Eye Sea Black – Stigma (Review)

Eye Sea BlackEye Sea Black are an Italian metal band and this is their debut EP.

Specialising in its own brand of stylish and sharp aggression, Stigma is almost 20 minutes of modern extreme metal that hits the spot quite nicely. Continue reading “Eye Sea Black – Stigma (Review)”

Epica – The Solace System (Review)

EpicaEpica are a symphonic metal band and this is their latest EP.

One of the things I like about Epica is that although they play Symphonic metal with luscious female vocals, early on in their career they managed to carve out their own path and identity in this well-worn genre. Continue reading “Epica – The Solace System (Review)”

71TONMAN – Earthwreck (Review)

71TONMANThis is the second album from Polish doom/sludge band 71TONMAN.

A mere four or so years ago since their self-titled debut album came out, 71TONMAN have now returned with an ever heavier, slower, and fatter release. Hold on to something tight before you press play, as Earthwreck is likely to live up to its name when played at high volumes. Continue reading “71TONMAN – Earthwreck (Review)”

Epitaph – Claws (Review)

EpitaphThis is the second album from Italian doom metallers Epitaph.

2014’s Crawling out of the Crypt was one of my favourite release from that year, and if I had to do that best of list over again the album would have definitely made it into the top 20 or so. As much as I enjoyed it at the time, it’s been a firm grower, and is an exceptional example of doom metal done right in an authentic, honest, and traditional way. Continue reading “Epitaph – Claws (Review)”

Wolves in the Throne Room – Thrice Woven (Review)

Wolves in the Throne RoomThis is the sixth album from US black metal band Wolves in the Throne Room.

After 2014’s Celestite, which saw the band take a significant departure from the norm into expansive ambient soundscapes, this latest release returns to the band’s atmospheric black metal roots, with 42 minutes of new material. Continue reading “Wolves in the Throne Room – Thrice Woven (Review)”

Gloam – Death Is the Beginning (Review)

GloamGloam are a US black metal band and this is their latest EP.

This is black metal that’s played with grim grandeur and some touches of doom. This is dark and majestic music, using melody well to create atmosphere and evoke images of harsh vistas and gloomy landscapes. Continue reading “Gloam – Death Is the Beginning (Review)”