Moorah/The Beast Called Ego/Art Gates Records/2026 Full Length Review

  Moorah  are  a  band  from  Czechia  that h as  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  ritualistic  and  apocalyptic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "The  beast  Called  Ego"  which  will b e  released  in  November  by  Art  Gates  Records.

  Synths  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along with  a  great  portion  of  the  songs  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling  with  some  old  school  touches.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  the  solos  and  leads  add  in  more  of   post  metal  style.

 Clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  spoken  words.  Some  of  the  music  also  adds  in  influences  of  post  punk  and  blackgaze  which  also  takes  the  album  into  a  more  modern  direction,  clear  singing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  faith  and  destiny  within  an  apocalyptic  world.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Moorah  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  ritualistic  and apocalyptic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Left  Hand  Of  Darkness"  and  "Demon  za  krkem".  8  out  of  10.

https://artgatesrecords.com/artists/moorah   

V/A/A Tribute To Darkthrone/Antichrist Magazine/2026 Compilation Album Review

  This  is  a  review  of  a  tribute  album  to  Norway's  Darkthrone  which  shows  bands  from  around  the  world  doing  cover  versions  of  many songs  ranging  from  the  earlier  to  current  era  and  the  album  will  be  released  on  July  23rd  by  Antichrist  Magazine  and  we  will  review  the  songs  one  by  one.

  Gravethorn(USA)  brings  us  "Cromlech"    which  starts  out  with  some  rain  and  thunder  sounds  while  also  adding  in  some  synths  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  which  also  shows  the  vocals  mixing  both  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls,  blast  beats  are  also  added  into  the  faster  sections  of  the  track  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  riffing  as  well  as  the  solos  and  leads  also  adding  in  more  of  an  old  school  approach. 

  Tyranno(Brazil)  brings  us  "In  The  Shadows  Of  The  Horns"  which  sounds  a  lot  like  the  original  version  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  black  metal  screams  with  a  first  wave  touch  while  most  of  the  track  sticks  to  a  mid  tempo  direction  and  when  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard,  clean  playing  is  also  added  towards  the  end.

  Myrdinger  (Sweden)  brings  us  "Summer  Of  The  Diabolical  Holocaust"  which  is  a  very  fast  and  raw  second  wave  style  black  metal  song  with  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  riffing  and  the  riffs  also  ad d in  a  small  amount  of  slow  and  mid  tempo  directions  as  well  as  the  solos  and  leads  sticking  to  more  of  a  90's  style.

  Vephar(Poland)  brings  us  "Unholy  Black  Metal"  which  is  another  song  from  the  bands  black  metal  era  with  a  lot  of  raw  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  chaotic  style.

  Lamenting  Shadows(USA)  brings  us  "Transilvanian  Hunger"  a  song  that  has  been  done  over  and  over  again  by  too  many  bands  in  the  last  30  years  and  this  version  alo  remains  true  to  the  original  style  of  the  song.    

  Incineratus  (USA))  brings  us  "Skald  av  Satans  sol"  which  is  another  song  from  the  Transilvanian  Hunger  album  and  also  in  a  very  raw,  old  school  and  second  wave  Norwegian  black  metal  style.

  Genocide  Kult  (Poland)  brings  us  "Quintessence"  a  song  of  the  Panzerfaus  album  which  shows  more  of  a  mid  paced  approach  to  black  metal  without  losing  the  raw  aggression  of  the  earlier  releases  that  came  before.

  Death  Brigade  brings  (UK)  us  "The  Hordes  Of  Nebulah"  another  song  from  the  bands  black  metal  era  which  adds  in  a  lot  of  mid  tempo  riffing  and  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also done  in  more  of  a  melodic  style.

  Aske  (Brazil)  brings  us  "Too  old  Too  Cold"  which  was  from  the  era  where  Darkthrone  started  incorporating  more  first  wave  and  crust  elements  into t heir  musical  style  and  the  song  is  done  in  more  of  a  mid  tempo  direction.

  Essedum  (Finland)  brings  us  "Fuck  of  And  Die"  which  shows  more  of  a  Motorhead  influence  with  some  touches  of  d  beat  and  the  vocals  move  from  a  grim  approach  to  more  of  a  first  wave  direction.

  Mead  Theif (USA)  brings  us  "Raised  On  Rock"  which  shows  the  music  bringing  in  more  of  a  mid  tempo  metal/punk  style  while  the  drums  also  add  in  some  d  beats  and  the  guitar  leads  are  done  in  a melodic  style.

  Praesepultus  (USA)  brings  us  "Rust"  which  starts  out  with  some  dark  soundscapes  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  song  coming  from  the  early  2000's  era  of  the  band  and  most  of  the  music  sticks  to  a  mid  tempo  direction  before  going  into  a  faster  direction  with  some  raw  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  

  Trewan  (Germany)  brings  us  "Circle  The  Wagons"  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  mixture  of  heavy/speed  metal  punk  while  the  vocals  have  more  of  a  black  metal  approach  and  the  track  is  done  in  more  of  a  mid  tempo  direction.      

  Ill  Tidings  (Austria)  brings  us  "Leave  No  Cross  Unturned"  which  showed  the  music  going  for  more  of  an  80's  speed  metal  direction  with  some  touches  of  thrash,  punk  and  first  wave  black  metal  and  the  vocals  also  add  in  more  of  a  power  metal  approach,  blast  beats  are  added  into  the  faster  section  of  the  song  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  done  in  more  of  melodic  style.

  Galdragon  brings  us  "The  Hardship  Of  The  Scots" which  showed  the  music  bring  in  more  of  a  mixture  of  first  wave  black  metal  and  traditional  metal  and  the  slow  riffs  also  mix  in  the  heaviness  of  doom  metal  and  the  vocals  bring  in  more  of  a  second  wave  black  metal  style.

  Wolftribe  (Poland)  closes  the  compilation  with  "Weakling  Avenger"  a  song  from  the  bands  2000's  era  which  was  still  in  the  fast  Nordic  black  metal  tradition  and  remained  true  to  the  style  established  o  the  earlier  releases.

  On  this  compilation  bands  from  around  the  world  cover  different  eras  of  Darkthrone's  music  with  songs  ranging  from  the  early  black  metal  era  to  the  more  modern  era  where  the b and  started  changing  their  style  around  a  lot.

  In  conclusion  I  feel t his  is  a  very  great  sounding  compilation  and  i  would  recommend  to  to  all  fans  of  both  Darkthrone's  older  and  newer  material.  8  out  of  10.\

  https://antichrist-magazine.bandcamp.com/music     

  

  

    

Verletzen/The Blackened Crusade/Marwolaeth Records/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Verletzen  are  a  band  from  Wales  that  plays  a  very  raw  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "The  Blackened  Crusade"  which  was  released  by  Marwolaeth  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  music  also  captures  the  energy  of  punk  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.

  Pagan  style  chants  can  also  be  heard  briefly  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  A  lot  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  of  the  genre  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  being  brief  instrumentals  which  also  adds  in  some  synths  and  touches  of  folk  music  as  well  as  a  later  song  also  introducing  clean  playing  onto  the  album,  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  they  close  the  recording  with  a  Venom  cover.

  Verletzen  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  raw  and  traditional  sounding  as  well  as  adding  in  some  elements  of  punk  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness,  occultism  and  nihilism  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  Verletzen  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  black  metal  band  with  elements  of  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Ballad  Of  The  Beheaded"  "Tir  Du"  and  "The  Neverending  Reign".  8  out  of  10.

https://marwolaethrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-blackened-crusade 

Miasmes/Violence, Blasphème et Pourriture/Les Acteurs de L'Ombre Productions/2026 Full Length Review

  France's  Miasmes  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  very r aw  and  old  school  form  of  black  metal  with  elements  of  crust,  punk  and  rock'nroll  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "Violence,  Blasphème  et  Pourriture"  which  will  be  released  in  September  by  les  Acreurs  de  L'Ombre  Productions.

  High  pitched  black  metal  screams  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in t he  old  school  era  of  the  genre  and  also  adds  in  elements  of  crust  punk.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  bring  in  more  of  a  rock'n'roll  style  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  riffing  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  melody  and  all  of  the  songs  also  stick  to  a  heavier  direction.

  On  this  recording  Miasmes  sticks  to  the  punk  and  rock'n'roll  inspired  raw  and  old  school  style  of  black  metal  that  they  have  introduced  on  previous  releases.  the  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  French  and  cover  decay,  apostasy  and  inner  violence.  

     In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Miasmes  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw  and  old  school  black  metal  with  elements  of  punk,  crust  and  rock'n'roll,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Ecorche"  "Cendres"  "Agonie"  and "Redemption".  8 out  of  10.

   https://www.lesacteursdelombre.net/product-category/preorders'

Facebook

Instagram

Bandcamp  

Azgaal Interview

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

Since the album was created, I have joined the label Fetzner Death Records. Alexander, who runs the label, has given me valuable support to help AZGAAL grow and move forward. I’m very happy about this opportunity, as it allows the project to take a significant step forward. Besides that, I’m continuing to write music for what comes next.

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

The sound is different, and the overall production has evolved as well. That's really the biggest change. Otherwise, in terms of songwriting, the style remains the same. Of course, I've refined a lot of things over time. I've honed my writing approach and further defined the project's musical identity. But at its core, AZGAAL remains what it has always been.

3.The project has been around since 2000 but you waited until 2011 to release any music, can you tell us a little bit more about the earlier years?

The early years of AZGAAL were, above all, just two friends having fun. I had a 4-track cassette recorder (Tascam), and we did everything with that. I used a Roland DR-5 drum machine for the drums, and recorded the rest with the gear I had at the time. Then Ibuprohet added the vocals, and that was it. It was pretty rudimentary, but it did exactly what we wanted. We even recorded a demo tape that was never released. Back then, I didn't have any particular goal in mind.

4.The lyrics on the new album cover occult themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

Yes, AZGAAL primarily deals with occult and esoteric subjects, particularly from the perspective of Western occultism and its great tradition. I've always been immersed in the occult. It's a way of life, a particular worldview that has always felt right to me. Naturally, I ended up incorporating those influences into AZGAAL. That said, it's quite difficult to talk about the occult or explain why it fascinates me. Most people today don't really understand this field. They dismiss it as mere folklore without ever having seriously explored or practiced any of it. For me, it's something real, it's simply part of my life. After having gone through many unsettling experiences in this area, I can no longer deny its existence. My interest in the occult stems primarily from my personal experiences, which I refrain from sharing publicly, even though I fully embrace my place within this mysterious world.

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

I've written extensively about the introspection of the human soul and the many inner worlds that inhabit it. I've also used AZGAAL as an outlet to cope with the rotten world we live in. That's still true to some extent, but over time I've expanded the range of themes I explore.

6.I know that the bands name comes form a RPG, how does this name fit in with the musical style that you play?

Yes, the name AZGAAL comes from the name of a fortress in the Warhammer universe : Karak-Azgal. It is a place whose history resonates deeply with me and, in many ways, reflects what we are experiencing in the West : greatness, downfall, and then eternal vengeance in the lore. AZGAAL was born from that inspiration, and more specifically from this innate thirst for vengeance against the evil forces that have destroyed our world. The world of RPGs has always been a major source of inspiration for me. To me, the realm of imagination is something alive. It is not merely a collection of fantasy stories. Once you develop symbolic intelligence and have some understanding of esotericism, you quickly realize that imagination shapes the world and manifests itself here in its own way. For that reason, I have never regarded the world of imagination (including RPGs) as mere entertainment.

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

On the artwork, you can see a metalhead summoning the angel Daovith. Daovith is an angel whose purpose is to punish humanity. It is a warrior, forged by judgment, wrath, and divine anger. It delivers justice to those who have betrayed the natural order. I chose it for this album because I dreamed of it when I entered the album's creative process. In my dream, I saw it as a divine hitman sent by God to cleanse humanity of the psychopathic elites who are corrupting and destroying the planet.

8.With this project you work mostly solo but have worked with other musicians in the past, do you prefer to work by yourself?

Yes, I prefer working alone to avoid the ego-related issues that are so common in the music industry. It's exhausting, and it wastes far too much time and energy. Besides, I'm naturally a solitary person. Working on my own allows me to stay in a peaceful environment, work at my own pace, follow my instincts, and not have to answer to anyone except myself.

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

I have never performed live with AZGAAL. I did have musicians lined up to make it happen, but it ultimately never took place. However, I do have live performance experience with other bands I have played in. The stage is an environment I know well.

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

No, there are no plans for a tour or anything like that. First of all, I don't enjoy being on stage. It's not where I feel most comfortable. I much prefer staying in my studio, creating and composing my music. I'd only be willing to perform live if that's what the audience truly wants. It's something I'd do for the fans, but personally, I don't get much out of it. If it ever happens, I prefer to play a handful of dates at festivals, working with an organization that knows how to handle things properly for AZGAAL. I'd rather perform rarely, but in the right venues, to give the audience the best possible experience. So it's not out of the question that it could happen one day, but it certainly won't be because I was the one pushing for it.

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

I suppose the purists would say that AZGAAL isn't Black Metal. I've already read that in a few articles written about my work. And that's true that in a way AZGAAL isn't conventional Black Metal. It might not even qualify as Black Metal according to the definitions used by metal reviewers and journalists. At this point, though, I don't really care. I don't feel concerned with that debate over definitions. What I can say is that AZGAAL is a hybrid built upon Black Metal. Black Metal remains my foundation, the environment where I feel most at home. It's the style of metal I connect with the most, the one I have the deepest affinity for.

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

I simply see myself continuing to release albums and share my music out of pure passion. I hope to grow AZGAAL enough to gain access to greater production resources and bring my ideas to life on a larger scale. I'd also love to write books about AZGAAL, not to dwell on trivial details, but to share my journey as an artist in a different way. It would be an opportunity to tell the stories behind the dreams that inspire me, the ones that sometimes even reveal riffs, images, themes, and entire creative directions. I'm never short of inspiration, only of the resources needed to take it further.

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

I still mainly stick to Rock and Metal (especially Black Metal). Over the past few days, for example, I've been listening to Bolt Thrower, Crépuscule d'Hiver, Cradle of Filth, At The Gates, and Enslaved. I also listen to a lot of classical music, both old and contemporary, including film, video game, and other soundtrack scores. 

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

Thank you for the interview. It was a real pleasure. I encourage everyone to discover AZGAAL, spread the word, and share it as much as possible to help this project grow. I'd also like to thank all the fans who support me. I'm sure they're going to love the new album !   

https://www.instagram.com/azgaalofficial/

Azgaal/Divine Hitman/Fetzner Death Records/2026 Full Length Review

 

  Azgaal  are  a  solo  project  from  France  that  plays  a  very  modern  form  of  occult  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2026  album  "Divine  Hitman"  which  will  be  released  in  September  by  Fetzner  Death  Records.

  A  very  dark,  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  done  in  more  of  an  angry  black  metal  style  while  the  music  also  incorporates  a  lot  of  punk  elements.

  Clear  singing  is  also  utilized  at  times  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  music  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era  of  the  genre.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well  as  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  spoken  words.   Synths  can  also  be  heard  at  times  and  the  recording  also  has  its  atmospheric  moments  and  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  one  song  is  also  an  instrumental.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  a  mixture  of  French  and  English  and  cover  the  influence  of  occult  forces.

  In  my  opinion  Azgaal  are  a  very  great  sounding  modern  occult  black  metal  solo  project  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Versipelis"  "To  The  Ice  Palace"  "The  Bewitched  Souls"  and  "The  Occultist  Error".  8  out  of  10.

  https://fetznerdeathrecords.bandcamp.com/album/azgaal-divine-hitman     

    

Othalan Interview

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

1. As a band we’ve just been essentially rehearsing our setlist and getting everything as tight and intense as we aim for it to be for our live shows 

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

2. Musically It’s a jump from the early demos as this project began more as a relatively pagan black metal band. While the 80s and punk influence was always there, we just have fully embraced the sleaze now at this point and hate brought a significantly more energetic, intense, and riff filled record. 

3.The earlier music was more pagan black metal while the new album is more blackened thrash metal, what was the cause of the musical change and also do any of the band members still have any interest in Paganism?

2. Musically It’s a jump from the early demos as this project began more as a relatively pagan black metal band. While the 80s and punk influence was always there, we just have fully embraced the sleaze now at this point and hate brought a significantly more energetic, intense, and riff filled record. 

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the newer release?

4. Lyrical topics for this album consist of some varying degree. Some that are personal songs themed as betrayal and shady indidivuals where some are just about eating pussy worshipping evil

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

5. Othalan itself just kinds naturally came from when the band began as pagan black metal, I wanted something where the name would be in reference to something from the religion to some degree without it being just a standard one so that’s where I’d found this spelling/annunciation of the Odal rune, odins rune and went with it as he is the one I primarily perform blots too 

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

6. So the artwork, we wanted to go to ballsy in the sense of not trying to hide at all who influenced us, anyone that sees this is going to immediately get the reference of Judas priests, painkiller. Combining that with the bathory goat gives listeners a pretty straight forward expectation of what they’re getting into and setting the tone before you even hear the first note. We wanted the first debut release with us doing black thrash to be a massive homage to some legends 

7.Originally the band started out as a solo project, what was the decision behind expanding into a full line up?

7. So while I, (Tommy Tyrant) still do majority of all the song writing, I knew I always wanted to bring this band to the stage. After a few solo lives shows I knew I was doing the material a disservice by not having a full band energy there so that’s lead to where we are now.

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

8. We’ve done a lot of spectacular shows between some noteworthy local shows to opening for the legends in Venom Inc. Our live show is a high octane demonstration of blasphemy and intensity and speed, delivering  heavy beer chugging sin filled sleaze wherever we go always bringing out a mosh and have been begun seeing some maniacs out there crowd  surfing in trash cans which we love. 

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

9. We have a show booked later this year in November with one of our heroes, Midnight. Between everyone’s work schedule  we are amidst planning a tour going from Florida to to Texas and back along with next year going up into Ohio and into the northeast as well. But most definitely once everyone can get dates aligned we are touring out to Texas later this summer and back hitting New Orleans along the way! 

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

10. The reaction to this band has been my favorite as we are a very love or hate band. I love this, while we won’t turn away casual listeners, we don’t write this for the casual listener this music is about sleaze and blasphemy and worshipping the gods of the 1st wave and for those that take refuge in speed and sleaze, we are loved. 

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

11. While we have some plans for future records to mix in some elements of other genres such as doom and grindcore, the main focus going forward with the band is to continue making things more intense and hellish 

12.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?

12.  A lot of influences on this band is namely just about any 1st wave black metal band.  But to get more specific venom, bathory, hellhammer. A lot of that and glam believe it or not, we take all that and mix it in with elements of crust punk too as punk has played a massive role too. Most recently far as listening goes I’ve been finding myself in a strange binge between dungeon synth and crust punk/grindcore 

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

13. I just got three things to say to everyone as final word yes: Smoke beer, drink drugs, and eat pussy! 

https://www.facebook.com/othalankvlt 

Othalan/For Victory? For Speed!/So Below Productions/2026 Full Length Review

   Othalan  are  a  band  from  Florida  that  started  out  playing  a  pagan  style  of  black  metal  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  mixture  of  black,  speed,  heavy  metal  and  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "For  Victory?  For  Speed!"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  So  Below  Productions.

  A  very  heavy  punk  influenced  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  touches  of  black'nroll.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  blast  beats  are  also  added  into  the  faster  parts  of  the  music.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  some  of  the  riffing  also  adds  in  elements  of  speed  and  heavy  metal.  A  lot  of  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  80's  era  as  well  as  being  very  modern  at  the  same  time  along  with  some  of  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  melody,  clean  playing  can  also be  heard  briefly.

  Othalan  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black,  speed,  heavy  metal  and  punk  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism,  darkness  and  rock'n'roll  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Othalan  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black,  speed,  heavy  metal  and  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Court  Of  Snakes"  "Drunk  Off  The  Blood  of  Conquest"  "World  Devourer" and  "Wildfire".  8  OUT  OF  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/othalankvlt

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM4suhW6pQPFNlNWdJ2Qo9Q

https://othalankvlt.bandcamp.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Mfld6JwZ9PXzEN3oqTMBe?si=BUDuq1aARK6NbUdd4Z8vjg&nd=1&dlsi=236c67f624014e5d

https://www.instagram.com/othalan_black_n_roll/

        
 

Pox/B.K.W (Brass Knuckle Witchcraft)/Void Wanderer Productions/2026 EP Review

  Pox  are  a  band  from  Belgium  that  plays  a very  raw  and  old  school  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  ep  "B.K.W  (Brass  Knuckle  Witchcraft)"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Void  Wanderer  Productions.

  Horror  movie  samples  start  off  the ep  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  you  can  also  hear  all  of  the  musical  instruments  that  are  present  on  the  recording.  Vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  along  with  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  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  old  school  era  of  the  genre.  At  times  the recording  also  mixes  in  the  energy  of  punk  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

   When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  add  in  more  of  an  old  school  extreme  metal  style  along  with  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  war  samples,  angry  shouts  are  also  utilized  at  times  and  the  closing  track  is  a  Megiddo  cover.  The  production  sounds  very  raw  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  bleak-folklore  of  Northwestern  Europe  and  the  history  of  plague  and  disease  in  the  same  region.

  In  my  opinion  Pox  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  and  old  school  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "To  Griefswald"  and  "Blackened  (The  Circle  Complete)".  8  out  of  10.

  https://voidwanderer.com/product/pox-b-k-w-cd-preorder/

     

Saidan/Fangdriller: Scars Beneath Memories Wrist/Avantgarde Music/2026 Full Length Review

  Saidan  are  a  band  from  Neville,  Tennessee  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  horror  themed  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "Faindriller:  Scars  Beneath  Memories  Wrist"  which  will  be  released  on  June  19th  by  Avantgarde  Music.

  Spoken  words  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast beats.  Synths  are  also  utilized  at  times  and  add  in  a  symphonic  touch  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  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.  Clean  playing  is  also  added  on  a  couple  of  tracks  along  with  some  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  electronic  music  beats  as  well  as  the  album  also  adding  in  elements  of  punk  and  J  rock,  acoustic  guitars  and  clear  singing  are  also  added  towards  the  end.

  On  this  recording  Saidan  plays  a  style  of  black  metal  that  is  very  modern,  melodic,  raw  and  symphonic  sounding  .  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  a  concept  album  and  cover  Junko  and  a  mysterious  cult  called  Ethereal  Blood.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Saidan  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  horror  themed  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Razorblade  Temptation"  "Womb  Of  hatred"  and  "Beat  To  Death".  8 out  of  10.

https://avantgardemusic.bandcamp.com/album/fangdriller-scars-beneath-memorys-wrist

https://www.facebook.com/SaidanUSBM

https://www.instagram.com/saidan.metal

https://saidan.bandcamp.com

  

  

         

Temple Ov Ahriman Interview

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

Well, the album was finished about a year ago. I spent a long while quietly shopping the album around to record labels. Around this time I was also actively gigging with another group, but I'm 110% focused on Temple ov Ahriman now.

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

I would say while I draw inspiration from all sorts of bands the music is heavily rooted in the Finnish black metal sound; groups like Satanic Warmaster, Horna and Sargeist just to name a few. This is the foundation or the primer so to speak, but I was also very intentional not to put too many limitations on myself or restrict myself to a very narrow style or category. That works for some bands, but not for TAO. I need that freedom of expression in order to be prolific.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with the new release?

The overarching theme is one of magick and occult spirituality. This sometimes expresses itself in various ways. For instance, the song "War in Heaven" is a very Milton-esque re-telling of Lucifer's fall from Heaven, while "Wrath of Iblis" or "Beyond the Veils of Maya" touch on the subject of occultism and the Left Hand Path through their respective cultural lenses. There's also a few songs that are a departure lyrically. SPQB, for example, is about the Roman emperor Nero while "White Death" is a song about enduring a particularly harsh winter.

4.I know that the bands name comes form the writings of Michael W, Ford, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in the left hand path and occultism?

I'd say around my early 20's I was exploring a lot spiritually. At the time I was desperately seeking for a singular term that could summarize my beliefs and it wasn't until I discovered Luciferianism in 2014 that I felt that I had finally found that term. For a while I was involved in a couple of organizations that furthered the advancement of those beliefs. Eventually life caught up with me and I sort of lost interest and outgrew that label. It wasn't until 2019 when I started writing lyrics for black metal bands that I became reacquainted with that side of myself again. However, nowadays I identify more simply as just an "occultist" or "dark pagan". For lack of a better word this is my "worship music".

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

Well, as you're probably aware by now, the album is called 'Heretics of Consensual Reality'. This is a term I coined to refer to the black magickian: someone who refuses to be limited by the rules of this causal world that we all generally agree to be true. In the art you can see the black adept, front and center, stoking the Black Flame of Illumination. Around him you see spectres and phantoms of various shapes and sizes manifesting to visible form. I knew I wanted a striking image for the front cover and I was throughly impressed with the art Mitchell Nolte had previously done for some modern grimoires so I reached out.

6.On the album you recorded everything by yourself but have recorded music with other musicians in the studio with your previous bands, do you prefer to work solo?

Yes, absolutely. There can be benefits to working on a collaborative project with a group; you can get a wider range of ideas, you can split expenses evenly, etc. But those working relationships can also sour and become dysfunctional. With TAO that's not a concern. I can work at my own pace and I don't have to compromise with anyone about anything. If something's holding back the project I usually only have me, myself and I to blame.

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

There used to be local annual festival around here called A Night of Texas Hell. We had a good time playing there the two years that we did. We also opened for Profanatica once. There's not too much fanfare to our live show. We just go out there and play the songs the best that we can. If it's a higher production show we'll sometime incorporate fog machines and ambient interludes between songs, but those added effects aren't practical at every venue we've performed at.

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

Well, right now we have our CD release show on the same day that the album comes out. This will be our first show in two years as well as the first gig with a new drummer so it'll be interesting to see how everything comes together. A lot has changed in everyone's lives since we last played out. I'd like to hit up some of the surrounding major cities, but there's no concrete plans for that yet.

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

We were in negotiations with a couple of different labels, but ultimately those fell through so the decision was made to go independent. It's difficult nowadays with how expensive international shipping is. It doesn't make fiscal sense for a European label to sign a North American band when it would cost them a small fortune to mail physical copies overseas.

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

Hmm, I would say it's too soon to say. In some ways we're really just getting started so I can't think of too many people outside of our milieu that have commented on the material, but the response so far has been generally positive.

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

Well, besides this album that's coming out I have a lot more material to share with the world. It's just a matter of having the time and money to record and release these projects properly, but I really don't think my spirit will be able to rest until I finally do so!

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

Well, first and foremost I want to say that listening to black metal has almost never inspired me to make... more black metal! So when I'm trying to enter a creative headspace I listen to a lot of different genres for inspiration mainly synthwave, post-punk, harsh-electro/aggrotech, etc. There's also an Oregon-based record label called Cryo Chamber that produces some top notch dark ambient music. If I had to pick one black metal band that's really blown me away recently I would probably have to go with Sarkrista from Germany.

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

Yes. This album was a labor of love. To say there were some roadblocks along the way would be an understatement. At multiple times throughout the process I became increasingly discouraged and wanted to give up altogether, but that was never an option for me. I sacrificed a lot to make this album come to fruition so if you enjoy the music your support would truly mean the world to me. Buy the album, share it with your friends, etc. All of that helps stoke the fire and ambition to break ground on the next opus. Ave Lucifer, hail thyself!

facebook.com/templeovahriman
templeovahriman.bandcamp.com 

Ljuset/Seklf Titled/Silent Future Recordings/2026 Full Length Review

  Ljuset  are  a  duo  from  Sweden  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black  metal  and  post  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2026  album  which  will  be  released  in  June  by  Silent  Future  Recordings.

  Field  recordings  and  bass  guitars  start  off  the  album  before  adding  in  some  clean  playing  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Blast  beats  are  also  added  into  the  faster  sections  of  the  recording  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostyl  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  the  songs  also  mix  in  elements  of  post  punk.

  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  clear  singing  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  modern  era,  shouting  vocals  are  also  used  briefly.

  Ljuset  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  post  punk  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Swedish  and  cover  kingship,  mutiny,  mysticism  and  perseverance.

  In  my  opinion  Ljuset  are  a  very  decent  sounding  mixture  of  black  metal  and  post  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  duo.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Horisonten"  "Hamnden"  and  "Hjalten'.  7  out  of  10.

  https://silentfuture.lnk.to/ljuset  

   

Temple Ov Ahriman/Heretics Of Consensual Reality/2026 Full Length Review

 

  Temple  Ov  Ahriman  are  a  solo  project  from  Austin,  Texas  that  plays  a  mixture  of  raw,  old  school  black  metal  and  d  beat  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2026  album  "Heretics  of  Consensual  Reality"  which  will  be  released  in  June.

  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  the  music  also  adds  in  a  lot  of  Finnish  and  second  wave  influences  and  elements  of  d  beat  are  also  added  into  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs.

  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody,  growls  are  also  utilized  at  times.  

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  add  in  more  of  a  modern  and  melodic  style  along  with  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  back  up  shouts  as  well  as  a  couple  of  tracks  also  being  long  and  epic  in  length,  acoustic  guitars,  spoken  words  and  synths  are  also  introduced  towards  the  end.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism,  history,  depression  and  nature  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Temple  OV  Ahriman  is  a  very  great  sounding  raw  mixture  of  old  school  black  metal  and  d  beat  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDE D TRACKS  INCLUDE  "War  In  Heaven"  "White  Death"  and  "Beyond  The  Veils  of  Maya".  8  out  of  10.

  facebook.com/templeovahriman

templeovahriman.bandcamp.com   

Pvgatorii/Profane Rites For Cursed Times/Night Terrors Records/2026 EP Review

  Pvgatorii  are  a  duo  from  Spain  that  plays  a  raw  mixture  of  black,  death  metal  and  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  ep  "Profane  Rites  For  Cursed  Times"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Night  Terrors  Records.

  Synths  and  spoken  words  start  off  the  ep  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Elements  of  punk  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Dark  sounding  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  guitar  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  chaotic  style  when  they  are  utilized.

  Pygatorii  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  a  raw  form  of  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  death  metal  and  punk  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism,  dystopian  and  anti  capitalism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Pygatorii  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  mixture  of  black,  death  metal  and  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  dup.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Key  To  Thee  Temple"  and  "Hermetic  Axis".  8  out  of  10.

https://www.instagram.com/_pvrgatorii/

https://pvrgatorii.bandcamp.com/

     

Rohgarr Interview

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

Yes, of course. First of all, thank you for the interview. My name is Rohgarr, I hails from Germany and I have a same titled black metal solo project, founded in 2024. 

2.You have your first full length coming out in April, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

My debut album LESS PEOPLE will be released on April 24th. Black´n´Roll and D-Beat are combined there.

3.Some of your lyrics cover Norse and Germanic Mythology, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

Norse mythology is the historical element I identify with the most, which is why this cultural heritage is reflected in my lyrics. It embodies polytheism, a deep connection to nature, and traditional values.  

4.What are some of the other lyrical topics and subjects you explore on the new album?

Primarily I maintain the message of "less people, fewer problems". This claim almost fits in every living situations. When we´ve fewer people, we have cleaner nature, faster solutions in social debate and more relaxation in mountains and forests.  The list could go on forever.

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

Rohgarr is a neologism. It means a combination between my first and my last name in a blackened style. 

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

The artwork is a symbiosis of shamanism, occultism, and a deep connection to nature. Most of the photos are my own, which I see as a way to authentically express and present my art to the outside world. 

7.With this project you record everything by yourself but have experience as a drummer in a full time band, do you feel working solo has given you an opportunity to be ,more creative when writing music?

It depends on the kind of music I’m aiming for. I love playing in bands, but I also enjoy composing my own pieces. I can fully express my creativity both in a collective and on my own - both are important to me. 

8.You also work as a drum coach, can you tell us a little bit more about this position?

I run my own drum school in Dresden, Germany, and write educational drum books. This is my full-time work alongside my bands and solo projects. 

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

Since I haven’t performed live with my solo projects yet, the feedback so far has been very positive. I truly value having an authentic exchange with people around the world through my music - it's deeply fulfilling to me. 

10.What is going on with 'Die Apokalyptischen Reiter' these days?

Last year, we celebrated our 30th anniversary, including a limited box set and a major tour. It was fantastic! Currently, we’re working on a new album, which will be released in 2027. 

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

Non-stop music writing, full-power live concerts, and an intense exchange about music and its philosophy. 

12.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?

Nowadays, I like listening to all kinds of Black Metal (except Post BM) and experimental music such as Ritual Ambient and Power Electronics. These are also my biggest influences for my current music. 

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

All the best and SKAL!

https://rohgarr.bandcamp.com/

Desert Eagle/The Festering Wound/Feral Heart Productions/2025 Demo Re-Issue Review

 

  Desert  Eagle  are  a  solo  project  from  Los  Angeles,  California  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black  metal  and  street  rock  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2025  ep  "The  Festering  Wound"  which  was  re-issued  in  2025  by  Feral  Heart  Productions.

  A  very  heavy  and  aggressive  sound  starts  off  the  demo  while  the  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  some  of  the  riffing  also  adds  in  touches  of  punk  and  oi.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  most all  of  the  music  sticks  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  section  and  on  the  closing  track  the  music  goes  into  a  very  fast  and  raw  musical  direction  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  as  well  as  the  whole  demo  also  sticking  to  a  heavier  musical  direction.

  Desert  Eagle  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  punk,  oi  and  street  rock  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  war  against  the  modern  times.

  In  my  opinion  Desert  Eagle  is  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black  metal  and  street  rock  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRAC  "IV".  8  out  of  10.

 https://feralheartprod.bandcamp.com/album/the-festering-wound    

        

Rohgarr/Less People/Gottesrache Records/2026 Full length Review

 

  Rohgarr  are  a  solo  project  from  Germany  that  plays  a  raw  mixture  of  black  metal  and  crust  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2026  album  "Less  People"  which  will  be  released  in  April  by  Gottesrache  Records.

  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  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  elements  of  crust  punk  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow, mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  one  of  the  tracks  is  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  the  whole  recording  sticks  to  a  heavier  musical  direction.

  Rohgarr  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  a  raw  form  of  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  crust  punk  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  modern  world,  archaic  nature-bound  values  and  Norse  Mythology.

  In  my  opinion  Rohgarr  are  a  very  great  sounding  raw  mixture  of  black  metal  and  crust  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Less  People  =  Fewer  Problems"  "Thor's  Hammer  Meditation"  and  "Raw  Shatter  or  Order".  8  out  of  10.

  Video: "Less People = Fewer Problems"

Video: "Caveman Lives Matter"