Category: Album Reviews 2018

The Vintage Caravan – Gateways

In the beginning there were three young Icelandic schoolboys passionate about music that might have not known yet that The Vintage Caravan was foreordained to conquer the music scene and now the fourth studio album “Gateways” will prove once more the band’s creative force and bright future.

Despite the enigmatic initial atmospheric tonalities “Set Your Sights” is ready to hit you in the face with healthy rock grooves courtesy of steady retro tinged guitar riffs that keep on rolling with some heavier dynamics to reach the explosive punch of the solo.

“Reflections” gradually builds up a faster guitar driven groove well supported by the vibrant rhythmic section, where the bold bass lines truly stand out, yet there are several emotionally charged melodic moments as lead guitars and vocals can acquire a sweet psychedelic magic in proper ‘70s fashion.

With a dreamlike introductive arpeggios and soulful vocal harmonies “On The Run” holds a gentle melancholia yet will gain extra crunchy dynamics as the whole rhythmic section is ready to deliver bold rock progressions leading to a generously fuzzy melodic guitar solo.  

“Hidden Streams” offers several soaring rhythmic segments borrowing the catchy vibes of timeless classic rock as guitars gallop relentlessly through hazy and often deeply psychedelic soundscapes.

“Nebula” warmly welcomes you to a proper trippy psychedelic realm where the signature Nordic melancholy is always present as the rhythm becomes dramatically contemplative allowing the brilliant melodic guitar progressions and solo to steal the spotlight without sacrificing a proper dosage of heavier rock riffage.

“Tune Out” feels like the most complex track on the album and certainly gives you a good idea of The Vintage Caravan main music vision. With a distinct bluesy rock influence gentle melodic guitars focus on a softer approach that will eventually acquire complexity through versatile progressions and a powerful rhythmic crescendo while vocals naturally shift between a poetic mood and a rougher seasoned rocker style.

More than ever The Vintage Caravan demonstrates a genuine love for heavy classic rock and that exquisite sense of nostalgia mixed with a refreshing energy and ambitious dreams can be found all over “Gateways”.

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

Soulfly – Ritual

Fronted by legendary Max Cavalera, Soulfly has been active for more than two decades and now the band wants to prove that the tribe is stronger than ever, in fact the latest album “Ritual” seems to possess the tribal energy and spiritual strength necessary to leave a mark in the current metal scene.

The title track is the sonic realm where brutal & tribal embrace as it opens the album with the primitive energy of tribal chants and introduces a massive guitar driven groove that feels increasingly heavier and ferocious also due to the relentless shredded guitar solos and Max’s angered vocals.

Featuring Randy Blythe of Lamb Of God “Dead Behind The Eyes” feels rather menacing as extra gritty guitar riffs wildly follow a faster rhythmic assault immersed in apocalyptic atmospheres yet through such brutal momentum Marc Rizzo manages to deliver darkened melodies and fierce soloing.

One of the coolest tracks on the album “Under Rapture”, featuring immensely ominous growls courtesy of Ross Dolan of Immolation, will trigger a non-stop moshpit with the perfect dosage of ruthless guitar riffs and consequent addictive savage grooves constantly guided by the arcane tribal spirit evoked by Zyon Cavalera’s thunderous drumming.

“Demonized” begins with darkened melodic guitars and a slightly contemplative mood but this initial peaceful moment will give way to another solid round of killer guitar riffs & tribal percussions and in general the whole instrumentation and song’s structure showcases profound death/thrash metal influences.

“Blood On The Street” screams tribal at the very beginning with an intriguing combo of flute harmonies and captivating percussions, which will return even stronger in the final part of the song, swiftly followed by steady malevolent guitar riffs and vicious drum blasts built to ensure a headbanging galore.

On the closing instrumental track “Soulfly XI” the mood drastically and unexpectedly changes leaving behind any sign of brutality as spiritual vibes become more palpable through melancholic acoustic guitars and dreamy saxophone melodies.  

It will be immediately clear that Soulfly have somehow acquired a renewed creative force which leads to the impactful soaring grooves that make “Ritual” the right album to triumphantly represent the band’s legacy.

The Spirit – Sounds From The Vortex

The sonic realm of The Spirit debut album “Sounds From The Vortex” is absolutely black and often hopeless as the band is eager to finally spread this collection of atmospheric blackened death anthems.

“Cosmic Fear” is fierce and enigmatic drawing inspiration from the depths of traditional black metal with its raw riffing galore and oppressive momentum yet the addition of melodic guitar work amplifies the song’s contemplative & emotional facets.

“The Clouds Of Damnation” immediately delivers a series of fast crushing rhythmic patterns again reminiscent of classic Nordic tonalities and as the drums dictate a thunderous march the whole instrumentation follows such grim mood with impeccable fluidity until a cold melancholia engulfs the profoundly somber guitar melodies.

The contemplative nature of “Illuminate The Night Sky” is clear since the very beginning as atmospheric melodies demand attention before introducing a vigorous rhythmic ensemble that revolves around massive darkened guitar work and relentless drumming.

“Fields Of The Unknown” closes the album offering another round of epic tremolo-picked segments demanding a faster asphyxiating rhythm as a total darkness takes over leaving just enough space for some genuine melodic moments.

Acolytes of the underground extreme metal scene will definitely find the mysterious aura of “Sounds From The Vortex” appealing and should continue to pay attention to the music journey of The Spirit.

Shining – Animal

It seems like Shining’s new album “Animal” will surprise the longtime fans as mastermind/frontman Jørgen Munkeby was tired of the same ‘blackjazz’ style and decided to create a party metal carnival.

“Take Me” begins with a mainstream combination of keyboards melodies with a 80s feel and steady hard rock style guitar riffs, then you will find melodic bits embellished by additional modern synths layers.

The title track aims for a catchy approach and seems to follow the same straightforward hard rock direction and you can imagine a full blown party accompanied by uncomplicated guitar riffs, underlying atmospheric synths, lots of vocal effects and super melodic chorus.

“My Church” appears to be more dramatic and heavier as the whole rhythmic section dwells in a limbo between classic rock and metal yet vocals provide a melodic emotive delivery but will eventually turn into loud and quite angered screams.

“When I’m Gone” almost feels like a classic power ballad where keyboards keep a subtle atmospheric mood, vocals aim to express pure passion and guitars tend to lurk in the background maintaining a smooth rhythmic flow.

On “Everything Dies” the promising initial acidic tones will give way to another radio friendly groove with the borderline rebellious screams dictating the mood of the chorus and easy uptempo beats briefly interrupted by a sudden somber atmospheric breakdown.

“End” could have been a dark song but guitars feel too quiet and the almost spooky synths are swiftly followed by a melodic rampage focused on sad ballad style vocals and big mainstream chorus.  

“Animal” is mostly loud and bombastic, yes just like the party metal carnival that was supposed to be, so while Jørgen Munkeby is certainly happy with the final result maybe Shining’s fans will gradually learn to embrace this drastic change.

 

Wolfheart – Constellation Of The Black Light

Winter metal is back and is here to stay as Finnish band Wolfheart, fronted by multi-instrumentalist Tuomas Saukkonen, return with the epic soundscapes of the new effort “Constellation Of The Black Light” which has all the elements and the intensity necessary to leave a mark in the current metal scene.

Already with the massive mini opus that is the album opener “Everlasting Fall” it becomes clear that this new music journey will be quite impressive. Starting with the perfect dose of immensely melancholic arpeggios and wintry atmospheric nuances Wolfheart creates an authentic Nordic soundscape later shaped by elegant orchestrations followed by the extra cold tonalities of sharp guitar riffs and more ferocious blackened rhythmic sections that will be aptly enhanced by monumental growls, yet an inspired melodic ensemble featuring soothing sorrowful lead melodic guitars will always emerge through such waves of remarkable faster relentless grooves.

Since the very beginning “Breakwater” unleashes pure blackened fury as frenetic guitar riffs dominate the song’s structure yet the enchanting softer acoustic moments and the refined orchestral tapestries lingering in the background continue to hold the same passionate melancholy that feels so crucial within the whole album.

When “The Saw” begins tempo is considerably slowed down to focus more on the emotive & sad melodies naturally crafted by waves of dismal guitar riffs, detailed acoustic harmonies and sophisticated orchestral arrangements but the band is also ready to offer several heavier instrumental dynamics and wrathful growls.

With roaring drums “Warfare” gets you ready for the battlefield with faster enraged grooves yet such aggressive approach and ardent feelings are ultimately balanced by the graceful melodic grandeur created by recurring charming lead guitars and sumptuous orchestrations.

Among fiery guitar riffs a profound melancholy is meant to have an essential role on the closing track “Valkyrie” where the vibrant melodic lead guitar work will certainly stand out for the poignant tonalities and the smooth musicianship surrounded by shrouds of cold nostalgia courtesy of emotional atmospheric arrangements and piano phrases.

In terms of songwriting Wolfheart has certainly reached higher levels as “Constellation Of The Black Light” is a triumph of harmonious darkness and heartfelt emotions, something you will desperately need to comfort you during the upcoming long winter nights.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om-wa3CqUr4

Pelagos – Revolve

Finnish band Pelagos just started a multifaceted melancholic music journey that aims to enchant the listeners with the enigmatic nuances of the debut full length “Revolve”.

“Code” opens the album with eclectic arrangements that naturally shift from futuristic ambient style to ethereal harmonies fully embracing the soft vocal delivery yet guitars will eventually emerge through the calm atmospheres to create a smooth melodic crescendo.

The minimalist guitar melodies on “River (Proxima Centauri)” hold a primary role in the creation of serene soundscapes where luminous atmospheric arrangements and electro accents effortlessly evoke a moody emotive whirlwind.

Everything flows like in a daydream on “Aphrodite’s Shore” with the elegant rock tonalities of crispy guitars gently surrounded by intricate atmospheres that will often acquire a darker solemn energy.

The soothing atmospheres on “Sea Of Tranquillity” certainly match the song’s title as gentle guitar phrases with subtle prog rock vibes appear to be immersed in spacey electronic layers leading to cosmic relaxation.

“Muted Stars” offers delicate aesthetics as the band skillfully blends polychromatic arrangements, whispered narratives and polished guitar melodies that seem to float freely through hazy soundscapes.

Overall, far from being an average debut album “Revolve” shines for the surreal cinematic arrangements as all the music carefully composed by Pelagos seem to emerge spontaneously from a limbo between space and water.

 

Wilt – Ruin

Manitoba atmospheric black metal band Wilt spent three years working hard on the genesis of the new concept album “Ruin” inspired by Cormac McCarthy’s 2006, post-apocalyptic novel “The Road”.

On “Into The Unknown” everything is bleak and we are trapped in the longest winter as melodic guitars constantly showcase cold saddened tonalities that soon will inevitably embrace a harsher cascadian rhythm but never really leave behind the immense desolation.

“We Read The World Wrong” immediately delivers a solid round of undiluted blackened dynamics that certainly bear the influence of decades of familiar old school black metal while favoring the modern atmospheric approach with loads of impossibly gloomy guitar melodies.

“Veil Of Gold” feels utterly dramatic with a slower introspective melodic ensemble where guitars once again tend to shine concocting an extensive tormented melodic grandeur accompanied by absolutely desperate vocals.

Staying true to the darkest elements and overwhelming anguish of atmospheric black metal on “Ruin” Wilt crafts a cohesive blackened core with few melodic hints resulting in a rather deliberately depressing collection of lengthy songs.

Madder Mortem – Marrow

Even if the current metal scene feels rather crowded a unique band like Norway’s Madder Mortem will always stand out for the ambitious multifaceted songwriting approach and the genuine desire to challenge standard genre boundaries. The result of Madder Mortem zealous music exploration and dauntless creativity is the new opus “Marrow” which from beginning to end demands your utmost attention.

The initial intriguing bass lines of “Liberator” foreshadow an eclectic sonic realm as Madder Mortem embarks on a stylish music journey making their own rules and offering moments of profound melancholy mixed with a series of dense guitar driven grooves that ensure an energetic heavy rhythmic core while the extraordinary vocalist Agnete effortlessly shifts from bold delivery to smooth harmonies.

“Until You Return” feels quite romantic with the perfect dosage of dreamy melodic guitar progressions that naturally accompany Agnete’s haunting voice and once again she proves to be a brilliant vocalist as her talent truly renders this track particularly enchanting. In the midst of waves of of sheer melancholia intensely distorted guitars and strong bass phrases often increase the dark and heavier aspects of this song.   

“My Will Be Done” becomes immediately darker as sharp guitar riffs and a relentless rhythmic section borrow the bold patterns of extreme metal, an influence evidently enhanced also by the fiery growls, yet there is an underlying complexity that spontaneously blend diverse primordial and modern tones.

The title track begins with thrilling heavy guitar blasts but will morph into a more delicate, at times absolutely ethereal, ensemble where unusual melodic segments and Agnete’s poetic vocals will create a surreal sonic realm that will return throughout the song creating a perennial contrast with the darkened doom moments.

The fierce guitar riffs of “White Snow, Red Shadows” are simply irresistible leading to memorable grooves and wild syncopated rhythms yet despite the song’s intricacy fueled by the several remarkable tempo/style variations there is a main melodic momentum that, graciously embellished by Agnete’s vibrant vocals, will become addictive at the first listening.

“Waiting To Fall” is a particularly complex track that might not have an immediate impact as there is a lot going on. Starting with a generous dose of Nordic melancholia and refined melodies, that will recur with growing urgency, the song will often embrace an enigmatic darkness amplified by the grave doom metal tonalities of the harsh guitar riffs while the contemplative dramatic moments are always enriched by Agnete’s passionate vocals.

It’s a great pleasure to see Madder Mortem in excellent shape on the new dazzling effort “Marrow” which feels like another fascinating milestone in the band’s sonic evolution bringing refreshing creative dynamics & avant-garde tonalities to the naturally darkened essence that thrives in each song.

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

Skogen – Skuggorna Kallar

Swedish blackened folk metal band Skogen are ready to spread immense melancholy and Nordic atmospheres on the new release “Skuggorna Kallar”.

While channeling all kinds of dark nuances “Det Nordkisa Morkret” focuses mainly on melancholic soundscapes, lost in the middle of a forest on a gelid winter day, as guitars craft mellow melodies surrounded by cold heartbreaking atmospheres while blackened dynamics tend to linger in the background providing steady riffing.

“Nebula” showcases hints of hellish black metal with ominous growls but the instrumental passages tend to follow a calmer melodic approach and a sorrowful mood as graceful folk oriented acoustic phrases hold a primary role in the song’s structure.

“Frostland” feels more aggressive with a feverish guitar riffing keeping a rather obscure rhythmic backbone enhanced by the occasional fiery growls while lead guitars channel pure darkness with elegantly somber melodic progressions.

“The Suns Blood” emerges from a sonic realm of uncompromising darkness as guitar riffs acquire extra cold gritty tonalities and the solo is accompanied by an overwhelming sense of despair fully expressed also by the poetic clean chants and the contrasting ravenous growls nevertheless the final minimalist acoustic passages channel a distant serenity.

Like a hymn to endless darkness “The Funeral” is bound to feel more depressing and desolate as soft acoustic guitars lead the way to a sunless soundscape where lavish and desperate guitar melodies create monochromatic textures leading to introspective atmospheric moments carefully crafted by hazy keyboards.

Overall, Skogen’s fifth album “Skuggorna Kallar” is a cohesive effort that skillfully blends primordial black metal vibes and enchanting folk nuances ultimately evoking the wintry beauty of Nordic landscapes.

Epica – Epica vs. Attack On Titan

Undoubtedly Dutch symphonic metal masters Epica have been unstoppable conquering the hearts of so many fans worldwide and they have also proven to be workaholic musicians. This time they are ready to surprise the audience with an unusual work of music as Epica’s latest offering is a special covers EP entitled “Epica vs. Attack On Titan”, previously available only in Japan, which features four metal versions, available also as instrumentals, of the theme songs from the highly successful manga series turned worldwide aired anime “Attack On Titan”.

“Crimson Bow And Arrow” opens with the expected overdose of magnificent operatic choirs further enhanced by massive detailed orchestrations as keyboards become particularly crucial in the song’s structure offering impressive soloing moments while Simone delivers her signature passionate vocals that always delight the fans. The theatrical narratives accompanied by an intense combo of guitar riffing and keyboards layers also increase the epic nature of this track.

“Wings Of Freedom” begins with monumental chants followed by a winning series of melodic phrases yet the song will pick up speed with massive drumming and soaring guitar riffs accompanied by Mark’s venomous growls but will never sacrifice its inner theatrical grandeur with plenty of charming & eclectic orchestral arrangements.

“If Inside These Walls Was A House” is the most dramatic track focusing on gentle atmospheric arrangements and a softer ballad style approach yet symphonic textures will eventually take over.

“Dedicate Your Heart!” can deliver fierce rhythmic crescendos constantly embellished by Simone’s charismatic delivery and sumptuous choirs while the instrumental passages shine once again for the vibrant and diverse keyboards arrangements.

While waiting for the next full length Epica’s fans will enjoy the majestic arrangements, very much in the band’s beloved signature style, that render this collection of Japanese anime-songs quite unique.