The Vice Interview

 

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

Since we finished recording the album last year we've been busy recording the videos for the first two singles, "Grant Me Your Peace" and "Lit De Parade", getting everything surrounding the release together (layout, promo-material etc) and started writing some new tunes. Fun stuff, but feels great having it out so we can get into full creation-mode again, writing music, rehearsing and such.

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

I think all of our releases so far have differed quite a lot from each other. Fine-tuning our sound and craft with each one, with pretty much the same goal everytime which is to just write the best damn songs we possibly can within our framework of dark, vicious rock/metal. And with "Dead Canary Run" we took some major leaps forward, things just fell into place in a whole other way than they have in the past. The melodies, atmosphere, pace, structure, all parts are just better and one step closer to where we want them to be.

3.This is also your first release in 4 years, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?

Well due to circumstances pretty much out of our control, we weren't able to do any touring for our last album "White Teeth Rebellion" when it was released in the summer of 2020.. That sucked of course, but no point in bitching about that so we just started working on new material instead. And four years is a while, though I'm really glad we took our time cuz the effort we put into the writing, stepping up our entire game shows in every beat of "Dead Canary Run". We're on a whole other level now than we were in 2020 and pushing forward feels better than ever.

4.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the newer music and also how would you describe your progress as

songwriters over the years?

I kinda look at this existence, life you might call it, as some sort of level I hope to beat in flying colors. And find it hard describing them without sounding like the most pretentious asshole the world has ever seen, but it's fucking hard so don't say I didn't warn you hehe..

So that's the foundation for my view on things, then each song has a different "theme" based on things that came to mind that I felt was worth writing about. Sometimes it's about a specific part of this madness, how to pull through it in the best possible way ("Grant Me Your Peace" for example is about getting rid of all trivial feelings, cleanse yourself until all that's left is just pure dedication to a cause, something I think might be a way to get that golden ticket into the pearly gates haha..). Sometimes it's just thoughts and observations about another area I feel is interesting enough (like "Anothe Future" that's pretty much just acknowledging that life's pretty weird, but it is what it is so nothing to do but just dive into the chaos headfirst), or might be about a feeling connected to certain things I've experienced or speculations about how situations might play out when they arrive (say "Be Afraid", describing a thrilling sensation when you're at the very edge, about to completely lose your mind. Not a state I find myself in too often, but felt it would make a good song so I put down my thoughts on how I think it might feel, go down when it happens). 

And all this owerblown, pseudo-religious bullcrap aside; I also find it as important that the words just fit, that they sound right where they are. To me the flow and structure of the things I sing matters as much as what I sing to contribute to a great song. 

A bloody novel that one, but that's about as concise as I can be and still try to give you an honest answer about the theme of the lyrics.. 

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

The Vice don't have that much more to it than we were discussing different names back in the start of the band, the word came up and we liked the way it looked and sounded and the meaning of it was something that was pretty fitting for this entire operation.

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

Could write a sequel to that novel I just wrote about the artwork, but I won't hehe.. I'll just say we spent too much time, money and work before deciding we'd do it ourselves.

We came up with the idea to have it based on some sort of impossible staircase, there are some famous paintings of those out there and we felt that would be a very appropriate thing to base the cover-art on. Then me and Charlie bought a printer, transparent printer papers, booze and got a photo editing program and somehow learned how to use it somewhat decent in like 30 minutes. Then searched for pictures of stairs that looked like we wanted, edited them, printed and cut them out and started to build a collague on a large white paper. Piece by piece it came together and the other stuff, windows, gates, man on the cliff etc were things we came up with as we went along.  Some 40 hours later, after scanning the end result and putting the finishing touches (the maelstrom and colors) we were done. Then Petter took over and made all the layout, booklet and stuff. So I fucking love how it turned out, and knowing the entire process behind it makes it very special in my mind.

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

We've had a couple of great shows here in Stockholm a few years back, but the best and most memorable ones is without a doubt in the Czech Republic. Been there for some shorter tours maybe four times (I think?) and have had some really good shows there. Especially in Prague and Plzen the crowds have been something else, and the folks running the venues are awesome people making the trips over there a treat.

Our sets contain both faster, punkier, rock n roll songs as well as some slower, more atmospheric pieces. So far I think we've just tried to put together a playlist that makes sense so the show gets a natural flow, so that these different elements go together and give the rollercoaster a sense of direction. For the upcoming shows we have a whole new album of new songs to choose from and my guess is it will be a pretty huge difference from the previous ones. I think we're able to put together a much tighter set, trim the fat and make the experience way more condensed, confident.

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

Things are in the works, can't wait to get out and play the new songs and we also have the entire non-touring for the last album to make up for so hopefully we'll do lots of shows all over the globe this year. Nothing I can confirm now though, so stay tuned and we'll update you all as soon as things get more concrete.

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

The album has been very well received, with some damn fine (and interesting) reviews from various papers and zines. And more importantly we've had many "regular listeners" commend it as well. And we don't play to satisfy anyone, we do it because we want and HAVE to (at least in my opinion, in order to fulfill some weird purpose). However, it is of course great fun to hear others like it to. Especially when they tell us that they've picked up on the progress, that they hear the things we spent the last four years on improving. We sure as hell hear it, but one never knows if it gets through to people outside our box, so that's something I really appreciate.  

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

We got many ideas and ways we plan to explore going forward, but probably best I don't get into all of them cuz it would probably scare everyone away haha.. Sounds to fucked up for someone not speaking the language we in the band use when talking music. But besides the ever ongoing process of improving our songwriting, one notable thing is we'll probably have piano as a more permanent ingredient in our upcoming songs. Used it on two songs on the album, and we believe it is the right time and place to incorporate that to make further advancements towards our goals.

Plan to release some new stuff very soon so keep your eyes and ears open, it'll be interesting..

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

Black Metal and Rock n Roll are the two main genres we have in common and always come back to. To name a few from each I'd say Dissection, Emperor, Mayhem, Ofermod, Guns n Roses, W.A.S.P, Mötley Crue and Crashdiet are some bands we like and respect and both listen to and take inspiration from. Then we all have our personal favourites on the side, lots of good music has been created over the years so this is a very simplified description but here it goes. Petter is a huge Iron Maiden fan, into various Heavy Metal and then shitloads of more Black Metal. Charlie is mostly into some post-rock/metal like Solstafir, Neurosis, Mastodon and also some more atmospheric stuff like Magna Carta Cartel. And besides all of the above I go for some more Industrial bands like Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, Theatre of Tragedy and top it all of with some Oasis, Miley Cyrus and Lil Wayne.

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

Been great fun talking to you and some interesting questions where I got to spill my guts. For you readers out there, check out the new album "Dead Canary Run" (out digitally and on CD, vinyls coming any day now) and the really cool videos for the first two singles "Grant Me Your Peace" and "Lit De Parade" on Noble Demon Records youtube channel.

Until next time, stay true!

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Keres Interview

 

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

 Yes, gladly, Keres were born in 2015 from the ashes of another band, The Crying of Angels from the glacial meanders of the Val di Fassa. Having had a change in lineup, Hrymr,Ares and Astaroth decide to change the name of the band and propose with the musical project KERES some of their personal passions, mythology, Greek philosophy and the observation of the human condition. Keres' first album, Heresy is in fact a conceptual EP based on some themes of the ancient Greek world. Starting from the name KERES (demons that feed on the last breaths of warriors fallen on the battlefield) passing through the artwork with subjects such as the 3 Moira that weave the name of the band like a gordian knot, passing through the lyrics that transpose the main theme of the Greek myths with their peculiarities in the decadent modern world. I would say an interesting trip based on the fact that humans have not changed much over the millennia but tend to be victims, prisoners and executioners of themselves, prey to their own egocentricity; rarely judges except in tragic and inevitable moments such as the proximity of death . Themes that are then explored in depth, but without the Greek meaning also in the new full length Homo Homini Lupus. 

2.Your first full length will be released in February, how does it differ musically from your previous demos and EPs? 

Homo Homini Lupus differs from Heresy and the productions of The Crying of Angels mainly due to a different approach and musical 'maturity'. Let me explain: as you gradually listen to music and delve deeper into the subject of the emotional language that music does so well to transmit you make your personal emotions more accessible to the listener, the more listening experience you have, and the more varied the listening range, the greater your chances will be of producing songs that will be able to transport the listener into your inner world. It almost creates a sort of bond, it's a feeling of greater affinity between band and listener. In the band we all started listening to metal as kids, as we grew up everyone deepened their passion (not to say addiction) for music in their own limitless way, regardless of genre. This has led us more and more over the years to mix our individual roots and listening in the music that KERES produce. The previous productions were decidedly blacker... now the matrix remains, the violence and fury too, but the edges of the work are more jagged, the proposal is more transversal than in the past. So it's a more fun way than staying stuck in clichés. 

3.This is also your first release since 2016, can you tell us more about what happened in that time?

 I would say damn everything!!! Between lineup changes, real or presumed pandemic apocalypses, difficulties in having rehearsals, internal and external tensions within the band. For example: Exist for War risked being shelved because at a certain point we ran out of ideas, energy and patience with each other, we couldn't get out of it, it took us months to finish it. On some evenings the tension felt like an anvil on the head, but in the end given the hard head and the friendship that has bound us for a long time we brought home the song without deaths or injuries, hahaha. We are really proud of this song. We also brought home a great musician, Azrael the second axe. Heresy was played by a single guitarist (Astahrot), Lupus differently was conceived from the beginning with 2 guitars, and in Azrael's studio we spent fantastic evenings/nights of production associated with alcoholic waste and dementia. The classic evenings with friends where you enter the studio before dinner and leave at 3 in the morning... sometimes crawling. Then, the icing on the cake: Notrhakr on the drums with his Varus (he is sponsored by Varus Drums) who found the drum parts written, but we mutually decided that he would have the freedom of action needed to make the songs more violently tasty... well... just listen to the album to realize that the decision was right!! A real war machine!!! So I think, like everyone else, we have had great moments and down moments, but we are all still on board the KERES ensemble and we are fierce and excited like never before. 

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

 Death, life and pussy I would say! No..thinking only about pussy... Jokes aside, I have already mentioned something previously. Basically they are reflections on the human condition of constant conflict, without solutions that do not involve collateral bloodshed, hatred, pain that often lasts for generations, see the situations in Palestine, Ukraine, Nagorno-Karabakh, Syria exploded recently but were born and gangrenous in the previous decades; but without going particularly far given that we live in the border area we can mention the South Tyrolean situation which harks back to the 2nd world war and the twenty black years, we do not live in a situation of armed conflict but it has not always been like this, and the ethnic tension in some situations is clearly perceived. I could say that the lyrics basically talk about current events; of course, everything is filtered through the mind of our singer, Ares and his own vision, who once he has heard the arias of the songs decides what emotion listening triggers him and decides where to direct the story that will tell. Void and Silence clarifies Ares' worldview well. 

5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name "Keres"?

 As already mentioned, the choice comes from the need to change the name of the band and the desire to start a new era for us. A double separation had recently occurred with two musicians as well as dear friends who played in the band, it had been peaceful but had created a situation of suffering for us, so we drew on the world of Greek mythology for the new name. We decided to ' 'cannibalize ourselves' by deciding for KERES. As I was saying, they are demons who feed on the last gasps of warriors fallen on the battlefield, imaginatively we recognized ourselves in these entities given that we had emerged very exhausted from the situation just described and the project had risked to die. 

6.Can you tell us something more about the artwork presented on the cover of the new album? 

It refers to the concept of Homo Homini Lupus explored in depth by Hobbes regarding the dominant characteristic in the human being according to his (and our) vision. In some ways it can be linked to the secular bases of a certain Satanism, the concept of Me, Myself and I but to dissect the connections between the various lines of thought would take too long and this is not the right place. Like the previous artwork, it was created by Astahrot, who in addition to being a musician is a graphic artist and tattoo artist. He had the concept very clear in his head after we had all done a full immersion on the theme together, after discussing it he started with the graphics, he made some paintings at his home and then submitted his visions to us in oil on canvas. Astahrot always says that the artwork of Homo Homini Lupus is the representation of the Eternal Conflict and duality between human and beast. 

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

 Gladly, one of the best shows was playing with Aborted in Milan in 2019 loaded like missiles, or as an opener at Rotting Christ show in Verona the following year, or with friends Subhuman, Italian band that breaks down walls for sound and energy murderer!! The performances on stage have an anarchic quality, in the sense that we don't mess around with positions or movements previously chosen to impress. We let the energy flow freely, each in their own way, each member goes on their own personal journey while playing. What is very clear to us, when we are on stage we embody Ker's children, we channel anger and exorcise our personal demons by reliving music and lyrics in that exact moment, it has something cathartic if the evening is good. It goes without saying that we have fun like monkeys. 8. Do you have any tours or shows planned once the new album is released? There is clearly a release that we are working on but which I cannot talk about yet because we are evaluating a location that will be unforgettable for those who participate in the show. For now it is top secret stuff. The management is subsequently organizing dates in our neighboring Europe, and We're in the process of organizing a tour dedicated to the launch of Homo Homini Lupus. There's a lot of work at stake and we're pretty busy.

 9. Globally, how has the reaction to your music been from blackened death metal fans?

 The video for Eradicate the Infected Seed was very well received, as a single it gives a rather clear idea of the album but the best of the album is inside, we pushed ourselves to the best of our ability and in the songs in addition to the devastating impact there are quite a few gems hidden here and there for those with an attentive ear. We'll see the reaction once the album is released, February 23rd will be the day!! 

10.Where do you see the band going musically in the future? 

We're already playing around with riffs and new ideas, we don't like standing still, who knows about the future, it depends a lot on the mood in the group, the idea is to continue making violent stuff and playing live as much as possible compatible with parallel projects of the various members. Let me mention them to you as a spammer for a moment: Astahrot and I play in AnarcA, and Azrael plays in Aasar. You can find those band on the net. The mission is to carry the black word KERES as far and wide as possible and have fun playing our music.

 11.What are some of the bands or styles of music that band members currently listen to nowadays?

 Good question! Lately I've been listening a lot to Rivers of Nihil, Thy Art is Murder, Humanity Last Breath, Black Crown Initiate, Philip Glass, Haken, but my roots are between Pantera and Zeppelin, passing through King Crimson and arriving at Behemoth, Ares has always listened to more black than me, he started with Cradle of Filth in middle school and black is his path: Vader, Hate, Dark Funeral often appear in his playlists, but also the various projects of Devin Townsend and Rob Zombie . Astahrot is capable of moving from Pink Floyd to Lost Soul, from Aborted to Tool. Azrael has very different listens too, from death/death-core to black,to the Spongebob theme song. 

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

 Of course! Give underground bands and independent labels a chance, never get tired of looking for good music. Ultimately it's about subtle, constant work of craftsmanship and tireless passion that leads musicians to do what they do. We KERES are sure to have a good album born with sweat, passion and blasphemies. It's not perfect perhaps but it lived up to the last note, it's engaging, brutal and violent, it's rude and doesn't respect clichés... then... all the proceeds will go to charity as for the pink panettone, the Tru*i dolls and the DP Easter eggs (any reference to subjects who actually existed and were registered in the register of suspects in Milan is coincidental).

 Skal!!

https://www.facebook.com/keresband/

Night Slasher/Self Titled/Sliptrick Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Night  Slasher  are  a  band  from  Lithuania  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black  and  speed  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2024  album  which  will  be  released  in  February  by  Sliptrick  Records.

  A  very  heavy  and  aggressive  speed  metal  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  you  can  also  hear  all  of  the  musical  instruments  that  are  present  on  the  recoding.  Vocals  are  done  in  more  of  a  first  wave  black  metal  style  with  a  slight  melodic  touch  along  with  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in t he  80's  era  but  modern  at  the  same  time.

  Elements  of  thrash  metal  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  decent  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast beats.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  also  remain  very  true  to  an  old  school  style  along  with  the  album  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  as  well  as  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.

  Night  Slasher  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black,  thrash  and  speed  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Darkness  and  Satanism  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Night  Slasher  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black,  thrash  and  speed  metal  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  these  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Black  Trip"  "Pit  Of  hate"  and  "Towers".  8 out  of  10.

  Facebook | Youtube | In stagram  | On Sliptrick

  

Infernal Throne Interview

 

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

   The Band continues its course, normally and a few days ago, we released a new lyric video, for the track «Wings Of Winter» feat Greg Barlas , from Extremity Obsession on backing vocals , taken from the new album “Caelum Et Infernum” via Theogonia Records and Hellenic Metal World, produced by  Wolf’s Path Media Creations and Kerveros from Athos . 

2.A few months back 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?

  «Caelum Et Infernum» is our second «child» after the first mini album «Back To The Abyss» on 2020.  We wanted to travel to more dark paths, and to express our feelings and our thoughts. Our base is always on Black-Thrash Metal . Nevertheless Infernal Throne follows its own path to the music creation . 

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

 

 We talk about , dark worlds and paths , about humans and their souls ,about cruel worlds and dark times , about the war of the soul and the war of the body , the process  to stay into the light or lost into the darkness . We  explore mystical paths to express our worries about the future of this world , about the humanity , and all the  things that  happens to us . 

    

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Infernal Throne'?

  Infernal Throne , is the throne of darkness . The throne of those who fight for everything they have , the throne of those who resist and refuse to give up , the throne that you can see the true world  and you can defeat everyone and everything that tries to hurt you. The throne where you can be the king and lord of flame . Infernal Throne is everything and if someone is like us , then Infernal Throne is the right place to seat . 

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

  

The artwork of the album, is created  once again by the mastermind of Hellenic Metal World,  Haris Burekas . It was a great honor and pleasure for us , to have this man on our journey once again . I thing «Caelum Et Infernum» is exactly what you see at this artwork . The fight of good and evil , the fight for survival , the fight of the soul and  mind for each and every one of us . This man captured exactly what the album wants to share  , once again , as in the mini-album, «Back To The Abyss» .We thank him .     

6.With the exception of vocals you recorded most of the album by yourself but have had other members in the band in the earlier days. do you prefer to work solo?

I prefer to work with people who loves music . People who wants to express their selves through this music . Yes we had more members on the band , and we thank all of them for their huge help to the band . For now, is a solo band but  I  never say «never» 

7.You also had a different singer for each  track, can you tell us a little bit more about the singers that contributed to the album and the other bands or projects they are a part of?

Yes , we had also the great honor and pleasure , to work with some incredible artists and vocalists for this album . Greg Barlas a former member of the band and nowadays  member of the legendary Extremity Obsession , and Rognirgoden was part of this album on tracks “Wings Of Winter” , “Among Two Worlds” , and “Cataclysm Of The Soul” . Archon from the Hellenic Black Metal band   Celtefog  , on the track “Αιώνια Ζωή” ( Eternal Life ) , and Kerveros from the Hellenic Black Metal Scene also , from the band Athos on track “Desolation” . And for the end I would like to thank Michalis Kripasis and Nodens for their huge help on the track “Cataclysm Of The Soul” on bass and drums.  

8.Almost a year ago you where also a part of a split, can you tell us a little bit more about the other bands or musical projects that had participated on the recording?

Legends And Warriors Of  The Corinthian Throne . Yes . It was a great honor and pleasure for us to be part of  this 5-way split. Τhis split was released from a DIY label ,  Hellenic Metal World , and it is dedicated  to the the Extreme Metal Scene of Corinth , a city here in Greece , and to the whole extreme metal scene out there . 

The bands are part of the Corinthian metal scene and this split consists of the legendary Extremity Obsession , Rejection , Eudaimonia and Drama noir . We joined forces in order to express our kind of music to the world. 

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

The reaction about our album and our music was fantastic. We want to thank each and every one out there , for the support. I am thrilled for the good reviews and looking forward to share more music very soon. 

10.What is going on with 'Massive Pain' these days?

 Infernal Throne is taking now over from Massive Pain , with new horizon’s and darker paths . 

11.Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

  I wish and hope my future , to be full of music creation and inspiration , full of fans’ acceptance. And of course keeping Infernal Throne alive.   

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

  These days I am in a totally of  Melancholic and depressive black metal , and bands like Thy light ,   

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

  First of all  , thank you for the hospitality  of this interview .  My thoughts and wishes are peace in the world , health and inspiration for more music creations .   

Website: https://theogonia-records.com/infernal-throne/
Bandcamp: https://infernalthrone. bandcamp.com/releases
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ InfernalThroneBand
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/ UCV2vToe6GgOzG6ziZCTQD9w
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ infernal_throne_official/

Sahlim Interview

 

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

I come from a Mexican doom/death metal band called 'Shiri' (2003-2016), we toured nationally with very good public acceptance, but after a long time without writing any music, I needed to form 'Sahlm' in 2020.

I set out to create an album by myself so that I could reflect all the emotions I have felt since I was a child and bring to light the music that was always playing in my head.

It wasn't easy to write all the music and lyrics, record all the instruments and vocals, as well as the mixing and mastering the album by myself.

There were moments of despair, but in the end I was able to put all the pieces together to create the album.

2. In December 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?

It was never my intention to create music of a specific genre. It developed as the writing progressed, and in the end, I realized that it sounded like a mix of Post-black metal with some Shoegaze.

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

As a person who has had depression since childhood and attempted suicide several times, it was hard to write an album about it.

It became easier when I embraced healing. I used to want to die, but today I want to live. I have so many reasons to live.

“Sense Of Light” is an intensely personal album that pulls back the curtain of depression to expose the light I’ve been searching for. The light to heal and live.

It’s my hope that people will be able to find a narrative in this album that will bring them a sense of healing through the darkness.

In the depression, pain, and suffering of this album - may you find the glimmers of hope.

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

I am a South Korean living in Mexico for more than 30 years, and 'Sahlm' means "the journey of a lifetime" in Korean.

I thought the album was about my life and what I've been through during my life, so the name of the band came to me perfectly.

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

The album cover photo was taken by Rin Lapham, Damian's girlfriend.

Damian is the owner of Colloquial Sound Recordings, he proposed me several photos for the album cover and I think that photo represents the whole concept of the album: depression, suicide and hope.

6. With this project you record everything by yourself but have experiences working with musicians in a previous band, do you prefer to work solo?

When I was in a band, it was fun to get together and write music together.

And when I worked solo on "Sense of Light" the experience was different, because I was demanding more and more from myself, and it was fun but in a different way.

I don't think I prefer one over the other.

7. The new album was released on 'Colloquial Sound Recordings', can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

Colloquial Sound Recordings is from Michigan, USA, run by Damian Master, who is also a musician and has several bands under his leadership such as "A Pregnant Light", "Aksumite", "Purple Light", "Alluring", among others.

Damian has an affinity for Mexico, its people and culture, and from day one we talked about 'Sahlm', he has been wonderful, he has supported me in every way and always asks me before making any decision.

The label has an incredible aesthetic and supports all of their signed bands in a wonderful way, it's a great label to work with.

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

I don't know about the fans of those specific genres, but metal fans have really liked 'Sahlm's album.

The album "Sense of Light" has reached the Top 5, Top 10 and Top 25 of Mexican metal albums of 2023 of several digital magazines in Spain and Mexico, and has also received reviews with very good ratings in Austria, Columbia and other Latin American countries.

I am very grateful to each one of the people who have listened and reviewed "Sense of Light".

9. Where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

I am about to start rehearsing with the musicians I have chosen to play live with 'Sahlm', so playing live is the priority at the moment.

Also, we are about to reactivate my former band 'Shiri' to start writing music for a new album.

So there will be a lot of music in my life ahead.

10. 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?

My main influence since I was a kid has been Anathema. Somehow, their music has always calmed me down in the most difficult and darkest moments.

Also, as a kid I loved Norwegian Black Metal from the nineties.

When I was writing music for 'Sahlm', I listened to bands like Deafheaven, Rolo Tomassi, Crippled Black Phoenix and A Swarm of the Sun.

What I am currently listening to is Lord of the Lost, End of Green, Leprous, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Ashbringer, Sylosis, Svalbard, Darkseed, among others.

11. What are some of your non musical interests?

I love food, traveling and design. Actually, I have a digital design and web development company.

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

Thank you very much for all the support and for considering me for the interview.

A big shout out to all the fans who have read and listened to 'Sahlm'.

Please support and give a chance to new underground bands.

CHEERS TO THE BLACKENED DEATH METAL ZINE TEAM!

P.S. If you’re thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or a loved one, or would like emotional support, please call one of the numbers of your country.

It is available 24/7: www.findahelpline.com. If someone is in IMMEDIATE DANGER, please call your local emergency number.

www.sahlm.band

www.facebook.com/sahlm.band

www.instagram.com/sahlm.band

Karkosa/Esoterrorcult/Redefining Darkness Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Karkosa  are  a  band  from  Fort  Wayne,  Indiana  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Esoterrorcult"  which  will  be  released  in  February  by  Redefining  Darkness  Records.

  A  very  dark,  heavy  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  brutal  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals  are  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  and  the  solos  and  leads  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  melody.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  Some  of   the  songs  also  adds  in  a  small  amount  of  clear  vocals  and  dark  soundscapes  along  with  the  music  also  having  its  technical  moments.

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  style  as  well  as  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  and  nature  sounds,  one  song  is  also  an  instrumental  and  synths  are  also  added  towards  the  end.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Occultism  and  Violence  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Karkosa  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Encorcelled  Spirits"  "The  Tomb  of  Hryam  Abiff"  "Remnants  Of  Creation"  and  "The  Freezing  Shadows  of  Eternal  Winter".  8  out  of  10.

  https://karkosa.bandcamp.com/album/esoterrorcult

      

Tanin'iver/Dark Evils Desecrate/Morning Star Heresy/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Tanin'iver  are  a  duo  that  plays  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Dark  Evils  Desecrate"  which  will  be  released  on  January  25th  by  Morning  Star  Heresy.

  Spoken  word  samples  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  brutal  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats.  Vocals mostly black  metal  screams  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  death  metal  elements.  Dark  sounding  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  some  growls  also  being  utilized  at  times  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  very  heavy  and  brutal  direction.

  Tanin'iver  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black  and  death  metal  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  War,  Violence,  Intolerance  the  Brain-Sapping  Curse  Of  Social  Media.

  In  my  opinion  Tanin'iver  are  a  very  great  sounding  blackened  death  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Another  World's  Hell"  "Better  The  Devil"  "Soul  Thief"  and  "So  Was  Red".  8  out  of  10.

  https://taniniver.bandcamp.com/music

https://youtu.be/dqLmRgafyhE

  

Sahlim/Sense Of Light/Colloquial Sound Recordings/2023 Full Length Review

 

      Sahlim  are  a  solo  project  from  Mexico  that  plays  a  mixture  of  post  black,  doom  metal  and  shoegaze  and  this  is  a  review  of  his  2023  album  "Sense  of  Light"  which  was  released  by  Colloquial  Sound  Recordings.

  Synths  start  off  the  album  and  also  mixes  in  with  the  heavier  sections  of  the  songs  at  times  while  most  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  some  clear  vocals  also  being  added  in  certain  sections  of  the  recording.

   Elements  of  doom  metal  are  also  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  done  in  a  very  melodic  post  metal  style.  Touches  of  shoegaze  are  also  utilized  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  along  with  the  vocals  also  adding  in  a  decent  amount  of  black  metal  screams,  clean  playing  is  also  added  on  some  of  the  tracks  and  all  of  the  music  also  sticks  to  a  slower  direction  and  female  vocals  are  also  added  on  the  closing  song.

  Sahlim  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  post  black  metal  and  mixes  it  with  doom  metal  and  shoegaze  to  create  a  sound  of  his  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  depression,  pain  and  suffering  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Sahlim  is  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  post  black,  doom  metal  and  shoegaze  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  solo  project.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Tears  Of  Despair"  and  "Closure".  8  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/c030A2mYh-o

https://youtu.be/FbmOKx0soXQ

https://colloquialsoundrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/sense-of-light

https://orcd.co/csr118

www.sahlm.band

www.facebook.com/sahlm.band

www.instagram.com/sahlm.band

    

Exitium/Imperitous March For Abysmal Glory/Time To Kill Records/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Exitium  are  a  band  from  Italy  that  plays  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Imperious  March  For  Abysmal  Glory"  which  was  released  by  Time  To  Kill  Records.

  A  very  dark  sounding  intro  starts  off  the  album  while  Gregorian  chants  and  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast  beats  can  be  heard  and  the  vocals  are  mostly  death  metal  growls.

  Elements  of  black  metal  can  also  be  heard  quite  a  bit  throughout  the  recording  while  clean  playing  can  also be  heard  briefly.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  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.

  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  a couple  of  the  tracks  also  being   instrumentals  as  well  as  one  song  also  introducing  synths  onto  the  album.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  an  obscure  civilization  under  the  earth's  crust  and  malicious  external  entities.

  In  my  opinion  Exitium  are  a  very  great  sounding  blackened  death  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Rooted  In  Blackened  Soil"  "The  Sinister  Sedition"  and  "Dieu  Veut!".  8  out  of  10.

  https://www.instagram.com/exitium_metal/

https://www.facebook.com/exitium.metal

In Demoni/Stupid Jokes For Brutal Folks/2023 Full Length Review

 

    In  Demoni  are  a  band  from  Germany  that  plays  a  very  brutal  and  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2023  album  "Stupid  Jokes  FOr  Brutal  Folks".

  Spoken  word  samples  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  brutal  direction.  Vocals a r e mostly  death  metal  growls  while  black  metal  screams  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in a   decent  amount  of  blast  beats  and  melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  

  Elements  of  slam  can  also  be  heard  in  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  technical  style.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  the  tracks  also  adding  in  samples  from  tv  shows  and  movies,  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  album  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  all  of t he  music  sticks  to  a  brutal  direction.

  In  Demoni  plays  a  style  of  blackened  death  metal  that  is  very  brutal  and  technical  sounding.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  humorous  themes.

  In  my  opinion  In  Demoni  are  a  very  great  sounding  brutal  blackened  death  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Tales  From  The  Clit"  "Stalker  -  Texas  Danger"  "Andre  And  The  Stripmunks"  and  "Boodnanza".  8  out  of  10.

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

https://open.spotify.com/intl-pt/album/1svMgKyVpeS9b6vGyPVbvT
https://indemoni.bandcamp.com/album/stupid-jokes-for-brutal-folks
https://www.facebook.com/InDemoni
https://indemoni.de/

Paroxysmal/Force Feeder/CDN Records/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Paroxysmal  are  a  band  from  North  County,  California  that  plays  a  very   technical,  brutal  and  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "Force  Feeder"  which  was  released  by  CDN  Records.

 A  very  dark,  heavy  and  dissonant  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  elements  of  black  metal  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  lot  of  brutal  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.

  Vocals are  a  mixture  of  death  metal  growls  and  high  pitched  screams  while  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  touches  of  slam.  At  times  the  music  also  gets  very   progressive  sounding  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in a   good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts.

  Melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well  as  the  solos  and  leads  also  being  done  in  a  very  technical  style  when  they  are  utilized  and  some  of  the  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  clean  playing  is  also  added  on  the  closing  track.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Introspection  and  Mental  Illness  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Paroxysmal  are  a  very  great  sounding  technical  and  brutal  blackened  death  metal  band  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  this  musical  genre,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Awaiting  Eruption"  "Inner  Absence"  and  "Force  Feeder".  8  out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/AVVWoEgmXag

https://cdnrecords.com/shop/paroxysmal-force-feeder/ https://paroxysmal.bandcamp.com/track/ageless-deathless https://www.facebook.com/paroxysmalmetal https://www.instagram.com/_paroxysmal_/ https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Paroxysmal_Butchering/3540346934

      

Misanthropik Torment/Declaration Of War/2023 Full Length Review

 

  This  is  a  review  of  another  recording  from  Kentucky's  Misanthropik  Torment  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  the  album  was  self  released  in  2023  and  called  "Declaration  Of  War".

  The  sounds  of  war  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  very  fast  and  brutal  direction  which  also  utilizes  a  great  amount  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats.  Vocals  are mostly  cavernous  death  metal  growls  while  black  metal  screams  can  also  be  heard  at  times  and  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also h ear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  while  a  small  amount  of  dark  sounding  melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing.  War  samples  ae  also  added  between  every  track  along  with  the  music  also  being  heavily  rooted  in  the 90's  era  mixed  in  with  a  more  modern  day  brutality  and  the  whole  album  also  sticks  to  a  very  heavy  and  brutal  direction.

  On  this  recording  Misanthropik  brings  in  a  very  heavy  and  brutal  style  of  blackened  death  metal.  The  production  sounds  very  dark  and  heavy  while  the  lyrics  cover  anti  religion,  anti  war  and  political  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  album  from  Misanthropik  Torment  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  blackened  death  emtal,  you  should  check  out  this  recording.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Declaration  Of  War"  "Political  pedophiles"  I  Will  Kill  Again"  and  "Misdirected  lambs".  8 out  of  10.

  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3TEDJTdOP5GPBfsLOYVLwI

Bandcamp: https://misanthropiktorment.bandcamp.com/
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/61133342/radio ...

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/misanthropik-torment/1448445594            

Misanthropik Torment/ECDYSIS/Misanthropik Records/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Misanthropik  Torment  are  a  duo  form  Kentucky  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2023  album  "ECDYSIS"  which  was  released  by  Misanthropik  Records.

  A  very  heavy  and  brutal  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  tremolo  picking  and  blast b eats.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  vocals  being  a  mixture  of  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls.

  Melodies  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  songs  also  add  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  old  school  extreme  metal  style  and  one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing  and  spoken  word  parts.

  On  this  recording  Misanthropik  Torment  remains  true  to  the  blackened  death  metal  style  that  they  have  established  on  previous  releases.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  political  greed,  anti  religion  and  human  decay  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Misanthropik  Torment  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  blackened  death  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Master  And  Slave"  "False  Prophet"  and  "Karmic  Retribution".  8  out  of  10.

  https://misanthropiktorment.bandcamp.com/album/ecdysis  

The Vice/Dead Canary Run/Noble Demon/2024 Full Length Review

 

  The  Vice  are  a  band  from  Sweden  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black'n'roll  and  dark  rock  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Dead  Canary  Run"  which  will  be  released  on  January  19th  by  Noble  Demon.

  A  very  avant  garde  sound  starts  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  the  solos  and  leads  bring  in  more  of  a melodic  dark  rock  style.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  black  metal   screams.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  also  bring  in  elements  of  black'n'roll.  Some  of  the  riffing  also  shows  an  influence  of  punk  rock  and  dark  pop  along  with  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  acoustic  guitars.  keyboards  are  also  added  on  a  few  songs.

  A  couple  of  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  some  clear  vocals  also  being  utilized  briefly  on  one  of  the  songs.  blast  beats  and  fast  playing  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  most  of  the  album  sticks  to  either  a  slow  or  mid  paced  direction,  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  dark  themes.

  In  my  opinion  The  Vice  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black'n'roll  and  dark  rock  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Tomorrow  Will  Mend"  "Crossing  over"  and  "Exit  lights".  8  out  of  10.

  

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