Author: Alexiel Divine

Wednesday 13 – Necrophaze

Thinking about horror themes in music Wednesday 13 always comes to mind in fact you can expect a frightening sonic experience evidently inspired by classic 80s movies and awful night terrors on the latest record “Necrophaze”.

Featuring a theatrical narration by legendary Alice Cooper the title track marks a grand beginning with 80s inspired synths that build a suspenseful mood while the main heavier elements will emerge with crunchy guitar riffs and a groovy rhythmic ensemble constantly surrounded by a generous dosage of sinister atmospheric layers. 

“Bring Your Own Blood” invites you to an obviously scary party so you better watch yourself as guitars confidently trigger entertaining grooves and the synths tapestries amplify the expected spine-chilling vibes. 

You can easily perceive the horrific serial killer vibes all over “ZODIAC” and again the synths hold a dominant role providing a strong soundtrack style background with multilayered ghastly tonalities mixed with the industrial approach of the rhythmic section. 

Especially in the beginning “Decompose” acquires an extremely gloomy mood with softer atmospheric arrangements but later will unleash loads of catchy guitar driven grooves and a sing along chorus featuring aptly ghoulish vocals. 

The deliciously creepy track “The Hearse” stands out for the profoundly mournful melodies and darkened atmospheres that convey a bewitching gothic glamour consequently the Duke of Spook delivers a particularly malignant vocal performance. 

Despite the macabre title “Life Will Kill Us All” feels almost uplifting with the prominent melodic elements and the high energy of the punk rock grooves that lead to a rather catchy chorus and while the instrumental passages sound less evil the vocals maintain all the freaky vibes throughout the song. 

“Necrophaze” is the ideal horror movie soundtrack, an ode to shock rock and all the creatures lurking in the dark so if you dare to enter the super spooky sonic realm carefully created by Wednesday 13 you will have a lot of fun. 

Noekk – Waltzing In Obscurity

Empyrium’s Helm and Schwadorf are truly prolific artists and this time they return to their alter egos Funghus Baldachin and F. F. Yugoth with the classic prog rock project Noekk to deliver the dazzling fourth full-length “Waltzing In Obscurity”.

The title track stands out for the trippy retro vibes deeply influencing the intricate instrumental passages and intriguing tempo variations while the somber guitar tonalities lead to a refined melodic ensemble accompanied by solemn vocals and lavish atmospheric layers. 

“The Mirror” offers an elegant blend of dreamy atmospheres and nostalgic melodies that naturally flourish through the peaceful folkish soundscape yet some bold rhythmic segments keep alive the inner prog rock spirit. 

“On Summits” is full of engaging prog rock dynamics as guitars concoct loads of energetic riffs following a fiery rhythm yet the mood will eventually shift to a sense of serenity as the folk elements take over with soothing arpeggios and vintage organ harmonies. 

“The Windwaker” can channel a profound tranquility through the warm acoustic phrases yet guitars will become increasingly heavier with doom tinged riffage leading to a darker atmosphere emphasized by the baritone vocal delivery and the brooding arrangements. 

On “The Lily Of Reverence” guitars deliver thrilling prog rock riffs with the additions of subtle psychedelic accents while the pastoral ambience will ultimately thrive through the understated acoustic melodies and the stylish atmospheric elements. 

Undoubtedly Helm and Schwadorf demonstrate once again the ability to create unique music with evident passion and the consequent avantgarde flair of “Waltzing In Obscurity” might be destined to be appreciated and comprehended by a niche audience. 

Ofdrykkja – Gryningsvisor

Consumed by darkness Swedish atmospheric black metal band Ofdrykkja begin a new therapeutic emotional journey on the third full length “Gryningsvisor”.

On “The Swan” gelid minimalist guitar phrases induce a sense of perennial desolation amplified by the mournful clean vocals and the laid back melodic progressions glowing through the darker black metal oriented rhythmic section accompanied by fiery growls. 

“Swallowed By The Night” evokes endless nostalgia focusing on lovely mellow arpeggios and a general contemplative atmosphere while the ethereal vocal performance by Miranda Samuelsson brings a glimpse of healing light. 

Without losing the inner melancholy and icy tonalities “Wither” often offers catchy guitar progressions and luminous atmospheric layers leading to a pale sense of hopefulness while the distant screams can still channel despair and anger.  

The poetic track “Herr Mannelig” leaves behind any hints of rage as soft angelic vocals guide the listeners through cathartic emotions fully expressed by the gentle acoustic phrases flourishing within the subtle atmospheric ensemble. 

On “Våra Minnenas Klagosång” tormented growls amplify the presence of blackened elements but the melodic essence continues to prevail with comforting somber guitars and bittersweet acoustic harmonies. 

“Grey” is filled with wintry feelings and a profound melancholy lingers through the tranquil acoustic passages surrounded by blurry atmospheric layers while the harsh blackened rhythmic segments this time become more dominant with moments of pure anguish. 

Considering that the members of Ofdrykkja have been dealing with destructive lifestyles it’s not surprising to perceive a genuine emotional turmoil on “Gryningsvisor” which inevitably dwells in a realm of darkness and light rightfully symbolized by the blend of fragile melodies and desperate blackened momentum. 

King Diamond Live in Chicago

The legendary King Diamond is currently touring across North America in support of “The Institute”, the first studio album in twelve years which will be released in 2020. As expected King Diamond packed The Riviera in Chicago as his music legacy is still extremely strong and the new stage set inspired by the concept of the forthcoming album instantly created a nightmarish atmosphere. As the show started King Diamond appeared wheeled out on a stretcher and when he began to sing “The Candle” his signature falsetto vocals truly impressed the audience. The theatrical horror story reached the acme when King Diamond performed the ritualistic funeral of baby Abigail and the devoted fans absolutely loved the setlist which included the classic unforgettable tracks “Behind These Walls”, “Sleepless Nights” and “The Invisible Guests” plus they had the opportunity to hear for the first time the brand new song “Masquerade Of Madness” which will appear on the upcoming album “The Institution”. There is no doubt, the King is back in excellent shape bringing an insane asylum to deliver a creepy entertaining live experience. 

Exhorder – Mourn The Southern Skies

Nola thrash metal legends Exhorder are finally back, it’s been 27 years since they released an album but “Mourn The Southern Skies” definitely has the necessary strength to gain recognition and a genuine sound hard to find within the modern metal scene. 

The perfect way to start this album is delivering a ripper like “My Time” with plenty of infectious guitar riffs leading the way through a massive series of memorable grooves and the lyrical anger is as impactful as the instrumental ensemble. 

“Asunder” maintains classic thrash dynamics packing an overdose of crushing guitar riffs, killer soloing and consequent fiery grooves but certainly you can also perceive a swampy mood influencing some guitar tonalities and the vocals are still freaking enraged. 

“Yesterday’s Bones” offers another serious round of belligerent guitar driven grooves that keep the thrash element alive & vibrant and certainly showcases the band’s mature musicianship and refreshing passion also with the thrilling progressions and somber tones of the melodic guitar solos. 

“All She Wrote” is straight to the point unleashing scorching guitar riffs and a faster vigorous rhythmic section obviously accompanied by the intense vocal delivery as the mood gets wilder and the smooth chorus brings additional groovy vibes. 

The moody southern spirit is all over “The Arms Of Man” as warm melodic guitars become extremely dominant with some distinct sludge elements following less hostile yet still potent rhythmic dynamics.  

The lengthy title track is a quite elaborate work of music starting with an aptly mournful combo of acoustic harmonies and tasteful melodic passages that will influence the overall mood adding an epic flair yet there are still super groovy moments courtesy of the mighty rhythmic backbone and the fierce guitar riffs.

“Mourn The Southern Skies” has a lot to offer to all thrash metal acolytes around the world and Exhorder manage to engage the listeners with all kinds of memorable heavy grooves and melodic twists which feel like the right way to celebrate their comeback. 

 

Howling Giant – The Space Between Worlds

Psych-stoner metal band Howling Giant invites you to travel the infinite metaphysical world on the concept album “The Space Between Worlds” which also happens to be the first full length release. 

“Comet Rider” goes straight to the point with energetic rhythmic dynamics meant to build a cohesive groovy momentum in proper stoner fashion with loads of chunky guitar riffs yet the band is able to create some widely accessible melodies. 

“The River Guide” might sound more somber following a desert rock inspiration that leads to a major spaced out atmospheric moment where everything slows down drastically to emphasize the warm guitar tonalities and the dreamy vibes. 

Right from the beginning “Everlight” promises to be a trippy sonic experience as the psychedelic elements contribute to the creation of dazed atmospheres entwined with the enthralling melodic guitar work and the consequent nostalgic feelings. 

“The Orb” follows a similar pathway and cosmic energy so the slow burning guitar melodies are destined to constantly grab your attention with lovely melancholic nuances that definitely enrich the monumental heavier psych-stoner rhythmic core. 

“Stone Giant” makes you feel stoned in the middle of nowhere as guitars craft an overdose of groovy riffs and fancy leads supported by a monolithic rhythmic section in the midst of hazy atmospheres that reach the acme during the intense spacey breakdown while vocals tend to amplify the inner melodic nature. 

Certainly all the sci-fi themes at the center of “The Space Between Worlds” will attract a specific audience but let’s not forget that Howling Giant consistently delivers entertaining stoner grooves and compelling melodies. 

Opeth – In Cauda Venenum

Considered as one of the best bands in the scene Opeth have proudly released the long awaited 13th album “In Cauda Venenum”, undoubtedly an intricate progressive rock/metal opus that manifests an ongoing sonic evolution and is destined to put them in the spotlight once again. 

The complex approach of “Dignity” is immediately noticeable as the guitar work showcases a strong prog inspiration as well as subtle retro rock flavors delivering delightful melodic licks supported by an energetic rhythmic backbone while the softer soundscapes naturally unfold like a darkened fairytale with rich bewitching arrangements. 

Despite the precise execution and almost calculated style variations “Heart In Hand” still feels spontaneous packing some raw energy within the chunky riffage and monumental drumming while guitars freely shift from catchy harmonies to virtuoso soloing and even add major enigmatic psychedelic tonalities. 

A darkly soothing feeling lingers throughout “Lovelorn Crime” which begins with minimalist piano melodies and peaceful vocals and the consequent emotional catharsis is further emphasized by the nostalgia infused multilayered atmospheric arrangements and the flawless luminous guitar solo. 

“Charlatan” amplifies the technical prog aspects with a series of shapeshifting rhythmic patterns that ensure intense groovy moments as guitars tend to focus on heavier riffs and clever progressions embellished by flamboyant keyboards arrangements. 

“The Garroter” is another example of the high degree of diversity that characterizes the album as a distinct melancholic essence is embedded in the lovely acoustic phrases, the charming piano melodies and the soulful vocal delivery while the whole instrumentation will eventually acquire darkly playful tonalities and vibrant jazz influences. 

“All Things Will Pass” marks a majestic closure highlighting a sumptuous dramatic depth with a mixture of mellow dreamy melodies accompanied by ardent vocals and heavier rhythmic dynamics that can evoke the monolithic force of traditional doom leading to a particularly powerful finale with the addition of lavish keyboards. 

When it comes to Opeth there will always be fans missing their early extra darkened aggressive music style while the new acolytes learned to love them because of the fancy progressive songwriting and the magical artistic vision that here on “In Cauda Venenum” continues to impress with sophisticated soundscapes and impeccable musicianship. 

Kadavar – For The Dead Travel Fast

German rock overlords Kadavar always seem to come from another dimension as their music style defies space and time with an irresistible retro rock flair that acquires bewitching gothic twists on the new full length “For The Dead Travel Fast”. 

“The Devil’s Master” immediately showcases the darkened aura that surrounds the whole album as while the ‘70s rock influences remain strong with the overwhelming weight of the guitar riffs and plenty of groovy vibes the slower passages emphasize the captivating occult rock essence. 

On “Evil Forces” the vocals acquire creepy tonalities that certainly match the darker doom tinged instrumental passages but the rhythmic ensemble can always concoct catchy rock dynamics and generate an energetic momentum with the thrilling guitar soloing. 

“Children Of The Night” marks another intensely dark moment as the blend of gentle guitar phrases and trippy rhythmic bursts marching through hazy atmospheres will inevitably put a spell on you and within the perennial esoteric realm the heavier guitar riffage always feels entertaining. 

The hypnotic feelings behind “Dancing With The Dead” seem to come straight from a grave as guitars craft an overload of arcane melodies and darkly exquisite leads in the midst of obscure doom oriented rhythmic crescendos.  

“Long Forgotten Song” continues to convey a profoundly eerie mood mixing intense heavy doom guitar riffs and haunting slow paced melodies as the whole instrumentation seems to dwell within a supernatural limbo where gothic and vintage rock simply embrace while the softer vocal harmonies enhance the song’s dramatic depth.  

Kadavar have already demonstrated their exceptional songwriting abilities but this time the gothic horror concept generates a deeply mysterious sonic experience and “For The Dead Travel Fast” is not an ordinary collection of songs also because everything here constantly reminds you that “magic is everywhere”. 

Blut Aus Nord – Hallucinogen

French veterans Blut Aus Nord are renowned for their visionary atmospheric blackened aesthetics that fully come to life with a palpable spiritual essence and an avant-garde approach on the latest full length “Hallucinogen”. 

“Nomus Nebuleam” already depicts an apocalyptic wasteland through the elaborate atmospheric tapestries that surround the somber guitar work which still bears the mark of introvert black metal yet focuses on the creation of bleak melodies and also acquires psychedelic tinged tones.

“Sybelius” is filled with darkened emotions as melancholic & trippy guitar melodies naturally flow through the hazy atmospheric arrangements while the rhythmic section will eventually channel an enigmatic blackened allure with galloping guitar riffs that will later evolve into a groovy psychedelic rock entity demonstrating the eclectic nature of the whole album. 

On “Anthosmos” exquisite dreamy atmospheres introduce an increasingly darker & heavier instrumental ensemble channeling the primordial fury of traditional black metal with fast drumming and ominous guitar riffs while the glowing melodic phrases will emerge with a profound sense of nostalgia. 

“Mahagma” also showcases a distinct blackened force through the grim tonalities of the guitar work delivering intense riffage as well as comforting darkened melodies that can express so many mesmerizing emotions while the choirs lingering in the background add understated arcane vibes mixed with the hypnotic nuances of the atmospheric layers. 

“Hallucinogen” is the result of a cathartic sonic evolution as Blut Aus Nord are driven by a unique cosmic force that inevitably generates darkly bewitching soundscapes blending hostile blackened dynamics and lavish harmonious textures.