Category: Album Reviews

Grift – Budet

Swedish autumnal folk/black metal band Grift channels immense melancholy on the third full length “Budet” which invites you to explore your mind and soul through lavish contemplative soundscapes. 

“Barn Av Ingenmansland” depicts a fascinating gloomy world where subtle atmospheric layers and traditional instruments rely on a sentimental folk approach in contrast with the harsh blackened inspiration behind the guitar work and the anguished vocals. 

“Ödets Bortbytingar” can sound quite obscure with the grim energy of the fast blackened rhythmic segments while the introspective depth is emphasized by the evocative violins that create the perfect dosage of heartwarming harmonies.  

The passionate melodic guitar work and the soothing violins on “Vita Arkiv” generate a wistful sonic realm that will inevitably move the listeners and feels quite dominant even if the desperate vocals and the increasingly darker rhythmic variations often take the center stage.  

“Oraklet i Kullabo” invokes the spirit of nature to craft a poetic melodic ensemble that amplifies the minimalist folk inspiration of the acoustic passages leading to peaceful feelings until the blackened guitar riffs bring a significant dose of raw energy. 

An exquisite sense of nostalgia lingers throughout “Budet” but you can also perceive moments of sheer despair as Grift successfully express an emotional whirlwind through the opulent atmospheric and melodic composition. 

Gotthard – #13

Swiss rockers Gotthard have been around for 28 years selling millions of records worldwide and now with the new album “#13” they proudly show an undiluted passion for rock ‘n’ roll. 

“Bad News” has an entertaining sleazy rock mood fueled by the gritty energy of the rhythmic rampage built by bold guitar riffs and obviously the wild rock spirit is perfectly embodied by the vibrant vocal delivery. 

“Every Time I Die” is another catchy track that delivers a generous dosage of fervent rhythmic progressions and the guitar riffs keep alive a classic hard rock sound with solid riffage and fancy shredding.  

“10.000 Faces”maintains a traditional rock approach full of groovy guitar riffs that naturally generate engaging rhythmic patterns emphasized by the memorable big chorus and the perfect rocker style vocals. 

“Better Than Love” has a nostalgic atmosphere so the tempo slows down a bit to match this softer emotive mood emphasized by the catchy chorus yet guitars can still concoct fiery riffs and a rather wild solo. 

“Man On A Mission” will become a favorite immediately as guitars this time focus on warm bluesy tonalities and glowing melodic passages to enrich the classic rock formula leading to a slow burning rhythm accompanied by soulful vocal harmonies. 

“No Time To Cry” begins with a heartfelt ballad style evoking a sheer melancholia that will linger through the subtle atmospheric arrangements while guitars eventually pick up speed with loads of bouncy riffs and flamboyant leads.

The final track “Rescue Me” features lovely acoustic passages that enhance a sentimental motif while the captivating vocal delivery and the dazzling lead guitar work convey a thrilling hard rock flair. 

“#13” is everything you would expect from veteran rockers Gotthard demonstrating that they have no intention to stop creating super catchy hard rock anthems and still hold an influential status within the current music scene. 

Aara – En Ergô Einai

Swiss atmospheric black metal trio Aara is ready to unleash the sophomore release “En Ergô Einai”, a tormented sonic journey conceptually inspired by the Age of Enlightenment in eighteenth century Europe. 

“Arkanum” opens the album with an ethereal atmospheric intro featuring soulful arpeggios courtesy of Vindsval of Blut aus Nord & Yeruselem but the misanthropic blackened essence will take over with the increasingly darker rhythmic rampage built by vicious guitar riffs and punishing drums while the scattered moody harmonies express extremely somber feelings and even epic vibes. 

While the rhythm section of “Entelechie” doesn’t feel constantly frantic it still holds a massive blackened force due to the soaring guitar riffs but the enthralling melodic progressions become the highlight of the song showcasing a mystical flair and grim emotions. 

“Telôs” is an ambitious track that emphasizes a solemn grandeur with celestial atmospheric arrangements & choirs that surround the ominous frenetic rhythmic section and ultimately lead to the spiritual essence embodied by the elegant melodic guitars. 

“En Ergô Einai” reminds you of the finite nature of man and his creations so the whole album is inevitably drenched in darkness and with an elaborate songwriting Aara successfully creates a darkened philosophical opus. 

Crematory – Unbroken

After almost thirty years and an extensive discography Crematory continue to carry the torch for European gothic metal and show their unstoppable creative force once again on the new massive release “Unbroken”.

The title track features belligerent growls and constantly delivers inflamed stomping grooves with a strong Neue Deutsche Härte influence so the industrial gritty sound of the guitars feels very dominant. 

“Rise And Fall” offers somber keyboards arrangements and a generous dosage of classic gothic tinged guitar melodies diligently following a darkened softer rhythm and the presence of emotive clean vocals clearly emphasizes the melancholic mood. 

On “The Kingdom” the guitar work focuses on the creation of sorrowful melodies amplified by the nostalgic vocal delivery and the crestfallen vibes of the subtle atmospheric layers but there is also a slightly heavier rhythmic momentum accompanied by fierce growls. 

“Inside My Heart” is the must have ballad full of nostalgia and passionate melodies so guitars deliver soothing arpeggios and the ethereal atmospheric arrangements surround the heartfelt vocals particularly captivating during the catchy chorus. 

On “The Downfall” the industrial flair triggers some heavy guitar driven grooves following an energetic rhythmic section but there is still space for melancholia as the guitar soloing brings darkened polished harmonies. 

The prominent electro vibes of “My Dreams Have Died” lead to an entertaining dark & dancey rhythm and consequently enhance the industrial aspects of the song while the smooth clean vocals easily emphasize the inner melodic sentiment. 

“Voices” has some memorable electro beats that add an edgy industrial verve to the main instrumental progressions that once again skillfully blend melodic phrases and tight riffs accompanied by fiery growls and harmonious clean vocals. 

“As Darkness Calls” relies on catchy gothic metal nuances consequently guitars are focused on the expression of a familiar melodic melancholia balanced by the groovy riffage just like the vocal duet continues to manifest contrasting feelings with clean delivery and growls. 

As the lyrics suggest, Crematory have no intention to stop fighting and “Unbroken” is a straightforward sonic manifesto full of darkened grooves, industrial dynamics and sincere passion. 

Lychgate – Also sprach Futura

UK-based progressive black/doom metal band Lychgate pushes boundaries on the latest release “Also sprach Futura” which dwells within a dystopian realm where spiritual vibes and darkened aesthetics are destined to thrive. 

The dense atmosphere of “Incarnate” constantly spreads darkness with dissonant nuances and the mix of baritone vocals and ominous growls matches the intense gloom expressed by the blackened rhythmic blasts and the opulent guitar melodies. 

The baroque flair of the organ continues to craft eerie atmospheres on “Progeny Of The Singularity” and guitars engage in relentless riffage spiced up by flawless intriguing technical variations while later theatrical vocals emphasize the calmer decadent melodic grandeur before returning to a darker & faster chaotic rhythmic ensemble.  

“Simulacrum” tends to favor an exquisite dramatic depth with melancholic atmospheres and grave guitar harmonies but at some point such brooding ensemble will evolve into frantic rhythmic patterns fueled by the inflamed blackened guitar tones. 

“Vanity Ablaze” focuses on the technical approach of the excellent guitar work which effortlessly crafts hypnotic melodic phrases leading to a contemplative momentum enriched by the trascendental organ tonalities while the full blown heavy blackened riffs amplify the increasing obscurity. 

While “Also sprach Futura” is a short offering all four tracks have the ability to impress the listeners as Lychgate confidently explore philosophical themes and elaborate soundscapes ultimately reminding you that the future is rather dark. 

Nite – Darkness Silence Mirror Flame

Featuring current and former members of Satan’s Wrath, Dawnbringer and High Spirits, San Francisco based new band Nite is ready to present a bewitching sonic manifesto on the debut full length “Darkness Silence Mirror Flame” clearly inspired by traditional heavy metal. 

“Genesis” aims to build satisfying grooves with an impeccable classic heavy sound and loads of catchy guitar riffs while the raspy vocal delivery successfully evokes a primal blackened influence that certainly highlights the darker nuances of the instrumental ensemble. 

“The Way” goes straight to a soaring rhythmic rampage that naturally feels memorable due to the familiar heavy metal formula and the lead guitar work has the chance to properly shine delivering refined melodic phrases and flamboyant solos. 

“Lucifer” sounds deliciously wicked & catchy as the slower sorrowful rhythmic section conveys somber emotions and hypnotizing gothic rock nuances allowing guitars to focus on the creation of sultry melodic progressions.  

“Night Terrors” obviously features addictive nightmarish grooves that can instantly trigger headbanging but the brilliant guitar work truly deserves your utmost attention shifting from crunchy riffage to nostalgic harmonies that lead to dazzling licks and extensive majestic solos. 

You will find peace within the darkened melodic splendor of “Bright” as the atmosphere becomes extremely melancholic with tranquil arpeggios and passionate gothic tonalities until a fierce blackened oriented momentum takes over offering intense riffage and thrilling guitar solos. 

Nite confidently channel all the glorious dynamics of classic heavy metal and NWOBHM but also manage to maintain a spellbinding darkened aura throughout “Darkness Silence Mirror Flame”.  

Psychonaut – Unfold The God Man

Belgian psychedelic post-metal trio Psychonaut is a new band that deserves to be on your radar as the debut full length “Unfold The God Man” already showcases a captivating sonic manifesto enriched by excellent musicianship. 

The instrumental album opener “All I Saw As A Huge Monkey” feels like a wild jam session that marks a truly trippy beginning as the whole instrumentation undergoes a continuous inspiring evolution embracing diverse tonalities and styles while the majestic multifaceted guitar work is bound to impress all music connoisseurs shifting from heavy inflamed riffage to eclectic leads. 

On “The Story Of Your Enslavement” guitars confidently focus on a series of bold groovy riffs leading to massive heavier rhythmic dynamics amplified by spiteful screams that often evolve into darkened introspective clean vocals. 

“The Fall Of Consciousness” is a complex track that emphasizes a charismatic sonic diversity beginning with a spiritual atmospheric ensemble adorned by the soothing clarity of melodic guitars and the technical approach of the enticing soloing while the desperate screams and the grim energy of the galloping riffs generate a groovy momentum. 

“Celestial Dictator” will drag you into a cosmic realm where you’re bound to space out indefinitely guided by an ancestral chant and a tribal rhythm that introduces an opulent instrumental ensemble featuring monolithic rhythmic patterns, enigmatic style variations and an overdose of mesmerizing guitar progressions.   

The extra lengthy final track “Nothing Is Consciousless” can move the listeners with the exquisite melancholy of the flawless harmonious guitar passages and the comforting charm of the clean vocals consequently the meditative moments become quite prominent especially with the addition of the jazzy saxophone tonalities but the belligerent energy of the groovy rhythmic segments often demands your utmost attention. 

Undoubtedly “Unfold The God Man” is an excellent debut album that demonstrates mature songwriting skills as Psychonaut constantly show the clear intention to create an ambitious detailed opus that simply should not be overlooked and might even inspire you to reach a higher level of consciousness. 

Dwaal – Gospel Of The Vile

Norwegian doom/sludge metal band Dwaal invites you to embrace your inner darkness within the inescapable gloom of the debut full length “Gospel Of The Vile”. 

“Ascent” is surrounded by an eerie atmosphere that dictates painfully slow and mournful rhythmic dynamics offering murky guitar melodies with dreamy post-metal nuances accompanied by distant spacey vocals. 

The ominous tonalities of “Like Rats” increase a dystopian mood and the doom metal inspiration becomes stronger with the insane weight of the guitar riffs and the tormented growls while the scattered melodic phrases feel like a hymn to melancholia. 

The title track can sound utterly diabolical with vicious growls and a perennial sense of anguish lingering through the bleak atmospheric textures and the heavy woeful rhythmic patterns but guitars also create some comforting melodic moments. 

“Obsidian Heart Burns” continues to concoct darkened themes with slow burning bass lines that foreshadow an impending doom which is bound to become stronger within the monolithic rhythmic maze while the dense atmospheric arrangements channel enigmatic vibes. 

It’s hard to believe that “Gospel Of The Vile” is a debut album because Dwaal already showcase tremendous songwriting skills and a striking sonic vision that seem to emerge from the darkest depths of the soul. 

The Birthday Massacre – Diamonds

With an extensive dazzling discography The Birthday Massacre continue to conquer our hearts with their unique blend of 80’s electronica and darkly enticing melodies that is destined to spellbind you once again with the latest full length “Diamonds”. 

Listening to “The Sky Will Turn” you will fall in love with the bewitching power of the atmospheric synths that gently surround the cool guitar phrases and Chibi’s comforting voice guiding you into a violet tinged dreamworld. 

The title track is meant to shine in the dark with a cinematic approach full of detailed atmospheric waves that feel like a darkened lullaby and the soothing vocals certainly amplify the resulting ethereal vibes. 

On “Run” the synths are extremely dominant delivering addictive electro beats that spice up the understated atmospheric layers and trigger a darkly danceable rhythmic ensemble intensified by the somber guitar tones. 

“Crush” makes you wanna cry but also makes you feel good as the atmosphere brings some borderline sinister nuances naturally enhanced by the darkened groovy guitar work while the calm bittersweet vocal harmonies add a delightful romantic flair.  

The band’s signature style flourishes throughout “Mirrors” as the industrial oriented synths influence the gritty guitar riffs generating an irresistible groovy and significantly heavier momentum that ultimately leads to a rather passionate chorus. 

The emotional gravity of “Parallel World” feels like a midsummer night’s dream amplifying the peaceful energy of the electronic elements and the radiant guitar work that creates haunting melodies yet also adds lovely crunchy riffs to ensure a memorable rhythmic momentum. 

The Birthday Massacre have always released catchy inspiring music in fact you can listen to each album without skipping a song and “Diamonds” continues to evoke the gorgeous darkness that characterizes the band’s artistic evolution with captivating soundscapes and sincere emotions. 

Novena – Eleventh Hour

Featuring frontman Ross Jennings of Haken new progressive metal/rock band Novena will certainly garner attention with the complex debut release “Eleventh Hour”. 

“22:59” begins with a luminous choral introduction swiftly followed by dazzling guitar melodies that channel a great positive energy while the main rhythmic section shifts from a laid back approach to flamboyant heavier proggy patterns matching the contrast between smooth clean vocals and aggressive growls. 

With a soulful ballad style “Sail Away” evokes a comforting serenity due to the minimalist piano melodies and whispered vocals surrounded by a dreamy melancholic atmosphere emphasized by the mellow rhythm. 

The stunning intricate track “Lucidity” is destined to become a favorite showcasing a remarkable complexity that leads to brilliant guitar progressions ranging from groovy riffage to exquisite melodies while the inspiring emotional motif is constantly expressed by the passionate vocals and the impeccable piano melodies.   

“Corazón” maintains an evident prog metal formula putting the spotlight on the stellar guitar work mainly focused on eclectic melodic passages accompanied by lovely multifaceted vocals while the final part becomes particularly playful and happy with warm Latin nuances and an irresistible dancey flamenco rhythm. 

On “The Tyrant” you will find thrilling syncopated rhythmic patterns so the intricate prog metal composition holds a dominant role with massive guitar riffs and stellar soloing accompanied by violent growls yet the ethereal melodic essence will always find a way to evoke peacefulness & melancholy with bittersweet clean vocals and gorgeous guitar phrases that seem to glow with a refreshing energy through the heavier rhythmic segments. 

The grand finale comes with the majestic opus “Prison Walls” that offers an insanely wide range of style and rhythmic variations starting with an overload of galloping catchy guitar riffs and smooth vocals. Later slower dreamy melodic tapestries will put the spotlight on the frustration and the struggle expressed by the narratives which are simply heart wrenching and we can all identify with such intense feelings. As the song continues to evolve, vocals become spiteful growls and guitars will ultimately embrace a darker and dramatically heavier approach which stands out for the precise rhythmic section while a sense of tranquility emerges through the poignant piano melodies, the elegant atmosphere and the alluring guitar phrases. 

There is a lot going on throughout “Eleventh Hour” which definitely showcases an eclectic prog composition and strong emotional themes as Novena will constantly surprise you with a high degree of sonic diversity and an amazing musicianship.