Austere is a depressive black metal band hailing from East Corrimal, New South Wales, Australia. Formed by Desolate (Mitchell Keepin) and Sorrow (Tim Yatras), members of notable Australian black metal acts like Woods of Desolation and Grey Waters, the band is known for their atmospheric and melancholic sound. Delving into themes of sorrow, introspection, and the bleakness of existence, Austere's compositions are characterized by a slow, mournful pace, incorporating keyboards and ambient elements alongside their nihilistic lyrics. In 2007, they released their acclaimed debut album, Withering Illusions and Desolation recording two splits: Only the Wind Remembers / Ending the Circle of Life with the British band Lyrinx and Bleak with German band Isolation the following year. Their second album To Lay Like Old Ashes appeared in 2009 with critics praising them for their distinctive sound and unwavering artistic vision, often comparing them to influential depressive black metal acts such as Xasthur, Leviathan, and Nortt. Disbanding in 2010, the duo reunited in 2021, with singles "Sullen" and "A Ravenous Oblivion" appearing in 2023, along with highly anticipated album Corrosion of Hearts. Revered for their intense and atmospheric live performances, Austere have embarked on extensive tours throughout Australia, and thirteen years later, are still considered to be one of the most significant and influential bands within the depressive black metal genre.
