Burial Oath/The Cycles Of Suffering/Redefining Darkness Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Cleveland,  Ohio's  Burial  Oath  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  an  occult  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "The  Cycles  Of  Suffering"  which  will  be  released  in  November  by  Redefining  Darkness  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  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  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in a   great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast beats  which  also  gives  the  music  more  of  a  raw  feeling.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  songs  also  add  in  influences  from  both  the  old  school  and  modern  era's  of  the  genre.  Melodies  are  also added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well  as  one  song  also  adding  synths  into  the  background  briefly,  clean  playing  is  also  added  on  a  couple  of  the  later  tracks  as  the  album  progresses.

  On  this  recording  Burial  oath  goes  for  more  of  a  raw,  aggressive  and  traditional  style  of  occult  black  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Paganism,  Death  and  Suffering  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Burial  Oath  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  occult  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Voidhanter"  Howling  Promethean  Winds"  and  "Pagan  Fires".  8 out  of  10.

  https://burialoath.bandcamp.com/

    

Septuagint Interview

 

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

We are rehearsing for the upcoming live shows, working on the tape and vinyl releases, as well as some new material.

2.In September you released your first full length, musically how does it differ from your previous ep and splits?

I think it is the most complete work of the band so far. There are some obvious elements from our previous releases like the aggression of our first EP or the mid tempo slow burn style of the split releases for example but in a more refined, more diverse and more mature execution.

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

I think we just took our time to realise our vision before we would start working towards it’s  materialisation. I had listened the impressive first demos sent to me by C. during 2019 but then it took time for the rest of us to work on the material and to add our own input and energy.

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

I actively started my journey in the occult arts in 2009 and ever since it has altered the course of my life. I believe that Black Metal is an extension of our inner exploration, trials and errors, pushing boundaries along with the dark gods -all that reflects upon it. Me and C. share similar ground and views and along with V. we have been a true brotherhood since 2011 and our releases as a band have been very consistent thematically, even though I joined the band in 2022. Sic luceat lux. For Lucifer my soul thou have carved.

5.The band started out as 'Declaration Holocaust', how does the music of 'Septuagint' differ from the stuff you released under the original name?

While Declaration Holocaust still holds a dear memory of the past, music wise was quite different since we had little to no access to proper equipment until we released promo 2010. D.H.’s approach to black metal was more focused on the aggressive aspects of the music rather than the more complete musical and spiritual approach of the Septuagint releases.

6.I know that the bands was named after the Koine Greek translation of the bible, which aspects of this book have you cover in the songwriting?

We chose the name as a form of sacrilege rather than a lyrical concept. Many are bewildered by that choice since the Septuagint is a book that carries a certain spiritual outlook and yes the old testament is indeed a christian book, yet we used its name glorify ΔΙΑΒΟΛΟΣ (the Slanderer, the Devil, Belial,Satan and his countless facets) as the terrible driving force of antinomian iniquity.

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

It was created by Elias Kaselas a very unique artist who made it while listening to the album demos. We believe it represents the music that accompanies it 100%.

Elias had complete freedom to create his own visual representation of the album.

It was crucial for us that he had his own time and inspiration to work on this piece of art.

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

We never were an actual active band in terms of live shows. We chose our performances carefully and gave 100%.

But if had to pick one out it would definitely be Thessaloniki,Greece along with our brothers from Kult of Taurus and death metal lunatics of Godless. It carries a great significance to me since it was the first show we had and the atmosphere was crushing and “just right”.

Now while we rehearse for upcoming shows we focus mainly on the power we evoke during those shows. Expect nothing less than an aggressive and ecstatic performance.

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

We have some shows planned for 2024-2025 with the first one being on the 8th of November supporting the legendary Mortuary Drape.

As for touring, we do plan on doing.

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

So far really positive.

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

We are trying to figure that out as we want to push our boundaries and perhaps the boundaries of the genre. We will see.

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

Black Metal is sacred to us, we actively follow and listen most of the serious releases constantly. Besides that I personally don’t listen to a lot of metal anymore I tend to find more interesting releases in other genres. I will always love the old metal classics though and rarely revisit them as they will stand as monuments forever.

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

Thank you !

AMSG!

https://www.facebook.com/Septuagint666

https://www.instagram.com/septuagint_official

AldricH Interview

 

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

- First of all, my project serves as an outlet for me. When I write my songs and share my thoughts, I feel a sense of emotional relief, and I want to share this with others. Perhaps it will also help them in some way.

2.So far you have released 2 ep's, musically how do they both differ from each other? 

- They differ in scale and immersion in the atmosphere that I want to create

3.So far all of your music has been either instrumental or added in choirs, are you open to adding harsh vocals into the future? 

- Although I'm more keen to create instrumental music, my vocals will definitely be in the next works. In the first two works, my vocals were superfluous.

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

 - Just a name, no more

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

- A graphic drawing showing a path away from this place that is difficult to see.

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

 - In general, I am willing to work with others, but I prefer working alone.

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

 - No

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

- In general, I was well-received for the sound and atmosphere.

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

- Creating capacious and meaningful albums inspires me, I don't like to be sprayed. But in the future there will be more large-scale work - this is a must

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? 

- Bands like Burzum, Silencer, Shining, Emperor had a very big influence on me at the time. I listen to different groups, both well-known and not so well, for example, from those who often include Mgla, Watain, Elderwind, Mora Prokaza, Путь.

11.What are some of your non musical interests? 

- I like to read books, go to the woods, play games

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

 - Live in peace and love each other. See you soon :)

https://linktr.ee/aldrichmusic

Paysage D'Hiver/Die Berge/Kunsthall Produktionen/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Switzerland's  solo  project  Paysage  D'Hiver  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  very  raw,  epic  and  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2024  album  "Die  Berge"  which  will  be  released  in  November  by  Kunsthall  Produktionen.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  all  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  deep  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times.

  When  tremolo  picking  is  added  into  the  faster  riffing  they  also  give  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  black  metal  feeling.  At  times  the  music  also  very  atmospheric  sounding  along  with  the  tracks  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  synths  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  some  high  pitched  yet  grim  sounding  screams  also  being  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  recording.  The  riffing  also  has  its  repetitive  moments  as  well  as  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  and  the  album  also  brings  in  a  few  instrumental  tracks.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Swiss  and  is  a  concept  album  based  upon  a  mysterious  protagonist  known  as  "Der  Wanderer"  and  the  themes  being  heavily  focused  on  death.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Paysage  D'Hiver  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  raw,  epic  and  atmospheric  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Urgrund"  "Transzendenz  II"  and  "Giphel".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/PaysagedHiver.Official    

Cien/Maledictio/Old Temple/2023 Full Length Review

 

   Poland's  Cien  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  more  of  a  depressive  style  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Maledictio"  which  will  be  released  in  November  by  Old  Temple.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  high  pitched  depressive  black  metal  screams  while  some  of  the  vocals  also  add  in  more  of  a  deeper  and  grimmer  touch.  Clear singing  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  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  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  album  more  of  a  raw  feeling.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  Spoken  word  parts  and  whispers  can  also  be  heard  on  a  couple  of  tracks  as  well  as  one  song  also  introducing  synths  onto  the  recording  and  when  guitar  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  more  of  a  melodic  style,  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  lyrics  cover  nihilism,  misanthropy  and  spiritualism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  from  Cien  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  depressive  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Wounds  Of  Atonement"  and  "A  Curse  That  never  Withers".  8  out  of  10.

  https://oldtemple.bandcamp.com/album/cie-maledictio    

  

AldricH/Away, away/2024 EP Review

 

  AldricH  are  a  solo  project  from  the  Western  Siberia  region  from  Russia  that  plays  an  atmospheric  mixture  of  black  metal  and  ambient  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  self  released  2024  ep  "Away,  away".

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  ep  along  with  some  ritualistic  chants  and  operatic  choirs  a  few  seconds  later  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  which  also  gives  the  songs  more  of  a  raw  feeling  and  the  synths  also  give  the  recording  more  of  an  atmospheric  touch.

  Elements  of  ambient  are  also  mixed  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  tracks  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  At  times  the  music  also  captures  a  very  lo-fi  atmosphere  along  with  one  track  introducing  clean  playing  onto  the  recording  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style,  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  AldricH  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  an  atmospheric  form  of  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  ambient  as  well  as  replacing  harsh  vocals  with  choirs  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  raw  while  the  song  themes  focus  on  the  inevitable  aspects  of  life.

  In  my  opinion  AldricH  are  a  very  great  sounding  instrumental  mixture  of  atmospheric  black  metal  and  ambient  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Escape"  and  "Whispers  of  A  Dying  Mind".  8  out  of  10.

  https://linktr.ee/aldrichmusic

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Grylle/Egrotants, Souffreteux, Cacochymes, Covidards/Antiq/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Grylle  are  a  band  from  France  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a medieval  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of t heir  2024  album  "Egrotants,  Souffreteux, Cacochymes,  Covidards"  which  will  be  released  in  November  by  Antiq.

  The  sounds  of  medieval  battles  and  folk  instruments  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  grim  black  metal  screams  a  few  seconds  later.  When  percussion  is  utilized  they  also  give  the  music  more  of  a  tribal  feeling  while  all  of  the  songs  avoid  the  use  of  any  heavy,  distorted  or  traditional  metal  instruments.    

  Sarrazin  guitars  are  also  utilized  at  times  while  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  A  lot  of  the  album  also  finds  different  ways  of  going  into  a  heavier  direction  despite  all  of  the  instruments  being  acoustical  along  with  some  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  choir  style  vocals.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  along  with  some  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Melodies  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  French  and  cover  plague,  diseases  and  strange  afflictions.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Grylle  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  medieval  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Grand  Marche  des  Covidards'  "Reservement  de  Confortale  Presence"  and  "Le  Triomphe  de  la  Mort".  8  out  of  10.

  www.grylle.bandcamp.com