Detroit death-doom metal band Temple Of Void confidently spreads obscurity and melancholia on the brand new full-length “Summoning The Slayer”.
“Behind The Eye” doesn’t waste any time as the hostile riffage leads to monolithic rhythmic patterns that often acquire extra speed and brutality yet the guitar leads enhance a dramatic melodic flair.
Surrounded by an arcane atmosphere “Deathtouch” fully embraces a lugubrious doom metal force as guitars deliberately focus on opulent darkened melodic phrases well supported by the monumental drumming and the thick bass lines.
The ominous realm of “Engulfed” instantly generates a funereal rhythmic ensemble amplified by the dominant role of the gloomy melodic guitars and the tormented vocal delivery.
“Dissolution” marks a bittersweet finale as the band leaves behind the heavy elements to fully embrace an emotional sonic palette through enticing acoustic guitar progressions and gentle clean vocals.
Dwelling within a subterranean dimension, Temple Of Void have the ability to balance crushing dynamics and fascinating contemplative melodic textures throughout “Summoning The Slayer”.
Category: Album Reviews 2022
Besvärjelsen – Atlas
Emerging from the vast Dalarna forests, Swedish doom rockers Besvärjelsen manifest a magnetic sonic vision through the darkly alluring soundscapes of the latest full-length “Atlas”.
“The Cardinal Ride” marks an energetic beginning as the excellent guitar work spontaneously unleashes memorable riffs well supported by the groovy drums and the dazzling soloing reveals charming vintage nuances.
“Acheron” instantly channels a majestic doom rock force through significantly heavy obscure rhythmic patterns and slower bewitching progressions enriched by the grim guitar tonalities and the sultry vocal delivery.
“Clouds” constantly evokes pure melancholia as the haunting guitar phrases and the elegant atmospheric textures craft enticing melodic crescendos reaching the acme with an eloquent solo.
On “House Of The Burning Light” the galloping riffage naturally builds intense heavy rock dynamics spiced up by a subtle sinister flair and the striking vocals ultimately lead to an addictive chorus.
“Obscured By Darkness” aptly conveys nocturnal vibes through the magical atmospheric accents surrounding the spellbinding vocal harmonies while the soaring guitar riffs inevitably follow a monumental doomed pathway.
“Divided Ends” brings a grand finale with hypnotizing melodic tapestries and a wild rhythmic ensemble constantly fueled by the explosive drumming and ultimately leading to an extensive eclectic guitar solo.
Fueled by a mystical flair throughout the darkened world of “Atlas” Besvärjelsen confidently maintain an ideal balance between eerie melodic aesthetics and robust grooves destined to captivate the listeners.
James LaBrie – Beautiful Shade Of Grey
Legendary vocalist of prog metal giants Dream Theater James LaBrie finally releases the new solo album “Beautiful Shade Of Grey” focusing on personal lyrical themes and refined melodic tapestries.
The album opener “Devil In Drag” relies on a glowing melodic combo of elegant acoustic phrases and elaborate synths arrangements leading to the passionate vocals of the catchy chorus especially impactful on the electric version included as bonus track.
The mellow melodic soul of “Give And Take” comes to life through the striking acoustic guitar work that perfectly complements James’s fervent vocal performance and captivates the listeners with the warm tonalities of the flawless solo.
“Sunset Ruin” embraces a melancholic ballad style as the gentle vocals flourish through the dreamy instrumental crescendos enriched by the classical beauty of the cello and the subtle atmospheric waves.
Evoking a sense of wistfulness, “Wildflower” continues to highlight an emotional depth as the delicate acoustic passages and the softer tempo emphasize the versatile vocal delivery.
On “What I Missed” the smooth piano piece conveys a dramatic mood while the precise rhythmic section has the chance to acquire energetic prog rock elements enhanced by the powerful vocals.
Featuring striking backing vocals by Theresa Thomason “Am I Right” easily expresses poignant feelings building a contemplative momentum through the eloquent guitar progressions and the final gripping melodic crescendo.
After two years in the making of “Beautiful Shade Of Grey” James LaBrie is joined by excellent musicians and chooses a luminous melodic approach revolving around his vocal prowess that will definitely please his longtime fans.
Wo Fat – The Singularity
Dallas-based psychedelic doom veterans Wo Fat invite you to join a mind bending sonic journey through the monumental spacey grooves of the new album “The Singularity”.
The mystical atmosphere of “Orphans of the Singe” introduces a magnetic rhythmic ensemble constantly fueled by the majestic fuzzy riffage and the rich psychedelic textures ultimately leading to remarkable guitar acrobatics.
“Overworlder” flows like a wild endless jam session putting the spotlight on the band’s chemistry and the eclectic guitar work that ensures an impactful groovy approach with robust riffs and intense progressions enriched by the cosmic energy of psych rock.
“The Witching Chamber” captivates the listeners with a darkly enigmatic atmosphere and loads of fuzzed out riffs ultimately leading to catchy & heavy rhythmic patterns and a series of glorious guitar solos showcasing an irresistible vintage flair and great diversity.
The lengthy instrumental opus “The Oracle” spontaneously creates a striking psychedelic maze and takes you to another dimension as the intricate guitar work takes the center stage engaging in mesmerizing melodic progressions during the slower surreal passages and shapeshifting extra fuzzy rhythmic dynamics well supported by the precise drumming.
“The Singularity” delivers the ideal dosage of colossal heavy riffs and hypnotizing psychedelic momentum bound to instantly grab your attention as Wo Fat confidently embrace multiple musical influences to embark on a memorable psychotropic exploration.
Decapitated – Cancer Culture
Polish technical death metal veterans Decapitated aspire to expand their music vision combining devastating rhythmic dynamics and contemplative themes on the new long-awaited album “Cancer Culture”.
The title track clearly manifests pure ferocity through the relentless riffage and the breakneck speed yet the lead guitar work has a chance to craft refined harmonious progressions expressing grim emotions.
Featuring a striking clean vocal performance by Tatiana Shmayluk of Jinjer, “Hello Death” seamlessly blends absolute brutality and eloquent melodic aesthetics as guitars confidently shift from frantic technical riffs to sophisticated gloomy tonalities.
“Iconoclast” hits you in the face with massive grooves constantly fueled by the sharp riffage yet the darkly alluring melodic flair is destined to steal the spotlight as the immersive guitar phrases unfold around the fervent clean vocals courtesy of Robb Flynn of Machine Head.
“Suicidal Space Programme” begins with appealing melodic passages that gradually morph into a savage rhythmic assault executed in impeccable tech death metal fashion easily amplified by the hostile growls.
Showcasing a multifaceted composition “Hours As Battlegrounds” stands out for the harrowing atmospheric textures and the darkened tones of the evocative guitar melodies which skillfully enrich the abrasive rhythmic patterns.
Reflecting on human capabilities and lack of illusion throughout “Cancer Culture” Decapitated follow an intriguing sonic evolution delivering the expected dosage of harsh technical prowess adorned by a surprising and fascinating melodic essence.
Evergrey – A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament)
Gothenburg’s prog metal masters Evergrey celebrate a remarkable career with the release of the thirteenth full-length “A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament)” which naturally shifts from brilliant technical heavy elements to contemplative themes.
The majestic album opener “Save Us” relies on a heavy rhythmic rampage which definitely highlights the fundamental role of the precise drumming and the soaring riffs while the solemn atmospheric arrangements enhance Tom S. Englund’s charismatic vocal performance.
The elaborate cinematic approach of “Ominous” emphasizes the darkly alluring melodic essence embodied by the multiple stunning guitar solos flourishing through dreamy atmospheric waves.
Without any hesitation “The Orphean Testament” unleashes an overload of unrestrained guitar riffs to build memorable groovy dynamics while the polished progressions and the glowing vocals convey an immersive mood.
Throughout “The Great Unwashed” guitars are destined to captivate the listeners skillfully shifting from crunchy riffage to the luminous tonalities of the intricate solos surrounded by lavish ambiance layers.
On “Heartless” a fascinating combo of opulent keyboards and electro accents introduces a harsh rhythmic assault but later the wistful piano melodies accompanied by a poignant vocal delivery effortlessly create a dramatic depth.
“Wildfires” brings a cathartic closure with a minimalist approach as the deeply melancholic sonic palette focuses on graceful acoustic phrases and fervent vocals to express genuine feelings.
“A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament)” definitely aims to impress the audience with impeccable musicianship and eloquent melodic tapestries as after over 25 years of existence Evergrey continue to demonstrate passion and creativity.
Stöner – totally…
Featuring Brant Bjork and Nick Oliveri, renowned as founder members of legendary Kyuss, Stöner begins a new sensational desert rock jam on the sophomore release ”totally…”.
“A Million Beers” relies on the raw energy of the magnetic rhythmic section to create loads of fast explosive grooves symbolizing an ideal joyride through the Mojave desert.
“Strawberry Creek (Dirty Feet)” delivers the expected dosage of dirty riffs well supported by the vibrant drumming and spiced up by the contrasting vocal delivery by Brant and Nick.
“Space Dude & The Burn” features the perfect vintage guitar sound and the consequent galloping riffage can easily generate monolithic grooves while the slower and a bit darker breakdown gives way to a series of wild guitar leads.
“Turn It Around Now” is another memorable track that instantly makes you feel dazed & confused with the intense fuzzy riffage and the slow burning guitar progressions emphasized by Brant’s laid back vocal performance.
“Great American Sage” grabs your attention with the moody guitar phrases and the robust bass lines blending warm bluesy tonalities and a hazy heavy rock approach that spontaneously leads to an extensive charismatic solo.
Once again Stöner drags through the desert to party all day long packing dusty melodies and irresistible grooves throughout ”totally…” with an authentic psych stoner rock attitude.
Venus Principle – Stand in Your Light
Featuring former members of Crippled Black Phoenix and active/former members of At The Gates, Ison, Tacoma Narrows Bridge Disaster and Louise Lemon, British/Swedish psychedelic/progressive rock collective Venus Principle is ready to impress the audience with the spellbinding soundscapes of the debut album “Stand In Your Light”.
Within the dreamy atmosphere of “Rebel Drones” darkly soothing guitar melodies follow a contemplative pathway and eventually acquire fuzzy undertones to build enticing rhythmic crescendos accompanied by an evocative vocal duet.
The intricate melodic ensemble of “Barricades” puts the spotlight on the warm guitar leads and Daniel Änghede’s emotional vocal delivery while the solid rhythmic section has a chance to embrace a hypnotizing psychedelic approach.
“All These Words” naturally combines hazy atmospheric textures and eloquent guitar phrases which emphasize the catchy prog rock elements and the glowing vocal performance can easily channel bittersweet emotions.
“Shut It Down” shines for the immersive melodic tapestries and the ethereal atmospheric arrangements conveying pure melancholia while Daisy Chapman’s delicate voice easily enhances the memorable chorus.
Surrounded by a blurry atmosphere “Drag Nets” continues to manifest a moody melodic soul through graceful vocals while guitars can craft heavier & darker rock dynamics embellished by the elegant saxophone.
The poignant title track favors a slower and softer tempo to highlight the delightful vocal performance flowing gently through a multilayered atmospheric daydream.
Considering the talented artists behind Venus Principle it’s easy to appreciate the detailed composition that generates truly captivating melodic waves throughout “Stand In Your Light” which is destined to instantly grab your attention.
Black Void – Antithesis
Featuring mastermind Lars Are Nedland, renowned for his work in legendary Borknagar, Black Void symbolizes the flipside of his melodic hard rock band White Void and clearly manifests a visionary punk/black metal approach on the new album “Antithesis” inspired by the philosophical works of Friedrich Nietzsche.
The crust punk energy of “Void” leads to a belligerent rhythmic rampage yet a soulful melodic essence is destined to emerge through the melancholia infused guitar harmonies and the soothing clean vocal delivery.
On “Reject Everything” the harsh guitar riffs take the center stage generating impactful grooves enhanced by the ravenous growls but as the tempo slows down a bit the moody atmosphere reveals a dramatic depth.
“Death To Morality” focuses on an irresistible groovy blackened momentum constantly fueled by the soaring guitar riffs and the primal growls by guest vocalist Hoest of Taake in contrast with the calmer clean vocals and the cold melodic textures.
“No Right, No Wrong” skillfully combines savage rhythmic blasts evoking a perennial darkness and eloquent melodic accents that effortlessly emphasize catchy vibes and refined guitar tonalities.
Featuring spiteful growls courtesy of Sakis Tolis of Rotting Christ “Dadaist Disgust” channels an obscure blackened force through the unrestrained riffage and the breakneck speed building an intense rhythmic tension enriched by some smooth melodic guitar leads.
Dwelling within a metaphysical dimension Black Void never fails to unleash pure aggression and constantly demands your attention with the twisted rhythmic patterns of “Antithesis”.
Christian Death – Evil Becomes Rule
Gothic death rock pioneers Christian Death embark on a gloomy sonic journey exploring intellectual themes and diverse music styles throughout the new full-length “Evil Becomes Rule”.
Within the dramatic atmospheric ensemble of “The Alpha And The Omega” Valor Kand’s voice becomes your spiritual guide while guitars often acquire a raw energy to create groovy rhythmic patterns.
“New Messiah” relies on the contrasting textures of the gritty guitar riffs and the vibrant acoustic phrases while Maitri’s vocals easily enhance the darkened catchy vibes.
A fascinating gothic flair lingers through the moody melodic waves and the monochromatic bass lines of “Blood Moon” reaching the acme with the seductive vocal harmonies of the addictive chorus.
“Beautiful” puts the spotlight on Maitri’s bewitching vocals flowing through a darkly gripping blend of graceful atmospheric tapestries and dazzling melodic crescendos.
“Rise And Shine” showcases a sinister vision through the irresistible faster & heavier rhythmic segments enriched by the charismatic vocal interplay and the melancholic atmospheric arrangements.
“Who Am I (part 1)” stands out for the hypnotizing combo of elegant violins and warm arpeggios yet the rhythmic section can acquire an obscure essence ultimately leading to a delightful melodic guitar solo.
Christian Death inevitably lure you through a realm of darkness and poetry as “Evil Becomes Rule” grabs your attention with sultry melodic aesthetics and a timeless goth essence.