Vulture – Dealin’ Death

German thrash metal band Vulture is ready to unleash incendiary grooves and horror vibes throughout the brand new album “Dealin’ Death”.
“Malicious Souls” relies on unstoppable aggressive riffage triggering familiar thrash rhythmic blasts amplified by the ravenous screams and the wild shredding of the guitar solos.
“Gorgon” still revolves around robust rhythmic patterns and killer guitar leads yet the addition of classical piano and dismal melodic phrases is bound to grab your attention.
The furious guitar driven grooves and the thunderous drumming of “Star-Crossed City” stay true to a successful thrash metal formula enriched by a series of compelling melodic licks.
On “Below The Mausoleum” a nightmarish atmosphere surrounds the fierce rhythmic rampage while the lead guitar work shifts the focus on an elaborate melodic approach.
The title track is fueled by an uncompromising thrash/speed metal force as the rhythmic section follows a faster tempo enhancing the presence of belligerent riffage and angered screams.
“The Court Of Caligula” stands out for the charismatic guitar work skillfully shifting from bold riffs that demand instant headbanging to refined melodies accompanied by epic atmospheric accents and an anthemic chorus.
On “Dealin’ Death” Vulture aim to develop a fresh sonic vision confidently channeling the high-speed energy of old school thrash metal and drawing inspiration from classic horror stories & movies.

Dvne – Etemen Ænka

Scottish progressive metallers Dvne audaciously explore diverse sonic pathways to craft majestic soundscapes on the sophomore full length “Etemen Ænka”.
“Enûma Eliš” manifests a complex songwriting approach that naturally blends darkened tonalities and extra heavy rhythmic dynamics highlighting the excellent guitar work while the opulent atmospheric arrangements emphasize an emotional turmoil.
The immersive nature of “Court Of The Matriarch” quickly comes to life through the recurring luminous melodic phrases and the ethereal atmospheric waves yet the rhythmic section often embraces a strong prog inspiration leading to impressive technical patterns.
“Omega Severer” offers alluring melodic movements and charismatic guitar soloing accompanied by comforting clean vocals conveying a profoundly introspective mood yet the song’s shapeshifting nature will generate contrasting moments as the fierce riffage takes the center stage.
“Sì-XIV” focuses on a series of elaborate guitar progressions that can effortlessly create monumental grooves amplified by the tormented screams in contrast with the cathartic blend of fragile melodies and dreamy atmospheric accents.
“Mleccha” follows a melancholic post-metal direction as the soulful guitar melodies surrounded by hazy atmospheric textures naturally craft a shimmering sonic ensemble that will ultimately evolve into intense & heavier rhythmic crescendos.
The sumptuous final track “Satuya” relies on a convoluted composition that generates a world of profound contrast as guitars seamlessly shift from glowing delicate harmonies to savage riffs spiced up by technical prog elements and supported by a robust rhythmic section in the midst of a darkened atmospheric realm.
“Etemen Ænka” is characterized by heavy & intricate instrumental patterns but it becomes evident that the synths and the ambient sounds hold a crucial role allowing Dvne to add a rich atmospheric depth that emphasizes the sci-fi thematics.

The Crown – Royal Destroyer

Swedish death metal band The Crown celebrated the thirtieth anniversary in 2020 and now is ready to deliver an overdose of impactful grooves throughout the tenth full length “Royal Destroyer”.
Staying true to the title “Let The Hammering Begin!” unleashes an overwhelming rage following a fast menacing rhythm constantly fueled by hostile drum blasts and extra heavy guitar riffs channeling an insane thrash metal energy.
Since the beginning, the monumental rhythmic section on “Motordeath” crafts enraged dynamics channeling the raw energy of 90s death & thrash metal enriched by a series of charismatic & groovy guitar progressions.
“Ultra Faust” embraces a slower creepy mood as the darkened tonalities of the guitar work can evoke a sense of impending doom that will ultimately evolve into an aggressive rhythmic assault amplified by the savage growls.
On “Glorious Hades” a mysterious atmosphere introduces robust rhythmic patterns yet a darkly alluring melodic essence will emerge through the mournful guitar phrases and the sophisticated solo.
The classic melodic death metal style of “We Drift On” leads to a balanced mix of somber guitar progressions demanding a slower contemplative rhythm and inflamed riffage fully conveying darkened vibes.
“Beyond The Frail” returns to a faster blistering rhythmic ensemble relying on crushing guitar riffs and spiteful growls to generate memorable grooves while the finale acquires ethereal tones with haunting arpeggios.
Undoubtedly the core of “Royal Destroyer” revolves around the fury of the massive rhythmic section and the relentless riffage yet The Crown manage to add some dramatic melodic textures to such extreme metal formula.

Iotunn – Access All Worlds

Danish progressive metallers Iotunn invite you to join an unforgettable cosmic journey with the striking debut full length “Access All Worlds” featuring talented vocalist Jón Aldará of Hamferð. 

“Voyage Of The Garganey I” marks a grandiose beginning as the spacey atmospheric intro leads to a harsh rhythmic ensemble characterized by vicious growls and crunchy riffage yet the prog metal inspiration will generate elaborate dynamics and majestic guitar soloing. 

The monumental title track immediately stands out for the dramatic clean vocal delivery embellishing the technical aspects of the intricate guitar progressions which will naturally shift from sumptuous melodic moments following a slower rhythm to aggressive dynamics evoking somber feelings. 

“The Weaver System” offers a pleasant overdose of gorgeous melodies emphasizing the soulful tonalities of the guitar work and the poignant emotions expressed by the theatrical vocals yet the band carefully creates convoluted rhythmic patterns channeling the gelid darkened vibes of melodic death metal. 

The ambitious final track “Safe Across The Endless Night” perfectly manifests the band’s prowess as within a massive sonic maze guitars fiercely deliver unrestrained riffage enriched by prog oriented technical accents and thrilling solos but you can also perceive a captivating melancholia through the darkened melodic phrases and Jón’s eloquent vocal performance. 

While Iotunn are just beginning their sonic endeavor you can immediately appreciate the remarkable musicianship and the fascinating creativity that generate the complex composition of “Access All Worlds” which is definitely destined to impress the metal scene. 

Cult Of Luna – The Raging River

Cult Of Luna have been around for over two decades and today their intriguing sonic journey continues to thrive within the elaborate soundscapes of the new EP “The Raging River”. 

“Three Bridges” spreads immense darkness through the somber melodic textures and the enigmatic atmospheric layers that surround the complex harsh rhythmic patterns amplified by tormented screams while the calmer moments focus on the emotions expressed by the shimmering arrangements. 

“What I Leave Behind” belongs to a distant dark dimension where the multilayered synths skillfully create a dystopian atmosphere that highlights a cinematic approach and the resulting grave feelings influence deeply the murky rhythmic ensemble which can easily deliver heavier blasts. 

“Inside Of A Dream” is a particularly captivating track featuring the warm voice of Mark Lanegan which emphasizes the contemplative nature of the melancholic guitar melodies. 

The monumental final track “Wave After Wave” takes you back into a darkened world as the guitar work channels raw energy but the synths become quite dominant crafting sophisticated atmospheric crescendos enriched by moody electro accents. 

Throughout “The Raging River” Cult Of Luna never fail to showcase their creative force embracing an intricate songwriting style inevitably drenched in alluring darkness.

Tribulation – Where The Gloom Becomes Sound

In the midst of shadows and mysteries Tribulation emerge with the fifth full-length “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” which is certainly one of the most anticipated albums of the year and embodies a magical voyage through the depths of darkness. 

On “In Remembrance” the baroque atmospheric tapestries foreshadow the addictive darkness that will flourish through the fascinating guitar progressions leading to an exquisite solo and memorable rhythmic dynamics which can easily channel a raw heavy metal energy. 

The gothic flair of “Hour Of The Wolf” is bound to thrive within the magnetic melodic guitar work which also never fails to deliver a generous dosage of catchy riffs enhanced by the solemn drum blasts and the sinister growls. 

“Leviathans” often focuses on an opulent shimmering melodic essence yet naturally channels antediluvian motifs which ultimately lead to the epic feel of the guitar phrases and the arcane nuances of the atmospheric arrangements.  

Throughout “Dirge Of A Dying Soul” guitars acquire doom laden tonalities conveying a lugubrious mood with the heavy weight of the riffage amplified by the tormented growls and the obscure atmospheric waves while the harmonious progressions move sinuously within a bleak soundscape. 

“Inanna” puts the spotlight on the intricate guitar work which is destined to spellbind you with a lavish series of charismatic progressions drenched in perpetual darkness and immense melancholia that generate irresistible eloquent melodies.  

A sublime darkness permeates “The Wilderness” as the majestic rhythmic dynamics conjure a powerful nocturnal force and while the riffs hold significant heavy tones an eerie melodic spirit comes to life within the sophisticated guitar leads and the seductive atmospheric arrangements. 

Listening to “Where The Gloom Becomes Sound” you will inevitably feel compelled to enter a supernatural gothified sonic realm as without any hesitation Tribulation invoke the five elements to create a truly bewitching opus. 

Midnight – Rebirth By Blasphemy

In the last few years Midnight became a name to remember in the underground metal scene but after many successful tours the band has been steadily gaining even more attention so it’s the perfect time to release the new album “Rebirth By Blasphemy” which shows that mastermind Athenar chooses to do whatever he wants embracing a true rebirth. 

The album opens with “Fucking Speed And Darkness” and this title definitely foreshadows what you can expect to hear as Midnight fiercely unleash furious and extremely entertaining rhythmic patterns constantly fueled by the raw diabolical energy of the guitar riffs and the venomous screams. 

The title track is a blasphemous super catchy tune where the frantic vocals feel like a call to arms and the guitar riffs and killer leads keep on marching confidently with vibrant classic metal tonalities and dirty punk vibes. 

“Escape The Grave” has a rebellious attitude embedded in the ravenous rock power of the guitar work and the consequent irresistible groovy rhythmic galore that keeps the old school metal spirit alive. 

There’s a devilish flair running through “Rising Scum” as the sinister guitar tonalities lead to obscure riffage and somber melodic elements following a slower yet still spontaneously vicious rhythm. 

“Warning From The Reaper” relies on faster dynamics that amplify the primal energy of the vibrant guitar licks generating a consistent series of savage grooves while the vocals continue to channel pure rage. 

With a calmer intro “You Can Drag Me Through Fire” might sound a bit more polished allowing the melodic guitar work to really shine yet there is plenty of wrath and disgust to fuel the addictive guitar driven grooves and the hostile vocal delivery. 

While the music of Midnight is destined to thrive within a darkened realm their future looks brighter than ever and “Rebirth By Blasphemy” is filled with powerful ruthless hooks that are destined to get stuck in your head. 

King Diamond Live in Chicago

The legendary King Diamond is currently touring across North America in support of “The Institute”, the first studio album in twelve years which will be released in 2020. As expected King Diamond packed The Riviera in Chicago as his music legacy is still extremely strong and the new stage set inspired by the concept of the forthcoming album instantly created a nightmarish atmosphere. As the show started King Diamond appeared wheeled out on a stretcher and when he began to sing “The Candle” his signature falsetto vocals truly impressed the audience. The theatrical horror story reached the acme when King Diamond performed the ritualistic funeral of baby Abigail and the devoted fans absolutely loved the setlist which included the classic unforgettable tracks “Behind These Walls”, “Sleepless Nights” and “The Invisible Guests” plus they had the opportunity to hear for the first time the brand new song “Masquerade Of Madness” which will appear on the upcoming album “The Institution”. There is no doubt, the King is back in excellent shape bringing an insane asylum to deliver a creepy entertaining live experience. 

Midnight Live in Joliet

Cleveland blackened thrash punks Midnight are currently on a North American tour supporting Obituary and Abbath while waiting for the upcoming full-length “Rebirth By Blasphemy” set for an early 2020 release via Metal Blade Records. At The Forge in Joliet Midnight impressed the crowd with a thrilling performance full of unrestrained raw energy and a quite distinct sound, don’t miss this awesome tour!

Lizzy Borden Live in Chicago

Los Angeles based metal band Lizzy Borden came through Chicago and entertained fans with a truly theatrical performance, featuring both a classic heavy metal sound and a visual aspect of several amazing costume changes. Throughout the set fans were able to see a wide range of songs spanning from their first album “Love You to Pieces” in 1985 to their newest release in 2018, ” My Midnight Things.” This is the band’s first tour since 2014, and fans were certainly excited to see them once again.