Abigor”Kingdom of darkness” 7’EP
Nuclear war now prod.
Well,. This 7’ep has been released with the reprint of the Norwegian Imhotep magazine which has been reviewed already so I’ll focus on the 7’ep exclusively.
Ok, the main offering on this ep is a completely new rendition of their demo track with the same title. The band have managed to call back their formed vocalist and an additional vocalist, and re-recorded entirely this old song. And this is a completely different experience. Perhaps due to the fact that they have grown as musicians, and have arranged and polished this song in order to not sound like an Emperor demo-era influenced song. It sounds completely different and much better to my ears.
AS for the side B, well they have included 2 instrumental songs which are rehearsals from Orkblut and Apocaypse, well I do have already those albums so an instrumental intake from those songs is nothing new, but it should please those interested in everything this band have done so far.
Antaeus / Katharsis split 7’EP
Norma Evangelium Diaboli
This good looking 7’EP features one brand new track from each band. Both bands are well known so I won’t add anything that probably you already know about them. Honestly I preffer the material presented on the “Blood Libels” album, speaking about Antaeus. This song just sound generic and without inspiration. For the contrary, Katharsis sounds caustic as usual, and never disappoints. What else could I say here? This is a limited edition so act fast.
Aryan Blood “Stürme aus Stahl” 7”EP
Darker than Black records
Ok, I just got this 7”ep knowing what to expect beforehand. This, as the description states, is neither a brand new recording nor an advance for a new release. No, it is just an old recording which has been lost for years and whose vocals were missing. Therefore, the vocals were recorded a couple of years ago and Darker than black decided to release it first as a mini cd and as a limited 7”Ep afterwards. Ok, so enough with further explanations. This is Aryan Blood. If you are aquatinted with this NSBM project then you’ll know that this is pretty primitive and extremely minimalistic stuff. Basic, raw, but extremely aggressive and I think that’s the raison d’etre of this project. These four songs presented here were recorded during 1996 and offer exactly what they should. If you’re into this kind of stuff, then go ahead. If you’re not, then I’d suggest you to listen to some other stuff before purchasing this.
Crucifixor “sanctum Sanctorum” 7’EP
Pentagram Records.
This is a Death metal project featuring members from well known Peruvian bands such as Hadez, INRI & Grave Desecration. And they are pretty sure of what they’re doing with this band, as they have ventured to release their first recording on wax. And they have succeeded indeed.
Basically Crucifixor play an old school brand of Death Metal, basically mid-tempo and with melodic oriented solos which I’d say are basically inspired by heavy metal.
What else? The production is good, the musicianship and compositions are quite strong and you definitely may want to check this out if you’re a fan of good old school death metal.
Band contact: www.facebook.com/crucifixor.peru
Der Stürmer “Europa Ewache” demo 7’EP
IG Farben prod.
Of course that I’m not reviewing this demo tape (again), as I’ve already done it when it was released and I do keep the original tape. Anyway, the reason then of this comment is because this important demo has now been properly released on 7’EP, after being a very sought after demo for many years.
This demo, of course, shows the band in their rawest and most hateful form, the sound is far from perfect, and the songs do show at times recording mistakes, but at the same time it’s one of the most hateful and “in your face” NSBM demos ever, in fact when it came out it made a big impact and it was an influence for many bands.
The only complaint I have regarding this edition, is the blurred cover and the lack of the original pictures. But the sound is improved from the original recording.
No contact of course!
Der Stürmer / Goatmoon split 7’EP
No sign of Life Records.
Curiously this split has been released both as 7’EP vinyl and as a mini cd, so you don’t have any excuses for not picking up either one of these formats.
Lately Der Stürmer have been very busy releasing 7’eps and splits, and this is their latest effort. Here, they don’t offer any new material of their own but in contrast they have added a couple of old songs but presented in their rawest form as a live rehearsal, where the band sound more violent and aggressive when compared to the studio version. And, as a gift, they have included a cover of Sodom.
As for the side of Goatmoon, they present only one new track, but if it is only one, at least t should be good or outstanding, right? Well yes, it’s one hell of a track, melodic approach of Black metal with an acoustic interlude and a folkish vibe. So, all in all, this is a very enjoyable split by some of the most well known and respected acts nowadays.
Dios Hastio “Fragmentario” 7’EP
That’s it. This is a new Dios Hastio 7’EP and frankly I don’t really know how many previous ep’s they do have on their rooster, but as the band is an emblematic local crust band, they’re very well known abroad and have released lots of stuff. Well to the point: this 7’ep to my ears sounds slower than previous releases I’ve heard. The songs do sound pretty hardcore , but this time there are plenthy of mid tempo songs. This eps also contains an insert with lots of photos, the lyrics and liner notes regarding the recording itself. Fot those interested in hardcore, with realistic/pessimist lyrics then it would be wise to check them out.
Contact: dioshastio@yahoo.com
Evil “The Cleansing of Earth” 7’EP
Darker than black recs
Ok, this 7’EP could be labeled as an appendix of their latest full length “Ashes of Old”. That is because the title song was recorded during the same sessions of the album, and, therefore, sound and concept are kind of alike. On the side B, they have added a nice cover of the mythical Polish band Mysterial. Evil doesn’t disappoints in any way. Their form of performing their black metal is unique certainly, a mixture between catchiness and primitivism with folkish influences, especially during their later material. Go ahead and buy it.
Feral Howl “Atavistic Meditations” EP /CD
Breath of Pestilence
This was originally released as a demo in 2022 but re-released as a tape and CD with a bonus track afterwards.
What can be said about this project, besides that even if it comes from Norway, it possesses little resemblance to other bands from that country. Absolutely, Feral Howls drinks from mid 90’s black metal and that is pretty obvious in the way the riffing is intermixed and enhanced with keyboards. But somehow it does possess an identity of its own, and the lyrics also are an exception to any given pattern. Chthonic would be a better term in this case (sic). Atavistic memories are linked to nature and ancient memories awaken. They mystical background performed by their music is pretty well exemplified and recreated…originally this EP consisted of just 4 tracks but for this cd the has been included one additional track, clocking in almost 28 minutes. Sometimes treading an old path doesn’t necessarily mean that the outcome would re-hashed, but invigorated and re-discovering something which hasn’t been watched before.
Ghost Kommando “Starfire-Spitfighter” 7’EP
Legion Blotan records.
And so, this is officially the last release from Ghost Kommando, at least for now, as the main composer is focused into his new project Todeszone.
Well, if you have already check out this band, then this release doesn’t differ drastically from previous releases, well, perhaps with the exception of the production itself, which, to my ears, sounds cleaner. Both tracks presented here are more focused into presenting a post punk influence with melodic vocals, instead of focusing into black metal vocals. If some previous releases were influenced to some extent by Joy Division, then this release offers a more post punk approach, but of course with a heavy dose of necro black metal guitars which to my ears, are very influenced by the Isengard early stuff. Recommended!
Goatpenis / nyogthaeblisz split 7’EP
Satanic Skinhead Propaganda
I was expecting this split but more eagerly to listen to the Goatpenis side. In fact, I had watched already the video clip from the song included in this split and it is a very solid song indeed. But I’m also surprised by the Nyogthaeblisz side as well, as it sound cleaner and not that blurry as their previous demo and 7’ep. Their chaotic and mixing of war metal and even grind is ever present. So, basically they continue with their already known style but the production is better.
As usual, the overall layout and presentation is very acurate to the nature of both bands. Good work!.
Grave Desecration “Hammer of Abysmal Entities”7’EP
Warhemic Prod.
After their split cd with Brazilian Unholy Massacre this local War Metal band returns with another small dose of barbarism. And it seems that this band works better with their onslaughts when presenting them in small doses. Here, they have recorded 4 new tracks, counting with intro and outro.
Look, since their conception, this band have had a particular perspective and a way of work which made them unique, even if they could fall into the overuse of clichés within the bands of the same subgenre. That’s their trademark, probably you’ve heard those intros/outros before, and probably you’ve read similar lyrics and witnessed similar aesthetics. But the point here is what they’re able to accomplish with these. Their fiery and brutal approach to the genre is not to be mistaken, they have taken elements borrowed from Southamerican acts such as Sarcofago and mixed them with influences taken from acts such as Black Witchery and even old Profanatica and Impaled Nazarene, and with this, they have crafted their own sound. These 4 tracks, accompanied by a very proficient drumming which enhance their firepower, are enough to realize the enthusiasm and commitment of a band which stands above the legions of fans and copycats following the same musical approach but without the same conviction and honesty. Very little is to be said regarding the originality of this kind of war metal, but there always will be bands who know how to pull the strings in the right direction. Contact: gravedesecration9@yahoo.com
Hadez “The path of...the Ossuary...Devilish Possession” 7’EP
Kill yourself prod.
This is the first 7’ep of this legendary act (without counting that split 7’EP with Sagatanas) and shows a return to the sound well known and appreciated by many fans. This is good I think, the band show that they’re still capable to perform a good quality Death metal with Occult Lyrics... practically all thrash influences were left aside this time, and the result is more than enjoyable, in contrast to the ugliness of the band members!!!
Here you’ll find three tracks, two of them being re-recordings of old songs. What else? If you’re a fan of their “Aquelarre” album then I’m pretty sure you’ll worship this EP as well.
Contact: www.myspace.com/hadezattack
Lamia Vox “All hope Abandon” 7’EP
Terratur Possessions.
I bought this EP just because these tracks were supposed to appear on the Mare debut album as long as I’m concerned, but for some reason didn’t mage to be included. Therefore, at least separately, I wanted to experiment the complete original experience intended for that work. I’m not that familiar with Lamia Vox, though. I had read an interview with her some time ago on the 4th issue of TSF but that was all. Basically, these two tracks do serve as a mood setting for the introspective listening experience that is the Mare debut album, even if also these 2 tracks do work separately as well. Ambient, meditative mood paced with the aid of some percussion which gives the impression of being ritual chamber music. This percussion is accompanied by some recitations which enhance the whole experience, inducing a trance like mood for additional meditative exercise. Certainly, I’d like to listen to some full works from her in the future, and I do clearly see why Mare wanted her to participate in their recording album.
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Maze of Terror “The Night where Evil Prevails” EP /CD
Selvajaria records.
Ok, this is just an EP, not a full length but obviously this has been done with a purpose: this particular release is a tribute to the most well known and influential horror movies we had the pleasure to discover during our teenage years in Lima. And Maze of Terror, have arranged a set of 5 tracks which a clever sense of aesthetics which reassembles some sort of cinematic advertisement of an old terror movie. That is good, and also the songs themselves of course. As I said, they have composed 5 tracks starting with the mandatory cannibal Holocaust track having as a prelude some of the nice soundtrack that Mondo / exploitation movie had. Throughout the course of the tracks, I can’t but keep thinking about the amount of influence that Slayer has over these tracks, together with (name here!) a few southamerican acts (now that I remember older MX could be useful here, especially after listening to their Jason track!), if that could be a subliminal description, ha! The riffs are played tightly, cohesively, with a sense of not only good taste but also dynamism and some crazy solos, which is some of the main ingredients that should have any thrash metal band with some death touches here and there, in order to keep due interest awaken. Lyric wise, and unlike some other bands of the genre, these are well written and obviously it is noticeably how the lyricist actually took the time to re-watch these classic movies before attempting to write any lyrics. Ok, I don’t know if this EP is being distributed properly, but I’d say get in touch with the band to secure your copy.
Maze of Terror “Into the Jaws of Terror” EP / CD
Selvajaría records
And this is another EP released by the same label which released the previous one, and having done this as a separate work is understandable as this set of songs wouldn’t have met the concept of the “Night where terror prevails” EP. Anyway, musically this one sounds different as well. Thrashy oriented with some death metal touches here and there of course, but to me, the Slayer taste in the riffing is replaced in favour of some more melodic, catchier and yet moodier atmosphere. Perhaps a more eclectic set of influences, from German thrash to southamerican madness? This set of 4 tracks do not fit into a determined concept since they touch subjects ranging from an over the top, cheesy horror inspired stuff to war inspired anthems, chaotic, caustic and why not, suffocating. Some crazy solos here and there courtesy of some guest musicians, I don’t really know if this is an advance in sound for what’s to come, or if this is just a separate work or a particular approach in sound, but all in all, remains 100% Maze of Terror. Then again, this Portuguese label is taking the credit for this release and so you should go on and get your copy pronto!
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Mentors “Oblivion Train” 7’EP
Stool Sample Records.
Well this is a rarity that every Mentors fan should die to get. These two songs (Oblivion Train and Cornshucker) were recorded during the early stage of the band (1977), even
before they used to wear their traditional black hoods (as a side note, El Duce looked ugly as hell back then, as usual, but skinnier!). As expected, the sound is primitive as stated by the label but potent and cohesive. What else could I say, this is simply a piece of history and you should get it fast because it’s limited!
Contact: www.stoolsamplerecords.com
NecroMessiah / Dewarsteiner split 7’EP
Crush Until Madness rec.
This French label which relocated to the USA has now released this split consisting of two Italian thrash bands, with similar sound, aesthetic and lyrics. By judging what they sound like, I’d dare to say that both are influenced by the Italian Bulldozer and bands alike...I don’t know, but I’m not too fond of this kind of bands, which, for me it’s nothing less than music for parties, drinking sessions and overall overused and teenager rebellion, while at the same time making a fool of themselves with their overall approach. Not for me, thanks.
Contact: www.crushuntilmadness.com
NOX “Ancestral Arte Negro” 7’EP
Forever plagued records.
This is the first time that I came across this band, and being a Colombian band. Well, one shouldn’t know it all I guess. But the fact is that NOX is a Colombian Black Metal band (not to confuse yourself with the well known death metal act from Holland). And well, after looking at the cover art, layout, photos, and reading the lyrics, I simply thought that this is another average BM band influenced by the very classics of the genre of the 90’s.
And well, at a certain point I was right. But the fact is that NOX aren’t your average fan / teenager band. No, not at all, as a matter of fact this 4 song 7’ep features quality and imaginative riffing. Sure thing, they’re influenced by the classics of the genre, but they don’t sound like a copy band at all. Their style of playing BM isn’t unique but they know what they’re doing, and that what’s counts. Give them a try.
Nunslaughter “Black” 7’EP
Hells Headbangers
Ok, first of all let me tell you that this particular 7’EP is something unique in the sense that all four songs are exclusive and not a re-recording of older songs which were already presented in many other Eps. That’s why I purchased this in the first place. Probably you should know Nunslaughter’s brand of old school death metal, so you should be already aware of how’s this is going to sound like. The packaging is something special, according to the title of this 7’EP.
Nunslaughter / Antiseen split 7’EP
Hells Headbangers
Alright, I’ve been purchasing lately some Nunslaughter 7’eps (the last one being the re-release of the christmassacre released in several formates a few years ago), but only those which present brand new songs, so this is clearly the case. Ok, here Nunslaughter have recorded 2 new songs, their archaic and to-the-point DM style is pretty well known so I don’t have the need to explain it to you.
As for Antiseen, for those who don’t know this band yet, yes, it’s another legendary and old band. They do play punk / rock n roll and recorded some material wth the late GG Allin. Their side of the split consists of 2 new songas as well. The overal packaging is pretty basic, exactly as it is the music from both bands. Good release, good split.
Nunslaughter / Acid Witch split 7’EP
Hells Headbangers
And this is the new offering from the always productive Nunslaughter. This time I would say that this is a “concept” split, and as usual with an special packaging this time re-assembling an old horror comic magazine titled “Spooky”, and that’s exactly what the featured songs from both bands are all about. Each band present 2 brand new songs. Nunslaughter do what they know: primitive yet catchy death metal. As for Acid Witch, their brand of Doom death adorned with keyboards is, well, spooky! I’ve never been too much into this band, although I should...both are solid tracks which fit perfectly in the concept of the split. I must say that I don’t buy every nunslaughter release, but definitedly this is one you should try. Solid tracks, “spooky” artwork.
Profanation “Devastation of Purity” 7’EP
Kill Yourself Prod.
From Argentina comes this one man project very much in the spirit of the old Blasphemy (even he has included a Blasphemy cover in this recording). I don’t really know if this project could just be another Blasphemy tribute, but the influence here is so obvious that I couldn’t help but to think this way. Ok, the production here is far from perfect but the fact that it does sound too much like Blasphemy makes me think if we really need another band like this one. “Nocturnal” knows how to arrange songs pretty well, so is shouldn’t be a problem to him to just arrange a more personal sound in future recordings. Anyway, the 7’ep should interest you if you’re into this kind of necro stuff.
Contact: c/o Eric Lancon, Bolivia 1035 dto: C.P. (c 1406 ads) cap. Fed. Argentina
Psycopath Witch “Stench of Human Hallucinosis” CD EP
Self Released.
Fron nothing less than Sicily / Italy comes this Death metal band influenced by the good old’ death grind, not only in aesthetics but also by their musical approach. Here you’ll find nothing less than 6 songs of pure and raw death metal, without a very technical approach, which seems to be one of the main characteristic of the band. So far they have released just 2 Eps, but I hope that they’ll receive the attention they deserve eventually.
Contact: www.myspace.com/psycopathwitch
Ride for Revenge “The Renegade Temple” 7’EP
A. Aihio Productions.
After the release of their well known debut album “King of Snakes”, this kind of “strange” Finnish Black metal band strikes with 2 new songs, which don’t differ that much from the album, at least in song structures and patterns, which take a big influence from Beheri’t “Drawing down the Moon”, it’s just that the sound of this particular recording, especifically the guitars, aren’t that hidden to the point of being unnoticed by the listener. I’d dare to say that Ride for Revenge is a band more focused in the ritual aspect of the songs, where percussion is an essencial part, and guitars add atmosphere to the whole recording. This fact, makes Ride for Revenge a band very unusual in the sense that you’ll not find any typical black metal arrangements and overall sound. Definitedly interesting.
Contact: A. Aihio Productions.
Satanas “Blasfemias” 7’EP
Putrescence records.
Ok, first of all I must say that this is another oddity released by the Florida based label Putrescence records, specialized in releasing Peruvian bands. And indeed this one is quite an oldie, and I should say, quite forgotten demo released during 1989.
Satanas, basically is a Black metal project which arose in Lima during the 80’s. And I say “project”, because after releasing this demo, the band basically split up. Pure and simple. Therefore, is easy to state that Satanas is a project created by 2 guys pretty impressed by what Sarcofago did on the Warfare Noise compilation, and wanted to emulate their sound. So, in such a sense, this project succeeded. Basically this demo sounds like an amateurish attempt to re-create the old Sarcofago sound. Did they succeed? Perhaps. And that is saying a lot indeed. The sound of course has been remastered and therefore the sound is quite impressive, when compared to the old tapes that I listened to years ago. The lyrics, of course, are non existent, and the sole remaining member doesn’t remember them either.
All in all, this is, despite to all the limitations, a piece of Peruvian history and a proof of commitment and devotion for the archaic Black metal of old.
Throne of the Fallen - 7’EP
Needleteeth Records.
This is a project which features some members from the local crust band Dios Hastio, and it shows indeed their primal influences even if the thematic is quite different from what they do in Dios Hastio. But yes, the obvious Discharge influence is there, mixed with perhaps an antagonic Celtic frost. This mix shouldn’t viable but somehow it works well within the songs’ structures. The thematic seems to be quite forced in here, but the lyrics are well written and that’s what counts. If you’re into bands such as Dishammer (Spain) then this 7’EP should be a must for you.
Contact: throne_of_the_fallen@yahoo.com
Southern/Carelian Black Metal Holocaust- 7’EP
Satanic Warmaster / Evil (Bra)
Tanhu Records.
Finally this split 7’EP is available. One song per band are presented in here. The well known Finnish Satanic Warmaster offers a song which could be called without doubt a tribute to the archaic Bathory, it couldn’t be other way because this rendition is HEAVILY influenced by them. The riffs were slightly changed but the main essence is there. Now, the Brazilian Evil, which uses to share its Black Metal art in small doses only, contributes with a song with its personal touch: very primitive yet catchy Black metal which doesn’t disappoint.
Act fast, because this 7’EP is of course limited.
“Under the Sign of the Hammer” Evil/Bilskirnir/Pantheon split 7’EP
Darker than Black Prod.
I think that these 3 bands need no introduction, as they’re already well known. Here Bilskirnir presents a short track in the same vein that their previous releases, Pantheon presents a folkish oriented song, I can’t compare it with previous releases as I know very little about this US band. As for Evil, as usual Warlord presents a very raw and traditional sounding BM song, I’d like to listen to a bad song from them, if there’s any...
Anyway, this is a good piece of wax. Try to get your coy, ‘cause it’s limited.
Woods of Infinity “Frozen Nostalgia” 7’EP
Obscure Abhorrence Prod.
Another release of this fructiferous and a-typical band, this time they present 2 new songs filled with the nostalgic and melancholic touches that only WOI can create. And I’m kind of surprised here, because both lyrics were written in English this time! What makes this band unique, besides their music, is the perfect mixture of childish, candid and at the same time disturbing lyrics, very unusual for a typical Black metal band nowadays. Many people may like this, some others will take it as a joke perhaps, but the fact is that Woods of Infinity, throughout their music, lyrics and overall aesthetics and artwork (which, to me, it’s just an attempt to shock their listeners and that’s all), have established as one of the most prolific and fruitful bands unleashed from the Cold north. And there’s more to come, without doubt...
Contact: info@obscure-abhorrence.com
Or true_face_of_evil@hotmail.com
Woods of Infinity « Snart » 7’EP / Mini CD
Turanian Honour / Total Holocaust prod.
This is a posthumous release as everybody should know by now that the band is no more, at least until the members decide to make a “comeback” or start a new project.
After all the changes and softening that their music has been through the entire discography, only 2 new songs are offered here.
“Mot Usqubaugh” is the typical WOI song, showing a big ammount of melody, and mid-tempo madness and desperate vocals, although it’s not so polished like the newer songs. Of course, the lyrics are written in Swedish.
The other song is a cover from a Swedish Pop artist, which honestly is unknown to me, but also the irony is also present and even if aparently this song could be out of place there’s actually a reason why they have included it. This is one of the reasons why this band was unique and truly original, even if their ammount of humour and irony aren’t tolerated often.