AMORPHIS
“Am Universum”
Nuclear Blast Records
rating: 5,5 / 6
Congratulations. AMORPHIS finally turned into a hard rock band. Have I been disappointed? Not at all. Firstly, such a evolvement became obvious once I’ve given a listen to “Elegy”, and secondly, in spite of lacking any borrowings from either doom or death metal, “Am Universum” sounds undoubtedly intriguing. These guys still are capable of forcing unique atmosphere (check out the songs where the saxophone comes in… Fascinating!), and believe me – even if they deliver a reggae album next year, no one would doubt if it’s AMORPHIS or not. I don’t know what’s the secret, but even if “Am Universum” and “Tales From The Thousand Lakes” sound perhaps even too different, they’re ONE. Let me just repeat what has been already said thousand times before: AMORPHIS stays a recognizable band with a no less recognizable sound. And whatever the style is, they’re the best. Give this CD a chance and most likely you’ll fall in love with it… The only drawback I’ve (hardly) discovered goes for the lyrical department, since there’s no trace of Finnish mythology left. Pasi, the band’s frontman, decided to take care of lyrics and that was doubtlessly a wrong move. Probably, this is the weakest point when it comes to nowadays’ AMORPHIS… Musically, this is a brilliant piece, though – so what are you waiting for??? (Herr Stalhammar)

ANTICHRISIS
“Perfume”
Napalm Records
rating: 3 / 6
Enya meets New Age? Yeah, perhaps something like that, or similar. ““Perfume” is an ultimate statement, the marriage of the past and the future and, again, it is a tribute to love – but this time in a completely different way, because I have found everything I was ever looking for – and that is the reason why this album sounds as powerful and vigorous as it does!” These words make the whole thing clear enough, don’t they? At least, I assume that is why LED ZEPPELIN’s “Whole Lotta Love” appears as the most intriguing tune off this CD. Generally speaking, this is serene kind of pop music, blended with nice arrangements and enjoyable male / female voice(s). A pity indeed, since “A Legacy Of Love”, the former work by Sid, having nothing in common with metal just like this one, was truly enrapturing piece of music one could perfectly relax listening to. As to “Perfume”, it reminds of when you’re having sex with someone whom you despise, driven by principal human’s instinct prevalence… and nothing else. (Herr Stalhammar)

BLOOD OF ROSES
“Sangue”
GrayWolf Records
rating: 1 / 6
I’ve read lotsa reviews on “Sangue” before getting myself acquainted with this MCD and obviously expected a lot from this one, since most of the reviewers seemed to consider BLOOD OF ROSES the next big thing, marking out Bird’s exceptional singing and astounding orchestration courtesy of James Henriques. In fact, this is yet one more time when I feel one shouldn’t trust any kind of critics forming an opinion of his own instead. Was “Sangue” worth the listening? Definitely yes; in order to serve as a perfect proof to what I’ve just told you. Dull and monotonous musical canvas (where are those “astounding orchestrations”, goddammit?!), supplemented with female voice, doubtlessly disgusting in terms of timbre. A pro-singer? I hope you’re kidding. Even if this girl doesn’t go out of key, her voice makes me sick. Music? Take a few months vacation, purchase pro-tools for your PC or a hi-tech synthesizer, and you’d be able to do the same. Any more words needed…??? (Herr Stalhammar)

BRAINDANCE
“Redemption”
Progressive Darkwave Recordings
rating: 5,5 / 6
AT LAST!!!!! I’ve been waiting for this CD for no less than three blissful years, and now, when “Redemption” spins restlessly in my CD-player, it’s sort of hard to believe that this one has been in works for so long. Nevertheless, it’s finally complete. “Refracture”, “Resurrection”, “Resurgence”, “Return”, “Relentless”, “Reduction”, “Resilience”, “Requiem”, “Reflexion”, “Redemption”… Yep, these are the song titles. Actually, the term “concept” may be reckoned to almost each and every thing when it comes to this effort. Starting with somewhat mesmerizing artwork as well as overall design, and ending in the song titles and even the thanks list. Sebastian’s and Vora’s appearance is also worth mentioning… But off to music. “Redemption” appears as a melting pot with quite many genres gurgling therein, such as dark wave, prog, industrial… and more. Musically and structurally, it’s almost perfect, although perhaps it would be better if there was a lesser amount of samples. Guitar passages and leads is what definitely makes this work stand against the background of nowadays’ combos; it strikes as Vora is unbelievably talented musician… Note that she’s also responsible for engineering and editing the whole thing… Not the common thing, huh? As to Sebastian’s voice… well, I guess I already said enough on this matter reviewing that pre-production tape they sent me few years ago. I mean, you should HEAR it. Incredibly deep baritone and unique singing ability is what it’s all about – this guy is probably one of the best male singers around… Finally, the bass lines and lyrical canvas. These are doubtlessly worth hearing and reading through, as well. All in all, “Redemption” is nearly a masterpiece, while BRAINDANCE is not just your regular goth act. They’re one of a kind.
Website: www.progressivedarkwave.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

BRAVE
“Waist Deep In Dark Waters”
Dark Symphonies
rating: 5,5 / 6
Is there anyone who would perhaps explain why have they changed the moniker?? “Arise From Thorns” sounds thousand times more enigmatic than “Brave”, that’s for sure. But anyway, it’s not the bandname but music is what we should care about in the first turn, right? Ok, “Waist Deep In Dark Waters” doesn’t differ a lot from the previous works by Michelle and co. The same kind of enrapturing cross between art rock and gothic / dark wave with tremendously worked out arrangements and charming female voice, ready to please both DREAM THEATER and MADDER MORTEM fans. And taking into account the fact it’s only a single-CD, I’m even a bit feared to face their forthcoming full-length offering. (Herr Stalhammar)

CALES
“The Pass In Time”
Redblack Productions
rating: 3 / 6
Probably the weakest work ever released by Redblack Productions, whose work I still deeply adore though. “The Pass In Time” appears as already second offering CALES contrives to unleash, and I consider myself lucky for having not heard the first one. As a matter of fact, CALES strikes as Blackie’s (ROOT) solo effort – and after giving it a listen, I became strongly convinced that solo career only harms the certain kind of people. Such as Blackie, for instance. He was good enough when it comes to his participation in ROOT, however everything’s a bit different in case with CALES. “The Pass In Time” consists of ten tracks of pseudo-pagan doom metal (SILENT STREAM OF GODLESS ELEGY sound billion times better, believe me), whereas low-pitched vocals appear as the only highlight. The sound execution is ok, although I wouldn’t say the same in regards to mixing which spoiled the whole goddamn thing, making this CD definitely an irritating listening experience. All in all, this is of no interest to me, even though “The Pass In Time” doesn’t suck that bad as you might have expected. (Herr Stalhammar)

DAWN DESIREE’
“Dawn Desiree’”
The Fossil Dungeon
rating: 3,5 / 6
Dawn Smith… “The love I’ve never felt, the hate I usually beheld…” This verse seems to fit this review perfectly. I was utterly bewitched by Dawn’s voice when I’ve first heard “Believe” by RAIN FELL WITHIN, and needless to say, I still is. A woman of unearthly beauty with such a unique voice in her possession already is something beyond narrow-minded ones’ comprehension – and what if this celestial being has a gift of composing flattering poetry? Uniqueness comes in, that is. Should I tell you that, when I got this (M)CD and discovered it’s a solo effort of hers, I stayed speechless for a while, with my heart pounding faster than ever before… And as it usually happens, when you expect a masterpiece you get something having nothing in common with it. Okay, okay, the packaging is unique (did I say it again?), so is Dawn’s soprano… but… the music performed with piano and synths only (not mentioning that, structurally, this work is even TOO simplified) accompanied with female voice which surprisingly sounds less impressive than it could, doesn’t appear as the one making me get astray. Tranquil pseudo-“gothic” stuff of no real value. Amazing voice doesn’t make _the_ CD amazing, y’know.
Email: yamatu@erols.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

DUSK
“My Infinite Nature Alone”
Hibernia Productions
(provided by More Hate Productions,
<more_hate@mail.ru>)
rating: 4,5 / 6
Ethnic doom metal from Pakistan? Is this some kind of a joke? I guess not. DUSK (don’t confuse ‘em with numerous namesakes) really emerge from Pakistan, and this is really metal. Well, not quite, actually. “My Infinite Nature Alone” strikes as somewhat (dark) ambient-influenced doom / dark metal – just like if DEAD CAN DANCE would join forces with ANATHEMA. Meditative (and repetitive), sorrowfully dismal and deeply atmospheric, this CD strikes as nearly a unique piece. At least, I haven’t heard anything like that before and something tells me, I never will. I consider marking out anything or naming these or those characteristics utterly worthless task, for this band isn’t a regular one. I only wish they could have afforded recording live drum tracks, since those “tik-tak-tik-tak” patches are beyond repulsiveness. (Herr Stalhammar)

ELYSIUM
“Dreamscapes”
De Profundis Records
rating: 5 / 6
Listening to this CD for the first time, I couldn’t really understand what’s so special with this band. Tedious and irksome “true” doom metal, spiced with no less tedious and irksome growling and few synth lines here and there. However, later on, something made me realize that “Dreamscapes” doesn’t have anything in common with all these regular ANATHEMA (circa “Crestfallen”) clones (even though they’re few in number. Now it’s much more profitable to come up with what they call “gothic” or whatever else). Yes, the first couple of songs sound like they’re out of place – the lyrics for “Dark Woods And Willows Wild” is the only thing I can possibly mark out; however, the second part of “Dreamscapes” fully expiates the boredom one has to face in the beginning. The structures become more and more elaborated, whilst the haunting ambiences enshroud you in a misty dance of lovelorn spiritual beings – silent, immovable, but still a dance. Supplemented with Judy Chiara’s (courtesy of AVRIGUS) charming voice, formerly being a loathsome caterpillar “Dreamscapes” turns into a heavenly beautiful butterfly… Highly recommended.
P.S. By the way, this CD is limited to 2000 copies, so if you’re interested in purchasing it be quick, since there’re only around 1000 left. “Dreamscapes” is available for $13US from De Profundis Records:  GPO Box 1762Q, Melbourne VIC 3001, Australia
Email: Supanova47@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

ENDLESS
“Vital #1”
Redblack Productions
rating: 4 / 6
Another one. This time reminding me of ALASTIS, circa “The Other Side” and “Revenge”. Somewhat even innovative, although boring blend of darkened doom metal the East-European way. Actually, I don’t even know if there’s anything I could possibly add. Not my taste. Better than “Perihelion”, though. Much better. Give it a try… (Herr Stalhammar)

ETERNAL DEFORMITY
“In The Abyss Of Dreams… Furious Memories”
Demonic Records
(provided by Poisonous Piglet distro)
rating: 6 / 6
Wow, this must be the best Polish act I’ve ever heard, at least talking about the genre of doom metal! Combining tremendous leads, enrapturing ambiences, surprisingly original and refreshing approach to music as well as stunning male voice (Przemek contrives to do the excellent job when it comes to both growling and “clean” vocals), ETERNAL DEFORMITY builds up something new, something that no one of us have ever heard before. “In The Abyss Of Dreams…” literally blew me away, man! Believe me, they deserve much more than being signed to a small Polish label… GET THIS ONE NOW!
Email: nakamandagnabiik@poczta.onet.pl
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

EVER EVE
“E-Mania”
Massacre Records
(provided by Art Music Group)
rating: 2 / 6
Sorry, this review is not available in English. If you speak Russian, check it out by clicking here. 

FADING COLOURS
“I’m Scared Of…”
Dion Fortune Records
rating: 4,5 / 6
Weird. Starting off a serene and somewhat soothing gothic / dark wave sort of doing thing, later on this CD turns into electro / synth-pop piece. Well, I definitely prefer the first part, the one spiced with somewhat floating ambiences and charming female voice. Actually, “I’m Scared Of…” is one of the most successful efforts I’ve got myself acquainted with lately, of course if talking about exactly this genre (the problem is, I still don’t which genre I should reckon FADING COLOURS to). Nevertheless, check out “In This Garden Of Mine” and “Lorelei”. These ones MUST NOT be ignored. (Herr Stalhammar)

FORGOTTEN SILENCE
“KaBaAch”
Redblack Productions
rating: 6 / 6
Third offering, third disaster, third chapter of sheer musical insanity. Don’t misinterpret these words of mine, since _this_ insanity is what I just love. Check out one of the first issues (don’t remember which one exactly, sorry). Yeah, the review on “Thots”. Yeah, the one by FORGOTTEN SILENCE. Wasn’t that one stunning? Doesn’t the same regard “Senyaan”, monstrous double-CD by these depraved although so incredibly talented Czechs? … And here comes the review. If you thought “Thots” and “Senyaan” were tremendous, you haven’t heard this one yet. “KaBaAch” is a huge step forward, no doubts. Solely based on Egyptian mythology when it comes to lyrics department, musically it’s far less regular (I mean, aren’t there plenty of metal acts basing their lyrics upon everything pertinent to Egypt?). Moreover, it gives the notion of “innovation” a whole new meaning. Death / doom / jazz? That’s certainly a bleak description of what one should expect from “KaBaAch”. Twelve tracks? No-o-o. “Tracks” or “tunes” or “songs” isn’t what this CD is comprised of. Most likely, imaginative tales of worlds surreal, executed in a surreal way. The only word fitting here is, “incredible”. Orthodox? Stop being one. Open-minded. Stop being one. Open your eyes and let yourself drown in a thirteenth dimension… (Herr Stalhammar)

GIRLS UNDER GLASS
“Frozen”
Van Richter Records
rating: 5,5 / 6
Oh well. This is a bit different kind of stuff. Whilst “Equilibrium” was highly acclaimed by both, those into metal and those into goth / industrial, I doubt if the same fate awaits “Frozen”. Actually, it’s not a full-length effort, but a mini-CD comprised of a reworked tune originally composed and performed by Madonna (surprised?) as well as five more remixes. If anyone’s willing to know what songs have been tortured this way, these are “Wings” and “Desire Lasts Forever” off “Equilibrium” CD, “The Bitter End” off “Firewalker”, “Grey In Grey” off “Darius” and “Don’t Be Afraid” off “Christus”. I don’t have an idea what was the sense (if there was any) in coming up with a mini-CD full of remixes, but as far as I’m acquainted with this scene, this kind of things happen pretty often. Nevertheless, “Frozen” appears as highly enjoyable piece of soothing yet imaginative cross between EBM, goth and mild industrial. Comparisons? Back off, man! GIRLS UNDER GLASS is an inalienable part of history of this music, therefore I consider comparing this trio to anyone else a bit of insult. “A must” for those into the kind of music, I suppose. “Check out” for those who are not (I assume ;)).
Email: manager@vanrichter.net
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

GODS TOWER
“Abandon All Hope”
Metal Agen / Eternal Art
rating: 1 / 6
A failure. In fact, I see no sense in releasing albums of this kind, especially of such a low quality. Yes, it’s the same GODS TOWER, one of the oldest living and most famous acts emerging from Belarus, delivering pagan doom metal with a slight folkish touch. Alcoholism never ends in anything good, and here we have a perfect example. Lesley, leave the band, I beg you! “Civilization” and “Abandon All Hope” are the only brand new (?) tracks this CD comes with, and even if the first one is exciting (and simultaneously sarcastic) lyrically, both are utterly ruined by Lesley’s incomprehensible and senseless yelling. Besides, the sound execution is what I use to define “average”; the same goes for the songs themselves. But ok, we have six more tracks to go through – no less than absolutely disgusting interpretations of BLACK SABBATH’s “Iron Man”, EUROPE’s “Final Countdown” and ARIA’s “Power And Reason” + “When Life Ends”, an old track taken off 1993 7’EP (seemingly never released), as well as two remixes (“Reign Of Silence” by OVERSUN, an average one, and “Civilization” by FAT NOT DEAD, an enjoyable one) and finally amateurish video. And now it’s up to you to decide whether this CD should be purchased or ignored. I’d vote for the latter. (Herr Stalhammar)

GUILSTEIN
“Original Soundtrack”
Kitty MME, a Universal Music Company
(provided by Pro-Com Music)
rating: 5 / 6
Surprised? Wondering why this soundtrack hadn’t been reviewed along with other comps? The main reason is, this is not really a compilation, but a soundtrack made by one single band, Japan’s ADENOSINE-TRI-PHOSPHATE. Well, not quite. Here we also have one track by NICOTINE, “Bio Blood Society”, striking as more or less pleasant punk rock… even if I don’t necessarily like vocals. But off to ATP. In fact, I reviewed “Deranged Angel”, the CD they made their debut with, a while ago, and taking into account there’s no real difference between it and “Guilstein”… I’d just day, it’s all about a brilliant mixture of a bit industrialized alternative rock and goth / dark wave featuring unusual although incredibly bewitching female voice. Most of tunes featured on this CD are taken off their studio album, and to make a whole package, have been supplemented with certain interludes and a couple of all-new tracks. I’m not a big fan of animation movies, so I wouldn’t say I’m itching to watch “Guilstein”, however if YOU consider good music a value, don’t miss this CD.
Website: http://www.procom-music.com
Email: y-nitta@procom-music.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

HIM
“Deep Shadows And Brilliant Highlights”
BMG Finland Oy
(provided by BMG Russia)
rating: 6 / 6
Hmm, how else could I rate this CD? Of course, HIM gets six out of six, and no wonder why, since “Deep Shadows And Brilliant Highlights” doubtlessly is their best work thus far. Fortunately, it doesn’t feature the drawbacks which almost spoiled the whole thing when it comes to “Razorblade Romance”, i.e. no more lame pseudo-artistic guitar and synth leads. Well, not quite. There ARE leads, however all of them sound fine to me. Ville’s voice and those inimitable lyrics – could they have changed? Obviously no. As to the actual music, this time HIM propose a bit more smooth kind of thing, perhaps more “pop” as some may say… I couldn’t care less, though. What’s really important, “Deep Shadows And Brilliant Highlights” appears as twice as enjoyable and twice as elaborated piece, hence what’s the sense in figuring out if it’s heavier or on the contrary? Excellent must be the word.
Email: info@bmg.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

LULLACRY
“Be My God”
Spinefarm Records
(provided by Fono Records)
rating: 5,5 / 6
Sorry, this review is not available in English. If you speak Russian, check it out by clicking here.

NADIR
“Fall From Grace”
Alcatraz Recordings
rating: 4 / 6
Hmm, good enough. Despite the ugly appearance (the copy I got is a cd-r one, in a xeroxed promo package), musically “Fall From Grace” is more or less enjoyable, although it’s a bit not the kind of music I usually adore. Hailing from Spain, NADIR successfully merge gothic doom metal and stoner (the lesser type of stoner, if you get what I mean), supplementing the whole thing with deep male vocals and rather well-crafted arrangements. In fact, I don’t know what else should I say… I can’t compare ‘em to anyone, nor can I describe “Fall From Grace” in a better way. Perhaps, you just have to try it yourselves?
Email: tarroseitor@hotmail.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

NIGHTWISH
“Over The Hills And Far Away”
Spinefarm Records
rating: 5,5 / 6
Sorry, this review is not available in English. If you speak Russian, check it out by clicking here.

PROPHET
“Broken Promise”
self-released
rating: 4,5 / 6
“We would like to thank all who had faith in us when we started to make “Broken Promise”… and that means fucking no one!!!” Well, it sounds almost like an insult to me, since I was supporting this band all the way through… and now we see how grateful they are. Or is it just youthful maximalism? Nevermind. These kids must be the rich sons of a bitch, otherwise how could they regularly come up with new efforts – remarkable for their splendid graphic and sound execution?! And aye, this time we have a digipack! Unfortunately, PROPHET became a three-piece (will I ever see Tea again? I miss her…), and that’s no good. Henri (MOONSORROW, FINNTROLL) is a skillful synth-man (at least he’s capable of handling keyboards much better than Tea), however Sepi’s departure definitely is a sort of loss to be marked out. But ok, what do we have here in terms of music? Well, this is PROPHET. These guys doubtlessly possess a recognizable and distinguishable sound, although now they seem to move closer and closer to HIM, ENTWINE and others of that ilk. Yes, the growls are still here, however they may be heard only in the background… whilst “clean” voice somehow (surprisingly!) sounds less impressive than before, perhaps due to the singing manner. The lyrics are all about lost, bitter and what-the-hell-else sort of love, and sad to say, the way they’ve been composed and constructed doesn’t fit my taste. The same goes for contents. Hey, if there’re so many drawbacks, why had I rated this MCD with ‘4,5’ out of ‘6’? Well, actually, despite everything mentioned above, “Broken Promise” strikes as an excellent piece of doom / gothic / heavy or whatever metal, finely performed, featuring a good singer and excellent production. And don’t forget about originality… My problem is, I expected MORE (not in terms of the CD’s length, as you have probably guessed already). But that’s MY problem, not yours. Check out this one. This band doubtlessly needs our support.
Website: www.brokenpromise.cjb.net
Email: prophets@iobox.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

SAINTS EVERLASTING REST
“The Dusk Of Millennium”
CDM Records / Sound Age Productions
rating: 5,5 / 6
If the mastermind behind the band indicates such acts as FUNERAL, THERGOTHON, SKEPTICISM and THORNS OF THE CARRION in the thanks list, what do you think we should expect? Let me make a guess. Sorrowful and dismal, grievous and depressing doom / death metal, slow as hell, forcing doubtlessly inimitable atmosphere? Exactly. This is what “The Dusk Of Millennium” (what a fitting title, by the way!) is all about. Harshly painful experiences and wistfully saddened life – the one with no meaning… and no sense. Don’t tell me I’m wrong, because I am NOT. Just give a listen to “Grief Of Existence” and “Caressing Whisper”, and glance into your past. All these hurting memories, humiliating recollections… And now the question is: was it worth the living, afterall?
Email: cdm-records@mail.ru
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

SCENE KILLER
“Scene Killer”
MeteorCity
rating: 2 / 6
It can’t be all good, can it? SCENE KILLER is sort of an all-star band, featuring members of THE ATOMIC BITCHWAX, BURNOUT KING, CORE, DAISYCUTTER, DRAG PACK, HALFWAY TO GONE, THE LEMMINGS, MONSTER MAGNET, ROTGUT, SIX SIGMA, SOLACE, SOLARIZED and THE CLONE OBEY + additional contributions by Yukito @ ETERNAL ELYSIUM, Alfred @ IRON MAN and Jack, Lee & Tyler @ GIANT SLOTH. Whew, sounds promising! However… what a bitter disappointment! Most of the bands mentioned above are pretty good ones, but I guess they just should do their own thing instead of making attempts like this. Musically, SCENE KILLER is a stoner band (anyone surprised?), however _what_ a stoner! This is definitely not a one-piece puzzle, but many puzzles aimed to put into one. And on the outcome we have nothing but incomprehensible stoner rock, neither complex nor intriguing. Just like a wall of noise. I don’t like it. (Herr Stalhammar)

SHAPE OF DESPAIR
“Shades Of…”
Spinefarm Records
(provided by Fono Records)
rating: 6 / 6
This one definitely MUST BE listened to in the headphones. At least, if you still want to end your life – right now and right here. Those of you who’re familiar with my tastes, obviously know that I’ve always been getting high on the works brought forth the light by such acts as THERGOTHON, DUSK, EVOKEN, ESOTERIC, WINTER, SKEPTICISM and alikes. Too bad, that there’re only few in number (elite is always comprised of the few, though). Well, now this cohort has been joined by Finland’s SHAPE OF DESPAIR. Five tracks lasting for almost an hour make you to cast aside all the dreams and desires you have ever had, forcing almost indescribable atmosphere, absorbing, devouring your very essence with it’s torturously slow, agonizing music of the Beyond. Cut your veins… behold the beloved blood of yours slowly sticking down your arms… and enter the realms unseen.
If you can’t find this CD being sold at the music store nearby but nevertheless still interested in purchasing it, email Fono Records at <metal@fono.ru> or check out their official website at <www.fono.ru> (this concerns only those who reside in Russia and CIS States, though).
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

SHELLYZ RAVEN
“Desolation”
War Is Imminent Productions
rating: 5,5 / 6
I’ve just given a listen to a disaster some of you probably know as USER NE, and… oh, what a relief! … Tranquil rivers of sacred blood flow right through your body, whilst I keep on chasing my shadow, soaring above the centuries and painting the vision of our former days… giving birth to a bleak shade of what you named “future”… Yes! I saw you standing there, in a circle of flames – perished yet still alive! Pure – and undivine! Clad was the body of yours in a strangely ethereal, yet nearly unseen ghost of moonlight. Our emotions exposed, our feelings cast aside, our desires plagued – all of them brought forth the light of our dearest darkness. This is what SHELLYZ RAVEN is all about. Jenny’s uniquely enrapturing voice, supplemented with serene yet surprisingly harsh ambiences, as well as 100% metal guitars’ accompaniment, mind-flattering lyrical canvas… this is “Desolation”. A brilliant piece of post-doom or whatever you call it. I don’t care anymore, for true art is immortal. (Herr Stalhammar)

SOLARIZED
“Driven”
MeteorCity
rating: 3 / 6
MeteorCity are well-known for releasing top-class stoner (let’s simply recall THE MUSHROOM RIVER BAND, SOLACE, ABDULLAH and that brilliant “I Am Vengeance” soundtrack), however this time we have something completely different. I mean, “Scene Killer” was below mediocre, whilst “Driven” is better. However, not _really_ better. Rather average stoner, perhaps somewhat exciting at times, but mostly boring and badly out of my taste. The only thing DEFINITELY worth mentioning is a female drummer… but that’s not the reason to run and buy this CD at once, huh? Good… bad… Nah. Mediocre. I wish I had to review the second work by ETERNAL ELYSIUM instead. (Herr Stalhammar)

THE BLACK LEAGUE
“The Doomsday Sun EP”
Spinefarm Records
(provided by Fono Records)
rating: 5,5 / 6
Sorry, this review is not available in English. If you speak Russian, check it out by clicking here.

THE DREAMSIDE
“Mirror Moon”
Serenades Records
rating: 6 / 6
Serenades Records (a sub-division of Last Episode Productions) keep on surprising me with picking up more and more outstanding acts. Now the time has come for Netherlands’ THE DREAMSIDE. Style? Almost indescribable. Although if you still want me to reckon this work to a particular genre, I’d most likely choose “gothic / dark wave”. “Mirror Moon”, “Eurylheia”, “Wonders”… Ah, blended with Kemi Vita’s unique, inimitable and enrapturing voice, these ones make my soul delightfully bleed. Even if you’re diehard advocate of either raw black metal or crust, I beg you – give this CD a listen! And then you’ll know what IS music and what IS NOT. (Herr Stalhammar)

THE GATHERING
“Downfall – The Early Years”
Hammerheart Records
(provided by Fono Records)
rating: -
Sorry, this review is not available in English. If you speak Russian, check it out by clicking here.

VEIL OF SORROW
“Dark Rivers Of The Heart”
Demolition Records
rating: 2 / 6
I confess, I liked it. Yes, I liked it when I gave it a listen… the first one. The impressions of mine seemed to be a bit different after the second one. And finally, it all made me consider this work rather unsatisfactory when “Dark Rivers Of The Heart” (the album’s title has been stolen from a book by Dean Koontz, by the way) entered my stereo for the third time. Swedish band comprised of 15-year old teens (at least that’s what they look like), attempting to gain success playing music relatively similar to SENTENCED; they just fail. Not that this CD is a bad one. Not at all. It’s simply amateurish. Actually, everything is amateurish, starting with photos of young (perhaps even too young) spotty kids… and later on continuing in enough enjoyable although weak vocal lines and monotonous… and yes, once again amateurish music and disgustingly unelaborated arrangements. The layout also leaves much to be desired. Honestly speaking, I didn’t expect Demolition Records will ever sign such a poor copycat. (Herr Stalhammar)

VICIOUS CRUSADE
“Messiah… Isn’t It Me?”
Metal Records
rating: 5,5 / 6
Quite a controversial work this time. As far as I recall, I almost fell in love with “The Unbroken”, the former effort brought forth the light by these chaps. Unfortunately, I can’t say I got high on this one. A pity, indeed. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that “Messiah…” is worthless. Not at all! First of all, I guess that this one shouldn’t be perceived as an album of the full value, simply due to the fact it’s comprised of only four tracks lasting for 21 minutes. Metamorphosis? Yes, VICIOUS CRUSADE doubtlessly endured it, at least judging by the fact the lineup has been enlarged with a violinist (and session trumpeter). More female vocals this time, as well. Lyrics? Strictly anti-christian, although don’t get me wrong – VICIOUS CRUSADE haven’t become a Belarus’ own DEICIDE. The lyrical canvas still is one of the strongest points, well composed and obviously thought-provoking. Consequently; there’re two reasons why “Messiah…” didn’t get the highest mark: a) it’s not a full-length album, hence it’s pretty difficult to come up with any kind of verdict, b) unlike “The Unbroken”, this one (despite that all the songs appear as pretty diversified, catchy and compositionally intriguing… especially that “Capriccio In G-Moll Per Violino Ed Basso Guitarra” instrumental) is rather unmemorable. Nevertheless, “Messiah…” definitely is the sort of effort… to be purchased immediately. I can’t wait to get myself acquainted with the third full-length work of theirs…
Email: legion@nestor.minsk.by
(review by Herr Stalhammar)