Master's Hammer

Master's Hammer

Master's Hammer is a Czech black metal group from Praha, Czechia, founded in 1987 by Franta Storm. The band is known for writing all of its lyrics in Czech and for moving between black metal, avant-garde metal and broader metal styles across its career.

Early years and first releases

The group begins with a series of demos before issuing its debut album, Ritual, in 1991. It follows with Jilemnice Occultist in 1992, described as the first black metal operetta. Earlier demo recordings include The Ritual Murder (1987), Finished (1988), Live in Zbraslav 18.5.1989 (1989), The Mass (1989) and The Fall of Idol (1990), alongside the EP Klavierstück in 1991 and the demo Jilemnický Okultista in 1992.

Stylistic change and hiatus

In 1995, the album Šlágry marks a move away from the band’s earlier work and incorporates styles outside metal. After a long break, the group reforms and returns with Mantras, self-released in 2009, followed by Vracejte Konve Na Místo in 2012.

Later releases and Jihosound Records

In 2013, Master's Hammer reissues Ritual on vinyl, releases a 3CD set of demos recorded from 1987 to 1992, and issues a split with Blackosh through its own label, Jihosound Records, founded the same year. Jihosound Records is the group’s label. The next year, it releases another 7-inch split with Blackosh and the full-length Vagus Vetus. Later releases include the 7-inch Kult Mládí a Mrazu (2015), Formulæ (2016), Fascinator (2018), and Maldorör Disco.

Discography overview

The band’s recorded output also includes the 2001 re-release Ritual / Jilemnice Occultist, the 2012 split Master's Hammer SP, the 2013 vinyl re-release of Ritual, and the 7-inch split Pod Vrstvou Prachu / 6,66 Promile from 2014. The group remains active through 2020.