During their thirty years careers Greek metal masters Rotting Christ have worked relentlessly and passionately to establish the recognizable distinct music style that today on the brand new album “The Heretics” continues to naturally blend spellbinding melodic grandeur and primal extreme metal roots.

The ominous mood of the album is palpable on the opener “In The Name Of God” which is fueled by a savage blackened force leading to an obscure rhythmic march with galloping guitar riffs and intense drumming but the tempo often slows down to enhance a dramatic approach favoring the gothic beauty of the melodic guitar leads and mystical atmospheric arrangements.

The spiritual aura of “Vetry Zlye” comes to life through the ritualistic chants & narratives as the mysterious atmospheric waves are embellished by the bewitching vocals performed by Irina Zybina while the heavier instrumental ensemble focuses on the majestic rhythmic dynamics and the sharp guitar work.

As the fierce guitar riffs naturally lead to epic grooves, the darkened charisma of “Heaven And Hell And Fire” is constantly generated by esoteric chants and Sakis’s enraged growls while the song’s melodic splendor is meticulously crafted by the gloomy refined tonalities of the guitar phrases and the fancy energetic soloing.  

“Hallowed Be Thy Name” feels even more mystical with massive solemn choirs and theatrical spoken words that acquire an essential role within the song’s extremely dramatic atmospheric realm while the heavier instrumental passages become sporadic but still capable of channeling immense darkness.  

The cinematic intro of “Fire God And Fear” foreshadows another cryptic hymn to darkness and inevitably everything feels like an ancient ritual as soaring guitars confidently build understated blackened grooves that reach an arcane acme with the dazzling melodic opulence of the guitar solo.

Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe “The Raven” holds a darkly poetic soul and evokes extra dramatic depth with loads of fascinating theatrical narratives accompanied by impeccable haunting melodic guitars while the catchy yet gloomy rhythmic core still features a fair dosage of sinister aesthetics and bold guitar riffage.

Absolute devotion and an indissoluble connection with arcane myths are the fundamental elements behind the stylish composition of “The Heretics” and while Rotting Christ are still following a path of undiluted darkness all the songs on this album hold a surprisingly accessible melodic essence that can be appreciated by a wider audience worldwide.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gkWt0fWneY

Spanish metal extremists Altarage seem to have no interest in fame and continue to keep their anonymity as well as a rather nihilist approach that feels very dominant throughout the latest effort “The Approaching Roar”.

Listening to “Sighting” you can rest assured that this is not music for the masses as the initial somber dissonant tonalities introduce a monstrous heavy rhythmic section that could not feel darker with cavernous growls and belligerent guitar riffs that simply seem unstoppable.

The beginning of “Urn” deliberately feels unnerving with warped bass tones and a suspenseful mood while massive rhythmic patterns will soon create an impenetrable wall of sound interrupted only by some ominous guitar leads.

With a dramatic rhythmic core “Cyclopean Clash” belongs to an obscure abyss as the monolithic guitar work emerges with dissonant tonalities and extra darkened aesthetics following enigmatic tempo variations.  

“Inhabitant” is full of abrasive guitar riffs that diligently maintain arcane vibes fueled by the primal extreme metal elements while the rhythmic segments effortlessly shift from a fast gruesome assault to atmospheric mournful moments.

“Chaworos Sephelln” continues to channel undiluted obscurity but this time the infectious death metal patterns are suddenly interrupted by a mystical atmospheric crescendo followed by an increasing sense of desperation fully expressed by the doom tonalities of guitars and the utterly dramatic rhythm.

Without any hesitation Altarage dwell comfortably within a brutal chaotic sonic realm on “The Approaching Roar” leading to an uncompromising heavy work of music that could certainly sound too hostile to the faint of heart.  

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0KHO4uvb2w

Austrian crossover thrashers Insanity Alert have put together a massive thrash party on the third full length record “666 Pack” and all you need to do to fully enjoy this album is get ready to headbang and bring a six pack.  

“Thirstkiller” gets the party started with the necessary raw energy of tight thrash guitar riffs diligently following a steady galloping rhythm that becomes increasingly enraged on “The Body Of The Christ Is The Parasite” with enthusiastic grooves and rebellious screams.

“All Mosh / No Brain” is an instant favorite with its inner insanity that inevitably leads to party grooves and of course a major moshpit with an overload of crunchy guitar riffs.

On “Cobra Commander” there are anthemic thrash dynamics and some grindcore elements resulting in another energetic straightforward tune.  

The rhythmic section doesn’t really slow down on “Echoes Of Death” and the thrash revival approach is still dominant ensuring chugging guitar riffs and belligerent drumming.

“Chronic State Of Hate” is all about savage stomping and strong ‘80s vibes as the rhythmic section gets faster and wilder accompanied by frantic screams.

A Skullcrushin’ Good Time” offers another round of infectious guitar riffs still paying homage to classic thrash metal while “Demons Get Out!” adds an enjoyable diabolical/horror mood to the main relentless rhythmic patterns.

In case you needed more darkness “Dark Energon” has a major devilish essence that demands violent catchy rhythmic dynamics with the additional entertaining variety of the skillful guitar soloing.

Listening to the unstoppable frenetic grooves of “666 Pack” you can tell immediately that Insanity Alert is always ready for no frills classic thrash metal and good time so you should probably join this crazy party.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBN3dpzKniQ

You are certainly familiar with multi-instrumentalist Mark Deutrom for his memorable past music endeavors with Melvins and now it’s time to welcome a new chapter of Mark’s eclectic solo career with the anticipated new album “The Blue Bird”.  

With a mellow rhythmic core the instrumental track “Radiant Gravity” flows just like a dream as warm bluesy guitar melodies generate a relaxing mood floating through kaleidoscopic atmospheric layers.  

The multifaceted composition of “O Ye Of Little Faith” features a groovy approach with an intense distorted delivery and an edgy retro rock attitude as guitars become prominent within the enigmatic atmospheric realm that often leads to sudden spacey instrumental passages enhanced by bewitching organ harmonies.

On “Somnambulist” fragile guitar phrases and tranquil vocals guide the listeners through a compelling sonic maze made of magical melodic textures and daydreaming atmospheres later embellished by additional lavish keyboards arrangements.

“Maximum Hemingway” instantly channels darkened emotions with the acidic tonalities of heavier guitar riffs, moody soloing and filtered vocals yet there is an inner melodic spirit that will eventually deliver vibrant contemplative passages.

The intimate atmospheric nature of “They Have Won” comes to life through comforting melodic waves and is definitely emphasized by the elegant saxophone solo that will grab your attention with enthralling jazzy vibes.

The fervent rock nature of “The Happiness Machine” is evident as gritty & heavy grooves become essential elements in fact guitars constantly deliver super crunchy riffs supported by entertaining syncopated rhythmic sections and impress the audience with a flamboyant solo.

From beginning to end “The Blue Bird” is a rather surreal opus that deserves a wide audience as it becomes quickly evident that Mark Deutrom is following his personal unique artistic vision with absolute devotion and passion.  

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfwMHHZeRj8

So far post-rock trio Esben And The Witch has delighted us with an enchanting music vision that aims to spellbind you once again on the brand new full length “Nowhere”.

“A Desire for Light” opens the album with a darkened grandeur featuring shoegaze inspired atmospheric crescendos and loads of wistful melodic guitars that will morph into a fiercely distorted entity towards the end while a profound solace can be perceived through the maze of dreamy harmonies and ethereal vocals.

The immersive nature of “Dull Gret” is evident in the minimalist acoustic phrases and fascinating vocals that hold an essential role in the creation of multiple moody textures while guitars maintain a daydreaming melodic flow yet occasionally acquire harsher tonalities leading to darker fiery rhythmic patterns.

The mood becomes increasingly darker on “The Unspoiled” as bold guitars deliver doom oriented riffing ensuring heavier ominous dynamics while the graceful atmospheric accents and the alluring vocals still evoke hazy shoegaze vibes.

As the title suggests “Darkness (I Too Am Here)” feels like a stylish ode to darkness constantly embellished by cinematic arrangements that certainly add mystical vibes and melodic guitars can lead to enigmatic soundscapes with monochromatic seductive nuances as well as more energetic rhythmic segments fueled by a raw obscure force.

Esben And The Witch have the ability to create emotionally charged songs where darkness and uplifting nuances blend naturally and “Nowhere” is a bewitching and seductive sonic experience that you simply cannot miss.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1gFgAkRiyQ

Rising guitar prodigy and multi-instrumentalist Sarah Longfield is finally releasing the new album “Disparity” which features the expected generous dose of shredding but also plenty of intriguing cinematic soundscapes.

“Embracing Solace” begins with a remarkable dreamy atmospheric core carefully built by kaleidoscopic ambient layers and embellished by opulent glowing guitar melodies.

“Departure” continues to follow a relaxing music pathway as vocals channel uplifting emotions flowing through calm ambient waves and charismatic melodic guitar phrases while the song’s finale shines for the nostalgia infused piano piece.

Within the intricate sonic realm of “Cataclysm” technical prog becomes evident in the massive eclectic guitar work naturally shifting from enticing shredding & tapping with scattered heavier rhythmic accents to fluent melodic grandeur.

In the midst of birds chirping and tranquil feelings “Miro” returns to luminous tonalities embedded in the glossy atmospheric textures, jazzy saxophone soloing and obviously brilliant melodic guitar progressions.  

“The Fall” is another track that will immediately stand out for the darker ambient arrangements and the energetic technical guitar work featuring intense shredding, crispy melodies and striking prog inspired dynamics.

“Disparity” is not just about a constant virtuoso showcase as Sarah is eager to impress the audience also with a multifaceted creative force and unexpected sonic twists that are evident from beginning to end.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s4GNTGz4b8

For Canadian progressive technical death metal band Beyond Creation the next step in their remarkable sonic evolution is embodied by the latest release “Algorythm” which promises an eclectic and absolutely crushing ensemble.

A furious instinct sets the mood of “Entre Suffrage Et Mirage” and consequently belligerent drums and fiery guitar riffs channel a rather extreme metal force that will be interrupted by contrasting soothing nuances and luminous melodic guitars.

The tranquil beginning of “Surface’s Echoes” features sophisticated prog oriented harmonies yet this track can sound simply brutal with a ravenous array of guitar riffs and powerful bass lines plus the terrific guitar solo and melodic whirlwind will instantly grab your attention.

The title track continues to offer an excellent blend of brighter melodic textures and harsh rhythmic segments featuring savage drum blasts and tight riffage while the poignant guitar solo here feels particularly compelling.

“In Adversity” will delight you with a series of bold rhythmic sections loaded with technical guitar work and death metal accents especially amplified by the relentless drumming and ruthless growls but the crispy melodic approach of the guitar solo can be considered the highlight of the song.

The instrumental track “Binomial Structures” begins with remarkable bass work and subtle atmospheric layers while guitars can fully showcase excellent technical expertise and create intricate melodic waves with vibrant & melancholic tonalities.

“The Afterlife” features loads of thrilling rhythmic segments where guitars can acquire insanely heavy tonalities due to the primal death metal elements but also craft extravagant melodic phrases and fancy solos characterized by an impeccable sound and execution.

Certainly Beyond Creation follows an intriguing and mature music pathway where extreme metal elements are very much alive yet the proggy & jazzy moments often feel more innovative and therefore tend to steal the spotlight throughout the intricate soundscapes of “Algorythm”.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYPGbsgapiQ

So many have been anxiously waiting to hear new music from death metal legends Hate Eternal and now you can finally headbang to the massive brutal anthems of the full length “Upon Desolate Sands”.  

Just like the title suggests “The Violent Fury” is rather furious as relentless guitar riffs follow the insanely fast tempo dictated by thunderous drums and simply there is no escape until lead guitars offer brief melodic moments and utter desolation.

Since the beginning “What Lies Beyond” feels a bit different as the rhythmic section doesn’t speed up immediately allowing guitars to craft a diverse range of riffs and somber technical leads yet the classic death metal approach is still absolutely aggressive.

On “Nothingness of Being” the crushing impact of mighty rhythmic blasts cannot be ignored while the perennial fiery guitar riffs and cavernous growls definitely amplify the song’s sinister vibes but you can also perceive a melancholic depth in the lead guitar work.  

As soon as “Dark Age of Ruin” begins you realize that you simply cannot catch a break as guitars march violently through asphyxiating atmospheres delivering dense riffage with technical accents and deliberately following reckless tempo variations.

While the title track confidently maintains a hellish rhythmic core it also offers a generous dosage of arcane atmospheric arrangements that certainly don’t diminish the visceral death metal rage but provide intriguing variations.

Listening to “Upon Desolate Sands” it becomes evident that this is an album dedicated to faithful death metal acolytes and mastermind Erik Rutan has worked meticulously to achieve the heaviest sound for Hate Eternal’s new sonic endeavor.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdPEE8_u8cQ

Considering that mastermind Justin Greaves has previously gone public about his personal fight against depression the new Crippled Black Phoenix album entitled “Great Escape” is expected to revolve around dark themes and this definitely fits with the band’s alluring music direction.  

“To You I Give” is a cathartic ensemble of soulful guitar melodies, introspective vocals and somber atmospheric layers which instantly set a perennial darkened mood that will shape the several distorted progressive tinged rhythmic crescendos throughout the song.

“Madman” focuses majorly on a sinister cinematic spirit flowing through the visionary electro arrangements that effortlessly create a bewitching groovy momentum amplified by gritty rock tonalities.

On “Times, They Are A Raging” a constant sense of melancholia dictates the painfully dramatic mood that surrounds the dreamy piano melodies and the fervent vocal delivery while the slow tempo simply allows the elegant guitar work to enhance the hypnotizing soundscape that will eventually acquire faster psychedelic dynamics and consequent enigmatic rhythmic variations.

“Slow Motion Breakdown” is an intense instrumental track that spontaneously blends psychedelic/stoner elements and poignant melodies through memorable guitar progressions that often feel like a wild jam in the middle of the desert and acidic tonalities are evident within the exceptionally engaging rhythmic patterns.

“Las Diabolicas” is almost creepy with its inner dystopian mood featuring fuzzy accents and the undiluted rock energy of the guitar riffs & melodies that successfully craft catchy climatic grooves in the midst of obscure spellbinding atmospheres.

While “Great Escape (pt I)” feels profoundly evocative with mystical vibes influencing the fragile atmospheric textures, the enchanting vocal duet and the super slow melancholia infused guitar phrases “Great Escape (pt II)” is instead an eclectic entity that adds progressive twists and intricate haunting melodic splendor with the absolutely stunning guitar work.  

Ultimately “Great Escape” might be considered a challenging album that audaciously explores an impressive array of diverse music subgenres while maintaining a rather unique vision that naturally leads to cinematic & emotional aesthetics as Crippled Black Phoenix craft each song with an outpouring charisma that cannot go unnoticed.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuTv7glLu90