Category: Album Reviews

Thief – Map Of Lost Keys

Known for his work with the experimental black metal band Botanist, Dylan Neal has created the haunted electronic project Thief inspired by sacred chant music and the sophomore album “Map Of Lost Keys” definitely has a distinct mystical flair.  

The mood of “Frost Breath” shifts from calm spacey moments to anguished atmospheric crescendos emphasized by mysterious electro accents and somber vocals. 

“Pyromancy” often feels like an esoteric experience with distant filtered chants emerging through blurry atmospheric waves and claustrophobic electro beats entwined with noise elements. 

The slow monochromatic rhythm of “With Love, From Nihil” evokes a fragile serenity as the synths craft melancholy infused atmospheres with an evident gothic inspiration accompanied by fragile whispers. 

“Unsafe” again relies on multilayered atmospheric arrangements surrounding ethereal dreamy melodies that will eventually reach a rhythmic acme with increasingly urgent electronic beats. 

“Without A Master” has a darkened aura that influences the wistful atmospheric tapestries until everything becomes a bit chaotic with unexpected harsh noise accents. 

“Spirit Archery” feels more intricate with an intense spiritual energy that naturally generates trippy moments combining smooth eerie harmonies, hazy classical chants and evidently darker electronic segments. 

The experimental drive behind “Map Of Lost Keys” showcases the intriguing sonic evolution of Thief leading to enigmatic soundscapes and surprising catchy electro beats that can certainly appeal to a niche audience. 

Abbath – Outstrider

As frontman of black metal icons Immortal Abbath certainly gained a fundamental role in the Norwegian black metal scene and back in 2016 his eponymous debut album as a solo artist generated massive interest. Now the time has come to impress the audience even more with the menacing new offering “Outstrider” which promises the expected blackened fury as accompanied by solid musicians Abbath presents to the world his intriguing music vision. 

The softly gelid acoustic harmonies of “Calm In Ire ( Of Hurricane)” foreshadow an utterly dark sonic realm in fact Abbath’s vocals sound absolutely ominous accompanied by a killer mixture of somber melodic guitar licks and hints of pure black metal fury but certainly the classic heavy metal blasts and groovy rock elements render everything quite catchy. 

The rambunctious rhythm of “The Artifex” comes from the obvious blackened roots and the groovy rock dynamics effortlessly generated by bold drums and fierce guitar riffs are enriched by the tenebrous aura of the vocals but the song gets even more interesting when guitars add bewitching melodic phrases and flamboyant soloing. 

“Harvest Pyre” is an addictive track due to the monumental blackened grooves courtesy of the perfectly frostbitten guitar tonalities sometimes embellished by nostalgic vibes within the galloping rhythmic section while of course Abbath’s signature croaking growls always convey an irresistible sinister mood. 

The title track might surprise you with a major melancholic mood naturally expressed by the laid back arpeggios in the intro and the finale but the rest of the song offers plenty of heavier and utterly darkened rhythmic dynamics keeping a robust black ‘n roll framework. 

“Hecate” rightfully continues to rely on a savage series of blackened rock grooves maintaining a catchy flow with loads of chunky guitar riffs but definitely benefits from the addition of sumptuous epic arrangements and dramatic atmospheric nuances. 

The world of “Outstrider” is a perennial winter that somehow makes you feel comfortable as in the midst of a blackened blizzard Abbath clearly pays homage to the glorious old school metal but confidently follows his own sonic evolution to ultimately create an entertaining opus. 

This Gift Is A Curse – A Throne Of Ash

Swedish enigmatic band This Gift Is A Curse shares with the world a malignant blackened sonic manifesto that will leave you breathless and shattered within the visionary realm of the third album “A Throne Of Ash”. 

It’s not surprising to hear how vicious “Blood Is My Harvest” can sound with a cohesive series of ruthless rhythmic patterns mixing black and sludge elements with thick guitar riffs and menacing growls following the drumming breakneck speed through a pitchblack atmosphere.  

The impending doom of “Monuments For Dead Gods” leads to introvert guitar melodies and even if the rhythmic segments often follow a slower dramatic tempo the whole instrumental work maintains an impenetrable darkness amplified by the utterly desperate growls. 

The asphyxiating atmosphere of “Wolvking” introduces a violent sonic assault as the brutally fast rhythmic approach demands chaotic guitar riffs, crushing drums and borderline experimental noise elements. 

“In Your Black Halo (Mass 317)” is full of creepy dissonant sounds creating a suspenseful mood but all the noisy feedback foreshadows the beginning of an occult ritual and the band proceeds to offer immensely darkened guitar riffs marching through the aggressive rhythmic maze and the occasional calmer yet intensely ominous segments. 

The arcane aura of “Wormwood Star” is naturally generated by dense atmospheric layers reminiscent of familiar post metal dynamics that become a crucial element consequently guitars put aside the usual  frantic approach to focus on foreboding melodic textures that lead to an alluring hymn to darkness. 

This Gift Is A Curse are clearly devoted to absolute darkness in fact “A Throne Of Ash” dwells within a limbo between a physical and an astral plane and can sound immensely ferocious with an unstoppable extra heavy approach mainly fueled by the band’s major classic black metal roots.

Carnifex – World War X

California-based metal outfit Carnifex worked hard for three years to create the 7th studio album “World War X” which aims to raise the bar in terms of sonic diversity experimenting with multiple extreme metal elements besides classic deathcore.  

The title track is a blistering album opener where vicious screams and hostile rhythmic patterns drag the listeners into an apocalyptic scenario and while the relentless guitar riffs easily lead to sheer brutality there are also interesting symphonic arrangements.  

“This Infernal Darkness” can truly channel unrestrained rage through the precise thunderous rhythmic ensemble yet a moment of ethereal peace takes over the song’s finale with a pleasantly soft piano melody. 

Featuring guest vocalist Alissa White Gluz of Arch Enemy “No Light Shall Save Us” will eventually put the spotlight on the contrast between tormented growls and introspective cleans flourishing through a modern mixture of abrasive guitar riffs and satisfying melodic phrases particularly enhanced by the somber tonalities of the guitar solo. 

“All Roads Lead To Hell” features the talented guitarist Angel Vivaldi so it makes sense to focus on the shredding overdose of the extraordinary guitar solo marching through the extremely wrathful rhythmic segments. 

On “By Shadows Thine Held” the merciless fast drumming dictates a rather savage momentum that is also clearly expressed by the borderline dissonant rhythmic variations while lead guitars have the task to brighten the mood with the elaborate soloing. 

With “World War X” Carnifex often choose to step out from the comfort zone of deathcore certainly without sacrificing the main massive angered themes but showing their ability and desire to push genre boundaries. 

Monolord – No Comfort

Swedish stoner rock/doom trio Monolord is already highly praised in the underground music scene and the thrilling brand new album “No Comfort” will ultimately confirm them as true leaders of the genre. 

The monolithic guitar riffs and the consequent dense rhythmic patterns on “The Bastard Son” will make you space out immediately as Monolord successfully channel the primal elements of doom with an irresistible vintage flair, loads of bewitching mournful tonalities and an authentic passion that can easily charm the listeners. 

“The Last Leaf” revolves around major heavy guitar riffs and a raw energy that constantly maintain a groovy feel accompanied by utterly somber vocals while the slower dismal atmosphere evokes understated emotions and the memorable spellbinding melodic guitar work naturally increases the song’s introspective depth. 

On “Alone Together Forever Divided” the haunting mood can feel overwhelming as melancholic vocals flow through hazy atmospheres and the desolate tones of the slow burning guitar melodies inevitably trigger a profoundly darkened emotive crescendo.   

The title track evokes cathartic feelings through deeply nostalgic guitar melodies and warm arpeggios that will often evolve into a proper monumental doom laden ensemble when the heavier rhythmic segments emerge with renewed strength without sacrificing the perennial gloomy vibes. 

Undoubtedly “No Comfort” offers massive doom oriented crushing moments but the inspiring sonic vision of Monolord allows them to also convey intense emotions through the multifaceted  melodic textures that lead to a unique music journey destined to stand out in the current chaotic music scene. 

Turilli / Lione Rhapsody – Zero Gravity (Rebirth and Evolution)

Original Rhapsody members Luca Turilli and Fabio Lione reunited to finally release their debut album “Zero Gravity (Rebirth And Evolution)” which marks the triumphant beginning of a new band and the development of an exciting musical vision. 

“Phoenix Rising” is a bombastic album opener creating a suspenseful mood with a combo of electro layers and nostalgic piano melodies that will evolve into an inflamed symphonic metal ensemble with massive operative choirs and flawless theatrical vocals surrounded by the sophisticated guitar work that shines for the luminous tonalities as well as the cohesive heavier riffs. 

“D.N.A. (Demon And Angel)” features guest vocalist Elize Ryd of Amaranthe leading to an intense duet with Fabio Lione while the instrumental passages tend to favor catchy bright guitar melodies, magnificent multilayered symphonic arrangements and solemn choirs. 

The title track is characterized by a major theatrical momentum emphasized by the complex vocal harmonies & choirs and the dazzling details of the sumptuous symphonic tapestries flourishing through the main guitar driven rhythmic core. 

“Decoding The Multiverse” offers another elaborate mixture of lavish operatic elements and elegant symphonic arrangements that constantly embellish the crunchy rhythmic sections plus the lead guitar work showcases an irresistible neoclassical flair .

With lyrics in Italian and poignant vocals “Amata Immortale” feels like a classical opera that reaches an incredibly dramatic pathos through the elegant piano melodies and the tragic melancholia expressed by the lavish vocals. 

“Arcanum (Da Vinci’s Enigma)” surprises with the initial futuristic quasi dystopian atmosphere but later the grand symphonic themes return with the radiant orchestrations and the flawless guitar leads while at times vocals and piano manage to convey calmer nostalgic vibes. 

With “Zero Gravity (Rebirth And Evolution)” this new incarnation of Rhapsody clearly aims to represent a modern symphonic metal opus that certainly benefits from the excellent musicianship and impeccable production.

Nemesea – White Flag

Dutch alternative rock band Nemesea put together a tasteful blend of catchy rock melodies and electro beats on the latest album “White Flag” which seems to be carefully designed to conquer the heart of a wide audience. 

“The Storm” opens the album with modern cinematic vibes skillfully relying on luminous atmospheric nuances later enriched by accessible guitar driven grooves and electro twists and it seems clear that all the instrumental passages put the focus on Sanne Mieloo’s bright vocals. 

On the title track the band is ready to channel positive energy with smooth guitar melodies but always add a generous dosage of graceful atmospheric arrangements and vocals diligently follow such framework shifting from a soft emotional delivery to a more energetic momentum.

“Don’t Tell Me Your Name” begins with sultry dancey beats and throughout the whole song moody synths arrangements will maintain an entertaining electro mood that tends to prevail over the melodic rock themes. 

“Fools Gold” revolves around colorful rhythmic patterns with energetic guitar riffs and exciting drumming but will eventually showcase a glowing melodic essence through dreamy atmospheres and melancholic vocals. 

“Ratata” is another enjoyable track that favors the electronic themes of the album mixing darkened atmospheric layers, fiery dancey beats and crunchy guitar riffs that add major groovy vibes in the chorus. 

“Heavyweight Champion” can sound like a classic soulful ballad where Sanne’s vocal performance feels particularly alluring and easily steals the spotlight yet the band manages to render such formula more interesting with some darker futuristic electro arrangements. 

“Dance In The Fire” packs a solid rock punch with robust guitar riffs and bass lines cutting through the sentimental melodic phrases and Sanne effortlessly delivers a strong vocal chorus as well as introspective harmonies. 

In the end even if “White Flag” might not be remembered for some otherworldly innovations or surprising creativity it is certainly filled with profound emotions as Nemesea never miss a chance to emphasize their passionate approach.

The 69 Eyes – West End

We all know The 69 Eyes as the Helsinki Vampires that conquered our cold hearts with their unforgettable goth ‘n’ roll and the new album “West End” sounds like the best way to celebrate the band’s 30th anniversary. 

The album opener “Two Horns Up” might surprise some fans with the signature growls of guest vocalist Dani Filth of Cradle Of Filth that actually fit perfectly the ghastly mood of the song which also offers plenty of classic goth dynamics embodied by Jyrki’s baritone delivery and decadent atmospheric layers through the dense rock rhythmic sections filled with extra catchy guitar riffs & sultry melodies. 

“27 & Done” was released as the first single probably due to the darkly addictive chorus and it’s certainly a track that incarnates the band’s rock soul with the highly entertaining guitar work flourishing under a shroud of authentic nostalgia enhanced by the somber keyboards arrangements. 

The glorious spirit of goth ‘n’ roll is glowing on “Black Orchid” through an exciting blend of melancholic atmospheric nuances, cool guitar driven grooves and glamorous melodic licks always enriched by Jyrki’s irresistible vocals. 

“Burn Witch Burn” is a gloomy fairytale that relies on a shimmering melodic core and a memorable chorus surrounded by the enjoyable guitar riffs that ensure a constant fun groove in proper classic rock fashion. 

Featuring guest vocalists Wednesday 13 and Calico Cooper from Beastö Blancö “The Last House On The Left” pays homage to a cult horror movie in fact this would be the perfect soundtrack for a Halloween party as everything gets rather spooky with a groovy mix of horrorpunk rhythmic bursts, bouncy guitar riffs and creepy atmospheric accents. 

“Death & Desire” has a ravishing darkly romantic mood so the rhythm slows down allowing the bittersweet guitar tonalities to create intensely nostalgic waves emphasized by the poignant emotions expressed by the poetic vocal delivery. 

Conveying an immense melancholic depth “Hell Has No Mercy” will impress the listeners for the alluring bluesy tonalities as once again guitars successfully craft absolutely catchy & heartfelt melodies around Jyrki’s haunting vocal performance. 

Once again The 69 Eyes prove to be one of the most passionate bands out there, staying true to their unconditional love for goth ‘n’ roll that has nothing to do with any given trendy subgenres and right now in the chaotic music scene “West End” symbolizes a deliciously darkened work of music that easily defies time and space. 

Tyler Bryant And The Shakedown – Truth And Lies

Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown might still be a new name for some but those who already caught them on tour will tell you that they are on fire and the third studio effort “Truth And Lies” focuses on the band’s love for bluesy & heavy rock. 

With a charismatic rocker attitude “Shock And Awe” is certainly an entertaining album opener that balances smooth guitar melodies and a gritty riffs galore channeling intense positive energy. 

“On To The Next” sounds extremely groovy inspired by classic rock dynamics enriched by the seasoned rocker vocal style and full of thrilling guitar licks that naturally lead to a particularly addictive chorus. 

“Ride” offers loads of warm bluesy elements emphasized by strong southern rock vibes creating an exciting ensemble fully expressed by the flamboyant guitar work, the slow burning melodies and the laid back vocals.

On “Judgement Day” the mood shifts to a profound melancholia through the soulful vocal delivery accompanied by comforting acoustic phrases and occasional vibrant guitar licks in the midst of a significantly darker atmosphere. 

“Drive Me Mad” has a rebellious vibe that demands faster rhythmic patterns to create a dirty rock flair that calls for a late night party with an impressive heavier guitar work and a bold vocal delivery. 

“Cry Wolf” still holds a vivid classic rock rhythmic core but crunchy guitar riffs add cohesive heavy dynamics in contrast with the accessible & memorable chorus while vocals can also convey somber nuances. 

On “Couldn’t See The Fire” evocative melodic guitars and soothing vocals constantly channel authentic emotions and the perfect dosage of nostalgia while the skillful thrilling guitar soloing spices up the main mellow rhythm.

Tyler Bryant is already considered a guitar prodigy but accompanied by a solid band he’s ready to conquer a wider audience as this seems to be the right time to raise the bar with the raw energy and the melodic storytelling vibes of “Truth And Lies”. 

Silence In The Snow – Levitation Chamber

Silence In The Snow is the joint effort of guitarist/vocalist Cyn M. and drummer Trevor DeSchryver (Wolves in the Throne Room, Lycus, Dispirit, ex-Deafheaven) and the result of this collaboration comes to life through the dreamy sonic experience of the sophomore release “Levitation Chamber”. 

“Time Will Tell You Nothing” puts a spell on you with a darkened cinematic soundscape featuring otherworldly vocals that gently guide you through monochromatic atmospheric waves filled with dreamy vibes and intense melancholia. 

On “Smoke Signals” a mix of gothic tinged guitar tonalities and catchy drumming creates a more energetic rhythm surrounded by understated atmospheric arrangements and the vulnerable emotions expressed by the spellbinding vocals. 

“In The Dark” once again puts the spotlight on the cathartic vocal delivery accompanied by the fragile atmospheric layers and the minimalist darkened melodic tapestries so everything flows like a lovely midsummer daydream. 

“Dread The Low” welcomes you to an ethereal sonic realm where blurry instrumental crescendos and scattered luminous harmonies emphasize the minimalist approach and the emotional drive of Cyn’s passionate vocals will captivate the listeners. 

With its inner emotional turmoil and the evocative melodies “Levitation Chamber” has the power to relax the listeners and Silence In The Snow are confidently evolving into a unique sonic entity within the current music scene.