When we think of doom metal the name Candlemass immediately comes to mind and this time the band returns with the EP “The Pendulum” which includes unused tracks cut from the latest full length “The Door To Doom” recording sessions.

The title track features all the beloved elements of classic doom metal with a somber acoustic prelude that introduces monolithic guitar riffs marching fiercely through the ominous atmosphere enriched by bewitching licks so the whole instrumental ensemble and the mood naturally match the band’s timeless legacy. 

“Snakes Of Goliath” relies on addictive guitar riffs that stay true to the band’s infamous signature style and the extremely somber & solemn vocal delivery keeps on amplifying the obscure atmosphere while later a slightly vintage groovy momentum fuels more energetic rhythmic progressions. 

“Porcelain Skull” is a memorable track that continues to follow a catchy grim doom approach focusing on mighty guitar riffs and a darkened chorus that unleash a generous dosage of raw energy and all kinds of gloomy feelings leading to the climatic guitar solo. 

While “The Pendulum” includes only few tracks it serves the purpose of reminding the audience that Candlemass continue to write monumental doom songs driven by a consistent creative force. 

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. 

Spanish symphonic metal band Diabulus In Musica have been around for a while and through the years they have perfected a catchy & majestic sonic formula that fully comes to life with the theatrical new full length “Euphonic Entropy”.

The symphonic wonderland embodied by “Race To Equilibrium” features sumptuous orchestrations and a fiery rhythmic rampage as guitars deliver solid catchy riffs to accompany the scattered darker moments amplified by a faster tempo and aggressive growls nevertheless the lavish operatic vocals & choirs are always in the spotlight. 

“The Misfit’s Swing” stands out for the playful swing style rhythm that leads to diverse melodic nuances yet the symphonic essence is still present with impeccable operatic vocals and elegant multilayered arrangements. 

On “In Quest Of Sense” the mood gets quite dramatic with somber choral parts, melancholic lead vocals and refined orchestrations while the rhythmic section still focuses on heavier guitar driven grooves.  

The understated atmospheric layers on “Otoi” feel like a soothing soundtrack for a folk fairytale while the polished guitar melodies and the flawless emotive vocal delivery evoke the harmonious aspects of symphonic metal. 

“Our Last Gloomy Dance” sounds like a masquerade ball with a waltz style rhythm surrounded by the darker yet grandiose tonalities of the detailed orchestrations and the inner gloom is certainly matched by the mysterious aura of the choir and the dramatic operatic delivery. 

On “Blind Muse” thunderous drums and bold guitar riffs often take the center stage keeping a strong heavy momentum even if the song’s melodic soul is constantly enhanced by the orchestral splendor and the heartfelt vocal harmonies. 

Creating the right mood for a night at the opera “In The Vortex” relies exclusively on rich multi layered atmospheric arrangements that evoke sheer melancholy as well as triumphant vibes and emphasize the classical style of the dazzling operatic vocals.

Diabulus In Musica stay true to the signature elements that have rendered symphonic metal an exceptionally successful genre worldwide so if you’re a fan you will find plenty to love on the latest offering “Euphonic Entropy”. 

 

Danish death/doom metal quartet Konvent is ready to spread undiluted darkness and impress the underground metal scene with the malevolent debut album “Puritan Masochism”. 

The title track depicts a pitchblack sonic realm with the crushing weight of the guitar riffs surrounded by a nightmarish atmosphere naturally emphasized by the cavernous growls and the monochromatic melodic passages. 

On “World Of Gone” vocalist Rikke Emilie List continues to deliver terrific growls that seem to emerge from hellish depths and the dismal guitar tonalities successfully channel a primal doom force through the imposing riffage and the forlorn melodies. 

The funereal slow motion of “Bridge” favors mournful guitar melodies that inevitably create a sense of desolation that will always linger through the constant monolithic rhythmic segments and the diabolical growls. 

“Waste” begins another dark journey with ominous bass lines swiftly followed by aggressive rhythmic grooves that confidently combine the primordial elements of doom and death metal and the consequent tormented vibes are definitely amplified by obscure screams. 

“Ropes pt. II” reminds you that there is no escape from darkness as the familiar combo of super heavy rhythmic blasts and guttural vocal delivery clearly channels the band’s extreme metal influences while guitars can also focus on dramatically slow burning melodies channeling a sense of despair further emphasized by the enigmatic atmospheric finale. 

Undoubtedly each and every song on “Puritan Masochism” is drenched in darkness as the murky nuances of classic doom are extremely dominant and Konvent are still at the beginning of their career but already seem sincerely devoted to such timeless subgenre. 

Since many years swedish vocalist Mats Leven has worked with several amazing bands such as Therion and Candlemass and now he is ready to begin a new exciting music endeavor as a solo artist under the moniker Skyblood.

“The Not Forgotten” has a catchy melodic essence inspired by classic metal dynamics with the right dosage of steady guitar riffage and bright soloing surrounded by subtle symphonic accents while Mats engages the listeners with a mix of high-pitched screams and soothing vocal harmonies. 

On “Wake Up To The Truth” the atmosphere becomes darker and the symphonic tapestries are more present with variegated opulent layers while guitars deliver a fancy shredding solo and maintain a heavier rhythmic approach around the theatrical vocal delivery. 

“Once Invisible” shines for the elegant melancholia infused piano melodies and charming atmospheric arrangements that lead to a sumptuous dramatic depth further emphasized by the gloomy guitar driven crescendos and the darkly fervent vocal performance. 

“One Eye For An Eye” balances warm melodic textures and powerful rhythmic patterns generating widely accessible soundscapes that are definitely spiced up by Mats’s shapeshifting vocals confidently delivering massive harsh screams and somber harmonies.

The elaborate composition behind the final opus “Le Venimeux” focuses on majestic symphonic orchestrations, poignant classical piano melodies and refined melodic guitar work to create a lavish theatrical experience where Mats can truly express his music identity through a quite compelling and diverse vocal performance. 

Mats worked several years on this new project bravely expressing his personal music taste and exploring different styles that allow him to fully showcase his versatile vocal abilities, as a result Skyblood debut album is certainly destined to surprise the audience. 

Hailing from Moldova Infected Rain are steadily gaining attention within the modern metal scene and they are ready to raise the bar with the unpredictable groovy & melodic dynamics of the latest offering “Endorphin”.

“The Earth Mantra” relies on extra heavy grooves fueled by the intense djent elements of the guitar work yet there is a soothing introspective momentum generated by ambiance arrangements and enriched by the passionate vocal delivery. 

Following a similar pathway “Black Gold” mixes enraged crunchy rhythmic blasts with bright multilayered atmospheric & electro arrangements that seems to be a successful combo emphasizing the band’s ability to create diverse soundscapes. 

“Symphony Of Trust” amplifies a melodic approach with softer vocal harmonies that aim to evoke sincere emotions especially during the memorable chorus yet the djent/metalcore force is still quite dominant within the cohesive heavier rhythmic ensemble accompanied by ravenous screams. 

“Walking Dead” begins with dreamy atmospheric layers swiftly followed by a massive series of savage guitar riffs but once again comforting melodies keep on flourishing throughout the song with the palpable emotional drive embodied by Lena’s vocals. 

The aggressive grooves of “Taphephobia” are filled with frantic guitar riffs,  feverish screams and darkened tonalities following a faster borderline brutal rhythm yet there is space for uplifting feelings that come to life through calmer atmospheres and delicate vocals. 

“Storm” deviates from the album’s main direction to focus exclusively on shimmering electro waves and subtle atmospheric splendor that also put the spotlight on Lena’s poignant vocals and the consequent emotive themes.

Since the very first listening you can perceive the raw energy and the dramatic depth that constantly express contrasting emotions throughout “Endorphin” and obviously Lena’s versatile vocal performance is destined to attract more listeners. 

German metallers Dawn Of Disease confidently follow the beloved pathway of melodic death metal on the latest full length “Procession of Ghosts” skillfully blending the perfect dosage of opulent harmonies and fierce darkened grooves. 

Since the beginning, the title track unleashes all the key elements of melodic death metal with the somber tonalities of the crispy melodic licks and the absolute fury of the galloping rhythmic patterns accompanied by intense hellish growls and enriched by epic atmospheric accents. 

On “May The Waves Take Me” the increasingly dramatic depth influences the memorable melodic guitar progressions and the sorrowful atmosphere while the relentless rhythmic section meticulously creates impactful grooves. 

“Shrine” revolves around bold guitar driven grooves channeling a full blown primal death metal force yet through the fast hostile segments melodic guitars evoke grave feelings with sophisticated harmonies. 

On “Where The Clouds Reach The Ground” luminous guitar melodies and understated atmospheric arrangements become essential amplifying the melancholic grandeur but there is also a solid mix of faster catchy moments and darker nuances. 

It would be impossible to resist the immense melancholia of “Autumn Days” and once again the elaborate guitar work shines for the enthralling melodic phrases which steal the spotlight even if there are enough scattered powerful death metal style grooves to trigger a moshpit. 

“Hypnosis” continues to maintain a grand gloomy melodic essence with loads of tasteful guitar progressions and dazzling darkened soloing in contrast with the savage death metal force fully expressed by the aggressive riffage & drumming as well as the cavernous growls. 

Undoubtedly melodic death metal has become a favorite sub-genre and staying true to such thriving sonic formula on “Procession Of Ghosts” Dawn Of Disease successfully and passionately balance elegant melancholic melodies and furious rhythmic blasts.

Ukrainian progressive groove metal band Jinjer has already conquered a huge fanbase but now the time has come to impress even more the modern metal scene with the long awaited full length “Macro” which relies on an incredibly versatile sonic manifesto to showcase a refreshing creative force. 

Already the album opener “On The Top” demonstrates that Jinjer goes beyond standard metal categories unleashing utterly brutal rhythmic patterns amplified by spiteful growls while showcasing an excellent technical musicianship and creating a significative contrast with the soothing melodic moments. 

“Pit Of Consciousness” is full of interesting technical twists demonstrating a great maturity within the aggressive rhythmic ensemble which combines eclectic prog flair and extreme metal dynamics while Tatiana Shmailyuk confidently shifts from malevolent growls to emotionally charged clean vocals. 

“Judgement (& Punishment)” is a particularly intriguing track featuring a diverse songwriting approach that will surprise the audience with playful reggae melodies cutting through the thrilling faster prog oriented rhythmic segments.  

“Home Back”can sound ferocious with extra heavy guitar riffs and striking technical bass lines generating solid rounds of ravenous grooves until softer luminous melodies and warm clean vocals take the center stage. 

“The Prophecy” focuses on infectious grooves as the intricate rhythmic blasts demand breakneck speed and guitars constantly create intense progressions that enhance the experimental approach while a contemplative essence spontaneously emerges through the soulful vocal harmonies. 

Jinjer have worked relentlessly to prove their remarkable abilities especially on the latest massive tours so they truly deserve all the attention and appreciation that “Macro” will definitely garner worldwide with the compelling blend of abrasive grooves and sophisticated melodies. 

Swedish occult rock masters Year Of The Goat will inevitably put a spell on you with the arcane grooves and an eloquent exploration of the seven deadly sins on the latest majestic opus “Novis Orbis Terrarum Ordinis”.  

The dark journey begins with the bewitching retro vibes of “Subortus” which perfectly balances nostalgic guitar melodies and monumental doom tinged riffs resulting in a groovy instrumental ensemble that also showcases a major dramatic depth due to the presence of solemn vocals. 

The ‘70s rock vibes of “Luxuria” lead to entertaining rounds of groovy guitar riffs in fact the consequent irresistible rhythmic force makes you want to jump & dance while the guitar soloing channels a satisfying melodic melancholia. 

On “Ira” the elaborate guitar work is destined to steal the spotlight crafting several elegant solos and a multitude of fascinating melodies that flow like a dream evoking an absolutely intense nostalgia accompanied by a particularly heartfelt vocal delivery while later the rhythmic section will concoct plenty of heavier & sinister grooves. 

“Invidia” goes straight to a groovy galore with a super catchy chorus and electrifying guitar riffs so this is probably the most accessible song on the album even when the softer melodies convey a spellbinding darker mood. 

With a theatrical approach “Subicio” is a massive lengthy track that feels like it could go on forever channeling sheer melancholy with an overdose of exquisite guitar leads that constantly enhance the dramatic aspects while vocals also have the power to express so many wistful feelings yet the final part acquires a compelling mixture of epic and esoteric atmospheres.

The occult spirit of “Novis Orbis Terrarum Ordinis” is palpable in every song yet Year Of The Goat often manage to step out of such obscure sonic realm to successfully create catchy music and delightful melodic tapestries that any listener could truly appreciate. 

Already in the early ’90s Life Of Agony were forging a unique music style that today naturally evolves within the striking emotional journey incarnated by the new album “The Sound Of Scars” which is also a continuation of the concept started on the groundbreaking 1993 debut “River Runs Red”.

“Scars” sounds incredibly groovy from beginning to end with loads of chunky guitar riffs and an inflamed rhythmic section with wild hardcore hints nevertheless the memorable chorus holds strong emotional vocal harmonies.  

“Black Heart” will trigger headbanging with the gritty guitar riffs and a rather darkened mood that certainly influences all the instrumental passages while Mina Caputo’s stunning vocals can effortlessly evoke so many profound emotions. 

“Lay Down” shifts from addictive rebellious heavy grooves emphasized by Mina’s powerful voice to introspective melodic moments featuring a soulful vocal delivery and crispy guitar tonalities. 

The deeply somber guitars on “Once Below” emphasize a palpable inner gloom yet the galloping guitar riffs and faster drumming often lead to electrifying groovy dynamics that amplify the raw energy of the catchy chorus.  

“Stone” is filled with contrasting emotions as the rhythmic segments can spontaneously generate abrasive grooves with the right dose of sharp riffage but guitars are also able to craft a pensive melodic momentum accompanied by Mina’s eloquent vocals. 

Feeling like a eulogy “I Surrender” still has a groovy spirit but focuses almost exclusively on the emotive struggles with warm guitar melodies and deeply melancholic atmospheres surrounding Mina’s cathartic vocal delivery. 

The emotional power expressed by Mina’s vocal performance is simply amazing and is one of the reasons why “The Sound Of Scars” can feel so visceral and sincere proving that Life of Agony are still destined to stand out in the current crowded metal scene.