Kosmogonia/Aella/Rockshot Records/2025 Full Length Review

 

  Kosmogonia  are  a  band  from  Greece  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  mixture  of  folk,  pagan  and  melodic  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2025  album  "Aella"  which  was  released  by  Rockshot  Records.

  Keyboards  and  spoken  words  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Female  vocals  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  harsh  vocals  are  mostly  death  metal  growls  along  with  some  folk  instruments  also  being  added  into  certain  sections  of  the  recording.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts,  a  couple  of  tracks  are  also  long  and  epic  in  length  as  well  as  some clear  male  vocals   and  spoken  word  also  being  used  on  a  few  tracks.

  On  this  recording  Kosmogonia  remain  true  to t her  mixture  of  folk,  pagan  and  melodic  death  metal  that  they  introduced  on  their  previous  release.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  encounter  between t he  Scythian  princess  and  the  Greek mercenary  Lykkon.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Kosmogonia  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  folk,  pagan  and  melodic  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Rise"  "Scheme  And  Rebirth"  "Elixer"  and  "Oblivion".  8  out  of  10.

  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kosmogonia_official/​

​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kosmogoniafolk  

Emergenz Interview

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band?

Emergenz formed in December of 2024 from the fragments of different bands. We define our music as Franconian Black/Death Metal. This is not a strict definition rather a kind of scaffold to give some idea where we come from and what to expect when tuning in. We are a small band with small following. We are happy share our thoughts and listen to yours. 

2.Recently you have released your first full length, musically how does it differ from your previous demo’s?

The demos we released earlier were self-produced songs from our album ‚becoming none‘. During 2025 our vocalist and lyricist assembled existing songs into a concept album. In this form we presented the album live at Witchrites 2025 where we received good feedback. Therefore we made the decision to produce the album professionally with Andy Claßen at Stage One studio.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music?

‚'becoming none' is a concept album. From the first song to the last, we tell stories about life, memories, self-doubt and inner conflict, unfolding metaphorically through the journey of a protagonist wandering through a Franconian forest in autumn, until he ultimately accepts his own inevitable finitude and fades away. 

In this sense, becoming none stands for the realization that life, reflected through the forest, simply continues without the actions of the individual. This also carries a comforting element. One can find peace in the knowledge that one does not have to be special, and that in the end, one’s own transience is simply part of existence, and that this is okay.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name ‚Emergenz'?

‚Emergenz‘ (engl.: emergence) is a phenomenon known from different fields in science. It roughly describes a system showing behavior which is not deducible from the properties of the different components in the system. The phrase ‚the whole is more than the sum of its parts‘ could be referred to here. Only through the interaction between the different components with their respective properties an emergent system can be described. This is also true for our music. Our guitarists have been playing and composing together for more than 15 years. Their ideas are unleashed by the skills of our drummer and bassist while our vocalist and lyricist gives a unique touch to every song, works out the concept and arranges each song within the album.

5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

We worked together with a wonderful artist creating aquarelles for each song. These paintings reflect the most relevant scene described in each of the songs. From the beginning of the journey to the end the protagonist enters the Franconian forest and, step by step, fades into nothingness, becoming none. 

We invite anyone, while listening to the music, to read the lyrics and glance at the paintings. It might be a unique experience. This  journey through the forest is also reflected in the rooted style of the logo and the album cover. 

6.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

With Emergenz, thus far, we have performed two shows. 2025 we focused on creating and rehearsing the album and since the end of 2025 until April of 2026 we have been producing becoming none. Both concert were unique and memorable in their own right. The first gave us the confidence to produce our album, the second was a confirmation of the path we’re on. We’re working on more.  

7.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album/

Organizationally we went into the release quite naively. We pushed our music to many common streaming platforms, however things  like a release show, tour, etc. are not planned. Seeing how the music industry works and how venues are booked, we probably should have planned this mid last year, where the decision to produce the album was not yet even made.

8.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

Currently, we are not actively searching for a label. We did receive interest, however we declined thus far. Being a small band the contracts offered do not really make sense. For now, most of what we do is done by ourselves or direct contractors we collaborate with for a limited amount of time. That being said, we are open for collaboration with a label should a good opportunity arise.

9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black and death metal?

As mentioned above, we are a small band. We did not receive a lot of feedback outside of our small following and direct feedback on the concerts. There are some blogs with reviews of becoming none and the feedback we get on Bandcamp. Usually the feedback we get is quite positive. The coolest part is when you really feel people taking the time, listening through the music and telling you their favorite song.

10.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that some of  the band members are a part of?

All former bands are part of the past. We grew up with these bands. People parted, moved and started lives elsewhere, which is fine. 

11.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

We are already working on our next concept album. For becoming none, most music already existed from one of the former bands. Our vocalist and lyricist created the story around the atmosphere in the music and arranged the songs within the album. For our next album, we already have a concept. The music will be composed along the concept entirely. We’re curious where this journey will go. 

12.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Agrypnie, Immortal, Empyrium, Darkthrone, Gorgoroth

13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

Thank you for the opportunity. Should readers have more questions, they can reach out any time. 

1. Instagram

 

Auszaat Interview

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band? 

The idea for the band “Auszaat” was born sometime in 2018 during a heavy night of drinking. We wanted to create music and soundscapes according to our own vision, without compromise. In 2019, we entered the rehearsal room for the first time with our initial song ideas. This eventually led to the creation of Morast menschlicher Worte, and we began playing our first live shows. Since then, the lineup has remained largely unchanged, except for one change in the vocal position. Now, in April 2026, we have released our second full-length album, Trümmerethik, and we are looking forward to bringing it to the stage soon. 

2.Recently you have released a new album, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

 As musicians, we’ve continued to evolve, which we hope is noticeable when comparing the two albums. The song structures on Trümmerethik are more complex overall. We also made a conscious effort to incorporate stronger influences from death metal and hardcore into our sound.

 3.This is also your first album in 5 years, can you tell us a little bit more about the wait in between releases?

 After the release of our first album, we tried to play as many live shows as possible, with mixed success. However, we realized that live performances can become a limiting factor in the creative process, since maintaining and rehearsing an existing live set takes up time that could otherwise be spent developing new ideas. 

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band has explored so far with the music? 

We try to incorporate a range of lyrical themes into our music—both political and nonpolitical, as well as personal and more detached perspectives. On Trümmerethik, there are five tracks, each dealing with very different subject matters. Some lyrics take a critical stance on society, including antifascist and anti-capitalist elements, while others explore darker, more personal aspects of the human condition. Overall, the lyrics are written in a very open and interpretative way 

5.I know that the bands name is Austro-Bavarian for overstretched' or 'worn', how does this name fit in with the musical style that you play?

 “Auszaat” is Austrian dialect for “worn out” or “drained.” To what extent the band name influences the songs—or vice versa—is something we leave open to individual interpretation. 

6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover? 

The artwork for Trümmerethik was created by Stefan Rindler (Nekrodeus, Saturnists), also known as Reldnir on Instagram. For a deeper interpretation, we prefer to refer directly to him, as he is the artist and we don’t feel it’s our place to speak on behalf of his work. 

7.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

 One of our coolest shows was definitely in Italy at Il Grande Baccano in the summer of 2025. We also went on tour with good friends—just to name a few, Nekrodeus and Harrowist—which left us with a lot of great memories. We want to keep our live shows dark and simple, yet captivating. No lights to the faces, no breaks during the songs, no chatter, but an onholding stream of energy that keeps you in the void from which no sound escapes.

 8.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album? 

At the moment, there are unfortunately no shows planned. However, we’re keeping our eyes open and hope that opportunities will come up soon. We’d love to bring Trümmerethik to bigger stages—or just as much to DIY venues. The main thing is being able to present our music live. 

9.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

 We’ll see what the future brings. For the time being, we’re taking the DIY route, which we’re very happy with. However, if the right offer comes along from a label that fits us, we’re definitely open to discussions. 

10.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black, sludge and doom metal?

The response we’ve received so far has been consistently positive. We know our sound isn’t suited for everyone—and that’s exactly how it should be. 

11.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

 We will intensify the way “Trümmerethik” sounds and feels. 

12.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays? 

There are many bands that inspire us individually. Each of us comes from different musical backgrounds, and we try to integrate those influences into our sound. However, there are some shared references as well, such as Oranssi Pazuzu, Knocked Loose, Russian Circles, Isis, and Amenra—just to name a few. 

13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

 Thank you for the opportunity to introduce ourselves and to share a small glimpse into our work. We hope that our music can enrich a few people along the way, and we would be happy to welcome you at one of our shows. Cheers!

1. Facebook
2. Instagram

Madvice Interview

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?

.We finished the recording in late spring/early summer of 2025 and we spent the months later to search for a label to release it and, at the same time, we played live in some festivals like the first edition of Southammer Metal Fest and Chania Rock Festival 2025.

2.You have a new album coming out in may, musically how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?

.It’s definitely heavier and darker than our previous albums: everything is more extreme, both in aggression and atmosphere.

3.This is also going to be your first release in 4 years, can you tell us a little bit more about the long wait for the new release?

.Due to personal reasons, we’ve been on hold for the whole 2024. In early 2025 we started to work on “L'Ottavo Giorno" and in six months we wrote and recorded the album.

We've been searching for a label until the end of the same year and in early 2026, thanks to Art Gates Records, we started to share news and release singles taken from our forthcoming work. If you are an underground band, nothing is easy: and time flies…

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the new album and also how would you describe your progress as songwriters over the years?

.I always write the lyrics, so they are about my personal struggles, a way to exorcise my demons. Even the lyrics apparently simple (for example about anti-religion) have always to be read in an allegoric way: nothing is as it appears and nothing appears as it is!

About our progress as songwriters, I have to say that, in my opinion, “L'Ottavo Giorno" is our more mature album, there was a sensible step forward towards the best expression possible of what Madvice is: but of course the listeners will confirm or not what I’m saying.

5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Madvice'?

.We searched for an original name, possibly of just one word, easy to remember: so we thought of mix two words, "mad” and “advice”, and “Madvice” was born.

6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

.The artwork of our new album, created by Roberto Toderico, is an evolution of our old logo: a new darker logo for a new more extreme beginning.

7.Out of all the shows and tours the band has done so far which one stands out the most?

.I have no doubt: Southammer Metal Fest and Chania Rock Festival (with Rotting Christ and Kreator) last year and the two shows supporting the Finnish black metal Masters Horna in 2023.

8.Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?

.We are working on it with our agency, Rock On Agency: we have several shows already confirmed, so far, but I can't talk about ‘em yet.

9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of extreme metal?

.We always had good feedback from our fans and in these last months, thanks to the good work of our new label, we made an notable upgrade, reaching more people and gaining a bigger fanbase.

10.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

.We don't know how far we can go, but for sure we'll be here, kicking asses and taking souls for many more years to come!

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles the band members are currently listening to nowadays?

.We have very different backgrounds: Maddalena (guitar) and Raffaele (bass) are U.S. thrash metal oriented: I am a blackster and Marco (drums), the younger of us, listen to old stuff but also to modern extreme metal bands. We try to put in Madvice music all our influences without compromises, hoping to create something unique.

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

.We’d like to thank Art Gates Records and Rock On Agency for helping us in our musical growth. 

Many thanks to you for this interview, in my opinion is really important for an underground band to have the chance to talk about its music.

And, last but not least, thanks to everyone who supported, supports and will support us in this journey, stay extreme!

https://artgatesrecords.com/artists/madvice

 

Emergenz/Becoming None/2026 Full Length Review

  Emergenz  are  a  band  from  Germany  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "Becoming  None".

  Fire  sounds,  synths  and  classical  guitars  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  while  the  music  brings  in  a  lot  of  death  metal  elements  and  the  music  is  heavily  rooted  in  the  Swedish  style.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  songs  also  ad  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style ,  growls  are  also  utilized  at  times  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  as  well  as  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a brief  use  of  clean  playing,  clear  singing  and  spoken  words. 

  Emergenz  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  the  melodic  forms  of  black  and  death  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  a  concept  album and  cover  the  journey  of  a  protagonist  waking  through  a  forest. 

  In  my  opinion  Emergenz  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Serenity"  "Tradfall"  "Wanderers"  and  "Footsteps".  8  out  of  10.

  https://emergenz.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-none     

Wooden Shadow/Age of Tree/Inverse Records/2026 EP Review

 
  Wooden  Shadow  are  a  solo  project  from  Finland  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  folk  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2026  ep  "Age  Of  Tree"  which  will  be  released  on  April  29th  by  Inverse  Records.

  Spoken  words  and  acoustic  guitars  start  off  the  ep  which  also  adds  in  elements  of  folk  music  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  direction.  Harsh  vocals  are  mostly  black  metal  screams  mixed  in  with  some  dark  metal  growls and  melodies  are  also  added  into  a  great  amount  of  the  guitar  riffing.

  Clear  vocals  are  also  utilized  at  times  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  as  well  as  the  music  also  having  its  symphonic  moments  and  most  of  the  songs  stick  to  a  mid  tempo  direction.

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  On  this  recording  Wooden  Shadow  takes  the  melodic  and  symphonic  forms  of  death  and  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  folk  metal  to  create  something  different.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  different  emotional  levels.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Wooden  Shadow  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  and  symphonic  black,  death  and  folk  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "We  Are  The  North"  and  "The  Great  Feast".  8  out  of  10.

   https://push.fm/fl/wooden-shadow-age-of-tree

https://www.facebook.com/Tormentius
https://www.instagram.com/woodenshadowofficial
https://woodenshadow.bandcamp.com

Old Moon/Home To Nowhere/M-Theory Audio/2026 Full Length Review

 

  Old  Moon  are  a  band  from  Oregon  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  melodic  mixture  of  post  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "Home  To  Nowhere"  which  will  be  released  on  May  8th  by  M-Theory  Audio.

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats  can  be  heard  along  with   the  synths  also  adding  in  an  atmospheric  touch  when  they  are  utilized.

  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  melody.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  post  metal  style,  one  track  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  female  vocals  and  spoken  words  are  also  added  towards  the  end.

  On  this  recording  Old  Moon  brings  out  a  very  melodic  and  atmospheric  mixture  of  post  black  and  death  metal.  The    production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  life's  sorrows.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Old  Moon  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  and  atmospheric  post  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Between  The  Stars"  "A  Rest  To  My  Name"  and  "Creations  Undone".  8  out  of  10.

  https://oldmoonmusic.com/

https://www.facebook.com/oldmoon.om

https://www.instagram.com/oldmoon.om/

https://oldmoonmusic.bandcamp.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=5oBIPSJoMXYMCix1&v=Rb99B9_IHhw&feature=youtu.be  

Hrothgar/Tales Of Valhöll/2026 Full Length Review

  Hrothgar  are  a  band  from  France  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  viking  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2026  album  "Tales  Of  Valhöl'  which  will  be  released  in  July.

  A  very  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  music  is  very  heavily  influenced  by  the  Swedish  style.  Vocals  are  mostly  death  metal  growls  along  with  the  screams  also  adding  in  a  touch  of  black  metal  when  they  are  utilized  and  some  of  the  tracks  also  add  in  a  small  amount  of  synths.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  long  and  epic  in  length.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along with  some  chants  and  shouts  also  being  utilized  at  times,  blast beats  are  also  added  into  the  faster  sections  of  the  album  and  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  one  track  also  introducing  spoken  words  onto  the  recording.

  Hrothgar  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  viking  metal  and  mixes  it  with  melodic  death  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Norse  Mythology  and  Viking  History.

  In  my  opinion  Hrothgar  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  mixture  of  viking  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are   a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Face  To  Face"  "Blazing  Stones"  "The  Voyager"  and  "The  Kraken".  8  out  of  10.

  https://hrothgarmetalband.bandcamp.com

https://www.facebook.com/HrothgarMetalBand

https://www.instagram.com/hrothgarofficial

https://youtu.be/fhy1wagUyIo?si=Qu5Wu2sbZKAv4t9T   

Agarwaen/The Murder Trend/Over The Border Records/2026 Full Length Review

 

  Agarwaen  are  a  band  from  Finland  that  plays  a  very  melodic,  symphonic  and  horror  themed  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "The  Murder  Trend"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Over  The  Border  Records.

  Police  radio  sounds  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  keyboards  and  symphonic  elements  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  the  vocals  are  a  mixture  of  angry  black  metal  screams,  death  metal  growls  and  back  up  shouts.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  tremolo  picking  is  also  added  into  some  of  the  fast  riffing.

  Clear  singing  is  also  utilized  at  times  along  with  the  album  also  adding  in a   good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style,  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  some  songs  also  add  in  acoustic  guitars  and  clean  playing.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  horror  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Agarwaen  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  and  symphonic  horror  themed  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Bad  Beginning"  "La  Coleccion"  "The  Hunt"  and  "The  Murder  Trend".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.facebook.com/Agarwaenband/  

https://overtheborderrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-murder-trend

Auszaat/Trümmerethik/2026 Full Length Review

  Auszaat  are  a  band  from  Austria  that  plays  a  mixture  of  post  black,  sludge  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2026  album  "Trümmerethik".

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  post  metal  style.  All  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  elements  of  sludge  metal  also  being  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  and  spoken  words  can  also  be  heard  on  a  few  tracks.

  Harsh  vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts,  atmospheric  sounding  synths  can  also  be  heard  at  times  as  well  as  some  of  the  riffing  also  adding  in  elements  of  hardcore.

  Auszaat  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  post  black,  sludge  and  death  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  German  and  cover  depression,  death  an  inner  struggle  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Ayszaat  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  post  black,  sludge,  death  metal  and  hardcore  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Schein"  and  "Gerwaches  II".  8  out  of  10.

  https://auszaat.bandcamp.com/album/tr-mmerethik    

IATT/Etheric Realms Of The Night/Black Lion Records/2026 Full Length Review

  Pennsylvania's  IATT  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  melodic  and  progressive  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "Etheric  Realms  Of  The  Night"  which  will  be  released  in  May  by  Black  Lion  Records.

  Clock  sounds  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  acoustic  guitars  and  flutes  a  few  seconds  later  and  spoken  words  which  also  return  on  later  songs  can  also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  lot  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  while  the  album  also  adds  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Synths  and  clear  singing  can  also b e  heard  at  times  along  with  most  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  at  times  the  recording  also  goes  into  more  of  a  progressive  direction.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  and  technical  style.  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  symphonic  and  ambient  sounding  as  well  as  some  tracks  also  adding  in  orchestration,  the  album  also  has  its  dissonant  moments.   Tremolo  picking  is  also  added  into  some  of  the  faster  riffing  and  one  track  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing,  some  songs  also  add  in  elements  of  jazz.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  fragile  boundary  between  sleep,  oblivion,  consciousness,  life  and  illusion.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  IATT  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  and  progressive  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "To  Lie  Beneath"  and  "Walk  AMongst".  8  out  of  10.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamthetrireme
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iatt_official
• X: https://x.com/iamthetrireme
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@iatt_official
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6EeKkHWc1PQO7vGUnyWNdr
• Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/iatt/1780562884
• Bandcamp: https://iamthetrireme.bandcamp.com
• Official Website: https://linktr.ee/IATT_Official
• Merch Store: https://merchbooth.net/iatt
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iatt_official

     

Bloody Falls/IV/Art Gates Records/2026 Full length Review

  Finland's  Bloody  Falls  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a melodic  mixture  of  black,  death,  thrash  and  groove  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2026  album  "IV"  which  will  be  released  in  June  by  Art  Gates  Records.

   A  very  hard  and  heavy  groove  metal  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  vocals  bring  in  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls.  You  can  also  hear  all  of  the  musical  instruments  that  are  present  on  the  recording  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  Elements  of  thrash  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  the  music  brings  in  a  very  modern  style.  During  the  faster  sections  of  the  album  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts,  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  a  couple  of  tracks  are  also  long  and  epic  in  length.

  On  this  recording  Bloody  Falls  remains  true  to  the  melodic  mixture  of  black,  death,  thrash  and  groove  metal  that  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  dark  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Blood  Falls  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  black,  death,  thrash  and  groove  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "By  My  Own  Grave"  "The  Four"  "Wrath"  and  "Black  Death".  8  out  of  10.

  https://artgatesrecords.com/artists/bloody-falls 

Bryan Eckermann/The Haunting At Helmbrook/Bonespill Records/2026 FUll Length Review

 

  San  Antonio,  Texas'  solo  artist  Bryan  Eckermann  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2026  album  "The  Haunting  At  Helmbrook"  which  was  released  by  Bonespil  Records.

  Acoustic  guitars  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  add  in  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls.  Synths  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  recording  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats.  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  clear  singing  and  spoken  words  also  being  used on  some  of  the  songs.

  Some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  some  clean  playing   also  being  added  on  a  few  songs  as  well  as  the  album  also  having  its  symphonic  moments,  one  track  is  also  an  instrumental.  The   production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  a  concept  album  based  upon  a  horror  story  written  involving  a  haunting.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Bryan  Eckerman  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Victoria"  "Flames  Of  Hell"  "Suicidal  Angel"  and  "Aftermath".  8  out  of  10.

  https://music.apple.com/us/artist/bryan-eckermann/1404178501

https://bryaneckermann.bandcamp.com/

https://www.facebook.com/bryaneckermannofficial

https://www.instagram.com/bryaneckermann/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iQEgy9ZJDdYbCvlsAyM12?si=pmBjLEGUQ0CRb6eV-bcxdw&nd=1&dlsi=5ac8c6daf2284517

https://www.youtube.com/@bryaneckermannofficial

  

Empalement/Celestial Perversion/2025 EP Review

 

  Empalement  are  a  band  from  Victoria,  B.C,  Canada  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2025  ep  "Celestial  Perversion".

  Tremolo  picking  starts  off  the  ep  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  brutal  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  and  grindcore  touches.  Vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  recording  also  mixing  in  a  lot  of  death  metal  elements  and  melodies  are  also  added  into  the  guitar  riffing.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized,  angry  shouts  and  spoken  words  are  also  introduced  on  later  songs.    

  Empalement  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  a  melodic  form  of  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  brutal  death  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  nihilism  and  misanthropy  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Empalement  are  a  very  great  sounding  brutal  and  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "I  Am  Dust"  and  "Celestial  Perversion".  8  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/OMI79yG3tTU?si=FNT6JRGwSueyK8gp

Bandcamp
https://empalement.bandcamp.com/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/empalement/  

  

Thy Sanitorium Interview

 1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new album?

Greetings! There has been so much going on and so fast it has all been a whirlwind and we are taking it all in one day at a time. Thy Sanatorium has only existed since October 2025 and we originally had no plans to make a full album. We originally intended to release one song at a time as singles at a more spread out pace but when we released "Torment" it was received very well and news spread quickly. Then we released "The End Consumes" and the reaction was so positive we knew we had something special so we dove into writing and recording more songs and ended up with a full length album. We didn't know this would become a band with a full album and as that solidified and we started talking about future plans Nyx, Remus and Pyxis expressed they would prefer to be more contributors to the band but not permanent band members. It was nothing dramatic, we are already working on ideas for the next album and they will still be involved but moving forward Ra, Crux and myself will be the main core (which it's how it's always been really) with other musicians listed as guests.

2.You have your first full length coming out towards the end of April, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

We take inspiration from some of our favorite bands and albums and blend them together the same way a chef would and hopefully come up with a dish that is unique yet familiar. 

The obvious ones are Opeth, Cradle of Filth, Children of Bodom and alike, but then I also enjoy indie rock, goth and punk so you'll find snippets of The Cure, The Hives and more.

I personally write very naturally. I usually come up with a guitar riff and then let whatever comes next flow naturally. Lyrically and vocally Ra and Crux add their own spice and that adds even more to the mix. Ra has a strong background in death metal while Crux doesn't have much of a metal background at all and the combination of it all takes our music to interesting places.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you have explored so far with the music?

A lot of psychological horror ranging from anxiety to depression, the horrors of war, the horrors of social media, the realization that we all have a monster within us, hypocrisy, narcissism, power and more. I'm a big fan of horror movies and I've found that even the scariest ones don't come close to the horrors we live everyday in our world. But as dark, gloomy and depressing as that may sound it's a reminder to cherish life to the fullest. It's an ode to the philosophy of memento mori.

4.You have also mentioned an interest in classic horror movies, which films have had an influence on the music and songwriting?

Some of my favorite horror movies are the ones without big special effects and are very sound driven. Take the original 1931 Dracula for example which is one of my favorite movies of all time. The original has no music other than "Swan Lake" in the opening credits. But the white noise and hiss adds so much vibe to that movie that visually isn't gory or that scary at all, but the overall vibe of it all just permeates and gets under your skin. Love all the universal monster series, Hammer, Italian movies from Mario Bava and Dario Argento.

The Exorcist is still to me the scariest movie of all time, and not for it's effects, but it's just brutal psychologically. Stephen King, The Conjuring series, the latest Invisible Man was anxiety on film and I'm a sucker for 'found footage' movies. The lower the budget the better! Not an influence music-wise, but thematically and how I approach the music itself. 

5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Thy Sanatorium'?

Sanatoriums were originally intended to be health spas. Places where people went to get better but historically and in reality they became institutions where they sent people with terminal illnesses with no cure to die. I was drawn to the juxtaposition of a place created for healing that in reality was a place you went to die. The word Thy means "Your" so it's "Your Sanatorium". We are inviting you to Thy Sanatorium to face your horrors...we just don't promise you will ever be able to leave.

6.How would you describe the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?

Very old school. King Diamond, Metal Church...the classic album covers from the 80's that would want to make you by the album without even knowing what it sounded like and you'd put it on your record player or in your CD player and go "Holy shit!". It's also kind of like a "Here we are!" statement introducing Thy Sanatorium and the sanatorium that they are standing in front of.

7.Can you tell us a little bit more about the masks you wear in the promo pics?

What's the quote from Karate Kid? "A belt only holds up pants. $3.98. J.C. Penny." in the same way the masks are to cover our faces. They do have a very "Roman/Venetian/Greek" inspiration to them which ties in with our pseudonyms. Ra being the sun god, Aries, Crux, Nyx, Remus and Pyxis all being constellations. But i'm going to give a little tease that how we present ourselves may change so don't read too hard into things. The focus is Thy Sanatorium as a place you go to face your horrors, not each individual member which could also change over time.

8.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance?

Haha, we haven't played any shows yet! As mentioned, this has all happened so quickly so we'll have to see.

9.Do you have any touring or show plans once the new album is released?

No not yet at least. We are truly a multinational entity spread across the globe and with the current state of the world, getting us all one place would require multiple visas and a lot of coordinating. Which is ironic when you think that social media brags about bringing the world and people together but we seem to be more and more isolated from each other since it's conception.

10.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

We are not signed at this time and we have received a few offers, but nothing that offered anything we can't do ourselves.

I believe in the old school way of spreading our music, one person at a time sharing it with another person. It. may take longer but we are not in any hurry. We're not interested in social media numbers, in fact we just deleted our Bluesky account and will most likely delete our instagram account soon too. We don't have Facebook either and will probably just keep our YouTube channel for our music videos. We're going to let others talk about us and share our music. I see too many artists and bands trying to blow their own horn, desperately going "look at me! look at me!" and trying to get some viral video that has nothing to do with the music. I'm not into that. If people discover Thy Sanatorium it will be because someone listened to the music, liked it and recommended it to someone else. We're not doing this for fame or to get a big following. If we do cool, but that's not why we are doing this. Thy Sanatorium exists because of our love of metal, our love of making music and selfishly we are doing it for ourselves to satisfy our creative hunger. If others like it and share it that's a bonus.

11.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

One day at a time lol. Right now we're excited to get the album out on April 24 and see what happens. We've been doing a lot of interviews and reviews have started popping up and it's been very fun and positive. I can say that I can't stop writing and already have a few demos for the next album but let's leave it at that for now.

12.What are some of the bands or musical styles you are currently listening to nowadays?

I recently got hooked on Drudkh, a Ukrainian black metal band. Love their vibe and tone, oh that guitar tone is to die for. Also Tribulation, I'm a big fan of their new stuff as much as their old stuff. I love bands who evolve and that aren't afraid to do so. A new guilty pleasure is Dominum. So ridiculously fun and catchy. To be honest I didn't want to like them but then I got "Bam-a-lam Bam-a-lam" stuck in my head at 3 in the morning and was like "God Dammit!!!". The new Rob Zombie, Mayhem, Eihwar, Frayle, Paradise lost, Castle Rat all kick ass. Being that I don't live alone there has also been ASAP Rocky (new album in collaboration with Tim Burton and Danny Elfman), Tyler the Creator, Denzel Curry...I might get a lot of hate for this but I find Hip Hop and Rap to have a lot in common with Black and Death Metal lyrically and vocally.

13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

Well first thank you for this interview and amazing review for our debut album. We are big fans of independent blogs and magazines supporting music, you are the foundation of what keeps it all going! We truly appreciate you! And for those who have discovered our music and enjoy it, thank you! Get the CD, get the Vinyl, get our Merch but if you aren't in a position to afford that then stream it, rip it, copy it, share it, make tapes, burn CD's, file share it...share what you love, not what you hate.

Oh and...welcome to Thy Sanatorium

Aries.

Goholor Interview

 1. For those who have never heard of you, can you tell us something about the band?

So we are a 4-member band Goholor from Slovakia playing black/death metal. I play guitar and I also do scream. Pio is in charge of drums, Erik plays the bass guitar and Anton destroys the microphone by growling.

2. Your first album is coming out in May, how is the music on the new album different from your previous EP?

I would say in everything.... Mainly in terms of sound, but also compositionally. The EP was created completely by chance without a vision, but it was a success even though we didn't expect it at all. The feedback forced us to do something more and do it better!

3. This will also be your first album since 2016, can you tell us more about the long wait between releases?

I feel like if I were to write about it, there wouldn't be room for it here... There were so many things going on in our lives that didn't allow us to create anything and it took a long time to create this full length, even though it was also very complicated.

4. A lot of your music is heavily rooted in the Swedish melodic black/death metal style of the 90s, do you feel like this genre has had a huge comeback over the years?

I can't tell you for sure, but I do know that we love this style of metal. Both death metal and black metal are close to us and this seems like the best compromise.

5. What are some of the lyrical themes and topics that the band explored on both releases?

So the EP In Saeculis Obscuris (In the Dark Ages) had no concept and the songs on it rather expressed hellish themes connected to the human world. Locus Damnatorum (Place of the Damned) is more of a concept album that deals with the demonic side of society and the evil that society produces.

6. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name "Goholor"?

The name "Goholor" comes from the Enochian language and means growth or rise. This name perfectly describes our band.

7. Can you tell us more about the artwork featured on the new album cover?

The album cover art depicts human beings in a cursed world full of evil, searching for light and a better tomorrow.

 8. What are some of the best shows the band has played so far, and how would you describe your stage performances?

We are not a stage band, and it is not realistic in our lives for all four of us to find the time and space to do so.

9. Do you have any plans for touring or concerts after the new album is released?

As I mentioned above, we are not a concert band, so definitely not in that regard.

10. What was the reaction of melodic black and death metal fans to your music worldwide?

So the EP In Saeculis Obscuris had good reviews worldwide, which made us think about continuing and creating something more. As for the new release, one song is out so far and the reviews are more than good. We believe that the album will meet the expectations of the fans.

11. Where do you imagine the band will go musically in the future?

I have no idea and I can't say for sure what will happen in the future.... 

For me personally, I'm not against further creation and continuation. As for the other members, it's up to them.

12. Which bands or music styles have influenced your music and what are you listening to now?

Well, it's mostly 90s bands, black metal or death metal classics. But each of us likes something different. I don't know what the other members have on their player, but I'm currently listening to the latest Seth and Inquisition.

13. Before we end this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

I wish people would stop being so inconsiderate, blind, and hypocritical towards each other. This world is already a bad place, so let everyone find their own light for a better tomorrow.

We want to thank you for your interest and space in your medium. We really appreciate it! All the best!

goholor1.bandcamp.com 

Thy Sanatorium/Self Titled/2026 Full Length Review

  Thy  Sanatorium  are  a  band  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  plays  a  symphonic  and  melodic  mixture  of  black,  death  and  gothic  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  and  self  titled  2026  album.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  emtal  growls  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  symphonic  elements  also  mix  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  When  clear  male  and  female  vocals  are  utilized  they  also  add  in  touches  of  gothic  metal, one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  acoustic  guitars  and  spoken  word  samples  can  also  be  heard  briefly  as  well  as  another  track  also  being  a  piano  orientated  instrumental.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  darkness  and  horror  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Thy  Sanitorium  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  and  symphonic  mixture  of  black,  death  and  gothic  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Torment"  "Devil's  Heart"  and  "Thy  Sanitorium".  8  out  of  10.

https://youtu.be/VztMgLvM6Jw

Website: https://www.thysanatorium.com

Pre-orders: https://elasticstage.com/thysanatorium

Bandcamp: https://thysanatorium.bandcamp.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThySanatorium

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thysanatorium

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thysanatorium.bsky.social