AION
“Noia”
System Shock
(provided by SureShot
Promotion)
rating: 5 of 6
What’s happening?
Is it some kind of goth metal revival? I mean, here comes one more CD which
could be reckoned to that style, and it’s undoubtedly impressive… I liked
the CD AION made their debut with (it took place three years ago, as one
may recall), although “Noia”, despite being quite different, is much better
anyway. It starts with “Killing Time”, incredibly anxious and somber track,
appearing as some kind of a weird cross between perturbed doomy goth metal
and… techno death (perhaps), featuring Poznan Chamber Choir and unique
atmosphere forced by genuine-sounding synths and programming. Later on
the music develops into less complicated, more tranquil stuff, ending with
brilliant version of Carl Orff’s “O Fortuna” (taken off “Carmina Burana”…
as all of you perhaps already understood) and hidden track (truly a jewel…).
All in all, “Noia” appears as highly stunning effort, definitely worth
checking it out. (Herr Stalhammar)
ARISE FROM THORNS
“Before An Audience
Of Stars”
self-released
rating: 5, 5 of 6
I was pleasantly
surprised when I got an email ad from Michelle (vocals) saying that ARISE
FROM THORNS have a new, second album out. Few weeks passed and I discovered
this CD in my mailbox… Wow… what we have here is a masterpiece – at least,
it surpassed all my expectations! Unfortunately, Michelle doesn’t have
a perfect voice, however this time she contrived to sing in a much better
way, while sometimes she sounds no less than stunning. Besides that, ARISE
FROM THORNS enlarged their lineup with Chris Welborn (bass) and Tom Phillips
(electric guitar (live)), and I bet they only gained by it. The music became
more complicated and exciting (less straightforward, you know)… and what’s
most surprising, bearing the mark of rhythm’n’blues in few tracks. Well,
one who have never read the review on the former CD by ARISE FROM THORNS
may wonder what’s their style… ok, the best description is ethereal, progressive
gothic art. MADDER MORTEM, early FLOWING TEARS AND WITHERED FLOWERS, that
kind of stuff. And ah, “Lure” is my favorite song at the moment!!! This
one, and “Dreaming” and “Surrender”, are the best tunes off “Before An
Audience Of Stars” (also featuring absolutely astounding poetry!). Excellent!
P. S. Check out the
interview with this fantastic act in the fifth issue.
(Herr Stalhammar)
AS DIVINE GRACE
“Supremature”
Avantgarde Music
rating: 6 of 6
AS DIVINE GRACE…
Once being nothing but AMORPHIS’ copycat, this Finnish band contrived to
turn themselves into one of the most outstanding and impressive acts in
the whole Europe (of course, I’m talking about goth / metal scene)! Once
I praised their former album (“Lumo”) to the skies – and it seems like
the same fate awaits this one. “Supremature” is a step forward since “Lumo”,
and it’s thousand time better than anything these Finnish ever managed
to compose. Mild, affectionate gothic / dark wave / post-doom metal stuff
with brilliant vocals performed by Hanna Kalske… I think, it’s needless
to say anything else here. In my view, AS DIVINE GRACE is a worthy substitute
for THE 3RD AND THE MORTAL. And I never say anything like that without
thinking twice or even thrice… If you still can’t get me: THIS IS A MUST!
(Herr Stalhammar)
DREADFUL SHADOWS
“The Cycle”
Oblivion Productions
rating: 5 of 6
More gothic metal
comes my way – more SPLENDID gothic metal. DREAFUL SHADOWS changed their
sound in quite a drastic way… Now there’re much more electronics, less
brutality… Anyway, I find this album to be more than pleasant for my ears,
especially taking such tracks as “Futility” or “Twist In My Sobriety” (a
cover from Tanita Tikaram) – both sound perfect… Furthermore, Sven’s voice
became even more impressive, now differing a lot from this conventional
a-la Andrew Eldritch howling-alike singing. The main shortcoming here goes
for the album’s length… if they shorted it a bit… Anyway, despite that
DREADFUL SHADOWS soothed their sound, it became even more “dreadful” and
somber… A paradox, eh? (Herr Stalhammar)
ENS COGITANS
“Re-Vision”
Seven Art Music
rating: 5, 5 of 6
“This CD is property
of Seven Art Music. It is being licensed for promotional use only and MUST
BE RETURNED ON DEMAND”. This is what the “Re-Vision” cover says. Well,
well, well… A huge fuck off to Seven Art for suchlike assertions. Ok, they’re
well known for rip-offing various bands and causing huge delays in releasing
their own CD’s, however I don’t really care about it (although I feel I
should). But THIS STATEMENT just makes me damn angry… So, I receive the
CD and then certain scumfuck tells me: “Ok, you’ve listened to it… Well,
thanx for the review, man, but could you please return the CD?!” What the
hell is it??? But enough. It’s the band we should talk about here, not
the label. And, I must admit, Russia’s ENS COGITANS definitely deserves
to be discussed in the metal mass media. It’s already their second full-length
CD (the first one was “Heart Of The Way”), sounding really different (like
always with ENS COGITANS) if we’d compare “Re-Vision” to it’s predecessor.
This effort sounds quite similar to “One Second” by PARADISE LOST (as well
as FORGIVE ME NOT and SECRET DISCOVERY), however it doesn’t mean that it’s
some regular commercial crap. “Re-Vision” appears as melodic, harmonious
and atmospheric post-doom metal, featuring plenty of different samples,
loops and programming (all that computer-stuff, you know), which doesn’t
harm anything, though – and what’s most important, it is really heartfelt.
The growling is gone (too bad), so there’re only “clean” vocals here, undoubtedly
pleasant ones (a rare thing if talking about Russian bands). The musicianship
is nearly perfect (the same goes for production), although it’s a pity
that there’re less vanguard moves than “Heart Of The Way” had (well, more
likely, there’re utterly absent here). In short, it’s just melodic, mild
and tremendous music, something that is definitely not of “dark” origin.
And finally, amongst other tunes, there’s a remix on a song called “Cage”,
performed by OVERSUN (a side-project founded by ENS COGITANS singer and
guitarist). Furthermore, design in the whole (and artwork, in particular)
seems to be highly exciting. As to the best tracks… in fact, all of them
strike as truly magnificent. (Herr Stalhammar)
ENTWINE
“The Treasures Within
Hearts”
Spinefarm Records
rating: 5 of 6
Actually, I didn’t
want to review it, however some time passed and I finally decided that
this CD deserves a review in Vae Solis. ENTWINE (don’t confuse them with
UK’s ENTWINED) comes from Finland and their style is sometimes gloomy,
though mostly romantic yet dark form of a heavy cross between doom and
gothic metal. Vocals are all “clean” on this effort, reminding me of “Almost
A Dance” by THE GATHERING a lot, although I wouldn’t say that P. Willman
(the singer) simply copies someone else; moreover, his voice is much stronger
than the one that belongs to that guy who sang on “Almost A Dance”. The
music rather slow, featuring some mid-paced riffs at times, with those
“surround” keyboards and perfect production (Astia A-Studio)… In general,
“The Treasures…” appears as something that is, perhaps, not highly original,
however enough exciting and fascinating. Highly recommended. Looks like
Spinefarm never release a crap, eh? (Herr Stalhammar)
FORGIVE ME NOT
“Spaceapple”
Metal Agen Records
rating: 3, 5 of 6
Finally, a weaker
effort…! Strange, but I almost glad to review mediocre album for the first
time this issue… Heh heh… In fact, it’s still that melodic gothic / dark
wave stuff, well played, well structured, coming with a splendid singing
(both, male and female)… kinda Russian PARADISE LOST, lacking so much electronics
as “One Second” and “Host” feature. However, it’s just too similar to FORGIVE
ME NOT’s former work, “Tearfall”. Basically, every goddamn thing is the
same. Yeah, and the sound could be much better. All in all, it’s far from
being really bad, but… (Herr Stalhammar)
GIRLS UNDER GLASS
“Equilibrium”
Hall Of Sermon
rating: 6 of 6
Am I becoming a goth
fan? Seems like that’s true… Hall Of Sermon have never sent me any of their
releases, however I keep on reviewing few, most exciting, items they unleashed
so far. “Equilibrium” is, no doubts, one of such efforts. This is just
brilliant. Gothic rock at it’s best. To sum the things up, imagine the
mixture of such bands as LOVE LIKE BLOOD, END OF GREEN, LAIBACH, THE YOUNG
GODS, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY… and THE ROLLING STONES – and you’ll barely conceive
what GIRLS UNDER GLASS are all about. Despite the huge dose of electronics,
“Equilibrium” sounds very atmospheric, somewhat weird, surprisingly even
brutal at times. And fortunately, it doesn’t have any reminiscences of
that archaic a-la THE SISTERS OF MERCY sound, lots of contemporary bands
try to copy. Both, male and female, voices are simply magnificent, so are
the arrangements… as well as everything else, man! Check out “Roses Of
Death”, “New World Order”, “Wings”, “Assault The Future”… and you’ll second
me. A must. (Herr Stalhammar)
IGNORABIMUS
“Dab Da Zorp”
Guano Records
rating: 6 of 6
Somewhat old-fashioned
(in a finest sense of this word) doom / death metal from Estonia crosses
our way this time. And, before I start reviewing this CD, let me quote
myself; speaking plainer, here is a cite from my review on their former
demo work: “Firstly, this demo looks great design-wise – and after looking
at the professionally done layout, I thought that both, music and sound,
should be as great. And fortunately, I wasn’t wrong! The production is
clear, while the music rules, no doubts! It’s a bit old-fashioned (though
played in a modern way) doom / death metal with ‘good old’ growling voice
(however some “clean” voices also can be discovered here), lack of keyboards
and killer guitar work featuring few jazz-inspired structures… Extremely
pleasant and memorable stuff!” It’s really hard to add anything, since
IGNORABIMUS almost didn’t change their sound at all. And it’s pleasant
to know that, y’see. “Dab Da Zorp” comes with nine tracks, all of them
are enough exciting to make you play this CD over and over again; especially,
two latter ones, “Redemption” and “Prayer” (also the chorus on “Ode To
The Joy” and “Bazaar”-lyrics sound highly non-typical and intriguing).
The layout and design in the whole as well as coverart in particular seem
to be truly astounding, and so does the sound (top-notch, for sure). The
only shortcoming (uhm… actually, it’s FAIRLY can be called as a shortcoming…
some of you (or more likely, many of you), perhaps, won’t even notice that)
goes for “clean” vocals, which need further improvement, even though they
get better in the end… and, furthermore, they don’t sound irritating or
anything like that! Anyway, this is an excellent start for Guano Records,
a young Estonian label. Let us wish both, the band and the label, good
luck with further works and efforts… and while now, email Lennart (Guano’s
boss) at <pennu@metal.ee> and order this CD NOW! (Herr Stalhammar)
IN EXTREMO
“Verehrt Und Angespien”
Mercury Records
rating: 3 of 6
I never liked this
band who seems to prefer quantity over quality (hey, what about releasing
two full-length CD’s, one MCD and a live album during two years? I bet,
you won’t contrive to do it!). This is the same mixture of gothic metal
and medieval folklore, rather original, I confess. Anyway, I should admit
that it doesn’t impress me at all due to the boredom it forces… “Verehrt
Und Angespien” = complete tedium. Even a cover from SISTERS OF MERCY, “This
Corrosion”, doesn’t help the things out… (Herr Stalhammar)
INHUMAN
“Foreshadow”
Music For Nations
rating: 1 of 6
Yet one more PARADIST
LOST clone, this time from Portugal (if I’m not mistaken). Totally useless,
I’d say. Of course, everything is pro-done (especially the sound, perhaps,
thanx to Simon Efemey), however no-one will never make me to listen to
this crap once again… (Herr Stalhammar)
KATATONIA
“Tonight’s Decision”
Peaceville Music
rating: 5 of 6
While I dragged their
latest CD into shit, claiming it to be nothing but pop-oriented gothic
crap, I really like this one. You know, to be honest, “Discouraged Ones”
wasn’t such a worthless effort, it was me who was expecting some sorrowful,
pseudo-black metal stuff in the vein of “Brave Murder Day”, and got something
truly different instead… No, I’m not saying I like that album, but it wasn’t
so bad. And “Tonight’s Decision” is great. Basically, the music is similar
to their older recordings… the same mournful, depressive, funeral-alike
atmosphere, thick sound and music varying from slow to mid-tempo… In fact,
such tunes as “For My Demons”, “Right Into The Bliss” (my favorite off
this CD), “No Good Can Come Out Of This”, ballad-alike “A Darkness Coming”
and a cover from Jeff Buckley, “Nightmares By The Sea”, can easily become
“hits” or something like that, however there’s no trace of commercial approach
to music. No insincerity, no joy. The only thing which draws “Tonight’s
Decision” and “Discouraged Ones” together is that “clean” singing, which,
by the way, also become much more enjoyable. Generally speaking, this is
very dark kind of metal… and I wouldn’t say it’s 100% “gothic”. More likely,
sorrowful and lamentable doom metal with splendid “clean” vocals by Jonas.
(Herr Stalhammar)
KRANIUM
“Testimonios”
Plasmatica Records
rating: 6 of 6
Wow, this is not
even a masterpiece – but something far far more! At least, I’ve never heard
anything like this… and I doubt if I ever will. KRANIUM managed to create
a sound, a style of their own, unlike anything, anyone else. Formed back
in 1986, this Peruvian band definitely didn’t spend their time in vain!
I couldn’t talk, couldn’t write, couldn’t do anything after listening to
this genius work, believe me or not. No CD affected me the way “Testimonios”
did, no fucking metal band’s CD – at least during past few years… Ok, enough
praising this band, let’s be more concrete now. If taking poor human language,
KRANIUM may be described as a unique mixture of heavy metal, doom, some
kind of pre-metal music (like URIAH HEEP, for instance) and Incan folklore…
Vocals vary from death metal-alike growls (though rather mild ones) to
“clean” and hoarse voices, extremely pleasant for the ears, also very passionate
and original, even though “clean” singing is, perhaps, not very correct
technique-wise. Drumming and synth-tracks remind me of early BLACK SABBATH
a bit (especially “Volume 4” and “Never Say Die!” LPs), while guitarists
seem to know how to use their instruments properly, moreover – in a bewitching
way… All of those who took part in recording this CD appear as, no doubts,
highly talented and skillful musicians and don’t tell me that I’m wrong!
And yes, of course, there’re plenty of traditional instruments incorporated
besides usual (metal) ones… Add incredible variety (this CD never becomes
incomprehensible, though!), when few songs sound like some kind of 70ties
hard rock (although played in a bit more brutal way), like f.ex. “Guerreros”,
others sound similar to mild, folklore-spiced doom metal, somewhat reminding
me of AMORPHIS and ANATHEMA’s “Eternity”, while instrumentals are simply
indescribable… And there’re more tracks which also sound different… Yeah,
and let us not forget to mention this album’s appearance which is as stunning
as music here itself! I consider this CD to be a pure jewel in my collection…
and so will you, after (immediate!) purchasing “Testimonios”. A must. (Herr
Stalhammar)
LAKE OF TEARS
“Forever Autumn”
Black Mark Productions
rating: 5, 5 of 6
Strange, but this
band becomes better with each new album… While “Greater Art”, the CD they
made their debut with, appeared as quite average work, “Headstones”, the
second work by these Swedes, was absolutely killer – as well as “A Crimson
Cosmos” and “Forever Autumn”, the newest one. And let me end this review
in few lines, since the only thing I feel I had to tell you consists in
the following: LAKE OF TEARS didn’t wimp out, quite the contrary – they
released, perhaps, their best album so far. Just listen to “So Fell Autumn
Rain”, “Otherwheres” (the instrumental tune) or “BEATLES in gothic doom”-alike
“The Homecoming”. Well, it’s not even doom metal, more like a very mild,
tranquil, bluesy, tremendous music, which simply can’t be classified. Excellent.
(Herr Stalhammar)
LITTLE MISS.CONCEPTION
“The Plate Glass
Fallen Sky”
self-released
rating: 5 of 6
Oh no! This is the
fifth CD which fits my “doom / gothic / dark wave” section and, just like
SCREAM SILENCE, ENS COGITANS, AS DIVINE GRACE and ARISE FROM THORNS, and
it’s as magnificent! This is purely gothic / dark wave stuff, however I
must admit that LITTLE MISS.CONCEPTION appears as something really different
if comparing them to European genre-mates. First of all, this act is comprised
of one man (Eve) and one woman (Jenne) only, and secondly, this is one
of the most weird and somber gothic acts I’ve ever heard. That is the main
difference, I believe. “The Plate…” consists of five tracks of dark, bewitching,
grim and mesmerizing art… the atmosphere is incredibly anxious, while vocals
seem to be those of the phantom… E-guitar in “Cold” sounds almost black
metallish, however I guess it may be explained rather simply, since this
tune is two years older than all the others off this MCD. If you still
have any problems with conceiving “what the hell is LITTLE MISS.CONCEPTION
all about”, check out either the debut effort by SANGUIS ET CINIS or early
SADNESS and get back to this review – but keep in mind that this duo is
a highly original one! If you ask me, I’d say “this is A MUST!”. (Herr
Stalhammar)
MANDYLION
“Haunted Heart”
self-released
rating: 3 of 6
This is a debut MCD
(self-released one) from this young Swedish band. “Haunted Heart” comes
with four songs of quite enjoyable music, which may be defined as some
kind of doomy gothic metal, and it could be rather impressive work, however
“clean” vocals spoil the whole thing. This annoying bleating, making me
to recall Niels’ singing on “Almost A Dance” by THE GATHERING, does nothing
good for the band, that’s for sure. Rare growls by Micke Ahlin (who also
does all the drumming work) somehow sound much more listenable… The music
is not that original as well, so… Mediocre release.
Email: mandylion_@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MELISSA
“In Peace…?”
MATEK Records
rating: 5 of 6
I guess, it’s neither
death nor doom anymore, don’t you think so? Still METAL, though. Almost
five years passed since these guys made their debut with “In Mourning”
MC-album, and honestly speaking, I almost thought they were dead as a band,
however… no. They contrived to bring forth the light second offering of
theirs anyway, despite all the troubles they have endured throughout years.
Of course, MELISSA changed a lot on musical side: first of all, Nikolay
started to sing in a “clean” voice, also turning his former growling into
some kind of husky vocals – and that’s definitely no good. I mean, his
“clean” singing sounds highly pleasant to my ears, however those pseudo-hoarse
vocalizations (pretty much similar to the way CADAVEROUS CONDITION do it)
did nothing for me, perhaps with one and only exception – have you ever
experienced the sound of rusty nail scratching the windowpane? So, this
voice is EVEN MORE IRRITATING. But ok, musically, “In Peace…?” appears
as a splendid mixture of doom and melodeath, as well as some alternative
stuff (at least, that’s what “Pizza Song” made me to think of… and recall
PRIMUS) and jazz-inspired structures. Add few keyboard and saxophone parts,
by the way… In fact, music-wise, this CD is a huge development (the lyrics
strike as splendid (and weird!) ones as well), however I wouldn’t say the
same regarding the way Nikolay prefers to sing now… Therefore, ‘5’ for
music, ‘5’ for arrangements, ‘5’ for production, ‘5’ for lyrics, the same
mark for “clean” vocals and ‘2’ for the “hoarse” ones. So, we have six
marks and ‘27’ as a sum. Consequently, let’s divide it… and get four and
a half. What a rating system, you may ask? Well, in fact, I couldn’t really
figure out what mark should I give to this effort… Now I know. Anyway,
sorry for all this bullshit of mine and check out “Down And Fall”, “This
Time” and “Pizza Song”. They rule. (Herr Stalhammar)
MORGAIN
“Frostbitten Nakedness”
Erebos Productions
rating: 1 of 6
Somebody, bring me
a couple of beers so I could get things going and finally get rid of this
CD! Nobody even doesn’t want to buy it from me despite all my attempts!
MORGAIN comes from Slovakia and they’re the worst band emerging from that
country I’ve ever heard! “Frostbitten Nakedness” features some dull, non-original,
almost loathsome cross between gothic and doom metal with disgusting vocals
and nearly techno-alike programmed drumset… The sound is awful, even though
this piece of shit was recorded at Exponent Studios… Why do they release
various delirium instead of signing worthy, yet still unsigned bands???
(Herr Stalhammar)
MY DYING BRIDE
“The Light At The
End Of The World”
Peaceville Music
rating: 6 of 6
“MY DYING BRIDE with
no violin? What a nonsense!” A nonsense? I wouldn’t say so. I haven’t heard
their previous CD, so “Like Gods Of The Sun” was the last effort by this
legendary band that I’ve got myself acquainted with. And it sucked. MY
DYING BRIDE couldn’t offer anything new, moreover – that CD seemed to be
extremely boring to me… I was thinking for a long, long time if I should
buy “The Light…” or not and finally decided to check it out anyway… And,
honestly speaking, nothing surprised me in such a positive way than this
album did! It lasts for 72 (seventy two!) minutes although I doubt if anyone
will find it boring… The lyrics are most grim than ever (check out “She
Is The Dark”, “The Fever Sea”), even antichristian (“Edenbeast”, “Christliar”)
(!!!), as to music… well, it looks like “The Light…” is the darkest effort
MY DYING BRIDE managed to put out so far. There’s no violin here, but so
what? These guys (there’re only four of them left in the band, by the way
(Aaron on vocals, Andrew on guitars, Ade on bass and Shaun on drums, while
keyboards were played by Johnny of BAL SAGOTH)) contrived to create the
perfect atmosphere of grimness with usual instruments only… “The Light
At The End Of The World” brings back the greatness of “Turn Loose The Swans”,
even though it’s darker, faster and more brutal, this time incorporating
three vocal lines (black metal voice (!), growling (it’s milder yet more
anxious form), and (of course) “clean” voice that spiritually devours and
finally abandons you…), lots of tempo changes (it’s not techno-death, though!
ha ha), so despite the length of the songs (up to twelve minutes), you’re
willing to play this album over and over again… A MASTERPIECE. (Herr Stalhammar)
PIK
“The Heritage Of
Past Gods”
Mighty Music
rating: 6 of 6
Wow! PIK’s “The Heritage
Of Past Gods” is, no doubts, most weird and depressive work I’ve got myself
acquainted with during past few years (talking about doom / dark wave scene,
of course)! This Polish band’s style is torturously slow, grim and darkest
form of gothic metal, the darkest one I’ve ever heard (perhaps, with an
exception only for LITTLE MISS.CONCEPTION). Vocals is what I like most;
Heinrich’s voice is deep baritone which fits the whole concept perfectly.
PIK managed to force the unique atmosphere of decline and utter suffering,
anxiously devouring your braincells. Even ballad-alike “Dream A Dream”
sounds no less somber. I bet, lots of black metal bands would die of envy
after giving this CD a listen… Furthermore, PIK is one of a kind, i.e.
you won’t ever find a band similar to them (or the band THEY ARE similar
to). Oh, the human language seems so limited to me now, when I write this
review… Rarely, very rarely I face the problem when I can’t find proper
words to describe someone’s work… and it’s exactly like that with PIK.
No more words, no more tears: a razor-sharp knife, veins open and blood
streaming down my arms. (Herr Stalhammar)
POWER SYMPHONY
“Lightbringer”
Pavement Music
(provided by Luna
Press & Publicity)
rating: 3, 5 of 6
When you see a pretty
female singer, you know it will be nothing good. Just like with POWER SYMPHONY.
This CD starts with undoubtedly great tracks like “The Way Of The Sword”,
“Lucifer” and “Gethsemane”, featuring bewitching refrains and fascinating
harmonies, however later everything turns into it’s contrary. Boredom and
lack of excitement are the keywords. And yes, even if Michela’s voice sounds
quite enjoyable in the beginning, it seems to be utterly annoying in the
end. “Isn’t it tempting, isn’t it charming?” No, it is not. (Herr Stalhammar)
SCREAM SILENCE
“To Die For…”
Moonstorm Records
(provided by SureShot
Promotion)
rating: 5 of 6
Wow, here’s one more
exciting CD from yet one more “dark-wave” act. It seems to be really great
that we have so much stunning albums in “Doom / gothic / dark wave” section
this issue… SCREAM SILENCE come from Germany, therefore it’s obvious that
they possess that distinctive “German gothic metal” sound. Have you ever
heard SENISTRO or DREADFUL SHADOWS (especially the latter act)? Ok, and
did you like it? If the answer is “yes”, “To Die For…” will be a perfect
gift for you. It comes with eleven tracks of melodic, yet powerful music,
with excellent low-pitched vocals by Hardy Fieting and absolutely astounding
synth-arrangements performed by the same person, while guitars sound really
heavy (not some pussy (fag)gothic-crap) and all of the songs appear as,
no doubts, memorable ones. I enjoyed this CD a lot – and so will you. I
don’t like any “gothic” stuff, but when it’s done the way SCREAM SILENCE
or DREADFUL SHADOWS do it, I simply forget ‘bout my attitude to suchlike
music. (Herr Stalhammar)
SCULPTURED
“Apollo Ends”
The End Records
rating: -
As always with controversial
recordings, right after I gave a listen to this CD for the first time,
certain evil demon of my mind told me it sucks. He told me the same after
the second listening session. The same after the third one. And when the
fourth one took place, I was so fucking drunk, I decided it’s a masterpiece.
Now I’m sober and my demon died last night with a violent death. And it’s
not a masterpiece. And it doesn’t suck. It’s just… something “not of this
world”. Too controversial as said above. But what’s better anyway – controversy
or mediocrity? To be (typical) or not to be? Damn you all! This review
was one of the most difficult ones for me to compose (a little note: it
happens with me very rare… I’d say, TOO rare). If The End will unleash
the CD’s of the same quality as this one, it might be better for me to
die. The sooner the better. By the way, what are we talking about? Ah,
yes, it’s the newest CD from SCULPTURED! As far as I remember, I’ve even
arranged an interview with Don (the mastermind) few centuries ago… Right
after I received their debut CD and got high on it. Got high at the first
listen. Nothing like that happened this time. I’d lie saying that “Apollo
Ends” amazed me. Not at all. But you know, there’re albums that may amaze
you… in an utterly negative way. This is just too weird CD to get ANY rating.
Just make a trip to your nearest music store and find there “Apollo Ends”…
Yes, take it into your hands. So. What are your thoughts upon the way it
looks like? Ah… of course, it’s packed, so obviously you can’t look inside
the booklet. Do you have 16 bucks, my friend? Then buy it in order to get
yourself acquainted with this CD at home. And don’t forget about beer!
You see, you might be disappointed and then you’ll have a strong intention
to kick my ass because it was me who asked you to buy “Apollo Ends”. Don’t
do that. Never. I mean, never try to harm me. Because, if you don’t like
this work – it’s purely your problem. Ok, now you open the first can of
beer simultaneously with tearing off the parcel covering this CD. Now you
look inside… Surprised? Yes, this CD seems to have a strong concept behind
it. I mean, in terms of appearance. Yes, read through the lyrics, since
you’re sober enough while now. Aren’t they truly fascinating and poetic?
Yes, they are… “This is a song to fall on deaf ears / And these are words
not meant for you to hear…” Now play this album in your stereo. “What the
hell is that?” Oh, don’t be so rude, my friend. Just have one more beer.
Hey, I said “one beer”, not whisky! Sit down and stay calm. Or not. Up
to you. What is the title for the second track? “Who cares?!” I care. Ah,
here it is: “Above The 60th Parallel”. And what about the third one? “Snow
Covers It All”. The fourth…? “Between Goldberg”. Yes, they’re truly stunning,
aren’t they? Bringing in the sounds of trumpet and trombone, somewhat magic…
somewhat frightening and somewhat soothing. The music for the evening you’re
going to end your life. Or to start it all over again. This high-pitched
“clean” voice fits it perfectly, don’t you think so? What? Hmm, so you
really think these pseudo-guttural vocals sound even better? I don’t think
so. Neither do you when it comes to this experimental track, the one entitled
as “Apollo Destroys, Apollo Creates”? Shut up. You’d better give me a couple
of beers. If you say it’s not for your ears, you’re fool. This atonal,
noise-challenging composition is an inalienable part of the whole musical
canvas namely “Apollo Ends”. Ah, now you agree with me when I’m saying
that SCULPTURED won’t be SCULPTURED without vanguard elements… more likely,
plenty of them? I’m glad, my friend. So, did they invent something new,
moreover – unique? I think so. And so do you. And so will you – all of
you… And yes, give me one more beer… We have to stop talking. SCULPTURED
is the only one who dares to talk. Thus let us listen and don’t interrupt.
Let us dream the dreams of unsound mind… (Herr Stalhammar)
SENTENCED
“Frozen Gold”
Century Media
rating: 5 of 6
Argh, I love this
band! “Frozen” (1998) was a great CD and here comes one more EP, this time
featuring no new songs (the opening track, “The Suicider”, already appeared
on “Frozen”), but four covers. The first one is “Creep” by Yorke, Greenwood
and O’Brien (guess what the band is, eh??? Heh heh… I don’t think so. Anyway
it’s RADIOHEAD), “Digging The Grave” by FAITH NO MORE, “I Wanna Be Somebody”
(no comments) and finally “House Of The Rising Sun”… Well, I should admit
that, apart from many metal bands covering anyone’s songs these days, SENTENCED
managed to reach almost unreachable (sorry for the pun!) – to perform the
song in such a way you don’t have to look inside the booklet in order to
figure out who was the original author (since it’s obvious!) and in the
same time bringing in something new, thus turning the tune into the SENTENCED’s
own track! Furthermore, this MCD was recorded in two studios simultaneously
(Tico Tico and Woodhouse), also with a new bassist, namely Sami Kukkohovi.
(Herr Stalhammar)
SEPTIC FLESH
“Revolution DNA”
Holy Records
rating: 3 of 6
Is it SEPTIC FLESH?!
Oh, shit. Here we have one more, once outstanding, act that has wimped
out… Musically, it begins as usual SEPTIC FLESH CD, but when voice comes
in… you think it might be better to flush this disc down the toilet. It’s
only Sotiris who sings here (so forget about that unique dragon voice by
Spiros), but don’t expect any majestic choirs and sublime “clean” voice
as it was before. He sings or, more likely, “tries to sing” in two different
ways: the first one is some kind of parody on black metal voice (although
no one would ever call THIS a black metal voice) and the second one is
utterly disgusting type of “clean” singing, reminding me of certain gay
pop singer. The songs themselves are not bad, however a) they lack keyboards
which is bad and b) there’re no passages sung by Natalie Rassoulis which
is so fucking bad that I don’t even have enough words to tell you HOW AM
I ANGRY AND EMBITTERED… Only the first and second song, “Science” and “Chaostar”,
remind me a bit of that, older SEPTIC FLESH. Even “A Fallen Temple” was
a masterpiece in comparison to this one… And the only reason why this CD
got ‘3’ instead of ‘1’ as a mark is the “Last Step To Nowhere” track which
is absolutely outstanding, BUT. Think seriously if you should buy crappy
CD which has only one splendid song?! (Herr Stalhammar)
STAHLHAMMER
“Feind Hort Mit”
Nuclear Blast Records
rating: 4 of 6
You know what? Even
if STAHLHAMMER was a pop music, I couldn’t ignore them, ha ha! And it’s
truly a pleasant surprise when you discover that the band whose title is
basically similar to your second name is not bad. Their style is gothic
metal, with few industrial elements (or am I wrong?) featured in a couple
of songs. It’s not your regular SISTERS OF MERCY or RAMMSTEIN clone, STAHLHAMMER
are more brutal and diverse musically, although I wouldn’t say I got high
on this effort. In fact, all the songs off this CD are good, however there’s
one track which is simply a masterpiece: “Strom Der Zeit” is what I’m talking
about… By the way, the most strange thing about this band is that STAHLHAMMER
basically lacks any 100% Austrians when it comes to the lineup. Ok, look
here: the singer’s name is Georgij Alexandrowitsch Makazaria, the bassist
is Peter Karolyi, the violin is played by Mario Gheorghiu, and the female
voice belong to such persons as Barbara Schindler, Barbara Karolyi and
Tanja Golden! Hmm… (Herr Stalhammar)
THERION
“Deggial”
Nuclear Blast Records
rating: 3, 5 of 6
Typical THERION CD.
If you’ve heard “Vovin”, you should know what I’m talking about. Even though
they have invited Hansi Kursch of BLIND GUARDIAN as the guest vocalist,
“Deggial” is quite mediocre release. Well, not exactly like that – it’s
a good one, however we already have “Vovin”. And we already have “Theli”.
No more, please. Or try to invent something new, Mr. Johnsson. (Herr Stalhammar)
WOLVERINE
“Fervent Dream”
Zizania Entertainment
Group
rating: 5 of 6
Rather exciting effort
from a young Dutch quartet. Although it combines “clean” voice with death
metal growls, I wouldn’t name it as a “doom / death metal”, since I believe
it’s more on a progressive side. You know, “Fervent Dream” sounds somewhat
similar to MOON OF SORROW at times, although it features much more impressive
and improved stuff, also the “clean” voice by Stefan Zell is much stronger.
All of the tracks off this MCD are really, really long (up to 8 minutes,
with an exception for the last tune which strikes as some kind of an epilogue).
If you can fancy QUEENSRYCHE playing mild and melodic, yet atmospheric
and gloomy doom / death metal, you can’t be wrong with WOLVERINE. The layout
and artwork are somewhat weird but still highly tremendous, as well as
the lyrics which are on a very poetic side. Musically, this album appealed
to me really well, so… Decide yourselves, either you should check it out
or not – the only thing’s left I have to say: I’ve never heard anything
like that within the bounds of the metal genre.
Band’s contact: Rene
Janssen / Vergelt 5a / 5991 PJ BAARLO / Netherlands
tel. +31 77 4778311
fax. +31 77 4778310
email : r.jansse@tref.nl
DVS Records http://www.dvsrecords.com/
ProgPower 1999 http://www.progpower.com/
Dutch Progressive
Rock Page http://www.dprp.vuurwerk.nl/
(review by Herr Stalhammar)