BEYOND CHRONICLES
'Shatter'
INDEPENDENT

High hopes have been placed on the French outfit known as Beyond Chronicles, well with their premier EP 'Shatter' carrying such a convincing sound that in basketball-terms would be considered a slam-dunk, you would have to be stupid to write this group off. Never has French Melodic Death Metal been so exciting, from the rhythmic architecture providing the basis for the guitars, vocals and bass to unleash themselves upon to the slight hint of Modern Metal creeping in, 'Shatter' is a release that will shake the very foundations of the European Metal circuit. Essentially 'Shatter' is as rich in fresh potential for success as much as Sèvres goaded the world of porcelain, Beyond Chronicles are one band to watch for the future, no mistake about it they will go far and will gain acclaimed attention from across Europe.

Download this: "Born To Die" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Marionette, Deals Death, Sight Of Emptiness

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

LA HORDE
'Dystopie'
FANTAI'ZIC PRODS.

Comme-ci comme-ça, or like this like that. That is what springs to mind when pouring over La Horde's second album 'Dystopie', this French unit explore the various avenues of Thrash, Punk and Hardcore to muster up a violent, abrasive and unruly splattering of Thrashcore; but with more Hardcore than Thrash. Bolting together their sound with the romance of the French language is like dressing up a female Black Metal fan in a pink flowery dress, one is brutal and the other elegant. But despite this conflicting analogy (think black rose), 'Dystopie' is a full-on stomping album that would appeal to any fan of old-school Hardcore and modern-Thrash; it is what it says it is, a take-on what life will be like if humanity keeps heading down the yellow-brick road, except La Horde will lead the horde. 'Dystopie' is a decent enough release, it is not groundbreaking or cutting edge, but it will do for now.

Download This: "Chan Chan" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Hatebreed, Scarred By Beauty, Skreamer

'Dystopie' is out 5th October via Fantai'zic Productions and all major online outlets

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

INVOKER
'Aeon'
NON SERVIAM

Germany has a long history with producing some of the finest Black / Death Metal acts and Invoker continue that legacy by returning with their second offering 'Aeon'. Whilst the vocals continue the raw sound that distinguishes them from titans of said genre like Behemoth and Vesania, Invoker tend to drag in more brutal and atmospheric influences to the mix, resulting in a fast and furious yet cumbersome presentation. Whilst 'Aeon' might not exactly be the release to drag them out of the underground shadows, it does however poise itself as a decent listen for those who prefer the more exquisite strains of Black / Death Metal. With two instrumentals, a total listening duration of 45 minutes and an eight minute epic, this album will guarantee anyone who peers into it, a listen they will never forget.

Download This (when out): "In The Womb Of Arrogance"

For Fans of: Dissection, Bolt Thrower, Hypocrisy

'Aeon' is out 30th October via Non Serviam Records in both physical and digital formats

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

FORKLIFT ELEVATOR
'Borderline'
INDEPENDENT

Despite the crazy band name, Italian wielders of Groove / Thrash Metal Forklift Elevator deal justice with their debut album 'Borderline'. Whether that's a remark about their music style being borderline or their band name remains to be seen, but the problem that is presented with their debut album is the quality delivered. Naturally self-produced albums are a little risky in terms of whether it will be successful or not, Forklift Elevator just avoided that trap, just. 'Borderline' does offer crunchy riffs (especially on 'Damn Bug') and thick bass elements, but it lacks that kick force that this quintet are so capable of mustering. By adding a bit more eccentricity and / or power will give them that magical spark to ignite their career and gain much acclaimed attention. Despite this, 'Borderline' is still a valiant effort it just does not have that quality to make this unit stand out from the underground masses.

Download This: "Struggle Of Life" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Five Finger Death Punch, Machine Head, Hebiimetaru

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

NICROTEK
'Strange Sound From The Sky'
BLACK LION PRODS.

Eclectic to say the least, well what else can be said when you put industrial music, Black Metal, folk, ambient and atmospheric music into the mixing pot? Insane is another way, but however you wish to put it, it seems that Indonesian soloist Bobby Deathstars has ventured into the euphoric moment of widening the Black Metal cesspool even more. His project Nicrotek has pummeled out 9 albums this year and this is just one of them, 'Strange Sound From The Sky' explores the creative and artistic breadth of this ingenious musician. Granted to the die-hard kvlt Black Metal fans this would come across as a pile of wank, to those into electronic music the harshness of Black Metal would leave them clueless. Hence this release is designed for total musical annihilation and so for that kudos must be bestowed, what with the sound and atmosphere creating a wide landscape, where can this project go from here?

Download This: "Unexpected Situation" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: 'Black Metal, 'Ambient', 'Experimental music'

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

BLACK ROYAL
'The Summoning Pt. I'
ARMLESS STRANGER

Stoner Death Metal? If that is not another way of describing dying from a meth overdose then no idea what is, joke aside Finnish quartet Black Royal demonstrate their musicianship well through their premier EP 'The Summoning Pt. I'. Thick as the Floridian Death Metal sound and brutal as a mediocre hangover, 'The Summoning Pt. I' is a league apart from other weirdly genre-combined releases. The sad thing is that it just seems to not go anywhere, the music is good but the initiative is one that lacks that convincing element. Granted it will appeal to those who like thick, fast and ironically slow music, but there is too much going on for it to be a decent release. If the band were to hone in on their playing skills and fine tune it, then sure the outcome would be far different, but this is a learning step for the Finns, time will tell if their is any improvements.

Download This: "Contagion Accident" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Melvins, Orange Goblin, Six Feet Under

[6.5] RHYS STEVENSON

UNDER THE ABYSS
'A Future To Behold'
VOCATION

Heavy / Thrash Metal mixed with Metalcore influences? Sounds good. Sounds even better when you have the likes of Under The Abyss commandeering it. This French mob brandish their own take on the over-populated metal combination and it is this decision that makes releases like their second album 'A Future To Behold' a delightful listen. With each passing second, new elements are delivered and it is this that leaves an ever-lasting taste for more, with an eccentric approach to the compositions and an architectural foundation to build their sound on, Under The Abyss position themselves as potential contenders for 'French Metal release of the year'. This modern take on Thrash Metal is what will drive the genre forward, forward onto newer ventures and perhaps towards 'A Future To Behold'. Watch this band with interest.

Download This: "Meaningless Things" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Fallen Fate, Scarred By Beauty, Evile

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

CHAOS BEFORE GEA
'Khâron'
BLOOD FIRE DEATH

Chaos Before Gea could easily become Spain's answer to 36 Crazyfists and Norma Jean, with their latest effort 'Khâron' delivering a ballistic onslaught of insanely angry Metalcore / Nu Metal, you would wet your pants at the brutality of such a release. Not known for producing stellar Metalcore bands, this in fact could be the moment the Spanish Metal scene has been waiting for, sensational vocals lead the strike force with the riffs and drums providing substantial artillery fire. It might not be something new, but it is something epic and that is good enough for the average metal listener. it won't take long before this lot end up on the laps of the Metalcore titans, so watch this band with every passing day because they are going places they may never have thought of.

Download This: "Red Lights" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: 36 Crazyfists, Norma Jean, Miss May I

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

ÓSSERP
'Sang I Sutge'
BLOOD FIRE DEATH

No matter how much effort you put into a release, it does not always guarantee a decent release. This is what has happened with Ósser's debut album 'Sang I Sutge', there is too much going on and very little in the way of organizing it, as if to suggest the band were distracted during the album making process. 'Sang I Sutge' is the debut album by the Spanish Death Metal / Grindcore contingent and despite it's thick double bass (and bass guitar) elements, gritty vocals and brutal pace, it lacks the ability to convince that this album is there best output possible. Granted Deathgrind was never meant to be pretty, tidy or neat, but there is an exception to that, that is the release has to maintain a percussive pattern and not be hit this, hit that, play this, f**k that. That is exactly what makes this album flop, it just does not convince itself let alone the listener that it is the real deal.

Download This: "Heretant Enemics" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Death Metal / Grindcore

[5] RHYS STEVENSON

JUSTABELI
'Cause The War Never Ends'
MUTILATION

Seven years since their debut album 'Hell War' emerged from the Brazilian Metal scene, Justabeli makes their hallowed return with another slab of old school 'Blackened-tinged' Death Metal. Full of thick viscous riffs that float in-between the ferocity of the drums and vocals that are so raspy they put the old Norwegian Black Metal vocalists to shame. 'Cause The War Never Ends' is true in it's words in that somewhere in the world there are skirmishes going on and so with this 'Blackened' Death metal at the helm of this release, the stage is set for another onslaught of the 'War Metal' style. The only downside is that some of the songs sound too similar to one another, thus the lack of diversity in terms of song construction hinders the album somewhat to the extent that it becomes hard to appreciate certain songs. But despite the inconsistency of song differentiation, 'Cause The War Never Ends' is a well constructed album that will appeal to many fans of Old-School Extreme Metal.

Download This: "Soldiers Of Satan" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Immortal, Marduk, Morbid Angel

[6.5] 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

MORNIR
'Entfesselt'
INDEPENDENT

Germanic Paganism is certainly nothing new, but when it comes to mixing it with metal, it's more recent than you think. Carrying on this noble style is German Pagan Metallers Mornir with their premier EP 'Entfesselt' ('Unleashed'), through the maze of adventurous riffs that ride this EP with such fluidity to the gruffness of the vocals that embody the typical German Pagan Metal sound as a whole. Singing exclusively in their native German language, this quintet have got a promising future ahead as long as they keep the oomph in their music up and on top of what they aim to achieve. Mixing the classic Pagan Metal sound with a violin is not easy, yet as you let the EP play through it's entirety, the magic behind such a crossover becomes more and more crystal clear, simply spellbinding.

Download This: "Erdenblut" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Arkona, Helrunar, Wolfchant

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

SIRION
'2014 EP'
INDEPENDENT

This American lot are tipped for big things, well when you take the time to indulge in their 2014 EP you cannot escape the urge to place it on repeat for infinity, pun-intended. When you consider their concoction of Swedish Melodic Death Metal heaviness, Power Metal melodies, Modern Metal atmospherics and vision to create a unique sound, you wouldn't be wrong for calling Sirion the offspring of Scar Symmetry and Children Of Bodom. On the strength of this EP, we tip this exciting quintet for a record label deal within a year's-time. Lyrically adopting the Modern Futuristic Metal approach of singing about space, the apocalypse and artificial intelligence through some hefty cybernetic verbiage, Sirion have certainly got their act together and with their impending debut album on the cards, their next release will be closely monitored with interest.

Download This: "Interstellar" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Scar Symmetry, Children Of Bodom, Wintersun

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

IN VACUO
'In Vacuo'
INDEPENDENT

If you ever felt insanely depressed or down, trodden and saddened, then go ahead indulge in In Vacuo's self-titled album, because this would only make you feel that much worse. 'In Vacuo' is the self-harming equivalent in the music world, it seriously lacks any kind of feeling and thus loses the intended ability to wow listeners. Despite this, the riffs are very bland, so bland you feel like stabbing your ears vigorously to save your hearing from the dreadful monstrosity herewith presented. For all the intended might, the album simply does nothing to excite or captivate and should be avoided with ease, that is, go ahead listen to it, but you will regret it. Forget going back to the basics of Black / Doom Metal, this is too bad for the basics.

Download This (if you dare to): "Urpower" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Black / Doom Metal

[4] RHYS STEVENSON

POWER OF GROUND
'The Butcher'
SALUTE

Slamming and slaughtering are just two adjectives that can be used to describe the Premier EP by Bangladesh's latest metal export Power Of Ground. 'The Butcher' EP employs a corpse-spread of Brutal Death Metal marred with some rather eccentric Technical Metal influences weaving in and out of the gory onslaught. Pig squeals and guttural vocals front this maddened release and are joined by said riffs and thumping drums. This EP is not only perfect for those who get boners over Extreme Metal, but also for those who love exotic metal, aside from this 'The Butcher' is a really good starter by this Chittagong horde, bestial at it's most extreme as well as brutally menacing. Fury, grit, gore, whoring-riffs and mathematics at their most extreme make this EP what it is, and so be prepared to face the abattoir of 'The Butcher'.

Download This: "Murder Is An Art" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Psyopus, Suffocation, Severe Dementia

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

DILIGENCE
'Amendment'
INDEPENDENT

'Amendment' summarizes what you would expect from a Deathcore / Death Metal band, unrelenting drums, crunching riffs, bellowing vocals and an atmosphere designed to crush your senses. Enter Czech metallers Diligence with their premier EP released last year. Fronted by the sensationally talented Daniela Neumanová, this quartet emblazon their image with the perceptions of Modern Death Metal and in doing so prep themselves to become the next successful Czech Metal export. 20 minutes of unruly brutality may not seem enough, but by the time the last song closes you begin to realize it sounded longer than it actually did. It would be surprising if labels like MetalGate don't snap up this hot property, because damn this Death Metal / Deathcore combination certainly demands immediate attention. 'Amendment' is one EP any adventurous metal fan should own, forget what you love, Diligence's 'Amendment' is the real shit.

Download This: "Ways Grown Obsolete" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Cerebral Bore, Arch Enemy, Whitechapel

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

KILL ROBOT KILL
'Aeon Of Damnation'
INDEPENDENT

Deathcore is like a plague, it contaminated the world and every once in a while it needed to mutate in order to survive, sadly such mutations end up with the output more shit than your average fecal matter. Thankfully Austrian horde Kill Robot Kill avoid that pitfall and unleash a menacing onslaught of Death Metal-infused Deathcore. Whilst their debut EP 'Aeon Of Damnation' might not be the best this outfit can produce, it certainly has the force of a thousand atomic bombs and as such will pummel your face into wasted skin. Crunchy riffs lead the attack, whilst the drums send seismic shocks through the infrastructure of this formidable effort and the vocals lead the final blow to what can be perceived as the dawn of the new wave of Austrian Deathcore. Watch this band with interest at all costs.

Download This: "Still The Ashes Reveal" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Whitechapel, Betraying The Martyrs, Kin Beneath Chorus

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

OVERDOZES
'E.P.'
INDEPENDENT

Hailing from one of the least explored metal scenes on the international stage (in terms of press coverage), Thrash Metal unit Overdozes aim to please with their premier 2015 EP. Despite it's epic pace-shifting Thrash Metal sound, the Thai quartet immerse their sound in raw, DIY atmospherics and end up giving possibly a nostalgic feeling to veteran metalheads, reminiscing of the 80's Thrash Metal fury. Whilst this is nothing new, the raw sound and almost-apparent lack of respect for the guidelines to making a groundbreaking release, make this EP a release anyone should own, because it simply has enough oomph to make anyone headbang incessantly. Their EP might well just become Thai Metal release of the year; watch this band with interest.

Download This: "Goat Divinity" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Nuclear Assault, Sodom, Slayer

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

INSURRECTION
'Catatonic'
BIG BAD WOLF

Insurrection's debut EP 'Catatonic' takes its time to kick into full swing, and yet when it does it becomes clear that some elements are missing. It lacks that convincing punch to make it a stellar release, but that's what EP's are for right? Granted the unrelenting pace the drummer sets is matched by the guttural velocity of the vocals and the uncompromising riffs, but the atmosphere is as boring as watching paint dry. Hence the atmosphere is one of the major substances this EP lacks in, the other pitfall is when you take on too many sub-genres and fluff it, which in Insurrection's case is Melodic Death / Thrash; there is too much going on for the band to formulate a sound that will define this band, but despite this the effort is there and if the Dutch quartet play their cards right, they could make a buzz on the continent if not the Benelux. It's not the best of starts for the band, but they have potential.

Download This: "Apotheosis" - Click here to listen

For fans of: The Arcane Order, The Haunted, Malefice

[6.5] RHYS STEVENSON

THUNDERSTEEL
'The Exorcism'
TMINA

If not the most exciting metal act of 2015 to emerge from the Serbian Metal scene. That is what comes to mind when listening to Thundersteel's debut album 'The Exorcism'. By mixing together the hallowing sounds of Speed Metal in the style of Sabaton and Judas Priest, with the emphatic slow melodies and majestic sounds of Iron Maiden, this quartet set the bar higher in the Heavy / Speed Metal arena. 'The Exorcism' has given Thundersteel a solid platform to walk upon, not only because of their imminent label deal, but because this effort will perk the ears of Europe up, it has the potential to push Thundersteel onto the conveyor belt for the likes of Bloodstock and beyond. In addition we could be looking at a sharp contender for Serbian Metal release of the year as well, keep an eye on this lot.

Download This: "Past Time Lords" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Sabaton, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

ELVELLON
'Spellbound'
INDEPENDENT

With the Symphonic Metal movement having gained rapid momentum over the last two decades and since it's first emergence in 1990, the need for bands to distance themselves from the established-household names has become paramount. Elvellon manage to escape this entrapment, just. Granted they have not included any Power Metal, nor any cliche elements that seem to have been exhausted these days, but the similarity between them and the likes of Turunen-era Nightwish cannot be mistaken, not that is a bad thing, it just means that 'Spellbound' has given the band a decent platform to stand on. With 'Spellbound' being the band's debut EP, we can expect a lot more from this German quintet and here's hoping they become a successful metal export, because they certainly have the vision and musicianship to do so without anything holding them back. Swishing symphonies and angelic vocals combined with thunderous drumming and savage riffs, if you're ravenous for some 'Dramatic Symphonic Metal' then 'Spellbound' is for you.

Download This: "Born From Hope" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Turunen-Era Nightwish, Delia, Within Temptation

[8.5] 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

SOULLINE
'Welcome My Sun'
SEO

When you take the time to search the globe for mesmerizing talent and end up checking a band that not only is signed, has performed at Wacken and toured with well respected metal bands and yet has very little recognition outside of their native country, you begin think to yourself 'something is wrong here'. Rest assured, SoulLine's fourth studio album is an absolute bone-crunching slab of Melodic Death Metal; with Metalcore influences dotted here and there. Having been around for 15 years, it's remarkable to think that this band has not grabbed the attention they evidently deserve and yet still put out releases that would probably result in the world's press smothering them. 'Welcome My Sun' is a huge testament to the Melodic Death Metal / Metalcore style and for those who check them out (you really should!), the time spent will be worth every second of it.

Download This: "Anvils" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Sonic Syndicate, Cursed By The Fallen, Threat Signal

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

IN CAUDA VENENUM
'In Cauda Venenum'
EMANATIONS

If you were ever looking for something to pass the time with, or just to simply listen to Post-Black Metal that makes pop music seem even more livelier than roadkill, then check out the debut self-titled album by French duo In Cauda Venenum. Give credit though to the phenomenal length of the two tracks combined, a whopping 43 minutes of raw riffs, thick atmospherics, shrieking vocals and thunderous drums. However for the said appraisals, the album has no more redeeming qualities and as such falls as a rather uninteresting release, some people might even want to switch on the TV just to clear their heads from the damning misery exhibited here. If this is the best the French Metal scene can produce in the Post-Black Metal arena, then we might as well just give up.

Download This: "Ωlpha" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Alcest, Falloch, Fen

[5.5] RHYS STEVENSON

METROPOLIS CHILD
'As Dreams Make Us Live'

2014 was the year that French quartet Metropolis Child unleashed their highly Modern Metal EP 'As Dreams Make Us Live' amongst the masses. This Progressive Metal unit wield together some rather tight-arse riffs, bulldozing drums and vocals so vicious, 'savage' would be an understatement. Whilst slightly diverting away from the Dream Theater-esque Prog Metal sound, 'As Dreams Make Us Live' borrows some of that influence and bolts it onto the seemingly apparent Djent influence, without ending up like a Periphery clone. The time signatures vary greatly and thus offers a varied mix of sounds on each song (let alone the use of both English and French), all in all this is 24 minutes of your life that will be greatly rewarded. This effort gives the band high hopes of establishing themselves worldwide.

Download This: "Those XII Shades" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Breach The Void, Meshuggah, 'Djent'

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

BLINDRAGE
'Blindrage'

When unsigned bands come to the point where they seek to release a debut album, they aim to have a complete and fully-comprehensive line-up. Well since Italy's Blindrage swapped the vocals position twice and landed Stefano Palmonari for their debut self-titled album, the feeling that they have found their winning music algorithm is present. Mixing together the agile, free-flowing rhythms of Speed Metal with the power and majestic-stance of Heavy Metal, this quintet deliver a debut album that is certain to perk up the ears of metalheads worldwide. Whilst it might be a tad late to spark a lengthy career, Blindrage however will be seen as a model for the new wave of Italian Heavy / Speed Metal bands to look up to. This album is truly a testament to said metal genre and would appeal to many metal fans.

Download This: "Fool's Cant Cry"

For fans of: Judas Priest, Motorhead, Rage

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

BLOODY TYRANT
'水沙漣傳奇 (The Legacy Of Sun-Moon Lake)'

Taiwanese Blackened Folk horde Bloody Tyrant mark themselves as the natural successor to ChthoniC with their second album '水沙漣傳奇 (The Legacy Of Sun-Moon Lake)' and ultimately delve into Taiwanese mythology whilst utilizing traditional instruments to give their sound that Oriental kick. Exclusively singing in Mandarin, this 7-track opus ought to give the band much deserved international attention and propel them onto greater heights within the global metal arena. Of course if Bloody Tyrant keep chugging away and putting out music like this, a record label deal will come along with it as this sort of music demands that level of attention. This may well be a sharp contender for Taiwanese Metal release of the year; with such ferocity and mind-blowing power, it deserves to be.

Download This: "Final Battle Of Sun-Moon Lake" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: ChthoniC, Ancient Rites, Tengger Cavalry

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

MYSTERION
'In The Emptiness Of Life'

Creating a release with less members than your average band line-up becomes harder as more instrument duties have to be designated, however with that comes the greater freedom of creativity and this is what Germany's Mysterion have exploited. With Zkraciev on vocals and Stefan Jakobitz dealing with the instrument sections, this duo have lashed together a ferocious blend of Black Metal, epic symphonies and plagued atmospherics with the embodiment of Dark 'Gothic' Metal to create a sound beyond darkened imagination. Evidently present on their debut album 'In The Emptiness Of Life', their unique sound of Blackened Dark Metal caresses the senses and enlivens the mind, call it what you like as this release will undoubtedly capture attention across the breadth of the underground metal world.

Download This: "Emptiness" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Anorexia Nervosa, Carach Angren, Agathodaimon

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

N R C S S S T
'Schizophrenic Art'
INDEPENDENT

'Blackgaze' sounds interesting at first but in the end it boils down to post-black metal, a sub-genre that irks die-hard metalheads. Or at least N R C S S S T might argue, musical creativity. Hailing from Lithuania, this quintet immerse the surroundings in a blanket of mist, laden with noise beyond belief and a Black Metal attitude that stems from this Baltic nation's dark history. 'Schizophrenic Art' is the band's debut album and it demands a high level of attention to say the least, ironically it falls short of being anything decent, experimentation is good but you can get carried away with it, sadly N R C S S S T have fallen into that trap and it is up to their next release to rescue them from falling flat on their faces. 'Schizophrenic Art' may be different, but it just fails to make the cut, but is a half-decent listen none the less.

Download This: "In Remorse" - Click here to listen

For fans of: Falloch, Alcest, Deafheaven

[6.5] RHYS STEVENSON

AVERSION
'Aversion'

Canada's Aversion go balls-to-the-wall to show that Scandinavian-style Black Metal is not geographically fixed and that it can be exploited anywhere. This is exactly what the quintet have done, with their self-titled album sweeter than syrup and grimmer than a mauling bear, they have the hallmarks of becoming the next successful Canadian metal exports. For an album that is trilingual (English, French and Polish), it certainly meets the criteria to acknowledge it as a well-worked debut album. Conjuring up an atmosphere that chills your spine and lashing it to vocals from the venomous vixen Vena Kava, erotic guitar work, blitzing bass elements and thunderous drumming parts, the result is an album that will give any Black Metal fan a whopping boner in their pants. Watch this band with interest, we could have the new Carpathian Forest in our midst?

Download This: "Gangrene Harvest" - Click here to listen

For Fans of: Carpathian Forest, Mayhem, Urgehal

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

HELL:ON
'Once Upon A Chaos...'
FERRRUM.COM

Following a decade of demolition in their native land, Ukrainian metal wielders Hell:On return with arguably their best offering ever. 'Once Upon A Chaos...' is a hell-raising leviathan-of-an-album that enthralls an satisfies any palatable tongues for bruising Death / Thrash Metal. Featuring an array of slick-tight-arsed riffs that dance around the furious yet persistent drum beats, this is one album that ought to be on anyone's 2015 hit-list for album purchases. With raw and rancid vocals adding to the already enraged drama, you can be assured of a heavy knock-out when being seduced by this quintets capability of defying all logic and reason. Technical in some parts, seismic all over, 'Once Upon A Chaos...' is a sharp contender for Ukrainian Metal album of the year. This album certainly is not for those who cannot cope with heavy music, word.

Recommended Track: "Self-Destruction"

For Fans of: Nervecell, Oshiego, old-Sepultura

'Once Upon A Chaos...' is out 31st August via Ferrrum.com

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

KHAEL
'Efímero'
INDEPENDENT

Four years have passed since Khael's debut album 'Dualidad' caught our attention and last year they released their follow-up album 'Efímero', and damn is it good. Sticking to their native Spanish, the now-duo embrace the beauty and the darkness of the Gothic Metal sound and add some Spanish flavors to give it an exotic feel. Whilst perhaps not as robust as their first album, 'Efímero' does bear all the hallmarks of a well-executed release, with crunching riffs combining with flamenco-style singing and bullish drums supporting the electric atmosphere, you would be stupid to dismiss this release on the very simplest of whims. Whilst perhaps not geared to spark interest across Europe, this album will certainly appeal to the Spanish-speaking metal nations worldwide. Khael may yet have proved themselves to be Spain's answer to Italy's Lacuna Coil.

Download This: "La Tormenta" - Click here to listen.

For Fans of: Lacuna Coil, Moi Dix Mois, Lumina Criptica

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

END OF AN ERA
'PACT Zollverein Live'

How brilliant is it to think that a band releases a live album before an official studio-release? Well that's exactly what Germany's End Of An Area have done. This Symphonic Metal ensemble set the bar high for their next round as this release is of what is expected from an underground unsigned band, a home-but-good quality release. Sure it does not really deliver that all important and crucial aspect, the atmospheric feeling of actually feeling what it was like to be there, but it does it's best to deliver what listeners can expect from the studio albums. Sadly at times the vocals sound too forced and thus really drag the music down - the guitars seem very quiet, quieter than the drums and so thus can leave the listener questioning what is going on.

Download This: "Angel's Spring"

For Fans of: "German Symphonic Metal", "Underground live albums"

[6.5] RHYS STEVENSON

KAINE
'The Waystone'

Essex Heavy Metallers Kaine make their welcomed return with their second album 'The Waystone', once again firmly rooting themselves deeply entrenched in the classic NWOBHM sound, despite the artwork giving whiffs of either Doom Metal or Folk Metal. There again the song 'entropy (unrelenting chaos)' may as well take Folk Metal elements on the riffs and drums in sync. What makes this release that little bit special is simply the evident intricacies employed on each song and as each song rallies through the speakers, the overall impression is one of gratification in as far as it seems Kaine have finally found the sound they have been begging for ever since their inception, oh and Rage has kissed goodbye to the gruff vocals.... play it again Sam.

Download This: "Dreams To Nightmare"

For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Metallica, Judas Priest, Motorhead

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

CRUX
'Elapse With The Relapse'
WINDMILL

Fresh from their lengthy hiatus of around 15-20 years, South Korea's Crux may well be one of the old guard, but their music is as fresh as the morning dew. Delivering their first ever album may be a daunting experience, but 'Elapse With The Relapse' glimmers bright with the sounds of some rather epic Symphonic Power Metal, with elements of Progressive Metal in tow. Powering through the songs like a Formula 1 car being injected with Nitrous Oxide, Crux are a right gem in this Far East Asian Metal scene. Utilizing sensational solo's to blast any posers off their seats, ballistic drums that shake the ground and vocals so powerful it would make any pop music fan's ears bleed from the pain, Crux are one band to celebrate, 'Elapse With The Relapse' to cherish and of course acknowledge that they are flying the flag for the South Korean Metal scene.

Download This: "Itch For The Cure"

For Fans of: Sonata Arctica, Dream Theater, Iron Maiden

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

DUNKELNACHT
'Revelatio'
WORMHOLEDEATH

Finally a Black Metal band who doesn't serve up absolute drivel, one that does not produce such crap that it makes you want to cry. Blasting out their second serving is France's Dunkelnacht,
'Revelatio' adorns much of the fury and aggressiveness you would want from a Black Metal album without it sounding too false or too soft (yes that does really exist). There is even a point where the band flits between English and French, more of the former and less of the latter, but besides that what Dunkelnacht have concocted is an album that would make the most ardent supporter of Black Metal weak at the knees. If you thought the French metal scene was only capable of producing the likes of Gojira, The Algorithm and Blut Aus Nord, think again, Dunkelnacht are here to prove a point.

Download This: "Le Serment Des Hypocrites"

For Fans of: Blut Aus Nord, Averse Sefira, Winterfylleth

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

NORIKUM
'Regress In Progress'

Norikum may just become your new favorite Austrian Metal band. Smashing through the barriers with an almighty eruption of gun-blazing Melodic Death / Thrash Metal, this is a sound that is sure to ignite the gunpowder and warrant a label signing. 'Regress In Progress' is the debut album by this monstrous machine and what comes with it is an onslaught of tight-ass riffs, face-punching vocals and ballistic drum sequences. Finely tuning a brutal slab of "Modern Hybrid Metal", Norikum have certainly set the bar for times ahead and with this effort are guaranteed to turn heads worldwide. Imagine if Machine Head and Soilwork had sex and gave birth, this would be the offspring. Make no mistake about this, you have no reason to not check them out, they will blow your tits off.

Download This: "I, The System"

For Fans of: Machine Head, Soilwork, The Haunted

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

EVILENCE
'Essence Of Life'

It must be something in the water because this year Poland has been producing some sensational music and Evilence's debut album 'Essence Of Life' is no exception. Employing the Melodic Death / Thrash metal sound, the quintet quickly muster a decent enough release that deserves attention. The only downside is that pretty much after the first track, the album loses it's sense of built-up excitement and soon enough falls into a pretty standard release. That is until you hit halfway and the savage intent picks up again, so consider this album a 50/50 release i.e. some songs are for this type of fan and the other songs are for another type of fan, however casting that aside this is definitely a good starting point for the lads.

Download This: "Edge Of Life"

For Fans of: The Defiled, The Haunted, Sapiency

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

SPIRITUS DIABOLI
'Spiritus Diaboli'

Female Black Metal vocals may as well be considered a rarity, so when Spiritus Diaboli emerge on the Brazilian Metal scene, they drag with them a unique level of anticipation. Their debut self-titled album really captures the essence of true underground Black Metal, with a sound so raw it would make Varg Vikernes wet himself, leading the brigade is 17 year old L. Scarlet, alongside her are four other teenage metalheads of whom all weave their elements into this release very well. Make no mistake this is an album positioned towards the BM fans who love their music as black as death, grim as homicide and bitter as black coffee. It is early days for this group, but they are sure to make a name for themselves in the next few years.

Download This: "Curse Of The Widow"

For Fans of: Watain, Rotting Christ, Dissection

[8] RHYS STEVENSON
 

NONSERVIAM
'A Spectral Ascension'

Following hot off the heels of their premier EP, uprising Melodic Death Metal outfit NonserviaM concoct another excellent slab of monstrosity, melody and total brutal carnage. Their debut album 'A Spectral Ascension' exhibits a tighter, grizzlier and irresistible sound that gently and harshly caresses the listeners senses simultaneously. It is clear that there has been progression since "Ordinance Of Reason", such as the vocals periodically having an echo effect built in to give that added level of dramatics and the vocal range expanding as well, as for the guitars and drums, well they simply have gotten heavier, more direct and more synchronized. This could be NonserviaM's time to exploded out of the Malaysian Metal scene

Download This: "Amongst The Scorned"

For Fans of: Deals Death, Preternatural, Sight Of Emptiness

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON