Dark power metal band Silver Talon is ready to impress the audience with the majestic guitar-driven virtuosity and the refined melodies that characterize the debut full length “Decadence And Decay”.
“Deceiver, I Am” marks an incendiary beginning as the band embraces a rather heavy pathway unleashing massive sharp riffs and thunderous drums enriched by a series of charismatic guitar solos.
Featuring legendary guitarist Andy La Rocque “Resistance 2029” as expected stands out for the extraordinary guitar work effortlessly shifting from technical acrobatics to theatrical melodic licks well supported by the robust rhythmic section.
Somber feelings linger throughout “Next To The Sun” as the emotive vocal delivery is surrounded by a series of elegant arpeggios yet the bold rhythmic section will still have a chance to craft significantly heavier dynamics.
“What Will Be” shifts the focus on luminous melodic phrases enriched by an impressive vocal performance expressing poignant feelings while the guitar solo shines for the eclectic twists and the glowing harmonies.
“Touch The Void” closes the album offering solemn atmospheric arrangements and intricate rhythmic patterns that highlight the dominant role of the brilliant guitar work confidently delivering an interesting blend of aggressive riffs, technical accents and melodic grandeur.
Undoubtedly the strength of “Decadence And Decay” comes from the excellent musicianship and the dazzling triple-guitar attack proving that Silver Talon have the necessary passion and enthusiasm to garner interest in the current metal scene.

Polish pagan black metal band Varmia channels strong Baltic roots blending traditional ethnic instrumentation and ravenous grooves on the third full length “bal Lada” which was recorded live in an old manor in Northern Poland.
“Bielmo” immediately manifests an obscure essence though the blackened guitar progressions and the malignant growls following harsh rhythmic patterns embellished by the compelling folk style of the traditional instruments.
Within the darkened world of “Upperan” the aggressive rhythmic section continues to channel a primal black metal force while the slower mournful passages and the technique of “whitevoice” clean-singing adds captivating ritualistic vibes.
The recurring chants and tribal accents on “Zari Deiwas” clearly emphasize the pagan & folk nuances while the main rhythmic ensemble follows a visceral blackened pathway with the relentless guitar riffs and the ominous mood.
“O” takes you to an ancestral land as the instrumentation of the Baltic Rites, the technique of “whitevoice” and the spiritual essence of the chanting become the main focus accompanied by the raw energy of the guitar work.
The impossible darkness of “Głody” is constantly fueled by the hostile rhythmic approach and the grave guitar tonalities while the traditional Baltic elements and the clean vocals naturally add epic vibes.
“Ten Blask Co Po Nim Śmierć” stands out for the cathartic melodic guitar phrases and the elegant atmospheric arrangements that inevitably evoke sheer nostalgia and create an introspective momentum in contrast with the tormented nature of the faster rhythmic dynamics.
Varmia passionately pays tribute to their ancient traditions consequently the arcane nature of “bal Lada” is destined to influence and enrich the blackened sonic realm.


Boston-based dark melodic power/thrash band Let Us Prey begins an adventurous music endeavor with the savage & groovy debut album “Virtues Of The Vicious”.

“Above The Vaulted Sky” doesn’t waste any time as the bold rhythmic section constantly channels explosive thrash metal vibes while the smooth guitar solo and the chorus hold a subtle melodic flair also enhanced by the versatile vocal delivery. 

The title track immediately unleashes a series of furious unrestrained rhythmic patterns that also highlight the eclectic guitar work shifting from merciless riffage to fancy intricate leads until everything slows down as a darkly elegant atmospheric momentum takes over.  

“In Suffering” begins with understated atmospheric layers that introduce a series of charismatic melodic guitar progressions in fact the rhythm here is less hostile emphasizing the passionate vocal performance and the somber feelings.  

Despite the mellow piano intro “Murder Thy Maker” reveals an aggressive approach as the inflamed rhythmic section follows a faster menacing tempo and guitars skillfully engage in sophisticated progressions and brilliant shredding.

The darkened essence of “The Cruel Creation Of Me” is fully expressed by the presence of ruthless growls and the haunting atmosphere which surrounds the fierce rhythmic dynamics and the excellent guitar leads. 

“And Hell That Followed With Me” closes the album with an elaborate composition blending a darkly alluring atmospheric ensemble and a massive series of vicious guitar driven grooves in contrast with the melodic soul of the mellow contemplative breakdown and the soothing vocal harmonies. 

Let Us Prey aim to keep things interesting throughout the debut release “Virtues Of The Vicious” as they tend to blend diverse metal subgenres in order to develop a personal sonic manifesto while maintaining a heavy & groovy mood. 

Melodic death metal quintet Voices Of Ruin unleashes the third full length “Path To Immortality” offering a powerful melo death assault with a balanced blend of  thundering rhythmic patterns and vibrant melodies. 

“Carved Out” doesn’t waste any time as the fast rhythmic section delivers aggressive dynamics fueled by the hostile riffage and the spiteful growls but certainly the lead guitar work becomes fundamental crafting smooth melodies and flamboyant shredding. 

In the beginning the title track seems to favor cold melodies with melancholia infused phrases yet the intense guitar riffs can easily generate monumental furious segments supported by the precise drumming and the increasing speed that leads to another round of fierce shredding. 

Even if “Reach Toward The Sky” continues to follow a rather menacing rhythmic pathway highlighting the extreme metal elements the lead guitars have the chance to create passionate melodic passages and intricate solos characterized by enthralling luminous tonalities. 

“I Am God” puts the spotlight on the unrestrained guitar riffs that easily build a strong rhythmic tension and the whole instrumentation confidently follows a rather heavy approach while the skillful lead guitar will provide a fair dosage of soulful melodic passages. 

“Whispers” stands out for the majestic soloing and the clarity of the melodic guitar phrases that immediately convey a gloomy grandeur that will often return within the savage & heavier sonic realm to provide additional calm shimmering harmonies and a profound melancholia. 

“Everlong” marks an inflamed finale as the raw energy of the guitar driven grooves is a key element that leads to monumental rhythmic blasts in contrast with the nostalgic vibes of the brief dreamy melodic progressions.

Voices Of Ruin are based in California but they are certainly deeply influenced by the glorious Scandinavian melo death formula and are clearly developing a personal sonic identity as showcased by the intriguing soundscapes of “Path To Immortality”. 

American black metal quintet Sicarius are ready to unleash a venomous sonic onslaught on the sophomore release “God Of The Dead Roots”. 

There is no escape as soon as the initial diabolical atmosphere of “BIA” gives way to belligerent heavy guitar riffs following a vicious fast rhythm confidently channeling the brutal elements of old school black metal.  

“Immortal Plight” continues to generate hellish blackened grooves with solid riffage and fierce drumming but somehow the lead guitar work manages to bring a glimpse of hope with a series of cold melodic phrases. 

Evoking strong occult vibes “Nekromanteia” focuses mainly on slower arcane guitar progressions surrounded by a dense esoteric atmosphere so lead guitars also have the opportunity to craft some mournful melodies. 

The title track features demonic growls and intensely obscure rhythmic patterns diligently built by super fast drumming and crushing guitar riffs that successfully maintain an uncompromising black metal ensemble that eventually evolves into a calmer mysterious momentum. 

“Scythe Bearers” delivers another relentless dosage of unrestrained blackened blasts that seem simply unstoppable yet there are some brief slower and absolutely cryptic moments. 

The asphyxiating sonic realm that Sicarius create on “God Of The Dead Roots” is certainly not for the faint of heart as the band keeps on delivering merciless blackened grooves that might make you feel shattered and desperate. 

Scardust is a new band from Israel eager to grab your attention making their official debut in the metal scene with the album “Sands Of Time” on which they skillfully mix multiple subgenres with a striking symphonic flair and elaborate prog dynamics. 

“Overture” opens the album with the classical splendor of strings and sumptuous orchestrations and you can immediately perceive the detailed songwriting that will lead to a variegated instrumental ensemble featuring major guitar shredding and intriguing rhythmic variations performed in prog metal fashion.

With massive epic vibes “Dials” follows the successful symphonic metal formula offering opulent symphonic layers, solemn choirs and flawless operatic vocals yet often deviates with unexpected jazzy tonalities and fancy technical guitar progressions. 

“Hourglass” focuses on delicate melancholia infused guitar melodies accompanied by the enchanting voice of Noa Gruman that here and throughout the entire album showcases a truly versatile delivery while the instrumental work is also full of surprises mixing different styles and acquiring heavier dynamics around the complex guitar phrases.  

The title track has a minimalist beginning with fragile piano melodies and poignant vocals but will soon embrace vivid symphonic tapestries enhanced by stunning operatic vocals & choirs leading to a full blown majestic piece. 

Featuring guest vocalist Kobi Farhi of Orphaned Land “Out Of Strong Came Sweetness” certainly stands out for the ardent vocal duet which also matches the contrasting tonalities generated by the passionate melodic passages and the heavier rhythmic bursts with crunchy guitar riffs that often lead to darker groovy vibes. 

“Blade” can sound a bit romantic as Noa is joined by guest vocalist Jake E of Cyhra for a rather emotional duet which becomes the main focus surrounded by accessible polished melodic crescendos and soothing atmospheric arrangements. 

It’s a pleasure to see another metal band coming from Israel and certainly the cultural background of Scardust influences their music style leading to the evident diversity that characterizes the debut release “Sands Of Time” but it’s also clear that these songs will attract all lovers of symphonic metal. 

 

Founded in 2013 by guitarist/vocalist Scott Eames, known as touring guitarist for Thy Antichrist, blackened death metal band Nevalra is ready to unleash the debut album “Conjure The Storm” that aims to impress the audience with an elaborate aggressive sonic assault embellished by dramatic melodic textures. 

The majestic beginning of “Warchestra” features opulent orchestrations and creepy atmospheric accents swiftly followed by a rather hostile instrumental ensemble diligently built by relentless guitar riffs and punishing drums obviously accompanied by hellish growls yet there are many tasteful melodic guitar leads that enhance the darkened vibes and showcase impressive musicianship. 

“…Of Ruination” certainly has a vicious blackened rhythmic section that will trigger a massive moshpit yet the lead guitars confidently craft loads of intricate refined melodies with an exquisite neoclassical inspiration.  

The title track shines for the enthralling orchestral intro and the dazzling melodic guitar work, especially emphasized by the thrilling skillful solos, that certainly add some alluring  theatrical aesthetics to the main infectious rhythmic section. 

From beginning to end “It Dies In Vain” relies on a ferocious approach with menacing growls and unstoppable savage guitar riffs following a tight rhythmic section with evident death metal influences while the lead guitars again engage the listeners creating enticing melodic crescendos. 

“Take Your Leave” shows the most melodic aspects of Nevalra’s music style with sorrowful acoustic phrases followed by luminous impeccable guitar harmonies in contrast with the sheer brutality of the groovy rhythmic segments and the belligerent vocal delivery. 

“Prophet For Profit” can sound quite aggressive with a straightforward death metal oriented rhythmic blast that seems incessant until suddenly everything slows down for a brief yet intense dramatic moment delivering stylish melancholic guitar melodies. 

Nevalra are still an emerging band but it must be noted that on “Conjure The Storm” they already follow a precise music direction with great passion resulting in a cohesive debut effort that definitely has the potential to attract numerous acolytes of melodic extreme metal.

With their signature sleaze rock Swedish rockers Backyard Babies have been quite popular over the past three decades and certainly the best way to celebrate such successful long career is to release the brand new full length “Sliver & Gold” and get the party started.

The passion for classic rock is very much alive on “Good Morning Midnight” which is an explosive album opener relying mainly on gritty guitar riffs to build consistent rock grooves with an underlying rebellious punk attitude.

“Shovin’ Rocks” is all about anthemic rock guitar grooves, flamboyant soloing and no frills rhythmic dynamics that get you moving with an unmistakable raw energy matched by the raucous rocker vocal delivery.

“Yes To All No” still has the expected entertaining rock energy once the upbeat rhythm becomes more dominant but also some deeply melancholic vibes that lead to warm arpeggios and slightly somber vocals.

With “Bad Seeds” we’re back to the party mood as the rock enthusiasm becomes a fundamental element in the guitar riffage and super catchy chorus amplified by the smooth guitar solo.

“44 Undead” is the song that demands to be played loud with an addictive chorus and an irresistible rocker essence perfectly embodied by the edgy vocal delivery, the dirty guitar riffs and the memorable slick guitar solo.

The playful approach of the title track is fueled by the turbulent punk elements combined with an overdose of classic rock grooves but probably the star of the show is the thrilling guitar solo that adds heavier accents and variety.

“Sliver & Gold” definitely holds a nostalgic aura celebrating the good times of rock ‘n roll as Backyard Babies stay true to their renowned rock spirit and confidently put together an energetic collection of catchy songs.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kk5-RrnuG1w

 

Founded by acclaimed drummer James Payne of Vital Remains and Hour of Penance, Hiss From The Moat is ready to celebrate the release of the sophomore album “The Harrier” which revolves mainly around technical blackened death metal dynamics.

The creepy atmospheres of “The Badial Despondency” introduce the monstrous title track where the massive rhythmic ensemble is constantly fueled by the technical precision of the drums and the belligerent guitar riffs while the soloing showcases fancy shredding and darkened vibes.

The mood of “The Passage To Hell” definitely matches the title as the menacing drum march and the consequent guitar driven grooves dwell within an asphyxiating blackened realm enriched by the calmer yet nightmarish atmospheric momentum.  

It’s nice to take a break with the sophisticated classical guitar melodies of “The Abandonment (Interlude)” where the band can showcase a different songwriting approach and still manifest a profound sense of darkness.

There are plenty of extreme metal elements on “The Allegory Of Upheaval” as thick guitar riffs could not sound more obscure supported by brutal drum blasts and hellish growls while the lead guitar work tends to focus on remarkable melancholia infused melodies.

“God Nephasto” fully embraces fierce uncompromising grooves fueled by a palpable primordial force that demands faster rhythmic segments and blackened guitar riffs while once again the technical soloing stands out for the subtle melodic accents.

There is a perennial darkness throughout “The Decay Of Lies” and the blackened influences become rather dominant in the guitar work that skillfully takes the center stage with an overdose of gloomy tonalities and decadent melodies.

Overall “The Harrier” is a solid extreme metal opus that can often sound absolutely ominous but Hiss From The Moat are able to add also melodic & atmospheric twists to such aggressive sonic approach.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m69GzssO6c0

We can all agree that Malevolent Creation are an institution in the extreme metal scene and the best way to celebrate the 13th full length aptly entitled “The 13th Beast” is to deliver a massive overdose of traditional death metal that requires instant headbanging to be fully enjoyed.

“End The Torture” opens the album with ominous vibes as guitars gradually build merciless rhythmic dynamics following pummeling drums to ensure a proper death metal sonic assault spiced up by the intense shredding offered by the guitar solos.

On “Mandatory Butchery” you can easily recognize the key brutal elements of classic death metal but also bold thrash accents as guitars deliver steady fierce riffs accompanied by cavernous growls yet the darkened melodic guitar work adds contemplative depth.

If you’re looking for sheer brutality “Agony For The Chosen” got you covered as relentless guitar riffs and savage drumming lead to a hellish sonic realm without any hesitation and only the fancy guitar soloing allows you to catch your breath.

“Born Of Pain” is another cohesive death metal anthem that relies on the borderline chaotic approach of the super fast rhythmic section but at some point the tempo gets slower to emphasize the grave tonalities of the guitars.

“Knife At Hand” continues to unleash furious rhythmic blasts favoring breakneck speed and a full blown aggressive approach surprisingly interrupted by occasional sorrowful atmospheric instrumental passages.

“Release The Soul” begins with a calmer yet immensely darkened approach and while guitars can still sound utterly ravenous they often put aside the violent speed to focus on anguished melodic phrases and obscure doom tinged tonalities.

Undoubtedly Malevolent Creation stay true to their infamous music formula and as expected “The 13th Beast” is characterized by a consistent classic death metal style revolving mainly around fast uncompromising guitar driven grooves.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4PIwx1lZSE