ALONE
rating: -
Well, this is exactly what I expected it
to be - almost the same kind of tasty alternative / hardcore kind of stuff
with female vocals YEAH RIGHT was known for (for those who do not know,
ALONE is the new moniker for YEAH RIGHT). I like it. Nothing more to say
- at least until Rinat and co. will come up with a full-length effort.
Website: www.AloneMusic.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
AMDUSCIAS
"Satarsa"
rating: 1 of 6
Erh… I haven't heard such a unique crap
for many years… And actually, I don't regret it. Giving "Satarsa" a listen
IS what I regret. These kids seem to reach the grandeur of BAL-SAGOTH,
attempting to be as pompous, as sublime, and as sophisticated, however
they fail miserably. All these "orchestrations" sound exactly like random
sfx's taken from some ancient wrecked Casio synth. It's nearly (?) impossible
to figure out if there're really any guitar or bass lines present due to
the horrible sound… And vocals… They just make me bitterly laugh (that
regards both male and female voices). "The Voices" and "Curl Of Enchantress"
are the only tracks bearable enough to listen to, but that definitely doesn't
make this MC worth buying. More likely, it's the worst demo work I'VE EVER
HEARD.
Contact address unavailable.
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
AMORBITAL
"Invidia"
rating: 5,5 of 6
I always thought that if the band comes
from either Slovakia or Czech Republic, stylistically this is nothing but
brutal death / grind. As a matter of fact, I wasn't completely wrong, however
AMORBITAL strikes as an exception - definitely a pleasant one. "Invidia"
brings forth nine tunes of somewhat unique kind of death metal; and I'm
strongly convinced that "mystical" is the keyword when it comes to AMORBITAL.
Everything, the lyrical canvas, the ambiences, the whole atmosphere this
MC is soaked with, proves my supposition. Anyway, closer to the subject.
This foursome deliver melodious yet brutal and atmospheric DM, supplemented
with ultra-low grunts and stupendous musicianship. But what's most important,
despite the obvious comparison with latest works by KATAKLYSM, AMORBITAL
contrived to keep their style clean from any sort of borrowings.
Email: Vladimir.Stanko@at.siemens.sk
Snail mail: Vladimir Stanko, Osloboditelov
18, 066 01 Humenne, Slovakia
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CAPTIVUS DIABOLI
"Captivus Diaboli"
rating: 5 of 6
Perhaps, melodic black metal is what we
have to deal with this time? Yes, and simultaneously no. Undoubtedly bearing
a trace of BM, this work is most likely has a heavy metal basis, even if
such a conclusion is similar to a contradiction. All the four songs this
demo is comprised of, appear as quite impressive pieces of melodious yet
enough brutal stuff, impregnated with thin although sometimes even stunning
synth lines and semi-blackish vokills. Being rather variable, this work
is enough recognizable - at least, it strikes as these guys are capable
of coming up with a different kind of stuff, y'know. While now; a promising
band with an intriguing effort.
Kick Promotion Agency: madfucker@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CENTAUR
"Addicted To Hate"
rating: 4,5 of 6
Tasty. US' CENTAUR came up with a pretty
unusual sort of music, kinda deathcore, y'know. Enough (and sometimes even
more than just "enough") versatile, more death and less -core, these guys
deliver quite intriguing stuff, mixing the brutality of death metal and
hardcore's "I-don't-give-a-fuck" attitude. There's nothing I can really
cavil at, regarding the musicianship, as well as the sound execution (it
could be better, though). Vocals differ from semi-growling to "clean" kind
of singing (the latter one undoubtedly demands further improvement). Originality?
Yes, we have it's certain likeness here. Nothing else to be said.
Email: Centaur_net@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CHRISTABEL
"Songs Of Experience"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Uhhm, refreshing. Thanks god in hell, I've
finally got the chance to lay my hands on this CD (Matteo, the mastermind
behind CHRISTABEL, had to send me this work for the four (!!!) times).
Wondering what is it, both musically and lyrically? Sorry, can't tell ya
anything worth the mention when it comes to lyrical canvas (simply because
the CD comes without it), however when it comes to music… "Songs Of Experience"
somehow bears a resemblance of another Italy's act, VLAD, still being undoubtedly
different and versatile. "Songs Of Experience" is comprised of three songs
(why only three, man?! I had to play 'em over and over again, to reach
certain kind of spiritual orgasm… and I wish there were more compositions),
all of them truly exciting - they just don't let you up, y'know. Starting
with a serenely crafted ambiences, and later turning into no less romantic
yet atmospherically bewitching and… erh, tremendously harsh, perhaps?…
it's a brilliant piece of so-called "gothic doom metal", even though I'd
better define it as a dark wave kind of stuff. When it comes to vocal department,
Matteo's enrapturing "clean" voice sometimes is being replaced by mild
sort of growling. Guitar lines vary from recapitulative, nearly hypnotizing
calm passages, to fascinating leads, whilst the rhythm-section is finely
programmed. Check out f.ex. "Far Away" and you'll immediately understand
that this CD should be yours.
Website: www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Basement/1082
Email: mymetal@yahoo.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
COUNCIL OF THE FALLEN
"Council Of The Fallen"
rating: 3 of 6
For the first time I've been listening
to this CD(R), I thought it's the newest recording by AURORA BOREALIS.
Hey man, it couldn't be more goddamn similar! Everything, every fucking
thing is the same: song structures, vokills, harmonies, drumming… and the
list goes on. This is a good effort… at least, it would be considered a
"good effort" by those who haven't heard AURORA BOREALIS yet. I'm not really
fond of giving copycats a good mark, so here you go: '3' out of '6'.
Email: vehem@worldnet.att.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CRUEL CRIMINAL
"Orpheus' Inferno"
rating: 2 of 6
What a moniker! This is yet one more example
of human narrow-mindedness, don't you think? Thanks god in hell, not "Black
Death" this time, heh heh. By the way, the bandname seems to contradict
the song titles, such as "Snake Eyed Vortex Of Human Flesh"… Nevertheless,
it doesn't help anything, since what we have here, is boring death / black
metal, rather tightly performed and no less impressively executed, but
what the hell… Already second tune off this effort lulls me to sleep… Pathetic.
Kick Promotion agency: madfucker@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DEATHFROST
"DEATH t-411"
Cynoptik Records
rating: -
Weird. Actually, I knew it would turn out
as truly weird thing (paraphrasing Shakespeare, "something weird this way
comes…", heh heh) long before I gave this MC a listen. Or what else could
I expect from the guy, entitling his creations like "Flight 666", "Orgy42àDeath21"
or "Tiger 007". It's hard as hell to describe what DEATHFROST is all about
musically (and even harder - lyrically). Kinda depraved (and deranged)
electro / industrial, heavily influenced by the black and dark metal genres.
Mixing sick distorted voices with "broken", disharmonic rhythms and sequences,
Mr. Cynoptik (what a handle…) gets something definitely indescribable on
the outcome. Kind of "strictly for (extremely) open-minded" stuff.
Website: http://nav.to/deathfrost
Email: deathfrost@fcmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DISINTER
"Nativity"
Bestial Records
rating: 2 of 6
I confess, the intro sounded exciting.
And yes, the synth-lines sounded no less brilliant… if only they weren't
all borrowed. Unfortunately, "Nativity" is solely based on cliches, often
being quite close to the notion of plagiarism. Stylistically, these Romanians
offer a certain kind of atmospheric death metal, sometimes crossing the
borders of BM - however would you really like to have poorly executed,
generic and unmemorable piece of death / black disaster among other items
in your collection? I guess not. (Herr Stalhammar)
DITCHWATER
"10 to 12, Soul To Cell / I.D.G.A.F."
rating: 3 of 6
This two-song promo (available for free
at request) doesn't really impress me, at least with it's musical content.
Quite regular type of hardcore (or whatever they call it). Masterly performed
lead in "I.D.G.A.F." strikes as the only highlight when it comes to this
CD. However, I'm not really the one to say if this is good or bad, since
I'm not a fan of this kind of stuff. Consequently if you get high on f.ex.
VITAMIN F and others of that ilk, check it out…
Website: www.ditchwater1.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DRACO HYPNALIS / ROMANTIC LOVE
"Nobleness Of The Storm-Gatherer" / "Hopeless
Anxiety"
rating: DRACO HYPNALIS - 4,5 of 6
ROMANTIC LOVE - 1 of 6
This is a split-demo of two young Czech
bands, two young Czech bands which, stylistically, stand billion miles
away from each other. Don't really know whether it's good or bad, so let's
better talk about this tape. DRACO HYPNALIS is the one to be checked out
in the first turn, indeed. Delivering fast-paced yet still highly melodious
black / death metal with screechy vocals, disgusting drummachine (yuck!!!)
and surprisingly masterly performed leads as well as splendidly thoughtout
and arranged, these guys definitely have a bright future ahead, however
now it's just one of the thousands' promising acts. And yes, find the "real"
drummer, goddammit! No more "plastic" production as well, ok? When it comes
to ROMANTIC LOVE (ROMANTIC LOVE, LOVE HISTORY… what happened to these Czechs??
Naming death metal bands this way is kinda weird, don't you think so?)…
well, honestly speaking, I couldn't even listen it to the end due to their
utter worthlessness and loathsomeness, when it comes to every single thing.
A poor man's ATHEIST with a doomy touch, badly structured and completely
uninteresting. All in all, a piece of shit. Therefore; the only thing I
can say is: check out DRACO HYPNALIS, and simultaneously avoid ROMANTIC
LOVE. Giving it a listen would cause you much more problems than syphilis.
Email (DRACO HYPNALIS): dracohypnalis@seznam.cz
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
ECLIPSE
"The Symphonys Of Pathological Love / Calling
Our Desires"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: 4 of 6
Once again, a decent death metal band,
whose long forgotten efforts (recorded back in 1996) have been finally
brought to light by Andy / Blacksmith. Actually, I believe that the way
they've entitled this album, already explains a lot. Yes, this is grind
/ death metal; grind / death metal mostly performed at lower speeds thus
forcing undoubtedly somber kind of ambiences. Vocals seem to be kinda "strangled"
a bit, however it only bewitches the one who'd dare to give this MC a listen.
As to sound execution, it's surprisingly pretty good, although of course
don't expect that it would be similar to anything produced at Morrisound,
Tico Tico, Fredman and alike studios. Generally speaking, "Symphonys…"
appears as worthy item. At least, in contrast to modern day's death metal
acts, it's soaked with sincerity. I only hope that this band is still alive...
They don't deserve to be ignored.
Email: black15smith@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
ELENIUM
"Promo '99"
rating: 5 of 6
Melodic and refreshing kind of death /
black metal the Finnish way. Vocals remind me a bit of CHILDREN OF BODOM,
although I wouldn't say that ELENIUM aren't capable of delivering a music
of their own. I really hope that all of us will have a chance to give a
listen to debut full-length CD of theirs soon. Until then, check it out.
Website: http://members.tripod.com/~Elenium
Email: elenium666@hotmail.com
job80@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
FOREST STREAM
"Last Season Purity"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Finally, a worthy black metal act emerging
from the country of mine. Lately everything's been rather quiet in Russia's
black metal camp, however this was worth the waiting this work. FOREST
STREAM appears as a pretty young combo, nevertheless they've already contrived
to come up with a stunning work. Musically, this is mid-paced, a bit doomy
blend of black metal, incredibly (and uniquely) atmospheric, bringing forth
the inimitable kind of ambiences, supplemented with enchanting harmonies
and versatile vocal lines (typical blackish screams, mild (hmm…) growling
and finally, a surprisingly enjoyable "clean" voice). Actually, I wish
I could be able to make a better description, however it's almost impossible
when you're facing such bands as FOREST STREAM, simply because "atmosphere"
is the keyword when it comes to "Last Season Purity". It doesn't have anything
in common with BURZUM's "Hvis Lyset Tar Oss" and "Det Som Engang Var" musically
- and it DOES have, atmospherically. Lastly, despite the songs' length
(up to 12 minutes), this CD doesn't get boring or whatever. Verdict? Well,
you wanted it - and you'll get it: EXCELLENT.
Email: forest_stream@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
FUNERAL SPEECH / OBSTETRICAL PALSY / MORBIDITY
"Bloody Deeds" / "Natural Selection" /
"Human's Foolishness Is Limitless (live)"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: FUNERAL SPEECH - 3,5 of 6
OBSTETRICAL PALSY - 4,5 of 6
MORBIDITY - 3 of 6
Hmm… I'm not really fond of reviewing (as
well as listening to) split CDs and tapes, although this one's fortunately
not the worst one I've ever heard. Starting with a couple of tunes by FUNERAL
SPEECH (quite boring yet surprisingly nearly enigmatic sort of death metal…
this band doesn't exist anymore, though), it warmed me up for a while,
therefore I was ready to enjoy the "Natural Selection", six tracks by OBSTETRICAL
PALSY (try to spell it fast a couple of times… I bet you won't succeed),
probably the best ones off this tape. It's kinda hard to describe what
the hell it's all about, therefore I guess that it would be better if you
give it a listen yourselves. At least, if you get high on brutal death
metal, OBSTETRICAL PALSY definitely will appeal to you (what surprised
me most of all, it was recorded six (!) years ago… why haven't I heard
anything of this band before?!). Lastly, we have MORBIDITY from Ulan-Ude,
the foursome coming forth with 17 tracks recorded live, back in the year
of 1997. Don't wanna say anything concerning this band here, since I've
already done it - simply check out the review below. So, what's the conclusion?
To put it straight, I'd buy this tape if I hadn't it already - but only
as a relict from the past. Those who would like to figure out what the
Russian death metal scene was alike in mid-nineties, undoubtedly have to
get their hands on it, though. Finally, I feel like I have admit that Andy
(Blacksmith's boss) does a very good job. Without him, we'd never get ourselves
acquainted with the early works by lots of decent acts, such as ECLIPSE,
WARHEAD or OBSTETRICAL PALSY. Keep the flame burning, bro!
Email: black25smith@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
GOREOPSY
"Intentional Disfiguration"
rating: 28 of 6
Slovakia definitely rules, being the sickest
country in Europe! GOREOPSY, just as other Slovakian bands, proves us that
there are no limits for human opportunities. Two guys are responsible for
GOREOPSY deeds (there are six tracks + intro if you're interested in what
is "Intentional…" comprised of): Miroslav - all vocals, and Michal - guitars
/ bass / programming. And the best I ever listened to are Miroslav's voice
(if we may call it voice). What can I say about these vocals? Nothing can
I. And no one can. But we may imagine where they are from. Lion's guts
roar after devoured antelope. Sounds of elephant's farts in the midst of
the jungle. Cries of the dying aborted embryo. Satan's delirium tremens.
Death vomit flushing down the toilet. You know, I wonder how the first
scream of newborn guy lately named Miroslav sounded, heh heh. By the way,
Miroslav's mobile phone number is indicated on the tape's cover, so now
I work hard to get money to ring him up and in order to please myself with
hearing his guttural "Aaaaarrrrgggghhhrrrr". And, listen folks, there are
some clean vocals on "Intentional Disfiguration" - they sound like only
normal human singing may sound. Really, Miroslav has the voice of the great
range. Now some words regarding music side of GOREPOSY. It is well done,
but - I swear - you already heard these tunes years before. Honestly speaking,
it's difficult to invent something after all these greatest bands and artists
involved in this style, done. Nevertheless GOREOPSY melodies don't seem
dull. But one thing still remains unique - drums programming. It is no
human being to play faster as there's no human being to growl "miroslavier".
Sometimes this drum machine sounds pretty much ridiculous. Yeah, this "trrrrrrrrrrr"
reminded me of a hare playing march on a stub.
P.S. You may ask: why did you rate 'em
as 28 of 6. What can I say? Go fuck yourself, - I do answer, - go fuck
yourself, purchase this cassette, and rate it as you wish: 27 of 6, 29
of 6, etc. It's worth it. (Review by Orkkh)
GRENOUER
"The Odour O'Folly"
rating: 4 of 6
"The Odour O'Folly" is the latest offering
from this death / black metal act, although this time it doesn't really
have anything in common with black metal. Recorded at Zelenograd-based
studio (the one owned by T.H.R.O.N. freaks), it doesn't beat all the highest
standards in terms of sound execution - actually I still wonder why did
they have to travel to Zelenograd in order to get rather average sounding
work? In my opinion, "Gravehead" (GRENOUER's former effort) sounded much
more persuasive. Musically being MUCH MORE exciting as well. "The Odour
O'Folly" heavily reminds me of the latest CDs by CARCASS, kind of a cross
between "Heartwork" and "Swansong", y'know. And that doesn't give GRENOUER
bonus points, too. Melodic and intelligently raw, mostly fast- but also
mid-paced, with a singer attempting to be undistinguishable from Jeff Walker,
and incredibly lesser amount of leads and various tasty passages, less
versatile and obviously less innovative (actually, UNinnovative)… well,
this is definitely NOT the best work by GRENOUER. I wish they could get
back in few years and come forth with a worthy followup to "Gravehead".
Too bad, but "The Odour O'Folly" gets '4' out of '6' only because I (still)
deeply respect this band.
Website: www.zakamsk.ru/grenouer
Email: grenouer@permonline.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
GRIMLORD
"Through Hatred Of War"
Drakkar Productions
rating: 4 of 6
Utterly holocaustic black metal, a bit
similar to Aussie HORDE (fortunately, this time ANTI-christrian!) and France's
BELENOS, is what we have here. True black metal as it was supposed to be,
y'know (don't get me wrong though; I enjoy listening to BM spiced with
keyboards, flutes and stuff, but…), featuring fierce kind of vokills, weirdly
structured (sometimes even nearly incomprehensible), whilst slow and semi-acoustic
passages bear a strong resemblance of Poland's PERUNWIT. By the way, it
seems like Poland and France's black metal scenes are too goddamn similar
to each other, i.e. they are seemingly divided into 2 camps: well-known
and commercially successful acts such as BEHEMOTH (Poland) and SETH (France);
and the ones staying true to the underground (maybe too much "true"…),
such as GRIMLORD, for instance…
Email: grimlord@club-internet.fr
drakkar2@wanadoo.fr
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
IMPURE DOMAIN
"Progression Of Impurity"
rating: 3 of 6
Ok, this is black metal. An average one?
Not at all. Then why is it rated with only '3' out of '6'? Oh… now the
time has come for me to explain, huh? "Progression Of Impurity" starts
with a couple of truly enrapturing tunes, kinda weird yet stunning mixture
of ENTHRONED and latest works by SAMAEL (if only these ones have been executed
in a better way… they'd sound thousand times more exciting)… however then
we have awfully recorded live tracks as well as one and only but still
unforgettable instrumental disaster. So you see? This is not really a demo
but more likely a huge melting pot. I'd better wait and give a listen to
their studio works. Until then… '3' out of '6'.
Kick Promotion agency: madfucker@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
INTERVALLE BIZZARE
"Demo 2000"
rating: 4 of 6
Weird moniker, isn't it? I thought the
music these guys come up with, would be no less weird, however fool was
I, forgetting that Czech Republic and Slovakia are most well-known for
spawning the multitude of combos considering the genre of "death / grind"
their leading star. So do these chaps, actually. Three tracks of their
own, as well as a cover from TERRORIZER ("After World Obliteration"); not
really good, neither really bad. Don't get me wrong, I often get high on
death metal and grindcore, but unfortunately not in case with INTERVALLE
BIZZARE. I don't even know what makes me to think this way; perhaps the
lack of complexity? Nevertheless, this is definitely a kind of CD to check
out if you love DEMENTOR and alike acts.
Email: bizzare.snuff.abro@centrum.cz
bizzaretommy@atlas.cz
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MAHAVATAR
"Demo 2000"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Strange name for a band, isn't it? Well,
you won't be questioning it's origin anymore once you've gave a listen
to this CD. Being comprised of Israeli female vocalist (hmm…), Jamaica's
guitarist (also female) and a drummer of Polish origin (how the hell do
they manage to rehearse??), MAHAVATAR deliver pretty weird sort of stuff,
actually almost indescribable. I'll make an attempt to define it anyway.
Ok, what about death metal mixed with KORN-alike music, as well as some
gothic metal and tribal stuff…? Surprised, huh? So was I when I was listening
to this work for a first time. In fact, I still am. Besides marking out
top-class musicianship and thick, polished yet still harsh sound, I guess
I should also mention Lizza's nearly unique voice, varying from deep growls
to tremendous feminine singing passing through certain howling a bit similar
to DEAD CAN DANCE's most exotic and depraved efforts. All songs are different,
one is, for example, kinda in-your-face, whilst another one is thousand
times slower and, obviously, gloomier. If I'm not mistaken, "Mind hypnotic
vision towards revolution" is their slogan, and it strikes as they couldn't
find a better one. This is a must to have CD for every living soul.
Website: www.mahavatar.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MANGLER
"Are You Ready For Something Like That?"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: 2 of 6
If I'm not mistaken, this band is led by
Yuri Kurnosoff, the one who was formerly known as THRON's frontman. Too
bad that this guy decided to leave black metal scene, forming pure death
/ grind project instead. At least, while THRON's latest effort definitely
appeared of interest to me, this one does NOT. Featuring tons of somewhat
ridiculous samples, "Are You Ready…" musically isn't able to offer anything
comprehensible. Plain death / grind, far from being impressive or memorable
- and that seems to be all I can say in regards to MANGLER. Don't get me
wrong, I like both death metal and grindcore a lot, however something just
doesn't work with this band. It's completely senseless and, therefore,
uninteresting work, consequently I doubt if Yuri and co. would succeed
in finding at least 100 souls who could possibly enjoy this crap.
Email: black25smith@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MORBIDITY
"Don't Demands Impossible"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: 3,5 of 6
Grindcore from Ulan-Ude?! Well, I guess
it shouldn't be considered a nonsense nowadays - when black metal acts
emerge from South Africa and Greenland, y'know. The band's pic is pretty
amusing (sorry, but it's ridiculousness is utterly indescribable), however
it strikes as this is the only thing which has drawn my attention when
it comes to "Don't Demands Impossible" (these guys definitely should go
and study English for a while). Grindcore. Nothing more, nothing less.
Just a grindcore, you see. I've heard hundreds of alike bands, and, honestly
speaking, most of them manage to deliver much more exciting stuff. It doesn't
suck… and it's nothing good, either.
Email: black25smith@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MORIA
"Skogsfrun"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Holy shit! This is already the third promo
brought forth the light by Sweden's MORIA this (i.e. 2000) year! And most
possibly that "Skogsfrun" is their most exciting work to date. Two songs
as well as two synthetic interludes is what this CD-R is comprised of,
and I'd dare to say that it's definitely an enrapturing experience. Dreamy,
"forest"-alike, trollish, somewhat romantic yet anxious and somber, MORIA's
way of black metal's perception is almost unique - I guess, ARCKANUM and
SIEBENBURGEN are the only comparisons, although don't you get me wrong!
MORIA do have their own approach to music. These guys undoubtedly have
a bright future ahead. I only hope that next work of theirs won't be so
short…
Email: Moriacave@hotmail.com
Website: http://back.to/moria
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
NECROFLESH
"Promo 2000"
rating: 5 of 6
This project has been started by one of
Italy's most notable death metal acts, HORRID, however unfortunately it's
less intriguing than f.ex. "Blasphemic Creatures" (HORRID's latest work).
Nevertheless, musically this promo tape represents excellent death metal
in the vein of early DEICIDE as well as "Bloodthirst" by CANNIBAL CORPSE.
Actually, there're no drawbacks when it comes to both musicianship and
execution, however this work definitely isn't a perfect one due to somewhat
incomplete structures and the lack of originality. But; is it a deadly
sin? I guess not.
Email: simrend@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
PROPHET
"Death Becomes You"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Three efforts brought forth the light in
a year and a half? Erh, these guys remind me of Sweden's MORIA a bit, since
both bands manage to come up with a new material more than just frequently
- and what's most important each of their works is definitely worth checking
out. Just as MORIA's latest piece is their best one so far, "Death Becomes
You" is PROPHET's most impressive and exciting effort. Rather short one
(like always), it makes you to beg for more, since three song definitely
isn't enough to get high, heh heh. The title track, without any doubts,
is this MC's highlight, whilst the second one ("Is Lust What We Are?")
appears as the most unusual one (if the word "unusual" fits it…). When
it comes to what differs "Death Becomes You" from "Lost" and "Miles Away"
(the first and the second CDs by PROPHET), these are: a) Allu's improved
vocals (now he is AS close to perfection), b) excellent sound execution
(MD Studio), and finally c) second guitarist who makes the music even more
tasty than it already is.
P.S. By the way, DIABLERIE's Henri Villberg
is responsible for "growling" parts on "Death Becomes You", and I must
admit that his deep guttural voice (a bit similar to Dan Swano's) sounds
brilliant, especially supplementing PROPHET's melodic heavy metal-alike
music.
Website: http://listen.to/prophet
Email: aleksi@ahokas.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
SPAWN OF POSSESSION
"The Forbidden"
rating: 4,5 of 6
Ultra-blasting, grinding form of death
is what we have here. This four-track demo CD appears as rather well-crafted
piece, pretty atmospheric (it's still death metal what I'm talking about
at the moment, though!) and definitely all-devouring. There's not much
to add, actually. If you're into early MORBID ANGEL, as well as bands like
MORTICIAN, MALEVOLENT CREATION and (early) GOREFEST, this demo should be
yours. And just by the way: SPAWN OF POSSESSION's countrymates, SOILS OF
FATE, definitely will have to come up with a killer CD in order to beat
this trio.
Email: spawnofpossesion@hotmail.com
Website: www.spawnofpossession.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
STABLE STENCH
"Stablefuck"
rating: 3 of 6
STABLE STENCH appears as a side-projects
of DAWN OF DREAMS' dudes, and, to be honest, it's far from excellence offered
by their main band. Straight-forward grindcore, a bit humorous, a bit generic,
and sometimes fortunately exciting - but still "a bit". This demo is comprised
of six tracks (whilst the seventh one isn't really a song, but pure delirium)
of what narrow-minded individuals wouldn't ever call "music", but a "worthless
noise". Well, I don't reckon myself to this flock, and no, it's not a worthless
noise, however it's also far from being "worth the listen"-sort of stuff.
Anyway, it's up to you whether "Stablefuck" should be praised or flushed
down the toilet. In order to find out what kind of fate awaits this band,
simply download a couple of tracks off the Net at <http://www.mp3.com/stablestench>.
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
STORMCROW
"Hell On Earth"
rating: 5 of 6
What would you expect from the band entitling
their works this way? Right, the non-divine pureness of black metal. As
a matter of fact, this is exactly what we have here. Five tracks of crushing,
hauntingly all-devouring black metal at it's best. These guys don't need
keyboards to force incredibly grim and gloomier than gloom itself, atmosphere.
Sometimes sounding a bit similar to Belgium's ENTHRONED, they still have
a face of their own, and isn't it what we should appreciate? In fact, I
can't really add anything else, at least anything that could be of interest
to you… Splendidly executed and well performed, this is definitely a stunning
piece of true (in the finest sense of this word) black metal. Highly recommended.
Website: www.stormcrow.it
Email: zedar@stormcrow.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
THRONEUM
"The Underground Storms Eternally"
rating: 5,5 of 6
Based on emphasized bass lines, rawness
and in the same time versatility, this effort definitely appears of interest
to me. These guys define it as "ancient death metal", and basically I agree
with such a description. Being comprised of five tunes as well as intro
& outro, THRONEUM come up with a truly exciting piece, rather original
but still comparable to the earliest works by VADER. Each song has it's
own value, thus making "The Underground…" an antonym for boredom. And if
I'll add that this demo features good sound and envying musicianship, I
guess you know what to do.
Email: tomaszh@poland.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
TWISTED TOWER DIRE
"Demo 2000"
rating: 4,5 of 6
Judging by their moniker, I thought it
would be some black or death metal effort. What a fool was I! TWISTER TOWER
DIRE don't have anything in common neither with black nor with death metal.
It's pure heavy metal, the IRON MAIDEN-way, carefully crafted and splendidly
performed. Even though craving for originality doesn't seem to be their
main goal, these guys undoubtedly possess a sound of their own. The singer's
really good, whilst all the tunes off this demo are no less good as well.
Now you're wondering why the hell did I give 'em '4,5' out of '6', instead
of the higher mark? In fact, there're two reasons: firstly, I was harshly
disappointed by the fact I can give a listen to only three (rather short)
tracks instead of enrapturing myself with listening to the full-length
CD; and secondly, the sound execution here is pretty poor (it doesn't suck,
though). Consequently if I've ever gotten a full-length CD by T.T.D, the
one with a better sound quality, it'd definitely get '6' out of '6'.
Website: http://www.ttd.cjb.net
Email: twistertower@earthlink.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
UNCROSSED
"Liquid Air"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: 1 of 6
Most of Blacksmith's releases strike as
highly enjoyable efforts, however not this time! "Liquid Air" appears as
a live recording, and even though the sound doesn't suck, I won't ever
give it a listen again. The reason is almost the same as in case with Czech's
ROMANTIC LOVE. These guys (being rather skillful in order to handle their
instruments properly, by the way) pretend to be a techno-death metal band,
failing miserably due to the utter incomprehensibility all the songs off
this MC are impregnated with. This is the kind of album to be flushed down
the toilet right after the first song is over. Enough said. (Herr Stalhammar)
VINTAGE SOLEMNITY
"Curtains Of Adjectives"
rating: 5 of 6
Turkish answer to DEINONYCHUS? Or perhaps,
it would be ARCTURUS? Just kidding. Even if VINTAGE OF SOLEMNITY have a
lot in common with the bands I've just mentioned above, this duo definitely
have a clue what originality actually is. If I'm not mistaken, this is
their third work in the shape of demo thus far, however it's really hard
to say if this one's better in comparison to their former efforts, or not.
Anyway, this CD-r is comprised of three rather lengthy tracks as well as
an outro (kinda oriental piece). Is it black metal? Most likely, yes. Complicated
structurally, diversified and even a bit controversial, supplemented with
vocals' versatility (semi-growling, ridiculously sounding BURZUM-alike
screams (please, no more crap like this in the future, ok?) as well as
few other kind of voices) and well programmed drumset, rather original
(or at least distinguishable), these guys managed to deliver a very good
work. I really hope that this one, is their last work in the shape of demo.
It's time to get a deal.
Website: http://vintagesolemnity.cjb.net
Email: vsolemnity@yahoo.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
VIRULENT RE-SHAPES
"Promo Tape 2000"
rating: 4 of 6
Brutal death metal. Since this tape comes
with two tracks only, let me finish this review right now and right here.
(a hint for morons: "this is enjoyable").
Kick Promotion Agency: madfucker@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
VORTICE CREMISI
"Promo 2000"
rating: 3 of 6
And here comes one more tape, this time
the one which doesn't have anything to do with death metal or alike genres.
This is doom. Pure doom metal with few stoner-alike elements incorporated,
featuring surprisingly skillful singer and no less impressive musical accompaniment.
Unfortunately, a) this is not my kind of thing; b) all the six tunes off
this tape are nearly equal to the notion of boredom; therefore: '3' out
of '6'.
Kick Promotion Agency: madfucker@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
WARHEAD
"The Realms Of Fancy"
Blacksmith Productions
rating: 5,5 of 6
I must confess, I've never heard this band
before - too bad for me, because this album is truly a killer! Seeming
to be regular thrashy death metal once you're giving it a listen for the
first time, later it becomes obvious that WARHEAD is far from being an
ordinary or genetic act. Rhythmically, the structural composition is almost
perfect, perhaps due to the varying tempo and perhaps, the fact that "The
Realms Of Fancy" is pretty diversified effort. Add stunning and simultaneously
unusual kind of drumming (fortunately a "live" drummer here) as well as
inimitable growling (reminding me a bit of Dan Swano, though), and you'll
get "a must to have" work.
Email: black25smith@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
ZODIACALIUS PATHOLOGOANATOMOS
"Raptus Melancholicus"
rating: -6 of 6
Oops. Looks like I was wrong naming AMDUSCIAS'
"Satarsa" the worst demo work I've ever heard. Now I know that I simply
outraged ZODIACALIUS PATHOLOGOANATOMOS' guys this way, since it strikes
as their aim's in creating worse and worse "music", seeming to beat all
the possible rivals in achieving the purest musical apocalypse (in the
worst sense of this word). Yes, musical - because I'm strongly convinced
that they have already endured MENTAL apocalypse. "Raptus Melancholicus"
appears as some kind of a horrible punk / black metal with NO ability to
play and handle the instruments properly, with NO ability to compose AT
LEAST repulsive stuff. No, it's beyond repulsion! Far, far beyond! What
about those horrible distorted bass lines with using NO chords? A disaster.
Email: orkkh@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)