Category: Album Reviews 2019

Avantasia – Moonglow

Back in 1999 mastermind Tobias Sammet created the critically acclaimed all-star rock opera Avantasia that certainly has garnered a great success worldwide and the new ambitious opus entitled “Moonglow” represents another fascinating milestone with conceptual themes inspired by dark romanticism and Victorian tales.  

“Ghost In The Moon” marks a grandiose beginning effortlessly blending accessible melodic moments featuring the sheer elegance and melancholy of classical piano pieces, majestic orchestrations and an inner classic rock attitude that emerges through the polished guitar work. The whole composition and fancy execution here aim to constantly showcase the proper theatrical approach of a rock opera that will truly shine as a live performance.

The upbeat grooves of “Book Of Shallows” combine the bombastic energy of power metal and traditional heavy metal as guitars maintain a dominant role delivering tight & faster riffs as well as tasteful melodic progressions while the whole instrumental ensemble is definitely enriched by the multifaceted vocal performances which this time feature Hansi Kürsch of Blind Guardian, ex Masterplan Jørn Lande, Ronnie Atkins of Pretty Maids and Mille Petrozza of Kreator.

The dramatic nuances of “The Raven Child” lead to refined orchestrations that allow the poignant vocals of Hansi Kürsch and Jorn Lande to take the center stage. While this lengthy song always maintains an underlying mellow gloom, it features several compelling style variations with particularly opulent arrangements channeling classical & symphonic inspiration and wilder heavy moments with sharp guitar riffage and enthusiastic groovy rhythmic sections.

The unmistakable voice of Geoff Tate is a perfect fit for the nostalgia infused tonalities of “Invincible” which focuses mainly on the expression of passionate feelings with graceful atmospheric arrangements and ballad style soft piano melodies.

On “Alchemy” suspenseful atmospheric textures introduce a compelling blend of soulful melodies and memorable guitar driven grooves while Geoff Tate never disappoints with an incredible vocal performance that naturally enhances the progressive aspects of the elaborate instrumental passages.

On “The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn” the vocals performed by Ronnie Atkins, Jorn Lande, Eric Martin, Bob Catley and Geoff Tate certainly provide a high degree of diversity within the sophisticated composition where rich multi layered arrangements surround a widely accessible melodic ensemble while keeping a traditional power metal approach with triumphant guitar riffs and flamboyant soloing.

Avantasia confidently deliver another passionate music experience and the majestic detailed composition behind “Moonglow” leads to an intricate work of music that has the ability to take you far away with its compelling melodic splendor and so many charismatic vocal performances.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTN2ZzpQRh4

Morild – Så kom mørket…

For Danish atmospheric black metal quintet Morild the time has come to enter a world of cold darkness with the debut album “Så kom mørket…”.

“En sort sky af minder” is ready to showcase untamed brutality with intense guitar riffing and super fast drums that certainly are inspired by traditional ominous black metal but this track also holds an inner contemplative nature that feels like a pale distant light as guitars craft emotionally charged melancholic melodies.

“I afgørende stunder” evokes a mournful mood through monochromatic atmospheric nuances while an intense nostalgia will deeply influence the whole instrumentation as the band temporarily leaves behind the previous blackened fury to focus mainly on gelid melodic soundscapes.

“Frosset fast til mit indre” can sound utterly aggressive with the overwhelming blackened crescendo built by a fiery rhythmic section yet a melodic gloom will eventually take over with fragile guitar harmonies flowing through dreamy atmospheres and desperate feelings.

The composition of “At dø eller blive fri” definitely favors a cascadian black metal approach as guitar riffs gallop relentlessly within a murky atmospheric realm while later intriguing keyboards arrangements will spice up such frantic rhythm.  

With its primordial blackened force “Så kom mørket…” could not sound more enigmatic as Morild is still a young band but emerges from the darkest & coldest depths of metal with confidence and passion.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48aT4AELGkQ

 

Ossuarium – Living Tomb

Portland’s death/doom outfit Ossuarium proudly welcome you to the asphyxiating sonic realm of  the debut full length “Living Tomb” that aims to make a monstrous impact in the underground metal scene with a truly nightmarish sonic assault.

An overwhelming darkness dominates “Blaze Of Bodies” as cavernous growls and belligerent guitar riffs lead the way to a doom laden ensemble that besides the aggressive rhythmic momentum features painfully slow and arcane instrumental patterns.

“Vomiting Black Death” holds a funereal mood starting with an absolute desolate doom formula as the slower tempo amplify the weight of the enigmatic guitar melodies and soloing yet the palpable death metal roots will generate some primal guitar driven grooves.

“Corrosive Hallucinations” can easily unleash pure fury with tight guitar riffs and fast drumming but often shifts to less hostile moments with a generous dosage of grave melodic guitar leads that emphasize the profound darkened doom influences following a slower dramatic rhythm.   

A primordial extreme metal force becomes immediately palpable on “End Of Life Dreams And Visions Pt 1” leading to ferocious rhythmic blasts accompanied by ferocious low growls while the guitar melodies still evoke sheer despair.

“End Of Life Dreams And Visions Pt 2” belongs to the darkest depths of metal as guitars seem to focus more on a doom worshipping galore with a rather intense melodic gloom and even fragile harmonies that aim to hypnotize the listeners but never really leave behind the brutal dynamics that characterize the entire album.

Ossuarium confidently begin their music journey following a familiar obscure pathway and you will immediately realize that the ominous creative force behind “Living Tomb” is definitely fueled by a perennial darkness.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlkB48lnTRU

Altarage – The Approaching Roar

Spanish metal extremists Altarage seem to have no interest in fame and continue to keep their anonymity as well as a rather nihilist approach that feels very dominant throughout the latest effort “The Approaching Roar”.

Listening to “Sighting” you can rest assured that this is not music for the masses as the initial somber dissonant tonalities introduce a monstrous heavy rhythmic section that could not feel darker with cavernous growls and belligerent guitar riffs that simply seem unstoppable.

The beginning of “Urn” deliberately feels unnerving with warped bass tones and a suspenseful mood while massive rhythmic patterns will soon create an impenetrable wall of sound interrupted only by some ominous guitar leads.

With a dramatic rhythmic core “Cyclopean Clash” belongs to an obscure abyss as the monolithic guitar work emerges with dissonant tonalities and extra darkened aesthetics following enigmatic tempo variations.  

“Inhabitant” is full of abrasive guitar riffs that diligently maintain arcane vibes fueled by the primal extreme metal elements while the rhythmic segments effortlessly shift from a fast gruesome assault to atmospheric mournful moments.

“Chaworos Sephelln” continues to channel undiluted obscurity but this time the infectious death metal patterns are suddenly interrupted by a mystical atmospheric crescendo followed by an increasing sense of desperation fully expressed by the doom tonalities of guitars and the utterly dramatic rhythm.

Without any hesitation Altarage dwell comfortably within a brutal chaotic sonic realm on “The Approaching Roar” leading to an uncompromising heavy work of music that could certainly sound too hostile to the faint of heart.  

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0KHO4uvb2w

The Moth Gatherer – Esoteric Oppression

Founded in Stockholm in 2008 by Victor Wegeborn and Alex Stjernfeldt, The Moth Gatherer is now proud to share with the world the multifaceted nuances and contemplative atmospheres of the new studio effort “Esoteric Oppression”.

Get ready to space out as “The Drone Kingdom” presents an intricate composition deeply influenced by contrasting feelings, starting with an utterly enigmatic atmospheric soundscape that will soon give way to a remarkable ensemble of heavy doom despair embedded in the thick guitar progressions and the fragile hopefulness of dreamy melodic passages amplified by underlying bewitching chants.

“Motionless In Oceania” offers plenty of intriguing gloomy and heavy rhythmic crescendos but definitely stands out for the cathartic post-rock influenced guitar melodies that instantly convey sheer melancholia and all the profound feelings here are further emphasized by the multi layered hazy arrangements.  

“Phosphorescent Blight” marks an epic finale as this complex lengthy track aims to grab your attention with a darkened sonic maze where massive guitar riffs can trigger a sense of impending doom while all the spellbinding melodic guitars flow just like a daydream through lush atmospheric waves and cosmic psychedelic layers conveying a fragile serenity that becomes essential.  

Listening to “Esoteric Oppression” you can easily tell that The Moth Gatherer are eager to explore diverse music territories to successfully develop a personal sonic identity and this album also symbolizes another step towards a pale source of light within a realm of pure darkness.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvCDSc-ypfI

Insanity Alert – 666 Pack

Austrian crossover thrashers Insanity Alert have put together a massive thrash party on the third full length record “666 Pack” and all you need to do to fully enjoy this album is get ready to headbang and bring a six pack.  

“Thirstkiller” gets the party started with the necessary raw energy of tight thrash guitar riffs diligently following a steady galloping rhythm that becomes increasingly enraged on “The Body Of The Christ Is The Parasite” with enthusiastic grooves and rebellious screams.

“All Mosh / No Brain” is an instant favorite with its inner insanity that inevitably leads to party grooves and of course a major moshpit with an overload of crunchy guitar riffs.

On “Cobra Commander” there are anthemic thrash dynamics and some grindcore elements resulting in another energetic straightforward tune.  

The rhythmic section doesn’t really slow down on “Echoes Of Death” and the thrash revival approach is still dominant ensuring chugging guitar riffs and belligerent drumming.

“Chronic State Of Hate” is all about savage stomping and strong ‘80s vibes as the rhythmic section gets faster and wilder accompanied by frantic screams.

A Skullcrushin’ Good Time” offers another round of infectious guitar riffs still paying homage to classic thrash metal while “Demons Get Out!” adds an enjoyable diabolical/horror mood to the main relentless rhythmic patterns.

In case you needed more darkness “Dark Energon” has a major devilish essence that demands violent catchy rhythmic dynamics with the additional entertaining variety of the skillful guitar soloing.

Listening to the unstoppable frenetic grooves of “666 Pack” you can tell immediately that Insanity Alert is always ready for no frills classic thrash metal and good time so you should probably join this crazy party.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBN3dpzKniQ

Hexvessel – All Tree

Formed in 2009 by talented songwriter/musician Mat “Kvohst” McNerney, also known as frontman of Grave Pleasures, Hexvessel is deeply inspired by mythology and ancient folk traditions which naturally lead to the spiritual journey symbolized by the new album “All Tree”.

Listening to “Son Of The Sky” you’ll find yourself in the middle of the woods pondering about life as the folk elements and contemplative vibes shine bright through the peaceful acoustic phrases, the compelling violin melodies and the haunting tonalities of the lead guitar work.

The storytelling approach of “Old Tree” creates a serene yet extremely melancholic mood as violin and acoustic guitar carefully craft minimalist melodies that celebrate the beauty of nature and emphasize the pastoral folk soundscape.

“Changeling” also evokes a profound sense of melancholia with the calm vocal delivery and the shimmering acoustic melodies surrounded by graceful atmospheres enhanced by the delicate flute harmonies.

Like an old fable “Ancient Astronaut” brings the listeners to an arcane realm of ancient gods and enigmatic tales maintaining a wistful folk approach through reflective acoustic passages and somber lead guitars.

“Wilderness Spirit” has a more joyous upbeat rhythm carefully built by dynamic variations with loads of dazzling violin phrases but its lush melodic core still relies on a series of gentle folk acoustic melodies.

The instrumental track “Journey To Carnac” is filled with warm acoustic melodies that naturally convey an overwhelming nostalgia and glow through the subtle atmospheric layers.

“Closing Circles” feels more dramatic and significantly darker with an increasing spiritual intensity that influences the elegant classical nuances of violin and piano as well as the introspective vocal delivery.

It’s not surprising that the themes of “All Tree” revolve around a strong connection between myth and nature as Hexvessel meticulously weave bewitching melodies celebrating Karelian and Nordic folklore with a profound mystical aura.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHqIxpBC9A0

Hecate Enthroned – Embrace Of The Godless Aeon

Hecate Enthroned are certainly one of the UK underground’s longest-running bands that, despite several line-up changes through the years, have always followed a blackened gothic sonic formula that once again comes to life on the new release “Embrace Of The Godless Aeon”.

The vampyric mood of “Revelations In Autumn Flame” is palpable through the super fast waves of blackened majesty courtesy of an infectious series of tight guitar riffs and hellish vocals constantly surrounded by refined gloomy keyboards arrangements that become essential within such nightmarish sonic vision.

“Temples That Breathe” feels like an arcane ritual as tormented atmospheres enrich the blackened fury of the guitars and drums while the crepuscular melodies are further enhanced by the lush symphonic gothic arrangements.

“Goddess Of Dark Misfits” begins with the profound melancholy of piano melodies that naturally accompany the darkly elegant vocals performed by guest vocalist Sarah Jezebel Deva and the consequent seductive gothic splendor becomes the highlight of the track.

Following a slower dramatic rhythm “Whispers Of The Mountain Ossuary” tends to focus on tenebrous atmospheres and graceful melodic textures with a fashionable gothic style until harsh guitar riffs confidently unleash cold blackened tonalities.

The epic lengthy final track “Erebus And Terror” begins like a funeral march that soon evolves into an opulent ode to darkness focusing mainly on gothic elements such as the immense gloom fully expressed by melodic guitars, dreamy piano, solemn symphonic orchestrations and Sarah’s fascinating operatic vocal harmonies.

The composition of “Embrace Of The Godless Aeon” might not be considered incredibly innovative nevertheless we can all agree that on this album Hecate Enthroned successfully deliver a delightful overdose of sultry gothic nuances that feel like a decadent soundtrack for cold winter nights.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wotTFLhXDk

Pulchra Morte – Divina Autem Et Aniles

Featuring seasoned musicians, death/doom metallers Pulchra Morte proudly unleash the debut full-length “Divina Autem Et Aniles” which guides the listeners through an intensely dark and heavy sonic maze.

The doom roots of “Give No More” are immediately evident with the raw energy of guitar riffs and the sorrowful melodies that inevitably evoke a sense of despair and the consequent rhythmic progressions maintain a monolithic groove without the need for breakneck speed.

“Soulstench” continues to showcase a mighty doom sound that dictates the mournful heaviness of the rhythmic section amplified by the ferocious growls while the melodic framework tends to stand out with elegant gothic tinged guitar phrases and eerie atmospheres.  

On “Fire And Storm” guitars channel sheer gothic splendor with an extra generous dosage of melancholic melodies enhanced by somber soloing and delicate classical strings while the main rhythmic core still dwells within a crestfallen doom realm.

The fierce rhythmic dynamics and the diabolical growls on “Thrown To The Wolves” ensure a sense of impending doom and a subtle aggressive momentum as the mood is absolutely dark even if there are plenty of slower grave melodic guitar passages.

Following similar darkened themes “Shadows From The Cross” features another round of gelid guitar melodies performed in classic doom fashion while the heavier segments and the enraged growls clearly channel ominous extreme metal roots.

The instrumental track “IX” focuses mainly on the dismal doom tonalities of the guitar work which holds a dominant role here crafting several cold melodies as well as wicked riffs resulting in a balanced blend of bold grooves and haunting feelings.

“Divina Autem Et Aniles” has all the necessary darkened force to grab your attention as it’s an album that only true doom/death metal acolytes could create and will definitely put Pulchra Morte on your radar.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8C734C0ByA

Within Temptation – Resist

During their long successful career Within Temptation have achieved a fundamental role in the symphonic metal realm yet in recent years they gradually felt the need to explore new and different music styles, a necessary process to avoid stagnation and lack of inspiration. The return of Within Temptation is inevitably surrounded by high expectations and the new release “Resist” is in fact one of the most anticipated albums of 2019 symbolizing a new musical era and spreading empowering messages because it’s time to break free and fight for freedom.

Featuring guest vocalist Jacoby Shaddix of rockers Papa Roach, the wake up call of “The Reckoning” feels incredibly strong with triumphant accents and somber tones as the enticing instrumental passages fluently unfold through vivid futuristic synths and bouncy guitars while a shimmering melodic aura is always enhanced by the sheer elegance of Sharon’s eclectic vocal delivery.

Undoubtedly “Endless War” is full of vibrant melodic hooks emphasized by a profound melancholia embedded within the mixture of subtle symphonic orchestrations and contrasting modern electro layers that surround Sharon’s spellbinding vocal harmonies.

Guest vocalist Anders Fridén of In Flames provides some bold screams on “Raise Your Banner” and guitars acquire a more prominent role delivering heavier riffs and a crispy melodic solo while understated atmospheric textures constantly channel a darkened mood that will be further intensified by majestic symphonic orchestrations and Sharon’s impeccable operatic vocals glowing through the melodic crescendos.

“Supernova” returns to a futuristic sonic realm with loads of throbbing electronic arrangements that amplify the song’s modern pop approach and the catchy melodies of the memorable chorus while the brief yet intense symphonic style choirs convey solemn vibes.

“In Vain” relies on a profound nostalgia that dictates the lovable mellow rhythm while Sharon’s poignant vocals certainly are destined to steal the spotlight naturally embellishing every melodic progression and emphasizing the song’s inner passionate feelings.

Even if the polished melodic grandeur of “Trophy Hunter” is always evident leading to compelling catchy moments and a lavish chorus, the crunchy tonalities of the guitar riffage ensure a heavy rhythmic core surrounded by dramatic atmospheric layers and scattered majestic symphonic undertones.

It’s evident that Within Temptation went through a major sonic evolution, maybe there are only hints of the style that contributed to their success on the beloved “Mother Earth”, but it must be noted that this has been a rather smooth transition that reaches a natural acme with “Resist”. “Resist” is characterized by modern nuances and even a wide range of techno/pop elements and such accessible melodic approach is the result of a renewed creative force that definitely marks an important milestone for Within Temptation.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3nb_r18ug0