Exodus – Persona Non Grata

Masters of thrash metal Exodus reach another milestone in their successful long standing career with the release of the crushing eleventh album “Persona Non Grata”.
The title track demonstrates that Exodus still have the necessary energy to create memorable thrash metal dynamics with an overdose of merciless guitar riffs marching fiercely through an explosive rhythmic maze definitely enriched by the impressive soloing.
“R.E.M.F” begins with a terrific combo of sharp riffage and monumental drums and the resulting raw energy gradually leads to a classic thrash metal formula that demands a crazy moshpit.
“Slipping Into Madness” continues to unleash massive grooves putting the spotlight on the vicious tones of the soaring guitars and the chorus will inevitably get stuck in your head.
“Prescribing Horror” presents a quite gloomy scenario focusing on the slower tempo and the mournful guitar melodies accompanied by a malevolent vocal delivery but you can still expect a fair dosage of hostile guitar riffs and elaborate leads.
The traditional thrash metal flair thrives within the gritty grooves of “The Years Of Death And Dying” highlighting the brilliant guitar work shifting from galloping heavy riffage to fancy intricate solos.
The southern flavor of acoustic guitars introduces another round of blazing grooves on “Lunatic Liar Lord” and once again the thrilling guitar solos offer diversity and technical prowess.
The anthemic thrash metal style of “Antiseed” generates faster abrasive rhythmic blasts featuring precise drumming and relentless ravenous riffs that reach the acme with an extensive wild guitar solo.
The unstoppable visceral guitar driven grooves at the core of “Persona Non Grata” will certainly satisfy the faithful acolytes as Exodus proudly stay true to their untamed thrash metal legacy exploring themes of societal degradation.

Obscura – A Valediction

Modern extreme metal quartet Obscura begins a new explosive chapter with the release of the sixth full-length “A Valediction” which is bound to impress the audience with an amazing virtuosic style.
“Forsaken” spreads immense melancholia with gentle arpeggios and subtle atmospheric layers that introduce an incendiary rhythmic ensemble relying on soaring riffs but the wild lead guitar work often steals the spotlight.
The title track offers steady aggressive rhythmic blasts with the perfect dosage of crunchy riffage and ruthless growls ultimately leading to an insane shredding that instantly grabs your attention.
“When Stars Collide” begins with fiery guitar driven grooves once again embellished by the neoclassical flair of the flawless shredding in contrast with the harmonious clean vocal delivery of the catchy chorus.
On “Devoured Usurper” an ominous essence generates a monolithic rhythm amplified by the cavernous growls and the darkened guitar tonalities that will evolve into charismatic technical solos.
The remarkable combo of dense bass lines and savage guitar riffs throughout “The Neuromancer” creates elaborate rhythmic patterns yet the excellent soloing successfully adds exquisite melodic textures.
In the beginning “Heritage” evokes dismal feelings through the fragile arpeggios and these emotive themes continue to emerge through the opulent melodic guitar leads even if the rhythmic section still has a chance to acquire extra speed and energy.
While the brutal death metal roots are still palpable undoubtedly Obscura focus on a majestic technical approach and instrumental precision to constantly build complex dynamics throughout “A Valediction”.

Ghost Bath – Self Loather

Atmospheric black metallers Ghost Bath begin a new tragic journey crafting desolate soundscapes on the fourth full-length “Self Loather”.
Featuring guest vocalist CJ McMahon of Thy Art Is Murder, “Hide From The Sun” is filled with grief and suffering as the untamed riffage channels a blackened fury to build a massive rhythmic rampage but the bleak melodic passages hold a dominant role leading to a final heart-wrenching piano piece.
On “Shrines of Bone” the rhythmic section can easily acquire extra speed and rage fueled by the relentless guitar riffs yet a dreamy melodic essence is destined to emerge through the minimalist arpeggios.
“Sanguine Mask” relies on desperate screams and mournful guitar progressions to create an asphyxiating sonic realm surrounded by murky atmospheric waves reaching the acme with a crestfallen piano & strings combo.
“A Crystal Lattice” immediately hits you in the face with the sheer brutality of the blackened rhythmic blasts but soon guitars will embrace a harmonious approach evoking poignant emotions.
Featuring tormented vocals courtesy of Graf of Psychonaut 4, “Sinew And Vein” follows a slower monolithic rhythm amplified by the obscure guitar work that can naturally evolve into melancholic phrases.
The arcane atmospheric ensemble of “For It Is A Veil” gives way to a rather aggressive rhythmic assault yet once again guitars will shift the focus to a shimmering melodic sound enhancing the emotive themes.
With “Self Loather” Ghost Bath continue to shape their own sonic identity confidently combining ominous dynamics and gelid melodic aesthetics which inevitably express overwhelming grim feelings.

Khemmis – Deceiver

In the last few years doom metal band Khemmis has impressed the chaotic metal scene garnering interest worldwide with a unique sonic vision and the highly anticipated studio album “Deceiver” emerges triumphantly from the darkest depths.
“Avernal Gate” begins with graceful arpeggios swiftly followed by a monumental rhythmic rampage that highlights the charismatic guitar licks and the heavy weight of the doom riffage enriched by mournful melodic accents and a particularly passionate vocal delivery.
The mighty doom essence of “Living Pyre” thrives within the hypnotic rhythmic maze which often puts the spotlight on the elaborate guitar work shifting from furious heavy riffs to poignant melodic phrases.
The desolate soundscapes of “Shroud Of Lethe” revolve around soothing clean vocals and melancholic melodic segments embellished by a series of brilliant solos yet the primordial doom elements eventually take over leading to a ominous heavy momentum certainly amplified by the ruthless growls.
On “The Astral Road” a profound sense of nostalgia becomes palpable within the gloomy melodic ensemble in contrast with the super groovy rhythmic dynamics and the soaring guitar progressions proudly channeling a glorious classic heavy metal flair.
The ambitious journey of Khemmis today naturally leads to the cerebral and sorrowful composition behind “Deceiver” which inevitably expresses an emotional struggle through monolithic grooves and dramatic melodies.

Ministry – Moral Hygiene

Industrial pioneers Ministry return in excellent shape to deliver the charismatic fifteenth studio album “Moral Hygiene” which continues to keep alive their influential legacy and embodies Al Jourgensen’s societal manifesto.
While a voice keeps on asking you ‘how concerned are you?’ “Alert Level” marks an impactful moment skillfully packing big mid-tempo guitar riffs and a sing-along chorus surrounded by entertaining even danceable electro beats.
Featuring a collaboration with ex-Dead Kennedy Jello Biafra, “Sabotage Is Sex” acquires an old school punk attitude with a galloping rhythmic section and a memorable rebellious chorus enriched by spooky atmospheric accents.
You will hear many different voices on “Disinformation” which clearly revolves around a dystopian mood that triggers massive industrial grooves fueled by explosive gritty guitar riffs and low key distorted vocals.
The strength of “Believe Me” comes from the steady march of the robust guitar driven grooves but there is also a pleasant and quite accessible combo of melodic phrases and subtle atmospheric layers.
“Broken System” brings variety with soft Middle Eastern acoustic harmonies and percussion before entering a heavier post apocalyptic sonic realm where guitars build a darker energetic momentum.
The message is evident on “We Shall Resist” as we are surrounded by a cold electronic ensemble and a quite sinister atmosphere spiced up by occasional rhythmic blasts.
The powerful message regarding the frightening state of society and politics is a key element of “Moral Hygiene” and featuring a new line-up Ministry choose to focus on their abrasive industrial signature style.

MØL – Diorama

Danish blackgaze band MØL spreads immense darkness and sheer melancholia through the cathartic soundscapes of the sophomore release “Diorama”.
In the beginning “Fraktur” evokes the dreamy nature of shoegaze with haunting harmonies and understated atmospheric layers but even if guitars will acquire obscure tonalities to build a steady rhythmic assault the somber melodic essence still lingers through the softer glowing passages.
On “Photophobic” a surreal atmosphere introduces a series of untamed blackened blasts fueled by crunchy riffage and tormented growls while guitars also deliver intricate soothing melodies emphasized by ethereal vocals.
On “Serf” the shimmering essence of the excellent guitar work can express wistful feelings leading to memorable melodic crescendos in contrast with the harsh rhythmic patterns that embrace a colder primordial approach.
An overwhelming sense of nostalgia emerges from the delicate atmospheric waves and the spellbinding melodies of “Itinerari” but once again the precise rhythmic section generates a heavier momentum highlighting the versatile guitar work.
Leaving behind the aggressive elements the title track focuses on a mesmerizing melodic ensemble as the sweeping guitar progressions craft fascinating contemplative crescendos and instantly evoke bittersweet emotions enhanced by a soulful vocal duet.
As the balanced mix of melodic splendor and inflamed blackened dynamics unravels throughout “Diorama” MØL have a chance to impress the listeners manifesting a captivating sonic vision.

Massacre – Resurgence

Floridian death metallers Massacre finally return with the first record in seven years aptly entitled “Resurgence” promising a brutal rhythmic onslaught with a majestic old school sound.
The ominous atmospheric grandeur of “Eldritch Prophecy” is swiftly followed by slow paced obscure melodic guitars but the hostile rhythmic section will take over acquiring extra speed and primal fury.
“Ruins Of R’yleh” is an anthemic death metal track that revolves around the ruthless riffage and the relentless drumming emphasized by the pitchblack nature of the cavernous growls and enriched by the darkened tones of the excellent guitar leads.
“The Innsmouth Strain” provides the expected dosage of violence as the untamed rhythmic patterns proudly follow a classic death metal formula and the guitar solo has a chance to add some wild licks.
“The Whisperer In Darkness” features a no frills unrestrained rhythmic backbone ensuring merciless grooves and at some point the fierce growls evolve into solemn chants channeling horror vibes.
On “Into The Far-Off Void” guitars often showcase gloomy melodic accents and gradually build tension to embrace a faster moshpit inducing rhythm while the finale acquires arcane atmospheric textures.
“Spawn Of The Succubus” once again highlights the dominant role of the abrasive guitar riffs and the vicious force of the rhythmic section that doesn’t waste any time and diligently delivers fast belligerent dynamics.
Rising once again from the swamps of Southern Florida, Massacre confidently deliver unstoppable aggressive grooves throughout “Resurgence” channeling the glorious late 80’s-early 90’s death metal style further amplified by familiar Lovecraftian themes.

Auri – II: Those We Don’t Speak Of

Born from the special connection of Johanna Kurkela, Tuomas Holopainen and Troy Donockley as an unconfined creative outlet, Auri invites you on a magical voyage through the dreamland of the sophomore full-length “II: Those We Don’t Speak Of”.
The title track opens the portal to a distant magical realm as the delicate atmospheric layers and the ethereal melodic waves accompanied by fragile whispered vocals highlight an exquisite darkened flair.
A delightful melancholia lingers through “The Duty Of Dust” as the gentle vocals and the classical aesthetics of the viola become the main focus and ultimately lead to an intense folk inspired rhythmic crescendo.
“Light And Flood” sounds like an epic movie score putting the spotlight on the sumptuous intricate keyboards arrangements enhanced by solemn choirs while the combo of fluttering piano harmonies and graceful arpeggios can evoke uplifting vibes.
Enchanting folk influences return within the nostalgic atmospheric ensemble of “It Takes Me Places” taking you to a pristine forest far away surrounded by elegant strings and lulled by Johanna’s heartfelt vocal delivery.
The soft vocal harmonies flow gently within the evocative atmosphere of “The Long Walk” which will acquire darker tonalities through an intriguing combo of refined piano notes and arcane percussion.
“Scattered To The Four Winds” embraces stylish classical vibes focusing on haunting strings and charming piano melodies which naturally convey wistful feelings and evolve into an opulent atmospheric crescendo with understated symphonic accents.
The cinematic nature of “II: Those We Don’t Speak Of” can make you drift away from the chaotic world as Auri showcase impeccable musicianship carefully crafting comforting melodies and rich atmospheric tapestries.

Cradle Of Filth – Existence Is Futile

Extreme metal icons Cradle Of Filth celebrates darkness & horror on the new addition to their stellar prolific catalogue “Existence Is Futile” which instantly manifests an explosive creative force and a morbid sonic vision.
“Existential Terror” is surrounded by sublime orchestral layers evoking a gorgeous gothic essence while a malignant blackened soul emerges through the crushing rhythmic rampage meticulously built by the ravenous guitar riffs and effortlessly amplified by Dani Filth’s nightmarish screams.
“Crawling King Chaos” marks an impactful momentum as the rhythmic section naturally acquires speed & fury to skillfully generate a solid series of addictive grooves and the sophisticated orchestrations summon an apocalyptic beauty.
“Black Smoke Curling From The Lips Of War” reveals a terrific blackened approach as sharp guitar riffs and violent drumming lead the way to a dreadful sonic realm embellished by opulent symphonic textures and haunting operatic vocals.
On “Discourse Between A Man And His Soul” Dani delivers a memorable dramatic vocal performance as the alluring Victorian splendor puts the spotlight on the intricate atmospheric ensemble and the vivid melodic guitar progressions following a slower contemplative pace.
The irresistible gothic spell of “The Dying Of The Embers” comes to life from the seductive multilayered keyboards arrangements and the crestfallen melodic phrases yet the guitar driven grooves sound quite frantic showcasing heavier ominous tonalities.
“Suffer Our Dominion” immediately focuses on a captivating theatrical flair with the solemn narratives courtesy of horror icon Doug ‘Pinhead’ Bradley and the poignant melodic tapestries highlight a fascinating detailed composition while Dani’s roaring voice echoes through a savage rhythmic maze.
Listening to “Us, Dark, Invincible” we enter an obscure dimension as the sultry darkened tones of the ravishing atmospheric palette and the gothic gloom of the melodic guitar work lead to a monstrously catchy rhythmic rampage easily amplified by the horrific growls.
The bonus track “Unleash The Hellion” conjures pure darkness through the spellbinding baroque grandeur of the rich keyboards harmonies and the eerie atmospheric accents flowing through the inflamed rhythmic onslaught which successfully delivers the perfect dosage of brutality.
Crafting an audacious blend of sumptuous orchestrations and venomous rhythmic assaults Cradle Of Filth still stand as indisputable giants within the chaotic metal scene as the cinematic decadence of “Existence Is Futile” will inevitably leave you shattered and bewitched.

Blood Red Throne – Imperial Congregation

For over 25 years Norwegian death metal veterans Blood Red Throne have stayed true to a successful old school sound and the latest crushing release “Imperial Congregation” promises a vicious sonic assault with edgy melodic twists.
The title track can easily unleash a solid series of monumental rhythmic blasts expressing pure fury yet the guitar solo skillfully focuses on charismatic melodic licks and delightful darkened tonalities.
Keeping in mind a traditional death metal formula “Conquered Malevolence” provides the expected overdose of anger as the abrasive guitar riffs diligently build ferocious grooves amplified by the cavernous growls.
Even if the tempo becomes slightly slower “Transparent Existence” features a ravenous combo of sharp riffage and monolithic drumming creating an asphyxiating rhythmic maze.
Throughout “6-7” the unrestrained guitar driven grooves continue to channel the brutal force of death metal yet the rhythm will slow down to highlight the gloomy melodic nuances of the excellent solo.
You can instantly perceive the aggressive momentum of “Hero-Antics” as the colossal rhythmic section effortlessly delivers neck snapping dynamics enhanced by the spiteful growls and enriched by an extensive savage guitar solo.
“Zarathustra” dwells within a dreadful sonic realm where the atmosphere acquires epic vibes and guitars have the chance to craft intriguing melodic phrases besides a fair dosage of ruthless riffs.
Reflecting upon the destructive nature of humanity “Imperial Congregation” often acquires sombre nuances yet Blood Red Throne are always ready to deliver fierce death metal anthems following a classic sonic pathway.