Dornen

Dornen was released in 2017 under the independent label Schattenplatten, marking a significant entry in the expansive discography of Samsas Traum, the project led by Alexander Kaschte. The album reflects Kaschte’s long-standing dedication to gothic metal and darkwave aesthetics, emerging from a period where the project continued to experiment with complex, often provocative themes centered on existential angst and intricate storytelling. It serves as a testament to the band’s commitment to self-publishing and maintaining creative control within the German-speaking gothic scene.

The visual and conceptual design of the album leans into the melancholic and visceral imagery typical of the band's work, often utilizing somber, stark, or elaborate artwork to mirror the thematic intensity of the compositions. Much of the aesthetic approach was guided by Kaschte’s personal vision, aiming to translate the lyrical darkness into a tangible visual experience. Upon release, the work was received by the band’s established cult following as a return to the more abrasive and symphonic roots that originally garnered them attention in the early 2000s.