Buxen Interview

 

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

Buxen was created in 2002 from the ashes of Triumphator. It is not a band in the traditional sense— no rehearsals, no live shows, no fixed line-up. Just two members, myself and Hurne, meeting rarely and recording only when the time demands it. Buxen manifests, then disappears.

2. Recently you have released your first full length, musically how does it differ from yourprevious split and ep?

The full-length is simply a continuation of the same spirit, but more coherent and more cruel in its vision. The old recordings were fragments. The album is the full apparition of what Buxen truly is —raw violence, graveyard atmosphere, silence and destruction intertwined.

3. From 2007 to 2022 there was no music being released, can you tell us a little bit more about what was going on during that time frame?

Nothing. That’s the point. We do not plan, we do not “work” like a normal band. There was nothing to be said in those years, so silence was the most honest form of existence.

4. A lot of your lyrics cover Occult themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?

There is no fascination with occultism as a fashion or as a doctrine. The lyrics are personal emanations, reflections of experience. Symbols, rituals, esoteric echoes appear because they exist inside us, not because we follow a system. We do not try to teach or preach.

5. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Buxen'?

The Buxen were a real secret society in Germany and Belgium during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries — known as the Goat Riders. They gathered at night, wore horned masks, rode through the countryside leaving chaos behind, The name carries both history and ruin.

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

The full-length is entitled “…dilexerunt homines magis tenebras quam lucem…” — a passage from the Gospel of John (3:19), meaning “men loved darkness rather than light.” The cover reflects this verse directly: a stark, medieval-style woodcut of the crucifixion, stripped of any comfort or glory. There is no triumph, only suffering and abandonment. The artwork mirrors the essence of Buxen: the rejection of false light, the embrace of darkness, the silence of decay.

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

No. And no plans to. Buxen does not belong to stages, lights or audiences. It belongs to silence, to the graveyard, to the rare moment in the studio when destruction is captured.

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

The reactions are irrelevant. Some understand fragments, others do not. It doesn’t matter. We do not create for applause or recognition.

9. Are any of the other band members currently involved with any other musical projects or bands?

I have been active in other projects in the past — Triumphator, Manth, Vermiis, Mephisto — but Buxen remains separate. Hurne is not involved in anything else as far as I know.

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

Nowhere. There is no plan, no direction. If another manifestation comes, it will come. If not, silence remains. Both outcomes are valid.

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?

In the past we listened to too much Mayhem, Darkthrone and others, and that was a mistake. Today there is no conscious influence. I listen to whatever I feel, old thrash, death, black, or even outside metal. Nothing dictates what Buxen must sound like.

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

Buxen is not here to convince or to convert. It exists when it must, and disappears when it must. Seek nothing in us, and you may understand everything.

https://gladivsrecords.bandcamp.com/album/dilexerunt-homines-magis-tenebras-quam-lucem

Sans Roir/Le Rêve & la Vie/Chapitre XIII/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Sans  Roi  are  a  band  from  France  that  plays  an  occult  mixture  of  black  and  dark  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Le  Rêve  &  la  Vie"  which  will  be  released  in  October  by  Chapitre  XIII.

  Spoken  word  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.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.  

  The  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  touches  of  black'n;roll  while  the  album  also  adds  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  At  times  the  music  also  adds  in  more  of  a  gothic  metal  direction  along  with  the  slower  parts  of  the  tracks  bringing  in  elements  of  doom  and  dark  metal,  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  melody.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  some  growls  and  clear  singing  also  being  utilized  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  a  mixture  of  English  and  French  and  cover  gnosis,  alchemy,  mysticism,  the  writings  of  C.G  Ung  and  the  mysteries  of  Rennes-le-Château.

  In  my  opinion  Sans  Roi  are  a  very  great  sounding  occult  mixture  of  black  and  dark  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Love's  Secret  Domain"  and  "The  Art  Of  Dreaming".  8  out  of  10.

  https://sansroi.bandcamp.com/

  

StumpTail/Sonder Down Yonder/Moonlight Cypress Archetypes/2025 Full Length Review

 

  StumpTail  are  a  band  from  Nashville,  Tennessee  that  plays  an  experimental  mixture  of  black  metal,  drone,  country  and  southern  rock  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Sonder  Down  Yonder"  which  will  be  released  in  September  by  Moonlight  Cypress  Archetypes.

  A  very  distorted  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  adding  in  a  more  southern  rock  with  more  of  a  heavier  approach.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  some  spoken  words  also  being  utilized  briefly  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  more  of  a  classic  rock style.  Blast beats  and  tremolo  picking  are  also  added  into  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  drones  are  also  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  recording.

  At  times  the  music  also  goes  into  more  of  an  experimental  direction  along  with  the  clean  sections  also  adding  in  a  touch  of  country,  samples  are  also  utilized  at  times  and  the  songs  also  bring  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  mythical  Florida  Man  who  turns  out  to  be  Poseidon  

  In  my  opinion  StumpTail  are  a  very  great  sounding  experimental  mixture  of  black  metal,  drone,  southern  rock  and  country  music  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this b and.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  INCLUDE  "Scripture  In  The  Scales".  8  out  of  10.

  StumpTail Instagram

StumpTail Facebook     

Vigljos/Tome II - Ignis Sacer/Les Acteurs de L'Ombre Productions/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Vigljos  are  a  band  from  Switzerland  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  an  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Tome  II  -  Ignis  Sacwe"  which  will  be  released  in  September  by  Les  Acteurs  de  L'Ombre  Productions.

  Medieval  sounding  synths  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  A  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in a   great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  which  also  adds  in  a  depressive  touch  while  the  music  is  heavily  influenced  by  the  90's  second  wave  era.  Some  of  the  mid  tempo  sections  adds  in  elements  of  black'n'roll  along  with  the  album  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

 

   Mellotron's  are  also  added  on  a  few  tracks  along  with  some  of  the  riffing  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  melody  as  well  as  the  recording  also  having  its  atmospheric  moments  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them,  one  track  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  phenomenon  of  ergotism.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Vigljos  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  old  school  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "A  Seed  Of  Aberration"  "Delusions  Of  Grandeur"  and  "Harvest".  8  out  of  10.

  Facebook // Instragram // Bandcamp  

    

Buxen/...dilexerunt homines magis tenebras quam lucem../Gladivs Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Buxen  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  plays  a  very  raw  form  of  occult  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "...dilexerunt  homines  magis  tenebras  quam  lucem.."  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Gladivs  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  bring  in  elements  of  black'nroll.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  A  lot  of  the  album  is  also  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  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody as  well  as  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  Baphomet  and  Occultism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Buxen  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  occult  black  emtal b and  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  toy  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Cross  inside  A  Circle  (Mysterium  Baphometis  Revelatum  Pt.  II)"  "Wretched  Convergence"  and  "Spectral  Desolation".  8 out  of  10.

  https://gladivsrecords.bandcamp.com/album/dilexerunt-homines-magis-tenebras-quam-lucem

Wolfdom/I Belong To Satan/Grimm Distribution/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Wolfdom  are  an  international  band  with  members  from  Russia  and  Ukraine  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in t his  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  satanic  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  traditional  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "I  Belong  To  Satan"  which  was  released  by  Grimm  Distribution.

  A  very  distorted  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  riffs  also  mix  in  elements  of  traditional  metal.  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  mid  tempo  sections  also  adding  in  touches  of  black'n'roll  and  death  metal  growls  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  A  lot  of  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  while  also  sounding  very  modern  at  the  same  time.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

  Some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  one  song also  being  s  ritualistic  instrumental  that  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  and  chants  before  returning  back  to  a  heavier  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Death  and  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Wolfdom  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  satanic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "I'm  The  Fear  In  The  Valley  Of  Death"  "In  the  Endless  Domain  Of  Satan"  and  "Quo  Vadis".  8  out  of  10.

  https://grimmdistribution.bandcamp.com/album/087gd-wolfdom-i-belong-to-satan-2024    

Mutant Sex Demon Interview

 

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

A: Hail! I Am Mutant Sex Demon and basically this solo project is my tribute to everything that I like in the 70's / 80's underground culture.

2.You have a new album coming out in July, musically how does it differ from your previous release?

A.Yes! This album is called "Cutting Through" and its kind of continuance to my previous album. I have somewhat unique style and I like to keep it that way.

3.You also play in other bands and projects, what is it that you bring into the music of 'Mutant Sex Demon', that you have not been able to do with your other groups?

A: Mutant Sex Demon is kind of personification of my interest about 70's & 80's sleaze and horror movies, 80's metal, serial killers and other obscure stuff, lets call it dark side of human nature. 

This whole thing is kind of continuance to my previous project "Sperm Angel" which I started as a solo thing but it didn't last solo project very long and I'm happy about it but

this thing is kind of different. 

4.A lot of your lyrics cover satanic themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?

A:I've been studying and approaching Satan from many angles. Only statement I can give is that: Madness can come without Satan, but Satan won't come without madness.

5.What are some of the other lyrical topics and subjects you have explored so far with the music?

A:Easier to list things I write about, but I don't have strict boundaries. Here are some: Satanism, Murders, Sexuality and Suicide.

6.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Mutant Sex Demon'?

A:I've thought about this a lot, because I chose this name back in 2016 or 2017 for SA.

My hard guess would be that Japanese splatter/gore movies inspired me a lot at that time, still does.

I've heard some fuckers complaining about the name, but I would choose it again. 

For those guys: Is this my band or yours? Shut the fuck up and get out of my way.

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

A: It is kinda tribute to one and only MENTORS, but also to GG Allin. In original version the two tombstones belong to GG Allin and El Duce. 

Woman in the picture is kind of (Un)virgin Mary and muse of these two gentlemens and is about to give birth to ultimate filth metal antichrist.

8.With this project you record most of the material by yourself but have worked with musicians in other bands and projects, do you prefer to work solo?

A:I've recorded everything by myself, except guitar solos which are made by longtime partner in crime: Hell Priest of Nocturnal Mass. 

There is good sides in both: Band and Solo but I didn't have anyone to play with at time, so I had to do solo "mission".

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

A:Mostly people have liked it, but it takes certain kind of humour and taste to get into it. There is lot of hidden stuff and "read between the lines" type of stuff here.

I guess those who likes obscure stuff, should check my stuff out. I don't make music for people, I just do stuff and then I release it. Reactions are not so important.

10.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that you are part of?

A: For now, these things keeps me busy and give me headache sometimes. I don't do gigs nowadays, so I have time to make more albums.

I would recommend people to check out White Baroness and Sigon, if you are interested other work I do. Also there is new album coming out 

From MORGAL with their new lineup, definitely keep your eyes and ears on that!

11.Where do you see yourself heading into s a musician during the future?

A:I keep doing what I like to and when I like to. I don't think that I'm going to be "better" musician or shit like that.

I let professionals do their thing and I'm doing my own thing.

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

A: Oh boy, there are so many but maybe I list some that had big impact on me:

W.A.S.P, Motörhead, GBK, Mentors, GG Allin & Murder Junkies... list is endless really.

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

A: Thanks for the interview and to those fuckers who are into this stuff:

Buy those damn records, as it helps underground labels to stay alive and keep the flame of true metal alive!

mutantsexdemon.bandcamp.com

Mutant Sex Demon/Cutting Through/Domiance Of Darkness/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Mutant  Sex  Demon  are  a  solo  project  form  Finland  that  plays  black'n'roll  with  elements  of  speed  metal,  hardcore  punk  and  horror  rock  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  album  "Cutting  Through"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Dominance  Of  Darkness.

  A  very  apocalyptic  sounding  intro  starts  off  the  album  while  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  satanic  panic  era  samples  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  elements  of  80's  era  speed  metal  and  hardcore  punk.

  The  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  are  more  rooted  in  black'n'roll  while  demonic  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  remain  true  to  an  old  school  direction  along  with  spoken  words  also  being  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  album,  clear  singing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  Mutant  Sex  Demon  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black'n'roll,  speed  metal,  hardcore  punk  and  horror  rock  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Metal  and  Horror  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Mutant  Sex  Demon  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black'n'roll,  speed  metal,  hardcore  punk  and  horror  rock  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Filthy  Metal  Warriors"  "Rider  of  Devil's  Tongue"  and  "Too  Fast  For  Life". 8  out  of  10.

  http://mutantsexdemon.bandcamp.com/album/cutting-through  

Lenax/Infection/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Nashville,  Tennessee's  Lenax  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  very  aggressive  and  melodic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2025  album  "Infection".

  Ritualistic  bells  start   off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  also  introducing  harsh  vocals  onto  the  recording  which  evolve  into  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  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  A  lot  of  the  music  is  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  as  well  as  being  very  modern  at  the  same  time  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  a  couple  of  the  tracks  also  being  long  and  epic  in  length  as  well  as  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  elements  of  black'n'roll,  spoken  words  are  also  added  on  a  few  songs  and  one  song  also  introduces  synths  and  clean  playing  onto  the  album,  and  a  later  tracks  is  also  .an  instrumental  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  esotericism,  individuality  and  cosmic  horror  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Lenax  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  aggressive  and  melodic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Worship  Hymn"  "We  Are  Legon"  and  "Those  Of  The  Forsaken".  8  out  of  10.

  https://linktr.ee/lenaxmetal

Ad Hominem/Totalitarian Black Metal/Goatfucker Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Ad  Hominem  are  a  solo  project  originally  from  France  But  now  resides  in  Italy  that h as  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  very  raw  and  destructive  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  album  "Totalitarian  Black  Metal"  which  will  be  released  on  February  28th  by  Goatfucker  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  Elements  of  black'nroll  are  also  mixed  in  with  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  chaotic  style  along  with  some  angry  shouts  also  being  utilized  at  times  as  well  as  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  spoken  word  samples.

   All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  some  of  the  tracks  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  one  track  also  adding  in a  brief  use  of  World  War  II  era  music  samples.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  War,  Hate  Anti  Abrahamic  Religions  and  Anti  Woke  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Ad  Hominem  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw  and  destructive  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Gas  Mask  Destruction"  "Choke  The  Woke"  and  "Stairway  To  Oven".  8/5  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/Du3GliBj7mg   

Blood Cult/We're Gonna Take Your Soul/Witches Brew/Illinoisan Thunder/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Blood  Cult  are  a  band  from  Illinois  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  started  out  with  a  musical  style  they  used  to  describe  as  redneck  black  metal  and  over  the  years  have  evolved  into  more  of  a  mixture  of  southern  rock  and  traditional  metal and  this  is  a  review  of  their  album  "We're  Gonna  Take  Your  Soul"  which  will  be  released  in  2025  as  a  joint  effort  between  Witches  Brew  and  Illinoisan  Thunder.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  psychedelic  sounding  keyboards  a  few  seconds  later.  A  lot  of  the  riffing  and  clear  vocals  also  bring  in  elements  of  southern  rock  along  with  some  touches  of  classic  70's  metal  and  the  solos  and  leads  also  remain  true  to  a  more  retro  style.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  some  of  the  riffing  also  shows  an  influence  of  blues  rock.  At  times  the   album  also  gets  very  progressive  sounding  along  with  some  of  the  riffing  also  capturing  the  raw  energy  of  punk  rock  and  most  of  the  album  sticks  to  a  mid  tempo  direction.

  On  this  recording  Blood  Cult  moves  way  from  the  more  black  metal  side  of  their  previous  releases  and  goes  for  more  of  a  mixture  of  traditional  70's  metal  and  southern  rock.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  Satanic  Panic  era  of  the  80's  and  early  90's.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Blood  Cult  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  classic  metal  and  70's  rock,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Demon  Seed"  "I  Never  Go  Away"  "The  Devil's  Child"  and  "Love".  8  out  of  10.

  https://music.apple.com/us/artist/blood-cult/356149507

https://www.illinoisanthunder.bandcamp.com/

https://www.facebook.com/bloodcult/

https://www.instagram.com/j.r.preston/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1dw5Didi5MMkiOHS5VmYMI

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/blood-cult/356149507

  

Grave With A View/Raw Illumination/Dusktone Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

   Grave  With  A  View  are  a  duo  from  Finland  that  plays  a  very  cold  and  misanthropic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Raw  Illumination"  which  will  be  released  on  November  29th  by  Dusktone  Records.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  atmospheric  sounding  synths  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.

  Growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  elements  of  black'n'roll.  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  melodic  yet  dissonant  style  when  they  are  utilized.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them along  with  one  song  also  adds  in  brief  use  of  clear  singing  and  most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  isolation,  violence,  self-destruction  and  death  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Grave  With  A  View  are  a  very  great  sounding  cold  an  misanthropic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Cold  Flesh  Peregrination"  "Raw  Illumination"  and  "These  Meaningless  Gestures".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/gravewithaview  

  

Svarttjern/Draw Blood/Soulseller Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Svarttjern  are  a  band  from  Norway  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  very  satanic  and  misanthropic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Draw  Blood"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Soulseller  Records.

  Spoken  word  parts  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.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  and  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  classic  European style.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic style  as  well  as  showing  an  influence  of  70's  rock  on  some  of  the  tracks.  Angry  shouts  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them,  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  they  also  bring  in  a  Rolling  Stones  cover.

  On  this  recording  Svarttjern  expands  on  their  satanic  and  misanthropic  style  of  black  metal  taking  it  into  a  new  direction  without  losing  any  of  the  aggression  from  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Misanthropy,  Darkness  and  Destruction  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Svarttjern  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  satanic  and  misanthropic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Determination"  "Don't  Contain  Your  lust"  "Chop,  Slit,  Fray"  and  "Sin,  Offer,  obey".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/svarttjern

https://www.instagram.com/svarttjernofficial

https://youtu.be/L-cQ0ntkITQ  

Phaunos/The Ancient Tales/Humanity's Plague Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Phaunos  are  a  solo  project  from  Norway  that  plays  a  very  raw,  atmospheric  and  satanic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2024  album  "The  Ancient  Tales"  which  will  be  released  by  Humanity's  Plague  Productions.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  all  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  tremolo  picking  in  the  guitar  riffing  also  giving  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  when  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album.  Elements  of  black'n'roll  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  atmospheric  moments.

  Phaunos  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  raw  and  atmospheric  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  dark,  raw  and  lo-fi  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism  and  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Phaunos  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw,  atmospheric  and  satanic  black  metal  solo  project  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "I"  and  "III".  8  out  of  10.

  https://phaunos.bandcamp.com/album/the-ancient-tales

  

  

Einherjer/Deaf Forver/Indie Recordings/2024 Single Review

 

  Norway's  Einherjer  have  returned  with  a  new  song  where they cover a  classic  Motorhead  track  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  single  "Deaf  Forever"  which  will  be  released  on  June  21st  by  Indie  Recordings/

  A  very  hard  and  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  song  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Vocals  are  mostyl  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  along  with  a  few  shouts  as  well  as  the  solos  and  leads  going  for  more  of  an  old  school  metal/hard  rock  style,  the  whole  track  sticks  to  a  mid  tempo  direction  and  the  production  also  sounds  very  professional.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  track  from  Einherjer  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this b and  and  Motorhead,  you  should  check  out  this  single.  8  out  of  10.

  Website: https://einherjer.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/einherjerofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/einherjerofficial/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/einherjerofficial

Yr Interview

 

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

 

It started out as a project during covid, but fast forward a couple of years, couple of people in and out, its now a black metal duo based in Oslo. The idea was to make a black metal renaissance with reference to the early 90s scene, just slightly better produced.

 

2.In June you have your first ep coming out, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

 

We wanted to create something raw and aggressive. Songs with dynamic flow and pummeling parts that we both like in our own taste of music. With both avid fans of black metal the inspiration stands tall from this genre, but not straight 90’s Black Metal. The recording was done by ourselves, with good help from the highly talented drummer Jonas Bengtsson, (Nadir, great band) recorded in his home studio. Guitars, bass and vocals were done in Doedskaldrs living room, to the neighbours distress. Mix and master were done by Hugo Alvarstein.

 

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

 

We touch upon some anti religious motifs, and draw historical parallels from old to newer history. You could draw lines to other topics as well, but we think its important to leave room for the listener to interpret themself.

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

 

The letters form something that reminds of the old runes Raido and Algiz and there has always been a fascination towards the old languages. The name directly translated means drizzle, but is also short for vaaryr which is more like «heat»/«term» for animals. The sexual aspect of human nature is still one of the few elements left that still has a shocking effect on society, so it made very much sense to have that reference. The name has been on the block for years but it finally made sense to use it in this context.

 

 

 

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

 

We wanted a picture with the two members, as the first cover presented.

 

6.In the studio you work as a duo, are you open to working with a whole band on a recording in the future?

 

As of now, we work very productive as a duo and the writing process is effective. We are not strangers to self-criticism, and are not afraid to tell the other what works, and what doesn’t.

 

7.With the live line up what are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

 

We have only played one live performance, so that world be it. The debut concert went over expectation, as well was the attendance! With that concert experience we were just driven to go out and play more shows. The show was recorded and a couple of songs are being released on youtube.

 

8.Do you have any touring or show plans once the new ep is released?

 

We are working on some booking at the moment, nationally and internationally, nothing announced quite yet.

 

 

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

 

We have received some good feedback from people in the scene in Norway and abroad.

 

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

 

Currently we have started the process of making the first full record. Fingers crossed we will finish recording the autumn. It will focus even more on the black and roll aspects intertwined with more melodies, we will also put some effort on the foily/ambient side. Also we are working on getting some cool guest appearances.

 

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?

 

 

The obvious answer would be black metal. With so many great bands, you a prone to be influenced by them.

Currently, Akhlys have been one of the bands that keep on returning on the playlist. The recent album and singles have enhanced the already creepy and atmospheric horror they been doing since they started.

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

Buy music, go to shows support the local underground scene and fuck shitty streaming platforms!

Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram

Depressive Witches/Lust, Forgotten And Heartbroken/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Depressive  Witches  are  a  duo  from  France  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  mixture  of  old  school  black  metal,  black'n'roll  and  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2024  album  "Lust,  Forgotten  And  Heartbroken".

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  grim  yet  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  elements  of  punk  rock.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  music  also  adds  in  touches  of  classic  rock  at  times.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  yet  old  school  style  along  with some  of  the  songs also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clear  vocals,  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  acoustic  guitars  are  added  on  the  closing  track.

  On  this  recording  Depressive  Witches  takes  old  school  black  metal,  punk  and  classic  rock  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  very  diverse  recording.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Medieval  Fantasy,  Witchcraft  and  Rebellion  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Depressive  Witches  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  old  school  black  metal,  black'n'roll  and  punk,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Protected  By  Death  And  Sorcery"  "Lost,  Heartbroken  And  Forgotten"  "Dance  For  the  Witch"  and  "Far  Away".  8  out  of  10.

  https://depressivewitches.bandcamp.com/album/lost-forgotten-and-heartbroken

https://open.spotify.com/album/2TK6EtXFveGHi8iARU59N0   

Yr/Maanelyst/Hellstain Productions/2024 EP Review

 

  Yr  are  a  duo  from  Norway  that  plays  an  old  school  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  black'nroll  and  this  is  a review  of  their  2024  ep  "Maanelyst"  which  will  be  released  in  June  by  Hellstain  Productions.

  A  very  heavy  90's  influenced  black  metal  sound  starts  off  the  ep  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  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  along  with  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  elements  of  black'n'roll,  clean  playing  is  also added  on  the  closing  track.

  Yr  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  old  school  and  raw  in  the  classic  Norwegian  tradition  as  well  as  adding  in  some  touches  of  black'n'roll  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and r aw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Norwegian  and  cover  the  inner  turmoil  of  human  duality.

  In  my  opinion  Yr  are  a  very  great  sounding  old  school  black  metal  duo  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  duo.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Kvessa  Tunger"  and  "Offernatt".  8  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/fMMpUA48Rwo

Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram 

Srd Interview

 

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

We were also in the process of booking a promotional tour for our third full-length album – we are touring as we speak – with two fantastic Slovenian bands Britof and Ater Era. We've also been booking summer shows and show for the 24/25 club season.

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

In our opinion it’s far better written and executed than the previous two. We again did some instrumental experimentation as with previous album Ognja Prerok (2020). Srd has also been known to use our own native, Slovenian language, but what we've added this time is that we've written two songs in a very specific Prekmurje dialect. And what has probably influenced the new sound the most, is our recent line-up change which has brought new ideas and development to the music and band work.   

3.This is also your first album in 4 years, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?

Like I mentioned before, there was a line-up change in the band which has proven important and we've also decided to change our visual concept, including our new logo.

4.Some of your lyrics cover Left Hand path themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?

I've always been keen on the dark arts, but the question is – what are we even talking about when we say something like that? To me it is the point of unconventional, of what is not established and of what a lot of people think is dangerous to a certain extent. It's also a way to not live a dull life and not be afraid to experiment and try to see a different angle of things. There is a practice which I'd like to be reserved about and keep it to myself. That is why I have Srd to express it in an unconventional way, yet now acceptable with quite a many. So, I'll keep the practice to myself, but you can get a glimpse of it in our live performances and in the lyrics sang. 

5.What are some of the other lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored over the years with your music?

Mostly our own history, different manifestations of death and how to approach it and achieve peace with it to a certain extent.

6. I know that the band’s name means 'wrath' in Slovenian, how does this name fit in with the musical style that you play?

I wanted a name for the band that would express the aggressiveness of our music, yet on the other hand not be limiting to the process of creating. 

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

There have been quite a few shows in the history of the band that I consider great. Those who have performed before will probably understand that what makes a great show is mix of different things: good sound on the stage and in front of it, audience – not necessarily big – that understands and digs the thing that you are doing, the people you work with at the venue or festival etc.

There is a worldview and philosophy behind it, but I wouldn't do it justice by describing it. It's a wild west, rock'n'roll, at some moments spiritual, then again very flesh like and limited, and this limitation celebrated.    

8.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album?

As we speak we're on a tour promoting vragvmesiton with two fantastic Slovenian bands: Britof and Ater Era. Shows are also booked for the summer and we are currently booking shows for autumn and 2025.

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

There has been support from all around the world, but I think that since we use our own native language which is not easy to understand it is a certain limitation. We're open to produce and album in lingua franca of our time and we'll see what happens then, but then again, maybe we won't and our language will be our own limit to the world outside. It's not about reaching and satisfying the world, if it stays the way it is, with only a handful of shows a year and no world-wide tour, we're perfectly fine with it. 

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

To be honest, I don't know. I've always been open to different kind of music and arts and not limiting myself with what I like – If i like something I don't mind what genre it is – and the same goes with creating. Creating should be an open process without boundaries; therefore we'll see what happens.  

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?

Taake and Misthyrming for using their native language and being fantastic in doing so. Slow-paced black metal, rock'n'roll, punk, stoner and Slovenian folk music if we speak of genres.

There are two artists that pop to mind of what I'm listening at the moment: Kaelan Mikla and Prayers. Kaelan Mikla's Undir köldum nordurljosum and Prayers Chologoth, for example.   

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

I'd like to thank everyone who's supporting Srd. At the moment we're on tour with Britof and Ater Era, come check all three of us out.

https://www.facebook.com/ SrdBozji/
https://www.instagram.com/srd. bozji
https://www.youtube.com/@ SrdOfficial

Srd/Vragvmesiton/On Parole Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Srd  are  a  band  from  Slovenia  that  plays  a  very melodic  and  aggressive  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Vragvmesiton"  which  will  be  released  on  April  16th  by  On  Parole  Productions.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  the  vocals  being  done  in  more  of  an  angry  black  metal  styles  as  will  as  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  A  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  some  songs  also  add  in  a  small  amount  of  synths.  Acoustic  guitars  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album  along  with  the  music  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  black'nroll  elements  and  one  track  also  introduces  ritualistic  chants  and  clear  vocals  into  the  music.

  Most  of  the  album  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  most  of  the  songs  stick  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Slovakian  and   cover  Occultism,  Left  Hand  Path,    Darkness  and  Life  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Srd  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  and  aggressive  black'n'roll band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Kacji  maseljn"  and  "Kastiga".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/ SrdBozji/

https://www.instagram.com/srd. bozji

https://www.youtube.com/@ SrdOfficial