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WIND OF THE BLACK MOUNTAINS
Black Sun Shall Rise
(Moribund Records)
35:04min
Anyone
out there who has been interested in American Black Metal the last
couple of years??? I definitely did not care much about the US Black
Metal scene and focused on the Death Metal underground, but I think
it is time for a change of mind, because bands like SUMMON, IBEX
THRONE, THORNSPAWN, BLACK WITCHERY and now WIND OF THE BLACK
MOUNTAINS are so fucking great that American Black Metal may not
longer be overseen!!! “Black Sun Shall Rise” is WIND OF THE
BLACK MOUNTAINS’s second full-length CD and impresses by combining
harsh Death & Thrash Metal riffs and rhythms, that remind me of
MORBID ANGEL as well as KREATOR, with intense and grim screams. This
hateful mixture is not only technically absolutely perfect, but also
manages to create this unique raw and blasphemous Black Metal
feeling many bands today are not able to deliver anymore (especially
those from Scandinavia). Where a lot of Black Metal acts nowadays
try to be extreme and provocative by using NS-symbols (Fuck those
Idiots!) and tend to be musically ultra-primitive, WIND OF THE BLACK
MOUNTAINS crushes them with ease by concentrating lyrically on the
essence of blasphemy and hatred of all that is Christian. Songs like
‘Blackest Pitch’, ‘An Autumn Evening’ or ‘Frost Of The
Diabolical Forest’ (incl. cool drum Intro) embody the power and
drive of Death Metal and the intensity and darkness of Black Metal
equally. Even the cover of SODOM’s ‘Blasphemer’ is very good
and definitely beats LUCIFERION’s attempt at it. Death Metal fans
who are bored by Death / Grind and consider Black Metal primitive
should give WIND OF THE BLACK MOUNTAINS a chance, Black Metal
maniacs bored by the European scene should love the honest,
energetic and totally blasphemous style of this band. US Black Metal
shall conquer!!! Email Contact:
wotbm666@hotmail.com,
Website:
http://wotbm.topcities.com
.
On sale here .
Stefan
Franke
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WINDS OF TORMENT
Delighting In Relentless Ignorance
(Mascot Records)
49:06min
WINDS OF TORMENT are a self-proclaimed melodic Death Metal band from Saint-Etienne, France. After listening to the
CD a few times melodic Death Metal just doesn’t quite describe this music accurately. This stuff is all over the place. Take the song
'The Other' for instance, following an acoustic interlude all of the sudden the music gets heavier at about the 1:10 mark and it sounds exactly like
Opeth (when I say exactly I mean exactly, the guy growls just like Mikael Akerfeldt) for the next 45 seconds until the song abruptly shifts gears and all of the sudden it’s some melodic
Thrash Metal. While these are not the only two styles that the band uses most songs on the
CD use the same technique of blending together sometimes completely different styles of
Metal. The technical prowess of the band is undeniable and as usual I payed close attention to the drummer who does a wonderful job especially considering all the different styles of music he must play and I also really enjoyed the guitars. At the end of the day though, this album leaves me a little unsatisfied. It’s just that too many times I would find myself enjoying a passage of a song only to have it change abruptly. I very rarely really like albums like this but I know there is a segment of people out there who would probably eat this stuff up. Other than the randomness of the music I also didn’t care for all of the vocals. I would assume that several members of the band sing, because some of the vocals sound too different to be the same person. One of the guys has a perfect growl though (like I said earlier, imagine Akerfeldt). Bottom line, if you like your music to be a juxtaposition of different styles then you might want to check these guys out. At least these guys are doing their own thing. You can find info about the band at the following
websites:
www.windsoftorment.com,
www.myspace.com/windsoftorment,
www.mascotrecords.com
Michael Kersten
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WINTERBLUT
Das Aas (Demo)
(Werke S)
approx. 30min
While other Black Metal bands come up with hard and evil phrases, shitty and wimpy CDs which are passionless thrown onto the market, some others such as WINTERBLUT release really individual stuff, silently but constantly, sometimes as a demo, sometimes as a complete full-length album. The demotape we deal
with here is called "Das Aas" and was unleashed in 2004, and this is really morbid. Musically WINTERBLUT move in slow and somehow strange rhythmic areas here, combined with simple and at times monotonous riffing this demo pulls you down into really sick spheres. The sound perfectly fits this atmosphere, it is rehearsal-like and raw but nevertheless surprisingly clear which I like very much and also shows that
L'hiver, the man behind WINTERBLUT, knows what he wants and what he is doing here. You can even hear any note the bass-guitar plays in its morbid manner. Yes, there we have it again, "morbidity" and atmosphere are the strength of "Das Aas" and let many other bands look like pale shades. Let me add that all instruments are real instruments here, even the drums, unlike many other one-man projects. "Are you morbid?" Yes? Then go for this demotape and risk 5 Euro at:
www.winterblut.de,
winterblut@hotmail.com
Andi Bauer
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WINTERHORDE
In Traditions Of Winter
(Demo)
(self-financed)
20:55min
Israel has always been an obscure and even a bit mystery-filled
country to me when it comes to Heavy Metal. Over the years I have
become familiar with only a small bunch of bands from that country
(shame on me!), SALEM, ORPHANED LAND, BISHOP OF HEXEN and MELECHESH
(the true GODZ!!) coming to my mind first on top of the pile.
WINTERHORDE, this 6-piece Black / Death Metal band, is the next
Israelian Metal band that can be added to my small list of bands
coming from that particular country. WINTERHORDE plays sort of a
combination of both Black – and Death Metal, sounding some of
those melodic yet still quite aggressive Swedish Black / Death Metal
bands out there (Naglfar and
Sacrilege especially)
that now defunct Swedish label Black Sun Records put out in the mid
'90s, with a dose of hints that could be thrown to Dimmu
Borgir's direction with a fair justification – thanks to
the keyboard element in their sound. I have to admit that the guys
are pretty darn good at what they do even if they are far from being
any original sounding act or even trying to “re-invent the
steel” again. But like I said they obviously have some ear for
cool and somewhat catchy song structures as this 4-song offering
proves it so clearly. 'Mother's Blood' is strongly a riff-laden tune
and has actually lots of great things going on in it, reminding me
of the Swedish Death / Black Metal invasion of the mid '90s period.
Also pretty much the same words could be used for the next song
titled 'The Earth Is An Altar'. It also has a strong Swedish vibe
being wrapped all over it – and bands like Nalgfar
and Sacrilege has
this familiar tendency to cross your mind more than just
occasionally only which necessarily ain't that bad thing after all.
'Raven's On Lucifer's Throne' is a pretty furiously raging track as
well with a few mid tempo parts here and there, without doing any
that drastic miracles structure-wise, however. The last song on this
very promising 4-track demo, simply being titled 'Winterhorde',
managed to surprise at 1:48 minute mark - and yet again at 2:48
minute mark by bringing up something that is more typical for the
Finnish progressive metallers AMORPHIS. I mean, those folkish and
melancholic keyboard parts in this particular song in the very
question. But they fit to the song very well and seem to work out
sort of an obligatory 'extra spice' for WINTERHORDE's realm of dark
and murky sounds. As for a honest constructive criticism for them
only, the keyboard parts tend to be a bit 'out of place' to my ear
and I might probably enjoy even more from them if they paid more
attention how to arrange the keyboards for their songs just a bit
more carefully and better. The ripping guitars parts play an
essential role in WINTERHORDE's sound which is very nice and
definitely a big plus for them in my opinion. All in all,
WINTERHORDE has already shown its long and sharp beast's claws for
being makers of some killer Black / Death Metal songs that stand out
quite effortlessly and have absolutely proved to be a band to keep
our eyes out for. As we speak, we (hopefully) don't have to wait too
long for their debut album as WINTERHORDE are currently writing and
rehearsing new material for their forth-coming debut album now when
I'm writing this. If WINTERHORDE's debut manages to be anything
along the lines of the songs on their “In Traditions Of Winter”
demo, then I expect no more than a damn killer, strong and rewarding
blackish tour de force from them. I'm glad I took the opportunity to
check them out... \,,/
Website: www.winterhorde.com
Luxi Lahtinen
BACK
WINTER
OF APOCALYPSE
Solitary Winter Night
(Moribund Records)
35:13min
Standard riffing, standard vocals, standard lyrics and layout, this
US Black Metal band that was formed out of the smouldering carcass
of THY INFERNAL (their 2nd album "Warlords Of Hell" is
pretty good!) is not either very bad or very good, it's just another
case of superfluous mediocrity. BURZUM, JUDAS ISCARIOT come to mind,
as well as most other raw mid 90's Black Metal cults that emerged
from the ungodly Northern shores. WINTER OF APOCALYPSE celebrate
this overdone style to 110% and should satisfy total die-hard fans
of this genre, but when I contrast them with acts like FUNERAL MIST,
WATAIN, ARMAGEDDA, DEATHSPELL OMEGA, ONDSKAPT or GRAND BELIAL's KEY
the thought that an ordinary Norsecore-worship is not what I want to
hear anymore. Of course I like this style, but is there really a
need for another band resembling it? But enough verbal bashing at
this band, for at least production-wise "Solitary Winter Night"
is excellent, but being spoiled by some very inspired and inventive
albums lately WINTER OF APOCALYPSE remain a pallid, yet absolutely
solid act, thus I recommend giving them a chance, but you should not
expect any surprises. Sounds at www.moribundcult.com. The CD is on sale
here.
Stefan
Franke
BACK
WITCHBURNER
Incarnation Of Evil
(Undercover Records)
36:49min
Third album, third line-up…
It seems Germany's WITCHBURNER are still struggeling when it comes
to a steady solution of the involved musicians. But all that obviously
didn't really affect their musical path as guitarist Simon Seegel
(the only remaining original member nowadays) luckily managed to
keep the spirit of the band alive, so that "Incarnation Of
Evil" has once again become another true-to-the-bone oldschool
Thrash Metal outburst. Unlike the majority of retro bands that are
around these days, WITCHBURNER always managed to sound very honest
in what they're doing. Their compositions still deliver the same
feeling, atmosphere and production as the old Thrash Metal classics
from the 80s, without the usual pathetic overtones that many releases
of this kind come up with these days. WITCHBURNER don't give a fuck
about trends and will probably still play this raw and energetic
form of Thrash when all the stupid bandwaggon hoppers have already
jumped on the next fashion train on the way into nothingness. The
ten new songs on offer here will easily appeal to everyone of you
out there who stills worships the early releases by SODOM, KREATOR
and the likes. Yes, it's mainly a rather typical form of teutonic
steel that these guys are obssessed by, but as long as they deliver
it in such a fine way, I have no problems with that. And with the
exception of the album closer 'Metal Warriors' (a supposed to be
true Metal hymn-like tune, with a chorus full of unnecessary and
kinda stupid lyrical clichés), there's nothing to complain about
here. Even the picture collage inside the CD booklet looks very
80s like. So, if you still get excited while playing all your old
records, you better make sure to get yourself a copy of "Incarnation
Of Evil" as well. www.witchburner.de.
You may get it here.
Frank Stöver
BACK
WITCHBURNER
German Thrashing War (MCD)
(R.I.P. Records)
19:48min
I think most
people out there already know that WITCHBURNER meanwhile turned into
the band the legendary DESTRUCTION used to be in the 80s. Their
2002 MCD / MLP “German Thrashing War” is the best prove for
that. WITCHBURNER do not fuck around with modern sounds or 08/15
Abyss productions like DESTRUCTION did on their Nuclear Blast debut
nor release partly weak material like the German legend did on
“The Antichrist”. WITCHBURNER focus on the essence of
traditional German Thrash, write killer songs like ‘Arrival Of The
Last Storm’ or ‘Raped In Ecstasy’ and reincarnate the spirit
and drive DESTRUCTION, KREATOR or EXUMER embodied in the glory days
of Thrash Metal! Especially singer Patrick sounds a lot like Schmier
and turns “German Thrashing War” into a great journey through
the past. As a big fan of NWOBHM - bands there’s only one thing I
feel obliged to criticise – the cover of ‘Witchfinder General’
(now ‘Witchburner General’), it’s absolutely horrible!!! But
fuck it, the remaining four songs are excellent German Thrash, well
produced and should make you bang at instant. Start the German
Thrashing War!!! For more information check WITCHBURNER’s homepage
www.witchburner.de
or contact the band using the following email address: witchburner666@web.de.
Stefan Franke
BACK
WITCHBURNER
Final Detonation
(Undercover Records)
40:53min
It's unbelievable how many releases this German five-piece has been
unleashed by now... apart from the regular albums a lot of them
weren't even recognized by me. There's various EPs, split EPs, a
picture disc 10" and so on... And their next, fourth full
length "Final Detonation" is also already ready to hit the
stores again (release date: October 24, 2005). It may sound a little
harsh, but the new material is still as unoriginal as you can get in
every aspect. Musically the whole record just quotes riffings and
songstructures from almost every Thrash Metal classic that has been
released back in the 80s, starting with the more obvious ones by
DESTRUCTION, KREATOR and SLAYER, but if you listen more carefully
you'll also recognize early SACRIFICE, POSSESSED and the likes here
and there. WITCHBURNER combined all that to their own form of
Teutonic Thrash and added a bunch of rather infantile and full of
cliché type lyrics to it, that are always based on the wellknown
mottos "Bang that head that doesn't bang!" and "We
spit on those who chose to pose and thrash with all the rest!".
In song number 5, 'Thrash Till Death' they even created the lyrics
around wellknown album- / songtitles ("Darkness Descends",
"Fistful Of Metal" etc.). The angry vocals come across
like a mixture of Jeff Walker (circa "Heartwork" era
CARCASS), mixed with Tom Angelripper (including the very strong
German accent) and a lot of Schmier – like high pitched notes,
while the production totally delivers the raw oldschool feel that a
lot of the 80s classics made so enjoyable. The result is one of the
most oldschool sounding Thrash releases for quite a while (not even
DESASTER sound this dated!) and you know what? I like it alot (nevertheless)!
There's millions of Black and Death Metal soundalikes around these
days, so where's the problem in coming up with a pure Thrash Metal
record for a change, as long as it sounds this dedicated and
energetic. Mission accomplished I would say... Contact: witchburner666@web.de
Frank Stöver
BACK
WITCHBURNER
Blood Of Witches
(Evil Spell Records)
36:41min
Sometimes a few words are connected with a band, words which got constantly repeated when reading reviews and interviews or talking with friends about the band. In this case the words have been oldschool
Thrash Metal, eighties, SODOM, KREATOR, DESTRUCTION, up-tempo, cliché. Now WITCHBURNER are back with their fifth full-length release and guess what - nothing has changed. Still the same fast played
Thrash Metal with a fierce, aggressive shouter, played with a lot of
enthusiasm and a powerful production that will set your speakers in flames. Needless to write more, since WITCHBURNER are active since 1992 and well-known for releasing superb German Thrash Metal. At least for me it is still surprising how they manage to keep up the energy after all those years, still devoted to good old Thrash Metal without any Punk or Gothic or whatever influences like some other Thrash Metal bands. So all maniacs who are willing to raise the ‘Flag Of Hate’ ‘In The Sign
Of Evil’ should definitely buy this album! www.witchburner.de
Mirco Szymyslik
BACK
WITCHERY
Don’t Fear The Reaper
(Century Media)
45:52min
I've crossed paths
with WITCHERY material when they released their "Dead, Hot &
Ready" '99 album and right from the first glance
I considered them to
be a third rate Thrash, poorly attractive or even hard to spin
twice in my player. Two albums after that
they continue to be as
sterile as before but the only diffence now is that they don't
play their "brand" of Thrash anymore.
It's really hard for me
to point out any positive elements other than the production is
just perfect but that's it, WITCHERY's
boring mid paced songs
drag you from almost falling asleep to the edge of unconciousness.
By swallowing the whole album
several times in order
to comply with the task I think that I "learned" to like
a little bit songs like 'Plague Rider' and
errrrrrrr... mmmmmmm...
only
that one!
It's a fact that beyond
what they do in WITCHERY they are good musicians that were part of
prominent bands back in the
early / late 90s like
SEANCE, SATANIC SLAUGHTER, MERCYFUL FATE but getting together and putting together recycled average riffs
does not help in their
musical careers too much.
If you are looking for
a good investment of your hard earned money get away from this at
all costs. Visit the band at the
century media site.
The album is on sale
here.
Mario Cubero
BACK
WITCHERY
Witchkrieg
(Century Media Records)
37:44min
Four years have passed with not so much as a peep out of WITCHERY.
Now they've returned, with an enormous change in personnel. Legion,
best known for his contributions to MARDUK, is on vocals. His voice
remains undiminished in ferocity after all this time, but it doesn't
sound anything like his old self. If that rings warning bells for
you, let me remind you that this isn't MARDUK, it's some totally
different. Legion would sound very out of place indeed if he tried
to sing Black Metal vocals for Thrash Metal songs. Not only is
Legion present, but so are guest appearances by towering Metal icons
like Kerry King, Lee Altus, Gary Holt, Jim Durkin, Andy Laroque, and
Hank Sherman - all of whom provide guest solos. Sherman and Laroque
in particular make their presence known by transforming the songs
they appear on into MERCYFUL FATE and KING DIAMOND songs, almost
making it seem like WTICHERY is the guest, not the other way around.
The new album is a suitably ferocious effort for a band like
WITCHERY. Newcomers should find the album an appetite-whetting
experience. Long time fans may note that some of the raw bite on the
Necropolis albums is somewhat diminished. Good stuff (...and I bet
my ass that the rather provocative cover artwork / digipack design,
all in true WWII fashion, will piss several people in Germany off
again - Frank). All further info you'll probably find at www.myspace.com/witcherytheband
or www.centurymedia.com
Nat Shapiro
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WITCHES HAMMER
Witches Hammer (7" EP)
(NWN!)
approx. 8min
This is an easy one. Killer late '80s Speed Metal; well played, classic
Thrash Metal style production, cult artwork, great NWN layout. Cool stuff; don't miss
it.
Charles Keller
BACK
WITCHFINDER GENERAL
Buried Amongst The Ruins
(Nuclear War Now! Productions)
38:59min
I'm sure the ones who like classical Doom Metal in the pure BLACK SABBATH way don't need any
introduction when it comes to such a cult band as WITCHFINDER GENERAL, a band which didn't get so much attention as others like PENTAGRAM, SAINT VITUS or COUNT RAVEN, but that doesn't mean they
didn't deserve it. Luckily Nuclear War Now Productions, on their usual tendency of recovering old
and obscure recordings from underground bands, released this compilation CD on which we can find, first and most important, the "Soviet Invasion" EP,
of which the main song is already worth the purchase of it (with a really cool acoustic part and the typical SABBATHical vocals in the beginning and then turning into a harder
and more rocking part). But the two other tracks, 'Rabies' and a live version of
'R.I.P.' are great too; and then four live recordings from 1981 ('Satan's
Children', 'Rabies', 'Phantasmagorical' - which is unreleased - and
'Soviet Invasion') and two tracks from their very first single, 'Burning A
Sinner' and 'Satan's Children'. The production of the studio tracks is quite raw and simple, but this was recorded
some years ago and these guys were not a big band which could pay for a
wellknown studio, but it is still quite listenable; even the live tracks are not bad at all on
this aspect. So, every WITCHFINDER GENERAL freak should be really satisfied with this CD after the live album from '83 released from this
label too. For the newcomers, maybe this isn't the best way to discover this fantastic band, but I repeat
what I said before, the 'Soviet Invasion' track is just perfect if you're into this SABBATHical stuff.
www.nwnprod.com
Jeroni Sancho
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WITCHGRAVE
The Devil’s Night (12” EP)
(High-Roller-Records)
13:18min
Without
any biography or info sheet I received this release from
High-Roller-Records. I only checked out their myspace page for at
least a little news around them. According to this little
information I have this is WITCHGRAVE’s first release. The reason
why I wonder about that is the overall original and outstanding
approach this 2-piece outfit presents us on this 4-song mini album.
What you get is old-fashioned Heavy Metal with tendencies to NWOBHM
and a mix somewhere in-between VENOM (vocals, solos, speed) and
MERCYFUL FATE (riffs, atmosphere). Not the worst comparison if you
ask me. I’m really surprised by this output as I didn’t expect
something awesome like this at all. If you read song titles as
‘The Devil’s Night’, ‘Eyes Of The Undead’, ‘Satanic Slut’
and ‘Beg For Mercy’ you can guess what the lyrics deal about. As
the lyrics are not included on this release you can keep it with the
guess. Well, 4 pretty short tunes offered here, perfect for fans of
the 2 mentioned bands, perhaps also something for those pretty
interested in the hype around THE DEVIL’S BLOOD. This band offers
an atmosphere not far away from them, and something completely else.
I’m really fascinated by those 4 tunes and was surprised after the
first listen and can do nothing else than recommend this release to
all of you maniacs out there interested in dark, occult and
old-fashioned Heavy Metal. This is simply outstanding, original and
far too less (due to the short playing time). I keep my eyes open
for a full-length from the WITCHGRAVE and I’m forced to finish
with ‘all thumbs up’. As usual for High-Roller-Records this
release is limited to 500 pcs. Better be fast to order it from www.hho-records.de.
Check out the band at www.myspace.com/witchgrave.
Thomas
Ehrmann
BACK
WITCHING
HOUR
Rise Of The Desecrated
(Evil Spell / Undercover Records)
32:11min
Young German Black Thrash headache maniacs WITCHING HOUR solicit the
horns from those with the addiction to old Thrash Black Metal. The
very name WITCHING HOUR absolutely conjures what you will get:
sodden, principally German-styled acidic early Black / Thrash
madness delivered with skull-hammering beats, roaring oaths, yelping
cries, and wet-brained screams. “Rise Of The Desecrated” is
well-achieved red meat for bloody Thrash fiends who flagellate
themselves after school with the demos and early wax of VENOM, SODOM
and DESTRUCTION. Ave, Satanas! For more info, check out: www.myspace.com/witchinghourthrash,
www.undercover-records.de
Leonard Likas
BACK
WITCHMASTER
Violence & Blasphemy
(Dark Realm Records)
40:04min
This
release is already a bit dated and Poland's WITCHMASTER have a new
album out in the meantime ("Masochistic Devil Worship"),
but due to the fact that we never gave "Violence &
Blasphemy" a mention previously and Dark Realm Records just
re-issued it in the US, it was definitely about time to do so after
all. WITCHMASTER's origin dates back to 1996 when former PROFANUM
members Geryon (guitars / vocals) and Reyash (bass / vocals) decided
to start up something new. With Vitold on drums their first
rehearsal demo "Thrash Or Die" got recorded, followed by
the first studio tape "No Peace At All" in 1997. Due to
the fact that one of those demo songs ended up on a free Pagan
Records compilation CD several labels (including Head Not Found and
Merciless Records) got interested in WITCHMASTER. But instead of
signing with one of them, the band decided to go for Pagan Records
from their homecountry and recorded the debut full length
"Violence & Blasphemy", which - apart from some newer
creations - consists of almost the entire "No Peace At
All" demo material (re-recorded) and a cover of BLASPHEMY's
'Ritual'. Musically WITCHMASTER is heavily influenced by 80's
blackened Thrash Metal and if you listen real carefully, you should
notice a handful of riffs from a quite famous German act of that
period, but never to the extend that it comes across cheap or retro
sounding. WITCHMASTER created a very cool own mixture out of it,
adding several oldschool Death and Black Metal elements to their
songwriting as well, so that "Violence And Blasphemy"
easily stands the test of time. I'm really curious how the band has
developed ever since, as "Masochistic Devil Worship"
features a slightly changed line-up... Reyash and Vitold got
replaced by Shymon on bass and Inferno (BEHEMOTH) on drums, while
the vocals are now handled by Bastis. Further info: http://witchmaster.black.art.pl/
Frank Stöver
BACK
WITCHMASTER
Masochistic Devil Worship
(Pagan Records)
36:46min
I don’t know what
is going on with Pagan Records for the moment, because each of their
CDs is painfully hard to get. They have to do something very fast
otherwise such gems as this sophomore release from the Polish
maniacs of WITCHMASMER could miss its audience, and that would be a
shame. Well, for the reason stated above, I have been unable to get
the first WITCHMASTER offering “Violence And Blasphemy” out
already since 2000, so I can’t obviously compare the two albums
(read Frank’s review of the first effort); suffice it to say that
for now WITCHMASTER are a four piece, with former member Geryon
(ex-PROFANUM) teaming forces with Inferno on drums (yes, THE
Inferno of BEHEMOTH / DAMNATION fame), vocalist Bastis and bassist
Shymon. “Masochistic Devil Worship” is a pure concentrate of raw
Death / Black / Thrash in the old school vein. The not too polished
production suits this kind of release well where only spontaneity
counts. Short and to the point tracks doesn’t give place to
refinement and experimentation, what you get here instead are 13
real songs (discounting three “ambient” and disturbing tracks)
fired point blank at you like as much devastating bullets. Bastis
delivers his vocals in a thrashy manner which perfectly fits with
the not too planned music. All the tracks (including the
covers of SODOM and SARCOFAGO) deal with the theme of sick and
violent bondage that reminds me a lot what ARKHON INFAUSTUS
are used to do, and that may repel some people (I don’t care too
much myself, but some of you could find something of interest in
this). The music appears extremely enjoyable and dare I say fresh
and relaxing due to its lack of intellectualism. Even Inferno, known
for his inhumane abilities on drums, abandons his mechanical
playing here in favor of a lousier approach. Echoes of old SLAYER,
KREATOR, SODOM (obviously…) and even TERRORIZER resound here and
there, tying WITCHMASTER to the tradition of obscure and underground
Metal. This release could become a cult one in the next years thanks
to its uncompromising nature. Having witnessed the band in a live
environment, I can say to you that we are dealing here with a bunch
of dedicated musicians programmed only to destroy. Needless to say
the covers mentioned above do fully justice to the originals, so in
the end, “Masochistic Devil Worship” can appeal to all the
lovers of the scene of old, before the time of the tyranny imposed
on us by greedy labels marketing albums like washing powder. Enter
this dungeon of blackened insanity and obey the Sadogoat!
Edouard Vergriete
BACK
WITCHMASTER
Witchmaster
(Agonia Records)
25:00min
As usual we have this “Had this album been released a decade ago it would have
been a classic…”. Well, I’m sure it would, but as it is released today
I’d say it’s just another Thrash album. And it doesn’t make any impact,
sadly. We get short tracks which are mostly rapid and monotonous. Besides 'Narkotic
Amok' the tracks clock in at less than three minutes, and personally I think
it’s pretty boring to listen to song after song which seems to be exactly the
same track except for the length of the actual track. That the sound is
underground, though still very lever doesn’t make me feel more for the album.
The theme of the album “Never Stop The Madness” doesn’t mean anything to
me as I don’t do drugs. I leave that up to each and everyone without me
supporting either side. Nah, I think Witchmaster
could’ve done way better. On sale
here.
Roy Kristensen
BACK
WITHER
Wither (EP)
(Turannum Records)
14:08min
Although classified as "Funeral Doom", Australian
two-piece, WITHER, stand out when compared to the many other bands
crowding this sub-genre of Metal. WITHER specialize in playing slow,
melodic, and emotionally dense Doom that leans heavily toward their
Black Metal influences. This Black Metal influence is most prevalent
in the vocal delivery and their consistent emphasis on brilliantly
melancholic melodies. Indeed, this EP presents a splendid union of
these two genres to create some of the finest blackened Doom I have
heard, and it further reinforces my belief that Australia has the
strongest and most diverse scene in the world at this time. The
guitars on these tracks employ a steady and rapid strumming style
that stands in contrast to the simplistic drumming technique
resulting in a sound that is magnificently rich and textural.
Furthermore, the production accentuates this contrast by leaving the
drums clean and crisp while the guitars are laden with reverb and
mild distortion. This style of production perfectly compliments the
depth and fullness of the sound upon which the songwriting so
heavily relies for the totality of the effect. WITHER's lush and
full sound builds throughout the tracks and they utilize a highly
nuanced approach to make their use of repetitious parts sound unique
and highly engaging. Side A, which is, in my opinion, the better of
the two sides, features a track entitled 'Metropolitan' that begins
with a monumentally epic and tragic chord progression that is
impossible not to appreciate. Just as the listener is drawn into
this dark atmosphere, the band briefly changes to a riff that evokes
a slight glimpse of light before descending once again beneath a
shroud of opacity. The peak of the track occurs when the song
is dissected into its most elemental form and then adorned with a
simple and elegant solo that serves to reinforce the sense of
solitude the track evokes before it speeds up and
culminates in an intense, faster passage. The track on the second
side of the EP, called 'Anthropolitan', continues in a similar
fashion as the first, and produces a very similar effect. The riffs
on this track are just as powerful and well-constructed; however,
the vocals are less dynamic and therefore add less dimension to the
song than they do on the first side. Nonetheless, this side of the
EP is still extremely well-executed and easily elicits repeat-play.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by this EP and look forward to
hearing more. I question whether this formula can translate into a
full-length release without becoming redundant; however, judging by
the level of musicianship and songwriting on this EP, I tend to
believe WITHER will find ways to expand and alter their sound to
produce more varied recordings in the future, and I am certainly
looking forward to hearing whatever it is they offer up next. witheredpain@gmail.com,
info@turannum.com
Jason Campbell
BACK
WITHERING SURFACE
Walking On Phantom Ice
(Copro Records)
42:12min
Where are all the IN FLAMES clones everybody is so concerned about?
Most of the Melodic Death albums I get for a review sound quite
unique, so what's all that noise about?! WITHERING SURFACE are a
little slower than their country mates (does this word exist?) and
they're less straight forward, some rhythms might even be called
progressive. This word also points to the fact that some of the
songs seem a little odd the first time you listen to it. I even
disliked some of them and wasn't too happy about the idea to put
on the record another time. Right now I can't put it out of the
CD player any more although I should go on with another CD review.
Other songs are catchy (the title track is even a bit too catchy
for my taste), so there is a good variety for a long listening enjoyment.
I still can't get enough of (good) melodic Death Metal!
Ramon Claassen
BACK
WITHERING SURFACE
Force The Pace
(Scarlet Records)
40:46min
To call this album "an unstoppable Death-Thrash assault" sounds
insulting when one calls to mind what Death / Thrash in its original sense is
about and that is definitely not an IN FLAMES-like sound!!! Production,
technical skill, songwriting and variation certainly leave no room for any
complaints on the Danes fourth full-length, but it feels strange to get this
music sold under the stance "Death / Thrash". WITHERING SURFACE create
contemporary, diversified melodic Death with a Thrash riff here and there, but
even extreme Black Metal bands feature thrashing parts, but you would not call
them "Death / Thrash", right? Well, enough stylistical
petty-mindedness, ten tracks and fourty minutes the dedicated listener gets
highly aggressive modern music with some spacy guitar sounds, clear, screamed
and growled vocals and certainly more drive than IN FLAMES delivered on their
newer releases. The melodic elements are catchy and combined with the harsh
riffing and pounding drums add up to a memorable mixture exquisite for the
younger Metalheads out there, so if you are into this kind of music "Force
The Pace" is exactly what you need! For additional infos check the
following links: www.witheringsurface.dk;
www.scarletrecords.it.
On sale
here.
Stefan Franke
BACK
WITHERSHIN
The Hungering Void (MCD)
(Canonical Hours)
15:14min
These days it’s more than difficult to differ between simple black
coal on one side and the raw diamonds of our scene on the other one.
But even if I nearly missed this MCD – the album arrived together
with a handful of fully established bands - the decision where to
locate this rising Swedish Black / Death Metal act is a more than
easy one. WITHERSHIN has been founded in early 2006 and before they
entered Necromorbus Studio to record their third official output
they must have filled this place with “necrophobic” gas
otherwise this release can’t be captured with simple words. Every
fan of the early releases of the triumphirat of Satanic Black Metal
DISSECTION, LORD BELIAL and the my personal gods NECROPHOBIC need to
bow their head because “The Hungering Void” is a 15 minutes
praise to the old gods. Especially the opener 'Wherein I Exalt' is a
song which can compete in the formula one of this style with all the
necessary trademarks – atmospheric guitars, 666% aggression and an
evil eye for a killer chorus. But don’t expect a drop of quality
for the remaining two tracks. The title track is a less than four
minutes grenade which will burn every innocent souls with immediate
effect. If WITHERSHIN are in the position to offer a full release on
this quality level a new black star is born – I’m more than
impressed. www.canonicalhours.com,
www.withershin.se
Matthias
Auch
BACK
WITHIN Y
Extended Mental Dimensions
(Karmageddon Media)
44:19min
After only listening to this album for a few seconds, I could
already guess that Within Y
were a Swedish band because "Extended Mental Dimensions"
really looks (artwork by Niklas Sundin) and sounds totally like a
Swedish product. You can easily hear influences from bands like DARK
TRANQUILLITY, old IN FLAMES and especially AT THE GATES - the
so-called Gothenburg Death Metal so to speak. On the other hand it's
also positive to remark that this band doesn't simply copy their 'idols'
blind but also managed to incorporate quite some modern Thrash
influences. The production of this album (recorded at the Meta 4
studio in Gothenburg) is ok but could be a lot better (especially
the drums sound a bit 'muddy'). Considering the fact that "Extended
Mental Dimensions" is a debut, you really can't call this a bad
album, but on the other hand it also doesn't make me really
enthusiastic as you heard everything already before and especially
way better. Nevertheless all those who have a weak spot for bands
like CARNAL FORGE, DARKANE or SOILWORK will probably like Within
Y as well. You can order a copy
here.
Steven Willems
BACK
WITHOUT END
Promo MCD
(self financed)
12:15min
WITHOUT END is the new home of
the two former HEADLOCK members Adam Tranquilli (guitar &
vocals) and Adam Kiefer (drums & backing vocals) who hooked up
with Tom Lorenzo (on bass & backing vocals) for this project
here in 2001. Considering the long musical experiences of both,
Tranquilli and Kiefer (who already had payed their dues in BLOOD
FEAST and M.O.D. respectively) it shouldn't be a big surprise that
this three tracker already sounds really matured in terms of the
songwriting and production. Just like their former bands WITHOUT END
also emerged from a very Thrash influenced background, with the main
difference probably being the more downtuned and modern guitar
sound, which not only results in a heavier, partly kinda Death Metal
type direction, but here and there unfortunately also includes this
annoying groove that all the current Nu Metal acts are worshipping
so much. Luckily Adam's BLOOD FEAST past still shines through most
of the time though, which from time to time even results in some
really cool SLAYER-esque guitar work. The most difficult thing for
me to get into is his vocal delivery though, which is neither of the
highly aggressive Thrash or Black Metal style nor of the deep Death
Metal grunting (even though there's some backing growls to be
discovered as well). His way of singing is alot closer to what some
of the Hardcore influenced Thrash bands of the 80's often sounded
like (for instence VIO-LENCE and the likes). Unique, especially in
current times, but definitely not everyone's cup of tea for sure. I
personally would have prefered to hear this material with an insane
voice like the one of his old BLOOD FEAST mate Gary Markovitch, but
you can't please everyone of course. The band itself sums it up like
this: "WITHOUT END's approach to their music is a raw bottom
driven pounding force with self-righteous and empowering lyrical
content and raw vocals to top it off. A 3-piece bulldozer!"
I doubt that this release is officially on sale, but never mind,
cause all of the three songs will appear on WITHOUT END's upcoming,
self-titled debut album anyway. Contact:
adamt@pseudoplasma.com
Frank Stöver
BACK
WITNESS
THE END
My Wish Is Your Command
(MCD)
(Rotten
To
The
Core)
12:42min
The first studio release from the Belgian Goregrinders on the Rotten To The
Core label brings us a nice EP. And yes, it’s a blast. You get 6 tracks
smashed right into your face in about 12 minutes and as soon as it's started,
it’s already over again. The songs are well played with nice vocals,
switching between shrieking / screaming and growls and a powerful production
with a lot of pressure. And especially track 5 'Sick And Gore Minded' with a
total length of 22 seconds recalls the good old Napalm
Death "Scum" days. But the main problem is, the songs are
rushing through my mind, but don’t stuck really well because when you are
into the songs the record is already over again. That’s also why it is hard
to write something long about this release. It is too short, so hopefully the
guys come up with a full length record really soon. All Grindcore maniacs are
adviced to check them out here: www.witnesstheend.be
or www.myspace.com/witnesstheend.
Stefan Hagmayer
BACK
WOBURN
HOUSE
Message To Ourselves Outside The Dreaming Machine
(Paradigms Recording)
54:30min
Ah, another gem defying a sound definition, haha. WOBURN HOUSE, the newest
band / project with musicians from ISLAND, KLABUATAMANN, VALBOR and ORBO has
been taken under the wings of Paradigms Recordings, known for releasing
avantgardish and unique acts such as AMBER ASYLUM, WRAITHS or JARBOE (!)
in nicely packaged limited editions. “Message…” is a heavy, yet
very melancholic album that encompasses four very lengthy and packed tracks
(ten to fifteen minutes each). Other than the complex and feral aggression
predominant in VALBORG, WOBURN HOUSE is more introspective, drawing from Doom
Metal and Sludge (not that much but anyway) as well as Post Rock (which is a
pretentious label more often than not but I guess you know what I want to
bring across). Dynamics are important here as the heavy chugging parts
dissolve into very calm, dreamlike accoustic and back again. The production,
provided by Armin Rave, is clear, natural but also quite heavy. Every
instrument is clearly audible which is not a natural thing, especially for the
bass which is luckily very present on “Message…” There are long sections
throughout the album without any vocals where the intruments are
“flowing”, left to develop scarce tones into more complex, partly
progressive melodies and moods. The vocals are mainly clean with some seldom
screams here and there. “Message…” isn't an easy record and will most
likely appeal to those who are fond of rather unusual kinds of heavy music and
who are close to Doom as well as Post Rock and experimental heavy music in
general – if you consider yourself as somebody who is open minded when it
comes to good music I recommend you to go to www.woburnhouse.net
where you can check out three of the four songs from this album.
“Message…” is available for 10 Euro (Germany) / 15 Euro (world) which is
really fair for a cool looking digipack. You can also turn to www.paradigms-recordings.com
and have a look at the rest of the label's rooster.
Ulrich
Kreienbrink
BACK
WODENSTHRONE
Loss
(Bindrune Recordings)
69:34min
The majestic and the wondrous; these are the staples of the so called "Epic Black Metal" genre, yet another sub-category. The kind of Black Metal a band plays should hardly determine who listens to them, but sometimes differences are pronounced enough to warrant some recognition of a dividing line, even if it is only imaginary. WODENSTHRONE is a band very much like DRUDKH and NOKTURNAL MORTUM in that the band yearns for a glorious past, and perhaps even naively entertains itself with the fanciful idea that the past may return to us and become our future. Their songs are geared towards the epic, with keyboards producing exotic sounds the guitars are incapable of doing. The vocals are mournful, not hateful as most Black Metal vocals are. Instead of the raw, vective hate of a band like BLACK WITCHERY, this vocalist is more akin to the tortured wails of STERBEND. The mix is not a bad one.
WODENSTHRONE's name has been tossed around for some time now. It's good to see them making good on that name.
www.bindrunerecordings.com
Nat Shapiro
BACK
WOLFTHORN
Towards Ipsissimus
(Obscure Abhorrence Productions / Art of Propaganda)
34:18min
From hour number one Black Metal was special, it was more than just playing
music with your friends in a dark cabin in the Norwegian, Swedish or German
woods. There was a ‘certain’ satanic ideology covering the whole movement
and in 2010 this basic rule still counts! From this perspective there isn’t
any reason to doubt the 100% dedication of the German terror act WOLFTHORN.
But every band – even if we are talking about their third full release here,
accompanied since their founding in 2001 by several splits and demos - should
accept the justified question if their (latest) creation can really add
something to my / our / their dark cult – and I’m for sure not asking for
musical miracles! But at a certain point – and I’ve arrived at this
crossroad years ago – there is definitely no point in arguing that any
haunted soul on this black planet needs a further 6 songs GORGOROTH vs.
DARKTHRONE EP. The release comes with an impressive artwork but despite this
fact the music isn’t impressive at all even if the band tries to vary their
play by introducing some minor counterpoints. From my side there is
unfortunately nothing to add, you get exactly what you expect and this time
this means a 100 % version / clone of the well known (mainly) Norwegian Black
Metal agitations. www.art-of-propaganda.de,
www.obscure-abhorrence.com
Matthias Auch
BACK
WOLFTHRONE
Unleash The Hate
(Art of Propaganda)
24:27min
If it comes to the essential ten commandments of Black Metal the latest Art of
Propaganda release
is doing it utmost to fulfill as much as possible. Black/White cover, a band
logo hardly to identify – thanks to the artist Krieghetzer (the missing
letter 's' in this German word was for sure intentional!) - lyrics about hate
and death and a style between old DARKTHRONE and a handful of another true
Black Metal supporters. But WOLFTHRONE are not another highspeed Black Metal
disaster – the Spanish band is not completely limited to this area and the
passing 24 minutes are not giving to much room for criticism. “Unleash The
Hate” the first real release after 9 years of true underground dedication is
a solid piece of traditional Black Metal with not a single new influence –
true to the bone – and the year 2009 has seen far worst examples within this
style. Especially if the band slows down a little bit the guitars are in the
position to give this release another, better, darker face. A real underground
band with a true underground release so please check following contacts. www.myspace.com/wolfthrone666,
www.art-of-propaganda.de
Matthias Auch
BACK
WOLOK
Servum Pecus (LP Version)
(Insidious Poisoning Records)
43:10min
I’m really becoming an Insidious Poisoning fan due to the fact that their
releases still own the old touch and true meaning of Black Metal. So again a
very extreme release even if WOLOK are heading to a complete different
direction. The band members are involved in several other French bands
(DEVILISH ERA, LA DIVISION MENTAL, ZARACH’ BAAL’ THARAGH just to name a
few) and in 2006 they recorded “Servum Pecus”. WOLOK are playing hypnotic
Black Metal and they’ve done a great job. The CD had been released via Eerie
Art Records and Insidious Poisoning had been in charge for the LP version. The
five songs plus intro / outro are traditional Black Metal with very
interesting effects which gives the music this hypnotic touch. These feelings
are further emphasised by some vocal effects (spoken passages) and the stoic
repetition of several elements. But we are still talking about Black Metal
so WOLOK are not following the Ambient / Black Metal direction of so many
other bands. Especially the longer songs like ‘Mankind Euthanasia’ with a
playtime of over 12 minutes gives the music enough space to fully develop. The
chosen cover by Polish artist Zdzislaw Beksinski fits perfectly in the mood of
”Servum Pecus” (especially a big bonus for the LP version) so overall a
great release and worth to be added to every collection. www.insidious-poisoning.com
Matthias Auch
BACK
WOLVES OF HATE
Battle Hymns And War Songs
(Iron Age Records)
37:18min
In war as in battle there is only one definite question - victory or dead? The debut of this American band which has been released earlier this year via Iron Age Records is certainly not leading to a big party in Valhalla. WOLVES OF HATE are combining harsh Death Metal with a lot of BATHORY pathos and the basic idea sounds more than interesting, but the final result in form of nine songs - which are more or less nearly identical - is really disappointing. Even if I have to admit that also some minor AMON AMARTH influences can be identified they are not in the position to vary their scheme to even a minor degree. I think that WOLVES OF HATE must try to add further influences to their music otherwise we have to expect another more than predictable release and this will guide them to a certain creative death.
www.myspace.com/wolvesofhate,
www.ironagerecords.com
Matthias Auch
BACK
WOMB / DISCIPLES
OF MOCKERY
Split CD
(Necroharmonic
Productions)
41:01min
Shortly after Craig Pillard, Ronny Deo and Jim Roe left INCANTATION
they formed WOMB and recorded a five track demo which has never been
released until now because of the disbandment of this new project.
WOMB was a Doom / Death band with deep vocals, two basses and no
guitars. So you could imagine that they sound very, very heavy. But
in my humble opinion they also sound quite boring. The songs are too
monotonous for me. Because of the two basses WOMB also sound a
little bit noisy. I think a guitar is necessary for a Metal band,
isn't it? Later Mike Boyce was added to the WOMB line up, Craig
changed to guitar and the band was now called DISCIPLES OF MOCKERY.
But they didn't just change the name, DISCIPLES OF MOCKERY was a
different band. Here they delivered finest Death Metal in the vein
of INCANTATION. That means they play raw fast and blasphemous Death
Metal with very deep vocals and some really doomy slow parts. Indeed
DISCIPLES OF MOCKERY sound very much like INCANTATION on their debut
album "Onward To Golgatha". The three songs on this CD
were originally released as a live in the studio demo MCD in 1998
which was sold out very soon. After the debut album "Prelude To
Apocalypse" DISCIPLES OF MOCKERY split up in October 2000. So
this split CD is the farewell release. Though I'm not into the WOMB
stuff I would call this a cool release. www.necroharmonic.com
Hacker
BACK
WOODLAND
Dreamality
(CCP Records)
59:04min
Over 10 years ago the Austrian label CCP Records discovered such influential
bands like RIGER or DORNENREICH and my expectations had not been too low if it
comes to their latest discovery WOODLAND from Lübeck / Germany. But these days
you have to expect the unexpected and the outcome of this hour of torment is
disastrous. The cover artwork gives the impression of another EMPYRIUM
typ band but the music on “Dreamality” is lacking of a clear musical
profile – the influences are raging from AMON AMARTH Viking Metal to female
fronted Heavy Metal. Especially the female vocals are so extremely poor – if
you want to risk your life check out ‘Nachtgesänge' or ‘Woyzeck’ to
understand my point - that I can’t stand this album for more than two rounds.
The vocals bring back ‘sweet’ campfire memories when dozens of people try -
and that’s the important world of this sentence - to sing. This fact is
further supported by the “na-na-na-na-na-na-na” melodies which
automatically lead to the immediate destruction of every Metal soul. This CD
has the potential to kill innocent Metal people so please stay away!!! www.ccprecords.com,
www.myspace.com/metalwoodland
Matthias Auch
BACK
WORLD
DOWNFALL
Beyond Salvation
(Revenge Productions)
47:18min
Great, they are back: the in-official successors of TERRORIZER and they're
still reigning supreme!!! Two years ago I was blown away by their debut CD
which was in my eyes the best try so far (forget all copycats) to repeat the
class of "World Downfall" (the record)! WORLD DOWNFALL (the band) is
a German band, highly influenced by TERRORIZER, adding a few Hard- / Crustcore
influences to their mix but all in all it's TERRORIZER in pure culture. I have
to tell you that I like the new TERRORIZER CD alot, nevertheless I think that
WORLD DOWNFALL are the better choice right now than our highly appreciated
originators. And now they are returning with their 2nd strike and this one is
deadly, too! You see that I didn't lose any words about the songs so far and I
don't want to start talking about single songs here, I only have to suggest to
let the music talk and therefore all of you please have a look on www.worlddownfall.de
and check the download-section as the band offers both releases as a free
download!!! Or to put it in the own words of the band (printed on the sleeves
of both releases): “Feel free and encouraged to copy this recording for
everyone who asks for it. Spread the virus. No copyright.” Please get your
own opinion about WORLD DOWNFALL by listening to the mp3s, but if you like the
recordings PLEASE support the band by buying the original versions directly
from the band - and I'm sure you'll like them, and I hope you do them a favour
afterwards buy supporting them with buying their releases! I count on you,
friends!! Support the underground and that's what this band stands for! Check
out www.worlddownfall.de
asap!!!
Thomas Ehrmann
BACK
THE
WOUNDED
Monument
(Cold Blood Industries)
68:50min
Don’t
let yourselves be deceived by the aforementioned running time,
because the last ten minutes or so of this album are only a blank
space, a loss of time if you ask me. Apart from that, and even if
I don’t like “Monument” myself, I can’t say it is a bad
album. Let me explain: I am basically a Metalhead for more than
twenty years now, and consequently not very fond of some music
genres like modern Pop or Goth. It appears that “Monument” is
certainly not a Metal–oriented album, even if the guitars and
drums sound powerful enough to make illusion, thanks especially to
a crisp an clear production. But in reality THE WOUNDED are
obviously mainly influenced by the so-called British “New
Wave” of Pop / Alternative bands of the eighties as it shows
throughout “Monument”. The band tries hard to create a poetic
and introspective overall atmosphere, unfortunately relying on
silly lyrics sometimes (like: “It’s so cold without you near
me, I am so alone when you’re not here…”, you know what I
mean). I don’t give a damn myself about realistic lyrics, to me
music is a kingdom of fantasy and larger-than-life subject-matters.
Musically-wise, I heard some U2 overtones here and there
(‘Garland’) as well as familiar sounding elements which I
cannot discuss any further, lacking the musical background to do
just that. But when I read in the info sheet about PINK FLOYD
influences, I can at least tell you this is an inaccurate
statement. If “Monument” could appeal to open-minded Metal
addicts I will let you decide, but be careful with this one to
avoid any disappointment!
It is on
sale
here.
Edouard Vergriete
BACK
THE WOUNDED KINGS
The Shadow Over Atlantis
(I Hate Records)
41:35min
Doom. Doom… and doom again. Doom Metal can be a special kind of
music. Most will take Doom for “slow” and which this might be
true in a sense, real DOOM is more than that. It feels like a
weight on your shoulder, like a dark evil shadow in a room, like a
pain from nowhere…it is a trance, an hypnotic state from where
few are invited to joy…to have joy in despair. Doom Metal, was
created as the primordial form of Heavy Metal if we take BLACK
SABBATH as the originators of a defined style. Yeah, punk added
speed to the rebellious souls, but then again, sometimes rebellion
is juts for those who are damned or condemned to a slow end. This
is what you fell while listening to this second album from these
miserable UK Doom masters. The tyrant guitars are predominant all
over. The riffs are decadent, slow and pounding, whilst the
melodies haunts, enchant and makes you travel through damnation.
Comparing the band might be tricky as certainly CANDLEMASS,
MY DYING BRIDE and early PARADISE LOST comes to mind while
listening to the riffs and overall atmosphere, more akin to
agonizing Doom / Death bands.
But no, this one has a more traditional vocalist. At times
it reminded me to REVELATION early efforts, which are also in the
Doom category, although I would say that THE WOUNDED KINGS are
more dramatic and more Metal, whereas there a re very few
references to traditional rock music. Obviously some songs have a
similar vibe like in 'Baptism Of Atlantis' which suddenly I felt
to be in trance while listening to it. Although the band seems to
be a foursome of lost souls, only two actually delivered the whole
vision to bleak reality. And while the vocals might also sound the
same, they do have a distinct passionate and agonizing effect,
that also adds magic into the trance… Although there are only 6
songs, 2 of them are instrumentals, while the others are around
the mark of 8 minutes or more each. The album ends with a great
song with 'Invocation Of The Ancients'. Traditional Metallers will
probably find this one very hard to digest, and those possessed by
speed will be surely drowned in a trance of slow sorrow that might
not be what the hyperactive head banging medicine they need, but
those into suicidal, gloomy, depressive and emotional music, can
surely find a new altar of doom to make reverence.
More info at:
www.myspace.com/thewoundedkings2,
www.ihate.se
Julián Núñez
BACK
WRETCH
Reborn
(Auburn Records)
49:16min
I hate to say this, but when it comes to new bands / releases in the
traditional Metal genre, I mostly don't care anymore these days. It
simply bores me to death to hear all these bands that either have
never really understood what Metal originally was all about or try
so hard to follow the footsteps of what had already been done way
better back in the 80s. Same with reunions. I still love and cherish
all my classics, but only a handful of bands manage to impress me
with their comeback releases. Cleveland's WRETCH is a positive
exception to the rule though. These guys used to be around in the
80s, recorded a couple of demos and even ended up being featured
with a song on Auburn's amazing "Heavy Artillery"
compilation ('Life', with a different singer though). But they never
got the chance to record a full length album... up till now. And it
was worth the long wait, believe me, cause this album really smokes!
Apart from 'Reborn', 'I Am Storm', 'Nothing' and the BREAKER cover
'Touch Like Thunder' the album only contains re-recorded old songs
and all of them easily stood the test of time, sounding equally
fresh as the new stuff. Well, ok – I'm not exactly a fan of the
chorus in 'Reborn' and also prefer BREAKER's original version of
'Touch Like Thunder', but that's about it already... Musically
WRETCH never sound nice and polished, they don't offer one of these
modern, sterile, digital productions, don't give a shit about
keyboards and their melodies aren't of the wimpy type either. So,
what do we have here then? Imagine a rough sounding vocalist in the
David Wayne meets Paul Di'Anno vein (who can easily pull off the
high Halford-type screams as well) and a band that celebrates a
songwriting, reminiscent of the early METAL CHURCH power chords with
traces of vintage MAIDEN (first album) and JUDAS PRIEST. Really
heavy stuff, with lots of energy! The change of vocalist was
definitely a good move in my opinion as Colin Watson's angrier style
fits the band a lot better. So, even those of you who usually avoid
traditional Metal because of the mostly rather high pitched vocals
or the predictable HELLOWEEN-ish writing style should give these
guys a listen. Very impressive stuff in the typical top notch Auburn
quality tradition! There's gonna be an EP with some live material
and a couple of tracks from the "Reborn" sessions (that
didn't make the album) early next year, including a different
version of 'Touch Like Thunder' that features WRETCH's singer Colin
Watson together with BREAKER's Jim Hamar, so watch out for that as
well! For more details or ordering info check out the label's
website at www.auburnrecords.com.
Frank Stöver
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WYNJARA
Human Plague
(Nocturnal Art Productions)
45:16min
Featuring ex-members of MONSTROSITY and members of DIVINE EMPIRE in their ranks
one could expect WYNJARA to be a kind of "all-star Florida Death Metal
group", but though the musical fundament is definitely to be found in the
Death Metal department (with strong parallels to DIVINE EMPIRE) WYNJARA have a
rather progressive and unique approach to it. Implementing keyboard sounds,
atmospheric and slightly spacy melodies, moody instrumentals, a drum computer (urks!!!)
and linking the various elements in their sound with the mentioned Death Metal
framework "Human Plague" is something you don't hear too often, right?
It's like as if later EDGE OF SANITY collided with DIVINE EMPIRE and apart from
the computerized drummer the 12 songs on "Human Plague" are an
successful experiment offering a rather unusual musical journey coming across
natural and unforced. The sterile sounding drums unfortunately have a certain
negative effect on my personal listening experience since its clinical aura
totally contradicts the emotions and ambience "Human Plague" carries
and by performing complex, progressive rhythms a human drummer could have been
the icing on the cake. That's really the only thing I can't stand on this album,
apart from that WYNJARA's second effort is a bit of a fresh breeze, so if you
are a little more tolerant on programmed drums and enjoy progressive Death
Metal with structure and feeling check it out! www.wynjara.us
offers more infos on the band and www.nocturnalart.com
even has a sound file online. The CD is available
here.
Stefan Franke
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WYRD
Heathen
(Millenium Metal Music)
51:13min
The
mighty Suomi has proven to be one of the most innovative countries
in the 90s when it comes to harder music. Most of the bands have
nonetheless invented an own style but they were somehow outstanding
in what they were doing or in their development. And I am still
astonished how many good bands I discover from the land of the thousand
lakes. My next discovery is the Finnish band WYRD. WYRD is the one-man-band
from Nargath that some of you might know as he is involved in either
AZAGHAL and HIN ONDE. He is completely played, recorded, mixed and
mastered this CD at his own studio. The only(!) song entitled 'Heathen'
developed from 1998 - 2001. And again I fail to give any hints how
it sounds like. I have read about comparisons to KAMPFAR and ABYSSIC
HATE but these totally fail, in its unorthodoxy I would perhaps
compare WYRD to early DARKWOODS MY BETROTHED and NATTVINDEN'S GRÅT
- especially as the clean vocals that appear from time to time are
a matter of taste like they were with the aforementioned bands.
By the overlenghty songstructure I somehow feel reminded of the
very first BERGTHRON-album. The song is carried by accoustic guitars
on the one hand and two very melodic keyboard-lines on the other
hand while the guitars and the drumming are only in the background
filling the emptiness that might be their thus to get a more massive
sound. The lyrics tell the story of a land that has been plundered
by Christians and the day of revenge. Nothing special really but
what I nevertheless like about them is the more clichee-like lyrics
actually on the one hand and the reference to Finish ancient gods
on the other hand - at least I expect them to be Finnish as I never
heard the names "Ukko", "Tuoni" etc. before.
Actually if he is so much into Finish mythology I wonder why he
didn't use the "th"-rune instead of the runes for "t"
and "h" for the obvious well-done and stylish cover. To
make it short: I personally can only recommend this album but be
warned: I needed some listens to really get into the album while
on the other hand from the first time on time floated away and I
have never been bored. If you might have problems with uncommon
clean vocals or rather long accoustic parts better do not check
this album, but if you like to enjoy something new and unorthodox,
I'd advise to get this. http://dragonthroneproductions.cjb.net
Nhashi
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