Metalcatto
You know what we haven’t done in a while? Reviewed some Black N’ Roll. Granted, it’s not the most common release in the mailbox, but that only made me more curious about what Wrang‘s Verwording had to offer. Will it be more static noise, or will it give us a great ride into tribulation? I assume it’s about the sea this time, because my Dutch is at a coma patient level. So let’s start.
The scale of Verwording is probably what stood out the most to me. Sure, it has elements of many other acts in the scene, but there’s a feeling of sheer size and loudness that makes the album shine. Most of the tracks have an average length, but they feel far more complex due to all the changes packed into them. Even though Wrang‘s style remains within the minimalist realm, the arrangements never feel sparse or lazy. The harsh and heart-wrenching melodies add a layer of emotion that most albums of this style don’t wish to achieve or simply can’t manage to touch.
It’s all in the guitars and bass, people. The drums are good, but their tone is indeed particular—not bad, just different. The rest of the band works together pretty well. There’s a sense of bombastic and grandiose action that’s usually missing in this kind of “Metal from the highway.” Think of Spectral Wound, but more melodramatic. So in a way, more traditional, with more elements borrowed from Emperor and other acts that love making things sound big. The production supports this ambition; it’s loud without being painful, clear without being sterile.
So what’s the issue with the album? Well, my usual two points: there’s a bit too much riff repetition and an overall sense of intense familiarity. Wrang might mix styles to some degree, but I wouldn’t say this is something properly new. Not to mention that though the tracks are mostly short, they could use a few more changes here and there to keep things less predictable. The album doesn’t bore, but it doesn’t shock either. However, the middle and closing tracks are strong and save it from being too comfortable with itself. They remind you that the band has real potential when they push just a little further.
Either way, decent Black N’ Roll is hard to find, which is why, despite its shortcomings, I recommend Verwording. It almost makes the Dutch language enjoyable to the untrained ear. That’s a huge achievement in itself. Also, could I say this is like pirate Metal, but actually good? I mean, it has ships, water, storms. It must count, right? So grab your eyepatch, raise the sails, and give this one a spin. Just don’t expect to be completely blown away. A solid voyage, but not a treasure chest.
Label: Dominance of Darkness Records
Release date: April 24th, 2026
Website: https://wrang.bandcamp.com/album/verwording
Country: Netherlands
Score: 3.5/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 