Markgraf – Where Black Metal Meets Ancient Lore

Last time, we focused on an 80s German band with strong ties to that era’s sound. Today, we're diving into a much newer band from Germany that draws some heavy inspiration from metal legends Cirith Ungol. You might already know who I’m talking about based on that hint alone—Germany’s own black/heavy metal trio, Markgraf. Named after the historical German title “Markgraf,” a noble rank used between the 8th and 11th centuries, Markgraf has carved out a unique place in metal since their founding in 2019.

Markgraf's name alone sets the tone. Borrowed from the old German title Markgraf (or Margrave in English), it evokes a noble rank that was prominent between the 8th and 11th centuries. This historical reference runs deep in their identity and reflects in their music, which carries a raw, ancient energy rooted in the mythos of the German Schwarzwald (Black Forest). The band’s lyrics explore folklore, legends, and mysteries surrounding this enigmatic region, tying their sound to Germany's cultural and historical backdrop.

Musically, Markgraf fuses black and heavy metal in a distinctive way, mixing heavy, deliberate riffs, eerie synth atmospheres, and Tim Baker-inspired vocals to conjure an aesthetic that’s both haunting and powerful. The mix of genres, along with shifting time signatures and layered guitar riffs, gives their music a theatrical feel. Their debut full-length album, Markgraf, reflects their early sound—rough and raw, almost DIY in its approach. The songs on this album are shorter, packed with a raw energy that pays homage to early Cirith Ungol but with a distinctly black metal influence, creating a style that's both familiar and refreshingly dark.

Their second full-length album marks a shift toward more complex song structures, with longer tracks and a more nuanced, avant-garde approach. Here, we see the band experiment with time signatures and riff changes that add dynamics to each piece, keeping listeners engaged as they explore themes of mythology and Germanic folklore. Some sources have debated whether these releases should be considered EPs or albums, but Metal Archives, Bandcamp, and their record label officially categorize them as full-length albums, and that’s the view we’ll stick with. Both releases contain references to places and legends of the Schwarzwald, grounding their work in the eerie, mysterious forest lore that adds a mythic layer to their sound.

A special note should be made of the band’s album covers, both designed by David Glomba. Known for his traditional drawing techniques, the Slovakian artist’s work enhances Markgraf’s musical themes perfectly. His intricate, almost mythic artwork adds a visual component that complements the band’s medieval and Black Forest-inspired tales, making the physical albums true collectors’ pieces for fans.

In only a few short years, Markgraf has earned a growing, loyal following, a cult status that feels well-deserved. Given the quality of their first two albums, I would gladly wait another four years if it means getting another release that reaches these levels of artistry. And to catch them live—well, that promises to be an experience that any true metal fan would be thrilled to witness firsthand. Markgraf is a band to keep an eye on as they continue to carve out a unique path in the modern metal scene, blending ancient lore with relentless, innovative sound.

Markgraf - "Markgraf" & "Hohenbaden"