Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Graveborne/Pure Negativity/Nykta/2011 CD Review


  Graveborne are a band from Finland that plays a very dark and heavy form of black metal with a melodic edge and this is is a review of their 2011 album "Pure Negativity" which was released by Nykta.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some blast beats being thrown in at times, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they have a very powerful sound that utilizes dark riffing.

Rhythm guitars range slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffing that is very dark, raw and melodic sounding at times and you can hear the 90's black metal style in the riffing as well as a slight thrash edge and there are little to no guitar solos or leads present on the recording, as for the classical guitars which are used briefly on one song they use finger picking to enhance the darkness of the music.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams with some deep growling being used at the end of the last song, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Occultism and Darkness, as for the production it has a very heavy, dark and powerful feeling to it.

In my opinion Graveborne are a very good satanic black metal band with a melodic and atmospheric edge which they do not have to resort to keyboards or synths to create atmosphere and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Nocturnal" "Dark Matter" and "Sinister Moon". RECOMMENDED BUY.


Devastator/Conjuring Evil/War Productions/2011 Cassette Re_Issue Review


  Devastator are a band from Florida that plays a mixture of war, black and thrash metal and this is a review of their 2008 album which was re-issued by War Productions on cassette in the year of 2011 "Conjuring Evil".

Drums range from mid paced to fast drumming with a great amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they have a very powerful sound to them, as for the piano which is only used briefly on one song it adds a very dark ritualistic feeling to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from mid paced to fast riffs that combine war, black metal and thrash together to create some riffing that is very heavy, raw and primitive sounding while the lead guitars are very primitive and chaotic sounding black/thrash guitar solos and leads.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams that also have a classic black/thrash feeling to them in addition there is a sample from a movie being used on one song, while the lyrics cover Devil Worship, Satanism, Anti-Christianity, Sumerian and Occult themes, as for the production it has a very dark, raw, and primitive feeling to the music.

In my opinion Devastator are a very good war/black/thrash metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Vengeance of Death' "PAZUZU, Demon Of Plagues" and "Third Dynasty Of Ur". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Bleeding Fist/Devil's Ferox/War Productions/2011 Cassette Review


  Bleeding Fist are a band from Slovakia that has one of their albums reviewed as well as being interviewed by this zine that plays a very brutal form of war/black/death/thrash metal and this is a review of their 2011 cassette "Devil's Ferox" which was released by War Productions.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of brutal blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they have a very powerful sound to them.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast war/black/death/thrash metal riffs that are very raw, heavy and brutal sounding and on one song there is a brief use of clean playing, while the lead guitars are very chaotic sounding black/war metal guitar solos and leads.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Occultism, and Devil Worship, as for the production it has a very dark, raw, primitive and heavy feeling to it, and the last 2 songs on this cassette are recorded live.

In my o-pinion this is another great recording from Bleeding Fist and if you where a fan of their previous albums, you should get this one at all costs. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Monument Disacration" "Force The Dead To Confess" and "Invocation Into Devil's Flesh". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Monday, September 26, 2011

Craft/Void/Southern Lord Recordings/2011 CD Review


  Craft are a band that has a history dating back to the 90's with a music style that started out as a more hateful style but have evolved with the new release and added more elements of black'n'roll with this recording and this is a review of their 2011 album "Void" which was released by Southern Lord Recordings.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in at times, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful tone with riffs that dominate throughout the recording, as for the effects which are only used on the last song they bring a very dark avant garde feeling to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that also combines elements of black'n'roll and doom metal with some dark sounding melodies being used at times while the lead guitars have a rock/metal feel to the guitar solos when they are utilized

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched and grim sounding black metal screams, while the lyrics cover dark, hateful and murder screams, as for the production it has a very dark sound that is not too over produced and the music still retains a raw edge.

In my opinion this is another great album from Craft and if you where a fan of their previous recordings, you will not be disappointed. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Serpent Soul" "Succumb To Sin" and "I Want To Commit Murder". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Friday, September 23, 2011

Glorior Belli Interview


1. Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?

We're quite busy actually with the promotion of the new album, also working on a couple of new tracks for an upcoming split with Nachtmystium as well as getting ready for the next live assaults. On November 25th we'll make our first appearance in North-America, at a fest in Montreal with Absu, Inquisition and more.

2. When I listened to the 3 song sampler it sounded a lot different than the previous material that I have heard, can you tell us a little bit more about the newer material and what we can expect when the new album hits stores?

Depends on what you mean by earlier material exactly. The 3 songs sampler doesn't differ so much from our previous record "Meet Us At The Southern Sign". Basically the new album emphasizes the sound of Glorior Belli into a monolith of Southern Rock and Bluesy grooves mixed with the brutal, ominous, doom-laden vibe typical of Black Metal. Every instruments has found its place in the composition, the guitar work is even more sophisticated, the bass lines more intense, drums are alternatively beating from blast beats to rock patterns and make the whole rhythm section implacable. It’s just the logical continuation of what we started with Meet Us At The Southern Sign, but this time we achieved the perfect balance.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the new release?

Well, it took me longer to write the lyrics than the damn music as I've spent a lot of time studying and arranging the texts in a poetic way, like I always did in the past. A French guy rhyming in English and singing about the forces of the nightside, it can't get any better. It's really important for me that people understand the lyrics, as my ultimate goal is to give them the opportunity to forge the weapons of their own liberation, yet my words will confuse the weaker minds just like the fire of Lucifer can both illuminate and destroy. This is one of my favorite part (taken from 'Negative Incarnate'): "From behind the nervous curtains of my trembling cosmic prison, the dark Gods are firmly waiting filled with hatred for the cosmos; outside the frame of creation lies the darkest of all secrets, the magic of the queen dragon waits for us to crush the gates!".

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?

“Glorior Belli” is Latin for “to bask in pride at times of war” and obviously there is a deeper meaning behind, it reminds me how important it is to always challenge the cosmic scheme as well as it is a doctrine for self-betterment. For this is what a tenebrous path really essentially is all about, to develop/manifest one’s attraction for the Dark path and transcend it into a liberating Illumination.

5. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and how would you describe your stage performance?

It's hard to say, until now we didn't exactly get the best conditions, I mean logistically-wise it's always a fucking struggle for us to figure out how to bring all the equipments and complete line up with the small budgets offered. So in the end we have to sacrifice some of it in order to actually play. Anyway, I guess the best show in my opinion was at the K17 in Berlin during our tour with Horned Almighty last February. Lots of dedicated/drunk people, good venue, good sound. Oh and also the festival in Fredericia (Denmark) was amazing. One of the best sound we ever had on stage and believe me in the end it makes a hell of a difference for both the musicians and the audience. The line up is a bit different now as well as our equipment and stage accessories, so I'm looking forward to new experiences.

6. Do you have any touring plans for the new album once it comes out?

Nothing confirmed, yet besides an Australian tour next year with friends from The House of Capricorn and a couple of shows in November in Europe and the exclusive Canadian date.

7. The new album is coming out on Metal Blade Records, how did you get in contact with them and how would you describe the support that they have given you so far, also have you received any backlash from the more close minded black metal fans about singing to a label like Metal Blade which has not put out that much black metal over the years?

It definitely is the greatest achievement for what started 10 years ago as a small yet ambitious band. It’s not exactly about feeling secure, I only expect the best out of this collaboration as we are absolutely determined to do what we have to in order to promote our new record the way it should be. I can feel that not a single drop of energy is being wasted and there’s a cool symbiosis in the collaboration. I’ve never been confronted to such professional and yet really supportive people, they know exactly how to take care of business with high levels of passion and perseverance. So that’s one less thing I need to worry about as a musician, and it takes a lot of weight off my shoulders to be honest.

8. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your newer music from those that have already heard some of it so far?

Reviews are all unanimous, we fucking nailed it! The new album receives high praise from all over the world and it's fucking gratifying considering all the efforts we put into it. Our last record sort of divided opinions, but this one is just legitimate to the general opinion. Nothing to prove anymore.

9. What is going on with the side projects these days?

Not much. I want to focus on Glorior Belli, the side projects usually come later when there's a bit less activity with the main one.

10. What direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?

I guess it's a bit too soon to tell, but you know I think it's not like we're gonna change drastically. Glorior Belli has defined its unique sound and we can now explore a bit further all the possibilities, just darker, bluesier and even more twisted.

11. What are some bands or musical stlyes that have influenced the sound of the new album and also what are you listening to nowadays?

David Eugene Edwards, 16HP/Woven Hand, Mr Phil Anslemo, Pantera, Down, Kurt Cobain, Alice In Chains, Neurosis, Acid Bath, Kyuss, Slash, Snot, Ved Buens Ende, for the influences. Lately I've been listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan, Botch, Rome...

12. How would you describe your views on Luciferan philosophy and Occultism and what are some philosphers and Magick practices that have influenced your view point?

The work of Crowley obviously had a major influence on me at first, and then when i dug a bit deeper I've stumbled upon more underground interesting authors and books. Mostly the teachings of TOTBL are outstanding, as well as Mark Alan Smith, and a few others. Obviously it's important to gather knowledge but you also need to know what to do with it in the end, and it requires a lot of hard work and self discipline. In a few words, the way I conceive Lucifer is as a liberating force that illuminates the path of the chosen few and confuses the weaker minds. But of course there's a lot more to it for once you step in darkness you can only go as far as you push!

13. Outside of music what are some of your interests?

I like looking at photographies, paintings, Art in general, getting out, traveling, designing, tattoos, poker...

14. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?

We will defeat and bring down the cosmic scheme! See you all Frogerz somewhere down the road.

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Thursday, September 22, 2011

Taake/Noregs Vaapen/Candlelight Records/2011 CD Review


  Taake are a band from Norway that has had their previous album reviewed in this zine, that started out as a more rare sounding Norwegian black metal band but have gotten very experimental with this recording and this is a review of their 2011 album "Noregs Vaapen" which was released by Candlelight Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some blast beats being thrown in at times, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful tone with some classic metal style riffing, as for the banjos when they are utilized they bring a folk music feeling to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast Norwegian black metal riffs that are very dark and melodic sounding at times with some black rock style riffing being used as well, while the lead guitars are very weird sounding guitar solos and leads with a lot of epic sounding melodies being thrown in as well as some rock/classic metal influences.

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched and grim sounding black metal screams with a small amount of clean singing viking metal vocals  being used briefly as well as a spoken word part being used on one song, while the lyrics are written in Norwegian and cover Norse Mythology, Darkness, Death, Autumn, Winter, Hell, Pain, and The Devil, as for the production it has a very dark, powerful, heavy and professional sound to it without taking away from the raw elements of the music.

In my opinion while this album might be a little different for fans of this band and it will probably take a few listens before it soaks in, I Still feel this is a great album from Taake and I think most of their fans will be happy. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Fra Vadested Til Vaandesmad" "Nordbundet' and "Myr". RECOMMENDED BUY.

http://taake.svartekunst.no

Throne Of Katarsis/Ved Graven/Candlelight Records/2011 CD Review


 Throne Of Katarsis are a band from Norway that has had their previous album reviewed in this zine that plays a very raw and heavy form of satanic/occult/black metal and this is a review of their 2011 album "Ved Graven" which was released by Candlelight Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they have a very powerful sound to them, as for the synths when they are utilized they bring a very dark funeral type of sound to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are very heavy, dark, raw and primitive sounding with some dark sounding melodies being used at times, while the lead guitars when they are utilized are very chaotic sounding black metal guitar leads.

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched and grim sounding black metal screams, while the lyrics are written in a mixture of Norwegian and English with themes that cover Satanism, Occultism, Darkness  and Anti Christianity, as for the production it has a very dark and heavy tone without effecting the rawness of the music.

In my opinion this is another great album from Throne Of Katarsis and if you where a fan of their previous releases, you will not be disappointed. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Helvate Kaller" "The Holy Remains The Weak" and "The Ultimate Shrine". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Nachzehrer/Pestilence Hungers In The Shadows/Demons Gate Records/Tombs In The Valley Productions/2011 CD Review


  Nachzehrer are a band from Massachusetts that had their previous ep reviewed in this zine that plays a mixture of raw black metal and black/thrash and this is a review of their 2011 album "Pestilence Hungers In The Shadows" which was released as a joint effort between Demons Gate Records and Tombs In The Valley Productions.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some blast beats being thrown in at times, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast riffs that combine raw black metal with black/thrash while the lead guitars are very primitive black/thrash style guitar leads

Vocals are all high pitched black metal screams, while the lyrics cover dark and occultic themes, as for the production it has a very dark, raw and primitive sound to it.

In my opinion this is a good album from  Nachzehrer and if you are looking for something that combines raw black metal with black/thrash, you should check out this recording. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Black Order Of the Goat" and "Incestual Demonacy". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Monday, September 19, 2011

Erevos Interview


1. Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?
Lot of things! We changed our main line-up. It’s kind of complicated how it works. Also we are promoting our debut album to radio stations, magazines and webzines, our label does the rest (distribution and placement). We have to arrange and perform some live shows and we are looking for a booking agency, because we want to make a tour in Europe.

2. How would you describe the musical sound of the new album and how it differs from the previous releases?

First of all the sound was made by Dan Swano, so it is way different from our previous releases. The sound is great and certainly atmospheric with aggressiveness


3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?

Well, in this release we follow a concept, you know like a story. We talk about dark Greek mythology. I like all mythologies and certainly in the future I would like to write something about Lovecraftian horror.

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?

We wanted something dark and ritualistic. Some words in Greek sound like that. So we chose Erevos, which means total darkness. The funny thing is that although it is a Greek word, many Greeks don’t know it.

5. Out off all the shows and tours that the band has done so far, which one did you enjoy the most?

All of our shows are unique experiences. We enjoyed all of them. Some wonderful examples are our tour in France, because we met the most organized people. In Bulgaria, because of the great crowd and our shows with Necrodeath and Mayhem, because had great time with them.

6. Do you have any touring planns for the new release?

Yes we have. We are looking for a booking agency and until now we are in touch with some of them. Also we arrange some shows here in Greece.



7. You worked with Dan Swano on the new release, what was it like working with this legendary producer and musician?

YEAH!!! He is a great, great guy! We learned many things from him and certainly until now, he is the most professional person that we’ve worked with.

8/ How has the label suuport been for the new album and can you tell us a little bit more about Orkestral Promenrade Productions?

Orkestral Promenade is a new label that is located in Athens. We do not have many labels in Greece. Orkestral Promenade’s roster has known Greek metal bands. They created the artwork and printed the cd’s. Also they distributed and placed our cd to music stores all over Greece and Cyprus. We have a good cooperation, although we need some distribution for other countries too (something that we work on now).

9. Are there any side projects besides this band or is this a full time line-up?

I personally (Growler) sing to the band of our session guitarist, Incest in Heaven. It is a progressive death metal band, quite different than other bands, I can assure you. Also I was the bassist player of Rotting Flesh, an old and known death metal band from Greece. Our current guitarist also plays in a black metal band called Maphorion and our drummer also plays in a black metal band, called Ensarcosis Demonica.

10. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by black metal fans?

Really good!! Many people say that we have our own style. That’s because (as they say), we combine the atmospheric sound with many thrash riffs. It sounds aggressive. We also combine the whole music with the death metal genre. So I think it is something different. We do have keyboards, but we don’t have similarities to other majestic-atmospheric black metal bands. We have a different perspective on composition of our music.

11. What direction do you see your music heading into on future releases?

I don’t know. Aggressive and dark, that’s for sure.


12. Your music has more of a 90's sound than a modern sound, what made you decide to go for this direction and what is your opinion on modern day black metal bands?


As a recent review said, we are not trying to sound like an old school band nor modern. We just play what we like!!! So to be honest I don’t like to sound like an old-school band, because many bands tried to do that and it is kind of close-minded I think. On the other hand modern sound deprives the whole aggressiveness that a metal band must have.

13. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Styles eh? Certainly thrash metal, majestic black metal, death metal, movie soundtracks and classical music. A little bit of everything! I suppose some of our influences are Dissection, Exodus, Emperor, Anorexia Nervosa, Bathory and Hypocrisy. Nowadays we are listening to many underground groups. It is more interesting than listening to the already known bands.

14. Your music has a lot of references to Occultism and Greek Mythology, what role does this play in your life outside of music and how would you describe your views on these topics?

We like to read lots of mythological books. Mythology is the history that passes from generation to generation through the oral speech. It has a truth in it, it differs from fairytales. I personally study lot of Occultism. I find it very interesting and riveting!

15. Outside of music, what are some of your interests?

Movies, reading, DRINKING (!) and having a good time with friends!

16. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?

We thank you very much for the interview and keep up your good work! Everyone who wants to contact with us, can find us at: HYPERLINK "mailto:erevosblack@yahoo.com" erevosblack@yahoo.com and HYPERLINK "http://www.erevosblack.gr" www.erevosblack.gr


CHEERS!!!

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Saligia Interview


1. Can you tell us a little bit about the project for those that have never heard of you before?
SALIGIA started to manifest in the late shadows of 2006,
as a vessel so as to explore and expand upon thoughts and images within and around its conceiver. Saligia is to be ever growing and ever expanding in all ways, and there shall be no limit or constrain
that is not of its members Will. A temporary constellation of Ahzari and a drummer recorded 2 rehearsal demos, titled simply "Rehearsal '07" and "Seven". In late 2008, Malach Adonai stepped
up on drums, and the rehearsals and finishing touches for "Sïc Transit Glöria Mundï" commenced. The core will consist of Ahzari (All Voices and Strings, musick, lyricks) and Adonai (Drums, lyrickal work).

2. How would you describe the musical sound of the new album and how it differs from the demos that you have put out?
Warm, moist, suffocating, pulsating and raw. It differs a whole lot, we've kept the approach, but added an extra dimension. This album represent more of the essence of what I am trying to achieve, but it's merely a beginning ..
The demos were a conception. This is the birth.

3. What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explore with the music?
We write about our experience, sometimes lyricks can even be prophetic to some extent, not really revealing it's true nature until long after they are written. I do not sit down and write about specific subjects, it reveals itself within the process. Much of it is ridden in allegory, painting images that relate to how I experience the hidden Light.

In regards to the album, its overall theme is Death - change, from within. A change of nihilism into limitlessness.

4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?
The inspiration came from an interest in the 7 Deadly Sins, and identifying them as something within ourselves. I view the name as the carnal side of the spiritual Beast.

5. Currently there are only 2 members are there any plans in the future to add other members?
Not necessarily in regards to writing and studio work, but we are going to work with some live musicians to spread our wings on stage at some point soon.

6. Currently you are signed to Barghest, how did you get in contact with the label and how would you describe the support that they have given you so far?
Malach Adonai is also in another band signed to Barghest, yet I think it was Kark who contacted Barghest and sent them the 'STGM' Promo. Their support has been tremendous, and we are very pleased with their work!

7. What is going on with the other projects these days?
Dødsengel is extending its wings.
We both have things we work on, but not anything to talk about at this time.

8. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by black metal fans?
I've gotten some e-mails over the years from different parts of the world, and it has been good. The album is not out yet, so we do not know much more at present time.

9. What direction do you see the music heading into on future releases?
We are working on new material which is evermore expanding, and it will be a natural progression, however a couple of more steps ahead. We have a clear vision of the path onwards, though some of the aspects are still hidden to us.

10. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Everything I've ever heard and experienced in life. I draw inspiration from all sorts of art, it's not easy to pinpoint anything. Some influences are probably shining through more than others, though I don't want to go into that. I listen to what the wind tells me.

11. What role does Occultism play in the music and how would you describe your views on this subject?
The hidden knowledge is a vast part in both our lives, and it sinks into most of the things we do. It's not possible to break down my views on such a wide subject, everything is ever-expanding, evolving and turning around. I get impulses all day, everyday regarding the philosophy that always builds and burns within me. I will give Crowley a mention. I do not get to reading as much as I maybe would have liked to, but I'm pleased with living my way and adapting what I learn to how I become.

12. Outside of music, what are some of your interests?
I lay the path brick by brick.

13. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?
LVX AETERNAE EX CASTRVM SINISTRVM.

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Friday, September 16, 2011

Ordo Obsidium/Orbis Tetris/Eisenwald/2011 CD Review


 Ordo Obsidium are a band from San Francisco that plays a very dark and sorrowful form of black metal with some funeral doom influences being thrown in at times and this is a review of their 2011 album "Orbis Tetris" which was released by Eisenwald.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that came out of the guitars and at times they sound very powerful, as for the synths which are only used briefly they have a dark ambient feel which sounds good when mixed in with the funeral doom riffing.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are very raw and melodic at times while the slower riffing is classic sounding funeral doom while the lead guitars are very dark and distorted sounding guitar leads, as for the acoustic guitars when they are utilized they use finger picking and full chords to enhance the darkness of the music.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams with some deep death/doom metal growls being thrown in at times, while the lyrics cover dark and depressive themes, as for the production it has a very dark and somewhat of a raw feel to it.

In my opinion Ordo Obsidium are a very good raw and primitive black metal band with a funeral doom edge, and if you are looking for a band that combines these styles together, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Into The Gates Of Madness" and "Emptiness Under The Moon". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Thursday, September 15, 2011

Erevos/Descensus Ad Infernos/Orkestral Promenade Production/2011 CD Review


  Erevos are a band from Greece that plays a very atmospheric form of satanic/occult/black metal and this is a review of their 2011 album "Descensus Ad Infernos" which was released by Orkestral Promenade Production.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some blast beats being thrown in at times, while the keyboards have a very dark and atmospheric sound and at times they have an orchestra feeling to them in addition the last song has an avant garde feel, as for the bass playing it has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and on the last song they sound very powerful.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast atmospheric black metal riffs that are very dark sounding with a good amount of melodies being thrown in at times as well as some riffing having a slight thrash feel to them in addition there are some harmonics being used on some songs, while the lead guitars are melodic sounding black metal guitar leads and solos.

Vocals are mostly high pitched and grim sounding black metal screams with some deep death metal growls being thrown in at times, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Occultism and Greek Mythology, as for the production it has a very dark sound to it without being too over produced or too raw sounding there seems to be a bit of a balance in the way the music comes out.

In my opinion Erevos are a very good atmospheric satanic/occult black metal band in the 90's vein and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "The Omnipotence Of The Judges" "Under The Wings Of Thanatos" "Possesed By The Moon" and "Grotesque Blasphemy". RECOMMENDED BUY.

Sincera Interview


1. Can you tell us a little bit about this project for those that are not familiar with your band?
Sincera started up back in 2002 as a project with members from FESTER, Algol, Wither and Decipher. The thought was to make music a bit different than with our main bands. The sound is old school as us, and a mix of several styles

2. How would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the album?
The riffs are from slow to fast, the vocals are screamy, the drums are from blasts to slow..Most people who have heard SIncera finds it to be Black/Death. I think it has lots of elements from the Greece BM scene in the early 90's, but also elements from the swedish death scene, and mid 80's thrash scene.. As always, it's difficult to put your music in a booth, when your not trying to create a certain style..

3. What are some of the lyrical topics the band explores with the music?
The topics we write about evolves around subjects as witches, ancient warriors, anti christianity, winter/nature and the freedom of dying.. We are not bound in writing about certain themes or issues, so the themes are not carved in stone, but one cant write about flower picking when the riffs, vocals and drums burns like a flame !

4. You have a very original name for an underground metal band, where did you get the idea for the bands name?
He he, we where originally nameless for a long period. We just played harsh music for our own pleasure.. When we did our first show, we had to have a name, and used Evening..
As it was kind of dull, we took the name SIncera. It's a therm the the ancient Romans used for statues that where so perfect that they didn't need to be waxed. Without cracks: it was Sincera.

5. When I listened to the album, the first half of the album was studio material and the other half was live material and I noticed the live songs had more of a raw sound than the studio material, do you consider yourself's more of a live band than a studio band?
I think the live part on the album turned out just as raw and harsh that we hoped for. The sound is taped of a handheld camera to create that old school raw, and dirty feel. I think it represents us quit well. The studio sound could, and should have been a bit rawer, but then again, if we had done that , the live part would not have felt as raw as it does. I would agree with you that the incense of Sincera come forth better live than in studio,so :Yes.

6. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and what can we expect from your life performance?
Personally I loved a gig we did with Ragnarok and Drepjard, in Ragnaroks hometown in 2005 was great! Big crowd, the response was great, and the whole set just went like fire in dry grass. It was a blast !!! I think the show that some of the songs on the cd is taken from, a show with Witchhammer, also was great.. Though we had some issues with the sound, and a broken bass drum.. Ha ha..

7. Do you have any touring plans for the new release?
No one... We have other things that occupies our life's right now, so there will not be a tour supporting this release. That being said, we will continue to do shows in the future, and maybe we will support our next release with a tour? Only time will show.

8. How have metal fans reacted to your musical sound worldwide?
The response has been great so far, and we really apriciate it!SIncera has always been cept as a small secret though, so it will be cool to see what a bigger audience will say.

9. What can we expect on future releases?
Although you can hear some FESTER elements, Algol elements etc, I recon you can expect a more brutal and rawer kind of style. We will always walk the street to the old school though, and I think the street is called blackened Death metal with a twist(..)

10. What are some of the main inspirations for the music of the band?
SIncera's members has always made almost equally same amount of music that has been put into the band.. One can hear that the inspiration has a wide range, but I think a lot of the old black and death bands, as well as Kreator, Soilwork and Pestilence are great inspiration sources for our work

11. I have noticed the music sound is firmly rooted in the early 90's underground metal, what is your opinion on the more modern bands, I have noticed alot of older metal musicians are not really into the newer sounds that are coming out these days?
You know, do not ever teach an old dog to barf... Things were always better in the old days.. Ha ha.. I do not care if the band is new or old, but I can agree on the fact that the best music, in my ears, was made 20 years ago, and more.. But I find several bands in the scene today great as well. The problem is that there are just to many bands, to many releases, and so many bands looking and sounding just the same. I think it kills some of the foundation that this music has. But I love the new releases of Forgotten woods, The Konsortium and Dead To This World. And Ghost....

12. Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?
I hope people will check out our record "Cursed and proud", and also check out FESTER's comeback release later this year- " A celebration of death ". Play your music LOUD, and do not ever let anyone put you down!

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Monday, September 12, 2011

Saligia/Sic Transit Gloria Mundu/Barghest Records/2011 CD Review


  Saligia are a band from Norway that plays very raw and brutal form of Norwegian occult black metal and this is a review of their 2011 album "Sic Transit Gloria Mundu" which was released by Barghest Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they have a very powerful sound.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are brutal and raw at times with a more modern style black metal style that utilizes a good amount of skill and talent being used while the lead guitars when they are utilized are very distorted sounding black metal guitar leads

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched and grim sounding black metal screams with some vocals being thrown in that sound like there in between clean singing and rough vocals which gives the music some originality, while the lyrics cover dark and occult themes, as for the production it has a very dark, powerful and heavy sound to it while not being too over produced.

In my opinion Saligia are a very good and original sounding occult black metal band and if you are looking for something that is different in this genre, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Casus Gloria' "Orb Of Flesh" and "Upon The Altar". RECOMMENDED BUY.

www.barghest.co.uk

Sincera/Cursed And Proud/Abyss Records/2011 CD Review


  Sincera are a band from Norway that consists of some well known veterans in the scene that plays a mixture of dark and black metal and this is a review of their 2011 album "Cursed And Proud" which was released by Abyss Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful tone with riffs that have a 90's Greek black metal feel to them, as for the synths when they are utilized they add a very dark and atmospheric 90's style black metal feel to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast riffs that mix dark and black metal together with some melodies being thrown in, while the lead guitars are very dark and melodic guitar leads.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams with some occasional death metal growls, spoken word parts and clean singing while the lyrics cover dark and anti christian themes, as for the production it has a very dark and powerful sound and you can hear all of the musical instruments that are present on this recording in addition there are some live tracks on the recording which have a more raw feeling than the studio songs.

In my opinion Sincera are a very good dark/black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Tall And Proud" "Blinded" "Die Like Jesus" and "Byron Lawless". RECOMMENDED BUY.

 www.myspace.com/sinceranorway  

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Bosse-de-Nage/II/Flenser Records/2011 CD Review



  Bosse-de-Nage are a band from San Francisco, California that plays minimalist black metal with a different lyric approach and this is a review of their 2011 album "II" which was released by Flenser Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some occasional blast beats, while the bass  playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they sound powerful with some post black metal style riffing.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast minimalist black metal riffing that is very raw and primitive and has the feeling of being played on some cheap amplifiers that enhances the darkness of the music as well as a post black metal feeling to it in addition there is some weird sounding noises being used on the least song and there are little to no lead guitars or solos present on this recording.

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched and distorted sounding black metal screams that have a depressive feel at times, while the lyrics cover some weird themes that have not been attempted by many bands of this style and they are very unique and original in their own way, as for the production it has a very dark, raw and primitive sound for being recorded in a big studio and while this is not the harshest sounding black metal album I ever hear it still has a very primal sound.

In my opinion Bosse-de-Nage are a very good minimalist black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Marie In A Cage" and "The Death Posture". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Glorior Belli/The Great Southern Darkness/Metal Blade Records/2011 CD Review


Glorior Belli is a band from France that had their 3 song promo for this album reviewed in this zine not too long ago that started out as being more of a raw satanic/luciferian black metal band but have added elements of American style stoner doom as well as blues rock to their sound to create their own style of black metal and this is a review of "The Great Southern Darkness" which was released by Metal Blade Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful tone with riffs that combine a lot of different influences from many genres.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast riffs that  combine their old black metal sound with American style stoner doom and blues rock to create an original sound, while the lead guitars are very bluesy sounding classic rock/early metal guitar leads.

Vocals are mostly grim sounding black metal screams that turn into sludge/doom screams on certain songs with some shouting vocals being thrown in at times as well as some clean singing being used on one song, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Luciferian and Occultism, as for the production it has a very powerful and professional sound and you can hear all of the musical instruments that are presented on the recording.

In my opinion this is a great album from Glorior Belli and while the close minded fans of their earlier stuff might consider this album a sellout I still feel this is a great recording and I if you are looking for something that is different and original sounding, you should check out this album. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Secret Ride To Rebellion" "They Call Me Black Devil" "The Science Of Shifting" and "Horns In My Pathway". RECOMMENDED BUY.

Monday, September 5, 2011

Morgart/Die Schlacht (In acht Sinfonien)/Black Tower Productions/2005 CD Review


Morgart are a band from Switzerland that plays a very epic form of atmospheric black metal and this is a review of their 2005 album "Die Schlacht (In acht Sinfonien)" which was released by Black Tower Productions.

Drum programming ranges from slow, mid paced to fast beats, while the synths have a very orchestra and atmospheric sound to them, as for the bass playing it has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are melodic and epic sounding at times, while the lead guitars when they are utilized which is rare arw very melodic sounding guitar leads.

Vocals are mostly grim sounding black metal growls and screams, while the lyrics cover History and Battles, as for the production it has a very strong and powerful sound to it.

In my opinion Morgart are a very good epic and atmospheric sounding black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Sinfonie 2" "Sinfinie 5- In A -Dur" and "sinfonie 7". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Carpathian Forest/Defending The Throne Of Evil/Season Of Mist/2003 CD Review


Carpathian Forest are a band from Norway that has been around for a very long time that plays a very raw form of black metal that also has a thrash, punk and atmospheric feel and this is a review of their 2003 album "Defending The Throne Of Evil" which was released by Season Of Mist.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in at times, while the keyboards bring a very dark and atmospheric feel to the music with one song having an avant garde feeling to it in addition there is a brief use of an evil sounding saxophone being used on a couple of songs, as for the bass playing it has a very strong and powerful tone with primitive sounding riffs that combine black metal, thrash and punk together.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that also combine influences from thrash metal and punk as well as some melodies being thrown in at times, and there are little to no guitar solos or leads present on this recording.

Vocals are mostly grim sounding black metal screams with some deep growls being thrown in at times, while the lyrics are written in a mixture of Norwegian and English with themes that cover Satanism, Anti Christianity, Daekness, Evil and Necrophillia, a s for the production it has a  very heavy, powerful and professional sound to it.

In my opinion this was a great album from Carpathian Forest and if you are a fan of this band, you probably already own this album. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "It's Darker Than You think" "The Well Of All Human Tears" "Ancient Spirits Of The Underworld" and "Christian Incoherent Drivel". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Grand Belial's Key/Judeobeast Assanination/Drakkar Productions/2001 CD Review


 Grand Belial's Key are a band from Virginia that plays a very satanic and blasphemous form of ns black metal and this is a review of their 2001 album "Judeobeast Annihilation" which was released by Drakkar Prodctions.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars and at times they sound very powerful, as for the keyboards when they are utilized they enhance the darkness of the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that have a traditional metal feel to them at times as well as some melodies being thrown in on occasion, while the lead guitars combine black metal with traditional metal and at times sound very melodic.

Vocals are mostly grim sounding black metal screams with some deep growls being thrown in at times as well as a brief use of a spoken word passage, while the lyrics cover Anti Christianity, Anti Semitism, Perversity and Satanism, as for the production it has a very dark, raw and primitive sound to it.

In my opinion Grand Belial's Key are a very good blasphemous and satanic ns black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Pimps Of Gennesaret" "The Shitagogue" and "Satanicunt". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Pantheon/Pflichterfullung/Hakenkreuz Productions/2001 CD Review


  Pantheon are a band from Arizona that plays a very raw and primitive form of ns pagan/viking/black metal and this is a review of their 2001 album "Pflichterfulling" which was released by Hakenkreuz Productions.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a good amount of blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful with some pagan black metal riffing that dominates throughout the recording, as for the keyboards when they are utilized they bring a very epic and atmospheric sound to the music.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast ns pagan/viking black metal riffs that are very raw and primitive sounding with some epic sounding melodies being used on occasion and there are little to no guitar solos or leads present on the recording.

Vocals are a mixture of grim sounding and high pitched black metal screams with a spoken word passage and sample being used on the least song, while the lyrics cover National Socialism and Norse Paganism, as for the production it has a very raw and primitive sound to it.

In my opinion Pantheon are a very good raw and primitive sounding ns pagan/viking/black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Wotanic Star" and "The Return To Our Pagan Past". RECOMMENDED BUY.

https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Pantheon/2212

Satan's Blood/Christians To Ashes, Angels To Dust/Sound Riot/2001 CD Review


  Satan's Blood are a band from Germany that plays a very raw and brutal form of satanic black metal and this is a review of their 2001 album "Christians To Ashes, Angels To Dust" which was released by Sound Riot.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a lot of brutal blast beats being thrown in, while the bass playing has a very dark tone with riffs that follow the riffing that is coming out of the guitars.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are very, raw and primitive, while the lead guitars are very chaotic sounding black metal guitar leads and solos that also utilize some dark sounding melodies.

Vocals are mostly high pitched black metal screams with some deep growls being thrown in at times as well as a brief use of spoken word passages, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Occultism and Anti Christianity, as for the production it has a very dark, heavy and raw sound to it.

In my opinion Satan's Blood are a very good raw and primal sounding black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Christians To Ashes, Angels To Dust" "Satan's Blood" and "Lord Of Thebes". RECOMMENDED BUY.

https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Satan%27s_Blood/3239

Anatomy/Where Angels Die/Destruktive Kommandoh/1996 CD Review


  Anatomy are a band from Australia that plays a very  atmospheric form of satanic black metal and this is a review of their 1996 album "Where Angels Die" which was released by Destruktive Kommandoh.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with a lot of brutal blast beats being thrown in, while the keyboards have a very dark and atmospheric sound to them, as for the bass playing it has a very dark and powerful tone with some primitive black metal riffing.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are very heavy, raw and primitive sounding with some dark melodies and death metal influences, while the lead guitars are very distorted and chaotic sounding black metal guitar solos and leads, as for the acoustic guitars which are only used briefly they have a very dark and medieval sound to them.

Vocals are a mixture of high pitched black metal screams and deep death metal growls, while the lyrics cover Satanism, Anti Christianity, Armageddon, and Darkness, as for the production it has a very heavy and powerful sound without taking away from the rawness of the music.

In my opinion Anatomy are a very good atmospheric satanic black metal band with a death metal edge and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Under The Wings" "Forbidden Realms" and "Where Angels Die". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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Legion Of Doom/Kingdom Of Endless Darkness/Soundphaze International Records/1995 CD Review


  Legion Of Doom are a band from Greece that plays a very primitive and raw form of ns occult black metal and this is a review of their 1995 album "Kingdom Of Endless Darkness" which was release by Soundphaze International Records.

Drums range from slow, mid paced to fast drumming with some blast beats being thrown in at times, while the bass playing has a very strong and powerful tone with some primitive riffing, as for the synths which are only used on a couple of songs they bring a very dark and atmospheric sound to the music with the last song having a classical music feel to it.

Rhythm guitars range from slow, mid paced to fast black metal riffs that are very dark, raw and primitive sounding and there are little to no guitar solos or leads present on this recording.

Vocals are a mixture of grim and high pitched black metal screams, while the lyrics cover Anti Judeo Christianity, Mythology, Paganism, Occultism and Darkness, as for the production it has a very dark, raw and primitive sound to it.

In my opinion Legion Of Doom are a very good raw and primitive sounding occult ns black metal band and if you are a fan of this style, you should check out this band. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE "Holocaust Of David's Race" "Hymn To The Fiendish Veleth" and "The Black Queen". RECOMMENDED BUY.

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