Robse – Harlekin & Krieger
Review by: Blake Mossey
Review Score: 8
Robse is the brainchild of frontman Robert “Robse” Dahn, a vocalist best known for his commanding presence in the German folk/melodic death metal band Equilibrium. After a 12-year run with Equilibrium, Dahn set out to forge a new path, leading to the formation of Robse. The band showcases a heavier, more aggressive sound compared to Dahn’s previous work, drawing influences from the old Gothenburg melodic death metal scene and the early works of bands like Amon Amarth.
Robse may share some familiar DNA with Dahn’s 12-year stint in Equilibrium, but let’s be clear: this is no mere copycat act. The guitar work of Oliver Hey and Dennis Baron cranks up the intensity, giving the band a heavier, more aggressive tone that nods to the old-school Gothenburg sound and early Swedish melodic death metal. These riffs aren’t just a rehash, they’re a step up, packing more punch and precision.
Dahn’s vocals also take on a more traditional melodic death metal style. His guttural growls are powerful and fierce, fitting seamlessly with the band’s heavier approach. Combined with the keyboard mastery and occasional vocal contributions of Alina Lesnik, along with some folk-inspired melodic hooks, you get a sound that’s both complex and captivating. It’s as if Equilibrium’s grand style took a step back from the theatrics and decided to focus on the essentials.
The album kicks off with “Sonata Arlecchino,” a track that might catch you off guard if you’re expecting a straightforward metal assault. This opening leans more toward a cinematic and synth-heavy style, drawing from the dramatic playbook of film scores but with a playful, theatrical edge that aligns with the album’s title. It’s an unorthodox start that hints at the adventurous spirit of what’s to come.
Robse sticks closely to the melodic death metal formula but isn’t afraid to introduce some unexpected elements. Tracks like “Flamme Der Revolution” and “Van der Schencke” evoke the folk-infused energy reminiscent of Dahn’s Equilibrium era. However, the core strength of the album lies in the more traditional melodic death metal anthems like “Harlekin Und Krieger,” “Amenthes,” and the nostalgic “Hey Sturm,” which bring to mind the classic sounds of the 90s Swedish metal scene. Fans of melodic death metal will feel right at home with this album.
Robse truly excels in blending the classic melodic death metal sound with symphonic elements reminiscent of Dahn’s time with Equilibrium. The final track, “Viva la Caida,” exemplifies this fusion, closing the album with an epic finish that leaves you eager for more. Robse has skillfully crafted a new identity, one that will resonate with melodic death metal fans while offering something fresh and daring. The band successfully experiments without losing touch with their core audience—a pitfall that Equilibrium’s last album may have stumbled into.
Their debut album, Harlekin & Krieger, is a testament to their dynamic range, blending cinematic elements with traditional metal ferocity. Robse is a band that’s already turning heads in the metal scene, and with their bold, adventurous approach, they’re poised to leave a lasting mark.
ROBSE:
Robert-Martin Dahn – vocals
Dennis “Blaze” Baron – guitar
Oliver Hey – guitar
Marius Berendsen – drums
Marco Paulzen – bass
Alina Lesnik – keyboards/backing vocals