ANCESTRAL FOG
“Live In Duinkerke”
rating: -
True black metal
never dies. Unfortunately, this time “true black metal” in the worst sense.
No, none of the eight songs featured on this tape sucks, it’s just a live
recording, you see. Therefore, let me leave this effort unmarked, since
I fear to be unfair this time. From what I’ve heard, ANCESTRAL FOG propose
raw and true-to-the-core black metal WITH an ability to play, but horrible
production ruins everything, hence transforming originally good songs into
an incomprehensible noise. Just like in case in IMMORTAL’s “Live In Zaandam”.
And now would you disagree when I say that everything depends on production?
If the band sucks, they suck – even if their work has been executed at
Tico Tico, Abyss or Fredman Studios. If they DO NOT suck – they won’t,
even if they enter only a semi-professional studio. Once again, too bad,
but I can’t figure out if ANCESTRAL FOG is a worthy act or not – there’s
not much music to be heard here. Consequently, a predictable conclusion:
I’d better wait for at least rehearsal tape.
Email: JanDesaegher@aol.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
ANHEAD
“Phases”
rating: 3,5 / 6
Sorry, but this CD
(even if it’s well executed in terms of appearance, even if it’s a CD –
it’s still a demo work for you to know) didn’t make anything for me. Czech
bands have been always known for original approach to music and, therefore,
delivering excellent works on the outcome. Not this time. No, better “not
exactly”. ANHEAD propose melodic doom metal spiced with pseudo-gothic elements:
male and female voices (pleasant ones, no doubts), envying musicianship…
but still, it seems like they haven’t put enough effort into “Phases”.
Those who’re totally into CEMETARY (circa “Godless Beauty” and “Black Vanity”),
ought to get this one now, though.
Email: anhead@centruz.cz
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
BLIND FAD
“Blind Fad”
rating: 5 / 6
Hardcore the different
way this time. It started like pretty typical thing, though, however few
tracks later I suddenly noticed BLIND FAD don’t really have anything in
common with bands of the kind I firstly confused them with. Combining elements
borrowed from hardcore, thrash and black (!) metal, as well as a bit industrial,
BLIND FAD have pretty exciting work on the outcome. A bonus for the singer’s
ability to vary vocals in a way one could never expect. Doubtlessly a promising
band.
Email: alessandro.pappani@tin.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CERNUNNOS!
“The Horned One”
rating: 3 / 6
Well, my dear friend,
this is CERNUNNOS!. One more band of the same kind picking up the same
kind of moniker if you get what I mean. Seemingly led by Adina Blase (keys,
bass and lyrics), formerly of LILITU, this act (also featuring one of BENIGHTED’s
horde) delivers rather typical but surprisingly enjoyable blend of melodic
black metal, emphasized on guitar passages though simultaneously slightly
spiced with what strikes as average keyboard lines. Vocals are pretty regular,
the lyrics don’t leave me crave for more of them to read, compositional
structures are, at least in my opinion, similar to next thousand of melo-black
bands… So why am I wasting my time on reviewing this, seeming to be typical
and “of no interest” sort of work? Well, somehow I feel CERNUNNOS! differs
from most of US black metal combos, even if they’re galaxies away from
being named original. Perhaps, this perception is due to “The Horned One’s”
length, for it contains two tracks only… Ok, enough worthless bubbling.
It lacks grimness and _atmosphere_ in order to be reckoned to black metal
groups, but if we perceive it only as a semi-BM band, a melodic one, it’s
ok. The problem is, there’re too many acts sounding like they’re goddamn
Siamese twins in terms of music. I wouldn’t say I didn’t like “The Horned
One”, but I prefer LILITU anyway.
Email: metaladina@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CONSTRUCDEAD
“God After Me”
rating: 5 / 6
Swedes. Now, what
do you expect? Hellishly fast-paced, relentless black metal the DARK FUNERAL
way? Yet another Gothenborg-school clone? Fucking wrong, man! Haven’t you
ever heard of the band going by the name VOMITORY? If not, let me clarify
the situation a bit. CONSTRUCDEAD belongs to those few who deliver mind-shattering,
repulsive yet tight and catchy death metal at it’s best. VOMITORY were
amongst the first ones, and hey, they’re already not alone on this blissful
path! Unfortunately, “God After Me” is comprised of four tracks only (two
of which, as I suppose, have been taken off their former effort(s) and
further reworked), but that’s enough to endure a spiritual cataclysm. If
you crave for painting your body and soul solely with bloodred, give a
listen to “God After Me”.
Email: soundsation@telia.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
CORE DEVICE
“Demo CD 2001”
rating: 5 / 6
I'm sorry. "Sorry"
for I confused CORE DEVICE with a thrash metal act, however now it's pretty
obvious that these guys don't really have anything to do with thrash. More
likely, it's heavy metal – although you won't find any trail of HAMMERFALL-alike
happy gay anthems here. And that's what I like most, when it comes to CORE
DEVICE. The production (needless to say – "as well as musicianship") definitely
can't serve as a cause for any sort of criticism, and the only drawback
here goes for the songs' length. I wish they could add at least few more
tracks… By the way, didn't I tell you that the singer contrives to vary
his voice from excellent "clean" vocals to almost death metal-alike growls?
Furthermore, didn't I tell you that CORE DEVICE is one of the best US'
heavy metal acts I'm familiar with… Lastly, let me wonder when the hell
are they going to come up with a full-length CD…
Website: www.coredevice.com
Email: coredevice@aol.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DEATHGUY
“Introduction”
rating: 5,5 / 6
Ok, let’s start this
review the same way we did in case with “Genesis Of Our Conquest” by EFFLUVIUM.
Yes, DEATHGUY doubtlessly appear as my faves, when it comes to Thailand’s
death metal scene. And yes, it’s the only Thai band I’m acquainted with
;))). Unbelievably, but these chaps (I’m talking about both EFFLUVIUM and
DEATHGUY) contrived to come up with efforts which strike as incredibly
more impressive and less clichesque than most of European and US’ acts!
And keep in mind that they have very limited budget and lack of pro-equipment,
man! Despite it’s somewhat stupid moniker, DEATHGUY delivers technical
yet still hauntingly atmospheric (even a bit perturbing at times) death
metal with few keyboards, wisely put in here and there. Even drummachine
sounds fine. And no, there would be NO comparisons, simply due to the fact
DEATHGUY are more or less original. These guys should have their second
work (“The Secondary Quest”) available by now, therefore don’t fucking
hesitate to check ‘em out:
Deathguy
21/2 Soi Suanoi
1 Samsen Road, Dusit
BANGKOK, 10300
THAILAND
Email: thepsitrakorn@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DEATHGUY
“The Secondary Quest
(The Legend Of Romancer)”
rating: 4 / 6
Is _this_ DEATHGUY?!
Well, it looks like they’ve moved towards new horizons and, therefore,
new genre, leaving the past bitterly howling far behind. Almost all the
songs off “The Secondary Quest” last for no less than eight minutes (with
few exceptions, such “The Promised Land” for instance, which is even more
lengthy), although don’t you tell me we should blame it on them, since
not even single track is capable of lulling me (yes, at least me) to sleep
like it happens to most of those who deliver full-length efforts lasting
for 20-30 minutes. In terms of music, this tape almost doesn’t have anything
to do with “Introduction”, and that’s no surprise for two years have passed
since they’ve made their debut with the work I just mentioned above. Ok,
if you want a concrete definition, this is incredibly weird cross between
death and black metal mixed with goth and, what seems unbelievable, dark
ambient-alike passages featured here and there. Drummachine spoils the
whole thing a lot, since it sounds way too artificial, however due to the
fact overall composition is far above average, and leads are beyond tremendousness
(Imm and Ong completely knocked me down, for I haven’t ever thought of
them as incredibly skillful chaps), “The Secondary Quest” appears as pretty
good piece. (Herr Stalhammar)
DEVILRY / FLAUROS
Nuclear Winter Records
rating: DEVILRY –
4,5 / 6
FLAUROS – 5 / 6
Two Finnish bands,
and what a magnificent effort we have! Well, not exactly magnificent but
exciting enough in order to be given a listen. Stylistically, DEVILRY and
FLAUROS almost don’t have anything in common: while the first ones propose
fast-paced, devilish and ripping blackened death metal in the vein of the
latest CD by GEHENNA (and also _a bit_ similar to Sweden’s FUNERAL MIST),
FLAUROS come up with their own stunning blend of slightly romanticized
yet still undoubtedly uncompromising, intelligent yet still shredding black
metal with a true underground feeling. What makes them a distinguishable
band, is the fact they don’t belong to this “new wave of Finnish black
metal” (THY SERPENT, THYRANE, FINNTROLL, etc.) – wow, it seems like I’ve
just invented a new definition… heh heh. Anyway, in order to get this tape
contact Sir Holm (the mastermind behind DEVILRY), since the label doesn’t
have any more copies left. The price is 5$ worldwide.
Nuclear Winter Records
<nuclearwinter98@hotmail.com>
Nuclear Winter website:
<http://members.nbcr.com/nucwinter>
DEVILRY <sirholm@iobox.fi>
FLAUROS <Flauros@hotmail.com>
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
DIVINE RAPTURE
“Divine Rapture”
rating: 4,5 / 6
If I’m not mistaken,
this CD-R comprised of three songs is only a promo sample of DIVINE RAPTURE’s
forthcoming full-length effort. Well, there’s not much to be said here.
Death metal the US way, engineered and mixed by Erik Rutan (do I REALLY
have to tell you who this guy is??). Rather typical, but simultaneously
highly enjoyable. Sorry, I can’t give ‘em a higher mark without getting
myself acquainted with the actual CD. The only thing I can say for sure:
these chaps have a bright future ahead. Not a substitute for MORBID ANGEL,
NILE or HATE ETERNAL, but still one of the most notable newcomers.
Email: info@divinerapture.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
EFFLUVIUM
“Genesis Of Our Conquest”
rating: 4,5 / 6
Definitely my favorite
Philippines’ band – especially taking into account the fact EFFLUVIUM is
the first act amongst the ones emerging from that exotic country I’ve heard
so far ;))). Unfortunately, this is only a rehearsal tape comprised of
three tracks (I want more!), however this is absolutely NOT the reason
to ignore “Genesis…”. Even if it was taped at a regular rehearsal (as I
suppose), the sound execution strikes as surprisingly good – at least,
much better than most of contemporary black metal combos have to offer;
I mean, “contemporary black metal combos” having a CD out. Don’t know anything
concerning the lyrical canvas, however musically this effort strikes as
pretty much exciting. Far from being exceptional, it nevertheless propose
melodic black metal, splendidly performed and catchy. Isn’t that enough
to support this young outfit?
Snail mail: Effluvium,
#3M Fule Sahagun St. / San Pablo City / LAGUNA 4000 / PHILIPPINES
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
EKKLESIAST
“Prikosnovenie Vyugi”
“… Kogda Myortvye
Vetvi Vospryanut Ot Snov”
rating: 2 / 6
I’m really sorry,
but neither “Prikosnovenie…”, nor “… Kogda Myortvye Vetvi…” didn’t impress
me at all. Monotonous and irksome kind of doom / death metal the way it
was done thousand times before (early works by ANATHEMA obviously serve
as a principal source of inspiration in case with EKKLESIAST). The only
difference between these albums goes for the vocal department: besides
typical and tedious sort of growling, “… Kogda Myortvye Vetvi…” also features
an attempt to sing in a “clean” voice. As a matter of fact, everything
– the bandname, lyrics in Russian and approach to music – only indicates
EKKLESIAST’s utter worthlessness and inability to come up with the music
of their own. Don’t get me wrong, this wasn’t meant as an insult… however
EKKLESIAST still is a perfect example of “sovok metal” (those who reside
in Russia and CIS countries will understand me). And I wouldn’t say I like
this sort of musical attempts.
Email: day@novsu.ac.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
HORRID
“Reborn In Sin”
rating: 4 / 6
This is supposedly
a promo of the second CD by HORRID, which, I believe, will be released
in few months via France’s Deadsun Records. Well, unfortunately, in contrast
to the former work of theirs (“Blasphemic Creatures” MCD), this one strikes
as less impressive in terms of almost every single thing. Recorded at Sunlight
Studios, it bears a trace of that famous Swedish sound which definitely
can’t be mistaken with anything else. And when it comes to “Reborn In Sin”,
it’s obviously the first and foremost shortcoming. In other words, this
CD appears as a tasty piece of flesh… I mean, death metal the DISMEMBER
way, even though it’s probably more brutal and less heavy metal-spiced.
I only wish it could have been recorded somewhere in Italy, or anywhere
else, but NOT Sunlight. In this case, “Reborn In Sin” would have sounded
much more impressive. (Herr Stalhammar)
INNER CHAOS
“Into The Pit”
CheapNoiz Records
rating: 3 / 6
This CD (yep, yet
one more demo in the shape of CD. CD-R, to be exact) starts off with “World
In A Dead End”, splendid piece of heavy metal, although too mild in order
to be considered 100% heavy metal. Good for a beginning, indeed. Unfortunately,
later on, “Into The Pit” turns into an experience far from being enjoyable.
Well performed and well executed (especially taking into consideration
the fact everything was done by one man only!), but unmemorable, somewhat
even a bit incomprehensible mixture of heavy metal (too mild, as it’s been
stated above), prog and gothic rock… And what? Just nothing. Pretty good
for a demo, but judging by “World In A Dead End”, I expected much more
impressive work to get acquainted with. Pardon me Bertrand, but you’ll
have to focus on something definite instead of trying to mix this and that
into one.
Email: bdrecourt@yahoo.fr
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
LIFEND
“Entwined Emotions"
rating: 3,5 / 6
Q: What Italy is
most famous for, when it comes to darker side of metal scene? A: Numerous
bands offering certain amalgamation of goth and black metal, overfilled
with female voice and “unorthodox” instruments such as violin and piano.
And this is what I have deal with once again. LIFEND come up with ultra-melodic
death / black / doom / whatsoever “metal” literally smelling with Italy.
Just like in most cases, this is neither worthless nor astounding – just
mediocre, you see. Nothing more, nothing less. And please, do replace the
female singer. I’m really sorry guys, but make an attempt to deliver at
least more distinguishable music next time.
Email: splityourbrain@libero.it
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
LILITH
“The Land Of Fear”
rating: 3 / 6
“Lilith”… Doesn’t
the band’s name alone tell a lot already? It definitely should, but… black
metal freaks – stay away from “The Land Of Fear”! This one doesn’t have
anything in common with extreme side of metal, and actually _metal_. This
demo (sadly coming with a quite crappy appearance) is comprised of six
tracks, with all of them striking as rather nice and relaxing goth / post-doom
sort of thing. Serene female voice supplemented with calm ambiences… This
is what it’s all about. Neither good, nor bad. Just another piece of… well,
seems like I told you what it is in terms of stylistic definition. I couldn’t
let myself give it a lower mark, however ‘3’ out of ‘6’ doesn’t necessarily
mean it may be of interest to you. Nor does it mean that purchasing this
tape is nothing but a loss of few more bucks. So let’s put it this way:
if you liked ARTROSIS, get this work immediately since it’s way above when
it comes to everything. If you didn’t like… why the hell are you still
reading this…?
Email: succubus@poczta.onet.pl
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
LORD VESPER
“Kogda Strana Umiraet”
rating: 2,5 / 6
“LORD VESPER expresses
patriotic views of mine and is considered to be some kind of manifesto
addressed to everyone who does care about future of Russia”. High-flown
words? I don’t think so. This project is being led by Orkkh, the mastermind
behind ZODIACALIUS PATHALOGOANATOMOS (which is not even worth mentioning
here, for this is not even a band, but a synonym for utter musical failure),
and fortunately this time he managed to come up with _music_. This tape
(pitifully featuring almost non-existent production) is comprised of four
tracks, and as they differ a lot from each other, I guess I’ll have to
judge ‘em separately. Ok, here we go. “Zemlya, Po Kotoroy Grustim / The
Land We Mourn” appears as a serene yet somewhat blissful tune based on
nearly meditative synth-lines and half-whispering voice, featuring surprisingly
impressive poetic strivings. The second one, “Nachalo Svobody / The Beginning
Of The Freedom” strikes as… nearly typical “oi!” track with a rude voice
(obviously out-of-key), made with distorted, harsh sounding guitar and
hardly heard drummachine. The third one, “Vzglyad Patriota / Patriot’s
Gaze”, the shortest tune off “Kogda Strana Umiraet”, musically almost repeats
the opening track, also being a certain kind of minimalistic dark ambient,
supplemented with that semi-whispering voice. Finally, we have the title
track, doubtlessly the worst one here – perhaps due to the fact it reminds
me too much of ZODIACALIUS PATHALAGOANATOMOS. Played with acoustic guitar
using only a couple of chords, simultaneously cheerful and aggressive.
Generally speaking, if Orkkh will find pro-tools to execute his works at,
elaborate the music itself and keep on learning to play guitar, LORD VESPER
has certain chances to become worthy and listenable enough.
Email: vesper@front14.org
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MAJESTIC EAST
“Exorcism Corpse”
Bazahar Productions
rating: 1 / 6
Hmm, this tape definitely
didn't make my day. Just pure nonsense. Fortunately, MAJESTIC EAST are
way better than WITCH CULT (perhaps due to the fact this time it's Malaysian
band? I guess not…), being capable of handling their instruments properly
enough (hate this word)… however horrible production ruins everything.
You just can't fucking hear anything – needless to say it's impossible
to recognize this or that instrument. What I like here, is the drummer's
work, even though he's far from being the one to challenge Hellhammer or
Pete Sandoval. As a matter of fact, producership (or more likely, it's
absence) isn't the only reason why "Exorcism Corpse" gets '1' out of '6'.
I've tried to listen to this effort carefully, attempting to distinguish
music from incomprehensible noise… and I succeeded! If these guys managed
to execute the same work in at least semi-professional studio, the result
wouldn't be good, nor anything of interest. Pretty simplified, melodic
black metal. Nothing else.
Email: majesticeast36@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MIND ECLIPSE
“In The Light Of
Coming Eclipse”
Bloodhead Productions
rating: 5 / 6
Judging by the bandname
and this work’s overall appearance, I didn’t even hope for getting anything
valuable. Regular attempt to launch sympho-black metal, and no more than
that. At least, that’s what I was thinking of. Wrong. Once again. MIND
ECLIPSE surprisingly stroke as one of the best post-black metal acts coming
out of Russia these godforsaken days. Nearly hypnotizing and enchanting,
this is atmospheric black metal the way it should be, performed the way
no living soul would condemn it, executed the way every living soul would
fuck it up. Well yes, the sound execution is thousand miles away from being
top-notch, however it’s quite enjoyable, so what’s the problem? Just like
it was proclaimed above; MIND ECLIPSE deliver atmospheric black metal at
it’s fucking best. GET IT.
Website: http://DARK-HEART.Nordnet.ru
Email: Warlord@uniyar.ac.ru
Tchort@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
MORBIFIK
“Gradually Killed
In Torture”
Aluzza Production
rating: 4 / 6
East Asia strikes
again. I already had a good time with DEATHGUY and EFFLUVIUM, and here
comes MORBIFIK, perhaps one of the most remarkable death metal acts emerging
from Indonesia. Well, in fact, it’s the only Indonesian band of this kind
I’ve heard thus far, consequently such a conclusion may sound a bit subjective,
but who cares anyway. “Gradually Killed In Torture” is not really a 100%
death metal effort – more likely, it’s a finest mixture of death and grind(-core?),
although I wish it would be more diversified. Sometimes it just gets too
boring, you see. However, all the freaks getting high on this sort of musical
disaster, check this one out. The time has come for opening a new section,
the one dedicated to the representatives of South-Asian underground, don’t
you think?
Website: http://www.Atifah-Netzine.com/MORBIFIK.htm
Email: morbifik@indosat.net.id
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
NEST
“Fabled Lore”
rating: 5 / 6
“Fantasy-inspired
pseudo-folk dark ambient”? Nice definition indeed, even though I can’t
recall who named “Fabled Lore” this way, however it doesn’t really matter
afterall, does it? Similar to JAAPORTIT and VINTERRIKET (if taking neophytes),
NEST (a.k.a. A.Tolonen, for he is the only one responsible for vocals,
lyrics, composition and even visual art) offer four pieces of chilling
and memorable, even somewhat mesmerizing synth-played music, far from the
grandeur of ELEND though, but in the same time definitely not being anything
one would draw parallel with primitiveness. Evocative and enchanting, “Fabled
Lore” appears as thoughtfully composed and charmingly performed work, consequently
if you like exactly this kind of minimalistic dark (?) ambient, you ought
to check this one out.
Email: atolonen@mail.com
Website: http://nest.atolonen.cjb.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
PARADOX
“Through Pain There
Is Joy”
Tarantula Promotions
rating: 2 / 6
“PARADOX exclusively
plays “Holy black sludge””… Well, what a fitting description. “Holy”? Well,
these guys appear as diehard bible bashers, therefore no reasons to wonder
what the hell is this word doing here. “Black”? “Sludge”? Well, since there’s
no other way than to name this pile of crap as a mixture of black and death
metal as well as sludge, these words are no less fitting. These British
weirdos remind me a bit of GONKULATOR, perhaps due to utter musical incomprehensibility
and lack of commonness. I wish they could learn to handle their instruments
properly and fucking stop preaching this christian bullshit! You know,
if the band delivers stunning music (taking LAMENT, SANCTIFICA and DEUTERONOMIUM
as an example), I no longer care if they’re christians, satanists, buddhists
or whathehellever else. But it’s not the case with PARADOX. In fact, there’s
not so much music here.
Email: john_tarantula@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
PHANTASMAGORY
“Odd Sounds”
rating: 6 / 6
I confess, first
I even told “no” when he was going to send me this piece. Techno-death
metal in the vein of CYNIC and ATHEIST, what one can expect from such a
predictable failure…? Especially if the band delivering this kind of music
comes from Ukraine! Well, narrow-mindedness never gets things go better,
now I know that. When I got the tape anyway, I, frankly speaking, couldn’t
leave my room for hours, playing it again and again, again and again. Similar
to CYNIC and ATHEIST? What a bullshit! PHANTASMAGORY deliver atmospheric
mid-paced death metal soaked with synth-lines all the way through, performed
with unbelievable skillfulness, moreover – imaginatively conceived. This
must be the best effort in the shape of demo I’m reviewing this issue,
and too bad that these chaps don’t even have enough money to send out promo
stuff (sounds surprising, since the way “Odd Sounds” had been executed
undoubtedly doesn’t deserve to be criticized). Listen to me carefully and
follow my advise: “Odd Sounds” is a must to have piece for everyone into
metal… or any other sort of music.
Contact: Eduard Miroshnichenko,
P.O. Box 7488, 83062 Donetsk-62, Ukraine
In case email is
what you prefer to communicate through, you’d better try to contact the
band via Nate Jacobs <nate_jacobs@hotmail.com>, the guy who does his
best in order to make PHANTASMAGORY a well-known name in USA.
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
REX INFERNUS
“Loadohi a Micaolz”
rating: 3 / 6
Usually, bands of
Brazilian origin appear as more or less impressive ones, but unfortunately
REX INFERNUS belong to the minority assaulting the occasional listener
with rather typical melodic black metal, sounding almost artificial at
times. All the three tracks this effort is comprised of, strike as maybe
even too similar to each other, and therefore I can’t say I was excited
once I gave “Loadohi a Micaolz” a listen. This ain’t bad for sure, but
taking into account the fact that the worldwide scene is overflooded with
bands of this kind, I doubt if this work will gain stupendous success.
Website: www.geocities.com/rexinfernus
Email: rexinfernus@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
SERAPH / NETHEREALM
“Promo”
Demonion Productions
rating: SERAPH –
5 / 6
NETHEREALM – 4,5 / 6
Austria meets Singapore?
A strange wedding, indeed. But no less exciting, don’t you think? Both
acts came up with excellent blend of UG black metal, nearly true-to-the-core,
but still quite brilliant. I believe you already figured out that SERAPH
deliver straightforward BM in the vein of their countrymates, DENIAL OF
GOD, although way above mature and thoughtout. Hey, they even put a tremendous
lead in here. Whew, whatta surprise! As to Singapore’s NETHEREALM, these
guys are a bit worse, although still more or less lucky in channeling the
darkest spirit right unto your essence. And what about Chinese oriental
vocals, huh? Isn’t it something you didn’t expect? I bet. Sort of “a must
to have” MC. Believe me or not, but that’s true…
Email: seraph_666@hotmail.com
netherealm@mail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
SHADOWS DANCE
“Last Kiss”
rating: 3,5 / 6
Greece. Looks like
you’re assuming that we’ll have to deal with yet another (splendid?) power
metal act? Wrong. This time it’s sorrowfully optimistic (perceive this
definition as you like. This is not a pun) gothic doom metal, a bit similar
to their countrymates – guess who? Yep, ODES OF ECSTASY. Unfortunately,
SHADOWS DANCE deliver less elaborated stuff, however it’s still more or
less worth our attention. Mid-tempo, utterly impregnated with romanticized
ambiences, featuring both male and female vocals as well as soprano, “Last
Kiss” strikes as enough enjoyable work. Not really stunning, but who said
that “not really stunning” is equal for “worthlessness”? Unfortunately,
just like in case with DIVINE RAPTURE (see above), I can’t say anything
comprehensible in regards to this effort, simply because it’s comprised
of only two songs… and I want more! Hope that Dimitris and co. will come
up with at least more lengthy offering next time. And while now: “highly
promising band composing music of their own”. Isn’t it enough to check
out “Last Kiss”? The answer is “yes”, I suppose.
Email: shadowsdance@iname.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
STILLIFE
“Raining December”
rating: 5,5 / 6
Surprise, surprise!
SUNCHARIOT is no more, however here comes more than worthy substitute.
No, it's not black metal. Actually, it doesn't have anything in common
with neither BM movement, nor SUNCHARIOT. With an exception for the fact
that STILLIFE appears as the brainchild of Stanislav, the one who was formerly
known as the mastermind behind SUNCHARIOT. Stylistically, I wouldn't dare
to reckon "Raining December to any particular genre, simply because it's
something obviously new – and in the same time, something reminiscent of
few dark ambient, EBM and dark electro acts. Serene and melancholic, astoundingly
all-devouring passages is what "Raining December" (the title fits this
work just perfectly) all about. Sometimes supplemented with male and female
voices (what surprised me a bit, is the fact almost half of the lyrical
canvas has been composed in… German) and a couple of live instruments.
No need to explain which ones exactly. Even if STILLIFE obviously aren't
capable of offering anything sophisticated (if we'd compare 'em to ELEND,
for instance), it doesn't make "Raining December" less attractive work.
It's more in the vein of "As Life Fades Away" by PENITENT, y'know. Similar
_not_ musically, but more likely, _spiritually_. The same goes for the
ambiences captured on this effort. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Email: stiv@don.sitek.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
SUCCUBUS
“Art Of Hate”
rating: 3,5 / 6
SUCCUBUS? Which one
is this? Ah, seems like Polish this time. And no, just like the band these
guys take part in, LILITH (see the review above), _this_ SUCCUBUS won’t
be reckoned to the black metal horde, at least by me. “Art Of Hate” assaults
you with relentless death metal, more of a cross between US and Poland
DM school. Could you ever fancy VADER and INCANTATION playing together?
If not, you’ll have to give this piece a listen. Generally speaking, “Art
Of Hate” didn’t impress me the way it could, since all the songs off it
have been quite carelessly structured, lacking the atmosphere they were
seemingly supposed to force. Furthermore, the lack of memorable tunes also
isn’t the point we should praise the band for. Hence; a piece of mediocre
death metal passing on any trends, but still more of _no_ interest than
_of_ interest.
Email: succubus@poczta.onet.pl
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
THIS TANGLED WEB
“Rehearsal Tape 2001”
rating: 5 / 6
DISEMBOWELMENT is
dead, hail DISEMBOWELMENT! I doubt if these Aussie chaps will ever reach
the greatness of those Down Under’s gods, however, judging by this three-track
rehearsal tape, I guess they appear as one of Australia’s most talented
and still unclaimed doom / death metal acts. Although why these stylistic
bounds…? THIS TANGLED WEB hardly can be defined as anything particular,
and that’s what they gain by! This tape (sounding excellent for only a
rehearsal), as it was said above, features three tracks of most slow but
sometimes mid-tempo and even (rarely) fast-paced GLOOM. Diversified, vocally
no less variable, somber and hauntingly atmospheric, it’s more than just
a soul-stealer. It spiritually tears you apart from inside out. Highly
recommended.
Email: distangledweb@hotmail.com
nick.stark@brightpoint.com.au
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
TIDES OF DARKNESS
“Demo ‘99”
rating: 2 / 6
Hmm… This one made
me more than just embarrassed. Starting with a noisy death metal track
with typical BM riffing (!), later it turns into something no living creature
is capable of describing. RUNNING WILD in death metal? Perhaps. But still
not quite. Hoarse vocals replace guttural ones, one riff replaces other
in a way it shouldn’t be done… Looks like these guys attempted to find
their own niche, their own style… but while now, their works are of no
interest to me. TIDES OF DARKNESS and the notions of “complexity” as well
as “comprehensibility” simply don’t have anything in common. Sad to say,
but that’s true.
Email: contact@tidesofdarkness.de
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
VINTERRIKET
“Promo 2001”
Neodawn Productions
rating: 5,5 / 6
This one, I suppose,
appears as some kind of a compilation of rare, previously unreleased and
a couple of relatively new tracks brought to life by doubtlessly unstable
yet imaginative mind of Christoph Ziegler, the only one behind VINTERRIKET.
Ok, this time we have less Norwegian song titles (and that’s no surprise,
since Christoph is of German origin), and more diversity. At least, few
songs (surprisingly or not) feature crunchy guitars, monotonously evocative
drums as well as male and female voices. Why such a surprise, one would
ask. Well, the point is, formerly VINTERRIKET was 100% folk / dark ambient
venture, whilst BURZUM served as one and only principal influence (“Der
Tod Wuotans”, a track taken off “Hlidhskjalf” (un)surprisingly has been
torturously recreated and thrown in here, if that’s of interest to anyone
out there). Actually, BURZUM still is the leading star, although VINTERRIKET
turned into somewhat more or less different. Is that a change for good?
Y-e-esss! I just hope that Christoph will manage to come up with a full-length
CD (the “official” one, of course) soon. “The sooner the better” works
perfectly in case with VINTERRIKET.
Website: www.go.to/neodawnproductions
Email: neodawnproductions@ngi.de
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
VLE
“Book Of Illusions:
Chapter I”
rating: 4 / 6
Somewhat weird stuff
this time. At least, I can’t recall whether I have received anything like
this previously, or not. This CD has been comprised of seven tracks which,
honestly speaking, differ a lot from each other. One being more or less
meditative dark ambient, the second featuring BURZUMesque ambiences simultaneously
being more on a goth side, and so on and so forth. Some feature guitars
and drums, some don’t… You know, I can’t judge this effort I usually judge
CDs I get in for a review. This is just a different kind of thing. All
I can say, it’s worth giving at least one listen… “… all works were created
through strict use of experimentation and improvisational techniques… the
most important element is the depiction of atmosphere where all instruments
/ sounds fuse together. Noise, chaos, infinity, beauty, darkness, light,
pain, harmony, melancholy, rhythm, power, melody repetition, dissonance
and duality are all concepts expressed herein…” Got the point?
Email: vle25@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
WALL
“… A Slice Of Aggressive
Apathy”
rating: 4 / 6
Oops, I did it again!
Well, in fact, definitely “not again”. At least, I’ve never heard anyone
(talking about representatives of metal or goth scene, of course) covering
Britney Spears. However, time is not only a perfect healer, but an engine
of metamorphosis as well. Positive, negative – depends on who you are and
how you will perceive this kind of experiments. When it comes to me, I
just loved this interpretation! As to the rest of the songs this CD-R comes
with, they appear as quite enjoyable mixture of gothic metal (?) and so-called
alternative. Come on, mix PEARL JAM and LOVE LIKE BLOOD into one. What
will you have on the outcome? Don’t really know, but definitely something
similar to what this guy delivers. Recommended.
Website: http://www.mp3.com/walled
Email: wall155@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)
WITCH CULT
“Thaumaturgical Rites
Based On Witch Cult”
rating: -6 / 6
Oh my, this one almost
made me laugh me head off! However, no one of us wants to me to join the
legion of the headless ones, huh? Anyway, enough kidding. Asian States
have never been known for producing worthy black metal acts, - with an
exception for the few. Unfortunately, WITCH CULT is NOT an exception. To
put it straight, this is bullshit. Based on ridiculous attempts to beat
ABRUPTUM, these guys (!) fail miserably. And taking into account the fact
none of the works by ABRUPTUM is "musical" enough in order to be reckoned
to any _music_ style, I guess you already got what we have to deal with
here. Yeah, pathetic collection of randomly combined samples, pseudo-black
metal voices and stuff. I doubt if anyone (besides this duo) needs it.
B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T. (Herr Stalhammar)
ZODIACALIUS PATHOLOGOANATOMOS
“Omnia Vincit Solus”
rating: one orc out
of six
Surprisingly enough,
I somehow resigned myself to voluntary torture… i.e. giving a listen to
regular recordings ZODIACALIUS PATHOLOGOANATOMOS seem to spit out twice
a year, or even more often. Just like other “works”, this one also has
oh-so-enigmatic title in Latin and utter crap in terms of music… or better
said, the lack of it. The same punk-black-pseudo-metal played with guitars
put out of tune, using only a couple of chords (although, you’ll have to
listen carefully in order to mark out that there’s at least one single
chord used), also featuring those inimitable shrieks of a badly drunken
Donald Duck. The very last “tune” off “Omnia Vincit Solus” is better, although
still VERY far from what I usually consider not even “good-” but “bad music”.
Please, enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Email: orkkh@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)