Category: Album Reviews 2018

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

Kontinuum – No Need To Reason

Among the many amazing bands from Iceland Kontinuum certainly stands out for the poetic gloom and charming post-rock melodies that continue to have a strong presence on the new album “No Need To Reason”.  

“Shivers” begins with extremely somber yet very accessible guitar melodies that gently accompany passionate vocals creating profoundly emotional waves that will inevitably influence the entire instrumentation.

On “Warm Blood” colder & darker nuances emerge in the mix as guitars acquire a crunchy distortion amplified by uptempo grooves and slightly heavier dynamics while vocals effortlessly shift from poetic delivery to harsher tones.

The title track returns to tranquil soundscapes following a slower tempo to favor the compelling lead guitar work and passionate vocals in the midst of introspective atmospheric layers yet both vocals and instrumentation will occasionally embrace a darker momentum.

Featuring dreamy atmospheric crescendos “Stargaze” focuses again on rich sonic textures and spacey harmonious guitars that naturally build an eclectic mixture of gentle melodies with hints of shoegaze style and significantly darker instrumental segments.

The remarkable soothing poetry of “Two Moons” will lead to increasing feelings of nostalgia & melancholia as guitars smoothly craft moody melodies with a cinematic approach and a distinct introspective nature.

“Black Feather” might amplify the dark side of the band even more with a striking somber melodic ensemble featuring inspired atmospheric arrangements and captivating guitar work that will briefly acquire extra obscure vibes & rhythms yet the recurring hazy harmonies still feel widely accessible.

Overall, the intriguing melodies of “No Need To Reason” will attract lovers of darkly emotional songs that Kontinuum has carefully crafted following a rather natural music evolution.

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

Korpiklaani – Kulkija

Thinking about folk metal we can all agree that Finnish superstars Korpiklaani have mastered this art since 2003 therefore the newest release “Kulkija” is bound to generate great interest among the faithful fans.

The initial atmospheric somber tones of “Neito” will soon evolve into a straightforward stomping folk metal rampage built by the soaring rhythmic section and adorned by charismatic violin melodies.

The mood becomes quite gloomy on “Aallon Alla” with a softer melodic ensemble, featuring lovely accordion phrases, that will ultimately acquire entertaining dynamics through a series of energetic rhythmic variations.

“Harmaja” is not necessarily a ballad but definitely has a more sorrowful approach as the magical folk textures naturally express a profound melancholia that constantly influences the heartfelt vocals and the spellbinding combo of dreamy violin melodies and subtle acoustic guitars.

“Kallon Malja” begins with captivating melancholic violin melodies but soon picks up speed as guitars gain a fiery sound following an upbeat rhythm yet additional intricate sorrowful harmonies, emotive vocals and slower darkened moments will continue to convey gloomy feelings.

“Sillanrakentaja” is significantly heavier and darker as powerful guitars follow moody drum blasts leading to exceptionally somber vibes but the inner folk soul will emerge with renewed intensity in the the catchy chorus.

Another round of passionate violin melodies lead the way on “Riemu” which offers a well balanced mix of cheerful folk hooks (stomping and dancing will be required) and softer emotive moments.

“Tuttu on tie” fully embraces a highly melancholic mood as weeping violin melodies become the main focus evoking all kinds of sad and dramatic feelings that inevitably influence the solemn vocals and mellow instrumental passages.

On the 10th studio album “Kulkija” Korpiklaani stay true to their sonic manifesto maintaining a profound devotion for traditional folk music and take the listeners on a magic journey wandering through enchanted forests and dreamy folkloric tales.

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

Urarv – Argentum

Norwegian avant-black metal band Urarv definitely dwells in a profoundly dark sonic realm and it is from this abyss that the latest effort “Argentum” emerges as an enigmatic entity.

“Krakekjott” instantly unleashes feverish guitar riffs that follow an increasingly punishing speed with steady fierce drum blasts inevitably creating nightmarish soundscapes matched by an insane raucous vocal delivery.

On “Aurum” nightmarish atmospheres introduce dissonant somber harmonies and vocals become howls in the darkest night foreshadowing the creepy nuances embedded in the desperately frenetic guitar riffs which are certainly inspired by old school black metal.

From beginning to end  “Sannhet” tends to favor fast & grim rhythmic dynamics as we are still stuck in a realm of undiluted darkness but the palpable ferocity often leaves space for melodic yet uneasy moments.

“Soloppgang” begins with a surreal sense of serenity expressed by graceful  arpeggios but it’s just a matter of occasional calm segments that eventually will be almost erased by bursts of chaotic fury offered by relentless blackened guitar riffs and diabolical growls.

Once again Urarv demonstrates to have a unique creative force that naturally leads to the monumental blackened force and the unsettling mood of “Argentum” which, despite being a mini album, stands out as one of the most avant-garde releases of the year.

Uncle Acid And The Deadbeats – Wasteland

The renowned brilliant talent of Kevin Starrs and what he passionately creates with Uncle Acid And The Deadbeats goes beyond any music trend or standard composition therefore we are eager to enter the dystopian world depicted through the heavy psychedelic maze of the latest opus “Wasteland”.

“Shockwave City” is groovy in a wonderful trippy fashion even if there are obscure atmospheres lingering through the acidic guitar riffs which spontaneously build heavy rock textures leading to the lysergic melodies and easily lovable fuzzy dynamics of the charming guitar solos.

“No Return” feels like a neverending trip as you stumble upon bittersweet melodic guitars before entering an increasingly darker, heavier and absolutely hypnotizing sonic realm where riffs evoke sinister tonalities confidently marching through immensely hazy atmospheres.

“Stranger Tonight” amplifies heavy rock grooves at a faster pace as guitars push on the fuzz pedal to get you all dazed while evoking delightful vintage rock tonalities that will become particularly powerful in the wild guitar solo.

The title track begins with tranquil acoustic melodies and softer emotive vocals yet you can perceive the underlying darkened mood that will later flourish with higher intensity due to intriguing waves of psychedelic distorted guitars.

The eclectic nature of the final song “Exodus” leads to a genuine blend of classic rock melodies and doom worshipping guitar progressions that follow a terrific groovy jam featuring lovely retro tonalities and a series of exciting guitar solos that will inevitably make you space out.

When it comes to Uncle Acid And The Deadbeats you can always rest assured that Kevin Starrs will proudly craft an extraordinary music experience and  “Wasteland” definitely continues to keep alive that irresistible psychedelic rock mood that we need so desperately in our life.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz9aqHp6mXQ

Atreyu – In Our Wake

With a two decades career California’s gold-selling band Atreyu is back for more and aims to reach higher levels with the new effort “In Our Wake”.

The title track is constructed as an obvious hit song where the band carefully weaves crunchy guitar riffing following an engaging bouncy rhythmic section and the expected accessible melodies that reach the peak in the quasi happy chorus and smooth guitar solo.

The best part of “The Time Is Now” arrives when guitars acquire a darker gritty sound that naturally leads to powerful grooves accompanied by highly somber atmospheres while the chorus aims for a radio friendly delivery.

“Nothing Will Ever Change” features massive guitar driven grooves with an evident modern metal approach and a wildly distorted sound accompanied by a heavy rhythmic core with cool bass lines and a polished melodic guitar solo.

“Terrified” becomes emotionally charged focusing mainly on easy ballad style guitar melodies and crispy clean vocals even if the instrumentation will eventually pick up speed while the various atmospheric layers maintain a more modern style.

Initially “Into The Open” focuses on subtle atmospheres and choirs but swiftly proceeds to follow Atreyu’s winning formula of angry & heavier rhythmic segments and warm melodic chorus.

“Super Hero” is another sad track where the classic ballad spirit feels very much alive through soothing arpeggios and peaceful guitar melodies that this time are further embellished by additional sentimental atmospheric orchestrations.

“In Our Wake” might not sound extremely innovative all the time with the massive amount of super accessible and often repetitive radio friendly tunes but it cannot be denied that Atreyu has definitely mastered a signature modern style that can appeal to a wider audience.

Sirenia – Arcane Astral Aeons

On Sirenia’s ninth studio album “Arcane Astral Aeons” mastermind Morten Veland has carefully crafted for you another dazzling collection of songs and especially on this record Emmanuelle Zoldan proves to be the ideal vocalist for the band.  

“In Styx Embrace” opens the album in grandiose symphonic fashion with majestic arrangements & operatic choirs followed by aptly arcane & solemn melodic guitar work that sumptuously surround Emmanuelle’s shimmering vocals while Morten’s wicked growls amplify a faster harsh rhythmic crescendo.

Featuring guest vocalist Yannis Papadopoulos from Finnish band Beast In Black, “Love Like Cyanide” was released as first single and in fact it’s packed with sweet melodic hooks, the type that unconsciously get stuck in your head, nevertheless it’s not just about catchiness as there is a surprisingly intense blackened momentum that often emerges with an overdose of darkly abrasive guitar riffs and malevolent growls.

“Desire” focuses on melancholic melodies and dreamy atmospheric layers that naturally enhance Emmanuelle’s sultry vocal delivery, especially lovely during the brief very French moment which is surprisingly followed by the contrasting venomous black metal blasts.

“Queen Of Lies” offers a delightful mix of symphonic splendor with the right dosage of triumphant arrangements accompanied by theatrical choirs and heavier guitar riffs matched by Morten’s vicious growls staying true to Sirenia’s renowned music style.

“Aerodyne” is another enjoyable track focusing mainly on the band’s more melodic aspects with loads of refined atmospheric arrangements and smooth guitar work plus it’s really a pleasure to hear the nostalgic vocals performed by former Tristania singer Østen Bergøy.

“Glowing Embers” begins with deeply melancholic acoustic arpeggios that introduce an elegant symphonic sonic realm where lavish operatic choirs and Emmanuelle’s emotive vocal performance evoke intensely dramatic nuances enhanced by variegated opulent arrangements.

“Arcane Astral Aeons” truly benefits from the great band chemistry that probably fueled Morten’s creative force as on this album there is a perfect equilibrium between darkness and light, a world of contrasting feelings naturally embodied by the fascinating blend of symphonic melodies and harsh metal elements.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_q5d12n374

Krakow – Minus

Norwegian band Krakow is clearly interested in the creation of an intriguing sonic spectrum that deliberately deviates from standard categorization as you can easily notice listening to the brand new opus “Minus”.

In the midst of a hazy dismal atmospheric whirlpool “Black Wandering Sun” shifts from heavier rhythmic momentum and painful emotions to easier evocative melodies but becomes particularly dazzling with the authentic rock attitude of the guitar solo courtesy of Phil Campbell of Motorhead & Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.  

With a profoundly atmospheric nature “The Stranger” borrows the surreal & obscure elements of post-metal while maintaining delicate textures with poetic vocals and monochromatic guitar melodies yet adding variety with loads of enigmatic accents and underlying creepy instrumental crescendos that inevitably create contrasting tonalities.  

The title track is an instrumental melancholic trip with eclectic post rock nuances and the extensive loop of exquisite guitar melodies will ultimately induce a meditative state eventually interrupted by cold shrouds of dreamy yet intensely distorted progressive crescendos.

The final track “Tidlaus” can be marvelously gentle with softer guitar harmonies and minimalist refined atmospheres, reminiscent of shoegaze style, that could induce a trance like state but there are also unexpected instrumental progressions that with increasing intensity will build a more energetic yet mysterious momentum.  

“Minus” shines for its experimental freedom and darkened spirit as Krakow is constantly trying to challenge the listeners producing an intricate realm of dramatic melodies, contemplative atmospheres and darkly heavier dynamics.  

Aeternus – Heathen

Norwegian Dark Metallers Aeternus arise from the renowned prolific Bergen metal scene with the release of the eighth full-length album “Heathen” which feels particularly meaningful as it marks the band’s 25th anniversary.

“Hedning” begins with utmost melancholy, a feeling that will return during the soothing guitar solo, elegantly channeled by smooth arpeggios that introduce a darker & heavier soundscape where massive growls ultimately amplify the blackened guitar grooves.

“Conjuring The Gentiles” satisfies your need for ravenous guitar riffs, fiery growls and a faster deeply blackened rhythmic section and all these elements evoke constant ominous vibes yet the song will ultimately morph into a melodic ensemble as guitars deliver somber and dreamy progressions.

“Boudica” can sound frenetic with plenty of crunchy guitar driven grooves bearing hints of death metal influences but such extreme approach doesn’t compromise the refined guitar melodies and dismal atmospheres that will become the song’s highlights.

“Illa Mayyit” holds a mystical aura that stands out in the melodic passages and exotic tonalities while the band’s extreme metal roots often emerge with the increasing darkened intensity of the fast menacing drums and the fervent guitar riffing.

On the new opus “Heathen” Aeternus has a clear music pathway in mind and the necessary renewed creative force to deliver a solid absolutely darkened collection of songs.

Witchsorrow – Hexenhammer

Hampshire doom metal trio Witchsorrow is ready to unleash a solid collection of uncompromising hymns to darkness on the latest full length “Hexenhammer”.

The title track belongs to the darkest depths of doom metal fiercely and confidently packed with an overdose of super heavy guitar riffs, evidently inspired by timeless doom masters such as Candlemass and Cathedral, which later embark on a downward spiral while maintaining cohesive grooves but also delivering occasional funereal melodic progressions.

“The Devil’s Throne” continues to offer massive guitar driven grooves that bear the hellish doom mark as extremely thick riffs gallop wildly following a faster often more aggressive rhythmic ensemble.

The unholy textures of “Demons Of The Mind” create an intensely darkened sonic realm where obscurity increases as heavy guitar riffs take the center stage accompanied by ominous howling vocals that at times become even more desperate and scorned to match the infinite gloom of dramatically slower hypnotic doom dynamics.

There is no light or hope within the lengthy epic final track “Like Sisyphus” as a series of detailed doom crescendos bearing monumental nightmarish tonalities create passionately tenebrous grooves but guitars will eventually follow painfully slow rhythmic variations confidently dictated by thick bass lines through a hazy darkened realm.

Arising from the void “Hexenhammer” doesn’t require any special effect to fully express its inner demons and darkened tonalities as Witchsorrow are clearly devoted to authentic traditional doom metal.