Mantar announces new album “Post Apocalyptic Depression,” shares lead single

German sludge metal duo Mantar has revealed details of their upcoming album “Post Apocalyptic Depression,” set for release on February 14th via Metal Blade Records. The band has marked the announcement with “Halsgericht,” the album’s lead single, accompanied by a music video directed by Guilherme Henriques.

In discussing the new album’s direction, guitarist/vocalist Hanno Klänhardt emphasizes a deliberate shift from their previous work, embracing a rawer, more primitive approach. “We wanted to do everything different from the last album,” Klänhardt explains. “We’re trying to destroy what we’ve built up with the last album. There is a certain beauty in disappointing people’s expectations.“

The recording process reflected this stripped-down philosophy, with the band utilizing whatever studio equipment was available rather than their usual gear. Klänhardt describes the approach as “quick and dirty,” highlighting the album’s connection to their punk roots.

The album’s title, “Post Apocalyptic Depression,” represents what Klänhardt describes as “the feeling you get after a mass hysteria… when you’ve invested all your power in a mass hypnosis and suddenly realize there won’t be no salvation.” He adds that it also speaks to the universal experience of burnout after difficult life periods.

The lead single “Halsgericht” (meaning “the right to impose extra heavy punishment”) showcases the band’s first significant use of German lyrics, which Klänhardt notes adds to the track’s sinister atmosphere. “It makes it weird and sinister. Just what we like. Especially in the US, people seem to love these kinda vibes,” he says.

Track Listing:

1. “Absolute Ghost”
2. “Rex Perverso”
3. “Principle Of Command”
4. “Dogma Down”
5. “Morbid Vocation”
6. “Halsgericht”
7. “Pit Of Guilt”
8. “Church Of Suck”
9. “Two Choices Of Eternity”
10. “Face Of Torture”
11. “Axe Death Scenario”
12. “Cosmic Abortion”