Emerging from the darkest depths, Norwegian black metal collective Dold Vorde Ens Navn confidently follow an ominous pathway to craft the debut full length “Mørkere”.
“Jeg vil ha det mørkere” has the power to drag you to the abyss as the aggressive combo of relentless riffage and pummeling drums inevitably create an obscure rhythmic maze without sacrificing a memorable groovy momentum.
Following a mid-paced tempo “Løgnens abstinenser” still relies on a raw blackened force certainly amplified by the raspy growls while the sombre melodic guitar work accompanied by theatrical chants immediately evoke an ancient Nordic spirit.
The beginning and the grand finale of “Ensomhetens rytter” feature the sheer beauty of melancholic elegant strings while the rest of the song unleashes a full blown blackened rhythmic assault following the faster monumental drumming.
“Er det måneskinn” showcases an opulent composition as the dramatic orchestrations and the haunting melodic tapestries become the main focus and guitars skillfully deliver crestfallen progressions.
“Syke hjerter” brings closure with a sophisticated melodic approach as eerie guitar phrases and wistful arpeggios ultimately create a gelid sonic realm consequently the histrionic vocal performance shifts from vicious growls to solemn chanting.
Consisting of veterans of the renowned black metal scene Dold Vorde Ens Navn stay true to their Norwegian heritage unleashing ferocious rhythmic dynamics yet never refrain from exploring emotive themes through the darkly alluring soundscapes of “Mørkere”.

Romanian black metal pioneers Negură Bunget pay homage to the legacy of drummer and mastermind Gabriel “Negru” Mafa releasing the final album “Zău” which rightfully symbolizes a labour of devotion and the culmination of a mesmerizing sonic vision.
“Brad” instantly feels like a mystical journey as the traditional instruments and the cinematic keyboards layers craft an eerie atmospheric grandeur ultimately leading to an impeccable blend of harsh rhythmic patterns and somber melodic guitar progressions while the finale conveys a pale peacefulness featuring ethereal female vocals and dreamy harmonies.
The enchanting flutes of “Iarba Fiarelor” take you far away to a forgotten misty forest and the soothing atmospheric waves gradually evolve into a darker sonic realm as the untamed guitar riffs and the ravenous growls channel a primordial blackened force.
On “Obrăzar” the lush atmospheric arrangements evoke the stark beauty of Transylvanian landscapes and continue to enrich the inflamed rhythmic ensemble fueled by the aggressive drumming and the ominous guitar tonalities.
Within the transcendental atmosphere of “Tinerețe Fără Bătrânețe” the frantic rhythmic section unleashes faster obscure patterns while the slower intricate guitar progressions evoke grim feelings amplified by a theatrical vocal delivery.
“Toacă Din Cer” begins with hypnotizing tribal percussion and unfolds like an arcane legend through the darkened allure of the guitar work effortlessly shifting from savage riffs to grave phrases while the traditional instruments create a cathartic finale.
As Negură Bunget carefully crafts the final chapter of the majestic “Transylvanian Trilogy” and a memorable tribute to Gabriel “Negru” Mafa the listeners will inevitably feel compelled to join the spiritual voyage perfectly embodied by “Zău”.

Founded by mastermind multi-instrumentalist Toby Driver, Kayo Dot bravely continue to push boundaries and their enigmatic songwriting approach embraces heavier & darker tonalities on the latest full-length “Moss Grew On The Swords And Plowshares Alike”.
Surrounded by a mystifying atmosphere “Brethren Of The Cross” manifests a burgeoning creativity mixing twisted rhythmic segments fueled by crunchy guitar riffs and shimmering melodic phrases, consequently the vocal delivery channels contrasting feelings shifting from soothing harmonies to vicious screams.
The glowing melodic passages on “Void In Virgo (The Nature Of Sacrifice)” simply feel like a beautiful fading daydream as the shoegaze flair of the deeply melancholic tonalities and the understated atmospheric waves surround a particularly heartfelt vocal performance.
“Get Out Of The Tower” puts the spotlight on the charismatic lead guitar work as the resulting wild licks flow through a rather chaotic rhythmic maze enhanced by the monolithic nature of the bold bass lines and the raw emotions of the tormented vocals.
The obscure atmospheric layers of “The Necklace” convey a dystopian vision amplified by the steady pummeling drums and the desperate screams yet the dreamy essence of the smooth arpeggios can evoke a pale sense of peacefulness.
With a fascinating avant-garde vision Kayo Dot takes you far away from a dreadful reality as the shapeshifting soundscapes and the surreal atmospheric ensemble of “Moss Grew On The Swords And Plowshares Alike” seem to belong to a parallel universe.

California’s dreamgaze band Illudium embarks on a cathartic journey through the dark & ethereal sonic maze of the sophomore full-length “Ash Of The Womb”.
The delicate atmosphere of “Aster” is enhanced by the soft vocal delivery and the graceful melodic phrases manifesting a hazy post-rock essence yet guitars will eventually acquire gritty tonalities to build intense crescendos.
“Sempervirens” often focuses on peaceful sounds of nature and glowing harmonies but the rhythmic section has a chance to deliver a robust groovy momentum fueled by the faster drumming and the edgy riffage.
“Madrigal” naturally blends dreamy melodic passages that clearly showcase a strong shoegaze inspiration and dramatically heavier rhythmic patterns constantly expressing contrasting emotions amplified by the soulful vocal harmonies.
On “Where Death and Dreams Do Manifest” there are some louder & darker rhythmic dynamics but the poignant melodic guitar progressions are destined to thrive channeling a mystical energy to carefully craft exquisite dreamscapes.
Listening to “Ash Of The Womb” we begin to dream the same dream as Illudium brings to life a multilayered sonic vision shifting from fragile melodies to harsh rhythmic blasts always conveying authentic raw emotions.

On the sixth studio album “Beautiful Ghosts” Unreqvited has chosen to explore themes of love, passion and devotion through a kaleidoscopic sonic realm naturally focusing on luminous melodies and raw blackgaze nuances.
On “All Is Lost” the rhythmic section can deliver heavy dynamics influenced by a subtle blackened force while the post-rock flair will generate dreamy uplifting vibes through the elegant detailed atmospheric arrangements.
The darkened romance of “Autumn & Everley” begins with an eloquent piano piece leading to a soothing melodic crescendo emphasized by an ethereal atmosphere yet there will be faster rhythmic patterns expressing dismal feelings.
The cinematic mood of “Funeral Pyre” relies on rich melancholia infused keyboards arrangements and solemn vibes while guitars manifest a soulful melodic essence ultimately leading to a slower dreamlike atmospheric passage.
The title track showcases a vivid post-rock spirit as the composition focuses on haunting piano harmonies, calm atmospheric layers and heartfelt guitar melodies that evoke pure nostalgia but also a pale sense of hopefulness so the composition seems to leave behind the previous darkened tonalities.
It would be difficult to categorize the shape-shifting sonic palette of “Beautiful Ghosts” as Unreqvited embraces a familiar blackgaze vision yet doesn’t refrain from exploring diverse musical influences to convey authentic emotions.

Austrian band Dornenreich reaches a crucial milestone with the release of the ninth album “Du wilde Liebe sei” which embodies their signature black arcane rock style.
A darkened aura surrounds “So ruf’ sie wach das Sehnen” as the alluring mix of soulful acoustic phrases and gritty guitar progressions ultimately creates a contemplative sonic realm further embellished by sublime violin melodies.
“In Strömen aus Verwandlung ein flackerloses Licht” can offer heavier rhythmic dynamics due to the edgy guitar riffs while the intricate melodic patterns highlight a charming folk inspiration with eloquent violins.
The theatrical vocals on “Dein knöchern’ Kosen” immediately emphasize a dark mood that becomes even more palpable when the raw guitar riffs and the tribal drums skillfully build a bold rhythmic tension.
“Der Freiheit Verlangen nach goldenen Ketten” revolves around contrasting feelings as the magical violin and the soothing arpeggios can easily evoke sheer melancholia while the guitar work and the vocals reveal a mysterious essence.
On “Sie machen Mangel zum Geschenk” guitars and drums create a fervent rhythmic rampage while the violin continues to spellbind the listeners with sophisticated classical nuances and catchy melodies.
The final track “Freiheit erlösen” conveys a sense of tranquility focusing on the emotional themes as the captivating neofolk harmonies flourish within the gentle acoustic ensemble and the dreamy violin melodies.
Exploring all the aspects of love throughout “Du wilde Liebe sei”, Dornenreich confidently manifest a mesmerizing sonic vision that naturally leads to gorgeous elaborate soundscapes.

Romanian band Dordeduh has developed a unique artistic vision on the ambitious sophomore release “Har” which dwells within a darkened world drawing inspiration also from ancient traditions.
“Timpul întâilor” opens the album with arcane atmospheric nuances and the eloquent folk tinged melodies will always hold a dominant role evoking sombre feelings further enhanced by the soulful clean vocal delivery while pummeling drums and crunchy riffage can easily build a significantly heavier blackened momentum.
“În vieliștea uitării” relies on the perfect combo of dreamy atmospheric arrangements and refined melodic guitar phrases expressing a profound sense of nostalgia yet there is still space for energetic rhythmic patterns amplified by belligerent growls.
On “Descant” the guitar work triggers a catchy rhythm but can also craft mellow melodic progressions embellished by the cinematic nature of the atmospheric layers that will often acquire opulent epic nuances.
On “Vraci de nord” the intricate atmospheric keyboards and the delicate guitar harmonies take you far away in the middle of an ancient forest enhancing the presence of folk elements in contrast with the obscure blackened force of the heavier rhythmic patterns.
The multifaceted approach on “De neam vergur” combines immersive melodic passages featuring luminous guitar tonalities and interesting proggy rhythmic dynamics that will eventually evolve into an ominous ensemble channeling once again cold extreme metal influences.
The strength of “Har” certainly comes from the great sonic diversity as Dordeduh invite you to embark on a journey into the unknown carefully blending magical melodies and fiery black metal elements.

Norway based band NOÊTA crafts haunting soundscapes expressing a genuine emotional whirlwind throughout the enticing sophomore full length “Elm”.
“Dawn Falls” opens the album with a series of exquisite acoustic melodies that effortlessly open the portal to a dreamy world where the enchanting vocals become your spiritual guide and convey poignant feelings.
On “As I Fall Silent” the comforting arpeggios accompanied by fragile vocals continue to focus on strong emotions while a darkly enigmatic atmospheric ensemble seems to emerge from a distant dimension.
Since the beginning “Above And Below” is surrounded by a subtle dark aura emphasized by the barren hazy harmonies yet the ethereal vocals can evoke a pale sense of hopefulness and spiritual peacefulness.
“As We Are Gone” belongs to a magical forest as the folk nuances will influence the graceful acoustic tonalities enhanced by the impeccable vocal performance and the immersive atmospheric textures.
On the evocative title track the whispered vocals and the elegant acoustic phrases certainly do not need any bombastic effect to create spellbinding melodic passages and stylish dark ambient tapestries.
Following a minimalistic songwriting approach on “Elm” NOÊTA successfully creates a surreal sonic realm where luminous vocals, poetic melodies and darkened feelings become naturally entwined.

Featuring talented artists Markus Stock and Thomas Helm, German folk/doom metal band Empyrium returns with the highly anticipated full length “Über Den Sternen” inspired by the romanticism and the ancient myths of their homeland. 

Exquisite arpeggios and cello harmonies introduce the melancholic world of “The Three Flames Sapphire” where the graceful acoustic phrases and the charismatic vocal delivery convey a folk grandeur that will eventually embrace heavier & darker rhythmic crescendos. 

The solemn atmosphere of “A Lucid Tower Beckons On The Hills Afar” acquires arcane nuances emphasized by the presence of darker guitar riffs and growls while the operatic vocals enrich the grave tonalities of the sophisticated melodic passages that will evolve into a dreamy folk realm as the soothing acoustic ensemble takes the center stage. 

“The Oaken Throne” provides another overdose of pure melancholia focusing on contemplative folk vibes as the delicate arpeggios accompanied by the sublime cello melodies seem to emerge from an enchanted forest and naturally reach the acme with a poignant rhythmic crescendo. 

“The Wild Swans” perfectly manifests the balance between the otherworldly melodic ensemble and the dark depths of doom metal as the vocals shift from majestic operatic style to tormented growls while the harrowing rhythmic patterns become entwined with the refined acoustic moments.  

The detailed composition behind the title track generates a majestic opus as the primal doom force inevitably thrives within the crestfallen guitar work and the monumental rhythmic section yet the mystical essence often prevails through the cathartic acoustic melodies and the dreamlike atmospheric arrangements. 

The poetic flair of “Über Den Sternen” is evident from beginning to end as Empyrium continue to develop a mesmerizing sonic vision and masterfully create magical folk soundscapes without sacrificing the intense darkness of their doom metal roots. 

https://prophecy.lnk.to/empyrium-ueber-den-sternen

German blackened metallers Imha Tarikat unleash a savage sonic assault on the latest offering “Sternenberster” lyrically inspired by psychoanalysis and especially dream interpretation. 

The explosive nature of the whole album comes to life on “Ekstase ohne Ende” as the gelid guitar tonalites can lead to elegant melodic progressions and complex soloing while the heavier riffage and the tormented growls spontaneously generate a chaotic momentum.  

Certainly “Kreuzpunkt der Schicksale” holds the raw energy of punk yet the coldest blackened essence is bound to prevail as the unrestrained rhythmic section acquires speed to unleash ravenous blasts. 

“Brand am Firmament” relies on the lugubrious guitar tonalities and the full-throttled vocals to fuel a relentless blackened onslaught enriched by an intriguing series of intricate leads and a sorrowful acoustic finale. 

“Aufstieg” is full of extra heavy rhythmic dynamics as the aggressive drumming seems unstoppable yet the fancy guitar leads and the mournful calmer passages will add a necessary diversity. 

The title track channels some epic vibes through the hostile grooves created by violent riffage and monumental drumming and further amplified by the primal energy of the growls that ultimately lead to a twisted blackened vision. 

On “Sternenberster” Imha Tarikat confidently create an obscure sonic realm where the intense rhythmic rampage feels just like a cosmic outburst.