New Reviews 2/28/2010

Phoenix and the turtle-Swallow up the moon-CD (Fluttery Records)

Alt Indie pop in the that fragile, drifting, dream pop style that bands like The Gathering, Radiohead & Sigur Ros have made so popular. There is always that southern lazy style mixed in with slightly off key male and female vocals. Another band Phoenix and the turtle have a big love for is Mazzy Star as the guitar and tones of piano and simple but very well done bass and string arrangements make this a down right Beautiful sounding release . I really do wondering why so many of these bands do Ep's of material rather then just take the time to make full lengths gems. I would rather wait another 6-8 months and have a 60 minute title. Phoenix and the turtle could be ruling the college radio US airwaves right now for all I know as I'm that out of the loop. I just know what I like and its this... GET IT....

http://www.flutteryrecords.com/

Svarti Loghin- Drifting Through the void-CD (ATMF)

ATMF as a label really liked to press the boundaries of styles, sounds and creative expression. With Svarti Loghin what we clearly have here is a shoegazer style band - Curve, My Bloody valentine and Swervedriver that has a strong love for Black metal and occult esp in the Vocal style and dirgy way the guitars are presented at time. A time I swear I can even hear elements of bands like X, Swans and Neil Young... This is clearly not for metal fans but for those of you out there that like fringe music that can go from lush melodies to the most grim of black metal.. Track 4 to me sounds like a Pearl Jam song and you know I'm still a big fan of that band as there dissident tones and off key harmonies are a breathe of fresh air to most. The do what Godspeed you black emperor did they added southern slide guitar and old school americana / alt country sounds to the Post rock and Metallic elements. They go between these sounds on many tracks all in one song. Svarti Loghin is by far one of the most interesting projects I've heard... Look for an interview with this band if I can get one with them. Even if you hate this release it will make you a richer person by just the experience...

http://www.atmf.net/

An autumn for crippled children-Lost-CD (ATMF)

AAFCC is quiet a journey to stay the least its a mix of grim black metal, avant post rock, ethereal sounds all on a very progressive backdrop. I'm sure this will be a bumpy ride for some but for the ones like myself that like atmosphere in the music and many different layers to make it all the more original and interesting in a sea of sameness then this is a must have. This is for fans of bands like Azazel, Code, Ved Buen Ende etc. I really like the drifting and delicate sounds that are underlying on the raw black metal essence.. The vocals are tormented and maddening in projection. While the music always as a level of promise and hope to it. Like all of the world is not about to collapse on you at once. AAFCC does come close to Black noise at time but always pulls back with its melody and complexity to never do so at other times you would swear your listen to a Post Rock record from a band like Russian Circles or maybe even Rodan.... ATMF is a force to be noticed and respected. The have a very promising roster to this reviewer so support them now...

http://www.atmf.net/

Nyseius-Militiae-CD (ATMF )

Ah a very black ambient ritualistic into that brings up to what Nyseius is Blistering , massive and down right brutal black/death metal. I'm sure through the years now unless you are brand new to the dark side of metallic sound you know what a band like Nyseius is presenting. They have a lot in common with bands like Marduk, Dark Funeral and Gorgoroth in what is being pushed into a world with such marksmanship that it does impress me greatly. There are moment of bands like Mid period Satyricon and even some of the more experimental black metals Twilight, Leviathan and Brown Jenkins etc... Nyseius is in a long line of strong , talented avant black metallers. The vocals are very knife cutting in approach and you can hear everything so clear in the production too . There is a otherworldly element to the guitars and bass sounds do to the effects that come off them. Nyseius is all about the structure and arrangements of there songs withs is very important in this style of Black metal. I look forward to so much more from this projects. A blackened start in the neither realms of talent...

http://www.atmf.net/





Locrian territories-CD ( Basses Frequency/ Bloodlust!/Small Doses)

As you all clearly know I really like this Blackened Drone/ Industrial/ Noise band very much with this release the seem to have collabed with many people to make a more Noise/ Industrial meets jazzy release then the Drone Doom/ Noise that I know them for.. The line up of guests is very impressive and covers the metal, industrial and avant scenes . Andrew Scherer (VELNIAS), Mark Solotroff (BLOODYMINDED), Bruce Lamont (YAKUZA), and Blake Judd (NACHTMYSTIUM). Territories is all over the place as for the styles though as track 3 is a full on Black metal assault on the senses. Were some of tracks are just a Black Drone or noise manipulation. Locrian is always going to be interesting to me and many listeners as they refund to be in any kind of mold or style. Locrian is just that there Locrian and this is what makes a release like this so special.

http://www.myspace.com/thelocrian

Celestiial Interview is up 2/24/2010

Celestiial

http://bindrunerecordings.com/

1. "Where Life Springs Eternal" is your 2nd full release working with Bindrune. Your relationship seems strong with this label?

I do have a strong relationship with Bindrune. They aren't a label that will just release albums and then shut the door on everything else. Any band that has worked with Bindrune knows that. Their mission statement reflects their artists, and we stand behind Bindrune. Marty Rytkonen is a long-time friend of mine. I believe in his intentions with Bindrune and his passion for the underground as well as everything he has done over the years to support it. My other band, Obsequiae, is also due to release our debut on Bindrune next year.

2. With "Where Life Springs Eternal", I hear a lot of elements of DUSK (USA). Were they an influence at all? Especially with the nature intros and outros?

No, Dusk was not an influence on Celestiial. They were an incredible band (one of Wisconsin's most underrated next to Morbid Saint and Accidental Suicide) but I think that is an odd comparison honestly beyond the nature sounds you mentioned. To my ears, the music of Dusk was founded upon the bottom-end groove between the droning, chugging guitars and the percussive interplay. That drummer was such a melodic and powerful player. He articulated every nuance of the playing and milked it for all its worth. Again, a killer band. But Celestiial has little to nothing in common with a band like Dusk. If I understand the point of your question correctly, I'll mention here that the natural aspects in my compositions come from nature itself and my surroundings. They are a reaction to experiences with/within nature, not a reaction to another artist. I think that would be incredibly cheap.

3. Tanner, this seems to no longer be a solo project. Are Mr Walton (Bass) and Mr Glenn (Drums) full time members now?

It hasn't been a solo endeavor for some time, actually. Tim Glenn has been a member of Celestiial since 2006 immediately following the release of "Desolate North". Jason more recently offered his talents at the close of 2008. I don't know what exactly would define "full-time" either. We all are involved in our respective bands outside of Celestiial. But I'm pleased with the balance we've created and hope to continue working and developing together with this line-up.

4. Celestiial, in the most humble of words, is what Doom music is to me. Where did the ideas of ultra-slow and very organic sounds of "Where Life Springs Eternal" come from?

As I said earlier, Celestiial is a response to experience. "Where Life Springs Eternal" focuses on themes of slow development and growth as well as Spring which the title implies. With a recording like this, you can hear silence just as much as breath in the instruments over the static pulse. The repetition of ice-melt, the thawing of soil, the early signs of life and the first storms that drive the isolation of winter away from us are the musical themes that we wished to achieve on this recording. "Where Life Springs Eternal" isn't "riffy". The music just exists and belongs almost in the same manner as the sounds of Spring on the album.

5. Will Celestiial ever perform live or is it something that you cannot see happening?

I think it's inevitable. But it isn't a priority right now. Having played in several bands, I know the preparation and patience it takes to deliver something convincing in a live setting. Celestiial is unique because it has never been revealed in that light. But we do actively rehearse and the "live" sound in our rehearsal space is incredible. It ultimately comes down to what opportunity might present worthwhile.

6. Tanner, how are the guitar tones created for Celestiial? What kind of drop-tuning is done as the guitars are so low and molasses like? They're just simply achingly beautiful.

Thank you for those words. I fear I'm going to say too much about the technical end of this or come across as something I'm not. I am a listener and enthusiast first and foremost. I don't think there is anything less interesting than people who obsess over their instruments and gear. But I do acknowledge the question just as much as I recognize that I did, in truth, spend a fair amount of time creating a unique sound that can be identified as Celestiial.

The guitars are actually tuned to E flat standard. So they aren't dropped to any extreme at all. For the heavier low-end, I primarily play chords in fourths to give that brooding dirge. With the right amp settings, it can sound almost heavier than something down-tuned because it's tighter and crisper than the low end on looser strings when you downtune to A or something ridiculously low. Even older bands like Timeghoul utilized that technique with a standard tuning to create a sound that appeared abysmally lower than it actually was. I also use Mesa Cabinets with a lot of watts pushing that dirge.

I've read in various reviews the mentioning of "keyboards". I don't use synthesized instruments of any sort beyond loop pedals. I never have. The higher melodic parts are a lightly distorted guitar that are harmonized and caked in reverb to create a more distant patch of sonic space. The most distinguishable aspect with the guitars that I can mention is that nothing on "Where Life Springs Eternal" was played without using a volume swell. The actual "strike" of every chord is completely absent. The impact from striking the strings occurred at no volume and then it was swelled in with volume. As a result, you hear waves of distortion without any discernable beginning. So it sounds less like a guitar and more like a distorted pulse. This replicates a breath and that was important for the theme of "Where Life Springs Eternal". It was performed as though the pulse of this music was in fact living, breathing and not removed from its influence.

7. Is there a running theme behind "Where Life Springs Eternal"?

"Where Life Springs Eternal" was entirely improvised. So it's a little different to explain what the intentions were beforehand, what the intentions were during the recording and our impressions with the final result. I did address the focus and themes earlier.

The title is specific to place, season and something that is without beginning or end. And it was chosen because of an experience I had as a child growing up in the country outside Scandia, MN. There was nothing around our house except tall pines and fields. And I couldn't honestly say if this recollection was from a dream or an actual memory. I suppose in the end all we have are blurry memories from our early life. But I do remember my mother gardening outside and I was left alone in the front of the house. It was so cold but the sun just seemed to burn through my clothes and it kept me warm. I don't remember how this came to happen but there was a moment I can recall in the same day where I was just staring at the sun and the clouds breaking around it. I felt something I simply cannot describe. And, as a boy, it was particularly profound. It existed without time or purpose. But it was the feeling of something beyond taking me and giving me this feeling of security and strength through the warmth of the sun. This is the place where life springs eternal for me or even, perhaps, the moment. I'm sure that sounds a little bizarre. But I don't think it's unusual to have experiences like that, especially as a child. This has been something that has stuck with me my entire life. And it does capture the obscure beauty and allure of nature in everything it offers.

8. I thought I read somewhere that you signed with Glass Throat Recording for next full-length? Are you going to be working with Chet's label (of Black owl/ Ruhr Hunter fame).

No, I'm not sure how that rumor came to be? Chet and Rachel are amazing artists. But we've never discussed any releases on Glass Throat.

9. I was very curious as to the reason for the vinyl-only release of split you did with Blood of the Black Owl. Many people had no way to listen to it as they do not have turn tables. Will there ever be a digital or CD release for these tracks?

Chet, Marty and I all felt that we wanted to release something special and exclusive to vinyl. And you really can't make anything better than 180 gram black wax mastered by an audio wizard like Mell Dettmer.

10. The album was recorded by Andrew of the band Fog. They are mysterious force in their own right. How did the recording session come about and are you pleased with the outcome?

Tim Glenn is the drummer for Fog as well as Celestiial (and countless others). That is the immediate connection but Andrew has become a great friend the past couple years. The guy is just so talented, insightful, collected and sincere. He’s one of those people whose own inspires you by his presence. He knew exactly what I was looking for and he knows a lot about recording and executing experimental and ambient music. And he knows his way around a studio. I'm extremely pleased with how he captured the sound.

11. Tanner, you seem to like to stay low profile with no official site for Celestiial and let the music do all the real talking. Will there ever be a proper site for Celestiial?

The music should speak for itself, yes. It is out of my respect for this band's intentions to honor the natural world it celebrates. That means removing it from modernity as I see fit. That might sound a little arrogant, but I can't bring myself to find a need for an official website or anything like that. There were times when I stumbled upon reviews or whatnot mentioning "keyboards" or "synths" in the music, etc. I debated setting straight the misinformed. But what's the purpose? Who ultimately cares? I've even seen two online journalists criticize me for being reclusive with this band for the sake of creating mystique. It's bullshit but I guess if you don't want to play their game, you're asking for those kinds of reactions. I'd like to point out that answering interviews isn't "low profile". Playing in live bands where I can be approached isn't "low profile". An artist should stand behind his art. And I do that. There is no need for anything else.

12. Where do you see Celestiial's future releases going or do you not ever go that far with the future of this project?

We're currently rehearsing material for the next album "The Sylvan Breath". A majority of the material was written over the past two years since the split with Blood of the Black Owl. An album like "Where Life Springs Eternal" was a recording that needed to happen. But it wasn't structured prior to recording it. And that gives it a unique charm. However, the works composed for "The Sylvan Breath" are composed and rehearsed. The melodic tones of the distorted guitar will be prominent as opposed to past works where the overtones of harmonized swells took precedence. Most notably, all of the material is quite fast. Both with the guitars and the drums. I think the sound we are moving toward is everything I hoped this band could become. And I truly mean that. If all goes as planned, we will begin recording this summer.

13. Thank you again any closing thoughts please place here...

Thank you, Clint. Persevere.

ARES KINGDOM Interview up 2/22/2010

http://www.ares-kingdom.com/


1. This is the 1st time I've heard Ares Kingdom I know you came out of few well know Death/Thrash metal forces. Tell us a bit about the band?

Mike and I have been playing together since 1986, and have known one another since 1973. In 1987 we formed Order From Chaos, recorded three albums, several singles and mini-LPs, and according to plan, stopped the band after the third album in 1995. In 1996 we formed Ares Kingdom, released our demo in 1997 and played as a two-piece until around 2000 when we enlisted Doug on bass and Alex on vocals. We recorded a live-in-the-studio 7" EP titled "Chaosmongers Alive" for Agonia Records in 2003. In 2004 we began recording our debut album, which we finished in December 2005. We released a teaser single in January 2006, titled "Firestorm Redemption," while the full CD and LP of "Return to Dust" was released in May 2006. Also that year we reconfigured the line-up and moved Doug to rhythm guitar, and Alex took up bass in addition to vocals, a position he held in his previous band, Nepenthe. In fall 2007 we released a 12" single titled "Failsafe," and in 2008 compiled our demo and vinyl-only material on a CD called "Firestorms and Chaos." We began recording our latest album, "Incendiary" in February 2009 and wrapped things up last September.

2. With Incendiary you have that classic power Heavy thrash sound that came from California and Germany in the late 80/ early 90's what this the mission to begin with?

The mission was to put out the best album we could; one that reflected the core of our formative influences, which as you have identified, are traceable to those traditions - and back even further.

3. Your working with a label I know very little about Nuclear War Now! how did this come about and are happy to be with a label that seems to understand the classic thrash metal sound.

Sure, we wouldn't have it any other way, and NWN is the perfect home for us. We're old fashioned and believe an album release should be an event that your fans really anticipate, and you don't get fans anticipating, the way we define it, anyway, by not pouring maximum effort into every aspect - music, lyrics and packaging. NWN is a unique label that allows us almost free-rein to do whatever we want. Where "Return to Dust" was a strong debut, "Incendiary" improves on those ideas and takes them to even greater extremes.

4. Is there a theme behind the songs on Incendiary?

Incendiary explores several topics, although you can point to anti-complacency being an overarching theme present in most lyrics - to greater or lesser extents. Historical events or ideas were my frame of reference for the lyrics, which tackle subjects as varied as religious extremism (Incendiary), the Creation vs. Evolution debate (Descent of Man), elitism and nihilism (Beasts that Perish), anti-complacency and the dangers of appeasement (Gathering the Eagles), and the Chernobyl disaster of 1986 (Abandon in Place).

5. Whats you thoughts on the modern digital age. Do you feel mp3s and torrent site make it too easy more bands to get the music out there?

Too easy? Perhaps. Torrents and file sharing are the tape trading of the new millennium, but unless I'm imagining it, there is a new and younger breed out there that aren't concerned with the aesthetics of a release and view new music as a place holder or distraction in their lives - rather than the way we were - where it was our lives.

6. Do most new bands need more time to really develop?

Sure they do. No matter how long the individuals in the band have been playing, chemistry is key, and if a band lacks it, it doesn't matter how great one guy is, the band itself will suffer. AK has the advantage of having known one another for decades and developed a chemistry to match.

7. Is there a big different in styles or sounds between releases or is more just natural growth?

I think the biggest difference is that the new songs are more focused and cohesive than ever. A by-product of us having been together so long. This is not a project back where we get together every so often to record an album or play some shows, we do this at least twice a week, 52 weeks a year. So for us its natural growth for sure.

8. Live are the arrangements very different from the releases or its more just about the power of the live show?

We try to play our stuff live in the same arrangements as they were recorded. We are also graduates of the Venom school of live performance where we allow attitude and spontaniety rule.

9. Your guitar work really stands out like the old days on thrash Testament, Sodom, Exodus and Forbidden to my ears. Are solos and harmony guitars the way metal really gets its sound across . I feel many bands are missing that today whats your thoughts?

I think there are many ways for metal to make its point, and its seldom the same from one band to the next, though there are certain qualities or practices a few of us resort to naturally, and the dueling guitars idea is certainly very effective.

As for bands missing a way to make an effective point with their music, I think there are many reasons. The biggest in my mind is that many folks have learned to play an instrument - but never learned the art behind writing a good song. Perhaps they're not interested in challenging and applying themselves to originality, or perhaps they're just not able. I'm sure its something to be considered case-by-case, but certainly not for me to care about. But this is also why you have entire scenes full of bands endlessly imitating a certain band or album or trend. Of course this attitude only pays tribute to the excellence of the original inspiration and leaves the imitators in the position of being pretenders to the throne.

10. If there was one band Ares Kingdom could tour with who would it be an why?

Probably Destructor. Our formative influences are similar, yet both they and we are interpreting what we've learned through our own personalities which gives our bands distinct and unique qualities that would compliment one another very well...should we ever get to share a stage. Plus they're all diamond guys to hang out with.

11. Are there heathen elements in your sounds I feel that I hear them very strongly am I mistaken?

I don't think so. There are bigger philosophical fish to fry and that whole schtick has been done so many times before, I have no interest in adding even 2 cents to the mix.

12. Your website is impressive its nice to see a band in this day and age with more then just a myspace page. Tell us a bit what you want from the site it seems to be a labor of love...

Thanks, that's Alex's domain. He's got a great vision and eye for website design. Having a Myspace and/or Facebook page is important to bands in this day and age, but you should have a true homepage as well. At least that's what we think.

13. Just wondering what your thoughts were about Chaos from Order Reunion after the Angelcorpse 2nd phase ended??? I feel Ares Kingdom is much more powerful a project just from the one CD I've heard so far..

The Order From Chaos reunion is not permanent and there will be no new music from that band. Just a handful of shows for newer fans that never saw us back in the day. Then its over. You're correct, AK is a far more powerful and better developed band than OFC was, and while OFC deserves credit for what it did and represents to us, there's no reason to hang one's hat on it and call it a day.

14. Thank you for the time any closing thoughts here....

Thanks very much. Keep an eye on our websites for show dates and other up-to-the-minute news updates. Die hard!

New Reviews 2/20/2010 @ Absolute Zero Media

Bleiburg- Indivisibiliter Ac Inseparabiliter-CD (Eastern Front)

MMMM this is very interesting in the fact it goes from Neoclassic to Trip hopish midevial folk music. I have not heard any vocals as of yet with the two track I'm listening to but there are clearly German wartime samples that come in and out of the 2nd track. The more I dig into this release its about the End of The Austrian / Hungarian Empire . I know I'm more then most likely not doing this project justice but If Changes and Death in June added sounds from Massive attack and Tricky to the style. You would have something very close here. As we move more along in the release we have a more Martial industrial/ Neo Classic straight attack of strings, drones, war drums and war cries / spoke word call to arms.. I can hear a strong love of Novy Svet and Spiritual Front with this project as well as I can hear too moments of Ataraxia too. Over all this is a stunning release from the music to layout to just the presentation of how all the tracks are arranged. For my 2nd real step into Eastern front releases. I'm very impressed. Neo Folk CD's I have long forgotten may inspire my player again.

http://theeasternfront.org/

Gregorio Bardini & Gerstein- arise of a bleeding rose-CD (Eastern Front)

I don't know what quite to think of this release as its almost like an electro industrial martial project. I don't know if the electro dance beat work with the very very classic neo folk elements in the vocals and flutes and strings overlaying those beats. I'm going to give this a few tracks to see. Sometime I almost feel this project bands to be an old 80's No wave/ electro goth project IE. Joy Division and Love and Rockets ... The singer at times sounds like Peter Murphy then other times he sounds like Brendan Perry of Dead can dance... track 4 has a very dark Ethno Industrial vibe about it I'm really like this track. I hope to hear more of this very impressive. This whole synth pop with Martial elements is really grating on me there are some great Idea's here just not enough to make me want to listen to them a 3rd or more times. There is just too much of mash up going on here and its everywhere. I get the same feeling I got with People like US releases or Negativeland there there are flashes of greatness in a sea of just way too annoying.

http://theeasternfront.org/

LES DISCRETS- Septembre Et Ses Dernières Pensées-CD (Prophecy Productions)

This is really the sound as of late that has been what France Avant Metal or Post metal bands have been getting known for. I love this mix of styles and sounds. Les Discrets are just that a mix of Emperor, Opeth, Arcturus, Mogwai and My Bloody Valentine all in one glorious burst of sound and awe. The guitars are massive and verb filled the vocals are almost operatic in nature but still have the choir like metal sound that Emperor made so classic. The strings and bass fill the tracks with a very homelike feeling that you are sitting infront of the fires waiting for your loved ones to come home and join you in a wonderful winters night. The prog elements come in the drumming and arrangements of the tracks. Septembre reminds me of 1st Alcest and the 1st Two Old Dead tree releases. Both French bands and majestic in there own rights. I really feel this band has a strong love for Dan Swano , Devin Townsend and Mike of Opeth. As the songs are created in such a mature manner and every sound seems to be needed to be in right place or they will just fall apart. Bands like this let the Bleak and Sorrow filled tunes speak as there is just a taste of hope and promise in each riff to never fall into the full goth layers but its oh so close. Les Descrets is a fantastic new addition to an already overly impressive roster of Prophecy Production. A must listen..
http://prophecyproductions.de/



The Breathing Process-Odyssey Undead-CD (Seige of Amida/Candlelight USA)

Modern Black Death metal I guess you would call what Breathing Process. I hear almost of Melodic Nu Death metal elements mixed with Grind and Black metal . Its almost like if Morbid Angel, Dimmu Borgir and Kill Switch Engage all in one very powerful and massive sounding band to say the least. There are a lot similar elements to The Breathing Process and Abigail Williams in the flowing guitars, synths and the death vox presented here. The Breathing Process also adds in a few industrial elements never to over kill the sound but in the same way Strapping young lad did just to make the sound futuristic and a bit more machine like in the overall presentation. Odyssey Undead has a very prog sounding organ element from time to time that reminds me of Amorphis or Moontower by Dan Swano.. This is by no means a one trick pony . The Breathing Process is a complex and compelling listen that challenges the listener with Clean and Death vocals, melodic vs brutallic riffs , Prog and Symphonic pieces and a classical edge all in the tracks the come forth from this release. Take a chance this will impress you I think....

http://candlelightrecordingsusa.com/


Lair of the Minotaur- Evil Power-CD (Grindhouse/Southern Lord)

For a thrashing good time call 1800 Minotaur that what this who release should say. As this band to me reminds me of the 80/90's dirty side of thrash metal from California and Germany. Lair of the Minotaur is fueled on Booze, Broads and Badass Riffs. They remind me of Cathedral at times as this voice is so close to Lee Dorian. If this comes across as odd so be it but do any of you have Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love reaction releases well Lair of the Minotaur remind me full on of a more pissed off version of them with heavy doses of Coroner and Venom thrown in for good measure... This band is so DIY they have even started there own label to release there Cds and other bands they like called Grind House helped by the mighty Southern Lord label.. Lair of the Minotaur is METAL as METAL can be its that .. Do you really need more don't be a pussy and get this as its just plain ASS KICKING !!!!!!

http://www.thegrind-houserecords.com/




Ares Kingdom-Incendiary-CD (Nuclear War Now)

Classic Thrash mixed with the Dawn of Death metal on the field with a flag for the original Black metal guard. Incendiary is fast, raw, angry and most of all METAL!!!! I love the old school throaty thrash metal vocals. Ares Kingdom has hooks and riffs that go on for miles as well. Makes me want to get the denim jacket out make it into a vest and plaster patches all over the SOB!!!!. The solos are so 80's thrash metal too with the split/ dueling leads and these guitarist know how to shred let me tell ya. Nuclear War Now I know almost nothing over but if there harboring the classic thrash and death metal sound in there labels roster I really need to hear more. These kind of releases always put a smile to my face. Ares Kingdom must be amazing like or at least I hope so as great thrash is so rare together. There is even an instrumental track on here HORNS UP for that. Ares Kingdom is a essential Metal listen enough said....

http://www.nwnprod.com/

New Reviews 2/14/2010 @ Absolute Zero Media

Celestiial- Where Life Springs Eternal-CD (Bindrune Recordings)

This is a very personal release for me as Celestiial mixes some of the best elements in all of Doom and Industrial music for me to make a release that sends shivers down my spine to say the least. If you love Swans, Godflesh and Ancient Wisdom then Where life springs eternal will be a Industrial Doom masterpiece to you. I love the ambient very Dusk (USA) like elements incorperated into the over all release. Bindrune seems to love to mix the Heathen/ Nature based ideal to there bands. Tanner as added Jason Walton of (Nothing and Agalloch) into the mix by having him play bass and master it. There is a very funeral doom element to this I love the slow plodding and over all haunting nature of this release very epic sounding as well this band really loves Ancient Wisdom for its Slow Blackened Doom sound. The verb washed over the release really makes it all the more special to listen to. Tanner Anderson with is 2nd full length under the name Celestiial is just a magical and mysterious journey I hope to re live over and over again.

http://bindrunerecordings.com/

Blood for the black owl- A Banishing Ritual-CD (Bindrune Recordings)

So lets start with a slight back story on this project Chet who also has Ruhr Hunter and runs a wonderful label called Glass Throat with is wife Rachel was very interested in Doom metal and Ritualistic metallic sounds as well so Blood for the black owl was born. Chet is on his 3rd release for this project and I have to say this is the most experimental of all the journeys and most similar to Ruhr hunter. With Blood for the black owl we seem to have Ambient Drone, Native American Rituals and Doom metal all into a very beautiful packed Heathen belief going on. If you by chance mix Earth, Skepticism and Wolves in the throne room you gave a very clear vision on where Mr Scott wants this project to be taking into. There is a raw element to all of this as well but that where the layers just make it all the more interesting. A Banishing Ritual has a very left field Neurosis style going on from time to time . From the buzz going on with this project it seem this maybe very well the last Blood for the black owl release and that would be a huge shame as I think with this title the project has finally found its own very original sound. I would love to see this project live if they ever can come to the Southwest esp Arizona I would try at all cost to see them.

http://bindrunerecordings.com/


Nechochwen- Azimuths to the Otherworld-CD (Bindrune Recordings)

So what do we have here Native American, Prog Black Metal???? does that really make any sense?? I hope it does as I have no where elese to go with this release. Nechochwen have a strong love for all things Thrash metal do in they way the Black metal is presented. There are very lovely acoustic moments mixed with what almost sounds like to me if Opeth were a black metal band. Azimuths has a very spirtual overtone going on here there is nothing holding that back. I love the thrash metal almost Ihsahn or Devin Townsend sounding solos going on. The productions is a bit thin but I think that is very much done on purpose as when the acoustic moments happen its a much fuller sounding release. I hate to use the word Post Black metal or Indie Black metal but there in similar sounds as those genres. The clean vocals do work very well. I almost want to say they have a viking metal sound but there not viking metal in anyway. Nechochwen is a very interesting project to say the least and an adventure in the making for many of you including me.

http://bindrunerecordings.com/



AVSKY-SCORN-CD (Moribund Cult)

Avsky is the reason why cold grim raw black metal in the most traditional sense will never die. As it just kicks major ass. You have the love the sore throat and tortured vocals, Ultra high end buzzing guitars, the low end rumbles of the bass guitar and the simple yet very effective drumming that the early innovative bands from Norway, Sweden and Germany so effectively created and not lost site on. Avsky is just down right evil. The haunting effected overtones are what you come to look for if your a fan of bands like Marduk, Darkthrone, Graveland and Xasthur just to name a few then this is going to make you very pleased. Sometimes Black metal just needs to be Black metal .....

http://moribundcult.com/



BLOOD CULT- We are the Cult of the Plains-CD (Moribund Cult)

What, where, who and ummm huh??? What the hell and where did you find Blood cult. This sounds like the Guns and roses of southernied Black metal. I don't know if I'm even suppose to take this serious as they have 70's guitar rock moments mixed with axl rose like vocals and Black metal lyrics and musical moments and then from no where come in grim and death vocals?? I think Moribund may have lost me totally on this one. The 3rd track starts with a surf rock drum style . Blood Cult again this is one of the most unusual bands I've ever heard. Maybe they are the Black rebirth of Deadhorse as they seem to have some very similar ties in what both bands were presenting. Blood Cult will take many listens to see if I really like this or just were thrown into shock by what I'm hearing... There are even stoner rock moment going on here. WTF... More power to ya Blood Cult this is not an easy listen by any means...

http://moribundcult.com/




Alcest- Ecallies De Lune-CD (Prophecy Productions)

With this release it is my second travels with Alcest . They have changed a few things and others have just been expanded upon. Alcest still very much travels between the realms of Shoegazers and Black metal with many Post rock moments along the way. Alcest has a very hypnotic feeling in the way the guitars, synths and drums are echoed through out the release. The vocals go from very clean sung and delicate vocals to some very very grim and tormented moments. Alcest seems to have many parallel visions with Velvet Cacoon. Maybe its just me but the isolationist vibe is very strong in both and they both really seem to not give a shit what others thing and seem in pain to make there music there muse and vision of the world through there eyes.. I may have said this the last time but I swear this is the black metal incarnation of Catherine Wheel or Swervedriver.... The only think I really miss on this release and it does make it a bit less majestic is the female vocals that were here the last time.. Other then this Alcest is just a breathe taking multi layered and complex band that will never let you down if you let the avant be the norm...

http://prophecyproductions.de/



Hollow Branches- Anchored in Sleep-CD (Strix Records)

Mr Jason Walton come into this review cluster again this time with something very different. This is very much a Post Rock/ Trip Rock/ Ambient project . Hollow Branches seems to be a creation by Robert Hunter and Marius Sjøli . I'm rather impressed by the sounds that are going on here. If you like 3rd and the Mortal, Gathering, Ulver and Dead can dance this is going to be a mindblowing experience for you to listen to . There are some truly noisey moments but it never becomes a distraction to the vibrant clean guitars that at times become fuzzed out, the warn very prog band tones and the jazzy laid back druming that is needed . There are many other sounds and textures going on but you will hear them esp I think that is an auto harp as you are entwined by the beauty that is called Hollow Branches. All 3 of these gentlemen are what I would call modern day composers esp with these releases. They have a similar sound to Caanan at band on Eibon records as well from time to time if any of you know of them. So if I had to and I hate using the term there is a Gothic element to Hollow Branches but it is not over powering by any means. I could very well see a band like this on 4AD, Projekt, Play it again same or even Young God labels. They seem to live thousands of miles apart as well but with today modern recording and digital needs this is not longer an issue I know this 1st hand as I haven't lived near my musical partner in 7 yrs now. Hollow Branches was a very pleasant surprise indeed you need to check them out as well.

http://www.myspace.com/hollowbranches

SOKROVENNO Interview is up @ AZM 2/7/2010

SOKROVENNO

http://www.myspace.com/bandsokrovenno

1. For those of us new to the band a background would be great.

Sokrovenno is a band with many influences, musically and lyrically. I am fascinated by wild nature and eastern European post-modern landscapes. I wanted to mix this with something that belongs to my culture. First because I hate hearing (and of course reading) about stupid teenager topics, second because I really love our Latin past.

2. Your sound to my ears is a mix of Ritual/ Nature Based Post Black metal
and the days of Nordic Black metal aggression are you fans of Bands like
Agalloch and Wolves in the throne room they seem to be Kindred spirits?

I find it difficult to fit our music in the Black Metal scene even though it’s the simplest way to describe it. About Nordic BM: I recognise the importance of Scandinavian bands in the birth of this genre but, from my point of view, there’s no “true Norwegian trade mark” which can prevent those bands from getting worse and worse. Moreover, it’s really funny finding on Myspace people who promote their selves as Norwegian, as if the music is of secondary importance. The most interesting news come from middle and eastern Europe; Particularly France. Swedish bands still have something to say. I’ve always been sceptical about the American scene. There is some band, like Agalloch, which deserves the notoriety they have but I can’t find anything new or interesting in bands like Wolves In The Throne Room and I really would like someone to explain for me how did Leviathan, Xasthur, Twilight become famous. If they were European I think that wouldn’t have happened.

3. Your working with Bleak Art Records how did that come to be?

I think it’s a normal friendly work relationship.

4. What does SOKROVENNO mean its very interesting name?

It’s Russian. I found it translated as “the most holy woods”. It also has to do with the spirituality of an individual. It also expresses my eastern philia. I think someone thought a Russian name sounds strange to a band that sings in Italian and Latin. These people probably also think we have nationalistic aims, which we are quite the opposite.

5. De Rerum Natura seems to have been recorded in 2007 what is the reason
behind over 2 yrs to release it on proper label?

It’s a very troubled story. There have been problems with our first graphic designer and contract priority the label had to achieve before it could invest on our promotion. Moreover the print implant made an error in the laser print on the disc and we had to print all the cds again.

6. Sokrovenno being form Italy with a long history of great Black and Death
metal bands and labels did this influence your sound esp with labels like
Avantgarde, Eibon and My Kingdom Music being there and releasing so many
great band?

Italy sometimes surprises me. I’m not so willing to speak highly of my nation. But recently I understood there is a huge variety of situations here. From Excellence to complete shit. This includes every aspect of Italian society. Speaking about music, there have been important names develop here in the past. Necrodeath, Bulldozer and Mortuary Drape were important names years ago. I still can’t explain why, at some point, they got lost in the metal scene. In the last few years a new wave of promising bands is raising but it seems they haven’t the strength to break Italian borders and make it to the international scene. I also think there are prejudices within the metal scene. Anyway, apart from Janvs in a small way, I didn’t get influenced by Italian bands nor labels.

7. Does Sokrovenno like to perform at all or is it more just a studio
project?

At first I didn’t like the idea of performing live. I don’t like the behaviour of bands and fans at concerts. When I heard a friend of mine talking about Kanwulf of Nargaroth leaving the scene in Desenzano, offended by the flashes of the cameras I laughed out loud. I don’t like the idea of being a rock star and I don’t aim to notoriety for me as a person. Performing live gives bodies to the music and my concept is different. On the other hand, a band can certainly build publicity in this way, people will need to understand our approach is different, So, this way there are no objections.

8. There is a large mix of acoustics, Death/Black and Doom metal going on
wth your CD was it hard to create in studio or was it just natural
progression?

It was our first professional studio recording so we had to get confident before optimizing the work. Apart from that it came pretty natural. There are no weird instruments or particularly complicated parts. Facing a metronome for the first time can create some problems to someone but I’ve been studying music for years now and I always use it.

9. I read that some of the lyrics were inspired by I Century b.C.
Lucretius. tell us about this?

I really like that guy. Everything that had to be said about the evil influence of religion on society has been written by now. Lucretius is one of those authors and he had the ability of writing some of the most beautiful verses Roman culture gave birth to.

10. Are Sokrovenno fans of the modern digital age of mp3s, podcasts and
webzines or do you find it too easy to get you name out before a band is
truly ready??

I’m am not a moralist and I hate people who do it. I don’t think there should be someone to decide whether a band is ready or not. There is the public for that opinion. I think it’s up to the listeners to decide. I’ll give you an example: Svartthron promoted himself some years ago as little genius who produced a shitty album at the age of 18. I listened to his stuff and I think he’d better kept it for himself. But who am I to decide for others? About mp3s and digital age.. the same. I read interview where bands say “aaahhh, those beautiful ancient times”.. I think these people should grow up.

11. What would a DVD release from the band be like more a movie/ Theme
format or collection of songs just in video format. I can see a very visual
end to your music..

I never thought of a dvd. Sokrovenno videos would probably fit Negura Bunget style.

12. Are the members of Sokrovenno followers of the old heathen ways or does
this just come to play as a theme for the music?

You make me laugh this way. Heathenism is not a theme of our music. When I point my finger at religion, I am not looking at one in particular. It’s the religious ritualistic behaviour. Paganism is not different and I can’t stand with people going in a woods gathering around a stone, holding other’s hands and acting like hippies. But the funniest thing is that if you tell them they are hippies they get angry because of course they hate hippies! So, Shit on those left handed sons of flowers, pretending to be neo-fascists. Do you see some similarity with a band called Graveland? I do…

13. thank you for the time any closing thoughts here..

Thanks to you, nothing to add.