BLOOD FREAK
Sleaze Merchants
(Razorback Records)
33:30min

A true piece of “gory delicious fun” - to use HEMDALE’s words – is this reissue of BLOOD FREAK’s “Blood, Blood And More Blood” material from 1990 and their 1988 demo together as one full-length CD. All songs have been remastered and it is quite surprising that such a powerful, sick and brutal band like BLOOD FREAK, who definitely are of equal quality as IMPETIGO, DR SHRINKER, early CARCASS or even REPULSION, did not make it in the 90’s. The 22 tracks offered here remind me of a mixture of the aforementioned bands and combine bloodthirsty brutality with toilet-style growled and screamed vocals plus a good dose of catchiness that should make any fan of oldschool Gore / Grind / Death Metal go crazy!!! It is strange that this fantastic band did not release a real album in the 90s, because they might have achieved the same cult-status the bands I mentioned above have today. Fortunately, according to the Razorback Records website, BLOOD FREAK have found the time and motivation to try it again in the Death Metal underground and hopefully this time they’ll succeed. “Sleaze Merchants” is a hellish entertaining, fresh and in no way old-fashioned sounding piece of morbid violence blended with Punk-compatible straightness and was affectionately remastered, pepped up with some horror movie intros and a nice layout which resembles old splatter movie posters. If you already know and like the usual Razorback Records stuff, you’ll dig this too, it’s a timeless journey into the old days and hereby strongly recommended to all gorehounds! For an MP3 and even an interesting BLOOD FREAK interview visit www.razorbackrecords.com.

Stefan Franke

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BLOODJINN
This Machine Runs On Empty
(Listenable Records)
44:75min

With a title like this…Those of you I’m sure who by now have kept up with my writings here know that I would of course have my blades at the ready and poised for a quick deathstrike, yes? I mean the title of this CD has got to be one of the worst constructed for an album! Mayhaps not of all time, but definitely in the “Top 20 of Metal Album Title Mishaps”, somewhere between “Force Of Habit”, “Green” and “Low”. Musically speaking this band is about as proficient as any of the latest signees on Metal Blade, Roadrunner, etc. The so-called New Wave Of American Heavy Metal. So think of all the Metal / Mallcore favorites currently spinning on MTV and you have now before you yet another one of those faceless fecal hordes to contend with. Uninspired and weak, shallow, and callous – of whom all seem to rip each other’s stylings and any notable riffs off at will and without any fucking regard for how blatant the theft or from whom they actually steal. No honour among thieves, right? So much so and to the effect, that it seems like this grand larceny is almost their “way”, these Metal / Mallcore types, if you get my meaning. Ten tracks of rehash and insipid caustic vomit brought forth from these North Carolinian fecular maggots known as AS I LAY DYING… err… BLOODJINN. Contact: www.bloodjinn.com or www.listenable.net or www.myspace.com/bloodjinn

Wes Rhodes

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BLOOD MORTIZED
Blood Mortized
(Vrykoblast Productions)
60:56min

“Swedish oldschool Death Metal at its best” is Vrykoblast Productions announcing BLOOD MORTIZED selftitled debut album. An album which is already available since a couple months, some might have recognized that already. The band claims on their myspace-page that “The music is heavily influenced by oldschool Death Metal from the early 90‘s, mainly from the golden Studio Sunlight era”. These words let us hope for a typical oldschool Swedish Death Metal band, right? Fuck yeah! Though seeing them in relation to the debut albums of Swedish masters such as ENTOMBED or DISMEMBER might be wrong, indeed they sound Swedish, borrow the crunchy downtuned guitarsound and yes, this doesn’t sound like something special in those days of “oldschool-newcomers”. Nevertheless I like their kind of refreshing Death Metal, more close to “Those Shredded Dreams” by FURBOWL or “Wolverine Blues” by ENTOMBED than to “Left Hand Path” or “Like An Everflowing Stream” which is probably not “oldschool” in the common sense of the Death Metal vocabulary, but does this make them really sound less oldschool? Fuck no! For me it is a natural progression within the Death Metal genre and perhaps it is a repetition of 1992 (when “Those Shredded Dreams” was released) and 1993 (when “Wolverine Blues” came out) to develop Swedish Death Metal in this direction. As this band carries former members of bands as AMON AMARTH or CRYPT OF KERBEROS (to name just two) you might feel that some experienced musicians are involved here. It seems as for them the songs are more important than the overall attitude to sound as typical as “requested”. One hour of oldschool Death Metal for those who followed the evolution back in the days will love these tunes and might figure out a fantastic new band after purchasing this goody from Vrykoblast Productions or from your local record dealer or mailorder. Check out the band’s myspage-page at www.myspace.com/bloodmortized or the label’s homepage at www.vrykoblastproductions.com.

Thomas Ehrmann

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BLOOD OF KINGU
De Occulta Philosophia
(Supernal Music)
28:37min

In every Metal heart there is a place for a special record which is due to several reasons something like a gateway to a new style/area of Metal. My special record was GORGOROTH’s "Antichrist" which showed me how dark but also how beautiful the dark abyss can be. If I listen nearly 13 years later to BLOOD OF KINGU’s debut “De Occulta Philosophia” these feelings return and to be honest if I would not know for sure that during the last seven months Infernus has other problems than immigrating to the Ukraine and recording a new album I would think that after the split of GORGOROTH this must be their / his new record. BLOOD OF KINGU is consisting of former HATE FOREST members and lyrical their Black Metal art is based on Sumerian and old Egyptian Cults, musically they play pitch-black true Black Metal on the highest possible level with especially great guitar parts. "De Occulta Philosophia" is a very good album, which shows that even in 2008 the true Black Metal Cult is still alive (but today maybe more vital in other countries than 15 years ago) and if BLOOD OF KINGU can improve their drum play to a little more variety we can expect a true classic next time! www.supernalmusic.com

Matthias Auch

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BLOOD OF THE BLACK OWL
A Banishing Ritual
(Bindrune Recordings)
41:24min

BLOOD OF THE BLACK OWL, formerly known as SVART UGLE, shows me another form of darkness than I ever experienced. This is the second controversial release that crossed my path, after the impressive NECHOCHWEN release, both are signed by Bindune Records. So what justifies such a record a place in the VFTD review-section? Well, first of all, the dark and compelling atmosphere! Second, quality, found in the very professional production. "A Banishing Ritual" consists of 4 tracks, clocking 10 minutes, which all are part of a 'movement'. The music in the first track 'Intent (Movement I)' can be described as a soundtrack for an incantation. The ambient music sets a dreamy and wide landscape to concentrate on the dramatic vocals which cast some sort of spell. Second 'The Statement Of Will (Movement II)' start with a distortion like a speedy WINTER. Soon this is interupted by an ambient nightfall over a wide landscape somewhere in time when Indians dwelled somewhere in the canyon lands anyway, that's what I imagined with these sounds. Soon the Doom Metal sets in again to flow into the third movement 'Chant Of The Captured Spirit (Movement III)' is a hypnotising ambient trip of darkness and horror and opens the door to another galaxy. Too long and monotone for my (sober) taste. Fourth and final 'The Final Banishing (Movement VI)' is a repetition of the first track to enclose this meditation. I suggest every Metal fan with an interest in dark atmospheric and rituallic music to check this out. If SUN O))) appeals to you, try this one. Especially in the Black Metal and Funeral Doom such experiments aren't new. It was an interesting trip apart from the third track. www.myspace.com/bloodoftheblackowl, www.bindrunerecordings.com

Michael Tak

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BLOODOLINE
Storm & Brilliance
(Blackend)
38:07min

From Spain comes this two-piece act that has just released their debut album via Blackend / PHD, what have surpassed my expectations, because, to be honest, it is really hard to find interesting stuff released by this UK based record label considering that they’re in the business for many years now. But “Storm & Brilliance” is a delightful exception, with 13 interesting tracks. The guys have mixed their extreme influences, mainly based on Swedish and Norwegian Black Metal into their own sound, finding touches of early Emperor, Marduk, Setherial with some touches of current (un)godly acts like Watain (gods!). A bestial Black / Death Metal attack with fiery speed attempts, mixed with a powerful sound and a professional production. But not only sonic violence is developed here, we can find some (implicit) melodic touches and interludes that give this record a different flavour, like mid-paced riffs, à la Watain and melodic elements à la Dissection. Highlights...? Mmmhhhh, 'Unity To Oneness' or 'Aeon’s End' which pretty much summarize everything said. An interesting record, definitely, one of (if not) the best albums ever released by Blackend. I’m just not satisfied with the artwork because it looks like a Death / Grind act release. victor@bloodoline.com

Rodrigo Jimenez

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BLOOD RED ANGEL
Crime Entertainment
(Supreme Chaos Records)
37:41min

Is it the kinda (good) demo-production or the lack of speed in the record’s first half that doesn’t let me fully enjoy German Thrashers third full length album? Their style is rather oldschool with shrieky vocals in the vein of DESTRUCTION and KREATOR. Some more modern influences here and there but not too many. Pretty good songwriting and cool leads as well but when BLOOD RED ANGEL are going for uff-ta speed I can’t get help but thinking: is this all? They prepare me to bang my head and then leave me standing – unsatisfied. I think the core of the problem is a combination of the aforementioned lack of speed at certain passages (especially song No. 2 and 4) plus the production: the drums (esp. the kick drums) are too much in the foreground but don’t develop enough drive for that. Apart from this essential problem, “Crime Entertainment” offers a bunch of cool songs fans of German Thrash probably will appreciate. To be on the safe side: download some audio material from their homepage: www.bloodredangel.de

Ramon Claassen

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BLOOD RED THRONE
Monument Of Death
(Hammerheart Records)
38:41min

Death Metal from Norway! Before joining EMPEROR in late 1992, Tchort had already relaesed a demo with his Death Metal band GREEN CARNATION (now IN THE WOODS). When they got together in 1998 they didn’t play Death Metal anymore, so Tchort decided to do his own thing and among others he found Død (SATYRICON) to join him. Some of the riffs were supposed to be on EMPEROR’s "Anthems..." which makes this album quite variable, still, this is pure Death Metal, you won’t find Black Metal passages too easily. On the other hand, "Monument..." is not quite as heavy as some other Death Metal acts, especially because it’s not straight forward all the time (but far from being too complicated) and because the production could be a little more brutal. So in the end you get a piece of brutality both not too simple (so you won’t get bored too fast) and not too complicated. Also available on vinyl!

Ramon Claassen

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BLOOD RED THRONE
Affiliated With The Suffering
(Hammerheart Records)
39:05min

First of all I can tell you that without any doubt “Affiliated With The Suffering”, the second album of Norway’s BLOOD RED THRONE, is much better than their mediocre debut “Monument Of Death”. The latter sounded too sterile, too clinical for a band that claims to play old school influenced Death Metal, because focusing on the right technique and riffing does not automatically make you old school – you have to ressurect the feeling that made old DEICIDE, AUTOPSY, old CANNIBAL CORPSE or MALEVOLENT CREATION so fascinating in the early 90’s. On “Affiliated…” BLOOD RED THRONE seem to have realized this and improved production-wise, reduced technical excesses, concentrated on a more direct songwriting and the creation of cool riffs to come up with a natural, consistent, entertaining Death Metal album that respectfully pays its tribute to the bands I mentioned above. Just listen to ‘Bleeder’s Lament’ (which includes a nice CANNIBAL CORPSE homage in for of a bass fill, that reminds me of “The Bleeding” album), the heavy ‘Chaos Rising’ or ‘Mandatory Homicide / Death Inc.’, all really good songs. But there are things I’d like to criticise as well, especially the again just mediocre vocal performance of Mr. Hustler, his growling is ok, but also quite emotionless and not very individual! Listen to old DEICIDE – pure fucking hatred, AUTOPSY and CANNIBAL CORPSE – perversion and brutality, MALEVOLENT CREATION – total aggression and intensity, this is a weakness many Death Metal bands have today, cool music – boring vocalists!!! Also the rather short playing time of 39 minutes (including almost 6 minutes that are occupied by two bonus tracks, that will only appear on the limited digipack) annoys me. To sum it up, “Affiliated With The Suffering” is a good Death Metal album, nothing more, nothing less. And before I forget it, the OBITUARY coverversion is awful and the best prove for my “boring vocalist”-thesis! www.hammerheart.com

Stefan Franke

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BLOODRIDE
Bloodridden Disease (MCD)
(self-financed)
21:08min

BLOODRIDE from Finland were founded to play Thrash Metal in the vein of SLAYER, EXODUS and the likes. They’re rather old farts like you and me who can’t get accustomed to the new trends in Metal. Well, BLOODRIDE surely deliver some energy! The songwriting is solid but neither comes up with something new nor with something as impressive as the old masters. Well, I honestly didn’t expect a masterpiece anyway but there are a couple of nice details like the last solo on ‘Reckoning Day’ that make you listen up. I’m not too fond of the singer’s voice. Not only because it’s a little sloppy and sounds a little as if he was sick when recording the vocal lines – but it’s also a matter of my personal taste. I can absolutely imagine someone else liking his voice better than me. A propós sickness: BLOODRIDE consider themselves being the sickest band in the world and for proof there is a list of their diseases and broken bones and stuff on their homepage! So Thrash maniacs: check out the band’s site cause there is a track available for download. Might be something for you. And in case you run a small dedicated label: get in touch with the boys! www.bloodride.com

Ramon Claassen

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BLOOD RITUAL
Black Grimoire
(Moribund Records)
45:02min

Satanic US Death Metal horde BLOOD RITUAL is back! By releasing their second full-length in their around 13 years long career after letting the fans of the debut “At The Mountains Of Madness” (Moribund, 1994) wait a whole decade the big question is how “Black Grimoire” can continue where the debut left off and overcome the weak production of the debut without sounding like a totally different band? The latter is, of course, easy to answer, just enter Autopsy Room Studio and apply a heavy, transparent yet not too polished production and you have arrived in the present tense sound-wise without losing the oldschool charm. Musically BLOOD RITUAL was always high class, and “At The Mountains Of Madness” was an album that was excessively brutal, dark, occult and performed with exceptionally skilled musicianship. Though BLOOD RITUAL consists only of two members these days, namely Tim Bishop (guitar, bass, vocals) and session drummer Neil Wong, the musical qualities they represented as an quartet on the debut haven’t suffered, not at all, they have actually only improved. Whereas the debut was primarily harsh and violent “Black Grimoire” now offers a wider spectrum of musical elements, is pretty melodic at times, especially during the countless leads, then the brutality conquers again and everything is united by the same unholy atmosphere and the same vocal style. Due to the better production and stronger tempo variation “Black Grimoire” appears more impressive, more epic than its predecessor and embedding some DISSECTION - like riffs (e.g. in ‘Ritual Of Lust’) into their otherwise heavily MORBID ANGEL - inspired sound only adds to the sinister atmosphere and dramatic tension. The interplay between aggression and atmosphere works extraordinarily well on “Black Grimoire” and though it might need some time to grow on you, at least I had that experience, this album offers a highly fascinating, diverse and intense version of Death Metal that stands out of the masses of standard blast orgies as an inspired and moody satanic piece of music. Along with INFERNAL LEGION (on the same label) one of my personal most positive surprises in the Death Metal field lately, Horns Up!!! www.moribundcult.com

Stefan Franke

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BLOOD RITUALS
Sanguinary (Demo 2009)
(self-financed)
13:28min

I received this demo from Andreas from Putridodistro who is distributing Latino Death and Black Metal in Europe. As I am really interested in Metal from all over the world but especially from Latin America I was really curious about BLOOD RITUALS, which are two guys from Bolivia who are called Possessed Blackheart (guitars, bass, programming) and Lix Tetrax (voices). On their myspace page they describe their music as “cold, dark, heavy and anti-Christian Black Metal, without keyboards, little melody but great sound from beginning to end”. And this is a very good description. The first song 'Sanguinary' starts with typical Black Metal blast beats but then it is interrupted by a really nice bang part which is highlighted by some clean guitar accords. This one is followed by the track 'Unholy Rebirth' which is more mid tempo and has a nice melodic guitar. This is my favourite track of the demo. The last song 'Delirium Of Death' starts slowly and is interrupted by a blast part before it flows into a groovy mid tempo section. In the end the song is getting faster again. The vocals from Lix Tetrax change between Black Metal screams and more Death Metal growls. You hear that the drums are programmed but that is not a big deal. Also I have to be honest I was surprised by the good sound of this demo. There are a lot of Black Metal productions from Europe that sound a lot worse, but you still have this Black Metal feeling. The demo brings nothing new to Black Metal music but it is fun to listen to. So well done boys and if you are interested in Metal from other areas of the world give them a chance www.myspace.com/bloodrituals666 or get in touch with Andres putridodistro@yahoo.se

Stefan Hagmayer

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BLOODROSE
Into Oblivion
(Retribute Records)
41:38min

Hey kids out there, do you love DIMMU BORGIR as much as I do??? Yes, cool, than we can party to this CD as well, because it is absolutely evil and dark, just as DIMMU BORGIR, there are great symphonic keyboard parts, grim screams and fast yet atmospheric Black Metal riffs, just as DIMMU BORGIR. Although no one in BLOODROSE has such a nice bodypainting or latex dress as the guys in DIMMU BORGIR, they are still fantastic! Their music is so dark, my parents will hate me if I play this loud enough. In school they will think I’m the most evil person around, when I wear my BLOODROSE t-shirt, yeah!!! This is the new definition of how Black Metal has to be, although all those sick old school maniacs might tell me, this is gay shit and beat me up – you don’t know how Black Metal has to be, you fools! Who cares about DARKTHRONE, THORNSPAWN and JUDAS ISCARIOT as long as there are great bands like BLOODROSE or DIMMU BORGIR – this is Black Metal!!! They have keyboards and atmosphere, melodic guitar leads and sound beautiful, not that rude like these traditional baby acts!!! Hail DIMMU BORGIR, CRADLE OF FILTH and BLOODROSE – true kings of Black Metal!!! www.retributerecords.com

Stefan Franke

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BLOODSHED
Inhabitants Of Dis
(Code666)
41:26min

Even though "Inhabitants Of Dis" is the debut full length by Sweden's BLOODSHED, the band is no newcomer to the scene anymore anyway. Ever since their origin way back in 1996 they already released two demos and a quite successful MCD ("Skullcrusher") of which they managed to sell respectable 3.000 copies! I personally never heard those items, but this album here definitely sounds extremely matured and is raw as fuck! Almost unbelievable that it was created at the (in)famous Studio Sunlight with Tomas Skogsberg producing. Musically I would label these guys as intense blackend Thrash with a couple additional death grunts. Just imagine the current, rather thrashy IMMORTAL style, but performed a whole lot more furious. Kinda like a mixture of the grim DARKTHRONE stuff combined with a razorsharp NECRODEATH type of Thrash (or MARDUK, MERCILESS and NILE, if you prefer -  as mentioned in the label info). The riffing is awsome at times (and most certainly heavily inspired by the riff masters SLAYER), especially when the band isn't playing full speed ahead. I just don't really see the need of the occasional used additional Death Metal vocals (as they not exactly fit the overall furiousity of the band), but it's nothing major and I suppose I just bring that up because I didn't find any other aspects of criticism... So, if you like your Metal extreme and without any (wimpy) outside influences, make sure to give these guys a listen as BLOODSHED is certainly one of the better bands from Sweden lately. www.bloodshed.info
   
Frank Stöver

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BLOODSPOILED
Demo 2007
(self-financed)
15:37min

When was the last time you heard any Danish Death Metal? Out of Elsinore, Denmark hail this mighty quartet of Death Metallers, and not since the days when the guys of INVOCATOR were toying with MACERATION or their fellow countrymen broke out with bands like DEFAMATORY, MORDOR / EXMORTEM or INIQUITY, and were out kicking skulls on a regular basis. Has a brand new band from this tiny country decided to pick up the reins left over from that bygone era and thus have created some of the most hard driving and assuredly tasteful underground Death Metal heard since. Three original tracks plus a short intro recorded in a local hometown studio are included on this semi-professional demo CD release. Coincidentally BLOODSPOILED are playing their first show tonight in Elsinore at the Rockhalvoen as this review goes to print, and shall be appearing at the Helsingorfestivalen during the 9th through 11th of August, 2007. Those that can make either of these shows ought to. If the quality level of material from this CD of BLOODSPOILED is of any indication to their live show I am positive you won’t be disappointed in the slightest. Contact: Caspersabinsky@hotmail.com or www.myspace.com/bloodspoiled or Lana Casper Sabinsky, Fredericksberg Alle 11 B 3 Tv, 1621 Kbh V, Denmark

Wes Rhodes

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BLOOD STAINED DUSK
Black Faith Inquisition
(Moribund Records)
71:82min

BLOOD STAINED DUSK is one of the new contenders of the US Black Metal scene that really deserves a lot of attention because they are actually making an impact. This is the follow up to 2004's "Continuance Of Evil" and damn, it is a worthy follow up indeed! Long gone are the early EMPEROR comparisons that plagued their early releases. One can say there is still a slight trace of that nordic epic vibe often heard in their early releases but they have managed to adapt it to the new stuff and make it their own. The vocals are the best I've ever heard in ages courtesy of a new member among them who goes under the name of Pest (Obtained Enslavement, ex-Gorgoroth, Octagon (US)). The difference between this band and the rest of the pretenders are big amount of musicanship wisely manipulated to craft what could be the best Satanist art ever spawned in the US since ABSU.  www.moribundcult.com, www.myspace.com/bloodstaineddusk

Mario Cubero

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BLOODSTONE
Hour Of The Gate (LP)
(Blood Harvest Records)
41:57min

With this vinyl release Blood Harvest Records presents another act’s first time ever appearance on vinyl. Recorded and mixed in Studio Sunlight with the help of Tomas Skogsberg, Fred Estby and Anders Lindström you can be sure to get a pretty good sound, though I have to admit the sound of side 1995 sounds a little bit different to side 1994 as we are talking about 2 separate recordings. Vinyl junkies and fans of early Swedish Death Metal couldn’t care less as those who know the BLOODSTONE releases so far can be happy to get the demo “Hour Of The Gate” from 1995 (side 1995) and “Branded At The Threshold Of The Damned” from 1994 (side 1994) on vinyl and packed in a quite decent way. I can only feel great about Blood Harvest as they are presenting us one great release after another. BLOODSTONE is quite an unknown band as far as I can consider that and weren’t really that well known even back at their active days, but their music shows that this definitely wasn’t the bands fault. Perhaps they came just a little bit too late when the Death Metal boom of the early nineties was almost over and Black Metal turned to become the next big thing? What you can expect from BLOODSTONE’s music is Swedish Death Metal with slight similarities to MARDUK’s early work (“Those Of The Unlight” and especially “Dark Endless”) which isn’t the worst deal, I’d say. It sounds in a way typical Swedish, which isn’t meant in a negative way especially not reading my last sentence comparing them a little bit with early MARDUK. It's quality stuff here and another prove that Blood Harvest had the right choice in figuring out what should have been released already many many years before. Check out www.bloodharvest.se for ordering details!

Thomas Ehrmann

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BLOOD STORM
Pestilence From The Dragonstar
(Soul Solid Music)
50:10min

In case you should wonder about the whereabout of former GOREAPHOBIA frontman Chris Gamble make sure to check out the Philadelphia based four piece BLOOD STORM. Gamble simply metamorphosed into his alter ego Mezzadurus for this after a short stand in as a session frontman for ABSU. BLOOD STORM's debut album got released on UK's Cacophonous Records a couple of years ago, but was missed by yours truly (probably due to the poor promotion / distribution of CRADLE OF FILTH's old company), so I unfortunately can't comment on its qualities here. Thanks to Metal War Productions I at least got my hands on a copy of "Pestilence From The Dragonstar", their nine song follow-up, which reared its ugly head back in 1999. But beware: musically BLOOD STORM have nothing to do with GOREAPHOBIA at all! This is extremely raw and totally straight ahead Black Metal in its purest form and the guys even knew to impress me with it! Apart from the way too colorful coverart (which doesn't really compliment the music at all) and their partly too long compositions (some of the songs are around six to seven minutes long), this is an all in all completely fuckin' intense release, which partly reminds me on a Black Metal version of classic ORDER FROM CHAOS, who had a quite similar rough approach. Gam…ehh Mezzadurus' voice sounds way more convincing than those of the majority of the Scandinavian wannabees as he spits the vocals out in a very hateful manner and delivers the right feeling for the band's blasphemous material. So, if you're bored of all the pussy Gothic inspired Black Metal with tons of keyboards and shit, go for BLOOD STORM instead. You're gonna love 'em! Oh, and before I forget - the band's brandnew album "Ancient Wraith Of Ku" is already announced for a August 10^th, 2001 release, so you better watch out for that.

Frank Stöver

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BLOOD STORM
Ancient Wraith Of KU
(Metal War Productions)
58:42min

I was really looking forward to this album as I really enjoyed BLOOD STORM's previous release "Pestilence From The Dragonstar" quite a lot (see review on top of this). Compared to its predecessor "Ancient Wraith Of KU" not only has a way better coverart, it also sounds a lot more Thrash inspired and oldschool than ever before. But unlike many retro acts (which BLOOD STORM are definitely NOT!), these guys quite obviously know what they're doing and therefore easily convince with it. UK's Terrorizer magazine did name early FROST / HELLHAMMER and SODOM as comparisons a while ago, which (in combination with the still very much present Black Metal elements) already hits the nail on its head quite precisely. It's quite funny, in 'Kmo A'Ajei Virus' the vocals even remind me on Germany's WARHAMMER (according to the booklet, a band that BLOOD STORM really admires), while the material on "Ancient Wraith Of KU" (despite all those old influences) generally is still a lot more intense and Black Metal influenced. The overall musical attitude of the band could easily be labeled as totally raw and uncompromising Metal in its purest form. What I really like about this album is the honesty in the production. Haven't heard an album with a drumsound that sounds so real and non-faky than this. Even though there's only 9 songs mentioned on the back of the CD, there's a lot of intros in between, as well as a (unfortunately not very well executed) cover of the old SLAUGHTER classic 'The Curse', which results in a total of 16 tracks in the display of your CD player. So, all in all this album was worth the wait and will hopefully bring the band a step further in their career. If you should have trouble in finding a copy, feel free to contact the label directly through their website: www.metalwarprod.com

BLOODTHIRST
Let Him Die
(Pagan Records)
35:36min 

Poland got many outstanding Satanic and blasphemous Death Metal bands today, but I never heard of any Polish band with the same ideology playing Thrash Metal until I heard BLOODTHIRST!! This band has already released three demos, four splits, a live album as well as a compilation; but only now after 8 years of existence they got to release their debut album. The opening track, 'Upon The Cross (Tormented And Lost)' really reminds me of 'Pleasure To Kill' from KREATOR from the beginning till the last second, and mix it with some DESTRUCTION riffs! Totally destructive!! While 'Thrashing Madness' takes me into the SLAYER era of “Reign In Blood” until the chorus which starts turning back to KREATOR again. KREATOR really is a big inspiration for BLOODTHIRST as you can hear many KREATOR-esque riffs here and there. But they also got much influences from Bay Area Thrash Metal especially from Slayer, Dark Angel and Nuclear Assault (Bay Area? - Ed.) and the melodic parts may come from DESTRUCTION. The vocals are harsh and brutal, sometimes they also sound like a Death Metal vocalist. This is the Thrash Metal vocalization style that I like. With 9 tracks (no intro or outro shit!) running for 35 minutes, it’s really a pleasure for me to listen to this Polish Satanic Thrashers!! BLOODTHIRST – Hateful Antichristian Thrash!! www.bloodthirst.pl

Amin

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BLOODTHIRST / EXCIDIUM
Infernal Thrashing Kommandments
(Gruft Production)
40:05min

As a rule, most splits go under-appreciated, usually for good reason. Sometimes there are exceptions like, the BEHEXEN split with HORNA or, more famously, the split between PURULENCE and AMAYMON in the early 90s. The stricter among you may want to avoid this one if you're easily deterred. The BLOODTHRIST tracks consist of two orginals, and two covers: one of VENOM, the other MORBID ANGEL. The originals aren't bad, but you've most definitely heard them all if you've half a brain and internet access. The covers aren't as good; chopped up breakages in whole bars, all of it splattered with fuzziness. But the originals show a lot of promise, at least as much promise as any Thrash band can have these days. The EXCIDIUM side is much better production wise, and is blessedly free of covers except a single RAZOR cover at the end. A lot of Swedish Death Metal à la TREBLINKA and early GROTESQUE have gone into this band as, I'm more than sure, a plethora of armoured, bestial tanks. EXCIDIUM's songs stand out far more, are jucier even, if such a description may be applied. More bang for your buck, so to speak. This is not bad, but if you're picky, look elsewhere. www.bloodthirst.pl, www.excidium.metal.org.pl, www.gruft.prv.pl

Nat Shapiro

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BLOODTHIRST
Sanctity Denied
(Pagan Records)
34:44min

My first impression on this second album of this Polish trio was that it sounds good, but it also sounds like many bands. After a few more listening, it was clear that I was enjoying the music, the riffs, and most of what this album was about: straight in your face Thrash / Death Metal, which steals riffs from all those bands you can name, SLAYER, KREATOR, METALLICA, SODOM, and… well, you can do the list yourself. But then again, I was left with an empty feeling…I felt something was missing…but actually, it was just that I was getting tired of the thousand bands doing the same over and over again. Also I felt the production, while having a great guitar sound, was a bit lacking of treble frequencies, and maybe a bit drowned drum sound. I appreciate they didn’t went for those boring clinical sounding productions, but then again it does not sound as organic as it could be, thus taking away some power. Lyrically, they also step on the satanic, anti-religious ground countless others have done before; and while that is something I might not get tired soon of, there is something still that does not feels complete. Many songs tend to have a similar vibe, and the “mosh” parts are not exactly my thing, as they felt a bit out of place, or too forced to make this sound oldschool.  As it is, an ok Deathrash Metal album, with some catchy riff like in 'Rage Of Dogs', yet, way below than the original bands, and not with any single piece of identity. With a better production, and more variety in the vocals, they can surely reach a new level. So far, so good, but not that great. www.bloodthirst.pl, www.pagan-records.com

Julián Núñez

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BLOODTHORN
Under The Reign Of Terror
(Red Stream)
38:07min

Even though this is already the third BLOODTHORN album, it is the first time for me to encounter this Norwegian fivepiece. And judging the band by descriptions they used to get in the past for the two previously released full lengths "In The Shadow Of Your Black Wings" and "Onwards Into Battle" they quite obviously must've gone through a drastic change of style for this newest offering. And I bet it was for the better! You know, there always used to be talk of "…moody, atmospheric Black Metal" and even female vocals and such bullshit… Well, "Under The Reign Of Terror" is luckily nothing like that at all - it actually sounds a lot more like a rhino on a rampage to me. Incredibly powerful, very aggressive and brutal and way more rooted in the Death Metal genre than somewhere else. The guitar solos partly even remind me on vintage SLAYER with all the tremolo torture and stuff. But BLOODTHORN didn't metamorphose completely as their Black Metal roots still shine through in the aggression that some of the vocals deliver and their well done cover of MAYHEM's classic 'Deathcrush' (which even features Necrobutcher as a guest musician). So all in all this happened to be a very positive surprise for me and a band you should keep an eye on from now on. Further info from Red Stream, P.O. Box 342, Camp Hill, PA 17001-0342, USA, RedStream@aol.com, www.redstream.org

Frank Stöver

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BLOODTHORN
Genocide
(Red Stream / Morningstar Records)
42:56min

Considering the straight ahead heaviness of BLOODTHORN's material these days, it's kinda hard to imagine that this Norwegian bunch actually used to kick off their career with keyboards and female vocals (perfectly documented on the band's two full length albums "In The Shadow Of Your Black Wings" and "Onwards Into Battle", as well as on their split MCD with ...AND OCEANS). I never really cared about them in those days, so that 2001's "Under The Reign Of Terror" album really took me by surprise. That record definitely used to be a major turning point in their history for it offered nothing but brutal, yet blackened Death Metal! Almost five years later the band returns to the scene with a slightly changed line-up (the guitar players Alex and Tom got replaced by MAYHEM's live guitarist Ihizahg, who also wrote most of the new material), delivering an even more impressive follow-up! Musically "Genocide" is without a doubt the next logical step in their evolution and in every aspect once again far more devastating than "Under The Reign Of Terror"! After I had been playing the disc a couple of times, I quickly felt reminded on ANGELCORPSE (for the harsh vocal delivery and overall raw attitude) and the intensity and monstrous riff-based heaviness of BOLT THROWER / SLAYER. Instead of adding various little bits and pieces or dark atmospheric elements to the songs, the new material convinces through a refreshing stripped-to-the-bone writing style, that focuses on thunderous riffs (the midtempo passages really kick some major ass!) and straight ahead aggression first and foremost! The production (courtesy of Knut Prytz, Godt Selskap Studio) really compliments this in the best possible way, so that "Genocide" is a highly recommended record from my side! For all further info, feel free to check out the following websites: www.bloodthorn.net, www.morningstarrec.com, www.redstream.org

Frank Stöver

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BLOOD VOMIT
Up From The Grave
(Bloodsoaked Records)
33:57min

Before I go into the details of BLOOD VOMIT’s debut CD I have to tell you that they use a drum computer throughout the whole album. It does not sound too awful, but if you are an aesthetic (I am - when it comes to Metal drums played by a fucking machine) you will be disgusted by this fact. But fortunately this is the only problem “Up From The Grave” has, a clinical, unnatural drum sound. The song material, all created, produced and performed by one man, namely Keith Barnard, is quite strong, but in no way innovative or original. It reminds me of old BROKEN HOPE or IMPETIGO, very gory, mostly mid-paced Death Metal, including all trademarks of this genre: horror movie intros, zombies on the cover, simple riffs, deep growling vocals mixed with some NECROPHAGIA-like screams. Doesn’t sound very special, does it??? But nevertheless, I like “Up From The Grave”, because of its morbid old-school groove, that surfaces in songs like the title-track, my personal fave ‘Night Of The Unclean Spirits’ or the blasting ‘The Hunger’. In addition to that, there are some good and really memorable riffs on this album. Only ‘The Shredder’ is ruined by the fucking drum computer, although it features a quite unusual church organ in the background. What surprises me is that Barnard managed to create this special bloodthirsty and heavy feeling I always love when listening to Gore Death bands like AUTOPSY or old CANNIBAL CORPSE. Another thing I always honor is when a band does not claim itself to be the most extreme or fastest band around, but dares to do slow grinding groove parts too. BLOOD VOMIT respectfully pay their tribute to the roots of the Gore / Death genre but do not sound like a cheap copy or boring, outdated shit. I can honestly recommend this CD to Gore / Death fans, because it is simply entertaining bloody pus spewing forth from your speakers, which would be really great with a human drummer. But anyway, give BLOOD VOMIT a chance!!! Email-contact: keith666@earthlink.net 

Stefan Franke

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BLOODY SIGN
Primitive Horde (MCD)
(self-financed)
17:10min

The five song MCD "Primitive Horde" is already the third demo release of this French four piece, but the first to actually see the light of day on CD(R). Their previous outputs "The Nocturnal Moan Of The Fallen Angel" (from 1997) and "Dionysos Contre Le Crucifié" (1998), which still got spread around in the good old cassette format, never made it here, so I can't really tell you whether they managed to improve ever since or not. Well, according to their info sheet they always used to follow the paths of straight ahead, brutal Black / Death Metal and "Primitive Horde" certainly is no exception to that rule. Deep grunted guttural vocals in combination with shrieky Black Metal howling, supported by very raw performed thrashing outbursts of brutality should easily please a certain amount of listeners. The rhythm section not always sounds completely tight to me, but at least the band as a whole delivers a certain blasphemous atmosphere with their compositions, which is kinda cool. A little bit more improvement is needed nevertheless in order not to get lost among the countless hordes of the same musical goals. The CD-R comes with a full colored coverart and sells for 8 € from this address: BLOODY SIGN, c/o UIBO, 47 rue Basse, 68420 Gueberschwihr, France, http://bloodysign.fr.st/, bloody.sign.pagan@wanadoo.fr

Frank Stöver

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BLOODY SIGN
Estonian Sessions (Demo 08/2002)
(self-financed)
approx. 17min

In case you always wanted to find out how some of the Voices contributors are killing their sparetime, in between writing and doing interviews, you should definitely check out this new release from BLOODY SIGN as it features monsieur Nathaniel Colas, our crazy maniac from France, on bass and vocals. And you know what? He did a really good job on the three tracks on offer here, especially considering the fact that the band recorded and mixed the whole damn thing in Estonia in only 6 hours! Unfortunately this was just a one off, session kinda thing as BLOODY SIGN have found a fulltime vocalist and a steady bassplayer in the meantime. I know that I used to do a review on their previous output "Primitive Horde" a while ago, but as I can't really recall whatever happened to that release (if I maybe passed it on to someone else or something), I honestly don't know how it exactly sounded like anymore and how the voice of Kalevi (the band's guitarist, who used to sing on it) differs from Nathaniel's. But at least I can say that I do enjoy the three new tracks ('Ablaze With Anger', 'Conquering Pain' and 'Master Of Nothing') and if you're into brutal US style Death Metal, quite technically performed, with some additional screamy, Black Metal-like vocals, you can easily pick this up as well, as it definitely offers some quality songwriting. I've got a tape version of it but the band is selling the recordings as a CD-R for 7,-Euro (ppd.). Contact and all further info: Bloody Sign, c/o Uibo, 47 rue Basse, 68420 Gueberschwihr, France, http://bloodysign.fr.st/

Frank Stöver

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BLOODY SIGN
Vana Vigala Loits (Promo CD-R)
(self-financed)
31:17min

Quite a blast! Recorded in Estonia on their 2003 tour, this album shows a skilled and highly motivated oldschool band! I never heard the old demos but according to Frank, this one's an improvement once again. And indeed, "Vana Vigala Loits" is highly enjoyable. Their new singer sounds strong, totally in the old tradition, no ridiculous frognoize on here of course! Actually, the vocals are even the coolest part of this demo (I tend to rather fix on vocalists anyway) and might be the little extra putting BLOODY SIGN above all those hordes of traditional extreme Metal bands. On the other hand, there is a slight difference between BLOODY SIGN and the old classics like PESTILENCE or ASPHYX which can be witnessed on this very CD as BLOODY SIGN cover PESTILENCE's 'Parricide'. But I didn't say these French sickos are the next big thing everybody's gonna buy and love, those times seem to be over anyway BUT I don't see a reason why fans of those aforementioned masters of Metal shouldn't like BLOODY SIGN because they're simply good. They opened for CRADLE OF FILTH and IMMOLATION in Strasbourg, France, (one track from the show on here) and I can tell you I'd rather have seen BLOODY SIGN instead of AGATHODAIMON who were the opening act in Hamburg, Germany at that tour. And that's the point: BLOODY SIGN are looking for a record deal right now and if there is any sense left in the underground companies, they're gonna sign a bloody contract with these guys right away. Until then you can order "Vana..." from the address above or directly at: www.bloodysign.fr.st/. Oh, and meet these crazy guys at the Voices fest!

Ramon Claassen

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BLOODY SIGN
Vana Vigala Loits
(Ibex Moon Records)
31:01min

Maybe you saw INCANTATION during their 2004 European tour, then you saw BLOODY SIGN drummer Ilmar who took place behind the INCANTATION drum kit because original INCATATION drummer Kyle couldn't play that tour. Anyway, after several demo releases here's finally the debut album by French oldschool maniacs BLOODY SIGN. On "Vana Vigala Loits" they are presenting a rather cool mixture of blasphemous, old fashioned Death (more) and Black (not that much) Metal. The song basis mainly is Death Metal decorated with many tempo changes, plenty neck breaking guitar riffs, pounding drums and aggressive, growling vocals... now and then BLOODY SIGN added some blackish screaming and some fast Black Metal riffs. For my personal taste those parts are superfluous but as mentioned before the Death Metal part is the dominant one. BLOODY SIGN created some very fine and powerful songs with an unholy atmosphere and therefore I really enjoy "Vana Vigala Loits"... it's raw, it's dark... it's Metal!!! Unfortunately there are only five "real" songs on "Vana Vigala Loits". Track number four, the title track, is nothing but the whaling voices of old women... sounds like that kinda African tribe chanting... it would have been okay for a short intro but 2:41 minutes are definitely too long and definitely too boring... Besides that there is also a good PESTILENCE cover version and the last song is recorded live. So the regular album isn't longer than 22 minutes which is, in my humble opinion, not that munch for a full-length release, isn't it? But that are the only negative points here. "Vana Vigala Loits" is a damned cool piece of well played, unholy and absolutely non trendy Metal and it's highly recommendable to all oldschool Death Metal heads. Thumbs up... http://bloodysign.metalspirit.net

Hacker

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BLOODY SIGN
Explosion Of Elements
(Ibex Moon Records)
45:00min

A band that has been featured in Voices many times over and with almost as many line-up changes to boot! Here again are those French Death Metal maniacs called BLOODY SIGN! Heavy, technical, U.S. inspired Death Metal is the forte here - a culmination of many influences can be heard on this nine song record and of those the obvious standouts are the unholy trinity that is MORBID ANGEL, INCANTATION and IMMOLATION. Lyrical matter and song titles are as you would assume, and all do indeed span the real expanse of Hell and then some! Truly strange to hear a band like this (and with such brutally low vocals too!) that call France its home. Almost as unbelievable as when I was first introduced to MASSACRA aeons ago. Just hits you like a brick in the head from out of nowhere! Speaking of that. BLOODY SIGN also cover MASSACRA on this CD with a very cool version of 'Apocalyptic Warriors' from 1989's "Final Holocaust"! Come on you fuckers.You know the words don't ya?! Scream it!!! "IN A LAND OF DARKNESS. ONLY WAR MAKES THEM LIVE. NO ONE KNOWS WHO THEY ARE. IT'S TOO LATE TO KNOW IT. DEATH WARRIORS WITHOUT FEAR. DESTROYING ALL AROUND. THEY ARE BACK, BACK TO KILL. WITH VIOLENCE AND BLOODSHED!!!" The CD also carries with it a bonus, an accompanying mini video for the opening track 'Serpent's Sky Secrets' recorded live at The Grillen, Friday October 13th, 2006. The wonders of technology never cease! Band contact: BLOODY SIGN c/o Uibo, 47 rue Basse, 68420 Gueberschwihr, France or uibokalevi@hotmail.com. Label: www.ibexmoonrecords.com

Wes Rhodes

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BLOODY SIGN
The 3rd Escape (7” EP)
(Blood Harvest Records)

After releasing a couple of demotapes, 2 full-length recordings and some split-releases it was time for another recording from French masters of fast and blasting, yet obscure and morbid Death Metal - BLOODY SIGN. I can remember that I saw them live about almost 2 years ago and they had a huge impact on me. OK, here I’m about to talk about their recently released 7” EP “The 3rd Escape” out on Blood Harvest Records from Sweden. 3 tracks of utterly fast, weird and obscure Death Metal with a riffstructure not normal in the common Death Metal-understanding. Honestly spoken the riffs are amazing here, hardly find a band to compare them with, still it’s more than clear that they take most of their influences from such dark outfits as MORBID ANGEL or IMMOLATION as many others, too. But I’m amazed, this band puts such weird tunes inside their songs. Again we are talking about a band which is not new to the scene and proves to stay loyal to the underground Death Metal scene for more than 10 years now, nevertheless taking the opportunity to sharing the stage with such bigger names as INCANTATION, IMMOLATION, KRISUIN or VITAL REMAINS all over Europe. BLOODY SIGN are for sure a band to keep an eye on and we can look forward to the vinyl release of their 2nd full-length record “Explosion Of Elements” on Blood Harvest Records later this year. Blood Harvest Records is also the label responsible for this release therefore better get in touch with them soon and buy this piece of vinyl as long as it is available. www.bloodharvest.se

Thomas Ehrmann

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BLOODY SIGN
Chaos Echoes
(Blood Harvest Records)
46:44min

With their third full-length opus “Chaos Echoes”, France’s dark ambient Death Metal artists BLOODY SIGN provide a rich and textured listening experience that challenges the open-mindedness of the Death Metal fan while not completely alienating the purist. Here you’ll find waves of amorphous dissonance, scores of watery diminished fifths, meandering song structures, numerous and varied vocal experiments, sparing use of keyboards and tape effects, dirge-like Doom Metal, and a creeping sense of wonder and mystery throughout. Underneath its curiosities, “Chaos Echoes” possesses a brutal Death Metal backbone that is furiously delivered with power, speed, and accuracy, though it is chiefly the throttling drums that provide the Death Metal feel as the prevailing minor chord riffing seems reminiscent of second-wave Black Metal experimentalists like EMPEROR, SATYRICON, and ENSLAVED (note: you could probably add AUTOPSY, INCANTATION, IMMOLATION, and old MAYHEM, along with LED ZEPPELIN and mid-'70s-era MILES DAVIS as reference points to get a better idea of just what to expect from this record). BLOODY SIGN show that they are an advanced group quite willing to push beyond the typical formulas into unusual realms of discursiveness and indulgence. On the plus side, their attention to dynamics is commendable, as is the suggestion of ebb and flow in their songwriting. Now for the downside - at times they’re dabbling with something like free jazz. You’ll hear them suddenly digress from a pummeling Death Metal section and land on a diminished chord on to which they adorn flourishes of improvisational-style guitar noodlings, and it must be said: a few of these parts sound like you just stepped into the local music emporium after school has let out, ugh! I’m guessing (considering the album title) that these moments serve to further embellish the chaos concept and loosen things up a bit, but personally, I could do without that kind of nonsense. This is an intriguing and recommendable album not in spite of its avantegarde-esque experimental trappings - which are manifold and in many cases quite interesting - but because the unfortunate ones do not intrude too often and its beating heart of brutal darkness holds this listener’s interest and commands his respect. For further information, visit www.myspace.com/bloodysign or www.bloodharvest.se.

Leonard Likas

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BLOT MINE
Ashcloud
(Metal Fortress Entertainment)
41:28min

I was quite surprised when I held BLOT MINE's second album in my hands because I thought this would never happen. This first class Swedish Black Metal outfit was founded by some ex - SETHERIAL members back in 1995 and released a real impressive demo tape one year later. Finally the band was able to unleash their debut album upon the dark souls out there in 1999 but unfortunately "Porphyrogenesis" turned out a little bit mediocre. When you consider the incredible songwriting abilities of this squad this one was a small disappointment. So I thought this Swedish Hellsquad already split up but luckily they are back with a vengeance. "Ashcloud" is a killer of an album for people who are into fast, brutal yet melodic Black Metal. The new material can be compared to bands like MARDUK, DARK FUNERAL but especially to old SETHERIAL (imagine their "Nord" album without keyboards). This comparison is just a hint as this horde has its own unique identity and way how to write songs (which many outfits out there will be never able to achieve). The melodies are cold and eerie, the riffing is brillant and the rhythm section crushes everything. Six of the eight tracks are played at incredible speed, highlighted by impressive breaks and slow downs. 'Right Of Way' is a kind of very slow, creepy song with a haunting atmosphere and eerie melodies. Just the last song 'Bolted Down (And Dying)' is superfluous I think (a kind of atmospheric instrumental outro) but that's just a matter of taste I guess. The sound quality is perfect, powerful and like a slap in your face. The production was done by Tommy Tägtgren in the mighty Abyss Studios which is a trademark for professional and high quality recordings. I can highly recommend this item here so don't hesitate to get in touch either with the label at www.metalfortress.com or the band itself at www.blotmine.com

Michael Oelschlegel

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BLUDGEON
Crucify The Priest
(Magic Circle Music / Metal Blade Records)
40:13min

Honestly spoken, I usually don’t really give a shit whether a band managed to get a well known person to produce their debut album or not, as their material should speak on its own in the first place. But in BLUDGEON’s case things were a little different nevertheless. The reason for my curiosity was the name Joey DeMaio, who usually handles the bass duties for True Metal masters MANOWAR and - as far as I know, hasn’t done anything like this before. BLUDGEON is also the first band that got signed to MANOWAR’s newly founded label Magic Circle Music, so I expected at least a little bit of quality here. And the twelve tracks didn’t let me down at all. BLUDGEON have created a very powerful form of oldschool Death / Thrash with great riffing and a very energetic overall approach. This is not the usual 100mph type of music, it’s very well composed and full of interesting twists and turns, never missing the necessary old Metal feel nor heaviness or aggression. It’s extremely hard to exactly track these guys down musically, but I assure you that Death Metal fans will appreciate their music in the same way as longtime Metal worshippers (who already might worship the cool oldschool looking cover art). BLUDGEON have simply created a really exciting mixture of heavy material that will easily keep your attention throughout the entire record - a fact which should be another evident proof of their qualities as this unfortunately happens very rarely these days…   

Frank Stöver

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BLUT AUS NORD
The Mystical Beast Of Rebellion
(Oaken Shield)
41:17min

"The Mystical Beast Of Rebellion" is the third album of french BLUT AUS NORD already. Compared to the predecessors it is slightly different again. The first album "Ultima Thule" contained atmospheric old school Black Metal with a pagan and symphonic touch (comparable to TROLL's "Drep De Kristne"). The second album "The Father Of The Icy Age" came with a more complex and at the same time hymnic type of nordic Black Metal. Now the new album comes with very raw, ugly and sick Black Metal. The songwriting has become more primitive and fascinates by the calculated use of monotous riffs, chords and rhythms. It is because of this that the new songmaterial creates a totally inhuman, cold, mechanical, hypnotic and psychedelic darkness. Speaking of darkness, this album comes with the blackest booklet I have ever seen. Absolutely fitting to the overall sound, especially considering the fact that this is a Black Metal release (you'll undestand if you have got the booklet in your fingres...). This album should appeal to fans of JUDAS ISCARIOT (among others of course). Recommendable work of untrendiness.

Thomas Georg

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BLUT AUS NORD
Memoria Vetusta II (Dialogue With The Stars)
(Candlelight Records)
60:01min

The French based BLUT AUS NORD are one of the few bands which are constantly trying to set new musical standards without being too much concerned about the scene and their understanding of the term Black Metal. And even if their first releases under the Candlelight banner – more or less the second era of the band after releasing the first handful of recordings via purely underground labels – are not really my cup of beer due to strong experiments with Drone / Dark Ambient elements is their latest release in some way like a return to long forgotten shores. “Memoria Vetusta II“ is the follow up to the second BLUT AUS NORD album (released in 1996 via Impure Creations Records and re-released in 2005 by Candlight) and the album is bringing back the great times of (Norwegian) Black Metal. Before I'm going into detail please be advised that even if there are some musical parallels with other bands that this album is offering something unique far away from any claims of copykill. The 9 tracks of “Memoria Vetusta” are majestic Black Metal in its purest form and the under title “Dialogue With The Stars" is another perfect description of the music. Just imagine the great times of ARCTURUS and EMPEROR and the atmosphere of songs like 'Rodt Og Svart' and 'The Majesty Of The Nightsky'. The major difference to so many other releases these days is that the atmosphere is not completely depending on the keys and that the guitar work is so strong that a whole scene will be more than impressed. This album is for sure a surprise especially after the BLUT AUS NORD releases “The Work Which Transforms God” and “Mort” but everybody which has grown up within the second / third wave of Norwegian Black Metal is no longer in the position to advise that this music is long dead and that nothing can bring back these ‘glorious’ times – this is the proof of the contrary and I really hope that BLUT AUS NORD will forget for some time their aim to explore new territory. www.candlelightrecords.co.uk, www.blutausnord.com

Matthias Auch

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BLUTVIAL
I Speak Of The Devil
(Spikefarm Records)
51:42min

And sometimes they return – and if somebody is recreating the glorious times of Norwegian Black Metal in such a remarkable way a band like BLUTVIAL is deserving my deepest respect. The album can be easily summarised as a tribute to the last decade of Norwegian Black Metal  - this starts with a typical (in this case a positive world) black & white cover , the sound is not too clean and when it comes to the presented music the former Trondheim legions like KEEP OF KALESSIN & BLOODTHORN and without doubt also MAYHEM (everything they released before 1997) are shining brightly at the horizon. I’m not completely sure if BLUTVIAL can be called a band due to involvement of their members is several other entities for example <CODE> but one thing is certain – that in the last 10 years not a single British band has released a more convincing release. If it comes to the ten commandments of Black Metal – things like Black Metal must sound ugly, raw, misanthropic etc.- you can find at least 9 on “I Speak Of The Devil”. This is no mass-compatible product this is Black Metal – so what should I say more - Amen! www.myspace.com/blutvial, www.spinefarm.fi

Matthias Auch

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BOLT THROWER
Honour -Valour - Pride
(Metal Blade Records)
45:37min

You didn't really expect any musical changes from BOLT THROWER, did you? But you were skeptical whether new recruited, and former BENEDICTION frontman Dave Ingram would manage to fill in the shoes of Karl Willetts?! Yeah, same here... Especially because of the fact that I didn't really like Dave's vocals in the past too much. Well, I still don't, but at least gotta admit that he's delivering a far more convincing job in BOLT THROWER than he did in his old band. Could that be due to the fact that BOLT THROWER are simply writing the better material?! I don't know… But I know for sure that with "Honour - Valour - Pride" these british warmongers have already unleashed their 7th full length of high class material in the history of the band. The album exactly follows the tradition of BOLT THROWER's previous outbursts and therefore should easily satisfy the needs of all their diehard fans. To me, BOLT THROWER somehow have created a sub genre within Death Metal, which doesn't exist yet, but which I would like to name "Bulldozer Metal" here. Their music just grinds you down in a similar vein. Consequently you won't find any blast beats on the entire record, but the extremely heavy riffing of Gavin Ward and Barry Thomson in combination with the driving rhythm section courtesy of Jo Bench and drummer Martin Kearns is far more devastating anyway and without mercy easily crushes everything in sight. Lyrically, as well as visually (just have a look at the incredible new frontcover artwork), BOLT THROWER once again went for the war topic, which may have been adopted by several Black Metal bands lately as well, but it never fitted as good to any of them as it still fits to BOLT THROWER's music. So, to cut the crap - even though Karl's vocals are sadly missed, this is still another excellent record, which certainly won't disappoint any traditional Death Metal fan!

Frank Stöver

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BOLT THROWER
Those Once Loyal
(Metal Blade)
39:32min

Memory is a funny function of the brain, to have this ability to retain information based on duration, nature and retrieval of perceived issues and items. And we all have the capability to gather this data from long lost moments in time. To me Death Metal brings back a lot of these distinctive jiffies, remarkably Death, Obituary and Bolt Thrower. It brings back memories of the late 80s and the battles of bands between friends and foes. Foes, those ill-natured poisoned spirits with roots deep down on churchly ground; friends, those once loyal standing with the banners high. A battle between children from the kingdom of heaven and rebel kids from the outskirts of the firmament. Anyway, just a brief glimpse of how things used to be. Still things haven't actually changed much since those twenty years. Bolt Thrower is back on the battlefield with a vengeance and finally Karl Willetts is back on vocals, something I eagerly longed for, because to me personally Dave Ingram was not the voice of the Bolt Thrower rampage. Dave did an excellent job, oh yes he did, but Karl has the voice to put the Bolt Thrower machinery in the crushing strike down mode. I can't think of any other Metal band giving this kind of mental and physical rush of fever; the biased sound, the typically leading guitar riffs, massive rolling overdrive of drum groove is the trademark of classic Bolt Thrower. Just pick any of their albums and it still has the same infectious vibe. They never let you down. How many similar bands do you know? Not a single one! No other Death Metal act has the same penetrating power and driving force of uniformity. Some things can remain precious and permanent without the touch of obligatory renewals. You know which prestigious warmachine is loyal, and it rolls for victory and pride. This is the first time when not even voiceovers can ruin the day.

Kenny Strömsholm

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BOLZ'N
Bolz'n (7” EP)
(Ulan Bator)
aprox. 8:40min

Blast! More or less accidentally I discovered this four piece as they played a gig in my town and the description sounded somewhat interesting… and BOLZ'N (an abbreviated form of the German word for either “bolt” or “to slam” ) rip your head off, dammit! Technical, hectical, twisted and intense Grindcore / Mathcore of such a ferocity which pulverizes quite some of the bands of a similar style on Relapse. The band is described as being somewhere between DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and CREATION IS CRUCIFIXION which is not too far off the point – I would also throw in PIG DESTROYER and DISCORDANCE AXIS to round up the picture a bit. The special thing with BOLZ'N is, however, that they definitely focus on an utterly brutal hybrid of complex modern Grindcore with jazzy technicality and odd time signatures. Much to my joy the band does not showcase any audible traces of Hardcore but focuses on their demanding own style, which also incorporates the skilled (! – as it is not the norm with many brutal groups) use of samples here and there. One further special thing is the seethingly aggressive vocal delivery of the front woman, ranging from high screeches to manic screams as well as mid-ranged grunting. I must really say that this band obviously outshines some of their influences by far. All four songs on this EP are in German, some titles are which seem to be of an abstract and quite personal kind, yet definitely avoiding any “emo” trappings. As to be expected with this music, you don't get a coverartwork with human body parts in decompositions but some neat abstract digital graphics which remotely look like a toned down version of Stephen O'Malley's work. People into the aforementioned bands as well as more straightforward acts as NASUM or RELEVANT FEW should make themselves familiar with BOLZ'N! A full length seems to be on its way and I will definitely go for that one – you can get your hands on that EP in the meanwhile! Check out some songs off this release (namely '666 Hektopascal' and 'Totstellen' on http://server4.hxcmp3.com/bands/33495/index.php as the regular site at www.bolzn.org still has to be updated. For inquiries about actual releases and shirts contact the band directly at: balkanbastard@bolzn.org. 

Ulrich Kreienbrink

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BOMBS OF HADES
Carnivores (7”EP)
(Blood Harvest Records)
14:17min

This is something I have waited for since many many years: a musician from one of the most underrated Swedish Death Metal bands founded a new band playing Death Metal the old way. Here we are not talking about a bunch of youngsters trying to play like their influences; here we are talking about an influence. The main figure in BOMBS OF HADES is Jonas Stålhammar, former main-songwriter from my all-time-faves MACABRE END / GOD MACABRE, and he succeeds 100% in what he tries to play: “some kind of oldschool Death Metal à la 1985-1990” (quote: BOMBS OF HADES’ myspace-page). Next to Jonas (who played in ABHOTH and UTUMNO, too) there’s Magnus Forsberg (former member of TRIBULATION and probably Sweden’s tapetrader #1 in the late 80s and early 90s according to Daniel Ekeroth!) and Anders Ekman (former member of ABHOTH). Does this make BOMBS OF HADES somekind of an “all star" Death Metal band? Guess not, but they are part of the Death Metal underground history and that needs respect! The first time I heard the BOMBS OF HADES tunes on their myspace-page I simply couldn’t await to hold something official in my hands as the songs sounded so refreshing and great. I can hear the GOD MACABRE vibe living on in these tracks especially when talking about the guitar work and solos. It's five songs which you get here in the Swedish Death Metal sound around 1985-90 as written above and if there’s one definite successor of GOD MACABRE it can only be BOMBS OF HADES. From my point of view I’m sure a good deal won’t last too long as the time is right again for oldschool Death Metal. The question is if the guys here are taking the whole stuff serious enough or if they just see it as an extensive hobby? Perhaps an upcoming interview with them will answer this question among others but the most important fact here is that it’s oldschool Death Metal time here again and Blood Harvest Records are the ones to praise once more as they financed another awesome release and soon-to-be-classic. Check this marvellous 7”EP out as long as it is available. Sooner or later it could be as rare as GOD MACABRE’s “Consumed By Darkness”! www.bloodharvest.se

Thomas Ehrmann

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BONDED BY BLOOD
Feed The Beast (+ Bonus CD)
(Earache Records)
50:07min

Currently there's quite a lot of talk going on about a big Thrash revival, but as so often the quality of most of the bands that had already jumped on the bandwaggon is not really worth a mention. From all the so-called "new hopefuls" that I have checked out lately (no need to mention any names here), none would certainly ever be able to continue on what acts like FORBIDDEN, EXODUS, DEATH ANGEL, TESTAMENT, VIO-LENCE and the likes had so successfully started back in the 80s. They all just sounded totally boring, uninspired and often even ridiculous to me... But luckily there also seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel, cause a very young bunch (18 years old in average!) from Pomona / Los Angeles, California has delivered their highly impressive debut full length via Earache Records most recently. Adopting BONDED BY BLOOD as the band's moniker was of course very couragous as it is linked with one of the best Thrash Metal albums of all time, but these guys surprisingly did live up to those high expections as "Feed The Beast" turns out to be a very strong musical statement from start to finish! All elements that originally made Thrash Metal so successful and enjoyable can be found in their songwriting: lots of speed, razorsharp riffing, great soloing, an extremely tight rhythm section, a cool vocal delivery (that is way beyond the totally overused KREATOR type screaming and more in the classic Baloff meets Schmier type direction) and an overall very high level of intensity. The album by no means sounds like an effort from a band that had just formed in the summer of 2005, but almost more like an undiscovered gem from the glorious days of the Bay Area. There's so many ingredients to discover that recall the best moments of "The Ultra-Violence", "Forbidden Evil", "Bonded By Blood" / "Fabulous Disaster" and "Eternal Nightmare" that it's a real pleasure to listen to the album over and over again (which is pretty easy as it's just about 40 minutes long). No surprise that the band already won a "Battle Of The Bands" contest (which included over 250 bands) very early in their career. Ever since they had played out live countless times and already shared the stage with heavy weights such as TESTAMENT, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, SADUS and EXODUS (to name but a few). Before they finally got signed by Earache Records they had already recorded a demo in 2006 ("Four Pints Of Blood") and a self-financed EP in late 2007 ("Extinguish The Weak") which I would really like to check out as well now… Anyway - if you're looking for a band that plays the good old-fashioned Bay Area Thrash with the same amount of enthusiasm and aggression as the forerunners of the genre, you gotta check out BONDED BY BLOOD! By the way - the first edition of "Feed The Beast" also includes a very cool looking bonus CD with two additional tracks ('Severe Violation' and 'Unusual Punishment'), so make sure to get that one quick (available here)! www.myspace.com/bondedbyblood, www.earache.com

Frank Stöver

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BONE AWL
Night Is Indifferent 7” EP
(Klaxon Productions)
about 13:10min

Bone Awl, the first assault from Klaxon Productions of California, is harsh, raw, and almost unlistenable Black fuckin’ Metal. The best way to describe these five tracks of seething hatred is to take two parts Carpathian Forest, one part Burzum, add some lyrics that (for once) don’t break every rule of English grammar, crank the upper mid-range and high end on the mixing desk, and Bone Awl will come blasting forward. The music is mostly fast, fairly tight, and utterly hateful – ideal for the younger Black Metal crowd. Professionally printed folding cardstock cover with some rather tasteless art / photos, all ornamented with gothic script text. The Totenkopfs mit Eichenlaub are more than a little predictable for this kind of Black Metal, but probably par for the course. Issued in a limited edition of 400 copies. Contact klaxon666@sbcglobal.net.

Charles Keller

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BONE AWL
Not For Our Feet (Promo Cassette)
(NWN!)
approx.20min

Intense, minimalist, unrelenting Punk / Metal. Definitely BONE AWL's best so far. Strong production, good (sick) lyrics, memorable songs. The only drawback is that the vocals could have been louder in the mix. A perfect cross between THE MISFITS and early BATHORY. This needs to be on LP and CD.

Charles Keller

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BONE GNAWER
Feast Of Flesh
(Pulverized Records)
34:12min

Some call him enemy, some call him friend, but like it or not, Kam Lee's role in Death Metal history should remain uncontested after the good work he's done with MASSACRE. After he left DENIAL FIEND, Mr. Lee apparently wasted no time in keeping himself active. BONE GNAWER, his latest (and possibly best after DENIAL FIEND) is not so much a band as a blood-drenched partnership between Swedish veterans Rogga Johanson (EDGE OF SANITY), Morgan Lie (NAGLFAR) and Ronnie Bjornstrom (RIBSREAPER). Having a composition that's 75% percent Swedish, it's really no surprise that "Feast Of Flesh" sounds like a modern Swedish Death Metal album. However, the album, it should be noted, only sounds modern. Analog studios are a thing of the past, but oldschool songwriting is not. The riffs these four men present are mid-paced, accompanied by plenty of D-beat and double bass. In other words, the songs are not super sonically fast, which means there's more room for character, something technical music lacks. As an added bonus, guest appearances are made by Killjoy of NECROPHAGIA, Stevo of IMPETIGO and Dopi of MACHETAZO. www.myspace.com/bonegnawerband

Nat Shapiro

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BONE GNAWER / BONESAW
Split CD
(Aphelion Productions)
19:00min

Two hungry and rotten bands who have more in common than their slightly similar names, namely performing brutal and heavy music! BONE GNAWER, which takes care of the first half, will be familiar by most of you by now. If not, in short: this is a Swedish Death Metal band featuring two well known figures in the underground: PAGANIZER's (and tons of other bands / projects) Rogga Johansson on guitars and Kam Lee from MASSACRE on vocals. But also(!) Morgan Lie from NAGLFAR on drums and Ronnie Bjornstrom (RIBSPREADER e.a.) on guitars, who of course deserve as much credits as their two comrades. They already released a full length this year on Pulverised Records called "Feast Of Flesh". The three tracks on this split 'And Now The Terror Starts', 'Cannibal Confessions' and 'Hacked-N-Slashed' are brutal, simple and compelling. Ranging from slow to midtempo, with a vibe that had my head nod easily. Not really catchy riffs but decent and most of all brutal. Something I've experienced more with Mr. Johansson's style lately. All three have this same crawling, sleazy and grinding monotonous formula. In 'Cannibal Confessions' it's almost too repetitive (I expected a brutal blastbeat after each break… which never came) but in 'Hacked-N-Slashed' it works! The production is thick and heavy. Kam Lee's vocals are very enjoyable! Brutal and deep with some sick draws and double layers. Well done and good to hear his typical, marvellous growl. They fit perfect to these tunes and definitely add that extra edge to them that probably no one else can. Musicwise cool and fitting in the line of latest RIBSPREADER, PAGANIZER, MAIM and likes. On to the second half. BONESAW from the UK already released two EPs and a split with ABSCESS. Most members are part of FESTER (UK) and ABLACH. Their three tracks have some sort of Crust/Core vibe especially in the last two. More energetic (but less suffocating) than the BONE GNAWER marterial and they both fit well together on this disc. 'Voices From Within' reminded me of MACABRE, BENEDICTION, while 'Filthy Christian' and 'Behind The Glass' brought up THE RAVENOUS, EXTREME NOISE TERROR on some levels. Quite a variating comparison but that's what BONESAW offer in these 9 minutes. Two quality bands stuck in a room with each other, like in a scene from a SAW movie. But instead of killing each other they would probably both be having fun slashing and cannibalising Jigsaw. Don't know any price, but check www.myspace.com/bonesawuk, www.aphelionproductions.net.

Michael Tak

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BONESAW
Sawtopsy
(Aphelion Productions)
31:56min

Fuck the objectivity on this one! I'm a fan of these Scottish sickos and after a couple splits and demos, finally time has come for a debut full length from BONESAW! Having Sid Brew (guitars) from now defunct Death Metal schizoids KORPSE in their ranks was another factor which stired my interest towards this band and they fuckin' blew my mind. Basically, one can sum up BONESAW in three words - ugly, raw and twisted! And it's Death fuckin Metal! With some Punk and Doom riffs thrown in so that you, short attention span cunts, wouldn't get bored too quickly. Drawing influences from AUTOPSY, ABSCESS, G.G. ALLIN, DISCHARGE and even aforementioned KORPSE, this beast ploughs through your ears like rogue psychopath on rampage. Songtitles like 'Kill Fuck And Eat', 'Zombified', 'Psychoward Fuckfest' speak for themselves, no country ballads here, just balls-tearing, skull-smashing, bone-crushing, gut-wrenching Death Metal with weird little twists here and there, making unique BONESAW style. Just listen to 'Granite Hell' to see what I mean. Slow, punishing start gives an impression of dark, damp place where people are skinned and killed ruthlessly, and then - bang - full-on fast, unrelenting attack in the vein of rotten AUTOPSY worship, fuckin priceless!! The sound is dirty and filthy, but clear enough to discern between all instruments, not like some noisy mush or overpolished turd. This is highly recommended for Death Metal freaks looking for a killer dose of sonic filth! BUY OR DIE!!! www.myspace.com/bonesawuk, www.aphelionproductions.net

Mindaugas "Plix" Lapinskas

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BONGZILLA
Amerijuanican
(Relapse Records)
42:44min

To make it short: I don't think this release really fits into the VOICES concept. I never liked the Relapse-line signing retro Stoner Rock bands like ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY, HIGH ON FIRE and BONGZILLA. This is what you get on "Amerijuanican“: unoriginal, fuzzy, boring and uninspired Stoner Rock with some Sludgecore elements and a wannabe-as evil-as-IMMORTAL's-Abbath-Doom-Osomething Blackmetal “singer“. If you want Sludge go for EYEHATEGOD, if you want Stoner Rock go for KYUSS and if you want Back Metal go for BEHERIT: at last they didn't know better. www.relapse.com. The CD is on sale here. 

Tim Klöcker

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