Fronted by Aaron Stainthorpe of legendary doom stalwarts My Dying Bride, High Parasite violently arise from the shadows to present a renewed gothic metal manifesto with the debut endeavor “Forever We Burn”.
The title track ensures a triumphant beginning combining groovy guitar lines crafting an attention worthy rhythmic ensemble and unexpectedly catchy melodies bound to get stuck on your mind resulting in a refreshing & entertaining sonic experience.
On “My Syndrome” synths develop a borderline futuristic mindset yet Aaron’s theatrical vocal performance reminisces the golden age of decadent gothic/doom metal while later on growls become an essential requirement to enhance the fierce heavier rhythmic dynamics.
“Grave Intentions” strengthens the inner 90’s gothic metal inspiration with forlorn melodic guitars in the midst of potent rhythmic progressions yet the band has always the chance to add modern atmospheric accents.
“Let it Fail” rightfully gets the spotlight as the first single showcasing an anguished melodic approach with the perfect dosage of wilder quasi malevolent grooves enriched by eclectic synths and the ethereal vocals courtesy of Heather Thompson from Tapping The Vein.
“Parasite” is another perfect example of the album’s super catchy essence as guitars take the center stage with memorable riffage galloping wild and vocals effortlessly shift from monochromatic cleans to spiteful screams.
The apocalyptic flair of “We Break We Die” runs through the captivating combo of potent crunchy riffs and magnetic multilayered synths that eventually can make you space out or just dance.
As Aaron stated High Parasite is not a simple side project but a new breathing entity that naturally leads to the creation of a different subgenre tagged as Death Pop masterfully blending gothic rock grooves and dark synth-pop arrangements.
Tag: candlelight records
Trna – Istok
Russian blackened post-rock trio Trna is ready to begin a meditative journey through the bleak soundscapes of the new full length “Istok”.
An oppressive atmosphere lingers throughout the title track as the blackened riffage diligently builds a monochromatic rhythmic maze and the consequent mournful feelings are inevitably amplified by the desolate melodic passages.
Featuring the shattering growls courtesy of Gaerea’s vocalist “Shining” showcases a strong blackgaze essence as the composition embraces a contemplative mood and ethereal darkened tonalities leading to melancholic guitar melodies in contrast with the faster harsh rhythmic patterns.
On “Burning Bridges, Shattered Dreams” the soft arpeggios and the understated atmospheric layers express crestfallen emotions while the aggressive drumming and the relentless guitar riffs channel primal black metal roots.
Listening to “Rebirth” you can perceive uplifting vibes as the gentle melodies highlight a magical shoegaze inspiration yet the faster & darker rhythmic dynamics fueled by the raw guitar sound will often prevail.
As self-proclaimed pioneers of ‘celestial blackgaze’, Trna proudly bear the mark of blackgaze shifting from unrestrained tremolos to peaceful daydreaming throughout “Istok”.
Necronautical – Slain In The Spirit
British black metallers Necronautical continue to fearlessly explore the darkest depths through the symphonic grandeur and the malevolent essence of the fourth full length “Slain In The Spirit”.
“Ritual & Recursion” opens the album with triumphant orchestrations and solemn operatic choirs embellishing the ominous blackened core diligently built by ruthless guitar riffs and vicious drum blasts further enhanced by the venomous growls.
The title track celebrates darkness with blistering rhythmic patterns that seems unstoppable until the elegant guitar solo takes the center stage ultimately leading to melancholic atmospheric waves and gothic splendor.
The arcane atmosphere of “Pure Consciousness Event” introduces a feverish rhythmic ensemble building steady memorable grooves fueled by the anguished guitar work and the desperate growls yet a mournful melodic soul will generate slower melodic passages.
“Contorting In Perpetuity” celebrates the fiery black metal roots through the vicious speed of the drums and the aggressive riffage while the mesmerizing melodic guitar solo and the decadent atmospheric nuances demand a significantly slower tempo.
“Death Magick Triumphant” often favors the opulent orchestrations and the refined melodic phrases that can evoke spellbinding gothic vibes emphasized by the dramatic clean vocals but the harsh rhythmic dynamics still bear a massive black metal influence.
Drenched in undiluted darkness “Slain In The Spirit” embodies a majestic artistic vision as Necronautical confidently channel a renowned blackened fury yet clearly aim to embrace an ambitious musical vision by adding sophisticated melodies and epic orchestrations.
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