On the sixth studio album “Beautiful Ghosts” Unreqvited has chosen to explore themes of love, passion and devotion through a kaleidoscopic sonic realm naturally focusing on luminous melodies and raw blackgaze nuances.
On “All Is Lost” the rhythmic section can deliver heavy dynamics influenced by a subtle blackened force while the post-rock flair will generate dreamy uplifting vibes through the elegant detailed atmospheric arrangements.
The darkened romance of “Autumn & Everley” begins with an eloquent piano piece leading to a soothing melodic crescendo emphasized by an ethereal atmosphere yet there will be faster rhythmic patterns expressing dismal feelings.
The cinematic mood of “Funeral Pyre” relies on rich melancholia infused keyboards arrangements and solemn vibes while guitars manifest a soulful melodic essence ultimately leading to a slower dreamlike atmospheric passage.
The title track showcases a vivid post-rock spirit as the composition focuses on haunting piano harmonies, calm atmospheric layers and heartfelt guitar melodies that evoke pure nostalgia but also a pale sense of hopefulness so the composition seems to leave behind the previous darkened tonalities.
It would be difficult to categorize the shape-shifting sonic palette of “Beautiful Ghosts” as Unreqvited embraces a familiar blackgaze vision yet doesn’t refrain from exploring diverse musical influences to convey authentic emotions.
Category: Album Reviews 2021
White Stones – Dancing Into Oblivion
Founded by Opeth’s bass player Martin Mendez, Spanish progressive death metal band White Stones begin a new remarkable chapter with the unpredictable dynamics of the second studio album “Dancing Into Oblivion”.
“New Age Of Dark” immediately showcases a primal death metal force courtesy of the blistering rhythmic section and the bold technical approach amplified by the vicious growls yet the prog flair of the guitar work adds diversity.
“Chain Of Command” begins with slow paced gloomy guitar melodies that will seamlessly evolve into complex rhythmic patterns fueled by the ominous influence of extreme metal while guitars generate intriguing technical twists reaching the acme with a charismatic proggy solo.
The intricate sonic realm of “Iron Titans” features immersive melodic progressions following a calmer rhythm as the whole instrumentation acquires soothing jazzy nuances in contrast with the aggressive segments confidently built by the sharp guitar riffs.
“Freedom In Captivity” puts the spotlight on the delightful prog style and the luminous tonalities of the guitar melodies but this dreamy mood will soon give way to a massive heavier rhythmic ensemble enhanced by technical accents and ruthless growls.
The sophomore release “Dancing Into Oblivion” aims to cement the distinct elaborate sonic vision carefully crafted by White Stones manifesting a balanced mix of ancestral fury and tasteful prog metal elements.
Musk Ox – Inheritance
After seven years Canadian instrumental chamber folk trio Musk Ox has crafted an enchanting deeply elaborate work of music entitled “Inheritance”.
“Inheritance (Part 1 – Premonition)” immediately manifests the immersive nature of the album as cold atmospheric waves surround the listeners and the bittersweet tonalities of the cello emphasize poignant feelings.
In over seventeen minutes “Inheritance (Part 2 – Hindsight)” features an impeccable combo of cello, violin and acoustic guitar that delivers convoluted melodic passages highlighting a classical elegance while the robust rhythmic crescendos can naturally convey an intense emotional turmoil.
On “Memoriam” there is an understated suspenseful atmosphere that enhances the gloomy cello harmonies and the resulting fragile melodic flow perfectly symbolizes a cathartic sonic journey.
The cinematic approach of “Ritual” acquires spellbinding darkened tonalities as the soulful melodic movements carefully built by gentle acoustic phrases and mesmerizing strings are destined to spread sheer melancholia.
Listening to “Inheritance” you will feel compelled to enter a magical realm where authentic emotions and exquisite melodies entwine as Musk Ox constantly combine exceptional musicianship and a wide array of musical influences.
Enslaved – Caravans To The Outer Worlds
Norwegian icons Enslaved are ready to embark on a new mysterious voyage on the EP “Caravans To The Outer Worlds” which naturally manifests their unstoppable sonic evolution relying on their signature black/progressive style.
The majestic title track features arcane atmospheric waves and mystical melodic nuances while the magnetic savage guitar leads and the insane riffs effortlessly build frostbitten aggressive grooves accompanied by malignant growls clearly channeling the band’s primordial blackened roots.
There are also two instrumental tracks, “Intermezzo I: Lonnlig. Gudlig” combines futuristic synths sounds and bold guitar riffs keeping a mystifying mood while “Intermezzo II: The Navigator” showcases interesting proggy dynamics leading to robust grooves embellished by edgy keyboards.
“Ruun II – The Epitaph” embraces a slower haunting rhythm putting the spotlight on darkly soothing acoustic passages and solemn clean vocals that constantly evoke an ancestral Nordic flair while the elaborate keyboards can add hazy psychedelic accents.
Following the acclaimed release of the full length “Utgard” Enslaved continue to experiment and expand their remarkable sonic vision on “Caravans To The Outer Worlds” which despite being a short EP is destined to impress the audience.
At The Gates – The Nightmare Of Being
Swedish death metal pioneers At The Gates just celebrated their 30th Anniversary and the latest studio effort “The Nightmare Of Being” embodies a grandiose darkened melodic vision fueled by an ex novo creative force.
On “Spectre Of Extinction” peaceful acoustic phrases and smooth melancholic melodies introduce a gruesome rhythmic rampage accompanied by furious growls certainly reminiscent of a familiar death metal glory.
“The Paradox” focuses on an unrestrained rhythmic assault skillfully built by savage guitar riffs and ruthless drum blasts but there is space for solemn atmospheric arrangements and charismatic melodic licks.
The title track immediately stands out for the darkened elegance of the sorrowful melodic guitar work which reaches the acme with a captivating solo while the thick rhythmic section still has a chance to unleash impactful heavy dynamics.
The exquisite gothic tinged orchestrations of “Touched by the White Hands of Death” create a gloomy splendor that will soon evolve into a colossal heavy rhythmic ensemble amplifying the dominant role of the sharp riffage.
On “The Fall Into Time” the classical vibes of the intricate haunting orchestrations will often emerge through the monumental guitar driven grooves emphasizing the grim tonalities and the complex melodic passages.
“Cult Of Salvation” continues to rely on a tasteful mix of somber melodic guitar phrases enhanced by impeccable arcane atmospheric arrangements and moments of sheer rage highlighting the aggressive rhythmic backbone and the ravenous vocals.
You can still perceive the strength of classic death metal throughout “The Nightmare Of Being” yet At The Gates confidently begin a new compelling chapter expanding an elaborate melodic style and often deviating from the expected violent grooves.
Amenra – De Doorn
Belgian post-metal band Amenra has created an ambitious opus with the immersive atmospheric palette and the fierce dynamics of new release “De Doorn” which might often feel like an out of body experience.
On the colossal album opener “Ogentroost” a spectral atmosphere and haunting female vocals surround the listeners while the monumental guitar riffs and the feverish rhythmic patterns are destined to thrive within a darkened sonic realm.
On “De Evenmens” a sense of agony emerges from the tormented screams and the gloomy grandeur of the guitar work which can deliver gorgeous melodic aesthetics as well as monolithic riffage.
On “Het Gloren” the heavy weight of the anguished guitar riffs inevitably leads to a doomed pathway amplified by the distant desperate screams while during the dramatically slower passage delicate soothing melodies express sheer melancholia.
“Voor Immer” opens an arcane portal that leads to bleak soundscapes accompanied by theatrical narratives and the hazy ambiance atmospheric waves definitely enhance a strong emotional flow yet the rhythmic section will ultimately deliver intense heavier doom dynamics.
A mystical flair lingers throughout “De Doorn” as Amenra deliberately push standard musical boundaries to reveal the fragility of humanity and invite you to embark on a cathartic journey.
Darkthrone – Eternal Hails……
Norwegian black metal iconic duo Darkthrone returns with the 18th studio album aptly entitled “Eternal Hails……” choosing a doomed pathway that inevitably leads to a gelid sonic realm.
“His Master’s Voice” becomes a gloomy affair as soon as the lead guitar begins to focus on doom tinged melodies while the main rhythmic section delivers a gritty rampage filled with monolithic drum blasts and dirty riffs.
The slower ominous tempo on “Hate Cloak” conjures a sense of impending doom and puts the spotlight on the massive riffage and the mournful guitar leads yet there are some charismatic grooves bearing a vintage rock inspiration.
“Wake of the Awakened” follows a faster rambunctious rhythm fueled by the fierce drumming while a subtle blackened aura surrounds Nocturno Culto’s raucous growls and the galloping heavy guitar riffs.
Throughout “Lost Arcane City of Uppakra” the cold guitar riffs build plenty of wicked grooves but everything will dramatically slow down as a spaced out brooding atmospheric palette generates a mystical feel.
While Darkthrone are best known for their old school black metal anthems “Eternal Hails……” aims to symbolize an epic journey showcasing a true passion for classic doom metal, lugubrious tonalities and extra heavy riffs.
Carcass – Torn Arteries
Legendary extreme metallers Carcass make an explosive comeback with the ruthless grooves and the blood splattered themes of the brand new full length “Torn Arteries”.
The title track sounds like a bloody assault as the aggressive guitar riffs unleash a ferocious death metal flair following vicious rhythmic dynamics yet the stylish melodic accents and the wild technical leads will add diversity.
“Dance of Ixtab (Psychopomp & Circumstance March No. 1 in B)” begins with a slower darkened tempo and gradually builds a rhythmic tension with the massive drum blasts and the untamed riffage ultimately leading to an excellent melodic tinged guitar solo.
“The Devil Rides Out” is a super groovy track fueled by the horror vibes of the lyrics and the death’n’roll approach featuring a great combo of memorable guitar riffs and mournful melodic leads.
On “Flesh Ripping Sonic Torment Limited” a soulful acoustic piece introduces a monolithic rhythmic section as the savage drums and the blistering riffs just seem unstoppable until the charismatic guitar work delivers captivating gloomy melodic passages.
“Wake up and Smell the Carcass / Caveat Emptor” offers another round of big vitriolic riffs enhanced by caustic growls keeping alive a classic death metal mood while the guitar work continues to shine for the elaborate melodic licks.
For the grand finale “The Scythe’s Remorseless Swing” brings a comforting dark atmosphere emphasized by tasteful guitar leads yet the rhythmic section will soon acquire speed & fury delivering savage grooves.
Filled with gory themes, complex melodies and insane riffs “Torn Arteries” certainly cannot go unnoticed as Carcass celebrate their mighty legacy and the glory of death metal but also dare to explore modern musical territories.
Wormwood – Arkivet
Swedish metallers Wormwood return with a winning combo of Nordic melancholia and sheer anger depicting the inevitable decay of mankind throughout the new release “Arkivet”.
“The Archive” puts the spotlight on the versatile guitar work which naturally shifts from faster rhythmic segments certainly amplified by ravenous growls to mournful melodic patterns expressing vivid feelings.
Poignant melodic aesthetics linger through “Overgrowth” enhancing the presence of luminous atmospheric arrangements and sorrowful guitar leads while the thick rhythmic section can still channel a blackened fury.
“My Northern Heart” continues to showcase extreme metal influences yet features an epic atmosphere and a folkish flair as magical violin melodies gradually lead to roaring heavier rhythmic dynamics and theatrical vocals.
“The Slow Drown” has an introspective mood that favors slower kaleidoscopic harmonies highlighting once again the compelling melodic guitar work, the bleak atmospheric nuances and the emotive themes.
Revolving around the concept of humanity’s destructive force, Wormwood diligently focus on dark & cold tonalities that inevitably lead to the intense dramatic depths of “Arkivet”.
Stöner – Stoners Rule
Featuring iconic musicians Brant Bjork, Nick Oliveri and Ryan Güt, the new band Stöner embodies the authentic essence of desert rock taking you on a wild ride across the dusty Mojave paths on the debut release “Stoners Rule”.
The hazy trip begins with the fuzzy monochromatic nuances of “Rad Stays Rad” as the thick guitar riffs and the heavy bass backbone effortlessly create spacey rhythmic dynamics enhanced by Brant’s laid back vocals.
“The Older Kids” certainly holds an enjoyable trippy mood yet picks up some energetic vibes to generate memorable hooks courtesy of the vintage guitar tonalities and moody vocals following a constant groovy rhythm.
“Stand Down” features chunky guitar riffs, loads of fuzzed out dynamics and a smooth tempo leading to a super catchy chorus while the lead guitar work shines for the soulful retro sound and the warm bluesy influences.
The spaced out final track “Tribe/Fly Girl” feels like a refreshing spontaneous jamming session highlighting the band’s strong chemistry and shifting from bold grooves to languid melodies while the guitars successfully maintain an addictive raw sound that can instantly put you in a daze celebrating a true stoner rock spirit.
The irresistible fuzzed out grooves of “Stoners Rule” always come to life naturally as Stöner know exactly how to jam like there’s no tomorrow driven by the timeless energy of desert rock.