Legendary thrash metal masters Testament demonstrate to be simply unstoppable presenting a majestic sonic manifesto through the colossal guitar driven grooves of the latest addition to their extensive discography “Para Bellum”.
In the midst of the modern chaos “For The Love Of Pain” arises with a high octane rhythmic energy consequently relentless tight thrash progressions and insane speed leave you breathless and in the end guitars reach malevolent blackened heights amplified by the most ferocious growls.
“Shadow People” revolves around menacing anthemic thrash dynamics courtesy of the intense drumming plus you can appreciate the classic tones of the thrilling guitar work that easily delivers additional fancy licks to a renowned formula.
“Meant To Be” definitely sounds different and marks a moment of peaceful contemplation with warm guitar tonalities that compose delicate melancholic melodies enriched by solemn orchestrations and Chuck Billy has a chance to show a passionate & potent vocal delivery.
“Witch Hunt” is an instant crowd pleaser as Chuck’s vocal performance favors massive guttural roars and the rhythmic powerhouse knows no limits unleashing an overdose of inflamed grooves.
The following track “Nature Of The Beast” effortlessly maintains that same approachable and highly entertaining groovy attitude as the flawless sharp guitar riffs constantly build an ideal rhythmic tension leading to a particularly memorable chorus.
The title track ensures a triumphant closure as throughout the generous explosive grooves Alex Skolnick’s impeccably virtuoso guitar leads at the same time showcase elegance and brutality yet the finale allows a melodic elegiac momentum far from the dominant thrash wildest side.
A new studio album by Bay Area thrash metal giants Testament will always attract attention worldwide and in the case of “Para Bellum” the band does not refrain from scattered modern accents but proudly stays true to an immense legacy built with outstanding guitar work and chemistry.

Throughout the years Nailed To Obscurity have worked hard touring globally and developing an appealing sonic vision within the modern overcrowded music scene and the result is the gloomy grandeur of the fifth studio album “Generation Of The Void”.
There is no hesitation as “Glass Bleeding” invokes extreme metal roots with a frantic rhythmic section in contrast with the mournful beauty of the melodic guitar progressions and Raimund Ennenga can immediately demonstrate his vocal abilities.
“Liquid Mourning” rightfully gained attention as lead single as it incarnates the band’s signature formula where the melancholia infused melodic passages flow gracefully until the heavy weight of the rhythmic ensemble takes over.
The title track clearly depicts a world of emptiness not far at all from the present days therefore the melodic themes hold a mystical crucial role demanding an overdose of sweeping guitar phrases embellished by the whimsical vocal delivery.
Within a contemplative melodic dimension “Echo Attempt” successfully maintains a perennial sense of longing through a series of delicate guitar harmonies, easy to love at the first listening, that can spontaneously evolve into heavier rhythmic patterns complemented by fiery growls.
At the center of “Clouded Frame” there is a major catchiness courtesy of a particularly groovy rhythmic ensemble but besides the sing-along chorus the guitar work deserves your attention naturally shifting from doomed riffage to poetic melodies.
From the darkened depths of “The Ides Of Life” monumental guitar riffs proudly arise with increasing speed and distortion amplified by potent growls yet the cold enlightened guitar melodies are destined to emerge.
Unlike other younger bands Nailed To Obscurity always stayed focused on their ultimate goal to achieve a distinct sound and this chosen artistic pathway now leads to the emotionally charged soundscapes of “Generation Of The Void”.

Across their longstanding career and prolific discography Paradise Lost have mastered the arts of darkness creating a perfect mixture of heaviness and shadowy melodies that continues to spellbind you on the new grand opus “Ascension”.
“Serpent On The Cross” represents doom metal at its finest with a high dosage of monolithic riffs adorned by the minor key fascination for grim melodies and wicked solos while Nick bravely channels a malignant alter ego with majestic growls.
Guitars choose an extremely sorrowful melodic pathway as softer dramatic tones always linger through the steady doomed rhythmic core of “Tyrants Serenade” and once again Nick naturally shifts from moody harmonies to perilous growls.
Feel the miserable weight of classic doom though the colossal guitar riffs and the crestfallen tonalities of the visionary track “Salvation” that certainly grabs your attention also for the elaborate lead guitar work.
“Lay A Wreath Upon The World” begins as an elegant acoustic elegy expressing a peaceful emotive approach yet everything leads to a consistent rhythmic evolution guided by Gregor’s skillful guitar leads.
“Savage Days” holds a warm soul as each guitar progression evokes pure melancholia rightfully reaching a grave melodic depth further enhanced by the tormented clean vocal performance.
Surrounded by an atmospheric fog “The Precipice” closes the album with tragic melodic splendor as the convoluted guitar melodies invoke darkness and despair impeccably accompanied by contrasting theatrical cleans and solemn growls.
Time passes by inevitably and the misery never stops but Paradise Lost stand their ground all the way through “Ascension” with impeccable musicianship and authentic creativity demonstrating that the everlasting strength of gothic/doom metal defies any possible trendy style.

When iconic musicians that contributed to the creation of Gothenburg metal scene join forces you can expect great things, in fact The Halo Effect returns with the sophomore album “March Of The Unheard” taking another evolutionary step forward within the glorious melodic death metal realm.
“Conspire To Deceive” is filled with high octane energy as the cold rhythmic dynamics masterfully produce triumphant grooves and Mikael Stanne shows what it means to be a restless passionate vocalist with majestic growls.
In impeccable melo-death style “Cruel Perception” represents contrasting emotions effortlessly juxtaposing darkly contemplative melodic guitars and a raw rhythmic tension.
The excellent rhythmic structure of “What We Become” naturally leads to heavy unforgiving grooves complemented by visceral growls yet the most interesting elements are the deliciously darker melodic passages.
As drums often dictate a faster crushing rhythm “Forever Astray” adds some modern synths accents to the soaring guitars yet Mikael steals the spotlight with elegantly introspective clean vocals matching a moody melodic composition.
Tempo slows down on the poetic track “Between Directions” as Mikael delivers a truly poignant vocal performance that emphasizes the stylish melodic guitar work and the airy atmospheric arrangements.
“A Death That Becomes Us” focuses on a rather catchy & somber chorus and the mid tempo melodic themes can be further enhanced by the crispy guitar sound and the solemn atmospheric nuances.
The band’s chemistry here is a big deal as The Halo Effect use their talents to seamlessly blend harsh rhythmic rampages, a much needed uplifting attitude and a soothing Nordic melancholia that render “March Of The Unheard” a true melodic death metal anthem.

Leaving behind a troubled situation the glorious artistic rebirth of reverend Marilyn Manson is embodied by the intoxicating new opus “One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1”.
As an invitation to a mysterious ritual the title track dwells within a distorted dreamy soundscape where vocals unleash pure passion and guitars acquire a sinister flare inducing a profound self-reflection.
“No Funeral Without Applause” showcases a mellow heart yet we inevitably feel lost within a dark fairytale where Manson freely shifts from fragile vocals to wild screams well supported by the 90’s alt-rock vibes of the attractive guitar work.
It would be natural to start obsessing over “As Sick As The Secrets Within” as this track feels intimate and deliciously wicked at the same time focusing on an elegant melodic composition and the perfect dosage of gritty rhythmic dynamics.
“Death Is Not A Costume” relies on an addictive chorus but mainly reveals lugubrious tonalities through dismal guitar harmonies and hazy atmospheric arrangements that allow Manson’s voice to express moody emotions.
“Sacrifice Of The Mass” slows down to fully showcase an introspective side as Manson’s tormented vocal delivery skillfully complemented by bittersweet arpeggios seem to float within an opulent obscure atmospheric realm.
Like a full blown rockstar and irreverent icon Marilyn Manson successfully reshapes his mischievous artistry and satisfies his faithful acolytes with the intellectual force of the darkened grooves of “One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1” and we eagerly await the next chapter of this tumultuous musical endeavor.

In the crowded metal scene French blackgaze pioneers Alcest will always stand out for innovative composition and fascinating spiritualism, as a result the highly anticipated record “Les Chants De L’Aurore” clearly manifests striking creative abilities.
“Komorebi” is certainly the legit product of the band’s well tested formula putting in the center uplifting shoegaze motives without forgetting the inner darker side embodied by faster intense rhythmic dynamics.
Throughout “Améthyste” guitars choose delicate tonalities to meticulously weave dreamy melodies and magnetic crescendos leaving space to the genuine expression of emotional themes while the harsh vocals obviously reminisce of cryptic black metal influences.
It feels like sleeping on the cold grass under a starry night as the airy arpeggios of “L’Enfant de la Lune” flow gently around you and Neige’s soothing vocal style perfectly complements the intricate guitar phrases and the delightful atmospheric arrangements.
“L’adieu” moves sinuously representing a truly haunting finale focusing on poetic minimalist harmonies and evocative chants that belong to a distant dimension or maybe a limbo between life and death but certainly not the real world here and now.
On the 7th opus “Les Chants De L’Aurore” Alcest bravely open a gateway to the spiritual world with an elegant sonic vision bound to move the audience.

Occult heavy rockers Lucifer descend upon us with the blazing force of the unholy new release “Lucifer V”.
“At The Mortuary” instantly takes you back to the golden age of 70’s heavy rock as the infectious guitar riffs run wildly through an inflamed rhythmic ensemble while an eerie doom inspiration inevitably leads to dramatic atmospheric textures.
The seductive decadence of “Slow Dance in A Crypt” leads to slow burning melodic waves and you can appreciate how the darker guitar tones are easily adorned by the bittersweet vocal harmonies and the catchy chorus.
With a morbid playful title “A Coffin Has No Silver Lining” focuses on the unrestrained sizzling guitar riffs that spontaneously build groovy dynamics enhanced by a perfect vintage sound.
“The Dead Don’t Speak” is another entertaining tune revolving around monumental guitar riffs destined to grab your attention and while you’re having fun the overall ghastly mood reminds you that something creepy might be lurking in the darkness.
With the final track “Nothing Left To Lose But My Life” we enter a captivating melancholic realm where Johanna’s eloquent vocals enrich the warm melodic themes while the guitar work can still acquire an energetic momentum leading to an excellent solo.
As Lucifer proudly conjure the darkened & groovy essence of classic doom/heavy rock the strength of “Lucifer V” evidently comes from the bewitching guitar driven grooves and Johanna’s charismatic vocal performance.

British death-doom indisputable masters My Dying Bride give new life to a timeless genre that defies time and space creating the unforgettable gloomy grandeur of the 15th studio album “A Mortal Binding”.
“Her Dominion” drags you through a desolate sonic dimension where weeping violins comfort your weakened heart in contrast with the heavy hitting guitar riffs that carry the torch for majestic doom metal cutting through the oppressive atmospheric layers
The epic single “The 2nd of Three Bells” is a gothic splendor affair as decadent atmospheric layers surround Aaron’s hypnotizing clean vocals before mournful guitars deliver an overdose of powerful doomed riffs leading to a palpable ominous rhythmic tension and violent grooves.
You will inevitably succumb to the eternal darkness of “The Apocalyptist” manifesting a colossal rhythmic backbone focused on heavy guitar tones executed in perfect doom fashion and adorned by recurring heart-wrenching harmonious violins.
The album’s dramatic closure is perfectly symbolized by “Crushed Embers” which celebrates eternal solitude & grief presenting convoluted atmospheric textures where violins flow gently carrying a touch of classical elegance and a pale light becomes visible despite the asphyxiating heavy weight of the towering guitar riffs and the tragically poetic vocal performance.
The band’s faithful acolytes will instantly fall under the spell of “A Mortal Binding” as My Dying Bride carefully weave melodic threads and crushing dynamics to celebrate once again the overwhelming misery and the perennial melancholia of their signature doom sonic vision.

Swedish heavy rock masters Graveyard embark on an unforgettable sonic journey through the hypnotizing melodic waves of the first record in five years simply entitled “6”.
The album opener “Godnatt” features a captivating series of bittersweet melodic themes that put the spotlight on the masterful guitar work and perfectly complement Joakim Nilsson’s moody vocal performance.
You feel comfortably wrapped by the warm melodic lines moving sinuously through “I Follow You” and the fuzzed out guitar phrases run wild & free to ultimately build sensational rhythmic crescendos.
“Breathe In Breathe Out” focuses on a slow burning melodic flow emphasizing the compelling vocal harmonies and the charming vintage guitar sound reaching the acme with an extensive impeccable solo.
Loads of energetic blasts emerge throughout “Just A Drop” as guitars and fiery drums meticulously generate trippy rhythmic patterns while the soulful melodies maintain the album’s minimalist vision.
“Rampant Fields” still showcases a glowing ballad style with a memorable melancholic chorus enhanced by Joakim’s soothing vocal delivery and definitely enriched by the psychedelic textures of the simmering Hammond.
Formed in Gothenburg in 2006 Graveyard continue to demonstrate passion and creativity developing an elaborate songwriting approach that now spontaneously leads to the bluesy & hazy soundscapes of “6”.

Norwegian black metal titans Immortal embark on a new musical journey through the frostbitten soundscapes of the long awaited 10th studio album “War Against All”, composed and performed by Demonaz.
Like a declaration of war the title track just seems unstoppable as the monumental drums build a perilously fast rhythmic core enhanced by the malevolent combo of insane growls and visceral guitar riffs.
Throughout “Wargod” the crunchy guitars spontaneously lead to groovy dynamics without an exaggerated speed but certainly maintaining a gelid black metal approach embellished by a softer contemplative momentum.
“Return To Cold” takes you to a remote forest surrounded by dramatic atmospheric textures and guitars skillfully combine compelling somber melodies and fierce riffage.
The instrumental track “Norlandihr” revolves around a cold blend of Nordic melancholia infused melodic waves and inflamed blackened rhythmic blasts that emphasize the masterful guitar work.
Within the gloomy realm of “Blashyrkh My Throne” a mournful melodic essence emerges through recurring refined arpeggios nevertheless the vicious growls and the unrestrained guitars generate blistering rhythmic patterns.
Undoubtedly Immortal stay true to their majestic black metal legacy delivering sheer fury and undiluted darkness throughout “War Against All” which will instantly please their loyal acolytes.