Forsaken/The Forsaken Forest/Project. 133 Records2024 Full Length Review

 

  Forsaken  are  a  solo  project  from  Bolivia  that  plays  a  depressive  mixture  of  black  and  doom  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his   2024  album  "The  Forsaken  Forest"  which  was  released  by  Project.  133  Records.

  Nature  sounds  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  musical  direction  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Elements  of  doom  metal  are  also  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  Vocals  are  mostly  death  metal  growls  while  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  slower  and  depressive  style  of  black  metal.   All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  one  tracks  being  a  keyboard  oriented  instrumental  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  slower  direction.

  Forsaken  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  a  modern  form  of  depressive  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  90's  era  doom/death  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  nature, depression  and  suicide  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Forsaken  are  a  very  great  sounding  depressive  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  "Smile  Through  The  Pain"  and  "Lights  Out".  8  out  of  10.

  YouTube: 

https://youtu.be/md_mBRgcmjc?si=zRadA3Wi61oRd8Kb

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/36X2VycRkCZnb70sxSLzwA?si=hcjhn2HEQ8yfcCnLbKD9mg

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/theforsakenofficial/profilecard/?igsh=MWgwbWwxN2FjanJ1eg==

In Magna Sila Interview

 

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

I've started listening to Black Metal in the 90's and for a while in my teen I've played with a High School band named Desolate Ways, we played just a gig. Then, for various reasons, I've played and recorded with many bands other style of music, from classic Heavy Metal to Gothic Rock. A couple of years ago I've started thinking of recording some black metal all by myself, a sort of back to the roots so to speak and here I am with In Magna Sila.

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

The style of the EP could easily be defined as Depressive Black Metal, I have put into these to songs some Doom elements and some melodic arpeggios that could remind a kind of Blackgaze style.

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

The two songs are set into depression and emotions in general, but in other unreleased songs I'm exploring different topics, from historical facts of the Southern Italy of the nineteenth century to Anarchism and its ethic, to pessimism and other philosophical topics.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'In Magna Sila'?

The idea of this name come from a novel of the same name, a collection of short stories by Nicola Misasi, a Calabrian realist writer born in Cosenza in 1850 and died in Rome in 1923. The stories feature thieves, farmers and humble people as protagonists.

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

For the artwork I was looking for something raw in its beauty and related to the concept of In Magna Sila. Sila is the biggest plateau of Southern Italy. Then I've found this copyright free image and I've used it for the artwork.

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

For this project I prefer to work alone. I strongly wanted some music exclusively mine, I have some well defined ideas so I've decided to do everything by myself with my times.

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

I am looking for a label, now I'm finishing some details of a full album then I'll start sending promos. I looking for a small, specialized label.

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

I've received some good reactions via e-mail and on the social media. Some comments on YouTube made me very proud of this EP.

For now I don't have a Bandcamp and I am not selling my EP so I've received reactions mainly via e-mail.

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

I think I will never be a full time musician, I prefer to do the music I like just when I want, with no compromise and I have a job that allows me to do this. As I've told before I'm finishing a full album, then I Hope to find a label to release it.

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 should write a book about this. Well, of course I was influenced by the second wave of Black Metal, so bands like Mayhem, Immortal, Darkthrone, Burzum and so on... More mainstream extreme metal bands like Cradle Of Filth and Children Of Bodom had a great influence on me. 

I loved the old school Death Metal of Morbid Angel, Deicide and Death. 

Then some traditional metal stuff from Iron Maiden and Judas Priest to Accept and Wasp for example. Some classical music of course.

I like obscure sounds so I like dark/goth artists like The Sisters Of Mercy and The Cure. 

My wife is a Darkwave composer and singer and I play guitar with her, so in a certain way I am influenced by this kind of music.

In the last weeks I've listened to None, a great Depressive Black Metal band that unfortunately disbanded the last summer.

In my car I am currently listening to Doomraiser (a great Doom band from Italy) and Type O Negative. I stop here, but I am sure I've forgotten tons of influences.

11.What are some of your non musical interests?

Mainly reading and watching TV. I like very much Boxe.

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

I just want to thank you and the people that will read this interview and maybe listen to my music.

YouTube

https://youtu.be/tJENoHvLRPA?si=dKV_UdB-Ag0W75kK

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565185178758

Vspolokh/Mertvozem/Purity Through Fire/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Vspolokh  are  a  band  from  Russia  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  very  epic,  atmospheric  and  raw  form  of  pagan  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Mertvozenr"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Purity  Through  Fire.

   Dark  soundscapes  and  field  recordings  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  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  black  metal  feeling.

  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  deep  growls  and  screams  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  the  songs  also  mixing  in  influences  from  the  classic  Eastern  European  era  of  the  genre  mixed  in  with  a  more  modern  approach

  Atmospheric  sounding  synths  can  also  be  heard  on  a  couple  of  tracks.  as  well  as  some  acoustic  guitars  also  being  introduced  onto  the  album  with  a  later  song  as  well  as  some  folk  instruments  and  female  vocals  also  being  utilized  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Russian  and  cover  nature,  Darkness,  Heathenism  and  Heritage  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Vspolokh  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw,  epic  and  atmospheric  pagan  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Kapa"  and  "Касли".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/vspolokh  

Malauriu/Sinoath/Scuru/Symphony Of The Scythe/Doomentia Records/2025 Split EP Review

 

  This  is  a  review  of  a  split  ep  between  Italy's  Malauriu  and  Sinoath  called  "Scuru/Symphony  Of  The  Scythe"  which  will  be  released  in  2025  by  Doomentia  Records  and  we  will  start  off  the  review  with  Malauriu  who  returns  with  an  experimental  form  of  black  metal.

  Their  side  of  the  split  starts  out  with  rain  and  thunder  sounds  along  with  some  synths  a  few  seconds  later.  Spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  as  well  as  the  music  also  getting  very  experimental  at  times,  whispered  vocals  are  also  added  towards  the  end.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  and  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Italian  and  cover  death  and  human  misery  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  track  from  Malauriu  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  experimental  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  their  side  of  the  split.

  Next  up  is  Sinoath  a  band  that  plays  a  progressive  mixture  of  black  and  doom  metal.

  Their  side  of  the  split  starts  out  with  some  clean  playing  and  dark  soundscapes  before  going  into  a  heavier  doom  metal  direction.  Synths  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  vocals  are  mostly high  pitched  black  metal  screams.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well  as  the  faster  sections  of  the  song  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.

  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  progressive  sounding  and  the  music  is  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  bringing  in  more  of  an  old  school  death  metal  style,  chants  are  also  added  towards  the  end.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  and  the  lyrics  cover  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Sinoath  are  a  very  great  sounding  progressive  mixture  of  black,  doom  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.

  In  conclusion  I  feel  this  is  a  very  great  sounding  split  and  I  would  recommend  it  to  all  fans  of  Italian  black  metal.  8  out  of  10.

  

MALAURIU links Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/malauriuofficial Instagram - https://malauriu.bandcamp.com/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/intl-it/artist/0tneV3lGC86kThmUtO9EE4

SINOATH links Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SinoathOfficial/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sinoath_official/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/intl-it/artist/6UCuurQr4HhHeDzj616fTa

      

Bergthron/Neu Asen Land/Trollzorn Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Bergthron  are  a  band  from  Germany  that h as  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  atmospheric  and  progressive  from  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  album  "Neu  Asen Lland"  which  will b e  released  in  2025  by  Tollzorn  Records.

  Epic  and  atmospheric  sounding  keyboards  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  clear  pagan  vocals  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  At  times  the  recording  also  gets  very  progressive  sounding  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.  Clean  playing  is  also  added  on  some  of  the  tracks  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  when  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  and  most  of  the  album  sticks  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  direction.

  On  this  recording  Bergthron  brings  in  more  of  a  modern  atmospheric  and  progressive  style  of  black  metal  which  is  very  different  from  their  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  German  and  cover  Norse  mythology,  Northland  and  Nature  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Bergthron  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric  and  progressive  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  " Aufbruch  nach  Neu  Asen  Land«Von  Pol  zu  Pol"  " Schiffbruch  im  Sonnengrab«Wrackmente»"  and  "Skaldenruhm  erstarrt  in  Zeit«Arktischer Sarkophag»".  8  out  of  10.

http://www.bergthron.de

https://bergthron.bandcamp.com

In Magna Sila/Self Titled/2024 EP Review

 

   In  Magna  Sila  are  a  solo  project  from  Italy  that  plays  a  very  depressive  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  and  self  titled  2024  ep.

  

   Clean  playing  starts  off  the  ep  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  depressive  black  metal  screams.  Spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  both  of  the  tracks  also being  very  long  and  epic  in  length   as  well  as  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  

   Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  clean  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  both  of  the  tracks  also  stick  to  a  slower  direction,  synths  are  also  added  towards  the  end.

 

   In  Magna  Sila  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  slow  and  depressive  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  depressive  and  melancholic  themes.

  

  In  my  opinion  In  Magna  Sila  are  a  very  great  sounding  depressive  black  metal  solo  project  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "Worthless".  8  out  of  10.

  YouTube

https://youtu.be/tJENoHvLRPA?si=dKV_UdB-Ag0W75kK

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565185178758    

Mavorim/In Ominia Paratus/Purity Through Fire/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Germany's  duo  Mavorim  has  returned  with a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  very  stark  and  austere  style  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Ominia  Paratus"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Purity  Through  Fire.

  Militant  style  beats  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  ambient  style  synths  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Whispers  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  the  recording  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  utilize  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  A  lot  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  one  track  also  introducing  clear  vocals  onto  the  album,  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very   professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  German  and  cover  Paranormal  Activities,  Death  and  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Mavorim  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw,  atmospheric  and  ambient  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Als  der  Menscheit  Willr  brach"  "Stahleme  Reihn"  "Traume'  and  "Der  letzten  Sonne  Untergang".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/mavorim   

    

Wolvencrown/Celestial Lands/Avantgarde Music/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Wolvencrown  are  a  band  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Celestial  lands"  which  will  be  released  on  November  29th  by  Avantgarde  Music.

  Rain  and  thunder  sounds  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  atmospheric  sounding  keyboards  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  and  the  faster  sections  of  the  tracks  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  blast b eats.

  When  tremolo  picking  is  added  into  the  faster  riffing  they  also  give  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  most  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length  as  well  as  some  vocals  also  being  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  album.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  music  also  showing  a  lot  of  influences  from the  Pacific  Northwest  side  of  the  genre.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  nature,  its  spirits  and the  damage  man  has  caused.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Wolvencrown  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  atmospheric  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "A  Once  Rational  Time"  and  "Clestial  lands".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/wolvencrown

https://www.instagram.com/wolvencrown

https://wolvencrownuk.bandcamp.com    

AnāʻAnā/Aura of Blood/Darkness Within/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Anāʻ Anā  are  a  band  from  Belgium  that  plays  a  very  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  album  "Aura  of  Blood"  which  will  be  released  in  2025  by  Darkness  Within.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  a  few  seconds  later.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  the  recording  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  remain  more  true  to  an  old  school  style  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  melody  at  times  as  well as  a  couple  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  one  song  is  also  an  instrumental  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  heavier  direction.

  Anāʻ Anā  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  90's  second  wave  tradition.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness  themes.  

  In my  opinion  Anāʻ Anā  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  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Aura  of  Blood"  and  "Fragments  Of  The  Flame".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/An%C4%81%CA%BBan%C4%81

  

Aita Interview

 

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

1 -  Hailing from Rome, the band formed even before their debut demo in 2017 ("Oltre le Nevi," which they later re-recorded for this album) with the idea of being a side project for Dyrnwyn. All the members of AITA are or were in Dyrnwyn. The band's core members are: Alessandro Mancini (guitars, orchestrations, and arrangements), Mauro Ricotta (guitars), Ivan Cenerini (bass and vocals), and Michelangelo Iacovella (keyboards and backing vocals). But that's not all! For this album, we teamed up with a bunch of talented friends and artists, including Francesco Incantalupo, the drummer for Vinterblot.

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

2 - From the very beginning, our goal has been to translate the most melancholic and reflective aspects of black metal into atmospheric music. While we don't shy away from the heavier, faster parts, our songs give ample space to acoustic moments, slow and enveloping riffs, and expansive symphonic orchestrations. Our earliest inspirations include Saor, Agalloch, Summoning, Caladan Brood, and many others. 

3.The band has been around since 2016 but you waited until 2024 to release the first album, can you tell us a little bit more about the long wait?

3 - Unfortunately, a combination of personal issues and the global pandemic significantly delayed the production of this album. However, we persevered, and we're incredibly proud to finally share this music with the world. It feels like a small miracle.

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

4 - Our music seeks to explore the deeper, personal side of black metal, drawing inspiration from the natural world and the human spirit. Our lyrics delve into ancient Etruscan mythology (Artume, Tages) and explore themes of spirituality, nature, and a more profound kind of romanticism. This 'romanticism' is not about sentimentalism but rather about capturing the feeling of sehnsucht, a longing for something beyond ourselves.

5.I know that the band name comes from Etruscan Mythology', can you tell us a little bit more about the research you have put into this topic over the years?

5 - Aside from the usual online research, we've been lucky enough to check out Rome's city libraries and, best of all, visit the actual places where the Etruscans lived and buried their dead (north of Rome and in southern Tuscany).

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

6 - The artwork and logo, created by the talented Elisa Urbinati, serve a dual purpose: on one hand, they symbolically represent the Etruscan underworld deity Aita, from whom the band takes its name, depicted with the characteristic wolf's head. On the other hand, they immerse the listener in the themes explored in the songs, evoking the landscapes of the Italian Apennines during autumn and winter through a color palette rich in natural suggestions.

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

7 - We started this band as a studio project, not thinking about live shows. So, we've never played live, but we're open to the idea. If the perfect gig comes along, we'll definitely think about it.

8.The physical version of the album is going to be released through 'Earth And Sky Productions', how did you get in contact with this label?

8 - Thanks to our bassist and singer, Ivan Cenerini, we were introduced to "Earth and Sky Productions" a couple of years ago. They'll be releasing our album physically in December 2024, and we're really grateful for their support.

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

9 - We're really happy with how well our album has been received. We've gotten awesome reviews and tons of positive feedback from other musicians and fans. It's really rewarding knowing all the hard work and sacrifices paid off. A big shoutout to the YouTube channel "Atmospheric Black Metal Albums" for giving us a digital preview of our album "I".

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

10 - We're already in the thick of things with our next project, crafting new riffs and lyrics that we'll be working on all through 2025. We're taking our time with this one, as we always pour our hearts and souls into our music, so don't expect a new album right around the corner. But rest assured, we'll be back with new music soon!

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band embers are currently listening to nowadays?

11 - We've drawn inspiration from a vast array of bands, such as Saor, Agalloch, Caladan Brood, Eldamar, Lustre, Summoning, Gallowbraid, Negura Bunget, Elderwind, and Wolves in the Throne Room. These bands have significantly shaped our sound.

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

12 - Thanks a ton for giving us a shoutout in your webzine! We can't wait to share our next album with you. Cheers to the whole team and all the readers! Ciao!

 https://aita.bandcamp.com/album/i

Ancient Ritual Interview

 

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

1 - After the release of my first album, I started advertising in order to let everyone know about my musical production, the web is a great way to advertise and in this period I'm focusing on this part that is integral to musical production. In the meantime, I'm also taking care of the artistic side for new graphics to use.

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

2 - The musical style is a mix of my usual listening, since I was a kid I listen to Mayhem, Marduk, Darkthrone, Taake, Limbonic Art, Tsjuder, Emperor, Immortal and my style is a consequence of these listenings that influence me more than anything in my musical composition and production. In addition, I added an ambient effect to my voice to try to distinguish myself from other musical productions of the genre.

3.Can you tell us a little bit more about the ambient vocal timbre approach to the harsh vocals you bring out on the new album?

3 - To make my voice as cold and disturbing as possible, I added a distortion to my voice, and a delay effect combined with other effects and a really dark vocal timbre comes out. I thought that modifying my voice like this could make the song darker and more tense, imbue it with anxiety and give it that touch that could differentiate me from other vocalists.

4.A lot of your lyrics cover the Pagan traditions of Northern Europe, which aspects of this topic have you covered in the lyrics so far?

4 - The lyrics of my songs tell of Norse legends, the myth merges with the musical culture and assimilates it. I really like Nordic mythology with its magic and its deities, and so I decided to make them an integral part of my lyrics. But not only Nordic mythology, in my songs I also talk about pagan rituals in the woods and medieval demonology.

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

5 - I was looking for a name for the project that could evoke many things together and that at the same time sounded very dark, I thought that "Ancient Ritual" could be a way to remember the pagan origins that inspired the lyrics and at the same time in the mind could evoke that feeling of darkness and mystery. I am passionate about Occultism and I think this name suits me very well and what I want to express in my music.

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

6 - The Artwork represents a forest full of vegetation, nocturnal and dark. Nature in its darkest and "hellish" face, the ancient forest witness to who knows how many pagan rituals through the centuries and full of mysticism and spirituality, a mystical place inhabited by ancient spirits and entities of various kinds. Our roots and those of our ancestors pass through the forest.

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

7 - I have collaborated with other musicians in the past, but I have decided that I will carry on this project alone so that I can express myself better without necessarily having to compromise both musically and in thought with others. It is my way of being able to express myself freely and also in this way I can compose and record more quickly and I will continue on this way.

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

8 - I am looking for a label that is close to my needs and that treats the genre with due experience, I received some proposals after the publication of the Album but I am waiting to evaluate which one can best join to my extreme musical proposal.

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

9 - I have received many followers and good feedback worldwide, of course it is still early to better understand how my work will be received by the public but I have to say that for now "Congressus Cum Daemone" has had a good reception from the listeners.

10.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

10 - In the future I will definitely continue to give vent to my artistic vein with this Black Metal project, I have 4 songs that I had discarded for "congressus" and that I am remixing so I could soon publish them as an EP.

These songs were not discarded because I did not like them but only because I had decided that the full length should not exceed 8 tracks, so I will publish these separately.

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

11 - I love the Black Metal of the 90s and it is my main listening, but I have to say that in the current panorama there are new extreme musical productions that I do not dislike. I listen to many bands, every day when I can I listen to music so I listen to different bands even during the same day. For example, while I'm answering your interview I'm listening to "Twilight of the Gods" by Bathory.

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

12 - I thank Occult Black Metal Zine for granting me the interview and I also thank all those who these days are spending a few minutes of their day to follow me and listen to me. Thank you.

https://www.facebook.com/ancient.ritual.blackmetal

soundcloud.com/ancient-ritual/albums


ancientritual.bandcamp.com

Ainzamkait/was das Lebens nicht went/Purity Through Fire/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Ainzamkait  are  a  solo  project  from  Germany  that  plays  a  very  old  school  and  melancholic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2024  album  "Was  das  lebens  nicht  went"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Purity  Through  Fire.

  Rain,  thunder  and  wind  sounds  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  synths  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Synths  and  organs  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  one  of  the  songs  is  also  an  instrumental  as  well  as  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  mid  90's  to  early  2000's  era.

  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  mixed  in  with  some  earlier  DSBM  touches   while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melancholic  yet  melodic  style  and  most  of  the  album  also  sticks  to  more  of  a  mid  tempo  direction,  one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  vocals.

  Ainzamkait  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  mid  tempo  and  melancholic  sounding  in  the  classic  tradition.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  old  school  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  German  and  cover  hated,  melancholy,   death  and  paganism  themes.     

  In  my  opinion  Ainzamkait  are  a  very  great  sounding  melancholic  old  school  black  metal  solo  project  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Was  das  lebens  nicht  went"  and  "Schmerz  eines  einst  stolzen  Mannes".  8  out  of  10.

  

ainzamkait.bandcamp.com/music

Ulfarr/Fornetes Folm/His Crown Grows From His Skull/Purity Through Fire/2024 Full Length Review

 

  United  kingdom's  Ulfarr  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  raw,  misanthropic  and  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Formless  Folm/His  Crown  From  His  Skull"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Purity  Through  Fire.

  Throat  singing  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  heavy  riffing  a  few  seconds  later  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can b e  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.  Most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  Ulfarr  brings  out  a  very  raw  and  misanthropic  style  that  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  old  school  while  the  lyrics  cover  misanthropy  and  darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Ulfarr  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw,  misanthropic  and  old  school  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Hildeleoma"  "Moonskin"  "Forn-Jotr"  and  "In  Veneration  Of  The  Corpse  Eater  Star".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/ulfarr666

  

Atavistic Passage/Demonstration One/Manifest Of Hate Creations/2024 Demo Review

 

  Atavistic  Passage  are  a  music  project  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  plays  a  mixture  of  raw  black  metal  and  dungeon  synth  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  demo  "Demonstration  One"  which  will  be  released  on  cassette  by  Manifest  Of  Hate  Creations.

  Rain  and  thunder  sounds  start  off  the  demo  along  with  some  synths  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  bring  in  elements  of  ambient  and  dungeon  synth  before  going  into  a  heavier  and  when  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can b e  heard  which  also  gives  the  recording  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  One  of  the  tracks  also  adds  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  synths  also  mixing  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  song  before  closing  with  a  dungeon  synth  orientated  outro.

  Atavistic  passage  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  raw  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  ambient  and  dungeon  synth  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  ritualistic  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Atavistic  Passage  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  raw  black  metal  and  dungeon  synth  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "Ritual  II".  8  out  of  10.

  

https://atavisticpassage.bandcamp.com/album/demonstration-one

  

Blazemth/Gehenna/Negra Nit Distro/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Blazemth  are  a  band  from  Spain  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  primordial  and  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Gehenna"  which  will  be  released  in  December  by  Negra  Nit  Distro.

  An  orchestra  orientated  intro  starts  off  the  album  while  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  ads  in  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.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era  as  well  as  being  very  modern  at  the  same  time.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  clean  playing  and  whispers  also  being  utilized  on  a  couple  of  songs.  Some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  as  well  as  some  of  the  riffing  also  bringing  in  elements  of  thrash  metal,  one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clear  pagan  vocals  Death  metal  growls  and  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  spoken  words  are  also  added  on  the  closing  track.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Norse  Mythology,  Occultism,  Death  and  Darkness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Blazemth  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  old  school  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "To  The  Valley'  "Into  The  Crypt  Of  Iggdrasyl"  and  Nifelheim".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568738550586

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

Hesperia/Fra li Monti Sibillini/Hammerheart Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Italy's  solo  project  Hesperia  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  musical  style  going  for  a  winter  medieval  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  album  "Fra  Li  Monti  Sibillini"  which  will  be  released  in  2025  by  Hammerheart  Records.

  Winter  orientated  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  atmospheric  sounding  synths  which  also  bring  in  elements  of  ambient  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Clean  playing  is  also  added  on  some  of  the  tracks  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  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  90's  era.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  album  also  capture  a  very  medieval  atmosphere  at  times  and  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  on  a  few  tracks.

  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.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  choirs  and  chants  can  also  be  heard briefly as  well  as  some  folk  instruments  also  being  utilized  at  times  and  there  are  also  a  few  instrumentals.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Italian  and  cover  the  legends,  paganism,  folklore  and  history  of  the  Sibylline  Mounts.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Hesperia  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  medieval  pagan  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "La  grotta  de  la  sibilla  atto  II: Il  regno  de  la  sibilla"  "Mons  daemoniacus:  Nero paese  de  la  scomunica"  and  "La  leggenda  del  lago  di  pilato"  and  "Solstizio  d’inverno  fra  li monti  sibillini  (Fine)".  8/5  out  of  10.

  https://hesperia.lnk.to/fralimontisibillini

https://www.facebook.com/HesperiaOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/hesperia_official

 

https://youtu.be/IMAi8tGcQyA

    

Jarl Interview

 

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

Recording was done in a timeframe of about 6 months, so we finished everything in June or July. To be fair, summertime is also time for festivals and vacation, we went a little slower than usual after Trümmerfestung was done.Recently we went back to normal schedule with rehearsals, lots of planning and organizing things. We even started writing new songs.

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

First and foremost it finalizes our progress during the last few years. In the past a whole lot of shit was and still is going on in the world. We are some years older and as the the saying goes: With age comes wisdom. In our case is not wisdom, but a general feeling of being more down to earth. This reflects in our music.

3.This is also your first album in 5 years, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?

There was a thing called Covid19, that had a huge impact on our rehearsals and live performances. So feel free to delete around two years from the five years. Besides that we had some really great moment by traveling the German festivals.

4. A lot of your lyrics cover Philosophy, Existentialism and Dystopian themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in these topics?

As the world is getting towards the bottom of this downward spiral we could also elaborate on the social distortion or other fucked up things. These topics are covered in our lyrics 'cause we see them nearly every day. Existentialism is also a good source of coping mechanisms towards this world without losing once mind. Regarding the dystopian views, just have look around and compare it to fiction or science, there is only one conclusion: "These are the final days of ours." (quoting Primordial here)

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

That's quite simple, it was the salutation for the leader of a northern tribe. That's a little compressed in the whole context, but you get the hang of it. As we are into history it was more or less surprising that no one before used that band name, so it was our part to claim it.

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

It was done by Jan Yrlund and combines a few of the songs in one painting. We wanted to visualize some of the lyrical concepts. Even if it is more of an actual picture of the words and less the meaning, what was also an idea we had. Jan transformed everything we wanted and was a pleasure to work with.

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

It would not be fair if i start naming festivals or shows now. Even if it sounds a little romantic, all promoters and festival organizers work their ass off, so heads of to all of you. Regarding our performance we just try to put our hearts on display and create a great time for everyone involved in our fare well to this world. We push ourselves and kick some ass without fancy shit.

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

Right now our focus is set on one release show in January in our hometown. Everything else is just in negotiation.

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

As far as "worldwide" goes in this context, we have met people on tour that come from so many parts of the globe. No one ever hits us up with negative shit. After our gigs we try to be around at the merch or just the locations, so feel free the get over and have a talk.

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

As introduced above it will possibly evolve into something a little less joyful. As we don't try to limit ourselves there could also be a surprise, who knows.

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are listening to nowadays?

As we are five individuals, there is a broad range of musical influences and listening habits that come to mind right now. What we all have in common is a taste in Metal in nearly all it's forms. We often talk about new records or songs during rehearsals, we visit shows and festivals together. This ranges from underground Black metal concerts with 30 people showing up to Stadium-tours of the old heroes. Don't want to start name droping on this but I think it is obvious.

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

Trümmerfestung has come a long way and we thank everyone involved. To all the unsung heroes behind and in front of the stage: We thank you.

https://www.facebook.com/JarlBlackMetal

https://www.instagram.com/jarl.official

https://youtu.be/SFpunYatPyU

Aita/I/Earth And Sky Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Aita  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  plays  an  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "I"  which  was  released  by  Earth  And  Sky  Productions.

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  folk  instruments  and  symphonic  sounding  keyboards  and  orchestration  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  all  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  atmospheric  sounding  along  with  some  choirs  also  being  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  recording  and  some  of  the  keyboards  also  add  in  elements  of  ambient.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  Growls  are  also  utilized  at  times as  well  as  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts,  female  vocals,   percussions  and  whispers  are  also  utilized  briefly  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Italian  and  cover  Paganism  and  Nature  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Aita  are  a  very  great  sounding  atmospheric  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "II  Nome  Del  Vento"  and  "Tages".  8  out of  10.

  https://aita.bandcamp.com/album/i