For over twenty years German black metallers Odal have explored the coldest depths of metal and their pagan influences continue to flourish on the latest dark offering “Welten Mutter”.
“…um Ewiges zu schaffen” reveals the epic flair and the brooding nuances that characterize the whole album as the fierce guitar riffs accompanied by ravenous growls effortlessly showcase strong blackened roots while mournful textures are bound to emerge through the melodic progressions.
“Der Kälte Atem” can unleash plenty of ominous black metal dynamics through the fast menacing rhythmic section yet the lead guitar work has a chance to add a fair dosage of darkened melodies ultimately evoking crestfallen feelings.
The title track might favor the melodic aspects of the guitar work which successfully delivers poignant phrases yet the main rhythmic patterns can maintain a frostbitten black metal essence enhanced by the pummeling drums.
The final track “Erden Zeit” definitely continues to embody the band’s icy aesthetics and the pagan inspiration through the grave guitar tonalities and the unrestrained blackened rhythmic blasts which can also acquire familiar folk metal elements.
“Welten Mutter” takes you to a gelid Nordic landscape as Odal confidently channel the obscure force of traditional black metal without sacrificing an appealing melancholic melodicism.

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. 

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. 

Featuring Fen frontman The Watcher and drummer Havenless, Fellwarden aims to captivate the listeners with the cathartic soundscapes and an epic black metal assault of the sophomore album “Wreathed in Mourncloud”.  

“Pathmaker” opens the album with graceful melodic tapestries evoking an intense sense of longing that will continue to linger through the spellbinding instrumental crescendos carefully created by elegant atmospheric layers and gloomy guitar tonalities yet later a tormented blackened momentum will take over with feverish riffage and obscure growls. 

The title track offers truly majestic soundscapes as the dreamy guitar melodies lead the way to a world of pure nostalgia before embracing a blackened maelstrom with tremolo picking, frantic drumming and fierce growls that will eventually evolve into imposing clean vocals that emphasize the epic atmospheric motifs. 

The intricate composition of “An Elder Reckoning” revolves around a compelling blend of monumental guitar riffs showcasing the darkest black metal roots and contemplative melodic passages that can bring you comfort while the inner nostalgia is always vivid within the atmospheric grandeur. 

“Upon Stone” shines for the profoundly melancholic soul that comes to life through the gorgeous piano melodies and the poignant atmospheric arrangements that constantly express earnest emotions and even uplifting vibes while a mysterious blackened aura continues to maintain a strong presence generating darkened guitar progressions and gelid tonalities. 

The beauty and strength of “Wreathed in Mourncloud” can be easily perceived through the sublime melodic crescendos perfectly entwined with a primal blackened force as Fellwarden passionately craft an inspiring sonic journey.