Category: Album Reviews

Napalm Death – Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism

UK grindcore pioneers Napalm Death have been releasing ruthless extreme music for nearly 40 years and the latest offering “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” aims to showcase that their ferocious creative approach is still relevant within the modern metal scene. 

You cannot escape the incessant fury of “Fuck The Factoid” as the massive riffage, the inevitable breakneck speed and the angered growls keep a straightforward brutal formula.  

“That Curse Of Being In Thrall” continues to rely on a full blown sonic aggression through the expected super heavy rhythmic section and obviously the overdose of unrestrained guitar riffs which barely slows down at times. 

“Contagion” doesn’t necessarily deviate from the familiar blueprint but the rhythmic patterns can successfully follow a mid-paced tempo that highlights the somber tones of the groovy guitar work. 

On “Invigorating Clutch” the guitar phrases and the atmospheric textures channel a perennial sense of despair around the ravenous growls and the belligerent guitar riffs.

Throughout “Amoral” the guitar riffs embrace darker vibes and a rebellious attitude with a slight punk influence that leads to slower and absolutely catchy rhythmic dynamics. 

The title track begins with insanely harsh growls that foreshadow the majestic force of the  blistering rhythmic onslaught constantly fueled by the wicked combo of savage riffage & drumming.  

The ominous atmosphere of “A Bellyful of Salt and Spleen” demands a slightly slower yet absolutely menacing rhythm as the industrial oriented ambiance generates a dystopian sonic realm amplified by the lugubrious baritone vocal delivery. 

With an incredibly extensive & successful career Napalm Death now simply show no mercy as they continue to unleash a grindcore force that on “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” will leave you shattered & satisfied. 

Dark Tranquillity – Moment

Swedish melodic death metal icons Dark Tranquillity have built an incredibly strong legacy that is destined to flourish throughout the new album “Moment” which once again showcases their unstoppable creative force. 

There is a shimmering atmosphere around “Phantom Days” which naturally maintains a darkened immersive mood while the feverish guitar riffs have the ability to create robust rhythmic patterns which clearly stay true to the band’s beloved melo-death flair always emphasized by Mikael Stanne’s savage growls. 

“The Dark Unbroken” is destined to conquer your heart with the opulent keyboards arrangements channeling immense melancholia as the tempo often slows down to highlight the enthralling introspective mood fully expressed by the clean vocal delivery. 

“Remain In The Unknown” immediately enters a darkly soulful melodic realm with mesmerizing clean vocals and intricate magical atmospheric multilayers enriched by the charismatic licks of the impeccable guitar solo. 

Throughout “Standstill” the keyboards continue to hold a fundamental role creating an overdose of harmonious tapestries that tend to enhance the emotional nature of the vocals while the fiery rhythmic section can create engaging and slightly heavier dynamics. 

The essence of “A Drawn Out Exit” feels increasingly darker, consequently the guitars acquire obscure tonalities that naturally lead to a perfectly balanced blend of mournful melodic phrases and groovy riffage marching through darkened atmospheric waves. 

“Eyes Of The World” is an anthemic melo-death track as you will find plenty of powerful riffs and brilliant leads while the captivating melancholic guitar melodies are bound to grab your attention thriving within the shimmering atmospheric grandeur enhanced by Mikael’s poignant vocal performance.

“In Truth Divided” marks a cathartic closure as the gothic tinged splendor comes to life through the lavish atmospheric layers surrounding the gloomy guitar phrases and the precise rhythmic dynamics intensified by Mikael’s spellbinding clean vocals. 

The indisputable strength of “Moment” comes from the detailed songwriting approach, the excellent production and the genuine emotions that Dark Tranquillity masterfully bring to life with their signature Gothenburg melodic death metal style that continues to influence musicians worldwide and shines brighter in every song. 

Vous Autres – Sel De Pierre

French post black metal duo Vous Autres embark on a gloomy sonic journey through the enigmatic soundscapes of the sophomore full length “Sel de Pierre”.

The obscure atmosphere surrounding “Onde” generates a world of despair and grief where guitars can sound ferocious providing intense riffage with a strong black metal influence but also focus on extremely somber tonalities creating captivating melodic passages. 

“Vesuve” relies on haunting guitar melodies flourishing through a bleak & convoluted atmospheric maze while the anguished screams and the heavier rhythmic patterns continue to channel a primordial blackened inspiration. 

“Ecueil” puts aside the blackened fury allowing the synths to create a bewitching atmospheric realm following a rather experimental approach that leads to modern electro multilayers and dreamy feelings. 

“In Humus” dwells in a mysterious limbo between darkness and light as the slow wistful guitar melodies flow gently through the misty atmospheric waves and complement the ethereal female vocals in contrast with the tormented rhythmic momentum.  

Surrounded by an atmospheric melancholy “Sel de Pierre” might appear as an ode to darkness yet Vous Autres have also the ability to bring glimpses of light & hope through vivid melodic tapestries. 

Crystal Spiders – Molt

North Carolina’s heavy duo Crystal Spiders has the potential to draw attention with the doomy psychedelic tinged soundscapes of the debut album “Molt”. 

The album opener “Trapped” already manifests a hazy sonic vision as the rumbling bass lines introduce a robust stoner rock rampage and the bold guitar riffs hold a delightful vintage doomy flair.  

The title track unleashes some cool stomping rhythmic patterns fueled by the raw energy of the heavy riffage and the faster wild drumming while the powerful vocal delivery certainly matches the groovy attitude. 

Throughout “Chronic Sick” the guitar work diligently follows a bewitching ’70s style delivering monumental riffs with a strong classic doom influence that dictates a darkened rhythm enriched by the slow burning guitar solo. 

On “The Call” the retro tonalities of the guitar generate an overload of gritty riffs following a frenetic rhythmic core that makes you feel good until everything slows down drastically as the chunky bass and the soothing vocals lead you through a sorrowful melodic realm. 

On the darkly hypnotic final track ”Fog” the guitar riffs acquire massive psychedelic tones and everything feels inevitably spacey while the comforting vocal harmonies flourish gently through the fuzzy rhythmic maze. 

The fuzz-addicted sonic pathway chosen by Crystal Spiders naturally thrives throughout “Molt” which definitely has the necessary enthusiasm and passion to conquer the listeners.

Uada – Djinn

Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Uada might still be a new name for some people but, as they continue to garner great interest within the underground metal scene, the ambitious third full length “Djinn” has the potential to conquer more acolytes. 

The title track perfectly shows how Uada have developed an intriguing style focusing on magical melodic crescendos that certainly emphasize the role of the charismatic guitar leads while the heavier rhythmic segments and the hellish growls channel savage blackened vibes.

The somber mood of “The Great Mirage” comes to life through the poetic guitar melodies which are destined to spellbind the listeners yet the relentless riffage and the frenetic drumming once again highlight the arcane influence of classic black metal. 

“No Place Here” immediately unleashes a palpable blackened fury through faster asphyxiating rhythmic patterns but a dreamy melodic soul will often prevail as the cathartic aspects and the luminous tonalities of the shimmering lead guitar work can even convey a pale sense of hopefulness. 

“Between Two Worlds” brings closure with a dramatic momentum fueled by pure darkness that can generate mysterious atmospheric waves and harsh rhythmic dynamics while the profound melancholy feels overwhelming within the melodic grandeur skillfully crafted by the dazzling shredding and the exquisite harmonies of the extensive guitar solo.  

Undoubtedly you can constantly perceive the darkened soul of Uada throughout “Djinn” which easily stands out for the alluring melodic essence yet never refrains from exploring a heavier primordial sonic pathway. 

The Progressive Souls Collective – Sonic Birth

Guitarist Florian Zepf has created the remarkable project The Progressive Souls Collective featuring amazing musicians such as Derek Sherinian of Sons of Apollo and the result of these collaborations is the ambitious debut album “Sonic Birth”.

The electronic layers on “Metature” create a surreal atmosphere and captivating darkened nuances that eventually give way to a series of glowing prog dynamics that emphasize the dominant role of the flawless guitar melodies. 

There is an intriguing experimental approach throughout “Killing True Beliefs” that still relies on the refined prog guitar work and the charismatic rhythmic twists that will lead to a grand finale which shifts the focus on the ancestral energy of tribal percussion. 

“A Formula For Happiness” delivers the perfect dosage of soulful guitar melodies and flamboyant leads flourishing through luminous atmospheric waves and the vocals can naturally express poignant emotions. 

“Hurt” is characterized by a significantly heavier approach as the guitar work focuses on groovy riffs to build a monumental rhythmic tension and the resulting inflamed prog dynamics enhance the technical aspects of the instrumental patterns. 

The lengthy opus “Destiny Inc” perfectly manifests the distinct sonic vision behind the whole album and highlights once again the brilliant musicianship amplifying the prog metal direction through the elaborate blend of stylish atmospheric tapestries, darkened melodic crescendos and faster precise rhythmic segments enriched by the stellar guitar soloing.  

The bright atmosphere of ”With Others” favors the melodic guitar phrases and the soulful vocal delivery but there is still space for some proggy rhythmic grooves offering intense riffage and wild leads surrounded by opulent atmospheric arrangements. 

Undoubtedly the first thing you will notice listening to “Sonic Birth” is the exceptional talent of the prominent artists behind The Progressive Souls Collective in fact this eclectic collection of songs constantly showcases diverse influences and styles.  

Völur – Death Cult

Avant-garde Canadian trio Völur invites you to enter the spellbinding dark world of the third full length “Death Cult” which immediately stands out for the intricate composition generating arcane folk doom soundscapes. 

“Inviolate Grove” has a remarkable ritualistic flair and immediately shows the fundamental role of the violin that becomes a spiritual guide through the undiluted darkness crafting intriguing harmonies and even heavier dynamics that shift from classic doom vibes to dissonant twists. 

The doom flair feels strong on “Dead Moon” as the slow cathartic rhythm leads you through a darkened atmospheric grandeur while the bewitching violin melodies can naturally acquire exquisite classical nuances while the tormented screams channel an obscure force. 

The dissonant tonalities and the mystifying chants on “Freyjan Death Cult” foreshadow a perilous descent into an ancestral darkened realm and once again the eclectic violin will surprise you with elegant melodies and primordial rhythmic patterns that ultimately lead to a chaotic momentum reaching the acme with a blistering electric violin solo.  

We are still traveling through the darkest depths as the solemn choirs emphasize the esoteric vibes of ”Reverend Queen” which delivers an overload of mournful rhythmic crescendos that allow the violin to create addictive sinister patterns accompanied by the perfect dosage of harsh growls and precise drumming while in the finale the violin effortlessly crafts gorgeous somber melodies. 

Undoubtedly the strength of “Death Cult” comes from the unique style and the darkly alluring instrumental dynamics that Völur have mastered following a desire to push boundaries and a passionately enigmatic songwriting approach. 

https://prophecy.lnk.to/voelur-death-cult

Dynfari – Myrkurs er þörf

In the burgeoning Icelandic metal scene Dynfari have been meticulously developing a fascinating artistic vision that on “Myrkurs er þörf” naturally blends cathartic post-rock soundscapes and fierce black metal roots.

The instrumental album opener “Dauðans dimmu dagar” offers a gorgeous series of dreamy guitar melodies that will gradually evolve into a heavier & darker rhythmic crescendo without sacrificing the harmonious contemplative spirit. 

Darkness descends throughout “Langar nætur (í botnlausum spíralstiga)” as the guitar tonalities are characterized by mesmerizing melodic nuances that can fully express sorrow and grief accompanied by painful screams and the rhythmic section often embraces heavier dynamics channeling a primordial blackened force. 

The title track sounds extremely melancholic favoring the emotional nature of the whole album as the arpeggios and the melodic progressions showcase a moody post-rock soul that leads to an overload of bleak tonalities, hazy rhythmic passages and tormented vocals. 

“Ég fálma gegnum tómið” begins with peaceful melodic guitars that continue to linger through an increasingly darker sonic realm where the intricate instrumental crescendos are destined to captivate the listeners. 

On “Ég tortímdi sjálfum mér” you simply cannot escape the overwhelming darkness surrounding the convoluted guitar melodies and the sophisticated atmospheric arrangements that highlight the band’s remarkable songwriting approach while the growls and the robust rhythmic section can channel immense despair. 

Thoughts of suicide, self-destruction and an eternal melancholia linger throughout “Myrkurs er þörf” as Dynfari corageously embark on an introspective journey through a darkly alluring sonic maze that can lead to shimmering melodies or furious rhythmic blasts. 

Ihsahn – Pharos

Back in February legendary artist Ihsahn released the EP “Telemark” showcasing a dark & blackened sound in contrast with the new EP “Pharos” which represents a reverse image that allows him to manifest a different side of his remarkable music vision. 

On “Losing Altitude” a mysterious aura surrounds the gentle guitar harmonies and the soulful vocals before entering a prog oriented sonic realm where a mix of epic arrangements and spacey atmospheric waves surround catchy passages enriched by detailed rhythmic dynamics. 

On “Spectre At The Feast” the intricate combo of keyboards and guitars can effortlessly create luminous soundscapes leading to a memorable chorus and ultimately the dazzling melodic licks of the charismatic guitar solo are destined to steal the spotlight. 

The title track is a majestic work of music that immediately stands out for the spellbinding melodic essence of the piano and the sophisticated prog dynamics while the sublime orchestrations and the solemn operatic choirs add irresistible epic darkened vibes. 

The cover of the iconic “Roads” by Portishead acquires a lovely hazy atmosphere that makes you space out instantly and the poignant vocal performance constantly emphasizes the immense melancholia of the melodic guitars. 

At this point of his exceptional career Ihsahn continues to prove to be a pioneer as the genesis of “Pharos” comes from a perennial desire to explore diverse styles to create eclectic soundscapes that can easily surprise the audience. 

Tomorrow’s Rain – Hollow

Israeli doom metal band Tomorrow’s Rain is ready to grab your attention with the majestic debut album “Hollow” which features several amazing guest artists. 

Under a cold shroud of melancholy melodic guitars move sinuously throughout “Trees” evoking an overload of crestfallen feelings and an alluring gothic flair enhanced by the rich atmospheric layers and the somber nuances of the charismatic guitar solo featuring Shlomi Bracha of Mashina. 

A familiar doom essence characterizes the mournful guitar work of “Fear” which in fact stands out for the gorgeous darkened melodic passages mixed with heavier lugubrious rhythmic patterns ultimately enriched by the distinct vocal performance courtesy of Aaron Stainthorpe of legendary My Dying Bride.  

Featuring exceptional guest vocalists Fernando Ribeiro of Moonspell and Mikko Kotamaki of Swallow The Sun, “Misery Rain” dwells within a darker sonic realm where the aggressive guitar riffs inevitably lead to a heavier momentum yet a contemplative melodic soul will ultimately generate a fascinating atmospheric grandeur.  

On “Into The Mouth Of Madness” Jeff Loomis of Arch Enemy crafts some brilliant guitar solos that spice up the sorrowful melodic themes and the doom progressions while Kobi Farhi of Orphaned Land delivers a poignant vocal performance that matches the perennial sense of melancholia. 

The title track features the ravenous vocals of Spiros Antoniou of Septicflesh so there are some heavy rhythmic segments but guitars tend to focus on evocative gothic tinged melodies emphasized by refined atmospheric arrangements and lavish symphonic accents. 

Undoubtedly Tomorrow’s Rain already have in mind a clear musical vision which pays homage to the glorious days of doom & gothic metal and “Hollow” is certainly an intriguing debut release that naturally evokes harrowing feelings.