ANTIQUA
⌠In Red Nights┘■
Luna Negra, S.C.
rating: 4 of 6
Mathias at X-Rated Records told me he▓s going to sign this band, so I was twice as intrigued to find out what kind of music our possible future labelmates offer. Well, I wasn▓t disappointed. Nor was I stunned.  Actually, it▓s really hard to say what style should we reckon ANTIQUA to. I▓d define ⌠In Red Nights┘■ as ⌠weird combination of doom (and lesser amount of) black metal■, with the overall sound comprised of a bit strange female voice, male vocals (⌠clean■, growling and typical harsh black metallish shrieking), and┘ (almost) no keyboards (at all)! Just like DENIAL OF GOD▓s ⌠The Ghouls Of DOG■, it lacks commonness; structurally it▓s a bit incomplete, moreover √ few tunes strike as the ones standing quite close to incomprehensibility. They should work more on the song structures, while Monica has to improve her singing skills┘ and then we▓ll have undoubtedly astounding band. (Herr Stalhammar)

ARYAN TERRORISM
⌠War■
White Records
rating: 4,5 of 6 (music only)
⌠Jewish Provocation■, ⌠Our Banner Swastika!■, ⌠A National Socialistic Call■┘ Yeah yeah yeah, we couldn▓t expect anything else from NOKTURNAL MORTUM▓s Varggoth, could we? Actually, it▓s not bad at all. Rather primitive, but incredibly atmospheric as well; black metal in the vein of DARKTHRONE▓s ⌠Total Death■ and alike. The only song that is somehow different, ⌠A National Socialistic Call■, which surprisingly reminds me of┘ KORROZIA METALLA, being more hardcore / oi-oriented. However, despite all advantages, I can't ignore the fact that Mr. Varggoth most likely appears as seriously mentally retarded person. At least that's what his lyrics made me to think of. Let me quote "Crush The Lies" for example: ⌠Dimmu Borgir are fucking clown
gays, venal bitches. They sell their asses for a gramm heroin.
Explode the bomb on their gig! Clowns of Cradle Of Shit are
pervertors trading with their defects singing with castrated voices of their teenager▓s problems. This pornographic clownade burn
them fucking alive! The motherfucking Kovenant is beyond any hatred! That homosexual bastard Nagash, we should cut through his ass with a chainsaw! Oh, what a painted mugs? It is a businessmen from Marduk. Panzer division Marduk? Motherfucker division Marduk! Ihsahn bald headed freak from ⌠mystic■ Emperor. Where is your ⌠mystic■, sold out? Or is has it been exchanged for Israel▓s citizenship, is it money you wanted? After them all goes Nergal from Behemoth with a big fucking penishorn in his forehead. So┘ he may put it into his asshole √ there▓s it▓s place┘ Death to posers,  continue to fight them! Crush the lies! Don▓t let them to foolish you.  Only true black metal war! Sieg und Krieg!" Anyway, coming with a quite ascetic though highly enigmatic design, it will be a worthy addition to your collection┘ of course, if you▓re not a jew. (Herr Stalhammar)

ASTERIUS
⌠As Descendants Of Stars┘■
self-released
rating: 5,5 of 6
I still can▓t really understand why the hell is this band still unsigned? With their truly fascinating blend of symphonic black (spiced with heavy metal here and there), ASTERIUS definitely deserve a certain place on the highest of the thrones! Being a bit similar to ⌠Aspera Hiems Simfonia■ by ARCTURUS, and BAL SAGOTH, they deliver undoubtedly innovative and somewhat even original compositions. When it comes to performance▓s technique, I see no visual drawbacks, but I▓d like to say few words regarding vocals. No, the singer doesn▓t suck. Actually, he▓s just brilliant! Varying his voice from rather typical harsh black metal shrieks to stupendously powerful ⌠clean■ voice, Andrash leads the band to another, higher level. The supreme form of Art it is. (Herr Stalhammar)

AURORA
⌠Devotion■
Serious Entertainment
rating: 6 of 6
⌠Devotion■ is the third CD by Denmark▓s AURORA, and unsurprisingly it▓s definitely the kind of piece you have to give a listen to. Most possibly, it▓s their most controversial album, although don▓t even dare to argue me when I say it▓s brilliant! While ⌠Eos■ was emphasized on somewhat ⌠celestial■ yet progressive structures and tempo changes, surely being innovative and exciting effort (and a bit irritating as well), and ⌠Sadiam■ appeared as more of a straight-forward kind, ⌠Devotion■ strikes as something new, in the same time marked with a recognizable AURORA▓s sound, also combining both approaches, the one they came up with on ⌠Eos■, and the ⌠Sadiam▓s■ one as well. Certainly, this is an original effort (well, Danish people always managed to deliver truly outstanding musical works┘ just recalling MERCYFUL FATE, BLAZING ETERNITY or DOMINUS┘), moreover √ it won▓t let you up until it▓s over. Lyrically based upon the notions of ⌠love■ and ⌠hate■ (things seeming to be banal┘ and yet undiscovered in the same time; just like everything pertinent to human▓s mind and emotional states, actually), in terms of music ⌠Devotion■ offers us, let▓s say, ⌠progressive death metal slightly spiced with black metallish elements (especially when it comes to vocals (which, by the way, vary from hysteric shrieking to recitative-alike and ⌠clean■ voices with addition of female singing))■. Imagine a perfect mixture of OPETH, ALICE IN CHAINS, ANATHEMA (⌠The Silent Enigma■ times), SADNESS, KATATONIA (⌠For Funerals To Come■), Sweden▓s DECAMERON, CEMETARY (⌠Black Vanity■) and OPHTHALAMIA┘ Why did I mention so many bands? Well, actually due to the simply fact: AURORA can▓t be compared to anyone, to be honest. And all these bands┘ Well, just to give you some kind of hint about their sound┘ Just a hint, remember that. Far from truth. Lastly, I feel like I have to say that ⌠In This Room■, ⌠Slow Down■ and 11-minutes epic ⌠Devotion■ are doomed to become classic some day┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

AUTUMNBLAZE
⌠Bleak■
Prophecy Productions
rating: 5 of 6
Yes, ⌠bleak■ is the word. Imagine a rainy autumn day, enshrouded in gloom, where nothing is everything, and depression slowly yet painfully devours each and every thought of yours. This is the kind of atmosphere AUTUMNBLAZE came up with on ⌠Bleak■. Bleak is the album▓s appearance, bleak is the musical canvas, bleak it is structurally, bleak it is lyrically. But ⌠bleak■ in the finest sense of the word. You may wonder, if this word ever had it▓s finest sense┘ well, it had. And still has. Moving closer to the subject, I▓d say that AUTUMNBLAZE embarked on the same path as was entered by KATATONIA. Probably BEYOND DAWN is a fairly good comparison as well. But, actually, this trio delivers far far grimmer and spiritually abandoned atmospheres and ambiences than KATATONIA will ever manage to. And besides that, all you curious ones out there; black metal voice still stays the part of AUTUMNBLAZE▓s sound. ⌠Someone▓s Picture■, ⌠I Shiver■, ⌠So Close Yet So Far■, ⌠Thoughts By A Weary Man▓s Side■┘ These tunes make you drowned in a sea of your own oppression where it▓s only you who creates the sorrowful landscapes of human mind▓s enrapturing yet torturous vastness. (Herr Stalhammar)

AZEROTH
⌠Live In Polygon■
North-West Antisocial Coalition
rating: 5,5 of 6
Along with ⌠Live At Reactor■ by ROSSOMAHAAR, this is the best live album ever put out by any Russian metal (and particularly, black metal) band. Actually, it▓s one of the best live albums ever brought forth the light when it comes to the BM scene worldwide. Hence, I guess that I▓ll have to change my opinion regarding AZEROTH▓s efforts. This MC is comprised of fourteen tracks; ten of them appear as live ones (recorded back in February 2000 at St. Petersburg▓s finest metal place), whilst the remaining ones are the remixed tunes off ⌠Galereya Snov■, their latest studio work. I guess, it would be better if we start discussing the live tracks, don▓t you think so? First of all, the sound is nearly perfect √ and it undoubtedly beats most of modern-day black metal CDs in terms of performance▓s technique and sound execution. It sounds almost like a studio recording, although I believe we don▓t have to doubt the fact these compositions were recorded live, since I saw AZEROTH performing live myself, and I therefore don▓t have a single reason to start thinking that all of these tunes were later re-recorded. Consequently, I guess I▓ve already said everything that I had to say (and even a bit more) regarding first part of the effort I▓m currently reviewing. When it comes to those remixed songs┘ Well, as far as I may recall, I didn▓t like ⌠Galereya Snov■ that much, however I liked the same tracks presented here A LOT. Obviously, they sound thousand times better and much more exciting being remixed. Check out ⌠Prokaza■ (Leprosy), for instance. An excellent piece. As are all the compositions this album is comprised of. And ah, those keyboards (e.g. genuinely and greatly crafted arrangements) appear as unbelievably fascinating and enigmatic! A MUST. (Herr Stalhammar)

BERZANO
⌠Hell On Earth■
Kill Yourself Records
rating: 1 of 6
⌠Kill Your Ears■ would be much more appropriate monicker for the label who has just released such a crap. Thirteen tracks of devastating black metal √ but ⌠devastating■ NOT in the finest sense of this word. Raw, primitive and dumb, lacking any skills and compositional imagination. Some would probably say it▓s ⌠true■, but not me. I▓d better say, it▓s nothing but a sheer bullshit. (Herr Stalhammar)

BLACKHOUSE
⌠Dreams Like These■
Blacklight Records
rating: 5 of 6
Definitely, this one is the most weird and depraved CD Blacklight Records have ever managed to release. Imagine eleven tracks of anxious cross between noise / industrial and minimalistic dark ambient, with each composition frequently transforming into yet one more different shape of the worst nightmare you have ever had √ and no, this hellish experience cannot be finished by just clicking the ⌠stop■ button. No, never. Enshrouded, absorbed and utterly devoured. Fascinated, frightened and totally depraved. Do you wanna taste dreams like these? No? But you▓ll have to. Eleven little nightmares packed into a scary enigmatically grim appearance and tremendously horrid design. Or more likely, ten little nightmares. And a stairway┘ to the utter hell, with ⌠All The Language■ lasting for more than 30 minutes. Yes, this is not ⌠divine■, but definitely a ⌠black■ house. (Herr Stalhammar)

BLOODSIMPLE
⌠From The Darkness Into The Abyss■
self-released
rating: 5 of 6
This one is pretty similar to their former demo work (⌠Demo ▒99■), the one which has been praised by me in the previous (anniversary) issue. Strangely, they remind me of GRAND BELIAL▓S KEY at times, although BLOODSIMPLE undoubtedly manage to stay enough original. To be short, this is harsh though melodic black metal, utterly impregnated with the spirit of the underground. The sound could be a bit better, however it▓s really far from being bad. More likely, mediocre. And still there▓re NO keyboards. And still they DO CONTRIVE to force indescribable atmosphere. ⌠Realm Of Lost Souls■ is my favorite song off this CD, and you guys▓d better check this one out.
Email: pknpah@aol.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

CARPATHIAN FOREST
⌠Strange Old Brew■
Avantgarde Music
rating: 6 of 6
Hell of an album, indeed! This Norwegian combo manages to come up with more and more tremendous albums while time passes by! ⌠Black Shining Leather■ was undoubtedly a splendorous adornment, but then, what the hell is this one? A masterpiece? Well, it▓s AS close to this status, anyway. Weird song titles? Yes. By the way, what more do we have here regarding weirdness? Yes, the song structures. Yes, the vocal department. Just everything, you pathetic humans. Not incomprehensible, you see. Just weird. It doesn▓t have anything in common with newest work by MAYHEM, nor SOLEFALD▓s ⌠Neonism■, for instance. It▓s black metal. ⌠Misanthropic black metal■, they state. And that▓s true, no doubts. Supplemented with Kobro (IN THE WOODS┘, SCARIOT, GREEN CARNATION) on drums and Tchort (GREEN CARNATION, ex-EMPEROR) on bass, Nattefrost and Nordavind delivered a unique piece of all-devouring dreariness. Just take, for example, ⌠Martyr / Sacrificulum■, ⌠Thanatology■ or saxophone (trombone?)-spiced ⌠House Of The Whipcord■. And what about necrophiliacs among you out there? Had anyone twisted himself in a depraved fantasy of German weirdos▓ ⌠Nekromantikk■ movie? I had. And had I once again √ while listening to a theme from that movie portrayed by these inhumans on this magnificent CD. Heard me well, I hope? MAGNIFICENT. (Herr Stalhammar)

COPH NIA
⌠That Which Remains■
Cold Meat Industry
rating: 4,5 of 6
A good piece of so-called ⌠dark ambient■, this time emphasized on the ritualistic aspects (yet once again we▓re encountered with Mr. Crowley▓s heritage), and thus minimalistic. Being quite similar to SEPHIROTH, COPH NIA simultaneously managed to craft rather personalized work out of ⌠That Which Remains■. This is not actually music, but more likely a transcendental journey into the darkest sides of fragile spiritual balance, into the realms where chaos and order become one┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

CORPUS CHRISTII
⌠Saeculum Domini■
So Die Music
(provided by Division House)
rating: 5 of 6
⌠┘ This duo wanted to create the most extreme black metal band in Portugal■. This is a small quote from the bio sheet which came along this CD. Well, do I agree with it? Or do I disagree? Most likely, the first. Yes, it▓s been a long time since I heard such a violent piece of black metal! Actually, it▓s a bit similar to Australia▓s HORDE, although CORPUS CHRISTII fortunately do not mock the black metal movement with christian crap or whatever alike. This is pure diabolical, hellishly fast-paced, somewhat chaotic and harsh black metal. No compromises, no romanticism, and sometimes no goddamn melody. Well, I definitely like it a lot, though. If you will ever crave for getting acquainted with Darklord himself, listen to ⌠Saeculum Dominii■.
Email Division House at <divisionhouse@hotmail.com>
(Herr Stalhammar)

CRIMSON MOONLIGHT
⌠Eternal Emperor■
self-released
rating: 5 of 6
Christian black metal, hmm┘ Ok, each of us has his own way to go insane, hasn▓t he? So let▓s forget about such a contradiction as ⌠christian black metal■, and better find out is this band a worthy one or not. ⌠Eternal Emperor■ appears as CRIMSON MOONLIGHT▓s debut work, unsurprisingly released on their own, being comprised of five (pretty short) compositions. Well, despite the huge amount of key-lines ⌠Eternal Emperor■ comes with, I wouldn▓t say it▓s a sympho-black. More likely, atmospheric black metal. Yeah, the ⌠synth-spiced atmospheric BM■, of course. There▓s nothing really to cavil at, regarding performance▓s technique. I really like those bewitching and anxious synthetic passages, as well as somewhat ⌠nostalgically-sounding■ drum tracks (not always correctly performed, but still highly pleasant), furious vokills and┘ and let us not forget, ⌠Eternal Emperor■ still is a guitar-based work, and that▓s what I truly appreciate. Generally speaking, this MCD reminds me a bit of how ⌠In The Nightside Eclipse■ would sound if EMPEROR were better musicians┘ and if Grieghallen was a better studio. Check out ⌠Eternal Emperor■ and ⌠The Final Battle■, and you▓ll understand why I▓ve given these guys ▒5▓ out of ▒6▓ despite their beliefs. (Herr Stalhammar)

CRUACHAN
⌠The Middle Kingdom■
Hammerheart Records
rating: 6 of 6
I▓ve just gave a listen to that non-musical ⌠masterpiece■ by HROSSHARSGRANI, and ah, what a relief I felt when I changed the CD and the charming sounds of ⌠The Middle Kingdom■ reached my tortured ears! Nobody haven▓t heard anything of Ireland▓s CRUACHAN for almost six years, and I guess that▓s the reason why personally I considered them defunct. But fortunately, a certain miracle takes place sometimes √ like the one we have in case with ⌠The Middle Kingdom■. Probably, it▓s the most folkloristic metal album I▓ve ever heard; and even though, it▓s filled with traditional (folkish) tunes up to the maximum extent, this CD doesn▓t bother or irritate you. No way! In fact, there▓s not that much left of their black metal heritage (only harsh voice revealing itself here and there), although I wouldn▓t say it turned up as a disappointment to me. Incorporating such instruments as mandolin, bodhran, bones (??), Irish flute, tin whistles, low whistle and Uilleann pipe along with guitars, drums and bass as well as a recorder, adding bewitching female voice and unfortunately a bit out-of-key male one, Keith Fay and co. contrived to deliver absolutely inimitable soundscape and ambience. Once you play the first tune off this work, you won▓t be able to put the ⌠stop■ button due to the fact CRUACHAN perform the kind of music which simply enraptures the listener┘ taking him to the magic world of their own┘ And then it▓s up to you √ whether to leave it or stay there and rejoice everlastingly┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

CRYPTHOWL
⌠Tragedies Beheld By The Cemetery■
Oupiric Productions
rating: 3,5 of 6
CRYPTHOWL▓s former recording, a two-track promo tape, definitely wasn▓t among my favorites back in 1997, nor will be this one in the year of 2000. Actually, ⌠Tragedies┘■ appeared as a huge disappointment for me, since I thought that this guy (Oupire) could improve his performance▓s technique and skills, as well as become a better sound engineer, in three years. But no. Everything▓s still the same. Actually, this MC heavily reminds me of the last work by BLACK COUNTESS. At least, all the drawbacks are almost the same. ⌠Storming guitars uproar■? Well, I wouldn▓t say guitars possess a weak sound or anything, but they hardly may be heard anyway. ⌠Monumental orchestration■? Don▓t make me laugh. All those synthetic arrangements ⌠Tragedies┘■ feature, appear as rather poor ones. It▓s not an orchestration, but only regular simple key lines. ⌠Grinding drums massacre■? First of all, this album doesn▓t feature any trace of live drums, only drummachine, programmed in quite unimaginative way. And drumming in the beginning of the second track, ⌠Hanged Amidst The Trees■, strikes as utterly ridiculous. If those tracks were played by human, it would be perceived in a much more satisfactory way. And what about that comparison with BLACK COUNTESS? I was wrong comparing them, since B.C.▓s arrangements sound thousand times better devised and executed. The only common drawback goes for the ⌠drumming■. So, does this tape has any positive points? Yes. The lyrical canvas. Written in a VERY GOOD English, poetically conceived and composed verses ⌠Tragedies┘■ comes with, appear as the ones I rejoiced with a lot. In fact, generally speaking, this work is not so bad, and would please many of unpretentious fans out there, but it▓s still far from being a piece which could get a better mark in Vae Solis. (Herr Stalhammar)

DENIAL OF GOD
⌠The Ghouls Of DOG■
Oupiric Productions
rating: 4,5 of 6
If I▓m not mistaken, this Danish combo was started back in 1991, so it seems like they▓re one of the oldest black metal acts in Denmark by now. That▓s why it▓s twice as strange that they agreed to release this work through certain young Russian label. I could care less regarding this fact, anyway. When it comes to Denmark, most of black metallish combos emerging that State, could be divided into the ones who deliver truly outstanding, innovative ┘ (add as many similar epithets as you wish) music (such as BLAZING ETERNITY), and the ones who strike as pretty mediocre acts (such as DEMON REALM). DENIAL OF GOD stand somewhere in between. Their style is torturously slow (often mid-paced, though) ⌠horror black metal■ (as they call it), capturing haunting ambiences and atmospheres. It could get a better mark, if ⌠The Ghouls Of Dog■ didn▓t lack commonness and, furthermore, I wouldn▓t mind if the sound was executed in a better way, too. Anyway, all in all this is a good piece of undoubtedly original and remarkable BM, also coming with a couple of covers (MAYHEM▓s ⌠Funeral Fog■ and DEATH SS▓ ⌠Terror■). Recommendable. (Herr Stalhammar)

DER GERWELT / NARGATHROND
⌠Revelation 666■ / ⌠Carnal Lust And Wolfen Hunger■
More Hate Productions
rating: DER GERWELT √ 4,5 of 6
        NARGATHROND √ 5,5 of 6
Basically, both recordings featured on this split-CD were already available previously, although that was MC-edition only... Now More Hate offers us re-mastered versions: four songs (as well as a bonus track) by DER GERWELT, who seem to be fond of performing melodious black metal with few keyboards put in here and there, also incorporating pretty weak-sounding drummachine; it▓s still furious and harsh, anyway. And those bass guitar passages seem to add something special to their sound. NARGATHROND come with 10 compositions appearing as weird and undoubtedly innovative mixture of sympho-black and dark ambient; and strangely, it lacks guitars. Weird? Yes, it is. But still highly exciting and somewhat bewitching. All in all, More Hate keeps on unleashing definitely impressive works, that▓s for sure. (Herr Stalhammar)

DIABOLICAL
⌠Deserts Of Desolation■
Cadla Communications / Guano Records
rating: 4 of 6
DIABOLICAL. ⌠Deserts Of Desolation■. Sweden. Black metal. And death metal. Four tracks and good production. Nice layout. Rather thought provoking lyrics, possessing somewhat weird aura. Or it just seems so. Released by Sweden▓s Cadla, re-issued by Guano. Man, I love short reviews!
P.S. Oops, seems like I forgot to say if I like it or not┘ Who cares, actually┘ Nevertheless, if you care √ it▓s good.
(Herr Stalhammar)

EIBON
⌠The Garden Of Theophrastus■
Dark Artz
rating: 5,5 of 6
An excellent work, too bad that this Malaysian act doesn▓t exist anymore (don▓t confuse ▒em with another EIBON, a project brought forth the light by Fenriz, Satyr and Phil Anselmo)! These guys (or is it a one-man band?) contrived to craft a stunning mixture of sorrowful doom-alike ambiences, gravely romantic atmospheres with anxious yet quite grim black metal. What surprised me most of all, is the overall execution (i.e. producer- and musicianship). ⌠The Garden┘■ appears as very well thoughtout work, featuring mesmerizing arrangements and stupendous leads supplemented with enchanting female voice. Besides seven tracks this CD is comprised of, ⌠The Garden┘■ also offers us to glance into the very past of EIBON, with three compositions (and outro) taken off their demo effort. GET THIS ONE! (Herr Stalhammar)

EMBER
⌠Concession And Anthology■
Shadow Play Records
rating: 5 of 6
The complete anthology of all EMBER recordings to date? Yeah, here it is. And even though this band has been put on ice (only for a while, I hope??), they released this CD quite recently. Ok, so what do we have here? First of all, all the tracks off both demo works, ⌠The Gate■ (1997) and ⌠Within The Realm Of The Snowqueen■ (1995) as well as a couple of covers (NAKED RAYGUN▓s ⌠I Don▓t Know■ and MISFITS▓ ⌠Earth A. D.■) + four lately recorded tracks (also, let us not forget about ⌠Of Mist■ which hasn▓t been previously released). Yeah, sounds fine┘ but once again, what do we have here? Basically, EMBER deliver BM, slightly spiced with (more) thrash and (less) death metal influences, sounding rather original and refreshing. It▓s utterly useless to compare 1997-compositions to the newest ones, since there▓s no big difference between ▒em. Musicianship is undoubtedly a good one (a huge praise goes out to Chris, Abbas and James (the drummers)), and so (surprisingly) is the sound. Even though EMBER has gone through numerous lineup metamorphosis, they managed to keep their sound original and, let me dare to say, inimitable. A great CD, hope to find out that EMBER are preparing to unleash a second one soon. (Herr Stalhammar)

ESTUARY OF CALAMITY
⌠The Sentencing■
self-released
rating: 4 of 6
It▓s hard to say anything in regards to this CD. ⌠The Sentencing■ is far from being masterpiece, nor is it a crap. Mediocrity? Perhaps. But not quite. More likely, it deserves a bit better definition. Kinda ⌠a good one■. ESTUARY OF CALAMITY come from US, whilst musically they deliver atmospheric and a bit romantic form of black / death metal, capturing somewhat mystical enigmatic kind of aura. What▓s of greater importance: appearance or sound execution? I guess, the latter. And sorry guys, but I really like the way this CD looks like, although I DO NOT like the way ⌠The Sentencing■ was executed. The sound quality doesn▓t suck or anything like that, it▓s just my pretty bad temper, y▓know┘ ;) Ok, the first tune off ⌠The Sentencing■, ⌠A Grain Of Sand, A Breath Of Life■, undoubtedly strikes as a good one, however the rest are less exciting. So; should I say ⌠recommended■ or not? Well (hell), you▓ll have to excuse me this time, but I won▓t tell ya.
Email the band at <eoc777@yahoo.com> or <lamelia@yahoo.com>
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

EVOKEN
⌠Shades Of Night Descending■
Funereus Productions
rating: 5,5 of 6
⌠Embrace The Emptiness■
Elegy Records
rating: 6 of 6
I always have been fascinated by so-called ⌠dark metal■ works (actually, it▓s nearly impossible to figure out what definition would fit here better), brought forth the light by human-shaped alien minds hiding behind such monickers as THERGOTHON, ESOTERIC, UNHOLY and WINTER (as well as few others). And no doubts, I was hugely surprised by the fact this cohort has been joined by yet one more astounding act, carrying the name EVOKEN. I can▓t use the word ⌠recently■, because ⌠Shades Of Night Descending■ was originally released back in 1995 (and later re-released by Adipocere Records (R.I.P.)). Vince (the drummer) kindly submitted me both CDs they have behind ▒em┘ but I guess it▓s also a bad luck which lurks in the shadow of EVOKEN, too. Or how else would you explain that both labels these guys collaborated with (Adipocere, and Elegy Records (who unleashed ⌠Embrace The Emptiness■)) ceased to exist? Fortunately, EVOKEN were recently signed to Italy▓s Avantgarde Music, and I hope that with this, undoubtedly honest and financially solvent label, the quintet whose albums I▓m reviewing at the moment, will get what they deserve. Well, let▓s get back to music. I guess you▓ve already made a guess that EVOKEN sounds rather similar to the bands I mentioned above, and if so, you▓re right. But still not quite. Vince and co. definitely have original approach to music; whilst structurally both CDs also differ a lot from f.ex. UNHOLY, and especially ESOTERIC and WINTER. But originality isn▓t the main point here. Just like aforementioned acts, these guys contrived to force incredibly somber atmosphere, thus delivering utter anxiously grim ambience, which floats throughout the whole album(s). They definitely have succeeded in this attempt, at least UNHOLY strikes as more or less a rock▓n▓roll band in comparison to EVOKEN. Furthermore, I believe that lyrical canvas and vocal lines (together with the overall perception of their music, of course) allow me to reckon this band to black metal movement. At least, they sound thousand times gloomier than majority of those oh-so-true-teen-black-metal-acts out there. Yuck! As it often happens, I▓m completely unable to review a stunning album properly. But what would you do┘ Anyway, I don▓t know whether these CDs are still available or not, consequently contact the band yourselves and you▓re be lucky if paying ANY sum of money, you▓ll be able to get these tremendous works and give ▒em a listen (and if they weren▓t tremendous, I guess I▓d never place ⌠Embrace The Emptiness■ at the third place (out of 30) in my charts!)
Email: Vastchoirs@aol.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

FLAUROS
⌠Monuments Of Total Holocaust■
The Twelfth Planet
rating: 5 of 6
Actually, I could start and simultaneously finish this review with writing ⌠Finland■. Or, ⌠Finnish black metal■. I guess you got my point, right? Along with Swedes, Finns definitely have the strongest black metal scene in the whole world, and Europe in particular. And FLAUROS is yet one more proof of this assertion. Being comprised of five tracks, this is, let▓s say ⌠black metal with difference■. All songs differ from each other, varying moods and ambiences, being five parts of one whole thing in the same time. In fact, ⌠Monuments Of Total Holocaust■ has the same thing most bands out there haven▓t: complexity and commonness. Musically, it▓s fast-paced atmospheric dark / black metal, harsh and hateful┘ on ⌠Monuments Of Weakness■. And somewhat weird though still deeply enigmatic┘ on ⌠For The 20th Time The Leaves Fell To The Ground■. Hellishly raw┘ on ⌠Total Holocaust■. S.Sinkkonen (seeming to the mastermind behind FLAUROS) also provided me with FLAUROS▓ 7▓EP and promo 1999, which are no less stunning (this time also featuring ⌠clean■ male and female vocals as well as a couple of pretty good leads). Furthermore, the CD-R I▓m reviewing at the moment, also features ⌠Promo 1999■ by ARRIVAL (Sinkkonen▓s solo project) which unfortunately is pretty trivial pseudo-symphonic black metal (though still good enough to give it a listen┘ I guess, the mark would be ▒4▓ out of ▒6▓), as well as three tracks by TUNRIDA taken from their latest promo. Well, I consider TUNRIDA one of the best Finnish black metal bands ever, so better no comments.
Email FLAUROS at: flauros@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

FOREST OF IMPALED
⌠Demonvoid■
Red Stream Records
rating: 5 of 6
This one reminds me a bit of my own band, ROSSOMAHAAR. It▓s still different, though. This all-Polish (?) combo emerging from┘ USA, managed to combine Scandinavian and US death metal schools, adding a couple of thrashy elements as well as a touch of their own, thus bringing forth the light undoubtedly stunning effort. Death with black metal atmosphere, you see. I only wish the sound could be better, although don▓t get me wrong: it▓s highly enjoyable anyway. Fast and catchy, being pretty short effort when it comes to it▓s overall length (9 songs = 30 minutes), it won▓t ever bore or lull you to sleep. A lightning speed▓s attack of the Unlight. (Herr Stalhammar)

FUNERAL RITES
⌠Necroeater■
Painkiller Records
rating: 5 of 6
Once I was in contact with this Japanese act, and they even made an attempt to send a demo work of theirs, however due to the fact Russian postal service is the worst one in the whole world (with an exception for some fucking Africa▓s countries), it never arrived. Unfortunately, not only the tape didn▓t arrive; I also lost any contacts with FUNERAL RITES. And fortunately, now I have their debut CD spinning in my stereo. Well┘ a good effort, indeed. To describe it in a few words, ⌠Necroeater■ features some ⌠romantically depraved■ (erh┘ what a definition┘ and it▓s not the band who invented it┘ but me) semi-black metal, based on keyboards┘ and nearly astounding guitar solos. There▓re too much synth-interludes here in my view, however it doesn▓t make the whole work worse or whatever. I didn▓t expect that this CD would turn out as such a killer piece! (Herr Stalhammar)

GOLD FUR EISEN
⌠Kein Morgen■
Tepa Tape Records / Gold Fur Eisen
rating: 4 of 6
Argh, what a cover! What a loathsome yet still enigmatic and masterly shot picture! These guys definitely knew how their CD should look alike, in order to make each and every man to notice it among others, while checking out what▓s new in the nearest music store! GOLD FUR EISEN▓s image is no less weird, by the way. While the lyrics of theirs (all in German, though) undoubtedly appear as the ones to be read through, and further discussed. Interesting and thought-provoking, to say the least. When it comes to music┘ I guess, ⌠melting pot■ would be a good definition of what we have here. Atmospherically it▓s black metal, that▓s for sure. Some ⌠oi■ reminiscences may be discovered in the depths of ⌠Kein Morgen■ as well. Surprisingly, sometimes GOLD FUR EISEN remind me of certain band named BERSERKR (perhaps few of you out there  are familiar with the works of theirs, although I doubt it). Vocals vary from harsh blackish screams to hoarse, almost growling-alike vokills, as well a ⌠clean■ ones + absolutely atonal child voice. All in all, if GOLD FUR EISEN would manage to make their music less heterogeneous, they have a bright future ahead.
Contact ▒em at <goldfuereisen@hotmail.com>
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

GOTHICA
⌠Night Thoughts■
Cruel Moon International
rating: 6 of 6
Oops! Seems like I▓ve just reviewed their demo, and here comes a full-length CD. Well, first of all, let me quote myself: ⌠This tape (⌠Proserpina■, released back in 1998 √ ED) comes with eight astounding soundscapes of grief captured in everlasting bereavement. Incorporating such instruments as flute, violin and oboe along with percussion, bass and guitars as well as grim recitatives and female ambient vocal chants, this combo (which is actually a duo) contrives to force inimitable atmosphere, a dreadful yet somewhat sorrowful atmosphere ⌠Proserpina■ is utterly impregnated with■. In fact, adding anything essential turned out as a definitely hard task for me. But anyway; ⌠Night Thoughts■ comes with 12 tunes of somewhat apocalyptic yet charming ambiences, whilst Alessandra▓s enigmatic voice isn▓t the one easily forgotten┘ (hmm┘ actually, the same goes for her appearance)┘ even though I wouldn▓t have called her textual works ⌠poems■, since the English is quite far from being perfect┘ Anyway, ⌠Night Thoughts■ is a tremendous work; and therefore, all you dark spirits enchanted with ATARAXIA and MONUMENTUM, may you enjoy this piece in the deepest solitude of silenced dusk. (Herr Stalhammar)

HERESIARH
⌠Mythical Beasts And Mediaeval Warfare■
Demolition Records
rating: 5,5 of 6
Damn, I hate this CD!!! And you know, why? Because previously I was strongly convinced that I compose highly imaginative and poetic verses, and that my command in English is really good. Hell, I was wrong. But now I know whose lyrical canvas appears as the most impressive one I▓ve ever got myself acquainted with (excluding those bands whose native language is English, of course). HERESIARH is the keyword. Being (sorry for the cliche) some ⌠Tolkien-metal■ both musically and lyrically, this sextet delivers incredibly bewitching and enrapturing┘ yes again, both music and lyrics. It is said, ⌠Mythical Beasts And Mediaeval Warfare■ is the opening chapter Earth in HERESIARH▓s elemental dragon metal trilogy┘■. Sounds stunning, indeed. But ok, when it comes to musical part, HERESIARH embarks on the same path DISMAL EUPHONY left off lately, i.e. melodious though fast, fairly aggressive though catchy, richly arranged black metal with leading female voice. Well, Rasa is really good, to say the least. Each song comes with a unique blend of it▓s own, that shouldn▓t be argued. That▓s what goes for music. Lyrically, all of the compositions ⌠Mythical Beasts┘■ comes with, appear as incredibly imaginative and fascinating stories. And by the way, now ⌠fantasy■ is the keyword. And ah, yes √ stories written in a VERY good English. I guess I had to mark out that. Finally, this CD features undoubtedly tremendous artwork and layout; and despite my comparisons with DISMAL DIARRHEA, they▓re nearly 100% original; and the overall production is fine, too (at least, ⌠The Crownless King■ sounds thousand times more comprehensible and impressive than it▓s version ⌠Riding Hellwards■-compilation featured); therefore┘ PURE EXCELLENCE. (Herr Stalhammar)

HIN ONDE
⌠Songs Of Battle■
Aftermath Music
rating: 5 of 6
Well, this is a good one. Folk-spiced doomy black metal from the land of the thousand lakes. This sounds a bit similar to what would be if AMORPHIS▓ ⌠Karelian Isthmus■ was a black metal effort, y▓know. Got the point, eh? ⌠Clean■ vocals are pretty enjoyable, although I don▓t really appreciate when Jani (or is it Nrq?) changes normally sounding ⌠clean■ voice to some kind of nearly loathsome bleating. ⌠Soulswan■ is, of course, the best song off this CD, although don▓t get me wrong. All of the tunes ⌠Songs Of Battle■ comes with, are worth listening. Highly recommended. (Herr Stalhammar)

HORNA
⌠Haudankylmyyden Mailla■
Solistitium Records
rating: 4 of 6
Are they fucking nuts┘?? I mean, who (apart from Finns) would be able to spell this album▓s title at once? Nobody, I suppose. As far as I know, this is a third full-length CD by HORNA, and I believe it▓s their best one so far. At least, it offers the listener much more improved musical canvas, even though it▓s still that good ol▓ HORNA. Fast, hellish, atmospheric and rather primitive. And it▓s COLD. Close your eyes and you▓ll find yourself enshrouded in deepest snows of behind the Polar Circle┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

HROSSHARSGRANI
⌠Ancient Tales■
War Is Imminent Productions
rating: 0 of 6
Oh no! This is even worse than ⌠Hell On Earth■ by BERZANO! How could that be? Well, I don▓t know. Actually, the only thing I know, ⌠Ancient Tales■ tortured my ears like almost no one ever did. An incredibly weak attempt to create probably something in the vein of BATHORY▓s ⌠viking■-era, however this guy(s?) fails miserably┘ Filled with enormous number of ⌠heroic■ samples, backed by annoying screaming-alike voice, as well as suddenly starting and suddenly disappearing raw guitar 0,5-chord ⌠guitar■ ⌠passages■┘ Yuck! ⌠Song To Hall Up High■ is an utter apotheosis of idiocy. I guess you just need to know that. HORRIBLE. (Herr Stalhammar)

HYPOCRISY
⌠Into The Abyss■
Nuclear Blast Records
rating: 5 of 6
And once again┘ Sounds almost unbelievable, but HYPOCRISY still contrives to offer us more and more astounding CDs while time passes by┘ ⌠Into The Abyss■ is the seventh offering from Peter Tagtgren and co. (excluding MCDs and live recordings, of course), and no doubts, it▓s one of their best works so far. Taking death and black metal as their leading stars, HYPOCRISY manages to combine these styles in a nearly unique way, adding few alien elements as well. Such as, for instance, ⌠Resurrected■, which sounds like an incredibly raw cover on MARYLIN MANSON (!)┘ Or the closing track, ⌠Deathrow (No Regrets)■, dreamy and somewhat even serene, yet still raw, carrying recognizable HYPOCRISY▓s trademark. Generally speaking, ⌠Into The Abyss■ strikes as much more brutal recording if comparing it to f.ex. ⌠Hypocrisy■ (their former effort), simultaneously more diverse and exciting. Excellent. (Herr Stalhammar)

INFERI
⌠The Call Of The Dark Side■
Furias Records
rating: 4,5 of 6
If I▓m not mistaken, INFERI is the first Argentinean black metal combo I▓ve got myself acquainted with until now. And I wouldn▓t say I▓m disappointed. Being quite intriguing lyrically, musically ⌠The Call Of The Dark Side■ appear as ⌠atmospheric thrashy black metal■ if you want exact definition. Influences? Well, name me at least 10 black metal bands in the world who aren▓t influenced by anyone. Of course, INFERI is far from being original at 100%, although it▓s not your regular copycat or whatever. Anyway, IMMORTAL, KREATOR and ABIGOR are the names. South American BM school as well; even though there▓s not much of it to be discovered here, actually. ⌠The Call Of The Dark Side■ is comprised of 9 tracks and lasts for eternity, although don▓t you try to find any trace of boredom. At least, you won▓t be bored if your mood and temper allow you to give a listen to CD soaked with the spirit of refuge and unlight. I guess, I▓d name ⌠Endless Storms In The Blackened Skies Of The Southern Lands■ (yuck! I have enough suchlike song titles with BAL SAGOTH!), ⌠Riding From Apocalypse■ and 13-minutes epic ⌠The Call Of The Dark Side■. Perhaps, ⌠Electric Field■ as well. Furthermore, I guess I have to mention that INFERI▓s lineup features well skilled individuals, at least those leads (I want more!) strike as pretty splendid ones. Generally speaking, this is nothing outstanding, but a regular worthy CD by the band representing relatively unknown scene. (Herr Stalhammar)

IN FLAMES
⌠Clayman■
Nuclear Blast Records
rating: 6 of 6
⌠Colony■┘ What a weak attempt to make yet one more piece of ohh-sooo-boooring-and-ohh-sooo-geneeeeric Swedish death metal. ⌠Clayman■┘ What a brilliant work! To be honest, I didn▓t expect to see IN FLAMES contriving to unleash a worthy follow-up to ⌠Jester▓s Race■┘ It▓s different, though. This combo did the kind of thing they▓ve never done before √ they managed to make a DIVERSE effort out of ⌠Clayman■. Each song sounds tremendous, with plenty of tempo and rhythmic changes; so are the vocals √ varying from furious, inhuman black metal shrieks to ⌠clean■ voice, adding a husky one. And ah, I just love ⌠Pinball Map■! (Herr Stalhammar)

INSTITUT
⌠Great Day To Get Even■
Cold Meat Industry
rating: 4 of 6
Great day to get laid, perhaps? Anyway, this isn▓t my favorite piece of noise / industrial, to be honest. Nor do those pics of two seemingly fags excite me. Yeah, I know that most of black metal kids out there, as well as ┘ AND OCEANS, DIMMU BORGIR and few others, definitely will get high on these photos, mostly because the wet dreams they have don▓t have anything to do with female kind. But enough. Musically, it is, as I already mentioned above, noise / industrial. Similarities? Well, it▓s really difficult to create an-all-original work within the bounds of this genre, at least judging by ⌠usual■ notions intended for the ⌠usual■ music, you see. And would you consider THIS ONE to be music? I bet, you wouldn▓t. Nor would I. Anyway, INSTITUT may be easily reckoned to the most sick department, represented with such weirdos as K2, for instance. I don▓t even dare to fancy how does Johanna Rosenqvist or Lirim Cajani (the ones INSTITUT consists of) look alike. At least, from my point of view, it▓s no human who▓s capable of creating such a horribly fascinating soundscape. I prefer K2, however noise / industrial freaks should check out ⌠Great Day┘■ anyway, shouldn▓t they? (Herr Stalhammar)

KALM / ASSMALIA
⌠Igaveseks Malestama Moistetud■
Guano Records
rating: KALM √ 4,5 of 6
        ASSMALIA √ 4 of 6
⌠Igaveseks Malestama Moistetud■ (try to spell it right and fast┘ I guess, the utter failure inevitably awaits you, heh heh) strikes as some kind of Estonian answer to those ⌠War■ split CDs released under the banner of Season Of Mist. This one also features two bands with certain number of tracks of their own as well as KALM▓s cover by ASSMALIA √ and, guess what?, ASSMALIA▓s cover by KALM. Stunning, indeed. I mean, the ASSMALIA▓s cover KALM performed. Basically, both acts deliver mid-paced, heathen (?) atmospheric black metal in the vein of BURZUM, SATYRICON (circa ⌠The Shadowthrone■) as well as few (dimmu) burger▓s influences which may be discovered here and there. There▓s only few of them, to be honest. And that▓s good. Both KALM and ASSMALIA sound almost identical to each other, and both of them strike as pretty fine bands, although getting at least a bit more skillful won▓t harm anything, I believe┘ What I liked most of all, is the second track by KALM (sorry, I can▓t spell or even write down it▓s title) as well as the eighth tune off this CD, performed by ASSMALIA, the one featuring undoubtedly stunning guitar passage, or more likely a lead. The overall sound is fine too, so if you appreciate cold northern black metal done with a certain class, check this out. (Herr Stalhammar)

KING DIAMOND
⌠House Of God■
Massacre Records
rating: 5 of 6
Well, I bet it▓s somewhat useless to review CDs of this kind. King▓s adorers will give it a listen anyway, and those who can▓t stand his works wouldn▓t purchase ⌠House Of God■, even if I said it▓s a masterpiece. It isn▓t, by the way. ⌠Conspiracy■ still stays my favorite effort by this scary Danish dude, you see┘ ⌠Upon The Cross■ is no less exciting than ⌠Voodoo■ or ⌠The Graveyard■, though. Actually, such compositions as ⌠The Trees Have Eyes■ and ⌠House Of God■ may be easily reckoned to the best tunes King have managed to bring forth the light throughout the whole career! Amazingly amazing, sorry for the pun. What I didn▓t like, is the fact this CD sounds somewhat less heavier in comparison to King Diamond▓s former works, thus making me to recall ⌠Fatal Portrait■┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

LEAKH
⌠The Wreckoning■
Prophecy Productions
rating: -
This is sick. Hey wait, didn▓t I start the review on GREEN CARNATION▓s CD with the same words? Don▓t remember, actually. And it doesn▓t really matter (actually). To be honest, I don▓t know what the hell am I supposed to write here. I▓ve already told, this is sick. Isn▓t that enough? I guess not. Well ok, let▓s try to figure something out. Being a duo, LEAKH perform┘ yeah, what do they perform? Right, ⌠sick■ music. But what about more exact and less equivocal definition? Will I fail? Or will I find appropriate description? What about a mixture of (incredibly grim) gothic / dark wave, (twisted) vanguard and (dreary) ambient, folks? Does that work fine with you? I could care less if not, anyway. Vocals appear as utterly depraved experimentation with sound barriers, while musical accompaniment is no less spiritually parasitic. It doesn▓t matter afterall, since ⌠atmosphere■ is the keyword when it comes to LEAKH (formerly known as COVEN, by the way┘ But I believe there▓re too much ⌠covens■ out there, so they made a wise move changing the monicker). THE AT-MOS-PHERE. Got the point? I hope so. Because I▓m going to finish this review RIGHT NOW. But lastly; what the mark should be? Probably, ▒5▓ out of ▒6▓? It▓s up to you. I don▓t know if LEAKH▓s songs are available online for downloading, but try to find ▒em before purchasing this work. Maybe you▓ll get high. Or get down, sharing your breakfast with the depths of your toilet. Once again, it depends on what kind of person you are. (Herr Stalhammar)

LEVIATHAN
⌠Cold Caress■
Poem Productions
rating: 4,5 of 6
This is the second Turkish band I▓ve ever listened to, and the second one when it comes to black metal. Well, in contrast to ASAFATED, it didn▓t disappoint me or whatever. In the same time I wouldn▓t say that with ⌠Cold Caress■ LEVIATHAN managed to deliver certain kind of masterpiece and so on, and so forth. No. This is ⌠just■ (?) a very well crafted work (excluding lyrics, the ones written in a rather poor English). Poetic dark / black metal would be a nice definition, I believe; although it▓s somewhat difficult to describe what LEVIATHAN is all about in a proper way. This CD is comprised of eight compositions (with the last one, ⌠Satan▓s Love■, appearing as some weird kind of electronic / industrial-styled re-mix or something like that), all of them strike as rather impressive and structurally exciting. Surprisingly, all of those who take part in this act, - Hakan (guitars), Burcin (guitars and keyboards), Gokhan (bass) and Serhan (drums), - appear as undoubtedly skillful musicians, so in fact there▓s nothing really to cavil at. Of course, the sound execution isn▓t perfect, but it doesn▓t suck either, so┘ You▓d better spend your 15$ bucks on purchasing ⌠Cold Caress■ than some regular ⌠true■ noisy crap. (Herr Stalhammar)

LIMBONIC ART
⌠Ad Noctum √ Dynasty Of Death■
Nocturnal Art Productions
rating: 3 of 6
This review is pretty similar to Saihtan▓s opinion on ⌠The Symmetry┘■ CD by ┘ AND OCEANS; at least it will start with the same words: ⌠toneless and inexpressive■. Once I adored the work they made their debut with, ⌠Moon In The Scorpio■ (and still adore; although to a lesser extent, of course), however neither ⌠In Abhorrence Dementia■ nor ⌠Epitome Of Illusions■ don▓t excite me anymore. Rather impotent release, if you get my point. Sure, the orchestration on ⌠Ad Noctum┘■ definitely is an impressive one, but so what┘ This is a good band, don▓t get me wrong √ it▓s just something wrong with me and my perception of their efforts. And in fact, that doesn▓t really bother me┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

MACTATUS
⌠The Complex Bewitchment■
Napalm Records
rating: 4 of 6
Norse black metal with difference is what we have here. Excellent coverart and overall appearance. Fine sound and performance▓s technique. No trace of boredom, as well as no trace of definite innovations. A bit similar to SATYRICON▓s ⌠Nemesis Divina■ and ⌠Enthrone Darkness Triumphant■ by DIMMU BORGIR. Therefore; good CD from a good band, but no more than that. Even though ⌠Speak The Word Of The Winds■-track shreds! (Herr Stalhammar)

MAYHEM
⌠Grand Declaration Of War■
Season Of Mist
rating: 5,5 of 6
Norwegian men keep on surprising me. In fact, when it comes to MAYHEM, it▓s not even a surprise, but more likely a shock┘ Starting with a riff ⌠Wolf▓s Lair Abyss■ ended with, this CD divides into two parts, nine compositions in the whole. So you expect sheer brutality and utter mayhem, similar to that of ⌠Deathcrush■? Forget about it. Mystical and atmospheric, yet incredibly harsh (in the finest sense of this word) outerworlds▓ soundscapes you got yourselves acquainted with, giving a listen to ⌠De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas■? No. Not at all. It▓s different. Utterly different, even if we would compare this CD to ⌠Wolf▓s Lair Abyss■. Someone defined it as ⌠black metallish VOIVOD■┘ well, I▓d most likely agree with such a description. ⌠Psychedelic electro-black metal■ is a good one, too. Hellhammer▓s accurate though fuirous drumming turns to electronic beats and back, Maniac contrives to deliver his recognizable shrieks together with a ⌠clean■ voice (pretty impressive, I▓d say), while the music in the whole is simply indescribable. A soundscape for a new millennium, perhaps? Actually, I liked this CD a lot. Actually, it▓s close to a status of masterpiece. And actually, it was a disappointment for me. ⌠Grand Declaration Of War■ could be a perfect and genuine CD if these guys would form a side-project to release all of their weird fantasies┘ But no, they decided to make a ⌠completion in science of agony■ out of MAYHEM. To be honest, MAYHEM shouldn▓t be an experimental band. MAYHEM is mayhem. That▓s it. But damn it┘ it▓s as close to a masterpiece! (Herr Stalhammar)

MYRKSKOG
⌠Deathmachine■
Candlelight Records
rating: 4 of 6
Remember what words exactly I started MACTATUS▓ review with? Yep, ⌠Norse black metal with difference■. The same case here. MYRKSKOG deliver fast-paced, a bit chaotic yet well executed and thoughtout, Norwegian blend of black metal, although when I first glanced at the coverart (and further, the layout), I knew it would be somehow different. Yes, it is. At least, the lyrical part is solely devoted to post-apocalyptic future (if I got the message right, of course), therefore don▓t be surprised discovering song-titles like ⌠A Poignant Scenario Of Horror■, ⌠Synthetic Lifeform■, ⌠Syndrome 9■, ⌠Morphine Mangled Torture■ (which is actually the best tune off this CD) or ⌠Pilar Deconstruction■ (which appears as a remix on ⌠Syndrome 9■, pretty astounding remix, I▓d say!). All in all, I wouldn▓t say this CD is incredibly impressive piece of art, although fortunately it differs from medium (sorry, ODIUM) or limbonic crap-card (sorry, LIMBONIC ART)┘ (Herr Stalhammar)

OPUS FORGOTTEN
⌠Demon Of Destruction■
Aftermath Music
rating: 5 of 6
Yet one more stunning piece brought forth the light by Norway▓s Aftermath. Actually, it seems like I had to say ⌠long time no seen■ (sorry, ⌠heard■) or whatever alike. I mean, OPUS DESTRUCTION came up with hateful and utterly grim kind of black metal, the one successfully buried and forgotten nowadays. Nowadays, when EMPEROR and all those past-heroes went gay. Nowadays, when OPUS FORGOTTEN will have to get a recognition they undoubtedly deserve. At least, the atmosphere this 7▓EP is soaked with, is that  of the old days. What▓s most important, ⌠Demon Of Destruction■ doesn▓t sound archaic at all; consequently, I guess that even those who▓re having wet dreams after once attending the circus nearby (dimmu burger show and stuff like that, y▓know), would get high on this work. (Herr Stalhammar)

PENETRALIA
⌠Seelenkrank■
Last Episode Productions
rating: 5,5 of 6
Oh┘ This CD made me to recall PHLEBOTOMIZED in their early years┘ Mid-tempo, brutal death metal (this time with evident BM influence, though) featuring astounding keyboard background, thus delivering incredible atmosphere┘ Electronics strike as simply fascinating, although the whole musical canvas is no less intriguing, to be honest. Vocals vary from hellish grunts to psychotic black metallish screams, and both sound fine. And yes, the final track (⌠Dead Girls Boogie■) is something special, no doubts┘ This is a must to have CD, remember that. (Herr Stalhammar)

RAGNAROK
⌠Diabolical Age■
Head Not Found
rating: 5,5 of 6
Do you know what they mean, saying ⌠hellish metal■? But it▓s not Marylin Manson or alike freak. It▓s RAGNAROK. Amazingly, there▓re two bands under the same name I know, and both are splendid. ⌠Diabolical Age■ is the third album by this combo, and even though I haven▓t heard the first one, let me dare to state it▓s their best one. At least, ⌠Diabolical Age■ thousand times more powerful if comparing it to ⌠Arising Realm■, perhaps due to the fact it almost lacks keyboards. No Shagrath-babies playing shit, you see. Musically; well, as it seems I▓ve already told you. Hellish metal. Or more likely, hellish metal at it▓s best. Fast-paced and pretty monotonous, this CD lasts for 55 minutes featuring eight songs only, however it doesn▓t get boring or whatever. And yes, it SMELLS with Norway, even though RAGNAROK doesn▓t have anything to do with that ⌠pagan■, ⌠forest■, ⌠trollish■, ⌠viking■ or just ⌠senseless■ metal trend (probably with an only exception for the band▓s monicker). I don▓t have anything against incorporating keyboards and various metal-unorthodox instruments as well as female voices into black metal, however RAGNAROK is just the kind of band who doesn▓t need it in order to sound intriguing. And yes, if want some astoundingly all-keyboard performed piece anyway, check out ⌠Postludium■. I wish this guys a bright(-dark) future and a new record deal, since it looks like Head Not Found perform pretty poor promotional campaigns. (Herr Stalhammar)

STARGAZER / INVOCATION
⌠Harbringer■ / ⌠H.A.S.T.U.R.■
Dies Irae Productions
rating: STARGAZER √ 3,5 of 6
        INVOCATION √ 3,5 of 6
This split-CD leaves me quite senseless when it comes to it▓s contents. STARGAZER (what a name) and INVOCATION both come from Australia. The first ones deliver some noisy yet enough well crafted grinding black / death metal, while INVOCATION come up with so-called ⌠unholy death metal■. I wouldn▓t say they suck or whatever, no. Both acts are rather good, although this split isn▓t the one to spend your last money for. (Herr Stalhammar)

STEVE VON TILL
⌠As The Crow Flies■
Neurot Recordings
rating: 5 of 6
Honestly speaking, I▓m not quite well acquainted with the works by NEUROSIS (Steve▓s main band), however, if I▓m not mistaken, this is some kind of hardcore. And that▓s why I was definitely surprised discovering that Steve delivers absolutely different kind of music when it comes to his solo project. Featuring Steve on vocals, (acoustic and electric delay) guitars, piano and percussion, as well as few other persons playing violins and cello (some of them coming from AMBER ASYLUM), this CD offers hardly definable kind of music. Serene and bleak (⌠bleak■ in the finest sense of this word), tranquil yet somewhat anxious and perturbing┘ Painting abandoned and deserted landscapes┘ Forcing the atmospheres soaked with utter bitterness┘ Supplemented by calm yet ravaging vocals, draining your very spirit, and uniquely composed lyrical canvas, ⌠As The Crow Flies■ strikes as a definitely stunning work of art. (Herr Stalhammar)

SUIDAKRA
⌠The Arcanum■
Last Episode Productions
rating: 4 of 6
The only thing which differs this CD from this Germany-based black metal act for better, is the fact they▓ve finally managed to put out well-executed album √ well-executed when it comes to sound quality (could it be another way, if the recordings were held at Andy Classen▓s studio??). As to music, in the whole it▓s not really different from ⌠Auld Lang Syne■ or ⌠Lays From Afar■. I still prefer a debut CD of theirs (⌠Lupine Essence■), anyway. SUIDAKRA deliver well-crafted mixture of black and heavy metal, slightly spiced with pseudo-folk elements (or pseudo-⌠Celtic■ ones? Doesn▓t really matter, afterall). A cover from SKYCLAD (⌠The One Piece Puzzle■) says it all, I believe. And once again, I can▓t put any mark higher than ▒4▓ out of ▒6▓. Why? Well, I consider this album to be somehow insincere piece. I don▓t want to insult neither musicians nor Last Episode, stating things like that┘ but that▓s my personal perception of ⌠The Arcanum■. Although don▓t listen to my bubbling too much; it▓s still a very good album. (Herr Stalhammar)

TRISTITIA
⌠The Last Grief■
Holy Records
rating: 5 of 6
TRISTITIA are back! And that was definitely a successful comeback! Three years have passed since ⌠Crucidiction■ saw the light of the day, and here comes (finally!) ⌠The Last Grief■. As always with TRISTITIA, it seems to last for eternity √ but only when you at your stereo▓s timer. No boredom and shit like that, man. Starting with an intro very similar to some PC game▓s soundtrack, later it develops into enrapturing blend of dark metal, TRISTITIA▓s very own. There▓re no real differences between ⌠The Last Grief■ and their former works, probably with an exception for vocals. Rickard Bengtsson is the one who took over the vocal duties, and that▓s why there▓s no trace of that precious black metal shrieks. Only ⌠clean■ voice now, you see. Let me add, an excellent ⌠clean■ voice. Generally speaking, ⌠The Last Grief■ may be easily compared to Rickard▓s singing. It▓s EXCELLENT. (Herr Stalhammar)

TROLL
⌠The Last Predators■
Head Not Found
rating: -
I can▓t understand what the hell is this. I used to adore ⌠Drep De Kristne■, a former work by TROLL, however ⌠The Last Predators■ won▓t get any rating, since, as I already said, I can▓t give it any mark with an exception for the statement like ⌠what the fuck is going out there■. Some weird psychotic ⌠space black metal-alike■ music coming with utterly weird and depraved vokills, strange electronic sounds, and so on and so forth┘ I really doubt if I will ever listen to this CD in times to come. (Herr Stalhammar)

UNEXPECT
⌠Utopia■
self-released
rating: A MASTERPIECE (or let▓s just say, ⌠an album of the issue■)
Honestly speaking, this one could be an album of the issue┘ and it IS! I keep on receiving undoubtedly magnificent efforts, such as ASTERIUS▓ ⌠As Descendants Of Stars┘■, GHOST IN THE MACHINE▓s ⌠The Haunting Begins┘■, and what makes me really surprised, is the fact all of them appear as self-financed and self-released works. Why does it happen? Why do we let this happen? No answer. Anyway, these Canadians contrived to come up with the album most of major labels▓ releases cannot be even compared to. First of all, this is absolutely original. Read my lips: O-R-I-G-I-N-A-L! Furthermore, it▓s definitely astounding regarding┘ yes, every single thing. Starting with the artwork and overall appearance, which is utterly fantastic (No. 1 in my ⌠Best CD / MC appearance■ charts), adding tremendous poetry (no. 4 in my ⌠Most impressive lyrical canvas■ charts), we already get an album worth mentioning. But that▓s only appearance, right? The ⌠outside■. And what do have ⌠inside■? Firstly, vocal department would definitely amaze any listener due to the fact we have incredible variety on this part. Hateful, a bit BAL SAGOTH-alike harsh vokills, transforming into deep pseudo-growling and ending in furious shrieking, is supplemented by male and female ⌠clean■ voices, and both of them appear as well-trained ones┘ Enigmatic. And tremendous. Okay, let▓s continue our journey into the realms of UNEXPECT. I won▓t talk about each and every instrument, so please let me just say that ⌠the musicianship and performance▓s technique ⌠Utopia■ offers, are NOT the things I could ever possibly cavil at■. The arrangements. Okay, let▓s talk about arrangements. By combining bewitching sounds violin and magically crafted synthetic whirlwind. If you▓d ever dare to taste a true miracle, you should not long for it while years are passing by. It▓s near you┘ A fascinating leaffall of innovative ideas; a wonderchild of imaginative minds; a unique piece of ART.  (Herr Stalhammar)

UNLORD
⌠Gladiator■
Displeased Records
rating: 5 of 6
Just a few lines this time, ok? ⌠Gladiator■ is the second CD by Belgium▓s (?) UNLORD, and it strikes as even better work, if one would compare it to ⌠Schwardwald■. They▓ve programmed drummachine in the utterly insane way again, and even though it sounds really good, even a rookie would immediately figure out it▓s no human behind the drumkit, since no fucking living being can▓t play drums that fast. And when it comes to other musical aspects┘ Well, it▓s still that incredibly hateful black metal with few sublime synths added here and there, although this time few almost grind-alike elements may be recognized. Check it out. (Silvanus)

VAGTAZO HALOTTKEMEK
⌠Naptanc √ Galloping Coroners √ Dancing With The Sun■
Neurot Recordings
rating: 5 of 6
This one surprised me even more than Steve Von Till▓s solo project! I mean, VAGTAZO HALOTTKEMEK has to be the most weird and controversial band even signed to Neurot Recordings. I guess it would be easier for you to make a guess concerning the particular genre this Hungarians weirdoes may be reckoned to, if two magic words were spelled. ⌠Gods■ is the first one, and ⌠Tower■ √ the second. Surely, Russians (and CIS countries-residents) appear as the ones who▓re much better acquainted with the works by GODS TOWER, Belorussian cult pagan metal band, however shame on you, foreign men, if you haven▓t ever heard about that combo. Nevertheless, VAGTAZO HALOTTKEMEK are still very different. Basically, there▓s no trace of metal when it comes to ⌠Naptanc┘■. It▓s purely folk and avantgardistic form of art, just like if Diamanda Galas would sing Celtic traditional tunes adding a touch of her own. Sung solely in Hungarian, and performed with cattledrums, didjeridoo, percussion, xilofon, trump, flute, violin as well as guitars, drums and bass, ⌠Naptanc┘■ strikes as uniquely conceived and uniquely executed piece of Beyond. Or more likely, piece of what is within Beyond. The Beyond of Ages, Beyond of Minds, Beyond of Cultures, Beyond of Art. Fortunately, the lyrical canvas was translated to English, therefore non-Hungarians (such as me, for instance) may easily get themselves acquainted with the poetical verses brought forth the light by VAGTAZO HALLOTKEMEK┘ and it▓s worth it. Once again, this CD appears as unbelievably amazing effort combining the elements of tribal, folk and various other kinds of music, featuring an inimitable approach to it. More than just ⌠highly recommended■. (Herr Stalhammar)
 
VIKING CROWN
⌠Unorthodox Steps Of Ritual■
Hammerheart Records
rating: -
Strange monicker, strange music┘ and finally, strange lineup. You see, this band is being led by Vincent Crowley (formerly ACHERON) and┘ Anton Crowley. No, it▓s not his brother but┘ Phil Anselmo, well known thanks to the fact he▓s a frontman for PANTERA. Musically, ⌠Unorthodox Steps Of Ritual■ is pretty weird piece, combining straightforward, hellishly fast and hateful black metal with grim background keys, mid tempo and even slow passages, featuring sublime yet still morbid declamations added here and there. Vocals vary from furious blackish shrieks to dreary, spoken-alike voice through inhuman growling vocalizations. Few nearly vanguard elements were put in here, too. All in all, rather exciting CD, although I wish it could come with a better sound quality. (Herr Stalhammar)

VIOLATION
⌠Moonlight▓s Child■
Red Stream Records
rating: 5 of 6
This is the first promo I▓ve ever got from Red Stream, and it▓s a good one. Actually, it couldn▓t turn out the other way, since VIOLATION▓s former CD (⌠Beyond The Graves■) appeared as rather excellent work. The same epithet goes for ⌠Moonlight▓s Child■, and I don▓t have to be a liar saying that you won▓t regret once buying this effort. To be short, (being a Germany▓s band) VIOLATION deliver Swedish blend of death metal, with lotsa blackish elements incorporated √ also being supplemented with a dreary keyboard background. Vocals vary from harsh growls to BM-alike screams, and both lines undoubtedly sound fine. The only thing I could possibly cavil at here, is the fact the sound is a bit thin if comparing to the way ⌠Beyond The Graves■ was executed (even though ⌠Moonlight▓s Child■ was spawned at that infamous Abyss Studio). Anyway, a highly impressive work. (Herr Stalhammar)

VUKODLAK
⌠Blackest Autumn■
self-released
rating: 4 of 6
Pretty good piece of so-called ⌠forest metal■, at least VUKODLAK definitely is a ⌠forest metal■ band the way I see it. Seven tracks of raw though somewhat enrapturing music, portraying cold northern landscapes and autumnal passages, dark archways in the deepest of the woods. I like it and┘ sorry, I can▓t say anything else here┘ (Herr Stalhammar)