When you hear about a doom metal band who not only focuses their lyrics on sea-themed topics, but also on classical nautical books, you don’t say, “I’ll pass”. The intriguing nature of what they are doing is only a fraction of what makes Ahab unique and fascinating. Add in the brilliance of the music and soundscapes of an incredible journey, and you will not want to get off of the metaphorical boat.
Ahab found its’ name through the tale “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville. They began the exploration in 2004 when Chris Hector (guitar) and Daniel Droste (vocals, guitar, keyboard) came together with a vision. They brought in the incredibly talented Cornelius Althammer on drums and in 2008 switched up the bassist to powerhouse Stephan Wandernoth. This German four-piece just released fifth album, The Coral Tombs on January 13th, 2023 through Napalm Records which represents another ocean filled adventurous classical book, “20000 Leagues Under the Sea” by Jules Verne. The musical elements of this album is an intense journey not only lyrically, but compositionally. Every song takes you on a different twist and turn with haunting at times and harsh at other times vocals, melodious and catchy riffs, heavy bass dips, and drum beats to bring it all together.
If you want to live vicariously through some of these marine expeditioners without too much danger or being soaked in the harrowing waters, I suggest you dive into The Coral Tombs without scuba gear but ready for anything. The everchanging rhythms and soundscapes will keep you absorbed and awakened.
Cornelius sat down with Metal Nation and discussed the release. (If you are viewing from your phone, scroll down to the end of the page where it says in red “View Desktop Version” and click on the link to gain full access to interview and videos).