Experimental blackened doom band Eight Bells begins a musical and emotional exploration through the hypnotizing soundscapes of the ambitious third record “Legacy Of Ruin”.
Surrounded by a murky atmosphere “Destroyer” opens the album with haunting vocal harmonies and wistful arpeggios that will soon evolve into a heavier rhythmic ensemble showcasing an inflamed blackened flair fueled by visceral guitar riffs and mournful tonalities.
An immense melancholia lingers through “The Well” as the enticing melodic blend of gloomy guitars, dreamy piano accents and elegant violin reveal an intense emotional depth yet ominous black metal influences will occasionally take over generating aggressive rhythmic blasts.
On “Nadir” the monochromatic vocals enhance a spiritual essence and you can even perceive a pale sense of hopefulness as the soft melodic progressions and the poignant darkened guitar tonalities ultimately lead to cathartic rhythmic crescendos.
“Premonition” marks a grand finale highlighting an arcane energy and an elaborate composition which combines ghastly doom melodies and harsh blackened rhythmic patterns featuring relentless tremolo and tormented growls.
Eight Bells confidently follow a multifaceted enigmatic sonic pathway that can easily grab your attention, shifting from evocative melodies to obscure dynamics within the darkened realm of “Legacy Of Ruin”.
Category: Album Reviews
Arð – Take Up My Bones
Founded by multi-instrumentalist Mark Deeks, known for his work with black metal stalwarts Winterfylleth, the new monastic doom metal project Arð manifests an epic sonic vision on the debut release “Take Up My Bones” conceptually inspired by the legendary relics of the famous Northumbrian saint Cuthbert and their long journey.
“Burden Foretold” combines solemn chanting and the heavy weight of traditional doom metal while the slower passages can instantly captivate the listeners with the stark beauty of enchanting cello melodies within a brooding atmospheric ensemble.
Following a slow mournful tempo the title track creates an enigmatic mood with theatrical chants and lugubrious guitar tonalities that naturally lead to crestfallen melodic crescendos embellished by the delicate piano.
Surrounded by an arcane atmosphere “Raise then the Incorrupt Body” unfolds a fragile melodic essence through compelling acoustic phrases, graceful keyboards arrangements and a soft vocal delivery enriched by the immense nostalgia of the guitar leads and the cello.
On “Only Three Shall Know ” evocative monastic chants introduce a majestic darkened sonic realm where a meticulous mixture of sublime classical accents and funereal doom laden guitar riffs create a striking dramatic depth.
Throughout “Take Up My Bones” Arð embrace a detailed composition to tell intriguing stories and myths of their native land blending a harrowing doom metal force and alluring melodic tapestries.
Voivod – Synchro Anarchy
Canadian progressive sci-fi metal veterans Voivod reach a significant milestone with the release of the 15th studio album “Synchro Anarchy” taking you on a spacey trip through a visionary sonic realm.
On “Paranormalium” the discordant guitar riffs and the intricate leads seem to belong to an alternate universe but as the precise rhythmic section gains groovy vibes and speed you can perceive a familiar thrash essence.
The title track can surprise you with loads of twisted rhythmic dynamics fueled by the mighty guitar riffs and the prog drumming style yet there is an inner eerie melodic flair that can generate a catchy momentum.
Offering soothing arpeggios “Mind Clock” acquires a darker aura but there will be drastic tempo variations as the gritty guitar riffs eventually lead to a faster & frantic rhythm that can make you feel dizzy.
“Holographic Thinking” begins with unstoppable heavy riffage characterized by an old school approach yet the guitar work can also deliver complex progressions and a tasteful solo which showcase stronger prog metal influences.
“Quest For Nothing” provides a fair dosage of robust thrash grooves highlighting the heavier tight rhythmic section and the consequent raw energy is further amplified by the angered vocal delivery while the slower finale holds a hypnotic melodic flair. .
Voivod clearly demonstrate that after 40 years of existence they still have a lot to say and their unique music style today spontaneously leads to the eclectic & surreal world of “Synchro Anarchy”.
Hangman’s Chair – A Loner
French doom rock band Hangman’s Chair takes you on a dystopian trip through the decadent outskirts of Paris and the gloomy world of the latest full-length “A Loner”.
Focusing on a compelling emotional depth “An Ode To Breakdown” relies on the darkened guitar tonalities to craft harrowing melodic crescendos within a hazy atmospheric maze while the bold riffs & drumming can easily build a memorable groovy momentum.
Channeling grave emotions “Who Wants To Die Old” begins with hypnotic minimalist melodies accompanied by soulful vocals but the rhythm gradually acquires a darker energy through the irresistible fuzzy guitar riffs.
“Supreme” can easily convey an overwhelming melancholia as the dreamy post-metal influences feel stronger leading to slow-burning melodic progressions and murky atmospheric layers spiced up by scattered fiery grooves.
“Loner” feels hopeless and beautiful as we enter a subtle atmospheric daydream filled with wistful harmonies yet the rhythmic section will eventually engage in catchy goth inspired dynamics.
“A Thousand Miles Away” certainly embodies the album’s immense tristesse through the recurring monochromatic melodies and the consequent desolate soundscapes that will evolve into robust guitar driven grooves fueled by the significantly heavier riffage.
Throughout “A Loner” Hangman’s Chair inevitably evoke solitude and despair, shaping an honest sonic vision that naturally shifts from mournful doom elements to shimmering atmospheric splendor.
Author & Punisher – Krüller
With the industrial drone-doom project Author & Punisher mastermind Tristan Shone has created a world of custom made machines and dystopian soundscapes that today leads to the surreal new album “Krüller”.
The experimental approach of “Drone Carrying Dread” generates a murky atmospheric ensemble certainly enhanced by the slow mournful tempo and the moody vocal delivery embellished by recurring bittersweet melodic accents.
Darkness inevitably descends on “Incinerator” which can sound quite heavy as the elaborate synths can create oppressive patterns and pulsating rhythmic crescendos amplified by distorted sounds and angered vocals.
Throughout the dense drone induced atmosphere of “Centurion” the mechanical industrial beats maintain a monochromatic rhythm and you can always perceive a sense of utter desolation and grim feelings.
Featuring a collaboration with Tool’s drummer Danny Carey, “Misery” definitely showcases gritty industrial vibes yet there is a lingering decadent melodic essence bound to grab your attention through the soothing atmospheric nuances.
The title track tends to focus on a robotic rhythmic core that seems to belong to a distant decayed dimension and emphasizes raw heavier dynamics while the soft piano melodies create an extremely gloomy finale.
Ultimately “Krüller” dwells within a darkened realm where Author & Punisher skillfully combines multilayered nightmarish industrial textures and bleak melodic aesthetics developing a unique sonic and sensorial experience.
Silent Skies – Nectar
Featuring vocalist of renowned progressive metal act Evergrey Tom S. Englund and pianist virtuoso Vikram Shankar, the ambient project Silent Skies aims to conquer your heart with the cinematic sophomore release “Nectar”.
“Fallen From Heart” opens the album putting the spotlight on Tom’s warm vocal delivery surrounded by a soft crispy atmosphere and magical cello harmonies courtesy of talented musician Raphael Weinroth-Browne.
“Taper” manifests a deeply melancholic spirit consequently the soothing piano melodies acquire somber tonalities flourishing within a fragile atmospheric ensemble.
“Let It Hurt” certainly relies on intense emotional themes as the passionate vocal performance perfectly complements the detailed mix of airy atmospheric tapestries and refined classical textures.
“Leaving” marks another poignant moment as the intricate keyboards layers craft opulent atmospheric crescendos embellished by the sublime cello melodies and an understated darkened flair.
On “Cold” delicate electro elements create quasi surreal soundscapes with a palpable wintry feel elegantly unraveling around the particularly fervent vocals.
“Closer” continues to intensify a poetic emotional approach as the eloquent vocals flow gracefully within the delightful atmospheric composition that often feels like a fading daydream.
Throughout “Nectar” Silent Skies showcases an evocative sonic vision focusing on the expression of vivid emotions and sophisticated arrangements destined to move the listeners.
Amorphis – Halo
Finnish icons Amorphis continue to tell fascinating ancient stories channeling a magical Nordic spirit through the mesmerizing blend of gloomy melodies and majestic grooves of the fourteenth full-length “Halo”.
“Northwards” begins a wintry journey with a perfect melancholic atmospheric intro swiftly followed by energetic groovy dynamics highlighting the extraordinary band’s chemistry and the stylish combo of soothing melodic guitar leads and vintage rock inspired keyboards create delightful slower passages.
“The Moon” immediately stands out for the soulful melodic essence flourishing through a super catchy mix of refined guitar progressions and intricate keyboards arrangements with a dazzling proggy inspiration evoking somber feelings enhanced by Tomi Joutsen’s fervent clean vocal delivery.
Throughout “A New Land” the fierce rhythmic section can consistently provide explosive grooves easily amplified by the colossal growls but the Nordic folk influences are destined to shine bright leading to vivid mystical progressions.
“Seven Roads Come Together” sounds insanely groovy, often following a faster tempo and putting the spotlight on the robust riffage and the ruthless growls while the solemn keyboards layers definitely add epic vibes around the clean vocal harmonies.
The title track begins with a darkened atmospheric aura and the consequent melancholia will linger through the eloquent melodic ensemble as the glowing lead guitar work and the soothing keyboards tonalities always maintain a catchy mood.
“The Wolf” often acquires darker aesthetics through the nocturnal atmospheric accents and the ravenous riffage while the sorrowful guitar phrases and the dramatic operatic choirs create an irresistible cold melodic flair.
“My Name Is Night” brings closure with a contemplative melodic grandeur featuring graceful guitar melodies unfolding around an otherworldly vocal duet with guest singer Petronella Nettermalm ultimately conveying poignant emotions.
Demonstrating once again an unstoppable creative force and impeccable musicianship Amorphis proudly stay true to a distinct sonic vision meticulously developed during their longstanding career yet never refrain from exploring diverse styles to craft the enthralling soundscapes of “Halo”.
Persefone – Metanoia
Founded in 2001 progressive/melodic death metal band Persefone embraces a remarkable evolution leading to the stylish blend of technical acrobatics and sophisticated melodies on the highly anticipated new record “Metanoia”.
“Katabasis” instantly showcases instrumental prowess putting the spotlight on the convoluted guitar progressions and the consequent eclectic prog dynamics seamlessly become entwined with the rather aggressive rhythmic blasts yet there are scattered calmer moments featuring somber piano harmonies.
“Architecture of the I” begins with crispy synth layers introducing a quite savage rhythmic rampage as the crunchy riffs march fiercely acquiring extra speed while the brighter tonalities of the intricate lead guitar work lead to an introspective atmospheric momentum.
On “Aware of Being Watched” ethereal vocal harmonies and futuristic synths feel like a pleasant daydream and the band certainly emphasizes the emotive themes through contemplative melodic tapestries yet there are plenty of twisted & heavier rhythmic patterns courtesy of the precise drumming and the virtuoso guitar style.
“Merkabah” manifests a soothing atmospheric approach embellished by the glowing guitar phrases and the softer vocal delivery in contrast with the striking technical nature of the frenetic rhythmic segments, the unrestrained riffage and the furious growls that can definitely channel an obscure death metal force.
The majestic lengthy track “Consciousness (Pt.3)” has a lot to offer symbolizing a cathartic journey as the melancholia infused cinematic intro gradually evolves into a melodic grandeur relying on the crystalline sound of the charismatic guitar leads enriched by sumptuous keyboards arrangements while the flawless rhythmic section focuses on a complex prog composition delivering the perfect dosage of harsh technical elements.
“Anabasis Pt2” unleashes a darker & ferocious assault as the faster roaring riffage leads the way through a feverish rhythmic maze yet the delightful slower passages surrounded by elegant atmospheric textures evoke genuine emotions and mystical vibes.
While Persefone is destined to impress the audience with outstanding musicianship the strength of “Metanoia” also comes from the immersive soundscapes characterized by modern electro accents and opulent atmospheric nuances.
Mass Worship – Portal Tombs
Swedish darkened metal outfit Mass Worship drags you through the bitterly cold soundscapes of the crushing sophomore record “Portal Tombs”.
“Specular Void” certainly follows an obscure sonic pathway as the harsh guitar riffs and the cryptic leads march fiercely through a mystifying atmosphere unleashing loads of oppressive rhythmic dynamics.
Featuring vicious guest vocals from legendary Mark “Barney” Greenway of Napalm Death the title track sounds particularly aggressive as the merciless rhythmic section acquires speed and ominous tones reaching the acme with a wild guitar solo.
“Orcus Mouth” conjures a massive darkened force to generate chaotic rhythmic blasts yet there is space for mournful guitar melodies and cathartic soloing ultimately leading to a melancholic atmospheric finale enriched by eloquent clean vocals courtesy of Jonas Renkse of Katatonia.
Throughout “Empyrean Halls” the ruthless rhythmic segments are naturally amplified by tormented growls but the fragile arpeggios evoke an apparent peacefulness and the atmosphere becomes murky as the guitar leads fully embrace arcane tonalities.
Drenched in undiluted darkness “Deliverance” marks a harrowing grand finale focusing on ghastly doom influences as the excellent lead guitar work crafts refined crestfallen melodic progressions within a gloomy rhythmic maze.
Keeping in mind a familiar Scandinavian extreme metal formula without sacrificing a grim melodic essence, Mass Worship successfully convey fury & desolation throughout “Portal Tombs”.
Venom Prison – Erebos
Uk death metallers Venom Prison continue to evolve a visceral sonic vision that today leads to the new untamed full-length “Erebos” destined to solidify their status in the underground metal scene.
“Judges Of The Underworld” spontaneously unleashes uncompromising rhythmic blasts highlighting the precise drumming and the blistering guitar riffs that will ultimately lead to charismatic solos characterized by refined melodic accents.
“Nemesis” provides the perfect dosage of aggression as the vitriolic riffage dictates an intense groovy momentum around Larissa Stupar’s insane growls yet when the tempo slows down a bit guitars can acquire brighter tonalities and dazzling proggy vibes.
You can perceive an emotional whirlwind through “Pain Of Oizys” as the focus often shifts to poignant melodic aesthetics emphasizing the hypnotizing intricate guitar work and the wistful clean vocal harmonies in contrast with the scattered savage rhythmic patterns.
Surrounded by dystopian atmospheric arrangements “Golden Apples Of The Hesperides” conveys sheer fury through the hostile screams and the breakneck speed diligently fueled by the unrestrained guitar riffs and the frantic leads.
Undoubtedly there is a strong death metal force behind the vicious composition of “Gorgon Sisters” as the relentless drumming proudly leads the way to a chaotic sonic realm where guitars can engage in fiery convoluted progressions embellished by the futuristic tones of the surreal atmospheric layers.
Through the twisted harsh rhythmic maze of “Technologies Of Death” guitars have the ability to create venomous riffs and enticing melancholic melodic phrases showcasing versatility and expressing grave emotions further enhanced by the gloomy atmospheric finale.
Without any hesitation Venom Prison deliver an overdose of incendiary grooves throughout “Erebos” yet they are able to diverge from standard extreme metal territories channeling an alluring poetic essence.
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