BELFEGOR
The Kingdom Of Glacial Palaces
(World War III Records)
46:00min

I'm not very much into extreme high speed Black Metal because usually those bands seem to be only concerned about how fast they can be and therefore don't realize that it needs more than speed to play good music. It's the same with BELFEGOR. They're good at what they're doing and fans of MARDUK, IMMORTAL and DARK FUNERAL will probably like this album (it personally reminds me a lot on IMMORTAL's "Pure Holocaust" - Frank). But BELFEGOR don't really reach the class of the aforementioned acts and so does the production: it's okay but not really convincing (actually, the snare sound sucks!). Only the last track called 'Somewhere Beyond This Reality' shows how good a Black Metal song can be. For me this is not enough! What a pity "The Kingdom..." doesn't come out on vinyl, because the artwork is truely excellent (I like castles anyway)! If you go for the album, try to get a big poster as well, it's definitely worth it! Still, this is an album for maniacs only! But those will probably have a really good time. Go here to order a copy.

Ramon Claassen

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BELENOS
Chants De Bataille
(Adipocere)
48:02min

For some reasons, this album reminds me on the mid-90s, when bands like OPETH were not afraid to experiment new facets of extreme Metal. I doubt it was the reference BELENOS had in mind when they composed the music for “Chants De Bataille”, but I can’t help it, the first bars of the first track following the intro catapulted me back in time. It is as if BELENOS have combined the epic Black Metal sound with the melodic Death Metal the Gothenburg area was made famous for. Saying this, I stay perfectly conscious that BELENOS' main inspiration lies certainly more in the epic BATHORY tradition, at least lyric-wise (their label describes the music as” brutal pagan Dark Metal”, and rightly so), but the overall atmosphere, the supreme elegance of the music, the highly developed musical skills on display here evoke far more than simple Viking (or Celtic in the BELENOS case) stances and poses. Each track appears perfectly crafted, all the details are obviously carefully planned to come up with a true work of art. Band leader Loïc Cellier (presently the sole BELENOS member and who relocated himself in Brittany in pursuit of his dreams) demonstrates here how much talent he has. This man surely has a vision, and tenacity enough to keep his project on track against all odds (previous label capsizing, numerous line-up changes). BELENOS' music is apparently very simple, but this is only illusion. Brutal (yet delicate) tracks are balanced by short atmospheric and powerful interludes. The vocals (the lyrics are in French) never verge towards the ridicule so often observed in the Pagan Metal field, the clear voice is never too polished, the screams stay in the normal range, Loïc doesn’t overdo anything in order to produce a perfect album which is not marred by even the most minuscule faute de goût. I realize now how much the cult status BELENOS forged themselves in the French underground is rightly deserved. Few bands of now can combine a pure traditional Metal spirit with fresh ideas, “Chants De Bataille” sounds sometimes like a Black Metal album but it is not really Black Metal, some Folk overtones can be discerned, but they are actually a recreation from scratch, not a lame patch of things heard before and like I said the “folkish” elements are as powerful as the extreme tracks. Sorry if I appear a little confused and confusing here, but it is very difficult to describe originality, isn’t it? If you need Metal music which challenges your mind and soul, you have to get this album. You will not get silly keyboards and trebly female voices, but a real epic music. Essential pure Metal! www.belenos.biz.

Edouard Vergriete

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BELINUS
Battlechants (MCD)
(self financed)
28:09min

Honestly I have simply overseen most Irish bands, but since I know pagan Black gods PRIMORDIAL my interest in the Irish underground grows and BELINUS are the best example that this scene definitely deserves more attention. “Battlechants”, their self-financed CD debut demo, features five folk-influenced Black Metal songs from the Celtic heart (including one instrumental), which musically sound like recent PRIMORDIAL, but with less clean vocal parts and a more raw feeling. Raspy Black Metal vocals create an intense and emotional atmosphere, which the music directs with aggressive up-tempo as well as slower melancholic parts. Also some acoustic guitar interruptions appear on “Battlechants” and ensure, that it does not get boring. The CD layout is ok, the professional printed inlay contains thanks list, band photo and recording information, but no lyrics. Fans of PRIMORDIAL or original Black Metal, that is not just another DARKTHRONE or MARDUK copy, should give BELINUS celtic war hymns a chance and I promise you will discover a talented newcomer. Send 8 Euro (R.O.I.), 9 Euro (UK & Europe), 10 Euro (R.O.W.) to one of the following addresses: Ro Hu Gar Darn, The Absu, 46 Glenheights Road, Ballyvolane, Cork, Ireland or G. Blackheart, Charlotte Ville, 39 Park Court, Ballyvolane, Cork, Ireland. Check out their website as well: www.belinus.cjb.net, Email contact: gblackheart@hotmail.com or lordtaranis666@hotmail.com

Stefan Franke

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BELOVED ENEMY
Enemy Mine
(Twilight Vertrieb)
49:00min

Beloved Enemy is the new band of ex-Fiddlers Green guitarist Peter “Kafka” with the, from tattoo-conventions well-known, singer Ski King. Here under the funny pseudonym “Dead L-vis”. The music isn't unspectacular Goth-Rock with some electronic baubles. I wouldn’t speak from industrial influences like the promo sheet. The second song 'Virus Undead' is also the title track of the upcoming horror movie “Virus Undead” in which Ski King can be seen. The songs are all nice rocking with catchy melodies, nice riffing and the excellent singing and voice from Mr. Ski King. The voice is a mixture of Carl McCoy with a touch of Elvis and even perhaps in the 'The Other Side' a little bit operatic. In opposition to the normal sad gothic nation you feel the fun the musicians have playing their stuff all rounded up by the powerful production. While listening to the record names like The 69 Eyes, Him and Deathstars come to my mind and so fans of the named bands can grab this blind. Metalheads should risk an ear before. www.myspace.com/belovedenemy666 or www.belovedenemy.com. On sale here.

Stefan Hagmayer

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BELPHEGOR
Necrodaemon Terrorsatan
(Last Episode)
35:31min

I still don't really get into rough and "primitive" Black Metal (which is what Last Episode seemed to concentrate on for quite a while) and therefore I always thought BELPHEGOR wouldn't be my cup of tea at all. The latest output of these Austrian fellows, "Necrodaemon Terrorsatan" (Gee, what a bad title!) has now finally managed to prove my impression wrong: this is actually enjoyable mystic Death Metal with some always cool hints of MORBID ANGEL type of aggression. The only Black Metal elements on here probably are the satanic lyrical vibe as well as some bombastic dark atmosphere... apart from that, things actually stand fairly above the average technical skills of Central European Black Metal acts. These are 11 intense, fast songs with a great powerfully clean production, mostly growled vocals and quite original songwriting. I still don't get into the lyrical ambitions on here ('Vomit Upon The Cross' or 'Analjesus', common'!!!) but musically this output is highly recommendable and actually manages to decently grow on me with every listening. Cool!

Leif Jensen

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BENIGHTED
Internal Cephalic Production
(Adipocere Records)
35:07min

BENIGHTED was formed back in 1998 in the Lyon area (France). Initially they reportedly played a mix of Black Metal and Death Metal, but now they seem to concentrate only on the Death side of things. Well, this album shows qualities (like competent but not striking musicianship, a real effort to come up with original arrangements and rhythms) but also flaws (the production, held in Germany, gives the album an overall synthetic sound, especially in the drums department, and the tracks remain unmemorable and banal, adding to all this the now mandatory shrieks / growls combination that does nothing to me). I admit I am certainly biased against my homeland scene as I have always felt the French lack the extra-special something that makes bands of other countries (especially the USA,  Brazil and Poland when it comes to brutal Death) so enjoyable. It is like the French dudes are followers instead of leaders, and I don’t see the things change in a near future. The sure fact is that BENIGHTED can’t pretend to the throne of the Death Metal gods, because their music doesn’t make a durable impression, like 90% of the present productions. “Internal Cephalic Production” cannot enter in my book of remarkable records and suffer the comparison with a superb outfit like, let’s say, DEEDS OF FLESH. Average brutal Death, nothing more. http://www.staybrutal.com.

Edouard Vergriete

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BENIGHTED
Icon
(Osmose Productions)
39:07min

I was expecting a frog-noise brutal Death Metal band. Well, it is quite brutal Death Metal, but with a twist. Yes, at times it does sound a bit like they are trying to be technical, think NECROPHAGIST, yet they are more pounding. In fact, I would say that if you take away some of the more technical parts, there is a very enjoyable pure Grindcore band, which brings to mind the legendary TERRORIZER and even early MASTER in that aspect. Yet, they use much more brutal vocals, and at the same time more melodic / controlled breaks. The massive production with fat guitars and powerful drumming (if maybe a bit too triggered for my tastes) fit's the sound quite good. Although the ultra-deep vocals sometimes makes them sounds like CANNIBAL CORPSE, they are clever enough to use variation on them, just like the music. Fans of all things brutal might find their technical parts way too much, fans of technical Metal might find this way too brutal, and although there are times they could make things more direct, the overall result is interesting, yet it all has been done by some other bands one way or the other. Some flaws I find here is that the production, although very good, as many modern releases might hide some limitations in the performance, and that some parts are way too much start-stop thing. I suppose that in a live situation, unless they have a magnificent live engineer it will all sound like a wall of noise. Although I like guitars fat and up-front, I just tend to get sick of overproduced albums that sound so flawless. I take any day a recording with some minor normal mistakes than computer Metal all the way. Oh, well, I am being cranky again. This is already their fifth release, so if you dig this one, it would be a good idea to check their back catalogue from this French band.

Julian Nuñez

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BENIGHTED

Identisick

(Osmose Productions)

41:13min

I honestly don't even know where to start with this…this album is full of gratuitous indulgence in every element I detest about modern Death Metal. This is the fourth album by this French band and most of what I have read (including their own myspace page) seems to suggest that this album is the best they have released. I assume that this band is on MTV by now. It's Metal for guys who wear shorts to show off the tribal tattoos they have on their legs…Metal for all my bros out there that like to start SICK pits…Metal for glossy magazines…Metal for people who write reviews for Metal Archives (average review 95%!!!!)…Metal for people who get most of their music information from Myspace (as of today, BENIGHTED have 7820 Myspace "friends"!). I want nothing to do with this garbage. Musically, BENIGHTED play (in their own words) "very effective" Metal with some "fast and groovy tracks" that is a "mix between brutal Death Metal and some influences such as Thrash, Grind or Hardcore." Really, it is just generic Death / Grind with slick production and about 6 different vocal styles (sometimes in the same song) and every song has some "chugga chugga" parts so you and your buddies can act out your repressed homoerotic urges moshing in the pit. Honestly, before looking at any photos of these guys, I predicted shorts and baseball caps and at least one member with dreadlocks…I was right. Don't get me wrong, I am not here to assess anyone's fashion sense (and if you ever see me you will know that I have no room to judge) because, really, if the music is good, I could give a fuck what someone's image is like. But the fact that this band is so predictable makes this all the more laughable. I am sure a lot of attractive European Metal sluts are way into these guys so they probably don't give a shit what I have to say about their record (I was disappointed by the lack comments from females on their Myspace page, however. I was hoping to at least be able click on some links to some young girls with dyed black hair, scarred arms, and no clothing…again, BENIGHTED, you have let me down). The best thing I can say about these guys is that they are technically proficient and occasionally have a few good riffs and a decent guitar tone that in a different context might be enjoyable. www.staybrutal.com  www.myspace.com/brutalbenighted

Jason Campbell

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BENÜMB
By Means Of Upheaval
(Relapse Records)
26:54min

I am not too familiar (to say the least!) with Hardcore and Grind music, so you can imagine I felt uneasy to review this one as it is a mixture of these two genres. If I tell you that 22 tracks are featured on this release and considering the total running time, I suppose you get a fair idea of what is going on throughout the album. All the tracks are hyper brutal affairs, dominated by the frantic and angry vocals delivered by Pete Ponitkoff, whose technique is certainly an acquired taste; in fact, even if the album is short, you can experiment tiredness trying to listen to it entirely in one session straight (like I did). All the songs are tailored on the same frame, and I personally faced difficulties to distinguish one track from one another, especially considering the almost total lack of blank spaces necessary to take a breath. But that put aside, I can say that this Californian quintet escapes mediocrity thanks first to an excellent production (how fortunate, because otherwise the album could have been a major flaw!), lyrical approach, a good “musical” execution and intelligent rebellious lyrics in the vein of what TERRORIZER did on their “World Downfall” classic. Too bad that “By Means Of Upheaval” is more a wall of sound than a collection of well distinguishable songs, but I suppose it is de rigueur considering the musical genre these guys stand in. Besides, I can only think good about a band who spend two pages of their CD booklet spreading out addresses of fellow musicians, labels and zines; it tells a lot about their sincerity and integrity, a lesson some Black Metal “misanthropes” should be well aware to meditate. Musically not my cup of tea personally, but from what I heard here, I am sure BENÜMB could appeal to a large public, from Hardcore followers to a peripheral fringe of the devotees of the most extreme Death Metal. Me, I am a too old HR / HM warhorse to fully taste this. On sale here.

Edouard Vergriete

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Be Persecuted
I.I
(No Colours Records)
47:50min

Have you ever heard of a country named China? It’s supposed to be pretty big and thanks to an endless supply of minimum wage workers is said to flood the globalised market with ultra-cheap cloned products, thus reaching Weltherrschaft within a few years. Nothing and nobody seems to be safe, not even the most decadent youth subcultures of the decaying old world. BE PERSECUTED, advertised by their label as “the first Black Metal act from China”, are the first encounters of this strange phenomena and if, for example, the quality of Chinese cars is anything similar to the quality of their music then there’s really nothing to be afraid of. To describe the “music” on this pathetic excuse of a record is easy: imagine a 15-year old dissident from Peking, stuck with his (incredibly small) manhood in a horrible noisy vacuum cleaner, screaming at the top of his lung while in the back a sack of rice keeps slowly falling down the stairs, imitating the sound of a badly programmed drum-computer. Once in a while his little sister makes herself heard with some Bontempi-interludes. “Sad Depressive True Chinese Black Metal”! Now seriously, I’d rather sit through an XXL-session of Chinese water torture than having to listen to this just one more time. One of those records that makes you feel ashamed for the fact that you even know of a genre that spawns such grotesque misconceptions of an album. Stop the madness! www.no-colours-records.de

Torsten Gründig

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BEREAVED
What The Wolf Brings
(Frantic Blade Productions)
26:27min

What a nice package arrived today in my mailbox. This time it's Japan's BEREAVED who try to gain the Metalheads' attention. "What The Wolf Brings" is their newest effort after having released a demo called "Reclaimed" in 2001. This five piece outfit from Yokohama, which was formed back in 2000, cruise in the waters of Death / Thrash with a touch of Black and forge these styles to a solid blend of steel. The Swedish scene had for sure a big impact and influence on these Japanese maniacs as they deliver a quite similar sound (which we all know from acts like Naglfar, Gates Of Ishtar, A Canorous Quintett, Dark Tranquillity and alikes). But this does not mean that they copy the style 100% as they just play in a more or less same direction. So you have a rough description what you have to expect here. As we are used with all bands from Japan the guitarists are accomplished, skilled and masters of their instruments. The same goes for Mori and Ken as both axemen throwing some cool riffs into the battle and technical competent. The vocal department is in the typical rough, blackish way as we know it from most of the bands of the NWOSDM . Tetsu is responsible for that and he does his job well... he don't need to hide from other vocalists in the same genre. The overall sound is filled with melody but it never sounds cheesy as this warriors found the right balance between melody, heavyness and aggression. So enough Death / Thrash riffs can be found on this five tracker and the pace is mostly in the faster direction. It was produced by the band itself and I have to admit that they also did a great job here. Of course the sound is not perfect and some things could be done better next time (who can claim to be perfect?) but it kicks ass and makes alot of pressure (doublebass, blasts...)! Check out songs like 'Avenger', the little bit more thrashier 'Yearning In Security' or 'The Mind's Solitude'. It makes fun! This MCD is for sure worth a purchase for fans of Swedish style Death / Black / Thrash Metal and all headbangers out there who like to discover new and talented bands from all over the world. For prices and other infos please contact the band at www.bereaved.jp or bereaved820@hotmail.com.

Michael Oelschlegel

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THE BEREAVED
Daylight Deception
(Vic Records)
36:31min

With the downfall of a record company a lot of broken dreams come along especially for the involved bands which can’t release their recorded albums due to unpaid studio bills. For the Swedish youngsters THE BEREAVED the described scenario really took place after their label Black Lotus closed their unholy doors. But thanks to the resurrected Vic Records and some friendly support by Dan Swanö their second album “Daylight Deception” will be finally released (with a delay of nearly 3 years) and the everlasting oblivion could be avoided. Their musical influences are raging around the Swedish Melodic (modern) Metal trinity – IN FLAMES, SOILWORK and to some degrees also the almighty DARK TRANQUILLITY. Within the last 10 years an uncountable amount of newcomers from all over the world have tried to reach the musical level of their idols but only a handful of this bands are now playing in the same league (for example the German DARK AGE ). The musical background of THE BEREAVED is more than obvious but I can’t find any point of criticism during the 10 songs journey. The band has recorded an album which will satisfy every fan of this style – aggressive Melodic Metal with catchy keyboards plus good clean vocals and even the brutal Death Metal roots of this style are sometimes shining through(‘An Inconvenient Lie’). Everybody who is looking for an ambitious band far away from the ‘tired’ musicians of the above mentioned holy trinity – here they are – for further info check. www.vicrecords.com, www.myspace.com/thebereavedswe

Matthias Auch

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BERGTHRON
Auszüge Aus Leben Und Lebenswille
(Perverted Taste Records)
29:20min

Long time has gone since I have listened to that band. And indeed, more than ten years passed in the meantime. As I only own their demo-tape "…Durch Den Nebel Der Finsternis…" (that later became their debut-album "Verborgen In Den Tiefen Der Wälder", just newly recorded) I can't give any comparisons to their latter full-length material. Okay, it is the end of 2006 now and Bergthron improved a lot. The sound became better, here and there some great atmospheres are shown and the ideas are quite original. The use of the acoustic-guitar and the flutes are giving a nice mood and fit to the overall song-structures. The bass-guitar is used in a perfect way, gives a great underline to the songs and is not shading in the background only. Just the clean vocals may be the only problem. Not that they are bad at all, but too loud, compared to the sound in general. Furthermore I don't feel comfortable with the German lyrics as they sound (at least those I can understand) quite naïve – or better said: to primitive. In the end, people who like the old stuff of Ulver and such can take a risk… Featured on that CD here are six song-samples and three of them are taken from their upcoming CD, with a running-time of almost 30 minutes. You can buy that CD for 3.50 Euro from Perverted Taste Mailorder (or get it for free while ordering over 35 Euro). The next CD will be released within the first quarter of 2007. www.pervertedtaste.de

Hurricane

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BERGTHRON 
Leben Und Lebenswille 
(Perverted Taste)
74:16min

First of all, I need to make clear that since I do only have a promo, I cannot say much about the packaging of the first edition which comes as a 3-CD-version, probably very similar to EMPYRIUM's "Weiland" album, but that is only a guess of mine. However, even judging the music only is very tricky in this case. I have been following BERGTHRON from their demo until their second full-length album, but I am not aware of their third album "Faust Für Faust", so that might turn out to be the missing link between their past, their present and their possible future. The band has actually dropped most of its keyboard-loaden Black Metal to integrate more Death Metal orientated parts, some parts that are actually rather Rock than Metal at all and a couple of acoustic parts with flutes etc. The use of the bass is interesting and not very common for that kind of extreme Metal, but also far more traditional. The vocal style has changed as well - clean vocals and some grunts are what one can find nowadays most of the time, the harsher parts were reduced to a minimum. Surprisingly, this mix of styles works quite well. All previous outputs were at least average in my book, sometimes even better, but that depended a lot on my mood, and despite its stylistic change, this can be said for this album as well, and it definitely is a grower. When I first listened to this album, I couldn't make much of it, since it is neither fish nor flesh, but by giving it its time it turned out to make sense, and while this is not an album I will listen to very often, I am pretty sure it fits in certain moments. The only weak point of this record is the female vocals, which however are not that frequent anyway. My advice for anyone into decent Pagan Metal that you cannot compare to any other act from the very beginning, is to try it out before buying it, as it is certainly different and needs its time. That however implies that it is not completely useless like so many other Pagan releases of today. www.pervertedtaste.de

Nhashi

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BERSERK
Rites Of Supremacy
(self financed)
43:07min

First I had hostile feelings towards this CD, simply because it is about –again- Black Metal with all the clichés attached to it: nationalistic vibes (the band claim to play "Celtiberian" Black Metal, well maybe in the future we will see some "Fidjian" Black Metal emerge?), stupid nicknames and grotesque outfit based on corpse paint (wow, how unusual…). Personally I am tired of this, I rather go for repeated listening of "Satanic Rites" or "The Return" to get my dose of Black Metal, oh well… But I don’t want to be unfair to this Spanish outfit, because their music offers some bits of interesting moments, with an obvious concern for crafting good songs. Of course, the whole album is a little monotonous, like it is the case with the majority of the Black Metal disciples, I mean the chords are always the same (even if some progressions are extremely pleasing to hear), the pacing stays in the red zone almost all the time. Yet the seven songs on offer here are very pleasant to listen to (even the moody instrumental piece ‘De Este A Oeste’, inspired by the ancient Galician culture), and I am sure that BERSERK can appeal to all serious Black Metal freaks around. Some keyboards layers can be heard here and there, and the overall production is more than satisfying. But like I said above, this is nothing particular or to be sought after with rage. Only for fanatics! http://www.berserkhorde.com.

Edouard Vergriete

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THE BERZERKER
Dissimulate
(Earache)
38:47min

This is cool! Imagine the brutal Death Metal of NILE's music combined with industrial beats and drums and you know who THE BERZERKER is meant to be! The heaviness of "Dissimulate" is almost indescribable and at the moment I don't find any band that is comparable with this monster. By the technical skills NILE is the only name that stormed my mind but this here is much more sick, uncontrollable and nervebreaking. Pounding industrial drums (I still can not believe that a human drummer is playing those "songs") and exciting riffs build up a wall that just blows you away without compromises. I am looking forward seeing this "band" live somehwere as they will hopefully do some liveshows in Germany! The only negative aspect I have to add here is that the guys wear stupid SLIPKNOT - like masks. Not my cup of tea but there may be some people outthere celebrating that! You may find a copy here.

Phil Jonas

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THE BERZERKER
World Of Lies
(Earache Records)
58:39min

This is the second time I came across an album by the Aussies THE BERZERKER. The first time was 5 years or so ago, when they releaased their self-titled debut album which was anything but an outstanding release. Sadly enough, "World Of Lies" does not help to improve the mediocre portrait I was left with back in the day. After enduring the hard task of listening to this album I've been doing some research about the band and the different opinions people have about them and I'm honestly wondering if maybe the age has taken over my nerves or even worse! My toleration to that "hellish noise" - a quote that my parents often used to critizice my beloved Metal music - has diminished considerably. I've heard almost anything about this band from, "down-tuned cybernetic guitars" to "heavy and fast programmed percussive assault" and "passing through inhuman vocals" but honestly all those "terms" might be just desperate attempts to hide the rather poor band behind the nice words. Yes, they have SOME interesting riffs; yes, they write somewhat aggressive and corrosive music; yes, heavy as fuck but that doesn't lessen the fact that this effort sounds like a garage-like garbage intended to be sold as "raw", that you can sense some of the riffs only when the over-saturated drum machine diminishes its speed and a 20 min closing song that turns desperately annoying just after few minutes of listening. Sorry guys but I cannot recommend this album even to the worst of my enemies. Visit the band's website at: www.theberzerker.com or the label at: www.earache.com. The disc is on sale here.

Mario Cubero

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BESATT
Hellstorm
(Undercover Records)
51:23min

Usually it's not easy for me to get into a Black Metal mood in summer when the sun is shining and I'm sweating like a pig (are pigs sweating?). So either BESATT from Poland is one hell of a band or there is something wrong with the weather this summer. It's both, I guess. Whenever I put on "Hellstorm" it sends me cold shivers. It's an excellent piece of Black Metal the Norwegian style, full of rage and hate. What I really like about this album is the song writing: although (or maybe: because?) the band won't win any prices for originality, their music drags you right in and there is no chance to escape the "Hellstorm"! Samples of thunderstorms support an atmosphere of evil forebodings: hell yes! Really nothing new but as this style isn't too fashionable at the moment, checking out BESATT would be a good idea!

Ramon Claassen

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BESATT
Triumph Of Antichrist
(Undercover Records)
39:46min

Tempus fugit (time flees), like the old Romans used to say. There are people in the Black Metal scene who were not born when Beldaroh and Weronis decided to create BESATT 16 years ago and despite the fact that BESATT never belonged to the top acts within the genre, they got enough stamina to be still on duty. “Triumph Of Antichrist” is their sixth full-length release, and of course they are “hardboiled and still fucking hellbound“, to quote IMPALED NAZARENE. Like the predecessor “Black Mass” the band is able to convince the listener with a great vision of what Black Metal should be. A rough, yet adequate sound, expressive vocals somewhere between shrieks and grunts and of course a versatile songwriting, covering the whole spectrum from fast, mid-tempo and slow songs. Accordingly a very fine dose of Thrash Metal is added, reminding me of Germans oldschool thrasher DESASTER. Especially those mid-tempo, Thrash Metal influenced parts are really great and amongst the best what BESATT has to offer. In combination with the more Scandinavian influenced Black Metal parts a very enjoyable mixture. BESATT anno 2007 proves once more that the paths of Black Metal maybe well-known, but it is still possible to walk these paths in a fresh and enjoyable way. www.besatt.net

Mirco Szymyslik

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BESTIAL DEATH
Suicide Of The Immortal (Demo 1986) 
(Israhellbanger Records)
17:34min 

After the very cool "We're Not Dead" demo by BETRAYTOR we have another Israelean outfit worshipping the old Metal without swank. Today, a moniker like BESTIAL DEATH will have some trouble being taken serious but to learn these five tracks were recorded almost a quarter of a century explains a lot. Israhellbanger Records will release it on pro-tape in June 2010, so soon it will see the light of day as an official release. 'Suicide Of The Immortal', 'Dead Resurrection', 'Beyond The Fog', 'Nuclear Hell' and 'Bestial Death' made me think of a SEPULTURA rehearsal from the "Bestial Devastation" / "Morbid Vision" days in every way. Very crunchy sound and sometimes it's hard to hear what's going on. Musicwise it's pretty straight forward Thrash Metal with competent riffing and decent drumming. Vocalist Eyal sounds like a twin brother of Max Cavalera and I had to change my attitude (realising this was OLD) to give this a fair treatment and neglect the shitty sound. What was revealed is a band that could be Israel's no. 1 deadly answer to the German Thrash legions and this demo is the only proof of that. It's mean, it's raging and would have caused some hysteria 25 years ago. So I'm afraid it's too old to impress anyone, unless you're a nostalgiac Thrash Metal fan. Israhellbanger Records is respectfully taking great care of their products so this release will feature the cover artwork originally drawn for this demo by Michael Goldshtein of SALEM (Isr), a 1" pin and an A4 poster. Take a listen on www.myspace.com/bestialdeath, www.israhellbanger.com.

Michael Tak

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BESTIAL MOCKERY
Evoke The Desecrator
(Osmose Productions)
29:11min

With bands like BESTIAL MOCKERY in their roster, the future shines bright for Osmose Productions I can tell you. This Swedish outfit dedicate themselves to a form of Black / Death very reminiscent of the 80s, but without playing the too wellknown card of a “retro” musical statement. The three individuals forming BESTIAL MOCKERY are certainly big fans of the scene of old, but listening to “Evoke The Desecrator” also confirms they have found a style of their own. It is consequently difficult to connect BESTIAL MOCKERY’s music with another band. The chaotic song structures are very personal, the band digested their influences (SLAYER, POSSESSED, KREATOR and SODOM mainly I guess) to render out an exciting and above all authentic Metal record. The sound that comes out the speakers is good enough, but not too polished, and sometimes evokes the shadow of the once extraordinary SLAYER, especially in the guitar department. BESTIAL MOCKERY have retained a nordic Metal core to their music only as a reminder of their geographic origin. This album can suit the record collection of ageing metalheads (like me) while I suppose the youngsters will stick with their DIMMU BORGIR or CRADLE OF FILTH albums I suppose. The only band I can equate this one with is DESTROYER 666, even if find BESTIAL MOCKERY far more attractive musically. A very interesting band and a strongly recommended album, that’s for sure. Go here to order a copy.

Edouard Vergriete

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BESTIAL MOCKERY
Gospel Of The Insane
(Osmose Productions)
37:23min

Even if BESTIAL MOCKERY's previous effort was immensely enjoyable, you can forget about it now, so much this Swedish unholy horde comes back with a 100% better release. The band progressed in every departments and now stands as a sure value in the very crowded Death / Black Metal field. BESTIAL MOCKERY have maintained the originality of their music (difficult to categorize, of course for the better), only this time the sound, the musicianship, the composition skills give the impression of a more mature band. On this album, the vocal work is absolutely phenomenal, a very commendable performance by Master Motorsag indeed! Music wise, the band have managed to come up with a synthesis of Australian War Metal, primitive German Thrash and Scandinavian Black Metal, offering in the end a very personal music, even if the whole sounds familiar at first hearing (fear not, no trace of silly experimentations here, only pure Death / Black / Thrash!). The BESTIAL dudes didn’t resist including a chainsaw as a musical instrument (their own sonic signature) but only briefly on two tracks. Let’s say that the “fun” aspect discernable on the previous effort has almost totally disappeared in favour of a more controlled delivery. Even the production, fat and “groovy”, adds a lot to the charm of the disc. To give you a rather fair approximation of the BESTIAL MOCKERY music, let’s imagine a mix of SADISTIK EXECUTION, ANGEL CORPSE, with a bit of DESTRUCTION and a pinch of ENTHRONED for good measure. Promising? You bet! I can assure that this album is a bowl of fresh air considering the ridiculously amount of crappy “extreme” albums flooding the market now. The only (minor) criticism I have here concerns the too predictable Chris Moyen cover art (Chris is obviously a superb artist, but he has to renew his style in my modest opinion). As usual, I realize how much it is difficult to share one’s feeling about an almost perfect album (it is far easier to slag than to praise). Anyway, do yourselves a favour a buy this remarkable record. BESTIAL MOCKERY are here to stay, thanks them for the great music! http://bestialmockery.cjb.net. You may order a copy here.

Edouard Vergriete

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BESTIAL MOCKERY
Slaying The Life
(Season of Mist)
42:15min

Have you ever wondered what demented Metal sounds like? Look no further with BESTIAL MOCKERY. This latest attack is a pure and blasphemous Black / Thrash / Heavy Metal assault of the highest caliber with a really sick attitude. From the simple (yet effective) black and white cover art of a demon grapping a city (which reminded me of SEPULTURA’s debut EP), to the lyrics and sogntitles like 'Deathsong' and 'Metal Fucking Death', to the names of the perfumers like Devilpig or Warslaughter, it all prepares you for s severe brain damage. I would say that VENOM and MOTÖRHEAD as well as BATHORY are the main influences here, yet with a more maniac approach. If you have never ever experienced the Metal of these crazy Swedes, it is time to correct that. For one, the final product is superior, with a heavy galloping guitar sound, powerful drums and demented vocals. The bass is a bit lost and maybe it would have been a good idea to crank it up a bit, just listen to 'Apocalypse Prayer' to realize that it is there and that it emphasizes the deep sound of the band. I must add that some solos and arrangements are really very well done, and while in other cases this would take off some rawness from the final product, in BESTIAL MOCKERY they add a lot more of power to it. This is only their fourth full length, although they have a lot of releases (mainly splits) but they are sure a band to follow if you like bands like DESASTER or NIFELHEIM, or are just crazy for dirty and perverse Thrash. On of my favorite releases of the year and a must get to any self respected Metaller. www.season-of-mist.com

Julian Nuñez

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BESTIAL MOCKERY / KARNARIUM 
Hail Occult Masters (Split EP)
(Hell's Headbangers)
14:02min

The BESTIAL MOCKERY & KARNARIUM sects have joined forces on this slab of uncompromising rawness and alcohol-fueled aggression as a taster of their upcoming albums (KARNARIUM just released theirs I think) but I'm afraid this split EP is worth to get just because of the BESTIAL MOCKERY songs. There is not much words needed to describe what you can expect from Swedish fiends BESTIAL MOCKERY. To put it plain and simple this is just another (over)dose of their filthy VENOM-like Black/Death Metal that breaths oldschool from all their pores. The KARNARIUM side left a bittersweet sensation given their poor contribution to the release. After a boring intro their only song kicks in showing us that they could have done better than just slow/fast mediocre Death Metal riffing. The overall production of the track does not even help and makes us recall the thin fine line between sounding raw or sounding like pure shit. I'm pretty sure this is a letdown compared to their other releases I've already heard. If you wanna get this contact Hellsheadbangers at: http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com.

Mario Cubero

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BESTIAL SUMMONING
The Dark War Continues
(War Hammer Records)
73:48min

I was totally ignorant of the very existence of this band until I grabbed this compilation CD, featuring the entire recordings this outfit from the Netherlands ever laid down. This reissue is done with taste and comes complete with the detailed story of this bunch of maniacs and their short and troubled musical career. For those who don’t know about BESTIAL SUMMONING, just let me say that the band came out at the beginning of the 90s with the only goal to deliver evil, ugly and noisy Black Metal the rawest way. Among their ranks was the infamous the Unsane on vocals, and I remember this guy from being later a contributor of the excellent Dutch fanzine “Master Of Brutality”.  If you are fans of bands like HELLHAMMER, BEHERIT, SARCOFAGO or BLASPHEMY, check this album without delay, because the stuff presented here is total cult, far away from the polished so called “symphonic” Black Metal spawned by EMPEROR with their  “In The Nightside Eclipse” release. One of the most original trait of BESTIAL SUMMONING certainly lies in the fact that all of their songs were completely improvised right on the spot, be it in studio or on stage. You can’t say that  by only listening to one or two tracks, but afterwards it becomes pretty obvious: once laid down the main riff of any given track enter the manic voice of The Unsane, spiting tons and tons of hatred towards the creation, and delivering his lyrics like  foul invocations, so you can say that all the tracks are structured by the vocals. And what vocals they are! Absolutely amazing, almost frightening when you think about it, without doubt the highlight of this release.  Presented here is the only full length album of the band (“The Dark War Has Begun”), plus seven tracks recorded live in the  Netherlands in 1992 (needless to say you can expect an abysmal sound quality), a rehearsal from 1991 and the complete “Sodomistic Rituals” demo from 1991 (again the sound is atrocious, but who cares anyway?). Then  you certainly get  value for money with this one. To me it is impossible to listen to the entire record in one time, because the monotony factor is intense, but  picking up some tracks randomly is certainly entertaining! Way more brutal than a lot of ‘extreme’ releases of the present days, this compilation deserves your attention.  I see only the mighty ANTAEUS and a bunch of Australians sickos able to build such  a cult atmosphere today. And a band despised by the disgusting Varg Vikernes can only be good. Get some info at: http://www.geocities.com/warhammerkult.

Edouard Vergriete

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BETRAYED
Promo Tape

Here we have a new pomising band from Germany. Promising because they play Death Metal, real Death Metal in a way that is quite rare anno 2002. Indeed I have listened to the tape kinda often in my car, showing it to some friends or just let my enthusiasm flow while banging my head while driving! The band offers old-school Death Metal with some nice, effective riffs and cool rehearsal sound. Harsh, raw... the way I like it! Not overproduced but with the right atmosphere. Of course the material isn't brilliant and the musical skills of the band not perfect yet but that's fucking unnecessary because it kicks ass! It's well done Death Metal with some Thrash oriented riffs as well and it's just good to have some bands in Germany that still hold this banner high! I am curious about the future of the band. Ah ye... I have also visited their homepage and what I missed was a certain concept that surrounded the band and what I think is damn important to earn some more success and to stand above the average! But that's what most bands miss today...! Work on that! The Promo is available on CD as well so have a look at www.metalized.de to get in touch with those newcomers!

Phil Jonas

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BETRAYTOR
We're Not Dead (Demo)
(self-financed)
14:02min

Israel on the loose! BETRAYTOR just warped me back in time (before I discovered Metal) and even before the first wave of Death Metal was spotted somewhere at the horizon. A time where Thrash Metal reigned supreme with KREATOR, SODOM, DESTRUCTION, TANKARD, SLAYER, EXODUS and all well known gods from the past in their glory days! Seriously!! A description like this won't impress anybody anymore, but the demo "We're Not Dead" sounds so authentic, so pure, so THRASH it's unbelievable! It's got all the goodies like the raw production, groupy backing vocals, the right dose of groove, demented artwork and most important of all in this underground releases: the right high-pitched feeling. Unoriginal but ten times better than all these revival wannabe oldschool crap bands that come out these days! Vocalist Eliahu Sela reminded me of PENTAGRAM's Anton Reisenegger on their first (cult) demo. Only a bit less angry. Riffs and production resembled DESTRUCTION. I could go on dismembering all pieces, but the best you can do is to order this demo with the three timeless bangers 'Zombie Infantry', 'Toxic Warzone' and 'Thrash Assault' either directly from the band or through Israhellbanger Records. You (and even the pessimists) will be pleasantly surprised! This is an ode to Metal when it was still pure and unpolished… marvellous! Great to see such dedication emerging from Israel by the way. Check: www.myspace.com/betraytorband or www.israhellbanger.com for details.

Michael Tak

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BETWEEN THE FROST
Realms Of Desolation
(Grotesque Productions)
44:53min

I was highly surprised to find out about the comeback of this band from Tarragona, after their absence on the Spanish scene for nine years after the release of their first album, "Instinct Of Surliness", even if they released a demo in 2003 and a promo in 2005, and I had been hearing some news about their return. It's quite clear they had bad luck with their first release as, even without being a bad album, the label that released it (Abstract Emotions) disappeared shortly after that, and at the time they put it out Black Metal bands didn't have many chances in Spain. But Grotesque Productions from Sevilla supports them releasing this new recording, which appeared in 2007, but was recorded between 2003 and 2004, and mastered in 2005 by none but Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND, DEATH...). That mastering can be felt without any doubt on the melodic aspect of the recording, which maybe already was, but he strengthened it. But, focusing on the new album of BETWEEN THE FROST, I don't think anybody would be surprised by their sound, they still are a beginning of the 90s Swedish Black Metal oriented band, with some preferences for DISSECTION and the first DARK FUNERAL. Even though they can surprise on other aspects. The best part of the album is its variety, as I've never been a big fan of the Swedish school of Black Metal of those times (with the exception of DISSECTION and some other less typical band) because of the monotony of its sound. In the case of the first album of these guys the same happened. They played fine, they didn't lack of agressiveness and they had good melodies, but it was hard for me to listen to the whole album. This doesn't happen on “Realms Of Desolation”, a more mature album, with more variety and lots of details, even if the guiding line is high speed and melody. They even dare to add some more melody than in the past, not only in the fast parts but with leads and more relaxed parts, which gives some Heavy Metal touches to the album, but not in a cheesy way, there's enough rage. Even though, I feel they still have a hard relation with their influences, as well the ones I mentioned before as other Swedish ones (I could think about NAGLFAR or even EUCHARIST), and it would be great that they search a bit more for their own personality. I don't want to give the impression that's an easy thing nor the music is bad, because they're not just one more clone (and there are lots). They achieved something with this recording and it's four years old, so I'm sure they have had time to evolve. Going back to the production, it's good, really good, with a perfect equilibrium between all the parts and enough strength, but I would have liked a heavier sound, not so based on melodies, which would have given them a more brutal approach. A higher volume on the drums wouldn't have been bad too, as the snare and the cymbals are hard to recognize. A good artwork, plus almost forty five minutes of pure Swedish melodic Black Metal, make this CD a good option for the ones who like this style. www.betweenthefrost.com, www.grotesquemusic.com

Jeroni Sancho

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BEWITCHED
Rise Of The Antichrist
(Osmose Productions)
33:12min

Are they cult or are they not? BEWITCHED from Sweden still are using clichés the 80s way. Considering their age I'd say: they're not. It's a cold cup of tea. Considering their music: hell yes! BEWITCHED once again confuse my drawers with great catchy Blackthrash and I can't help but love it! Songs like 'Sacrificed In Flames' or the title track are full of pure energy my neck is begging for a break. After only 33 minutes there would be a chance for the latter if my hand wasn't reaching for the repeat button automatically. If it goes on like this, I'll have to retire next year. So would you please buy a whole pile or 'Rise...' as I'll have to sue BEWITCHED for breaking my neck and they'll need the money ;-) you won't regret your decision anyway as long as your neck isn't as fragile as mine. It's about time I see these guys live! On sale here.

Ramon Claassen

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BEYOND FATAL
Sanctuary In Misery
(Bloodsoaked Records)
31:57min

Honestly I did not know much about US-Deathers BEYOND FATAL when I received this CD, but I gave it a spin and learned fast what BEYOND FATAL is about – brutal, not too technical Death Metal comparable to acts like old CANNIBAL CORPSE mixed with SKINLESS and cult Death Metallers BAPHOMET also called BANISHED. The whole stuff is not too fast and mostly kept very rhythmic, mid-paced and of crushing heaviness, but sometimes even a sudden blast part sets in to prevent “Sanctuary In Misery” from getting boring or too soft. The vocals vary from Chris Barnes - like growling to DEEDS OF FLESH - like gurgling and screams are featured as well. Maybe you already got the clue, but this CD is in no way original, innovative or unique stuff. But despite that, it is cool anyway, especially because of its dynamically grooving tempo, many great grinding riffs and the not over - technical approach, which often causes that albums rush by, but do not leave anything memorable. “Sanctuary In Misery” offers some real highlights, like the thunderous ‘Desensitised Communication’ or the great last song ‘Mark Of The Beast’. Sound wise BEYOND FATAL’s debut turned out very sharp, natural and powerful, but it is definitely not anything extraordinary. I am fortunate to have this CD, because it was certainly done with heart and engagement and it was fun listening to it, but I would not have spend my last few bucks on it. If you search for an entertaining, good brutal Death Metal album, look for it in a shop near you and be sure to give it a chance. I’m not sure, if this CD is BEYOND FATAL’s debut album, because then it is even great and shows that the guys have the talent to become much more.

Stefan Franke

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BEYOND HELL
The Sleeper Awakens
(Dark Descent / Skeleton Plague Records)
40:40min

When I am faced with American Death Metal, most of the time they are really Metalcore or juts frog-noise ultra deep, blast beats “ION” something bands which becomes extreme boring or crap after a few listening. Very few bands are able to caught my attention, due to the limited view of their style, and while I am always looking for a good clone, than a crap original band, there is always a limit…enter this USA trio with members involved in other bands like DECREPITAPH and ENCOFFINATION…this debut album, to start with, is nothing I was expecting. It is firmly rooted in brutal American death metal, but this more akin to DEATH from the “Leprosy” era with touches of ASPHYX and a really great lead guitar work. The vocals are probably the most generic part of the music as they are one-dimensional in approach, but still a lot better than the common frog-noise growls of many other bands of similar style. As stated before, and by references to their main influences, this Death Metal is played mainly in a mid-tempo effect, with a few fast parts here and there and the slower ones that gives this a heavier approach. More than once I can feel the oldschool feeling this band is trying to recapture as songs like 'Apocalyptic Dreams' are great headbanging fest, with simple, yet direct riffs that keep in your head after the slaughter is done. This edition also contains the EP “…And Evil Crept Through” which is the same oldschool style. The recording in both cases is quite heavy, with strong guitars and a good rhythmic section, which goes mainly in a mid-tempo to doomy passages and then speed up a bit for keeping the interest awake. For those craving for the sound of DEATH achieved in “Leprosy” or “Spiritual Healing” this is the exact recipe for pain and decadence. For all further info check out www.myspace.com/beyondhellmusic, www.darkdescent.net, www.skeletonplaguerecords.com

Julián Núñez

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BEYOND THE EMBRACE
Against The Elements
(Metal Blade Records)
46:47min

It's really difficult for me to come up with any criticism that truely makes sense regarding this release as everything was done so properly - the packaging, the production, the musicianship, the harmonies etc. Still, I don't really like "Against The Elements" as this six piece from Massachusetts / USA just offers the same type of melodic Death Metal that zillions of European acts already came up with throughout the last couple of years. Don't get me wrong - the melodies are incredibly strong (just like IRON MAIDEN the band plays with three guitars!) and always catchy as hell, the vocals somewhere between Hetfield and Petrozza and the rhythm section completes the overall positive picture with the necessary drive and power. It's just that the whole Melodic Death Metal genre personally started to bore me very quickly and I lost interest in this style. In case you see things differently and the MAIDEN meets KREATOR type sound is still highly enjoyable for you make sure to get yourself a copy of this debut album as well - quality and satisfaction guaranteed! You can order the CD at this location.

Frank Stöver

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BEYOND THE FLESH
What The Mind Perceives
(Escapi Music)
45:37min

BEYOND THE FLESH are the best example that European influences are really the current thing in the endless league of newcomers from the States. This New Jersey based four piece has a deep passion for the melodic Gothenburg Death / Thrash as well as a good love for Death Metal God Chuck Schuldiner plus a passion for more brutal US style Death tunes, too. And here comes the problem that many new bands have on their debut: BEYOND THE FLESH try to mix too much under one banner of Death Metal. For example 'The Sick' has more of a first row DYING FETUS touch, which is quite irritating compared to the melodical opening tracks on the album, but I guess that the band summons some different phases of their evolution on "What The Mind Perceives" and still has to make a proper decision where they would like to go. Imagine a furious mix of DEATH, DYING FETUS, ARCH ENEMY, older Gothenburg sounds and aggressive Thrash in the DEW–SCENTED way to have the range of BEYOND THE FLESH. In terms of the songwriting this band is already doing really well. The drummer is brilliant and his style reminds me pretty much of Florida legend Richard Christy. Surely the band still has to find a real own path, but compared to many coming-out-of-nowhere debut albums this band is doing much better. Soundwise I miss a bit more power and heaviness, but the first impression is rather positive for a debut and it’s good to see that there are still new American bands that are more METAL instead of CORE!!! Keep an eye on that band and check the homepage for some samples!!! www.beyondtheflesh.net The CD is on sale here.

Ralf Hauber

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BIBLEBLACK
The Black Swan Epilogue
(Vic Records)
38:03min

The EMPEROR is dead, long live…? This question is unanswered for several years and with nearly no pre-warning BIBLEBLACK are releasing their debut album with strong bonds to the everlasting history of the Norwegian cult act. But their symphonic Black Metal is far more connected to the second EMPEROR phase - after the introduction of further Heavy Metal vibes into their style (pre “IX Equilibrium” era) - than the early roots of the band. The Swedish band has a very strong guitar front (ex band members of KING DIAMOND / CANDLEMASS and MEMORY GARDEN) and sometimes the DREAM THEATER illness is shining through - means excessive guitars are hunted by their supporting keyboards. The band is also working with several guest singers (mainly for the clear vocals) which give their music further variety but the main focus was a compact release and the album can offer several good approaches to the worn out genre. BIBLEBLACK are maybe not the next heir to the abandoned throne but “The Black Swan Epilogue” is a without doubt a more than solid debut. www.vicrecords.com, www.myspace.com/bibleblackofficial

Matthias Auch

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BILSKIRNIR
In Flames Of Purification
(Millenium Metal Music)
61:41min

One of the more controversial German bands has finally, after a couple of demos and EPs, released their debut. And I shall not get further into details why several mailorders like No Colours or Last Episode are not permitted to distribute this. However, musicwise I feel always reminded of the slow GORGOROTH on “Under The Sign…” and most obvious in the track ‘Die Lichtung’ of BURZUM whom BILSKIRNIR covered on an earlier effort. The music itself offers no reason to mourn but, although I normally do not care too much about production etc., the sound could have been far more heavy. Especially the aforementioned epic ‘Die Lichtung’ (more than 13 minutes in length) could have used a far more massive sound, something that is comparable to ABYSSIC HATE’s soundwall for example. The CD includes - beside four own compositions and a rather unspectacular GRAVELAND cover (‘Barbarism Returns’) - four bonus songs from their earlier releases. Surprisingly, the last one ‘For The Return Of Paganism…’ (taken from the 7” of the same title) is beside ‘Die Lichtung’ the best song on this CD and has the best sound! The more you actually listen to this album the less you realise the thin production until you reach the ninth song again. Conclusion: If you don’t care too much about production, this is really worth its money, especially as the CD states that it shall not be sold for more than 10,-€/10,- US$ incl. p&p. Not a must-have but a quite good opportunity.

Nhashi

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BIRDFLESH
Mongo Musicale
(Dental Records)
34:15min

My god. The last time I heard anything from the chicken coop of these Swedish retards was in 1995! I reviewed their brand new demo at the time simply stated "Demo Of Hell". A blue-lipped orphan of the underground if ever there was one! Here's the review as it was written for my Metal fanzine ILBASHA Issue #4. Review: BIRDFLESH - "Demo Of Hell 1995" - 5 songs - Sure you've heard the phrase "never judge a book by its cover", let me tell you no time ever has this phrase been more aptly said. Looking more like ravaged adolescents from Oderus's night slumming the cerebral palsy ward. You'd never guess this was one of the more energetic Metal acts to emerge from Sweden since the NIHILIST days. Five tracks of so much crunch and obvious power they'll get you screaming for more in no time flat!!! Sound quality is just as relentless, you simply couldn't ask for more from an engineer to do for a band's release. I applaud thee! Lyrics, inlay and cover art are beyond bizarre but tastefully morbid. So close your eyes and enjoy the ride, this is for sure a demo of hell! Ahhagggghhhhhhhhhhh!!! So now you can imagine my surprise when I heard not only do they still exist twelve years later, but that "Mongo Musicale" is their fucking third full length album! Unbelievable! I didn't know whether to laugh outright or sit back in stunned amazement at the fact that these goofy shits have still been at it all this time right under my very nose?! Not to be confused with PUNGENT STENCH or their CD "Club Mondo Bizarre" or IMPALED and their CD "Mondo Medicale". BIRDFLESH's similar titled opus "Mondo Musicale" just might catch the unsuspecting Metal fiend off guard whilst flipping through the used Metal section of his local retail music shop, so buyer beware! BIRDFLESH are sneaky like that! Featuring 25 spazztic Grind abominations such as 'Mongoloid Wannabe', 'Handicapitation', 'Dancefloor Dismemberment' and so many more it's a wonder they have any breath left in 'em at the end of this record! Granted your money may be better spent somewhere else on a more topical friendly, heavy politico or eco-serious Grind unit. However, if you can just get past all the visual absurdity, past all that is the oddity called BIRDFLESH. I still say after all these years, that you would be extremely hard pressed to find a more entertaining Grind act around! The vinyl version of "Mongo Musicale" will also be released with yet another guaranteed bonus track, and up for sale early May 2007 on Germany's Power It Up Records - www.power-it-up.de. Also for those interested or who missed out originally, T-shirts left over from last Winter's U.K. tour in support of this soon to be released "Mongo Musicale" album are still available from the band. From Dental Records. Home to such "almost" household names as: INSISION and HEARSE (featuring ex - FURBOWL / ex - ARCH ENEMY vocalist Johan Liiva). Contact: Andreas Mitroulis, Par Lagerkvists v. 1c, 35243 Vaxjo, Sweden or carnivalgrind@birdflesh.net or check out www.birdflesh.net or www.myspace.com/birdfleshgrind or the label at www.dentalrecords.se. Also on sale here.

Wes Rhodes

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BITTERNESS
Sweet Suicide Solutions
(self-financed)
46:38min

This is the third demo CD by BITTERNESS from Southern Germany, who are obviously very committed to what they are doing because packaging and sound are on a very high level for a self-financed release. They play a blend of oldschool Thrash / Death / Black Metal, strongly inspired by the late 80s / early 90s. The raspy, hysterical vocals have parallels to Mille from KREATOR, while the music is a strong combination of the three aforementioned Metal genres, Death / Thrash riffing meets melodic Death / Black parts. The generally convincing performance is somehow reduced by the three acoustic guitar instrumentals between the regular songs, which are ok but a bit superfluous, one or two more songs of the same quality as the other 7 songs would have been a much better idea. As little surprise there is a superb cover version of SEPULTURA's 'Troops Of Doom' as a hidden track at the end, cool! Altogether both thumbs up for BITTERNESS, who undoubtedly will continue their way throughout the underground and maybe even beyond. The price of “Sweet Suicide Solutions“ is 8 Euros and it can be ordered at Frank Urschler, Leinerstrasse 18, 78462 Konstanz, Germany. Webcontact: http://www.bitterness.de

Christoph Göbel

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BITTERNESS
Autumn’s Fall
(Heavy Horses Records)
39:50min

"Autumn’s Fall" is the latest effort by South German based Metalheads BITTERNESS. Compared to their predecessor "Sweet Suicide Solutions" from 2003 the quartet presents itself much more mature and tighter than before. One reason for that fact is for sure the intense touring in the past. Musicwise this squad stayed true to their style which means that they deliver again melodic Death Metal in the Gothenburg vein spiced with a lethal dose of oldschool Thrash elements. But this time on a higher quality level than on their previous works. Despite the omnipresent melodic touch and the harmonies the album doesn’t miss the necessary heaviness and even many high speed parts can be heard here as well. Sure you can’t expect some new innovations here but I don’t care about that anyway. The tracks blow powerful out of the boxes, quite solid and very well arranged. It’s like a trip back into time to the glorious mid 90s when this style of Death Metal was on its peak. And to be honest the old squads don’t release that outstanding albums anymore or have already split up. The songs by these four guys have been wrapped into a crispy production which has enough dynamic to convince. A nice album which should please every fan of melodic Death Metal in the Swedish tradition and it’s for sure a good alternative to all the Scandinavian bands. Contact: www.bitterness.de or www.heavyhorsesrecords.de.

Michael Oelschlegel

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