The time has come for emerging French band Pencey Sloe to unveil the rich dreamgaze tapestries of the debut album “Don’t Believe, Watch Out” which is destined to make you space out since the very first listening. 

Listening to “Lust Of The Dead” you will immediately start to daydream as the soothing guitar harmonies evoke absolute tranquility but also a darkened emotional palette further emphasized by the exquisite melancholic vocal delivery and the hazy rhythmic crescendo. 

On “Buried Them All” we’re still dreaming the same dream as vocals feel like a lullaby while the slow burning guitars craft immersive melodic progressions and darkly comforting rhythmic segments. 

“All Ok” focuses on contemplative atmospheric waves that take you far away and the mellow guitar tonalities hold a distinct shoegaze essence leading to an overwhelming nostalgia while the catchy chorus naturally channels uplifting vibes. 

The title track is filled with blossoming guitar melodies that flow gently like a distant fond memory and the rhythmic section actively contributes to the creation of gently darkened nuances lingering through the subtle atmospheric ensemble. 

“Sins” can sound even darker with electrifying guitar tonalities yet the main calm melodic soul always prevails through the immense melancholy infused melodies and the enchanting vocal performance. 

A dense almost enigmatic atmosphere surrounds “Empty Mind” which constantly expresses an intense wistfulness through the fragile beauty of the graceful vocals accompanied by spacey guitar driven grooves. 

The future of Pencey Sloe already looks bright because the moody ethereal soundscapes  flourishing throughout “Don’t Believe, Watch Out” are destined to conquer your heart. 

Driven by a darkened energy Seattle stoner doom duo Year Of The Cobra aims to impress the listeners with the hypnotic grooves of the sophomore release “Ash And Dust”.

The psychedelic nature and the sludge inspiration behind “The Battle Of White Mountain” demand extra chunky bass lines and monolithic fuzzy guitar riffs naturally embellished by the gentle vocal delivery and you will space out instantly wandering through the dense mysterious atmospheric maze. 

While maintaining an enigmatic essence especially expressed by the magical vocals “The Divine” provides powerful engaging grooves as guitars confidently unleash major heavy riffage pushing the fuzz pedal and cutting through the moody atmospheric layers.  

“Into The Fray” is a hazy & fuzzy doom affair as guitars lead the way with obscure tones and monumental riffs following memorable rhythmic patterns while vocals add harmonious vibes feeling like a luminous daydream flourishing through darkness. 

“Dark Swan” might focus more on a dazed psychedelic atmospheric ensemble adorned by the apparent tranquility of the sultry vocals yet this track still packs a heavier momentum with the imposing weight of the doom laden rhythmic section. 

“In Despair” diverges a bit as it’s stripped of the heavy doom elements to create a comforting yet still psychedelic and extremely melancholic atmospheric ensemble that puts the spotlight on Amy’s dreamy vocal performance. 

“Ash And Dust” is always ready to deliver the promised massive dosage of stoner rock grooves but also holds a radiant spiritual essence and definitely demonstrates that Year Of The Cobra deserve your attention.  

It seems obvious that a split album featuring doom experimentalists Völur and neo-classical ambient collective Amber Asylum will defy any given music boundaries in fact “Breaker Of Rings / Blood Witch” feels like a perilous exploration through a surreal sonic realm that demands your utmost attention. 

 inspired by the Niflung cycle from the Poetic Edda “Breaker Of Rings” is a fascinating opus divided in four parts where Völur truly showcase their enigmatic creative force blending ethereal violin melodies and atmospheric gloom. On ‘II” the funeral doom elements are mixed with the dramatic depth of vocals and the brooding beauty of the violin melodies while “IV” brings a darkly grandiose epic crescendo with monolithic rhythmic patterns and opulent harmonies. 

Amber Asylum tell a story of beauty and anguish on “Blood Witch” as decadent melodies and hazy atmospheres surround magical poetic vocals, an avantgarde sonic ensemble that will make you feel dizzy, while “Largo” emphasizes the classical splendor with intricate cello melodies that evoke enigmatic nuances and darkly romantic vibes.  

Both Völur and Amber Asylum share a darkened otherworldly music vision emphasized by the dominant presence of bewitching strings and since “Breaker Of Rings / Blood Witch” feels extremely distant from the average trends it will certainly satisfy your craving for sophisticated soundscapes. 

 

Empyrium’s Helm and Schwadorf are truly prolific artists and this time they return to their alter egos Funghus Baldachin and F. F. Yugoth with the classic prog rock project Noekk to deliver the dazzling fourth full-length “Waltzing In Obscurity”.

The title track stands out for the trippy retro vibes deeply influencing the intricate instrumental passages and intriguing tempo variations while the somber guitar tonalities lead to a refined melodic ensemble accompanied by solemn vocals and lavish atmospheric layers. 

“The Mirror” offers an elegant blend of dreamy atmospheres and nostalgic melodies that naturally flourish through the peaceful folkish soundscape yet some bold rhythmic segments keep alive the inner prog rock spirit. 

“On Summits” is full of engaging prog rock dynamics as guitars concoct loads of energetic riffs following a fiery rhythm yet the mood will eventually shift to a sense of serenity as the folk elements take over with soothing arpeggios and vintage organ harmonies. 

“The Windwaker” can channel a profound tranquility through the warm acoustic phrases yet guitars will become increasingly heavier with doom tinged riffage leading to a darker atmosphere emphasized by the baritone vocal delivery and the brooding arrangements. 

On “The Lily Of Reverence” guitars deliver thrilling prog rock riffs with the additions of subtle psychedelic accents while the pastoral ambience will ultimately thrive through the understated acoustic melodies and the stylish atmospheric elements. 

Undoubtedly Helm and Schwadorf demonstrate once again the ability to create unique music with evident passion and the consequent avantgarde flair of “Waltzing In Obscurity” might be destined to be appreciated and comprehended by a niche audience. 

Founded by composer and producer Toby Driver, Kayo Dot has been an outlet for eclectic experimentation which once again comes to life with renewed energy on the new album “Blasphemy”, based on an allegorical story by Jason Byron and destined to surprise the listener with interesting and often unusual soundscapes. 

“Ocean Cumulonimbus” can sound like the sweetest lullaby with peaceful melodic tapestries yet there is a tormented spirit that eventually emerges through the darkened rhythmic bursts and the frantic vocal delivery. 

The gentle melodic passages on “The Something Opal” certainly can evoke a sense of serenity but underneath lies a sort of rebellious mood amplified by the intense vocals within a surreal blend of guitars and synths.  

“Vanishing Act In Blinding Gray” is a perfect example of the polyhedric composition that characterizes the whole album, starting with dreamy melodic nuances that will give way to a more chaotic and unpredictable series of rhythmic progressions featuring theatrical vocals and borderline aggressive guitar dynamics. 

“Turbine, Hook And Haul” offers a cinematic soundscape where the intricate blend of understated atmospheric arrangements and moody guitar melodies bear striking post-rock influences and lead to the creation of a quite emotional sonic experience. 

On “Blasphemy: A Prophecy” synths feel very dominant delivering darker atmospheric textures with distinct goth vibes that constantly surround and emphasize the dramatic vocal delivery and despite the slow paced rhythm this track seems to hold a strong mystical energy.  

“Blasphemy” feels so far from trends and rules as Kayo Dot proves to be brave following a wild sonic vision that aims to mix a multitude of styles and tonalities to create something different yet more accessible than expected. 

The dark technical music style of German band Disillusion has always attracted a selected audience within the underground metal scene but the new release “The Liberation” which is the first full-length in 13 years definitely has the necessary strength to conquer more listeners and to properly celebrate the band’s comeback.

“Wintertide” reaches an incredible melancholic depth certainly enhanced by the inner despair of the vocals, the extremely somber guitar tonalities and the pensive melodic progressions reminiscent of glorious melo-death themes yet there are moments of inflamed rhythmic intensity as faster drumming and shattering riffs march fiercely through the grand grief stricken atmosphere. 

On “A Shimmer In The Darkest Sea” the whole instrumental ensemble slows down to emphasize the atmospheric gloom and the wistful melodic splendor constantly evoking cathartic emotions and an overwhelming melancholia further expressed by the impeccable sorrowful vocal harmonies. 

The title track grabs your attention with the skillful guitar work blending utterly ravenous riffs and elaborate melodic leads often following frenetic rhythmic segments while the vocals can sound quite solemn matching the epic arrangements that will ultimately lead to calmer moments filled with crispy emotional guitar passages. 

There are plenty of catchy vibes on the chorus of “Time To Let Go” which still showcases a compelling brooding spirit with the contemplative vocal delivery and the perfect blend of aggressive rhythmic dynamics and heartfelt guitar harmonies that at times can evoke a sense of hopefulness with luminous nuances. 

There are so many understated emotions flourishing through the complex composition of “The Liberation” and Disillusion embark on such stylish introspective music journey with unrestrained passion and renewed energy. 

Known for his work with the experimental black metal band Botanist, Dylan Neal has created the haunted electronic project Thief inspired by sacred chant music and the sophomore album “Map Of Lost Keys” definitely has a distinct mystical flair.  

The mood of “Frost Breath” shifts from calm spacey moments to anguished atmospheric crescendos emphasized by mysterious electro accents and somber vocals. 

“Pyromancy” often feels like an esoteric experience with distant filtered chants emerging through blurry atmospheric waves and claustrophobic electro beats entwined with noise elements. 

The slow monochromatic rhythm of “With Love, From Nihil” evokes a fragile serenity as the synths craft melancholy infused atmospheres with an evident gothic inspiration accompanied by fragile whispers. 

“Unsafe” again relies on multilayered atmospheric arrangements surrounding ethereal dreamy melodies that will eventually reach a rhythmic acme with increasingly urgent electronic beats. 

“Without A Master” has a darkened aura that influences the wistful atmospheric tapestries until everything becomes a bit chaotic with unexpected harsh noise accents. 

“Spirit Archery” feels more intricate with an intense spiritual energy that naturally generates trippy moments combining smooth eerie harmonies, hazy classical chants and evidently darker electronic segments. 

The experimental drive behind “Map Of Lost Keys” showcases the intriguing sonic evolution of Thief leading to enigmatic soundscapes and surprising catchy electro beats that can certainly appeal to a niche audience. 

Silence In The Snow is the joint effort of guitarist/vocalist Cyn M. and drummer Trevor DeSchryver (Wolves in the Throne Room, Lycus, Dispirit, ex-Deafheaven) and the result of this collaboration comes to life through the dreamy sonic experience of the sophomore release “Levitation Chamber”. 

“Time Will Tell You Nothing” puts a spell on you with a darkened cinematic soundscape featuring otherworldly vocals that gently guide you through monochromatic atmospheric waves filled with dreamy vibes and intense melancholia. 

On “Smoke Signals” a mix of gothic tinged guitar tonalities and catchy drumming creates a more energetic rhythm surrounded by understated atmospheric arrangements and the vulnerable emotions expressed by the spellbinding vocals. 

“In The Dark” once again puts the spotlight on the cathartic vocal delivery accompanied by the fragile atmospheric layers and the minimalist darkened melodic tapestries so everything flows like a lovely midsummer daydream. 

“Dread The Low” welcomes you to an ethereal sonic realm where blurry instrumental crescendos and scattered luminous harmonies emphasize the minimalist approach and the emotional drive of Cyn’s passionate vocals will captivate the listeners. 

With its inner emotional turmoil and the evocative melodies “Levitation Chamber” has the power to relax the listeners and Silence In The Snow are confidently evolving into a unique sonic entity within the current music scene. 

In the year of their 25th anniversary French pagan folk pioneers Stille Volk are releasing the long awaited new album “Milharis” which always feels like a unique mystical offering inspired by the old myths of the Pyrenees mountain range. 

Listening to “Sous La peau De La Montagne” you will travel to a pristine ancient forest accompanied by lovely acoustic phrases and ethereal atmospheres as the band carefully crafts tranquil soundscapes evoking immense spiritual energy. 

“L’aurost Lunaire” diligently follows an authentic pagan approach but adds some atmospheric darkened nuances amplified by the arcane chanting style while the traditional instruments can sound delicate and at the same time convey an understated energy. 

While maintaining a soothing folk approach with relaxing acoustic guitars “Le Crépuscule Du Pâtre” also focuses on a mysterious atmospheric ensemble and the resulting darkened tonalities are further amplified by the tribal percussions and the solemn vocal delivery.  

“La Grotte Du Jadis” has a cryptic aura incarnated by the borderline ominous whispers and the gloomy tonalities while the harmonious vocals and the graceful instrumental passages keep alive the magical folk elements. 

“Sacré Dans La Tourmente” stands out for the spellbinding luminous violins that create a dreamy soundscape that feels like a heartfelt celebration of the beauty of nature while the vibrant rhythmic sections lead to enjoyable melodic crescendos. 

The harmonious essence of “Parmi Les Monts Oubliés” generates shimmering guitar progressions with a distinct folk approach and catchy rhythmic patterns while the dramatic chants emphasize the spiritual atmosphere. 

The enchanting primal pagan nature is extremely palpable throughout the seventh album “Milharis” and Stille Volk is probably the only band out there that can evoke otherworldly feelings telling stories about intriguing myths with such genuine devotion. 

German band Valborg has mastered a sophisticated primitivism which is definitely a peculiar music style that today leads to the darkened atmospheres and raw energy of the latest effort “Zentrum”.

“Rote Augen” creates asphyxiating atmospheres through relentless drum blasts that could make you feel dizzy while the only interruption that allows you to breathe comes from the moody borderline dissonant tonalities of the guitar work.

Still dwelling in a chaotic nightmarish sonic realm “Alphakomet” has the stomping force of industrial metal with loads of gritty guitar riffs and venomous screams but guitars will also bring glimpses of hope through unusual slower passages in contrast with the fully dissonant finale.

On “Anomalie” a slower dramatic tempo favors utterly bleak atmospheric layers that surround the evident industrial energy of mighty guitar riffs in the midst of flourishing darkened melodic accents and solemn vocals.

“Nonnenstern” definitely has a less hostile approach and actually puts the spotlight on the charming gothic tonalities of the melodic guitar phrases while the vocal delivery shifts from sheer desperation to comforting melancholy.

The final track “Vakuum” stands out for the consistent weight of the doom laden guitar riffs amplified by obscure atmospheric layers that lead to a desolate soundscape until fiery industrial  dynamics take over with pulsating drum blasts.

We can all agree that within the crowded metal scene Valborg’s unique sonic manifesto tends to stand out in fact the enigmatic nature and the experimental approach of “Zentrum” are bound to generate interest among those looking for innovative music.