Übers Jahr by Schatterau

The German band Schatterau returns to Hands in the Dark with their latest release, Übers Jahr ('Throughout the Year'), which follows their acclaimed debut album from 2024.

This sophomore effort, as its title implies, delves into the cyclical nature of time and the duality of the transient and the eternal unfolding of events. The album comprises 17 vignettes that reflect on the seasons, capturing their unique light and sounds, the passage of time, and the interplay of movement and stillness, as well as the perpetual transformation that leads to new beginnings.

Continuing the approach of their inaugural album, the compositions are constructed around endless cassette loops, allowing the band to explore intricate textures and weave them into a surreal, dreamlike tapestry. In this release, the warmth and melancholy of the compositions have developed into a more intricate existence, showcasing a wider array of textures and sounds, while the songwriting exhibits greater maturity, inviting listeners into a more immersive and cohesive experience.

Übers Jahr transcends being a simple collection of auditory moods; it serves as an intimate portrayal of the seasons that cyclically unfold, embodying a mystery that surpasses both memory and time.