Shaarimoth Interview

 

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

Between the shadows of 'Temple of the Adversarial Fire' and the impending arrival of 'Devildom,' we contributed to the split 'SamaeLilith: A Conjunction of the Fireborn,' released by the World Terror Committee in 2021. This 4-way split showcases pure black magic mayhem, featuring contributions from some of the most dedicated bands in the genre. While this format may be seen as untrendy within the 'scene', I believe these splits are an essential part of the metal legacy and something that must be preserved.

Since then, we have been immersed in the creative process for our new album, which was recorded in 2022. However, like with all our previous releases, we have faced formidable challenges that have delayed its release. Despite this, our spirit remains strong, and we eagerly anticipate sharing the fruits of our labor with our listeners soon.

2. You have a new album coming out on Halloween. Musically, how does it differ from your previous releases?

Each album is an act of defiance, a manifestation of our relentless evolution. We reject stagnation as it is the death of art and all other aspects of life. This new album, set to emerge on Samhain, plunges deeper into the abyss, reflecting our unyielding exploration of primal energies which manifests from the unconsciousness. While our essence persists, we have pushed the boundaries further, intertwining new elements that challenge both us and our listeners.

In essence, this album is a dark testament to our growth, each note and lyric is a step into the depths we willingly traverse.

3. What are some lyrical topics you have covered that you weren’t able to explore in previous releases?

In this new endeavor, we have embraced the opportunity to approach our lyrical themes from a new perspective, while remaining true to the primal forces that have guided us from the very beginning. We navigate through the darkest paths to esoteric enlightenment, forging a synthesis from the traditions of countless centuries.

This time, we deliberately obscured the deities that inspired the tracks, inviting listeners to engage with the material on a deeper level. By cloaking certain elements in mystery, we create space for interpretation, urging our audience to unearth their own meanings and forge a connection with the dark powers that dwell within. We aim to awaken the rebellious nature within our listeners, inspiring them to realize their divine potential and discover the power of the inner flame.

4. Many of your lyrics focus on Chaos Gnosticism and the Left-Hand Path. How has your interest evolved over the years?

My spiritual journey is and has always been dynamic and ever-evolving. 

Each experience, each revelation, shapes my understanding of creation and our place within and beyond it. These paths beckon us to confront the darkness, to question established norms, and to dive deep into the recesses of our own (un)consciousness.

Remaining open to new impulses allows fresh ideas and insights to shift our understanding. Engaging with these philosophies reveals them as living traditions that encourage adaptation. It’s about being receptive to the currents of the powers we work with and allowing these experiences to shape our art and spirituality.

5. In previous lyrics, you've explored the left-hand path and the sinister aspects of vampirism. Do you find inspiration in writers like Michael W. Ford?

My inspiration comes from a multitude of sources, occult and philosophical literature, music, paintings and the vast landscape of art itself. Each medium provides a distinct lens for exploring ideas. While it’s essential to draw inspiration from others, true understanding emerges through dedicated practice and immersion.

Knowledge is gathered through reading, but wisdom is forged through experience. This journey allows us to create a synthesis between dark traditions, contributing to a rich tapestry of understanding. Ultimately, it’s about harnessing that inspiration to carve a unique path, fearlessly exploring the shadows while integrating past wisdom with personal truths.

6. You've also covered Sumerian Magick and the Qliphoth in your lyrics. How have these practices impacted your life and worldview?

It’s not a specific system that has shaped my journey, but rather the underlying essence that transcends time and form. Myths resonate with singular truths, and our lyrical expressions evolve across cultures and centuries. Exploring different traditions unveils unique dimensions of the same underlying powers. Gnosis is key, through deep understanding, we draw closer to liberating truths.

The powers we explore have profoundly reshaped my life, guiding me toward spiritual ascension and personal excellence. This path demands a restructuring of internal paradigms into a sinister discipline. Once certain bridges are burned, there’s no turning back, and the freedom drives me forward into the unknown.

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

The artwork for our new album is a powerful collaboration between Vamperess Imperium and Khaos Diktator. We aimed for a design that demands attention, bursting with vibrant colors that embody the fiery spirit of our music. We’re thrilled with the final result as it perfectly captures the essence of "Devildom."

8. Out of all the shows the band has played, which ones stand out the most?

Choosing a singular standout performance feels impossible as each show is a unique convergence of energies. Music serves as a transformative force, altering not just ourselves but also the audience. Witnessing this metamorphosis, where raw energies intertwine and people tap into the spirit we strive to channel, can be immensely rewarding. It also depends on the energy between the band members, they need to be in the right mood to transmit these energies and act as conduits between the invoked powers and the audience. When all the above elements are present, it becomes a ritualistic communion, a celebration of the otherworldly, forging a powerful exchange between the high and the low, all colliding in the axis mundi.

While it’s hard to pinpoint a specific show, I’d like to highlight the atmosphere in Abtenau. The air there crackles with intensity, resonating deeply within the mountains, something we experienced during our tour with Thy Darkened Shade and Horna.

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

We are preparing for live appearances and are currently in discussions with potential partners. We embrace opportunities as they arise and remain open to what feels right and intriguing. Let’s see what unfolds, and if the Gods will it, we will definitely be ready to strike with a full-on assault.

10. Musically, you lean more toward death metal while your lyrics delve into the occult side of black metal. Do you feel you’re bringing something original to the genre?

While it may be tempting to label Shaarimoth as merely death metal, I reject the notion of confining our expression to such narrow confines. Music should not be constrained by simplistic categories, it exists in a realm of freedom that invites exploration beyond the ordinary. Our art strives to shatter limitations, embracing an ultimate freedom that transcends any imposed rules or genres. I do not claim our work to be groundbreaking in a conventional sense, but it resonates with a raw honesty, drawing from a source far removed from the majority of today’s acts.

The labels that once defined this genre have long since lost their initial meaning. The darker, radical, and spiritual elements that once gave it life have faded, leaving behind categories based on superficial traits. We seek to rise above these limitations. Through our music, we channel adversarial energies, tapping into the potent currents that lie beneath the surface. This allows us to forge an expression that defies simplistic categorization, speaking to the deeper, often uncharted realms of existence and beyond.

In many ways, the music manifests itself, we serve as instruments for the forces we align with, allowing those energies to flow through us. This is not music, this is ritual, a sacred communion with the abyss. 

11. How has the reaction been to your music from underground metal fans worldwide?

It's difficult for me to fully assess our impact, and honestly, I rarely check the internet to read about our own work, as other people's opinions often feel irrelevant to me. However, since the release of "Current 11" we’ve attracted attention from all corners of the globe, at least judging by the inquiries and messages we received around that time. Even during our quieter periods, people have often asked for updates on new releases, so I suppose we haven't been completely forgotten, despite our long periods of silence. The response to "Temple of the Adversarial Fire" was notably heightened, showcasing its resonance upon its release. Our split, "SamaeLilith: A Conjunction of the Fireborn," which we did with Thy Darkened Shade, Amestigon, and Inconcessus Lux Lucis in 2021, also seemed to open some new gates and reach a new audience. 

It’s important to note that we don’t fully identify with any specific scene or label, for various reasons, we prefer to exist outside those confines. We may not draw the largest crowds, but we have cultivated a loyal following, many of whom have stood by us for over twenty years. Their steadfast support is a testament to the profound connection we’ve forged. 

12. Where do you see the band heading musically in the future?

As for our musical direction, the next album is already recorded, we’re simply awaiting the mixing and mastering process. Yet, beyond that, the future remains shrouded in mystery. Each moment presents new crossroads, and the paths we may take are unpredictable. While we have a vision, the essence of our journey is shaped by the unfolding of experiences and the raw energy that drives us. The evolution is constant, and we embrace the unknown. 

13. What bands or musical styles are the members currently listening to?

My listening habits are as diverse as the music we create, spanning a wide selection of genres, from the most extreme realms of metal to rock, ambient, punk, noise, classical and beyond. The list of bands that inspire me is extensive. In the realm of extreme metal, I draw from titans like Morbid Angel, Death, Possessed, Immolation, Incantation, Repugnant, Bathory, Dissection, early Emperor, Nifelheim, Abigor, Deathspell Omega, and Funereal Presence, among others.

I also appreciate classic metal acts that tread a slightly less extreme path, such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mercyful Fate, Danzig, Angel Witch, Christian Death, Fields of the Nephilim, and W.A.S.P. In the realm of non-metal, I find deep resonance in the works of Lustmord, Puissance, Swans, Nick Cave, Gallows, Ulver, and GGFH.

Personally, I often feel disconnected from the current music scene. Instead, I immerse myself in the raw energy of past releases, relishing old demos and classic albums by bands like Autopsy, Merciless, Necrovore, Sarcofago, Vulcano, and Von. Yet, it’s undeniable that certain more modern bands have influenced our sound, perhaps more than we’d like to admit, which is more evident in our latest work, "Devildom," where the echoes of those inspirations resonate clearly. 

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

Thank you for the support. 

For those who are prepared, the void awaits!

A.M.L.G.

www.facebook.com/shaarimoth 

Dammnatorum Interview

 

1. Can you let us know what's been going on in the band lately?

Our line-up has been enriched by a second guitar. Celer, due to his musical education, is a good reinforcement for the band. It took us some time to get in tune. Finally, we can play concerts as they were recorded in the studio. In July 2024, we published the first official video clip for the song "Per Mortem Vado". Working on it was a new, interesting experience. We enjoy performing on stage, where we have contact with the audience and see how they react to our music. We thank everyone very much for their support. Between concerts, we are preparing material for the next album (it will probably be two mini-albums spread out over time), which are to be recorded in 2025. The music will be recorded in a different studio than our debut.

2. In 2023, you released your first full-length album. Can you tell us a little more about the musical style you used in the recording?

Everyone can determine at their own discretion what style to pigeonhole us into. Our music is what we like to create and what we feel comfortable with. Generally, what we play can be described as death metal spiced with elements of black metal.

3. The band has existed since 2018, but waited 5 years to release its first full album. Can you tell us a little more about this long wait?

We haven't played instruments at all for twenty-something years. It took us some time to get good at it. It's about being good at executing the intended projects. Starting from scratch, you have to buy instruments, which is not easy at all, because there are some goals set, but unfortunately they cost money. Finding the right room to play was not easy either. We used to get chased away because of the noise.

During our inactivity, the music world has changed a lot for the better in many ways. It's about technology that didn't exist before. Electronics and the possibilities it brings have developed a lot. Now we can create projects to play at rehearsals and update them without leaving home. Social media has become very important. In addition to playing, you have to take care of additional tasks such as selling gadgets, online activities, etc.

From the beginning, we imagined that we would play with two guitars. We tried with several guitarists. We had spent a lot of time on that. However, they dropped out due to difficulties in mastering the material and lack of time.

Our debut was the song “Tenebrae”, which was released as a single. It was created very quickly. We were motivated to take part in the project “IN MEMORIAL”, in which famous artists from all over the world from different musical styles were offered to participate. Unfortunately, the project was not realized, but “Tenebrae” was released on popular streaming media.

Then it was time to record the album. Before the recordings, the first vocalist left us. We started a feverish search. We had several willing people. We made the final choice and, as it turned out, the right one.

We chose the most favorable studio for us. The start date of the recordings was postponed several times, but in the end, the drum part was recorded. It took 2 days, but the processing of this material was also postponed several times. The guitars and vocals went smoothly, but we had to wait a long time for the final mix. The whole production took us over a year.

4. What non-fictional topics has the band touched on in the lyrics so far? Are there any fictional lyrics in them?

Basically, all of our lyrics are non-fictional. We touch on the problem of evil, various states of mind and the matter of death in the context of human proclivities and frailties. “Aokigahara” is a story about a forest at the foot of Mount Fuji, which is a traditional place for committing suicide. “Necrophagus” is a true story of an ordinary man, a printing worker. The hidden side of his personality was necrophilia and cannibalism. The lyrics “Animarum Pernicies” talk about suffering and depression. In the other lyrics, you can find metaphorical references to modern times.

5. What is the meaning and inspiration of the name “Dammnatorum”?

The inspiration for the band's name is... Latin. It has many meanings. It signifies the damned or the curse.

6. Can you tell us more about the artwork on the album cover?

The artwork was created by Daniel Rusiłowicz, who works for bands such as BELPHEGOR and HATE. The artwork directly refers to the album title: “In the Shadow of Death”. At first glance, it is associated with a certain religion and in this context it is a provocation. When you look closely, you can see that the figure is crucified contrary to Christian iconography and, above all, it has no face. This figure has the face of every human being and is a symbol of suffering (crucifixion - that is, torment for a long time) that we experience for most of our lives, the arrows stuck in the body of the condemned (the damned - a reference to the name of the group) are a metaphor for death that awaits each of us.

7. You also wear masks in promotional photos. What do they symbolize and mean to you?

Masks are our “armor”, our “dehumanization”. Our image directly refers to the music and lyrics.

8. What are the best concerts the band has played so far and how would you describe your stage performance?

We remember every concert fondly and every performance is a valuable experience. It would be very hard for us to single out the best one. We definitely don't remember the first 2 performances fondly due to our lack of experience (we were inactive for almost a quarter of a century), although we learned important lessons for the future from them, so they weren't completely unsuccessful concerts.

9. Do you have any plans for a tour or performances in the future?

Unfortunately, a lot doesn't depend solely on us and it's hard to plan anything specific in certain matters. We post planned performances on our band's FB. Of course, we would like to play concerts as often as possible and reach the widest possible group of metal fans. First of all, we plan to record new material.

10. The band currently has no signed contract. Are you looking for a label or have you already met with interest?

Thank you for this question. We are open to cooperation. We will consider any proposal. We can confirm that we have already analyzed the offers, but they did not meet our expectations.

11. What is the reaction of black and death metal fans around the world to your music?

The reactions are very positive. Interestingly, the response to our music came from various corners of the world, even from such an exotic country as Peru, where we sent our records and T-shirts.

12. What musical future do you see for the band?

The future is primarily to play and practice as much as possible. Musically, we are evolving a bit, the new material will be a bit more developed and technically slightly more difficult, but there will also be a greater emphasis on melody in solos - of which there will be a bit more now thanks to the second guitarist - Celer.

13. What bands and styles of music do the band members currently listen to?

Of course, each of us listens to metal, with a special emphasis on death and black metal.

Dziab

I uncritically love Decapitated. I listen to (apart from metal) the most guitar music: Vai, Plini, Satriani, Malmsteen, etc. I also listen to a lot of classical music and occasionally jazz. My great love in music is progressive metal like Dream Theater. For many years, Symphony X has been my number 1 band, a mix of progressive and neoclassical metal.

Max

I listen to a variety of music. But metal has always been and will always have a place of honor in my life. I think that our domestic bands are among the world's top. Bands like Hate, Decapitated, Vader are our pride.

Mef

That's a difficult question for me. I know that for the rest of the band too, because I've been listening to bands for several decades and if I were to go back to the beginning of my adventure with metal music, listing the bands would fill an entire page, and this is only part of it. You know, we musicians listen, absorb a huge amount of new music and exchange it with each other, talk about bands. Sometimes I laugh, because when we talk in a band I have the impression that we are small encyclopedias of music. So ok, I will put it this way: I listen to metal in every possible variety, starting with bands from my city, country and the world. I think that Polish bands have their own recognizable character. I like some genres of jazz and electronic music, especially the monumental kind. At work, usually Polish hip hop.

Celer

I have been very closed in on the musical diversity of what I listen to for the last year or two, because I know how much it influences the way I play. So recently I have been listening mainly to Necrophagist, Obscura, and Death. Personally, I think that the first one is the best band of all time, I know that it is not the most accessible music, even in the world of metal, but it has a unique atmosphere, something that has not been repeated later in the history of music. Apart from that, I sometimes get lost in music from the Middle Ages, Renaissance or Baroque. I really like listening to John Dowland, his music increasingly shows me more and more details that I haven't heard before. It's like discovering new threads in an old story.

Vesper Locust

Metal and other interesting songs from different genres and because of varied reasons.

14. Before we end the interview, do you have any last words or thoughts?

Dziab

Facebook | Bandcamp | Spotify | Instagram

Let's hurry up to love people, the world and music - because we're leaving quickly. Let's live and let live.

Mef

Metal is the music of freedom and fight! We don't give in to the system! As my brother in metal said: LOVE YOU MOTHERFUCKERS AND ROCK AND ROLL!!!

Lava Abyss Interview

 

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

- Our project is dedicated to dark theatre, where the most dismal and grim reality comes through our "Plague Metal". We try to embody and revive all the darkness we feel from this world

2.So far you have released an ep and a full length, musically how do they both differ from each other?

-The first album was lyrically and musically conceptual, incorporating all the tracks into a single mood. While "Secret of the Black Soil" is a single EP-length track with a more pronounced story and development.

3.You refer to your music as being 'plague metal', can you tell us a little bit more abotu this term?

- In 1347–1351 plague pandemic was called as “Black Death”, it was tough times for civilization. Since we play blacked death metal we decided to call it “plague metal”, it’s shorter and adding new meanings.

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

- All lyrics except "Secret of the Black Soil" is based on natural unstoppable forces of creations and destructions, initiated by those, forever firing metals and rocks called "magma", which gave the life for all we have now,  it was the start and it will be the finish. (And soon will be a new song, exactly about the theme of creations by these processes.

And for example song "Supervolcanic Obscuration" is about what would be with the current life on Earth in case if supervolcano will erupt.

And it will be sooner or later... It's just a matter of time.

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

- I have been attracted to fire since childhood, and with age it has grown into something more... There is nothing hotter and more destructive than an abyss filled with boiling lava, it must be an incomparable sight!

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

-Well, first cover was made by me, as all “decorations” for videos clip “Finishing the era” it’s real inverted cross size of human height, I put all my soul while I was making it haha. But if to be serious I caught big interest in doing that and soon will be some new releases , as in music so In videos

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

-We've started working on new material, and most likely on new album will appear new masters of metal

8.One member lives in the United States while another lives in Ukraine, what impact does this have on the musical style that you play?

-Very interesting question.

-Thanks to ethnic differentiations our performance mix becomes more unique, but still these are nuances as we have one "metal" nation, and as American and European culture is very close to me and it was the conception of everything that we will now do and play, although today many are confused and do not know what it truly means, and what truths and knowledge it should carry

9.Recently 'Archivist Records', re-issued your 2021 album, can you tell us a little bit more about this label?

-These are people of steel temper, they have survived the "ruzz" occupation and under constant bombing they continue their work. We are very glad that they have published our album.

10.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of blackened death metal?

-Most of the reviews and feedbacks were surprised to hear such unusual mix of black and death metal, which is unsurprisingly for us as we don't have a goal to sounds or build compositions like standard (if I dare to say this word) blackned death metal, or deathned black metal haha.

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

-Well, Mike and I have worked on other death metal projects but we are more concentrated on Lava Abyss.

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

-Only work and progress, I have composed more than 80-100 tracks in my life, and only about 30 have been implemented and I continue to do so, everything will be implemented through the Lava Abyss prism.

13.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?

Deicide, Satyricon, Dark Funeral, Gorguts...

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

-We want to say thank you for inviting to the interview and for spreading metal onto masses!

https://www.facebook.com/LAVA.plague.metal

Shaarimoth/Devildom/W.T.C Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

   Shaarimoth  are  a  band  from  Norway  that  goes  for  an  occult  and  blackened  style  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Devildom"  which  will  be  released  on  Halloween  by  W.T.C  Productions.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  some  ritualistic  chants  and  angry  shouts  also  being  utilized  at  times.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well  as  the  vocals  also  in  mostly  death  metal  screams  and  the  music  also  adds  in  a  lot  of  black  metal  elements

  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  chaotic  style  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  brutal  blast  beats.  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  a  couple  song  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  clean  playing.

  A  couple  of  tracks  are  also  very  long  and  epic  in  length  along  with  one  song  also  adding  in  a  brief  use  of  clear  vocals,  tremolo  picking  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  faster  riffing  and  one  track  also  introduces  spoken  word  parts  onto  the  album  and  they  also  bring  in  an  instrumental.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  occultism,  devil  worship,  darkness,  death,  rebellion  and  the  acosmic  forces  of  the  infernal. 

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Shaarimoth  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  occult  black  and  deat h metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "The  Midnight  Sentinel"  "The  Voiceless  Call"  and  "For  HIs  Eyes  of  Judgement  Are  Forever  Upon  You".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/shaarimoth     

Butcher/On Fowl Of Tyrant Wing/Osmose Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Butcher  are  a  band  from  Belgium  that  has  been  featured  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  mixture  of  black,  speed and heavy  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "On  Fowl  Of  Tyrant  Wing"  which  will be  released  in  October  by  Osmose  Productions.

  Drums  start  off  the  album  along  with  some  bass  guitar  before  introducing  more  traditional  metal  style  riffing  onto  the  recording.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  old  school  style  while  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  speed  metal  elements.

  Blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking  are  also  added  into  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  vocals  bring  in   more  of  a  first  wave  black  metal  style  along  with  some  touches  of  power  metal.  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  as  well as  the  music  also  being  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  80's  era .

 Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  one  song  also  introducing  back  up  shouts  onto  the  album  as  well  as  some  of  the  tracks  also  being  very  long  and  epic  in  length,  ethnic  style  folk  instruments  can  also  be  heard  briefly  and  one  track  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  death  metal  growls.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Satanism,  Occultism,  Violence,  Fighting  and  Metal  themes.      

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Butcher  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black,  speed  and  heavy  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Speed  Metal  Samurai"  "Keep  the  Steele  (Flamin  Hot)"  and  "An  Ending  In  Fyre".  8  out  of  10.

  Bandcamp: https://osmoseproductions.bandcamp.com/album/on-fowl-of-tyrant-wing

All Digital Links: https://bfan.link/BUTCHER-on-fowl-of-tyrant-wing    

Bewitcher/Spell Shock/Century Media Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Portland,  Oregon's  Bewitcher  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  mixture  of  black,  thrash  and  speed  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Spell  Shock"  which  will  be  released  on  September  27th  by  Century  Media  Records.

  Dark  soundscapes  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  speed  metal  direction  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  guitar  solos  and  leads  are  utilized  they  are  also  done  in  a  very  melodic  classic  metal  style  and t he  vocals  are mostly  first  wave  black  metal  screams.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  album  also  mixes  in a   lot  of  thrash  metal  elements.  A  lot  of  the  music  is  very  heavily  rooted  in  the  80's  era  as  will  as  being  very  modern  at  the  same  times  along  with  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats.

  Throughout  the  recording  you  can  also  hear  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  some  of  the  tracks  also  adding  in  a  small  amount  of  back  up  shouts  and  one  of  the  songs  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing,  synths  can  also  be  heard  briefly.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Paganism  and  Hedonism  themes

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Bewitcher  and  if  you  are  a f an  of  blackened  thrash  and  speed  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Starfire  Maelstrom"  "Out  Against  The  Law"  "We  Die  in Dust"  and  "Ride  of  The  Iron  Fox".  8 out  of  10.

  www.bewitcher.us

www.facebook.com/BewitcherOfficial
www.instagram.com/bewitcherofficial

Unreedemer Interview

 

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

Sure! We formed officially in early 2019, when I moved to Finland from Croatia, and we started rehearsing in a full lineup.

Pretty soon we had a couple of local gigs, and went to record the first EP. More gigs and another EP followed, and we were preparing for our first show abroad when our drummer and friend Jani passed away suddenly.

We did that show in his honour, and took some time after to consider our options.

In the end, we decided to go on, onboarded new drummer and a bassist, and are working on new material.

Initially we were considering ourselves to be a death-thrash, or groove metal, but someone suggested after a recent gig that we sound like "blackened thrash", and we liked the sound of that, so we decided to stick with it.

2.So far you have released 2 ep's, musically how do they both differ from each other?

They were recorded and produced in different studios, and featured different drummer and bassist.

Additionally, 4-19-23 was recorded live, with very little track editing, so it's more raw and "dirty", and Word Become Flesh is a bit more polished, and dare I say, mature.

Also, we experimented with some electronic sounds for the intro, and ended up sticking it to the first track on 4-19-23.

That's why we re recorded it on Word Become Flesh - so you don't have to listen to a 2 minute intro track to get to Defiance :) 

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

The topics vary wildly, but what all have in common is that it must be a personal experience. So, either something directly from my life, or something that touched me enough to leave some kind of mark.

For example, "Shewolf and an Oak" talks about my wartime memories, and my parents' experience of raising kids during wartime in Croatia, where 4-19-23 is about some gruesome murders that happened in Croatia, and made me wonder about human capability for cruelty. 

"Lutrizio" is full of personal memories about the friends that are no longer with us, and "Underdog" is inspired by being looked down upon as an immigrant.

So yeah, all over the place, but with a common theme of being my personal therapy vessel 😂

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

It represents a reversal of the religious concept of redemption, where all humans are by default relieved of sin, and therefore responsibility for their actions.

Remove that certainty, and you put the human fate back into their hands, set them free, for better or worse. 

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

"Word become flesh" was inspired by an inscription on an old german executioner sword, but we interpreted it more like "put words into action", so the cover is actually a photo of my arm while I was having the band's logo carved into it.

6.The band members also come from different parts of the world, what impact does this have on the musical style that you play?

There is a bit of that, how different geographic regions prefer different types of metal on average, but I think it's more about individual preference in such a small group. 

We had a number of bandmates come and go, and I like to think each of them left a bit of themselves in the music.

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

Most notable ones were the Pannonian Rock festival in 2023 in Croatia, which we did in Jani's memory, and the one on a Shadow Room event in 2022 when we had a person doing hooked suspension during the show.

And about the performance - well, personally I don't like to see a band just climb the stage and play the music, there's got to be some energy in it. In lieu of that, I alway give my best to explode with energy and transfer it to the audience, even if the audience is just 4 drunken guys (and we played shows like that :) )

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

Only confirmed gig we have for now is next year's Tyyne Rock festival in Finland, but we're actively looking for gigs to stay in shape, so here's an open invitation to any producers and venue owners to book us!

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

Haven't really thought about it, so far the indie thing has worked for us, but who knows, if something comes along..

 

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

Hard to talk about global - the online comment we got were positive :D 

We heard only good stuff wherever we played live though, so working on spreading the word.

11.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

Actually, our plan was to just release a series of singles as we make them, and then make a "singles compilation" at one point. Considering the digital distribution landscape and today's audiences' attention span, that looks like a good strategy. 

A year or so it takes to record a full album just looks like a long time to be silent, especially considering we already had a year long hiatus.

It could be a subconscious reaction, but since Jani's passing, the music we're making is a bit darker. We shifted the tuning, and introduced more of "blackish" influences, so prepare for something more sinister in the future.

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

When we all came together it was all about the thrash and groove classics: Slayer, Patera, Sepultura, and a bit of newer stuff like Lamb of God, Meshuggah, Gojira, but we picked up some new favourites lately, and like I said previously it's generally a bit more dark and extreme.

Personally, I'm into more extreme genres, especially if the vocals are doing weird stuff, like Cattle Decapitation, Anaal Nathrak, Lorna Shore, or Archspire.

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

We end all our shows with the same message, so why not the interviews too:

We are Unredeemer, and you have all just been unredeemed.

https://www.facebook.com/unredeemer.band

https://www.instagram.com/unredeemer_band/

https://unredeemer.bandcamp.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4ocpHtIVIQ9xrmZOL88ZxG

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp6DrCNmbKhPSBmznpzIHcw

https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCFtjKtzY7ROeQp9_GbnbQlg

Deathrite/Flames Licking Fever/Into Endless Chaos/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Deathrite  are  a  band  from  Germany  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black,  death  metal  and  noise  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Flames  Licking  Fever"  which  will  be  released  in  October  by  Into  Endless  Chaos.

  A  very  distorted  and  melodic  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  and  tremolo  picking.  Vocals  also  add  in  a  lot  of  black  metal  screams  mixed  in  with  some  death  metal  growls  and  hardcore  style  shouts  and  the  music  also  adds  in  a  lot  of  noise  and  punk  elements.

  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  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  done  in  a  very  old  school  metal  punk  style  along  with  the  music  also  mixing  in  a  lot  of  80's  and  90's  influences  as  well  as  being  modern  at  the  same  time,  a  couple  of  tracks  are  also  long  and  epic  in  length  and  as  the  album  progresses  a  brief  apocalyptic  interlude  can  also  be  heard  before  returning  back  to  a  heavier  direction.

  Deathrite  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black,  death  metal  and  noise  punk  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  ecstasy  and  psychosis.

  In  my  opinion  Deathrite  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black,  death  metal  and  noise  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Crippled  Ego"  "Misanthropic  Rush"  "Deadbeat"  and  "All  Consuming  Fire".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/deathrite666       

Obsoletion/Self Titled/Sentient Ruin Laboratories/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Obsoletion  are  a  band  from  Brazil  that  plays  a  mixture  of  black,  death,  thrash  metal  and  hardcore  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  titled  2024  album  which  will  be  released  in  october  by  Sentient  Ruin  Laboratories.

  Apocalyptic  soundscapes  and  spoken  word  samples  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  more  of  a  heavier  and  melodic  direction.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  solos  and  leads  also  utilize  a  great  amount  of  melody  and  the  vocals  also  add  in  a  lot  of  black  metal  screams.

  Death  metal  growls  are  also  utilized  at times  while  the  riffing  also  shows  a  good  amount  of  thrash  metal  elements.  Elements  of  hardcore  are  also  added  into  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  along  with  all  of  the  musical  instruments  also  having  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  at  times  the  music  also  captures  the  raw  energy  of  punk  rock.,  when  the  music  finally  speeds  up  a  small  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  and  one  song  is  an  instrumental  which  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.

  Obsoletion  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  black, death,  thrash  metal  and  hardcore  punk  and  mixes  them  together  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  magick,  occultism,  anti  capitalism  and  dystopian  themes.

  In  my  opinion  Obsoletion  are  a  very  great  sounding  mixture  of  black, death,  thrash  metal  and  hardcore  punk  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  those  musical  genres,  you  should  check  out  this  band.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "SSA"  "Abominable  New  World"  "Ruin's  Lament"  and  "Inorganic  Eregore".  8  out  of  10.

BANDCAMP RELEASE

    

Blackevil/Praise The Communion Fire For The Unhallowed Sacrament/Dying Victims Productions/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Blackevil  are  a  band  from  Germany  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  plays  a  mixture  of  black  and  thrash  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Praise  The  Communion  Fire  For  The  Unhallowed  Sacrament"  which  will  be  released  in  October  by  Dying  Victims  Productions.

  A  very  80's  orientated  thrash  and  speed  metal  style  starts  off  the  album  while  the  riffing  also  mixes  in  elements  of  traditional  metal.  All  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  vocals  are  mostly  black  metal  screams  and  death  metal  growls  can  also  be  heard  at  times.

  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  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  being  long  and  epic  in  length.

  One  song  also  introduces  clean  plating  into  the  album  along  with  some  of  the  vocals  also  adding  in  a  semi  melodic  tone  at  times,  Gregorian  chants  and  choirs  can  also  be  heard  briefly,  folk  instruments  are  also  added  on  the  closing  track.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Darkness  and  Medieval  themes.  

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  from  Blackevil  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black  and  thrash  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Timeless  Throne'"  "Beneath  This  Pentagram"  and  "Towards  The  Carpathian  Battle".  8  out  of  10.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYdZRfmGBU0

https://dyingvictimsproductions.bandcamp.com/album/praise-the-communion-fire-for-the-unhallowed-sacrament 

Dammnatorum/In Umbra Mortis/2023 Full Length Review

 

  Dammnatorum  are  a  band  from  Poland  that  plays  a  blackened  form  of  death  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  self  released  2023  album  "In  Umbra  Mortis".

  Synths  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  direction  while  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them.  When  the  music  speeds  up  a  great  amount  of  blast  beats  can  be  heard  along  with  the  vocals  also adding  in  a  great  amount  of  death  metal  growls.

  All  of t he  musical  instruments  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  while  the  solos  and  leads  bring  in  more  of  an  old  school  death  metal  style.  Black  metal  screams  can  also  be  heard  at  times  along  with  the  songs  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts ,  dark  sounding  melodies  are  also  added  into  some  of  the  guitar  riffing  and  one  song  also  adds  in  a  brief  use  of  clean  playing.

  Dammnatorium  plays  a  musical  style  that  takes  the  brutality  of  death  metal  and  mixes  it  with  the  darkness  of  black  metal  to  create  a  sound  of  their  own.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  the  dark  side  of  human  personality  of  state  of  mind.

  In  my  opinion  Dammnatorium  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  "Te  Coram  Sto"  "Furor  Priscus"  "Animarum  Pernicies"  and  "Vobis  Mors".  8 out  of  10.

  https://youtu.be/t7QX9YygYYE

Facebook | Bandcamp | Spotify | Instagram

Hild/Thrash Pa Svenska/Black Lion Records/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Sweden's  Hild  have  returned  with  a  new  recording  which  shows  the  music  going  for  a  mixture  of  black,  thrash  metal  and  crust  punk  and  this  is  a  review  of  their   2024  album  "Thrash  Pa  Svenska"  which  will  be  released  in  October  by  Black  Lion  Records.

  Keyboards  start  off  the  album  before  going  into  a  heavier  thrash  metal  direction  while  the  vocals  are  a  mixture  of  aggressive  shouts  and  death  metal  growls.  Elements  of  crust  punk  are  also  added  into  the  mid  tempo  sections  of  the  songs  while  the  riffs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  black  metal  influences.

  Melodies  are  also  added  into  a  lot  of  the  guitar  riffing  while  the  faster  sections  of  the  songs  also  add  in  a  lot  of  blast  beats.  Spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly  along  with  the  tracks  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  melodic  style  when  they  are  utilized.

  A  couple  of  songs also  adds  in  a  small  amount  of    clear  vocals,  folk  instruments  can  also b e  heard  briefly  before  returning  back  to  a  heavier  direction,  all  of  the  musical  instruments  on  the  recording  also  have  a  very  powerful  sound  to  them  and  tremolo  picking  can  also  be  heard  in  some  of  the  faster  riffing.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  are  written  in  Swedish  and  cover  folklore  and  melancholy  themes.     

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Hild  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black,  thrash  metal  and  crust  punk,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "En  väv  av  intet"  "Hugg  där  det  smärtar  som  mest"  "Liksväljaren"  and  "En  dag  ska  jag  svälja  solen".  8  out  of  10.

  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HildSweden

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

Primordial Black Interview

 

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

First of all, thank you for this interview and the interest you have in our band. We are currently in the midst of preparing our first album. I'm working on a number of demos, which I finalize with the other members. The goal is for everyone to contribute their part to the project.

This is the first time we are working as a group of four, so it's a challenge that brings a lot of good things.

2.A few months back you had released an ep, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you sent for on the recording?

The first EP is, so to speak, a snapshot of the person I was and the time in which it was created. I composed it solo, long before having any members with me, so I would say there's a lot of my DNA in it (and many of my writing quirks).

I started by wanting to emulate the dark/proto-black metal style of a band like Celtic Frost, along with some intense bursts of thrash.

But I am convinced that the inclusion of Mohamed (our drummer) and Walid (our guitarist) added a Black Metal touch that transcended the original intent.

More broadly, to describe the music of the EP, I would say it’s as if the Celtic Frost from the MONOTHEIST era were being coldly tortured by Mgła, and its traumatized body would occasionally convulse like Sepultura in a counter-reaction.

3.A lot of your lyrics are inspired by the writings of H.P Lovecraft, Clive Barker and John Milton, which aspects of their work have you brought out into your songwriting and also do you have any interest in other authors?

My response might be a bit long-winded.

All the authors I'm inspired by explore scale in a truly fascinating way. They focus on the theme of human insignificance, often through individual perspectives. Their characters catch a brief, incomprehensible glimpse of something beyond their understanding, which drives them towards madness or suicidal tendencies.

I use this as a literary device, operating on the idea that the Great Old Ones and other horrors in their works can metaphorically represent more relatable states of mind and suffering.

Yes, I really like many other authors, including classics of French literature such as 'The Horla' by Guy de Maupassant and the entire works of Albert Camus.

4.You have also mentioned some interest in the works of Dr. John Dee, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in his occult philosophy and also do you have any interest in other occultists?

John Dee's enigmatic pursuits have deeply influenced my creation of dark music. His fascination with the occult, his quest to contact spirits, and his alchemical experiments resonate with the themes I explore in my compositions. Dee's blend of intellectual rigor and mystical curiosity mirrors the depth and complexity I seek to capture in my work. His attempt to bridge the known and the unknown inspires me to delve into the shadows of human experience, creating a soundscape that reflects both his esoteric interests and the dark corners of the psyche.

Through my music, I channel Dee's quest for the arcane and the profound.

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

For the cover and visuals of the EP, my goal was to find a balance between representing our music and creating something that could stand alone as a work of art. I aimed for something visually pleasing that doesn't necessarily need to be directly associated with our music to be attractive.

I worked on it solo, trying to avoid falling into Black Metal clichés. I have nothing against violent or demonic themes; I just find it more intriguing when things are suggested rather than explicitly shown.

Our logo seems to be quite successful, judging by the number of t-shirt I’ve seen when we performed live.

6.The band is from Tunisia, how is extreme metal treated in home country compared to other parts of the world?

To be honest, there isn't a real Metal scene in Tunisia. Things evolve in cycles. There are periods when there is a surge of new bands forming and working, but generally, it fades away as quickly as it appeared.

We're currently in a good period; things are starting to move in the right direction, and I hope it continues this way.

Our band has always chosen to forge our own path and do things in our own way and with our own means, so I don’t think we’re treated any better or worse than other bands.

It's just that we don’t really care.

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

We played live only once to support the EP release. I like to think it was a very good experience; we had a lot to prove that night, and I’m proud of my bandmates who all delivered a great show. The lessons learned from that live performance allow us to compose our songs with much more determination.

We now know which aspects of our music are most communicative in a live setting.

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

We've signed with Darkside Records for the release of our upcoming album, and they have some things in store for us. That's all I can say for now.

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

One of the things that surprised us the most is the amount of positive feedback we've received from countries where I never thought we could compete. We've heard from fans in Colombia, Norway, South Africa, Australia, Egypt, and even Japan.

A special mention to Jay Parker, CEO of the label MASTERS OF KAOS and a member of the band IMMORTAL SUN, for his support and the exposure he has provided us in South America.

10.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?

The album will be released next year, and it will be a bit different from our EP since, as I mentioned earlier, we’re composing it as a group of four. Each of us adds our own touch to the drafts I create.

We will also explore themes that align with our principles, choices, and beliefs.

There will be quite a few surprises as well.

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

As for me, I've been infatuated with 'Intet • Altet' by the Danish band Orm for the past few weeks. I'm also eagerly awaiting the new Gaerea album and 'Aftermath' by The Black Dahlia Murder.

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

I want to express my gratitude for the chance to discuss our project here. A sincere thank you to everyone who supported our debut EP. I assure you that our first album will be even more dynamic and explosive.

In closing, we encourage everyone who enjoyed our music to check out the bands in our local scene.

You might discover a new favorite, and every find within this passionate community offers something unique and special.

https://youtube.com/@primordialblack876?si=IsrF_y64p00uJ3wW

Barathrum/Uberkill/Hammer Of Hate/2024 Full Length Review

 

  Barathrum  are  a  band  from  Finland  that  has  had  music  reviewed  before  in  this  zine  and  on  this  recording  goes  for  a  mixture  of  black,  doom  and  thrash  metal  and  this  is  a  review  of  their  2024  album  "Uberkill"  which  will  be  released  in  October  by  Hammer  Of  Hate.

  A  very  dark  yet  heavy  sound  starts  off  the  album  while  the  songs  also  incorporate  the  use  of  2  bass  guitars.  Elements  of  doom  metal  are  also  added  into  the  slower  sections  of  the  songs  along  with  the  vocals  being  mostly  high  pitched  black  metal  screams  and  the  solos  and  leads  are  also  done  in  a  very  dark  yet  melodic  style.

  Some  of  the  guitar  riffing  also  shows  an  influence  of  thrash  metal  while  the  music  also  takes  an  old  school  style  and  also  makes  it  sound  more  modern.  When  the  recording  finally  speeds  up  a  small  amount  of  blast  beats  can  also  be  heard  along  with  a  couple  of  tracks  also  adding  in  a  good  mixture  of  slow,  mid  paced  and  fast  parts  and  all  of  the  album  sticks  to  a  heavier  direction,  spoken  word  parts  can  also  be  heard  briefly.

  On  this  recording  barathrum  goes  for  a  mixture  of  black,  doom  and  thrash  emtal  that  is  more  rooted  in t he  80's  and  90's  as  well  as  being  very  modern  at  the  same  time.  The  production  sounds  very  professional  while  the  lyrics  cover  Occultism,  Blapshemy,  Darkness  and  Death  themes.

  In  my  opinion  this  is  another  great  sounding  recording  from  Barathrum  and  if  you  are  a  fan  of  black,  doom  and  thrash  metal,  you  should  check  out  this  album.  RECOMMENDED  TRACKS  INCLUDE  "Death  By  Steel"  "Black  Magick  Rites"  "Denial  of  God"  and  "Uberkill".  8  out  of  10.

  www.facebook.com/barathrumofficial