works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Panzerfaust?

Panzerfaust has 7 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Panzerfaust

Darkthrone · 1995

39 min · 7 tracks · black metal

A raw, haunting blend of relentless riffs and atmospheric melodies that epitomizes the essence of Norwegian black metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Triumphant Gleam — This track exemplifies the album's signature atmosphere with its epic yet bleak melodies, creating a sense of both triumph and desolation that resonates throughout.
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Beholding the Throne of Might — The song features aggressive guitar work paired with haunting vocals, showcasing Darkthrone's ability to balance melody and brutality in their songwriting.
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Snø og granskog (Utferd) — Closing the album, this track encapsulates the cold, expansive soundscapes that define 'Panzerfaust,' leaving listeners with an evocative sense of isolation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album's raw sound and relentless riffs define its place in black metal, showcasing both strength and atmosphere.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of tremolo-picked guitar riffs layered over blast beat drumming, creating a relentless sonic assault.
Vocals are delivered in a harsh, raspy style that complements the raw production aesthetic, often buried in the mix.
Each track typically maintains a mid to fast tempo, with occasional slower sections that enhance the atmospheric quality of the music.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Darkthrone's status in black metal, influencing the genre's second wave.
Career context: Released on June 6, 1995, 'Panzerfaust' marks Darkthrone's fourth studio album, following the influential 'Transilvanian Hunger.' At this point in their career, the band had firmly established themselves as pioneers of the black metal genre, moving further away from their death metal roots and embracing a more primitive sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Burzum· Mayhem· Immortal