Meresin Interview

 

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the musical project these days?

Perun: Currently we are working on the next album. The material is almost ready. Currently we are working on preproduction and once it will be finished, we are planning to record everything in the studio. In the meantime we are preparing for some live activities and still promoting the “Black Messiah” album. So as you can see, lots of work. Meresin is the project which has much to say to this world!

2.In 2021 you released your first full length, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording? 

Perun: We decided that we want to have an absolutely uncompromising sound and style. The decision was simple: everything which is going straight from our hearts and minds must be shown on this album without any doubts and in the best way. That’s why we decided to add symphonic and industrial sounds to our music. That’s why both of us were totally involved in the creation process. We wanted to present the most powerful and pure emotions to be as honest with our thoughts as possible. I think we managed to achieve it. 

3.Both of the band members also have experience playing on other bands, what is it that you bring into the music of 'Mersin' that you where not able to do with your other groups?

Seraphiel: Actually I play some sort of black metal in every band of mine but in Meresin I am going much further. I can make it more extreme and I can raise every topic I want. This time the clergy's mendacity. I'm sick of their lies and this band gives me an opportunity to shout it out, to make a difference.

4.A lot of your lyrics cover anti Christianity and Catholicism themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your hatred for this religion? 

Seraphiel: It's fake. Whole it's foundation is based on copying from ancient religions and changing everything the way they want. But at the same time they are getting lost in their own changes. They are trying to control our whole lives and say what you can and what cannot do.

Perun: The concept of this album is to expose hypocrisy, crimes and rottenness of christianity.  Every day some priests are raping children, killing people, stealing money and telling people that this is a will of god. It is impossible to believe in such bullshit. Until this black mafia exists we must say it loud: fuck the cross! It is the only possible way to be yourself and feel freedom. You don’t need any god to feel strong and responsible for your own life. If someone is coming to my life without invitation and is telling me what to do, it is a perfect reason to tell him “Hate you!”  

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

Seraphiel: in Christian demonology Meresin is one of seven demonic princes of hell. Prince of air, thunder, plague and war. One of the opponents. And we as well are against the oppression of Christianity. Our music strukcs like thunder. We are continuing war against lies and deception of clergy.

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

Seraphiel: We wanted to show the world the face of its new Messiah. We were looking for something simple but yet clear and strong. Now you know him and you can follow him. you can help him make the difference. To change the world.

7.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up or do you prefer to remain a duo?

Seraphiel: Yes, we are planning to expand our lineup. We want to bring our music on stage to share our hatred live. We need to spread the word and our energy. And for that we need some help. But fortunately we have some good musicians in mind.

8.Can you tell us a little bit more about the masks you wear in your promo pictures?

Seraphiel: we wanted to hide our identities so our music could be received purely, without any references to our previous releases. And at the same time we wanted something that would fit with our music and our message.

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

Seraphiel: Our album is being received very well. Not only industrial and BM fans are reacting positively to our music. Everyone can find something for themselves there. "Black Messiah" is the album you are looking for!

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

Perun: The new album is almost ready. It will definitely be a step forward for us. The music is more aggressive and straightforward. We based on experience from Black Messiah and added much more from us. So expect another big dose of heavy massive music. Definitely it will be Meresin with his most cruel and merciless face.

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that you are currently listening to to?

Seraphiel: I'm listening to almost everything but most of the time metal would be my first choice. Then grunge and classic rock.

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

Seraphiel: don't let them fool you! Stay strong and listen to Meresin! Ave blasphemia!

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Vidres a la Sang/Fragments de l'esdevenir/Abstract Emotions/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Vidres  a  la  Sang  are  a  band  from  Spain  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Fragments  de  i'esdevenir"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Abstract  Emotions.

  Clean  playing  starts  off  the  album  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  while  the  heavier  riffs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  melody  and  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  a  lot  of  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era.

  Vidres  a  la  sang  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  the  melodic  styles  of  black  and  death  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  old  school  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Spanish  and  cover  reflection,  introspection,  complaint  and  abhorrence  of  a  society  in  ever-flowing  decadence  and  also  pays  tribute  to  the  poet  Miquel  Marti  i  Pol.

  In  my  opinion  Vidres  a  la  Sang  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  "Mort  De  Paraula"  and  "Fins  Aqui".  8  out  of  10.

www.facebook.com/vidresalasang 

www.vidresalasang.bandcamp.com 

https://youtu.be/7cDlloKI9s0  

Sacrimonia/Anthems Of Eclipse/2022 CD Review

 

  Sacrimonia  are  a  band  from  Poland  that  plays  a  symphonic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their self  released  2022  album  "Anthems  Of  Eclipse"  which  will  be  released  on  June  10th.

  Symphonic  sounding  keyboards  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  mid  90's  era.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.  Throughout  the  album  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  growls  and  as  the  recording  progresses  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard.

  Sacrimonia  plays  a  style  of  symphonic  black  metal  that  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  classic  era  of  the  genre.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  dark  and  philosophical  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Sacrimonia  are  a  very  great  sounding  symphonic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Mirror  For  The  Faceless"  "Into  Darkness  My  Soul  Descends"  and  "Eclipse".  8  out  of  10.

  

• “Mirror for the Faceless” https://youtu.be/--Dy8NhFUJY
• “Eclipse” https://youtu.be/AtNm40XVkR0. 

  

    

Inexorum/Equinox Vigil/Gilead Media/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Minnesota's  Inexorum  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  continues  the  melodic  style  of  blackened  death  metal  from  previous  releases  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Equinox  Vigil"  which  will  be  released  on  June  17th  by  Gilead  Media.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking  can  also be  heard  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  the  music  also  adds  in  a  great  amount  of  Swedish  influences.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  Elements  of  death  metal  can  also  be  heard  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  along  with  the  music  also  adding  in  some  touches  of  the  NWOBHM  era,  clear  vocals  and  keyboards  can  also  be  heard  on  some  of  the  tracks.

  On  this  recording  Inexorum  remain  true  to  the  melodic  style  of  blackened  death  metal  that  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  human  experience,  religious  hypocrisy,  self  healing,  science,  death  and  the  natural  environment.   

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Inexorum  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  and  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Creation  Myth"  "Secret  Language"  and  "Suck  Impossible  Sights".  8  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/dUy_x4Un2QE

     

Serpent Ascending/Hyperborean Folklore/I, Voidhanger Records/2022 CD Review

 

  Serpent  Ascending  are  a  solo  project  from  Finland  that  plays  a  very  melodic  and  progressive  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2022  album  "Hyperborean  Folklore"  which  will  be  released  on  June  17th  by  I,  Voidhanger  Records.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  spoken  word  parts  a  few  seconds  later.  All  of  the  tracks  are  also very  long  and  epic  in  length  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  some  tracks  also  add  in  a  small  amount  of  acoustic  guitars.

  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  progressive  sounding  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  death  metal  growls  and  black  metal  screams  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  and  clear  vocals  can  also b e  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.

  Most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era  along  with  the  tracks  also  adding  in  some  hypnotic,  melancholic  and  psychedelic  touches  at  times  as  well as  some  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking  also  being  utilized  briefly  when  one  of  the  songs  speeds  up.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  esoteric,  occult,  Hyperborean,  Norse  and  Finnish  folklore  and  mythology  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Serpent  Ascending  are  a  very  great  sounding  melodic  and  progressive  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Hyperborean  Folklore"  and  "Skadi's  Longing  For  The  Mountains".  8  out  of  10.

https://i-voidhangerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/hyperborean-folklore      

Norilsk/Beyond The Mountains/Hypnotic Dirge Records/2022 EP Review

 

  Quebec,  Canada's  Norilisk  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  continues  the  mixture  of  black,  sludge,  doom,  death  and  post  metal  from  their  previous  releases  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  ep  "Beyond  The  Mountains"  which  was  released  by  Hypnotic  Dirge  Records.

  Dark  yet  melodic  riffing  starts  off  the  ep  while  elements  of  doom  and  sludge  metal  can  also be  heard  in  the  songs.  Both  of  the  tracks  are  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  death  metal  growls  as  well  as  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era  and  black  metal  screams  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark,  melancholic  yet  melodic  style.  Post  metal  style  melodies  can  also  be  heard  at  times  which  also  updates  the  ep  for  the  modern  eta  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Spoken  word  parts  and  clean  playing  can  also be  heard  briefly  and  all  of  the  music  sticks  to  a  slower  direction.

  On  this  recording  Norilisk  focuses  more  on  a  melodic  doom/death  metal  style  as  well  as  keeping  some  of  the  elements  of  black,  sludge  and  post  metal  that  where  present  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  Inuit  High  Artic  Relocations  in  Canada  during t he  mid  20th  century.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Norilisk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black,  sludge,  doom,  death  and  post  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  ep.  RECOMMENDED  TRACK  "Beyond  the  Horizon".  8  out  of  10.

https://norilskdoom.bandcamp.com/releases      

      

  

Breaths/Isolera/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Richmond,  Virginia's  solo  project  Breaths  has  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  an  instrumental  mixture  of  blackgaze,  doom  metal,  post  rock,  chillhop,  ambient  and  drone  and  the  album  was  self  released  in  2022  and  called  "Isolera".

  Ambient  style  synths  and  drones  start  off  the  album  while  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  All  of  the  music  also  sticks  to  an  instrumental  direction  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  repetitive  moments  and  when  slow  guitar  riffs  are  added  onto  the  recording  they  also  add  in  the  heaviness  of  doom  metal.

  Blackgaze  style  melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  sounds  while  a  lot  of  the  music  also  sounds  very  improvised.  All  of  the  tracks  also  sound  very  different  from  each  other  along  with  one  song  also  adding  in  post  rock  style  clean  playing  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  slower  direction,  programmed  beats  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  breaths  takes  ambient,  drone,  cillhop,  post  rock,  doom  metal  and  blackgaze  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  something  very  different  from  previous  releases  as  well  as  keeping  everything  instrumental  while  the  production  sounds  very  dark.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Breaths  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  blackgaze,  doom  metal,  post  rock  chillhop,  ambient  and  drone,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Movement  II"  and  "Movement  IV".  8  out  of  10.

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IATT/Magnum Opus/Black Lion Records/2022 CD Review

 

  IATT  are  a  band  from  Pennsylvania  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  melodic  and  progressive  form  of  blackened  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Magnum  Opus"  which  was  released  by  Black   Lion  Records.

  Acoustic  guitars  and  stringed  instruments  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  musical  direction.  Orchestra  sounds  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  the  vocals  are  a  mixture  of  death  metal  growls  and  black  metal  screams.

  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very  progressive  sounding  while  clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

  Tremolo  picking  is  also  added  into  some  of  the  faster  riffing  along  with  the  guitar  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  some  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  saxophones,  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  on  some  of  the  songs  and  a  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  esoteric  sciences  of  Alchemy  from  the  17th  century.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  IATT  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  and  progressive  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Servitude,  Subjagate"  "Elixir  Of  Immortality"  "Planes  Of  Our  Existence"  and  'Chrysopoeia".  8  out  of  10.

https://linktr.ee/IATT_Official 
https://facebook.com/iamthetrireme 
https://www.instagram.com/iatt_official 
https://twitter.com/iamthetrireme 

https://www.youtube.com/user/RXSTRR       

A Lie Nation/Sociopathology/Inverse Records/2022 Full Length Review

 

  A  Lie  Nation  are  a  band  from  Finland  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  plays  a  very  melodic  form  of  blackened  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Sociopathology"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Inverse  Records.

  A  very  heavy  and  aggressive  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls along  with  some  clear  singing  also  being  utilized  at  times  and  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  sow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  tremolo  picking  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  fast  riffing.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  as  well  as  some  songs  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing  and  as  the  album  progresses  a  brief  use  of  keyboards  can  also  be  heard.

  On  this  recording  A  Lie  Nation remains  true  to  the  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  emtal t hat  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  hate,  misanthropy,  yearning  and  despondency  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  A  Lie  Nation  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  melodic  black  and  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Underton"  "21st"  and  "Conclusion  Of  A  Thought".  8  out  of  10.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alienationofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alienationband
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUVkaIeuSJ7XXxvq3bVjWQg
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alienationmetal
Website: https://alienationmetal.com
Bandcamp: https://alienationmetal.bandcamp.com

   

    

  

Insurrexion/Self Titled/Sinistrari Records/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Insurrexion  are  a  band  from  Chile  that  plays  a  melodic  mixture  of  black  and  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2022  album  which  was  released  by  Sinistrari  Records.

  A  very  fast  sound  starts  off  the  album  along  with  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  in  some  parts  of  the  recording  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very melodic  style.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  vocals  also  add  in  a  good  balance  between  death  metal  growls  and  black  metal  screams.  Most  of  the  music  is  also  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  90's  era  along  with  the  riffs  also  adding  in  a  lot  of  melody,  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  and  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  as  the  album  progresses  a  small  amount  of  spoken  word  parts  are  also  utilized.

  Insurrexion  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  melodic  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  90's  era  South  American  death  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  old  school  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Spanish  and  cover  astral  paths,  dreams,  death  and  beyond. 

  In  my  opinion  Insurrexion  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  "La  Espada  de  la  Esencia"  and  "Funeral  Celeste".  8  out  of  10.

Website: https://www.magic-metal.com/insurrexion/
Bandcamp: https://insurrexion.bandcamp.com/releases
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDMb4I4T_Sc

Other: http://sinistrarirecords.com/atrocities 

Trollfest/Flamingo Overload/Napalm Records/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Trollfest  are  a  band  from  Norway  that h as  had  music  reviewed  before  in   this  zine  and  plays  folk  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Flamingo  Overload"  which  was  released  by  Napalm  Records.

  Spoken  word  parts  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  vocals  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  clear  vocals  and  aggressive  screams  which  also  add  in  a  touch  of  black  metal.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  and  folk  instruments  are  also  mixed  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.

  Saxophones  can  also  be  heard  in  some  parts  of  the  recording  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  slide  guitars.

  Back  up  vocals  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  along  with  some  songs  also  adding  in  some  pop  music  style  choruses  as  well  as  one  track  also  introducing  hip  hop  style  vocals  and  funk  beats  onto  the  album,  when  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  drinking,  partying  and  humorous  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  decent  sounding  album  from  Trollfest  and  if  you  are  a f an  of  folk  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Dance  Like  A  Pink  Flamingo"  "Twenty  Miles  An  Hour"  "Rule  The  Country"  and  "Bob  Venke".  7/5  out  of  10.

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https://youtu.be/XrCtxzL-ByI    

Ashenspire/Hostile Architecture/Aural Music/2022 Full Length Review

 

  Ashenspire  are  a  band  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  an  avant  garde  and  progressive  form  of  post  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Hostile  Architecture"  which  will  be  released  in  July  by  Aural  Music.

  Avant  garde  style  pianos  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  clean  playing  and  saxophones  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  Shouting  style  vocals  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  stringed  instruments  can  also  be  heard  in  some  parts  of  the  recording.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  are  also  utilized  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  progressive  moment  and  the  music  also  adds  in  a  great  amount  of  black  and  post  metal  elements.

  Touches  of  jazz  music  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized,  operatic  choirs  and  clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  on  later  tracks  the  music  goes  into  more  of  an  experimental  direction.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  contradictions  inherit  in  the  capitalistic  world.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Ashenspire  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  avant  garde  and  progressive  post  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Law  Of  Asbestos"  "How  The  Mighty  Have  Vision"  and  "Cable  Street  Again".  8  out  of  10.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBNY-l3NT9s 

https://ashenspire.bandcamp.com/album/hostile-architecture

Website: ashenspire.official@gmail.com 
Bandcamp: ashenspire.bandcamp.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ashenspire_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashenspire_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ashenspire

  

Spectral Darkwave/Live Fire Exorcise/Occidental Records/2022 Live Album Review

 

  Spectral  Darkwave  are  a  band  from  the  United  Kingdom  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  symphonic  mixture  of  black,  dark,  doom,  death  and  industrial  metal   and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  live  album  "Live  Fire  Exorcise"  which  will  be  released  on  June  3th  by  Occidental  Records.

  Live  audience  reaction  starts  off  the  album  along  with  some  samples  and  symphonic  elements  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  angry  sounding  black  metal  screams.

  The  slower  sections  of  the  songs  also  show  some  influences  of  dark  and  doom  metal  while  the  music  also  adds  in  a  great  amount  of  industrial  touches.  Clean  playing  can  also  be  heard  on  some  of  the  tracks  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Death  metal  growls  are  also  utilized  at  times  along  with  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  one  track  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  female  vocals,  all  of  the  music  also  sticks  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  tempo  direction  and  a  couple  of  the  songs  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Alien  Technology  and  Ancient  Magick  themes. 

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  great  sounding  recording  from  Spectral  Darkwave  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  symphonic  black,  dark,  doom,  death  and  industrial  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  live  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  March  Of  Sses"  "The  Last  Red  Hypergiant"  and  "At  Outher  Dark".  8  out  of  10.

www.spectraldarkwave.com

https://youtu.be/6Rb2wFdJFKY        

Metakosmia Interview

 

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

VASILIS: Hello, we are METAKOSMIA, a metal band from Greece, Athens. The band was created about 2 years ago by two persons -Vasilis Kakafikas and Petros Geromarkakis. The aim was to create music that is both unique and that would represent the concept behind the name of the band: METAKOSMIA.

2.In March you had released your first full length, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

V: Yes. From the very beginning, what we had in mind when creating our debut album -Aperantos Kosmos, was that musically, the medium through which we would let our artistic selves to unfold, would be that of the metal sound for sure. But with no boundaries. 

We knew that we should use lots of keyboards and sounds, combined with a more harsh directions, to the extend of reaching the death and black metal territory. In every step of the process of creating and recording, we would ask ourselves: Ïs this really METAKOSMIA? Does it give to the listener (us for start) this otherwordly sense? Is it truly a METAKOSMIA sound? Does it take you there? If the answer was "no", we would immediately delete and go for a new start. If the answer was "YES!", we then knew we were on the right track and that we should move forward to that same direction.

3.A lot of your lyrics cover Greek Philosophy, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

V: We have always been interested in philosophy. We consider ourselves to be philosophers as well. Being a friend with wisdom also has a practical side inside the meaning of the word. Philos - Sophia. It is a way of life, not just an empty idea. In the early years reading Plato about Socrates, and then moving to all the rest of the giants of thought. It has been said that everything you can think or imagine, has already been talked about from one or more of our weirdly smart ancestors. Every culture has its own wisdom. At the same Golden times of Greece (500 BC), Chinese philosophy was also at its greatest peak.

The truths are universal.

4.Lyrically you also go into Science and Mysticism, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in these paths have evolved over the years?

V: Science becomes more and more obscure with every new step it takes. Especially after the "new" quantum physics evolving, new interesting ideas and realizations like the string theory, the multifaceted universes, the discovery of dark matter and dark energy, science has humbly lowered the head and admitted that knows only 5% of what is out there. And this is a stance that science ought's to maintain. Otherwise it may very easily transform into a totalitarian monster, a godlike Authority like -unfortunately- it tends to have  become in some of its aspects, in the past few years, for example in the medicine field... 

So science, by admitting that knows nothing really, and furthermore reassures that the observer IS the observed, opens again the gates for mysticism to pass through and enter the realm, in all its past glory. Magic is again a reality, not just by the future that technology may imply, but by the role of perseptionin the game and how it shapes reality. An ancient knowledge that gets lost and resurrects through the passing of aeons.

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

V: One of the greatest of all times, Epicurus, following the teachings of Democritus, who further built on the system of his teacher Leucippus, who shaped the atomic theory, figured out between other things, that Gods exist, but have nothing to do with the common image of the gods, that the every day man imagines, or had been led to believe as such. Metakosmia are those relatively empty- of ordinary matter- places, vast voids of almost perfect emptiness between the galaxies. There they live and prosper. They have nothing to do with humans and they don't intervene. They are almost indestructible beings. To us, they look Godly-like. Unfortunately, so little of the works of Epicurus has been saved. But do a favor to yourself and read Lucretius' "De rerum natura". It hides inside

more than one book of Epicurus.

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

V: On the top there is a photo I shot, of a sculpture from the archaeological museum of Peiraius in Greece. It is a scene depicting theurgy, part of the Eleusis mysteries. One can see the symbolic gestures, symbolic hand shapes from the high-priest and the high-priestess while they whisper the mystic language of the ancient mysteries. It is well known that the truths were revealed there by gestures, symbolic images, unknown -to the common listener- words, etc. that "worked" with the subconscious mind of the initiate. 

At the lower side of the cover, one can see the sea. And the endless sky. The logo and the title stand in the middle of the picture, in a way that reminds us and increases the feeling of the enormous size of infinite space... Aperantos Kosmos (World without end - infinite cosmos)

7.On the album you worked as a duo, how do both of your styles different from each other and what impact did it have on the musical style?

V: I would say that Petros was more experienced in ambient music and sounds and more on the black metal aesthetic, while I am into a more death metal and melodic expression of feelings. We both like almost every kind of metal in general as well as everything that sounds inspiring, interesting, innovative etc. 

Having myself participated in various musical projects in the past, I think that METAKOSMIA - Aperantos Kosmos is the best one yet.

8.Currently you are unsigned, have you received any label interest?

V: We are currently in contact with a few labels. There is a great possibility that there is going to be an agreement. We have to be a little patient for the moment. We would to see the album released in double vinyl and cassette tape formats.

9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of extreme metal and the more experimental and ambient musical genres? 

V: The truth is that from the 2-3 reviews that are on the net and from the 2-3 youtube channels that it has been on, the feedback has so far been very positive. 

People seem to appreciate and understand the concept of the album. Back when we were creating the songs, we wanted the album to be an experience, not just another listen. I believe we have succeeded in this, it is an emotional journey, an initiation almost to another world.

10.With the death of the other member of the project what affect does this have on the future of the musical project?

V: Although the album was ready, it took me about a year after the passing of my good friend and bandmate, to release it. My first thoughts was that, that was it, there was going to be nothing more, after this one album. After some more thought, a few days ago to be honest, I decided that METAKOSMIA are here to stay.

I feel I ought it to Petros too. Alone or with the help of others, METAKOSMIA will continue to be and create unique music in every step. A never-ending journey in a never-ending world...

11.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?

V: So many bands that one can mention. The classics from the swedish melodic death, like: Dark tranquillity and the gallery, In flames wth the jester race, Edge of sanity etc. Heavy metal bands like Manowar or judas priest. Celtic frost, Arcturus, Pan thy monium, Diana Ankudinova, Babymetal, Dark millenium, Perfect bliss, Terrasound with abstract portrait and more...

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

V: Thank you for this interesting questions and thanks for the nice review of Aperantos Kosmos, I wish you and all your readers, the best.

Bandcamp: https://metakosmia1.bandcamp.com/album/aperantos-kosmos
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBc5TTJs5oxT4YcVjTqD4hw
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2Hy5rQ3E5SFiF0WqVbTd2o
Other: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/metakosmia/aperantos-kosmos

Meresin/Black Messiah/Via Nocturna/2022 CD Review

 

  Meresin  are  a  duo  from  Poland  that  plays  an  industrial  form  of  symphonic  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "Black  Messiah"  which  was  released  by  Via  Nocturna.

  Industrial  style  sounds  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  keyboards  also  give  the  songs  more  of  a  symphonic  feeling  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.

  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized.  The  songs  also  add  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  one  track  also  introducing  growls  onto  the  recording,  tremolo  picking  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  faster  riffing.  

  Meresin  plays  a  musical  style  that takes  industrial  and  mixes  it  with  symphonic  black  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Anti  Christianity  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Meresin  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  industrial  and  symphonic  black  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  duo.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Black  Messiah"  "Salvation  By  Flesh"  "Hate  You!  and  "Fanatic  Slaves".  8  out  of  10.

Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | Youtube | Spotify  

  

Grimorium Verum/REALL/Symbol Of Dominion Productions/2022 CD Review

 

  Russia's  Grimorium  Verum  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  continues  the  symphonic  style  of  black  metal  from  their  previous  releases  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2022  album  "REALL"  which  was  released  by  Symbol  Of  Dominion  Productions.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  musical  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Symphonic  elements  also  mix  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  grim  sounding  black  metal  screams  and  a  couple  of  the  tracks  are  long  and  epic  in  length.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  Growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style.

  Some  of  the  riffing  also  shows  influences  of  death  and  doom  metal  along  with  a  couple  of  the  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  female  vocals  as  well  as  a  couple  of  songs  also  being  instrumentals.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism  and  Occultism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Grimorium  Verum  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  symphonic  black  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Through  The  Labyrinth  Of  Times"  "Last  Ritual"  and  "A  Slave  Of  The  Lamp".  8  out  of  10.

https://symbolofdomination.bandcamp.com/album/sodp150-grimorium-verum-reall-2022   

Nazgul Rising/Cycles Of Primal Chaos/2022 Full Length Review

 

   Nazgul  Rising  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  plays  a  very  symphonic  form  of  black  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2022  album  "Cycles  Of  Primal  Chaos".  

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  symphonic  elements  a  few  seconds  later  which  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams.

  Growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  a  great  portion  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.

  Clear  vocals  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  guitar  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized  as  well  as  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  decent  mixture  of  modern  and  old  school  influences.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Mysticism,  Occultism,  Paganism  and  Darkness  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  Nazgul  Rising  are  a  very  great  sounding  symphonic  black  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Seed  Of  The  Serpent"  "Visions  Of  The  Nightside"  "Father  of  Les"  and  "From  The  Depths  Of  Hades".  8  out  of  10.

https://youtu.be/K6p7gIe4q3g

https://open.spotify.com/album/56yP0V4wcBcEiw1GSQqMNH

https://www.facebook.com/nazgulrising/

https://www.instagram.com/nazgulrising/

https://nazgulrising.bandcamp.com/

https://soundcloud.com/nazgulrising