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.

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.

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.

Founded by Opeth’s bass player Martin Mendez, Spanish progressive death metal band White Stones begin a new remarkable chapter with the unpredictable dynamics of the second studio album “Dancing Into Oblivion”.
“New Age Of Dark” immediately showcases a primal death metal force courtesy of the blistering rhythmic section and the bold technical approach amplified by the vicious growls yet the prog flair of the guitar work adds diversity.
“Chain Of Command” begins with slow paced gloomy guitar melodies that will seamlessly evolve into complex rhythmic patterns fueled by the ominous influence of extreme metal while guitars generate intriguing technical twists reaching the acme with a charismatic proggy solo.
The intricate sonic realm of “Iron Titans” features immersive melodic progressions following a calmer rhythm as the whole instrumentation acquires soothing jazzy nuances in contrast with the aggressive segments confidently built by the sharp guitar riffs.
“Freedom In Captivity” puts the spotlight on the delightful prog style and the luminous tonalities of the guitar melodies but this dreamy mood will soon give way to a massive heavier rhythmic ensemble enhanced by technical accents and ruthless growls.
The sophomore release “Dancing Into Oblivion” aims to cement the distinct elaborate sonic vision carefully crafted by White Stones manifesting a balanced mix of ancestral fury and tasteful prog metal elements.

Norwegian icons Enslaved are ready to embark on a new mysterious voyage on the EP “Caravans To The Outer Worlds” which naturally manifests their unstoppable sonic evolution relying on their signature black/progressive style.
The majestic title track features arcane atmospheric waves and mystical melodic nuances while the magnetic savage guitar leads and the insane riffs effortlessly build frostbitten aggressive grooves accompanied by malignant growls clearly channeling the band’s primordial blackened roots.
There are also two instrumental tracks, “Intermezzo I: Lonnlig. Gudlig” combines futuristic synths sounds and bold guitar riffs keeping a mystifying mood while “Intermezzo II: The Navigator” showcases interesting proggy dynamics leading to robust grooves embellished by edgy keyboards.
“Ruun II – The Epitaph” embraces a slower haunting rhythm putting the spotlight on darkly soothing acoustic passages and solemn clean vocals that constantly evoke an ancestral Nordic flair while the elaborate keyboards can add hazy psychedelic accents.
Following the acclaimed release of the full length “Utgard” Enslaved continue to experiment and expand their remarkable sonic vision on “Caravans To The Outer Worlds” which despite being a short EP is destined to impress the audience.

Legendary extreme metallers Carcass make an explosive comeback with the ruthless grooves and the blood splattered themes of the brand new full length “Torn Arteries”.
The title track sounds like a bloody assault as the aggressive guitar riffs unleash a ferocious death metal flair following vicious rhythmic dynamics yet the stylish melodic accents and the wild technical leads will add diversity.
“Dance of Ixtab (Psychopomp & Circumstance March No. 1 in B)” begins with a slower darkened tempo and gradually builds a rhythmic tension with the massive drum blasts and the untamed riffage ultimately leading to an excellent melodic tinged guitar solo.
“The Devil Rides Out” is a super groovy track fueled by the horror vibes of the lyrics and the death’n’roll approach featuring a great combo of memorable guitar riffs and mournful melodic leads.
On “Flesh Ripping Sonic Torment Limited” a soulful acoustic piece introduces a monolithic rhythmic section as the savage drums and the blistering riffs just seem unstoppable until the charismatic guitar work delivers captivating gloomy melodic passages.
“Wake up and Smell the Carcass / Caveat Emptor” offers another round of big vitriolic riffs enhanced by caustic growls keeping alive a classic death metal mood while the guitar work continues to shine for the elaborate melodic licks.
For the grand finale “The Scythe’s Remorseless Swing” brings a comforting dark atmosphere emphasized by tasteful guitar leads yet the rhythmic section will soon acquire speed & fury delivering savage grooves.
Filled with gory themes, complex melodies and insane riffs “Torn Arteries” certainly cannot go unnoticed as Carcass celebrate their mighty legacy and the glory of death metal but also dare to explore modern musical territories.

Atlanta based technical death metal band Alluvial raises the bar with a new line up on the blistering sophomore album “Sarcoma” which aims to surprise the listeners with a complex blend of aggression and progressive flair.
The strength of “Ulysses” comes from the band’s instrumental prowess that generates interesting rhythmic twists manifesting the absolute fury of death metal through a vicious combo of relentless riffage and fast drumming while the lead guitar work focuses on cathartic phrases.
The title track can sound insanely hostile due to the breakneck speed and the savage screams while the technical proggy approach becomes evident through the sharp guitar riffs and the convoluted soloing.
On “40 Stories” a calmer melodic mood emphasizes the role of the surreal atmospheric accents and the smooth guitar harmonies reaching the acme with an eclectic solo yet a visceral rhythmic rampage will take over leading to unrestrained grooves.
“Exponent” doesn’t waste any time as the ruthless rhythmic section dwells within a chaotic realm channeling the brutal element of modern death metal but you can easily appreciate the unexpected technical aspects of the guitar work.
“Sleepers Become Giants” emphasizes a mystifying atmospheric ensemble and the darkened guitar tonalities craft shimmering melodic crescendos while the faster rhythmic segments maintain a tormented mood.
The instrumental track “Sugar Paper” perfectly embodies an elaborate composition that inevitably generates a high degree of diversity as guitars masterfully create a series of alluring melodies and spellbinding leads evoking sheer melancholia in contrast with the meticulous technical progressions and the frantic riffage.
Certainly Alluvial are eager to showcase an intense creative force that on “Sarcoma” skillfully leads to intricate rhythmic dynamics and captivating instrumental patterns shaping a unique sonic identity without sacrificing the extreme metal roots.

We all know Esa Holopanein as lead guitarist of iconic Finnish band Amorphis but now he is ready to begin a new exciting sonic endeavor releasing a debut solo album under the moniker Silver Lake joined by amazing vocalists.
Jonas Renkse of Katatonia delivers a poignant vocal performance on “Sentiment” which follows a mellow rhythm focusing on alluring guitar melodies and refined atmospheric arrangements to emphasize a perennial sense of melancholia.
“Alkusointu” takes a different direction focusing on a darkened epic flair through slower yet intricate guitar progressions surrounded by a solemn atmospheric grandeur that also highlights the dramatic spoken words by Finnish artist Vesa-Matti Loiri.
Listening to “In Her Solitude” you can instantly perceive fiery Nordic elements as the guitar work effortlessly shifts from enticing melodic phrases to cold heavier dynamics unfolding around the majestic vocal performance by Tomi Joutsen of Amorphis.
In the beginning “Promising Sun” evokes a fascinating melancholia with soft piano harmonies and sophisticated atmospheric layers embellished by the passionate vocals courtesy of Björn ‘Speed’ Strid of Soilwork & The Night Flight Orchestra yet the robust rhythmic section will acquire heavier tonalities to build inflamed grooves.
“Fading Moon” will certainly become a favorite as the eloquent vocals by Anneke Van Giersbergen and the memorable chorus flourish within the gorgeous melodic ensemble carefully crafted by a perfect mix of dreamy tonalites and intense rhythmic crescendos.
With Silver Lake Esa embraces an eclectic songwriting approach leading to an intriguing blend of heavy dynamics, dazzling prog elements and captivating melodic splendor destined to conquer your heart.

Featuring Lars Are Nedland of Borknagar and Solefald, dark rockers White Void manifest an extremely eclectic sonic vision deliberately inspired by diverse subgenres on the debut release “Anti”.
“Do. Not. Sleep.” stands out for the overdose of catchy melodies and the darkened tonalities channeling alluring retro vibes enriched by the intricate keyboards layers and the hard rock style of the guitar solo.
“Where You Go, You’ll Bring Nothing” offers an intriguing blend of moody guitar melodies and groovy rhythmic segments accompanied by the melancholic vocal delivery which feels particularly captivating during the slower passages.
Throughout “All Chains Rust, All Men Die” the vintage flair feels quite strong within the bluesy guitar progressions, the smooth soloing and the multilayered atmospheric keyboards while the rhythmic section is fueled by compelling darkened tonalities.
“The Fucking Violence Of Love” naturally channels multifaceted influences through the enticing blend of groovy rock riffage and the classic nuances of the charismatic guitar leads accompanied by bewitching keyboards arrangements.
The elaborate composition of “The Air Was Thick With Smoke” generates contrasting tonalities as the keyboards hold a dominant role creating magical atmospheric waves and 80s inspired dazzling layers to embellish the rhythmic ensemble while the guitar leads skillfully add sophisticated melodic aesthetics.
Conceptually based on Albert Camus’ Absurdism, “Anti” can effortlessly evoke sultry darkness and memorable hooks as White Void begin an exciting sonic endeavor destined to garner interest within the current rock/metal scene.

For more than 15 years Dutch symphonic metal icons Epica have meticulously developed a fascinating sonic identity that today reaches the acme with the majestic opus “Omega” which is also the final part of the metaphysical trilogy they began with “The Quantum Enigma” back in 2014. 

“Abyss Of Time – Countdown To Singularity” is filled with soaring rhythmic patterns showcasing a heavier approach amplified by the vicious growls while the flawless opulent symphonic arrangements and Simone Simons’s luminous vocal performance evoke the timeless beauty of the operatic style. 

On “The Skeleton Key” the elegantly darkened piano melodies and the solemn operatic choirs generate a harrowing mood that continues to linger through the bold guitar progressions while the super catchy chorus conveys a warm sense of hopefulness. 

Beginning with charming oriental tonalities “Seal Of Solomon” swiftly embraces a sumptuous symphonic essence as the orchestral grandeur constantly creates elaborate tapestries while the charismatic guitar solo skillfully blends melodic and heavier tonalities. 

The middle eastern style of the atmospheric intro on “Code Of Life” evokes mystical vibes that will continue to emerge through the symphonic splendor well supported by the robust rhythmic section and embellished by Simone’s striking vocal range during the poignant chorus. 

“Kingdom Of Heaven prt. 3 – The Antediluvian Universe” might be the most ambitious and complex track on the album as the delightful atmospheric arrangements combined with the classical elegance of the orchestra craft a cinematic sonic realm that often puts the spotlight on the soothing melodies as well as the dramatic crescendos while the heavier rhythmic patterns accompanied by Mark Jansen’s fiery growls can clearly channel a profound darkness. 

On “Synergize – Manic Manifest” guitars take the center stage following a significantly faster tempo and delivering loads of energetic riffs that maintain a groovy momentum within the epic symphonic ensemble while the calmer harmonious passages and the chorus sound quite accessible. 

The final track “Omega – Sovereign Of The Sun Spheres” perfectly manifests the band’s successful formula as the elaborate instrumental progressions are seamlessly entwined with the magnificent symphonic arrangements providing an entertaining mix of powerful rhythmic blasts and dazzling melodies leading to a memorable chorus. 

Epica certainly don’t disappoint their loyal acolytes delivering an overdose of monumental grooves and exquisite orchestrations enhanced by an impeccable production throughout “Omega” which is destined to shine bright in this dark world.