Clearing out the Promos (early 22) Reccs n Such

Abrasive Audio – Clearing Out the Promos (early 22′)

Part the Second – Reccs n Such

And here it is, what some might consider the best part, the one corner of the review section within which I take a ganders at that which others have suggested. I’ve also included a few albums from the future (wha-?)

Naturally, my scribbles aren’t designed to encompass everything. If you’re in the market for such (without reviews and the silliness I provide) might I suggest the Patriarch of the “Twitter Metal Community”. A gent who does his best to mention most everything being released, and even provides a monthly round-up of what to look forward to. However, it doesn’t end there this tireless slave to extreme audio also chooses to partake in year-end festivities by showcasing a wide variety of genres and his picks for the best of the year within each. But enough about Kman (a convenient anonymous Twitter handle), what say we explore a few releases which might have somehow slipped by.

Sit back, put on some comfy headphones (my listening device of choice for a more intimate audio experience), grab some snacks and listen (I’ve tried my best to provide links so that you may as you peruse my inane ramblings)

Onward to silliness.

Plucked Screamin’ from Metal Past

https://hellripper.bandcamp.com/album/the-affair-of-the-poisons

Hellripper (Scotland) – The Affair of the Poisons

Release- October 20

Genre – Blackened Speed/NWOBHM

Thoughts –

With the track titles in mind, one should know what to expect going into this. However, those without prior knowledge of (sole member) James McBain’s output might not know that the road has been long up until this point. Finally represented on a “dream” label this shows Hellripper in top form showcasing a style which uses both wickedly evil, sinister and heady in nostalgia. Think Motorhead mixed with Venom, (early) Bathory and toss in some South American aggression and you’ll close to the formula and style on display here, but it’s from Scotland (go figure?) Never a dull moment here, this leaves me excited for what’s next on the horizon for Hellripper.

Score – 89

https://arsenicaddiction.bandcamp.com/album/xix

Arsenic Addiction (USA) – XIX

Release – September 19

Genre – Symphonic Extreme Metal

Thoughts –

Rather difficult to categorized comfortably this exudes tones pulled from a wide radius of the Metal Spectrum. Haley Grow (Lady A) lends her throats abilities, in short, a stunning diverse vocal range, often haunting yet also aggressive, against a Gothic/Doom foundation courtesy of keys and melancholic melodies. Victorian and Medieval rhythms, as well as a percussion approach with definite (though hardly overpowering) BM tones lend atmosphere, dramatic effect and a texture which fans of both Cradle of Filth and Dimmu Borgir will be able to appreciate without complaint.

Part Theatre des Vampires, part Opera IX, part (vintage) Theatre of Tragedy with dashes of the aforementioned Gothic melodic BM outfits, this act (album) keeps the listener on their toes with the intricate incorporation of tones stretching from vintage hard rock (passionate Joplin-esque vocals) through the darker realms of the extreme audio spectrum without resorting to Avant Garde or experimental silliness. Looking for something to liven up the same old, same old? An audio affair which is unique, rather than one which is perhaps only ever so slightly different? Give these guys a listen but do so with an open mind.

Score – 83

https://malist.bandcamp.com/album/to-mantle-the-rising-sun

Malist (Russia) – To Mantle the Rising Sun

Release – April 20

Genre – Atmospheric/Melodic Black Metal

Thoughts

Moody is a fantastic way to describe this. It boasts the assumed BM flair; rasped vocals and wicked riffing, though in the absence of all out speed, atmosphere reigns triumphant. For those who are still in the dark about this act, it’s a one-person outfit whose discography also boasts another, more recent, entry which is also far beyond surprisingly good. Familiarize yourself with Ovfrost’s (the sole member) output, you won’t be disappointed!

Score – 86

https://ablazeprods666.bandcamp.com/album/ungod

Morgoth (Germany) – Ungod

Release – March 15

Genre – Death Metal/Dirge

Thoughts –

Anyone familiar with the Morgoth sound will be able to immediately identify this as an album by them (which is good, as it is indeed).

There’s the accented growl and rhythms with a touch of doom and a while ton of dirge chuggery. Naturally, this isn’t reinventing the wheel, but it is Morgoth in top form. It’s just a pity that they never really garnered the respect they deserved. This is their last album, unless (fingers crossed) they decide to have another go at it. “Cursed” remains my favorite by then, and I’m happy to report that this is of a quality that longtime fans and those new to their style can easily appreciate.

Score – 86

And… a Few Reccs (via Twitter)

of_lorc

Bal-Sagoth (UK) – The Chthonic Chronicles

Release – March 06

Genre – Symphonic Black/Death/Folk Metal

Thoughts –

When someone mentions an acts ‘magnum opus’, their ‘crown jewel’ one might become curious. When one knows of the act in question, as I do with Bal-Sagoth who recently reformed as Kull, the curiosity starts to burn. As one who’s only ever heard of the aforementioned in their newest incarnation I was undoubtedly intrigued. Upon hitting play, I was literally shocked. Not surprisingly this is in a similar vein to Kull (one sticks with what they know, and what they’re good at, right?) offering a fantastical mythical narrative against a symphonic foundation married by sweeping riffs and rhythms which transport one to a realm where swords and magic replaces guns and computers. Admittedly this could well be called DnD metal as it isn’t really as “heavy” (or as extreme) as one might think. Sure, the unmistakable BM and Blackened Death tone is front and center though it’s basted in layers of triumph, mystery, suspense and accompanied by a storybook- esque read through. A narrator (who voice is rather familiar) and a vocal approach which brings to mind Dani from Cradle of Filth minus the often-gymnastic elements. In short, this could well be the soundtrack to the next (live setting) RPG gathering if only those present were also open minded in regards to the audio on offer.

Delicately created with equal measures of brutality, presence and atmosphere and enough instrumental breaks this serves as both a fantastic jumping on point for the band and an album to change many a person’s thoughts on the extreme audio realm. If you liked the newest by Kull and have always been willing to dive into darker metal arenas perhaps with a fantastical edge though are unsure as to where to start, may I suggest this?

Score – 96

DarkIronDwarf

https://swamplantern.bandcamp.com/album/the-lord-is-with-us

Swamp Lantern (USA) – the Lord is With Us

Release – January 22

Genre – Doom/Sludge/Stoner Rock/Avant Gârde

Thoughts –

I cannot possibly talk about this without first mentioning the cover art. Intricate and highly detailed it has all the markings of an original Renaissance painting in a vein similar to Gothic, alternate reality/underworld output by Dante or Bosch. It’s exquisite and certainly up there with my favorites of the year thus far, and to think it’s a ‘wood burning’ piece literally blows the fn’ mind!

In regards to the music, huge riffs, melancholy, melody and a palpable grandiose ethereal presence of a formidable quality successfully lift this from the traditional, and that’s not mentioning the tracks goosebumps raising build. And this is merely what the first track offers! The album continues and I can’t help but conjure possible comparisons, Louisiana’s legendary Sludge audio assassins Acid Bath come to mind on account of several reasons; the music is varied, each track bears a distinct uniqueness, and the vocals have an exceptional range, the sheer beauty of Dax’s abilities comes to mind. Strange is that although the audio bears wandering tendencies (ranging from melodic Black to actual middle Eastern Folk rhythms and most everything in between) it still moves with exceptional ease, boasting qualities which are often hypnotic. The whole is a wonder to have betwixt the ears, pleasantly varied yet devastatingly beautiful in its complexities and composition sporting musical talent (percussion and vocals) to elicit a smile, this is the album to beat for the year’s top spot. The bar has been set! And here I was thinking the art would be the only element here to harp on about. Boy, was I made to look like a fool? Do whatever you have to in order to place this in the ears. It demands attention!

Score – 93

Erick_Willard

Swallow the Sun (Finland) – Moonflowers

Release – November 21

Genre – DeathDoom

Thoughts –

Swallow the Sun have delivered a solid discography, I’m not arguing that fact, though nothing has risen to the absolute jaw-dropping level of their magnum opus, the shining ever so brightly moment of godliness that was their debut. The riffs floored me; the atmosphere held me in diabolical thrall. I was left with an undeniable impression. This is their eight full-length. It’s markedly different than their first, the style has blossomed, the talent has grown, most everything has changed. Although there is still, strangely, that one element, a defining factor, which whispers Swallow the Sun. The bands willingness and applaudable execution of tweaking “it” knows no bounds. And although this is so much easier to approach (for those willing to take the plunge) than their masterpiece it still boasts an air about it. A comfortable timelessness proclaiming mastery of audio issuance which steals a wide variety of emotion from its audience.

In brief, for those in the nosebleed section, this is damn good!

Open the wallet already!

Score – 95

UniqueHiFi

https://opensight.bandcamp.com/album/mondo-fiction

Opensight (UK) – Mondo Fiction

Release – February 22

Genre – Progressive Doom/Synth/Rock

Thoughts –

Immediately upon hitting play a similarity hits the senses, the thought that this is in a similar style to earlier Faith no More but more specifically Dog Fashion Disco and/or Polkadot Cadaver. There’s an undeniable and wicked creativity displayed here and a blazing willingness to compose outside of the traditional lines. Difficult to categorize though strangely easy to consume without complaint the style here is one which pairs exceedingly well with images lovingly curated from Crime Noir epics; acts of skullduggery, intrigue, double dealings and misfortune. Elements of synth only heighten the enjoyment of the grandiose compositions on offer complemented by applaudable vocal talents which only serve to place the listener in smoky nefarious realms which demand constant vigilance.

Fans of Dig Fashion Disco and Polkadot Cadaver can rejoice, there’s a new act in town (but across “the pond”) offering the same quality off-kilter audio with themes to delight those with penchants which encompass the slightly bizarre, slightly niche and often misunderstood.

Score – 93

DocVader2

https://fetidzombie.bandcamp.com/album/transmutations

Fetid Zombie – Transmutations

Release – May 21

Genre – DeathDoom/Progressive/Thrash/Heavy Metal/OSDM

Thoughts –

Going in and not entirely sure what to expect, especially since this is from the brainchild of Mar Riddick, an amazing artist (seriously how talented can one person possibly be?) I left pleasantly surprised. From what I read about the band it appears more a collaborative effort rather a band persè. A fact which isn’t all bad depending on how the final product turns out, obviously.

In this case, many minds and a plethora of styles have combined to wonderful effect. The album sports an experience (I’m trying my damndest to resist typing “flow”. Again!) which is varied, dream-like in instances, atmosphere laden in others, yet dark and ominous throughout with all the trappings of extreme audio drenched in an influence which only a rare few, Fetid Zombie included, can pull off to great effect. Post textures cavort with dense OSDM passages with veins of infectious riffs and delirious rhythms shot throughout to deliver an audio landscape which fans from many an assorted field (of style) will be able to enjoy. Transmutations is a fantastic example of something which is neither fully this, or that, but rather a celebration of how excellently an assortment of talent from across the extreme audio spectrum can mesh if given the opportunity and direction to do so. I can easily see why this made it onto a plethora of Year End favorite lists.

Score – 93

GregoryWJKelly (x2)

https://iotunn.bandcamp.com/album/access-all-worlds

Iotunn (Denmark) – Access All Worlds

Release – February 21

Genre – Progressive/Doom/Melodic Death

Thoughts –

From the description this might sound like the typical not quite Death, not quite fully Progressive and not altogether Doom affair. It is, and it altogether isn’t. What sets this apart from the pack is its emphasis on clean vocals, though it’s not without an occasional growl or two. It is this element which gives it a slight unique quality; the tone and cadence here is akin to several acts from the 80’s alternative rock arena (not today’s definition, let’s get that straight!) And yes, you heard that right. And it fits. Amazingly so, in fact. As well the audio bearing a flow which might make a great many rivers jelly (‘jealous’ – I’m attempting to be cool here) it sports a definite exciting, amorphic, edge (and this is a concept album though one might not imagine so based on the quality on offer) which somehow manages to maintain the listener attention. I’m thankful someone brought this to my attention, released in February it might be that one album which warrants rediscovery lest it be forgotten within the sheer enormity of albums unleashed on a constant, never-ending basis.

Score – 96

https://claymore1.bandcamp.com/album/eulogy-for-the-gods

Claymorean (Serbia) – Eulogy for the Gods

Release – September 21

Genre – Traditional Heavy/Folk Metal

Thoughts –

And this was a surprise. In instances I’m thinking Heart (on account of the vocal style) meets Iron Maiden (based on the sweeping riffs and melodies), and in others I’m thinking Ritchie Blackmore might have a smidgen of input based on the often-fantastical themes and narrative. However, one chooses to slice, dice or slap-chop it, this has definite appeal. This is easy on the ears and isn’t quite heavy enough to deter those who aren’t typically into the scene.

Score – 85

LFCMFighter

https://helslave.bandcamp.com/album/from-the-sulphur-depths

Helslave (Italy) – From the Sulphur Depths

Release – April 21

Genre – Death Metal/HM2

Thoughts –

Although this seethes with an undoubtedly Swedish buzzsaw tone it also somehow oddly sounds fresh. And it doesn’t take but a single track to realize this album is something undeniably freakin’ special. Vocals are a tad throatier and more guttural than most output with the same attributes though this only serves to add another layer of heightened enjoyment. A devilish sprinkle of ominous Doom quality propels the enjoyment further.

This placed high on a great many (21′) yearend lists, I’m wondering why it took so long for my ears to fall upon it, don’t be like me!

Score – 96

Random Recc

https://uniqueleaderrecords.bandcamp.com/album/ritual-hymns

Worm Shepard (USA) – Ritual Hymns

Release – January 22

Genre – Death Metal/Deathcore/Slam

Thoughts –

Huge riffs and an atmosphere which in instances reaches cinematic heights accompanied by a hybrid of rhythmic deathcore and Death meets Black metal. This certainly has it moments, there’s atmosphere to spare but for those like myself who prefer to avoid Slam and its associated breakdown tendencies this offers a few, though thankfully not quite to the extent in which it might lessen the enjoyment tremendously. Overall, a solid affair and a fantastic introduction to the band and their exciting style.

Score – 90

LelandSage

https://non-serviam-records.bandcamp.com/album/purified-through-devastation

Against the Plagues (USA) -Purified Through Devastation

Release – December 15

Genre – Brutal/Death Metal

Thoughts –

Recommendations are usually a mixed bag, obviously they depend upon the “givers” tastes and genre preference. This, however has the undeniable potential to appeal to a large radius of fans. The audio on udder is thunderous, yet melodic with an emphasis on drums and melodies barely this side of Thrash. Rhythms tease the bands willingness to leap into Brutal DM boundaries though remain barely this side of said boundary. Overall, this is an amazing example of a release which likely fell through most people’s radar undetected.

Jump on this pronto! A huge Recc from a Twitter pal who knows Metal with definite exhilarating qualities.

Score – 95

Current and Future Metal

https://regainrecords.bandcamp.com/album/i-am-the-void

Eucharist (Sweden) – I am the Void

Release- March 22

Genre – Melodic Death/Black Metal

Thoughts –

There’s no denying that Eucharist have left their mark. And all with a single release, A Velvet Creation was released in 93′ a landmark milestone in the melodic death metal arena but the follow-up, Mirrorworlds, remains largely ignored. Fifteen years between releases us a long time, and understandably a great deal can transpire in said time. And it has! This record sees Eucharist exploring a new path with little light to guide the way (literally). Upon immediate exploration the album appears miles from what one might imagine, assume, predict. It is. But it still embraces the melody which the band are renowned for. I am the Void is far removed from melodic death realms. Instead, its creators have chosen to park their wheels in a shadier area of town, a precinct which often breeds controversy and has in the last few years (as it has in the past) again come under fire.

_{A 2018 vinyl edition of the Eucharist classic}

I am the Void however whispers knowledge, experience and a know-how which many might be puzzled by (hey, isn’t this those same guys who played “Once my Eyes Moved Mountains”?) In short, because this has transformed into somewhat of a regular- sized review, the audio here is sublime, sure it might take a few spins to fully comprehend that it’s from the Eucharist camp, it seethes with atmosphere, darkness, malevolence and that one element which the band are known for, melody. However, it also bears a willingness to experiment. There are moments that might hint at arenas the band may dip their talents within in the near future, although it could also be a huge tease and it might be another fifteen years until another album with the stellar qualities such as this comes around again?

Eucharist have evolved, there’s no arguing that. Fans might well be divided in their opinion based on what this provides. I for one like this a great deal and will continue to spin and preach about this until it finds a place in my ultimate playlist, and people tell me “Enough already!”.

Highly recommended for fans of Dissection, Abyss and melodic BM with bite (I’d provide names of more bands here, but my knowledge of the scene is still that of an eager novice with a willingness to learn).

Score – 95

https://cryptichatred.bandcamp.com/album/nocturnal-sickness

Cryptic Hatred (Finland) – Nocturnal Sickness

Release- February 22

Genre – Death Metal

Thoughts –

With this in the ears an instant, and undeniable, similarity jumps out to smack one in the senses. And it hits hard!

With that being mentioned, however, this incites an instant reaction, it smothers the ‘Oh my fkn Gawd’ sensors with Post it notes reading in huge letters “Damn – this is utter fire”. And it is! Melodic yet draped in ominous pitch darkness and teasing technical arenas the rhythms here sport top notch guttural accompaniment, chunkiness, groove, melody and still yet a tempestuous cyclonic nature liable to send many to the chiropractor’s office with a drastically oversized grin upon their chops.

In short if you enjoy ‘meat and potatoes’ DM without all the silliness many acts wish to include this is a destination you need set your coordinates to and pronto!

And that blood moon art! I’m expecting shirt and flag sales to rival that of toilet paper pre pandemic. And pondering upon the fact that this is a debut blows the fn’ mind. Seriously!

Score – 96

https://skumstrike.bandcamp.com/album/deadly-intrusions

SkumStrike (Canada) – Caustic Poison

Release – April 22

Genre – Crust/Aggressive Thrash/Black Metal

Thoughts –

Much like their previous EP this panders to absolutely no one especially current fads or trends. To say that thus is raw and abrasive is an understatement, one would likely regret. Vintage influences are front and center and leap from the audio to scream hours spent glued to speakers absorbing Hellhammer, Celtic Frost and a slew of Punk bands bringing in the Crust era.

Some have likened this to USA’s Wraith, I can the similarities although this showcases more D-beat rhythms and undeniable primal attitude. Short tracks, aggressive infectious rhythms and an all-out approach leaving very little time for a breather.

Score – 88

https://demiricousofficial.bandcamp.com/album/chaotic-lethal

Demiricous (USA) – Chaotic Lethal

Release – May 22

Genre – Crossover/Thrash

Thoughts –

Fifteen years have passed since Two – Poverty and one might wonder what the band gave been up to. Obviously, with such an absence one might also ponder upon the style a new album offers. Is the band hoping to capitalize on recent trends? Ate they hoping to cash in on that which is trendy and “in”?

Thankfully, this isn’t the case. In fact, a strong argument could be made that this is the bands strongest output to date. In regards to the music on offer, think newer Slayer, Thrash (bordering on Melodic Death) with some Haunted thrown in and also a tone which Machine Head are known to utilize. Add to the mix riffs and rhythms which one might find on an SOD (newer) album and oftentimes an aggressive Industrial texture ala Ministry (“Psalm 69” and “The Mind is a Terrible Thing to Taste”) and the stage is set for a release which will likely spark contagious interest from an act who have found a new lease on life, a reinvigoration, a reigniting of a career which is many years in the making.

Score – 84

https://azaab.bandcamp.com/releases

Azaab (Pakistan) – Summoning the Cataclysm

Release – April 22

Genre – Progressive/Brutal Death Metal

Thoughts –

I honestly had no idea what to expect from a DM act based out of Pakistan (where? – Exactly!) Thankfully, this represents! It offers leads and solos aplenty, even flourishes of technicality. More than enough energy and exciting composition to keep one entertained for the duration.

Am I surprised? Hell yes, this fn’ rules! Don’t let that creepy looking skeletal dude put you off.

Score – 90

https://hathnj.bandcamp.com/album/all-that-was-promised

Hath (USA) – All That Was Promised

Release – March 22

Genre – Death Metal

Thoughts –

By giving this the moniker of merely Death Metal and having one think of it as such is seriously doing this release an injustice. For it offers so much more. It bears grandiose tones, hints of influence plucked from an assortment of other arenas and a depth which is absolutely astounding. Far from mere chuggery this showcases the acts maturity, another rung in the ladder towards greatness and a shift towards that which fans of more recent Septic Flesh adore; the cinematic presence, a pristine archaic aura and a style which serves to settlement apart from the same old, same old. It took a few listens (I’m not gonna lie) but now that I’m closer to understanding, I’m that much closer to appreciating that which is going to be mentioned a great deal more as the New Year approaches. Does the cover make anyone else think of Slayer’s South of Heaven?

Score – 91

https://noisebringer-records.bandcamp.com/album/impious-2

Non Est Dues (Germany) – Impious

Release – March 22

Genre – Atmospheric/Melodic BM

Thoughts –

If any album were to reach the heights of its encompassing art, it’s this one!

Melodic and atmospheric this nears definite Scandinavian tones and rhythms to have one in utter thrall. Hypnotic with plentiful beat to encourage one to get the dancing shoes out of storage (what-?) this puts me in mind of mid era Satyricon and also releases by way of fellow German practitioners Sarkrista while also holding steadfast to a foundation which the vast majority of BM fans will be able to easily appreciate. I’ll be spinning this a great deal in the future for it is certainly deserved of the attention.

Score – 94

https://tribalgaze-maggotstomp.bandcamp.com/releases

Tribal Gaze (USA) – Godless Voyage

Release- March 22

Genre – Death Metal/OSDM

Thoughts –

Occasionally, upon discovering an album from an act you know absolutely zero about, one gets surprised, stricken with an ear to ear, maniacal, grin. Such us the case here. I know bugger all about Tribal Gaze so you can only imagine my delight when their album sporting such stunning caliber assaulted my senses. There may be those out there who know of the band, their album, who are shaking their heads in disbelief – “How is it you haven’t heard this?” Well, now I have. And I’m pleased to announce that if you crave DM in a style the earliest Morbid Angel and Cannibal Corpse (starting with Butchered) offered this will serve to sate the thirst. This serves up energetic chuggery, riffs which tease Djent arenas, infectious rhythms which occasionally appear as if they are chasing each other, a density to set any pit alight and a composition with zero dull moments. Not to mention ominous qualities aplenty, a production which tosses one back to nostalgic arenas and a vocal approach which fits perfectly.

Why didn’t anyone warn me that these guys were so GD impressive?

Well…I’m here to tell you.

Score – 95

https://downcross.bandcamp.com/album/hexapoda-triumph

Downcross (Belarus) – Hexapoda Triumph

Release – March 22

Genre – Melodic/Atmospheric BM

Thoughts –

I’ve dropped thoughts upon a Downcross album before now (as a featured review), and for great reason: their last blew me away, changing most everything which I thought I knew about the BM genre. This, I’m pleased to state, is no different. Fueled with palpable atmosphere, even a little synth and rhythms to please even the most discerning of speed freak it delivers while also offering something different with each track. The vocals are wicked and the production a damn sight better than one might expect given the genre. Overall, another winner sure to entice new fans and keep existing ones more than sated.

Score – 94

Heterogenous Andead – (Japan) Chaotic Fragments

Release – April 22

Genre – Symphonic Thrash/Shred/Death Metal

Thoughts –

This has all the markings of an album I shouldn’t like, though find myself steadily falling under its spell. Hugely melodic in nature, with an undeniably, and largely unignorable, symphonic foundation this is a fantastic example of an album which pits beauty against the beast. And much like early output by Theatre of Tragedy it showcases both gruff and angelic vocals. In this instance however “angelic” lays more on the ‘light’ operatic arena. Now, I normally wouldn’t stand for such a vocal travesty in a realm such as this (is it obvious that I’m not normally a fan of such?) However, with the persistence of a parasite its attraction seems to grow. Coupled with a percussion which bears Dragonforce laced shred tendencies as well passages which bring to mind Paul Wardingham (instrumental) material and definite fantastical rhythms (doused in Thrash camouflage) this has an appeal which is undeniable. Naturally, some parts don’t work as well as others, but for the most part this hugely entertains. Similar artists include Kull and Bal-Sagoth although both incarnations of pretty much the same band are absent the operatic element. Open the mind, drop the assumptions and give this a spin. It might surprise you as it has me.

Score – 80

please note that the album isn’t up yet, the link is for their last

https://wampyrinacht.bandcamp.com/releases

Wampyrinacht (Greece) – Night of the Desecration

Release – May 22

Genre – BM/Heavy Metal/Doom/Aggressive Thrash

Thoughts –

Maniacal and ferocious yet not altogether what one might expect given the album cover and title this offers the listener quite the audio experience. The Intro more than hints at Raw, possibly melody-laden, BM but it in no way operates the audience for what’s about to follow. Of the tracks on display there’s a few, which act as breaks allowing for one to catch their breath and pick their jaw from upon the floor. Of the others on offer epic is the main motif and for want of a better term a willingness to offer that which most BM does not. Rhythms are varied, intertwined with thrashier aggressiveness and atmospheric doom passages. But this is most certainly not a Black Sabbath tribute by way of a late 80’s act with free rein to insert their own flair and improvisation. This is so much more. In places one will detect a more blackened approach whilst in others passages with the presence to toss the listener back several decades to when Metal was so much easier to explain and categorize. But it doesn’t end there, one might also recall earlier Cradle of Filth in places with spoken word interludes and angelic accompaniments. This is album which is both beautiful and brutal, wicked and serene with many an element plucked from many more arenas than one would probably expect. It’s undeniably an experience which is easier to appreciate with an open mind, even more so following a familiarity which arises from repeated plays.

and…that is it!

Score – 87

And that concludes this installment. You might have noticed a high score motif. It was in no way intentional, it just so happened that this cross section of albums were of exceedingly good quality. In other news; I’m hoping to have a new and exciting segment to unveil in the near future, if all goes well, feel free to keep the eyes peeled for that.

Your slave to Extreme audio, in many of its interesting guises,

Cult