Category: Album Reviews 2020

Katla – Allt þetta helvítis myrkur

Icelandic duo Katla brings to life a mesmerizing artistic vision through the opulent melancholic soundscapes of the sophomore release “Allt þetta helvítis myrkur”.

The immersive voyage begins with the darkened atmospheric soul of “Ást orðum ofar” as enigmatic distorted guitars and solemn vocals eventually evolve into gentle acoustic phrases. 

There are graceful melodic moments on “Villuljós” yet the mood is bound to become increasingly darker as the mournful doom inspiration thrives within the gelid rhythmic ensemble generating heavier riffage and anguished tonalities enriched by an eclectic guitar solo. 

“Sálarsvefn” is drenched in darkness as the intricate synths layers create an arcane atmospheric grandeur and the consequent obscure vibes will naturally lead to a blackened momentum amplified by tormented growls and faster drumming. 

Listening to the title track you feel surrounded by cold winter winds as the cinematic nature is fully expressed by the convoluted atmospheric waves and the harmonious classical tapestries while guitars & vocals focus on an enthralling blend of melancholic phrases and doom elements. 

The complex lengthy track “Svartnætti” can feel like a beautiful daydream due to the peaceful acoustic melodies and the elegant piano yet the inner darkness will often emerge through the faster intense rhythmic crescendos and the harsh tones of the guitar work that lead to a majestic grand finale characterized by epic arrangements & choirs. 

The spiritual connection with the wintry Icelandic landscapes is palpable throughout “Allt þetta helvítis myrkur” as Katla confidently showcase a fascinating songwriting style and embark on a cathartic journey exploring the depths of human emotions. 

https://prophecy.lnk.to/katla-album-2020

Warlung – Optical Delusions

Texas heavy rockers Warlung skillfully blend horror themes and retro tonalities on the latest offering “Optical Delusions”.

On “Phantasmagoria” the occult rock essence naturally thrives within the atmospheric grandeur reminiscing of classic horror movies while guitars don’t waste any time and deliver the expected dosage of galloping riffs and charismatic leads. 

“Sun Eater” relies on hazy rock nuances keeping a distinct retro flair as the rhythm slows down channeling sheer nostalgia amplified by the mellow vocal delivery and the bittersweet melodic nature of the guitar solos. 

“Order Of The Solar Temple” returns to an inflamed groovy approach as the heavy riffage holds a fundamental role in the creation of robust rhythmic patterns that also bear the influence of classic rock while the occasional melodic moments evoke somber feelings. 

The mood of “Devil’s Game” becomes aptly darker as the excellent guitar work often follows a slower mystifying rhythm that enhances the moody melodic spirit and the particularly passionate vocal performance. 

Throughout “No Man’s Land” guitars are destined to steal the spotlight once again shifting from bold riffs to soothing melodic phrases that clearly channel glorious ‘70s vibes and will reach the acme with the flamboyant energy of the soloing. 

On “Optical Delusions” everything flows naturally without bombastic special effects as Warlung fully embrace a genuine songwriting approach with an authentic psyched attitude that generates an interesting mix of melodies & grooves. 

Obsidian Kingdom – Meat Machine

Spanish experimental rockers Obsidian Kingdom continue to bravely push boundaries on the latest release “Meat Machine” which from beginning to end manifests an eclectic songwriting approach.  

“The Edge” tend to rely on the raw energy of acidic guitar riffs to create robust groovy patterns with a hardcore attitude but will eventually embrace an atmospheric ensemble characterized by darkened & dreamy nuances. 

On “The Pump” vocals and guitars focus on a rather harsh sonic assault that leads to chaotic yet rather catchy patterns interrupted by the futuristic tonalities of the calmer atmospheric arrangements.  

“Mr Pan” immediately follows a more electro oriented pathway as the synths carefully craft a darkly soothing atmosphere at times spiced up by the bold rhythmic section and the wild shredding of the extensive guitar solo. 

On “Flesh World” the atmospheric tapestries flow gently like fading memories embellished by charming vocal harmonies and shimmering electronic accents while the melodic guitar work also enhances the melancholic mood. 

A lovely melancholia continues to linger through the atmospheric layers and the moody guitar melodies on “Meat Star” nevertheless the tormented vocals and the rhythmic tension can easily channel a somber heavier momentum. 

“A Foe” begins with a bittersweet ballad style piano and an ethereal vocal delivery that emphasize the emotional motif while synths and guitars fully embrace an enigmatic post-rock inspiration that conveys a mysterious atmosphere. 

There is so much going on throughout “Meat Machine” and trying to pinpoint a specific musical direction becomes futile as Obsidian Kingdom deliberately aim to surprise the audience creating a rich multifaceted sonic realm. 

Enslaved – Utgard

Norwegian black-prog metal pioneers Enslaved have reached another crucial milestone with the release of the ambitious 15th album “Utgard” which in Norse mythology is a landscape where the giants dwell but here represents something more complex or even a realm beyond your own consciousness. 

The solemn chants on “Fires In The Dark” easily convey a gelid atmosphere that matches the band’s Viking spirit and even if the acoustic phrases can add a melancholic shroud while some rhythmic patterns showcase follow an eclectic prog pathway the vicious growls and the inflamed guitar riffs still belong to a primal sonic realm.  

The faster rhythmic rampage throughout “Jettegryta” can certainly channel an arcane black metal essence further amplified by the intensity of the hellish growls yet there are some intriguing prog twists and dazzling keyboards arrangements which add diversity.  

“Sequence” relies on a series of robust guitar driven grooves skillfully entwined with intricate keyboards layers that can create a fascinating contrast between the darkened vibes of the riffage and the luminous atmospheric nuances naturally emphasizing the song’s introspective nature. 

While the raw energy of the fierce guitar riffs and the shattering blackened dynamics hold a significant role, “Flight Of Thought And Memory” offers glowing melodic crescendos and cathartic feelings clearly expressed by the soothing clean vocals and the hazy atmospheric arrangements. 

“Storms Of Utgard” gravitates towards a balanced mixture of complex prog oriented patterns that reach the acme with a particularly alluring guitar solo and savage darkened rhythmic segments amplified by the furious growls successfully evoking an emotional turmoil. 

The journey into and through “Utgard” can be challenging and at the same time enchanting as Enslaved courageously continue to follow a convoluted avant-garde sonic evolution which might often diverge from the style of their early discography but is definitely bound to pleasantly surprise the listeners.  

Amaranthe – Manifest

During the last decade Amaranthe have developed an explosive modern metal style that today aims to reach new heights with the inflamed energy of the latest full length “Manifest”.  

“Fearless” ensures the expected bombastic beginning of the album combining futuristic accents and heavy riffage to create robust rhythmic blasts while the chorus certainly sounds radio friendly with a polished melodic flair. 

“Make It Better” can feel quite aggressive as the powerful guitar riffs lead the way to a shiny electro infused sonic realm where all the vocalists have a chance to shine and build together a super catchy chorus. 

As the title suggests “Adrenaline” relies on energetic rhythmic patterns featuring monumental drumming and fancy guitar soloing but at the core you will find plenty of accessible pop elements emphasized by the dazzling keyboards. 

Featuring guest vocalist Noora Louhimo of Battle Beast “Strong” focuses on the fascinating vocal duet which can definitely express a sense of empowerment accompanied by shimmering synths arrangements and memorable rhythmic dynamics.  

On “The Game” the multilayered synths have a fundamental role generating a futuristic mood around the glowing vocal harmonies that amplify the inner melodic essence in contrast with the fiery riffage and the vicious growls. 

There is a darkened atmosphere lingering through “Archangel” which tends to focus on a heavier rhythm embellished by an overload of moody electronic accents while the big chorus manages to maintain catchy melodic vibes. 

“Die And Wake Up” is full of playful rhythmic dynamics unfolding around the excellent vocal interplay and obviously while the chorus continues to put the spotlight on Elize Ryd’s alluring voice the guitar driven heavier momentum is enhanced by Henrik Englund Wilhelmsson’s spiteful growls.  

Undoubtedly the strength of “Manifest” comes from the creative force of guitarist Olof Mörck and the charming blend of three different voices, in fact this release demonstrates that Amaranthe are steadily following a rather successful musical pathway. 

Napalm Death – Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism

UK grindcore pioneers Napalm Death have been releasing ruthless extreme music for nearly 40 years and the latest offering “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” aims to showcase that their ferocious creative approach is still relevant within the modern metal scene. 

You cannot escape the incessant fury of “Fuck The Factoid” as the massive riffage, the inevitable breakneck speed and the angered growls keep a straightforward brutal formula.  

“That Curse Of Being In Thrall” continues to rely on a full blown sonic aggression through the expected super heavy rhythmic section and obviously the overdose of unrestrained guitar riffs which barely slows down at times. 

“Contagion” doesn’t necessarily deviate from the familiar blueprint but the rhythmic patterns can successfully follow a mid-paced tempo that highlights the somber tones of the groovy guitar work. 

On “Invigorating Clutch” the guitar phrases and the atmospheric textures channel a perennial sense of despair around the ravenous growls and the belligerent guitar riffs.

Throughout “Amoral” the guitar riffs embrace darker vibes and a rebellious attitude with a slight punk influence that leads to slower and absolutely catchy rhythmic dynamics. 

The title track begins with insanely harsh growls that foreshadow the majestic force of the  blistering rhythmic onslaught constantly fueled by the wicked combo of savage riffage & drumming.  

The ominous atmosphere of “A Bellyful of Salt and Spleen” demands a slightly slower yet absolutely menacing rhythm as the industrial oriented ambiance generates a dystopian sonic realm amplified by the lugubrious baritone vocal delivery. 

With an incredibly extensive & successful career Napalm Death now simply show no mercy as they continue to unleash a grindcore force that on “Throes Of Joy In The Jaws Of Defeatism” will leave you shattered & satisfied. 

Dark Tranquillity – Moment

Swedish melodic death metal icons Dark Tranquillity have built an incredibly strong legacy that is destined to flourish throughout the new album “Moment” which once again showcases their unstoppable creative force. 

There is a shimmering atmosphere around “Phantom Days” which naturally maintains a darkened immersive mood while the feverish guitar riffs have the ability to create robust rhythmic patterns which clearly stay true to the band’s beloved melo-death flair always emphasized by Mikael Stanne’s savage growls. 

“The Dark Unbroken” is destined to conquer your heart with the opulent keyboards arrangements channeling immense melancholia as the tempo often slows down to highlight the enthralling introspective mood fully expressed by the clean vocal delivery. 

“Remain In The Unknown” immediately enters a darkly soulful melodic realm with mesmerizing clean vocals and intricate magical atmospheric multilayers enriched by the charismatic licks of the impeccable guitar solo. 

Throughout “Standstill” the keyboards continue to hold a fundamental role creating an overdose of harmonious tapestries that tend to enhance the emotional nature of the vocals while the fiery rhythmic section can create engaging and slightly heavier dynamics. 

The essence of “A Drawn Out Exit” feels increasingly darker, consequently the guitars acquire obscure tonalities that naturally lead to a perfectly balanced blend of mournful melodic phrases and groovy riffage marching through darkened atmospheric waves. 

“Eyes Of The World” is an anthemic melo-death track as you will find plenty of powerful riffs and brilliant leads while the captivating melancholic guitar melodies are bound to grab your attention thriving within the shimmering atmospheric grandeur enhanced by Mikael’s poignant vocal performance.

“In Truth Divided” marks a cathartic closure as the gothic tinged splendor comes to life through the lavish atmospheric layers surrounding the gloomy guitar phrases and the precise rhythmic dynamics intensified by Mikael’s spellbinding clean vocals. 

The indisputable strength of “Moment” comes from the detailed songwriting approach, the excellent production and the genuine emotions that Dark Tranquillity masterfully bring to life with their signature Gothenburg melodic death metal style that continues to influence musicians worldwide and shines brighter in every song. 

Vous Autres – Sel De Pierre

French post black metal duo Vous Autres embark on a gloomy sonic journey through the enigmatic soundscapes of the sophomore full length “Sel de Pierre”.

The obscure atmosphere surrounding “Onde” generates a world of despair and grief where guitars can sound ferocious providing intense riffage with a strong black metal influence but also focus on extremely somber tonalities creating captivating melodic passages. 

“Vesuve” relies on haunting guitar melodies flourishing through a bleak & convoluted atmospheric maze while the anguished screams and the heavier rhythmic patterns continue to channel a primordial blackened inspiration. 

“Ecueil” puts aside the blackened fury allowing the synths to create a bewitching atmospheric realm following a rather experimental approach that leads to modern electro multilayers and dreamy feelings. 

“In Humus” dwells in a mysterious limbo between darkness and light as the slow wistful guitar melodies flow gently through the misty atmospheric waves and complement the ethereal female vocals in contrast with the tormented rhythmic momentum.  

Surrounded by an atmospheric melancholy “Sel de Pierre” might appear as an ode to darkness yet Vous Autres have also the ability to bring glimpses of light & hope through vivid melodic tapestries. 

Crystal Spiders – Molt

North Carolina’s heavy duo Crystal Spiders has the potential to draw attention with the doomy psychedelic tinged soundscapes of the debut album “Molt”. 

The album opener “Trapped” already manifests a hazy sonic vision as the rumbling bass lines introduce a robust stoner rock rampage and the bold guitar riffs hold a delightful vintage doomy flair.  

The title track unleashes some cool stomping rhythmic patterns fueled by the raw energy of the heavy riffage and the faster wild drumming while the powerful vocal delivery certainly matches the groovy attitude. 

Throughout “Chronic Sick” the guitar work diligently follows a bewitching ’70s style delivering monumental riffs with a strong classic doom influence that dictates a darkened rhythm enriched by the slow burning guitar solo. 

On “The Call” the retro tonalities of the guitar generate an overload of gritty riffs following a frenetic rhythmic core that makes you feel good until everything slows down drastically as the chunky bass and the soothing vocals lead you through a sorrowful melodic realm. 

On the darkly hypnotic final track ”Fog” the guitar riffs acquire massive psychedelic tones and everything feels inevitably spacey while the comforting vocal harmonies flourish gently through the fuzzy rhythmic maze. 

The fuzz-addicted sonic pathway chosen by Crystal Spiders naturally thrives throughout “Molt” which definitely has the necessary enthusiasm and passion to conquer the listeners.

Uada – Djinn

Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Uada might still be a new name for some people but, as they continue to garner great interest within the underground metal scene, the ambitious third full length “Djinn” has the potential to conquer more acolytes. 

The title track perfectly shows how Uada have developed an intriguing style focusing on magical melodic crescendos that certainly emphasize the role of the charismatic guitar leads while the heavier rhythmic segments and the hellish growls channel savage blackened vibes.

The somber mood of “The Great Mirage” comes to life through the poetic guitar melodies which are destined to spellbind the listeners yet the relentless riffage and the frenetic drumming once again highlight the arcane influence of classic black metal. 

“No Place Here” immediately unleashes a palpable blackened fury through faster asphyxiating rhythmic patterns but a dreamy melodic soul will often prevail as the cathartic aspects and the luminous tonalities of the shimmering lead guitar work can even convey a pale sense of hopefulness. 

“Between Two Worlds” brings closure with a dramatic momentum fueled by pure darkness that can generate mysterious atmospheric waves and harsh rhythmic dynamics while the profound melancholy feels overwhelming within the melodic grandeur skillfully crafted by the dazzling shredding and the exquisite harmonies of the extensive guitar solo.  

Undoubtedly you can constantly perceive the darkened soul of Uada throughout “Djinn” which easily stands out for the alluring melodic essence yet never refrains from exploring a heavier primordial sonic pathway.