Category: Album Reviews 2017

Tarja – From Spirits And Ghosts (Score For A Dark Christmas)

One of the most beloved female vocalists Tarja Turunen has chosen to delight her fans with the rather unexpected album “From Spirits And Ghosts (Score For A Dark Christmas)” focusing on a dark interpretation of Christmas classic songs and dedicating this album to those who might not be able to enjoy the festive bliss.

As all the other songs on this album “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is structured like a movie score where Tarja’s elegant operatic vocal delivery becomes the luminous center around which ethereal atmospheric orchestrations gradually build darkened intensity ultimately leading to a triumphant classical climax.

Being the only brand new original song “Together” is a treat for the fans. Here Tarja follows the chosen atmospheric symphonic pathway of the whole album delivering an exquisitely emotional vocal performance while the dreamy piano melodies and the inspired orchestral layers evoke the eternal struggle between light and darkness.

“Pie Jesu” might sound less dark but Tarja’s voice becomes particularly spellbinding with impressive clarity and prowess through delicate symphonic layers and minimalist instrumentation.

“Amazing Grace” becomes even more atmospheric with gentle soothing layers on which Tarja lays majestic operatic style vocals while towards the end the orchestra acquires bolder cinematic intensity resulting in a grand classical finale.

“O Tannebaum” feels like a dark lullaby where shadows and subtle sounds can become suddenly spooky as Tarja’s compelling eclectic voice leads the listeners through a gloomy fairytale at times surrounded by particularly grandiose orchestrations.

The very common carol “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” becomes definitely more pleasant as Tarja’s vocals feel rather enchanting gracefully floating through somber electro/atmospheric layers.

If you thought that Christmas songs are boring “From Spirits And Ghosts (Score For A Dark Christmas)” might change your mind as with her mesmerizing performance and lavish symphonic arrangements Tarja successfully re-invents these popular classic carols.

Cannabis Corpse – Left Hand Pass

Cannabis Corpse emerges from a true passion for Floridian death metal shared by Municipal Waste bassist / vocalist Phil “LandPhil” Hall and drummer Josh “Hallhammer” Hall, who created the band in 2006. While many might not take this band seriously, maybe because of the sense of humor or the gore stereotypes, the latest release “Left Hand Pass” demands the listeners’ full attention.

With somber tonalities “The 420th Crusade” opens the album focusing on intriguing guitar dynamics, especially compelling in the eclectic solo, while the relentless rhythmic section and the vicious growls bear a ‘90s death metal attitude.

“Chronic Breed” again stands out for the particularly multifaceted guitar work while the rest of the song is all about crazy rhythmic patterns relying on super thick riffing and drumming.

The title track unleashes an overwhelming series of fast & ravenous riffing segments and the wild technical guitar solo simply cuts through such rhythmic fury.

“Papyrus Containing the Spell to Protect Its Possessor Against Attacks From He Who Is In the Bong Water” might win as most original title of the year and Cannabis Corpse concocts an initial ritualistic mood swiftly followed by fierce death metal grooves that include the usual breakneck speed shenanigans but also less intimidating guitar passages.

On “The Fiends That Come To Steal the Weed of the Deceased” the lyrics regarding a passionate interest for marijuana continue to entertain the audience while the band is engaged in a furious distorted jam that culminates with a savagely interesting guitar solo.

With slick precision and unrestrained brutality Cannabis Corpse concocts the expected ravenous death metal anthem so let’s say that lovers of this particular genre will certainly embrace & enjoy “Left Hand Pass” without hesitation.

Evil Invaders – Feed Me Violence

Belgian metallers Evil Invaders proudly release the sophomore album “Feed Me Violence” which confidently proves to be more than just a revival sensation even if the main core features nostalgic anthems exceptionally executed in proper traditional speed metal style.

“Mental Penitentiary” is such a savage opener focusing on a well-structured tight fast paced rhythm and impressive musicianship clearly showcased in the complex guitar work and the incredibly entertaining riffs.

“Broken Dreams In Isolation” becomes more dramatic as enticing guitars successfully create lavish melodic textures while the variegated rhythmic section and the blistering screams maintain the expected bold thrash/speed patterns.

The title track is simply raw & heavy as guitar riffing and drum blasts follow a frenetic tempo while in the midst of such chaotic rhythmic intensity lead guitars repeatedly gain the deserved spotlight with enthralling creative solos.

“Oblivion” rightfully favors smooth melancholic moments with emotionally profound melodic guitars but also doesn’t hesitate to bring back sharp classic speed metal riffing galore following an intensely faster tempo to trigger immediate headbanging.

Showcasing truly mature musicianship and composition “Among The Depths Of Sanity” features stylish music diversity effortlessly shifting from dramatic atmospheric passages to an inflamed crescendo of massive guitar riffs and assertively unleashing a crushing thrash sonic assault let ultimately embellished by a charismatic shredding guitar solo.

Evil Invaders definitely have the ability to channel the golden days of speed/thrash metal and “Feed Me Violence” is filled with entertaining diversity but also stays true to the genre’s main elements with fierce thunderous strength.

Shrapnel – Raised On Decay

Inspired by decades of uncompromising energetic thrash metal British metallers Shrapnel unleash the crushing sophomore full length “Raised On Decay”.

“Hollow Earth” opens the album with dismal atmospheric essence followed by a mixture of smoothly darkened melodic guitars cutting through a faster and absolutely heavy rhythmic pattern reminiscent of classic thrash metal.

“Pariah” displays immediately some cathartic melodic quality but as guitars and drums acquire explosive speed the resulting thick rhythmic galore calls for relentless devastation interrupted only by the impressive lead guitars.

“Echoes Of Emptiness” keeps a somber mood with the right amount of cohesive chunky guitar riffs and angered vocals but the true highlight can be found in the charismatic guitar solos which bring refined creativity maintaining a solid thrash attitude.

“Carved From Above” favors a frenetic guitar driven assault that certainly owes its inner strength to massive thrash influences while once again the powerful caliber of the lead guitar work tends to stand out with shredded melodic grandeur.

“Choir Of Wolves” temporarily becomes more atmospheric with the addition of soulful grim melodic passages but definitely doesn’t put aside the usual fiery thrash intensity that still holds a prime role in the raw rhythmic patterns.

“Raised On Decay” is meant to impress the listeners with audacious often aggressive guitar driven thrash anthems that can easily reach chaotic speed yet Shrapnel also manage to balance everything with scattered melodic moments.

Nachtblut – Apostasie

Straight from a realm of pure darkness German gothic/dark metal outfit Nachtblut emerges with the new release “Apostasie” symbolizing a new chapter as the band adds an industrial twist to the signature music formula.

“Multikulturell” shines for the exquisitely dark atmospheric quality that naturally evokes a nightmarish scenario with eerie yet sumptuous orchestrations matched by diabolically gothic vocals and irresistibly darkened groovy guitars.

“Lied Für Die Götter” features the understated elegance of classical flute and acoustic passages that create plenty of subtle harmonies carefully entwined with crushing guitar riffs and a gothic oriented mood.

Refined piano melodies and pure melancholy mark the beginning of “Amok” but soon this track evolves into a massive industrial anthem with super catchy electro layers and simply unstoppable groovy rhythmic guitars resulting in a wildly energetic gothic/industrial hybrid.

“Frauenausbeiner” feels more like straight goth ‘n roll with a series of simple guitar driven grooves and a general rock party vibe that slightly diverge from the usual intense darkness which is still present in smaller dosage in the somber bass lines and the rather malicious devilish screams.

“Einsam” stands out for the classical piano passages that flawlessly evoke a fairytale mood and a dreamy sonic palette bearing symphonic accents with elegant borderline romantic atmospheres that reach the expected acme with guest vocalist Aeve Maurell’ s delicately enchanting vocal delivery.

The title track begins with solemn symphonic orchestrations that will continue to offer a triumphant theatrical background while a darkened bolder temperament becomes palpable with loads of crunchy guitar riffs and sinister vocals.

Full of enthralling dark melodies as well as more enraged industrial grooves “Apostasie” can even become addictive at times and Nachtblut demonstrates to be quite comfortable with such renewed variegated music style.

Moonspell – 1755

Acclaimed longstanding gothic metal band Moonspell has chosen to create a quite grandiose album that often bears the stylish quality of ancient unforgettable Greek tragedies as “1755’ is conceptually based on the dreadful earthquake that destroyed Lisbon and aptly sang completely in Portuguese. Inevitably, on “1755” the Portuguese heritage shines more than ever fully influencing each melodic texture and contributing to the unique atmospheric quality of this inspiring work of music.

The orchestral opener “En Nome Do Medo” perfectly introduces the album’s compelling dramatic temperament as dazzling classical details naturally embrace a highly darkened atmosphere clearly enhanced by the storyteller par excellence Fernando Ribeiro who delivers his signature gothic delivery with renewed fervor accompanied by exceptional choirs.

The title track acquires opera vibes with solemn choirs and majestic symphonic arrangements that simply enrich Moonspell’s seductive darkness as thick guitar riffs maintain deliciously obscure tonalities following occasional fierce rhythmic segments that seamlessly blend with the cathartic melodic force also expressed in the thrilling guitar solo while exotic instrumental accents bring additional creative sparks.

“In Tremor Dei” delivers a series of absolutely addictive guitar riffs with remarkable gothic nuances surrounded by groovy rhythmic variations and intense operatic choirs that naturally amplify the epic atmosphere while the unique voice of guest vocalist Paulo Bragança provides extra emotional depth.

The orchestral arrangements on “Desastre” feel particularly opulent providing variegated layers and moody baroque accents that favor the somber melodic textures while Fernando’s ferocious growls and the tight distorted rhythmic crescendo ensure a blazing heavier core.

“Evento” is filled of tragic darkness with an insatiable yearning for catchy rhythmic passages and heartfelt melodic grandeur continuously expressed in the smooth unrestrained guitar work and captivating symphonic layers.

“Todos Os Santos” becomes more enigmatic with arcane symphonic arrangements that effortlessly favor, once again, the cinematic nature of this album and diligently introduce the heavier & darker facets with untamed fast paced guitar riffing. Fernando’s vocals maintain a spiritual duality with angered growls and a more theatrical delivery in the midst of majestic orchestration and choirs.

“1755” never fails to impress the audience with outpouring charisma and undisputed creativity as Moonspell appears to be in excellent shape confidently evoking lavish melodic soundscapes and re-inventing /re-shaping the beloved signature style without necessarily forgetting the heavier roots that played a big role in the band’s deserved success.

New Language – Everybody Screams

There is a buzz around the young Los Angeles based band New Language and the freshly released  EP “Everybody Screams” celebrating the September residency at Los Angeles’ mainstay venue The Satellite  aims to gain more attention .

The title track features crunchy guitar riffing that doesn’t necessarily hold a constant particularly heavy nature as the melodic approach becomes more dominant following a modern rock formula. The overall mood tends to be sorrowful almost darkened but the guitar melodies and the clean vocals ensure an immediate catchiness.

“Show Me” follows a similar music pathway with occasional bold heavier sections that build a solid energetic groove but melodic guitars ultimately lead the scene with gloomy accents and growing alt-rock intensity.

“Out Of My Head” can be loud and wild offering another series of unstoppable easy grooves with loads of refreshing guitar hooks and radio friendly polished choruses.

New Language chooses an uncomplicated way to capture the listeners’ attention with an accessible alternative/modern heavy rock blend and “Everybody Screams” can acquire somber tones while keeping a catchy attitude.

Sleeping Romance – Alba

Among young emerging bands, Italian symphonic metal act Sleeping Romance has the opportunity to stand out with the sophomore release gracefully entitled “Alba” which confidently blends solemn orchestrations and the blasting force of classic power metal.

Starting with melancholic piano melodies “Where The Light Is Bleeding” proceeds with exceptional clarity through rather sumptuous orchestral layers and keeps a somber melodic core with simple crunchy guitar riffs, a lullaby style soft breakdown and a refined catchy chorus.

“Lost In My Eyes” offers modern symphonic flavors immediately reminiscent of other popular bands such as Epica and Within Temptation. This track mainly focuses on a widely accessible series of sparkling melodies built by smooth guitars and classical atmospheric arrangements inevitably enhanced by vocalist Federica Lanna’s soothing vocal delivery.

“Forgiveness” acquires darker atmospheric nuances but also holds a soulful mellow core that favors elegant melodic guitar work without sacrificing a stronger power metal riffage while Federica’s delicate vocals deliver a more sentimental mood.

Effortlessly shifting between darker atmospheric vibes and luminous moments, “My Temptation” crafts several bewitching melodic passages with the expected fair dosage of dazzling guitar tones, inspired orchestrations and melancholy infused vocals & operatic choirs.

The title track basically includes all the charming features that characterize the whole album as a subtly majestic symphonic mood is carefully embedded in the guitar work and orchestral layers while the guitar driven rhythm showcases neoclassical accents but also a fair modern catchiness.

“Alba” certainly follows the successful music formula of renowned symphonic female fronted bands without additional unique or innovative elements, nevertheless Sleeping Romance diligently performs each song with utter sincerity and attention for stylish details.

Jess And The Ancient Ones – The Horse And Other Weird Tales

Finnish psychedelic rockers Jess And The Ancient Ones deserve to be recognized worldwide as an exceptionally intriguing band in fact on the newest album “The Horse And Other Weird Tales” they fully embrace a unique musical identity & creative force that will inevitably surprise the listeners.

Opening the expected magical portal “Death Is The Doors” takes you back in time with slow burning guitar melodies that suddenly become exquisitely vibrant as longing for refined psychedelic energy the soft rhythm acquires a bolder groove accompanied by Jess’s impressive vocal abilities.

“Your Exploding Heads” offers a quite entertaining groove with a generous dosage of thick bass lines, melodic guitars and an extremely catchy chorus while Jess’s warm vocal delivery leads you through an unrestrained trippy journey back to the ‘60s.

“(Here Comes) The Rainbow Mouth” follows a remarkable melodic fluidity provided by a winning combo of flamboyant organ layers and spacey guitar tonalities while vocalist Jess moves sinuously like an ethereal enchantress through the intricate web of bewitching rock grooves.

With an altered state of mind “Minotaure” can become particularly obscure with spiritual emphasis yet the colorful moody guitars & organ grooves stand out for the impeccable retro flavors and often hold the lightheartedness of youth and wild outdoor festivals.

“Anyway The Minds Flow” shines for the great psychedelic instrumental variety as things are easily getting spacey and rather surreal with detailed vintage melodies & arrangements that feel just like unconsciously riding a cosmic wheel (or a horse) and, once again, Jess delivers a charismatic heartfelt vocal performance.

“The Horse And Other Weird Tales” is often filled with rare sincerity and profound passion plus it seems simply impossible to resist the alluring quality of the band’s charismatic vintage sound. Do not miss the opportunity to enter the magical sonic realm of Jess And The Ancient Ones!

The New Roses – One More For The Road

German hard rockers The New Roses certainly know how to entertain the audience with loud classic rock tunes that in the latest effort “One More For The Road” always showcase great chemistry and catchy progressions.

Channeling the unforgettable glorious days of hard rock “Quarter To Twelve” revolves around catchy no frills rock melodies which always bear the renowned dirty rock attitude with upbeat guitar driven rhythms and raspy vocals.

“My Own Worst Enemy” is all distorted and absolutely fun with a vintage guitar sound that contributes to successfully craft a winning series of wild rock riffs enhanced by proper rocker style rough vocal delivery and a cool guitar solo.

On “Forever Never Comes” guitars continue to channel the golden decades of hard rock adding an enjoyable southern rock touch and everything feels like the right music for an outdoor festival.

“Dancing On A Razorblade” has all kinds of gritty guitar riffs that never fail to produce plenty of easy bombastic grooves and without any hesitation vocals pay homage to many famous traditional rock vocalists.

“Every Wild Heart” becomes slightly sentimental as guitars favor a laid back southern rock mood while big choruses ensure a radio friendly impact.

“Fight You Leaving Me” is the must have rock ballad with loads of acoustic passages, a slower rhythm that focuses on more romantic atmospheres and mellower vocal delivery with a touch of country style.

On “Nitro Nights” galloping guitar riffs keep a tight upbeat rhythm that is meant for wild parties as the whole instrumentation builds addictive rock grooves full of adrenaline.

On “One More For The Road” The New Roses choose to stay true to traditional rock dynamics packing each song with a generous dose of melodic hooks and catchy grooves ultimately producing a widely accessible easy to love collection of songs.