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.
Category: Album Reviews
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.
Oh Hiroshima – Myriad
Swedish post-rock band Oh Hiroshima creates an enchanting melodic grandeur evoking an overwhelming melancholia on the latest immersive record “Myriad”.
“Nour” opens the album with a captivating darkened atmosphere focusing on a modern post-rock approach that naturally leads to hazy melodic crescendos skillfully adorned by intricate keyboards layers and bittersweet vocal harmonies.
Within the kaleidoscopic atmosphere of “Veil Of Certainty” guitars focus on energetic rhythmic patterns and distorted textures without sacrificing the eloquent melodic essence and the consequent sorrowful feelings.
“Ascension” relies on the soft vocal delivery and the comforting slow burning guitar melodies carefully entwined with refined atmospheric arrangements that will reach the acme with a series of dreamy rhythmic crescendos.
Showcasing an opulent composition “Tundra” gently unfolds like a blurry beautiful daydream through the exquisite melodic progressions and the extensive shimmering atmospheric nuances ultimately conveying sadness and nostalgia.
The intense emotional depth of “Myriad” is bound to move the listeners as Oh Hiroshima confidently craft breathtaking atmospheric soundscapes and lavish melodic tapestries enhanced by an irresistible darkened flair.
Kuolemanlaakso – Kuusumu
Featuring renowned vocalist Mikko Kotamäki of Swallow The Sun, Finnish death doom metal band Kuolemanlaakso returns after eight years to spread endless darkness and gloom through the intricate soundscapes of the new album “Kuusumu”.
Under a shroud of frost “Pimeys laski” begins a cathartic journey with gorgeous piano melodies that introduce a doom laden ensemble as guitars effortlessly shift from deeply mournful melodies to obscure riffage ultimately leading to faster harsh patterns.
“Katkeruuden malja” offers mystical melodic aesthetics highlighting the alluring darkened guitar tonalities surrounding a charismatic vocal duet featuring Lotta Ruutiainen of Luna Kills while the mighty rhythmic section generates intense epic vibes.
“Surusta meri suolainen” often follows a slower tempo embracing a lugubrious doom grandeur and naturally reaching a dramatic depth through the opulent atmospheric keyboards and the arcane guitar progressions unfolding gracefully around passionate clean vocals yet the faster rhythmic segments can unleash sheer fury amplified by the vicious growls.
“Surun sinfonia” tends to focus on gripping melodic tapestries to express an overwhelming melancholia enhanced by the theatrical narratives while a traditional doom force is destined to thrive within the heavy & ominous rhythmic crescendos.
The memorable final track “Tulessakävelijä” evokes an ancestral Nordic spirit and reveals an energetic approach through the soaring guitar riffs, the powerful growls and the consequent monumental grooves elegantly embellished by ethereal vocal harmonies and sumptuous atmospheric layers.
The doom roots feel strong within the gelid world of “Kuusumu” yet Kuolemanlaakso skillfully embrace an expansive artistic vision leading to a stunning blend of inflamed dynamics and compelling harmonious arrangements.
Dagoba – By Night
Over the years French quartet Dagoba has been exploring diverse musical territories and the result of this artistic evolution today is embodied by the modern metal approach of the brand new record “By Night”.
“The Hunt” has a subtle dystopian feel successfully combining futuristic electro arrangements and frantic grooves amplified by the ferocious growls yet the polished guitar leads surrounded by cold atmospheric textures can express a somber melodic essence.
“Sunfall” can certainly deliver a massive harsh rhythmic rampage diligently fueled by the crunchy guitar riffs and the fast drum blasts but grim feelings are bound to emerge through the clean vocals and the luminous atmospheric accents.
“Bellflower Drive” marks an impactful moment as the whole rhythmic section confidently engages in aggressive patterns yet the chorus adds catchy vibes with soulful melodic nuances ultimately leading to a solemn atmospheric finale.
“City Lights” amplifies even more the catchiness with the winning combo of galactic electro layers and robust riffage yet the softer atmospheric passages convey a darker contemplative mood.
“Nightclub” features recurring glowing keyboards arrangements revealing a softer approach but the fiery drums often pick up speed releasing extra raw energy.
On “The Last Crossing” the band proudly showcases significantly heavier roots as the gritty guitar riffs and the visceral growls keep a steady groovy momentum that surely would trigger a moshpit.
As darkness inevitably lingers throughout “By Night” Dagoba are able to balance accessible melodic hooks and heavier dynamics that can definitely reach a wide audience.
Immolation – Acts Of God
Death metal veterans Immolation triumphantly channel a timeless & beloved old school style on the 11th studio album “Acts Of God” and you better be ready for an absolutely ferocious sonic assault.
“An Act Of God” consistently unleashes merciless dynamics through the monumental drumming and the relentless riffage yet within this frantic realm the stellar lead guitar work increases diversity with tasteful quasi melodic progressions.
The world of “The Age Of No Light” is aptly pitchblack as the cavernous growls guide you through an oppressive rhythmic maze skillfully embellished by pale melodic accents and flamboyant soloing.
“Noose Of Thorns” initially follows a slower tempo to emphasize the obscure guitar nuances destined to linger even when the impeccable rhythmic section gains the expected ravenous energy to build colossal grooves.
“Blooded” runs on a mighty rage that inevitably generates monolithic rhythmic patterns fueled by the abrasive combo of harsh guitar riffs and intriguing leads that once again manifests creativity and complexity.
“Overtures Of The Wicked” creates a chaotic sonic realm in proper death metal fashion with unrestrained drumming and visceral riffage but there are some interesting rhythmic twists leading to a glorious guitar solo.
On “Let the Darkness In” the fierce rhythmic section can naturally maintain a memorable groovy momentum but guitars will have a chance to deliver refined dismal melodic progressions emphasizing a perennial darkness.
There is a lot going on throughout “Apostle” as the blazing technical approach becomes dominant focusing on an overload of convoluted hostile rhythmic blasts amplified by the menacing growls.
Undoubtedly Immolation choose to stay true to their signature New York death metal sound consequently the strength of “Acts Of God” relies on the untamed rhythmic fury and the charismatic guitar work.
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