Graveland/Hour Of Ragnarok/Inferna Profundus Records/2021 Full Length Review

 

  Poland's  Graveland  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  more  of  an  epic  style  of  pagan  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Hour  Of  Ragnarok"  which  will  be  released  in  August  by  Inferna  Profundus  Records.

  A  very  dark  and  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  epic  sounding  keyboards  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams.  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  feeling.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  touches  of  folk  music  can  also be  heard  at  times.  The  album  also  has  its  symphonic  moments  along  with  the  music  also  remaining  very  true  to  its  90's  roots  as  well  as  a  couple  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  as  the  album  progresses  clean  pagan  vocals  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.   

  On  this  recording  Graveland  remains  true  to  the  epic  style  of  pagan  black  metal  that  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  Paganism,  Nordic  Mythology  and  Lost  Civilization  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Graveland  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  band,  you  should  enjoy  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Wolf  Of  Twilight"  "Children  Of  Hyperborea"  and  "Enlightened  by  The  Wisdom  Of  The  Runes".  8/5  out  of  10.

Web: www.graveland.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gravelandofficial
Bandcamp: https://graveland.bandcamp.com

https://youtu.be/2tTTBXCerMI

  

Laetitia In Holocaust/I Fall With The Saints/Brucia Records/2021 EP Review

 

  Laetitia  In  Holocaust  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  an  avant  garde  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a review  of  their  2021  ep  "I  Fall  With  The  Saints"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Brucia  Records.

  A  powerful  sounding  bass  guitar  starts  off  the  ep  along  with  some  heavier  riffing  a  few  seconds  later.  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a d ecent  amount  of  melody  and  avant  garde  structures  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  At  times  the music  also  gets  very  dissonant  and  experimental  sounding  along  with  one  track  also  being  a  remake  of  a  2009  song  and  the  closing  song  also  adds  in  some  synths,  clean  singing  and  whispers.

  On  this  recording  Laetitia  In  Holocaust  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  experimental,  avant  garde  and  dissonant  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  dark  and  philosophical  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Laetitia  In  Holocaust  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  avant  garde  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "I  Fall  With  The  Saints".  8  out  of  10.

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Void Of Apep Interview

 

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

Void of Apep is a project inspired by early 90's black metal, with themes deriving from bizarre Lovecraftian lore and obscure ancient Mysteries.

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

I went for a raw, underproduced sound, approaching the earlier recordings from Emperor, Satyricon and Immortal, while introducing some Iron Maiden dual guitar harmonies, as well as an eerie sense of melody akin to bands like Dissection or Sacramentum. 

3.A lot of your lyrics cove roccultism themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the dark arts?

I have a deep interest in ancient forms of religious belief, and the multiple ways through which the collective uncounscious manifests itself. I often read about paleolithic burial rites, Egyptian, Sumerian and Greek religions and their Mysteries. I also take interest in the initiatic symbolism associated to medieval knighthhood and Luciferian gnosis. The main influence in the lyrics comes from the writings by Aleister Crowley, Kenneth Grant, H. P. Lovecraft, C G. Jung, Mircea Eliade, Friederich Nietzsche, as well as portuguese writers like J.L. Vasconcelos and Gilberto Lascariz, to name but a few. 

4.I know that the solo project was named after an  ancient Egyptian deity, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the Egyptian Gods and Deities?

The project's name came from Gerald Massey's book "Ancient Egypt". My interests aren't exclusively related to Egypt. I share and inclusive view on the subject matter regarding Occultism. I believe that man behaves and thinks in patterns, so you'll end up finding the same manifestations in different cultures. The Void of Apep refers to the primordial and absolute darkness, the abyssal domain of chaos. In other terms, it also refers to the vortex beyond the conscious mind. 

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

The artwork was conceived by local artist Carina Martins. It draws inspiration from the watercolor illuminations present in Aurora Consurgens, an alchemical treatise, which dates back to the 15th century, and depicts the Nigredo (blackness), on which the reunion of man and god (wisdom) happens through decomposition, putrefaction, and the encounter with the void.

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

This project is the equivalent to a katabatic descent to my deep unconscious mind. I can't really tell if it's compatible with having other band members, but I keep the options open. 

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

I have received some contacts, but meanwhile the band remains unsigned.

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

It's been generally good, most feedback has come from Japan and the United States.

9.Are you also involved with or have been involved with any other bands or musical projects?

There were some projects in the past regarding black metal and some dark synth compositions as well, but they remained in the darkness from where they came.

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

Yes, I am already working on some tracks for a future release. I can't really tell you if it's going to be a full length. It's too early to determine.

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 main influence comes from most Norwegian and Swedish output from the early 90's black metal scene (Emperor, Burzum, Darkthrone, Mayhem, Satyricon, Marduk, Dissection...). I was also influenced by the more "exotic" sound of the first albums of Rotting Christ, Master's Hammer and Necromantia. Besides that, I listen to a lot of soundtrack and dark ambient stuff like Lustmord, Goblin, Raison D'Etre, Diamanda Galas, etc. Lately, I've been enjoying the work of Cultes des Ghoules, Teitanblood, Necros Christos, Unaunaussprechlichen Kulten, Disma, Katharsis... the list goes on. Too many to mention.

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

Thank you, for the interview and support. It means a lot. If interested, people can contact me by email:  void.of.apep@gmail.com  or check the bandcamp site:   Horror Vacui | Void of Apep (bandcamp.com)  No facebook available. 

Inanimate Interview

 

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

It's a pretty raw cut black metal/punk project I put together over the fall and winter of 2020.  I had a break from other projects due to covid and wanted to take advantage of the down time.  I live in small city in the southern interior of BC. I tracked it all in my basement over a few months and had Cody Baresich from Circle A studios (Victoria, BC) mix and master it.  

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

Sonically I wanted to make a blown out and harsh sounding album that has periods of delirium and borderline psychedelia.  Straight forward and minimal but engaging throughout.  Flow and pacing was the main focus.  Everything was premeditated.  Stylistically punk roots came naturally and the rest is pretty traditional black metal. 

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

Northern colonial history.  I've always had a fascination with Canadian history and the sheer brutality of life during those times. The hardships were unreal and they echo through contemporary society to this day.  Needless to say it's mostly negative.  It's my favourite reading material and I've always wanted to develop a project paying artistic tribute to it.  

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

It's a homage to Ildjarn.  That was a big inspiration to the music.  The name can be interpreted many ways but for me it's as blunt as it sounds.  The absence of sentience.  Truly unaffected nothing.  Or is it total internalized feeling with no expression? It can go anyway.

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

It's the HBC York Factory.  An early trading post in northern Manitoba.  It's a very ominous looking colonial building and I thought the process of degrading it brought out the darker feelings from the once colourful sunset scene. 

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

Studio project with no desire to ever play live.  It's not off the table though.

7.So far very little is known about the band, are you planning on expanding your presence in the future or do you prefer to keep a low profile?

This is the first interview.  Outside of releasing music seasonally I don't think there will ever be an ulterior presence.  

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

Not actively looking but I'm in no rush.  Keeping an open mind.

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

I'm just stepping into it with this first release but generally positive so far.  I'm appreciative of the people who have picked up the tape.

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

More of the same but further realized.  I'm quite devout to developing this as much as possible.  The foundation has been laid and theres a lot I'm eager to build up from. 

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?

I work at a record store in my town and listen to everything I can.  I spend most of my time exploring new things. 

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

Theres a video version of the album with footage from the Nahanni running in supplement to the tracks.  It's a bit of a trip and worth the watch.  Appreciate your interest and time.  Thanks.

https://youtu.be/kWc9bZt7xL8

Ixtlahuac/Teyacanilitztli Nahuali/Nuclear War Now! Productions/2021 Full Length Review

 

  Ixtlahuac  are  an  international  duo  with  members  from  the  United  States  and  Columbia  that  plays  an  old  school  form  of  black  metal  with  some  touches  of  pre  hispanic  folk  music  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Teyacanilitztli  Nahuali"  which  will  be  released  in  August  by  Nuclear  War  Now!  Productions.

  Clean  playing  and  melodic  guitar  solos  and  leads  start  off  the  album  while  nature  sounds  can also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  along  with  the  tremolo  picking  also  giving  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.  Dark  sounding  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  guitar  riffing  along  with  some pre  Hispanic  style  folk  instruments  also  being  added  into  some  parts  of  the  recording  and  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  one  of  the  tracks  also  introducing  tribal  and  ritualistic  style  spoken  word  parts  onto  the  recording  as  well  as  some  influences  of  death  metal  also  being  utilized  at  times  which  also  shows  up  more  when  growls  are  utilized,  nature  sounds  also  make  a  brief  return  as  the  recording  progresses.   The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Spanish  and  cover  the  obscure  Mesoamerican  codices  known  as  Amoxtli.

  In  my  opinion  Ixtlahuac  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  old  school  black  metal  and  pre  hispanic  folk  music  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  duo.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Huehuecoyotl"  and  "Ritual  de  Fuego  Nuevo".  8/5  out  of  10.

http://nuclearwarnowproductions.bandcamp.com/album/teyacanilitztli-nahualli         

Denial Of Death/Unholy Trinity/2021 EP Review

 

  Denial  Of  Death  are  a  solo  project  from  Germany  that  plays  an  old  school  and  atmospheric  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2021  ep  "Unholy  Trinity"  which  will  be  released  in  July.

  A  keyboard  orientated  intro  starts  off  the  ep  along  with  that  instrument  also  being  mixed  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  music  on  later  tracks.  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.

  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  atmospheric  sounding  along  with  the  songs  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  as  well  as  some  death  metal  growls  also  being  utilized  at  times.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  female  vocals.  Spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  a  couple  of  songs  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.  The  production  sounds  very  old  school  while  the  lyrics  cover  philosophical,  satanic   and  anti  religion  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Denial  Of  Death  are  a  very  great  sounding  atmospheric  and  old  school  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Tempus  Fugit"  and  "The  Day  Of  Revenge".  8  out  of  10.

Website: https://denialofdeath.de/
Bandcamp: https://denialofdeath. bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ denialofdeathofficial
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/ UCRMfVvx2upIoh6wNkW1MjsQ

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

Gergesenes/Exorcism Of The Geresene Demoniac/2021 Full Length Review

 

  Gergesenes  are  a  solo  project  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  very  raw  and  lo-fi  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2021  album  "Exorcism  Of  The  Geresene  Demoniac".

  Epic  sounding  synths  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  the  music  also  captures  a  very  lo-fi  atmosphere.

  The  vocals  are  mostly  either  tortured  or  high  pitched  depressive  black  metal  screams  while  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  A  couple  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  the  closing  track  being  an  ambient  drone  instrumental

  On  this  recording  Gergesenes  adds  in  some  depressive  touches  and  synths  to  his  raw  and  lo-fi  style  of  black  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Gergesenes  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw  and  lo-fi  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Exorcism  Of  The  Geresene  Demoniac"  and  "Lavurum  Plenus".  8  out  of  10.

https://gergesenes.bandcamp.com/album/exorcism-of-the-gerasene-demoniac      

Gnosis/Omens From The Dead Realm/Nuclear War Now! Productions/2021 CD Review

 

  Gnosis  are  a  band  from  Florida  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  an d plays  an  occult  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Omens  From  The  Dead  Realm"  which  will  be  released  in  August  by  Nuclear  War  Now!  Productions.

  A  very  dark  and  heavy  Greek  influenced  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  you  can  also  hear  all  of  the  musical  instruments  that  are  present  on  the  recording.  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  emtal  screams  that  are  also  done  in   more  of  a  deeper  style  and  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  blast  beats.

  Most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  style  while  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a v ery  old  school  style.

  When  spoken  word  parts  are  utilized  they  also  give  the  music  more  of  a  ritualistic  feeling  along  with  the  music  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount of  death  metal  elements.  Melodic  chants can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  some  synths  also  being  utilized  at  times  as  well  as  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  long  and  epic  in  length,  one  of  the  songs  also  introduces  acoustic  guitars  and  ethnic  style  instruments  onto  the  recording.  The  production  sounds  very  old  school  while  the  lyrics  cover  Sumerian  Magick,  Occultism  and  the  writings  of  H.P  Lovecraft.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Gnosis  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  occult  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Conjuration  Of  The  Nemesis"  "The  Eleventh  Step,  The  Gate  Unknown"  and  "Watcher  Of  A  Faceless  Abyss".  8  out  of  10.

http://nuclearwarnowproductions.bandcamp.com/album/omens-from-the-dead-realm

Sgurr Mor/Through Ancient Woods And Hidden Glens/Rottenheart Productions/2021 CD Review

 

  Sgurr  Mor  are  a  band  from  Scotland  that  plays  a  very  raw  and  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  with  some  elements  of  folk  music  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Through  Ancient  Woods  And  Hidden  Glens"  which  will  be  released  on  June  30th  by  Rottenheart  Productions.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.  A  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  as  well  as  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  When  bagpipes  are  utilized  they  also  bring  in  elements  of  Scottish  folk  music  while  the  album  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  the  closing  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  and  nature  sounds.

  Sgurr  Mor  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  raw,  melodic  and  atmospheric  sounding  as  well  as  adding  in  some  bagpipes  and  Scottish  folk  music  elements  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  inspired  by  the  remote  wilderness  in  the  Scottish  highlands.

  In  my  opinion  Squrr  Mor  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw,  atmospheric  and  melodic  black  metal  band  with  elements  of  folk  music  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Mamores"  and  "Light  Of  The  macabre".  8  out  of  10.

https://rottenheartproductions.bandcamp.com/album/through-ancient-woods-and-hidden-glens

https://www.facebook.com/Sgurr-Mor-106059568256472      

Orgg/The Great White War/Eternal Winter Records/2020 CD Review

 

  Orgg  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  plays  a  very  fast,  aggressive  and  melodic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  202o  album  "The  Great  White  War"  which  was  released  by  Eternal  Winter  Records.

  A  very  epic  sounding  intro  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  synths  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  direction.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  aggressive  yet  melodic  style.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  vocals  also  getting  more  deeper  in  some  parts  of  the  album,  a  couple  of  later  songs  also  introduce  war  samples  and  clean  playing  into  the  music.

  Orgg  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  fast,  aggressive,  melodic  and  traditional  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  White  War  from  1915 to  1918.

  In  my  opinion  Orgg  are  a  very  great  sounding  fast,  aggressive  and  melodic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "D.Q.N.S.P"  "Conturina"  "Winter  Coffin"  and  "The  Ascent".  8  out  of  10.

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Viserion Interview

 

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

   We just released the single, “The Wraith” Feat. Trevor Strnad, for our new album. We are also busy at work practicing all the tracks for the new album to prepare for live shows. John and Ben have also begun the process of writing some new riffs. All in all, we’re making sure we stay hard at work.

 

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

   For this one we wanted to take our sound and expand on it. We decided to come out with an album of pure aggression while keeping our bleak and dismal tone. We also differ production wise on this record as it is an overall clearer listen then our EP.

 

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored on both of the releases?

    Our lyrics are heavily inspired by internal struggles we as human beings go through. Whether it be depression, pain or loss we find these emotions to be the strongest and a main part of life.

 

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

   Viserion is the name of the dragon in “Game of Thrones” who is killed and then becomes undead. This imagery and story resonated with us as through pain he was transformed.

 

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

   We had this idea to showcase the underlying brutality of the world. The animal kingdom is a perfect example of this. The lion carrying the wildebeest skull struck us as the perfect image to go along with our lyrics of hopelessness and pain.

 

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

    We have not played live as of yet, but we are very open to the idea. We can’t wait to bring these songs to the stage

 

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

   We would be open to a label if the right one presents itself to us. There are a lot of great ones out there who we would be honored to join.

 

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

   The reaction has been great. Our fans are the best. They are extremely supportive of us and we couldn’t be more thankful for them. We hope to see them from the stage soon.

 

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

   We want to continue to hone our sound and vision until you can hear a song and immediately know: That’s Viserion.

 

10.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?

   We are of course influenced by the greats such as Mayhem, Darkthrone and Behemoth. More recently however we have been listening to and influence Akhlys, Ellende, Light Dweller and Deadspace.

 

11.What are some of your non musical interests?

  Matt is a writer with an MFA in Creative Writing. Ben is big into gaming and has been playing a lot of Destiny 2 lately and John enjoys working on cars and spending time with his friends and family.

 

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

   First we would like to say thank you so much for having us. “Natural Selection” will be out August 13th, 2021 and pre-orders are live over at our Bandcamp page. Lastly, thank you to our fans for your continued support!

 
https://viserion.bandcamp.com/
 
https://www.instagram.com/viserion_official 
 
https://www.facebook.com/ViserionOfficial
 
https://twitter.com/viserionband

https://viserion.bandcamp.com/album/natural-selection
 

https://distortedsoundmag.com/premiere-the-wraith-viserion/

Eldingar/Maenads/Loud Rage Music/2021 CD Review

 

  Eldingar  are  a  band  from  Greece  that  plays  an  old  school  form  of  Hellenic  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Maenads"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Loud  Rage  Music.

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Vocals  are  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  that  also  have  their  deep  moments  along  with  some  melodies  also  being  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  the  music  is  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  Greek  style  but  still  maintaining  a  very  modern  edge.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  the  the  music  also  mixes  in  elements  of  folk,  death  and  thrash  metal.

  Spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  remain  true  to  an  old  school  style  as  well  as  a  couple  of  the  instrumentals  also  adding  classical  guitars  onto  the  recording  as  well  as  a  great  portion  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  As  the  album  progresses  stringed  instruments  and  clean  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  the  recording  closes  with  some  Fleetwood  Mac  and  Darkthrone  covers.   The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  dark  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Eldingar  are  a  very  great  sounding  old  school  Hellenic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDEED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Maenads  Grave"  "Serenity's"  "Alpha  Beta"  and  "Quintessence".  8  out  of  10.

https://www.facebook.com/Eldingar-band-110698043876252/

 https://www.facebook.com/Eldingar-band-110698043876252/   

AlNamrood/Kitab Al Awthan/Shaytan Productions/2021 Vinyl Re-issue Review

 

  This  is  a  review  of  an  older  recording  from  Saudi  Arabia's  AlNamrood  which  shows  the  music  being  black  metal  mixed  in  with  elements  of  oriental  folk  music  and  the  album was  originally  released  in  2021  by  Shaytan  Productions  and  is  going  to  be  re-issued  on vinyl  in  2021  by  Shaytan  Productions.

  A  very  epic  keyboard  orientated  sound  starts  off  the  album  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  music  at  times.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  and  melodic  style  while  elements  of  oriental  and  arabic  folk  music  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  yet  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  long  and  epic  in  length.  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  along  with the  percussion  also  giving  the  songs  more  oa  a  tribal  atmosphere  when  they  are  utilized.

  The  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  along  with  the  songs  also  sticking  mostly  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  direction  as  well  as  the  tracks  also  mixing  in  Nordic  influences  with  an  Arabic  twist  on  the  genre.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in Arabic  and  cover  Ancient  History,  Evil,  Darkness  and  Anti  Religion  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  AlNamrood  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  oriental  folk  music,  you  should  check  out  this  re-issue.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Min  Trab  Al  Jahel"  "Kiram  Al  Nataiaa"  and  "Bani  Le  em".  8  out  of  10.

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/14746/new-promo-al-namrood-kitab-al-awthan-black-metal

https://shaytanproductions.bandcamp.com/album/kitab-al-awthan

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFCFPo1qHEHquAouEMnAtlQ

https://www.facebook.com/AL-NAMROOD-229094443820357   

Xalpen/Sawken Xo On/Black Lodge Records/2021 CD Review

 

  Chile's  Xalpen  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  more  of  a  shamanistic  and  occult  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Sawken  Xo  On"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Black  Lodge  Records.

  Dark  soundscapes  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  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  along  with  the  album  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  a  couple  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  as  the  album  progresses  the  music  also  gets  more  ritualistic  sounding.

  On  this  recording  Xalpen  plays  a  style  of  occult  black  metal  that  is  very  fast,  raw,  aggressive  and  traditional  sounding  as  well  as  adding  in  some  shamanistic  touches.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  occult  rites  of  shamanistic  practices  and  the  native  culture  of  Chile.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Xalpen  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  occult  and  shamanistic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Devourer  of  Light  (Ya  alwe  Kar-t'  en)"  "Dark  Nights  Of  Winter  (On  Stekenjho'  joshckek)"  and  "The  Formidable  Fumes  Of  Hell-Fire  (Oh  Tohown  Tahner  On  K'  ar  Xawqekyen)".  8  out  of  10.

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

YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2dOLPKLDtocDsBrOqGzPyw/

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

  

  

          

Darkthrone/Eternal Hails....../Peaceville Records/2021 CD Review

 

  Norway's  Darkthrone  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  more  of  a  mixture  of  black  and  doom  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Eternal  Hails......"  which  was  released  by  Peaceville  Records.

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  drum  beats  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  both  70's  and  80's  influences  while  the  vocals  are  done  in  mostly  a  first  wave  black  metal  style  as  well  as  capturing  the  grim  approach  of  the  second  wave.

  All  of  the  tracks  are  very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  doom  metal  elements.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark,  melodic  and  retro  style  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  spoken  word  parts  as  well  as  a  later  song  also  introducing  mid  tempo  sections  onto  the  album,  keyboards  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness,  gloom  and  anti  religion  themes.  

 In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Darkthrone  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this b and's  more  recent  material  and  doom  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "His  Masters  Voice"  and  "Lost  City  Of  Upparka".  8  out  of  10.

https://youtu.be/m4YZVDJMdEY

https://www.facebook.com/Darkthrone-101075189934422
https://www.instagram.com/darkthroneofficial/ 

    

Saxtorph/When Depression Devastates The Dreams/Wolfspell Records/2021 CD Review

 

  Saxtorph  are  a  band  from  Denmark  that  plays  an  atmospheric  and  depressive  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "When  Depression  Devastates  The  Dreams"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Wolfspell  Records.

  Rain  and  thunder  sounds  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  tragic  sounding  keyboards  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  depressive  black  metal  screams  while  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  in  some  parts  of  the  recording.  The  music  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments    along  with  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clear  vocals  and  during  the  faster  sections  of  the  recording  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard.

  When  tremolo  picking  is  utilized  it  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  All  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  there  are  also  some  quest  appearances  from  a  couple  of  members  from  Saturnus  as  well  as  one  song  also  adding  in  some  death  metal  growls  and  doom  metal  elements,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  depression  and  suicide  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Saxtorph  are  a  very  great  sounding  atmospheric  and  depressive  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Frozen  Hope"  and  "Swallowed  By  Nothingness".  8  out  of  10.

The Frozen Hope

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Elderblood/Achrony/Drakkar Productions/2021 Full Length Review

 

  Elderblood  are  a  band  from  Ukraine  that  plays  an  old  school  and  satanic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2021  album  "Achrony"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Drakkar  Productions.

  Female  vocals  start  off  the  album  and  also  add  in  touches  of  folk  music  along  with  some  church  burning  and  nature  sounds  a  few  seconds  later  while  also  introducing  keyboards  onto  the  recording  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Dark  sounding  melodies  are  also  added  into  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  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  some  of  the  riffs  also  adding  in  elements  of  death  metal.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style.  Symphonic  elements  are  also  mixed  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times  as  well  as  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  album  and  the  songs  also  mix  in  a  decent  amount  of  90's  influences  but  keeping  everything  up  to  date.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Occultism  and  Anti  Christianity  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Elderblood  are  a  very  great  sounding  old  school  and  satanic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Great  Fire  Of  Sacrifice"  "Life  Eternal"  "The  One  Who  Has  Not  Yet  Come"  and  "The  New  Testament".  8  out  of  10.

Official website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp  

Wærloga/Self Titled/Dawnbreed Records/KOTM Records/2021 EP Review

 

  Wærloga  are  an  anonymous  horde  from  the  United  States  that  plays  a  very  raw,  misanthropic  and  melodic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2021  ep  which  will  be  released  on  June  25th  as  a  joint  effort  between  Dawnbreed  and  KOTM  Records.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  ep  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  as  well  as  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  synths  also  give  the  music  more  of  a  symphonic  touch  when  they  are  utilized.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  good  amount  of  90's  influences  and  the  second  track  is  also  long  and  epic  in  length,  clean  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly  towards  the  end.

  Wærloga  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  raw,  melodic  and  misanthropic  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  glory  of  the  fallen  son  and  misanthropy.

  In  my  opinion  Wærloga  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw,  misanthropic  and  melodic  black  metal  horde  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "Enemy".  8  out  of  10.

https://waerlogacult.bandcamp.com/releases