Nailed To Obscurity – Generation Of The Void

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”.

Green Carnation – A Dark Poem, Part I: The Shores of Melancholia

Norwegian masters Green Carnation begin a new convoluted music trilogy returning to a long-form storytelling with the release “A Dark Poem, Part I: The Shores of Melancholia” which is certainly the legit product of hard work and cathartic artistic evolution.
“As Silence Took You” chooses a sorrowful melodic pathway where exquisite orchestrations and eloquent guitar progressions constantly thrive and the theatrical vocal performance further emphasize the darkly contemplative themes.
Green Carnation fiercely unleash a primordial energy reminiscing of their strong underground roots with monolithic guitar riffs and the resulting aggressive rhythmic assault of “The Slave That You Are” is even more amplified by the majestic growls courtesy of guest vocalist Grutle Kjellson from mighty Enslaved.
An immense melancholia in fact always emerges throughout “The Shores of Melancholia” but you will find plenty of harsh grooves, thrilling rhythmic variations executed in perfect prog style and colossal guitar riffs.
“Too Close to the Flame” closes the album in epic fashion delivering a massive dosage of guitar driven grooves fueled by an impeccable feverish rhythmic section and enriched by a series of flamboyant solos.
“A Dark Poem, Part I: The Shores of Melancholia” aptly symbolizes an artistic rebirth as Green Carnation can please and at the same time challenge the fans with an ambitious collection of songs that seamlessly combine heaviness and poetry.

Paradise Lost – Ascension

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.

Katatonia – Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State

Renowned Swedish masters of melancholic heaviness Katatonia are offering solace to the loyal acolytes traveling through the vast dystopian soundscapes of the new album “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State” guided by wisdom and eternal gloom.
“Thrice” spontaneously brings forth a proggy rhythmic core highlighting the band’s extraordinary musicianship and within a sea of cruel emotions guitars keep on floating with colossal riffs and elegant leads.
The grand theatrical flair beginning of “Wind of no Change” naturally leads to a contemplative melodic ensemble enhanced by the particularly obscure guitar tonalities and ultimately complemented by Jonas’ charismatic vocals.
“Temporal” wisely intertwines moments of impeccable rhythmic clarity, see how the drums carefully build a groovy rhythmic tension, and immersive melodic passages inevitably evoking grim feelings.
“Departure Trails” continues to explore an intense emotional spectrum as the soothing vocal delivery is rightfully emphasized by abundant darkly poetic guitar leads and mellow luminous keyboards.
Filled with a solemn atmospheric gloom and mystifying melodic waves “The Light Which I Bleed” reveals an intricate composition focusing on challenging rhythmic variations that obviously show an impressive technical guitar style.
To bring closure “In the Event of” spellbinds you with an endless melodic melancholia as the refined guitar phrases and the hypnotizing solo flow gently through futuristic multilayered atmospheric arrangements.
“Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State” seems the legit opus to celebrate Jonas Renkse’s sonic vision in constant evolution to perfectly shape a more personal style that can distinguish Katatonia from any other artist.

In Mourning – The Immortal

Swedish melodic death metal quartet In Mourning returns in excellent shape presenting a well balanced blend of melancholy and aggression on the new full length “The Immortal”.
“Silver Crescent” celebrates eternal gloom with a series of aptly mournful melodic phrases complemented by smooth clean vocals while the rhythmic section ensures potent & fast dynamics.
Within the darkened melodic grandeur of “Song of the Cranes” shines the stellar guitar solo and the harsh rhythmic blasts eventually give way to contemplative passages and gentle vocals.
“As Long as the Twilight Stays” immediately reveals a poetic essence through graceful intricate melodies in contrast with the extreme nature of the belligerent riffage courtesy of the eclectic guitar work.
The moody stylish melodic core of “The Sojourner” aims to move even the occasional listener highlighting the vibrant guitar progressions and the passionate vocal performance.
“The Hounding” closes the album with colossal heavy rhythmic dynamics amplified by gruesome growls and you can appreciate the technical guitar style shifting from violent riffs to airy harmonies.
In Mourning explore personal struggles and somber emotions through fascinating melodic themes yet successfully maintain a ravenous death metal approach and “The Immortal” represents a great addition to the band’s discography.

Messa – The Spin

Italian doom metal band Messa has already gained a lot of attention the ambitious brand new album “The Spin” perfectly expresses an artistic vision in constant evolution.
Within the murky atmospheric realm of “Void Meridian” we’re traveling through time and space surrounded by slow burning melodies and groovy dynamics naturally leading to a sophisticated guitar solo.
A decadent romanticism fills the air on “Immolation” beginning with a moody piano piece complemented by sultry vocals while guitars add a touch of impending doom and take a well deserved spotlight with an elaborate solo.
“The Dress” focuses on bold guitar riffs and intricate melodic progressions with dominating brooding tonalities that spontaneously evolve into the bluesy warmth of the striking trumpet solo.
Invoking dark magic “Thicker Blood” offers catchy hypnotizing harmonies but the shapeshifting guitar work surprises you building increasingly heavier rhythmic dynamics fueled by timeless doom & extreme metal influences.
Throughout “The Spin” Messa constantly challenge themselves showcasing a meticulous songwriting approach and an eclectic style that evokes diverse influences, especially an alluring goth/ darkwave essence, that rightfully demands your attention.

In The Woods… – Otra

Norwegian avant-garde metal stalwarts In The Woods… pay homage to the natural beauty and essence of their homeland throughout the multidimensional melancholic world of the new studio effort “Otra”.
“The Things You Shouldn’t Know” has the power to hypnotize the listeners as the poignant main melodic themes express genuine emotions with alluring guitar progressions and contemplative vocals while the mighty rhythmic section can still acquire speed and aggression channeling darker forces.
A somber piano introduces the heavy energetic structure of “The Crimson Crown” centered around the contrasting feelings fueled by blackened harsh rhythmic blast amplified by vicious growls and deeply sorrowful melodic phrases.
The harmonious soul of “The Kiss and the Lie” is made of pure eternal melancholia as the gloomy guitar tonalities reach an evident emotional depth but you can also appreciate how the band’s primordial roots generate colossal ominous riffs.
You still get an overload of obscure energy during the twisted rhythmic rampage of “The Wandering Deity” yet it symbolizes a mystical album’s closure as the evocative melodic composition once again highlights a spiritual vision enhanced by a majestic theatrical vocal performance.
Inspired by the power of the river Otra running through the heart of Kristiansand, In The Woods… confidently embark on a wonderful journey through gloomy landscapes and the eclectic album “Otra” officially marks the beginning of a new era.

Electric Citizen – EC4

Cincinnati proto-heavy rockers Electric Citizen evidently accomplished a wise sonic evolution during the last seven years and proudly aim to impress the audience with the blazing retro style of the fourth studio effort “EC4”.
The impactful opening track “Mire” focuses on an ideal blend of spacey melodic phrases, hazy keyboards arrangements and powerful guitar driven grooves revealing a great band’s chemistry and a solid autistic identity.
“Static Vision” is a winner manifesting a hypnotizing composition filled with high octane riffs and dreamy melodic themes complimented by smooth vocals that can warm your soul.
Lysergic guitar melodies guide you through the eerie atmosphere of “Traveler’s Moon” further embellished by moody violin, darkened Hammond and bewitching vocal harmonies.
As the magical nighttime melodic nuances of “Moss” take you far away in time and space the guitar work surprises with eclectic progressions driven by the raw energy of heavy rock.
“Other Planets” is a triumph of vintage psychedelia as trippy keyboards and slow burning guitars create an intricate melodic maze reaching the acme with a wild acrobatic solo.
For your listening pleasure you should play “EC4” on an old fashioned turntable to really comprehend how Electric Citizen worked hard to become a leading act and rightfully celebrate the glory of classic heavy rock.

Hexvessel – Nocturne

Finnish black metal shapeshifters Hexvessel invite all travellers to join their journey to the nightside and manifest a convoluted artistic development with the majestic composition of the seventh full length “Nocturne”.
“Sapphire Zephyrs” is filled with a sense of solitude and gloom that you just cannot escape and you can easily appreciate the complex blend of melancholic piano melodies and overwhelming guitar aggression enriched by a charismatic progressive flair and adorned by theatrical operatic backing vocals.
The monolithic track “Inward Landscapes” features an epic approach with an imposing vocal delivery and intense rhythmic crescendos spontaneously leading to a cathartic acoustic momentum.
Hexvessel instantly summon the strength of nature on “Spirit Masked Wolf” favoring your spiritual growth with solemn vocals and tempestuous rhythmic dynamics celebrating an enigmatic blackened quintessence.
“Nigths Tender Reckoning” spellbinds the audience with a poetic vocal performance enhanced by the elaborate guitar work shifting effortlessly from glacial riffs to bittersweet melodic phrases.
Listening to the short yet eloquent track “Concealed Descent” we take a break from reality and bask in the moonlight lulled by heartwrenching acoustic melodies and contemplative soft vocals.
We search for enlightenment throughout “Phoebus” following blindly the fascinating vocal harmonies that naturally reach a palpable emotional depth in contrast with the chaotic rhythmic rampage inevitably fueled by an obscure energy.
At times “Nocturne” feels like a decadently romantic operetta with an abundance of classical references yet the mighty black metal spirit can always arise as Hexvessel audaciously invoke ancestral forces to capture the essence of night.

PARADISE LOST PREPARE FOR ASCENSION NEW ALBUM OUT SEP 19TH

Icons of goth and doom, PARADISE LOST will release their long-awaited, 17th album Ascension on September 19th with Nuclear Blast Records. The band’s first album in 5 years, following 2020’s critically acclaimed Obsidian, was produced by guitarist Gregor Mackintosh and mixed/mastered by Lawrence Mackrory. Ascension is a testament to the band’s longevity and relevance over their 35+ year career, encompassing their signature styles of gothic, death and doom fans have cherished along the way.
Ascension’s album cover fittingly features the painting The Court of Death (1870-1902) by renowned British artist George Frederic Watts, which hangs in the Tate Gallery in London. The painting depicts Death as an enthroned angel flanked by allegorical figures of Silence and Mystery guarding sunrise and the star of hope, while a warrior surrenders his sword and a duke his coronet, showing that worldly status offers no protection. The painting’s bleak, prophetic vision embodies Ascension’s dark, tormented soundscapes as mournful verses collide with dire, foreboding riffs.
Commenting on the record, vocalist Nick Holmes says:
“Ascension is a cavalcade of molten misery, a vigorous sorrow filled stroll through a wicked world of glorious triumph and pitiful tragedy.”

Today, PARADISE LOST offer a glimpse into their melancholic masterpiece with the record’s first single and music video, ‘Silence Like The Grave.’

Stream ‘Silence Like The Grave’: https://paradiselost.bfan.link/sltg

Pre-order Ascension: https://paradiselost.bfan.link/ascension

‘SILENCE LIKE THE GRAVE’ MUSIC VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/JSAlEVzLhDc

PARADISE LOST will be performing alongside KING DIAMOND and at festivals in Europe this summer before embarking on the first part their “Ascension of Europe” tour this fall. Tickets are available at https://paradiselost.co.uk/tour-dates/.

PARADISE LOST Tour Dates:

June 7 – Berlin, DE – Columbiahalle (w/King Diamond)

June 10 – Wiesbaden, DE – Schlachthof (w/King Diamond)

June 11 – Tilburg, NL – O13 (w/King Diamond)

June 13 – Oberhausen, DE – Turbinenhalle (w/King Diamond)

June 14 – Ludwigsburg, DE – MHP Arena (w/King Diamond)

June 16 – Milan, IT – Alcatraz (w/King Diamond)

June 17 – Zurich, CH – Komplex 457 (w/King Diamond)

June 18 – Dessel, BE – Graspop Metal Meeting

June 21 – Lublin, PL – Lublin 2025

June 28 – Vana-Vigala, EE – Hard Rock Laager 2025

June 30 – Manchester, UK – Manchester Academy

July 1 – London, UK – Roundhouse

July 4 – Joensuu, FI – Ilovaari Festival 2025

July 6 – Sariyer, TR – Headbangers’ Weekend 2025

July 10 – Malakasa, GR – Rockwave Festival 2025

July 17 – Málaga, ES – Sun and Thunder Festival 2025

July 31 – Bergen, NO – Beyond The Gates 2025

Aug 1 – Czaplinek, PL – Pol’and’Rock Festival

Aug 8 – Jaroměř, CZ – Brutal Assault 2025

Aug 15 – Eindhoven, NL – Dynamo Metal Fest 2025

Oct 9 – Manchester, UK – New Century Hall

Oct 10 – Wolverhampton, UK – KK’s Steel Mill

Oct 11 – Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK – Newcastle University

Oct 12 – Glasgow, UK – Glasgow Garage

Oct 14 – Nottingham, UK – Rescue Rooms

Oct 15 – Bristol, UK – Electric

Oct 16 – Southampton, UK – The 1865

Oct 17 – London, UK – Islington Assembly Hall

Oct 19 – Oignies, FR – Tyrant Fest 2025

Oct 20 – Paris, FR – Élysée Montmartre

Oct 21 – Lyon, FR – La Rayonne

Oct 23 – Köln, DE – Live Music Hall

Oct 24 – Esch-Sur-Alzette, LU – Rockhal

Oct 25 – Dornbirn, AT – Conrad Sohm

Oct 26 – Padova, IT – Hall

Oct 28 – Munich, DE – Backstage Werk

Oct 29 – Prague, CZ – Palc Akropolis

Oct 30 – Zagreb, HR – Boogaloo Zagreb

Oct 31 – Vienna, AT – Simm City

Nov 1 – Budapest, HU – Dürer Kert

Nov 3 – Geneva, CH – PTR/L’Usine

Nov 4 – Nürnberg, DE – Z-Bau Biergarten

Nov 5 – Utrecht, NL – Pandora

Nov 6 – Antwerpen, BE – Trix Hall

Dec 13 – Bradford, UK – Bradford Live