Following a thrilling sonic evolution Rivers Of Nihil begin a new eclectic chapter with the latest offering “The Work” which clearly defies standard musical categories blending poignant soundscapes and ferocious progressive death metal.
“The Tower (Theme from ‘The Work’)” is a cathartic album opener focusing on compelling melancholia infused atmospheric waves and bittersweet piano melodies emphasized by soothing vocal harmonies but will suddenly transition to heavier rhythmic blasts and insane growls.
“Dreaming Black Clockwork” immediately embraces cold tonalities as the extreme nature of progressive death metal style thrives through the complex rhythmic patterns until the cinematic atmospheric arrangements convey a pale sense of tranquility.
“Wait” begins with an understated piano piece floating gently through an enigmatic atmosphere following a slower tempo and the warm vocal delivery emphasizes a glowing melodic essence amplified by the flawless lead guitar work.
The hazy multilayered atmosphere of “The Void From Which No Sound Escapes” evokes somber emotions and creates a surreal sonic realm embellished by a striking saxophone solo while abrasive guitar riffs and extra speed skillfully build an aggressive rhythmic rampage.
The dramatic depth of “Episode” comes to life through the spacey atmospheric ensemble and the whispered vocals enriched by the technical prowess and the melodic splendor of the guitar solos in contrast with the occasional faster and quite brutal rhythmic patterns.
“Terrestria IV: Work” embodies a grand finale manifesting the band’s convoluted sonic vision as the whole instrumentation effortlessly shifts from visceral & twisted rhythmic dynamics courtesy of the majestic combo of pummeling drums and unrestrained riffage to contemplative melodic passages featuring the elegant jazzy vibes of the saxophone.
Rivers Of Nihil deliberately took time off to focus on the opulent multifaceted composition behind “The Work” which is destined to impress the audience with the remarkable musicianship and the intense creative force.
Category: Album Reviews
Duel – In Carne Persona
Texas based heavy rock quartet Duel keeps alive an authentic classic sound with a delicious dark twist on the brand new full-length “In Carne Persona”.
“Children Of The Fire” opens the album with sinister vibes swiftly followed by a powerful combo of big guitar riffs and charismatic leads that will continue to hold a dominant role through the fiery mid paced rhythmic patterns.
“The Veil’ manifests a magnetic psychedelic spirit that will lead to spaced out passages in addition to the traditional rock approach of the rhythmic rampage naturally fueled by the steady bold riffage.
Lovely nostalgic melodies flow gently through “Behind The Sound” yet the main rhythmic segments still hold loads of rock energy putting the spotlight on the soaring guitar riffs and the groovy drumming.
The strength of “Wave of Your Hand” comes once again from the thrilling guitar dynamics that at times channel a cold stoner doom flair and skillfully generate heavier & faster rhythmic blasts enriched by a super catchy chorus.
“Blood On The Claw” acquires an appealing darker mood with subtle spooky atmospheric accents and slow burning melodies that highlight the versatile guitar work but later the rhythmic section has a chance to build a heavier momentum with the perfect dosage of gritty riffs.
Duel proudly carry the torch for old school rock/metal and without any hesitation manifest a genuine rocker attitude through the massive grooves of “In Carne Persona”.
Skepticism – Companion
Finnish funeral doom veterans Skepticism embark on a cathartic journey through the obscure depths of the sixth album “Companion” which also triumphantly celebrates their 30th anniversary.
The solemn beauty of the atmospheric arrangements on “Calla” emphasizes the elegant darkened aesthetics of the majestic rhythmic ensemble and the gelid tonalities of the guitar work which focuses on monolithic riffs.
On “The Intertwined” the doom laden riffage and the painfully slow tempo inevitably generate an oppressive rhythmic maze amplified by the cavernous growls while the dismal tones of the keyboards enhance a rich dramatic depth.
An alluring melancholia lies within the mellow arpeggios of “The Inevitable” while the colossal guitar riffs march fiercely through the intricate atmospheric waves and confidently channel the ominous force of doom metal.
The immense poetic gloom of “Swan And The Raven” becomes palpable through the pulsating despair of the keyboards that effortlessly evolves in a series of mournful rhythmic crescendos and refined harrowing guitar melodies.
With an insane wall of sound and a dense tenebrous atmosphere “Companion” perfectly symbolizes the funereal sonic vision meticulously developed by Skepticism during the last three decades.
Lucifer – IV
Just in time for Halloween Lucifer rises to deliver the incendiary heavy rock opus “IV” which stays true to an old fashioned approach spiced up by alluring occult vibes.
“Archangel Of Death” opens the album with a mystifying atmosphere that lingers through the moody melodic phrases and the monumental guitar driven grooves characterized by the raw energy of classic rock.
An obscure flair surrounds “Wild Hearses” as the rhythmic section fully embraces monolithic doom elements shifting from heavy dynamics to crestfallen tonalities and Johanna Sadonis confidently delivers a sultry vocal performance.
“Crucifix (I Burn For You)” has a catchy malicious mood as the guitar work maintains darkened tones especially during the slower passages and unleashes frenetic licks that lead to a memorable chorus.
On “Nightmare” mournful piano melodies entwine with mysterious guitar tonalities enhancing a delicious sinister atmosphere that will evolve in an irresistible chorus and the wild soloing keeps a vibrant vintage feel.
“Orion” stands out for the eerie melodic progressions and the immense melancholia emphasized by Johanna’s passionate vocal harmonies while the charismatic guitar leads can provide a robust groovy momentum.
“Phobos” manifests a powerful rock spirit with soaring riffs and fiery drumming that skillfully create an explosive rhythmic ensemble further enriched by extensive wicked guitar solos and nostalgic melodic accents.
On the fourth chapter of their discography Lucifer proudly continues to channel the glory of ‘70s heavy rock and doom to create a groovy darkened collection of songs that will certainly satisfy the listeners.
Craneium – Unknown Heights
Finnish fuzz-rock band Craneium channels the glory of vintage rock to develop an intriguing blend of dreamy vibes and heavy riffs on the third studio album “Unknown Heights”.
“A Secret Garden” immediately showcases the band’s groovy spirit through the dense duzzy tones of the guitar work leading to a memorable chorus while the spacey melodic phrases evoke a delightful nostalgia.
“Somber Aeons” focuses on mellow guitar melodies and subtle psychedelic accents accompanied by a heartfelt vocal delivery yet the monolithic rhythmic section will eventually add some robust stoner rock dynamics embracing a darker doom vision.
Within the moody atmosphere of “Weight To Carry” daydreaming moments and fuzzy grooves become entwined as guitars effortlessly shift from gritty riffs to hazy melodic progressions supported by an eclectic rhythmic backbone.
The title track can express an overwhelming melancholia with passionate vocals, slow burning melodic passages and compelling retro vibes surrounded by psychedelic tinged atmospheric waves while the groovy momentum will ultimately take over with big fuzzed out riffs and a wild guitar solo.
Throughout “Unknown Heights” you can easily perceive diverse styles & influences as Craneium confidently delivers interesting twists keeping in mind a balanced mix of spaced out melodic patterns and classic heavy rock grooves.
A Pale Horse Named Death – Infernum In Terra
Founded by former drummer of Type O Negative and Life Of Agony Sal Abruscato, A Pale Horse Named Death begin a new dismal chapter with the fourth album “Infernum In Terra” which follows a doomed pathway to fully express misery & melancholia.
“Believe In Something (You Are Lost)” skillfully combines nostalgia infused melodies and the heavy weight of the guitar riffs resulting in a bleak soundscape yet the chorus sounds quite catchy whilst maintaining a dismal mood.
Since the very beginning “Cast Out From The Sky” emphasizes the doom tonalities through mournful keyboards arrangements, moody vocals and slow burning guitar progressions that diligently build a darkened rhythmic crescendo. .
“Shards Of Glass” still follows a slow paced tempo highlighting all the forlorn emotions expressed by the monochromatic melodic phrases and the cold guitar leads while the chorus marks a groovy momentum.
“Lucifer’s Son” feels like a slow motion ride as the gothic atmospheric waves and the obscure guitar tonalities generate a hypnotizing rhythmic maze and the solos deliver the perfect dosage of sorrowful melodic licks.
On “Two Headed Snake (Propofol Dreams)” the doom elements flourish within the thick rhythmic ensemble fueled by gritty riffs and woeful vocals but there are evident contemplative vibes courtesy of the recurring harrowing melodies.
“Reflections Of The Dead” dwells within a murky sonic realm as a dense tenebrous atmosphere surrounds the heavy doomed rhythmic section and the melodies are inevitably drenched in darkness reaching the acme with the crestfallen mood of the excellent guitar solo.
Written and recorded during months of isolation “Infernum In Terra” is characterized by an irresistible gloom as A Pale Horse Named Death successfully channel the alluring grandeur of gothic & doom metal.
Alien Weaponry – Tangaroa
In just few years Alien Weaponry have shaken up the modern metal scene and officially became the hottest young metal band due to a remarkable thrash & groovy style singing in the native indigenous language te reo Māori, so the sophomore full length “Tangaroa” is bound to raise interest.
“Titokowaru” immediately emphasizes the band’s heritage with rowing chants and the sound of waves that introduce a robust rhythmic section fueled by the gritty guitar sound and the serious warrior-like attitude.
“Hatupatu” features an interesting mix of ancestral vibes and modern metal dynamics as the primal force of the vocals certainly enhances the heavier aspects of the savage rhythmic patterns.
The enigmatic nature of “Ahi Kā” comes from the darkened flair of the soft guitar melodies and the strong tribal tones while riffs and drumming aim to deliver edgy rhythmic segments.
Switching to english lyrics but maintaining a wild vocal delivery the title track tends to focus on impactful rhythmic blasts certainly amplified by the rough guitar riffs and the extra speed.
On “Kai Whatu” nothing sounds polished keeping alive the unruly feel of the whole album and consequently guitar, bass and drums spontaneously build an aggressive rhythmic backbone.
“Īhenga” is full of unexpected twisted grooves so the rambunctious rhythmic approach and the feral spirit continue to thrive accompanied by the solemn tribal chants.
Following the acclaimed debut release “Tū” Alien Weaponry continue to draw inspiration from their culture and environmental surroundings and the consequent tribal flair often becomes crucial within the primordial grooves of “Tangaroa”.
Massacre – Resurgence
Floridian death metallers Massacre finally return with the first record in seven years aptly entitled “Resurgence” promising a brutal rhythmic onslaught with a majestic old school sound.
The ominous atmospheric grandeur of “Eldritch Prophecy” is swiftly followed by slow paced obscure melodic guitars but the hostile rhythmic section will take over acquiring extra speed and primal fury.
“Ruins Of R’yleh” is an anthemic death metal track that revolves around the ruthless riffage and the relentless drumming emphasized by the pitchblack nature of the cavernous growls and enriched by the darkened tones of the excellent guitar leads.
“The Innsmouth Strain” provides the expected dosage of violence as the untamed rhythmic patterns proudly follow a classic death metal formula and the guitar solo has a chance to add some wild licks.
“The Whisperer In Darkness” features a no frills unrestrained rhythmic backbone ensuring merciless grooves and at some point the fierce growls evolve into solemn chants channeling horror vibes.
On “Into The Far-Off Void” guitars often showcase gloomy melodic accents and gradually build tension to embrace a faster moshpit inducing rhythm while the finale acquires arcane atmospheric textures.
“Spawn Of The Succubus” once again highlights the dominant role of the abrasive guitar riffs and the vicious force of the rhythmic section that doesn’t waste any time and diligently delivers fast belligerent dynamics.
Rising once again from the swamps of Southern Florida, Massacre confidently deliver unstoppable aggressive grooves throughout “Resurgence” channeling the glorious late 80’s-early 90’s death metal style further amplified by familiar Lovecraftian themes.
Auri – II: Those We Don’t Speak Of
Born from the special connection of Johanna Kurkela, Tuomas Holopainen and Troy Donockley as an unconfined creative outlet, Auri invites you on a magical voyage through the dreamland of the sophomore full-length “II: Those We Don’t Speak Of”.
The title track opens the portal to a distant magical realm as the delicate atmospheric layers and the ethereal melodic waves accompanied by fragile whispered vocals highlight an exquisite darkened flair.
A delightful melancholia lingers through “The Duty Of Dust” as the gentle vocals and the classical aesthetics of the viola become the main focus and ultimately lead to an intense folk inspired rhythmic crescendo.
“Light And Flood” sounds like an epic movie score putting the spotlight on the sumptuous intricate keyboards arrangements enhanced by solemn choirs while the combo of fluttering piano harmonies and graceful arpeggios can evoke uplifting vibes.
Enchanting folk influences return within the nostalgic atmospheric ensemble of “It Takes Me Places” taking you to a pristine forest far away surrounded by elegant strings and lulled by Johanna’s heartfelt vocal delivery.
The soft vocal harmonies flow gently within the evocative atmosphere of “The Long Walk” which will acquire darker tonalities through an intriguing combo of refined piano notes and arcane percussion.
“Scattered To The Four Winds” embraces stylish classical vibes focusing on haunting strings and charming piano melodies which naturally convey wistful feelings and evolve into an opulent atmospheric crescendo with understated symphonic accents.
The cinematic nature of “II: Those We Don’t Speak Of” can make you drift away from the chaotic world as Auri showcase impeccable musicianship carefully crafting comforting melodies and rich atmospheric tapestries.
Cradle Of Filth – Existence Is Futile
Extreme metal icons Cradle Of Filth celebrates darkness & horror on the new addition to their stellar prolific catalogue “Existence Is Futile” which instantly manifests an explosive creative force and a morbid sonic vision.
“Existential Terror” is surrounded by sublime orchestral layers evoking a gorgeous gothic essence while a malignant blackened soul emerges through the crushing rhythmic rampage meticulously built by the ravenous guitar riffs and effortlessly amplified by Dani Filth’s nightmarish screams.
“Crawling King Chaos” marks an impactful momentum as the rhythmic section naturally acquires speed & fury to skillfully generate a solid series of addictive grooves and the sophisticated orchestrations summon an apocalyptic beauty.
“Black Smoke Curling From The Lips Of War” reveals a terrific blackened approach as sharp guitar riffs and violent drumming lead the way to a dreadful sonic realm embellished by opulent symphonic textures and haunting operatic vocals.
On “Discourse Between A Man And His Soul” Dani delivers a memorable dramatic vocal performance as the alluring Victorian splendor puts the spotlight on the intricate atmospheric ensemble and the vivid melodic guitar progressions following a slower contemplative pace.
The irresistible gothic spell of “The Dying Of The Embers” comes to life from the seductive multilayered keyboards arrangements and the crestfallen melodic phrases yet the guitar driven grooves sound quite frantic showcasing heavier ominous tonalities.
“Suffer Our Dominion” immediately focuses on a captivating theatrical flair with the solemn narratives courtesy of horror icon Doug ‘Pinhead’ Bradley and the poignant melodic tapestries highlight a fascinating detailed composition while Dani’s roaring voice echoes through a savage rhythmic maze.
Listening to “Us, Dark, Invincible” we enter an obscure dimension as the sultry darkened tones of the ravishing atmospheric palette and the gothic gloom of the melodic guitar work lead to a monstrously catchy rhythmic rampage easily amplified by the horrific growls.
The bonus track “Unleash The Hellion” conjures pure darkness through the spellbinding baroque grandeur of the rich keyboards harmonies and the eerie atmospheric accents flowing through the inflamed rhythmic onslaught which successfully delivers the perfect dosage of brutality.
Crafting an audacious blend of sumptuous orchestrations and venomous rhythmic assaults Cradle Of Filth still stand as indisputable giants within the chaotic metal scene as the cinematic decadence of “Existence Is Futile” will inevitably leave you shattered and bewitched.
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