LYNCHPIN 'God Complex' INDEPENDENT It might well be presumptuous to call Lynchpin leaders of the Caribbean Metal scene, but they certainly are strong enough to carry the scene forward. Hailing from Trinidad & Tobago, this Progressive Death unit wager themselves against fate as their latest effort 'God Complex' catapults them into the limelight with their recent announcement of them competing for a slot at Wacken Open Air 2016. Far from your glitzy tech-laden European Progressive Metal style, Lynchpin opt for a more practical approach and instead join allegiance with the likes of Gojira, Opeth and Machine Head. 'God Complex' gives Lynchpin some hope at cementing their place at Wacken, but for now they stand tall as unarguably the finest Trinidadian music export the Caribbean island nation has ever seen. If you love your Gojira, you'll love Lynchpin hands down. Download This: "Softest Floor" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Gojira, Machine Head, Opeth [8] RHYS STEVENSON PYRAWEED 'Inside Green Chaos (live @ Le Chateau)' INDEPENDENT What makes a live album decent depends on two things, how clear is the music and how organic the recording is. It needs to be clear but not too much in order to avoid being accused of being 'refined', on the other hand it needs clarity to avoid it becoming trashy and not organic. Pyraweed's debut live album certainly carries the hallmarks of a D.I.Y live album, you know it's as if you were in the crowded-out Le Chateau rock bar. Never letting a note go awry, Azerbaijan's Pyraweed deliver a delicious slab of live Sludge / Stoner Metal that would appeal to any fan of the said genres. With thick bass elements holding up the gritty riffs and angry vocals, this is a live album to savor. Given the relatively small but ever-strengthening Azerbaijani Metal scene, Pyraweed certainly know how to deliver a rather sensational live performance, even if it's recorded. Download This: "Green Bullet" - Click here to listen For Fans of: The Melvins, Baroness, Kylesa [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON MA'ANISH 'Under The Fig Tree' INDEPENDENT 'Under The Fig Tree', the band dub it Technical Progressive Death Metal, we call it 'Experimental Death Metal'. There are a ton of genres going on here and to think that you can headbang to the beat would be a generous overstatement. Despite the inability to keep to time, the album does however reward its listeners with over forty minutes of Tech / Progressive slapped Death Metal that would please anyone who dares listen to it. There's the slow and progressive "Let It Burn" and then there's the absolutely crazy and mindbogglingly fast "Revolution \ Evolution", both evidently offering a wider choice than at first conceived when going through the album. Whilst this is a solid and decent effort, it will require a tad more effort and greater accuracy when experimenting to establish a name well and truly outside of Israel, the Middle East and perhaps Eastern Europe. Download This: "Revolution \ Evolution" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Periphery, early-Sepultura, Testament [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON THE ORDER OF ELIJAH 'War At Heart' LUXOR When Metalcore reached it's peak it became harder for bands to evade the generic over-cliche sound of riffs and breakdowns romancing each other, then came Motionless In White with their Gothic-tinged outlook and now it's The Order Of Elijah's turn. Who'd have thought that mixing Technical Metal and elements of Melodic Metal would conjure up what you could theoretically call 'Experimenticore'? Because let's face it with the sudden shift in riff pace and sound, coupled with the brutality of the rampaging vocals, and the drums providing the final smacking, you would automatically admit that the latest effort by this Missouri machine has stapled itself to the very hear of 'Experimental Metal'. Make of it as you wish, 'War At Heart' is one album to be taken seriously as it demands utmost attention. Deathcore has Whitechapel, but Metalcore now has The Order Of Elijah. Download This: "God's Unwanted Children" For Fans of: Whitechapel, Born Of Osiris, The Browning 'War At Heart' is out now via Luxor Records [8] RHYS STEVENSON DENIGRATE 'Hollowpoint' INDEPENDENT Possibly considered as a one-off release, 'Hollowpoint' certainly stirs up the emotions as the melancholic and emphatic sounds caress your soul and mind with every passing second. Making a comeback is never easy, but given the strength of the album Denigrate certainly seem to have a lot more to give to the Finnish Gothic Metal movement. Whilst perhaps not as dark or hallowing as fellow countrymen HIM, Poisonblack or the late Vanguard, Denigrate don't lay a finger wrong on this album and as a result unleash a record to be proud of. With harmonic vocals leading the charge and the musical elements providing a solidified atmosphere, this is an album that deserves a nod or two. Twelve years have passed since their debut, and yet they manage to whip out a delicious release, what more can you ask from the quartet? Download This: "My Corrupted Soul" For Fans of: Poisonblack, The 69 Eyes, Paradise Lost [8] RHYS STEVENSON ELIZIUM 'Elysium' STF It's sad to see that sometimes, bands do not know when exactly it is their time to pack up their instruments and disband. Despite the effort demonstrated on 'Elysium', the album as a whole does not make the cut, it fails to ignite any interest and instead gives itself a bad name as a supposed 'Gothic / Doom Metal' release. For the Dutch band Elizium, this is quite detrimental to their lengthy career but it seems as if the curtains are ready to be drawn to a close. Quite frankly you could easily fall asleep to this release and not regret missing a bit, again the effort is there but without the rousing ability to make jaws drop, this album will just fall to the wayside as a pitiful waste. 'Elysium' may well appeal to the hardened Gothic Doom contingent, but for the average metalhead it's just another yawn away from boredom. Download This: "Elysium" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Draconian, Paradise Lost, My Dying Bride [5] RHYS STEVENSON HORDAK 'Padre' CASUS BELLI MUSICA 'Celtiberian Pagan Metal' has officially become a new form of Folk Metal, well given it's pioneers appear to be one of few bands who actually could use the term, it seems apt then for Hordak to adopt it. The Spanish contingent return to deliver their next installment in their career with the raucous sounds of 'Padre' at the forefront. Album number four, 'Padre' stamps its authority with a convincing sound, it's raw infectious elements gnaw at your ears with the savage bite begging for your anticipation. With the vocals as gritty and grueling as they are, it only makes sense that the music be as bleak and hostile as the Celtiberian and Roman conflicts. 'Padre' is a well-made Pagan Metal and will certainly give Hordak a boost across the European landscape. Good job they made their own genre, because that is the best way to describe them. Download This: "Soaring" For Fans of: Arkona, Heidevolk, Celtiberian (of course) [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON ARCANE SYMPHONY 'A New Day Begins...' INDEPENDENT Symphonic Metal with female vocals is always a godsend and Arcane Symphony are no exception, the Russian quintet muster together a sound that is just as powerful as Anna Volodina's vocals are angelic. 'A New Day Begins...' is the band's debut album and it heralds praise from the moment you kick off the first song, brimming full of elegance, power and eroticism, Arcane Symphony have it all sussed out. With the atmospherics as cold as a Siberian winter, guitars as savage as aged vodka and vocals as majestic as the Moscow State Circus, it would be stupid to knock off this lot as just another Female-fronted Symphonic act. Open up the heavens, let the rain pour and enjoy what this quintet have conjured up. Arcane Symphony are a band to watch in 2016, they will be knocking at your door with their infectious sounds. Download This: "A New Day Begins" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Tarja-era Nightwish, Lanewin, Within Temptation [9] RHYS STEVENSON SHOW ME WOLVES 'The World They Took Over' FALSE BEING PRODS. If you didn't feel dazed and confused before listening to this release, you probably will be once you're finished. Creating some rather freakishly eerie sounds and instating a spine-chilling atmosphere is what Show Me Wolves clearly intended to do on their second offering 'The World They Took Over'. Masterminded by Icelander Hörður Lúðvíksson, the evident wafting in and out of Progressive, Black and Avant-Garde Metal seems all too paramount when summing up the album, but it has been done in such a way that you cannot begin to comprehend how Hörður Lúðvíksson conjured up the music ideas in the first place. By drifting from slow atmospherics and gritty vocals to fast, sometimes Metalcore-like and progressive-laden sounds, 'The World They Took Over' is a treasure to behold, the magic is there all right, just let it in. Download This: "Mother" For Fans of: She Must Burn, Ne Obliviscaris, Ihsahn 'The World They Took Over' is out 16th January via False Being Productions. [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON MARIO TURIS
'Luminance' INDEPENDENT Space Metal is a relatively new conceptual genre, even though it can bounce off of the likes of Modern Metal and Cyber Metal it has a distinctive element to it. Take for example the premier EP by Slovakian instrumentalist Mario Turis, 'Luminance' lashes together elements of Progressive Metal and Symphonic Metal to develop a sound that demands its own unique recognition. It's all you could wish for from an agile release, it's fast, heavy and flashy, yet it lacks vocals with could hinder it somewhat. However Mario's tenacity towards creating a sound so technically simple has enabled the EP to escape any considerable comparison against other bands indeed releases, so if you're thinking of wanting a space-like feel to any game or film soundtrack, forget the Hollywood catalog and go for a musical-genius-in-development as Mario Turis will certainly make a name for himself given this effort. Download This: "Stardustborn" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cypher16, Dol Ammad, The Kovenant [7] RHYS STEVENSON
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THE ERKONAUTS 'I Did Something Bad' ERKONOS You would find more solace and entertainment in watching paint dry than subjecting yourself to this extremely dismal debut album by The Erkonauts. Despite all of the Swiss quartet's best efforts, 'I Did Something Bad' does not carve itself out as a decent release, it lacks atmosphere, dwells too much on trying to become the next Dream Theater and ultimately weeps at the seams. Let's hope this album is short-lived and that the band pick up the pieces and redesign their blueprint, whether the album producer thought to themselves 'I Did Something Bad' is one possibility, the other being the thought belongs with the individual musicians. Check out if you dare. Download This: "Nola" - Click here to listen. For Fans of: Dream Theater, Periphery, Prog Metal [5] RHYS STEVENSON CENTRATE 'Tiger Force' INDEPENDENT Cometh the modern wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, sure Centrate's 'Tiger Force' is nothing new in terms of bringing something fresh to the over-saturated Thrash Metal style, it does however accomplish what it was created to do, that is deliver insanely heavy Thrash Metal. 'Tiger Force' is a four-track EP that glimmers with seismic drumming, maniacal riffs, ferocious vocals and an attitude that combined together sticks a few fists up your anus, knuckleduster in-tow. For the seasoned Thrash addict, this EP will tickle your taste-buds without leaving any desire to turn it off, meaning it might not appeal for those who love a wide array of metal. It is however a decent effort. Download This: "Tiger Force (promo)" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Holy Moses, Slayer, Tankard [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON PROFUNDAE LIBIDINES 'El Viaje Definitivo' INDEPENDENT If you wish to be detrimental towards Profundae Libidines' second album 'El Viaje Definitivo', you can be. Because it strides the boundary of being insanely weird and insanely shit, point being it has too many influences fighting each other to gain supremacy over the entire release. The only decent aspect of this release besides it's creative artwork, is the intuitive-sounds developed on the release through the use of a violin and fret-less bass. France has a rich heritage in underground Black Metal, but unfortunately this album does not stand up to it's former pedigree and thus will be left to rot in the abyss of decaying metal releases. You could be slightly more detrimental by admitting it's stabbed the Avant-Garde / Black Metal partnership in the heart. Download This: "El Viaje Definitivo" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Avant-Garde / Black Metal, Andy Warhol, 'strange music' [4] RHYS STEVENSON PRAVIA 'Pravia' INDEPENDENT Behold the purveyors of 'Pagancore', Pravia are Poland's latest export and they come in the form of a five-piece Pagan Melodic Death Metal / Deathcore outfit. By wielding together the grit and brutality of Deathcore, with the flashiness and eccentricity of Melodic Death Metal and lashing it together with the Slavonic perspective of Pagan Metal, Pravia are set to become hot property within the year ahead. For added flavor, if they added some folk instruments native to their Polish and / or Slavic heritage, then the added dimension will certainly hoist them up as a genre innovator. In fact due to the sheer excitement reverberated across this release, 'Pravia' might as well be 'Polish Metal release of the year' for this in all sincerity carries all of the hallmarks of a band destined to achieve great things. Download This: "Forest Brethren" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Eluveitie, Arkona, Heaven Shall Burn [8] RHYS STEVENSON LAPPALAÏNEN 'Kraken's Awakening' INDEPENDENT Once again the whole 'we are not Nordic but let's do Viking Metal anyway' attitude comes to the fore with France's latest export Lappalaïnen. The difference being, it seems this bard sextet want to merge both Celtic Metal and Viking Metal together, so far it seems to be paying off but for how long? 'Kraken's Awakening' brings to the table a bouncy, LOTR anthem-like sound to the forefront and will surely appeal to the Folkloric Metalheads worldwide. Whilst perhaps not as majestic as their opposite numbers like Eluveitie and Tyr, they however are much akin to the likes of Nightcreepers. Fast, bouncy and highly energetic is what 'Kraken's Awakening' can be summarized as, just wait for the second coming as it will need to be something special to beat this effort. Download This: "Riding On The Load Of Hay" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Eluveitie, Nightcreepers, Tyr [8] RHYS STEVENSON BUKO 'Elefantes' INDEPENDENT Madrid shook heavily on the grounds as the Spanish quintet Buko emerge out of the pits with their highly anticipated debut album 'Elefantes'. Smothered by the Spanish language, this Heavy / Groove Metal release comes laden with Death Metal influences from the American kind. Despite it's lack in breaking the ice, that is making it an instant it, Buko's 'Elefantes' will certainly delight anyone who listens to it. There's a lot of influences roaming around this album and to pigeonhole it into one genre is practically asking for suicide, but with the evident 5FDP groove, DevilDriver Death Metal pinching and Avenged Sevenfold Heavy Metal riffs, Buko's 'Elefantes' is a truly unique release, rest assured. Download This: "Huérfanos" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Five Finger Death Punch, DevilDriver, Avenged Sevenfold [7] RHYS STEVENSON DEPRESSED 'Afterlife In Darkness' INDEPENDENT If you asked for raw Death Metal put your hands up, otherwise sit down, shut up and listen to perhaps the most rawest Death Metal emerging out of Brazil over the last decade. 'Afterlife In Darkness' serves as Depressed's long-overdue debut album, which comes a whopping sixteen years after their first demo back in 1999, and boy was the wait worth it. Vocals so guttural that they will bleed your brain dry, whilst the riffs rip into you like barbed wire caressing your skin and the drums just simply, finish you off. Granted this band might be short-lived, but for the underground fetishist and the metalheads who dig exotic metal, then 'Afterlife In Darkness' is for you. Brutal, snazzy, erotic and completely 100% Brazilian. Download This: "Reborn In Hellfire (Live)" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cannibal Corpse, Suffocation, Krisiun [7] RHYS STEVENSON IRONRAT 'Monument' VOLTAGE If they had better studio quality then the album would be pretty decent, but ignoring the said flaw the album still is a delightful listen. Of course taking seven years to drop a debut album you'd think that Yorkshire's Ironrat would want to make it as gorgeous as possible, sure it might not be smelling of sweet roses but it certainly doesn't stink of sweat either. Whether the passion boiled down prior to the recording or the band were high off their tits, 'Monument' is still a rampant Stoner / Groove Metal album that carries all the hallmarks you would expect from a said-genre album. Funky, heavy and gritty, now the question is where's the sex? Unless you can give CD's oral, you can give CD's oral, right? Download This: "Feed The Pigs" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Machine Head, Monster Magnet, Electric Wizard [7] RHYS STEVENSON MINDPATROL 'The Marble Fall' INDEPENDENT Mindpatrol is the Derren Brown of the metal world, full of magical trickery, progressive illusions and a shadowy atmosphere, after all their second album 'The Marble Fall' plays into the minds of the listener, developing a world beyond mere imagination. With at least an hour's worth of listening to cascade through, at every turn there is a musical element you was not expecting and it is this that places Mindpatrol's 'The Marble Fall' as a huge contender for not only 'Luxembourger Metal release of the year' but also 'European Metal album of the year'. There is no doubt that the Luxembourg Metal scene is shaking at it's very foundations, with Mindpatrol being the latest band to emerge from this tiny nation. Mindpatrol are a band to watch out for in 2016. Download This: "Tabula Rasa" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Born Of Osiris, Cypher 16, Periphery [9] RHYS STEVENSON DEEP RIVER ACOLYTES
'From The Voids Of Chaos' INDEPENDENT Wave your head from left to right and back again to the tune of Deep River Acolytes' premier EP 'From The Voids Of Chaos' because this Heavy / Doom Metal monster demands you to do so. Hailing from the cold north of Finland, this quintet do not fail to impress nor serve up a delightful release. Well stretching out at nineteen minutes across three tracks, your attention won't drift away too soon and in fact this EP sort-of pays homage to the founders of Heavy / Doom Metal, Black Sabbath. Whilst they may not be as illustrious as the sadly-splitting band, nor as inventive, Deep River Acolytes certainly know how to start off on the right foot. They may just yet become your new favorite Finnish Metal export, if not one to watch out for in 2016. Download This: "Dwellers In The Mist" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Black Sabbath, Candlemass, St. Vitus [8] RHYS STEVENSON INFECTED CHAOS 'The Wake Of Ares' METAL MUSIC AUSTRIA Unleashing a ravishing bombardment of guttural onslaught and provocative thoughts is Austrian Death Metal masochists Infected Chaos, who have blessed the metal world with their sensational debut album 'The Wake Of Ares'. Expect nothing but full-on Death Metal here, none of that glamorous-fancy stuff, no, this is straight edge Death Metal and you better be prepared for it, otherwise you will be begging for your life as it consumes your brains inside out. Waltzing in-and-out of the Old School and Modern variants, Infected Chaos make no errors on this attempt and this is why they will be your new favorite Death Metal band. In fact, 'The Wake Of Ares' might as well be a hot contender for Austrian Metal release of the year, watch this band with interest as they are set to go places. Download This: "Ia, God Of War" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Hail Of Bullets, Abhorrent Decimation, Unleashed [8] RHYS STEVENSON MIST 'Inan' ' SOULSELLER Mist are enjoying their current incarnation and with their new-found line-up, unleash their gloomy premier EP 'Inan' ' to the masses with renewed vigor. Wallowing in the deepest realms of Doom Metal, this Slovenian outfit mark their territory well with this effort and will give them the ropes to hoist themselves up the ladder of international recognition. The funny thing is though, whilst Doom Metal is meant to be rather bleak, sorrowful and near-depressive, Mist ironically do not befit the usual elements of Doom Metal and instead drag in a more upbeat style to the genre, this might not appeal to those who suckle Doom Metal in their sleep, but might appeal to the wider metal community. Black Sabbath may well be calling curtains, but for Doom Metal it is the likes of Mist that are writing the new chapters in this genres history, and are sure to follow in the legends footsteps. Download This: "Inan" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Black Sabbath, Saint Vitus, Candlemass [8] RHYS STEVENSON GODSLAVE 'Whatever We Want!' GREEN ZONE MUSIC / H'ART So we have the German Thrash Metal Godslave go completely non-metal and metal at the same time, well how you may ask? Well Godslave would answer "we will do 'whatever we want!" and that is exactly what they did, they unleashed an EP in honor of the Quo, Status Quo. Now for the elitist metalhead this would be completely taboo, but for the more conservative metalhead this is an epic delight, and boy do Godslave nail it right on the head. Through the essential use of gritty guitar playing, neck-breaking drums and brutally harmonic vocals, Godslave deliver their trademark sound that has guided them over the last decade (ish) or so. Ultimately 'Whatever We Want!' is a must-have release for any rock or metal fan alike, and certainly can be considered simply 'Thrashtastic!', here's to the second Quo-Thrash!. Get the EP here:- http://godslave.de/product/whatever-we-want-ep/ For Fans of: Status Quo (obviously), Metallica, Motorhead [8] RHYS STEVENSON IHDAMAS 'Multiverso Desconocido' SALUTE If you're hunting for exotic Extreme Metal, look no further than South America and in specific Colombia, whose Black / Thrash Metal sons Ihdamas have made their voices heard through their premier '2014 demo' released last year and this year via Salute Records (SE). Proclaiming themselves as 'Conexion Metal', it is relatively clear at what they are trying to conjure up. A carefully blended mix of Black Metal, Thrash Metal, Heavy Metal, Doom and Death Metal to create what essentially is 'Extreme Metal'. Raw in it's sound and furious in it's production, 'Multiverso Desconocido' is a delight to anyone who indulges in Extreme Metal and the South American abyss. Now whilst it's a decent release, it is doomed to stay in the underground for it's lacking that one element to make it an internationally recognized release, simply put:- to convince, because whilst the DIY sound may work for the underground, it would not bode well in the wider metal circuit. All in all a decent release. Get the demo via Salute Records here. For fans of: From Forgotten Being, Qafas, Seeds Of Iblis [7] RHYS STEVENSON SARPENTRA 'Supernova' INDEPENDENT Russian Death Metal should have a genre of all it's own, because no matter what Russian band performs Death Metal, they all seem to be a league above the world. Making that notion more solid is Sarpentra who explode with their debut album 'Supernova' which is as brutally potent as sniffing arsenic after ingesting vodka and rum. With the blistering-paced drums leading the surcharge and the guitars adding the dimensional harmonics, coupled with vocals that Behemoth's Nergal would approve of and atmospherics similar to the likes of Fleshgod Apocalypse, 'Supernova' is a groundbreaking release that will spark off mass interest in many labels worldwide. Unrelenting in ferocity and uncompromising in energetic brutality, you may as well be looking at the Russian Metal release of the year, simply catastrophically 'Apocalyptic Metal'. For Fans of: Fleshgod Apocalypse, Behemoth, Katalepsy Download This: "Prometheus Unbound" - click here to listen [9] RHYS STEVENSON LEAVE SCARS 'Chains Of Redemption' INDEPENDENT Cast your mind back and we gave Belgian Thrashers Leave Scars a fine going-over back in 2013, well fast forward to 2015 and the quintet have released another torrential battering of fine Thrash Metal in the shape of their second album 'Chains Of Redemption'. Pushing harder and faster since their first chronicle, 'Chains Of Redemption' demands your immediate attention with enough mosh power to command over a 1,000 and make the world's largest moshpit. Combining the Old-School anguish with the modern technicalities and glitz, Leave Scars are determined to 'Leave Scars' across Europe with their infectious Thrash Metal style. Loaded with aggression, you will need a spare set of pants because when this album is finished with you, there will be a shitty mess all over your chair - you have been warned. For Fans of: Evile, Fallen Fate, Savage Messiah Download This: "Final Chance" - click here to listen [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON DEATH BRINGER 'Avoid Reality' INDEPENDENT Six years after forming, Spanish Melodic Death Metal outfit Death Bringer lay down the law with their all-out powerful debut album 'Avoid Reality'. Fronted by the beautiful Paloma Gómez, her vocals intertwine with Pablo Santamarta in a sort-of 'beauty and the beast' singing arrangement. Guttural vocals crash against melodic vocals whilst the riffs burn into your ears and the drums provide that final solid sound that makes 'Avoid Reality' a truly respected album. Accept no substitutes as Death Bringer have assurances that they are the real deal and are set to smash your head in unless you conform, this album is not for weak-minded people, this album is for those who can tolerate the thought of their skull being exploded by an explosive wall of Melodic 'Death' Metal, fear it. Download This: "Bring Me Fire" - Click here to listen For Fans of: The Agonist, Izegrim, 6th Awakening [8] RHYS STEVENSON IMMORALIS 'Connected Visions' INDEPENDENT After seeing two of their members depart the camp, Immoralis were faced with the enormous task of delivering a follow-up release worthy of acclaim. 'Connected Visions' ticks that box, despite dropping the female vocals; which for this release is the missing piece, the ingenuity of the music in question is sexually evocative. By avoiding the overrated djent sound and wedging themselves in between Symphonic Metalcore and Progressive Metal, Immoralis have crafted out a new dimension within the Avant-Garde style. Harmonious keys provide the solidified background, whilst the crunchy riffs and bass dance along with Jesse's face-punching vocals. Overall this EP holds promise for this Minnesota outfit, it is an improvement from 'The Great Collapse', but it falls short of being spectacular as it demands Jacis vocal presence. Download This: "Leo" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Bleeding Through, Periphery, Soilwork [8] RHYS STEVENSON LOST IN PAIN 'Plague Inc.' NOISEWORKS Luxembourg is enjoying a great year for exporting metal music, what with Scarred's performance at Bloodstock and now Lost In Pain's charismatic second album 'Plague Inc.' seeing the light. Expect nothing less than some good old fashioned Heavy Metal from this 46 minute adventure, through the use of majestic vocals, spiffing riffs, thick-and-heavy bass elements and punctual drumming, Lost In Pain pay homage to the greatest genre in music history. Not flash nor trying to be the next Iron Maiden, Lost In Pain's 'Plague Inc.' is guaranteed to satisfy the thirst for those who indulge in not only the classic Heavy Metal vernacular but also metal from lesser-known scenes like Luxembourg. 'Plague Inc.' is without a doubt, 'Luxembourger Metal release of the year'. Simply awe-inspiring. Download This: "Greed" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Pantera, Mastodon, Machine Head, ok and Iron Maiden (ish) [8] RHYS STEVENSON CHRONOS
'Hour Of Atonement' INDEPENDENT Channeled in the right direction, Somerset outfit Chronos' debut EP 'Hour Of Atonement' could have been a mind-blowing release but it lacks that cutting edge that would make it so. Sure the ferocity behind the mixing of the Melodic Death Metal and Thrash Metal sounds on the EP go well together, it just does not have that convincing element to say that Chronos are ready yet to break out of the underground. In fact the title track 'Chronos' is perhaps the only one to be defined as 'convincing', if they utilize that flirtatiousness between the guitars and drums more often then this EP could have been a whole league better. 'Hour Of Atonement' is a decent start, there is much to learn and with the right guidance Chronos can make it. Download This: 'Chronos' (Live)' - Click here to listen For Fans of: Trivium, In Flames, Opeth [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON PITBULLS IN THE NURSERY 'Equanimity' KLONOSPHERE France seems to have a love affair with the Progressive, Technical and Death Metal sub-genres as the latest installment in the genres metal history becomes real. 'Equanimity' is the second album by Pitbulls In The Nursery and it has enough bite to give you a severe case of 'headbangulitis'. Mixing sheer brutality and velocity with technical elements so precise, that even Einstein would not be able to figure them out. Taking the eccentric 'Insiders' and lengthy 'Your Dream's Not Mine', it is clear that the Pitbulls have got their vision for a refreshed Modern Metal well and truly recognized. If Gorod and Gojira were to produce offspring, Pitbulls In The Nursery would be the offspring you never saw coming, as they bring the apocalyptic, cataclysmic sound of full-on volatile metal to the forefront, you have been warned. Download This: "Insiders" - Click here to listen (link tba) For Fans of: Gorod, Gojira, The Faceless [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON WINTERCOLD 'Paradise Is Not Here' SALUTE One of the latest releases by Wintercold is a single featuring two tracks, the first 'Paradise Is Not Here' is an instrumental and the second is a cover of Blitz's 'Razors In The Night'. Mastered once again by multi-instrumentalist Satanic Tony, this instrumental is loaded with enough doom and gloom to set the atmosphere straight, make the hairs on your neck stand up and position itself as a truly remarkable work of art. Standing at a whopping 14 minutes long, this instrumental will keep fans of Gothic Doom Metal entertained indefinitely whilst the cover offers a far more heavier and brutal side to the release; with of course Tony's infamous raspy, raw vocals. Limited to a run of 20 copies, this will be a sought-after single in the underground metal scene. 'Paradise Is Not Here' is without a doubt, a delightful listen. Get the single from the official Salute Records website here For Fans of: Demorian, Gothic Doom Metal [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON CRUADALACH 'Rebel Against Me' METALGATE Arguably the Czech Republic's answer to Switzerland's Eluveitie, purveyors of Folk-laden Melodic Death Metal. Four years since their debut album, it was inevitable that Cruadalach would return to splatter a second offering across the Folk / Melodic Death Metal spectrum, by infusing Bohemian folk sounds (or wider Slavic) with bouncy aggressive beats, this octet set the bar high for fellow Czech folk metal bands to do better. Whilst perhaps leaning towards more of a Pagan Metal sound, this does not detract the music from becoming related to perhaps the Russian or Ukrainian approach, but rather setting itself up as standalone approach. For the seasoned metalhead who is indulgent in folk metal and melodic death metal in-tow, 'Rebel Against Me' guarantees to wet your whiskers. Cruadalach will certainly maintain a cult following whilst building upon the 'Bohemian Folk Metal' sound. Download This: "Life-Worshipping Bastards" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Eluveitie, Netherfell, Dalriada [8] RHYS STEVENSON WINTERAGE 'The Harmonic Passage' INDEPENDENT As orchestrated as Fleshgod Apocalypse, symphonic as Rhapsody of Fire and elegant as Lacuna Coil, Winterage are the latest installment in the vibrant Italian Metal scene. Marching in with their debut album 'The Harmonic Passage', this inquisitive sextet utilize the majestic sounds of Power Metal with the gracefulness of Symphonic Metal to brood their own dramatic result. One that echoes the upper echelons of bygone operettas and modernizes the antiquarian nature of Italian renaissance masterpieces. In a nutshell 'The Harmonic Passage' is an honorable nod to the bygone years of classic opera, the already-veteran Italian Metal scene and lends itself as a path for new Symphonic Power Metal bands to follow. Lasting a sensational 70 minutes, this debut effort should draw attention from suited labels who would wish to take Winterage under their wings. Check out: "Winterage - The Harmonic Passage EP teaser" - click here to view. For Fans of: Rhapsody Of Fire, Therion, Avantasia [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON FLAMEDROP 'Thoughts On Fire' INDEPENDENT Flamedrop are probably that one band you never thought you would see coming, well embrace it because this Hungarian horde are here to stay. Mustering up a cataclysmic of thunderous riffs, ground-shaking drums and vocals so vicious, venomous snakes are set to become obsolete. This quintet's debut album 'Thoughts On Fire' certainly ticks all of the boxes that guarantee it to be an instant hit across Europe if not the Hungarian Metal scene, it is brim-full of power, heaviness, brutality and technicality. There is no doubt that the following release will have to be extra-special to knock this one for six, because by this effort if Flamedrop are not snapped up by a major metal label, then clearly there is something wrong with this industry; 'Thoughts On Fire' is an easy contender for Hungarian Metal release of the year. For Fans of: The Haunted, Arch Enemy, Malefice Download This: "Cruel Intentions" - click here to listen [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON BREZNO 'Kri' INDEPENDENT Four years on from their excellent debut EP, Slovenia's Brezno have shown no signs of stopping by delivering their debut album 'Kri' released last year. Maintaining their devotion to singing in the Slovene language, the sextet make no mistake at making their first effort a memorable one. Remaining true to their roots, Brezno once again prove themselves to be a key part in the 'New Wave of Slovenian Folk Metal' alongside the likes of Zaria and Avven, with 'Kri' providing Brezno a platform to build upon, we may very well see more of this tight-unit. Alongside their early Bloodstock appearance, it is inevitable that sometime in the future they will make their return, well with 'Kri' as decent as it is, it would be a high demand for their return. Download This: "V Nebo" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Avven, Zaria, Dalriada [8] RHYS STEVENSON DREADED MORTUARY 'Vulgar Way To Die' INDEPENDENT To think that Indonesia is the only South-East Asian to produce quality Thrash Metal is a complete understatement, take for example Dreaded Mortuary's second album 'Vulgar Way To Die', it has enough Slayer in it to make Slayer retire early. This 30 minute adventure offers listeners a brutal onslaught of the classic 80's Thrash Metal sound, full on fast music with enough brutality to make you crack your head open. But whilst this is a solid album in it's own right, it is nothing new and therefore might just appear to be another Thrash Metal release to many, but despite this it still packs a punch and then some. 'Vulgar Way To Die' certainly gives Dreaded Mortuary the upper hand in staking their claim as a successful Filipino Metal export, watch them with interest. Watch this: "Vulgar Way To Die teaser" - click here to watch/listen For Fans of: Slayer, Megadeth, 80's Thrash Metal [8] RHYS STEVENSON WATERLAND 'Our Nation' INDEPENDENT Be honest, Portugal is one of those countries that doesn't really get much attention when it comes to metal music with the exception of Moonspell. Take away the veil and you find a fired-up, pacey metal scene and it's bands like Waterland who keep it going. Take their third album 'Our Nation', it's sensational blend of Symphonic, Melodic and Power Metal gives it that so-called 'Epcot' feel, the sort of vibes experienced at the Disney park. Either that or the sort of sound that would give Portugal their long-awaited win at the Eurovision Song Contest. It is because of the contrasting sounds, that this album can be considered one of the best albums to emerge from the underground melodic / symphonic metal scene in years. 'Our Nation' can easily be considered a contender for Portuguese Metal release of the year, with it's emphatic transcending symphonies, bouncy melodies and majestic heaviness, there is no real room to argue against said statement. Download This: "Land Of Dreams" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Sonata Arctica, Dotma, Seraphim [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON REZISTOR 'By Any Means Necessary' INDEPENDENT Despite the effort displayed on the second album by Romanian Groove Thrashers Rezistor, it lacks that wow factor. 'By Any Means Necessary' constitutes as your average Groove / Thrash Metal release and so with that in mind, don't expect anything special. That said the composition is still a worthy listen, it just does not carry the ability to convince that it is a label-signing release. Given the album is 30 minutes long, it is a rather short, if not unexpected disappointment. The drums deal justice, whilst the vocals and guitars lack any authentic stamping-power, leaving the album to revel in the 'what-could-have-been' category. If Rezistor want to gain a name for themselves across 'By Any Means Necessary', this album is almost certainly not going to do it. Download This: "Wake Up!" - Click here to listen For Fans of: late-Sepultura, Soulfly, Cavalera Conspiracy [7] RHYS STEVENSON EVOLVENT
'Whatever Happens' BERNETT France's love affair with Symphonic Gothic Metal continues with Evolvent's second album 'Whatever Happens', following such a strong debut album (2011) and a below-par EP (2014) the anxiety of whether this album would be decent was on the table. Suffice to say, 'Whatever Happens' is a rampaging voyage across blackened symphony after blackened symphony, with tantalizingly erotic vocals and an electric atmosphere, it is clear that this album was built to cast away the band's demons. The result? Success. 'Whatever Happens' pays homage to the dramatic, the operatic and the atmospheric elements that form the foundation of the very Symphonic Gothic Metal sound, as for Evolvent this can be considered as their finest hour as they stand as one of France's unsung metal gems. Download This: "Love Doesn't Love Me" - click here to listen For Fans of: Within Temptation, Tarja-era Nightwish, The Hourglass (RO) [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON KRYOCELL 'Entrail Fuelled Leviathan' INDEPENDENT If there is one band name that should be on everyone's lips in the Death Metal scene this year, it's Kryocell. Exploding with sheer confidence through their premier EP 'Entrail Fuelled Leviathan', it is crystal-clear that this Liverpool quartet know where they want to take their infectious blend of complex rhythms, barbaric riffs and gut-grinding vocals. This four-track beast has enough ferocity to crush your cranium with such conviction, you would immediately begin to believe that Kryocell are one of the most exciting bands to emerge out of the British Metal scene this year. On the strength of this EP, the eventual debut album will certainly have a lot of expectation riding on it, in fact this could be the time that the Liverpool Metal scene gets a shake-up. If you like your Death Metal full of grit, thick elements and stomach-wrenching vocals, then you have come across the perfect release. Download This: "Entrail Fuelled Leviathan" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Nile, Machine Head, Decapitated [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON BLACKENED RITUAL 'Blackened Ritual' INDEPENDENT Dropping a release before any major festival appearance always bodes well in allowing punters to get a taste of whats to come, this is exactly what Blackened Ritual have done. These bonnie Scottish lot lay down the law with their uncompromising mish-mash of Thrash Metal maniacal brutality and heavy-punching Heavy Metal beats with their self-titled debut album. Hailing from the home of fellow metal brethren Alestorm, Blackened Ritual form the next link in the chain of hidden gems from the Gaelic north and whilst Thrash Metal appears to be seeing a slight lull in the overall British scene, Blackened Ritual certainly keep the flag flying for Scotland. If you are not banging your head to this delicious beast-of-an-album, then ponder why that is.... Blackened Ritual just blew up your speakers, word. Download This: "Eradication Of The Human Disease" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Pantera, Megadeth, Iron Maiden [8] RHYS STEVENSON WE ARE THE CATALYST 'Monuments' SEVEN13 We Are The Catalyst are without a shadow of a doubt, Sweden's answer to Evanescence. Through the magical dynamics developed between the crunching riffs, mind-blowing vocals, unrelenting drumming and thunderous atmospherics, this Swedish quintet's debut album 'Monuments' may well just position the band as perhaps one of the most exciting prospects to emerge out of the Nordic nation in the last few years. Funnily enough this is the sort of effort that could enable Sweden to retain their Eurovision 2015 crown (well Finland did win with Lordi!), whether this is in the scope of the band's career is another proposition, but what is clear is that 'Monuments' has given WATC well deserved attention. In fact there are some pop elements wafting in and out of this release alongside the crystal-clear metallic rock sounds, make no mistake WATC are here to stay and are going places. Amaranthe and Evanescence rolled into one = We Are The Catalyst, you better believe it. Download This: "Time Will Show" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Evanescence, Amaranthe, Linkin Park [10] RHYS STEVENSON OVEROTH 'Kingdom Of Shadows' FORBIDDEN REALM You would have to take a trip back to the year 2010 to see the latest official material by Northern Irish Death Metal mob Overoth. Their debut album 'Kingdom Of Shadows' blasts out a furious hailstorm of ballistic drumming, gnarly riffs and guttural sermons that coupled with the almost Doom-inspired atmospherics, immerse the listener in a sea of rotten blood, horror-orgasms and cranial dispositions. In other words, a skull-cracking effort. Upon listening to 'Kingdom Of Shadows', you will experience a sensational mauling that will leave you whimpering for your mummy. For this slab of concrete Death Metal should be taken with a serious conviction, as it is not for those who love their Death Metal full of flash and beautiful elements, this is for the down-and-dirty-laden-with-blackened-grit Death Metal fans. Take it away Captain Mainwaring. Download This: "The Serpent Of Old" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Obituary, Unleashed, Cattle Decapitation [8] RHYS STEVENSON INCIPIT 'Demo 2013' INDEPENDENT Given the strength of their premier demo released in 2013, Incipit's forthcoming debut album will be one exciting release to keep an eye out for, especially given this Blackened Death Metal unit know how to deliver a rapid firing of blazing drums, murderous riffs and ferocious vocals, sure the line-up between the two releases has changed, but the spirit of Incipit still remains as solid as it did at the point of the band's inception. Whilst not as clean-cut as the likes of Behemoth, the level of raw emotion and sounds pouring out of this demo is riveting, pleasing and without any doubt a fine way of paying homage to the Norwegian Extreme Metal scene. If Incipit do not get a record label deal within the next year or so, then either there is something drastically wrong with the music industry or there is something wrong with me, if it's the latter I'll quit my day job. Download This: "Iconoclast" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Enslaved, early-Myrkskog, Eastern Front [8] RHYS STEVENSON COUNTLESS SKIES 'Countless Skies' INDEPENDENT For their first effort, Countless Skies' self-titled EP is not half bad, but is not half good either. The EP itself is split 50/50 into two bad and two good tracks, so despite the attempt to create something that would give them the ammunition to take things seriously, they are not near that stage. Ignoring the production qualities, the vocals are too domineering in the way they are delivered and whilst the guitars save the EP with eccentric elements, the drums at times are so dirge, it would make you cry. But despite all of the said negativity, there is glimmers of hope in that Countless Skies can re-arrange their outlook and craftsmanship into something that will keep listeners hooked. That is not to say they aren't trying, they just don't seem to be looking in the right areas with this effort. Download This: "Reverence" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Amon Amarth, Kalmah, Dark Tranquility [7] RHYS STEVENSON MUTAGENOCIDE 'Devolve' & 'Demo 2015' RAD NAUSEAM One of Oxfordshire's most exciting metal exports Mutagenocide show why they are the next Thrash Metal band that will be paying your local venue a visit in years to come. Reflecting back on their follow-up EP 'Devolve' released last year and the progression made is evident, the brutality has amplified, the rhythms gone complex and the effort as crisp as glacial water. In fact, this EP ought to come with a health warning of imminent neck-ache, for the velocity shat out has enough power to blow your skull clean off your spine. Thrash Metal in the UK certainly seems to be going through a transitional phase and it is bands like Mutagenocide who are overseeing it with sexy efforts like this. Then of course forward a year and then you come across their latest material. Demo's are always a hit or miss, usually a miss and sadly this time it's a big miss. The vocals are poor, the drums forming a wall of sound and the riffs so messy they couldn't organize a festival er-hem. In all honesty given their EP 'Devolve' was so well done, this is a huge step down for the boys from Oxfordshire, it really lacks that killer instinct and thus brings the band back to the drawing board. Here's hoping though that they pick up the pieces and deliver another belting EP not before long in order to eradicate this demo from recent memory. For Fans of: Slayer, Evile, Fallen Fate Download These: "Half-Born" & "The Reason" - Click here to listen [8] & [5.5] RHYS STEVENSON SAILLE 'Eldritch' CODE666 Soon to become veterans of the Belgian Black Metal scene, sextet Saille take no prisoners when it comes to unleashing seismic belting albums. Their third album 'Eldritch' released last year sees them carrying on their furious undertone of soul-soothing symphonies and erratic-yet-erotic Black Metal compositions. All within the Lovecraft sermons from which embodies their albums lyrically, as for their latest effort, it's nine tracks lasting a phenomenal 56 minutes gives any listener plenty to chew on. From start to finish, the majestic nature of this Black Metal outfit begins to bore down into 'Eldritch' with such conviction, their recent Bloodstock appearance would certainly be deemed as their just reward and will no doubt be the start of something rather magical. Move over Dimmu Borgir, Saille want your scalps and they want them now! Download This: "Walpurgis" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Vesperian Sorrow, Advent Sorrow [8] RHYS STEVENSON BATTALION 'Generation Movement' INDEPENDENT It does not get any better than this for Battalion, or does it? Having released their fourth album 'Generation Movement' upon the masses, they then had the privilege of performing at Bloodstock Open Air Festival. For this Swiss quartet, their fashioned style of Thrash Metal bodes well in the eyes of whomever listens to their latest offering or at said live performance. 'Generation Movement' packs a seismic punch that will get you fist-pumping, banging your head to death and snorting beer before you can say 'what the fuck is this?'. But that's not all, what with the unrelenting, vocals so gritty they make your ears bleed and riffs so tasty, they relegate Swiss chocolate becomes relegated, 'Generation Movement' is a toast to one of the oldest forms of metal music. This may be a 'Generation Movement' in terms of new wave of Thrash Metal, but as far as Battalion goes, this is just another chapter in their sensational career. Download This: "Rapid Damage" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Evile, Metallica, Dublin Death Patrol [8] RHYS STEVENSON VALKYR
'Sovereign' INDEPENDENT It's all well and proper to make your own music but it is not alright to sound exactly like tens to hundreds of other bands and this is exactly what Valkyr have done. Ironically the music is just as good, full of punch, grit, sweet and blood. Said sentences are about the German quintet's premier EP 'Sovereign, there is very little key changes and the songs sound too similar, leaving the EP to fall into the trap of being lauded as one that perhaps needs revisiting in order to make their impending debut album the best it can be. However there is some conciliation in as far as their cover of Kreator's 'Phobia' is a remarkable effort that needs a gentle nod to. But as a whole the EP just does not cut it and thus may fall short of some listener's expectations, irrespective of the effort because effort does not always equal success, Valkyr need to configure their sound before they become entrapped in the 'common metal' cesspool for good. Download This: "Under The Spell Of Time" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Omnium Gatherum, 'Melodic Death Metal' [6] RHYS STEVENSON ACROSS THE ABYSS 'Silhouettes Of A Perfect World' EQUATORIAL STORM Whilst Oriental Metal may not exactly be new, with the likes of ChthoniC, Melechesh and Orphaned Land leading it, searching further down the line you will find a new cluster of bands to step into the breach. One such band is Across The Abyss, of whose debut album 'Silhouettes Of A Perfect World' ticks all of the boxes that guarantees itself as a successful release, one that metalheads worldwide ought to tune into. Hailing from Singapore, this Polish-Singaporean contingent certainly have got a vision to make 'Far Eastern Oriental Metal' as distinguishable as possible through the eccentricity of the riffs used, the atmospherics developed and of course by mashing it with Symphonic Metal elements, keeping the traditional music sounds in-mind. Across The Abyss are flying the flag for the Singaporean Metal scene and are set to become the natural successors to fellow countrymen Impiety on the international circuit. Download This: "Lost Moon" - Click here to listen For Fans of: ChthoniC, Crescent Lament, Shangren [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON DIVINE DISORDER 'Garden Of Dystopia' INAZUMA PRODS. The debut album by Divine Disorder cannot remain unnoticed by the masses, simply because their ferocious combination of Progressive Metal and Symphonic Death Metal delivers a tantalizingly brutal onslaught that epitomizes the Middle Eastern Metal scene and gives hope for the smaller nations in said region. 'Garden Of Dystopia' is a juicy 60-odd minute adventure that takes listeners on a journey through cascading riff velocities, Arabic-like atmospherics and dynamics so fluid, the River Jordan would develop jealously traits at the mere sound of it. Fluctuating through various speeds across eleven tracks, Divine Disorder have positioned themselves perfectly to become the finest metal band Kuwait has ever seen, and in doing so gives them automatic right to fly the flag for the Kuwaiti Metal scene. They are destined to achieve big things, watch this band very closely. Download This: "The Puppeteer" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Fleshgod Apocalypse, Gojira, Septicflesh [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON MIDVEST 'Reinkarnation' INDEPENDENT Two worlds collide when the majestic darkness of Symphonic Black Metal comes crashing into the visual representation of Steampunk. This pretty much sums up Midvest, the German five-piece who released their premier EP this year. Singing exclusively in their native German language, this gloomy industrial-like production really crafts a well-constructed atmosphere that absorbs your soul into a deep and darkened paralysis. Whilst there is considerable comparisons evidently present on the EP, meaning the sound is nothing new, does not disregard the EP as a decent release. Sure the vocals need a bit of work in terms of clarity, but the dramatic characteristics exhibited give the release that welcomed feeling of potential success on the European Black Metal circuit. Midvest in fact have brought a new metal sub-genre to the table, welcome to the dawn of 'Steampunk Black Metal' Download This: "Reinkarnation" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Dimmu Borgir, The Men That Will Not Be Blamed for Nothing, Carach Angren [8] RHYS STEVENSON MOSHNIX 'Black Monk' INDEPENDENT Sad to say it seems that Moshnix have fallen into the trap of delivering a generic Thrash Metal release, sure it holds promise for the Swedish newbies, but it lacks that killer edge that otherwise would give them the edge to reclaim the Thrash Metal crown for Sweden. 'Black Monk' is the band's premier EP and for those brave enough to check it out, some will turn it off quicker than the first riff played on the release. That said, by bringing in Heavy Metal influences on 'Kill Her Quick', the band may have just saved themselves the embarrassment of going through a whole EP of delivering the same old same old Thrash most bands seem to be pummeling out these days. Despite all their last-shot might, 'Black Monk' is a flash in the pan and is a disappointing release. Time to put the kettle on and take a break. Download This: "Black Monk" - Click here to listen For Fans of: 'Thrash Metal' [6] RHYS STEVENSON WINTERHEART 'Facing What I'm Becoming' INDEPENDENT Black Metal in Hungary has a rather rich heritage and so when new bands emerge on the scene, there is a certain amount of expectation riding on them. One band who knows about this is Winterheart, as their second album 'Facing What I'm Becoming' delivers a raw and depressive slice of Black Metal that would dampen anyone's mood. Whilst the bass drum has too much presence, the fuzziness of the riffs fill in the void and couple with the raspy vocals, give the release a good platform to stand on. Granted its not the best release, but what more can you expect from an underground band? Despite the said negativity, 'Facing What I'm Becoming' features 8 tracks which equate to 49 minutes-worth of listening. Certainly its an album for the die-hard Black Metal collectors, but for the average metalhead who peers over various sub-genres, it would be seen as a disappointment. Download This: "And Finally... I Just Hate Myself" - Click here to listen For fans of: Underground Black Metal, Raw Black Metal [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON LEATHER PHANTOM 'Electric Leather Land' INDEPENDENT Bringing a brighter side to Thrash Metal, is Germany's Leather Phantom with their premier EP 'Electric Leather Land' released last year. Whilst not as conventionally fast as most Thrash Metal releases, the band instead adds funk and Heavy Metal elements to it, giving the EP a rather unique sound. Not partially because of the sonic keyboard sounds included, but also because they've clearly taken the time to endow in creating their own signature sound, which is what some bands tend to fall short at these days. 'Electric Leather Land' may only be a shot in the dark for this German quartet, but for the underground it is pretty damn good. If you're seeking new music to check out that defies the rules and challenges taboo when it comes to Thrash Metal, then you've found your band. Bring on their debut album. Download This: "Urgent Needs" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Evile, Guns 'N' Roses, Machine Head [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON ARKHAM 'Weapons Of Mass Destruction' INDEPENDENT Over a decade has passed since the inception of Arkham to when their premier release dropped, which seems too long to wait, but boy was it worth it. Despite the immensely long wait, their debut EP 'Weapons Of Mass Destruction' is a good solid example of Heavy Thrash Metal at it's finest. The Spanish quintet have made a good job of making their first release one to capture a lot of attention, whilst also giving themselves and immediate platform to perhaps launch their one and possibly only album (referring to the years lost - 13). None the less the EP does offer listeners a good experience through some rather heavy yet monstrous riffs, coalescing with sharp vocals and thick bass playing alongside solid drumming. They may be a flash in the pan, but they are certainly a good one. Download This: "Full EP" - Click here to listen to the full EP For Fans of: Slayer, Municipal Waste, 'Heavy Thrash Metal' [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON CYBERNETIC WITCH CULT 'Morlock Rock' INDEPENDENT Despite the band name sounding like another way of describing a robotic army of wicked witches, the Cybernetic Witch Cult is a Stoner Metal trio with enough oomph in their bones to raise the dead nationwide. Psychedelic with every second passing by, this trio's debut album 'Morlock Rock' comes loaded with funky, bluesy riffs and happiness as you light a spliff to 'chillax' to this epic record. In fact it would be so apt if the Cybernetic Witch Cult did the score for a ghost-horror film along the likes of The Sixth Sense or Paranormal Activity, because the music exhibited on their debut album is of that guild, that is, it sends chills down your spine whilst enthralling your senses with a musical concoction that makes Stoner Metal what it is. 'Morlock Rock' should be in anyone's collection because of its sheer beauty, as for the English trio, they have a bright future ahead and so keep an eye on them. Download This: "Tyrannosaurus Hex" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Electric Wizard, Orange Goblin, Ghost [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON PHEAR 'Insanitarium' INDEPENDENT Could this be the most exciting Heavy Metal band to emerge out of Canada since Kobra & The Lotus stormed the globe? Phear's debut album 'Insanitarium' not only boasts a plethora of sensational guest musicians, but also the music to give them international attention on an unprecedented level. With the likes of Glen Drover (Megadeth, Testament) and Bjorn 'Speed' Strid (Soilwork) offering their services alongside fellow Canadians Jon Howard, Travis Montgomery (both Threat Signal) and Rick its ferocious power. 'Insanitarium' is without a doubt the Ontario-based band's finest hour, knowing that they will capitalize on this moment and with their infectious vocals, gnarly riffs and all-round sexy musical persona present, will bode them well in times ahead upon new releases and sequential ventures. Download This: "Don't Scream" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Testament, Megadeth [8] RHYS STEVENSON THARAPHITA
'Ülestõus' VAARANG With their name deriving from the god of thunder 'Taarapita' in Estonian mythology, Tharaphita are a Pagan Black Metal band from the Rakvere / Tallinn area. Celebrating 20 years activity this year, their fifth full-length album pays homage to the bands successful and lengthy career in the underground metal world. 'Ülestõus' sees the quintet stick to singing in their native Estonian and by doing so, continues to drag in traditional values as well as the fabled Baltic Paganism. But the language barrier has never been an issue for most Estonian bands, sure some sing in English, but fellow countrymen Metsatöll sing in Estonian and so it just goes to show singing in your own language can have its positives. As for 'Ülestõus', the album itself is sheer beauty in terms of its level of creativity and diversity, what Tharaphita have done here is created a work of art that in no doubt will stand the test of time and enthrall future Pagan and Black metal newbies. Download This: "Viimsepäeva Koidik" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Tarm, Sõjaruun, Skyforger [8] RHYS STEVENSON ESTAMPIDA 'Hard As The Wolfram' INDEPENDENT Celebrating their 20th year anniversary, Argentinian quartet Estampida unleash an apocalypse with their 'Thrashtastic' EP 'Hard As The Wolfram'. Sure the simile used in the EP title might raise a few eyebrows given Wolfram is the alternate name for Tungsten, which in turn derives from Swedish for 'Heavy Stone', but if this is meant to describe the music then hell the words explain themselves. If you prefer your metal to be full of throttling pace, combined with an atmosphere that guarantees to spark a mosh-pit and one that harbors a sound that will snap your neck in two, then you are reading a review about that exact release. Wallowing between the furious pace of Bay Area Thrash Metal and the guttural harmonics of Melodic Death Metal, 'Hard As The Wolfram' is an EP to raise a pint to. They may be old in the scene, but their music is still fresh as daisies. Download This: "Face The Fear (Captive Soul)" - Click here to listen For Fans of: The Haunted, The Arcane Order, Dying Fetus [8] RHYS STEVENSON SPYDOR 'Predator' INDEPENDENT Despite all their efforts to sound unique and original, German Thrash Metallers Spydor just don't quite cut it. No disrespect to their debut EP 'Predator' which is a good solid slab of Thrash Metal, it just doesn't have anything excellent going for it, no 'wow' factor, no breakneck elements, nothing. It just doesn't seem whether they want to follow the Teutonic Thrash sound or the Bay Area Thrash sound, leaving them to ponder clueless as to where they want to be. 'Predator' for all it's might falls at the very last hurdle that otherwise would have given the band potential to establish a name for themselves in their homeland. Granted the members may well come from well-respected bands in their region, but as far as an international perspective goes, this EP is just another one to shelve in the category 'generic thrash', here's hoping their next effort is an improvement. Download This: "War" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Kreator, Slayer, 'Generic Thrash' [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON CRESCENT LAMENT '花殤' ("Elegy For The Blossoms") INDEPENDENT Crescent Lament's second album answers the anticipation surrounding it with such conviction, that this could be the release that gives Crescent Lament international recognition. '花殤' ("Elegy For The Blossoms") tells the story of A-hiong, a Taiwanese geisha who endured sorrow and anxiety throughout the late-Japanese period, the Pacific campaign in WWII and thereafter upon the dawn of the Chinese Nationalist Party's dominance in Taiwanese history. By utilizing traditional Taiwanese and Japanese instruments to give the sound a Oriental-yet-traditional feel to the music, Crescent Lamant establish themselves as the pioneers of ''Oriental Gothic Metal' and as this album goes, delivers a dark, saddening and theatrical sound. What also makes this release all the more magical, is the entire story concept, with two cultures clashing on one record, this is one album everyone should have in their collection. If any Far Eastern film delves into the realm of the geisha, Crescent Lament should make an appearance on the strength of this release. Download This: " 晴雨 " - Click here to listen For Fans of: Epica, Lacrimosa, After Forever [9] RHYS STEVENSON GEMINI ABYSS 'Regenerate' INDEPENDENT Gemini Abyss' third full-length release 'Regenerate', at times feels like there is too much going on and thus loses track on what could be a powerful album. The male vocals hinder the album this time round, constricting the evident Symphonic Power Metal sound and clogging it up, whereas the female vocals need greater space instead of battling against the crunchy guitar riffs and blitzing drums. Despite this, 'Regenerate' is a respectable release that will surely give the fans of said metal genre and band to chew on, but in a holistic sense it might not be enough to propel the band into the international spotlight. Instead of growling, perhaps Marcin ought to adopt a Phantom of the Opera singing style; this combined with Klaudia's graceful singing would send the atmospherics sky-rocketing. There are pockets of songs that stand out as true anthems, such as 'Like The Wind' which ideally is the sound Gemini Abyss ought to follow more. Download This: "Like The Wind" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Nightwish, Rhapsody Of Fire, Kamelot [7] RHYS STEVENSON VARIOUS ARTISTS 'The Witch 3: Wild Hunt Official Soundtrack - Special Edition' CD PROJEKT RED To hear this momentous soundtrack from the Windows/PS4/Xbox One game 'The Witch 3: Wild Hunt' is a delight beyond all belief. Featuring a wide array of instrumentalists and an all-Polish-choir, the end product is one of sheer emphatic and epic proportions that relates to the LOTR trilogy in it's suspense, elements and dramatic numbers. It also features the Progressive / Folk Metal band Percival using only acoustic instruments (Percival Schuttenbach is the metal counterpart) of whose metal name ties in with one of the gnomes from "The Witcher" saga, which in turn is a book series and forerunner to the video game series. In fact, this all Polish affair really has put the spotlight on the band and musicians involved, but as for the soundtrack itself for those who manage to secure a copy it is worth the listen. With 31 tracks spanning over 70 minutes-worth of listening time, listeners will be spoiled for choice onto what to listen to, overall this is a majestic work of art that will enthrall anyone who plays the game and as said listens to the soundtrack (if you're lucky enough to get a copy). Listen to it here: "Official Soundtrack" For Fans of: Video game instrumentals [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON PERCIVAL SCHUTTENBACH / PERCIVAL 'Wild Hunt' & 'Mniejsze Zło' INDEPENDENT / INDEPENDENT Lubin-based Percival Schuttenbach and their sister band Percival lock horns on their folkloric split release 'Wild Hunt' and exercise their traditional Slavic roots with pomp, majestic atmospherics and similar pace to that of their national dance the Polonez. The evident difference between the two bands is that Percival uses solely acoustic elements and yet whilst the Russian-Polish group have their musical differences with both bands, the essence of folk music remains on both accounts. Yet, Percival Schuttenbach (whose name comes from a gnome in the "The Witcher" saga) go international and perform other traditional folk songs from Belarus, Bulgaria and Croatia and thus deliver a fantastic multicultural product. Listeners will not get bored of this, nor will they get bored of the metal counterpart known (as said) as Percival. Sure whilst the latter band only has four songs on this 12-track release, it still delivers that excitement and folk-feeling you would expect. Singing exclusively in Polish, Percival keep their heritage and traditions alive through a cocktail blend of Progressive Metal guitar work and Folk Metal harmonics, just don't confused them with Pagan Metal because they are far from it. For Slavic Folk Metal, Percival stick true to their sister bands sounds and turn the amp up past 13. Overall this split is a remarkable testament to the Polish Metal scene, and is one that you ought to have in your collection. As for Percival Schuttenbach's fourth album 'Mniejsze Zło', more of their Progressive Folk Metal is brought out again. Maxing out at over an hour, this is a joy to listen to as the Polish verbiage flows out like a cascading waterfall. Much alike to fellow contemporary Polish Folk Metal bands, Percival Schuttenbach weave together traditional sounds with the harsh grittiness of metal music to create a sound that will enthrall many fans alike. Sure the balance between clean and screeching vocals is paramount to making a release dynamic, and that is what exactly has happened, by mixing two types of vocals that are reminiscent of many Slavic Metal bands and of the bouncy and melodic traditional type, 'Mniejsze Zło' will surely stand the test of time as a true honor to Polish Slavic Metal. Download This: "Żmij I Dziewczyna" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Arkona, At The Lake, Żywiołak [8] + [8] RHYS STEVENSON FRANTIC AMBER 'Burning Insight' INDEPENDENT Metal knows no boundaries, so when Sweden-based quintet Frantic Amber unleash their debut album 'Burning Insight' upon the masses, what comes with it is a new take on the Melodic Death Metal style. With members from Sweden, Japan, Norway and Denmark bringing together their own unique tastes for metal, the consequential output is a mixing pot of different influences that all mesh together to create the Frantic Amber sound. Dynamic atmospherics laced with the unrelenting pummeling of the drums come colliding and crashing against the crunchiness of the riffs and sickening feminine-ish vocals. It may well be 7 years since the band's inception, but the wait is well worth it. 'Burning Insight' shows a vast improvement across the years since the band's first EP and with this effort, clearly deserve to be signed, for they are certainly Sweden's hottest-property-of-2015. For Fans of: Arch Enemy, Scar Symmetry, Deals Death Download This: "Soar" - Click here to listen [8] RHYS STEVENSON AZURICA 'Warriors Don't Die' INDEPENDENT Not to be confused with their second EP of the same name, Azurica's humble beginning started with their 2013 EP 'Warriors Don't Die' which takes the form of a Keyboard-led style of Melodic Death Metal. Despite it's might, the vocals seem to be whispered and thereby allowing the guitars to take center stage alongside the keyboards. And what with the drums providing very little agility let alone sound quality, you begin to question where the band wants to be heading and where they are actually heading. Suffice to say despite Azurica's attempts to make 'Warriors Don't Die' a feasibly and exciting release, it fails to make the cut and as a result, begs for their next release to be the one to gobsmack. How will the German quintet move on from this is the next question, one of which should have an interesting answer. Download This: "The Inseparable Part" - Click here to listen For Fans of: 'Melodic Death Metal' [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON KYMATICA 'Kymatica' INDEPENDENT Just utter the genre and you will raise an eyebrow. Symphonic Extreme Metal might be a paradox in terms of how the opposites of the metal scale collide on Kymatica's self-debut album, but it certainly leaves an ever-lasting taste for more. Whilst their first major release might not be a clear-cut work of art, it certainly delivers something fresh to the table, with a concoction of sounds deriving from Symphonic Metal, Black Metal, Post-Metal and Doom Metal, you would be left pondering what on earth did Kymatica drink in order to deliver this golden-piss-of-an-album. Despite its lack of presence for the most part, 'Kymatica' is a promising sign of good things to come from this Canadian quartet and whilst it may leave some listeners befuddled, the end result is as good as the start. Watch this band with some interest. Download This: "Fate, Doom" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth, White Empress [7] RHYS STEVENSON STORM UPON THE MASSES
'Vengeance Of Madness' INDEPENDENT Slamming the ground with a fist of fury is Belgian Brutal Death Metal masochists Storm Upon The Masses, now their EP 'Vengeance Of Madness' is a little heavier than your last hangover. By bolting together a furious rally of drumming, riffs and guttural verbiage, this quintet emerge victorious as perhaps becoming the natural successor to Aborted. 'Vengeance Of Madness' will grapple onto your senses, pound your skull into tiny fragmented pieces and leave you begging for your mummy; unless of course she's into brutally-crafted Brutal Death Metal. Whilst there is only three tracks, there is enough firepower to blow away any poser Death Metal band with ease and cement Storm Upon The Masses' place as one of 2015's hottest prospects, let alone place 'Vengeance Of Madness' as an early contender for Belgian release of the year. All in all, watch this band with interest. Download This: "The Skin Collector" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Aborted, Suffocation, Nile [8] RHYS STEVENSON EYES OF GAIA 'The Power Of Existence' INDEPENDENT As far as emphatic sounds goes, Eyes of Gaia's debut album 'The Power Of Existence' positions itself right at the pinnacle of powerful, yet epic masterpieces. Seven years have passed since their inception and so the wait for their debut album was truly worth it, featuring the noticeable Maiden-esque vocals, blistering-paced drums and heavy riff Armageddon. That said, Brazil has had a rich past in the classic heavy metal arena so it comes as no surprise that this album features such characteristics. But taking this album as a whole, it shows that Eyes of Gaia have the ability to do well and excel themselves as a metal group worldwide with their infectious take-on the classic heavy metal sound. Watch this band with interest. Download This: "Hidden From The Light" - Click here to listen For fans of: Iron Maiden, Dragonforce, Judas Priest, Motorhead [8] RHYS STEVENSON HELION 'Duat's Calling' INDEPENDENT If you don't have a headache before listening to Helion's debut EP, you sure will afterwards. This filthy-rotten slab of Technical Death Metal wizardry is a testament to the sub-genre as it pummels out insanely fast drums, algorithmic riffs and vocals so brutal, Deathcore just became the new pop music. 'Duat's Calling' is the first offering by this Italian quartet and by jove it offers some elements of promise, it does however take some time to kick in. The only slight downside is that there appears to be too much going on at times and thus loses focus in becoming a respected debut EP. However diligence is soon paid off with an emphatic 12 minute epic that is 'Duat's Calling: The Cosmic Collision', a supersonic song that demands utmost attention. All in all 'Duat's Calling' may not be pretty, but it certainly is not the beast. Download This: "The Way Of Stars" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Neuraxis, Decapitated, 'Tech Death Metal' [7] RHYS STEVENSON XUL 'Extinction Necromance' INDEPENDENT On the strength of their first EP 'Extinction Necromance', Canadian quintet Xul have their eyes on international recognition with their gritty-form of Blackened Death Metal. Maxing out at a whopping 30 minutes, this ferocious assault of blazing drums, raucous vocals and tight-as-a-nun's-arse riffs, collectively delivers a musical force to be reckoned with. Granted it is not as glorified as perhaps Behemoth or as dynamic as some of the Norwegian contingent, it does however offer a truly underground sound that would appeal to fans of Extreme Metal and ones who just like their meat, love it 100% raw. 'Extinction Necromance' is an important step for Xul, where they go now is one question, the other being can they surpass this effort with ease? Download This: "Orbit Of Nemesis" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Enslaved, Immortal, Behemoth [8] RHYS STEVENSON SYNERGY PROTOCOL '2014 Demo' Last year saw the first demo by Dutch Prog Metal newbies Synergy Protocol, now whilst the band is new, the musicians themselves have been around for much, much longer. However their 2014 demo exhibits much of the old Prog Metal style and thus keeps the traditional aspects alive. Granted the recording is not at it's greatest and thus needs the volume turning up, but that's ok, because what greats you is a sensual yet erotic smacking of pure, crisp metal. Lasting for 22 minutes, this three-track effort certainly ticks the right boxes as a promising of things yet-to-come. Whatever this band does next is pretty much safeguarded for the expertise driving it, let's just see how their second offering pans out before seeing them as a resurgent Dutch force. Download This: "Puppet On A String (Live)" - Click here to listen For fans of: Dream Theater, To-Mera, Stream Of Passion [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON DAEMONA 'Il Demone Dentro' INDEPENDENT Arising as the East Anglian Death Machine, Daemona have no restrictions to their versatility as demonstrated on their debut demo "Il Demone Dentro", which is Italian for 'The Demon Inside'; the title of which was evidently crafted by lead vocalist Nina Pain. Executing a solid slab of Death Metal to wet your whiskers by is not always easy, but for this quintet it was simply taken in their stride. To think they are building themselves up to take on the mighty British Death Metal scene is an understatement, with this effort they have clearly demonstrated they are capable of slaughtering the globe with their chemically-engineered potion of destruction that is, 'Il Demone Dentro'. Watch this band with interest. Download This: "Grave Separator" - Click here for the 'live' version For Fans of: Cerebral Bore, Cannibal Corpse, Sanctorum [8] RHYS STEVENSON IMPERIAL CULT 'Rise Of Yalamber' SALUTE India in the last two decades or so has seen a surge of metal exports. But fast forward to the last few years and it's bands like Imperial Cult who bear the honor for leading the Indian Metal scene. This Black / Death Metal outfit spew out a sound that bears the hallmark of Asian extreme metal, low and raw recordings with that added attitude that seems to have been born with the Himalayan nations. If you love your metal as raw as cow hide, as dirty as satanic sluts and as brutal as mass genocide, then you are probably reading about the right release. 'Rise Of Yalamber' being the band's debut EP offers an insight into things yet to come, here's hoping they keep this power and grimness together for the years ahead, because this band offers a lot of potential. Download this: "Pain Of Mortals" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Keep Of Kalessin, Necrophobic, Immortal [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON EXALTER 'Democrasodomy' SALUTE Ensure that you are fit and well to headbang yourself to death when listening to Exalter's debut EP 'Democrasodomy', because it is one not to be taken lightly, in fact this is some serious shit. Bangladeshi Thrash Metal tends to get overlooked on the international stage and as a result gets largely ignored, but with Exalter's effort having enough fury to blow out a platoon of tanks, the only solution is to give this band your immediate attention. With infectious riffs rampaging like a thing possessed, drums providing the solidified backdrop and unforgiving, unrelenting and ungodly lashes of Slayer-esque vocals, it would be idiotic to disregard Exalter as a force to be reckoned with. 'Democrasodomy' is a testament to the 80's Thrash Metal onslaught and serves as a honorable yet leading release in the Bangladeshi Metal scene. Download This: "White Phosphorus Shell" - Click here to listen For fans of: Slayer, Evile, Sepultura [8] RHYS STEVENSON SPEEDEMON 'First Blood' Looking beyond Portugal's sole export Moonspell and you come across a small-yet-burgeoning metal scene, one band in particular looks set to send out their own branded form of Speed / Thrash Metal to the masses. Speedemon is a four-piece beast who roars with such ferocity, we heard them over here in the UK, and their premier EP 'Firstblood' is to blame. Now whilst to some it may appear simply as another Judas Priest-Slayer mish mash, it does offer something special in that it is totally 100% original in composition - sure influences are clear enough, but at least the riffs are not recycled, and at least they don't sound like a cloned band. For a good solid 14 minutes, it is well worth checking this EP out if you get boners over Judas Priest especially, be sure to have the tissues ready... just in case. Speedemon are flying the flag for the Portuguese Metal scene. Download This: "Blood Runs Cold" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Judas Priest, Slayer, 'Speed Thrash Metal' [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON KOBOLD 'Madman's Overture' Serbia's rich Thrash Metal heritage should be something to go by when considering fresh metal bands emerging off the streets. Kobold for example exploit the very expectations you would have for a Thrash Metal EP, chaotic riffs, infectious drums and gritty vocals. 'Madman's Overture' lasts for a respectable 22 minutes, with three tracks leading the charge. So if you asked for some Thrash Metal that is designed to crush your skull into nothingness, then you are reading the right review. The first outing for these chaps certainly yields promising times ahead and whilst the music delivers a rather rewarding, yet crisp satisfaction, the expectation for something better arises as a result. Given this was recorded in their own studio, the output is sublime in every aspect. Download This: "Madman's Overture EP" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Suicidal Tendencies, Gama Bomb, Slayer [8] RHYS STEVENSON ASHTAR
'Ilmasaari' CZAR OF CRICKETS PRODUCTIONS Upon listening to Ashtar's debut album 'Ilmasaari', you start to think to yourself 'where do i begin in thinking what my thoughts of this release are?', because simply put it is a thought-invoking and dank album that demands complete attention to it. This Finnish-Swiss duo pair up the depressive atmospherics of Doom Metal, the thick sounds of Sludge Metal with the embodiment of Black Metal to create a sound that is almost as if Sun O))), Kylesa and Woods Of Ypres had a threesome and produced offspring in the form of Ashtar. However whilst 'Ilmasaari' may not be in the ranks of awesome, it certainly has the potential to prick a few ears up and is sure to gain some attention across Europe, for now at least. Download This: "She Was A Witch" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Kylesa, Woods Of Ypres, Katatonia, Sun O))) [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON ANACHRONISM 'Reflecting The Inside' INDEPENDENT Get the aspirin ready and prepare yourself for the worst headache you have ever had, because that is exactly what Anachronism's premier EP 'Reflecting The Inside' will do to you. Beg for mercy because you're going to god-damn need it when listening to this "apocalyptic death metal" release, by mixing together the tight-ass elements of Technical Metal with some of the grittiest and grueling Death Metal vocals you'll ever come across from said genre, this Swiss five-piece have crafted a release that ought to perk a few record labels' ears up and pay attention. Slamming and tantalizingly brutal at every second, 'Reflecting The Inside' is your death warrant written in the musical format, now organize the pits, align the walls of death and let f*cking merry hell take over. You want pummeling and intensely-calculated Technical Death Metal? Look no further. Your answer lies with Anachronism. Download This: "A Way To Emptiness" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Suffocation, Cryptopsy, Gojira [9] RHYS STEVENSON SENSORIUM 'The Art Of Living' INDEPENDENT It is safe to say that the Israeli Metal scene is enjoying a successful establishment on planet earth and it's latest products, Sensorium, has delivered what could be considered as a candidate for 'Israeli release of the year'. 'The Art Of Living' is the band's debut album and it resides deep within the Power Metal and Operatic Metal styles, with emphatic keyboard elements cementing a harmonious atmosphere and the vocals sounding highly reminiscent of the Phantom of the Opera film, 'The Art Of Living' is a new chapter in the ever-differentiating Power Metal sub-genre. Maxed out at 69 minutes long, this erotic opus grabs your attention and never loses it as it twists and turns and delivers unexpected sounds at every passing second. For Sensorium this is a great start and they have already demonstrated that greater things are yet to come and in doing so, establish them as the next great Israeli Metal export. Download This: "Haunting Verity" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Sonata Arctica, Sabaton, Therion [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON BLUDY GYRES 'Bludy Gyres' INDEPENDENT So if you have over 20 minutes spare to listen to a two-track EP, you're either mad or completely bored. But both possibilities are worth it, since Bludy Gyres' self-titled EP delivers an orgasmic display of Progressive Doom Metal. The problem is, it lacks that one strike that would cast it as a good release. One of the good parts of the EP resonates with the song "To Live Is To Bleed" which comes from a Scottish ballad by Robert Burns written in 1782. Other than that, the EP lacks redeeming qualities, sure this may seem contradictory with respect to the orgasmic quip, but these orgasms come every so often because the tracks seem too dull to endure. But the time will come when this American quartet arrange the right notes to create a release that would at least warrant a second listening, this EP is not that release. Download This: "To Live Is To Bleed" - Click here to listen For Fans of: "Progressive Doom Metal", early-Black Sabbath, Novembers Doom [6] RHYS STEVENSON DOWN RIGHT DIRTY 'Drunk And On Drugs' INDEPENDENT Well if you want your cliche 80's style Thrash Metal, once again it is here, but you got to love it to appreciate it. Canadian Thrash whackers Down Right Dirty take no prisoners when it comes to delivering cock-snapping songs, this is clearly evident on their debut EP 'Drunk And On Drugs' as it explodes with the sound of roaring-riffs, blitzing drums and savage vocals. Now imagine your head being smashed against the wall in rapid outbursts, this is the sheer force and reckoning power that 'Drunk And On Drugs' holds in store for anyone who dare listens to it. With ten tracks available to destroy your hearing by, by the tenth song you will have forgotten what the first one sounds like, let alone being deafened by it all.... ok, so maybe 'Drunk And On Drugs' is not a groundbreaking release, it doesn't have to be in order to pack a punch. Download This: "Fuck You Pay Me" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Slayer, Biohazard, Agnostic Front [7] RHYS STEVENSON DEIFIED 'Chaos, Blood & War' INDEPENDENT Dropping their debut EP 'Chaos, Blood & War' is Greek Heavy / Power Metal mob Deified, what comes with this EP is the imminent face-smacking sound of majestic vocals, this seems to be the most outstanding part of the EP albeit the solo's being cleverly crafted, and the rest of the music seemingly befitting the standards of said metal genre. 'Chaos, Blood & War' is a testament to the epic tales from the Greek mythology realm and pays homage to the Greek Metal scene as a potential release for Deified to use in order to propel themselves from. Granted it is nothing new, and now and then demonstrates a lack of creativity, it does however serve its purpose as the first effort by this quintet, no doubt there is more to come - we have not heard the last of this group, not at all. Download This: "Chaos, Blood & War" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Blind Guardian, Achelous, Iron Maiden [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON GROTESKH 'Code: End' CURSED If there was a metal version of the Eurovision Song Contest, then Groteskh would easily represent Austria; Lordi for Finland mind you. The thing about Black Metal is, you can have it blisteringly fast or atmospherically depressing, Groteskh however utilize the best of both styles, with each song on their second album 'Code: End' offering a variety of paces, elements and ultimately extreme metal as the vocals flirt with both the Black and Death Metal sub-genres. Groteskh are showing that they are ready to be recognized as Austria's next successful metal export. With the effort shown on this unforgiving, yet cranial-crushing Black Metal album, they can build on this and aim for major festivals in the year(s) ahead. If you think you know Black Metal, you are mistaken, for this is trve kvlt Black Metal. Download This: "Displaced Axis" - Click here to listen For fans of: Abigor, Carpathian Forest, Eastern Front [8] RHYS STEVENSON OKAZAKI FRAGMENTS 'Abandoned' INDEPENDENT Well it's certainly correct to note that Okazaki Fragments have discovered the DNA found within the Death Metal / Grindcore partnership, with the drums powering their debut album 'Abandoned' through all forces of velocity, it would seem that this whacky Canadian bunch have done their homework and studied how said metal genre combination works. Pig squeals, tight-arse time signatures and a brutalizing wall-of-sound pummel your senses into a squashed pulp. For a debut album this is a statement of intent, that Okazaki Fragments are priming themselves to become another successful metal band to be shat out of the streets of Canada. Just be sure to have the aspirin at the ready, as it's one of those albums that never takes a break, and could easily be considered as Canadian metal release of the year. Download This: "Vermin" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Psyopus, Aborted, Prostitute Disfigurement [8] RHYS STEVENSON CONGIURA 'iBlood' SLIPTRICK Who'd have thought a metal band could make Melodic Death Metal so damn funky, that it takes control of your body and makes you move every single muscle? Well Italy's Congiura have nailed that right on the spot, their debut album 'iBlood' might be flooding out your senses with erotic Gothenburg-style Melodic Death Metal, but with the added post-rock influences, it doubles up as a 'Death Dance Metal' album. 'iBlood' uniquely takes you on a journey throughout the tunnels of the Modern Metal as it reaps your mind and controls the thousands of neurons to make you move to the groove exhibited all over this fantastic release. With an adventurous sound to the riffs, dramatic drum elements, vicious vocals and an atmospheric more powerful than an atomic bomb, 'iBlood' is one album you must have in your collection, there is simply no exception. Download This: 'iBlood' - Click here to listen to their 'iBlood' music video For fans of Amon Amarth, In Flames, Dark Tranquility [9] RHYS STEVENSON CRUCIFIED BARBARA 'In The Red' DESPOTZ In 2014 the Swedish Hard Rock / Heavy Metal bombshells Crucified Barbara delivered their fourth album 'In The Red'. Eight months on and it still rocks your socks off, full of attitude and grit, this latest outing is the very definition of what makes female rock / metal musicians that extra-sexy, not just because of the looks, but they make the music far more powerful and vibrant than their male counterparts. 'In The Red' carries on the Swedish Hard Rock revival with enough oomph in the band's lockers, they could tour with fellow countrymen Sister Sin and make a sensational pact. As for their latest release, it's highly self-explanatory and does not take much to work out what the album is all about, that said you would need to have a shot of whiskey or jagermeister at the ready, cause this is a drinking album! Chin-chin!. Download This: "I Sell My Kids For Rock 'N' Roll" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Sister Sin, Vanilla Ninja, Kobra & The Lotus [8] RHYS STEVENSON PAEAN
'Scorn Of Eternity' INDEPENDENT It's not all that often you find a Progressive Death Metal band have the guts to bolt on another metal genre to create a unique sound, such a band who has taken that bold step is Paean from Estonia. By combining Progressive Death Metal music with Doom Metal atmospherics, their debut album 'Scorn Of Eternity' brings something relatively new to the table; sure the said combination has been done before, it just has not been done enough times. What is also amazing about this album is that it really amps up the progressiveness of the riffs, whilst the drums alternate with the riffs in doing the same thing, bringing in a Gojira-style groove. Whatever people make of this release one thing is for certain, Paean are flying the flag for the Estonian Metal scene and with 'Scorn Of Eternity' are sure to gain the attention of some record labels. Download This: "First Breath" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Gojira, Agonyst, Human Ground [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON AKVAN 'آتش زاده' INDEPENDENT Throughout the rich and turbulent times found within the Iranian metal scene, the country's Black Metal contingent have never shied away from delivering releases of extreme quality and exotic beauty. The latest to join the allegiance is one-man project Akvan; fronted by Lord Vizaresa, who has just released his debut EP 'آتش زاده' (which roughly translates as 'Birth Of Fire') and culminates a dark, depressing yet purposeful sound. Wallowing in the darkest Black Metal sounds, 'آتش زاده' takes listeners on a historic journey through Ancient Persia and the lands of the Aryans. With an atmosphere that matches the traditional and elegant sounds of Iranian / Middle Eastern folk music, 'آتش زاده' is a real testament to the emergence of Iranian Black Metal as a global phenomena. Download This: "Iran, Land Ov The Aryans" (Click here to listen) For Fans of: Aras, Darkthrone, "Historical Metal" [8] RHYS STEVENSON TRISTANA 'Virtual Crime' BAKERTEAM Wired up to the electrical surge of thunderous riffs, electrical atmospherics, cryptic vocals and melodious keyboard elements, Tristana's third album 'Virtual Crime' takes their newer Groove / Alternative Metal sound and upgrades it with a new found sense of excitement. 'Virtual Crime' is one of those releases that demands an eclectic taste to like, sure it falls slightly short of being called Modern Metal (if some synths or industrial elements were added, this would have been a groundbreaking release), but it does offer something remarkable in return and that is a solid 40 minute explosion of pure Slovakian Metal music mayhem. Whether this is the band's best album to date is open for debate, but for now it can be positioned as a contender for Slovakian Metal release of the year despite it's subtle flaws. Watch with interest. Download This: "Fallen" (Click here to listen to and watch the music video) For Fans of: Dagoba, Sepultura, Bon Jovi [8] RHYS STEVENSON IRREVERSIBLE MECHANISM 'Infinite Fields' BLOOD MUSIC Music is unpredictable at the best of times, so when Belarusian duo get snapped up by Blood Music on the brink of their debut album release, there was obviously something magical about this duo and boy were they right. Unleashing a torrential battering of Progressive Death Metal, 'Infinite Fields' places Irreversible Mechanism on the map, and with it comes by far the most impressive Belarusian Metal release since the scenes inception. Just like War of the Worlds, V For Vendetta and the Orwellian novel 1984, 'Infinite Fields' guides listeners through a post-apocalyptic world full of dystopian ideologies, advanced technologies and natural cybernetic atmospherics. Now if there is one album that was calculated so precisely, so much so any form of erratic equation becomes eradicated as a result, it would have to be 'Infinite Fields'. This album, is the album to slam any predecessors in the technically-minded Progressive Death Metal arena and make them listen, listen to the noise coming from Eastern Europe, a noise that will give this band glorified international attention. Download This: "The Betrayer Of Time" (Click here to listen) For Fans of: Becoming The Archetype, Gorod, Obscura [9] RHYS STEVENSON DESERT 'Never Regret' RAVEN MUSIC Israel-based Power Metal outfit Desert make their welcomed return with their second album 'Never Regret'. Bringing to the table once again their fantasy-laden hooks, eloquent vocals and Middle Eastern flavorsome vibes. When you think about it, Middle Eastern Power Metal is not highly prevalent and so when Desert emerges with another offering, it's as if a once-every-1000 years opportunity has arisen. With the keyboards providing a taste of traditional influences and the vocals leading the charge with a smothering of Russian influence; developing a unique cultural clash. 'Never Regret' may not be the perfect Power Metal album in existence, indeed at times it leaves listeners stuck on the 'will there be a song different to the last' moment, it does however validate Desert as a unique unit in their own right, question is how long will it take for their own take on said music genre to be recognized further afield. Download This: "The Wolf's Attack" (Click here to listen) For Fans of: Orphaned Land, Iced Earth, Hammerfall [7] RHYS STEVENSON TERRA 'Untitled' HIBERNACULA Well if you ever get time to pass and want to check out something bizarre yet extreme, then Terra's debut album 'Untitled' should be on your hit list. Granted with only 3 tracks totaling up a grand time of 41 minutes, the ferocity and animosity explored and demonstrated is unmistakably valiant. This three-piece Cambridge horde muster up a sound that represents the true values of Atmospheric Black Metal in the veins of Winterfylleth and the like. Created by veterans of bygone years, Terra is an exciting addition to the resurgence of British Black Metal and will ultimately add to the plethora of BM bands across the lands. For seasoned Black Metal addicts, this is the crème de la crème, but for newcomers it might come across as rather bewildering, additionally this would most appeal to the lovers of rawer Black Metal in contrast to the more commercially appealing Borgir-esque and Cradle-esque sound. Download This: " I " (Click here to listen) For Fans of: Winterfylleth, Wolves In The Throne Room, Northern Oak [8] RHYS STEVENSON NEPENTE 'I Will Get Your Soul' CIMMERIAN SHADE South American metalheads tend to have an unstoppable addiction towards extreme metal, it's like as if the vast production of cocaine became eradicated and metal music has taken it's place. Welcoming to the forefront of the Black / Death Metal style is Colombian battalion Nepente with their second EP 'I Will Get Your Soul' and with it comes a thunderous explosion of acidic vocals, mauling riffs and bone-crunching drumming. Let's face it Nepente are set to take the Colombian Metal scene to greater heights with their new offering 'I Will Get Your Soul' and for those brave enough to check it out, you will not be disappointed. With every second comes a mauling explosion of chaos and fury neatly packaged in this unforgiving EP, if Nepente keep this sound going they will be sure to perform in Europe next year. Download This: "Show Me That You Are Suffering" - Click here to listen. For Fans of: "Old School Death / Black Metal", Impiety, Infernal War [8] RHYS STEVENSON DAMAGE SOURCE 'Raise Hell' INDEPENDENT It's very easy for a lack of imagination to marauder into the process of making a Thrash Metal release and sadly it seems Damage Source fell into that trap. With their debut EP 'Raise Hell' featuring some rather basic riffs that instead of complementing the vocals seem to bury them so deep, it's hard to catch on to what the lyrics actually are. For the new kids on the block, this is the quality you tend to expect on a demo at least, but despite it's negativity here and there, 'Raise Hell' does position itself as a platform for the Germans to magic up a debut album that ought to wow people. It will be interesting to see how the quartet aim to better themselves, because on the strength of 'Raise Hell' it is nearly a tall order. Granted mixing elements from the Bay Area and Teutonic scenes respectively might bode them well, it boils down to whether they can use this combination to their advantage. Download This: "The Disease" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Metallica, Holy Moses, Slayer [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON RED ROOM ENSEMBLE 'Red Room Ensemble' INDEPENDENT It's an undeniable fact that the Finnish do not need to take any iron supplements to keep their metal levels up, in fact they produce them. Marking their territory with their debut self-titled album is Melodic Heavy Metal outfit Red Room Ensemble, featuring a no-nonsense, no-rules attitude towards their recording and creating of their debut album. Hailing from the Åland Islands, Red Room Ensemble broods within the atmospherics of Iron Maiden and features vocals in the style that of Bon Jovi's 'Blaze of Glory'. Although the album is nothing new and therefore is not breaking new ground, it does offer itself as a delight to seasoned classic metal listeners. In a visual context, the band aren't dressed in your average metalhead outfit, but rather in dapper suits. As for 'Red Room Ensemble', it is a must-own album for any classic, heavy or melodic metal fan, period. Download This: "Everything Went Red" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Bon Jovi, "Melodic Heavy Metal" [8] RHYS STEVENSON MALDEVERA 'All Eyes On Jeff' INDEPENDENT Texas over the decades has delivered a whole host of unforgettable metal bands, focusing on the new wave of Texan Metal means paying attention to bands like Maldevera, whose infectious mix of Thrash Metal riffs, Groove Metal grit and thunderous atmospherics, bodes well for times ahead. 'All Eyes On Jeff' is the third demo by this now-trio and whilst it sadly is nothing new, it does offer some anticipation for their expected debut album. Sampling elements from Star Trek: Voyager and Spawn: The Animated Series, fans of both sci-fi and / or 80's Thrash Metal would drool over this raw-as-hell release. With each track dissimilar to each other, 'All Eyes On Jeff' ought to grab the trio some well-earned attention from across the States, let alone internationally. So sit back, succumb to Maldevera's tornado-like onslaught and batten down the hatches, for this Thrash Metal storm won't be going anywhere soon. Download This: "Maldevera" (Click here to listen) For Fans of: Pantera, Slayer, Motorhead [8] RHYS STEVENSON ACHELOUS
'The Cold Winds Of Olympus' Bands who use folklore or historical events in their lyrics usually tell the best stories through metal music, such a band is Greek Heavy Metal newcomers Achelous. Whilst there are no flash riffs, no emphatic beats or crushing vocals, the band's premier EP 'The Cold Winds Of Olympus' explodes with a colorful arrangement of classic Bon Jovi-esque vocals, emotional atmospherics and a powerful dramatization of bygone Hellenism. Achelous have proven that the classic sound of Heavy Metal is very much alive and well. Now whilst this EP might not satisfy the more modern heavy metal listeners, it does however pay homage to the founding metal genre of which our favorite metal sub-genres derived from. All in all 'The Cold Winds Of Olympus' drops hints of something even more majestic to come, watch this band with interest as the dawn of 'Hellenic Battle Metal' arises without mercy. Download This: "Guardians Of The Light" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Manowar, Van Halen, Bon Jovi [8] RHYS STEVENSON |
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Global Metal Apocalypse Archives
May 2021
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