Category: Album Reviews 2020

Aversions Crown – Hell Will Come For Us All

Australian blackened deathcore outfit Aversions Crown begin a new sonic endeavor with a finalized line-up and a ferocious energy on the latest full length “Hell Will Come For Us All”. 

The cold atmospheric intro on “The Soil” foreshadows the darkened vibes that surround the savage rhythmic section and the precise guitar riffs accompanied by belligerent growls constantly amplify the aggressive sonic pathway. 

On “Paradigm” the lead guitar work immediately showcases a technical flair leading to vicious rhythmic blasts well supported by the breakneck speed of the drums while a gloomy atmosphere will trigger a contemplative melodic breakdown. 

You simply cannot escape the darkness running through the title track as the mournful ambience introduces an unrestrained rhythmic assault filled with abrasive guitar riffs, ruthless drum blasts and spiteful growls yet the guitar leads add some fascinating melodic progressions. 

“Sorrow Never Sleeps” dwells within a somber atmospheric realm where guitars naturally acquire dismal tonalities to create crestfallen melodic crescendos but certainly the band doesn’t sacrifice the inner anger as demonstrated by the moments of sheer brutality concocted by an explosive rhythmic section. 

“The Final Judgement” brings closure with a dismal mood reminding us that the end is near so the dramatic atmospheric ensemble evokes grim feelings matched by the darkened guitar harmonies flourishing through the merciless rhythmic patterns. 

The world of “Hell Will Come For Us All” is filled with fury and sorrows as Aversions Crown focus on a visceral technical songwriting approach embellished by a fair dosage of impeccable melodic twists. 

Carach Angren – Franckensteina Strataemontanus

Dutch masters of horror Carach Angren have crafted the new creepy opus “Franckensteina Strataemontanus” inspired by Mary Shelly’s novel ‘Frankenstein’ manifesting a visionary blend of extreme metal and decadent symphonic tapestries. 

The horrific fairytale begins with the spooky soundscapes of “Scourged Ghoul Undead” which unravels an imposing mix of elaborate flamboyant symphonic arrangements and ravenous blackened rhythmic blasts fueled by an obscure force amplified by the devilish growls and the deadly march of the drums. 

The title track shines for the wild extremely intricate orchestrations that immediately create a catchy yet twisted sonic realm where frightful entities lurk in the dark as the nightmarish melodies become entwined with merciless rhythmic progressions enriched by the solemn narratives. 

“Sewn for Solitude” stands out for the neoclassical splendor as the lavish multilayered orchestrations showcase a magical creativity leading to a majestic atmospheric ensemble surrounding the heavier sinister rhythmic core. 

“Operation Compass” welcomes you to a ghastly world that belongs to monstrous blackened rhythmic progressions constantly embellished by the majestic theatrical arrangements blending grave classical tonalities and suspenseful atmospheric crescendos. 

“Der Vampir von Nürnberg” begins with scary playful vibes that continue to successfully emphasize the album’s horror motifs and while the blackened essence is still present the detailed orchestrations convey a fascinating classical grandeur that highlights the crucial role of the eerie melodic themes and the sublime atmospheric layers. 

The dramatic final track “Like a Conscious Parasite I Roam” offers an overdose of gorgeous classical melodies and stylish symphonic textures reminiscent of a baroque operetta that flourishes incessantly through the dark energy of the rhythmic patterns. 

It becomes quite evident that Carach Angren’s music vision is always intriguing due to the magnificent symphonic & classical keyboards arrangements that on “Franckensteina Strataemontanus” constantly enrich the heavy patterns and ultimately create the ideal soundtrack for a horror movie. 

Hail Spirit Noir – Eden In Reverse

Psychedelic prog metal band Hail Spirit Noir confidently embraces an experimental music pathway to embark on a galactic journey that leads to the fourth full length “Eden In Reverse”.

“Incense Swirls” already manifests an enigmatic essence that makes you space out easily blending interesting proggy patterns and multifaceted cosmic atmospheres balanced by a moody melodic soul also emphasized by the soothing vocal delivery. 

Featuring Lars Nedland of Borknagar “Crossroads” begins with passionate vocal harmonies and soon enters an eclectic prog oriented sonic realm that relies on glowing guitar progressions surrounded by rich synths layers and psychedelic accents that generate a strong trippy momentum. 

“The First Ape On New Earth” holds a heavier rhythmic core unleashing immediately a series of sharp riffs supported by faster rhythmic blasts nevertheless due to the intricate composition there are many variations of style & pace throughout the songs leading to luminous guitar melodies and captivating multilayered synths offering robotic electro beats as well as elegant atmospheric textures. 

“Automata 1980” is a full blown futuristic trip as the wide array of strange & eerie electronic sounds and the insane psychedelic vibes might induce a trance-like state but later guitars begin to craft smooth melodic crescendos enhanced by the somber emotions of the vocals. 

It becomes quickly clear that Hail Spirit Noir are driven by a desire to explore diverse music styles leading to the shapeshifting soundscapes of “Eden In Reverse” which in fact will inevitably attract a niche audience. 

Kall – Brand

Founded in 2012 by former members of influential depressive black metal band Lifelover, Swedish progressive blackened band Kall crafts unique soundscapes on the sophomore release “Brand”.

Listening to “Rise” you can immediately perceive Kall’s eclectic music vision as mournful blackened guitar riffs create an introverted instrumental ensemble that will often evolve into intricate melodic passages or heavier abrasive rhythmic patterns. 

“Fervour” is surrounded by a dreamy atmosphere that emphasizes the presence of wistful guitar melodies that at times will embrace darker rhythmic crescendos embellished by the elegant tonalities of the saxophone. 

The mystifying mini opus “Fukta Din Aska” constantly showcases a complex experimental approach offering heavy rhythmic dynamics and obscure tonalities but the direction can change drastically anytime as the moody melodic guitar work and the enticing saxophone channel shoegaze nuances and even chaotic psychedelic vibes. 

“Hide Below” begins with mellow harmonies evoking an immense melancholia that continues to flourish through cathartic rhythmic crescendos as guitars acquire hazy tonalities accompanied by tormented screams to enhance the contemplative momentum that ultimately leads to surreal dissonant progressions. 

While “Brand” is certainly fueled by a darkened enigmatic force Kall tend to surprise the listeners with unusual sounds and unexpected instrumental twists aiming to achieve a distinct sonic identity far from any standard music category. 

Atavist – III: Absolution

After a 10 year hiatus British death/doom stalwarts Atavist return triumphantly with the monolithic full length “III: Absolution” which unleashes an overdose of crushing doom dynamics and profoundly melancholic melodies. 

On “Loss” the mellow somber rhythm emphasizes the crucial role of the heart wrenching violin melodies entwined with gorgeous guitar phrases to create a sublime melodic realm that will ultimately embrace a majestic heavier doom ensemble enhanced by tormented growls and extremely lugubrious tonalities. 

“Struggle” can easily spread an overwhelming darkness as the agonizing growls and the extreme heavy weight of the harrowing guitar riffs create a grave sonic realm where the funeral doom style is destined to thrive leading to painfully slow rhythmic dynamics. 

Surrounded by an understated mysterious atmosphere “Absolution” constantly evokes grim feelings as the stunning refined guitar melodies and the melancholic tonalities amplify the emotive themes while the monolithic rhythmic section continues to follow an obscure doom metal pathway that reaches a glorious acme with the ravishing violin harmonies. 

Atavist know exactly how to create a truly intense doom album in fact with deeply mournful progressions and a cathartic melodic essence. “III: Absolution” invites you to embark on a challenging emotional journey. 

The Moon And The Nightspirit – Aether

Since many years Hungarian duo The Moon And The Nightspirit has created mythical folk music that aims to spellbind you once again with the opulent new album “Aether”. 

On the title track the mystical chants guide you through a magical sonic realm where the glowing atmospheric tapestries and the stylish acoustic phrases build enchanting rhythmic crescendos that have the power to take you far away from reality. 

“Kaputlan Kapukon Át” feels like being in the middle of the woods as the folk melodic splendor generates lavish multilayered acoustic progressions and luminous tonalities embellished by delicate vocal harmonies.  

The mood becomes darker on “Égi Messzeségek” as the acoustic arrangements naturally blend mysterious nuances and shimmering harmonies further emphasized by the pulsating rhythm and the contrasting emotions expressed by the vocal duet. 

Listening to “Asha” we’re dreaming the same dream as the wistful acoustic passages, the gorgeous strings and the graceful vocals create intricate melodic waves that can warm your heart. 

With “Aether” The Moon And The Nightspirit have reached a new milestone in their long standing career as all the tracks shine for the meticulous composition and flow like a daydream destined to linger in your mind. 

BPMD – American Made

The legendary Bobby Blitz of Overkill joined forces with Mike Portnoy of The Winery Dogs & Sons of Apollo, Mark Menghi of Metal Allegiance and Phil Demmel of Vio-lence for a new explosive music endeavor under the moniker BPMD and the debut album “American Made” is a full blown heavy metal party featuring covers of rock classics. 

For Ted Nugent’s “Wang Dang Sweet Poontang” Bobby Blitz makes a wild introduction with his signature vocal delivery and as soon as the instrumental ensemble takes the center stage with sharp guitar riffs and killer licks you can perceive a major positive energy.  

Aerosmith’s “Toys in the Attic” is filled with gritty riffs perfect for a heavy metal party amplified by Bobby’s charismatic vocal performance and the fast rhythmic section that ensures a constant groovy mood enriched by the impeccable guitar solo. 

“Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers” by ZZ Top is another wicked groovy tune that channels intense old school vibes with fiery rounds of soaring guitar riffs and wild shredding in proper heavy metal fashion. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Saturday Night Special” features a monumental classic metal formula combining bold rhythmic blasts and an overdose of eclectic guitar solos showcasing outstanding musicianship and the resulting massive grooves will certainly trigger instant headbanging. 

Blue Oyster Cult’s “Tattoo Vampire” acquires a darker rebellious momentum that builds super catchy fast dynamics with scorching guitar riffs, unrestrained drumming and Bobby’s savage vocals. 

“We’re an American Band” by Grand Funk Railroad is all about an entertaining classic heavy metal formula channeling major vintage vibes with vibrant rhythmic patterns and delightful melodic guitar progressions. 

It would be a blast seeing BPMD perform live the entire album “American Made” and listening to the reimagination of all these rock songs you can always perceive outpouring talent and enthusiasm.

Constellatia – The Language Of Limbs

South African post metal outfit Constellatia recently signed with Season Of Mist and the reissue of the debut album “The Language Of Limbs” now has the chance to attract a wider audience with darkly emotional soundscapes. 

“All Nights Belong To You” confidently follows a wistful instrumental pathway as the dreamy shoegaze atmosphere naturally embraces the crushing blackened rhythmic section and will reach the acme during the slower hazy passages embellished by angelic vocals. 

“In Acclamation” flows like a daydream as the ethereal atmospheric tapestries and the shimmering guitar melodies constantly evoke pure melancholia yet the rhythmic patterns can often evolve into fast & vicious blackened blasts before returning to a calmer contemplative ensemble. 

The eloquent melodic essence of “The Garden” emphasizes an intense sense of longing as guitars tend to focus on soft acoustic phrases, glowing progressions and compelling leads in contrast with the faster mournful rhythmic segments accompanied by desperate screams. 

Throughout “The Language Of Limbs” you will find a monumental blackened inspiration yet the opulent nostalgia infused melodies become the main focus as Constellatia never cease to express poignant feelings.  

Black Rainbows – Cosmic Ritual Supertrip

 

Italian legendary stoner rock trio Black Rainbows reaches a new milestone with the eighth full length “Cosmic Ritual Supertrip” and as the title suggests you will feel compelled to join this trippy roller coaster. 

“At Midnight You Cry” already unleashes the cosmic energy of the whole album with steady powerful guitar riffs that keep unrestrained grooves from beginning to end following an explosive stoner rock formula. 

“Radio 666” immediately feels like a ‘70s spacey jam with the perfect dosage of fuzzy guitar driven grooves, moody vocals and a subtle nostalgic flair enhanced by the entertaining hazy soloing. 

It’s time for total fuzz worship as “Hypnotized By The Solenoid” showcases massive psychedelic vibes through compelling melodic guitar progressions that will ultimately acquire addictive groovy tonalities leading to an extensive wild solo. 

“Glittereyzed” begins with captivating psychedelic tinged nuances that make you feel slightly dazed but gradually the excellent rhythmic section will embrace a significantly heavier pathway crafting monumental guitar driven grooves. 

The gritty guitar riffs and the savage drumming of “Sacred Graal” spontaneously generate massive catchy dynamics that can trigger instant stomping & headbanging channeling the magical power of vintage heavy rock. 

“Searching For Satellites Part I & II” holds a darkened soul within the somber tonalities of the spaced out acoustic guitars that will acquire an understated energy flourishing through the surreal psychedelic atmospheric waves.   

“Fire Breather” closes the album with major psychedelic cosmic accents and an inflamed groovy momentum fueled by the memorable guitar solo and the monolithic riffs that showcase also an intriguing doom inspiration. 

Black Rainbows confidently keep a heavy delightful approach throughout “Cosmic Ritual Supertrip” which obviously is all about massive psychedelic stoner grooves ideal for a live show in the middle of the desert. 

Wolftooth – Valhalla

Stoner metal riff worshippers Wolftooth aim to impress the underground metal scene with loads of memorable guitar driven grooves on the sophomore full length “Valhalla”.

“The Possession” doesn’t waste any time as guitars deliver monumental riffs with a distinct old school approach that inevitably generates a cohesive series of bold grooves and charismatic leads while the powerful vocal delivery also emphasizes the traditional heavy metal inspiration. 

The title track continues to highlight the twin guitar action with explosive riffage perfectly supported by the groovy drumming but the intense melodic progressions tend to steal the spotlight with epic vibes and nostalgic nuances. 

The adventurous spirit of “Fear For Eternity” comes to life through significantly heavier & faster rhythmic patterns demanding instant headbanging while the lead guitar work unleashes some wild shredding through a subtle doom tinged ensemble. 

“Scylla & Charybdis” combines a stoner metal flair and classic heavy metal to craft colossal groovy dynamics as guitars proudly offer robust riffs and smooth harmonies that will ultimately lead to an extensive grandiose solo. 

“Crying Of The Wolves” still channels an intense energy with a generous dosage of crunchy riffage yet tends to favor a somber melodic essence with the soothing vocal delivery and the glowing guitar harmonies that will often embrace a gloomy doom pathway. 

Needless to say the main focus throughout “Valhalla” is the creation of massive guitar riffs and Wolftooth also successfully channel all the glory of 70’s and early 80’s NWOBHM with a classic songwriting approach and authentic passion.