Category: Album Reviews

Sirenia – Riddles, Ruins & Revelations

Sirenia’s mastermind Morten Veland is definitely an incredibly prolific composer and today his unstoppable creativity shines bright on the new super catchy full length “Riddles, Ruins & Revelations” skillfully combining lavish symphonic tapestries and modern electro twists. 

The electronic layers feel quite dominant on “Addiction No. 1” channeling cool futuristic vibes that naturally embrace the groovy rhythmic dynamics and the polished melodic phrases unfolding around Emmanuelle Zoldan’s passionate vocals. 

The delicious inner darkness of “Towards An Early Grave” is naturally emphasized by the poetic flair of the elaborate atmospheric waves and the cold melodic moments while guitars can also deliver plenty of heavier grooves. 

“Passing Seasons” embodies the renowned symphonic formula with refined atmospheric arrangements and solemn operatic choirs that definitely enrich the sultry melodic essence often spiced up by a mix of electro accents and gritty riffage. 

On “We Come To Ruins” the mood becomes significantly darker as the harsh rhythmic section takes the center stage amplified by intricate guitar progressions and Morten’s tormented growls in contrast with Emmanuelle’s soothing vocal harmonies and the dreamy atmospheric momentum. 

Throughout “Downwards Spiral” guitars can acquire a raw energy that leads to massive riffage and darkened tonalities while the blend of soothing melodic phrases and luminous keyboards lead to an addictive chorus featuring a lovely duet with guest vocalist Joakim Næss. 

The opulent atmospheric arrangements of “December Snow” evoke bittersweet feelings during the slower passages yet the rhythmic section will often focus on catchy dynamics enhanced by an enthralling vocal performance.   

The last track “Voyage Voyage” is a cover of Desireless 1986 hit and certainly maintains distinct 80s vibes with the prominent shiny keyboards style while Emmanuelle delivers a charming performance singing in French. 

On the tenth album “Riddles, Ruins & Revelations” Sirenia clearly aim to expand their sonic vision without sacrificing the symphonic metal roots in order to create a memorable collection of songs that can easily captivate the listeners.

MSG (Michael Schenker Group) – Immortal

Legendary guitarist Michael Schenker celebrates his 50th anniversary as a musician returning to his roots with the release of the new MSG album “Immortal” which features many talented artists. 

The bombastic celebration begins with “Drilled To Kill” channeling a fierce heavy metal energy with bold riffage and powerful vocals while the extensive guitar solos deliver wild shredding and renowned keyboardist Derek Sherinian adds intriguing twists. 

“Don’t Die On Me Now” tends to focus on polished melodic moments and a soothing vocal delivery naturally leading to a radio friendly chorus and the smooth rhythmic ensemble is enriched by captivating guitar solos.  

“After The Rain” follows a slower pace enhancing the ballad style with a series of melancholic guitar progressions surrounded by soft atmospheric tapestries that put the spotlight on a poignant vocal performance courtesy of Michael Voss. 

The classic heavy metal vibes of “Sail The Darkness” generate solid guitar driven grooves with a familiar 80’s flair and the resulting great energy is obviously amplified by the dazzling guitar solos. 

“Sangria Morte” marks another enjoyable moment following an old school pathway that focuses on memorable grooves and proper rockers style vocals while Michael raises the bar with skillful fiery soloing. 

The grand finale arrives with Michael’s version of the Scorpions song “In Search Of The Peace Of Mind” which showcases a detailed composition featuring multiple vocalists and offering enthralling nostalgic arpeggios that will reach an epic acme with a stunning guitar solo. 

Undoubtedly listening to “Immortal” you can expect all kinds of charismatic guitar acrobatics and impeccable musicianship as the strength of MSG comes from Michael’s collaboration with stellar musicians. 

Sonic Flower – Rides Again

Sonic Flower were formed as a side project of legendary doomsters Church of Misery back in 2001 and the tracks on new album “Rides Again” are unreleased studio material that we can finally enjoy. 

“Super Witch” instantly channels raw energy and an irresistible 70’s heavy rock flair as guitars deliver gritty riffs and charming bluesy leads. 

“Jungle Cruise” aptly adds plenty of cool tribal percussion to the heavy rock formula which spontaneously generates explosive rhythmic patterns spiced up by variegated guitar leads. 

The stoner rock soul of “Captain Frost” leads to another round of entertaining grooves fueled by the tight rhythmic section and the delightful retro vibes of the moody guitar progressions. 

“Quicksand Planet” often focuses on the bluesy tonalities of the intriguing lead guitar work flourishing within the fuzzy rhythmic ensemble featuring some hazy bass lines that make you feel dazed & confused. 

“Rides Again” sounds like a refreshing jam session so you can expect an authentic groovy rock mood and maybe we’ll have a chance to hear more music from Sonic Flower in the near future.

Endezzma -The Archer, Fjord And The Thunder

Norwegian black metallers Endezzma unleash epic grandeur and raw energy on the third release “The Archer, Fjord And The Thunder”.

The wintry mood of “The Name Of The Night Is A Strong Tower” emphasizes the grave tonalities of the unstoppable guitar riffs and the mournful melodic progressions while the solemn chants channel an arcane essence. 

On the title track the intricate lead guitar work conjures an alluring darkness while the monumental rhythmic patterns can often become utterly aggressive fueled by a primordial blackened energy. 

Throughout “Garden Ov Heathen” the guitar progressions successfully convey grim emotions enhanced by the tormented screams emerging from an obscure abyss while the charismatic solo channels traditional heavy metal vibes. 

A storm is approaching as “Wild Gloriour Death” creates a dramatic mood with dismal melodic hints while the unrestrained rhythmic blasts still rely on an inflamed blackened pathway enriched by a ritualistic flair. 

On “Arrows Of Equilibrium” a shroud of melancholia lingers through the melodic guitar phrases as the cathartic nature of the lead guitar work at times demands a slower tempo while the rhythmic section focuses on a harsh blackened momentum. 

“The Archer, Fjord And The Thunder” takes you on a perilous journey through a gelid sonic realm as Endezzma proudly evoke the primal force of classic black metal to craft a darkened work of music. 

Korpiklaani – Jylhä

Finnish folk metal icons Korpiklaani continue their successful sonic journey with the release of the majestic 11th full length “Jylhä” inspired by tales of folklore, nature and even murders. 

“Verikoira” is an explosive album opener packing an overdose of super crunchy guitar riffs and some spooky vocals that can lead to darkened grooves in contrast with the positive energy embodied by the traditional folk tonalities of the fiddle.  

“Niemi” features a wild stomping rhythm as the fascinating mix of violin and accordion keeps alive all the beloved folk nuances while the gritty riffage amplifies the energetic momentum. 

“Mylly” can offer calmer melancholic melodies that further emphasize the delicate folk aesthetics and the dominant role of the somber melodic progressions while the solid rhythmic section can still generate groovy dynamics.  

On “Tuuleton” the emotional motifs lead to melancholia infused harmonies but certainly the band is able to maintain a catchy folk mood with the lavish mix of vibrant accordion melodies and smooth guitar phrases. 

“Kiuru” revolves around a robust groovy rhythmic ensemble as guitars and drums can definitely sound quite fierce yet the comforting violin harmonies and the sorrowful vocal delivery evoke somber feelings.  

Even if at times “Pohja” manifest a soulful melodic essence the main rhythmic core relies on powerful & heavy guitar driven grooves while the traditional folk spirit is clearly embodied by the solemn chants and the wild energy of the violin & accordion combo. 

“Juuret” conveys an epic atmosphere with darker accents as the moody melodies and the passionate vocals often follow a slower pace to highlight the folk elements and the poignant emotions while during the grand finale the whole instrumentation embraces a raw energy.

Undoubtedly “Jylhä” symbolizes another crucial milestone showcasing a prolific creativity as Korpiklaani carefully blend entertaining danceable grooves, traditional folk flavors and fiery heavy metal. 

Conviction – Conviction

French doomsters Conviction fully manifest a heavy mournful sonic vision on the self-titled debut album clearly inspired by the dreary nuances of classic doom metal. 

Listening to “Voices Of The Dead” you can instantly perceive the pain & misery embedded within the monolithic rhythmic patterns which can spontaneously lead to intense grooves as the bold guitar riffs and the dismal melodic phrases certainly belong to a cold darkened sonic realm. 

The funereal atmosphere of “Through The Window” constantly highlights the obscure guitar tonalities and the dramatic vocal delivery while the slow & super heavy rhythmic segments will eventually acquire an energetic momentum. 

On “Curse Of The Witch” the whirlwind of raw guitar riffs and thrilling leads create solid grooves so everything sounds more accessible without sacrificing the inner perennial darkness amplified by the slower monumental passages and the ominous growls. 

A charming melancholia lingers throughout “Castles Made Of Shame” as guitars focus on minimalist melodies enhanced by a sorrowful vocal delivery until the massive grooves will take the center stage fueled by the grave tones of the riffage. 

You cannot escape the immense gloom of “My Sanctuary” as the grim slow guitar riffs and the precise rhythmic section successfully maintain a constant sense of impending doom amplified by the somber melodic progressions and the solemn vocals. 

Conviction proudly choose to follow a traditional doom pathway that on this first release inevitably leads to lugubrious melodies and tormented rhythmic patterns. 

Nervosa – Perpetual Chaos

With a new line-up and untamed fury Nervosa unleash a massive thrash/death metal onslaught on the latest ravenous offering “Perpetual Chaos”. 

“Venomous” is a perfect album opener as it incarnates the perennial rage that characterizes Nervosa’s music style so you will find an overdose of blistering guitar driven grooves enriched by the grave tonalities of the solo and the diabolical growls. 

The faster merciless rhythmic blasts on “People Of The Abyss” generate an infectious riffage marching fiercely through an asphyxiating sonic realm yet when the tempo slows down a bit the guitar work promptly delivers intriguing leads. 

The title track never fails to create energetic grooves courtesy of the inflamed rhythmic section yet the mood feels darker during the slower paced passages evoking a sense of impending doom.  

On “Until The Very End” the vicious guitar riffs lead the way to a hostile rhythmic rampage channeling all the raw energy of old school thrash metal while the soloing adds variety with ominous progressions. 

The ritualistic intro of “Blood Eagle” influences the darkened flair of the slightly slower rhythm yet the monumental drums and the galloping riffage can still generate enraged thrash blasts always amplified by the vicious growls. 

Featuring an explosive performance by guest vocalist Eric Knudsen of Flotsam And Jetsam “Rebel Soul” manifests a straightforward groovy approach revolving around the obviously rebellious unrestrained rhythmic patterns. 

On “Under Ruins” the slower guitar progressions add some melodic accents and naturally evoke a dense darkness that inevitably lingers through the crushing faster grooves unfolding around the malignant growls. 

Nervosa confidently follow a classic thrash/death metal pathway delivering the expected dosage of savage grooves and as the title suggests you simply cannot escape the chaotic fury of “Perpetual Chaos”.   

Comatose – A Way Back

Featuring members of Chrome Waves, Amiensus and Fail To Decay, Minnesota-based atmospheric rock/grungegaze collective Comatose embarks on a new sonic endeavor with the debut release “A Way Back”.

There is a lovely nostalgia lingering through “Circles” as the inner shoegaze essence influences the somber guitar tonalities leading to soothing melodic passages in contrast with the heavier rhythmic patterns. 

The shoegaze inspiration feels even stronger on “Gone” as the guitar work is characterized by shimmering nuances and creates hazy rhythmic crescendos that shift from darkened grooves to quasi luminous melodic passages. 

On “Inside” you can perceive moody alt-rock elements as the accessible guitar phrases and the melodic accents flow through a murky rhythmic ensemble that occasionally channels harsh vibes also with the addition of bold screams. 

“Further” evokes bittersweet feelings as the harmonious guitars acquire deeply melancholic tonalities following a slower dreamy tempo until the rhythmic section fully embraces a raw energy and darker nuances. 

The final track “Sinking” definitely embodies the atmospheric essence that lingers throughout the entire album emphasizing the misty tones and the gloomy spirit with intricate arrangements and spacey melodic crescendos.  

Throughout “A Way Back” Comatose blends diverse musical styles and emotional motifs to develop a personal sonic identity that can certainly raise interest within the underground scene.

Tribulation – Where The Gloom Becomes Sound

In the midst of shadows and mysteries Tribulation emerge with the fifth full-length “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” which is certainly one of the most anticipated albums of the year and embodies a magical voyage through the depths of darkness. 

On “In Remembrance” the baroque atmospheric tapestries foreshadow the addictive darkness that will flourish through the fascinating guitar progressions leading to an exquisite solo and memorable rhythmic dynamics which can easily channel a raw heavy metal energy. 

The gothic flair of “Hour Of The Wolf” is bound to thrive within the magnetic melodic guitar work which also never fails to deliver a generous dosage of catchy riffs enhanced by the solemn drum blasts and the sinister growls. 

“Leviathans” often focuses on an opulent shimmering melodic essence yet naturally channels antediluvian motifs which ultimately lead to the epic feel of the guitar phrases and the arcane nuances of the atmospheric arrangements.  

Throughout “Dirge Of A Dying Soul” guitars acquire doom laden tonalities conveying a lugubrious mood with the heavy weight of the riffage amplified by the tormented growls and the obscure atmospheric waves while the harmonious progressions move sinuously within a bleak soundscape. 

“Inanna” puts the spotlight on the intricate guitar work which is destined to spellbind you with a lavish series of charismatic progressions drenched in perpetual darkness and immense melancholia that generate irresistible eloquent melodies.  

A sublime darkness permeates “The Wilderness” as the majestic rhythmic dynamics conjure a powerful nocturnal force and while the riffs hold significant heavy tones an eerie melodic spirit comes to life within the sophisticated guitar leads and the seductive atmospheric arrangements. 

Listening to “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” you will inevitably feel compelled to enter a supernatural gothified sonic realm as without any hesitation Tribulation invoke the five elements to create a truly bewitching opus. 

Phantom Elite – Titanium

Fronted by talented vocalist Marina La Torraca, Phantom Elite manifests a fiery symphonic metal essence with interesting modern twists on the sophomore release “Titanium”.  

“Conjure Rains” is a powerful album opener as the electro layers and the precise rhythmic dynamics unfold naturally around Marina’s charismatic vocals and you can certainly appreciate the prog metal influences within the elaborate lead guitar work. 

“Diamonds And Dark” begins with melancholic piano melodies that will continue to emerge throughout the song maintaining a soulful melodic flair while the overload of inflamed guitar riffs and lavish symphonic tapestries can evoke darker feelings. 

“Worst Part Of Me” still holds a charming melodic essence enhanced by the emotional vocal delivery yet guitars have a chance to unleash massive heavier riffage and acquire darkened tonalities amplified by the ravenous screams courtesy of guest vocalist Stef Rikken.  

The intricate title track often follows a heavy monumental rhythm fueled by bold drumming and aggressive riffage while the excellent guitar work delivers flamboyant technical progressions as well as luminous polished melodies. 

On “Silver Lining” the electro textures become quite dominant to spice up the catchy blend of refined symphonic arrangements and guitar driven grooves further enriched by a compelling solo and heartfelt vocal harmonies. 

“Eyes Wide Open” provides a balanced mix of dazzling melodic passages emphasized by Marina’s impressive vocal range and heavier prog oriented dynamics that allow guitars to skillfully craft a fair dosage of groovy patterns.  

Undoubtedly the strength of “Titanium” relies on Marina’s vocal prowess yet it should be noted that Phantom Elite are already shaping a personal sonic identity inspired by the successful symphonic metal formula.