Author: Alexiel Divine

Crippled Black Phoenix – Ellengæst

Dark progressive rockers Crippled Black Phoenix embrace an evocative sonic evolution on the introspective journey embodied by the latest album “Ellengæst” which can spellbind you with a profound melancholy and an avant garde artistic vision. 

Featuring a stunning vocal performance by Vincent Cavanagh of Anathema “House Of Fools” offers darkly hypnotic guitar progressions flowing gently through ethereal atmospheric waves embellished by gorgeous piano melodies leading to hazy yet significantly heavier rhythmic patterns.

A dystopian mood surrounds “Lost” which carefully blends dramatic melodic phrases and surreal atmospheric layers while guitars can also focus on the creation of memorable rhythmic dynamics that still maintain the fascinating eerie tonalities. 

The alluring melodic guitar work on “Cry Of Love” glows within the vibrant & absolutely catchy rhythmic ensemble but still evokes strong darkened vibes amplified by the passionate vocal delivery and the shimmering atmospheric arrangements. 

At the center of “Everything I Say” you can immediately perceive a profound melancholia that will inevitably move you as the piano crafts vivid melodic tapestries and guitars unleash a sultry darkened energy that perfectly complement Belinda Kordic’s eloquent vocal performance. 

The sorrowful motif of “The Invisible Past” is palpable since the beginning as the graceful minimalist harmonies accompany the soulful voice of Jonathan Hultén of Tribulation floating gently within a dreamy atmospheric realm that with the addition of distorted guitars will ultimately evolve into a cathartic melodic crescendo. 

A wide array of conflicting emotions linger throughout “Ellengæst” as Crippled Black Phoenix explore inner struggles and deliberately refuse to fit within standard music categories meticulously crafting a series of sophisticated soundscapes. 

Draconian – Under A Godless Veil

Masters of gothic doom metal Draconian invite you to enter a magical world of melancholia & poetry with the new long awaited release “Under A Godless Veil” which stays true to their fascinating legacy blending pure despair and haunting melodies. 

The sophisticated atmospheric arrangements on “Sorrow Of Sophia” create a darkly alluring dimension where the enchanting voice of Heike Langhans flows delicately while the guitar work and the tormented growls effortlessly convey the crestfallen essence of authentic gothic doom metal. 

On “The Sacrificial Flame” you can immediately feel the oppressing weight of the guitar riffs following a funereal march in proper doom fashion and certainly the vicious growls and the solemn narrative amplify the inner darkness in contrast with Heike’s ethereal vocal delivery. 

“Lustrous Heart” still relies on mournful doom nuances as the guitars are drenched in darkness yet fully embrace a lavish melodic splendor embellished by the sophisticated leads and the elegant vocals flourishing through the evocative atmosphere. 

The heart wrenching guitar melodies on “The Sethian” constantly enhance the classic gothic flair and the consequent gloomy feelings yet there is space for some heavier rhythmic patterns fueled by the solemn faster drumming and the anguished growls. 

Within the celestial atmospheric ensemble of “Claw Marks On The Throne” guitars stand out for the exquisite melodic phrases expressing an immense melancholia around the graceful vocals while the mesmerizing rhythmic crescendo is enriched by the eloquent solo. 

On the spellbinding final opus “Ascend Into Darkness” the intricate combo of understated atmospheric layers and darkly alluring guitar progressions impeccably creates a hypnotic desolate sonic realm where the contrasting vocals can fully convey poignant emotions.  

Undoubtedly Draconian continue to successfully keep alive a sumptuous gothic grandeur that is destined to move the listeners with the fragile beauty of the opulent soundscapes embodied by “Under A Godless Veil”. 

Katla – Allt þetta helvítis myrkur

Icelandic duo Katla brings to life a mesmerizing artistic vision through the opulent melancholic soundscapes of the sophomore release “Allt þetta helvítis myrkur”.

The immersive voyage begins with the darkened atmospheric soul of “Ást orðum ofar” as enigmatic distorted guitars and solemn vocals eventually evolve into gentle acoustic phrases. 

There are graceful melodic moments on “Villuljós” yet the mood is bound to become increasingly darker as the mournful doom inspiration thrives within the gelid rhythmic ensemble generating heavier riffage and anguished tonalities enriched by an eclectic guitar solo. 

“Sálarsvefn” is drenched in darkness as the intricate synths layers create an arcane atmospheric grandeur and the consequent obscure vibes will naturally lead to a blackened momentum amplified by tormented growls and faster drumming. 

Listening to the title track you feel surrounded by cold winter winds as the cinematic nature is fully expressed by the convoluted atmospheric waves and the harmonious classical tapestries while guitars & vocals focus on an enthralling blend of melancholic phrases and doom elements. 

The complex lengthy track “Svartnætti” can feel like a beautiful daydream due to the peaceful acoustic melodies and the elegant piano yet the inner darkness will often emerge through the faster intense rhythmic crescendos and the harsh tones of the guitar work that lead to a majestic grand finale characterized by epic arrangements & choirs. 

The spiritual connection with the wintry Icelandic landscapes is palpable throughout “Allt þetta helvítis myrkur” as Katla confidently showcase a fascinating songwriting style and embark on a cathartic journey exploring the depths of human emotions. 

https://prophecy.lnk.to/katla-album-2020

Warlung – Optical Delusions

Texas heavy rockers Warlung skillfully blend horror themes and retro tonalities on the latest offering “Optical Delusions”.

On “Phantasmagoria” the occult rock essence naturally thrives within the atmospheric grandeur reminiscing of classic horror movies while guitars don’t waste any time and deliver the expected dosage of galloping riffs and charismatic leads. 

“Sun Eater” relies on hazy rock nuances keeping a distinct retro flair as the rhythm slows down channeling sheer nostalgia amplified by the mellow vocal delivery and the bittersweet melodic nature of the guitar solos. 

“Order Of The Solar Temple” returns to an inflamed groovy approach as the heavy riffage holds a fundamental role in the creation of robust rhythmic patterns that also bear the influence of classic rock while the occasional melodic moments evoke somber feelings. 

The mood of “Devil’s Game” becomes aptly darker as the excellent guitar work often follows a slower mystifying rhythm that enhances the moody melodic spirit and the particularly passionate vocal performance. 

Throughout “No Man’s Land” guitars are destined to steal the spotlight once again shifting from bold riffs to soothing melodic phrases that clearly channel glorious ‘70s vibes and will reach the acme with the flamboyant energy of the soloing. 

On “Optical Delusions” everything flows naturally without bombastic special effects as Warlung fully embrace a genuine songwriting approach with an authentic psyched attitude that generates an interesting mix of melodies & grooves. 

Obsidian Kingdom – Meat Machine

Spanish experimental rockers Obsidian Kingdom continue to bravely push boundaries on the latest release “Meat Machine” which from beginning to end manifests an eclectic songwriting approach.  

“The Edge” tend to rely on the raw energy of acidic guitar riffs to create robust groovy patterns with a hardcore attitude but will eventually embrace an atmospheric ensemble characterized by darkened & dreamy nuances. 

On “The Pump” vocals and guitars focus on a rather harsh sonic assault that leads to chaotic yet rather catchy patterns interrupted by the futuristic tonalities of the calmer atmospheric arrangements.  

“Mr Pan” immediately follows a more electro oriented pathway as the synths carefully craft a darkly soothing atmosphere at times spiced up by the bold rhythmic section and the wild shredding of the extensive guitar solo. 

On “Flesh World” the atmospheric tapestries flow gently like fading memories embellished by charming vocal harmonies and shimmering electronic accents while the melodic guitar work also enhances the melancholic mood. 

A lovely melancholia continues to linger through the atmospheric layers and the moody guitar melodies on “Meat Star” nevertheless the tormented vocals and the rhythmic tension can easily channel a somber heavier momentum. 

“A Foe” begins with a bittersweet ballad style piano and an ethereal vocal delivery that emphasize the emotional motif while synths and guitars fully embrace an enigmatic post-rock inspiration that conveys a mysterious atmosphere. 

There is so much going on throughout “Meat Machine” and trying to pinpoint a specific musical direction becomes futile as Obsidian Kingdom deliberately aim to surprise the audience creating a rich multifaceted sonic realm. 

Enslaved – Utgard

Norwegian black-prog metal pioneers Enslaved have reached another crucial milestone with the release of the ambitious 15th album “Utgard” which in Norse mythology is a landscape where the giants dwell but here represents something more complex or even a realm beyond your own consciousness. 

The solemn chants on “Fires In The Dark” easily convey a gelid atmosphere that matches the band’s Viking spirit and even if the acoustic phrases can add a melancholic shroud while some rhythmic patterns showcase follow an eclectic prog pathway the vicious growls and the inflamed guitar riffs still belong to a primal sonic realm.  

The faster rhythmic rampage throughout “Jettegryta” can certainly channel an arcane black metal essence further amplified by the intensity of the hellish growls yet there are some intriguing prog twists and dazzling keyboards arrangements which add diversity.  

“Sequence” relies on a series of robust guitar driven grooves skillfully entwined with intricate keyboards layers that can create a fascinating contrast between the darkened vibes of the riffage and the luminous atmospheric nuances naturally emphasizing the song’s introspective nature. 

While the raw energy of the fierce guitar riffs and the shattering blackened dynamics hold a significant role, “Flight Of Thought And Memory” offers glowing melodic crescendos and cathartic feelings clearly expressed by the soothing clean vocals and the hazy atmospheric arrangements. 

“Storms Of Utgard” gravitates towards a balanced mixture of complex prog oriented patterns that reach the acme with a particularly alluring guitar solo and savage darkened rhythmic segments amplified by the furious growls successfully evoking an emotional turmoil. 

The journey into and through “Utgard” can be challenging and at the same time enchanting as Enslaved courageously continue to follow a convoluted avant-garde sonic evolution which might often diverge from the style of their early discography but is definitely bound to pleasantly surprise the listeners.  

Amaranthe – Manifest

During the last decade Amaranthe have developed an explosive modern metal style that today aims to reach new heights with the inflamed energy of the latest full length “Manifest”.  

“Fearless” ensures the expected bombastic beginning of the album combining futuristic accents and heavy riffage to create robust rhythmic blasts while the chorus certainly sounds radio friendly with a polished melodic flair. 

“Make It Better” can feel quite aggressive as the powerful guitar riffs lead the way to a shiny electro infused sonic realm where all the vocalists have a chance to shine and build together a super catchy chorus. 

As the title suggests “Adrenaline” relies on energetic rhythmic patterns featuring monumental drumming and fancy guitar soloing but at the core you will find plenty of accessible pop elements emphasized by the dazzling keyboards. 

Featuring guest vocalist Noora Louhimo of Battle Beast “Strong” focuses on the fascinating vocal duet which can definitely express a sense of empowerment accompanied by shimmering synths arrangements and memorable rhythmic dynamics.  

On “The Game” the multilayered synths have a fundamental role generating a futuristic mood around the glowing vocal harmonies that amplify the inner melodic essence in contrast with the fiery riffage and the vicious growls. 

There is a darkened atmosphere lingering through “Archangel” which tends to focus on a heavier rhythm embellished by an overload of moody electronic accents while the big chorus manages to maintain catchy melodic vibes. 

“Die And Wake Up” is full of playful rhythmic dynamics unfolding around the excellent vocal interplay and obviously while the chorus continues to put the spotlight on Elize Ryd’s alluring voice the guitar driven heavier momentum is enhanced by Henrik Englund Wilhelmsson’s spiteful growls.  

Undoubtedly the strength of “Manifest” comes from the creative force of guitarist Olof Mörck and the charming blend of three different voices, in fact this release demonstrates that Amaranthe are steadily following a rather successful musical pathway. 

Napalm Death – Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism

UK grindcore pioneers Napalm Death have been releasing ruthless extreme music for nearly 40 years and the latest offering “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” aims to showcase that their ferocious creative approach is still relevant within the modern metal scene. 

You cannot escape the incessant fury of “Fuck The Factoid” as the massive riffage, the inevitable breakneck speed and the angered growls keep a straightforward brutal formula.  

“That Curse Of Being In Thrall” continues to rely on a full blown sonic aggression through the expected super heavy rhythmic section and obviously the overdose of unrestrained guitar riffs which barely slows down at times. 

“Contagion” doesn’t necessarily deviate from the familiar blueprint but the rhythmic patterns can successfully follow a mid-paced tempo that highlights the somber tones of the groovy guitar work. 

On “Invigorating Clutch” the guitar phrases and the atmospheric textures channel a perennial sense of despair around the ravenous growls and the belligerent guitar riffs.

Throughout “Amoral” the guitar riffs embrace darker vibes and a rebellious attitude with a slight punk influence that leads to slower and absolutely catchy rhythmic dynamics. 

The title track begins with insanely harsh growls that foreshadow the majestic force of the  blistering rhythmic onslaught constantly fueled by the wicked combo of savage riffage & drumming.  

The ominous atmosphere of “A Bellyful of Salt and Spleen” demands a slightly slower yet absolutely menacing rhythm as the industrial oriented ambiance generates a dystopian sonic realm amplified by the lugubrious baritone vocal delivery. 

With an incredibly extensive & successful career Napalm Death now simply show no mercy as they continue to unleash a grindcore force that on “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” will leave you shattered & satisfied. 

Dark Tranquillity – Moment

Swedish melodic death metal icons Dark Tranquillity have built an incredibly strong legacy that is destined to flourish throughout the new album “Moment” which once again showcases their unstoppable creative force. 

There is a shimmering atmosphere around “Phantom Days” which naturally maintains a darkened immersive mood while the feverish guitar riffs have the ability to create robust rhythmic patterns which clearly stay true to the band’s beloved melo-death flair always emphasized by Mikael Stanne’s savage growls. 

“The Dark Unbroken” is destined to conquer your heart with the opulent keyboards arrangements channeling immense melancholia as the tempo often slows down to highlight the enthralling introspective mood fully expressed by the clean vocal delivery. 

“Remain In The Unknown” immediately enters a darkly soulful melodic realm with mesmerizing clean vocals and intricate magical atmospheric multilayers enriched by the charismatic licks of the impeccable guitar solo. 

Throughout “Standstill” the keyboards continue to hold a fundamental role creating an overdose of harmonious tapestries that tend to enhance the emotional nature of the vocals while the fiery rhythmic section can create engaging and slightly heavier dynamics. 

The essence of “A Drawn Out Exit” feels increasingly darker, consequently the guitars acquire obscure tonalities that naturally lead to a perfectly balanced blend of mournful melodic phrases and groovy riffage marching through darkened atmospheric waves. 

“Eyes Of The World” is an anthemic melo-death track as you will find plenty of powerful riffs and brilliant leads while the captivating melancholic guitar melodies are bound to grab your attention thriving within the shimmering atmospheric grandeur enhanced by Mikael’s poignant vocal performance.

“In Truth Divided” marks a cathartic closure as the gothic tinged splendor comes to life through the lavish atmospheric layers surrounding the gloomy guitar phrases and the precise rhythmic dynamics intensified by Mikael’s spellbinding clean vocals. 

The indisputable strength of “Moment” comes from the detailed songwriting approach, the excellent production and the genuine emotions that Dark Tranquillity masterfully bring to life with their signature Gothenburg melodic death metal style that continues to influence musicians worldwide and shines brighter in every song. 

Vous Autres – Sel De Pierre

French post black metal duo Vous Autres embark on a gloomy sonic journey through the enigmatic soundscapes of the sophomore full length “Sel de Pierre”.

The obscure atmosphere surrounding “Onde” generates a world of despair and grief where guitars can sound ferocious providing intense riffage with a strong black metal influence but also focus on extremely somber tonalities creating captivating melodic passages. 

“Vesuve” relies on haunting guitar melodies flourishing through a bleak & convoluted atmospheric maze while the anguished screams and the heavier rhythmic patterns continue to channel a primordial blackened inspiration. 

“Ecueil” puts aside the blackened fury allowing the synths to create a bewitching atmospheric realm following a rather experimental approach that leads to modern electro multilayers and dreamy feelings. 

“In Humus” dwells in a mysterious limbo between darkness and light as the slow wistful guitar melodies flow gently through the misty atmospheric waves and complement the ethereal female vocals in contrast with the tormented rhythmic momentum.  

Surrounded by an atmospheric melancholy “Sel de Pierre” might appear as an ode to darkness yet Vous Autres have also the ability to bring glimpses of light & hope through vivid melodic tapestries.