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.

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. 

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. 

The mysterious Polish band Batushka quickly conquered attention and critical acclaim within the underground metal scene therefore since the announcement of the sophomore release “Hospodi” it has become clear that this would be one of the most anticipated albums of the year. As “Hospodi” triumphantly emerges from the depths of darkness its genesis is surrounded by a strong mysticism and inspired by Eastern Orthodox liturgical music but the major schism within the band and the consequent divided fanbase might unfortunately distract the listeners from fully comprehending the immersive essence of this album.

The monumental liturgy symbolized by “Dziewiatyj Czas” aims to conjure the album’s darkest essence through a loop of captivating melodies that will eventually evolve into a more aggressive instrumental core that certainly bears the mark of traditional black metal just like the deeply anguished growls while obviously the chanted vocals create an intense mystical aura.

“Wieczernia” still preserves the decadent mixture of abrasive blackened momentum and solemn transcendent atmosphere accompanied by Gregorian style chants but adds a generous dosage of groovy rock rhythmic dynamics that sound more accessible in the midst of faster menacing guitar riffs.

“Powieczerje” has the fervour of a spiritual experience building darkened aesthetics with an intense blend of mournful guitar melodies that can also sound quite catchy and multilayered arcane chants that naturally emphasize the expression of tormented emotions.

“Utrenia” feels more enigmatic with an overdose of occult atmospheric nuances enriched by the occasional blasts of blackened fury courtesy of merciless rhythmic twists and diabolical growls yet maintains a remarkable melodic essence that flourishes through the dramatic guitar progressions.

“Pierwyj Czas” will inevitably convey anguished feelings due to the faster and absolutely vicious rhythmic segments once again clearly inspired by old school black metal so what really makes a difference here is the sudden introspective momentum and the underlying semi religious atmospheres.

“Liturgiya” closes the arcane ceremony accentuating the funereal vibes with the doom laden weight of the imposing guitar riffs and the essential ominous chants that definitely sound like prayers for the dead lingering through the hypnotic slow burning melodies.

At this point it would make more sense to focus on the strong obscure force of “Hospodi” and put aside any drama or gossip surrounding Batushka because music always has a more important value as you will certainly notice listening carefully to this majestic new opus.