Exilium Noctis/Pactum Diaboli/Black Lion Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Exilium  Noctis  are  a  band  from  Greece  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Pactum  Diaboli"  which  will  be  released  in  may  by  Black  Lion  Records.

  A  very  dark  and  ritualistic  sounding  intro  starts  off  the  album  while  also  introducing  orchestration  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  album  also  having  its  atmospheric  moments.

  At  times  the  music  also  gets  symphonic  sounding  along  with  some  whispered  vocals  also  being  used  briefly.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  melodic    style  and  a  couple  of  songs  also  adds  in  a  small  amount  of  clear  vocals  and  spoken  words. The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  religious  conflict,  the  human  soul  and  the  Faustian  pact  with  Mephistopheles.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Exilium  Noctis  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "All  Shall  Burn"  "God's  Demise"  and  "Rise  Of  Serpent".  8  out  of  10

  https://linktr.ee/exiliumnoctis

https://www.facebook.com/ExiliumNoctis

https://www.instagram.com/exilium_noctis  

Malum/Towards Nothingness/Hellstain Productions/2025 EP Review

 

  Malum  are  a  band  from  Norway  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  raw,  melodic  and  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  ep  "Towards  Nothingness"  which  will  be  released  on  April  18th  by  Hellstain  Productions.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  ep  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  music  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments  as  well  as  the  vocals  being  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  the  recording  is  also  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era.

  The  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  The  second  song  is  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  the  guitar  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilzied,  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  malum  goes  for  more  of  a  modern,  melodic,  raw  and  atmospheric  style  of  black  emtal  which  also  captures  some  of  the  old  school  aggression.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  pain,  rage,  existential  despair  and  dystopian  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Malum  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw,  melodic  and  atmospheric  black  metal,  you  should  check out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "Towards  Nothingness".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.instagram.com/norwegian_malum/

https://www.facebook.com/norwegianmalum
https://norwegianmalum.bandcamp.com/
https://spoti.fi/4cYdztI
https://youtu.be/8ks7c4c4o_A?si=edeE409d_HMaTIIu
https://hellstain.eu/collections/malum

 

Détresse/Pessimismes/Vendetta Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Détresse  are  an  international  band  with  members  from  Austria  and  Canada  that  plays  a  very  raw  and  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Pessimismes"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Vendetta  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of a  raw  feeling,    clean  playing  and  acoustic  guitars  are  also  added  on  a  couple  of  the  tracks.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

   At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  atmospheric  sounding  along  with  some  clear  chants  also  being  utilized  briefly  as  well  as  the  closing  track  also  being  an  instrumental.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  a  mixture  of  French  and  German  and  cover  catharsis  and  anxiety  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Détresse  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  and  atmospheric  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Der  Alte  Weg"  and  "Die  Ruhe  Tragt".  8  out  of  10.

  Bandcamp: https://detresse.bandcamp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detresse_official/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/detresse.official

Solfatare/Asservis par I'espoir/Signal Rex/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Solfatare  are  a  band  from  Belgium  that  plays  a  very  dissonant  and  avant  garde  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Asservis  par  I'espoir"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Signal  Rex.

  Whispers  and  synths  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  dissonant  sounding  while  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  riffing.

  Vocals  are  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  mixed  in  with  a  few  shouts  and  growls  while  the  album  also  add  in  a  lot  of  avant  garde  touches.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  on  the  album  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

   A  couple  of  tracks  also  brings  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing,  when  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly. The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  depths  of  existential  anguish  and  plunges  into  humanity's  long-lasting  quest  of  meaning...only  to  find  none.  

  In  my  opinion  Solfatare  are  a  very  great  sounding  avant  garde  and  dissonant  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Des  monarques  anhedoniques"  and  "Quand  ton  cerveau  te  surine  le  crane".  8  out  of  10.

  facebook.com/Solfatare   

Fyrgast/Mistress Of Darkness/War Productions/2025 Full Length Review

 

     Sweden's  solos  project  Fyrgast  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  an  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  album  "Mistress  Of  Darkness"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  War  Productions.

  

   Drum  beats  and  heavy  riffs  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  a  few  seconds  later.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  the  recording  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.

  

   Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  and  old  school  style,  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album.

  On  this  recording  Fyrgast  goes  for  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  old  school  in  the  90's  Scandinavian  tradition.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  personal  growth,  death  and  darkness  themes.

  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Fyrgast  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  old  school  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Pale  Like  Death"  'Dead  Under  The  Moonlight"  and  "Embraced  By  The  Darkness  Cold".  8  out  of  10.

  https://fyrgast.bandcamp.com/album/is-och-k-ld

https://www.instagram.com/fyrgast/#     

Morningstvr Interview

 

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the musical project since the recording of the new album?

 

---There has been a lot and I’m beyond grateful for it all, ive been focused on the upcoming west coast tour, and have been offered a few other tours, collaborative releases, I’ve been designing new merch too, other than that I’ve been just focusing on myself and the better life that is unfolding for me.

 

 

2.You have a new album coming out in June, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

--- I’d say its similar but upgraded from my previous album, but vastly different from when I was under the umbrella of the other genre I started out under.

 

 

3.A lot of your lyrics cover Medieval Lore, Ancient Battles and Fallen Empires, can you tell us a little bit more about the songwriting?

 

--- Honestly, there isn’t much to tell in the way I can describe with words, I just write lyrics about stuff I’m interested in.

 

 

 

4.You have also mentioned an interest in the writings of J.R.R Tolkien, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in his work and also do you have an interest in other fantasy authors?

 

--- Well, I grew up watching Lord of the Rings, and later on, The Hobbit movies, ive read enough about his books surrounding the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to where I became obsessed with the almost neverending lore, the inspiring stories of bravery, duty and honor have also inspired me to do the same in my personal life.  George RR Martin is also a great author and I love Game of Thrones (though I love Tolkien’s work a lot more), The kingdom of the North in Westeros inspired me as much as Forodwaith in middle earth to let the listeners fixate on a frozen cold empire in the north of the world and that’s referenced a lot in my music.

 

 

 

5.You have also mentioned an interest in horror films, which horror films has the biggest influence on your work?

 

--- Id say first and foremost, Nosferatu, the original from 1922 and the newest remake from 2024, Begotten (1990), Headhunter, a handful of others I’d say.

 

 

 

6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Morningstvr?

 

--- Morningstvr is just Morningstar with a ‘v’ instead of an ‘a’, Morningstar is the nickname of Lucifer, the lightbringer.  I chose the name because many people throughout my life have stated I’ve brought light into their lives, the spelling however was chosen out of the aesthetic of the original genre I was in, which was known as “Witch House Music”.

 

 

 

7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

 

--- The art goes along with the title I’d say. As part of my unholy trinity, I was greatly inspired by darkthrone’s unholy trinity.  The photo is of me in a dark field, a sword in my right hand, and my left hand which is significant to my beliefs, is reaching up to my logo.  To me, my music is what I am meant to do in this lifetime, it is my fate.

 

 

 

 

 

8.With this project you record everything by yourself, are you open to working with other musicians or do you prefer to work solo?

 

--- With this project, I am strictly solo.  The only way I would be open to Live members is if a major label who signs me asks me to do that.  I have been recently thinking on having a side project for a medieval black metal band, however but I’m on the fence.

 

 

 

9.You have a live show coming up in April, what can we expect from one of your life performances?

 

--- I can say that it is one of the new instances when a one-man black metal band is on stage by themselves, that seems to be happening more and more and I am thrilled.  But one can expect some kind of black metal the audience will be very new to hearing.

 

 

 

10.In the past you also did a 'Moonspell' cover, what was the decision behind doing your own version of one of their songs?

 

--- Moonspell is the band that got my into metal back in the summer of 2008, I hold them in very high regard and I love their music, but that song specifically was chosen because I was asked to be part of a 90s cover/remix compilation for a witch house channel in 2023.

 

 

 

11.You have also been a part of a couple of splits, can you tell us a little bit more about the artists and bands that you shared these recordings with?

 

--- “Vostok” was fun to do with KsureN, who is a friend of mine in Kazakhstan who makes multiple genres of music, from dark electronic to blackgaze and the other, “Amongst Two Towers of Novgorod” was with a friend of mine here In southern California, Incantations of Cadaver Mutilation which is a black metal noise project which I find fascinating.

 

 

 

12.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

 

--- I am definitely looking for a label again, but I am very picky of which ones I want to go for.

 

 

 

13.Where do you see yourself heading into musically during the future?

 

--- I see myself doing what I’m doing into my 70s honestly, my music is what I’ve always wanted to do as a career and that will not be ending anytime soon.

 

 

 

14.What are some of the bands or musical styles you are currently listening to nowadays?

 

---  Id say some of the second wave black metal such as Darkthrone and Gorgoroth, but mostly medieval black metal as I’ve become obsessed with the subgenre.

 

 

 

15.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts

https://linktr.ee/morningstvr

Esox/Watery Grave/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Esox  are  a  solo  project  from  Italy  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  very  atmospheric  form  of  post  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2025  album  "Watery  Grave"  which  will  be  released  in  May.

  Water  sounds  and  field  recordings  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  clean  playing  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  the  vocals  are  mostly  grim  black  metal  screams.

  Atmospheric  sounding  synths  are  also  utilzied  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  some  clear  vocals  also  being  used  at  times  and  the  music  also  adds  in  touches  of  shoegaze  and  post  rock.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  elements  of  doom  metal.  When  acoustic  guitars  are  utilzied  they  also  add  in  an  influence  of  neo-folk  as  well  as  one  track  being  an  instrumental and  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  a  concept  album  based  upon  a  man  commuting  suicide.  as  he  dies  he  reflects  on  life,  death,  nature  and  the  human  species.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Esox  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric  post  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "As  I  Descend  Above  The  Water"  and  "The  River  Nihilist".  8  out  of  10.

  BANDCAMP: https://esoxblack.bandcamp.com/album/and-the-ocean-will-swallow-us-all

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/esox_black_metal/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551205601670  .    

Horyn/Fatum/Malevolent Sound/2025 EP Review

 

  Horyn  are  a  band  from  Ukraine  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  atmospheric  and  depressive  from  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  ep  "Fatum"  which  was  released  by  Malevolent  Sounds.

  A  very  dark,  heavy  and  atmospheric  sound  starts  off  the  ep  while  synths  are  also  added  into  the  background  at  times.  Vocals  are  mostly  depressive  black  metal  screams  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  second  wave  feeling.  Some  of  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing,  at  times  the  music  also  captures  a  lo-fi  atmosphere.

    On  this  recording  Horyn  goes  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  atmospheric  and  depressive  sounding  in  the  classic  tradition.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  desperation,  woe  and  acceptance.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Horyn  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric  and  depressive  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "II"  and  "IV".  8  out  of  10.

  

Bandcamp

Instagram

Facebook

Zmij Interview

 

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?

S:  We are a Slovak band playing oldschool underground black metal with bit of filthy thrash and dark dungeon synth influence. 

2.Recently you have released an ep, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

S: The main idea behind it was to get back to early 90's and take inspiration from this era, when black metal, hand to hand with dungeon synth, was mostly minor underground genre before its popularity raised after 2000 up to now. To keep it simple and raw, not overproduced, focused on expression.

3.A lot of your lyrics cover dark fantasy themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

K: Lyrics of the EP were inspired by Indo-European mythology and magic and some particular places and times, when probably due to some profound changes of society, worship of chthonic Gods rose in importance, people were thrown into abysses of caves while masks made of human faces were worn by the enchanters.

4.I know that the band’s name is 'Proto-Slavic for 'dragon', how does this name fit in with the musical style that you play?

K: It can also stand for serpent, eternal foe of solar Gods, keeper of the earthly treasures revered by chthonic cults, guardian of the deceased. 

5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the ep cover?

S: As I am visual artist too, all Zmij artwork was created by me and I would like to keep it this way in the future too. I see the purpose of artwork in building interconnection between music and visual representation. This allows me to add more of my ideas into play and make all even more personal, more true. For the EP design, I used a pic taken from a journey we've made to visit a specific place where, in fact, the idea of Zmij was born somewhere in rainy autumn of 2022 when i was there for the first time and found this place. The figure of dark heathen enchanter, along with additional post-processing leading to a vintage look, refers to lyrics, and adds to the interconnection there. So, it´s like some sort of personal magic.

6.Has the band done any live shows or is this strictly a studio project?

S: As all Zmij members are active in other bands playing live shows, for now, Zmij is a studio project due to lack of time. In the future, we would like to play it live, even if it would be just for a few gigs.

K: We hope time is ripe soon for some gigs in settings and atmosphere that will be a little more special. 

7.So far very little is known about the band, do you prefer to keep a lower profile?

S: All necessary is known, the point is to put attention at work more than at ourselves, as we are just messengers of higher entities speaking through us.

8.The ep was released on 'Gladivs Records', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

S: We are more than happy for our chance to cooperate with Gladivs on this release. We do appreciate the high level of professionality Gladivs have put into this, including positive attitude, communication, or quick problem solving. As all of us Zmij members have been active on black metal scene for about 20 years in various bands or projects, we know it's not usual. So, thanks to Gladivs. 

9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal and dungeon synth?

S: So far we haven't noticed much of feedback on worldwide level, on the local scene, all feedback we've got was positive.

10.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

S: At the moment we are working on new material, which is now in process of pre-recording. Full-length, EP, split, whatever ... I fully understand the need of putting labels, but I don't like this formalistic point of view. Music itself and its message is all what is important here. We are full focused on next record, so there's a lot of work ahead for us. Let's   make the dragon speak again!

K: It is based on the same elements as the debut recording, though this time we went for slightly different background with the lyrics. I guess everybody enjoying first EP will be more than satisfied with the direction we have taken.

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

S: Mostly oldschool necrothrash, deathmetal, and blackmetal records between late 80's up to late 90's, along with a bit of dark synth, ambient or dungeon synth releases. Nowadays, the main problem in general is, surfeit. Lot of generic stuff out there, plenty of what I call, radioblackmetal or radiodeathmetal. You have to dive into the depths and invest a lot of time in searching for hidden gems. Wampiric Rites, Dungeon Steel, Casket Flesh, Trollslottet, Mortem, Nocternity, Frozen Seas ... those and many others keep the black underground flame still burning and are worth of listening to.

K: Most of my listening routine consists of black metal – I listen to Helheim and Kawir a lot these days, epic heavy metal and heavy doom such as Pagan Altar, Scald, Eternal Champion and some atmospheric and ritual music like Leidungr and Forndom. I guess for the vocal delivery stuff like Wampyrinacht, Cornigr or Urfaust are relevant. Though, I must say there was lot of inspiration in delivery of old folk fairytales I listened to as child on LPs and cassettes. Often very grim and horrorlike with cool theatrical edge. As one is nurtured with such stuff as child and is receptive it definitely can grow inside and influence thoughts such as venomous plant.

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

S: Yes, we'd like to finish with our thanks to you for this interview.

(Responded by Smrtihlav and Kostej)

https://gladivsrecords.bandcamp.com/album/zmij-zmij-s-t

Monhell Interview

 

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?

The project started in early 2024 and features Penumbra and me, both of whom are also members of Kult et Morte and Berserk, and we have been active in the Black Metal scene since 1998. 

I, Monhell, am the heart of the album’s creation, composing all the music and lyrics, recording all instruments, and providing clean vocals. Penumbra complements the sound with his raw, intense vocal delivery, adding depth and fury.

2.You have a new album coming out in April, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording.

In creating this album, I didn't intentionally choose a specific style. While the music I've composed falls within the realm of Melodic Black Metal, I prefer not to label or confine it to any particular genre. I believe our music transcends traditional boundaries, allowing it to resonate with a broader audience while still capturing the essence and intensity of the Black Metal sound.

 

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?

The lyrical concept of this album is quite broad. It’s perhaps more focused on what the title 'A Last Sigh of Pain' suggests, delving into themes of sorrow, sadness, melancholy, and nostalgia for times past. It also touches upon the loss of friendships over time. Our lyrics aim to capture a range of deep emotions and experiences, creating a profound connection

 

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Monhell'?

 

It's a long story. When I was a child, I used to go to school wearing a brown hoodie. During class, I would put on the hood and imitate a monk. That's how I got the nickname "Monje" (Monk in Spanish). For Berserk, I used the nickname "LordMonk." The name "Monhell" came about because the vocalist Penumbra played with the words "Monje" in Spanish and "Monk" with Hell, hence Mon-hell. As I said, it's a long story...

 

 

5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

 

On the cover, I've tried to capture the full meaning behind the album. The character represents the pain we talked about earlier. I've always been fascinated by the symbolism of the crow and the moon, so I thought it was ideal to incorporate them into the cover. Additionally, I love album covers with blue tones.

 

6.Has the band done any live shows or open to the idea?

 

We haven't considered performing live yet. Monhell is almost a "one-man band" project, but Penumbra helped me with the vocals. Therefore, if I play the bass and Penumbra plays the guitar and sings, we would only need a drummer. If a good opportunity arises, we might consider performing live.

 

 

7.The new album is coming out on 'Fetzner Death Records'. how did you get on contact with this label?

 

Well, as I usually do with my previous bands, I tend to send the album to about 5-10 labels that I like the most. Not only because of the bands they have but also because of the work they do. I've been following Fetzner Death Records since last year. I saw how they were doing a great job promoting bands. Alexander Fetzner replied that he was interested in releasing our music, and I didn't hesitate for a moment. I've been in contact with him for two or three months, and he's a great guy. Very dedicated to the label and its bands. He cares a lot about promotion and has been helping me a lot. I'm very grateful to Alexander!

 

 

8.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?

 

Well, I consider it still too early to see the full reaction since only the single "Fade to Dust" has been released. For now, I must say I'm pleased with how people are responding to this single, and I'm sure that fans will love the full album.

 

 

9.Do any of the band members have any experience plating other bands or musical projects? 

 

Of course! I am the bassist in Berserk (Pagan Black Metal) and Kult et Morte (Black Metal). Additionally, I spent quite a bit of time rehearsing with Pecado Nefando and played with them at a couple of concerts. As for Penumbra, he started on the drums in Berserk and then moved to the guitar. He also played guitar in Omasum and he was the creator of the project Pecado Nefando and Kire, among other bands.

 

 

10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

 

Well, right now I'm starting from scratch, as I don't have anything composed for the next album. I only have some loose riffs that don't form a complete track. Therefore, I don't know what direction the band's sound will take. I'm also not trying to sound like a particular style or a specific band. It's always what comes from within...

 

 

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

 

Wow, that's a very difficult question to answer. I started listening to Heroes del Silencio when I was 10 years old. My uncle was 20 and bought the vinyl "Senderos de Traición." When he played it at my grandparents' house, I was blown away!! After that, I started listening to Rock bands, and when I was 13 or 14, I got into Heavy Metal like Maiden, Helloween, Metallica, Megadeth, King Diamond/Mercyful Fate... From there, I moved on to Thrash and then to Black Metal. My favorite style is Norwegian BM.

 

 

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

Thank you for the opportunity to be featured in your zine. This has been a very interesting interview, and I'd like to leave you with some links to listen to Monhell's music. Stay tuned for "A Last Sigh of Pain," which will be available on April 25, 2025 through Fetzner Death Records.

Best regards!

https://monhell.bandcamp.com

https://youtu.be/46QRgBkBDgg

https://open.spotify.com/intl-es/track/1kkWaAukcf60CQQoPL38yR?si=7570aaf4f2a44e9d

Pagansaev/Pööriööl/Warhorn Records/2025 Full length Review

 

  Pagansarv  are  a  duo  form  Estonia  that h as  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  pagan  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Pööriööl"  which  was  released  by  Warhorn  Records.

  Nature  sounds  and  tortured  voices  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  are  done  in  more  of  an  angry  black  metal  style  mixed  in  with  some  growls.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  and  when  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard.

  When  tremolo  picking  is  added  into  the  faster  riffing  they  also  give  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  some  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clear  pagan  metal  singing,  synths  are  also  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  album  and  when  guitar  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  melodic  style..  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Estonian  and  cover  Paganism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Pagansarv  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  pagan  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Elusügis"  "Varjusoopad  Ja  Raevuhauad"  and  "Sumedus ". 8  out  of  10.

   bandcamp, spotify  youtube  

Skuggor/Where Sun Resigns/Naturmacht Productions/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Skuggor  are  a  solo  project  from  Finland  that has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  atmospheric  form  of  ambient  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  album  "Where  Sun  Resigns"  which  will  be  released  in  may  by  Naturmacht  Productions.

  Ambient  style  synths  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can b e  heard  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.

  The  album  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  a  one  of  the  tracks  is  also  long  and  epic  in  length,  the  tracks  also  mix  in  influences  from  both  the  modern  and  old  school  era's  of  the  genre..

  On  this  recording  Skuggor  goes  for  more  of  an  aggressive  and  atmospheric  style  of  black  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  nature  and  darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Skuggor  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric  and  ambient  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Writhe"  and  "Time  Folds  Spirals".  8  out  of  10.

Bandcamp | Instagram

https://youtu.be/31GxzqOj73M

  

Firienholt/Night Eternal/Naturmacht Productions/2025 Full Length Review

 

  United  Kingdom's  Firienholt  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  very  epic  and  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Night  Eternal"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Naturmacht  Productions. 

  

  Epic  and  atmospheric  sounding  synths  which  also  bring  in  elements  of  dungeon  synth  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  all  of  the  drum beats  are  also  programmed.

  Clear  vocals  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  all  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  music  also  capturing  the  atmosphere  of  a  fantasy  movie  soundtrack  at  times.

  When  the  music  finally  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  and  most  of  the  songs  stick  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Fantasy  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Firienholt  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  epic  and  atmospheric  black  metal  with  elements  of  dungeon  synth,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "A  :Land  Beyond  The  Snow"  and  "Entombed  in  The  Halls  Of  Stone".  8  out  of  10.

  https://firienholt.bandcamp.com/album/night-eternal  

Sammale/Ikiharmaja (Evergrey)/Naturmacht Productions/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Sammale  are  a  solo  project  from  Finland  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  very  atmospheric  form  of  Finno-Ugric  forest  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  album  "Ikiharmaja  (Evergrey)"  which  was  released  by  Naturmacht  Productions.

  Acoustic  guitars  and  synths  start  off  the  album  which  also  adds  in  some  elements  of  ambient  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  atmospheric  sounding  and  the  faster  sections  of  the  tracks  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  mixed  in  with  a  few  growls  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  clear  pagan  chants  and  vocals  also  being  utilized  at  times.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  as  well  as  some  of  the  slower  sections  also  adding  in  a  touch  of  doom/death  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Finnish  and  cover  old  poems  and  the  independence  of  Finland.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Sammale  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  ambient  and  atmospheric  pagan  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Vapauden  virsi  (The  Hymn  Of  Freedom)"  and  "Kaipuu (Longing)".  8  out  of  10.

  https://sammale.bandcamp.com/

www.instagram.com/sammaleband/

    

Niveous/Endless Snowfall/Transylvanian Recordings/2025 EP Review

 

  Niveous  are  a  band  from  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin  that  plays  a  very  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  ep  "Endless  Snowhall"  which  was  released  on  Transylvanian  Recordings.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  ep  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  melody.

  A  lot  of  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  also  being  long  and  epic  in  length  and  the  whole  ep  sticks  to  a  heavier  direction.  

  Niveous  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  fast,  melodic,  traditional  and  heavily  rooted  in  the  mid  90's  to  early  2000's  era  of  the  genre.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  Dark  Mythologies  and  Cosmic  Evil  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Niveous  are  a  very  great  sounding  old  school  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Into  The  Abyssal  Maw"  and  "...Of  Endless  Snowfall".  8 out  of  10,.

ttps://niveous-blackmetal.bandcamp.com/album/endless-snowfall

      

Serpentes/Desert Psalms/NoEvDia/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Serpentes  are  a  band  from  Portugal  that  plays  a  very  venomous  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Desert  Psalms"  which  will  be  released  on  April  18th  by  NoEvDia.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  of  the  album  along  with  some  female  vocals  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  some  of  the  riffing  also  adds  in  some  dissonant  touches.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in    very  dark  yet  melodic  style  along  with  the  music  also  being  more  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era  as  well  as  a  couple  of  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  synths,  field  recordings  and  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album  and  one  track  also  adds  in  some  ritualistic  chants  and  whispers.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness  and  abomination  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  Serpentes  are  a  very  great  sounding  venomous  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "I'  "V''  and  "VII".  8  out  of  10.

  https://serpentes.bandcamp.com/album/desert-psalms     

Abyssal Vacuum/Self Titled/Signal Rex/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Abyssal  Vacuum  are  a  band  from  France  that  plays  an  occult  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2025  album  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Signal  Rex.

  Water  sounds  and  dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  ritualistic  whispers  and  chants  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  some  dissonant  melodic  and  the  vocals  are  done  in  more  of  a growling  style.

  Most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  the  tremolo  picking  in  the  fast  riffing  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  black  metal  feeling.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clear  vocals.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  the  music  also  having  its  atmospheric  moments.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism  and  the  abyss.

  In  my  opinion  Abyssal  Vacuum  are  a  very  great  sounding  occult  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "43°23'51.0"N 40°21'35.3"E"  and  "27°51'03.6"N 105°29'45.7"W".  8  out  of  10.

  facebook.com/abyssalvacuum    

A Flock Named Murder/Incendiary Sanctum/Hypaethral Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  A  Flock  Named  Murder  are  a  band  from  Toronto,  Ontario,  Canada  that  plays  an  atmospheric  mixture  of  posy  black,  doom  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Incendiary  Sanctum"  which  will  be  released  in  may  by  Hypaethral  Records.

  Field  recordings  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  clean  playing  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  all  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  Death  metal  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  elements  of  doom  metal  are  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  tracks.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  post  metal  style  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  atmospheric  moments.  Some  of  the  music  also  shows  an  influence  of  70's  rock  and  as  the  album  progresses  piano's  and  acoustic  guitars  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  negative  effects  of  worship.

  In  my  opinion  A  Flock  Named  Murder  are  a  very  great  sounding  atmospheric  mixture  of  post  black,  doom  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Garden  Of  Embers"  and  "To  Drown  In  Obsidian  Tides".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/AmongTheFlock/

https://www.instagram.com/aflocknamedmurder/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0LKpOT0HapRL1YXFJbMbIj

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT2a2s9yp9QlG6huf4aEx-g