Finnish melodic death metal band Marianas Rest focuses on the expression of grim emotions to depict a deeply sorrowful sonic realm on the new majestic full length “The Bereaved”.
“Thank You for the Dance” opens the album with arcane chanting but the monolithic rhythmic section swiftly builds powerful dynamics enriched by the perennial nostalgia of the delicate melodic guitar leads.
A sense of desolation constantly emerges from the convoluted melodic territories of “Divided” and a mournful atmosphere surrounds the dreary yet quite groovy rhythmic crescendos.
The elegiac style of “Again into the Night” relies on recurring wistful guitar harmonies complemented by the mellow vocal delivery while an old school melodic death metal flair eventually leads to tormented rhythmic patterns.
On “Burden” the omnipresent epic atmospheric arrangements evoke poignant feelings and the consequent emotive turmoil defines the contrast between soothing melodic waves and harsh passages.
We are staring at the snow falling on the mighty mountains as “Pity The Living” takes us far away with an overdose of frostbitten heart wrenching melodic progressions ultimately evolving into a solemn extensive guitar solo.
Throughout “The Colour of You” crispy guitars shine for the alluring melodic themes and the impeccable leads enhanced by the classic combo of clean choirs and ruthless growls.
Inspired by the icy melancholia of the Baltic sea Marianas Rest tells a profoundly personal tale with an eloquent melodic approach and solid death metal roots.

Founded by Wolfheart’s mastermind Tuomas Saukkonen as a solo-project and featuring vocalist Mikko Heikkilä of Kaunis Kuolematon, Dawn Of Solace finally unveils the third full-length “Flames Of Perdition” which embodies a darkly contemplative journey.
Listening to “White Noise” you can instantly perceive a familiar Nordic melancholia flowing gently through the poetic arpeggios that will ultimately evolve into poignant melodic crescendos enriched by a particularly fervent guitar solo.
The title track is destined to move the listeners with a passionate vocal performance accompanied by a bittersweet piano piece yet the bold rhythmic section can channel grave doom influences through mournful guitar progressions.
“Dying Light” shines for the graceful acoustic passages generating a fascinating introspective mood yet the rhythmic section gains a heavier momentum while maintaining an eloquent melodic flair leading to an extremely catchy chorus.
Within a somber sonic realm “Black Shores” shifts from the darkened tranquility of soothing piano harmonies to soaring guitar riffs that ensure loads of groovy dynamics well supported by the faster monolithic drumming.
On “Skyline” the slower tempo and the monochromatic acoustic tonalities amplify crestfallen feelings and the doom inspiration becomes more evident within the gelid guitar progressions reaching the acme with tasteful leads.
The bonus track “Lead Wings” embraces a minimalist acoustic approach putting the spotlight on the compelling vocal delivery and constantly evoking overwhelming melancholy and a sense of solitude.
Undoubtedly “Flames Of Perdition” would be an ideal wintry soundtrack as Dawn Of Solace focus on the creation of evocative soundscapes and gorgeous cold melodies to emphasize the genuine emotive themes.

Founded by Jaani Peuhu of Swallow The Sun, Mercury Circle makes a majestic debut crafting fascinating darkened soundscapes on the full-length “Killing Moons”.
Within the evocative multifaceted atmospheric realm of “The Gates Wide Open” the precise drums maintain an arcane tribal rhythm while the glowing guitar progressions convey bittersweet feelings emphasized by the passionate vocal delivery.
“You Open Up The Earth” stands out for the irresistible melancholia flowing through the haunting atmospheric ensemble and guitars acquire a delicious dark rock flair to create captivating melodic tapestries.
The title track relies on a remarkable mix of spacey atmospheric layers and modern electro beats that render everything a bit surreal while the compelling rhythmic crescendos and the heartfelt vocals highlight a darkly romantic flair.
“Call On The Dark” puts the spotlight on the futuristic tones and the sorrowful harmonies of the elaborate keyboards arrangements while the memorable chorus emphasizes a dark & catchy melodic essence.
The hazy cinematic approach of “Avalanche” leads to an exquisite ethereal sonic realm yet the rhythmic section acquires heavier doom tonalities conveying immense nostalgia and grief.
“Death Poem” is definitely a theatrical poetic opus as the opulent enchanting synth arrangements take you far away and the wistful melodies become increasingly darker when guitars add monolithic doom accents.
Certainly “Killing Moons” is destined to impress the listeners as Mercury Circle carefully blend gorgeous melodies and mesmerizing atmospheric waves to express poignant emotions.