Industrial pioneers Ministry return in excellent shape to deliver the charismatic fifteenth studio album “Moral Hygiene” which continues to keep alive their influential legacy and embodies Al Jourgensen’s societal manifesto.
While a voice keeps on asking you ‘how concerned are you?’ “Alert Level” marks an impactful moment skillfully packing big mid-tempo guitar riffs and a sing-along chorus surrounded by entertaining even danceable electro beats.
Featuring a collaboration with ex-Dead Kennedy Jello Biafra, “Sabotage Is Sex” acquires an old school punk attitude with a galloping rhythmic section and a memorable rebellious chorus enriched by spooky atmospheric accents.
You will hear many different voices on “Disinformation” which clearly revolves around a dystopian mood that triggers massive industrial grooves fueled by explosive gritty guitar riffs and low key distorted vocals.
The strength of “Believe Me” comes from the steady march of the robust guitar driven grooves but there is also a pleasant and quite accessible combo of melodic phrases and subtle atmospheric layers.
“Broken System” brings variety with soft Middle Eastern acoustic harmonies and percussion before entering a heavier post apocalyptic sonic realm where guitars build a darker energetic momentum.
The message is evident on “We Shall Resist” as we are surrounded by a cold electronic ensemble and a quite sinister atmosphere spiced up by occasional rhythmic blasts.
The powerful message regarding the frightening state of society and politics is a key element of “Moral Hygiene” and featuring a new line-up Ministry choose to focus on their abrasive industrial signature style.
Category: Album Reviews 2021
MØL – Diorama
Danish blackgaze band MØL spreads immense darkness and sheer melancholia through the cathartic soundscapes of the sophomore release “Diorama”.
In the beginning “Fraktur” evokes the dreamy nature of shoegaze with haunting harmonies and understated atmospheric layers but even if guitars will acquire obscure tonalities to build a steady rhythmic assault the somber melodic essence still lingers through the softer glowing passages.
On “Photophobic” a surreal atmosphere introduces a series of untamed blackened blasts fueled by crunchy riffage and tormented growls while guitars also deliver intricate soothing melodies emphasized by ethereal vocals.
On “Serf” the shimmering essence of the excellent guitar work can express wistful feelings leading to memorable melodic crescendos in contrast with the harsh rhythmic patterns that embrace a colder primordial approach.
An overwhelming sense of nostalgia emerges from the delicate atmospheric waves and the spellbinding melodies of “Itinerari” but once again the precise rhythmic section generates a heavier momentum highlighting the versatile guitar work.
Leaving behind the aggressive elements the title track focuses on a mesmerizing melodic ensemble as the sweeping guitar progressions craft fascinating contemplative crescendos and instantly evoke bittersweet emotions enhanced by a soulful vocal duet.
As the balanced mix of melodic splendor and inflamed blackened dynamics unravels throughout “Diorama” MØL have a chance to impress the listeners manifesting a captivating sonic vision.
Full Of Hell – Garden Of Burning Apparitions
In the last few years Full Of Hell have established a solid status within the underground extreme metal scene and now they are ready to expand their genre-bending vision on the latest offering “Garden Of Burning Apparitions”.
In less than a minute the album opener “Guided Blight” packs an insane series of guttural death metal blasts that will leave you shattered.
Listening to “Asphyxiant Blessing” we enter a tormented parallel dimension where soaring guitars march fiercely through a murky rhythmic maze conveying dismal feelings.
“Murmuring Foul Spring” dwells within a mystifying atmosphere that creates a suspenseful mood to introduce a relentless rhythmic ensemble amplified by the aggressive growls.
“Burning Apparition” goes straight to a chaotic rhythmic core characterized by asphyxiating noise elements, furious speed and monstrous guitar riffs.
The impactful track “Industrial Messiah Complex” relies on massive vitriolic guitar riffs and untamed drumming to build dissonant & vicious rhythmic patterns.
On “Reeking Tunnels” the raw energy of guitars leads to memorable noise hardcore grooves putting the spotlight on the twisted rhythmic section.
You simply cannot escape the enraged world of “Celestial Heirarch” as the spectral growls and the mighty guitar riffs unravel within a dissonant rhythmic turmoil.
A perennial obscure force generates the visceral dynamics of “Garden Of Burning Apparitions” as Full Of Hell confidently draw inspiration from the darkest elements of extreme metal to create an enigmatic and at times even unsettling sonic realm.
Rivers Of Nihil – The Work
Following a thrilling sonic evolution Rivers Of Nihil begin a new eclectic chapter with the latest offering “The Work” which clearly defies standard musical categories blending poignant soundscapes and ferocious progressive death metal.
“The Tower (Theme from ‘The Work’)” is a cathartic album opener focusing on compelling melancholia infused atmospheric waves and bittersweet piano melodies emphasized by soothing vocal harmonies but will suddenly transition to heavier rhythmic blasts and insane growls.
“Dreaming Black Clockwork” immediately embraces cold tonalities as the extreme nature of progressive death metal style thrives through the complex rhythmic patterns until the cinematic atmospheric arrangements convey a pale sense of tranquility.
“Wait” begins with an understated piano piece floating gently through an enigmatic atmosphere following a slower tempo and the warm vocal delivery emphasizes a glowing melodic essence amplified by the flawless lead guitar work.
The hazy multilayered atmosphere of “The Void From Which No Sound Escapes” evokes somber emotions and creates a surreal sonic realm embellished by a striking saxophone solo while abrasive guitar riffs and extra speed skillfully build an aggressive rhythmic rampage.
The dramatic depth of “Episode” comes to life through the spacey atmospheric ensemble and the whispered vocals enriched by the technical prowess and the melodic splendor of the guitar solos in contrast with the occasional faster and quite brutal rhythmic patterns.
“Terrestria IV: Work” embodies a grand finale manifesting the band’s convoluted sonic vision as the whole instrumentation effortlessly shifts from visceral & twisted rhythmic dynamics courtesy of the majestic combo of pummeling drums and unrestrained riffage to contemplative melodic passages featuring the elegant jazzy vibes of the saxophone.
Rivers Of Nihil deliberately took time off to focus on the opulent multifaceted composition behind “The Work” which is destined to impress the audience with the remarkable musicianship and the intense creative force.
Duel – In Carne Persona
Texas based heavy rock quartet Duel keeps alive an authentic classic sound with a delicious dark twist on the brand new full-length “In Carne Persona”.
“Children Of The Fire” opens the album with sinister vibes swiftly followed by a powerful combo of big guitar riffs and charismatic leads that will continue to hold a dominant role through the fiery mid paced rhythmic patterns.
“The Veil’ manifests a magnetic psychedelic spirit that will lead to spaced out passages in addition to the traditional rock approach of the rhythmic rampage naturally fueled by the steady bold riffage.
Lovely nostalgic melodies flow gently through “Behind The Sound” yet the main rhythmic segments still hold loads of rock energy putting the spotlight on the soaring guitar riffs and the groovy drumming.
The strength of “Wave of Your Hand” comes once again from the thrilling guitar dynamics that at times channel a cold stoner doom flair and skillfully generate heavier & faster rhythmic blasts enriched by a super catchy chorus.
“Blood On The Claw” acquires an appealing darker mood with subtle spooky atmospheric accents and slow burning melodies that highlight the versatile guitar work but later the rhythmic section has a chance to build a heavier momentum with the perfect dosage of gritty riffs.
Duel proudly carry the torch for old school rock/metal and without any hesitation manifest a genuine rocker attitude through the massive grooves of “In Carne Persona”.
Skepticism – Companion
Finnish funeral doom veterans Skepticism embark on a cathartic journey through the obscure depths of the sixth album “Companion” which also triumphantly celebrates their 30th anniversary.
The solemn beauty of the atmospheric arrangements on “Calla” emphasizes the elegant darkened aesthetics of the majestic rhythmic ensemble and the gelid tonalities of the guitar work which focuses on monolithic riffs.
On “The Intertwined” the doom laden riffage and the painfully slow tempo inevitably generate an oppressive rhythmic maze amplified by the cavernous growls while the dismal tones of the keyboards enhance a rich dramatic depth.
An alluring melancholia lies within the mellow arpeggios of “The Inevitable” while the colossal guitar riffs march fiercely through the intricate atmospheric waves and confidently channel the ominous force of doom metal.
The immense poetic gloom of “Swan And The Raven” becomes palpable through the pulsating despair of the keyboards that effortlessly evolves in a series of mournful rhythmic crescendos and refined harrowing guitar melodies.
With an insane wall of sound and a dense tenebrous atmosphere “Companion” perfectly symbolizes the funereal sonic vision meticulously developed by Skepticism during the last three decades.
Lucifer – IV
Just in time for Halloween Lucifer rises to deliver the incendiary heavy rock opus “IV” which stays true to an old fashioned approach spiced up by alluring occult vibes.
“Archangel Of Death” opens the album with a mystifying atmosphere that lingers through the moody melodic phrases and the monumental guitar driven grooves characterized by the raw energy of classic rock.
An obscure flair surrounds “Wild Hearses” as the rhythmic section fully embraces monolithic doom elements shifting from heavy dynamics to crestfallen tonalities and Johanna Sadonis confidently delivers a sultry vocal performance.
“Crucifix (I Burn For You)” has a catchy malicious mood as the guitar work maintains darkened tones especially during the slower passages and unleashes frenetic licks that lead to a memorable chorus.
On “Nightmare” mournful piano melodies entwine with mysterious guitar tonalities enhancing a delicious sinister atmosphere that will evolve in an irresistible chorus and the wild soloing keeps a vibrant vintage feel.
“Orion” stands out for the eerie melodic progressions and the immense melancholia emphasized by Johanna’s passionate vocal harmonies while the charismatic guitar leads can provide a robust groovy momentum.
“Phobos” manifests a powerful rock spirit with soaring riffs and fiery drumming that skillfully create an explosive rhythmic ensemble further enriched by extensive wicked guitar solos and nostalgic melodic accents.
On the fourth chapter of their discography Lucifer proudly continues to channel the glory of ‘70s heavy rock and doom to create a groovy darkened collection of songs that will certainly satisfy the listeners.
Craneium – Unknown Heights
Finnish fuzz-rock band Craneium channels the glory of vintage rock to develop an intriguing blend of dreamy vibes and heavy riffs on the third studio album “Unknown Heights”.
“A Secret Garden” immediately showcases the band’s groovy spirit through the dense duzzy tones of the guitar work leading to a memorable chorus while the spacey melodic phrases evoke a delightful nostalgia.
“Somber Aeons” focuses on mellow guitar melodies and subtle psychedelic accents accompanied by a heartfelt vocal delivery yet the monolithic rhythmic section will eventually add some robust stoner rock dynamics embracing a darker doom vision.
Within the moody atmosphere of “Weight To Carry” daydreaming moments and fuzzy grooves become entwined as guitars effortlessly shift from gritty riffs to hazy melodic progressions supported by an eclectic rhythmic backbone.
The title track can express an overwhelming melancholia with passionate vocals, slow burning melodic passages and compelling retro vibes surrounded by psychedelic tinged atmospheric waves while the groovy momentum will ultimately take over with big fuzzed out riffs and a wild guitar solo.
Throughout “Unknown Heights” you can easily perceive diverse styles & influences as Craneium confidently delivers interesting twists keeping in mind a balanced mix of spaced out melodic patterns and classic heavy rock grooves.
A Pale Horse Named Death – Infernum In Terra
Founded by former drummer of Type O Negative and Life Of Agony Sal Abruscato, A Pale Horse Named Death begin a new dismal chapter with the fourth album “Infernum In Terra” which follows a doomed pathway to fully express misery & melancholia.
“Believe In Something (You Are Lost)” skillfully combines nostalgia infused melodies and the heavy weight of the guitar riffs resulting in a bleak soundscape yet the chorus sounds quite catchy whilst maintaining a dismal mood.
Since the very beginning “Cast Out From The Sky” emphasizes the doom tonalities through mournful keyboards arrangements, moody vocals and slow burning guitar progressions that diligently build a darkened rhythmic crescendo. .
“Shards Of Glass” still follows a slow paced tempo highlighting all the forlorn emotions expressed by the monochromatic melodic phrases and the cold guitar leads while the chorus marks a groovy momentum.
“Lucifer’s Son” feels like a slow motion ride as the gothic atmospheric waves and the obscure guitar tonalities generate a hypnotizing rhythmic maze and the solos deliver the perfect dosage of sorrowful melodic licks.
On “Two Headed Snake (Propofol Dreams)” the doom elements flourish within the thick rhythmic ensemble fueled by gritty riffs and woeful vocals but there are evident contemplative vibes courtesy of the recurring harrowing melodies.
“Reflections Of The Dead” dwells within a murky sonic realm as a dense tenebrous atmosphere surrounds the heavy doomed rhythmic section and the melodies are inevitably drenched in darkness reaching the acme with the crestfallen mood of the excellent guitar solo.
Written and recorded during months of isolation “Infernum In Terra” is characterized by an irresistible gloom as A Pale Horse Named Death successfully channel the alluring grandeur of gothic & doom metal.
Alien Weaponry – Tangaroa
In just few years Alien Weaponry have shaken up the modern metal scene and officially became the hottest young metal band due to a remarkable thrash & groovy style singing in the native indigenous language te reo Māori, so the sophomore full length “Tangaroa” is bound to raise interest.
“Titokowaru” immediately emphasizes the band’s heritage with rowing chants and the sound of waves that introduce a robust rhythmic section fueled by the gritty guitar sound and the serious warrior-like attitude.
“Hatupatu” features an interesting mix of ancestral vibes and modern metal dynamics as the primal force of the vocals certainly enhances the heavier aspects of the savage rhythmic patterns.
The enigmatic nature of “Ahi Kā” comes from the darkened flair of the soft guitar melodies and the strong tribal tones while riffs and drumming aim to deliver edgy rhythmic segments.
Switching to english lyrics but maintaining a wild vocal delivery the title track tends to focus on impactful rhythmic blasts certainly amplified by the rough guitar riffs and the extra speed.
On “Kai Whatu” nothing sounds polished keeping alive the unruly feel of the whole album and consequently guitar, bass and drums spontaneously build an aggressive rhythmic backbone.
“Īhenga” is full of unexpected twisted grooves so the rambunctious rhythmic approach and the feral spirit continue to thrive accompanied by the solemn tribal chants.
Following the acclaimed debut release “Tū” Alien Weaponry continue to draw inspiration from their culture and environmental surroundings and the consequent tribal flair often becomes crucial within the primordial grooves of “Tangaroa”.
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