Swedish death metallers Aeon aim to impress the extreme metal scene with the ominous & vicious onslaught embodied by the new full-length “God Ends Here”.
“Liar’s Den” is filled with brutal guitar driven grooves well supported by the incendiary strength of the untamed drumming ultimately leading to a solemn finale courtesy of majestic orchestrations.
You simply cannot escape the malevolent soundscapes of “Church Of Horror” as the fury and speed of the colossal rhythm section hold a dominant role while the guitar leads rightfully add some charismatic technical elements.
“Deny Them Eternity” puts the spotlight on the edgy technical accents and the darkened tonalities of the guitar work which successfully increase diversity within the main relentless rhythmic core.
The title track slows down a bit to emphasize the epic atmospheric layers and the ominous tones of guitars which deliver a massive series of complex progressions through a monumental rhythmic maze.
“Let The Torturing Begin” revolves around venomous growls, big spiteful guitar riffs and pummeling drums diligently building anthemic death metal dynamics spiced up by the fancy melodic flair of the solo.
“Queen Of Lies” marks a memorable finale as the visceral rhythmic patterns and the malignant growls march fiercely through an arcane atmosphere enriched by another round of excellent melodic leads.
From beginning to end “God Ends Here” proves that despite the long gap between records Aeon still has the necessary passion and anger to deliver a solid death metal opus embellished by elegant atmospheric interludes.
Category: Album Reviews 2021
Kayo Dot – Moss Grew On The Swords And Plowshares Alike
Founded by mastermind multi-instrumentalist Toby Driver, Kayo Dot bravely continue to push boundaries and their enigmatic songwriting approach embraces heavier & darker tonalities on the latest full-length “Moss Grew On The Swords And Plowshares Alike”.
Surrounded by a mystifying atmosphere “Brethren Of The Cross” manifests a burgeoning creativity mixing twisted rhythmic segments fueled by crunchy guitar riffs and shimmering melodic phrases, consequently the vocal delivery channels contrasting feelings shifting from soothing harmonies to vicious screams.
The glowing melodic passages on “Void In Virgo (The Nature Of Sacrifice)” simply feel like a beautiful fading daydream as the shoegaze flair of the deeply melancholic tonalities and the understated atmospheric waves surround a particularly heartfelt vocal performance.
“Get Out Of The Tower” puts the spotlight on the charismatic lead guitar work as the resulting wild licks flow through a rather chaotic rhythmic maze enhanced by the monolithic nature of the bold bass lines and the raw emotions of the tormented vocals.
The obscure atmospheric layers of “The Necklace” convey a dystopian vision amplified by the steady pummeling drums and the desperate screams yet the dreamy essence of the smooth arpeggios can evoke a pale sense of peacefulness.
With a fascinating avant-garde vision Kayo Dot takes you far away from a dreadful reality as the shapeshifting soundscapes and the surreal atmospheric ensemble of “Moss Grew On The Swords And Plowshares Alike” seem to belong to a parallel universe.
Khemmis – Deceiver
In the last few years doom metal band Khemmis has impressed the chaotic metal scene garnering interest worldwide with a unique sonic vision and the highly anticipated studio album “Deceiver” emerges triumphantly from the darkest depths.
“Avernal Gate” begins with graceful arpeggios swiftly followed by a monumental rhythmic rampage that highlights the charismatic guitar licks and the heavy weight of the doom riffage enriched by mournful melodic accents and a particularly passionate vocal delivery.
The mighty doom essence of “Living Pyre” thrives within the hypnotic rhythmic maze which often puts the spotlight on the elaborate guitar work shifting from furious heavy riffs to poignant melodic phrases.
The desolate soundscapes of “Shroud Of Lethe” revolve around soothing clean vocals and melancholic melodic segments embellished by a series of brilliant solos yet the primordial doom elements eventually take over leading to a ominous heavy momentum certainly amplified by the ruthless growls.
On “The Astral Road” a profound sense of nostalgia becomes palpable within the gloomy melodic ensemble in contrast with the super groovy rhythmic dynamics and the soaring guitar progressions proudly channeling a glorious classic heavy metal flair.
The ambitious journey of Khemmis today naturally leads to the cerebral and sorrowful composition behind “Deceiver” which inevitably expresses an emotional struggle through monolithic grooves and dramatic melodies.
Swallow The Sun – Moonflowers
Founded in 2000, Finnish doom masters Swallow The Sun invite you to enter a fascinating realm of gloom, beauty and despair on the latest majestic offering “Moonflowers”.
The magical melancholic world of “Moonflowers Bloom In Misery” is destined to conquer your soul as the sublime keyboards tapestries surround the flawless mix of enthralling melodic progressions and thrilling rhythmic blasts.
The intricate composition of “Woven Into Sorrow” doesn’t sacrifice the inner ominous doom essence but certainly tends to focus on the fragile beauty of the glowing guitar melodies and the contemplative atmospheric waves embellished by the classical flair of the impeccable orchestrations.
A genuine emotional turmoil lingers through “Keep Your Heart Safe from Me” as the darkly romantic tonalities of the riveting melodic guitars and the soothing clean vocal delivery during the irresistible chorus will simply spellbind you while the heavy weight of doom metal generates mighty rhythmic blasts.
Poetry and darkness inevitably entwine on “All Hallows’ Grieve” which features a dazzling duet with guest vocalist Cammie Gilbert of Oceans Of Slumber and revolves around the enticing combo of refined melodic guitar phrases and enchanting atmospheric layers.
“This House Has No Home” manifests an obscure heavy momentum as the untamed rhythmic section can acquire extra speed to fully embrace an inflamed blackened vision in contrast with the heart-wrenching melodic ensemble evoking bittersweet feelings.
As “Moonflowers” bloom at the darkest hour, Swallow The Sun are naturally driven by an immense melancholia and a primordial doom metal force that lead to the creation of a darkened magnum opus keeping a balanced blend of exquisite melodies and crushing rhythmic dynamics.
1914 – Where Fear And Weapons Meet
Ukrainian blackened death/doom metal outfit 1914 return to conquer a solid status in the metal scene with the new crushing full-length “Where Fear And Weapons Meet” lyrically centered on the gruesome tales of World War I.
“FN .380 ACP#19074” immediately manifests a dramatic depth through solemn orchestrations and sober melodic accents that successfully enrich the hostile rhythmic core fueled by unrestrained drumming and fiery blackened guitar progressions.
The theatrical symphonic arrangements of “Pillars of Fire (The Battle of Messines)” introduce a monolithic rhythmic ensemble yet the constant tremolo and the gelid doom tonalities ultimately lead to contemplative slower passages.
Throughout “Don’t Tread on Me (Harlem Hellfighters)” the rhythmic march seems unstoppable acquiring speed and brutality to create massive grooves amplified by the ruthless growls yet the guitar leads deliver mournful harmonies during the finale.
Featuring majestic vocals courtesy of Nick Holmes of legendary Paradise Lost “…And a Cross Now Marks His Place” emphasizes the presence of gloomy doom elements through the slower ominous guitar progressions but the untamed riffage can lead to rather aggressive rhythmic patterns.
“Corps d’autos-canons-mitrailleuses (A.C.M)” relies on the sombre tones of the elegant orchestrations which provide a sumptuous background for an intense rhythmic onslaught while the lead guitar work creates poignant melodic tapestries.
Within a pitchblack sonic realm “Mit Gott für König und Vaterland” hits you in the face with violent rhythmic blasts dictated by the belligerent drumming and the soaring guitar riffs eventually lead to a particularly charismatic solo.
1914 analyze historical events, tell horrific stories and celebrate heroism throughout “Where Fear And Weapons Meet” channeling the primal force of extreme metal entwined with a symphonic grandeur to create monumental soundscapes.
Misanthur – Ephemeris
Polish duo Misanthur begins a cathartic journey into the deepest corners of consciousness on the debut full-length “Ephemeris”.
On “Enter the Void” you can easily perceive strong post-metal influences through the hazy atmosphere, the jazzy incursions and the monochromatic guitar tonalities while the frantic rhythmic crescendo will reveal an obscure blackened essence.
“On The Heights Of Despair” fully embraces a tormented blackened vision as the primal force of the ravenous growls and the unstoppable tremolo generate hostile rhythmic patterns while the slower passages evoke an overwhelming melancholia.
The ominous vibes of “Black Clouds & No Silver Linings” naturally lead to an unrestrained rhythmic rampage yet the tempo will slow down to emphasize the dramatic depth of the melodic guitar progressions.
Surrounded by a bleak atmosphere the title track focuses on minimalist somber melodies flourishing through a slow murky rhythmic haze and expressing crestfallen emotions.
“The Serpent Crawls” still delivers aggressive blackened blasts but guitars can channel arcane doom elements with an overdose of dense riffs and mournful melodic phrases enhanced by theatrical vocals.
Undoubtedly there is a lot going on throughout “Ephemeris” as Misanthur showcases a darkened enigmatic vision and a multifaceted songwriting approach that ultimately leads to shapeshifting soundscapes.
Mercury Circle – Killing Moons
Founded by Jaani Peuhu of Swallow The Sun, Mercury Circle makes a majestic debut crafting fascinating darkened soundscapes on the full-length “Killing Moons”.
Within the evocative multifaceted atmospheric realm of “The Gates Wide Open” the precise drums maintain an arcane tribal rhythm while the glowing guitar progressions convey bittersweet feelings emphasized by the passionate vocal delivery.
“You Open Up The Earth” stands out for the irresistible melancholia flowing through the haunting atmospheric ensemble and guitars acquire a delicious dark rock flair to create captivating melodic tapestries.
The title track relies on a remarkable mix of spacey atmospheric layers and modern electro beats that render everything a bit surreal while the compelling rhythmic crescendos and the heartfelt vocals highlight a darkly romantic flair.
“Call On The Dark” puts the spotlight on the futuristic tones and the sorrowful harmonies of the elaborate keyboards arrangements while the memorable chorus emphasizes a dark & catchy melodic essence.
The hazy cinematic approach of “Avalanche” leads to an exquisite ethereal sonic realm yet the rhythmic section acquires heavier doom tonalities conveying immense nostalgia and grief.
“Death Poem” is definitely a theatrical poetic opus as the opulent enchanting synth arrangements take you far away and the wistful melodies become increasingly darker when guitars add monolithic doom accents.
Certainly “Killing Moons” is destined to impress the listeners as Mercury Circle carefully blend gorgeous melodies and mesmerizing atmospheric waves to express poignant emotions.
Omnium Gatherum – Origin
Finnish melodic death metal band Omnium Gatherum celebrates a nearly 25 years career delivering an impeccable mix of Nordic melancholia and heavy dynamics on the latest offering “Origin”.
The instrumental album opener “Emergence” instantly spreads melancholia within the understated atmospheric ensemble and the glowing sound of the mellow melodic guitar phrases.
“Prime” gradually acquires speed & heaviness channeling a classic melodeath approach that generates spiteful growls and galloping rhythmic blasts embellished by crestfallen melodies and flamboyant guitar soloing.
On “Paragon” the uplifting tones of the keyboards arrangements surround a robust rhythmic backbone fueled by the steady bold riffage and the intricate guitar leads which will ultimately lead to a catchy chorus.
“Fortitude” focuses on an overwhelming sense of nostalgia as the tempo slows down to put the spotlight on the smooth guitar melodies yet gloomy doom tonalities will emerge through the dramatic rhythmic crescendos.
“Tempest” fully embraces a familiar melodeath formula as the striking guitar work naturally shifts from deeply melancholic progressions to fiery riffs amplified by the precise rhythmic section and the aggressive growls.
An appealing combo of haunting atmospheric waves and elegant melodic phrases flourishes throughout the convoluted sonic realm of “Solemn” which often acquires epic vibes in contrast with the heavier & faster groovy moments.
With a refreshed line-up Omnium Gatherum certainly aim to please melodeath acolytes showcasing devotion and mature musicianship throughout the cold soundscapes of “Origin”.
Bastarður – Satan’s Loss of Son
We all know the immense talent of Aðalbjörn Tryggvason as frontman of critically acclaimed Icelandic band Sólstafir but this time with his new project Bastarður he freely channels his crust punk and death metal influences on the debut release “Satan’s Loss of Son”.
As an album opener “Viral Tumor” ensures an impactful beginning following a fast & savage rhythmic rampage that highlights the raw energy of the guitar riffs and the edgy soloing.
On “Neonlight Blitzkrieg” an ominous atmosphere introduces a series of blistering grooves fueled by the extra speed of the drums and enriched by Tryggvason’s venomous screams and wildly entertaining solos.
The title track doesn’t waste any time as the relentless riffage diligently builds massive grooves while the guitar tonalities become darker during the brooding breakdown evoking an emotional turmoil.
While the overwhelming rage is still palpable through the untamed rhythmic march of “The Whispering Beast” the excellent guitar work can generate diverse dynamics shifting from thick riffs to enigmatic quasi melodic leads.
“Rise Up” features hazy atmospheric moments and guitars showcase a sombre sound that leads to a darkly passionate solo but while the rhythmic section clearly sounds less aggressive you still get a fair dosage of groovy passages.
Bastarður begins an incendiary musical journey as after three years in the making “Satan’s Loss of Son” comes to life with a full blown primordial force bound to grab your attention.
Hate – Rugia
Polish blackened death metal band Hate proudly continues to follow an arcane sonic pathway and delve into the depths of Slavonic mysticism to create the majestic & obscure twelfth full-length “Rugia”.
The title track showcases an organic songwriting approach that puts the spotlight on the charismatic guitar work which effortlessly shifts from mysterious melodic phrases to ferocious riffage ultimately leading to blistering blackened grooves.
Throughout “Exiles To Pantheon” the precise rhythmic section is always ready to unleash a vicious assault following the fast monumental drum blasts and the consequent savagery is further enhanced by the ruthless growls.
Drenched in darkness “Saturnus” at times sounds less aggressive and conveys dismal feelings through the ominous guitar tonalities and the subtle melodic accents flowing through malevolent rhythmic dynamics.
Within a cryptic spiritual dimension “Awakening The Gods Within” relies on the inspiring lead guitar work which successfully embellishes the primordial rhythmic core and evokes a sinister flair.
In the beginning the slower tempo on “Valesian Guard” emphasizes the dramatic nature of the harrowing guitar melodies which will inevitably evolve into fierce rhythmic patterns with constant tormented riffage and furious growls.
Fueled by an inflamed creative force Hate celebrate thirty years of activity and channel the darkest elements of extreme metal to craft the crushing soundscapes of “Rugia” which is definitely a great addition to their prolific discography.