Category: Album Reviews 2020

Ulthar – Providence

Bay area blackened death metallers Ulthar have created a vicious sonic onslaught on the sophomore release “Providence” that will drag you into an obscure world where all hope is inevitably lost. 

The dystopian mood of “Undying Spear” thrives within the technical instrumental progressions revealing an eclectic approach that will ultimately evolve into crushing blackened dynamics with an overdose of abrasive guitar riffs and malignant growls.  

The title track immediately unleashes a brutal rhythmic ensemble channeling some old school death metal elements fueled by unrestrained riffs and pummeling drums yet such hostile sonic realm becomes more interesting with the addition of dissonant patterns and twisted guitar phrases. 

“Cudgel” holds an enigmatic soul within the vitriolic rhythmic assault that seems to emerge from the hellish depths of black metal with the fury of the monumental riffs and the diabolical growls while the lead guitar work often amplifies darkened tonalities and sharp technical accents. 

“Narcissus Drowning” can sound absolutely devastating due to the fast menacing rhythmic rampage featuring venomous blackened riffage but in this chaotic realm guitars are always able to provide diversity with elaborate gloomy progressions. 

Once again on “Humanoid Knot” the savage rhythmic blasts lead to insane malevolent grooves that seem simply unstoppable while the technical guitar work is destined to grab your attention with multifaceted or even unexpected dynamics. 

Ulthar fully embrace the nightmarish vision symbolized by “Providence” which certainly follows an ominous extreme metal inspiration but also provides an intriguing variety in terms of sound and technical musicianship.

Okkultokrati – La Ilden Lyse

Norwegian black metal/punk cult Okkultokrati embarks on a wild ride through darkness on the latest full length “La Ilden Lyse” which feels like the perfect soundtrack for the unappreciated and unwanted all over the world. 

Darkness inevitably descends on “Thelemic Threat” as the massive gritty guitar riffs lead the way to a blackened sonic realm further enhanced by the savage rhythmic section and the malevolent vocals.  

“Grimoire Luciferian Dream” is in fact a diabolical affair as the occult vibes flourish through the darkened atmosphere surrounding the rebellious & catchy rhythmic patterns full of raw guitar riffs and ominous instrumental twists. 

You can perceive a wild punk spirit throughout “Kiss Of Death” yet everything feels dark and cold as the harsh riffage diligently follows a malignant blackened pathway accompanied by tormented growls and murky atmospheric textures. 

“Mother Superior” unleashes decadent black ‘n roll dynamics built by a steady untamed rhythmic section yet the groovy riffs are often entwined with bewitching guitar melodies and haunting atmospheric layers. 

“The Dying Grass Moon” is an invitation to worship the moon as the nocturnal nuances become stronger within the immense gloom conveyed by an addictive blend of feverish blackened guitar riffs and intense eerie atmospheres. 

Okkultrokrati keep the fire burning throughout “La Ilden Lyse” without any hesitation and with a defiant attitude that spontaneously generates an overdose of blackened guitar driven grooves.  

In The Company Of Serpents – Lux

Denver-based doom band In The Company Of Serpents explores philosophical and esoteric themes around the notion of a Prima Materia behind everything in the manifest universe on the darkened new album “Lux”. 

“The Fool’s Journey” is in fact an immersive sonic journey beginning with mystifying atmospheric tapestries and soothing harmonies that will evolve into a massive doom tinged instrumental ensemble offering a bold series of heavier rhythmic patterns entwined with overwhelming mournful feelings. 

“The Chasm At The Mouth Of The All” changes the scenario choosing a slower tempo to highlight a darkly warm sound and the western nuances of the compelling guitar progressions that reminisce of a laid back desert jam session yet the rhythmic section and the vocals can often channel heavier dynamics. 

“Lightchild” is surrounded by an enigmatic dark aura that leads to spacey guitar melodies but soon picks up speed and significant sludge vibes that ultimately generate monumental riffage and groovy rhythmic patterns. 

The mystical atmosphere of “Prima Materia” conveys a bewitching darkened sonic realm where moody acoustic passages bring back a strong western flow following a hazy rhythmic ensemble that will fully embrace a solid sludge formula with gritty guitar riffs and fierce bass lines. 

The obscure music pathway of “Lux” perfectly matches the complex lyrical concept as In The Company Of Serpents can certainly unleash crushing sludge dynamics but also aim to surprise you with a multifaceted melodic soul. 

Acârash – Descend To Purity

Back in 2018 Norwegian band Acârash impressed the underground scene with the debut album “In Chaos Becrowned” which focused on charismatic blackened dynamics and enticing occult nuances that now continue to flourish triumphantly on the sophomore release “Descend To Purity”.

The title track immediately drags you into a hellish sonic realm that might leave you shattered as the ominous yet absolutely catchy guitar work accompanied by tormented growls successfully channel the darkest vibes and an inflamed black metal essence. 

Within the impenetrable darkness of “Desecrate. Liberate.” the raging guitar riffs supported by fierce drumming and bold bass lines ensure plenty of malevolent groovy patterns enhancing a wild black ‘n roll spirit destined to spellbind the audience. 

On “Goat, Skull, Ritual Fire” the monolithic guitar riffs emphasize lugubrious doom influences and hypnotizing esoteric nuances that lead to darkly alluring rhythmic crescendos enriched by the classic approach of the charismatic heavy rock solo. 

“Below Ceremonial’ definitely holds a ritualistic mood fueled by the diabolical & theatrical growls and the cold guitar tonalities that create memorable arcane crescendos with thrilling riffage and obscure melodic phrases. 

“Three Knives” is surrounded by a mysterious doomed aura that constantly amplifies the darkened spiritual essence and influences the guitar work which acquires slower mournful tonalities but at times will evolve into colossal blackened rhythmic bursts.

Acârash proudly manifest their visionary blackened doom with an inspiring primal force that throughout “Descend To Purity” never fails to generate soaring grooves and darkly introspective soundscapes. 

Temnein – Tales Of Humanity And Greed

French melodic death metal band Temnein invokes a darkened spirit and explores myths & legends on the new bewitching full length “Tales Of Humanity And Greed”. 

“The Blind And The Greedy” offers an unrestrained rhythmic rampage with sharp guitar riffs showcasing the heavier aspects of the album’s sonic manifesto while the lead guitar work can create memorable melodic progressions with cold tonalities and grim feelings. 

On “The Knotted Bag” the skillful rhythmic section builds an energetic momentum leading to charismatic grooves amplified by the vicious growls yet the subtle atmospheric arrangements contribute to the creation of grandiose melodic crescendos. 

“I Am Davy Jones” immediately conveys a melancholic soundscape with slow comforting harmonies but even if the melodic tapestries remain crucial throughout the song the instrumental ensemble will often deliver fierce melo death dynamics with heavier galloping guitar riffs. 

The darkened energy of “A Few Drops Of Blood” is constantly fueled by the fiery rhythmic patterns yet this time you can clearly perceive a captivating progressive inspiration in the eclectic lead guitar work that tends to focus on excellent technical progressions. 

“Yuki Onna” holds a darker flair as the malignant growls and the hostile guitar riffs channel the primal force of extreme metal while the intricate melodic waves amplify the brooding atmosphere with haunting guitar tonalities. 

“Scums Of Hamelin” at times leaves behind the heavy rhythmic approach to favor sorrowful melodic nuances and gentle harmonies therefore the glowing contemplative moments will definitely stand out for the complex and deeply melancholic guitar progressions flourishing through the epic atmospheric arrangements. 

With “Tales Of Humanity And Greed” Temnein have crafted a cohesive blend of dramatic melodies and inflamed rhythmic blasts diligently following the glorious pathway of classic melodic death metal.

Voices Of Ruin – Path To Immortality

Melodic death metal quintet Voices Of Ruin unleashes the third full length “Path To Immortality” offering a powerful melo death assault with a balanced blend of  thundering rhythmic patterns and vibrant melodies. 

“Carved Out” doesn’t waste any time as the fast rhythmic section delivers aggressive dynamics fueled by the hostile riffage and the spiteful growls but certainly the lead guitar work becomes fundamental crafting smooth melodies and flamboyant shredding. 

In the beginning the title track seems to favor cold melodies with melancholia infused phrases yet the intense guitar riffs can easily generate monumental furious segments supported by the precise drumming and the increasing speed that leads to another round of fierce shredding. 

Even if “Reach Toward The Sky” continues to follow a rather menacing rhythmic pathway highlighting the extreme metal elements the lead guitars have the chance to create passionate melodic passages and intricate solos characterized by enthralling luminous tonalities. 

“I Am God” puts the spotlight on the unrestrained guitar riffs that easily build a strong rhythmic tension and the whole instrumentation confidently follows a rather heavy approach while the skillful lead guitar will provide a fair dosage of soulful melodic passages. 

“Whispers” stands out for the majestic soloing and the clarity of the melodic guitar phrases that immediately convey a gloomy grandeur that will often return within the savage & heavier sonic realm to provide additional calm shimmering harmonies and a profound melancholia. 

“Everlong” marks an inflamed finale as the raw energy of the guitar driven grooves is a key element that leads to monumental rhythmic blasts in contrast with the nostalgic vibes of the brief dreamy melodic progressions.

Voices Of Ruin are based in California but they are certainly deeply influenced by the glorious Scandinavian melo death formula and are clearly developing a personal sonic identity as showcased by the intriguing soundscapes of “Path To Immortality”. 

Alkymist – Sanctuary

Danish progressive doom metal band Alkymist is still a new name in the underground scene but the sophomore release “Sanctuary” has the potential to attract more listeners with a darkly immersive approach. 

The dreadful atmosphere of “Oethon” creates an extremely darkened soundscape as guitars can easily unleash monolithic riffage enhanced by harsh growls in contrast with the dreamy melodic phrases that lead to dramatically slower brooding moments. 

On “The Dead” you will find plenty of thrilling heavy doom rhythmic patterns certainly amplified by the ferocious vocal delivery yet the nocturnal nuances and the bewitching guitar melodies will lead to brief contemplative moments. 

The visionary track “Desolated Sky” shines for the enticing melancholia expressed by the haunting guitar melodies and the dramatic vocal delivery flowing gently through hypnotizing atmospheric tapestries that will often embrace abrasive rhythmic blasts keeping a major grave doom essence. 

Just like the title suggests “Astral Haze” holds a strong psychedelic cosmic energy within the spacey atmospheric arrangements while the mighty guitar work is always ready to craft mournful doom riffs that become inevitably entwined with shimmering melodic progressions. 

With “Sanctuary” Alkymist invite you to join them on a spiritual sonic journey that confidently combines crushing doom dynamics and magical melodies.  

Sinisthra – The Broad And Beaten Way

Featuring Amorphis charismatic vocalist Tomi Joutsen, Sinisthra makes a triumphant comeback 15 years after the debut release with the majestic melancholic soundscapes of the new album “The Broad And Beaten Way”.

Since the beginning “Eterne” evokes a pleasant somber mood perfectly expressed by Tomi’s heartfelt vocal performance accompanied by an enthralling combo of groovy guitar riffs and cold atmospheric arrangements that enhance the accessible melodic formula. 

The lengthy and complex track “Closely Guarded Distance” incorporates all the album’s key elements as the perennial melancholia deeply influences the guitar work which effortlessly shifts from intense rhythmic crescendos to glowing harmonies surrounded by epic atmospheric layers that eventually lead to a poignant contemplative moment focusing on an elegant piano piece and heart wrenching vocals.   

“Halfway To Somewhere Else” focuses on a mellow melodic splendor that highlights the role of the impeccable guitar progressions ranging from luminous tonalities to increasingly darker phrases and the enchanting emotive themes surrounding Tomi’s sublime vocals.  

Evoking a fascinating melancholia “Safe In The Arms Of Everlasting Now” offers a soothing instrumental ensemble mainly focused on gorgeous minimalist melodic passages that ultimately put the spotlight on the genuine emotional vocal delivery. 

With “The Broad And Beaten Way” Sinisthra proudly presents a passionate & intricate songwriting style constantly channeling a beloved Nordic melancholia that is destined to conquer the audience. 

Lesser Glow – Nullity

Boston quintet Lesser Glow have been developing a unique style following a truly immersive approach that today generates the multifaceted nuances of the sophomore release “Nullity”.

“The Great Imitator” instantly unleashes a mysterious blend of traditional doom dynamics and gloomy atmospheric waves so guitars can sound absolutely heavy delivering monolithic riffs amplified by tormented screams but the contemplative momentum certainly feels surreal with dramatic tonalities. 

Throughout “Red Ayrag” a gorgeous darkened essence flows naturally due to the cold melodies and the poignant vocal delivery making everything sound like a fading dream even if guitars can always channel ominous vibes with doomed colossal riffage. 

As soon as “Fostering This Nullity” begins you understand that there’s no escape as the insane weight of the guitar riffs creates an asphyxiating sonic realm but the soft vocals, the dreamy atmospheric arrangements and the hazy guitar harmonies can easily evoke an enticing melancholy. 

The post rock essence of “I Am The Island” becomes palpable as the grave melodic guitar phrases flow gently like blurry memories and the resulting somber emotions are further enhanced by the soulful vocal delivery. 

The monumental instrumental ensemble of “Toba” embraces a particularly heavy brooding mood as the imposing grooves and the ferocious growls seem to emerge from the darkest depths of doom metal with untamed force but you can still perceive a pale tranquility within the brief melodic passages. 

Certainly Lesser Glow are following a remarkable creative pathway as on “Nullity” they take the time to focus on hypnotic soundscapes and an intense songwriting approach. 

Göden – Beyond Darkness

Winter co-mastermind Stephen Flam returns with the long awaited spiritual successor Göden joined by vocalist Vas Kallas and keyboardist/narrator Tony Pinnisi to embark on a truly enthralling ominous journey on the magnificent debut release “Beyond Darkness”. 

The mysterious aura of “Glowing Red Sun” introduces a monolithic doom essence that evokes a perennial gloom with the insane weight of the guitar riffs and the decadent rhythmic crescendos enriched by trascendental atmospheric arrangements. 

“Twilight” relies on a crushing doom momentum and the consequent mournful rhythm is further enhanced by arcane growls and eerie atmospheric waves while the cold guitar tonalities will reach the acme with intense melodic licks. 

On “Genesis Rise” the heavy doom guitar riffs take the center stage to maintain an endless enigmatic darkness and build mesmerizing rhythmic crescendos around Vas’s sinister vocal performance.

You could never escape the imposing darkness expressed by the brooding guitar progressions of “Dark Nebula” while the spectral tones of the elaborate keyboards layers craft dramatic tapestries and amplify the cosmic energy. 

On “I Am Immortal” the harsh growls and the imposing guitar riffs create a cohesive doom metal foundation while the otherworldly atmospheric textures during the slower mystifying moments can effortlessly evoke a massive esoteric essence. 

Drenched in darkness “Night” has an eloquent mystical flair drawing energy from a primal nocturnal force that never fails to emphasize the doom dynamics generating an overload of harrowing instrumental progressions in the midst of cryptic atmospheres.

“Winter” closes the album showcasing a dramatically heavier doom approach that once again highlights the role of the colossal guitar riffs and the harrowing tonalities accompanied by the bewitching power of the vocals. 

The haunting narrative interludes and the stunning composition of “Beyond Darkness” generates a stellar theatrical opus and as an impenetrable darkness descends you will inevitably get lost within the hypnotizing rhythmic maze meticulously created by Göden.