Category: Album Reviews

Shrapnel – Raised On Decay

Inspired by decades of uncompromising energetic thrash metal British metallers Shrapnel unleash the crushing sophomore full length “Raised On Decay”.

“Hollow Earth” opens the album with dismal atmospheric essence followed by a mixture of smoothly darkened melodic guitars cutting through a faster and absolutely heavy rhythmic pattern reminiscent of classic thrash metal.

“Pariah” displays immediately some cathartic melodic quality but as guitars and drums acquire explosive speed the resulting thick rhythmic galore calls for relentless devastation interrupted only by the impressive lead guitars.

“Echoes Of Emptiness” keeps a somber mood with the right amount of cohesive chunky guitar riffs and angered vocals but the true highlight can be found in the charismatic guitar solos which bring refined creativity maintaining a solid thrash attitude.

“Carved From Above” favors a frenetic guitar driven assault that certainly owes its inner strength to massive thrash influences while once again the powerful caliber of the lead guitar work tends to stand out with shredded melodic grandeur.

“Choir Of Wolves” temporarily becomes more atmospheric with the addition of soulful grim melodic passages but definitely doesn’t put aside the usual fiery thrash intensity that still holds a prime role in the raw rhythmic patterns.

“Raised On Decay” is meant to impress the listeners with audacious often aggressive guitar driven thrash anthems that can easily reach chaotic speed yet Shrapnel also manage to balance everything with scattered melodic moments.

Nachtblut – Apostasie

Straight from a realm of pure darkness German gothic/dark metal outfit Nachtblut emerges with the new release “Apostasie” symbolizing a new chapter as the band adds an industrial twist to the signature music formula.

“Multikulturell” shines for the exquisitely dark atmospheric quality that naturally evokes a nightmarish scenario with eerie yet sumptuous orchestrations matched by diabolically gothic vocals and irresistibly darkened groovy guitars.

“Lied Für Die Götter” features the understated elegance of classical flute and acoustic passages that create plenty of subtle harmonies carefully entwined with crushing guitar riffs and a gothic oriented mood.

Refined piano melodies and pure melancholy mark the beginning of “Amok” but soon this track evolves into a massive industrial anthem with super catchy electro layers and simply unstoppable groovy rhythmic guitars resulting in a wildly energetic gothic/industrial hybrid.

“Frauenausbeiner” feels more like straight goth ‘n roll with a series of simple guitar driven grooves and a general rock party vibe that slightly diverge from the usual intense darkness which is still present in smaller dosage in the somber bass lines and the rather malicious devilish screams.

“Einsam” stands out for the classical piano passages that flawlessly evoke a fairytale mood and a dreamy sonic palette bearing symphonic accents with elegant borderline romantic atmospheres that reach the expected acme with guest vocalist Aeve Maurell’ s delicately enchanting vocal delivery.

The title track begins with solemn symphonic orchestrations that will continue to offer a triumphant theatrical background while a darkened bolder temperament becomes palpable with loads of crunchy guitar riffs and sinister vocals.

Full of enthralling dark melodies as well as more enraged industrial grooves “Apostasie” can even become addictive at times and Nachtblut demonstrates to be quite comfortable with such renewed variegated music style.

Moonspell – 1755

Acclaimed longstanding gothic metal band Moonspell has chosen to create a quite grandiose album that often bears the stylish quality of ancient unforgettable Greek tragedies as “1755’ is conceptually based on the dreadful earthquake that destroyed Lisbon and aptly sang completely in Portuguese. Inevitably, on “1755” the Portuguese heritage shines more than ever fully influencing each melodic texture and contributing to the unique atmospheric quality of this inspiring work of music.

The orchestral opener “En Nome Do Medo” perfectly introduces the album’s compelling dramatic temperament as dazzling classical details naturally embrace a highly darkened atmosphere clearly enhanced by the storyteller par excellence Fernando Ribeiro who delivers his signature gothic delivery with renewed fervor accompanied by exceptional choirs.

The title track acquires opera vibes with solemn choirs and majestic symphonic arrangements that simply enrich Moonspell’s seductive darkness as thick guitar riffs maintain deliciously obscure tonalities following occasional fierce rhythmic segments that seamlessly blend with the cathartic melodic force also expressed in the thrilling guitar solo while exotic instrumental accents bring additional creative sparks.

“In Tremor Dei” delivers a series of absolutely addictive guitar riffs with remarkable gothic nuances surrounded by groovy rhythmic variations and intense operatic choirs that naturally amplify the epic atmosphere while the unique voice of guest vocalist Paulo Bragança provides extra emotional depth.

The orchestral arrangements on “Desastre” feel particularly opulent providing variegated layers and moody baroque accents that favor the somber melodic textures while Fernando’s ferocious growls and the tight distorted rhythmic crescendo ensure a blazing heavier core.

“Evento” is filled of tragic darkness with an insatiable yearning for catchy rhythmic passages and heartfelt melodic grandeur continuously expressed in the smooth unrestrained guitar work and captivating symphonic layers.

“Todos Os Santos” becomes more enigmatic with arcane symphonic arrangements that effortlessly favor, once again, the cinematic nature of this album and diligently introduce the heavier & darker facets with untamed fast paced guitar riffing. Fernando’s vocals maintain a spiritual duality with angered growls and a more theatrical delivery in the midst of majestic orchestration and choirs.

“1755” never fails to impress the audience with outpouring charisma and undisputed creativity as Moonspell appears to be in excellent shape confidently evoking lavish melodic soundscapes and re-inventing /re-shaping the beloved signature style without necessarily forgetting the heavier roots that played a big role in the band’s deserved success.

New Language – Everybody Screams

There is a buzz around the young Los Angeles based band New Language and the freshly released  EP “Everybody Screams” celebrating the September residency at Los Angeles’ mainstay venue The Satellite  aims to gain more attention .

The title track features crunchy guitar riffing that doesn’t necessarily hold a constant particularly heavy nature as the melodic approach becomes more dominant following a modern rock formula. The overall mood tends to be sorrowful almost darkened but the guitar melodies and the clean vocals ensure an immediate catchiness.

“Show Me” follows a similar music pathway with occasional bold heavier sections that build a solid energetic groove but melodic guitars ultimately lead the scene with gloomy accents and growing alt-rock intensity.

“Out Of My Head” can be loud and wild offering another series of unstoppable easy grooves with loads of refreshing guitar hooks and radio friendly polished choruses.

New Language chooses an uncomplicated way to capture the listeners’ attention with an accessible alternative/modern heavy rock blend and “Everybody Screams” can acquire somber tones while keeping a catchy attitude.

Sleeping Romance – Alba

Among young emerging bands, Italian symphonic metal act Sleeping Romance has the opportunity to stand out with the sophomore release gracefully entitled “Alba” which confidently blends solemn orchestrations and the blasting force of classic power metal.

Starting with melancholic piano melodies “Where The Light Is Bleeding” proceeds with exceptional clarity through rather sumptuous orchestral layers and keeps a somber melodic core with simple crunchy guitar riffs, a lullaby style soft breakdown and a refined catchy chorus.

“Lost In My Eyes” offers modern symphonic flavors immediately reminiscent of other popular bands such as Epica and Within Temptation. This track mainly focuses on a widely accessible series of sparkling melodies built by smooth guitars and classical atmospheric arrangements inevitably enhanced by vocalist Federica Lanna’s soothing vocal delivery.

“Forgiveness” acquires darker atmospheric nuances but also holds a soulful mellow core that favors elegant melodic guitar work without sacrificing a stronger power metal riffage while Federica’s delicate vocals deliver a more sentimental mood.

Effortlessly shifting between darker atmospheric vibes and luminous moments, “My Temptation” crafts several bewitching melodic passages with the expected fair dosage of dazzling guitar tones, inspired orchestrations and melancholy infused vocals & operatic choirs.

The title track basically includes all the charming features that characterize the whole album as a subtly majestic symphonic mood is carefully embedded in the guitar work and orchestral layers while the guitar driven rhythm showcases neoclassical accents but also a fair modern catchiness.

“Alba” certainly follows the successful music formula of renowned symphonic female fronted bands without additional unique or innovative elements, nevertheless Sleeping Romance diligently performs each song with utter sincerity and attention for stylish details.

Jess And The Ancient Ones – The Horse And Other Weird Tales

Finnish psychedelic rockers Jess And The Ancient Ones deserve to be recognized worldwide as an exceptionally intriguing band in fact on the newest album “The Horse And Other Weird Tales” they fully embrace a unique musical identity & creative force that will inevitably surprise the listeners.

Opening the expected magical portal “Death Is The Doors” takes you back in time with slow burning guitar melodies that suddenly become exquisitely vibrant as longing for refined psychedelic energy the soft rhythm acquires a bolder groove accompanied by Jess’s impressive vocal abilities.

“Your Exploding Heads” offers a quite entertaining groove with a generous dosage of thick bass lines, melodic guitars and an extremely catchy chorus while Jess’s warm vocal delivery leads you through an unrestrained trippy journey back to the ‘60s.

“(Here Comes) The Rainbow Mouth” follows a remarkable melodic fluidity provided by a winning combo of flamboyant organ layers and spacey guitar tonalities while vocalist Jess moves sinuously like an ethereal enchantress through the intricate web of bewitching rock grooves.

With an altered state of mind “Minotaure” can become particularly obscure with spiritual emphasis yet the colorful moody guitars & organ grooves stand out for the impeccable retro flavors and often hold the lightheartedness of youth and wild outdoor festivals.

“Anyway The Minds Flow” shines for the great psychedelic instrumental variety as things are easily getting spacey and rather surreal with detailed vintage melodies & arrangements that feel just like unconsciously riding a cosmic wheel (or a horse) and, once again, Jess delivers a charismatic heartfelt vocal performance.

“The Horse And Other Weird Tales” is often filled with rare sincerity and profound passion plus it seems simply impossible to resist the alluring quality of the band’s charismatic vintage sound. Do not miss the opportunity to enter the magical sonic realm of Jess And The Ancient Ones!

The New Roses – One More For The Road

German hard rockers The New Roses certainly know how to entertain the audience with loud classic rock tunes that in the latest effort “One More For The Road” always showcase great chemistry and catchy progressions.

Channeling the unforgettable glorious days of hard rock “Quarter To Twelve” revolves around catchy no frills rock melodies which always bear the renowned dirty rock attitude with upbeat guitar driven rhythms and raspy vocals.

“My Own Worst Enemy” is all distorted and absolutely fun with a vintage guitar sound that contributes to successfully craft a winning series of wild rock riffs enhanced by proper rocker style rough vocal delivery and a cool guitar solo.

On “Forever Never Comes” guitars continue to channel the golden decades of hard rock adding an enjoyable southern rock touch and everything feels like the right music for an outdoor festival.

“Dancing On A Razorblade” has all kinds of gritty guitar riffs that never fail to produce plenty of easy bombastic grooves and without any hesitation vocals pay homage to many famous traditional rock vocalists.

“Every Wild Heart” becomes slightly sentimental as guitars favor a laid back southern rock mood while big choruses ensure a radio friendly impact.

“Fight You Leaving Me” is the must have rock ballad with loads of acoustic passages, a slower rhythm that focuses on more romantic atmospheres and mellower vocal delivery with a touch of country style.

On “Nitro Nights” galloping guitar riffs keep a tight upbeat rhythm that is meant for wild parties as the whole instrumentation builds addictive rock grooves full of adrenaline.

On “One More For The Road” The New Roses choose to stay true to traditional rock dynamics packing each song with a generous dose of melodic hooks and catchy grooves ultimately producing a widely accessible easy to love collection of songs.

Der Weg Einer Freiheit – Finisterre

German black metallers Der Weg Einer Freiheit have released the new album “Finisterre” which stays true to the band’s chosen music blend of punishing blackened riffs and dramatic melodies.

“Aufbruch” bears the ethereal gloomy vibes of modern post-black metal but certainly doesn’t forget to draw its inner ominous strength from the darkest depths of classic black metal with breathless fast rhythm built relentlessly by savage guitar riffing and drums. Obviously, vicious growls constantly amplify the bleak cold music theme that becomes particularly mournful and surreal in the atmospheric breakdown with solemn clean vocals and aptly tragic guitar melodies.

“Ein letzter Tanz” is probably the most complex track in terms of composition and structure. Initially it favors feelings of overwhelming sadness with super slow heartfelt guitar melodies but doesn’t hesitate to channel the band’s primordial black metal roots with traditional austere tonalities and breakneck speed while additional dramatically slower sorrowful melodies return to depict the most melancholic soundscape.

On the title track thick guitar riffs can sound quite visceral under classic black metal influence as speed and obscure fury become the main focus to produce a rather asphyxiating groove. After such intense blackened experience, the charismatic softer yet absolutely darkened nuances and melodic serenity expressed by graceful violins are a truly pleasant diversion.

Overall, Der Weg Einer Freiheit confidently delivers a cohesive mature music opus as “Finisterre” diligently provides the fascinating melodic emotions of post-black metal combined with an easily satisfying extreme sonic assault.

Camerata Mediolanense – Le Vergini Folli

When poetry and music embrace usually something unexpectedly beautiful comes to life. In the case of the extremely talented Italian neofolk/neoclassical ensemble Camerata Mediolanense the magical beauty characterizing the newest release “Le Vergini Folli” is actually expected and easily appreciated.

As all the songs on “Le Vergini Folli” “Lacrime Di Gioia” focuses mainly on the creation of darkened atmospheres through layered classical tonalities that allow graceful vocals to take the center stage. The stunning dreamlike composition is further enhanced by minimalist piano melodies, intensely theatrical narratives and elegant strings.

On “Scrissi Con Stile Amaro” the impeccable performance of piano and voice acquires a deserved dominant role with a crescendo of melancholic classical textures while violins deliver additional refined poetic vibes.

“Mi Vuoi” might be one of the most charismatic tracks featuring an intoxicating ensemble of lavish piano and strings melodies while vocals continue to display a delightfully dramatic delivery through an irresistible emotional and rhythmic climax.

On “Pace Non Trovo” the addition of baritone vocals amplifies the theatrical neoclassical mood and delicate piano flawlessly provides understated melodic tapestries.

Like an operetta “Quando ‘L Sol” showcases a symphonic approach with genuinely sophisticated soprano vocals accompanied by an exquisitely fascinating piano composition in proper classical style but also maintains a subtle darkened mood.

Simply enchanting is what comes to mind listening to “Le Vergini Folli” which, far from being an average collection of songs, feels more like an arcane dream fueled by forgotten poems and fragile emotions and carefully crafted by the impressive group of chamber musicians behind Camerata Mediolanense.

Integrity – Howling, For The Nightmare Shall Consume

Formed in 1988 Integrity has been known for the influential heavy hardcore music style and continues to unleash such radical force with renewed darkened intensity on the latest full length “Howling, For The Nightmare Shall Consume”.

“Blood Sermon” is a blackened tune that sets a dismal fiery mood with loads of heavy guitar riffs and relentless drumming bearing remarkable black metal elements nevertheless Integrity provides also classic heavy metal accents with scattered guitar melodies through the tight rhythmic core.

Without any hesitation “Hymn For The Children Of The Black Fate” continues to deliver a frenetic fast paced heavy groove with harsh ravenous vocals and thrash stomping attitude spiced up by flamboyant guitar solos.

“Serpent Of The Crossroads” shines for the stellar musicianship showcased by inspired gloomy melodic guitars that will keep a dominant role throughout the song crafting intricate harmonious layers and diverse captivating solos surrounded by a slower but highly atmospheric mournful mood.

“Unholy Salvation Of Sabbatei Zevi” becomes particularly macabre with eerie keyboards introducing an excellent doom oriented slow & heavy guitar driven crescendo and impeccable guitars also focus on the creation of sophisticated lugubrious melodic textures.

“7 Reece Mews” features darkened dreamy minimalist melodies that eventually evolve into a doom obscure heavier core with solemn guitar tonalities and dramatic vocal delivery but enthralling guitar leads also  deliver recognizable catchy classic rock elements.

On the title track the prophecy of impending catastrophic doom is spreading further and brilliant guitar dynamics once again steal the spotlight with delightfully intense solos and powerful rhythmic segments that always leave space for eclectic guitar melodies.

“Howling, For The Nightmare Shall Consume” aptly dwells in a nightmarish apocalyptic realm shifting from audacious heavy assaults to darkly poetic melodies and Integrity goes beyond the generic music categorizations proving to be a relevant band in the modern metal scene.