Author: Alexiel Divine

Fallujah – Dreamless

Fallujah has acquired a lot of appreciation for the signature progressive death metal style and the new album “Dreamless” certainly follows primarily and ambitiously this artistic direction.

“Face Of Death” feels like a triumphant march with borderline dissonant tempo changes but the main guitar melody flows as smooth as possible. The fierce growls might not match the inner atmosphere that holds a dreamlike sonic nature and even when the drums blast faster the melodic theme revolves around polished prog style guitars.

“Abandon” shines for the jazz oriented tempo changes and melodious clean guitar phrases perfectly executed in charming prog fashion. This track has an inspiring atmospheric theme rendered more interesting by the rich embroidery of sonic contrasts featuring angelic female vocals versus raging growls.

“Scar Queen” has a straight technical approach with a cohesive death metal rhythm yet the brutal primitive roots don’t always prevail as the remarkable guitar work brings a taste of dreamy melodies.

The title track represents a strong music declaration with a remarkable attention for details that transpires immediately in the atmospheric and melodic arrangement. The guitar work relies on a sparkly clean sound full of prog style twists and pirouettes easy to love. Yet it’s not all about being relentlessly technical and the daydream mood is quite palpable with the aid of gentle female vocals and surreal keyboards.

“The Prodigal Son” features a harsher rhythm and full blown angry growls but the polished, yet powerful, lead guitar and the ethereal atmosphere smooth the rough death metal edges to create an uplifting vibe.

“Les Silences” showcases a mesmerizing and highly atmospheric soul filled with futuristic elements embedded in a skilled electro arrangement. The band momentarily leaves behind the death metal anger and delivers an ambiance track borderline lounge music style that invites the listeners to take a break and just chill.

Overall, “Dreamless” is a highly enjoyable full length that might lack an overdose of spectacular ideas but successfully portrays Fallujah’s passionate music approach and compelling musicianship.

The 69 Eyes – Universal Monsters

The most beloved Helsinki vampires The 69 Eyes are finally back with their 11th full length album entitled “Universal Monsters” full of irresistible catchy tunes that will not disappoint their fanbase.

It’s love at first bite with the opening track “Dolce Vita” which runs on a delectable ensemble of dirty coated guitar riffs. Jyrki channels his gothic heritage with deep decadent baritone vocals that carry an overload of dark energy on the super catchy chorus. The music theme here totally recalls the golden era of “Paris Kills” with all the elements smoothly set up in the right place at the right time including a lovely melodic guitar solo.

“Jet Fighter Plane” might sound less romantic with a rather dark pop mood but it still delivers loads of widely accessible catchy guitar riffs with a sticky chorus embellished by melodic keyboards.

On “Blackbird Pie” Jyrki’s performance mixing retro and gothic vibes take the center stage. Despite the groovy gospel style choirs this song might not become an instant hit, yet it pleasantly embraces multiple music styles interpreted with a remarkable vintage rock sound that holds a dirty energetic soul.

“Miss Pastis” has a guitar driven dancey groove full of proper punk raw edges surprisingly adorned by a charming retro organ. Overall, the smooth guitar solos, the trippy breakdown and Jyrki’s semi evil laughter will conquer the heart of every listener.

“Shallow Graves” stays true to the band’s musical legacy, so while the music style feels safe there is that graceful goth ‘n’ roll groove that still lures easily the listeners. Once again Jyrki successfully delivers that cold and gloomy gothic touch that scales down the positive pop style embedded in the riffs.

“Blue” is a slow paced goth ballad with an appropriate icy melancholy emphasized by borderline romantic vocals and surreal orchestration filled with an intrinsic atmospheric daydream mood that favors relaxation.

With “Universal Monsters” The 69 Eyes show that they’re still undeniably good at what they do with a transcendent passion for music and in the end it’s only goth ‘n’ roll but we like it.

Ghost Bath – Moonlover

With the newest album “Moonlover”, American act Ghost Bath fully embraces the black metal and shoegazing fusion that is becoming a buzzing trend either loved or simply hated. While we all deeply love Alcest, the French pioneers of this genre, it might get some time to get used to the newer bands that are bound to appear in the metal scene.

“Golden Number” is all about sharp guitar riffs that cannot hide an uplifting tone and the lead guitar is almost full of positive energy and hopes for a better tomorrow. The melodies, at times on the mellow side, flow smoothly and there is still an oppressive feeling that we cannot leave behind but the final classically elegant piano piece brings everything in place like it was always supposed to be.

“The Silver Flower Pt. 1” calls for a deep state of relaxation as it has a more decadent approach with a sentimental melancholy vibe graciously enhanced by dreamy arpeggios surrounded by peaceful sounds of nature.

“The Silver Flower Pt. 2” still holds that same mystical atmosphere and a faded sense of hopefulness but the additional distortion and relentless guitar riffing delivers a heavier style with some identifiable black metal roots.

“Ascension” has a more dramatic spirit that hides behind a fast black metal asphyxiating style rhythmic session but becomes more alluring and spontaneous when everything slows down to allow the crystalline luminous guitar work the right moment to shine.

“Moonlover” might be considered an interesting, at times captivating, anthem of the modern blackgaze trend and it will certainly bring Ghost Bath the desired dose of fame & glory.

Witchcraft – Nucleus

Swedish act Witchcraft comes back full force from the depth of the underground rock/metal realm with the newest effort entitled “Nucleus”. As on the previous albums, the band remains faithful to a gloomy concoction of old school doom roots and raw psychedelic elements.

“Malstroem” begins with soft arpeggios and magical flutes that lure the occasional listener into a magical nostalgic trip. It’s like being high in the middle of nowhere but the retro doom heavy guitar riffs carry a beacon of light that keeps the grove alive while spellbound vocals deliver a somber feeling.

“The Outcast” relies on a catchy ensemble of guitar riffs that celebrate a psych rock revival. The warm energetic guitar solos and the alluring fairytale style mood make this track a widely accessible tune.

The atmospheric sonic landscape of the title track is rather enjoyable with smooth vocals and simple riffs. Overall, while the slow dreamy moments complimented by a folk attitude sound quite interesting, the rhythm section doesn’t successfully deliver a catchy vibe that could keep the listeners’ attention throughout this lengthy track.

“The Obsessed” is another uptempo groovy guitar driven track with raw no-frills production and the expected retro musical theme. The classic rock bluesy guitar sound with some doomish rough edges and the melancholic mood are quite pleasant but too fragile to become a powerful hit.

“Helpless” has a dramatic down on earth music core filled with melancholic smooth arpeggios complimented by distinctively inspired vocals but the super fuzzy guitar solo is definitely the highlight of the song.

As the retro sounding trend aims to conquer the world one band at a time, “Nucleus” is another good collection of doom/rock songs because, even in modern times, we are all hopeless nostalgic.

My Dying Bride – Feel The Misery

My dying Bride has rightfully earned the title of legendary pioneers of gothic/doom metal and has never ceased to amaze the evergrowing faithful fanbase creating majestic soulful works of art. My Dying Bride’s newest release “Feel The Misery” is not just a must-have collection of obscure alluring songs but also an invitation to embark on a perilous journey through the an emotional twisted labyrinth of beauty and pain.

“And My Father Left Forever” is a cathartic complex opus with intense emotional depth. The elegant embroidery of doom melancholic guitar riffs which always pack a groovy beat and classically inspired decadent violin harmonies will inevitably drag the listeners into a spiritual turmoil. Aaron Stainthorpe takes the role of a tormented poet/storyteller and his clean vocals acquire a bleak funereal force that fully embraces the darkly oppressive musical theme.

“To Shiver In Empty Halls” channels My Dying Bride’s darkest primordial heart with heavily glacial haunting growls and impeccable anguished guitar riffs. Aaron’s clean vocals portray a magical wretched soundscape on a morbidly slower tapestry of sheer doom phrases that give way to a nightmarish lullaby.

The title track is another exquisite example of the band’s extraordinary songwriting skills. While Aaron’s vocals hold a mournful bitter strength the unbearable burden of misery becomes more palpable with the intensely tight rhythm section embellished by delicately soothing violin and keyboards.

“I Celebrate Your Skin” flows slow and heavy with gothic romance undertones and a mystical atmosphere that recalls the infamous masterpiece “The Crown Of Sympathy”. The heartbreaking soulful violin melodies and the asphyxiating despair of the escalating guitar riffs create an alluring contrast that culminates in Aaron’s poetic delivery.

“Within A Sleeping Forest” has a gloomy symphonic visionary depth effortlessly adorned by dreamlike shiny violin melodies that leave traces of a dim comforting light throughout the song. The constant perception of hopeless loss and eternal failure reaches a desperate acme with breathless riff patterns and eerie keyboards.

With “Feel The Misery” My Dying Bride delivers once again an eclectic work of music where creative passionate songwriting and dark sublime poetry become indissolubly entwined in a perennial danse macabre.

Monster Magnet – Cobras And Fire (The Mastermind Redux)

Monster Magnet’s new work of re-imagination entitled “Cobras And Fire (The Mastermind Redux)”could easily turn a listening party into an extra sensorial experience. Besides the healthy burst of creativity behind this alternative version of the band’s previous release “Mastermind”, there is an overdose of intense psychedelic fuzz that makes everything highly enjoyable just like a good epic trip should be.

“Watch Me Fade” features a stellar retro attitude exquisitely portrayed with the help of an old school organ while the catchy psych guitar riffs add a certain paranoia driven joyride feeling.

“Mastermind” shines for Mr. Wyndorf’s witty and soulful performance strategically centered in the middle of fuzzy loveable guitar riffs and that adventurous stoner groove that feels so damn good even while it’s fading away.

If you dare to follow Mr. Wyndorf’s psych rant on “Hallucination Bomb”, you might get entangled in a slow burning daydream, or full blown hallucination, where a smooth trippy guitar driven rhythm favors spiritual relaxation.

The cover version of The Temptations 1969 classic “Ball Of Confusion” holds the dirtiest garage band rock vibe skillfully mixed with a generous dose of psychedelic enchantment which makes everything super groovy and everybody gets ready to jump or dance uncontrollably.
The highly enjoyable guitar work leading the way on “Time Machine” brings the listener into a psychedelic tunnel where fairies might become real and men might learn to fly or what not. This instrumental mind trip tastes sweet and sour, a bit like The Doors, with everybody dancing in the desert surrounded by cacti and magical fluffy clouds.

You will not need to resurrect the original “Mastermind” to refresh your memory or over analyzes and rationalize the differences between the two albums because the re-imagined songs on “Cobras And Fire” own a brand new spiritual essence that will leave you dizzy and bewildered.

Rotting Christ – Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy

After an attentive listening of Rotting Christ’s latest release “Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy” nobody will ever doubt the intense talent of this prolific Greek band. The astonishingly creative songwriting and the evidently flawless musicianship showcased on this album makes each and every song a memorable spiritual visionary journey. The palpable connection to various ancient myths and folklore renders the lyrics and the music style even more interesting.

“In Yumen-Xibalba” will blow you away with its darkly majestic energy and the gloomiest chanting delivered in true pagan fashion. It seems impossible to find adequate adjectives to fully describe the creepy wall of sound created by the irresistible guitar work or the intense galloping rhythm that leaves you feverish and breathless. In terms of music style, this feels like a tribute to Celtic Frost with the addition of an overdose modern black metal. This main musical core is consistently followed throughout the album, yet it is interpreted and enhanced in multiple manners.

You might not be able to remember the title “P’unchaw Kachun – Tuta Kachun” but you will not forget the enchanting mix of dynamic breathtaking drumming and melodic lead guitar riffs. Obviously, the omnipresent chants enhance the gloomy atmosphere and add a cruel epic battle vibe.

“Grandis Spiritus Diavolos” has a surprisingly catchy blackened rock style filled with layers of ravenous guitar riffs built around an operatic choir. The Gregorian style chant crafts a mystical atmosphere that effectively flows into a highly melodic guitar solo.

The same mystical atmosphere becomes dramatic and acquires a blasphemous feeling on “Kataton Demona Eaftou”. The main musical core involves an accurate fusion of arduous black metal and catchy rock enriched by furious raspy vocals and an energizing melodic guitar solo. The ex novo touch of creativity is provided by an epic style layer of bagpipes.

“Cine Iubeste Si Lasa” is an intoxicating magnum opus that proposes a hallucinating interpretation of a Romanian folk classic. I could listen to this track all day long and still crave for it as under a spell. Classical dramatic piano harmonics embrace the majestic lyrical female chant reminiscent of arcane pagan hymns. The minimalist, yet powerful, vocal duet is tragically addictive and the operatic choir emphasizes the gothic aspect of the song.

“Iwa Woodoo” is an incendiary guitar driven straight forward track with loads of catchy riffs and powerful growls. There is a very effective slower melodic breakdown that shines for a brilliant captivating guitar solo and the return of the ominous Gregorian chanting.

“666” is the darkest lullaby bringer of visionary nightmarish slumbers. The first part of the song revolves around a cathartic atmosphere with obsessive riffs stripped of drumming and fury. The vocals deliver a highly dramatic chant full of grief and despair that naturally evolves into a grandiose spiritual hymn surrounded by a blast of frenetic blackened rock with super tight magnificent guitar riffing.

With “Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy” Rotting Christ delivers a serious masterpiece filled of grim emotions and outstanding musical qualities. Regardless of personal musical taste, anyone interested in good music will inevitably fall in love with such perfect album.

 

Lacrimas Profundere – Antiadore

Lacrimas Profundere has a talent for producing lovely easy tunes that makes you feel lightheaded. Far from being an ingenious masterpiece, “Antiadore” is a straightforward collection of trendy gothic rock/metal, or goth n’roll, songs a la HIM. I always think that in a messy and complicated world there should always be space for those little rock songs that do not require to rack your brains in search for a deeper meaning.

“My Release In Pain” starts with a charming piano melody bringer of that exquisite Nordic melancholy that melts our hearts. The clean sore vocals remind of Ville Valo immediately and probably that’s why we absolutely love them. The main melody and the catchy chorus are just an array of sweet sad notes that deliver some genuine emotions.

“What I’m Not” brings the groovy desperation of romantic failures. There is a mid paced dark rock core sustained all the way through with minimalist polished guitar riffs and extremely somber vocals.

“All For Nothing” is a semi ballad with a recurring pleasant harmony. It’s all about the sadness, the end of love or the lack of a brighter future. Lacrimas Profundere sticks to that musical recipe that can never be wrong, therefore the band keeps it darkr and plays it safe with the usual soft rock guitar riffs.

The title track still holds that romantic melancholy even if the approach is harder and more dynamic in terms of guitar riffing and drumming. The chorus instead is not very satisfying as it sounds quite dull compared the main melody.

On “Abandon” the guitars have a metallic sound that delivers a heavier groove while the keyboards display a vintage music style. The whole atmosphere is still decadently romantic with intense vocals in bohemienne fashion.

“Head Held High” is definitely a pure tribute to Ville Valo’s legacy. This is a mellow somber ballad with dominant atmospheric layers of keyboards, cliché guitar solo and heartbreaking vocals.

On “My Chest” it’s all about tears and agony, so it is definitely an irresistible sad song. Love is cruel and there’s no hope, but those charming groovy riffs flowing so smoothly will make you feel much better. I cannot stop loving Rob Vitacca’s baritone style vocals that here are particularly cold and contagiously unhappy.

There is nothing extremely complicated or astonishingly unique, nevertheless “Antiadore” is one of those sweet guilty pleasures that you are doomed to love even if for a brief moment in life.

 

 

Sebastian Bach – ABachalypse Now

The amazing rock icon Sebastian Bach has many reasons to celebrate his musical resurrection. “ABachalypse Now” is a special token of appreciation for the multitude of Bach’s faithful fans all over the world. This is a massive CD/DVD package that includes live footage from three different concerts in 2012: Hellfest in Clisson, Club Nokia in Los Angeles and Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel.

Obviously, this is a collectors’ item but it is always a great pleasure to watch and listen to Bach’s legendary live performances.

This release includes all the Skid Row’s beloved classics such as “Slave To The Grind”, “Big Guns”, “18 & Life”, “I Remember You” and “Youth Gone Wild”, as well as “TunnelVision” from the latest solo album.

Since Sebastian Bach is an absolutely passionate and entertaining performer, I would totally recommend “ABachalypse Now” to all the fans out there and especially to those who never had the pleasure to attend a Bach’s concert.

 

Visions Of Atlantis – Ethera

Considering that Visions Of Atlantis has been around since many years, I would expect a mature album at this point. The latest release “Ethera” unfortunately doesn’t bring a much necessary innovative songwriting. Every song is quite harmonious and listenable but this music recipe has been used and abused before by numerous other bands.

“The Ark’ is an easy simplistic song. There are all the smooth rock/metal riffs and the more alternative keyboards arrangements that you can expect by such a band.

On “Machinage” the vocals feel a bit forced and awkward in the attempt of providing a blast of energy to resurrect the dull rhythm.

“Vicious Circle” is a semi ballad with a monotone structure on which Maxi Nil’s vocals represent the only convincing moment. The other soft ballad “Cave Behind The Waterfall” has a more spontaneous feeling with an array of pleasant arpeggios but the songwriting is still very predictable. Even if Maxi Nil delivers a strong passionate performance, the song simply fails to be memorable.

“Tlaluc’s Grace” has a bit of power metal vibe in the guitar work that adds a dynamic energy. Yet, the vocal duet in the chorus lacks catchiness and harmony.  The same issue occurs on “Clerics Emotion” where the vocals create a deep contrast that just doesn’t fit the symphonic core.

On “Burden Of Divinity” the happy smooth and mellow guitar sound seems too dominant and ends up clashing with the safe mid pace tempo.

On “AEON 19th” Visions Of Atlantis manages to create a lovely dreamy atmosphere with sweet piano melodies, a touch of violin and thoughtful vocals. The songwriting remains a bit unoriginal as it resembles the style and structure of almost every female fronted band out there. Certainly, “Ethera” has a consistent music style but nothing really stands out and there is an evident lack of creativity throughout the album.