Danish black/heavy metallers Slægt are ready to impress the metal scene with a distinct obscure sonic vision that today generates the twisted soundscapes of the new full-length “Goddess”.
The ominous atmosphere of “Deceived by an Amethyst” introduces an intense groovy blackened rhythmic rampage constantly fueled by the soaring guitar riffs while the wildly charismatic solos clearly showcase a timeless heavy metal flair.
Within the pitchblack dimension of “Hunt Again” the darkened guitar sound leads the way to a cryptic rhythmic maze shifting from faster & ferocious blasts, easily amplified by the venomous growls, to the dazzling classic metal style of the extensive solos.
“Fealty, Thunder Whip” begins with bleak atmospheric textures but as soon as the edgy guitar work takes over the rhythmic patterns become quasi chaotic due to the subtle discordant elements in contrast with the hypnotizing melodic accents of the slower passages.
The title track manifests a fascinating esoteric essence with an intriguing blend of retro rock vibes and arcane atmospheric nuances leading to slower dramatic moments and the excellent guitar work has a chance to shift the focus to an epic melodic grandeur.
Throughout “Goddess” Slægt continue to channel a primal blackened force but can easily surprise the audience with a remarkable experimental approach that combines a wide range of musical influences.
Category: Album Reviews
Spiral Skies – Death Is But A Door
Swedish heavy psych rockers Spiral Skies embark on a spellbinding voyage channeling glorious vintage vibes through the hypnotic soundscapes of the sophomore record “Death Is But A Door”.
“The Endless Sea” opens the album with Frida’s otherworldly vocal harmonies flowing through dreamy arpeggios but soon the charismatic rhythmic section acquires fuzzy energy to craft an overload of groovy patterns.
“While The Devil Is Asleep” evokes delightful 70’s rock influences as the band successfully maintains an ideal balance between riveting melodic aesthetics and magnetic grooves amplified by the classic guitar sound.
On “Somewhere In The Dark” guitars acquire decadent darkened tonalities and the fiery riffage spontaneously generates irresistible grooves adorned by a sultry vocal performance and warm melodic accents.
“Time” opens the portal to a distant hazy dimension as the haunting guitar melodies follow a contemplative tempo that puts the spotlight on Frida’s enchanting voice yet the instrumental ensemble eventually embraces an occult flair and spacey fuzzy rock elements.
“Mirror Of Illusion” stands out for the seductive melodic splendor as the stunning vocals convey wistful feelings and the enticing guitar progressions flourish within a slow burning rhythmic maze ultimately evolving into a memorable fervent crescendo.
With the release of “Death Is But A Door” Spiral Skies definitely raise the bar manifesting a bewitching sonic vision that skillfully blends melancholia infused melodies and inflamed retro rock dynamics.
Crowbar – Zero And Below
New Orleans sludge metal pioneers Crowbar make a majestic comeback with the doom laden grooves and the genuine emotional depth of the highly anticipated new record “Zero And Below”.
“The Fear That Binds You” doesn’t waste any time as the heavy chunky guitar riffs effortlessly build crushing grooves and downtuned progressions to complement Kirk Windstein’s grave vocal delivery.
Following a doomed sonic pathway “Confess To Nothing” highlights the fundamental role of the robust rhythmic section and the fiery guitar work acquires menacing darkened tonalities to express dismal feelings.
“Chemical Godz” is filled with sharp guitar riffs leading to a quite harsh momentum yet the slower mournful progressions amplify gelid melodic nuances keeping in mind a traditional doom approach.
The slow burning track “Denial Of The Truth” begins with obscure guitar riffs and the consequent hypnotizing rhythmic maze generates overwhelming grim emotions enhanced by the dramatic vocal harmonies.
Throughout “Reanimating A Lie” a fuzzy energy fuels the heavy weight of the intense riffage and the steady monolithic rhythmic patterns that later acquire more aggressive vibes leading to faster dynamics.
The title track diligently keeps a balanced mix of massive heavy guitar riffs and hypnotizing soulful melodic phrases creating a gloomy sonic realm that certainly emphasizes a contemplative composition.
Undoubtedly Crowbar will not disappoint their devoted acolytes as “Zero And Below” holds all the crucial doom elements and the swampy sludge dynamics that cemented the band’s influential status over the last three decades.
E-L-R – Vexier
Swiss doomgaze trio E-L-R channels pure cosmic energy to meticulously craft dreamy soundscapes throughout the sophomore album “Vexier”.
“Opiate The Sun” will inevitably hypnotize you through a mysterious atmosphere that seamlessly evolves into an immersive rhythmic ensemble fueled by the exquisite darkened guitar tonalities and the forlorn melodic accents.
On “Three Winds” the rhythmic section reveals an obscure blackened inspiration following a faster tempo and emphasizing the dominant role of the abrasive guitar riffs while the distant chanting and the gloomy melodic progressions add a captivating mystical flair.
Throughout “Fleurs Of Decay” the mood shifts from a harsh momentum to contemplative passages as guitars skillfully create a monochromatic rhythmic maze and the consequent loop of darkened hazy progressions could induce a trance state.
Emerging from a distant dimension “Forêt” embraces ritualistic vibes through the arcane percussion while the lysergic guitar work evokes mesmerizing shoegaze influence but also a strong primordial doom force ultimately leading to monolithic patterns that will morph into an otherworldly atmospheric finale.
“Vexier” symbolizes an adventurous voyage as E-L-R confidently combine enigmatic psychedelic nuances and surreal darkened atmospheric textures to instantly spellbind the listeners.
MIdnight – Let There Be Witchery
Following a blasphemous sonic pathway Midnight is ready for another reckless ride providing an overdose of catchy & creepy grooves throughout the fifth full-length “Let There Be Witchery”.
“Telepathic Nightmare” opens the album with an appealing sinister mood and the vitriolic rhythmic rampage relies on a frantic blend of black and speed metal putting the spotlight on the unstoppable crunchy guitar riffs.
Filled with spiteful screams “In Sinful Secrecy” constantly unleashes raw energy and the consequent untamed grooves are spiced up by the tasteful classic metal flavors of the lead guitar work.
“Nocturnal Molestation” sounds as nasty as expected putting the spotlight on the rebellious attitude of the vocals emphasized by the belligerent rhythmic section and the wild guitar solo is bound to grab your attention.
Like a party in a graveyard “More Torment” conveys eerie vibes and the robust guitar riffs naturally acquire some delicious darkened tones ultimately generating another round of groovy dynamics.
“Devil Virgin” is basically packed with bouncy guitar riffs and spontaneous grim leads creating an irresistible nightmarish rhythmic ensemble that could be rightfully used for a splatter movie soundtrack.
The morbid catchiness of “Szex Witchery” generates galloping rhythmic blasts inspired by a traditional speed metal formula as once again the malicious guitar riffs hit you in the face while the grand finale shifts to utterly somber progressions.
Undoubtedly Midnight delivers once again an addictive collection of malignant tunes that demands to be played loud as “Let There Be Witchery” can instantly induce a savage moshpit with devilish hooks and massive guitar driven grooves.
Allegaeon – Damnum
For over fifteen years technical death metal band Allegaeon has worked hard to develop a distinct sonic vision that today shines brighter on the sixth album “Damnum” providing the ideal balance between sheer fury and enticing melodic splendor.
In the beginning “Bastards of the Earth” makes you feel at peace with a soothing series of arpeggios but an obscure force will bring an overload of abrasive rhythmic patterns easily amplified by the angered growls and the fierce technical riffage.
“Of Beasts and Worms” enhances a contemplative mood with mellow acoustic passages accompanied by a heartfelt clean vocal delivery but everything changes as the hostile rhythmic section takes over and the lead guitar work delivers acrobatic progressions.
“Called Home” sounds particularly fascinating focusing on emotional depth and recurring cathartic melodic textures emphasized by glowing atmospheric accents nevertheless the fiery guitar riffs acquire darker tonalities to build robust grooves.
Surrounded by a haunting atmosphere “The Dopamine Void Pt. 1” embraces dazzling prog dynamics but this sense of tranquility disappears as soon as “The Dopamine Void Pt. 2” unleashes violent rhythmic blasts diligently fueled by the breakneck speed and the relentless guitar riffs channeling a primal death metal force.
Within the darkened realm of “Only Loss” guitars effortlessly create complex enraged progressions well supported by the ruthless growls and the precise drumming but you can still perceive a dismal melodic essence.
Ultimately “Damnum” is the product of an intense sonic evolution as Allegaeon constantly showcase great creativity and impressive musicianship but also choose to explore a variety of emotive themes through eloquent lyrics.
Dark Funeral – We Are The Apocalypse
Swedish black metal titans Dark Funeral make a triumphant comeback embracing an intricate songwriting style to create the ideal soundtrack for the end of the world on the highly anticipated seventh full-length “We Are The Apocalypse”.
You simply cannot escape the immense fury of “Nigthfall” as the inflamed rhythmic section immediately unleashes a tight series of blackened grooves fueled by the raw energy of the relentless guitar riffs and the venomous growls nevertheless you will find a fair dosage of tasteful melodic accents.
On “Let The Devil In” the ritualistic vibes of the monolithic drums lead the way to an ominous realm where the scorching guitar riffs generate insanely groovy dynamics without the need for extra speed in fact the sorrowful progressions are destined to instantly captivate the listeners.
Drenched in darkness “Nosferatu” relies on a majestic blackened force to consistently deliver an untamed rhythmic rampage while the slower sophisticated guitar phrases and the sinister narratives amplify the cryptic mood.
The composition of “When I’m Gone” shifts to a decadent atmospheric ensemble enriched by the refined guitar melodies expressing sheer melancholia yet you can still find visceral rhythmic patterns easily enhanced by the ruthless growls.
As the drums acquire massive speed “Beyond The Grave” delivers a malevolent rhythmic assault and the robust guitar riffs simply seem to emerge from the darkest depths of black metal while during the breakdown the melodic textures reveal mournful feelings.
Everything is impossibly obscure on the title track as the menacing combo of unrestrained drum blasts and sharp riffage can leave you breathless and shattered once again putting the spotlight on the glorious guitar work.
Dark Funeral diligently continue to craft memorable black metal anthems staying true to their influential legacy but also increasing diversity throughout the frostbitten soundscapes of “We Are The Apocalypse”.
Sylvaine – Nova
Multi-instrumentalist composer Sylvaine is ready to impress once again the burgeoning blackgaze scene with the rich kaleidoscopic composition and the darkened poetry of the brand new album “Nova”.
“Mono No Aware” at times follows a particularly obscure pathway leading to fast aggressive blackened patterns amplified by the pummeling drums and the venomous screams in contrast with the wistful guitar phrases that will open a portal to an enchanting dreamy world where Sylvaine’s graceful voice becomes your faithful guide.
“Nowhere, Still Somewhere” perfectly embodies a haunting melodic daydream as the spellbinding arpeggios flourish within a soothing atmospheric ensemble and naturally evolve into deeply melancholic rhythmic crescendos that showcase a delightful shoegaze inspiration enriched by the heartfelt vocal harmonies.
“Fortapt” pays homage to Sylvaine’s Norwegian roots evoking magical folk nuances through nostalgic minimalist arpeggios that can take you far away from the dreadful reality while the lavish melodic tapestries become increasingly darker with the addition of feral screams and gritty riffage.
A darkly romantic vision unfolds delicately through “Everything Must Come To An End” focusing on an exquisite combo of fascinating somber guitar melodies and eloquent vocals adorned by the classical splendor of violin and cello.
Undoubtedly Sylvaine still channels a primordial blackened essence but fully embraces an intimate songwriting approach to manifest a glowing rebirth meticulously crafting the alluring soundscapes of “Nova”.
Abraham – Debris de Mondes Perdus
Swiss apocalyptic metal band Abraham follows a tormented sonic pathway channeling raw energy and sheer despair through the enigmatic new album “Débris de Mondes Perdus”.
“Verminvisible” opens the album with painful screams cutting through a dense heavily distorted instrumental ensemble and the gritty guitars can easily lead to frantic & faster rhythmic blasts conveying dismal feelings.
“Blood Moon, New Alliance” immediately unleashes a hostile rhythmic rampage highlighting the rough guitar sound and the oppressive drumming yet you can perceive a pale melodic essence within the darkened atmosphere.
Darkness aptly descends on “Ravenous Is the Night” as the tempo often slows down drastically to emphasize the gloomy melodic guitar phrases destined to shine through the dissonant rhythmic maze.
There is an apparent calm on “A Celestial Funeral” as the grave melodic textures and the hazy post-metal formula can feel quite dominant but at times the caustic rhythmic section generates chaotic moments.
“Black Breath” embodies post-apocalyptic themes and collaborator Emilie Zoé amplifies the inner melancholia with ethereal vocals flowing through a hazy atmospheric dimension enriched by the moody guitar harmonies and the pulsating rhythm.
Far from music for the masses “Débris de Mondes Perdus” belongs to a dystopian world as Abraham confidently provide violent dynamics and unsettling vibes keeping in mind an emotive post-metal flair.
Shape Of Despair – Return To The Void
Finnish funeral doom stalwarts Shape Of Despair invite you to embark on a contemplative journey through the perpetual darkness of the latest offering “Return To The Void”.
We bravely enter the void as the title track delivers majestic melodic crescendos fueled by the gelid guitar tonalities flowing gracefully through a crestfallen atmospheric ensemble embellished by angelic female vocals.
Within the cold cinematic soundscapes of “Solitary Downfall” guitars continue to combine beautiful forlorn melodies and crushing doom riffage following a painfully slow tempo while cavernous growls and ethereal vocals naturally express an emotional whirlwind.
On “Forfeit” the monumental drumming and the monochromatic guitar sound generate a perennial sense of hopelessness and oppressive rhythmic patterns in contrast with the captivating dreamy atmospheric breakdown.
Everything on “The Inner Desolation” matches the title focusing on a lugubrious blend of mournful melodic phrases and heavy doom laden guitar riffs once again surrounded by refined sorrowful atmospheric layers leading to a particularly haunting finale featuring melancholic vocal harmonies.
Channeling grief and infinite gloom throughout “Return To The Void” Shape Of Despair depict a darkened bleak world where heart wrenching melodic tapestries and monolithic doom progressions become seamlessly entwined.
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