Apocalyptic Leaders/Theory Of Death/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Greece's  solo  project  Apocalyptic  Leaders  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  an  atmospheric,  raw  and  melodic  style  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2023  album  "Theory  Of  Death".

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  atmospheric  sounds  are  also  mixed  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.

  Touches  of  punk  can  also  be  heard  at  times  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  aggressive  and  melodic  post  metal  style  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  A  couple  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and one  song  also  introduces synths  onto  the  recording.

  On  this  recording  Apocalyptic  Leaders  remains  true  to  the  atmospheric,  raw  and  melodic  style  of  black  metal  that  he  has  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  hell,  death,  murder  and  the  writings  of  H.P  Lovecraft.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Apocalyptic  Leaders  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric,  melodic  and  raw  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "That  Haunts  it  Even  Now"  "Source  Of  Life"  and  "Anti-Dogmatic  Era".  8  out  of  10.

  ttps://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Apocalyptic_Leaders/3540463784

https://www.instagram.com/apocalypticleaders/

https://www.facebook.com/apocalypticleaders/

https://apocalypticleaders.bandcamp.com/

  

Ascendency/A Manifest Of Imperious Destiny/Me Saco Un Ojo/Dark Descent Records/2023 EP Review

 

  Ascendency  are  a  band  from  Denmark  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  raw  and  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  ep  "A  Manifest  Of  Imperious  Destiny"  which  will  be  released  in  July  as  a  joint  effort  between  Me  Saco  Un  Ojo  and  Dark  Descent  Records.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  ep  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  musical  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  can b e  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  a  couple  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  90's  era  influences.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  bringing  in  a  very  melodic  yet  chaotic  style  and  the  music  also  adds  in  a  lot  of  death  metal  elements,  synths  can  also  be  heard  on  a  few  tracks  and  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  Ascendency  remains  true  to  the  raw  and  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  that  they  had  established  on  their  previous  release.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness  and  destruction  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Ascendency  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw  and  melodic  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  triumph  of  Draconian  Might"  and  "A  Manifest  Of  Imperious  Destiny".  8  out  of  10.

  http://mesacounojo.bandcamp.com/album/a-manifest-of-imperious-destiny

prophesiedascendency.bandcamp.com 

Taltos/A remeny kora/2023 EP Review

 

  Taltos  are  a  solo  project  from  Hungary  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  tribal  and  folk  influenced  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2023  ep  "A  remedy  kora".

  Tribal  style  drums  start  off  the  ep  along  with  some  didgeridoo's  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mix  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  clear  vocals  can  also b e  heard  briefly  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  

  Black  metal  screams  and  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  songs  also  captures  a  very  shamanistic  atmosphere.  Touches  of  folk  music  are  also  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  recording  along  with  some  tracks  also  bringing  in  more  of  an  experimental  direction,  jew  harp's  and  keyboards  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  when  the  music  finally  speeds  up  a  small  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  are  utilized  which  also  gives  the  ep  more  of  a  raw  feeling,  melodic  guitar  leads  are  also  added  on t he  closing  track.

  

  On  this  recording  Taltos  takes  his  folk  music  influenced  form  of b lack  metal  into  more  of  a  tribal  and  experimental  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Hungarian  and  cover  rebellion,  anti  political  and  Hungarian  Paganism  and  Shamanism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Taltos  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  tribal  and  folk  influenced  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.   RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Age  of  Hope"  and  "Turul  Tears".  8 out  of  10.

  https://taltos.bandcamp.com/album/a-rem-ny-kora

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGmk4r1FrMUoQO4coKmiUww  

Sznur/Ludzina/Godz Ov War Productions/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Sznur  are  a  band  from  Poland  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  very  raw  and  misanthropic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Ludzina"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Godz  Ov  War  Productions.

  Folk  music  samples  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  all  of  the  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add in  a  lot  of  blast  beats.

  When  tremolo  picking  is  added  into  the  fast  riffing  they  also  give  the  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  The  tracks  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  both  old  school  and  modern  influences  as  well  as  one  song  also  adding  in a   brief  use  of  synths,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  the  album  closes  with  a  Defekt  Muzgo  cover.

  On  this  recording  Sznur  remain  true  to  the  raw  and  misanthropic  style  of  black  metal t hat  they  had  established  on  their  previous  release.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Polish  and  cover  misanthropy,  death  and  suicide  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Sznur  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw  and  misanthropic  black  metal,  yuo  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Kurwy"  "Pole"  and  "Stosunek".  8  out  of  10.

  ▶ instagram.com/projektsznur

▶ fb.me/projektsznur  

        

  

Hell's Coronation/Transgression Of A Necromantical Darkness/Godz Ov War Productions/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Poland's  Hell's  Coronation  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  continues  their  occult  mixture  of black  and  doom  metal  from  their  previous  releases  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Transgression  Of  A  Necromantical  Darkness"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Godz  Ov  War  Productions.

  Dark  sounding  keyboards  start  of  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  elements  of  doom  metal  are  also  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams.  

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  early  90's  era.  A  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  the  guitar  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  yet  old  school  style  when  they  are  utilized  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  slower  direction,  one  track  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  spoken  word  parts.

  On  this  recording  Hell's  Coronation  remain  true  to  the  occult  mixture  of  black  and  doom  metal  that  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Necromancy,  Death  and  Darkness  themes.    

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Hell's  Coronation  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  occult  black  and  doom  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE "Spirituality  Of  Burning  Black"  and  "from  His  Blood".  8 out  of  10.

  ▶ fb.me/hellscoronation 

Bileseed Interview

 

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

We are BILESSED, a black metal project formed by two veterans involved in the Spanish extreme metal scene since 1990, being part of bands like Karonte, Dormanth, Mordor, Spurius... BILESEED plays violent, raw, aggressive but melodic old school black metal with NWOBHM influences. We released a demo tape in November 2021 containing 4 tracks. Now we are releasing our debut album called "From my cold dead hands" (CD) through Entropy records & Tribulation Productions (Colombian labels).

2.Recently you have released your first full length, musically how does it differ from your previous demo?

Musically there is no difference. The songs we included on the demo were also included on the debut album. The production is different, the demo sounds much more raw, especially the drums, but musically we follow the same direction as the rest of the songs were written shortly after.

3.Both of the band members have been involved with black metal bands since the 90's, do you feel the genre has changed a lot in the past 3 decades?

We have been playing in death metal bands since the 90's, but it is only now that we have created a 100% black metal project. Everything in extreme metal has changed in one way or another. The way bands communicate and even relate to each other is much less friendly, there used to be bonds between musicians, now it seems like everyone is only interested in business. If we focus on Black Metal I think there has been a gain in quality.  With all the boom of the style in the mid 90's there were a lot of albums that were really shitty...... Now I think the quality of the bands is much better, although in a way it has lost some freshness.

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

The themes of the topics are based on hatred towards any religion. We also talk about wars, ancestral battles, witchcraft, ancient kingdoms and the almighty cult of death.

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

Bile is bitter, something that burns the stomach, and in Spanish culture it has always been associated with hatred and a very bad character. To sow hatred as if it were a plant and let it invade the whole world is the only solution to put an end to human stupidity. Bile seed is the origin of evil, the origin of all hatred.

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

At first we were going to release the album with the same cover of the demo, which is an engraving dating back to 1500, but that image had already been used by other bands so we made a completely new and original artwork. I'm a graphic designer so it wasn't a problem, as that's what I do with my design studio "Hard as iron studio". I wanted to show all our hatred for Christianity with a cover that showed monks burning in funeral pyres.

7.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up or do you prefer to remain a duo?

For the time being we will continue as a duo. We don't intend to play live so there is no need to complete the line-up. Maybe later, after a second album... but only time will tell.

8.The new album was released through both 'Entropy Records' and 'Tribulacion Productions', can you tell us a little bit more about both of these labels?

At the beginning we made a selection of labels we wanted to send our demo to. We preferred labels outside Spain to avoid comparisons with our other musical projects. Among the labels was Entropy Records from Colombia, which showed a great interest in Bileseed. But this label wanted to co-release the album, so they contacted Tribulación Productions who are also a Colombian label and have been in the underground since 1990. Both labels have done an excellent job.

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

It's a bit early to know a lot of opinions since the album has only been released a couple of days ago, but so far all the comments have been excellent. People really appreciate the authentic and old school aura of the band, as well as the violence of the songs. It seems that the album is getting a lot of attention.

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

I think the musical roots of BILESEED are clear and I don't think we will change our musical direction very much. We do old school black metal with influences from NWOBM and old German thrash metal. We like melody but inserted in the songs, bringing darkness and melancholy. We will never include keyboards or similar shit...

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 listen to a little bit of everything within metal and rock, I also like a lot of blues and 70's hard rock. I've always listened to a lot of death and thrash metal. My all time favorite band is Judas Priest, but I really enjoy the Swedish and Dutch school of death metal. As for Black metal I don't really have a favorite band, I like early Mayhem... Darkthrone have a very varied discography. There was a project with ROOT members that I liked a lot, they were called ENTRAILS. And of course I'm a fan of Bathory classics.

12.Does Occultism play any role in your music?

Occultism, magic and witchcraft are part of our lyrics.... We believe in forces that are not under our control, including all the forces and knowledge that our inner selves possess as potential and that cannot be tapped except through a thorough knowledge of the mind.

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

Thank you very much for your support and interest in Bileseed, it is greatly appreciated.

If anyone would like to contact us or purchase the album, you can do so through our website www.bileseed.com.

Serpent Moon/Lily Of The Valley/Syrup Moose Records.2023 Full length Review

 

  New  York's  Serpent  Moon  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  depressive  and  suicidal  style  of  black  emtal  with  elements  of  funeral  doom  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2023  album  "Lily  Of  The  Valley"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Syrup  Moose  Records.

  A  synth  orientated  intro  starts  off  the  album  while  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier,  atmospheric  and  lo-fi  direction.  Elements  of  funeral  doom  metal  can  also b e  heard  in  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  and  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  depressive  black  metal  screams.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments   on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  music  always  sticks  to  a  slower  musical  direction  and  the  closing  track  is  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  also  adds  in  touches  of  ambient.

  On  this  recortding  Serpent  Moon  takes  his  musical  style  into  more  of  a  lo-fi  and  atmospheric  mixture  of  depressive  suicidal  black  and  funeral  doom  metal  as  well  as  keeping  everything  in  a  slower  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  depression  and  melancholy  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Serepent  Moon  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  lo-fi,  atmospheric,  depressive  suicidal  black  and  funeral  doom  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Bedrest"  and  "Lily  Of  The  Valley".  8 out  of  10.

  

1. Instagram

    

  

  

Decoherence/Order/Sentient Ruin Laboratories/2023 Full length Review

 

  United  Kingdom's  Decoherence  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  more  of  an  avant  garde,  experimental,  dissonant  and  industrial  style  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Order"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Sentient  Ruin  Laboratories.

  Industrial  style  beats  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls.  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  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  dissonant  melodies.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  style  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  experimental  and  avant  garde  moments,  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  clean  playing  can  also b e  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  Decoherence  takes  a  very  dissonant  style  of  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  death  metal,  industrial,  experimental  and  avant  garde  to  create  something  very  different.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  science,  imagination,  philosophy  and  total  fear.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Decoherence  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  avant  garde,  experimental,  dissonant  and  industrial  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "An  Unconfined  System"  and  "Degenerate  Ground  States".  8  out  of  10.

   BANDCAMP RELEASE

  

Torches Of Nero/MOKK/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Torches  Of  Nero  are  a  band  from  brazil  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  an  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2023  album  "MOKK".

  A  very  fast  and r aw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  bring  in  more  of  a  first  wave  black  metal  vibe  along  with  the  music  also  adding  in  a  lot  of  influences  from t he  second  wave  era  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  a  small  dark  sounding  melodies  can  also be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  briefly.  One  track  also  adds  in  a  small  amount  of  Spanish  guitars,  synths  and  ritualistic  chants  and  the  closing  track also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  guitar  solos  and  leads  which  also  remain  true  to  the  old  school  era  as  well  as  their  also  being  a  hidden  bonus  track  which  adds  in  more  of  a violent  atmosphere.

  On  this  recording  Torches  of  Nero  bring  in  a  good  mixture  of  both  the  first  and  second  wave  era's  of  black  metal  as  well  as  keeping  the  classic  occult  style  of  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Black  Magick,  Necromancy  and  Death  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Torches  Of  Nero  and  if  you  are  a f an  of  old  school  occult  black  emtal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Sadistik  Raids"  and  "We  Are  Alol  Dead".  8  out  of  10.

  TORCHES OF NERO - MOKK (video premiere)

Torches of Nero - MOKK (Full Album Premiere) 

Serimosa Interview

 

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

Serimosa arised from the ashes of Nattblod that was put to death due to conflicts within that band. So two ex members of Nattblod decided to restart and recruited a vocalist/bassist. Thus completing the unholy trinity that now is Serimosa. The name is taken from Watains song with the same title and is speaking of something great beyond this world. Wer are the vessel to carry the message of the underworld over to this world.

2.So far you have released a single, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style you went for on the track?

So for our debut we aimed for a more primitive and raw song. It was actually the first song ever written for "Nattblod" but never saw the light so we did minor changes to the arrangements and wrote new lyrics for it. It was called Misantrhopic warfare first but renamed it to Moon Schyte. It has more occultism incorporated than before. 

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

We explore alot of the anticosmic satanism (current 218) aswell Qabbalah and the Qlippoth are part of the lyrical themes. We are not intrested in satanism just for the purpose of entertainment. For those intrested in the subject will find gnosis and eventually find the black flame burn within. But we are not preachers. Its only for those who seek gnosis in the darkness. Only then satans light will give enlightenment. 

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

Serimosa is taken from Watains song with the same title. We deeply respect the legacy they have and very much why we wander on the same road. Serimosa basically  means "Something great and terrible" is about to happen. 

5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the logo you have on your epk and social networks?

The logo is an inverted triangle pointing towards Satan. The Eye represents that Satan is all seeing and omnipresent to those that truly seek his knowledge and willing to open their heart to the darkness. Only then you can discover endless possibilities. 

6.Are there any plans for live shows in the future?

We are currently looking for live shows. 

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

Its not something we have disscussed, but if an good offer would appear we might consider it. 

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

Quite good. But we hope it will grow ofcourse let it spread like and untamed wildfire.

9.When can we expect an ep or full length and what can we expect musically on your future tracks?

We are in the proccess to finish writing our EP and rehearsing. It will be four new songs. The plan is to enter the studio in November this year to record our EP and then an early 2024 release.

Musically it will be a filthy mix of black, thrash and doom influences. 

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?

I dont really know. We are more inspired by the themes of a band rather than music So the orthodox black metal i guess. Devils blood is equally important to us like Dissection or Ultra silvam. 

11.Does Occultism play any role in your music?

I would say so yes. it goes alot deeper than just entertainment. We want people to feel like they witness a black mass or experince some kind of extacy where time and space dont exist anymore, only chaos and lawless will exist. 

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

For those that see and hear willl unlock the path of a satanist through our lyrics. 

Hail satan!

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Manii/Innerst I Mørket/Terratur Possessions/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Manii  are  a  band  from  Norway  that  plays  a  very  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Innerst  I  Mørket"  which  will  be  released  in  September  by  Terratur  Possessions.

  Atmospheric  sounding  keyboards  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  music  at  times.  The  only  track  that  is  present  on  this  recording  is  also  over  37  minutes  in  length  while  elements  of  ambient  can  also  be  heard  at  times  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  yet  high  pitched  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  some  chants  also  being  utilized  briefly  as  well  as  the  music  also  adding  in  some  depressive  and  melancholic  touches  at  times.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  when  the  music  finally  speeds  up  a  small  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  track  more  of  a  raw  feeling,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Norwegian  and  cover  Death  and  Darkness  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  Manii  are  a  very  great  sounding  atmospheric  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  qa  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  8  out  of  10.

  https://terraturpossessions.bandcamp.com/album/innerst-i-m-rket

https://www.facebook.com/ManiiOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/manii_band/

 

  

Countess Erzsebet/Self Titled/2023 EP Review

 

  Countess  Erzsebet  is  a  solo  artist  from  the  United  States  that  is  back  up  by  session  musicians  and  plays  a  very  atmospheric  and  occult  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  doom  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  her  self  released  and  self  titled  2023  ep  which  will  be  released  in  July.

  A  very  distorted  sound  starts  off  the  ep  while  clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.  Acoustic  guitars  can  also  be  heard  briefly  while  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  are  also  introduced  on  one  if  the  songs  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  good  amount  of  melody.

  Elements  of  doom  metal  can  also  be  heard  in  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  music  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast beats  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  the  tracks  also  have  their  atmospheric  moments.

  Contess  Erzsebet  plays  a  style  of  occult  black  metal  that  is  very  atmospheric  sounding  as  well  as  adding  in  some  elements  of  doom  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  her  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism,  witchcraft  and  devil  worship  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Countess  Erzsebet  are  a   very  great  sounding  atmospheric  and  occult  mixture  of  black  and  doom  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "In  The  Blood  of  Virgins"  and  "Obliteration  of  thine  Enemy".  8  out  of  10.

  http://countesserzsebet.bandcamp.com/track/glorification-of-the-profane

www.facebook.com/Erzsebet.us

countesserzsebet.bandcamp.com  

Aristocrazia Rumorista/L'Anarca/2023 EP Review

 

   Aristocrazia  Rumorista  are  a  solo  project  form  Italy  that  plays  a  very  raw  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  grindcore  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2023  ep  "L'Anarca".

  Static  sounds  start  off  the  ep  along  with  some  drum b eats  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  takes  the  music  into  a  heavier  direction.  All  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  short  in  length  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  which  also  gives  the  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  music  also  brings  in  the  brutality  of  grindcore  at  times.  All  od  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  songs  also  capturing  a  very  lo-fi  atmosphere  and  the  music  only  slows  down  briefly  on  one  of  the  tracks.

  Aristocrazia  Rumorista  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  fast,  raw  and  lo-fi  sounding  as  well  as  adding  in  elements  of  grindcore  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Italian  and  cover  the  writings  of  Julius  Evola.

  In  my  opinion  Aristocrazia  Rumorista  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  black  metal  solo  project  with  elements  of  grindcore  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Il  Tramonto  dell'Occidente"  "Passare  al  Bosco".  8  out  of  10.

  https://aristocraziarumorista.bandcamp.com/album/lanarca 

  

Profane Elegy Interview

 

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

Mikael L: We formed in December 2021 after I connected with J. Gulick through an online ad he posted. Our interests really aligned and so we began slowly putting together the debut EP over the last year and a half. We live a considerable distance apart so all of the writing and recording gets done via file sharing. In terms of our music I’d call it Black Metal on the slightly melodic/atmospheric side. There’s some Doom and Prog stuff throughout as well, pretty eclectic mix.

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

Mikael L: With vocals I don’t really have a style I try to write for per se, I just write what I think best matches the feel of the track I'm working on. As you can see on some of our songs, I’m not afraid to throw clean singing in when it makes sense.

J. Gulick:  In the past, I’ve been in and out of Metal bands so committing to writing full Black Metal was not just different - but refreshing.  When I first really started delving into writing Black Metal music, it was in convergence with the Black/Death Metal band Void ov Nihility when we started as a session project back in 2014, but where we fused the two genres instead of writing straight Black Metal songs.  With Profane Elegy, I took a big influence from a slew of 90’s 2nd Wave Black Metal bands like Emperor, Gorgoroth, Satyricon, Mayhem, Dawn, Dissection, etc. with more modern bands a la Blut Aus Nord, Whoredom Rife, Forteresse and Opeth.  Stylistically I aimed for a more straightforward riff approach/atmosphere of the 90’s acts in influence of song execution, but also finding familiarity with some modern Doom and Prog. 

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

Mikael L: The lyrics on this record are very philosophical in nature and something of a thesis statement on our worldview as a band. Death, religion, and the rotten core of humanity are recurring themes throughout.

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

 

Mikael L.: Coming from Latin and Greek, Profane Elegy essentially means “a godless lament”. We felt this really summed up the attitude and direction of our music.

J. Gulick: We agreed on the name together and found it to be very fitting.

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

Mikael L: The cover was designed by Vladimir Chebakov and is based on the lyrics of the title track. Death, the unknown, and transition are all present in the piece.

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

Mikael L: We have not played live yet but are currently working to get ourselves out there in a few months.

J. Gulick:  We’re aiming to play live within the next 2-3 months.  Currently we’re looking for a drummer that fully aligns with our sound and can help push the music forward.  Then we’ll look for a Bassist.  I write the Guitars / Bass / Keyboards in this band, so it’ll be interesting working with a new Bassist and Drummer when the time comes. 

 

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

Mikael L: Definitely looking for a label, haven’t hit on anything so far though.

 

J. Gulick: We’re using our time to make the right steps with careful planning.  We sought out a couple labels but much to our avail.  We decided we’ll stay independent for a bit at least until we get more movement via merchandise designs, potential physical copies and new material.  

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

Mikael L: I’d say the response overall has been very positive. Very grateful for the good reception so far.

J. Gulick:  I think the reaction from the EP has been well received.  We’re very new, but we’ve gotten some great critiques. 

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

Mikael L: none for me, Profane Elegy keeps me busy enough.

 

J. Gulick:  Before I started writing up the rough drafts on Guitar in late 2021, I’ve been juggling a few projects within the extreme Metal spectrum.  My first Black/Death Metal band Void ov Nihility formed as a session project during the winter of 2013-2014.  Void ov Nihility has one full length album out titled ‘Above the Stars of God’ and was released on June 2nd of this year.  I just recently joined the NY Black/Death outfit Abyzouth during May of 2022 as well as a Death-Grind band called Internalizer I’ve been involved with since 2019.

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

Mikael L: A full length is planned for release at the end of Q1 2024. We are currently writing with plans to get the first single or two out by the end of the year.

J. Gulick: Currently in writing mode for Full Length 1 / Album 2.   Aiming to get all the rough foundation of these songs finished by late this year.  As of right now, the rough guitar tracks are shaping into some very interesting sounds – and the tempos on a couple songs are kicked up a notch from the songs found on the EP.  Stylistically, it’s too hard to exactly describe how the Full Length will sound, but I can say that there may be a slight shift in sound, but not significant.  I’m a big fan of experimentation, but I also believe in keeping the cohesive integral unity of the music intact, so experimenting too much isn’t always the best thing. Totally depends on who you ask though. Stylistically, I’m still approaching a lot of these songs in a similar vein albeit the 90’s 2nd wave Black Metal influences with some of the more modern Melodic/Atmospheric acts - and of course Doom with hints of Prog thrown in there. I try to find a balance between these definitions, but also keeping the ‘rawness’ intact as I feel the human element needs to be displayed. I think if anything, the style of Black Metal moving forward might just be more prevalent in the speed department – pushing that slightly upward but keeping the cohesion of the riffs intact. There might be a slight push in technicality as well, but too hard to tell yet.  I’m writing everything via ‘stream of conscious’ and just trial and erroring what works the best towards pushing this style to the next familiar - yet extreme level. The songs for Album 2 are still very new yet, so maybe I’ve said too much. Minimalism is also very important. 

 

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?

Mikael L: As a fan of Black/Blackened Death and Doom Metal I have been heavily influenced by bands like Gorgoroth, Emperor, Dimmu Borgir, Septicflesh, Hate, Swallow the Sun, Woods of Ypres etc. so I’m sure some of that comes out in what I write. As far as what I’m listening to now, Batushka (both versions), Altars of Grief, and Spectral Wound have all been in my rotation a lot.

J. Gulick:  I’m into a lot of different music, so it’s hard to necessarily just cite a few influences – but for this particular band I took a big influence from Black Metal / Doom – with a bit of Progressive Metal.  2nd Wave Black Metal acts, Doom bands like Esoteric and Ahab, modern Prog Metal like Opeth, etc.  I also took an influence from bands like Abigor, Armagedda, early Arcturus, Aeternus, Avenger, early Borknagar, Bathory, The Cure, Havukrunnu, early In Flames, Leviathan, Spectral Wound, etc. Too many bands to name, really.  Mikael and I have found a unity in the style we make including several influences in our music as well. 

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

Mikael L: Thanks for the opportunity to share our music. We hope everyone reading this will take a minute to give us a listen, we’re on all platforms so not hard to find.

J. Gulick: Thank you tremendously for including us in your interview.  Looking forward to reading the interview in print!  Feel free to give the album a listen and if there’s any new bands you could suggest us to listen to, absolutely send them our way.  Thanks for the opportunity. 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092367915270
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ProfaneElegy666
BandCamp:
https://profaneelegy.bandcamp.com/
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/68ATD5yRmlH8jtbdZQzVFy?si=wpQ1lLd4QvW0nVxRAzUAxA
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@ProfaneElegy-23/featured
Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/profane-elegy/1687009599

Serimosa/Moon Scythe/2023 Single Review

 

  Serimosa  are  a  band  from  Sweden  that  plays  an  orthodox  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2023  single  "Moon  Scythe".

  A  very  dark,  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  single  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast beats.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  deep  growls  along  with  the  music  being  heavily  rooted  in  the  classic  occult  Swedish  style  and  the  track  also  adds  in  a  good  amount  of  slow  and  mid  tempo  sections.

  Serimosa  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  aggressive  and  orthodox  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Serimosa  are  a  very  great  sounding  orthodox  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  single.  8 out  of  10.

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Ave Galea/Death Whisper...Her Cold Secret/Necrotic Records/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Ave  Galea  are  a  band  with  embers  from  Illinois  and  Missouri  that  plays  a  very  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Death  Whisper...Her  Cold  Secret"  which  was  released  by  Necrotic  Records.

  A  very  dark,  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  spoken  word  parts  can  also be  heard  on  a  couple  of  songs.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody  and  the  music  also  shows  a  good  amount  of  Nordic  influences.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on   the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and   blast beats  which  also  gives  the  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style,  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  clean  playing  is  also  added  on  the  closing  track.

  Ave  Galea  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  old  school  and  traditional  sounding  in  the  classic  Nordic  style.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  Death  and  Darkness  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  Ave  Galea  are  a  very  great  sounding  old  school  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Death  Whisper...Her  Cold  Secret"  "Fractal  Cessation"  and  "Smoldering  Teeth  Of  The  Hellmouth".  8  out  of  10.

  https://avegalea.bandcamp.com/album/death-whisper-her-cold-secret

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083096602169

  

     

Bileseed/From My Cold Dead Hands/Entropy Records/Tribulation Productions/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Bileseed  are  a b and  from  Spain  that  plays  a  very  melodic,  old  school  and  raw  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "From  My  Cold  Dead  Hands"  which  was  released  as  a  joint  effort  between  Entropy  Records  and  Tribulation  Productions.

  A  very  fast  and  raw  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  the  music  is  heavily  rooted  in the  90's  era.  

  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.  Influences  of  NWOBHM  can  also b e  heard  at  times  along  with  the  solos  and leads  also  remaining  true  to  an  old  school  style  when  they  are  utilized  and  the  whole  recording  also  sticks  to  a  heavier  musical  direction,  one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  spoken  word  parts.

  Bileseed  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  raw  and  melodic  in  the  90's  tradition.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  Anti  Christianity,  Witchery,  War,  Darkness  and  Death  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Bilesseed  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw,  melodic  and  old  school  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Funeral  Pyre"  "From  My  Cold  Dead  Hands"  "Winds  of  War"  and  "Pure  Dark  Soul".  8  out  of  10.

  >> Official website<<

https://bileseed.com

>> Album on Streaming <<
https://bileseed.bandcamp.com

>> First video single <<
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuqCK9TOnBQ