Category: Reviews
Runemagick – Into Desolate Realms Review
In music, true economy is rare. There are, of course, essentially an infinite number of ways to make a musical point. Variations in instrumentation, melody, rhythm, harmony, tone, and so on enable musicians to paint …
Vastum – Orificial Purge Review
[Artwork by Laina Terpstra (no relation to Niki Terpstra)] Death metal may forever be maligned by its detractors as simply “dumb.” In general, it’s an unfair label that reveals a shallow digging into what is …
The Lone Madman – Let The Night Come Review
[Artwork by Timo Ketola] A number of articles have been written over the years detailing Finland’s unique connection to metal. Most of these works have played the numbers game, underscoring the curious truth that no …
Malevich – Our Hollow Review
Most good bands conjure anthropomorphized versions of themselves. Maybe it’s just me, but stick with the premise for a moment. Power metal is a soaring metallic eagle like the cover of Screaming for Vengeance, with …
Howling Southerlies: Distant Fear, Malevolence, And Kruor Noctis
Kia ora, cuz. Spring has sprung in Aotearoa New Zealand. Although, you wouldn’t know it given the howling wind and freezing rain currently trying to destroy my Hobbit hole. Still, miserable weather seems like a …
1349 – The Infernal Pathway Review
1349 isn’t exactly a band that does things unexpectedly. Sure, Revelations of the Black Flame saw them taking on more atmosphere and ambience, but it kinda sucked, so they quickly course-corrected to their roots. For …
Exhumed – Horror Review
Innovation is great and all, but what about dependability? Familiarity? Pushing boundaries is a necessary part of artistry, but excellence remains excellent, be it in some newfound territory or well within the confines of the …
Ray Alder – What the Water Wants Review
Throughout the years (dating back to the late 80s) Ray Alder has brought endless joy to fans of progressive music in Fates Warning, Redemption, his work as a guest vocalist with Dream Theater, Mirrormaze and …