Captain’s Best of 2011
[photo: painting by Brad Moore from Boldly Stride The Doomed] 2011 was certainly better than 2010, but that’s like saying a sinus infection is better than contracting lupus while falling down two flights of stairs, so …
Forteresse – Crépuscule d’Octobre Review
I like to think I’m the kind of person who doesn’t judge books by their cover, but I am, and I do. I also buy real LPs and CDs so I can enjoy the artwork …
Vektor – Outer Isolation Review
“Captain’s Log: Stardate 43205.6. The Enterprise has arrived at Orelious IX to chart the battle in which the Menthars and Promelians fought to their mutual extinction. Among the ruins, we have found a relic: a …
Dark Forest – Dawn Of Infinity Review
I like a good turkey sandwich; lightly toasted sourdough with some lettuce, tomato, spicy mustard and a bountiful pile of gobble-gobble is a combination that’s equipped to win. Unfortunately, it’s also a combo I’ve encountered …
Mournful Congregation – The Unspoken Hymns Review
We’ve already seen superb releases drop from all of metal’s varied branches this year. But when the dust eventually settles, 2011’s most celebrated sub-genres will be those that give a solemn nod to a very …
Vintage Hallows – King Diamond
Ahhh, 1986: Americans were sailing hiiiigh and happy, thanks in a large part to an aggressive pursuit of ‘faith and family values’ and bloated Reaganomics debt. But hey, at least the Contras loved us. And despite Ron’s wildly successful War …
Midnight – Satanic Royalty Review
Ohio’s Midnight is one of the best active bands you can still catch playing a show in someone’s shitty basement. Their live performance is a commanding spectacle that erupts with all the raw energy of …
Amebix – Sonic Mass Review
Like a lot of metal fans, my music collection is global as hell, but England’s contribution to my list of favorites is really pretty staggering. Most who know me have gotten relentless earfuls of my …