tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65354586187902119072024-03-28T08:42:46.137-04:00Two Guys Metal ReviewsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger5394125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-15419038042681985802024-03-25T12:24:00.001-04:002024-03-25T12:24:02.325-04:00Desolus - System Shock<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLQZ0gOI8pM82dHCGk816h-8pWirZGiNjElt1xJXSZubaJo_rzFRWHoWAWnFV_wu9TU63OE1KBWCToZnigpLyTW8lnjlDxER_j2x9mIEYr9PmAc8NVKxzBHqRShuditDJbh5jvMXwR-UUHbiwdRVhXHUuxx_ks1H_xxfB3qF_gdMaJS9mIrDs1uMaWs8/s425/497980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLQZ0gOI8pM82dHCGk816h-8pWirZGiNjElt1xJXSZubaJo_rzFRWHoWAWnFV_wu9TU63OE1KBWCToZnigpLyTW8lnjlDxER_j2x9mIEYr9PmAc8NVKxzBHqRShuditDJbh5jvMXwR-UUHbiwdRVhXHUuxx_ks1H_xxfB3qF_gdMaJS9mIrDs1uMaWs8/s320/497980.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>This one FUCKING shreds. Desolus are a thrash metal band like few others, pulling deep influence from the likes of Sodom and Kreator. Their unapologetic thrash metal sound is fierce, raw and a little bit terrifying. There is something wonderfully addictive to the balls out assault that they deliver on <i>System Shock</i>. This is thrash metal done with a deep understanding of the German scene, where intensity is the prirority and it's impossible not to be enamored with the crippling assault that Desolut bring forward across all ten tracks of this album. </p><p>And of course - this thing is coming out on Hells Headbangers, the perfect home for unrelenting thrashing mayhem. <i>System Shock </i>is a skullcrusher. They come for the throat and keep us from breathing time and time again. There are very few bands I see in the US scene emerging that have such a deep understanding of the genre and go for it in a way that is so cripplingly heavy. <i>System Shock </i>thrills because of the blasting ferocity of the album, it's over the top, and Desolus know it. This isn't supposed to be thrash metal for VH1 fans, this is thrash metal for people obsessed with the underground, constantly looking for that next stage dive inducing terrorstorm. </p><p><i>System Shock </i>is an unrelenting delight, a record that leans into the tropes of the genre but does so with aplomb. And when the tropes rule - don't you just want more of them? Desolus get it, simple as that. <i>System Shock </i>is the sound of them unleashing their finely honed craft at a million miles an hour and for those of us who have found solace in the angular riffs and flashy solos that define this sound then <i>System Shock </i>is going to be a welcome addition to the canon. One can only hope this is just the beginning for one of the assault. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/item-group.asp?pgpID=36784">https://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/item-group.asp?pgpID=36784</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-51834895152450581762024-03-19T12:02:00.002-04:002024-03-19T12:02:21.779-04:00Duindwaler - In het Heemskerks duin<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0A3ccxBs4QDJeH9znHPa80N_ibUkmEnmbt-X-hrBXAJFcZgrrBkoFIbkHzYSA93SNQ7FhHYXKU1mRsMTSTmmB-GfnEwClB0lI2f9gLzsa-295CRdkAitw9oMEcNxhxPrWHsnglMc15Dp5ZZ44sF7vZJHIpYFfBthD2aXqQlFosh5thiPpMCNFh99J9jE/s425/903361.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="425" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0A3ccxBs4QDJeH9znHPa80N_ibUkmEnmbt-X-hrBXAJFcZgrrBkoFIbkHzYSA93SNQ7FhHYXKU1mRsMTSTmmB-GfnEwClB0lI2f9gLzsa-295CRdkAitw9oMEcNxhxPrWHsnglMc15Dp5ZZ44sF7vZJHIpYFfBthD2aXqQlFosh5thiPpMCNFh99J9jE/s320/903361.jpeg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Dutch black metal scene has been churning out interesting records in recent years. Duindwaler is one of the many projects that color the unique Dutch black metal landscape and their new album <i>In het Hemskerks duin </i>is a masterful offering. This is black metal done wit ha vision for a stripped back, twisted sound, an approach that serves them well as they unveil monochromatic and punishing soundscapes that lure you deep into the most wonderfully dark layers of the bands sound. Duindwaler understand the fundamental power of black metal and their path forward leans into this misery. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is a chilling sense of anguish that defines a lot of what Duindwaler do on this record. <i>In het Heemskerks duin </i>works because of the raw sense of suffering that bleeds through the music .This is black metal done with a vision to claw at the darkest reaches of our collective sanity. It's hard not to be charmed by the visions they bring to life here with tremolo picked guitars and surprisingly agile basslines sitting underneath some wonderfully vicious, unforgiving vocals. Duindwaler also inject their music with a fitting sense of bombast, with tracks like "Het duister bestormd" crashing down upon listeners and forcing them to come to terms with the thunderstorm of sounds that Duindwaler control with such aplomb. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>In het Heemskerks duin </i>is a hellishly delightful first full length from this one man black metal project. It's a record that gets wonderfully personal and which understands what iti s to suffocate under a storm of self consciousness. The undeniable and burning fires that fuel Duindwaler are relentlessly compelling and letting yourself get lost in these miserable ministrations is certain to keep listeners in awe and coming back for more. <br /></div><p></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://voidwanderer.com/product/duindwaler-in-het-heemskerks-duin-cd/">https://voidwanderer.com/product/duindwaler-in-het-heemskerks-duin-cd/</a></i> <br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-677180341631899042024-03-18T10:29:00.003-04:002024-03-18T10:29:47.200-04:00Lvme - Of Sinful Nature<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLWG1FROJYyr-j6tMEMv_IR_xj5Jy1jHJSGgs_h0pfl-oyrALc8RMa4vMdOI24-Mwq0vdPUSJfVS-bDnt_Dnode7nJenSaaTPVDEWQVY4xkAOP5g_4SfPgqugo7IE9zSLhfsLxCgubXbarFc8Uh_OdPRWHb9HPsNlsFMknqNq7PbBqBvQtSbNPkyLF-I/s425/877576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLWG1FROJYyr-j6tMEMv_IR_xj5Jy1jHJSGgs_h0pfl-oyrALc8RMa4vMdOI24-Mwq0vdPUSJfVS-bDnt_Dnode7nJenSaaTPVDEWQVY4xkAOP5g_4SfPgqugo7IE9zSLhfsLxCgubXbarFc8Uh_OdPRWHb9HPsNlsFMknqNq7PbBqBvQtSbNPkyLF-I/s320/877576.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>This is a crusher. The ferocious new album from Lvme, <i>Of Sinful Nature </i>is a release that understands the blazing magic of black metal and forces devotees of the underground to come to terms with the vast evil that Lvme wield. This is black metal done right, with a taste for despair, larger than life compositions and an overarching sense that Lvme are emerging from the depths of hell in order to punish us with their devilishly inspired music. <i>Of Sinful Nature </i>is a crusher and it's a delight to let yourself get lost in the morass. </p><p><i>Of Sinful Nature </i>impresses with its larger than life compositions and grandiose aesthetic. There is something to be said for the potent vision that they are bringing here, but for me its really the immersive nature of the music that gets me excited and curious for more. With this album <i>Lvme </i>are consistently vying towards something transcendent and powerful, belayed by a deep understanding of the aesthetics and visions behind the best black metal. With endless tremolo picking and some surprisingly dreamy melodies, <i>Of Sinful Nature </i>finds a way to balance dark and light. A track like "Into Ashen Stone" is a great example of this with its poetic sonic explorations and counterbalanced black metal fury. </p><p>There is something wonderfully mesmerizing about Lvme's work on this album. As the chants gently kick off "Obenaus und Nirgends an!" the album closer, you get a sense of having come full circle, of having been fully ensconced in a very particular black metal vision. <i>Of Sinful Nature </i>is larger than life, twisted and curiosity inducing. Lvme understand exactly what it takes to bring listeners into the abyss and it's hard to pull yourself away once they have sunk their icy claws into you. Take a journey between dark and light, explore<i> </i>your sinful side. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://www.noevdia.com/shop/">https://www.noevdia.com/shop/</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-5349918287699380962024-03-11T10:55:00.002-04:002024-03-11T10:55:10.079-04:00Apparition - Disgraced Emanations From A Tranquil State<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKXzBAwsHU4-TDNiVDzivfWlw1QAzVOT0MkTW89YShfPrYRf6iX2nl1PGRV4zqTs_jsYtb2rOvz1oF611XSg5PEqhURfhRxwCHbx8gq9x9fCscQKgYnceAkC96I-o4r9axSdyPkj3EX34dJQgpRG1ZVb-ve37QKiFxqcM7CxJ7b0Dr81e-3oN_2PfTDo/s1500/Apparition1705938681002163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKXzBAwsHU4-TDNiVDzivfWlw1QAzVOT0MkTW89YShfPrYRf6iX2nl1PGRV4zqTs_jsYtb2rOvz1oF611XSg5PEqhURfhRxwCHbx8gq9x9fCscQKgYnceAkC96I-o4r9axSdyPkj3EX34dJQgpRG1ZVb-ve37QKiFxqcM7CxJ7b0Dr81e-3oN_2PfTDo/s320/Apparition1705938681002163.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>This is a fucking crusher. <i>Disgraced Emanations From A Tranquil State </i>is doom death metal done brutally and unapologetically right. There's been few albums I've come across in recent years that manage to be quite as dark, twisted and generally demented as this release. It's death metal done in a way that drags at the soul, that forces listeners to choke on the bitter pill of their own reality and which seems to only get more potent with each repeated listen. Apparition understand exactly what needs to be done to create enduring and thrilling death metal, and the deeper I delve the more in awe I become. </p><p>There is a truly potent atmosphere to what Apparition are doing on this album. <i>Disgraced Emanations From A Tranquil State </i>resonates because of the creeping power of this album and the brutarian stomp of the bottom end. The kvlter than thou magic of the reverbed out vocals and colossal guitar production can't help but to charm those of us who have given our lives to the underground. As you try to come to terms with this record it can feel a bit like trying to clamber up a mountain. It's larger than life and completely impossible to wrap your head around in the first few minutes. As you immerse yourself though you start to realize you are experiencing something truly great. </p><p><i>Disgraced Emanations From A Tranquil State </i>has the sort of vibe and magic you would sense when you discovered forgotten classics as a teenager. There is something inherently exciting about finding a record like this with song titles like "Excruciating Refuge In Reoccuring Torment" and wondering what the hell you've just stumbled upon. Apparition understand the power and glory of the genre, the terror of the sound and the monster that is death metal. It's on us to immerse ourselves in the crushing atmospheres they've created to make us suffer. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://apparitiondeath.bandcamp.com/">https://apparitiondeath.bandcamp.com/</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-48224695563882319912024-03-07T10:45:00.001-05:002024-03-07T10:45:12.091-05:00Coffin Storm - Arcana Rising<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmV9nnUxHHVec1kmdtDIFkI62Y_vXPITu7Ho5Bj7hHZ9ctaQohiF2mpGfP1U7EkAvtxGx0Bn8etxxKRMUnbukBlPFGTOsCzPPfXT8sET3uASoJAeIpCj9OrZCUqzT0f3kxKZrJXqXMbObqAZlGMsY8efq3xf1ieZpI_rDZq_uEcnmei-sCaBktumZRQQ/s425/836272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmV9nnUxHHVec1kmdtDIFkI62Y_vXPITu7Ho5Bj7hHZ9ctaQohiF2mpGfP1U7EkAvtxGx0Bn8etxxKRMUnbukBlPFGTOsCzPPfXT8sET3uASoJAeIpCj9OrZCUqzT0f3kxKZrJXqXMbObqAZlGMsY8efq3xf1ieZpI_rDZq_uEcnmei-sCaBktumZRQQ/s320/836272.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><i>Arcana Rising </i>is the debut album from Coffin Storm, a classic metal project featuring a few familiar faces. I mean it's not every day you get a band with Apollyon (Aura Noir/Lamented Souls) and Bestial Tormentor (Infernö/Lamented Souls) plus Darkthrone’s very own Fenriz on vocals. The end result is a record that speaks not just to Fenriz's weirdly vast skill as a musician, but also the power of classic metal. This is a fun album and you can tell the guys involved had a blast creating it. But that's not all that makes this record so special. <br /></p><p>For those who loved Darkthrone's classic <i>The Underground Resistance </i>there is a lot reminiscent of that particular era of the band. Replete with flashy solos, high flying performances and shredding guitars, <i>The Underground Resistance </i>consistently pulls listeners ever deeper into the abyss. There is a very meaningful twisted magic to the album and Fenriz's gorgeously bombastic voice is a potent guide through the storm of NWOBHM inspired riffs. There is something decidedly underground feeling about the production too, the murky old school vibes of the record seep through every facet of the music and it makes for ever more compelling listening. </p><p>Coffin Storm have definitely made a mark with this debut. For those of us who love the depths of NWOBHM and the years that came after, represented by bands like Angel Witch and Agent Steel, will find a lot to love with this album. <i>Arcana Rising </i>belies a deep understanding of the genre and it's going to be hard to deny the power of this offering when it finally hits shelves on March 29th. Get ready for a ripper because Coffin Storm have definitely proved this trio isn't just limited to crafting black metal albums for kvltists. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://peaceville.bandcamp.com/album/arcana-rising">https://peaceville.bandcamp.com/album/arcana-rising</a></i> <br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-38676393209195628582024-03-06T08:34:00.002-05:002024-03-06T08:34:11.184-05:00Punching Moses - Live Short And Suffer<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4w6PUjxEJV7wNdazMuqIfz_ST3DRB1oEFjEKPhhXsX5Pq2FKrpj5ogy43PWkGfGydTE5q67FCMoDSWF3SO_AeQCYqPURltvoiL-AFkoG96uwVLV4ozLm0MBeEmea3ysE5l__cTPhjNPf7j8XBEbQ68PvqRFCkCyRcdcx39GOetvaqap4AoYPKQkZukk/s428/378061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4w6PUjxEJV7wNdazMuqIfz_ST3DRB1oEFjEKPhhXsX5Pq2FKrpj5ogy43PWkGfGydTE5q67FCMoDSWF3SO_AeQCYqPURltvoiL-AFkoG96uwVLV4ozLm0MBeEmea3ysE5l__cTPhjNPf7j8XBEbQ68PvqRFCkCyRcdcx39GOetvaqap4AoYPKQkZukk/s320/378061.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Punching Moses are a delectable midwest punk band who have been grinding it out since 2013. Now with their second full length, the appropriately titled <i>Live Short And Suffer </i>the band has continued to evolve their sound into twisted new directions. There is something wonderfully gnarled about the Punching Moses sound and even though it is often stripped down to the bare bones, it's this very rawness that makes for such compelling listening. <i>Live Short And Suffer </i>is metallized punk rock done right, executed with a snarl and charming with its relentless riffing. </p><p>While some of these songs definitely could be shorter, the overarching vibe that Punching Moses create is intense and unforgiving. It's punk rock done in a way that brings in a whole slew of other influences creatively and excitingly. It's hard not to be charmed by the slow burn of a track like "The Kill" or the rock and roll magic of "Gore Bazaar". <i>Live Short And Suffer </i>shines because of the commitment to the bands overarching vision of speed rock ferocity and introspective twists and turns to give you room to breathe. Fun, surprising and reflective of the scene from which they emerge, Punching Moses have always delivered on their core vision and this is just another compelling step in that journey.</p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://punchingmoses.bandcamp.com/album/live-short-and-suffer">https://punchingmoses.bandcamp.com/album/live-short-and-suffer</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-24521826609049669382024-03-05T10:26:00.004-05:002024-03-05T10:26:46.305-05:00Diabolic Oath - Oracular Hexations<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAKdWQOpPxVk7vg56tZZeC7HBN0-i-lbVJFkp6V_kzfH2c0yE1FPx59GxCOu3JeSlbsbQimJor5Hl2Q17COVS76DA_w7SIGw_0_eq2aa8libHQtfpxMa3Ws7_qcyLNlzZ8zLD-gzlN3hxn634xYEM_mh0AkXWD5Nwee0cBycsz3uGAeLbaC8mUWReYvk/s700/a3647745424_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAKdWQOpPxVk7vg56tZZeC7HBN0-i-lbVJFkp6V_kzfH2c0yE1FPx59GxCOu3JeSlbsbQimJor5Hl2Q17COVS76DA_w7SIGw_0_eq2aa8libHQtfpxMa3Ws7_qcyLNlzZ8zLD-gzlN3hxn634xYEM_mh0AkXWD5Nwee0cBycsz3uGAeLbaC8mUWReYvk/s320/a3647745424_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <p></p><p>Now this is a vicious one. The war metal masters Diabolic Oath have returned with a second album, a release that builds on so much of what made their debut great and which leans into the twisted vision that makes this music so compelling in the first place. It's hard not to be thrilled by the hard hitting, devilish magic of Diabolic Oath and what they've conjured up on <i>Oracular Hexations</i>. This is war metal like little you have heard elsewhere, with squirrely solos, colossal riffs, and an apocalyptic sensibility that is sure to resonate with the listener.</p><p>There is a twisted vision behind Diabolic Oath that helps to make this such a compelling releas.e The firestorm of riffs that they unveil upon the listener is dleectable and the production manages to ride a fine line between paying tribute to the bands basement roots and sounding appropriately modern. The vicious approach that helps to shape tracks like "Serpent Coils Suffocating The Mortal Wound" (Brevity in naming convention is clearly not their strong suit.) speaks to the bands capacity as songwriters. One of the real highlights of this record though is the usage of three separate vocalists. It allows for individual vocal performances to interlock to create something far more bestial than usual for the genre. When enhanced with some wonderfully sludgy riffs you find yourself in for a devilishly good time. </p><p><i>Oracular Hexations </i>is a mesmerizing album to say the least. It's like watching a car crash. You find yourself exposed to so many unapologetic sonic bricks to the face and it seems to keep getting better. Despite their general balls to the wall approach, the band also finds time to expand on their sonic pallet, especially with the final two tracks on the album. There is a lot to love here and when this drops next month war metal fans the world over are going to take note. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://sentientruin.bandcamp.com/album/oracular-hexations">https://sentientruin.bandcamp.com/album/oracular-hexations</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-49432072262439947772024-03-04T11:26:00.001-05:002024-03-04T11:26:07.613-05:00Shock Withdrawal - The Dismal Advance<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3ManiZiimknKf7B0g8ZRgEjREJO54OBGHuPfLibmdWblV8V6X_EHuJdigwIRzkMORKKGLQ-SIwulu4w3DuS2KtfUI5iBdLE4r1kx7ZYv5NGEIAqf7O8lx9nLib5tpIf90_FqL8PwIEGll2OmHUG0QRZ1y6QkOEXYVgKfydCR4ik4Lv0gttBcsJB9DEE/s425/072580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3ManiZiimknKf7B0g8ZRgEjREJO54OBGHuPfLibmdWblV8V6X_EHuJdigwIRzkMORKKGLQ-SIwulu4w3DuS2KtfUI5iBdLE4r1kx7ZYv5NGEIAqf7O8lx9nLib5tpIf90_FqL8PwIEGll2OmHUG0QRZ1y6QkOEXYVgKfydCR4ik4Lv0gttBcsJB9DEE/s320/072580.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>I had the good fortune of seeing Shock Withdrawal a few months ago at Saint Vitus Bar. Right away I knew that they were onto something special. They're intense, unforgivingly heavy and above all <i>loud</i>. This is death metal done right, with unrepentant blast beats, cacophonous riffing and some of the most impressive vocal performances I have heard in a good long while. The end result is their debut album <i>The Dismal Advance </i>which is 13 ferocious blasting tracks of unrelenting death metal fury that you simply can't get away from. </p><p>With the longest song at this record capping at 2:14, Shock Withdrawal are the epitome of concise. These songs get their ideas out there, beat you over the head with them and then get out. That all being said, I think there are some wonderfully impressive executions going on here, and they are able to make even the shorter songs feel surprisingly epic. The album isn't entirely short form blast fests. Tracks like "No Closure" (Great title for an album closer) use slower, sludgier riffs to communicate a different brand of heaviness. These moments of noisy sludge provide a welcome contrast to the chaotic spiraling riffs of tracks like "Constant Fear Of Annihilation". </p><p><i>Dismal Advance </i>is an impressive release if there ever was one. It's a record that distills so many core elements of the genre and grinds towards something ever greater. The band clearly understands what it takes to make compelling grinding death metal and their brutal assault is addictive. With short albums like this the relistenability is generally high, and this is definitely the case with <i>Dismal Advance</i>. I find myself on my third listen practically by accident, but with each spin I find new reasons to love what Shock Withdrawal have achieved here. It's brutal unrelenting deathgrind for the masses. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://shockwithdrawal.bandcamp.com/album/the-dismal-advance">https://shockwithdrawal.bandcamp.com/album/the-dismal-advance</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-3652202533074019972024-03-02T11:27:00.002-05:002024-03-02T11:27:59.776-05:00Ancst - Culture Of Brutality<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhyphenhyphenkxuJTklwVFySDCrtt1Mh1T1ZYa4rYsTN5MF1bWgwogGzn8l0Rfy_80Eb29K7RLPXKF_0_wBHH3r4hvsFkUgmgl8ASqPzQhIOybrtMQQgieCXeJoNyyDLswpo97dcZHy8HlqjT7VM4c8ZzFR0nPa87htYPORpPPePTM4h7LsVu5zaKMILPJU5PpGgc/s3000/LFR223.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhyphenhyphenkxuJTklwVFySDCrtt1Mh1T1ZYa4rYsTN5MF1bWgwogGzn8l0Rfy_80Eb29K7RLPXKF_0_wBHH3r4hvsFkUgmgl8ASqPzQhIOybrtMQQgieCXeJoNyyDLswpo97dcZHy8HlqjT7VM4c8ZzFR0nPa87htYPORpPPePTM4h7LsVu5zaKMILPJU5PpGgc/s320/LFR223.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br />Wow. This is a crusher. I've been a fan of Ancst for a while now, but it feels like their latest full length, <i>Culture Of Brutality </i>elevates them to a whole new level. While their last album <i>Zorn </i>felt much more black metal, <i>Culture Of Brutality </i>injects a lot of the old metallic hardcore, skramz and punk influences back into the band and it makes for their most vibrant and exciting release to date. This is an album that seems to point to the future of the band, giving them a distinct sound that is deeply exciting and hints at so much more that they could be doing. </p><p><i>Culture Of Brutality </i>shines because of the clarity of the vision behind it. Ancst took their time writing this album, but it feels like the perfect distillation of all of their influences into something greater and borderline transcendne.t It's hard not to be charmed by the breadth of their vision and the scope of the execution taht they bring to the table. This is a record that effortlessly leaps from breakdowns into tremolo picked moments of evil but does it in a way that feels good, feels right and feels like the band is pointing towards something more. For a long time I knew that Ancst had a lot of potential, this record seems to push them further. </p><p>Ancst have crafted something intense, exciting and deeply personal. It's a record that puts them in a brand new league and which suggests that these Berlin favorite could drive rowards something greater. When I first heard this record I was excited. Now a few listens in I'm frothing at the most to hear more and to oncem ore witness this band live. <i>Cultue Of Brutality </i>sees the band finally living up to all I've thought they could be and it's another classic release from the always excellent Lifeforce Records. Dig in when it drops May 3. <br /></p><p></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://ancstlfr.bandcamp.com/album/summits-of-despondency">https://ancstlfr.bandcamp.com/album/summits-of-despondency</a></i> <br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-84699120028288799032024-02-29T14:04:00.003-05:002024-02-29T14:04:23.261-05:00Prisoner - Putrid | Obsolete<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVyZzD0u6yDBRwq5GhV9w5eclyPiHtafl6SWRbBTpuvWARP7HKEOyQ2RcFyqC7kpbEks1xWELXDPMArxWsHyVvQlvz7XiVEPN3BYpgkxLbM7ZkhSavamQVax3WCYrgPchMxr8T1AmIpgg95sGdeZZuPKOAxoxdKTihtGeh92FsNsgnVjqWZfmO6C-PSg8/s425/329048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVyZzD0u6yDBRwq5GhV9w5eclyPiHtafl6SWRbBTpuvWARP7HKEOyQ2RcFyqC7kpbEks1xWELXDPMArxWsHyVvQlvz7XiVEPN3BYpgkxLbM7ZkhSavamQVax3WCYrgPchMxr8T1AmIpgg95sGdeZZuPKOAxoxdKTihtGeh92FsNsgnVjqWZfmO6C-PSg8/s320/329048.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Now this is a fucking crusher. Prisoner have been on my radar for a minute. Their brand of jagged, unrelenting, industrialized and borderline terrifying metal has made their reputation legend. This latest offering, <i>Putrid | Obsolete </i>is absolutely devastating. It comes in at high volume and crushes all who stand in its path, making listeners bend the knee and come to terms with the glowering darkness of a sound that is wholly their own. This is extreme metal done right, absolutely punishing and completely alienating to all who surround them. </p><p>There is a desperate, tortured magic to the work of Prisoner that makes their compositions all the more visceral. These are not songs that make for easy listening, or even pieces that identifiably feel like songs. Instead with Prisoner you are confronted with track after track of massive riffs, crippling sounds and rhythms that will leave you beating your head against the wall. There is some metal that only makes sense in the depths of a panic attack, when you feel like you're going completely crazy. This is one of that type of band. There is no compromise, no breaks, simply suffocation from the crushing depths to the highest heights. </p><p><i>Putrid | Obsolete </i>is unrelenting, unrepentant and endlessly crushing. Prisoner understand the devilish magic of the genre and the soul excoriating fury that they unveil on tracks like "Entity" is addictive. This is a band who lean in hard to their darkest visions and force you to contend with the demons inside their heads whilst provoking those who live in yours. <i>Putrid | Obsolete </i>is not easy listening, but that's not the point. The suffering is the point. The volume is the point. And above all, Prisoner is the point. Dive the fuck in. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://persistentvisionrecords.com/collections/prisoner">https://persistentvisionrecords.com/collections/prisoner</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-65677239950107498512024-02-28T13:25:00.002-05:002024-02-28T13:25:13.293-05:00Mutilation Barbecue - Amalgamations Of Gore<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcm_N9Wbcgl0hxVCNsDPteuKKEHDNu8G_O0waKYv1Chej3FUx1ZYj8JEcjUFLoNYFa-tQ7taE7vvtMOveqys7nHR-U5X4qKdKlDZS0wnHjj9zdFBpXrkfeSPJ221tOvW2G9Q7rc7SD1uca1MczvcHMTciiDqV8YeSNiPwFl-ljuk3V7ekq6tBmAiTpvU/s1500/MutilationBarbecue1707846239415657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcm_N9Wbcgl0hxVCNsDPteuKKEHDNu8G_O0waKYv1Chej3FUx1ZYj8JEcjUFLoNYFa-tQ7taE7vvtMOveqys7nHR-U5X4qKdKlDZS0wnHjj9zdFBpXrkfeSPJ221tOvW2G9Q7rc7SD1uca1MczvcHMTciiDqV8YeSNiPwFl-ljuk3V7ekq6tBmAiTpvU/s320/MutilationBarbecue1707846239415657.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Now this is an album that fucking crushes. <i>Amalgamations Of Gore </i>is Mutilation Barbecue doing what they do best, unleashing raw, uncompromising hell at a million miles an hour. This is an album that builds on the bands back catalog, driving forward with some of their most engaging writing to date. Yes Mutilation Barbecue are in some ways the apotheosis of Maggot Stomp core but they're fucking awesome because of it and it's hard not to be enamored with the charismatic delivery and unrelenting sonic assault that sculpts so much of what Mutilation Barbecue do. <p></p><p>Despite the brutality, there are some surprisingly melodic moments on <i>Amalgamations Of Gore</i>. Tracks like "Auto Anthrophagy" have a deepset sense of self that makes them immediately engaging, powerful and addictive. It's hard not to be enamored with a band who understand the depths of the music like this. Mutilation Barbecue are a one of a kind force in the underground and there is something to be said for the unrelenting gut punch that is this album. The band has really managed to hone their craft on this one and turn it into something next level. </p><p>Mosh worthy, brilliant and delightfully twisted, Mutilation Barbecue prove once again that they are a one of a kind force in the underground, goofy name aside. It's rare you find a group with this same deep understanding of the craft especially this early on in their careers. But everything on this record from the raw snare to the breakneck rhythms speaks to a group raised in death metal basement shows and distilling that experience into something wonderfully sick. You need this chaos and terror resonating through your life. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><a href="https://mutilationbarbecue-maggotstomp.bandcamp.com/album/amalgamations-of-gore"><i>https://mutilationbarbecue-maggotstomp.bandcamp.com/album/amalgamations-of-gore</i></a><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-52069825164453612282024-02-26T14:10:00.001-05:002024-02-26T14:10:02.874-05:00Order Of Nosferat - The Absence Of Grace<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7pQmLOMDIu85moZM-UUuFnUc0cSTcPScdUWYpUBcHvF9gXlkSOfCUsgPLii5vm-K1LsBBZsEOzeahyphenhyphen5t5Bs218a-zBzdL7RrqXjLhgD5Zc0q9oSwYGjMgJaRdoOKNjvq_BXPn2qAN-KaGGvP0PBrYNXzstGenBNlAf8A_8SuwGzxt5EbdG__rR0Y1uU/s425/822933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="425" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7pQmLOMDIu85moZM-UUuFnUc0cSTcPScdUWYpUBcHvF9gXlkSOfCUsgPLii5vm-K1LsBBZsEOzeahyphenhyphen5t5Bs218a-zBzdL7RrqXjLhgD5Zc0q9oSwYGjMgJaRdoOKNjvq_BXPn2qAN-KaGGvP0PBrYNXzstGenBNlAf8A_8SuwGzxt5EbdG__rR0Y1uU/s320/822933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>For those of us true to the wonderfully occult and devilishly niche subgenre that is vampyric black metal there have been few stronger highlights in recent years than Order Of Nosferat. Now after a remarkably long break (For them) between studio albums, the band has returned with <i>The Absence Of Grace</i>, some of the groups most eerie, potent and downright evil work to date. Exactly what we need to fall in love with the twisted magic of it all. Order Of Nosferat are a one of a kind force and this latest offering is a welcome new addition. </p><p><i>The Absence Of Grace </i>is a stunner for a few reasons. While it definitely retreads old ground and touches on what the band has done previously in terms of synth laden dungeon synth black metal, the extra time between releases seems to have made Order Of Nosferat's work all the more potent. There is also a sense of desolation that resonates across this album on tracks like "Under The Sinister Shroud Of Isolation" that makes for some deliciously compelling work. <i>The Absence Of Grace </i>understands its scope and the power of this music. It's hard to deny the enduring crush that defines this record and the frigid atmospheres that help to draw listeners into the vision that Order Of Nosferat so gloomily present to us. </p><p>Order Of Nosferat have long been onto something special. Now with their fourth full length since 2021 the band has started to really come into their own. This is clearly a labor of love and the vision of a quasi obsessed mind but the bands ability to keep generating interesting music that ties directly into their core sound is wonderful. Order Of Nosferat may represent a very particular sub niche but it is one I have a deep love for and I for one will eagerly be coming back to this and looking for more from the project in the near future. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://www.orderofnosferat.bandcamp.com/">https://www.orderofnosferat.bandcamp.com/</a></i> <br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-50157448567573941242024-02-24T11:36:00.001-05:002024-02-24T11:36:06.487-05:00Udad - S/T<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DXvoDC9BDHNHsqBPqKbfz9iriVKhwN6VRjbXH5wV32wuMI_Hq1H0sSYorTNZ8cGRKGTYCG27w-bd8A2Y_BdQDdMnmZRLgHJI66EGCItyJPa5Yomnpmg3NsifrmqSAwk3COCnoSuWU6wZkszZwbZ_QH1aH6D2_0aq6Skz7Tk4wWnHRS76H2DyeT0zgbw/s3000/456517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DXvoDC9BDHNHsqBPqKbfz9iriVKhwN6VRjbXH5wV32wuMI_Hq1H0sSYorTNZ8cGRKGTYCG27w-bd8A2Y_BdQDdMnmZRLgHJI66EGCItyJPa5Yomnpmg3NsifrmqSAwk3COCnoSuWU6wZkszZwbZ_QH1aH6D2_0aq6Skz7Tk4wWnHRS76H2DyeT0zgbw/s320/456517.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Now this is an interesting one! Udad are a new Norwegian black metal band honoring the masters of old, Darkthrone, Gorgoroth and their like. Their self titled debut album is an impressive offering, a record that transcends many of the bands peers and uses the tropes of the genre to perfection. The project is the brainchild of Thomas Eriksen of Mork. As Mork evolves, Udad is a journey back to traditional nineties black metal with its monochromatic vibes, unapologetic visions and a sense of blasphemy that makes for some wonderfully engaging stuff. <br /></p><p>This is black metal done in a way that is eerie, mystical and powerful, fully aware of the power of the genre but leaning into what makes it great. While there are few surprises on <i>Udad </i>it is definitely deeply engaging listening for fans of the underground. This is a record that doesn't rely too much on intensity or violence, but rather vibes, using tremolo picking and pained vocals to craft twisted vibes that will drag listeners into the abyss. It's a record that hints at so much more but which is satisfied in leaning into the bleak visions that make the genre so compelling in the first place. </p><p>I sincerely hope to hear a follow up on Udad. It's an interesting exploration by one of the premier artists in his genre of their roots. It's a record that speaks to a deep knowledge of a music that has fundamentally shaped a lot of us and the execution is fascinating. Udad seems intent on conjuring very specific creepy vibes and drawing listeners ever deeper into the abyss. Letting yourself get swept away in this maelstrom is a delight. </p><p>Pre-order the album!<br /></p><p><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-20775875431422081102024-02-23T12:33:00.004-05:002024-02-23T12:33:27.014-05:00Waidelotte - Celestial Shrine<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT5g4-zvcXMy2_ERwPnDM5MVvuXqwCKALcTiYEGtD6n1x6A5y-Ry8z3fNz7E3Vx9WkcRiRuD8McD38wl_8mDXriVdVmr0tStWKjk2IAlUgpbYJMUclmMZr-KrJwYUof1BOm6ctltlq3sFmMYGk_q86nrXREW3naRCdbKC3F0uC4VCZJRK_t8WapxXUFQ/s425/355879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT5g4-zvcXMy2_ERwPnDM5MVvuXqwCKALcTiYEGtD6n1x6A5y-Ry8z3fNz7E3Vx9WkcRiRuD8McD38wl_8mDXriVdVmr0tStWKjk2IAlUgpbYJMUclmMZr-KrJwYUof1BOm6ctltlq3sFmMYGk_q86nrXREW3naRCdbKC3F0uC4VCZJRK_t8WapxXUFQ/s320/355879.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Now this is an interesting one. Waidelotte is a Ukrainian progressive metal band who blend a whole variety of elements into their sound from folk music to black metal and jazz ending in a release that is truly unique and inspiring, a record that is wonderfully ambitious but surprisingly excellent at delivering its sonic vision. <i>Celestial Shrine </i>is an album that feels at once larger than life and also deeply personal, an anthem from people struggling and which seems to continually drive towards bold new heights of twisted fury. </p><p>The beauty of this record is in its diversity, the bands ability to bring together progressive metal elements with ambient tunes (The album closer is an eight minute ambient piece) is distinctly entrancing. It speaks to a project that goes further and in more interesting directions than many of its peers. <i>Celestial Shrine </i>shines because of the elegance of the songwriting and the vision behind it that feels certain to keep people digging ever deeper. There aren't many records that come out that are as multi layered as this one, but <i>Celestial Shrine </i>finds a way to make the different pieces all come together into something addictive and undeniable. </p><p>This is a broad sweeping record, one that at times feels like it might be too ambitious for its own good, but that's exactly what makes me love it. The band has found a way to dance all around the spectrum of their influences and do it in a way that makes sense and makes for compelling listening. Letting yourself get immersed in these visions is a delight and it speaks to the enduring power of a band who seem to be forging their own path. Benefiting from gorgeous production and potent songwriting, <i>Celestial Shrine </i>is going to entrance many metalheads looking for something fresh. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://waidelottemusic.bandcamp.com/">https://waidelottemusic.bandcamp.com/</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-82947446104060965382024-02-21T09:16:00.003-05:002024-02-21T09:16:25.396-05:00Slimelord - Chytridiomycosis Relinquished<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCvIcNNeLWkcCnQ-fFWY6R-I9cG6vyBY5CzyfqwD1W29zH0C_gT5zWO3ZX19soRsOe10rxewJlrqxy-8g2rQvBocHetvHBYZhm1MPgUpdUHRk64q7wtZC4YmKLgO-VVZukpVvtfXK6ROMbfyldADLrRxwFEQ-I9PySjnq_XhyphenhyphenaPHTyCuW4v9RQHi-CRGo/s1500/Slimelord1705673516882553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCvIcNNeLWkcCnQ-fFWY6R-I9cG6vyBY5CzyfqwD1W29zH0C_gT5zWO3ZX19soRsOe10rxewJlrqxy-8g2rQvBocHetvHBYZhm1MPgUpdUHRk64q7wtZC4YmKLgO-VVZukpVvtfXK6ROMbfyldADLrRxwFEQ-I9PySjnq_XhyphenhyphenaPHTyCuW4v9RQHi-CRGo/s320/Slimelord1705673516882553.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>After years of EP's, Slimelord are finally here with their monolithic, incredibly dense debut full length, <i>Chytridiomycosis Relinquished</i>. (Try saying that 3 times fast!) This is punishing, unrelenting and ceaselessly addictive death metal reminiscent of the super dense ministrations of bands like Gorguts or Worm. This record is intense and difficult, but for those of us who really get what this sort of death metal was meant to be about in the first place, <i>Chytridiomycosis Relinquished </i>is a potent offering and one that I think many will be circling back too on their year end lists. </p><p>The compelling thing about Slimelord's work is their ability to combine utterly primal death grunts and breakdowns with much more technical thoughtful playing. These aren't accessible songs, rather they are devastating explorations of the darkest sides of the musical spectrum. The band has clearly put years of work into executing this at the highest possible level. This release has a level of intensity and depth not heard on the previous EP's. Rather it shows us a band who have dug deep within themselves to find a record that is punishingly, and bizarrely heavy. There is something otherworldly about the crushing assault they unveil here. </p><p><i>Chytridiomycosis Relinquished </i>is a crusher. It's not an easy to understand crusher, but it's a crusher nonetheless. Slimelord understand what it means to create truly pulverizing death metal, and <i>Chytridiomycosis Relinquished</i> is exactly that. It's a record that is going to alienate many and indoctrinate the chosen few. It's a record that leans into brutality but finds ways to balance it with more thoughtful explorations. The gaping maw of this album is hard not to be in love with if you're a death metal devotee. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://slimelord.bandcamp.com/album/chytridiomycosis-relinquished">https://slimelord.bandcamp.com/album/chytridiomycosis-relinquished</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-5463426120932579182024-02-20T11:25:00.004-05:002024-02-20T11:25:42.394-05:00Alkhemia - Abraxas<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtkXFulTtkFcSzGCe7798LeyzG6UNo04NC639QPZuAI1RwVw4JLCBUgNMcYDNJszRU2igoQWy5iQmMu2RVXD8nVna-fj4HB5RoN3lxDtUlwYDLf9ZYxNM49mTH1uZjadq-7PmEsD3HW2FQ7z1WpWmJhyphenhyphenkPEjEaWStX6e4uFgdK6brSJsPjv1ByuGZJp8/s425/567175.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtkXFulTtkFcSzGCe7798LeyzG6UNo04NC639QPZuAI1RwVw4JLCBUgNMcYDNJszRU2igoQWy5iQmMu2RVXD8nVna-fj4HB5RoN3lxDtUlwYDLf9ZYxNM49mTH1uZjadq-7PmEsD3HW2FQ7z1WpWmJhyphenhyphenkPEjEaWStX6e4uFgdK6brSJsPjv1ByuGZJp8/s320/567175.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Now this is a scorcher. Alkhemia is a gnarled new French black metal band emerging froom Lille, a city known for a long history of excellent metal. Their debut album, <i>Abraxas </i>is a stunning offering, a record that seems to tie into so many of the core elements of a side of the genre shaped by artists like Mgla and Naglfar and execute upon them with aplomb. While Alkhemia aren't reinventing the steal, this is definitely a top notch black metal release and one that fans of the French black metal scene are going to find particularly enticing. </p><p><i>Abraxas </i>is a scorcher<i>. </i>There is something wonderfully undeniable about the bands work, the vision is pointed, the band is clear about their sound from the first, but it's the execution on these ideas that sets them apart. The burning fire that you hear on songs like "Primaveal Pantheon" is inherently enticing and speaks to a band that is going to continue to fight back against modernity. There is something potent about the atavistic vision of the band and their Orwellian vision on man and the sinister effects of industrialization. The fact that they can do this with blast beats and tremolo picking speaks to their capacity as songwriters. </p><p>Alkhemia have a deep understanding of what it means to make black metal and their traditional take on the genre is compelling. You can tell the guys in this band have been through other projects but also that this is a labor of love. Alkhemia have managed to set themselves apart and <i>Abraxas </i>is going to thrill listeners of all stripes as they dig ever deeper into the madness of what has been created here. This is black metal that lifts up the French scene with it and has me curious to hear more from these wonderful blasphemers against modernity. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://alkhemia.bandcamp.com/album/abraxas">https://alkhemia.bandcamp.com/album/abraxas</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-55881676032363359762024-02-19T17:14:00.001-05:002024-02-19T17:14:37.625-05:00Tombstoner - Rot Stink Rip<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhey33Nc_ys-nNSXAd1Hup6ZJH-_lpqcfL44rch4nQtO2O88CrBnzpySneTtcpuvtWhGUQELF0-2ohkDTxG4XaJQMH2dT7cBV6919jPzDvojThEXRidsadDCH7gT4ApbRYnjg9TduLy7YjycX4QwvYDmPFAihVw7ixIWqryksMogbagZRM7zMHl7dG33B0/s425/905440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhey33Nc_ys-nNSXAd1Hup6ZJH-_lpqcfL44rch4nQtO2O88CrBnzpySneTtcpuvtWhGUQELF0-2ohkDTxG4XaJQMH2dT7cBV6919jPzDvojThEXRidsadDCH7gT4ApbRYnjg9TduLy7YjycX4QwvYDmPFAihVw7ixIWqryksMogbagZRM7zMHl7dG33B0/s320/905440.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Now this is a ripper. For those in the know, Tombstoner have been a rapidly rising force in the world of underground death metal for years now. But it's with their new album <i>Rot Stink Rip </i>(Helluva name for a record don't ya think?) that the band seems to really have found their voice and found a way to differentiate themselves from a legion of posers. Instead they sally forth with crushing fucking riffs, punishing rhythms and an unrelenting sonic assault that is guaranteed to keep you coming back for much more. </p><p><i>Rot Stink Rip </i>excels with its punishing grooves and the overarching vision behind the record. Opting for less intense growls and more accessible grooves, <i>Rot stink Rip </i>sees the band creating something that is anthemic and exciting, a far cry from many of the hardcore turned death metal bands you see dominating the scene today. Instead Tombstoner emphasize something that feels like it owes more to Pantera than Obituary. The end result though is absolutely sick, addictively listenable and full of circle pit stomping riffs. This is obsessive, unrelenting and crippling death metal, music to get you going crazy and jumping off of stages. </p><p>Tombstoner are a veritable force in the underground and their crippling, unrelenting assault is a hell of a lot of fun. This is a record that sees Tombstoner capable of making a larger jump into something greater. <i>Rot Stink Rip </i>is a seemingly unparalleled and wonderfully exciting release. It's a record that spurs constant chaos and devastating performances. <i>Rot Stink Rip </i>is a one of a kind force, a potent next step for the band and a zombie obsessed good time for death metal fans of all stripes. It's another win for Redefining Darkness Records too - pre-order this one! <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://tombstoner-us.bandcamp.com/album/victims-of-vile-torture">https://tombstoner-us.bandcamp.com/album/victims-of-vile-torture</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-28440738672713957162024-02-16T11:49:00.003-05:002024-02-16T11:49:42.525-05:00Ponte Del Diavolo - Fire Blades From the Tomb<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSfbTXp-MsO2zSubK5gbJYRR0nL18WG0nwnlV3D-42w7htu-haSErUi4anijrve455MF0EdfhA_JxdZzC9hGdVRoAs2v1TmUSvq6e_WrrflJ_XqJRr9RheLgdPcz9yjuHY5fsIKMO7o3xcxHcZL_YNVzcn_-ulFvDJpG9ybnecwoPwITLG-_Q6KZYiDY/s425/625174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSfbTXp-MsO2zSubK5gbJYRR0nL18WG0nwnlV3D-42w7htu-haSErUi4anijrve455MF0EdfhA_JxdZzC9hGdVRoAs2v1TmUSvq6e_WrrflJ_XqJRr9RheLgdPcz9yjuHY5fsIKMO7o3xcxHcZL_YNVzcn_-ulFvDJpG9ybnecwoPwITLG-_Q6KZYiDY/s320/625174.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><i>Fire Blades From The Tomb </i>is the debut from Ponte Del Diavolo. It's an interesting record to say the least, one that fuses doom metal with black metal along with clear influences from darkwave and other genres. The end result is not your typical blackened doom release, but rather an album that focuses on enchanting vocals, melodic bass lines and overarchingly occult vibes. This is a mystical and exciting release, an album that demands multiple listens and which eagerly dances from sonic peak to sonic peak, indulging listeners in something darker and transcendent. <p></p><p>Ponte Del Diavolo have found a unique way to express their vision. It's a distinctive take on the genre and one that I think will serve the band well. I always find it interesting when artists are able to create something that takes a lot of familiar elements but executes on them in a unique way. There is a distinct sense of aplomb that drives <i>Fire Blades From The Tomb</i>, an audacious sense of vision that makes this a wonderfully exciting, relentlessly passionate album. They've distilled some of the core elements that make this such a compelling offering and thrill listeners by doubling down on an eerie, otherworldly vision. </p><p>Distinctly Italian, wonderfully occult and distinctly evil, Ponte Del Diavolo are a group who I think people are going to gravitate towards for years to come. This is is a fresh take on black and doom metal that is truly exciting and I think will be able to get a whole swathe of new people digging into the genre and understanding its strange and varied intricacies. Indulge for yourself and walk down a path of evil. There's few albums out there like this one and watching this band evolve is going to be a delight. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/PonteFireBlades">https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/PonteFireBlades</a></i> <br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-62819179814219858352024-02-15T10:13:00.004-05:002024-02-15T10:14:41.486-05:00Wristmeetrazor - Degeneration<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqEtkhLM2ArYWjrjQ1Nj6E4kO8F9U8rgTma6UlxDRhrcYVwfmlu9ldQW_Xob1bmairWNWwn-1z-xc0SgQM3oMY6KIAWstfLgmOKnvMRaWLNGeyDZ2r2ivH6aXpwEwoAPOCaoGtTiBPr8kiasJ2JB_WwPC06Ah-vWEqKN9H5a_SyTOjuKJvOo7ERrcS-U/s425/680368.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqEtkhLM2ArYWjrjQ1Nj6E4kO8F9U8rgTma6UlxDRhrcYVwfmlu9ldQW_Xob1bmairWNWwn-1z-xc0SgQM3oMY6KIAWstfLgmOKnvMRaWLNGeyDZ2r2ivH6aXpwEwoAPOCaoGtTiBPr8kiasJ2JB_WwPC06Ah-vWEqKN9H5a_SyTOjuKJvOo7ERrcS-U/s320/680368.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Wristmeetrazor are an interesting band. They're remarkable unashamed of wearing their influences on their collective sleeve, but the execution on their work is really impressive and it makes for some truly compelling stuff. The vision behind their new album <i>Degeneration </i>is potent to say the least. The band has managed to augment their brand of metalcore into something all the more impressive, intensely personal, driving and addictive. This is metalcore done right, elegantly fusing influences both old and new into something greater than the sum of its parts. </p><p>The thing that really resonates with me throughout listening to this record is just how good the songwriting is. Wristmeetrazor spent a long time recording this album and it feels like this release sees the band pushing their sound to bold new heights with all sorts of intricate layers on the production and refreshing execution on the guitars. The band has found a sound that is massive, distinctive and wonderfully exciting. Their ability to blend in touches of nu metal with the overarching vision is especially tastefully done on this record. The depth of the performances is refreshing and it makes me curious to indulge in the bands back catalog. </p><p><i>Degeneration </i>is exactly the step that Wristmeetrazor needed to take to reach the next level of their music careers. Between the surprisingly massive pop hooks to the driving metal guitars and multitiered production Wristmeetrazor consistently find ways to craft something refreshing and exciting. They have a unique and potent vision that has had this record on repeat for me all morning. I'm curious to see it continue to evolve and I'm certain the live execution will be thrilling. Grab a copy of this rager before it drops end of March! </p><p><i>Pre-order the album here: </i></p><p><i><a href="https://wristmeetrazor.bandcamp.com/album/degeneration">https://wristmeetrazor.bandcamp.com/album/degeneration</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-34100126548676158932024-02-14T11:54:00.001-05:002024-02-14T11:54:04.915-05:00Obsidian Sun - Burning Obsidian Sun<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zhdtkfZYNCbNFHARScQQlNIIK-LSKEmZDyTQhHB3T1XwoAKn9Gp-Xm2O8rpdRZ-lNcHPjPVesz6eZL5Fs5fn5iVIPeWTEokEzFVM5DPT1WfCffXM22ev9PHH28TwSoAz54R3hdd4dZ_gKSaDSlOI83mTXZsydNJ3W-mJXhZWSJSahUN7z-VtIPr8wrk/s3000/EDGE073_cover_3000_3000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zhdtkfZYNCbNFHARScQQlNIIK-LSKEmZDyTQhHB3T1XwoAKn9Gp-Xm2O8rpdRZ-lNcHPjPVesz6eZL5Fs5fn5iVIPeWTEokEzFVM5DPT1WfCffXM22ev9PHH28TwSoAz54R3hdd4dZ_gKSaDSlOI83mTXZsydNJ3W-mJXhZWSJSahUN7z-VtIPr8wrk/s320/EDGE073_cover_3000_3000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>This is a scorcher. Obsidian Sun are a rising black metal force emerging from the crypt that is Edged Circle Productions, one of my favorite black metal labels today. There is something deeply engaging about their unique brand of black metal, and this brand new 4 track EP is a scorcher. It's black metal done right, with ambition and a clear sense of what makes the genre so great in the first place. <i>Burning Obsidian Sun </i>is a potent offering and one that I think consistently drives towards new heights. While the record has no real surprises, the bands take on melodic black metal is excellent and executed with aplomb. Across just four tracks Obsidian Sun are able to quickly establish exactly who they are and what to expect from the band. One can only hope that there is more to come! <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://edgedcircleproductions.bandcamp.com/album/burning-obsidian-sun">https://edgedcircleproductions.bandcamp.com/album/burning-obsidian-sun</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-1210593193921065662024-02-13T10:21:00.002-05:002024-02-13T10:21:17.133-05:00Jordsjuk - Råtner På Rot<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDNA2Mm445UKdVUuRqgzaA21MOBdQhp1mhMiV7JwrR2J8FPodhRrgBqSfhnY-jCAMqgHFQvyiCFv5DRCQFmA3SxfI3Kkk1-Z1b6uVu9e5bYdmTsLdnRRIOGJbMyTS7n6pHaOdUEA3N0XnlUVbaqCr_b5QNcyu0e8v42H_kTa_uq_lj_20g3exybGSSAI/s425/115326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDNA2Mm445UKdVUuRqgzaA21MOBdQhp1mhMiV7JwrR2J8FPodhRrgBqSfhnY-jCAMqgHFQvyiCFv5DRCQFmA3SxfI3Kkk1-Z1b6uVu9e5bYdmTsLdnRRIOGJbMyTS7n6pHaOdUEA3N0XnlUVbaqCr_b5QNcyu0e8v42H_kTa_uq_lj_20g3exybGSSAI/s320/115326.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Jordsjuk are crushers. They play blazing, gritty and unrepentant black metal done in the grand Norwegian style. Featuring members of Djevel, Nordjevel, Urgehal and Koldbrann the pedigree is there, but more importantly the music is too. Jordsjuk is a force and their debut EP, <i>Ratner Pa Rot </i>is compelling, unrelenting and crushing black metal. For those of us looking for ab and who get to the spirit of the genre and lean in to so many of the twisted tropes of what this music can be, then there are few better options in the modern scene. Capturing everything from the frozen atmospheres of the North to the bitter anger that fuels so much of the genre in an EP barely over ten minutes long seems like an impossible task, but Jordsjuk pull it off with aplomb. This is a band to watch. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://jordsjuk.bandcamp.com/">https://jordsjuk.bandcamp.com/</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-10989956645458580422024-02-12T10:44:00.001-05:002024-02-12T10:44:09.761-05:00Agonista - Grey And Dry<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSTPs4rQ2y1ZQD7s6khwMazz9MX8QSVqyWR8ROuFLRheUNadJsIMS8SpENFEgowluzbEa2cR6H0Ri_AY2kTlPCwEqb7uFPqbG3Zsau8zlhyphenhyphenXJ_aEE7dDsiH5ct_pGIKqkgt5NCA3Y2sSflDvunSZg87Gbsy4k5Q-aOrueI2ivLvUts9dW8rykwnFYEIw/s425/261893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="425" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSTPs4rQ2y1ZQD7s6khwMazz9MX8QSVqyWR8ROuFLRheUNadJsIMS8SpENFEgowluzbEa2cR6H0Ri_AY2kTlPCwEqb7uFPqbG3Zsau8zlhyphenhyphenXJ_aEE7dDsiH5ct_pGIKqkgt5NCA3Y2sSflDvunSZg87Gbsy4k5Q-aOrueI2ivLvUts9dW8rykwnFYEIw/s320/261893.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>There is something to be said about a hardcore LP that's so concisely written that you accidentally listen to it twice. Such is the magic of Agonista's debut full length <i>Grey And Dry</i>. This is a record of crusty hardcore featuring current and ex-members of Bumbklaat, DFMK, Run For Your Fucking
Life, Spanakorzo, Sweep the Leg Johnny, Swing Kids, and many others. The record is entirely unsurprising if you know the discographies of those bands, but that really just means that <i>Grey And Dry </i>fucking rules and is way too much fun to listen too. </p><p>From blazing speed breaks to the two step part on "Wrecked Inside" <i>Grey And Dry </i>is the sound of a band who have a deep passion for the music and who inherently understand its true nature. Agonista lean hard into the magic of the genre, touching on everything from the challenging intellectualisms of Neurosis by way of the crusty ministrations of Amebix and the danceable joy of Social Distortion. There is a lot to sink your teeth into here and Agonista nicely highlight a broad range of flavors in a way that sets them distinctly apart from the pack. <i>Grey And Dry </i>is the sound of hardcore done right, with a broad vision but a clear one. </p><p><i>Grey And Dry </i>is a truly potent record. With its bilingual lyrics, range of influences and the tightness of the songwriting it's a record that I think devotees are going to find themselves coming back too time and time again. With only one of its 11 songs spilling over the three minute mark it's also an album that is going to capture your attention and keep it. Agonista get in, smash you over the head and then get back out on <i>Grey And Dry. </i>It makes for compelling and exciting listening that demands multiple listens just to fully appreciate. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://armageddonlabel.bandcamp.com/album/grey-and-dry" id="isPasted">http://armageddonlabel.bandcamp.com/album/grey-and-dry</a></i></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-27897721870908744012024-02-10T11:22:00.001-05:002024-02-10T11:22:03.021-05:00Midnight - Hellish Expectations<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvvPyUOe1KBSGih6CD2vzVv24Wol2bhkeYBogqfQU-u5PN43py-RVQvuQlfP19yAyNw3ot1h0y6FZzgRmd6_nPJsziD6C3Q7pUIsZUwriSXu9OUc4Lv_9HG6UIpdq6IbbJ6wRpB8eVC-gGGcCns5xnTQwpRyEMAgzuglXvpt-Wauo4TOR7w4PlYW8MI0/s1500/Midnight1706049514047952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvvPyUOe1KBSGih6CD2vzVv24Wol2bhkeYBogqfQU-u5PN43py-RVQvuQlfP19yAyNw3ot1h0y6FZzgRmd6_nPJsziD6C3Q7pUIsZUwriSXu9OUc4Lv_9HG6UIpdq6IbbJ6wRpB8eVC-gGGcCns5xnTQwpRyEMAgzuglXvpt-Wauo4TOR7w4PlYW8MI0/s320/Midnight1706049514047952.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>For those in the know Midnight has become one of the most exciting, potent and promising bands in the world of underground metal over the last 15 years or so. Their new album <i>Hellish Expectations </i>is the ultimate reflection of the growth this band has had in that time and a thrilling next step for the band who seem to be single handedly keeping blackened thrash metal alive in America today. Having survived the long winter where USBM was completely by the wayside, as the genre seems to be raising its head again, Midnight are at the forefront. </p><p><i>Hellish Expectations </i>leans into many of the wonderfully over the top tropes that have made Midnight so exciting in the first place. Tracks like "Doom Death Desire" with the immediately memorable lyric "Doom, death, desire, desire for doom!" encapsulate this. Meanwhile, the single "FOAL" which of course stands for "Fuck Off And Live" acts as the perfect end cap to ten tracks of blistering speed metal. Midnight are a helluva lot of fun and this record seems to be just another driving force in exactly what makes them such an exciting, enduring force in the underground. Yes the music is taken seriously but it's just tongue in cheek enough to keep you coming back. </p><p>Midnight have a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver a kickass black n' roll record in 2024. <i>Hellish Expectations </i>is a really, really fun offering and an album that I think will keep people coming back time and time again. Few bands truly understand their oeuvre on a fundamental level the way that Midnight do, and that's exactly what makes their art so compelling. Prepare to dive in and find yourself screaming along within the space of just a song. Midnight have perfected what makes them so great and I love it. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://www.metalblade.com/midnight/">https://www.metalblade.com/midnight/</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-79292420888088061942024-02-09T12:09:00.001-05:002024-02-09T12:09:17.323-05:00Ecclesia - Ecclesia Militans<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYJe7Ldjmj-qHKQyt0Oy4hTv9oazAK4IjUJg_BxAKPOfa4Boq4W4roK9BPzDi_G7fUQf7f474CjJtMlg-F_u6_dirHi49-7QJwlokESUF4ije30APW_WqHJW4oVjipmzsNQpLhpvtO-xCW4p1n2r2g9r8FVcGspDuH4sq9sA1VnYYEf7cOvgTdA1NAnA/s425/239709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYJe7Ldjmj-qHKQyt0Oy4hTv9oazAK4IjUJg_BxAKPOfa4Boq4W4roK9BPzDi_G7fUQf7f474CjJtMlg-F_u6_dirHi49-7QJwlokESUF4ije30APW_WqHJW4oVjipmzsNQpLhpvtO-xCW4p1n2r2g9r8FVcGspDuH4sq9sA1VnYYEf7cOvgTdA1NAnA/s320/239709.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Now this is an interesting one. It's extremely rare that a band comes across my radar who list Tony Martin era Black Sabbath as a core influence, but here we are. Ecclesia have been making waves in the world of trad doom for a few years now with their distinctive brand of bombastic and charismatic doom meets classic metal. The music isn't so much worried about being slow as much as it is focused on creating stunning vibes reminiscent of acts like Candlemass. There is something larger than life and endlessly thrilling about this work, and I can't tear myself away. </p><p><i>Ecclesia Militans </i>thrills because of how dynamic and deeply engaging the songwriting is. These are songs that are written to transcend and to capture the imagination. It's hard not to be thrilled with the magic of these classic witchfinding riffs and the bands distinct obsession with the 80s trad doom titans of yore. The end result is a record that is addictive, endlessly endearing and constantly hinting at bold new futures. This is doom metal done right, with a clear vision and an overarching vibe that is simply undeniable. Of particular note is the guitar playing. Flashy solos on tracks like "Ereptor Verae Fidei" are absolutely mindwarping and a throwback to an earlier time. </p><p>This band could so easily have been just another Ghost clone, but instead Ecclesia work on being something more, something greater. Their sound and aesthetic is immaculate. The vision behind the work is delightfully executed and it's impossible not to be thrilled with the earnestness of the music. <i>Ecclesia Miltans </i>is doom metal for the true devotee, for those who have dug deep into the world of Candlemass and Solstice and come out of it desperately searching for more. Such is the enduring power of doom, such is the power of Ecclesia. <br /></p><p><i>Pre-order the album!</i></p><p><i><a href="https://ecclesia-official.bandcamp.com/album/ecclesia-militans">https://ecclesia-official.bandcamp.com/album/ecclesia-militans</a></i><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535458618790211907.post-36714454957237233442024-02-07T10:47:00.001-05:002024-02-07T10:47:03.342-05:00Brat - Social Grace<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8JzQF4tmDjLFU_i0AQ3SjMt4D1bTpcbnfCP-fMIt2jyi8zm_LnEDf8M-mitLf3srAN5hrQaSgy870huueqOS-qpPq0oABBY6FPK9HuqHHcmoLOtfsqyQ4sVBrn5dn9Oe1ExkcoI1aGL7GvTTrAlJ_LPoKcJKsS4li04Ml-zl2LhUAEXuLoHCTkA8Cic/s425/746610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8JzQF4tmDjLFU_i0AQ3SjMt4D1bTpcbnfCP-fMIt2jyi8zm_LnEDf8M-mitLf3srAN5hrQaSgy870huueqOS-qpPq0oABBY6FPK9HuqHHcmoLOtfsqyQ4sVBrn5dn9Oe1ExkcoI1aGL7GvTTrAlJ_LPoKcJKsS4li04Ml-zl2LhUAEXuLoHCTkA8Cic/s320/746610.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Few bands have made as big a splash on the American scene in the past 18 months as Brat. Seemingly right out of the pandemic the band hit the road like mad, playing shows all over the place and impressing listeners with intense performances and a bimboviolence aesthetic that's generated more than their fair share of controversy. Their debut full length, <i>Social Grace </i>captures that selfsame intensity and is sure to have fans thrilled for the next chapter of violence to come from these devotees of a new brand of American metal. </p><p><i>Social Grace </i>shines because of the unrelenting nature of the songwriting and the manic energy behind the music. Sonically the band is playing the same blend of death metal and hardcore tat helped to define their debut EP, it's potent stuff filled with punchy, angular riffs, brutal vocals and two step worthy breakdowns. Brat have taken some of the elments that helped to define their core sound and refining them into something all the more intense and delectable. While Liz Selfish is certainly the frontperson, having backing vocals on tracks like "Snifter" provides a strong interplay, one of the musical highlights of the album. </p><p>Brat are a band on a mission and their approach has been unrelentingly addictive. They had a big challenge ahead of them when recording this record, to craft something that matches their already quasi-legendary reputation as a live act. Fortunately it seems that they have found a way to distill that energy down into something potent, refreshing and endlessly exciting. <i>Social Grace </i>is the sort of explosion of energy that helps to make this music so driving in the first place. Immersing yourself in the madness is a delight. </p><p><i>Pre-order the album! </i></p><p><i><a href="https://brat504.bandcamp.com/album/social-grace-2">https://brat504.bandcamp.com/album/social-grace-2</a></i> <br /></p><p><br /></p>Matt Baconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10484643212105228653noreply@blogger.com0