Hulder

Marliese Beeuwsaert aka Marz Riesterer was born in Duffel but lives in Washington. Her project Hulder channels the spirit of second wave black metal with a dedication that feels both authentic and fiercely personal. In 2021 Hulder emerged from the underground with the critically acclaimed ‘Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry’ (2021), a debut steeped in raw atmosphere and medieval darkness. Musically it’s firmly rooted in traditional black metal: tremolo riffs, icy melodies and relentless pacing. Lyrically, themes revolve around folklore, nature and occult mysticism rather than modern concerns. Her sophomore release ‘Versus in Oath’ was also met with great enthusiasm. Second-wave Norwegian influences, melodic and symphonic element, strong vocal delivery and suffused with a medieval, almost vampiric atmosphere make for an album that sounds even more majestic than their debut. What sets Hulder apart is the commitment to mood and detail, creating a world that feels fully realised and tangible rather than nostalgic. Live performances translate that intensity into something ritualistic, pulling the audience into a colder, older realm. (#GMM26)