Gehennah “Too loud to live, too drunk to die” LP /CD
Metal blade records.
I remember these guys. When Osmose was at its peak during middle 90’s, this band was one of the pioneers in doing “alcoholic thrash” or “street metal”, that is, a clever blend of Motorhead, Bathory, and even some punk as well. Hilarious and teenaged driven lyrics were good partners in several drinking sessions. Well, they suddenly disappeared after a few misunderstandings with Osmose recs.
But well, after several years, they have returned with the same fucked up attitude. Perhaps their music sounds not too inspired and their lyrics are quite generic to me, but they are still enjoyable. Their music continues where it left. It is just a continuation and perhaps to those unfamiliar with them, their music may sound generic and overdone. But they were quite unique back in the days. New listeners, take your time to check these guys out, and, as for the old fans, you should check this album for the sake of nostalgia!
Genuflexion “Animal Religioso” CD
Sons of hell prod.
I am pleasantly surprised with this Black metal band coming from Argentina. I didn’t hear from them in the past, well as a matter of fact this is their first album so it’s kind of understandable!
Well, Genuflexion is a band which offers something I haven’t heard before from another Argentinean band. They do play some kind of melodic, even avant-garde I’d say kind of black metal, spiced with keyboards and an intricate guitar work. In fact, they do a pretty original work , and their songs are well packed with unusual and innovative riffing.
As for the lyrics, they offer an unusual perspective of explaining their concept. First os all their lyrics are written in Spanish, and basically deal with the fact of overcoming the Self while leaving behind the limitations of the mortal shelf, while understanding the idea of the creation of our own gods and limitations. There’s more to it, of course, but basically I could say that.
All in all, a very interesting release from a band which promise a good development with time,…
Contact: samaelicmass@gmail.com
Ghosts of Breslau “Sacred Place” CD
Twilight Records.
This new album isn’t really an “album” per se, but a recollection of previous contributions to diverse compilations, with a couple of unreleased songs. I already have their previous album, entitled “And should the Spring Come”, and I should say that their ability to arrange and create tragic and “ghostly” atmospheres of a lost period of time during WWII is just incredible. But this time, they have left behind many samples and songs which enhanced enormously what they’re trying to portray with their compositions. They have opted for the exclusive use of atmospheres instead. This is one of the few acts that actually are able to “paint with words” an era of change and war, giving proper voices to their eternal “ghosts of Breslau”, a sacred place indeed.
Contact: www.ghostsofbreslau.net
Goatmoon “Voito Tai Valhalla” CD
Werwolf records.
Ah, Goatmoon…I was deeply involved into them as soon as they released their second album, and been a fan ever since. This album, shows the complexity of comositions this band can achieve through several contributions. Of course, the main man continues to be their vocalist Black Goat, but there are several other contributors as well.
The band have achieved to exploit their sound to enormous heights, including complex yet catchy folk and medieval elements and arrangements to their brand of melodic and traditional Finnish sounding Black Metal, making it sound evocative and with an enormous atmosphere of belonging. Perhaps that’s why they have named their music as “National romantic music”.
I wasn’t that impressed with their previous album “Varjot”, which was more rawer, but I do think that with this album they have returned to the right track established with their second album. As far as I know, the label is still on hold, so I’d suggest to pick a copy of this ASAP.
Goatmoon “Stella Polaris” CD/LP
Hells headbangers / Werewolf records
After the success of “Voito…” this now very well known and perhaps most representative BM band from Finland together with Satanic Warmaster, release a new full length, this time with the cooperation of Hells Headbangers.
This band, previously have released a number of mini albums, and splits, be it on cd and 7’eps. So I guess it was time for a new album after all.
I don’t really know if after being pretty active lately, a new album could be good for the band. I mean, in the sense that being too productive could affect in some way their efficiency at composing songs.
Well, Stella Polaris continues where their previous album left, but this time they’ve been intensifying their proposal even more. That is, this is a very melodic black metal, even borrowing some heavy metal elements on their melodies and including some folk elements as well, with the aid of flutes, keyboards and acoustic guitars, adding even more melodies to their already melodic riffs. Stella Polaris sounds clean, as far as I recall the first albums were rawer, and this time they have even included an acoustic-only track, with semi-clean vocals.
The point is this: I’m still thinking that, after listening several times, that this is an unpredictable album. Yes, they do still know how to create and compose really catchy songs, but they continue using their old formula. Nothing wrong with that. But this time, there are a few weak tracks, and they have left them as the last tracks of the album. That’s a smart move.
All in all, Stella Polaris is a good album, and a safe buy for those acquainted with the band, although it is a little bit too melodic for my own taste, or it is just the clean production perhaps???.
Goatpenis “Depleted Ammunition” CD/ LP
Satanic Skinhead propaganda.
And this album took us by storm and surprise. I wasn’t expecting this one to come along that fast, but it was a nice surprise nevertheless. This time the band has returned in a way to their early sound, without abandoning the melody imposed on the previous album “Biomechterrorism”. They just have increased their early grind elements and it was a good choice after all, as it sounds more crushing than “Biomechterrorism” (which is a good album anyway). So, I can say that every album is unique in their own way. The profuse use of intros / Outros used in “Inhumanization” are gone for good, and this time the band have chosen to deliver a fast and violent onslaught upon the listeners (the album is just 33 minutes)
Good choice of a cover, too. The aesthetics work very well with the concept of the music. One of the best southamerican bands nowadays without a doubt.
Goatpenis “Apocalypse War” CD
Brazilian Ritual recs./ Pagan War Records.
As you may know, Brazilian war metal veterans Goatpenis left Death Angle absolution records and decided to sign to this young Brazilian label before signing to the well known Nuclear war now recs. And in the meantime, they have released a mini album and now this new full length. As the tracklisting from the mini with the same title are basically the same, I’ll review this new full length only.
First, this album was released through the defunct label Pagan War records. After that, Brazilian Ritual records from the same country re-released it with a different cover, an enhanced layout and as a bonus a pro-shot DVD containing their full presentation at the 5th Brazilian Ritual Fest.
First of all, I must say that this album has been dedicated entirely to the movie “Apocalypse Now”, from where the concept has been taken. Not only the concept, but also the song titles have been taken from characters of that movie, with the exception of the old track “Master Blaster”.
And not only the album itself could be named as a “concept album”, even the intro (with samples from Wagner’s Ride of Valkyries played backwards) could be called a tribute to “fallen Angel of Doom”, whose intro has been done in the same manner and possesses the same spirit.
As for the rest, this time the songs are shorter than usual, with intros taken from the movie itself, and this recorded with a very clear and powerful production, which doesn’t diminish a bit the impact of Goatpenis’ musical assault. As for the style of the band, well perhaps you already know it, in fact this album is not very different itself, even if they have experimented with some keyboards here and there and the recurrent use of samples from that movie.
The lyrics, as usual, haven’t been included and this time the album feels shorter than previous efforts, but this is definitely a strong Goatpenis album. This new version is definitely worthy of purchase as the DVD is an amazing taste of what this band is capable of doing live.
Goatpenis “Live in Brazilian Ritual” CD/LP
Brazilian ritual recs
I have purchased this live album because I had great hopes in the overall production of the recording itself. All in all, I liked both songs included in the DVD version of this show, even if only 4 tracks were presented there. So, I wanted the full show. This is an splendid opportunity to check out the new Goatpenis material played live, as the previous live release was a show dating back to almost 10 years ago. Anyway, as I do enjoy Goatpenis’ onslaughts I do really like this album, even if I do have a problem with the mixing /editing itself. Having purchased as well the Blasphemy live album from the very same festival, I thought that Goatpenis should have given the same audio treatment. Unfortunately it’s not the case, as the songs presented herein do sound almost unintelligible to say the least. And that’s a pity, as they do deserve better. Anyway, here you’ll find their entire live set, including renditions from virtually every era of the band, older and newer tracks, which, despite the production value, do possess the fierceness of the band playing live.
Goatpenis “Anesthetic Vapor” LP/ CD
NWN! Prod.
Goatpenis, after being a band which took many years to release their debut album “Inhumanization”, seems nowadays to be very prolific because they keep releasing albums constantly. After their last album released on the Brazilian Pagan War records, they finally manage to sign with Nuclear War Now! Prod from the USA, which seem to be their best option considering the musical approach and aesthetics they do have. However, and those who have been following this band since their very beginning, must have realized that Goatpenis have abandoned their typical Brazilian old sound in favor to a more melodic approach, and this change have been very noticeable since the release of their second album. Since then, the band have been struggling to take back some of their old sound and mix it with their newly found sound. With Anesthetic Vapor, they try to stick to their War Metal motto by adding a more militaristic sound and a more militant drumming. Their lyrics are focused in Military Issues and their camouflaged cover is also a reflection of all this. However, their nordic Metal influence and their liking for melody with their riffs is still there, I can even listen some Dark Funeral influences (see title track!). This album doesn’t reflect a huge change within Goatpenis, they have turned their music into a more militaristic approach in aesthetic and arrangements, but basically it is the same Goatpenis we all know. Black Winds from the Canadian Blasphemy is doing some vocals here and J. Read from the also Canadian band Revenge worked on the cover art.
Goatpenis “Decapitation Philosophy” LP/CD
Nuclear War Now.
I’ve been following this band for many years now. It was a big surprise to know that they actually were going to release once and for all their debut album on a foreign label after many years of being formed and releasing a bunch of mediocre sounding demos.
Anyway, after “Inhumanization” was out, they never stopped working on new albums. And they never copied themselves either. Each and every album they put out was something new and a new re-interpretation of what they had previously done without staying far from their original principles. Having said that, it is safe to state that this new album, “Decapitation Philosophy”, which actually is their 7th studio album, marks a difference as well. After many years and albums, it is good to see that they have printed their lyrics again. And after checking them, it is notorious that they have been working on them. They do not only cover the different facets of war but also the psychological consequences giving to the album a sense of desolation and despair contrasted by the occasional outburst of victory and glory given by the choices of classical music and some samples used for that purpose. They have continued to evolve, not only taking advance of the melodies used, but also shaping the album as a completely devastating tool of anti-humanity.
Listening to this band will give you new perspectives regarding the management of every concept and musical structure employed without losing their distinct sound. What else? This band has matured with time and this album is a proof.
Goatvulva s/t LP/CD
Werwolf records
Anyone familiar with beherit should know at least of the existence of this side project. Even if it well known by name, it has been distributed mostly through bootlegs…until now.
This officially produced compilation presents the totality of recordings released by Goatvulva, including rehearsals. Well, basically everything they have done are rehearsals with very precarious production, homemade would be a more accurate description. Also, I don’t really know if this could be classified as “porno noise speed” either. It wouldn’t be fair because the songs, even if unlistenable most of the time, at least present basic riffings, some of them stolen from Beherit. Also,the porn samples used were included on the latter demos, so the title “porno noise” wouldn’t be accurate either.
Anyway, you wanted this released in an interesting way, then you got it. This should be the definitive edition. Nothing more to add here. Beherit enthusiasts should own this, for what it is.
Godless “Omega Omnipotens” CD
Crypts of Eternity prod.
I’m afraid that I’m not that prolific myself about the Chilean death metal. As a matter of fact, I wasn’t aware of Godless even if I heard from them because of their split with U. Kulten which is now a pretty familiar act from that side of the Continent.
Well, in fact Godless, who have been around for over 20 years, have released this new EP (whose playing time is over 30 minutes btw) under the death metal specialist local label Crypts of Eternity records. And man they do sound good. I do not like my death metal to sound neither half hearted nor weak and boring. And Godless is exactly the opposite. And how could they not be so, if they have taken influences mainly from Incantation and Dead Congregation. Godless do sound like an sturdy wall of Death metal, influenced by the two abovementioned acts but taking those doomy and heavy elements to a new level of intricacy and bizarreness. Therefore, Godless music never rests, it always evolves and feed itself from their basic elements presented there in and invigorates itself with that ever changing and insane drumming, which does not leave a single moment of changing and mutation. As for the lyrics themselves, they do deserve another review and analysis as they do cover interestingly elements of void and acausal elements present in the ever changing movements of death. I don’t know why they are quite dormant as a band, perhaps they are planning carefully their next assault. In the Meantime, this EP is a good start.
Grand Belial’s Key “Goat Thousand Young/Triumph of the hordes”2cd/2LP
World Terror Committee
Yes I know that I don’t usually review re-releases, and that is because it is stuff that most of you are aware of, especially with releases such as this one, being GBK a very well known act within the black metal subculture. And “Goat…” is just an essential demo for those who are familiar with this band. And that’s precisely the reason as to why WTC re-released properly this one hard to find demo.
I could categorize GBK as a band with two stages: with Gelal and without Gelal as a main composer. And both demos here presented exemplified perfectly this affirmation. “Goat..” if a demo exclusively composed by Gelal, and the trademark of his sound is exemplified perfectly. However, the influence of their former drummer and founder of the band took the initial stage ina different direction which would be corrected after his departure. And I mean within the lyrical boundaries. Those who know, know what I mean. As for the second demo, “Triumph…” is another completely thing as Gelal was barely involved and the musical outburst suffers from that. It is not that the demo is a bad demo, but it is different in sound and perspective. The label has been keen enough to include as a bonus, a rare live show dating from 1994 where the first demo is included in its entirety. The sound is raw but you’ll the perspective of their sound back at the time.
The label have included also a complete text featuring the complete history of the band at the time when both demos were recorded and also what really happened between the members which led to the departure of Vlad or Lord Fag as they used to call him.
Grave Desecration/Diabolous666/Putrid/Vlad 4 way split cd.
“Impious Noise Massacre”- Pentagram records.
This split has been in the talks for a long time now, and features four of the most representatives local underground bands, all of them featuring new compositions (with the exception of Grave desecration, which contributed also with 1 re-recorded songs from their 1st demo).
I would say that this is an split whose bands share in some way or another a similar vision, and therefore a contribution between them is quite understandable.
Starting with grave Desecration, this time they are a band with a full live line up, and their side follows the line established by their split with Unholy Massacre, this time the band sounds tighter and more cohesive with their brand of Black / war metal. Diabolous666 is a band which shares mostly the same vision and aesthetics, and without doubt it is the band whose style of bestial black death metal is more akin to G.D.
Following Putrid, they have learned with time how to compose songs in their own way, mixing melodies of traditional black metal with elements of death meta and making their songs sound very well balanced, with several influences.
Vlad it is a band which changed in sound since their very beginning, displaying elements and thrash influences to their already established black / death. Their style if the most “rough” and raw of the whole split, and with them this release is over.
Expect it to be released on vinyl during the next year as well.
Contact: info@pentagramrecs.com
Graveland “Thunderbolt of the Gods” LP / CD
No colours records.
It is interesting to note that after many years, Graveland is still loyal to their roots and continue to develop their style constantly, even if at some point I thought that Graveland as a project was stagnated.
Thunderbolts of the Gods is another improvement and / or development from their previous Spears of Heaven, reviewed above. First of all, this is the first time that Rob Darken leaves behind keyboards used as choruses and he has chosen to use a real female singer, which gives a more natural flow to the album itself. These choral and acoustic sections are mostly used at the beginning of each song, and are mostly omitted during the course of the songs, unlike previous albums.
Therefore, for the most part, the songs remain pure black metal with memorable riffing and the dynamic drumming implemented on their previous “spears of heaven” album.
Here, there are 5 long songs with an outro. I won’t go deep into every song as all of them follow the same pattern, and the lyrics continue to be epic and pro-pagan.
Perhaps, if you’re not too fond of this style, and you think that by listening to just 1 Graveland album you’ve listened to them all, then you don’t need this. Otherwise, this Is another epic installment from a band that know what they’re doing and are faithfully to their own sound.
Graveland “Pamiec i…” / “Ogien…” CDs
Warheart records.
I have decided to review both albums simultaneously, because both are similar in intention and form, and both are re-recordings of previously released albums, being the first of the two a re-recording of “Memory and Destiny”, while the other is a re-recording of “Fire of Awakening”.
So, what’s the deal then? Ok, simply put: Darken has wanted to do new renditions sung in Polish exclusively, and featuring members from his side project Lord Wind as guests. As you may know, usually Darken takes care of all instruments, including keyboards which are a very important part in the sound of the new Graveland. However, on these new renditions, keyboards have been left aside and REAL instruments have been used (violin, cello, etc), as well as real female choruses. Of course, these additions give both albums a more natural feel and dynamics, and they have even taken the time and effort to present a completely new artwork.
The result? Well, both albums feel more “natural” and “organic” if that’s the right term…and this time Darken has given priority to the new instruments and he has left the guitar behind of the mix therefore. The work given to the drums is an improvement over the original albums.
So, are these re-recordings better than the original albums? No, but they are different and a rarity and they should be taken for what they are.
Graveland “Hour of Ragnarok” LP/CD
Inferna Profundus Records.
Ok, Graveland is not a new name and what they have been doing or many years shouldn’t surprise anyone. Even if they have been active and releasing albums for many years they have managed how to keep their music in motion and constantly evolving even if superficially some may think that Darken is repeating himself over and over. With “Hour of Ragnarok” Graveland have taken a big step over the preceding albums. First of all, Darken has recruited a full recording line up, this meaning that finally he’s using real drums which helped a lot with the overall organic feel present throughout the album. Also, the artificial sounding keyboards used for the choruses were left behind in favour of the use of real instruments, even if they haven’t been abandoned totally. With Lord Wind Darken had given this step before so it is not a surprise here. Also, for the first time, Darken is doing clean vocals on some songs which I’m pretty sure they will evolve on future albums. This is a concept album of the Twilight and rebirth of an Era, and this concept also present the strong bond of blood and Soil and the resurgence of warlike ethos which is common throughout the whole Graveland discography. Thing is, do these improvements work in favour of a new sound and perspective? They do; even if Hour of Ragnarok possesses all the elements present in Graveland’s music, Darken has managed to reinvent and refine his sound and still remains Graveland. But at what cost? This new album suffers from a production that has buried virtually all guitar work in favor to the new elements. I’m still thinking that guitars should have been more prominent in the mix and still show the new musical improvements…sadly they didn’t achieve that.
So, all in all, “Hour of Ragnarok” not only offers what Graveland have been doing for a long time now, it also shows how a band can re-invent themselves and reach new heights in an already prolific discography.
Grave Miasma “Odori Sepulcrorum” DLP / CD
Sepulchral Voice records
After a quite successful mini album here comes Grave Miasma again with an above average album. I’ve heard that these guys wouldn’t release an album at all if the material is not exceptional. Ok, after listening to it I wouldn’t say it’s exceptional but at least original and utterly dark and obscure and for that reason Odori Sepulcrorum succeeds. I would describe their music as a mixture of Incantation and Dead Congregation but of course with some personal elements such as the use of many different instruments to endark even more their dead hymns...also they put extra dedication to their lyrical content, I won’t go into details here but there is no doubt that this album was thought very carefully, in every possible aspect. I’ve always preferred dark atmospheres when it comes to death metal and you’ll find alot of these on this album. Very good. Oh, and the visual aspect of the LP is a bonus too...
Grimoire de Occulte “Wisdom of the dead” CD/LP/Tape
Dunkelheit productions.
I’m being honest. I haven’t heard from this band before even if I knew a couple of the band members. Perhaps I’m just plain absent-minded and I’m just too much into my own things without caring too much for my surroundings. Well, in this case this album came to me unexpectedly. And I’m still thinking about how odd looks the cover art, done by Paolo Girardi himself. But, after properly listening to this album I realized it was done right and having in mind the right atmosphere this album exhales. I won’t say that this band is pretentious. It simply delivers what they do offer through their take of primitive and withered mid paced death metal. The band doesn’t want to surprise anyone with complex and virtuous arrangements. That is unnecessary when dealing with the simplicity and stagnating atmospheres of death. The riffs are simple and they repeat again and again hypnotically while the vocalist Philosoph describes how death infiltrates in dreams and appetites of the living. This album consists of only 5 tracks and one intro and they need no more. This album delivers exactly what they wanted to deliver with their necromantical Death Metal, and you should take it for what it is. I’m curious to know about the direction they may take in the future.
Grotesque “In the Embrace of Evil” LP
Hammerheart records.
Ok, this review refers to the already well known music of Grotesque; as you probably should know this compilation and tribute to this band has been released and re-released several times in different formats and editions. This particular edition is presented in a gatefold LP with a poster displaying the cover art.
Well, anyway, and as you probably should know by now, Grotesque is one of the Godfathers of the entire Swedish death metal scene together with Treblinka and Nihilist. These bands possessed their own vision and their own style of displaying their death metal and influenced generation after generation of bands, not only from Sweden, but elsewhere as well.
I’ve always said that Death metal shouldn’t be played by anyone, it’s an exclusive art executed by the ones who Understand it in the first place. Death metal should reek of death and pestilence, its thematic should be dark and satanic, and that’s what Grotesque was all about. There are many versions available, so just pick up your format and get this album.
GULAGGH “Vorkuta” CD
New Era Productions
While the last installment under the name STALAGGH was pure chaos from the beginning to the end, this first album of the GULAGGH series is a controlled dose of madness and suffering. It presents the voice of Stalin at the beginning of the album and then the screams of agony start slowly buids up to the point of being unbearable.
According to the band, they have used about 40 vocalists this time (several male patients who performed in the past with STALLAGH, and a few new female ones including a prostitute who had a terrible life full of abuse and suffering).
They have used also 30 children from a mental youth hospital in Holland. “It took us months to achieve this”, they told me. “We told the institution that we were doing a classical music project based on human screams and we needed a lot of material of screaming children. After a lot of negotiation they finally gave us permission to record 1 day.”
Also, the band members use for the first time classical instruments to achieve moments of tension and dispair. Now I’d like to know, what will it come next?
Hades Archer / Sabbat split cd
Veins full of Wrath records.
This release is kind of special because it show two bands from different latitudes performing directly from the amps and guts.
For the side of Hades Archer, they do offer a complete rehearsal revisiting past and new tracks and a hidden cover of Black Witchery. Then again, sharing some members with the also well known Force of Darkness, they know how to present their music on a completely different perspective even if they do share at some extent similar musical influences. Their songs are, fast and crushing demonstrations of a pissed blackened death thrash, fast, and relentless. And they do sound exactly in studio as they do live, which is a achievement that not many acts can reach.
As for the side of Sabbat, well they are extremely well known, they don’t offer a new recording but one live show recorded for the occasion. Well what can I say about them, I’ve always found them to be a unique act with unique vocals which are to my taste kind of annoying. But if you manage to skip that, their brand of old school metal is recognizable everywhere.
Just…get…this!
Hadez “Doomsday: The Death Rides” CD
A Sangre fria records.
This band which seems to return from the grave from time to time is back now with a new line-up and a new album. And a new sound too. And this fact shouldn’t be a surprise for any who knows the band. Every release possesses new influences and a modified perception, but not enough to turn them into a completely different band. Take for example this album which also presents three re-recorded songs from the demo-era. These songs are obviously death thrash. And the new songs are pure and simple, traditional death metal, with mainly a linear song structure and a new vocal work which differs from past efforts. The differences in every aspect is right there, even the lyrics have been “re-sculptured” so to speak. 8 songs, 36 min long.
Contact: www.asangrefriarecords.cjb.net / www.myspace.com/asangrefriarecs
Hammer “Shoax” CD
Werewolf records.
Debut album of a young Finnish act that delivers a catchy but at the same time melodic branch of black metal, quite common in the current Finnish BM scene. The lyrics aren’t included, but it seems, at least for the titles, that the songs are focused very much into anti-semitism/zionism. To be honest, Hammer doesn’t deliver anything that I haven’t heard before, but they surely know how to compose good and interesting riffs. Oh, and the album itself is pretty short, only 6 songs; but their demo was also included here
The LP version is also available at this time. Good start for a good band.
Contact: werewolf.blackmetal.fi
Hell Trepanner / Deshumanized split CD
Into the Abyss Domains
With a very fitting presentation and aesthetics for a rotten Death Metal combo, this would be the very first release on pro-cd by the local label Into the Abyss Domains.
For one side, we have Hell Trepaner, a Peruvian young band which is becoming very known for their well played, perhaps formulaic brand of brutal Death Metal. I don’t have anything negative to say about this band really. They promise an aggressive kind of death metal with wicked solos and they deliver exactly that. I couldn’t add anything to that really. The band is good and they should be ready for a debut album.
As for the side of Deshumanized, this is another young Peruvian death metal band influenced to a certain extent by the well known Mortem, especially in the solos which are pretty damn similar. But, unlike their counterparts on this split, they do play a more chaotic and cavernous sounding death metal. At least to my own taste, their side is the best offering of the split, but both bands deliver the goods here. This split is a very good taste of the new generations of what the local death metal scene can offer.
Contact: abyssdomains@gmail.com
Hellvetron “Death scrolls...” LP / CD
Hells Headbangers.
This is a project from the members of Nyoghthaeblisz (Texas / USA) and I’d say that this is indeed an interesting way of experiencing another musical side of that band. Because, even if this project differs in form and sound, some obvious traces can be found here as well. Hellvetron is focused in playing ritualistic atmospheres, extremely primitive and mid-tempo oriented black death metal with ocassional keyboards which enhance the whole aura of darkness. The album sounds very “cavernous” so to speak and fits very well the aesthetics given to this record.
I’m still thinking that this albums relies more on atmosphere rather than the music itself.
Holocausto “Diario de Guerra” LP/CD
Nuclear war Now Prod!
A few years ago, when this label signed to this once classic band from the 80’s, I was kind of skeptic because all who have been following this band, know very well that after the release of the now classic album “Campo de Exterminio”, they have been releasing mediocre albums, one after another. But the mini album was released, it was obvious that the band knew that if they were going to stay alive, they had to follow the path established on their debut album. The result was interesting, everything sounded like a modernized version of the old stuff. With this follow up album, “Diario de Guerra”, they have followed the same formula: they have recorded a modified version of their emblematic debut, but with a modernized sound and production, and even they have tried to recreate the atmosphere of the cover by using an old school looking design.
And with this, I believe that everyone interested in the debut album would be interested in this new output. The question is: how honest if this? Were they really looking to sound like this after numerous attempts of playing mediocre metal core HC stuff? Who knows. The point is that this album recreates and delivers the old sound everybody was expecting from them, and how could I describe their sound which is very well known to everybody? If everything stated above is enough for you to purchase the album, then go ahead.
Horda Profana “Fornicators of Jesus Christ” CD
Sons of Hell prod.
Another band coming out from Argentina, and the name of the game here is bestial black death metal influenced by the likes of Black Witchery, Beherit and the likes. They don’t do a bad job musically if you ask me. Alright, they haven’t invented the wheel but at least they try to compose and play their own riffs and not –completely- steal the riffs of others. Yes, there are similarities but that’s understandable given the limitations of the style they do play. The sound is powerful, something quite surprising coming from bands which choose a low production…
Well, if you have paid for the music and a blasphemic cover art, then everything is covered. As for the lyrics, I’ve listened to a lot of these cliché bands over and over, blasphemic lyrics without substance, everything is very basic, primitive and borderline the absurd. So, yes, I preffer to leave behind their lyrics and focus on the music exclusively.
Horna “Aäniä Yössä” CD
Debemur Morti recs.
I think that Horna’s music needs no further introduction, as they’re definitedly one of the most recognized force in Black Metal nowadays. Granted, their early material could have been categorized as “average” and “unoriginal”, but I think that long ago they have found their own path. And this album a truly a proof of this. “Aäniä Yössä” is a concept album based upon the “Yersinia Pestis” which scourged Europe during the 11th Century. About the lyrics I can’t comment, though, because, as usual, they’re written in Finnish. Anyway, what we have here are 4 long songs, manifested in two phases, which were arranged in two different periods of time. What makes this record different from other releases, is the fact that almost all the punkish influences are gone, and they were replaced by hypnotic and often repetitive sequences of riffs which denote an strong sense of darkness and disease. And, by doing this, the band has achieved the required atmosphere for the concept of the album. Horna has proved that they have a lot to offer, and you should pay attention to their releases.
Contact: www.legion-horna.com
Iagon “Tome of the Crystal Wizard” CD/LP
Dunkelheit productions.
There seems to be a rebirth or a re-discovering of the genre once Mortiis invented, and now labeled as “Dungeon Synth Music”. I’ve listened to a few of them, and was heavily discouraged about most. Why? Because most tend to sound amateurish, dull, and archaic and primarily they fail in their commitment to paint with music the visual aspect they want to describe. So, I say that I have to pass. But not all are like that. Very few projects really manage to capture the visual essence of the concepts they advertise. Luckily this unknown project from the USA seems to know very well what they are doing. If there’s a word that I could use to describe their music, that would be crystalline. I don’t feel Iagon to be some kind of obscure project by any means, but one to carry light above crystalline waters, and that’s the aim of them as such. In these cases, an additional text explaining the overall experience would be ideal, however in this case they haven’t provided it so the travel goes on your own and you must take it as you may interpret it personally.
I won’t ruin your experience by describing it, but thing is, Iagon have managed not only to deliver an ambient experience but also have managed to musically enrich their concept.
Contact: iagon.bandcamp.com
Inextremis “Azote a la Humanidad” CD
Necronausea records
I remember this band. It was one of those I had listened to at one of the shows I attended during the early 90’s. Unfortunately this is one of those bands as well which couldn’t make it and couldn’t record any official demo either. And not because they were either bad or deficient at all, in fact I remember that they were pretty good and delivered a good mixture of death and thrash metal, even if the gear and equipment used at shows back then were very deficient and you could barely understand the music being played at the moment. Anyway, after more than 20 years Necronausea was one of those labels which has been resurrecting old bands from their perpetual slumber and this time Inextremis was the chosen one.
This release consists of two rehearsals; dated from 1991 and 1990 respectively, and listening to these has been an experience only comparable to their early shows. I mean, they do not sound well enough to be mistaken as demos, but even in their limitations you’ll be able to listen and even figure out what’s going on in the rehearsal room. This band was pretty good I must add, not as prolific as some other during that time but for being a band which lasted for only 3 years I must say that they were good enough to record a proper demo. Necronausea has done a very good job here, as this anthology features an extensive booklet with photos, biography and a recent interview with the band giving enough information for those who weren’t there. With only 8 tracks, you’ll get an idea about the sound and ideals of Inextremis, and also you’ll know about the quality of sound that the local bands had to deal with at rehearsals and shows.
Contact: necronausea.records.peru@gmail.com
Infection “Acrotomophile Mutilator”CD
Gate of horror records.
This is the second álbum from this local band wthat plays brutal death metal in the North american vein, and frankly, this is the first time that I listened to this even if they have been playing quite frecuently in the local circuit. “Acrotomophile…” is a good álbum. They songs are well played and technically are proficiente even if I have never been too fond of this particular Brand of death metal. It is also to be noted that this band is practically the solo Project of the guitarist, who not only composes music and lyrics, but also for this álbum uses a programmed drum instead of relying on an actual drummer, and that’s quite unfortunate, as this band live sounds better, even if some of their influences, also rely on the use of programmed drums.
The production sounds clean, perhaps too much for this kind of death metal they are playing, almost sterile if I could say that. As for the lyrics, they’re entirely written in spanish even if the titles are in english. They are written in such a peculiar way for a gore death metal band, written in a quasi journalistic, humouristic and even academic way which heavily contrasts with their vocals brute dose of death metal. All in all, this band is for those interested in the genre. They have taken great care in producing and releasing this, even if I had opted for a traditional drummer. It is to be noted that the songs on their previous demo were composed by the live drummer Yesid Aranda.
Infinity “Non De Hac Terra” CD
New Era Productions.
I really thought that this album was the debut, but I found out that this Dutch act had 5 albums out already!. Ok, let’s see here, the band with this album have tried to do everything in a professional way, starting from the cover (which was done by the well known Necrolord), to the recording, arrangements, designs and everything in between. But the question is: has it worked out? I’d say, this album is not a catchy sounding album. I could name a few varied influences here and there by the way. From the likes of Northamerican based Absu, to the Swedish melodies of Dissection, so the label’s description was kinf of accurate I’d say. However, it’s not an easy listening I can assure, you’ll need several listens in order to catch what the band is trying to convey through their art, and at a certain extent that is good. Easy listening black metal is the least I would want to listen to nowadays. The lyrics are focused basically upon Sumerian lore, and christin criticism. But the music complement them in an interesting way. There’s melody, aggression and I’d say every ingredient which should appeal to any enthusiast of the genre.
Contact: www.infinity-blackmetal.com
In Nomine “Luck and Death” CD
Veins full of Wrath prod.
This is basically a side project of the bassist / vocal of Force of Darkness and Hades Archer, and of course, done with a different and more open perspective, not bound to any given parameter of the previous acts.
In Nomine play a brand of Thrash metal with lots of rock n’ roll and punk influences, with lyrics covering many topics, being the most recurrent the role of religion and the devil and their influence on the already doomed mankind.
And it is in that perspective that I Nomine’s music is kind of different to the common Black / thrash n’ roll acts of today, whose lyrics are mostly banal and mundane. They know how to write lyrics in an interesting perspective and at the same time write fast, aggressive and extremely catchy music. This EP plays like a full length and should be of interest to any interested in the archaic expression of black / thrash with punk elements.
Inquisition “Obscure Verses for the Multiverse” DLP/CD
Season of Mist.
You have already listened to Inquisition, therefore you know what to expect from a new album. I think that that the only aspect which is different from one album to another is basically the production, and some new elements added to the whole mix. On this album, Inquisition expand their usual concept dealing with devil worship to the extent of exposing the cosmic/ Multiverse theories, which was barely touched by their previous album. Besides, the production here is cleaner and I wouldn’t dare to call it more “organic” or at least it tries...
As usual, there are actual old riffs being recycled over and over, although this time Dagon is experimenting with different kind of vocals, guitar harmonies and even solos. Yes, the old Inquisition sound is enriched by these elements and frankly I don’t know how much could they possibly improve their already known way of composing hymns.
However, this album doesn’t disappoints. Get it a try.
Inquisition “Black Mass for a Mass Grave” CD/ 2LP
Agonia records.
Well, Inquisition have returned after a long hiatus and an undesired succession of events that kept them away from releasing new albums, but finally here they are at it once again. Look, reviewing Inquisition albums after their second or even third albums have been like continuing watching some series following a determined plot but with small variations which will make it interesting enough for the audience to keep going. They have established and developed a style years ago, successful for what it is and they have kept going using it album after album. The idea behind Multiverses and Chaos and Death as the center and origin has been also present before. But what does this new album offer when compared to the previous ones? Well, I’d say basically the arrangements and melodic inclusions which are unexpected at times, and even enhancing to their well known riffing. In such a way, “Black Mass…” offer a distinctive sounding album but with the inclusion of new elements which could keep the listeners interested in the album, at least for a while. And therefore I can understand why some people have labeled this as “their best album”. Well, it is not. Writing easy listening tracks do not turn any album into a better album. And now I’m wondering how they will replicate these arrangements live without losing the essence of their tracks.
Anyway, is “Black Mass…” a good album? I think so, but it works better at first listening; after that, all surprises are gone after ingesting it and everything that remains is, well, another Inquisition album with the elements that everybody into this band should know well.
Insane Apollyon s/t comp.
Breath of Pestilence prod.
This is more of a rarity instead of an actual release I think. For those who don’t know yet, Insane Apollyon is one personal project of one of the members from the Finnish Black Metal forefathers VORNAT. This one man project as a matter of fact only recorded a few tracks during the 90’s and then vanished. This cd compiles all of his recorded tracks, which, as a matter of fact, didn’t have any known name, only the first two songs do have a name actually. As for the rest, well, they are just Anonymous so to speak. Basically this project portrays some primitive yet original kind of Black Metal, pretty melodic and inspiring. Yet obscure of course. This project could be of interest to any into the VORNAT stuff and some other older Finnish Black Metal. On this compilation, the label has included a couple of ambient tracks which, to my taste, do not add too much to the already built atmosphere. As I said before, this is more a rarity than anything else.
INRI “In the pestilent graves of Christian Perversion” CD
A Sangre Fria recs / Espiritus Inmundos Recs
I’ve interviewed this local band for my 10th issue. At the time, they were supposed to release their second full length album. That never happened, but this cd is an announcement of that forthcoming release. Here, they have included 3 brand new tracks with a raw/unfinished mixing just as a sample of what’s to come. Also, they have included as bonus a console recorded live show dating back from 2007, which was literally their comeback show after many years of inactivity.
Ok, basically INRI have remained loyal to their already established sound, that is, old school death metal with emphasis in mid paced tempo. And spiced by some melodies of course. The lyrics remain the same; basically criticism to the Christian dogma/faith, emphasis in warlike manners and mysticism. I couldn’t compare their sound to any other band and that’s quite an accomplishment. They have returned with a new a line up but with already written songs many years ago. It will be interesting to listen to their new album is properly out. But, in the meantime, you may have a taste of what’s to come.
Intolitarian “Deathangle Absolution” CD
Deathangle Absolution records.
Ok, probably you should already know this project, as it’s the project of Antichrist Kramer, owner of the now defunct “Satanic Skinhead Propaganda” and now “Deathangle absolution records”. As a matter of fact, I knew about his other project called “Deathkey”, which is basically a noisecore solo project.
Intolitarian, is basically a grindcore noise project which involve 3 other session members. This specific album works as a whole. Everything, starting from the artwork and aesthetics presented, the lyrics, to the chaos presented through the songs and spoken parts, show that this album is nothing but a personal manifest of force, hate, and divorce from all mass ideologies. This entire album has been recorded during 2012 in Finland, in just a couple of recording sessions, so I assume that everything was improvised. However, every set of songs differ from others in form. It’s especially remarkable the work of the drummer here, who puts a lot of effort and variety to the set of songs, which are grouped into a set of 9 tracks, all of them starting with a spoken manifesto.
Perhaps this is just a personal idea of mine, but I’m still thinking that this album could be seen as a extremely noisier version of Revenge (Can), and even the aesthetics presented here could have been influenced by them as well.
This album is not senseless noisecore, this album has a purpose. Everything is connected. Everything reached its pinnacle.
Jess and the Ancient Ones “The Aquarius Tapes” 2LP / CD
Svart records.
J.A.T.A.O have changed, and this change was more than evident with the release of their 10’EP entitled “Castañeda”, which showed elements from Surf rock, in juxtaposition with their heavy metal / occult rock oriented debut. “Aquarius tapes…” shows a different face for the band. Much more surf rock and Occult rock oriented than their previous discography. From the infectious opening “Samhain”, to the Charlie Manson “tribute” song “Wolves inside my head” , and closing with the magnificent 22 minute opus “Goodbye to Virgin Ground”, which, to my opinion, is worthy the entire album alone, yes, it’s that good. Alright, describing each song would be an ardous job indeed, as every song is quite unique on its own. Honestly, I do think that this album is an acquired taste especially for the former fans of the band. The production is clean but at the same time re-assembles the old vive which flows throughout the album. I don’t know, personally although if every detail has been covered in this album, I still prefer their debut album for what it is. But at least I’m pretty satisfied with the mentioned songs…
Kataxu “Hunger of Elements” LP
Darker than Black recs.
This is an old album, originally released in the now defunct UK based Supernal Music, but re-released on vinyl by the German Darker Than Black records.
What can be said about Kataxu: it is one of the last bands coming from Poland which survived a great era for their scene. Bands such as Fullmoon, Moontower, Graveland, Thunderbolt and more which embraced nationalistic and neo pagan ideals. Sadly, this was Kataxu’s swan song , because after this, only a split was released and the band was dissolved.
Anyway, what impresses me the most about Kataxu is their mastering in the use of keyboards, something very uncommon in the Polish scene back then. I’ve always been very fond of the Norwegian Limbonic Art, and Kataxu would be their polish version, and that’s a compliment. The songs are well elaborated, well composed and the keyboard arrangements sinuous and basically take over the whole songs.
What else could be said about this album…this is a piece of Polish BM history in its highest peak and you should get it as such.
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Kvasir’s Blood / Vrildom “A Pact of steel from North to South” split CD
Breath of Pestilence
These 2 bands are well known among BOP’s rooster, and there’s a reason behind that, in such a way that there’s also a reason of why they would end up working together on a split album. Most split albums are unbalanced, that is, the bands involved have different goals, different approaches and different motivations. In such a case, a split would be useless, empty, banal, but in this case, it is quite impressive how both bands, being from the north and south, share many similitudes, and even musical approach if one is able to discern it.
Both bands start with an intro track setting the mood of their side, and then continue their participation with 3 additional tracks. Kvasir’s Blood offers an evocative, melodic and consistent take of black metal pretty much influenced by the 90’s sound. If the music wasn’t well thought and performed then this wouldn’t be of any surprise to anyone. However, this is not the case, though. The band’s meditative yet at the same time melodic and nostalgic music is well complemented by lyrical work which takes the struggle as a necessary step in order to reach eternity and cohesiveness of the folk; rejecting empty modernity and embracing spiritual tradition.
On the side of Vrildom, their approach is similar, perhaps the melodic side isn’t too much accentuated in certain sections but they try to maintain the evocative and nostalgic atmosphere very much presented on their second album “Sigma Octantis”. Identitarian tradition is present of course, linking southern nature with esoteric tradition and the quest of the Grail as means to awaken the dormant atavism already present in Blood.
After listening to both bands you’ll find how cohesive and complementary are both bands in this split . I don’t know if this is intentional or not, but the message is there for anyone willing to contemplate it beyond the mere interest in the musical aspect.
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Kawir “Father Sun, Mother Moon” CD / 2LP
Iron Bonehead prod.
As you may know, Kawir is one of the most prominent and devoted acts in today’s Pagan / black metal Hellenic scene, and this is for a reason. Almost 23 years of pretty constant activity, with a constantly developed pagan / black metal in the old Hellenic tradition. Yes, I must admit that I have lost trace of Kawir since a few years ago, and I’m pleased to know that they’re still alive and well, and of course, keeping in stock their past discography for a new audience; that’s why a box set with old albums has been released on LP and CD.
Well, regarding this current album, it took four years in the making and their style has been developed pretty well. The interesting fact about this band is that they have taken the good old Greek BM sound and mixed it with traditional folk instruments such as flutes and the use of choirs to transform it into an epic journey through the inmense Greek Mythology. Here you’ll find 8 long songs dealing with Pagan heretic Grandeur.
Unfortunately, the booklet is there of course, but the lyrics are written in Greek. Nothing wrong with that of course, but I do think that they should include English translations for those interested in reading and / or studying them, especially knowing that Kawir is distributed worldwide. Monster of an album.
Koroidia “Wrath Abomination” MCD
Ceremonial records.
This is basically the first EP from Koroidia, a traditional sounding Death metal band based in Florida, USA.
The first thing that comes to my mind after listening to this, is that this EP could have been easily released during the 90’s, together with the rest of North American death metal bands like early immolation and Brutality. Basically this band is a mid tempo death metal band, with tendency to heaviness and well crafted solos. Ok, they do not offer anything new to the genre, but are revalidating the old spirit of the North American death metal sound, which is quite rare to find nowadays.
Here you’ll find only 5 well recorded and produced tracks, which will leave you hungry for more. Show your support to this new act and buy this EP.
Kranium “Uma Tullu” CD
Gestores Culturales records.
Look, speaking about Kranium’s vast contribution to the Peruvian scene is undeniable. This is one of the oldest acts which for some reason suffered from long periods of inactivity, line up changes and even transformations of sound and form. But all in all, it is undeniable that Kranium’s lineage is one of the most respected within the local scene and this album, properly named “Uma Tullu” (Skull in English) is some sort of culmination and apotheosis for their long career which started as a band playing some primitive and effective death thrash metal and ventured to the realms of doom influenced by local folk Andean music which culminated in the acclaimed debut album “Testimonios”. Well, after more than 20 years of having released this album, the band come back with this second effort. But, is it somewhat different? At some extent, they have focused this album into the local traditions and legends of Lima and certainly this fact is what interested me the most. Their take and perspective of these traditions, musicalized and arranged in such a way that this album is an extensive tour the force for those curious enough to discover how this band could give sound to these legends and remaining Kranium in the process. “Uma Tullu” continues developing their Doom Metal but mixed with 70’s rock and spiced with the inclusion of flokish musical instruments such as Palo de Lluvia, cencerro, cajon, and some others. This, summed to the clever arrangements and nice melodies makes “Uma Tullu” into a very enjoyable album, even for those not interested too much into this style of music, myself included. The band should promote this album overseas and a vinyl release would be greatly appretiated.
Kriegsmaschine “Apocalypticists” CD/LP
No Solace records.
Latest incarnation of this Polish black metal with members of MGLA. Well, basically they were a previous and long standing entity almost at the same time when MGLA came to existence. Obviously they are two different entities with different perspectives and therefore should be judged and treated accordingly. This is their third album, and released 4 years after their previous one.
“A descent into the depths of the Underworld” would pretty much explain the essence of this band. I would also add the desperate, eternal and incommensurable spiral descent into the darkest recesses of one’s psyche – “without trail ahead, without purpose, hopelessness.” For such a purpose, the music has been constructed and planned as a middle tempo quasi melodic, dissonant and sluggish black metal which is gracefully enhanced not by a dead percussion but by a profoundly dynamic and rhythmic drumming which is one of the highlights of the album. The desperate, hopelessness atmosphere is there, dragging the listener into the eternal perdition- “every thought that could be born and all that could have been is no more”.
This album, as you may have guessing, is not an easy listening, but a downward spiral which will suck you deeper and deeper into the desperate atmospheres recreated therein.
If you are looking something similar to MGLA, you won’t find it here.
Kull “Exile”CD
Black lion Records
From the tomb of Bal Sagoth comes Kull, which basically is a continuation of the former band but without their all time vocalist.
Bal Sagoth was without doubt one of my favorite bands because not only took symphonic referenced and balanced them with their unique brand of Death/black metal, but also was heavily inspired by the way of writing of Robert E. Howard, which is one of my all time favorite writer.
So, having that in mind, it is quite obvious why I was intrigued to know where the Maudling brothers would take this new incarnation of their band. So, they recruited a new vocalist and embarked themselves into this new journey. Needless to say, Kull maintains the essence of Bal Sagoth in every possible way. Not only musically, but their new conceptual work is also very close to the form of Robert E. Howard’s writings. Intricate musical labyrinths which seem to open a new secret path to be discovered on further listenings, serves a framework for their stories mixing the profane and earthly battles with the divine nature of the cruel gods of old…so, in such a sense, this album is exactly what a Bal Sagoth enthusiast could expect, and perhaps more. The years of experienced composing have paid off without doubt.
Now on the production: I don’t exactly know what has been the arrangement between the band and their new found record label, but this time, production wise, the album sounds somewhat muddy and that fact restricts in a sense the correct listening, especially on intricate passages, something which was non existent on previous Bal SAgoth albums. Also, I think that they should have included a sheet or insert with their lyrics and prefaces as they are very long and the choice of font and color for their cd booklet makes the reading a really painful process, and in such a way, restricting the whole experience. Exile is a really good album, but technical choices made it difficult for those who want to be immersed into this album enjoy it properly.
Kvasir’s Blood “Triumph of the Will” CD/LP
Breath of Pestilence.
I remember having seen their first album WOTAN somewhere on a mailorder, even if I didn’t pay too much attention to this project. I wish I did. I didn’t even know that this was a solo project. But well, I’m glad I’m checking it out now, because Kvasir’s Blood is a project of quality without doubt.
I’m glad they have included as a bonus for this cd edition their previous 2 track EP, so I may have an idea how this band evolved from then.
Basically what we have here with this cd is a traditional sounding Black Metal, very melodic and with grandiose and very imaginative riffing, and I didn’t know that it comes from the USA I’d say that this a Finish project. And I say so because Kvasir’s Blood reminds me of early Satanic Warmaster and even Behexen , in the riff department that is. Is that something good? Well, yes, perhaps it is, because who could get tired of that sound?
The lyrics weren’t included here, and the sola band member has explained the reasons.
As a result I’m thinking about getting their previous installments as well, and you should do the same.
Lament Christ “The Agonic Fall of Mourners” CD
Thrashirts records
It is indeed strange how this band, formed during mid 90s and after having released one sort of iconic demo which for some strange reason hasn’t been properly distributed, have managed to rise again from the ashes as if nothing had happened at all. They simply appeared out of nothing with this album. Composed in its entirety by his founder and leader Juan Carlos Sotelo, “The Agonic Fall” offers a journey thro0ug the darkest corridors of the human soul and “agonic” feelings and bitterness.
This band shouldn’t stop activities after their first demo. They simply shouldn’t. I won’t delve into the endless discussion of comparing this new work with their previous work. It is different and at the same time it is not. It is worth noting, though, that all the bands which served as influences for this band at the time of their formation, ended up prostituting their art or simply disappearing in the process. On the contrary, Lament Christ kept the best from them and encapsulated it for the right time of composing these new tracks. This album is over 1 hour of playing time and offers only 7 tracks, being one of them an intro. Very much like their early influences, My Dying Bride, Anathema and early Celestial Season to name a few, Lament Christ know how to handle their time, riffing and song structures properly so that the listening for the album is an smooth and rewarding experience. And about their lyrics, well they haven’t been quite prolific writers, as a matter of fact even if their influences had a unique way of portraying their inner darkness it seems that Lament Christ had problems by expressing and exteriorizing it, the lyrics are quite simplistic and overly generic in contrast with the well elaborated music. Does this album pay off?? It surely does. Anyone familiar with the above mentioned bands and longing for that pure, unaltered sound, should focus their attention into this album.
Lebensessenz « Tage der Nostalgia » LP
Dunkelheit prod.
In addition to the self released cd-r (soon on pro-printed CD), the German label finally releases a limited vinyl edition, and this is a great choice because so far it’s the most prolific set of songs that Mr. Schner has recorded so far. The music is still melancholic, tragic and still reminds me of early Penitent, even if this is far more complex than the Norwegians counterparts.
The songs carry an strong European identity and that’s understandable. I don’t know what to add here as my knowledge regarding classical or neo-classical compositors is pretty limited so I couldn’t compare this with something else, but I’ll tell you that if you enjoy neo-clasical piano compositions you should be able to enjoy Lebensessenz as well...
Mr. Scnher has participated in a Pagan Black Metal Project so the structure of the songs are related in a way I think, and that is god as the songs are easy to get into.
Just lisen to this record in a darkened room. Contact: see above.
Legion of Doom “Ceremony of Domination” CD
Hades Productions
Well, this is a very important release to those interested in this really good old school Hellenic Black Metal band, because compiles basically every song featured on 7 eps and standalone releases, practically from their first releases to newer ones.
For those who aren’t familiar with Legion of Doom, this is a very respected Black Metal band from Greece, rooted from the 90’s and, luckily, haven’t changed their sound after so many years and a few full length albums. They could be described as 90’s inspired black metal. Granted, their music isn’t that original, but what they do lack in originality they do superseded in musicianship and greatly composed riffing. Their releases could be counted in just very few, but actually they do take their time to compose greatly their music. And yes, since the 90’s they have used synths in order to enhance the atmosphere of their music.
What else could I say about them? This release is numbered and limited to 200 copies so it should be a priority to get it ASAP.
Leibstandarte “Ein Volk, Ein Reich…” LP / CD
Hass Weg Prod.
Ok, this project took me by surprise as this is not actually a band but a project consisting of a few well known members who play in another French bands but wanted to keep their anonymity for this one. Well, the title says it all. This is NSBM straight from France with the expected aesthetic, intros and typical lyrics for bands of the genre. It is just when you do manage to listen to it you will realize that they are playing the safe card and doing exactly what their listeners would expect from a band with such thematic.
Having established that beforehand, and focusing into the music itself, I would say that, in its simplicity, the music and riffing is good and very melodic, and I’d say that it is here where resides the charm of this album. Basically, as a NSBM album it doesn’t offer new elements, but the originality and good riffing compensate the rest. I wouldn’t add anything else as this short review resumes what this album is all about. Oh, and the lyrics weren’t included either.
Light of the Morning Star “Nocta” LP/CD
Iron Bonehead prod.
I was quite interested in this project when I listened their previous mini album “Cemetery Glow”, and no, I’m not too fond of Gothic metal in the first place. But this band, even if it clearly shows influences , I wouldn’t say that they are entirely a Gothic band, because they have indeed a black Metal vibe. Nocta continues in the same way as the previous mini album. In fact, LOTMS’s songwriting hasn’t progressed either. Once you get the basic melody, then you’ll find that the songs are built around basically a chorus-verse structure. Now, I don’t mind that, as long as the song is good, and for the most part, they are. The dark vibe and atmosphere is what matters basically. As I don’t know many gothic bands, I couldn’t compare this band to anything but I must recognize that, after a while, their music tends to be quite repetitive, so I’ll listen to this album in small doses.
Lugubria “Treseises” CD
Dark Art Lugubrem Prod.
Lugubria is a local Black metal band that have maintained a low profile so to speak since their creation. However, they have released a couple of albums, an split, an EP and even a couple of videos. Releasing this compilation on a pro-cd was a good move from their side. Because in this way they let us know about their progression and career.
Basically what Lugubria do is traditional Black metal from the 90’s, focusing their songs into creating a dark atmosphere basically. Their riffs are not that memorable, but they serve their purpose well: on every song the opening riffs serve as a prelude to the particular atmosphere created for that song which is basically the essence and core of the song.
Treseises is composed of the most memorable tracks from every past release, and of course, including a couple of new tracks and even a rendition cover of Beherit.
With this release, they should get more following, they deserve it for struggling in the underground for 10 years.
Contact: darkartlugubrem@hotmail.com
Lugubria / Aphangak / Bloody Cross 3 way split cd
Dark Art Lugubrem prod.
This 3 way split is interesting in the sense that let the southamerican audience know basically about the trajectory of local acts through the sampling of their discography. “Dialogus Scuros”, as this split is called, is basically a compilation featuring 4 songs per band. Honestly, I was hoping for completely new material here, even if only Lugubria (Peru) grace us with a couple of new tracks. This Peruvian black metal band, as I have said it before, would be perhaps the only one left in Peru playing this kind of symphonic Black Metal used to be played during mid 90’s. And they continue developing their already established style. The inclusion of keyboards to their melodic Black metal always has been a plus to establish their atmospheres. As already said, they offer 2 new tracks and the other 2 are already well known hymns.
Aphangak (Colombia) couldn’t be a better companion for this split. They basically play a symphonic kind of black metal which shares almost the same influences with lugubria. These 4 songs show how do the band have been improving and developing their style, from a standard Black metal with keyboards to a very melodic and well structured black metal including even clean vocals which influenced by the 2nd album from Emperor, Old Mans chid and the likes.
As for Bloody Cross (Chile) we all know already their barbaric black death metal approach, and here the band has compiled songs even dating from 1993, to their album from 2001.
Perhaps “Dialogus Scuros” is not a split with new material, but a sample of how these southamerican acts have been improving their at throughout the years.
Contact: Dark Art Lugubrem prod (facebook)
Lugubria “In nomine Tenebras et Silentium” CD
Dark Art Lugubrem prod.
Sadly this is the third and last installment of this Peruvian Black Metal band. And I say last because they have announced officially that they won’t record any other album but they won’t cease with their activities.
Lugubria is a band which have been cultivating a black metal sound rooted in the 90’s, that is, grim, solemn, dark with symphonic elements and with lyrics dealing with a romanticized approach to darkness, vampirism, the dark side of nature and even the occult manifestation of NS Germany, so that is quite indeed an strange but intriguing combination.
It is remarkable the fact that this band have been struggling to keep their art alive in a scene uninterested for this particular sound and approach to 90’s black metal. They have been organizing shows and releasing records, splits and whatnot through their own label Dark Art Lugubrem, but they decided that with this album Lugubria wouldn’t have the need to release something new.
This is a long album, almost one hour running time. The songs themselves are long, well structured and with an interesting sense of melody and simplistic but enhancing symphonic arrangements. It is remarkable to not that this has been mostly the work of the remaining original band member, who recorded guitars, bass, keys and vocals. In such a sense this album, presented in a well and sober digipack, serves as a testament for a band which is indeed a rarity in a scene dominated by trends and easy to digest music. This stuff has been made to meditate upon the reflective nature of black metal and not as simple entertainment.
Leidungr “De Nio…” CD
Equilibrium Music.
This is quite an interesting reléase, and was in the waiting for some time but luckily it’s out now. This is nothing but the side project of Henry Muller (Puissance, Arditi) and Belphagor (Ofermod), so, starting from there, it is interesting to know what could they achieve with this. Ok, Leidungr is basically a project which merges elements from Neoclassical music, Martial Industrial vibe ever present and nothing less than Neo-folk touches ever present on these tracks. The result, if you ask me, is pretty good as everything is very well balanced. It is interesting to listen to an hybrid of Puissance / Arditi and following the same vibe of Integrity but mixed with acoustic guitar and some other instruments accompanying everything with a nordic neofolk atmosphere.
As for the vocal addition, it is recited solemnly, although the texts were written entirely in Swedish, which is quite disappointing as the minimalistic looking digipack should have included translations of these.
Anyway, this is an interesting addition to your neofolk / martial Industrial collection.
Luvart “Necromantical Invocation”CD
Hamer of Damnation recs.
This is another great Black metal band coming from Brazil. As a matter of fact I didn’t listen to this band before and it was a good surprise to know that they follow the same path established by old acts like Samael, Hellhammer and Bathory.
I’m very enthusiastic about old Samael so this band took me by surprise. In fact, the last I chacked a band with direct Samael influences was when I listened to the Polish Xantotol. And yes, Luvart takes SAmael (7’ep / debut album era) as a primal influence. Here you’ll find 10 songs in more than 50 minutes of heaviness and Morbid Metal, with the lyrical side focused into Medieval Witchcraft and Medieval Satanism.
If you have a chance, try to listen to this act, as practically no one else is playing in such a way nowadays.