Belphegor Live in Chicago – Devastation On The Nation Tour

Austrian extreme metal veterans Belphegor continue to celebrate the successful latest release “Totenritual” this time embarking on the massive Devastation On The Nation tour as co-headliners with Dark Funeral. With the diabolical charisma of frontman & original founder Helmuth Lehner Belphegor conquered the crowd at Concord Music Hall in Chicago delivering a blistering performance enhanced by the ritualistic vibes and the obscure stage aesthetics. During the whole live ritual Helmuth always connected with the band’s acolytes and the ruthless setlist included “Baphomet”, “The Devil’s Son”, “Swinefever – Regent Of Pigs” and “Totenkult – Exegesis Of Deterioration” from the new album “Totenritual” as well as many older favorites such as “Lucifer Incestus” and “Gasmask Terror”. Don’t miss Belphegor live on the Devastation On The Nation tour across North America!

Dark Funeral Live in Chicago – Devastation On The Nation Tour

The Swedish ineffable kings of black metal Dark Funeral are currently touring in North America on the infamous Devastation On The Nation tour. At the packed show at Concord Music Hall in Chicago Dark Funeral once again impressed the devoted acolytes with their signature diabolical sound and dark theatrics playing a full merciless set that included “King Antichrist”, “The Arrival Of Satan’s Empire”, “Temple Of Ahriman”,“Unchain My Soul”, “Where Shadows Forever Reign” and many more. Make sure to catch Dark Funeral live on the Devastation On The Nation tour!

 

Possessed – Revelations Of Oblivion

It took three decades but death metal masters Possessed are finally back with the new merciless full length “Revelations Of Oblivion”, written by founder Jeff Becerra and his partner in crime Guitarist Daniel Gonzalez promising a memorable ride through hellfires.

“No More Room In Hell” dwells within an asphyxiating sonic realm where the old school death metal dynamics are certainly prominent just like the listeners would expect so get ready for an overdose of ravenous screams and crushing guitar driven grooves.

The punishing drum blasts of “Dominion” seem unstoppable leading to abrasive rhythmic patterns that demand an instant mosh pit with relentless sharp guitar riffs and an explosive soloing.  

“Demon” is another hellish track where guitars march fiercely through the bold thrash inspired rhythmic segments that will occasionally slow down just to amplify the bottomless obscurity with killer guitar licks.

On “Abandoned” you will certainly notice the massive ruthless drumming fueled by a primal energy perfectly matched by the technical accents of the frenetic guitar work which effortlessly shift from brutally fast riffage to fancy soloing.

The mysterious atmospheric intro of “Shadowcult” introduces thunderous rhythmic progressions filled with monstrous guitar riffs obviously following a quite frantic tempo while vocals evoke sinister vibes more than ever.

On “Omen” some devilish epic textures embellish the classic death metal structure and at times tempo slows down a bit to enhance the groovy aspects of the impressive guitar work that offers even some melodic elements within the majestic solo.

“The Word” relies on a nightmarish rampage with utterly savage drumming and viciously energetic guitar riffs but once again the guitar solos will please the listeners with charismatic shredding and tasteful melodic phrases.

Undoubtedly “Revelations Of Oblivion” symbolizes a diabolical renaissance for Possessed and despite so many years of inactivity on this anticipated album they confidently demonstrate to deserve a solid spot in the modern extreme metal scene.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ixk00N1W78c

Crowhurst – III

Crowhurst is the strictly experimental project of prolific artist Jay Gambit that deliberately aims to incorporate eclectic music styles and sounds ranging from black metal to noise as showcased on the latest album “III”.

“Self Portrait With Halo And Snake” crafts bleak soundscapes through calm guitar phrases and atmospheric layers favoring somber tonalities and monochromatic vocals that will eventually evolve into desperate screams following blurry rhythmic crescendos.

“The Drift” revolves around hazy post-rock/shoegaze inspired melodies and harsh guitar riffs lurking in the background which constantly evoke a profound sense of desolation further enhanced by the super spacey harmonies of the finale.

The immense melancholia of “Ghost Tropic” comes to life with gorgeous guitar melodies and a relaxing tempo until furious blackened rhythmic patterns lead to a drastically heavier momentum amplified by aggressive guitar riffs and tormented screams.

Named directly after an episode of ‘The Twilight Zone’ “Five Characters In Search Of An Exit” can sound claustrophobic or even trippy as massive distorted guitars lead to a primal blackened sonic assault followed by a chaotic realm full of intricate obscure electronic layers and anguished screams.

It becomes evident that “III” belongs to an experimental music niche so distant from standard composition or current trends as with Crowhurst Jay Gambit refuses to be confined within the foreordained boundaries of a specific genre and prefers to create a unique, often enigmatic, sonic experience.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPbKNphfQjA

Fleshgod Apocalypse – Veleno

Italian masters of orchestral death metal Fleshgod Apocalypse have worked meticulously to perfect their grandiose music vision which fully comes to life with the merciless yet utterly elegant new album “Veleno”.

Just like the title suggests the strong obscure feelings of “Fury” come from the band’s extreme metal roots that generate tremendous chaotic moments featuring simply relentless guitar riffs, precise drumming and the ruthless growls of Francesco Paoli but such furious momentum will naturally embrace the sublime elegance of the intricate symphonic arrangements & solemn choirs.  

The dramatic guitar melodies and refined orchestral textures in the beginning of “Carnivorous Lamb” give you a chance to breathe before entering a hostile sonic realm filled with untamed drum blasts, super fast guitar riffs and savage growls while Paolo Rossi’s clean vocals enhance the delightful theatrical aspects of the melodic passages.

“Sugar” was rightfully chosen as first single and still represents one of the most intense moments on the album hitting you in the face with frantic technical rhythmic patterns and a memorable yet absolutely ferocious chorus glowing through the complex concoction of abrasive guitars, stylish melodic phrases and majestic orchestrations.

The rhythm slows down on “Monnalisa” to emphasize the opulent symphonic tapestries and the baroque flair paying homage to the many classical Italian virtuosi, the genius of Paganini often comes to mind as inspiration, and certainly such sumptuous melodic essence, well expressed by Veronica Bordacchini’s flawless vocals and by the dazzling guitar melodies, has the necessary charisma to capture your attention.

On “Absinthe” the classical elements shine bright through the magnificent symphonic waves that surround Paolo’s melodramatic vocals and Francesco’s hellish growls creating a darkly poetic contrast that will be further amplified by the neoclassical accents of the guitar work and the primordial impulse of the relentless rhythmic patterns.

Listening to “The Day We’ll Be Gone” feels like a night at the opera as Veronica takes the center stage with a bewitching operatic vocal performance accompanied by the classical finesse of the perfectly melancholic piano melodies, the poignant melodic guitar soloing and the ravishing atmospheric gloom.

“Embrace The Oblivion” will conquer the listeners with its wicked technical death metal approach as the guitar work holds an essential role in the creation of massive monolithic grooves but also with its compelling darkened epic aesthetics as Paolo’s vocals and radiant orchestral layers emphasize the theatrical nature of the song which will naturally fade into the classical allure of the piano piece on the title track that closes the album with profoundly nostalgic nuances.

The spontaneously explosive sonic evolution of Fleshgod Apocalypse today leads to a unique elaborate music style that deserves your utmost attention and appreciation as “Veleno” is the legit incarnation of such ambitious artistic vision and its consequent vivid emotional turmoil that always feels palpable within the exquisite blend of classical splendor and enraged extreme metal force.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xmq3iyW02b8

October Tide – In Splendor Below

Swedish melodic death/doom metallers October Tide, featuring former Katatonia members Fredrik and Mattias Norrman, are ready to share with the world their new darkly emotive sonic journey incarnated by the sixth studio album “In Splendor Below”.

“I, The Polluter” has what it takes to grab your attention with impactful rhythmic dynamics and menacing growls inspired by classic death metal but eventually the exquisitely melancholic themes will become more prominent through elegantly cold guitar melodies and brooding tonalities.

“We Died In October” has a calmer mood starting with deliciously darkened guitar phrases flowing gracefully within a doom tinged sonic realm and the rhythmic segments certainly sound fierce accompanied by obscure growls yet tend to leave behind excessive brutality to highlight such melodic splendor.

Even with a slower tempo “Our Famine” still relies on a gelid melo-death essence offering sorrowful guitar melodies characterized by depressing yet absolutely gorgeous tonalities that shine particularly during the minimalist contemplative breakdown.

On “Seconds” the shimmering melancholic guitar melodies once again will impress the listeners while the mighty harsh rhythmic patterns and the moody atmospheres tend to emphasize familiar mournful doom tonalities.

On “Envy The Moon” guitars continue to deserve the spotlight effortlessly shifting from galloping riffs to extremely gloomy melodies according to the contrasting nuances that characterize the whole album and the result is another heartfelt harmonious soundscape that will ultimately feel like a wintry daydream.

October Tide truly demonstrate the ability to express a multitude of poignant feelings through the winning blend of refined melodic waves and extreme metal roots behind the creation of “In Splendor Below”.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk_2zT9HpC4

Helheim – Rignir

Pioneers of Norwegian Viking metal Helheim have been proudly representing their Norse heritage through music and lyrics for over two decades and the tenth album “Rignir” is filled with darkly melancholic feelings inspired by the weather in Bergen.

The exquisite melodic essence of the title track is certainly fueled by an inner melancholia and guitars shift from tranquil harmonies to increasingly darker distorted riffs maintaining utterly somber tonalities just like  the crestfallen emotions expressed by the clean vocals.

On “Kaldr” you can perceive a primal rhythmic approach as guitars acquire blackened elements following a faster & darker rhythm that will eventually embrace a folk oriented melodic ensemble with lovely atmospheric nuances and elegant melancholic guitar leads.

“Hagl” begins with gorgeous dreamy guitar phrases and serene vocals creating an idyllic soundscape but later there is a change of pace as the rhythm becomes harsh with a series of intense blackened guitar riffs accompanied by a dramatic vocal delivery channeling solemn Viking metal vibes.

The magical guitar melodies of “Stormviðri” cannot go unnoticed constantly channeling sheer wintry melancholia with an overdose of gloomy instrumental passages flowing gently through understated atmospheric waves emphasized by the majestic passionate clean vocals that will occasionally evolve into tormented growls.  

Once again the alluring strength of “Vetrarmegin” comes from the refined melodic guitar leads yet the rhythmic patterns here can also offer fiery blackened elements and consequently generate an obscure mood definitely amplified by the borderline ferocious growls.

Celebrating a genuine devotion for Norse heritage and the beauty of nature, “Rignir” successfully depicts gloomy autumn days and gelid winter nights as Helheim confidently combine an aggressive rhythmic approach with sophisticated melodic tapestries.  

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECRCW94pW_o

Enforcer – Zenith

Swedish heavy metal band Enforcer took longer than usual to create with total freedom the big & loud new album “Zenith” which showcases a proper old school songwriting approach and a pure passion for the glorious era of ‘80s metal and hard rock.

“Die For The Devil” is such a fun track filled with catchy guitar licks that lead to a groovy rhythmic section while at times an inner nostalgia triggers bittersweet melodic moments enhanced by heartfelt vocals.

The mood gets slightly darker and maybe even more serious with “Zenith Of The Black Sun” as the guitar work can successfully deliver somber melodies as well as quite bombastic riffage and glamorous soloing while Olof Wikstrand deserves the spotlight for his charismatic vocals.

“Searching For You” is clearly inspired by old school speed metal as a tight series of crunchy guitar riffs diligently follows galloping rhythmic blasts leading to a full blown flamboyant guitar solo that will grab your attention.

The strong spirit of heavy metal is at the core of “The End Of A Universe” with the addition of  major epic vibes channeling familiar power metal dynamics through steady polished guitar riffs and impressive high pitch vocals.

Blasting another round of entertaining epic grooves “Forever We Worship The Dark” relies on soaring guitar riffs and a vibrant sing along chorus that once again emphasizes Olof’s vocal abilities.

“Ode To Death” marks a majestic conclusion for the album evoking darker feelings through refined guitar melodies that gracefully surround Olof’s fervent vocal delivery and will later evolve into a massive heavy metal ensemble spiced up by another inflamed guitar solo marching through the solemn atmospheric nuances.

“Zenith” is an explosive collection of heavy metal anthems clearly dedicated to fans of such classic style and certainly you will immediately notice that Enforcer pay homage to this timeless genre with pride and devotion.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSvSxlOv6F4

 

Hedonihil – I

Hedonihil is a new thrilling project featuring the talent of Juuso Raatikainen, Mikko Kotamäki and Juho Räihä of beloved Finnish band Swallow The Sun and the result of their collaboration is the untamed sonic assault of the debut album “I”.

“Otherworldly Embrace” opens the album with a lugubrious atmosphere creating a suspenseful mood so you realize that something is about to happen and in fact violent death metal dynamics will be unleashed with undiluted fury through harsh guitar riffs and thunderous drums briefly interrupted by darkened harmonious phrases.

“The Hedonist Anthem” has an inner gloomy melodic soul courtesy of some alluring melancholic guitar melodies but also an utterly hostile sound that generates fast punishing rhythmic patterns further enhanced by merciless growls crawling out of a blackened abyss.

The creepy atmospheric arrangements of “Temple Of Venus” embellish the wrathful rhythmic core impeccably created by super fast drums and crushing guitar riffs but once again shimmering guitar melodies provide some stylish variations.

The misanthropic attitude of “Anti-Human Agenda” relies on another series of frenetic guitar riffs, major hellish growls and consequent menacing rhythmic blasts that call for instant headbanging and demand to be played loud.

The cold-blooded force of “Better Tomorrow” comes from the aggressive rhythmic dynamics as unstoppable guitars ensure solid mosh pit friendly grooves spiced up by some ominous atmospheric accents.

Hedonihil aim to deliver massive blackened death metal anthems and they absolutely succeed as all the tracks on “I” sound relentless, spontaneously brutal and full of negative vibes only demonstrating the eclectic musicianship of this brilliant trio.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDU87apZhR8