Founded in 2000, Finnish doom masters Swallow The Sun invite you to enter a fascinating realm of gloom, beauty and despair on the latest majestic offering “Moonflowers”.
The magical melancholic world of “Moonflowers Bloom In Misery” is destined to conquer your soul as the sublime keyboards tapestries surround the flawless mix of enthralling melodic progressions and thrilling rhythmic blasts.
The intricate composition of “Woven Into Sorrow” doesn’t sacrifice the inner ominous doom essence but certainly tends to focus on the fragile beauty of the glowing guitar melodies and the contemplative atmospheric waves embellished by the classical flair of the impeccable orchestrations.
A genuine emotional turmoil lingers through “Keep Your Heart Safe from Me” as the darkly romantic tonalities of the riveting melodic guitars and the soothing clean vocal delivery during the irresistible chorus will simply spellbind you while the heavy weight of doom metal generates mighty rhythmic blasts.
Poetry and darkness inevitably entwine on “All Hallows’ Grieve” which features a dazzling duet with guest vocalist Cammie Gilbert of Oceans Of Slumber and revolves around the enticing combo of refined melodic guitar phrases and enchanting atmospheric layers.
“This House Has No Home” manifests an obscure heavy momentum as the untamed rhythmic section can acquire extra speed to fully embrace an inflamed blackened vision in contrast with the heart-wrenching melodic ensemble evoking bittersweet feelings.
As “Moonflowers” bloom at the darkest hour, Swallow The Sun are naturally driven by an immense melancholia and a primordial doom metal force that lead to the creation of a darkened magnum opus keeping a balanced blend of exquisite melodies and crushing rhythmic dynamics.
Category: Album Reviews
1914 – Where Fear And Weapons Meet
Ukrainian blackened death/doom metal outfit 1914 return to conquer a solid status in the metal scene with the new crushing full-length “Where Fear And Weapons Meet” lyrically centered on the gruesome tales of World War I.
“FN .380 ACP#19074” immediately manifests a dramatic depth through solemn orchestrations and sober melodic accents that successfully enrich the hostile rhythmic core fueled by unrestrained drumming and fiery blackened guitar progressions.
The theatrical symphonic arrangements of “Pillars of Fire (The Battle of Messines)” introduce a monolithic rhythmic ensemble yet the constant tremolo and the gelid doom tonalities ultimately lead to contemplative slower passages.
Throughout “Don’t Tread on Me (Harlem Hellfighters)” the rhythmic march seems unstoppable acquiring speed and brutality to create massive grooves amplified by the ruthless growls yet the guitar leads deliver mournful harmonies during the finale.
Featuring majestic vocals courtesy of Nick Holmes of legendary Paradise Lost “…And a Cross Now Marks His Place” emphasizes the presence of gloomy doom elements through the slower ominous guitar progressions but the untamed riffage can lead to rather aggressive rhythmic patterns.
“Corps d’autos-canons-mitrailleuses (A.C.M)” relies on the sombre tones of the elegant orchestrations which provide a sumptuous background for an intense rhythmic onslaught while the lead guitar work creates poignant melodic tapestries.
Within a pitchblack sonic realm “Mit Gott für König und Vaterland” hits you in the face with violent rhythmic blasts dictated by the belligerent drumming and the soaring guitar riffs eventually lead to a particularly charismatic solo.
1914 analyze historical events, tell horrific stories and celebrate heroism throughout “Where Fear And Weapons Meet” channeling the primal force of extreme metal entwined with a symphonic grandeur to create monumental soundscapes.
Misanthur – Ephemeris
Polish duo Misanthur begins a cathartic journey into the deepest corners of consciousness on the debut full-length “Ephemeris”.
On “Enter the Void” you can easily perceive strong post-metal influences through the hazy atmosphere, the jazzy incursions and the monochromatic guitar tonalities while the frantic rhythmic crescendo will reveal an obscure blackened essence.
“On The Heights Of Despair” fully embraces a tormented blackened vision as the primal force of the ravenous growls and the unstoppable tremolo generate hostile rhythmic patterns while the slower passages evoke an overwhelming melancholia.
The ominous vibes of “Black Clouds & No Silver Linings” naturally lead to an unrestrained rhythmic rampage yet the tempo will slow down to emphasize the dramatic depth of the melodic guitar progressions.
Surrounded by a bleak atmosphere the title track focuses on minimalist somber melodies flourishing through a slow murky rhythmic haze and expressing crestfallen emotions.
“The Serpent Crawls” still delivers aggressive blackened blasts but guitars can channel arcane doom elements with an overdose of dense riffs and mournful melodic phrases enhanced by theatrical vocals.
Undoubtedly there is a lot going on throughout “Ephemeris” as Misanthur showcases a darkened enigmatic vision and a multifaceted songwriting approach that ultimately leads to shapeshifting soundscapes.
Mercury Circle – Killing Moons
Founded by Jaani Peuhu of Swallow The Sun, Mercury Circle makes a majestic debut crafting fascinating darkened soundscapes on the full-length “Killing Moons”.
Within the evocative multifaceted atmospheric realm of “The Gates Wide Open” the precise drums maintain an arcane tribal rhythm while the glowing guitar progressions convey bittersweet feelings emphasized by the passionate vocal delivery.
“You Open Up The Earth” stands out for the irresistible melancholia flowing through the haunting atmospheric ensemble and guitars acquire a delicious dark rock flair to create captivating melodic tapestries.
The title track relies on a remarkable mix of spacey atmospheric layers and modern electro beats that render everything a bit surreal while the compelling rhythmic crescendos and the heartfelt vocals highlight a darkly romantic flair.
“Call On The Dark” puts the spotlight on the futuristic tones and the sorrowful harmonies of the elaborate keyboards arrangements while the memorable chorus emphasizes a dark & catchy melodic essence.
The hazy cinematic approach of “Avalanche” leads to an exquisite ethereal sonic realm yet the rhythmic section acquires heavier doom tonalities conveying immense nostalgia and grief.
“Death Poem” is definitely a theatrical poetic opus as the opulent enchanting synth arrangements take you far away and the wistful melodies become increasingly darker when guitars add monolithic doom accents.
Certainly “Killing Moons” is destined to impress the listeners as Mercury Circle carefully blend gorgeous melodies and mesmerizing atmospheric waves to express poignant emotions.
Omnium Gatherum – Origin
Finnish melodic death metal band Omnium Gatherum celebrates a nearly 25 years career delivering an impeccable mix of Nordic melancholia and heavy dynamics on the latest offering “Origin”.
The instrumental album opener “Emergence” instantly spreads melancholia within the understated atmospheric ensemble and the glowing sound of the mellow melodic guitar phrases.
“Prime” gradually acquires speed & heaviness channeling a classic melodeath approach that generates spiteful growls and galloping rhythmic blasts embellished by crestfallen melodies and flamboyant guitar soloing.
On “Paragon” the uplifting tones of the keyboards arrangements surround a robust rhythmic backbone fueled by the steady bold riffage and the intricate guitar leads which will ultimately lead to a catchy chorus.
“Fortitude” focuses on an overwhelming sense of nostalgia as the tempo slows down to put the spotlight on the smooth guitar melodies yet gloomy doom tonalities will emerge through the dramatic rhythmic crescendos.
“Tempest” fully embraces a familiar melodeath formula as the striking guitar work naturally shifts from deeply melancholic progressions to fiery riffs amplified by the precise rhythmic section and the aggressive growls.
An appealing combo of haunting atmospheric waves and elegant melodic phrases flourishes throughout the convoluted sonic realm of “Solemn” which often acquires epic vibes in contrast with the heavier & faster groovy moments.
With a refreshed line-up Omnium Gatherum certainly aim to please melodeath acolytes showcasing devotion and mature musicianship throughout the cold soundscapes of “Origin”.
Bastarður – Satan’s Loss of Son
We all know the immense talent of Aðalbjörn Tryggvason as frontman of critically acclaimed Icelandic band Sólstafir but this time with his new project Bastarður he freely channels his crust punk and death metal influences on the debut release “Satan’s Loss of Son”.
As an album opener “Viral Tumor” ensures an impactful beginning following a fast & savage rhythmic rampage that highlights the raw energy of the guitar riffs and the edgy soloing.
On “Neonlight Blitzkrieg” an ominous atmosphere introduces a series of blistering grooves fueled by the extra speed of the drums and enriched by Tryggvason’s venomous screams and wildly entertaining solos.
The title track doesn’t waste any time as the relentless riffage diligently builds massive grooves while the guitar tonalities become darker during the brooding breakdown evoking an emotional turmoil.
While the overwhelming rage is still palpable through the untamed rhythmic march of “The Whispering Beast” the excellent guitar work can generate diverse dynamics shifting from thick riffs to enigmatic quasi melodic leads.
“Rise Up” features hazy atmospheric moments and guitars showcase a sombre sound that leads to a darkly passionate solo but while the rhythmic section clearly sounds less aggressive you still get a fair dosage of groovy passages.
Bastarður begins an incendiary musical journey as after three years in the making “Satan’s Loss of Son” comes to life with a full blown primordial force bound to grab your attention.
Hate – Rugia
Polish blackened death metal band Hate proudly continues to follow an arcane sonic pathway and delve into the depths of Slavonic mysticism to create the majestic & obscure twelfth full-length “Rugia”.
The title track showcases an organic songwriting approach that puts the spotlight on the charismatic guitar work which effortlessly shifts from mysterious melodic phrases to ferocious riffage ultimately leading to blistering blackened grooves.
Throughout “Exiles To Pantheon” the precise rhythmic section is always ready to unleash a vicious assault following the fast monumental drum blasts and the consequent savagery is further enhanced by the ruthless growls.
Drenched in darkness “Saturnus” at times sounds less aggressive and conveys dismal feelings through the ominous guitar tonalities and the subtle melodic accents flowing through malevolent rhythmic dynamics.
Within a cryptic spiritual dimension “Awakening The Gods Within” relies on the inspiring lead guitar work which successfully embellishes the primordial rhythmic core and evokes a sinister flair.
In the beginning the slower tempo on “Valesian Guard” emphasizes the dramatic nature of the harrowing guitar melodies which will inevitably evolve into fierce rhythmic patterns with constant tormented riffage and furious growls.
Fueled by an inflamed creative force Hate celebrate thirty years of activity and channel the darkest elements of extreme metal to craft the crushing soundscapes of “Rugia” which is definitely a great addition to their prolific discography.
Ministry – Moral Hygiene
Industrial pioneers Ministry return in excellent shape to deliver the charismatic fifteenth studio album “Moral Hygiene” which continues to keep alive their influential legacy and embodies Al Jourgensen’s societal manifesto.
While a voice keeps on asking you ‘how concerned are you?’ “Alert Level” marks an impactful moment skillfully packing big mid-tempo guitar riffs and a sing-along chorus surrounded by entertaining even danceable electro beats.
Featuring a collaboration with ex-Dead Kennedy Jello Biafra, “Sabotage Is Sex” acquires an old school punk attitude with a galloping rhythmic section and a memorable rebellious chorus enriched by spooky atmospheric accents.
You will hear many different voices on “Disinformation” which clearly revolves around a dystopian mood that triggers massive industrial grooves fueled by explosive gritty guitar riffs and low key distorted vocals.
The strength of “Believe Me” comes from the steady march of the robust guitar driven grooves but there is also a pleasant and quite accessible combo of melodic phrases and subtle atmospheric layers.
“Broken System” brings variety with soft Middle Eastern acoustic harmonies and percussion before entering a heavier post apocalyptic sonic realm where guitars build a darker energetic momentum.
The message is evident on “We Shall Resist” as we are surrounded by a cold electronic ensemble and a quite sinister atmosphere spiced up by occasional rhythmic blasts.
The powerful message regarding the frightening state of society and politics is a key element of “Moral Hygiene” and featuring a new line-up Ministry choose to focus on their abrasive industrial signature style.
MØL – Diorama
Danish blackgaze band MØL spreads immense darkness and sheer melancholia through the cathartic soundscapes of the sophomore release “Diorama”.
In the beginning “Fraktur” evokes the dreamy nature of shoegaze with haunting harmonies and understated atmospheric layers but even if guitars will acquire obscure tonalities to build a steady rhythmic assault the somber melodic essence still lingers through the softer glowing passages.
On “Photophobic” a surreal atmosphere introduces a series of untamed blackened blasts fueled by crunchy riffage and tormented growls while guitars also deliver intricate soothing melodies emphasized by ethereal vocals.
On “Serf” the shimmering essence of the excellent guitar work can express wistful feelings leading to memorable melodic crescendos in contrast with the harsh rhythmic patterns that embrace a colder primordial approach.
An overwhelming sense of nostalgia emerges from the delicate atmospheric waves and the spellbinding melodies of “Itinerari” but once again the precise rhythmic section generates a heavier momentum highlighting the versatile guitar work.
Leaving behind the aggressive elements the title track focuses on a mesmerizing melodic ensemble as the sweeping guitar progressions craft fascinating contemplative crescendos and instantly evoke bittersweet emotions enhanced by a soulful vocal duet.
As the balanced mix of melodic splendor and inflamed blackened dynamics unravels throughout “Diorama” MØL have a chance to impress the listeners manifesting a captivating sonic vision.
Full Of Hell – Garden Of Burning Apparitions
In the last few years Full Of Hell have established a solid status within the underground extreme metal scene and now they are ready to expand their genre-bending vision on the latest offering “Garden Of Burning Apparitions”.
In less than a minute the album opener “Guided Blight” packs an insane series of guttural death metal blasts that will leave you shattered.
Listening to “Asphyxiant Blessing” we enter a tormented parallel dimension where soaring guitars march fiercely through a murky rhythmic maze conveying dismal feelings.
“Murmuring Foul Spring” dwells within a mystifying atmosphere that creates a suspenseful mood to introduce a relentless rhythmic ensemble amplified by the aggressive growls.
“Burning Apparition” goes straight to a chaotic rhythmic core characterized by asphyxiating noise elements, furious speed and monstrous guitar riffs.
The impactful track “Industrial Messiah Complex” relies on massive vitriolic guitar riffs and untamed drumming to build dissonant & vicious rhythmic patterns.
On “Reeking Tunnels” the raw energy of guitars leads to memorable noise hardcore grooves putting the spotlight on the twisted rhythmic section.
You simply cannot escape the enraged world of “Celestial Heirarch” as the spectral growls and the mighty guitar riffs unravel within a dissonant rhythmic turmoil.
A perennial obscure force generates the visceral dynamics of “Garden Of Burning Apparitions” as Full Of Hell confidently draw inspiration from the darkest elements of extreme metal to create an enigmatic and at times even unsettling sonic realm.
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