Concert Review – 1349 (Lee’s Palace, Toronto, ON, 05/20/2024)

A night of undisputed Black Metal with four incredible bands in Toronto, spearheaded by one of the most devilish and professional hordes hailing from Norway.

OPENING ACTS: Spirit Possession, Antichrist Siege Machine and Spectral Wound

What a night of pure “friendship” and “tree hugging” in Toronto, my friends! Let’s say that in order to properly celebrate Victoria Day in Canada this Monday, Noel Peters of Inertia Entertainment organized a night of undisputed Black Metal at Lee’s Palace with SPIRIT POSSESSION, ANTICHRIST SIEGE MACHINE, SPECTRAL WOUND, and of course, the main attraction of the night, the devilish 1349. Keith Ibbitson of Metal Paparazzi and I were there to enjoy such an amazing feast of obscurity and evil at an almost sold out venue, driving the heat up inside it considerably, but fortunately they’ve recently installed new air conditioning machines in strategic points of the venue to cool things down a bit for us, avid metalheads.

It didn’t take long after the doors opened at 7pm for the first band of the night to start distilling their demonic creations. I’m talking about Portland, Oregon-based Black Metal duo SPIRIT POSSESSION, who put on an infernal show to properly warm us all up for the upcoming attractions, and let me tell you that their drummer, simply called “A.”, definitely knowns how to hammer her drums mercilessly, while vocalist and guitarist “S.” is phenomenal armed with his stringed axe, playing it like if he was playing bass (an instrument that’s not part of their music, by the way), extracting sheer evil and insanity from each riff played. Everyone who was already at Lee’s Palace loved every second of their sick concert, despite the annoying dim red light, and if you want to enjoy some of their creations you can find all of their albums, like their 2023 opus Of the Sign…, on BandCamp and on Spotify.

Setlist
Orthodox Weapons
Deity of Knives and Pointed Apparitions
Enter the Golden Sign
Swallowing Throne
Second Possession
Spirit Possession

Band members
S. – vocals, guitars
A. – drums

After a quick break, it was time for one of the most pulverizing duos of the current extreme music scene to crush our damned souls with their infuriated music. They go by the charming name of ANTICHRIST SIEGE MACHINE, and if you know nothing about this Blackened Death Metal duo from Richmond, Virginia formed of SB on vocals and drums, and RZ on the guitars and backing vocals (and yes, it was the second band of the night without a bassist), I highly recommend you go after their music on BandCamp and on Spotify, including their chaotic, infernal new album Vengeance of Eternal Fire. Their set in Toronto was beyond brutal, igniting some intense mosh pits during their whole performance, and leaving all of us eager for another visit of those two demented beats to the city in the near future. Seriously, their music is awesome.

Setlist
Son of Man
Piled Swine
Purifying Blade
Led by Fire
Unleashed Hostility
Prey Upon Them
Vanquishing Spirit
Sisera
Chaos Insignia
Vacant Cross

Band members
SB – vocals, drums
RZ – guitars, backing vocals

Although 1349 were the main band of the night, a lot of people went to Lee’s Palace on Monday to witness the black mass conducted by Montreal, Quebec’s own Black Metal horde SPECTRAL WOUND, by far one of the most important names of the current Métal Noir Québécois scene. Having released the excellent album A Diabolic Thirst back in 2021 (which can be found on BandCamp and on Spotify, by the way), the band spearheaded by the iconic Jonah crushed us like insects with their venomous Black Metal, again inspiring all concert goers for some demented circle pits until the very last second. The light was way too dim and it was also a bit foggy, which sucks, but nothing that would make their concert less entertaining, of course.

Setlist
Black Satanic Glamour
Soul Destroying Black Debauchery
Aristocratic Suicidal Black Metal
Frigid and Spellbound
Fevers & Suffering
Imperial Thanatosis
Imperial Saison Noire

Band members
Jonah – vocals
Patrick – guitars
A.A. – guitars
Sam – bass, backing vocals
Illusory – drums 

1349

A lot of people, including myself, went outside to get some fresh air (as it was a relatively warm night in Toronto) and almost missed the beginning of the hellish performance by Oslo, Norway-based Black Metal entity 1349 (just as an extra detail to you, 1349 was the year the Black Death came to Norway, wiping out 2/3 of the population and ending the Golden Age of Norway), a true celebration of old school, classic Black Metal for an avid crowd in the city. Playing songs from all albums of their vast career, including some excellent hymns from their 2019 album The Infernal Pathway like the closing ones Dødskamp and Abyssos Antithesis, plus their amazing new single Ash of Ages from their upcoming 2024 album, the band comprised of Ravn on lead vocals, Archaon on the guitars, Seidemann on bass, and Dominator on drums was absolutely on fire during their demonic (but maybe a little bit too short) set, driving their fans wild inside the unstoppable circle pits.

Also, I need to say a few words about this short, weird, middle-aged Indian dude that looked completely out of this dimension, as it didn’t matter what the hell he was doing, he looked nuts. The guy was so insane to the point that when 1349 finished playing their very FIRST song, he said with a sinister smile “two more, two more…”, when the band was clearly going to play at least ten more songs. What the hell was he seeing on stage, right? Not to mention he was always hiding behind someone, making the sign of the cross before having his beer, pointing to the band’s guitarist with a maniacal grim like as if he was saying “I know what you’re doing” as if the guitarist was there looking at him, and so on. Some guys behind me were also distracted by the Indian dude. What a unique metalhead!

After all was said and done, all fans of Black Metal in Toronto were more than happy with the high quality of the music presented by all four bands, making it a very successful event in the city and, consequently, leaving us all more than eager for another 1349 concert in Toronto, supported by another batch of very talented underground bands, sooner than you can say “Black Metal”. Hopefully they’ll return soon, and everyone who was at Lee’s Palace, including our beloved, crazy Indian guy, will be there to raise their horns up high and scream in full force together with one of the most professional bands hailing form Norway without a shadow of a doubt, and even better if it’s with proper lighting so not only their fans can enjoy the visual part of show as well, but also the photographers like Keith. Hail Satan, my friends!

Setlist
Sculptor of Flesh
Slaves
Through Eyes of Stone
Chasing Dragons
Ash of Ages
I Am Abomination
Striding the Chasm
Golem
Atomic Chapel
Dødskamp
Abyssos Antithesis

Band members
Ravn – lead vocals
Archaon – guitars, backing vocals
Seidemann – bass, backing vocals
Dominator – drums

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Concert Review – Wolves In The Throne Room (Lee’s Palace, Toronto, ON, 10/04/2023)

If harsh and cryptic Atmospheric Black Metal runs through your veins, then the city of Toronto was the perfect place for you to be last night.

OPENING ACTS: Hoaxed, Gaerea and Blackbraid

After all the Maidenmania that took over Western Canada last week, the underground called me back last night in Toronto for a wild feast of Atmospheric Black Metal (and some Dark Rock) by HOAXED, GAEREA, BLACKBRAID and WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM during their Crypt Of Ancestral Knowledge North American Tour 2023 at Lee’s Palace, which by the way felt like a true sauna due to the increasing heat during the entire night. Also, I’m glad I had the support of my friend Keith Ibbitson of Lower Eastside Photography for some amazing shots, because the circle pits were too intense while I was at the same time too tired to brave those. It was a very warm and pleasant night in Toronto, which is why I believe there were so many metalheads at the venue, making it a successful and memorable event for all bands and fans.

However, due to the intense traffic conditions during rush hour, I wasn’t able to arrive in time for the first band of the night, Portland, Oregon-based Dark Rock trio HOAXED, but I only heard good things about their show even though they were the “lightest” band last night, or the only one that doesn’t play any sort of Black Metal. Formed of Kat Keo on vocals and guitars, April on bass, and Kim Coffel on drums, the band released last year the album Two Shadows, and they played several songs from that album as part of their setlist, so if you’re curious to know more about their music simply visit their BandCamp page or Spotify and you’ll be able to stream all of the creations by those three talented girls.

Setlist
The Call
Guilty Ones
For Love
The Knowing
Riders
Dam
High Seas
Candle Master

Band members
Kat Keo – vocals, guitars
April – bass
Kim Coffel – drums 

As I arrived to the venue, everyone was outside having a smoke or getting some not-so-fresh air (as the temperatures in Toronto this beginning of October are hot like summer), a few minutes before one of the two bands I really wanted to see live hit the stage. I’m talking about Portuguese Black Metal entity GAEREA, who put on a breathtaking show blasting our ears and minds with what some people like to call “Cathartic Black Metal”. Having recently released the single Dormant (and sorry about that, but I honestly don’t know if they played it or not), plus of course their 2022 full-length masterpiece Mirage, the band led by the uncanny frontman Guilherme Henriques hypnotized us all during their entire performance, with their new guitarist Sonja Schuringa (known for her work with Dutch Death Metal horde Dictated) bringing an extra touch of energy to their already fiery performance. I’m not sure if I got their setlist right, but it doesn’t really matter as all songs sounded insane live, igniting some sick mosh pits and inspiring Guilherme to keep vociferating like a rabid creature nonstop while showing all his love for Toronto. Everyone at the venue loved their performance, which in my opinion was even better than when they opened for Rotting Christ earlier this year in the city, and we can’t wait for another visit of those bringers of darkness and insanity from Portugal. Hence, don’t forget to stream their cathartic music on BandCamp and on Spotify, supporting one of the most innovative and unique bands of the current extreme music scene.

Setlist
Mantle
Salve
Deluge
Urge
Mirage
Laude

Band members
Guilherme Henriques – vocals
Sonja Schuringa – guitars
Unknown – guitars
Lucas Ferrand – bass
Diogo Mota – drums 

The third attraction of the night was also the one I wanted to see the most, and let’s say they didn’t disappoint at all; quite the contrary, Adirondack Mountains, New York-based Atmospheric Black Metal horde BLACKBRAID simply stole the show last night, turning up the heat inside the venue and igniting the sickest circle pits you can think of. Spearheaded by the multi-talented frontman Sgah’gahsowáh (growling like a beast and armed with his amazing Native American flute), the band delivered a sensational concert for all attendees, blending songs form their 2022 album Blackbraid I with their most recent effort, the stunning Blackbraid II. The first three songs of their set, The Spirit Returns, The Wolf That Guides the Hunters Hand and Moss Covered Bones on the Altar of the Moon, sounded brilliant live, and as I mentioned for Gaerea, Blackbraid were even better last night than when they opened for Dark Funeral and Cattle Decapitation in Toronto back in May. There was a wild ovation to the band after their concert was over, and we could all see how happy all band members were, meaning we’ll see them again in Toronto sooner than we can imagine. In addition, if you know nothing about Blackbraid yet, I highly recommend streaming their two superb albums on BandCamp and on Spotify. you’ll fall in love for their music, no doubt about that.

Setlist
The Spirit Returns
The Wolf That Guides the Hunters Hand
Moss Covered Bones on the Altar of the Moon
A Song of Death on Winds of Dawn
Barefoot Ghost Dance on Blood Soaked Soil

Band members
Sgah’gahsowáh – vocals
Y.E. – guitars
Unknown – guitars
DM – bass
Johnny Violence – drums

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM

It was close to 9:30pm when the main attraction of such atmospheric celebration,  Olympia, Washington’s own Atmospheric Black Metal outfit WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM, kicked off their absolutely somber, cryptic and eerie performance, and although they’ve just released a new EP titled Crypt of Ancestral Knowledge they didn’t play any of its songs, starting with a few creations from their previous album Primordial Arcana, from 2021, those being the excellent Mountain Magick and Spirit of Lightning, plus songs from all of their old releases. Nathan Weaver, Kody Keyworth, Galen Baudhuin and Cedar Serpent were on fire throughout their entire set, alternating between very atmospheric, Stygian passages and pure savagery, which of course inspired the crowd to start a few demented circle pits, proving Torontonians like to get into the action even during long, atmospheric songs.

The quartet kept the energy and mystery of their concert flowing smoothly until the very end, when it was already close to 11pm, and the reaction of their fans was also amazing despite the fact that it was getting impossible to remain inside Lee’s Palace due to the rising and brutal heat. As soon as their concert was over I rushed out to avoid traffic as I was still tired from my trip out west, but it was awesome seeing so many metal brothers and sisters at the show, and whenever Wolves in the Throne Room return to Toronto I’ll definitely be there for another blast of their Atmospheric Black Metal. They’re also on BandCamp and on Spotify, of course, and in case you have no idea how their Atmospheric Black Metal sounds, I suggest you listen to some of their albums and get ready for a one-way journey into the pits of the underworld.

Setlist
Mountain Magick
Spirit of Lightning
Eostre
Angrboda
Prayer of Transformation
Vastness and Sorrow
I Will Lay Down My Bones Among the Rocks and Roots

Band members
Nathan Weaver – lead vocals, guitars
Kody Keyworth – guitars, vocals
Galen Baudhuin – bass
Cedar Serpent – drums

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Album Review – UADA / Crepuscule Natura (2023)

One of the rising stars of the current Melodic Black Metal scene returns with their majestic fourth album, unleashing upon us five sonic vessels providing all their memorable hooks, tasteful leads and riding blasts in their distinct style.

Ever since the cloaked Pacific Northwest band appeared on the music radar back in 2014, Portland, Oregon-based Melodic Black Metal horde UADA has always been electrified by both polar worlds. Within the stretch of three albums as well as dense and triumphant live shows across the globe, they have not only spiked the map of extreme metal music but their unrelenting touring schedule and unbridled will to push forward into new horizons has also earned them a reception in all the extremes imaginable, be it worship or spite. Now in 2023 the band formed of Jake Superchi on vocals and guitars, Kevin Bedra also on the guitars, Nate Verschoor on bass and Trevor McClain on drums is unleashing upon humanity their fourth full-length opus, titled Crepuscule Natura (or “nature’s twilight” from Latin), the stunning follow-up to their 2020 masterpiece Djinn. Mixed and Mastered by the band’s own Jake Superchi at Obsidian Spells, and once again displaying an ethereal and occult artwork by Kris Verwimp, Crepuscule Natura offers five metallic vessels within the impressive span of 41 minutes, easily creating a sonic and aesthetic bridge between the band’s 2016 debut Devoid of Light and their 2018 sophomore effort Cult of a Dying Sun, only to forge onward upon the relentless path set forth with Djinn, providing all their memorable hooks, tasteful leads and riding blasts in their distinct style while balancing their epic surging melodies with powerful spurts of aggression.

The opening tune The Abyss Gazing Back is absolutely melodic and hypnotizing from the very first second, with Jake roaring the song’s devilish words (“In the light of Lucifer’s fire I am but a shadow of God: / No sanctity below, nor divinity behind. / Cast out; fallen and risen, here is where I continue my maraud: / For all within ourselves is what we must find. / Grandest gateways illuminate before me, through my own embodiment of thought: / Expanding endlessly in the caverns of the mind”) while his bandmates generate a beyond thrilling Black Metal atmosphere. Then we have the title-track Crepuscule Natura, even more imposing and multi-layered, blending the finesse of Melodic Black Metal with the rawness and savagery of classic Black Metal. Furthermore, Nate sounds bestial on bass accompanied by the infernal drumming by Trevor, resulting in a darkened voyage that will leave you completely disoriented after all is said and done; and the dirty bass by Nate kicks off the beautiful The Dark (Winter), with Jake and Kevin piercing our ears with their stylish riffs in a headbanging extravaganza by UADA that will explode your senses during their live performances.

The initial riffage by Jake and Kevin will embrace you mercilessly for all eternity in Retraversing the Void, inspiring you to keep moving your head sideways (just like what the band likes to do when they’re on stage blasting their sonic magic). It’s a fantastic depiction of modern-day Melodic Black Metal by those skillful American musicians,  not to mention how precise Trevor is behind his drums, all spiced up by another pulverizing vocal performance by Jake. Last but not least, a wild howl ignites the breathtaking 12-minute aria Through the Wax and Through the Wane, again bringing forward the band’s darkly poetic lyrics (“My moon is air / and my star of fire, / below I burn / so my ashes may continue higher / Oh, coldest night / grant me clearest sight / to grow out of your shadow / and be exposed in your searing light”) and their trademark dense, thunderous sounds, with Jake and Kevin sounding flawless armed with their Stygian axes. Moreover, it feels like three or four songs in one so intricate and detailed it is, venturing through the realms of Atmospheric and Melodic Black Metal with a grandiose background and an enfolding vibe, and with Trevor once again kicking some ass on drums, dictating the pace until the song’s climatic, apotheotic finale.

In Crepuscule Natura, which is already available for a full and detailed listen on YouTube, we face a band that’s on absolute fire, ready to unleash the marrow of Blackened Heavy Metal and to show us all why they’re known as the “haunted”. Hence, don’t forget to start following those incredible musicians on Facebook and on Instagram for news, tour dates (like their highly anticipated upcoming concert in Toronto next week) and other nice-to-know details about the band, as well as to stream all of their superb albums on Spotify, and above all that, to purchase a copy of Crepuscule Natura from their own BandCamp page or from the Eisenwald Records webstore (including the exclusive limited die-cut slipcase CD edition + music download card for the album + silver artwork patch bundle), or click HERE for all things UADA. The evolution in the music by UADA since their debut album is a thing of beauty, allowing us to witness with Crepuscule Natura the birth of new fan favorites while their craft remains grandiose, mythical and triumphant.

Best moments of the album: Crepuscule Natura, Retraversing the Void and Through the Wax and Through the Wane.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2023 Eisenwald Records/Obsidian Spells

Track listing
1. The Abyss Gazing Back 7:50
2. Crepuscule Natura 6:38
3. The Dark (Winter) 7:31
4. Retraversing the Void 7:44
5. Through the Wax and Through the Wane 12:03

Band members
Jake Superchi – vocals, rhythm guitars
Kevin Bedra – lead guitars
Nate Verschoor – bass
Trevor McClain – drums

Album Review – Vintersea / Woven Into Ashes (2023)

This Extreme Progressive Metal act from Portland, Oregon is back with their fantastic third full-length opus, once again inspired by the majesty of the Pacific Northwest.

Combining the essential parts of many genres into a melodic brand of metal that is undeniably inspired by the majesty of the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon-based Extreme Progressive Metal act Vintersea is back with their third full-length effort, entitled Woven Into Ashes, the follow-up to their 2019 critically acclaimed album Illuminated. Engineered by Gabe Johnston at Falcon Recording Studio, mixed by Carson Slovak and Grant McFarland at Atrium Audio, mastered by Troy Glessner at Spectre Studios, and displaying a stylish artwork by Xenoyr (of Ne Obliviscaris), the album once again offers our avid ears the heavy, emotionally powerful and technically intriguing creations by frontwoman Avienne Low, guitarists Jorma Spaziano and Riley Nix, bassist Karl Whinnery and drummer Jeremy Spencer, representing a significant step forward in the band’s already solid career.

Vintersea have definitely learned how to master the art of progressive and experimental sounds, and that’s already crystal clear from the very first second in Unveiling Light, with Jorma and Riley delivering sheer intricacy and groove from their guitars, therefore exploding into a vibrant Melodic Black Metal aria, whereas Jeremy hammers his drums in the name of extreme music in Devil’s Churn, providing Avienne with exactly what she needs to deliver her deep, enraged she-wolf screams, sounding even more progressive than the opening tune due to its Groove Metal elements. Then get ready for eight minutes of ethereal passages, endless heaviness and obscurity, and a humongous dosage of intricacy in Crescent Eclipse, with Avienne again stealing the spotlight with her mesmerizing clean vocals and her infernal roars; and a demonic growl by Avienne kicks off the thunderous At The Gloaming Void, with Karl’s bass and Jeremy’s beats making the earth tremble, or in other words, it’s Progressive Death and Black Metal at its finest.

As if the band decided to begin a new chapter in the “book” of Woven Into Ashes, they invest in a much more cadenced, melodic sound in Parallel Duality, and the song also seems to be split in two parts depending on the vocal style used by Avienne. Lonesome Tide is another song with a more delicate start, quickly morphing into another Progressive Black Metal onrush by the band with Jorma and Riley doing an amazing job with both their caustic riffs and gentle acoustic guitars; and it’s then time for a dark ballad titled Into the Horizon, a solid creation by the band albeit not as vibrant or multi-layered as the rest of the album. Avienne has a charming performance on vocals as usual, though. Finally, the band brings forth a nine minute feast of delicate sounds, progressiveness and melancholy titled No Tomorrow, with Jeremy dictating the song’s pace while Avienne roars to the piercing riffs by the band’s guitar duo, ending the album on a very climatic mode.

The talented Avienne and her unstoppable henchmen are waiting for your feedback about their stunning creations on Facebook and on Instagram, and don’t forget to also subscribe to their YouTube channel and to stream more of their classy compositions on Spotify. The versatile and dynamic Woven Into Ashes, which is available for purchase from their own BandCamp page, as well as from the M-Theory Audio webstore as a digipack CD or as a colored vinyl (or click HERE for all things related to the band and the album), will undoubtedly help Vintersea reach new heights in their awesome career, as it’s not only their strongest effort to date, but also a must-listen for any fans of the fusion of progressiveness and sheer heaviness. Furthermore, the band is just about to embark on a sensational tour with Eleine, Oceans of Slumber and the almighty Moonspell, and I’m beyond certain they’ll play songs from their new album. Having said that, what are you waiting for to grab your tickets for such amazing event in your city?

Best moments of the album: Devil’s Churn, At The Gloaming Void and Lonesome Tide.

Worst moments of the album: Into the Horizon.

Released in 2023 M-Theory Audio

Track listing
1. Unveiling Light 5:22
2. Devil’s Churn 6:09
3. Crescent Eclipse 7:43
4. At The Gloaming Void 5:31
5. Parallel Duality 7:12
6. Lonesome Tide 6:04
7. Into the Horizon 3:51
8. No Tomorrow 8:49

Band members
Avienne Low – vocals
Jorma Spaziano – guitars
Riley Nix – guitars, backing vocals
Karl Whinnery – bass
Jeremy Spencer – drums

Album Review – Forlesen / Black Terrain (2022)

This doomed entity hailing from Portland, Oregon brings forward four monolithic songs that will fully immerse the listener in a contrast of the serene and cacophonous in their new opus.

Formed in San Francisco, California at the end of 2016, but currently based in Portland, Oregon, Atmospheric Black/Doom Metal outfit Forlesen draws from Epic Doom, Black Metal, Slowcore and Dark Ambient to subvert traditional songwriting with their new full-length, entitled Black Terrain, which weaves heartbreak and hypnosis to show the band at their most vulnerable and vicious. Mixed by Jack Shirley at The Atomic Garden, mastered by Garrett Haines at Treelady Studios, and displaying a beautiful artwork by Benjamin A. Vierling, Black Terrain brings forward four monolithic songs, at times approaching twenty minutes in length, fully immersing the listener in a contrast of the serene and cacophonous, showcasing the evolution in the sound crafted by vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Ascalaphus (Botanist), vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Bezaelith (Lotus Thief), guitarist Petit Albert (Lotus Thief), and drummer Maleus (Kayo Dot, Maudlin Of The Well) from their debut effort Hierophant Violent,  being therefore highly recommended for fans of Candlemass, Dead Can Dance, Low and Neurosis, among several others.

An eerie, otherworldly start gradually evolves into an atmospheric and somber Doom Metal sonority led by the sluggish beats by Maleus in Strega, while Ascalaphus, Bezaelith and Petit Albert darken the skies with their minimalist but heavy-as-hell riffs and whimsical vocalizations, flowing smoothly while also offering us all a neck-breaking rhythm. Furthermore, its beautiful guitar work will penetrate deep inside our hearts, also showcasing a perfect balance between the delicate vocals by Bezaelith and the devilish roars from her bandmates, making an instant connection with the title-track Black Terrain, where the band continues to permeate the air with their melodic and grim sounds. The whole song is effectively energized by the tribalistic drums by Maleus while Bezaelith delivers introspective, ethereal vocal lines, suddenly morphing into the Black Metal-infused aria Harrowed Earth, bringing to our avid ears a multi-layered, enfolding and caustic explosion of sounds spearheaded by the blast beast by Maleus and the wicked, dirty riffage by Ascalaphus, Bezaelith and Petit Albert. Put differently, it’s Atmospheric Black Metal at its finest, evolving to a more obscure form of Doom Metal as time passes by. Lastly, in Saturnine the lyrics will put you in a doomed trance (“Come now and let it all go… / Time is a beast devouring it’s children / Wild eyed, the ever churning tide / He does suppress the cries of nascent sovereignty / Lest golden ages be undone / Time makes beasts of all its golden children / Wild eyed, the ever churning tide / As we egress through parodies of infancy / And we await being born / Go now and let it all come…”), while the music remains serene, infuriated, lugubrious and alive all at the same time, resulting in a spot-on fusion of Ambient and Doom Metal.

The doomed beast known as Forlesen can be found on Facebook and on Instagram for news, tour dates and other details about their wicked music, and you can also stream all of their creations on Spotify. However, if you want to show your true support to the underground, you should purchase a copy of the eccentric Black Terrain from the I, Voidhanger Records’ BandCamp page, from Metal Odissey as a CD or double LP, or from Apple Music, showing all the passion you nurture in your blackened heart for contemporary doom. The songs in Black Terrain might be lengthy, sluggish, somber and pensive, but that’s exactly what makes the album so compelling, consequently  inspiring the band to keep spreading their wings over this black terrain we live called earth.

Best moments of the album: Strega and Harrowed Earth.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2022 I, Voidhanger Records

Track listing
1. Strega 19:10
2. Black Terrain 8:57
3. Harrowed Earth 12:29
4. Saturnine 18:07

Band members
Ascalaphus – vocals, guitars, synth, harmonium, bass
Bezaelith – vocals, bass, guitars, synth
Petit Albert – guitars, synth, Hammond B3 organ, backing vocals
Maleus – drums

Guest musician
Leila Abdul-Rauf – glockenspiel, trumpet

Album Review – Splintered Throne / The Greater Good of Man (2022)

The reaper is calling us all to join this electrifying American squad in their quest for Heavy Metal to the sound of their awesome new album.

Having already captivated audiences on the West Coast for over a decade with their high energy performances, Portland, Oregon-based Heavy Metal powerhouse Splintered Throne is beginning the next chapter in their solid career by unleashing upon us their new album The Greater Good of Man, delivering bluesy influences with dynamic bass, groove rhythms and soaring vocals just the way we like it in metal music. Produced by Kevin Hahn and Splintered Throne, recorded at Primal Studio and Opal Studio, mixed and mastered by Kevin Hahn at Opal Studio, and with graphic design by Jen Taylor of VividPix & Design, The Greater Good of Man showcases all the talent and passion for heavy music by frontwoman Lisa Mann, guitarists Matt Dorado and Jason “JMo” Moser, bassist Brian Bailey and drummer Kris Holboke, resulting in a dynamic collection of energy, emotion and storytelling. “I still pinch myself that I’m even in this band – and now we’ve written and recorded a kick ass album? It’s as good a feeling as sex and chocolate,” commented Lisa about the album.

The slashing guitars by Matt and Jason will invite you to raise your horns in the name of metal in The Reaper is Calling, being quickly joined by the hammering drums by Kris and the soaring vocals by Lisa in a pure, unfiltered 80’s Heavy Metal feast for our total delight. Then drinking from the same fountain as some of our metal heroes the likes of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Saxon and Accept, Lisa continues to lead her henchmen in The Crossing, with Kris showing no mercy for his drums supported by the rumbling bass by Brian; followed by Morning Star Rising, a beautiful power ballad by the band where Lisa steals the spotlight with her passionate vocal performance, flowing powerfully to the pounding beast by Kris and the striking solos by Matt and Jason. And putting the pedal to the metal it’s time for the title-track The Greater Good of Man, where all band members are on absolute fire spearheaded by Lisa’s fiery vocals while we’re also treated to some thrilling, ass-kicking solos.

If you’re a fan of Warlock you’ll have a blast with the epic tune Let it Rain, again showcasing an amazing job done by the band’s guitar duo with their piercing riffs and solos, not to mention its galloping pace is perfect for banging your head together with the band. Inspired by those struggling with addiction and to those who made it into recovery, Underdogs is another touching ballad by the quintet where its backing vocals provide Lisa with all she needs to shine on vocals; whereas let’s all slam into the circle pit to the sound of Night of the Heathens, a song tailored for heading into the battlefield armed with ass-kicking Heavy Metal, with Brian and Kris bringing the heavy artillery to the music while the guitar solos by Matt and Jason will pierce your ears in great fashion. The second to last blast of awesomeness by Splintered Throne, titled Time Stands Still, brings forward their more Hard Rock vein, with Lisa once again showcasing all her vocal range and talent accompanied by the solid instrumental form her bandmates, and last but not least the band offers us the re-recording of their 2017 ballad Immortal 2020, already released in 2020 as you can see, this time with Lisa on vocals of course plus a few adjustments to the overall result, resulting in a great “bonus track” for us fans.

As aforementioned, Splintered Throne have just started a new era in their career with The Greater Good of Man, and in order to show them your utmost support you can start following the band on Facebook and on Instagram for news, tour dates and other cool stuff about them, stream more of their awesome music on Spotify and on YouTube, and obviously grab your copy of The Greater Good of Man from their own BandCamp page, from Apple Music or from Amazon sooner than you can say “splintered throne”. Heavy Metal made in Portland, Oregon has never been as fantastic as now thanks to the amazing job done by Splintered Throne in their newborn opus, and I can’t wait for more of their stunning music in the near future to raise my fists in the air and have a beer with the band while my heart is filled with pure metal and joy.

Best moments of the album: The Reaper is Calling, The Greater Good of Man and Night of the Heathens.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2022 Independent

Track listing
1. The Reaper is Calling 4:10
2. The Crossing 6:09
3. Morning Star Rising 5:50
4. The Greater Good of Man 3:55
5. Let it Rain 4:04
6. Underdogs 4:50
7. Night of the Heathens 3:23
8. Time Stands Still 4:03
9. Immortal 2020 4:34

Band members
Lisa Mann – vocals
Matt Dorado – guitar
Jason “JMo” Moser – guitar
Brian Bailey – bass
Kris Holboke – drums

Album Review – Nocturnal Wanderer / Gift of the Night (2021)

This unknown entity will crush your soul with its newborn beast, offering endless midnight mysticism and reverence for all that goes by night.

Formed in the Spring of 2021 in the Pacific Northwest region as a one-man anonymous project, Portland, Oregon-based Black Metal entity Nocturnal Wanderer has just released its debut full-length opus, entitled Gift of the Night. Recorded and produced at Sacred Atavism, and featuring illustrations by Thaumaturge Artworks and lettering by NW, the album showcases a traditional Black Metal sound and minimalist compositions, yet allowing the occasional Heavy Metal style solo to seep in. Ferocious while at the same time strangely serene and triumphant, Gift of the Night is a singular beast offering us all endless midnight mysticism and reverence for all that goes by night, being therefore highly recommended for admirers of the music by Havukruunu, Malokarpatan, Panphage and Arckanum, among others.

The opening track Twilight Befell is an infernal, raw Black Metal feast with darkly poetic lyrics (“Eventide arrive / Sunlight’s glow fading / Darkness creatures stirring / Bats flitter across the black sky / Aria of dusk / Air chill and sharp / Breathe the night into lungs”) to properly kick off the album, whereas our anonymous lone wolf continues to hammer his drums and extract sulfur from his stringed axe in Darkness in Rapture, another demented old school Black Metal tune presenting all elements we love in the genre. Then adding the most Stygian elements from Doom Metal to his core sonority it’s time for the sinister Sentient Shadows, where once again this one-man horde presents a visceral job on the guitars and drums until the very last second; and drinking from the blasphemous fountain of classic bands the likes of Mayhem, Immortal and Dark Funeral he brings forward By Moonlight, showcasing another round of sick riffs, incendiary blast beats and venomous roars. His second to last breath of darkness comes in the form of Distant Stars in Distant Skies, sounding absolutely haunting and vile, all spiced up of course by his grim, otherworldly gnarls, and there’s time for one final blast of obscurity by Nocturnal Wanderer entitled The Amberdawn, which takes too long to take off and lacks those traditional Black Metal words and growls, but nothing that would cause any harm to the album.

If you consider yourself a true servant of darkness, you can enjoy Gift of the Night in its entirety on YouTube, and of course purchase a copy of such raw and intense album from the project’s own BandCamp page, from the Nameless Grave Records’ webstore or from the Balor’s Eye Productions’ BandCamp page, diving even deeper into the void that consumes our souls. Although the entity behind  Nocturnal Wanderer doesn’t want to disclose his identity (at least not for now), that won’t stop fans of the darkest side of music, including myself, to thank him for bringing into being Gift of the Night, a precious gem of the underground that will help in keeping the flames of Black Metal burning for centuries to come, leaving us even more curious to know the real name of a creature so loyal to the dark.

Best moments of the album: Darkness in Rapture and By Moonlight.

Worst moments of the album: The Amberdawn.

Released in 2021 Nameless Grave Records/Balor’s Eye Productions/Altare Productions

Track listing
1. Twilight Befell 4:45
2. Darkness in Rapture 3:57
3. Sentient Shadows 5:39
4. By Moonlight 5:27
5. Distant Stars in Distant Skies 5:25
6. The Amberdawn 6:10

Band members
Anonymous – vocals, all instruments

Album Review – Mare Cognitum / Solar Paroxysm (2021)

A Portland, Oregon-based one-man Cosmic Black Metal entity returns with his fifth full-length opus, finding a new voice for his frustrations with humankind through five aggressive, metallic songs.

From the depths of the outer rim to solid footing of green earth, Solar Paroxysm, the fifth full-lenth opus by Portland, Oregon-based one-man Cosmic Black Metal entity Mare Cognitum, finds itself moving from the impossible to the familiar, with the project’s lone wolf Jacob Buczarski occupying himself with the failures of humankind over the past epoch, finding a new voice for his frustrations through five aggressive, metallic songs. Featuring a beyond stunning artwork by Adam Burke at Nightjar Illustration, Solar Paroxysm lifts the veil and reveals the true musicianship which has fueled Mare Cognitum since its impetus a decade ago, being therefore highly recommended for fans of the Stygian creations by Spectral Lore, Dawn, Blut Aus Nord and Chaos Moon, among others.

In the beautiful opening track Αntaresian, a beyond atmospheric and enfolding start grows in intensity and darkness until exploding into visceral Black Metal where Jacob showcases all his dexterity with his fulminating beats and blazing riffs, as well as showing his deep passion for old school and modern-day extreme music, roaring with tons of anguish and despair in his blackened heart. And Jacob keeps firing unstoppable blast beats and fills, razor-edged guitar lines and rumbling bass punches, generating a massive wall of sounds that will penetrate deep inside your psyche in the 11-minute aria titled Frozen Star Divinization, a lecture in Atmospheric Black Metal infused with classic Black Metal nuances; whereas investing in a more obscure and menacing sonority by presenting elements from Blackened Doom and classic Doom Metal we have Terra Requiem, where Jacob’s riffage is absolutely mesmerizing, dragging us all into his Stygian lair forever and ever while the music flows majestically until the song’s epic finale.

The following aria, entitled Luminous Accretion, already starts in full force with Jacob hypnotizing our senses once again through his whimsical riffs and classic Black Metal drumming. Moreover, there’s not a single space left in the air, resulting in top-of-the-line Atmospheric Black Metal for lovers of the genre, or in other words, one of the most complete, detailed and therefore best extreme music songs of the past few years. And last but not least, we’re treated to Ataraxia Tunnels, sounding primeval and intense from the very first second thanks to Jacob’s thunderous drums and piercing riffs, not to mention the hints of Epic Metal added to its core musicality, and of course it’s not an Atmospheric Black Metal song if it doesn’t carry pensive, austere lyrics for our total delectation (“Visions conjure throughout / A delusion searing into memory / So vividly / Once compulsively wrought / Now imbued to confine a once-great mind / Forever”).

The sinister and obscure realms of Cosmic Black Metal ruled by Jacob and his Mare Cognitum can be further explored by following the project on Facebook and on Instagram, by streaming more of his wicked creations on Spotify and, above all that, by purchasing Solar Paroxysm from the project’s own BandCamp page, from the I, Voidhanger Records’ BandCamp page, from Metal Odissey in CD and double LP formats, or from Apple Music. Now suddenly so outwardly truculent and antagonistic, Mare Cognitum finally reveals the project’s true essence with Solar Paroxysm, inviting us all to join Jacob on a one way journey into madness and sorrow, with his Cosmic and Atmospheric Black Metal being everything we need to get lost in darkness for all eternity.

Best moments of the album: Frozen Star Divinization and Luminous Accretion.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2021 I, Voidhanger Records/Extraconscious Records

Track listing
1. Αntaresian 11:16
2. Frozen Star Divinization 10:59
3. Terra Requiem 10:35
4. Luminous Accretion 10:51
5. Ataraxia Tunnels 12:31

Band members
Jacob Buczarski – vocals, all instruments

Album Review – Hulder / Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry (2021)

The past is alive because the present is dead. With the glorious birth of Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry, long live Hulder!

One of the best-kept secrets hailing from the underground Black Metal scene, Portland, Oregon-based one-woman entity Hulder was formed back in 2018 as the sole work of the selfsame Hulder, whose real name is Marz Riesterer, a native of Mechelen, Belgium but currently residing in the United States. She quickly went to work on Hulder’s first demo released in 2018, titled Ascending the Raven Stone, ancient and regressive but with no shortage of technicality. Hulder then began crystalizing her aesthetic in her subsequent albums both in sheer sonics as well as visuals, culminating now in 2021 with her debut opus Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry. Recorded at De Pestkerk Studio and mixed at The Underworld Studio, this demonic opus is structured like a true album, with side one kicking in an utterly feral manner and cresting along to vicious wanderlust while side two furthers the synth mysticism and maintains a more triumphant aspect, with each of its eight tracks being deeply rooted in 90’s classicism, from the paganisms of earliest Enslaved  and Kampfar to the hypnotizing grit of classic Judas Iscariot. Supported by session drummer Necreon (Cauterized, Funebrarum, Trepanation), Hulder is on absolute fire throughout the entire album, offering our ears old school, raw Black Metal that’s utterly dynamic, engaging, nuanced and transportive, but undeniably physical in its pulsing vistas of darkness and mystery.

The opening track Upon Frigid Winds is pulverizing from the very first second, with Hulder beautifully growling the song’s Stygian words (“Almighty force of the damned / Awakened by eons of pain / Born of destruction and carnage / Brought to light once again / Upon frigid winds we ride / Blaze the path of retribution / Clashing of mere mortal weaponry / Force of evil remains eternal”). In other words, it’s classic, grim Black Metal, period. And our dauntless black metaller keeps darkening the skies in Creature of Demonic Majesty, blasting her guitars and bass mercilessly, therefore crafting a beyond menacing ambience while Necreon keeps smashing his drums nonstop; then inspired by the early days of renowned acts the likes of Immortal, Marduk and Mayhem, Hulder explodes our senses with the sulfurous Sown in Barren Soil, presenting an amazing job done with her piercing riffage, and always supported by the precise Necreon, of course. And it’s time to soothe our souls to the sound of the folk-infused, atmospheric tune titled De Dijle, where Hulder meticulously blends the sounds of nature with phantasmagorical keys and her trademark she-demon gnarls.

After such mesmerizing tune, Hulder offers our avid ears the mid-tempo Atmospheric Black Metal aria Purgations of Bodily Corruptions, once again boosting the song’s malignancy with her devilish keys and riffs, whereas Lowland Famine brings forward old school Black Metal in its purest form from start to finish, with the venomous she-wolf roars by Hulder being beautifully complemented by her Cradle of Filth-inspired keys. Put differently, the song effectively epitomizes Hulder’s talent and passion for extreme music; and switching gears to an atmospheric, almost shoegazing sonority Hulder captivates us all with her delicate vocals in A Forlorn Peasant’s Hymn, exploding into visceral Black Metal while displaying poetic lyrics barked by our one-woman army (“A trail of fallen kin lie before me / As far as my tired eyes can see / A bloodred horizon to illuminate my path / I hear their cries as they share in my agony”). Finally, let’s crack our necks headbanging to the menacing From Whence an Ancient Evil Once Reigned, where Hulder’s slashing riffage and low-tuned bass generate a massive wall of sounds enhanced by Necreon’s bestial drumming, putting a sensational conclusion to such inspiring and medieval album.

I guess I don’t need to say we have right in front of us one of the most detailed, organic and infernal albums of 2021, and we don’t need to listen to anything that will still be released this year to make such statement. Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry is a true gem of extreme music, making me wonder what’s next in the career of this talented Belgian-American metaller. Hence, don’t forget to give Hulder a shout on Facebook, to stream more of her awesome music on Spotify, and to purchase Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry in less than two weeks from several distinct locations including her own BandCamp page, the Iron Bonehead’s BandCamp page or webstore, Record Shop X and Apple Music. The past is alive because the present is dead. With the glorious birth of Godslastering: Hymns of a Forlorn Peasantry, long live Hulder!

Best moments of the album: Upon Frigid Winds, Sown in Barren Soil, Lowland Famine and A Forlorn Peasant’s Hymn.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2021 Iron Bonehead

Track listing
1. Upon Frigid Winds 3:22
2. Creature of Demonic Majesty 3:33
3. Sown in Barren Soil 4:43
4. De Dijle 6:33
5. Purgations of Bodily Corruptions 4:23
6. Lowland Famine 5:26
7. A Forlorn Peasant’s Hymn 6:03
8. From Whence an Ancient Evil Once Reigned 5:07

Band members
Hulder – vocals, all instruments

Guest musician
Necreon – drums (session)