Category: Album Reviews

Ages – Uncrown

Swedish black metallers Ages have worked meticulously to create the darkened gelid soundscapes of the sophomore release “Uncrown” constantly fueled by a mysterious Nordic force. 

The traditional black metal roots fully manifest throughout “Burn Them” as the tremolo picking naturally generates ominous rhythmic crescendos enhanced by the tormented growls and the sense of despair flowing through the slower melodic passages. 

While the cold guitar riffs on “Illicit State” always maintain a blackened essence the lavish atmospheric arrangements can convey a solemn mood that certainly embellishes the mixture of mournful melodies and fierce rhythmic blasts. 

On “A Hollow Tomb” smooth arpeggios and refined atmospheric tapestries can naturally evoke a profound melancholia that will inevitably linger even through the heavier lugubrious rhythmic patterns to emphasize the inner melodic essence. 

On “Undivine” the focus shifts to the comforting tonalities of the opulent melodic guitar work and the consequent grave feelings while the main rhythmic ensemble still relies on a significantly darker inspiration.  

“Pyres” closes the album offering an epic grandeur through imposing chants and sumptuous atmospheric layers while the bewitching guitar riffs & melodies skillfully focus on the dramatic depth of the frostbitten soundscapes conjuring arcane vibes. 

On “Uncrown” Ages aim to blend a raw black metal energy and a cathartic melodic soul leading to a captivating sonic realm filled with contrasting feelings and multifaceted tonalities.

Selbst – Relatos De Angustia

Founded by instrumentalist/vocalist/composer/lyricist ‘N’, Selbst embarks on an immersive sonic journey through the darkest & coldest soundscapes of the sophomore album “Relatos De Angustia”. 

Listening to “Deafening Wailing Of The Desperate Ones” you can constantly perceive a sense of despair as the growls confidently emerge from hellish depths and the strength of the cascading guitar riffs relies on the absolutely gelid tonalities which also generate crestfallen melodic accents.  

Under a shroud of darkness “Silent Soul Throes” manifests intense blackened dynamics as malignant guitar riffs and monumental drums march fiercely through a solemn atmosphere and frostbitten melodic tapestries channeling overwhelming grim emotions. 

On “Sculpting The Dirtiness Of Its Existence” the enticing melodic progressions and the mournful guitar tonalities often become the main focus evoking a comforting melancholia while the rhythmic section will continue to convey a lugubrious sonic realm delivering fiery blackened blasts. 

The dramatic depth of “Let The Pain Run Through” comes to life through the immense gloom expressed by the sorrowful guitar phrases which naturally reach the acme with a spellbinding solo that emphasizes the song’s inner melodic essence destined to flourish through the epic atmospheric waves. 

“Relatos De Angustia” could easily become your favorite soundtrack for solitary confinement as Selbst guides you through a fascinating darkened sonic maze to explore the depths of your soul. 

Concrete – Free Us From Existence

In the New York hardcore scene Concrete are known for their unrestrained violent grooves and the new full length “Free Us From Existence” will inevitably drag the listeners through the depths of a merciless sonic realm. 

“Executing Vengeance” is an uncompromising album opener as the vicious rhythmic blasts simply seem unstoppable following a breakneck speed with relentless guitar riffs accompanied by utterly angered vocals while towards the end guitars will add some subtle melodic accents . 

“Starving Serpent” has a straightforward approach that maintains a monolithic heavy core as the harsh guitar riffs and the ravenous screams diligently lead the way through a groovy abrasive rhythmic maze.  

Listening to “Psychological Crucifixion” you will quickly realize that all hope is lost as the towering asphyxiating rhythmic patterns are constantly fueled by the extra heavy riffage yet the guitar leads can surprise you with extremely somber melodic passages. 

The atmospheric dystopian mood of “Apthotic Mirror” reminds you of the self destructive behavior of humanity and it’s not surprising to see that the monumental rhythmic section expresses an undiluted dark force as the chaotic guitar driven grooves feel quite dominant while the soloing showcases a mournful melodic essence. 

Certainly Concrete are devoted to their heavy hardcore roots yet throughout “Free Us From Existence” they aim to channel the darkest elements of diverse metal subgenres ensuring an intense sonic experience. 

Rope Sect – The Great Flood

German newcomers Rope Sect are ready to manifest a darkly alluring artistic vision and catchy deathrock nuances on the debut album “The Great Flood”. 

The narrative intro of “Divide Et Impera” makes you feel like you’re about to enter a dystopian realm yet the groovy rhythmic patterns and the crunchy guitar riffs leading to a memorable chorus are destined to put a spell on you.  

Throughout “The Underground Paradise” you can perceive a sultry goth rock flair as guitars effortlessly deliver moody melodic phrases and explosive riffage instantly triggering stomping dynamics while the charismatic solo channels some classic heavy metal vibes. 

Darkness prevails on “Hiraeth” due to the extremely somber tonalities of the guitar work that will impress the listeners with a perfect combo of slightly blackened riffs and enticing nostalgic melodies accompanied by the heartfelt vocal delivery. 

“Flood Flower” continues to embrace a darkened pathway as guitars skillfully blend memorable riffs and hypnotizing melodic passages that emphasize the inner grim emotions and perfectly compliment the particularly passionate vocal performance which leads to a delightful chorus.  

The instrumental track “Non Serviemus” still dwells within a darkly bittersweet sonic realm but sounds significantly heavier due to the major old school heavy metal influence embedded within the chunky guitar riffs which effortlessly maintain a super groovy momentum enriched by the extensive vibrant solos. 

“Dilluvian Darkness” immediately evokes a profound melancholia through the comforting vocal harmonies, the bewitching gothic vibes and the glowing melodic phrases that naturally embrace a darkened sonic pathway amplified by the cathartic energy of the rhythmic crescendos. 

For now the music of Rope Sect might belong to a rarefied niche but “The Great Flood” definitely has the potential to conquer a wider audience eager to join a fascinating sonic journey through a world of gloom ‘n’ doom. 

Osi And The Jupiter – Appalachia

Osi And The Jupiter features the enigmatic duo of Sean Kratz (vocals, guitars, synths) and Kakophonix (cello) and this time they have created a special EP entitled “Appalachia” which aims to take you to distant places through dreamy folk inspired soundscapes. 

“They Ride Through The Skies On Horse Drawn Chariots” evokes immense melancholy and constant yearning as the gorgeous intricate cello melodies will inevitably move the listeners flowing like a perfect daydream through the understated atmospheric waves.  

The enchanting dream continues on the title track which focuses on minimalist acoustic guitars and sublime cello phrases accompanied by sorrowful vocals and such intimate ensemble naturally evokes a perennial sense of nostalgia. 

The grandiose final track “The Binding Will Of Mountains” feels like a peaceful voyage through a pristine forest as the mysterious darkened atmosphere surrounds a magical blend of eloquent cello melodies and melancholic acoustic phrases that seem to speak directly to your soul embracing cathartic rhythmic crescendos and channeling subtle epic vibes. 

On “Appalachia” Osi And The Jupiter manifest a strong spiritual connection to the dense forested mountains of their homeland and invite you to join them on a mystical journey through this myth-laden region guided by spellbinding melodic tapestries. 

Drouth – Excerpts From A Dread Liturgy

Portland based black/death metal band Drouth raises the bar on the sophomore release “Excerpts From A Dread Liturgy” delivering crushing grooves and spreading undiluted darkness. 

“A Drowning In Sunlight” can sound utterly hostile as the brutal growls and the unrestrained rhythmic section successfully create a merciless sonic realm but eventually some refined melodic guitar progressions and the charismatic soloing will have a chance to grab your attention. 

The obscure guitar tonalities of “O Time Thy Pyramids/An Unfinished Nightmare” convey an enigmatic mood that will quickly evolve into a chaotic ensemble filled with fiery blast beats and menacing riffage enriched by the dreadful melodic phrases of the guitar solo. 

The darkened artistic vision of “A Repulsive Act Shrouded in Flesh” comes to life through the slower sorrowful guitar harmonies that introduce another solid round of fast & vicious blackened dynamics that inevitably leaves you shattered and hopeless in contrast with the gentle contemplative melodies of the finale. 

Undoubtedly Drouth have the capacity to concoct ruthless rhythmic patterns yet throughout “Excerpts From A Dread Liturgy” the inner dark essence will also generate a bleak melodic grandeur. 

Battle Dagorath – Abyss Horizons

Atmospheric spectral black metal band Battle Dagorath begins a visionary journey into the third eye on the new full length “Abyss Horizons”.

The lengthy track “Incantation Of The Vortexx” marks a perilous descent through hellish depths as the mystifying atmosphere effortlessly leads to contemplative soundscapes while the obscure guitar tonalities are bound to generate an overdose of faster and extremely cold blackened progressions.  

“Phantasmal Eye Of Dreams” feels like a solemn ceremony as the cryptic vibes grow stronger through the hazy atmospheric arrangements that surround an unrestrained black metal rhythmic rampage while the recurring slower melodic moments feature magical guitar phrases and mysterious vibes. 

Within a gelid atmospheric ensemble “Conjuring The Starwinds” marks an intense blackened assault as the relentless guitar riffs accompanied by tormented growls create asphyxiating dynamics until the melodic essence emerges conveying comforting otherworldly feelings through the calmer bewitching guitar melodies. 

“Twilight Of The Cold Sun” continues to embrace a somber melodic soul as the peaceful guitar harmonies flow gently through a rich atmospheric ensemble expressing spiritual vibes and  dreamy feelings in contrast with the massive blackened force that will inevitably lead to a chaotic ominous momentum. 

The instrumental final track “Saturnian Moons” focuses on surreal multilayered atmospheric arrangements that aim to channel the glowing cosmic energy necessary to complete a transcendental journey traversing the boundaries of this dimension. 

Following the arcane pathway of spectral black metal Battle Dagorath confidently combine menacing rhythmic patterns and epic atmospheric waves to create the impenetrable darkened sonic realm of “Abyss Horizons”. 

Stonebirds – Collapse And Fail

Hailing from central Britanny, Stonebirds confidently follow a monumental stoner doom/sludge pathway to deliver an overdose of intense grooves and to embrace a spiritual melodic catharsis on the latest full length “Collapse And Fail”.

“Only God” immediately showcases a riff worshipping approach as guitars inevitably take the center stage generating a series of quite aggressive & obscure rhythmic patterns yet there is space for calmer mournful melodic progressions which naturally evoke grim feelings. 

Throughout “Stay Clean” the massive guitar driven grooves tend to be the main focus with a generous dosage of monolithic riffs while the somber emotions become more palpable within the contemplative atmospheric waves and the cold melodic tapestries.  

The overwhelming gloom of “Turn Off The Light” flourishes through the sorrowful guitar melodies which can spontaneously lead to slower brooding passages but often borrow the lugubrious energy of doom metal during the dramatically heavier segments emphasized by the tormented vocal delivery. 

On the title track the robust rhythmic section can create shattering patterns accompanied by vicious screams so you can instantly perceive a distress call while the darkly compelling arpeggios showcase a ghastly post-metal inspiration that can almost bring a pale sense of hope. 

The bold groovy dynamics on “Collapse And Fail” are often fueled by a darkened doom force that seems to leave no hope as Stonebirds genuinely take the chance to express harrowing emotions. 

Misery Signals – Ultraviolet

For Misery Signals the new full length “Ultraviolet” symbolizes a rebirth since it’s the first album in seven years and it features all founding members demonstrating a renewed creative force and camaraderie. 

The chunky guitar riffs of “The Tempest” foreshadow a quite hostile rhythmic ensemble in fact the drum blasts sound quite vicious and the growls never cease to channel pure fury in contrast with the luminous tranquility of the melodic phrases. 

“River King” begins with heartfelt guitar harmonies following a mellow minimalist rhythm and the resulting dreamy vibes will linger through the elegant guitar melodies but an overdose of crunchy riffs accompanied by darkened atmospheric accents will generate belligerent dynamics. 

The inner melancholy of “The Fall” naturally leads to a memorable blend of enticing guitar melodies and hazy atmospheric moments accompanied by gentle clean vocals while the heavier passages feature intriguing technical rhythmic twists. 

In the beginning “Cascade Locks” evokes somber emotions focusing on soft melodies that introduce a cohesive series of savage rhythmic patterns yet a perennial melancholy continues to emerge through the sophisticated guitar progressions and the atmospheric momentum. 

There is a glowing sense of hope on “Some Dreams” as guitars once again can create soothing melodic passages while the explosive rhythmic section will continue to showcase a violent approach with blistering riffage and unrestrained drumming. 

You can expect to find monumental guitar driven grooves throughout “Ultraviolet” as Misery Signals confidently embrace a ferocious & heavy sonic pathway yet they also aim to show a vulnerable side through contemplative melodic textures. 

Black Crown Initiate – Violent Portraits Of Doomed Escape

In the underground circles Black Crown Initiate have already gained attention & praise but now it’s time to embrace a new sonic evolution on the latest offering “Violent Portraits Of Doomed Escape” which immediately stands out for the fascinating multifaceted songwriting approach. 

“Invitation” begins with gentle harmonies and soulful vocals but such contemplative mood will change as soon as the merciless growls, the chunky riffage and the precise rhythmic blasts take the center stage yet the darkened melodic essence will continue to linger through the enthralling guitar progressions and the comforting arpeggios. 

Throughout “Trauma Bonds” the soulful melodic passages shine within the dramatically heavier energetic sonic realm fueled by belligerent guitar riffs and aggressive drumming while the technical accents of the guitar work amplify the eclectic progressive flair. 

While on “Years In Frigid Light” the abrasive guitar riffs can easily channel a brutal death metal inspiration, the progressive nature often prevails generating unexpected rhythmic twists while at times a genuine melancholic soul comes to life through luminous melodic phrases and understated atmospheric nuances. 

The fragile guitar melodies and the moody atmospheric waves of “Death Comes In Reverse” convey a delightful sense of nostalgia destined to endure even during the heavier rhythmic crescendos and the edgy prog dynamics surrounded by an exquisite darkened aura. 

The visionary composition behind “Holy Silence” can effortlessly generate heartfelt melodic textures as well as complex & significantly faster passages as guitars can shift from crestfallen phrases to venomous groovy riffs and ultimately reach the acme with a charismatic solo. 

Black Crown Initiate confidently explore diverse sonic territories in order to maintain an inflamed creative force that successfully leads to the irresistible blend of bittersweet melodic tapestries  and majestic heavy patterns throughout “Violent Portraits Of Doomed Escape”.