Icelandic metal quartet Sólstafir continues to embrace an intricate songwriting style following a remarkable sonic evolution that defies any standard musical categories on the long awaited new opus “Endless Twilight of Codependent Love” which can instantly spellbind you with magical soundscapes yet also marks a return to the band’s heavier influences. 

The stunning opening track “Akkeri” stands out for the brilliant guitar work that effortlessly shifts from darkly enchanting harmonies to aggressive riffage channeling a tormented blackened influence while the emotional nature is definitely enhanced by the outpouring charisma of vocalist Aðalbjörn “Addi” Tryggvason and the hazy atmospheric arrangements. 

“Drýsill” tends to follow a slower introspective pathway as the intricate atmospheric ensemble feels like a warm daydream unfolding around the cathartic vocal delivery and the harrowing melodic guitars that will evolve into a sumptuous crescendo with the addition of groovy rhythmic blasts. 

The dreamy atmospheric tapestries and the haunting guitar melodies of “Her Fall From Grace” evoke a shimmering post-rock mood creating a surreal world that seems so distant from the actual reality and putting the spotlight on the striking vocal performance that will touch your soul. 

On “Dionysus” the primal blackened essence is bound to prevail as the vocals become twisted screams and the unrestrained rhythmic patterns demand a faster tempo that allows the particularly fierce guitar work to spontaneously craft an insanely groovy blend of savage riffage and darkened leads. 

The poetic flair of “Úlfur” comes to life through the melancholia infused melodies that continue to amplify an intense emotional turmoil as the gloomy enticing guitar phrases flow gently until the heavier slightly sinister riffage and the majestic drumming generate an unforgettable groovy momentum. 

An enthralling darkness is destined to thrive on “Endless Twilight of Codependent Love” and you can easily perceive the pain & grief lingering through the exquisite detailed composition as Sólstafir naturally convey authentic emotions within a unique labyrinthine sonic vision. 

Featuring former members of legendary band The Devil’s Blood, Molassess begin their spellbinding sonic voyage with the psych-rock essence of the long awaited debut release “Through The Hollow”.

Surrounded by a spacey & sinister atmosphere the title track is destined to captivate the listeners as guitars move sinuously and constantly maintain alluring darkened tonalities shifting from sultry phrases to heavier riffage while Farida Lemouchi’s evocative vocal delivery guides you through a perilous psychedelic maze. 

The occult vibes feel strong throughout “Get Out From Under” as guitars take the center stage to create enticing melodies and groovy rhythmic twists leading to an intense instrumental crescendo with a distinct vintage flair that perfectly complements Farida’s bewitching vocal performance. 

Through hazy atmospheric waves the exquisite guitar melodies of “Formless Hands” can effortlessly craft darkly compelling melodic motifs while the impeccable rhythmic section focuses on catchy retro rock dynamics but also can surprise you with eclectic progressive variations that will lead to an absolutely hypnotizing grand finale. 

“I Am No Longer” conveys immense melancholia with soothing vocals and fascinating soft guitar harmonies that will evolve into an increasingly darker sonic realm offering delightful psychedelic arrangements enriched by a particularly charismatic guitar solo. 

The irresistible esoteric essence of “The Devil Lives” becomes palpable through the enchanting atmospheric textures and the crestfallen nuances of the riveting melodic guitars flourishing around Farida’s otherworldly voice that seems to emerge from a distant dreamy world while the extensive mesmerizing guitar solos simply cannot go unnoticed showcasing an intense creative force. 

Molassess fearlessly explore eclectic sonic territories and emotional turmoils to reach the depth of your soul and to create a unique artistic vision that inevitably becomes a spiritual renewal within the opulent soundscapes of “Through The Hollow”.

Dark progressive rockers Crippled Black Phoenix embrace an evocative sonic evolution on the introspective journey embodied by the latest album “Ellengæst” which can spellbind you with a profound melancholy and an avant garde artistic vision. 

Featuring a stunning vocal performance by Vincent Cavanagh of Anathema “House Of Fools” offers darkly hypnotic guitar progressions flowing gently through ethereal atmospheric waves embellished by gorgeous piano melodies leading to hazy yet significantly heavier rhythmic patterns.

A dystopian mood surrounds “Lost” which carefully blends dramatic melodic phrases and surreal atmospheric layers while guitars can also focus on the creation of memorable rhythmic dynamics that still maintain the fascinating eerie tonalities. 

The alluring melodic guitar work on “Cry Of Love” glows within the vibrant & absolutely catchy rhythmic ensemble but still evokes strong darkened vibes amplified by the passionate vocal delivery and the shimmering atmospheric arrangements. 

At the center of “Everything I Say” you can immediately perceive a profound melancholia that will inevitably move you as the piano crafts vivid melodic tapestries and guitars unleash a sultry darkened energy that perfectly complement Belinda Kordic’s eloquent vocal performance. 

The sorrowful motif of “The Invisible Past” is palpable since the beginning as the graceful minimalist harmonies accompany the soulful voice of Jonathan Hultén of Tribulation floating gently within a dreamy atmospheric realm that with the addition of distorted guitars will ultimately evolve into a cathartic melodic crescendo. 

A wide array of conflicting emotions linger throughout “Ellengæst” as Crippled Black Phoenix explore inner struggles and deliberately refuse to fit within standard music categories meticulously crafting a series of sophisticated soundscapes. 

Spanish experimental rockers Obsidian Kingdom continue to bravely push boundaries on the latest release “Meat Machine” which from beginning to end manifests an eclectic songwriting approach.  

“The Edge” tend to rely on the raw energy of acidic guitar riffs to create robust groovy patterns with a hardcore attitude but will eventually embrace an atmospheric ensemble characterized by darkened & dreamy nuances. 

On “The Pump” vocals and guitars focus on a rather harsh sonic assault that leads to chaotic yet rather catchy patterns interrupted by the futuristic tonalities of the calmer atmospheric arrangements.  

“Mr Pan” immediately follows a more electro oriented pathway as the synths carefully craft a darkly soothing atmosphere at times spiced up by the bold rhythmic section and the wild shredding of the extensive guitar solo. 

On “Flesh World” the atmospheric tapestries flow gently like fading memories embellished by charming vocal harmonies and shimmering electronic accents while the melodic guitar work also enhances the melancholic mood. 

A lovely melancholia continues to linger through the atmospheric layers and the moody guitar melodies on “Meat Star” nevertheless the tormented vocals and the rhythmic tension can easily channel a somber heavier momentum. 

“A Foe” begins with a bittersweet ballad style piano and an ethereal vocal delivery that emphasize the emotional motif while synths and guitars fully embrace an enigmatic post-rock inspiration that conveys a mysterious atmosphere. 

There is so much going on throughout “Meat Machine” and trying to pinpoint a specific musical direction becomes futile as Obsidian Kingdom deliberately aim to surprise the audience creating a rich multifaceted sonic realm. 

French post black metal duo Vous Autres embark on a gloomy sonic journey through the enigmatic soundscapes of the sophomore full length “Sel de Pierre”.

The obscure atmosphere surrounding “Onde” generates a world of despair and grief where guitars can sound ferocious providing intense riffage with a strong black metal influence but also focus on extremely somber tonalities creating captivating melodic passages. 

“Vesuve” relies on haunting guitar melodies flourishing through a bleak & convoluted atmospheric maze while the anguished screams and the heavier rhythmic patterns continue to channel a primordial blackened inspiration. 

“Ecueil” puts aside the blackened fury allowing the synths to create a bewitching atmospheric realm following a rather experimental approach that leads to modern electro multilayers and dreamy feelings. 

“In Humus” dwells in a mysterious limbo between darkness and light as the slow wistful guitar melodies flow gently through the misty atmospheric waves and complement the ethereal female vocals in contrast with the tormented rhythmic momentum.  

Surrounded by an atmospheric melancholy “Sel de Pierre” might appear as an ode to darkness yet Vous Autres have also the ability to bring glimpses of light & hope through vivid melodic tapestries. 

Greek symphonic death metal titans Septicflesh finally release the “Infernus Sinfonica MMXIX” show on Blu-ray DVD filmed in February 2019 during a sold out show at the Metropolitan Theater in Mexico City with over 100 musicians from the Symphonic Experience Orchestra, the Enharmonía Vocalis Choir, and the ‘National University of Mexico Children’s and Youth Choir’.

Septicflesh have chosen a stellar setlist for this memorable event in fact the flawless execution, the charismatic musicianship and the majestic production will satisfy the band’s faithful acolytes. “Portrait of a Headless Man”, “Martyr”, “Communion”, “Dogma of Prometheus” and “Anubis” clearly symbolize the irresistible blend of extreme metal and classical grandeur that certainly during this special live concert is further enhanced by the impeccable intricate orchestrations. 

Considering the solemn visionary creativity that Septicflesh have developed and perfected during all these years “Infernus Sinfonica MMXIX” feels like a natural evolution and an essential milestone in their career as the live orchestrations fully bring to life the compelling symphonic splendor that has always impressed the audience worldwide. 

Portuguese post-black metal outfit Gaerea embarks on a cathartic journey channeling a primal blackened force and pure melancholia through the captivating soundscapes of the new full length “Limbo”. 

“To Ain” instantly manifests an overwhelming obscurity as guitars engage in fiery riffage and sophisticated progressions that can create fast & aggressive rhythmic patterns amplified by the desperate growls yet a melancholic allure will always emerge through the spellbinding melodic phrases and the dreamy atmospheric waves. 

The untamed blackened essence of “Glare” immediately generates majestic & utterly brutal rhythmic blasts fueled by the insane fast drumming yet within such chaotic instrumental ensemble guitars will also manage to add some vibrant melodic accents. 

“Conspiranoia” dwells within a misanthropic sonic realm as the gelid guitar melodies feel very dominant emphasizing a profound emotional turmoil through many bewitching progressions surrounded by a subtle arcane atmosphere while the cascading blackened riffs effortlessly lead to heavier ominous moments. 

The bleak soundscapes of “Mare” bring closure and highlight the role of the gorgeous mournful guitar melodies flourishing through a hazy atmosphere and creating mesmerizing crescendos but the primal blackened flair will always have a chance to gain intensity through the soaring rhythmic segments.  

As the title suggests “Limbo” feels like a distant world that lies in between darkness & light, reason & madness, as Gaerea confidently showcase a visionary blend of fiery blackened grooves and spiritual harmonies. 

Dutch masters of horror Carach Angren have crafted the new creepy opus “Franckensteina Strataemontanus” inspired by Mary Shelly’s novel ‘Frankenstein’ manifesting a visionary blend of extreme metal and decadent symphonic tapestries. 

The horrific fairytale begins with the spooky soundscapes of “Scourged Ghoul Undead” which unravels an imposing mix of elaborate flamboyant symphonic arrangements and ravenous blackened rhythmic blasts fueled by an obscure force amplified by the devilish growls and the deadly march of the drums. 

The title track shines for the wild extremely intricate orchestrations that immediately create a catchy yet twisted sonic realm where frightful entities lurk in the dark as the nightmarish melodies become entwined with merciless rhythmic progressions enriched by the solemn narratives. 

“Sewn for Solitude” stands out for the neoclassical splendor as the lavish multilayered orchestrations showcase a magical creativity leading to a majestic atmospheric ensemble surrounding the heavier sinister rhythmic core. 

“Operation Compass” welcomes you to a ghastly world that belongs to monstrous blackened rhythmic progressions constantly embellished by the majestic theatrical arrangements blending grave classical tonalities and suspenseful atmospheric crescendos. 

“Der Vampir von Nürnberg” begins with scary playful vibes that continue to successfully emphasize the album’s horror motifs and while the blackened essence is still present the detailed orchestrations convey a fascinating classical grandeur that highlights the crucial role of the eerie melodic themes and the sublime atmospheric layers. 

The dramatic final track “Like a Conscious Parasite I Roam” offers an overdose of gorgeous classical melodies and stylish symphonic textures reminiscent of a baroque operetta that flourishes incessantly through the dark energy of the rhythmic patterns. 

It becomes quite evident that Carach Angren’s music vision is always intriguing due to the magnificent symphonic & classical keyboards arrangements that on “Franckensteina Strataemontanus” constantly enrich the heavy patterns and ultimately create the ideal soundtrack for a horror movie. 

South African post metal outfit Constellatia recently signed with Season Of Mist and the reissue of the debut album “The Language Of Limbs” now has the chance to attract a wider audience with darkly emotional soundscapes. 

“All Nights Belong To You” confidently follows a wistful instrumental pathway as the dreamy shoegaze atmosphere naturally embraces the crushing blackened rhythmic section and will reach the acme during the slower hazy passages embellished by angelic vocals. 

“In Acclamation” flows like a daydream as the ethereal atmospheric tapestries and the shimmering guitar melodies constantly evoke pure melancholia yet the rhythmic patterns can often evolve into fast & vicious blackened blasts before returning to a calmer contemplative ensemble. 

The eloquent melodic essence of “The Garden” emphasizes an intense sense of longing as guitars tend to focus on soft acoustic phrases, glowing progressions and compelling leads in contrast with the faster mournful rhythmic segments accompanied by desperate screams. 

Throughout “The Language Of Limbs” you will find a monumental blackened inspiration yet the opulent nostalgia infused melodies become the main focus as Constellatia never cease to express poignant feelings.  

In the Scandinavian black metal scene …And Oceans are renowned for their compelling symphonic style and after seventeen years they are finally back with a revamped line-up including talented vocalist Mathias Lillmåns of Finntroll and an ex novo energy embodied by the new full length “Cosmic World Mother”. 

“The Dissolution Of Mind And Matter” marks a majestic beginning fully manifesting a bewitching darkened formula that revolves around the exquisite symphonic tapestries and the obscure guitar tonalities in fact the instrumental ensemble effortlessly shifts from unrestrained black metal dynamics to gelid melodic waves. 

The blackened assault of “Vigilance And Atrophy” is carefully built by sharp guitar riffs and thunderous drumming accompanied by fierce growls and enriched by the intricate epic arrangements that tend to enhance the dramatic depth and the presence of mournful melodies. 

“As The After Becomes The Before” begins with an opulent combo of refined atmospheric layers and melancholic guitar phrases that will maintain a shimmering melodic essence throughout the song even if the rhythmic ensemble will become darker & heavier with galloping riffage and ominous growls. 

The magical atmosphere of the title track introduces a blistering blackened rhythmic rampage certainly amplified by the ravenous screams so darkness continues to prevail through the icy melodic accents of the guitar work while the kaleidoscopic keyboards increase the sonic diversity with artsy electronic textures. 

“Helminthiasis” opens with aptly cosmic atmospheric waves that evoke somber feelings and adorn the bleak soundscape while the precise rhythmic section is always ready to unleash blackened grooves with an overload of scorching guitar riffs. 

The darkly enchanting atmospheric arrangements of the grandiose final track “The Flickering Lights” guide you through a lavish melancholic realm that focuses mainly on the fascinating melodic guitar work and the consequent grim emotions flourishing through the monumental rhythmic crescendos.  

Despite the long hiatus …And Oceans are destined to garner attention with the darkly alluring songwriting and the arcane atmospheres of the brand new effort “Cosmic World Mother” which feels like the perfect way to celebrate their comeback.