Author: Alexiel Divine

Mirrors For Psychic Warfare – I See What I Became

Mirrors For Psychic Warfare is a quite unique project that features the collaboration of Scott Kelly of Neurosis and producer Sanford Parker and the second chapter entitled “I See What I Became” depicts a dystopian industrial oriented sonic realm.

On “Animal Coffins” something mysterious lurks in the dark, in the midst of sinister sounds that shift from lingering atmospheric tonalities to colder industrial bursts that are certainly groovy but in a weird way and might even trigger claustrophobia.

As soon as you enter the darkened sonic maze of “Tomb Puncher” everything feels like the obvious product of creativity and anxiety as loops of dissonant futuristic synths embrace nostalgic melodic phrases, softer ambiance tones and theatrical vocals.

Already the title “Flat Rats In The Alley” makes you think about decay in a subterranean world where the obscure & trippy arrangements feel comfortable but there is also an almost hidden sense of beauty embedded in the pale melodies and rhythmic crescendos.  

“Crooked Teeth” is filled with nightmarish vibes fueled by enigmatic synths and whispered words that will eventually acquire extra obscure depth and sumptuous melodic creepiness leading to a rather chaotic groove.

Everything is still crazy & moody on “Death Cart” which truly amplifies dreadful feelings yet offers enjoyable hypnotizing soundscapes skillfully crafted by loads of variegated synths and solemn atmospheric arrangements.

Even if the industrial roots & inspiration are often evident Mirrors For Psychic Warfare do not follow a precise composition template and often wander freely through diverse music territories in order to create a post apocalyptic soundtrack on “I See What I Became”.

Black Tusk – T.C.B.T.

The new full length “T.C.B.T.” marks a powerful return for Black Tusk as they fiercely unleash an interesting blend of punk rock anger and sludge sonic depth.

The roaring grooves of “Closed Eye” come with a straightforward music approach as guitars consistently offer enraged riffing following thunderous drumming and vocals become belligerent screams.

“Agali” might sound less predictable with a fair dosage of sludge quasi melodic guitar work nevertheless galloping riffs and desperate vocals tend to focus on a harsh hardcore mood.

“Scalped” surprises the listeners with a sophisticated atmospheric approach that will naturally embrace the heavier rhythmic assault efficiently built by a relentless combo of riffing and drumming.

With a recognizable rough hardcore attitude “Ill At Ease” is noisy & groovy consequently the screams become wilder and rebellious following a need for speed definitely satisfied by the tight merciless rhythmic section.

Without hesitation “Never Ending Daymare” delivers another round of ferocious grooves but this time the lead guitar work stands out particularly crafting fiery and less intimidating sludge passages.

In the midst of ravenous grooves “Burn The Stars” showcases hints of classic rock tonalities in the guitar work without sacrificing the savage hardcore momentum and the super energetic rhythmic blasts.

Overall the aggressive nature of “T.C.B.T.” will trigger headbanging & moshpit pretty much constantly and Black Tusk appear to be comfortable with such angered no frills music vision.

Vreid – Lifehunger

Rising from the ashes of sognametal pioneers Windir Norwegian band Vreid has worked hard since 2004 to rightfully conquer a seminal status in the underground metal scene and the latest full length “Lifehunger” marks another successful chapter in the band’s flourishing career.

Guitars can sound really venomous on “One Hundred Years” which immediately showcases a profound blackened approach allowing darkness to descend upon the listeners with moments of sheer rhythmic brutality without forgetting a fair dosage of Vreid’s renowned black ‘n roll temperament yet due to the multifaceted songwriting approach here you can also find extra melancholic guitar melodies and dreamy arpeggios.

There is a darkened catchy mood on the title track courtesy of gelid guitar riffs, tormented growls and fiery rhythmic segments plus you simply cannot miss the charismatic lead guitar work and the wicked impactful blackened momentum that dominates the song’s final passages.

With stomping rhythmic fury “The Dead White” features some memorable groovy segments where fierce bass lines and infectious guitar riffs seem unstoppable but suddenly this massive darkness is interrupted by nostalgic acoustic arpeggios soon embellished by soulful melodic guitar leads.

“Hello Darkness” takes a different route as Vreid experiments with bleak atmospheric tonalities and softer yet still very darkened melodic guitars that generate a highly dramatic mood and certainly the brilliant haunting guest vocals courtesy of Aðalbjörn ‘Addi’ Tryggvason from Solstafir are a marvelous surprise.

The final instrumental track “Heimatt” features remarkable sognametal motifs as the eerie atmospheres introduce a rather somber melodic ensemble where slower guitars channel immense cold melancholia and it’s impossible to shake such wistful feelings even during the scattered faster blackened progressions.

Vreid are still delivering many elements of their signature black ‘n roll music style yet they are also ready to step out of their comfort zone following instinct and passion which are the key ingredients of the new enthralling opus “Lifehunger”.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rShyvuhsWW4

Circles – The Last One

In Australia’s burgeoning progressive metal scene Circles has the potential to stand out and conquer new fans with the sophomore release “The Last One”.

“Winter” unleashes an overdose of technical metal elements embedded in the fiery guitar work that certainly showcases the unpredictable nature of prog metal with sudden tempo & style changes and an engaging blend of harsh rhythmic segments, featuring prominent heavy bass lines, melodic guitar phrases and emotionally charged vocals.

“Breaker” follows a similar intricate music pathway but this time the heavy guitar riffage is accompanied by futuristic electro accents and soothing melodic accents can be found in the softly contemplative breakdown while the rhythmic complexity might not have an immediate impact but rather requires multiple listenings to be truly embraced.

On “Arrival” rich atmospheric synths, warm guitar melodies and vibrant vocals become quite crucial as the band doesn’t completely abandon heavier dynamics but definitely explores more widely accessible music territories.

“Resolution” immediately focuses on introspective vocal delivery and a graceful mix of dreamy guitar melodies and subtle synths layers which will lead to an inspired atmospheric crescendo and charismatic lead guitar work.

On “Dream Sequence” guitars take the spotlight offering variegated progressions that hold remarkable prog metal aesthetics as well as modern djent dynamics leading to several impactful tempo changes amplified by the technical approach.

“Alone With Ghosts” aptly feels haunting with a generous dose of ambient atmospheres surrounding a series of gentle guitar melodies and emotive layered vocals yet the band packs some powerful guitar driven grooves without disrupting such dramatic mood.

On “The Last One” Circles skillfully offer a well balanced work of music where the modern technical style genuinely embraces an emotional turmoil and the audience will be curious to hear what the band will craft next time.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwnGQx8fyCE

Kingcrow – The Persistence

With the brand new album “The Persistence” Italian prog outfit Kingcrow is ready to explore multifaceted music territories and craft a memorable collection of songs that aims to conquer the listeners’ hearts.

Starting with subtle atmospheric nuances “Drenched” soon showcases an edgy prog spirit with the right dosage of eclectic tempo variations, technical guitar riffs and rhythmic backbone yet never loses its inner emotional force.

“Everything Goes” begins with modern dreamy ambient layers that deeply influence the poignant vocal delivery and it takes a while before heavier guitars gain a more prominent role to add some fancy prog style elements.

The title track stands out for the profoundly melancholic guitar melodies further enhanced by the fascinating ambient arrangements that smoothly create hazy atmospheres that will continue to surround the precise rhythmic sections and the fiery guitar riffs.

“Every Broken Piece Of Me” is clearly filled with pure emotions as darkened atmospheric arrangements and sentimental vocals create a dreamlike sonic experience that will be enriched by powerful prog oriented instrumental segments.

You will become addicted to “Night’s Descending”, easily the most passionate & unforgettable song on the album, where sophisticated guitar and keyboards entwine to create waves of melodic grandeur and sheer melancholia that will reach the acme when guest vocalist Daniel Gildenlow from Pain Of Salvation delivers a spellbinding performance.

Despite the graceful combo of minimalist piano melodies and passionate vocals “Perfectly Imperfect” should not be considered a standard ballad as it offers magical atmospheric passages mixed with bursts of rhythmic energy and lavish guitar melodies.

In terms of both songwriting and musicianship Kingcrow have evolved tremendously and what you will hear on “The Persistence” is an elegantly balanced mix of the band’s prog metal roots, haunting atmospheres and inspired introspective moments.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pIfQe-uadc

 

Morne – To The Night Unknown

The heavy atmospheric soul of Morne comes to life once again on the latest full length “To The Night Unknown” which will drag the listeners through a perennial dark sonic maze.

The title track is made of undiluted darkness leading to an almost uncomfortable feeling that something is wrong or just scary in the midst of hazy atmospheres and when guitars kick in with the renowned strength of sludge doom a thicker obscurity takes over the whole instrumentation until lighter dramatic acoustic arpeggios bring closure.

The initial creepy atmosphere of “Not Our Flame” introduces a heavier guitar core that feels especially menacing as the riffs keep on galloping while monochromatic melodies emerge through the dense darkness evoking emotional despair leading to an elegantly melancholic guitar solo.

On “Scorn” the band’s primordial doom roots become prominent deeply influencing the thick rhythmic section that flows naturally & fiercely accompanied by melodic guitar variations and the aptly anguished vocals.

It’s not surprising that “Night Awaits The Dawn” has nocturnal/nightmarish vibes making the listeners feel trapped within an endless night where guitars acquire an almost ominous mood with tight riffing while the leads once again focus more on darkened melodies that will later become extremely dominant with the enjoyable haunting variations of the guitar solo.

“Surrendering Fear” is full of suffering and pain as it could not sound darker with utterly hopeless screams and a majestic guitar work shifting from inescapable heavy tonalities to immensely melancholic melodies and poetic vibes that at times seem to be able to make a dim light appear in the distance.

“To The Night Unknown” might thrive exclusively in the underground metal scene with its obscure structure and lengthy songs that from beginning to end perfectly represent Morne’s chosen music pathway.  

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUMG8AX88t8

Witherfall – A Prelude To Sorrow

Fairly new to the metal scene dark metallers Witherfall are ready to impress with the latest album “A Prelude To Sorrow”, a majestic emotional opus written about the tragic loss of the band’s drummer and friend Adam Sagan.

With a deeply darkened mood and a need for speed “We Are Nothing” delivers a series of intricate harsh progressions as guitar riffs and thunderous drumming march ardently through solemn atmospheric vibes and vocals sound particularly wild with memorable high pitch delivery. But this lengthy track offers many surprises in terms of structure and style adding heart-wrenching tonalities during an acoustic breakdown deeply amplified by genuinely melancholic guitar leads and sorrowful vocals and such sombre moment is followed by a brilliant technical prog inspired piece featuring a faster tempo and blistering guitar dynamics.

On “Moment Of Silence” abrasive guitar riffs and gloomy melodic splendor become the main focus leading to complex technical segments that follow fast borderline aggressive drums while the chorus acquires classic metal tonalities and highly dramatic vibes.

“Communion Of The Wicked” continues to deliver some strong heavy guitar driven grooves naturally amplified by massive drum blasts yet the extremely darkened aura will enhance the underlying melodic mood especially expressed by the soulful vocals, the fascinating crispy guitar soloing and the brief nostalgic acoustic moments.

“Ode To Despair” shifts the focus to minimalist acoustic soundscapes that smoothly convey fervent emotions yet there will be darker & heavier segments featuring another solid round of guitar riffs and dazzling technical soloing.

A vivid sense of melancholia sets the mood on “Vintage” where the band skillfully blends tranquil acoustic passages, fiery rhythmic sections and progressive twists resulting in another diverse sonic maze while the final part focuses on an exquisitely flamboyant guitar solo that could go on forever with its memorable shredding galore and mesmerizing melodic intensity.

Listening to “A Prelude To Sorrow” you will instantly appreciate and fall in love with the stellar musicianship and the intense passion behind such eclectic composition as Witherfall embarks on a dramatic music journey inevitably filled with grief and darkness.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_LUai2NYMQ

Beyond The Black – Heart Of The Hurricane

While many are not familiar yet with symphonic metal act Beyond The Black they have been working hard to conquer a spot in the current scene and the ambitious new release “Heart Of The Hurricane” definitely aims to reach a wider audience worldwide.

“Hysteria” opens the album triumphantly drawing inspiration from the successful symphonic metal formula so the band puts together loads of atmospheric & theatrical arrangements simply entwined with tranquil guitar melodies, flamboyant soloing and energetic rhythmic sections.

While the title track begins with crunchy guitar riffing it will still maintain a fundamental catchy melodic core embellished by subtle atmospheric layers that favors Jennifer Haben’s pleasant vocal performance.

“Song For The Godless” amplifies the epic vibes with a massive dose of dramatic keyboards arrangements and certainly follows a familiar symphonic formula focusing on melancholic melodic splendor that allows Jennifer’s emotive vocals to shine.

The symphonic realm of “Beneath A Blackened Sky” features solemn operatic choirs and sumptuous keyboards but later goes back to an accessible melodic ensemble spiced up by the fancy guitar solo.

On “Fairytale Of Doom” guitars can become more dominant delivering fierce riffage and dazzling soloing within a powerful rhythmic crescendo yet the catchy chorus leaves behind the song’s darker & solemn vibes.

“Scream For Me” is another entertaining tune that offers bittersweet melodies and soothing atmospheres revolving around passionate vocals yet eventually adds heavier & wilder rhythmic moments to the emotional core.

“Freedom” immediately feels darker due to the occasional growls and steady crunchy guitar riffs marching through the highly somber atmospheric arrangements nevertheless the instrumental work maintains a vibrant melodic flow.

“Heart Of The Hurricane” is a safe album that contains all the key elements of symphonic metal therefore devoted lovers of this music genre will appreciate what Beyond The Black has diligently crafted.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0uEnxMCxUE

Conan – Existential Void Guardian

British trio Conan are already well known and appreciated for the trademark Caveman Battle Doom music style that is once again wildly unleashed on the new album “Existential Void Guardian” which also includes four bonus live tracks.

The unmistakable arcane misery of doom fills the atmosphere on “Prosper On The Path” as Conan creates a thick overwhelming rhythm through a series of menacing guitar driven grooves that diligently follow the thunderous drumming pace while the vocals become wretched screams emerging from some forgotten dark cave.

The monolithic pathway of despair continues with “Eye To Eye To Eye” as guitars deliver steady painful sludge tones with occasional bursts of fuzzy energy over fiercely rumbling drums, consequently the whole atmosphere remains absolutely dark.

The relentless fuzzy riffage of “Volt Thrower” aims to build massive stomping grooves surrounded by the right dosage of desperate doom tonalities yet this track feels more impactful due to faster plummeting rhythmic dynamics.

On the lengthy “Eternal Silent Legend” traditional doom elements lead the way through a desolate atmosphere full of heavy slow burning guitar riffs and harrowing melodic waves that inevitably drag the listeners through agonizing hazy progressions amplified by obscure sludge and tribal accents.

In case you had any doubts rest assured that what Conan put together on “Existential Void Guardian” is fiercely monolithic from beginning to end which might sound monotone to the random average listener while the true believers/fans will fully embrace the infamous Caveman Battle Doom.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kY8-Vhiq7w

Craft – White Noise And Black Metal

After a long hiatus Swedish act Craft returns triumphantly to spread obscurity with the intense blackened force of the latest full length “White Noise And Black Metal”.

“The Cosmic Sphere Falls” marks an absolutely majestic beginning with its unmistakable blackened soul leading to charismatic & savage rhythmic crescendos and guitars proudly deliver waves of brutally gelid tonalities and sinister melodies definitely amplified by the venomous growls.

Without the need for breakneck speed “Again” sounds immensely ominous with massive blackened grooves, guided by precise vicious drumming, that arise from a recognizable & beloved dark abyss yet sound utterly catchy with addictive wintry melodies and excellent guitar licks.

“Tragedy of Pointless Games” welcomes you to a realm of misery and yes everything will remain dark and hopeless courtesy of belligerent rhythmic blasts but captivating guitars also offer impeccably darkened melancholic melodies.

On “Darkness Falls” the rhythmic section possesses a massive raw energy that will trigger a black ‘n roll mood with an infectious riffing rampage while guitar leads effortlessly channel pure melodic obscurity.

The cosmic darkness of “YHVH’s Shadow” cannot go unnoticed as the band unleashes a chaotic devilish black metal core where faster menacing drums and asphyxiating guitar riffs become essential yet the moody melancholic guitar harmonies prove that this track doesn’t rely exclusively on sonic aggression.   

Craft is very comfortable within the extremely dark universe and the misanthropic black metal approach expressed by each and every song on “White Noise And Black Metal” which therefore is bound to delight acolytes of this genre.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xPTJRQpWzk