Legendary thrash metal masters Testament demonstrate to be simply unstoppable presenting a majestic sonic manifesto through the colossal guitar driven grooves of the latest addition to their extensive discography “Para Bellum”.
In the midst of the modern chaos “For The Love Of Pain” arises with a high octane rhythmic energy consequently relentless tight thrash progressions and insane speed leave you breathless and in the end guitars reach malevolent blackened heights amplified by the most ferocious growls.
“Shadow People” revolves around menacing anthemic thrash dynamics courtesy of the intense drumming plus you can appreciate the classic tones of the thrilling guitar work that easily delivers additional fancy licks to a renowned formula.
“Meant To Be” definitely sounds different and marks a moment of peaceful contemplation with warm guitar tonalities that compose delicate melancholic melodies enriched by solemn orchestrations and Chuck Billy has a chance to show a passionate & potent vocal delivery.
“Witch Hunt” is an instant crowd pleaser as Chuck’s vocal performance favors massive guttural roars and the rhythmic powerhouse knows no limits unleashing an overdose of inflamed grooves.
The following track “Nature Of The Beast” effortlessly maintains that same approachable and highly entertaining groovy attitude as the flawless sharp guitar riffs constantly build an ideal rhythmic tension leading to a particularly memorable chorus.
The title track ensures a triumphant closure as throughout the generous explosive grooves Alex Skolnick’s impeccably virtuoso guitar leads at the same time showcase elegance and brutality yet the finale allows a melodic elegiac momentum far from the dominant thrash wildest side.
A new studio album by Bay Area thrash metal giants Testament will always attract attention worldwide and in the case of “Para Bellum” the band does not refrain from scattered modern accents but proudly stays true to an immense legacy built with outstanding guitar work and chemistry.

Throughout the years Nailed To Obscurity have worked hard touring globally and developing an appealing sonic vision within the modern overcrowded music scene and the result is the gloomy grandeur of the fifth studio album “Generation Of The Void”.
There is no hesitation as “Glass Bleeding” invokes extreme metal roots with a frantic rhythmic section in contrast with the mournful beauty of the melodic guitar progressions and Raimund Ennenga can immediately demonstrate his vocal abilities.
“Liquid Mourning” rightfully gained attention as lead single as it incarnates the band’s signature formula where the melancholia infused melodic passages flow gracefully until the heavy weight of the rhythmic ensemble takes over.
The title track clearly depicts a world of emptiness not far at all from the present days therefore the melodic themes hold a mystical crucial role demanding an overdose of sweeping guitar phrases embellished by the whimsical vocal delivery.
Within a contemplative melodic dimension “Echo Attempt” successfully maintains a perennial sense of longing through a series of delicate guitar harmonies, easy to love at the first listening, that can spontaneously evolve into heavier rhythmic patterns complemented by fiery growls.
At the center of “Clouded Frame” there is a major catchiness courtesy of a particularly groovy rhythmic ensemble but besides the sing-along chorus the guitar work deserves your attention naturally shifting from doomed riffage to poetic melodies.
From the darkened depths of “The Ides Of Life” monumental guitar riffs proudly arise with increasing speed and distortion amplified by potent growls yet the cold enlightened guitar melodies are destined to emerge.
Unlike other younger bands Nailed To Obscurity always stayed focused on their ultimate goal to achieve a distinct sound and this chosen artistic pathway now leads to the emotionally charged soundscapes of “Generation Of The Void”.

Across their longstanding career and prolific discography Paradise Lost have mastered the arts of darkness creating a perfect mixture of heaviness and shadowy melodies that continues to spellbind you on the new grand opus “Ascension”.
“Serpent On The Cross” represents doom metal at its finest with a high dosage of monolithic riffs adorned by the minor key fascination for grim melodies and wicked solos while Nick bravely channels a malignant alter ego with majestic growls.
Guitars choose an extremely sorrowful melodic pathway as softer dramatic tones always linger through the steady doomed rhythmic core of “Tyrants Serenade” and once again Nick naturally shifts from moody harmonies to perilous growls.
Feel the miserable weight of classic doom though the colossal guitar riffs and the crestfallen tonalities of the visionary track “Salvation” that certainly grabs your attention also for the elaborate lead guitar work.
“Lay A Wreath Upon The World” begins as an elegant acoustic elegy expressing a peaceful emotive approach yet everything leads to a consistent rhythmic evolution guided by Gregor’s skillful guitar leads.
“Savage Days” holds a warm soul as each guitar progression evokes pure melancholia rightfully reaching a grave melodic depth further enhanced by the tormented clean vocal performance.
Surrounded by an atmospheric fog “The Precipice” closes the album with tragic melodic splendor as the convoluted guitar melodies invoke darkness and despair impeccably accompanied by contrasting theatrical cleans and solemn growls.
Time passes by inevitably and the misery never stops but Paradise Lost stand their ground all the way through “Ascension” with impeccable musicianship and authentic creativity demonstrating that the everlasting strength of gothic/doom metal defies any possible trendy style.