Category: Album Reviews 2021

Tribulation – Where The Gloom Becomes Sound

In the midst of shadows and mysteries Tribulation emerge with the fifth full-length “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” which is certainly one of the most anticipated albums of the year and embodies a magical voyage through the depths of darkness. 

On “In Remembrance” the baroque atmospheric tapestries foreshadow the addictive darkness that will flourish through the fascinating guitar progressions leading to an exquisite solo and memorable rhythmic dynamics which can easily channel a raw heavy metal energy. 

The gothic flair of “Hour Of The Wolf” is bound to thrive within the magnetic melodic guitar work which also never fails to deliver a generous dosage of catchy riffs enhanced by the solemn drum blasts and the sinister growls. 

“Leviathans” often focuses on an opulent shimmering melodic essence yet naturally channels antediluvian motifs which ultimately lead to the epic feel of the guitar phrases and the arcane nuances of the atmospheric arrangements.  

Throughout “Dirge Of A Dying Soul” guitars acquire doom laden tonalities conveying a lugubrious mood with the heavy weight of the riffage amplified by the tormented growls and the obscure atmospheric waves while the harmonious progressions move sinuously within a bleak soundscape. 

“Inanna” puts the spotlight on the intricate guitar work which is destined to spellbind you with a lavish series of charismatic progressions drenched in perpetual darkness and immense melancholia that generate irresistible eloquent melodies.  

A sublime darkness permeates “The Wilderness” as the majestic rhythmic dynamics conjure a powerful nocturnal force and while the riffs hold significant heavy tones an eerie melodic spirit comes to life within the sophisticated guitar leads and the seductive atmospheric arrangements. 

Listening to “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” you will inevitably feel compelled to enter a supernatural gothified sonic realm as without any hesitation Tribulation invoke the five elements to create a truly bewitching opus. 

Phantom Elite – Titanium

Fronted by talented vocalist Marina La Torraca, Phantom Elite manifests a fiery symphonic metal essence with interesting modern twists on the sophomore release “Titanium”.  

“Conjure Rains” is a powerful album opener as the electro layers and the precise rhythmic dynamics unfold naturally around Marina’s charismatic vocals and you can certainly appreciate the prog metal influences within the elaborate lead guitar work. 

“Diamonds And Dark” begins with melancholic piano melodies that will continue to emerge throughout the song maintaining a soulful melodic flair while the overload of inflamed guitar riffs and lavish symphonic tapestries can evoke darker feelings. 

“Worst Part Of Me” still holds a charming melodic essence enhanced by the emotional vocal delivery yet guitars have a chance to unleash massive heavier riffage and acquire darkened tonalities amplified by the ravenous screams courtesy of guest vocalist Stef Rikken.  

The intricate title track often follows a heavy monumental rhythm fueled by bold drumming and aggressive riffage while the excellent guitar work delivers flamboyant technical progressions as well as luminous polished melodies. 

On “Silver Lining” the electro textures become quite dominant to spice up the catchy blend of refined symphonic arrangements and guitar driven grooves further enriched by a compelling solo and heartfelt vocal harmonies. 

“Eyes Wide Open” provides a balanced mix of dazzling melodic passages emphasized by Marina’s impressive vocal range and heavier prog oriented dynamics that allow guitars to skillfully craft a fair dosage of groovy patterns.  

Undoubtedly the strength of “Titanium” relies on Marina’s vocal prowess yet it should be noted that Phantom Elite are already shaping a personal sonic identity inspired by the successful symphonic metal formula. 

The Dead Daisies – Holy Ground

Featuring a collective of extraordinary musicians, The Dead Daisies continue their rock ‘n’ roll journey without any hesitation on the new fiery full length “Holy Ground” introducing new band member Glenn Hughes. 

On “Holy Ground (Shake The Memory)” the combination of Glenn’s charismatic true rocker vocal delivery and super catchy guitar progressions with hints of melancholia will instantly grab your attention and the resulting energetic ensemble is further enriched by the fancy soloing.   

“Like No Other (Bassline)” offers an energetic instrumental ensemble fueled by an overdose of gritty guitar riffs, flamboyant leads and a majestic bass solo unfolding around Glenn’s impressive vocal delivery. 

“My Fate” stands out for the extra groovy guitar progressions which can acquire heavier tonalities and raw energy in contrast with the smooth melodic phrases and the mellow vocals  evoking sheer nostalgia. 

“Saving Grace” continues to embody the authentic rock soul of the whole album as guitars constantly deliver inflamed riffage supported by the impeccable drumming while the outstanding  guitar solo might steal the spotlight. 

While “Unspoken” can offer intense groovy dynamics leading to a rather catchy chorus you will perceive some melancholic moments as the vibrant guitar phrases follow a slower soulful rhythm. 

The nostalgic ballad style of “Far Away” shifts the focus to a bittersweet mood so Glenn’s vocal performance effortlessly conveys poignant emotions and guitars will embrace dreamy nuances creating fascinating melodic crescendos that will evolve into high voltage grooves in the finale. 

Undoubtedly the glorious spirit of classic hard rock thrives triumphantly throughout “Holy Ground” as The Dead Daisies create a memorable and highly enjoyable collection of passionate songs that never fails to showcase their stellar musicianship.  

Therion – Leviathan

Swedish titans Therion proudly reach another crucial milestone releasing the 17th studio album “Leviathan” that will delight their faithful fans with intricate dynamics, classic metal grooves and operatic grandeur. 

“The Leaf On The Oak Of Far” is packed with catchy guitar driven grooves reminiscing of the glorious days of heavy metal while the symphonic tapestries and the solemn operatic choirs can effortlessly convey a fascinating dramatic depth.  

“Die Wellen Der Zeit” feels like an elegant operetta as the passionate vocal harmonies, the classical nuances of the rich multilayered atmospheric arrangements and the graceful melodic textures emphasize the exquisite symphonic splendor. 

“Eye Of Algol” certainly combines the main elements of a Therion hit song as the darkened rhythmic patterns are constantly fueled by energetic riffage and Near Eastern flavors enriched by the charismatic choirs.

On “Nocturnal Light” the magnificent elaborate atmospheric ensemble surrounds a series of  spellbinding melodic crescendos while the stellar blend of theatrical choirs and Thomas Vikstrom’s captivating vocal performance is destined to steal the spotlight.  

The mood of “Psalm Of Retribution” becomes significantly darker as the symphonic tapestries and the striking operatic choirs acquire arcane tonalities around the memorable heavy rhythmic patterns while a charming dreamy essence will come to life with refined orchestral arrangements. 

“Ten Courts Of Diyu” stands out for the detailed composition that naturally creates an enthralling mixture of melancholia infused progressions and sumptuous orchestrations enhanced by the diverse flawless vocal deliveries and the irresistible melodic flair of the excellent guitar solo. 

Undoubtedly “Leviathan” maintains the majestic symphonic essence that conquered so many acolytes worldwide therefore Therion deliberately choose to stay true to their unrivaled legacy yet bravely continue to explore different styles to create a remarkable work of music. 

Molten – Dystopian Syndrome

Formed in the Bay Area underground, Molten is ready to unleash their debut release “Dystopian Syndrome” channeling a primal extreme metal force enriched by intriguing melodic motifs. 

Besides the generous dosage of aggressive rhythmic blasts “Virulence” is filled with alluring ominous vibes which spontaneously lead to plenty of charismatic melodic guitar leads and lugubrious atmospheric tapestries. 

The title track channels a classic thrash energy to create groovy rhythmic patterns triggering instant headbanging but also tends to put the spotlight on the excellent guitar work which can deliver a doomed melodic flair and majestic shredding. 

You can easily perceive arcane vibes throughout “On Through Phlegethon” as the monolithic rhythmic section becomes fundamental yet the multifaceted influences are evident as guitars will eventually embrace a classic heavy metal flair leading to a brooding atmospheric finale. 

On “The Void” the guttural growls and the unrestrained riffage follow a faster pace but guitars have the chance to showcase prowess adding diversity with polished melodic tones and multiple sophisticated solos.  

The lengthy final track “Rising Embers” dwells within a gloomy atmospheric realm enriched by soft piano harmonies so despite a fair dosage of aggressive rhythmic dynamics and death metal inspiration guitars will ultimately focus on an extensive series of elegant melodic progressions. 

Listening to “Dystopian Syndrome” we enter a nightmarish world as Molten confidently begin to manifest their aptly dystopian sonic vision blending melodic gloom and inflamed grooves. 

Kabbalah – The Omen

Spanish occult rock trio Kabbalah opens the doors of a deliciously dark realm on the sophomore full-length “The Omen” channeling the timeless essence of 70s heavy, doom and psych. 

“Stigmatized” revolves around the irresistible occult rock flair which naturally thrives within the spooky atmospheric ensemble enriched by fuzzy melodic passages while the doom worshipping is clearly embodied by the heavier riffage.   

“Ceibas”constantly maintains a cryptic mood as the darkened tonalities of the guitar work become essential in the creation of gritty riffs and haunting melodic progressions embellished by enchanting vocal harmonies. 

“The Ritual” manifests a strong doom force as the monolithic guitar riffs lead to obscure yet absolutely catchy rhythmic patterns and fuzzy crescendos that also highlight the fascinating retro vibes. 

Drenched in seductive darkness “Lamentations” follows a slower tempo that emphasizes the charming hazy melodies and the graceful vocals flowing through a lugubrious sonic realm spiced up by the raw energy of the guitar work. 

The 70s style of the heavy guitar riffs hold a fundamental role on “Liturgy” amplifying once again a strong classic doom influence while the alluring melodic passages and the soft harmonious vocals enhance the esoteric flair.  

Listening to “The Omen” you will feel compelled to embrace its perennial sultry darkness as Kabbalah confidently bring to life a bewitching occult rock grimoire. 

Vajra – Irkalla

NY-based band Vajra aims to conquer a wider audience manifesting a mystical sonic vision on the new album “Irkalla” which is the first part of a trilogy exploring the various levels of consciousness. 

Listening to “Maya” you can perceive delicious darkened vibes flourishing through the catchy blend of moody melodic phrases and groovy rhythmic progressions enriched by Annamaria Pinna’s charismatic vocal performance. 

On “Crown Or Crucify” darkness & light naturally entwine as the haunting atmospheric textures, the subtle electronic accents and the comforting melodies evoke bittersweet feelings that will lead to a quite accessible chorus. 

The dark rock soul of “Sever The Tie” leads to memorable guitar driven grooves but also holds an arcane flair as the tribal rhythm becomes essential in the creation of an entrancing experience emphasized by the spiritual essence embodied by the Annamaria’s charming voice. 

The instrumental track “Wind” marks an esoteric finale focusing on an ethereal chanting flowing gently through tribal percussion and trance inducing atmospheric waves. 

The atmospheric & melodic soundscapes of “Irkalla” certainly showcase a spontaneous creative freedom and even if the album is a bit short Vajra have a chance to raise interest in the underground scene.