Category: Album Reviews

Witchskull – A Driftwood Cross

Australian trio Witchskull is ready to raise the bar and conquer the soul of doom metal fans with the third release “A Driftwood Cross” which evidently relies on mighty riffs and monolithic grooves. 

The doom worshipping is clear as soon as “Black Cathedrals” kicks off with unstoppable energetic riffage and cohesive groovy rhythmic patterns while the lead guitar work can confidently unleash memorable fancy soloing and slow burning fuzzy progressions that acquire arcane tonalities in the finale. 

“Baphomet’s Child” is a wildly entertaining track that offers a major dosage of charismatic guitar driven grooves blending bold stoner dynamics and fiery occult rock vibes which influence the mournful melodic progressions. 

“The Red Altar” fully showcases an untamed doom spirit through the monumental guitar riffs and the intense vocal delivery while as the rhythm slows down highlighting the chunky bass lines the overall mood becomes increasingly darker embracing a major eerie atmosphere. 

“Nero Order” has some slower gloomy moments skillfully created by hypnotic melodic progressions yet the excellent rhythmic section is always able to provide inflamed galloping grooves amplifying the fuzzy stoner elements. 

The title track incarnates an authentic doom essence as the darkened guitar melodies emphasize the ominous feelings while the colossal riffage builds a powerful rhythmic tension generating an alluring mix of calmer brooding moments and absolutely explosive grooves. 

The irresistible classic doom flair of “A Driftwood Cross” will please all the acolytes of this timeless influential genre and Witchskull once again composed and performed the whole album with undiluted passion. 

Ulcerate – Stare Into Death And Be Still

New Zealand-based death metal trio Ulcerate returns with the monumental sixth full length “Stare Into Death And Be Still” which aims to captivate the listeners with a meticulous harsh composition and overwhelming grim emotions. 

Since the very beginning “The Lifeless Advance” reveals the dark soul of the whole album as the bleak atmosphere puts the spotlight on the melodic twists of the guitar work before entering a chaotic sonic realm fueled by the precise drum blasts, the dissonant riffs and the ominous energy of the imposing growls. 

“Exhale The Ash” stands out for the charismatic grooves which offer a balanced mix of disharmonic progressions and gelid melodic nuances but still emphasizes the presence of brutal death metal dynamics as well as the cerebral songwriting approach.  

The strength of the title track comes from the impressive guitar work that constantly unravels unpredictable rhythmic patterns generating some massive spiteful grooves in contrast with the contemplative momentum carefully built by the recurring haunting melodic motifs.  

The harrowing tonalities of “Inversion” foreshadow a darkly enigmatic essence that fully comes to life through an obscure rhythmic maze featuring venomous guitar riffs and hostile drumming yet you can definitely perceive the refined melodic flair within the complex progressions. 

The tempo slows down as “Dissolved Orders” highlights the dramatic depth with gorgeous undulating melodies flowing through an increasingly desolate atmosphere that once again intensifies the majestic guitars which can effortlessly craft opulent melancholia infused phrases and inflamed technical riffage. 

Undoubtedly listening to “Stare Into Death And Be Still” you will immediately notice how Ulcerate showcase a truly skillful musicianship and while the aggressive death metal roots are often quite evident they manage to keep everything more intriguing with a cathartic darkened melodic blend that ultimately manifests their unique sonic identity. 

Vader – Solitude In Madness

Polish death metal icons Vader have been around for 37 years and are ready to begin a new chapter in their long successful history with the release of the 16th studio album “Solitude In Madness” which definitely proves that they have no intention to stop delivering merciless grooves. 

“Shock And Awe” announces an imminent destruction with the fast unrestrained march of the rhythmic section and through these massive bursts of fury the lead guitars effortlessly add variety with some charismatic licks. 

“Incineration Of The Gods” begins with precise drum blasts and the rhythm gradually acquires more speed and malevolent vibes amplified by the venomous screams and the sharp guitar riffs that will give way to a satisfying fancy solo.  

The obscure mood of “Sanctification Denied” is fueled by a consistent series of visceral rhythmic dynamics and the ominous guitar tones are bound to make an impact delivering fiery riffage and skillful shredding. 

“Emptiness” certainly maintains a robust rhythmic rampage with all the moshpit friendly riffs but the lead guitar work is destined to steal the spotlight crafting majestic shredding and alluring darkened melodic phrases.  

“Final Declaration” goes straight to a ferocious rhythmic assault based on an old school death metal formula in fact guitars are always ready to induce instant headbanging with energetic riffs and masterful soloing. 

The mid-tempo rhythm of “Bones” still favors crushing guitar driven grooves accompanied by the absolutely menacing vocal delivery but this is not just a chaotic sonic realm as the lead guitar work has the capacity to diversify the main patterns with sophisticated melodic progressions. 

Those already familiar with Vader’s extensive discography will be pleased to see that “Solitude In Madness” stays true to the band’s legendary death metal legacy providing the expected generous dosage of ruthless dynamics. 

Elder – Omens

Progressive stoner metal band Elder aims to push boundaries confidently developing an intricate sonic vision on the brand new eclectic album “Omens”. 

The title track promises to be a wild ride as the kaleidoscopic synths channel major psychedelic vibes that will continue to enrich the atmospheric depth lingering through the multifaceted rhythmic ensemble while guitars skillfully shift from magical harmonies to heavier & wilder riffage showcasing an inflamed prog approach. 

There is a ravishing melancholy at the center of “Halcyon” consequently guitars tend to focus on the creation of eloquent melodies flowing freely like blurry dreams accompanied by ethereal atmospheric textures yet an energetic momentum will generate loads of fiery psychedelic stoner dynamics. 

“Embers” immediately delivers a groovy rhythmic section keeping alive the band’s stoner metal roots while the addition of detailed synths arrangements successfully craft a polychromatic sonic palette around the convoluted guitar progressions that continue to blend technical prog accents and shimmering melodies as the whole instrumentation engage in a spacey jam session. 

The extremely complex composition that generates the shapeshifting soundscapes of “Omens” proves that Elder are fully embracing an audacious sonic evolution that still retains a stoner metal spirit but certainly enhances a cerebral prog approach. 

Witchcraft – Black Metal

In the realm of occult rock Witchcraft holds an influential status but on the new acoustic album “Black Metal” founder and sole remaining member Magnus Pelander chooses a different direction focusing on a minimalist and deeply emotive approach. 

“Elegantly Expressed Depression” perfectly represents the grim and probably depressing feelings of the whole album as the sheer beauty of the monochromatic acoustic passages surrounds Magnus’s solemn vocal delivery creating a quite intense emotional turmoil. 

“Sad People” might in fact make you feel sad due to the slow & quiet mournful guitar phrases that highlight the essential role of the heart wrenching vocals. 

“Grow” is a longer track that manages to channel some darkened vibes while maintaining a relaxed stripped back acoustic approach shifting from extra mellow arpeggios to understated rhythmic crescendos that match the contrasting emotions expressed by the vocals. 

On the brief final track “Take Him Away” the acoustic phrases and the whispered vocals create a simply contemplative atmosphere. 

From an album entitled “Black Metal” you might have expected some ominous heavy grooves instead Witchcraft focuses exclusively on a gloomy acoustic ensemble so in the end this new release turns out to be widely accessible. 

Nyrst – Orsök

From the wintry landscapes of Iceland emerging black metal band Nyrst arise to spread mystical darkness with the debut album “Orsök”.

“Æðri Verur” builds suspense with eerie arpeggios and mysterious atmospheric waves that evolve into an increasingly ominous rhythmic rampage bearing the mark of classic black metal and leading to utterly bleak soundscapes emphasized by the theatrical vocal delivery. 

The title track revolves around the intense grim feelings expressed by the relentless cold guitar riffs and the diabolical growls constantly creating a sinister sonic realm while calmer rhythmic variations generate melancholia infused melodic progressions. 

“Hvísl Hinna Holdlausu” continues to conjure an impenetrable darkness that highlights the tormented blackened approach and the gelid guitar tonalities shifting from an apparent melodic tranquillity to a malevolent riffage that evokes arcane vibes surrounded by a dense borderline claustrophobic atmosphere. 

On “Turnar í fjarska” the menacing guitar riffs and the consequent frantic rhythmic patterns are fueled by a primordial blackened force while the gloomy blend of mournful melodic phrases and haunting atmospheric accents conveys the icy beauty of a stark wintry landscape.  

It becomes quickly clear that Nyrst already have shaped an obscure sonic identity following an esoteric pathway with the perfect dosage of blackened nuances and listening to “Orsök” you will inevitably feel compelled to embrace the overwhelming darkness.  

Paradise Lost – Obsidian

Beloved pioneers of gothic/doom metal Paradise Lost have been creating unforgettable music for 32 years and now it’s time to reach another crucial milestone with the spellbinding gloom of the new full length “Obsidian”. 

“Darker Thoughts” opens the album with the melodic splendor of melancholic arpeggios and eloquent strings before entering a majestic gothic metal realm where the ominous growls and the fascinating darkened tonalities of the guitar soloing enrich the memorable rhythmic ensemble. 

“Fall From Grace” immediately grabs your attention with a monolithic doom metal formula offering an overdose of dismal groovy segments carefully built by the mix of crunchy riffs and captivating nostalgic guitar progressions that constantly convey a grim emotional turmoil. 

The moody rhythm of “Ghosts” makes you want to dance under the moonlight and the absolutely catchy goth mood is deeply amplified by the gloomy chorus and the haunting beauty of the melodic guitar phrases. 

While “The Devil Embraced” often features ethereal harmonies accompanied by heartfelt clean vocals the rhythmic section will soon embrace a mournful doom metal pathway with heavier monumental guitar riffs enhanced by the cathartic nature of the elaborate solo. 

“Forsaken” is surrounded by the evocative darkened aura of the delicate atmospheric waves that always emphasize the gothic grandeur of the fiery guitar progressions and the groovy rhythmic blasts. 

With a slower rhythm “Ending Days” takes the chance to highlight poignant feelings through the melancholic clean vocal delivery and the lavish melodic guitar work effortlessly increases the dramatic depth with wistful phrases and inflamed soloing. 

The perennial eerie atmosphere of  “Ravenghast” intensifies the mesmerizing obscure essence embedded in the lugubrious rhythmic crescendos and the solemn guitar work crafts an overload of ravishing dynamics that clearly follow a mighty doom metal inspiration. 

“Obsidian” can easily conquer your broken soul as Paradise Lost perfectly keep a balanced blend of heavier doom patterns and bewitching melodic progressions conjuring their influential legacy but also confidently moving forward to embrace a natural evolution that ultimately proves that after so many years they are still essential within the current metal scene.

Brant Bjork – Brant Bjork

Brant Bjork is undoubtedly an icon in the Californian desert rock scene in fact for over twenty years his prolific work as solo artists has been quite influential and for the new self titled album he recorded all of the instruments and focused on a genuine songwriting approach. 

“Jungle In The Sound” relies on a warm soulful rhythm combining striking psychedelic guitar tonalities and stoner rock flavors evoking a natural desert jam formula that doesn’t need extravagant or complicated gimmicks to captivate the listeners. 

On “Jesus Was A Bluesman” the guitar work aptly features some delightful bluesy tones following a hypnotic rhythmic crescendo and crafting a series of vivid catchy leads enriched by the soothing vocal delivery.  

From a lyrical point of view “Cleaning Out The Ashtray” shows honest emotions that certainly influence also the sonic formula revolving around perfect catchy & minimalist rhythmic patterns that allow the stunning guitar work to engage in a passionate jam with bluesy progressions and essential desert rock riffage. 

Listening to “Duke Of Dynamite” we’re still in the middle of the desert getting high and feeling good as the hazy guitar passages flow freely like a daydream and ultimately reach the acme with the amplified psychedelia of the moody soloing. 

On “Stardust & Diamond Eyes” the rhythm acquires a little funky attitude that works like a charm entwined with the main fervent heavy rock guitar riffs while the slower moments rightfully put the spotlight on the soulful vocals and the bewitching melancholic tonalities.  

Releasing the 13th solo album is a great accomplishment for Brant Bjork and it’s quite impressive to see that he’s singing and playing everything as this personal approach definitely renders all these songs more intimate and spontaneous. 

Khemmis – Doomed Heavy Metal

Khemmis have quickly become one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed bands in the current metal scene and the new EP “Doomed Heavy Metal” includes a brand new cover, two rare singles and three live recordings from 2018 which give you a taste of their compelling doom inspired manifesto. 

The cover of Dio’s iconic hit “Rainbow In The Dark” is bound to trigger curiosity and the result is actually quite enthralling as Khemmis maintain their own sound with doom laden guitar progressions, charismatic soloing and genuinely passionate vocals but also stay true to the original classic heavy metal style. 

The early 20th-century Appalachian dirge “A Conversation With Death” begins with solemn chorals and constantly channels a darkened mood that deeply influences the monolithic guitar riffs leading to mournful moments as well as some energetic rhythmic blasts.

Keeping a mighty doomed approach “Empty Throne” focuses on the fuzzy magic of the guitar work while the slower tempo certainly highlights the melodic grandeur fueled by the melancholia infused guitar tonalities. 

The rest of the EP features the live versions of the powerful tracks “Bloodletting”, “Three Gates” 

and “The Bereaved” which remind us how much we miss metal shows. 

Even if “Doomed Heavy Metal” is a short EP it does feel like a refreshing listening experience and proves that In this dark world the music composed by Khemmis truly shines bright.  

Forming The Void – Reverie

Louisiana based stoner doom metal band Forming The Void embark on a bewitching cosmic trip with the latest album “Reverie” which will make you space out without any hesitation.  

“Sage” goes straight to a delicious fuzzy rhythmic rampage and the guitar tonalities hold a heavy doom soul spiced up by an alluring psychedelic flair while the melodic essence comes to life especially during the hypnotic guitar solo. 

Just like the title suggests “Onward Through The Haze” will take you on a wild ride through a hazy atmospheric maze guided by the moody melancholy of the slow burning guitar melodies that will evolve into monolithic rhythmic segments fueled by the doomy force of the guitar riffs and the charismatic soloing. 

“Manifest” shines for the irresistible beauty of the acoustic phrases that introduce a significantly heavier doom tinged core with mighty guitar riffs and somber vocals yet the striking guitar progressions and the exquisite solos could easily induce hallucinations and continue to evoke a gloomy melodic sentiment. 

The otherworldly soundscapes of “The Ending Cometh” feel like the perfect grand finale as the monumental super fuzzy rhythmic section acquires a magical darkened aura and the emotional nature of the intricate extensive guitar solo is destined to spellbind you. 

“Reverie” feels like a mystical voyage so you are instantly compelled to listen to the whole album in loop and embrace its outpouring cosmic energy as Forming The Void confidently creates an overdose of trippy melodies and explosive grooves.