Swedish darkened metal outfit Mass Worship drags you through the bitterly cold soundscapes of the crushing sophomore record “Portal Tombs”.
“Specular Void” certainly follows an obscure sonic pathway as the harsh guitar riffs and the cryptic leads march fiercely through a mystifying atmosphere unleashing loads of oppressive rhythmic dynamics.
Featuring vicious guest vocals from legendary Mark “Barney” Greenway of Napalm Death the title track sounds particularly aggressive as the merciless rhythmic section acquires speed and ominous tones reaching the acme with a wild guitar solo.
“Orcus Mouth” conjures a massive darkened force to generate chaotic rhythmic blasts yet there is space for mournful guitar melodies and cathartic soloing ultimately leading to a melancholic atmospheric finale enriched by eloquent clean vocals courtesy of Jonas Renkse of Katatonia.
Throughout “Empyrean Halls” the ruthless rhythmic segments are naturally amplified by tormented growls but the fragile arpeggios evoke an apparent peacefulness and the atmosphere becomes murky as the guitar leads fully embrace arcane tonalities.
Drenched in undiluted darkness “Deliverance” marks a harrowing grand finale focusing on ghastly doom influences as the excellent lead guitar work crafts refined crestfallen melodic progressions within a gloomy rhythmic maze.
Keeping in mind a familiar Scandinavian extreme metal formula without sacrificing a grim melodic essence, Mass Worship successfully convey fury & desolation throughout “Portal Tombs”.
Author: Alexiel Divine
Venom Prison – Erebos
Uk death metallers Venom Prison continue to evolve a visceral sonic vision that today leads to the new untamed full-length “Erebos” destined to solidify their status in the underground metal scene.
“Judges Of The Underworld” spontaneously unleashes uncompromising rhythmic blasts highlighting the precise drumming and the blistering guitar riffs that will ultimately lead to charismatic solos characterized by refined melodic accents.
“Nemesis” provides the perfect dosage of aggression as the vitriolic riffage dictates an intense groovy momentum around Larissa Stupar’s insane growls yet when the tempo slows down a bit guitars can acquire brighter tonalities and dazzling proggy vibes.
You can perceive an emotional whirlwind through “Pain Of Oizys” as the focus often shifts to poignant melodic aesthetics emphasizing the hypnotizing intricate guitar work and the wistful clean vocal harmonies in contrast with the scattered savage rhythmic patterns.
Surrounded by dystopian atmospheric arrangements “Golden Apples Of The Hesperides” conveys sheer fury through the hostile screams and the breakneck speed diligently fueled by the unrestrained guitar riffs and the frantic leads.
Undoubtedly there is a strong death metal force behind the vicious composition of “Gorgon Sisters” as the relentless drumming proudly leads the way to a chaotic sonic realm where guitars can engage in fiery convoluted progressions embellished by the futuristic tones of the surreal atmospheric layers.
Through the twisted harsh rhythmic maze of “Technologies Of Death” guitars have the ability to create venomous riffs and enticing melancholic melodic phrases showcasing versatility and expressing grave emotions further enhanced by the gloomy atmospheric finale.
Without any hesitation Venom Prison deliver an overdose of incendiary grooves throughout “Erebos” yet they are able to diverge from standard extreme metal territories channeling an alluring poetic essence.
Cloakroom – Dissolution Wave
To celebrate their tenth anniversary as a band Cloakroom embarks on a space voyage through the surreal soundscapes of the brand new full-length “Dissolution Wave” lyrically based on an imagined cosmology.
“Lost Meaning” immediately grabs your attention with the fuzzy strength of the guitar riffs generating robust rhythmic segments while a bittersweet melodic essence accompanied by soothing vocals flows gracefully through the dense atmospheric maze.
The title track fully embraces a space rock approach to leave behind the dreadful reality as the tempo slows down highlighting the comforting cold tonalities of the eloquent melodic progressions surrounded by airy atmospheric arrangements.
“Fear Of Being Fixed” might sound slightly harsh due to the gritty guitar sound and the consequent monolithic riffage yet the serene vocal delivery and the twirling melodic phrases reveal a softer side.
“Lambspring” offers a kaleidoscopic melodic palette expressing uplifting feelings through the shimmering shoegaze nature of the enchanting guitar work floating within an otherworldly atmospheric realm while the finale naturally acquires some fuzzy energy.
Even if the gentle vocals continue to convey immense melancholia on “Dissembler” the raw guitar riffs become more dominant delivering big groovy dynamics easily embellished by fascinating darkened atmospheric nuances.
As Cloakroom confidently channel cosmic energy and a moody shoegaze flair “Dissolution Wave” unfolds like a hazy daydream focusing on evocative melodies and contemplative themes that seem to belong to another dimension.
Celeste – Assassine(s)
French avant-garde black metal band Celeste embarks on an immersive journey through the harrowing soundscapes of the latest record “Assassine(s)”.
On “Des Torrents De Coups” the fiery combo of untamed riffage and monumental drumming generates hostile rhythmic blasts that seamlessly become entwined with the stark beauty of the contemplative melodic guitar progressions.
“Nonchalantes de beauté” relies on the savage screams and the raw energy of the precise rhythmic section to amplify a profound sense of despair yet the monochromatic guitar tonalities eventually evolve into gloomy melodic tapestries flowing gently through a blurry atmosphere.
“Il a tant rêvé d’elles” showcases a primordial approach as the gritty guitar sound and the sludge influences lead to heavier & faster rhythmic segments yet an immense melancholia is destined to emerge through the decadent post-metal melodic flair.
“Elle se répète froidement” rightfully puts the spotlight on the haunting melodic guitar phrases and the shimmering atmospheric accents yet the band doesn’t refrain from channeling pure brutality through an inflamed rhythmic rampage.
“Le cœur noir charbon” demands your attention as the visceral guitar riffs naturally build an intense rhythmic tension within a quite frantic sonic realm emphasized by the ruthless growls in contrast with the fragile atmospheric arrangements and the ethereal vocal harmonies courtesy of guest vocalist Emily Marks.
Throughout “Assassine(s)” Celeste have the ability to perfectly balance mysterious atmospheric nuances and aggressive blackened blasts inevitably conveying grim emotions and sheer passion.
Hazemaze – Blinded By The Wicked
Swedish rock’n’doom merchants Hazemaze are ready to spread pure darkness through the colossal trippy grooves of the third record “Blinded By The Wicked”.
“In The Night Of The Light, For The Dark” doesn’t waste any time providing an overdose of big riffs supported by a monolithic rhythmic section highlighting the sinister tonalities and the traditional doom influences.
“Devil’s Spawn” relies on the chunky and quite catchy guitar riffs to build a no frills heavy rock ensemble yet the band’s darkened vision becomes evident with the addition of spooky organ tapestries.
On “Ethereal Disillusion” the slower tempo emphasizes the obscure doom guitar tones and the raw energy of the bass lines leading to memorable progressions accompanied by a lysergic vocal delivery.
“Ceremonial Aspersion” offers another serious round of monumental guitar riffs so you can expect satisfying doom tinged dynamics but later everything slows down as the Hammond organ crafts irresistible eerie atmospheric arrangements.
The final track “Malevolent Inveigler” indeed conveys mysterious vibes through the devilish and quite entertaining guitar driven grooves which once again embrace a solid stoner doom style with an appealing vintage flair.
Hazemaze aptly follow a wicked doomed pathway on “Blinded By The Wicked” that inevitably amplifies the occult thematic but always keeps a thrilling groovy momentum.
Dawn Of Solace – Flames Of Perdition
Founded by Wolfheart’s mastermind Tuomas Saukkonen as a solo-project and featuring vocalist Mikko Heikkilä of Kaunis Kuolematon, Dawn Of Solace finally unveils the third full-length “Flames Of Perdition” which embodies a darkly contemplative journey.
Listening to “White Noise” you can instantly perceive a familiar Nordic melancholia flowing gently through the poetic arpeggios that will ultimately evolve into poignant melodic crescendos enriched by a particularly fervent guitar solo.
The title track is destined to move the listeners with a passionate vocal performance accompanied by a bittersweet piano piece yet the bold rhythmic section can channel grave doom influences through mournful guitar progressions.
“Dying Light” shines for the graceful acoustic passages generating a fascinating introspective mood yet the rhythmic section gains a heavier momentum while maintaining an eloquent melodic flair leading to an extremely catchy chorus.
Within a somber sonic realm “Black Shores” shifts from the darkened tranquility of soothing piano harmonies to soaring guitar riffs that ensure loads of groovy dynamics well supported by the faster monolithic drumming.
On “Skyline” the slower tempo and the monochromatic acoustic tonalities amplify crestfallen feelings and the doom inspiration becomes more evident within the gelid guitar progressions reaching the acme with tasteful leads.
The bonus track “Lead Wings” embraces a minimalist acoustic approach putting the spotlight on the compelling vocal delivery and constantly evoking overwhelming melancholy and a sense of solitude.
Undoubtedly “Flames Of Perdition” would be an ideal wintry soundtrack as Dawn Of Solace focus on the creation of evocative soundscapes and gorgeous cold melodies to emphasize the genuine emotive themes.
Battle Beast – Circus Of Doom
Finnish heavy metal band Battle Beast returns triumphantly with the new explosive album “Circus Of Doom” promising big hooks and theatrical symphonic grandeur.
In the beginning the keyboards on the title track surprise you with a delicious darkened aura introducing a winning combo of galloping guitar riffs and sober operatic choirs that smoothly unravel around Noora Louhimo’s majestic voice.
“Wings Of Light” immediately showcases strong power metal vibes with an inflamed rhythmic rampage embellished by energetic guitar leads and elegant atmospheric tapestries leading to an irresistible chorus.
Throughout “Master Of Illusion” the glowing keyboards layers channel dazzling 80s vibes so you can expect a bit of nostalgia here while guitars naturally shift from crunchy riffage to refined melodic licks.
While “Where Angels Fear To Fly” can certainly keep a groovy momentum enhanced by the monumental keyboards arrangements a soothing melodic essence emerges through the luminous atmospheric textures.
The old school metal spirit thrives within the bouncy rhythmic patterns of “Freedom” once again enriched by Noora’s vibrant vocal harmonies while the solemn choirs can convey a dramatic depth.
“Place That We Call Home” feels like an anthemic power metal tune relying on the soaring guitar riffs and the pummeling drumming that will ultimately lead to a ‘ready for battle’ chorus emphasized by the high pitched vocal delivery and the imposing orchestrations.
On “Circus Of Doom” Battle Beast proudly continue to follow a successful classic heavy metal pathway packed with catchy power metal dynamics and evocative melodies that undoubtedly revolve around Noora’s striking vocal range.
Toundra – Hex
Spanish instrumental post-rock band Toundra reaches another milestone with the release of the eighth studio album “Hex” which always evokes intense emotions through immersive soundscapes.
Divided in three parts the monumental 22-minute-long track “El Odio” clearly showcases the band’s charismatic songwriting approach and embodies a fascinating introspective journey that aim to convey contrasting feelings seamlessly shifting from shimmering melodic progressions, enhanced by darkly soothing guitar tonalities, to elaborate rhythmic crescendos that ultimately acquire heavier distorted dynamics.
“Ruinas” begins with enchanting atmospheric tapestries and within a quite groovy rhythmic ensemble the guitar work definitely stands out for the complex proggy rhythmic twists and the bittersweet melodic passages.
“Watt” channels pure cosmic energy through a dreamy multilayered atmospheric maze enriched by the eclectic crystalline melodic phrases and by the delightful addition of the saxophone while the precise rhythmic section has a chance to generate an engaging heavier momentum.
Throughout “Hex” Toundra confidently explore poignant emotive themes embracing a cathartic musical vision that naturally leads to a balanced blend of contemplative melodies and energetic post-rock dynamics.
SOM – The Shape Of Everything
Doom pop collective SOM invites you on an immersive voyage through the evocative soundscapes of the brand new record “The Shape Of Everything”.
A graceful vocal delivery and glowing melodic progressions flow gently through the hazy atmospheric maze of “Moment” which often feels like a distant daydream occasionally spiced up by distorted crescendos.
“Animals” is destined to reach your soul with an overload of magical atmospheric arrangements and a quite catchy melodic ensemble that certainly relies on the soothing post-rock flair of the guitar work.
“Shape” continues to follow a minimalist rhythmic approach skillfully blending bright melodic aesthetics and heavier guitar riffs to convey a fascinating emotional depth further enhanced by the haunting vocals.
Within the misty atmosphere of “Heart Attack” guitars effortlessly shift from darkly groovy passages to melancholic slow burning harmonies that can easily make you space out.
As the title suggests “Son Of Winter” would be an ideal wintry soundtrack as the comforting nostalgia infused melodies and the otherworldly atmospheric layers create a cold dreamy sonic realm enriched by the subtle doom influences of the rhythmic section.
The music style of SOM might be hard to categorize but undoubtedly a delightful shoegaze inspiration contributes to the creation of the shimmering nuances and the introspective themes of “The Shape Of Everything”.
Aethereus – Leiden
Progressive technical death metal band Aethereus presents a thrilling modern sonic vision through the twisted soundscapes of the sophomore release “Leiden”.
An ominous atmosphere introduces the ravenous rhythmic assault of “Aberration” as the impressive guitar work delivers a relentless riffage but also focuses on refined melodies acquiring crystalline tonalities while the grand finale offers captivating orchestrations.
“Endless Cycle Of Rebirth” immediately unleashes brutal drum blasts dicatting a faster tempo, consequently guitars provide an overdose of extra heavy riffage ultimately leading to a slower refreshing breakdown featuring enticing jazzy influences.
“Shrouded In Kaleidoscopic Skin” begins with interesting dissonant phrases and might sound less menacing naturally evolving into striking guitar progressions and fancy soloing that definitely highlight the technical prowess while the outro surprises with a decadent combo of grand piano and violin melodies.
On “The Living Abyss” soothing piano and glowing guitar harmonies convey a profound dramatic depth destined to linger through the solemn atmospheric arrangements and the elaborate prog oriented rhythmic ensemble which will often acquire savage technical elements.
Throughout the majestic final track “Upon Infinite Seas” a theatrical darkened aura leads to immersive slower moments enriched by a compelling guitar solo and delicate arpeggios while the accurate rhythmic section inevitably manifests sheer brutality engaging in hostile convoluted dynamics amplified by ruthless growls.
“Leiden” noticeably relies on the consistent technical approach emphasizing the excellent musicianship yet Aethereus aim to go beyond the tech death metal realm with the addition of dazzling classical & symphonic aesthetics.
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