What makes Ravishing Grimness by Darkthrone notable?

'Ravishing Grimness' is significant for its influence on the black metal genre, showcasing a lo-fi aesthetic that would inspire countless bands. The album received a positive critical reception, often highlighted in underground metal circles for its raw energy and authenticity, contributing to Darkthrone's lasting legacy as pioneers of the genre. By the time 'Ravishing Grimness' was released in 1999, Darkthrone had already solidified their status in the black metal scene with their previous albums. This record followed their highly acclaimed 'Panzerfaust' and marked a continued evolution in their sound, embracing a more stripped-down approach that diverged from their early, more polished work.

Who is Ravishing Grimness for?

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

How many songs are on Ravishing Grimness?

Ravishing Grimness has 6 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Ravishing Grimness

Darkthrone · 1999

37 min · 6 tracks · black metal

A raw and relentless exploration of black metal's darker themes with haunting melodies and unyielding rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lifeless — The opening track sets a haunting tone with its slow build-up and bleak atmosphere, effectively establishing the album's thematic depth.
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The Beast — This track exemplifies Darkthrone's signature blend of aggression and melody, featuring intense riffs paired with chilling vocal delivery that encapsulates their style.
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Ravishing Grimness — Serving as the title track, it showcases an intricate interplay of dissonant chords and rhythmic shifts, highlighting the band's ability to create immersive soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The album's raw sound and relentless pace define its character, making it a notable entry in black metal.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent lo-fi production style, with raw guitar tones and minimalistic drumming that emphasize the harshness of the sound.
Each track maintains a relentless tempo, rarely deviating from fast-paced rhythms, which contributes to an overwhelming sense of urgency throughout.
Melodic elements are interspersed within the aggressive instrumentation, often appearing as haunting guitar leads that contrast with the heavier riffs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
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: Critical Peak — Showcases a significant evolution in sound and influence within the black metal genre.
Career context: By the time 'Ravishing Grimness' was released in 1999, Darkthrone had already solidified their status in the black metal scene with their previous albums. This record followed their highly acclaimed 'Panzerfaust' and marked a continued evolution in their sound, embracing a more stripped-down approach that diverged from their early, more polished work.
Stylistic neighbors: Burzum· Mayhem· Immortal