Pentimento/Young English - Split

I thought I'd take a break from the crushing metal, to cover some punk rock! This is the latest split record from Buffalo, NY punks Pentimento and Orange County's Young English. This was released around March/April time this year depending on where you were in the world at the time. I'm only getting round to this review now, as that's how jammed my inbox is!

Tracklist -

Pentimento

1. L'esprit De Escalier (The Stairs)

2. No Apology

3. To The Bridge:

4. The Places You Have Come To Fear The Most (Dashboard Confessional Cover)

Young English

5. Woke Up Under Water

6. Old Wives Tales

7. So Long, Connecticut

8. Tonight, Tonight (Smashing Pumpkins Cover)

Pentimento start things of with the song L'Esprit De Escalar (The Stairs) with distorted, crunching guitars that lead into nice melodic vocal harmonies. It kind of sounds a lot like pop-punk from the Drive-Thru era, but it has more bite about it, kinda like Hot Water Music. The vocals are a mix of gruff punk and cleanly sung pop-punk. The instrumentation bounces along with angular riffs and well placed drumming. No Apology has a more of a straightforward song structure to it and doesn’t require as much thought from the listener, but still features a sound that shy's away from the sheen of mass-produced pop-punk of recent years. Basically, it has it's own personality! There are thoughtful passages in this song too, which includes some nice guitar effects and quieter singing and it's a good texture against the punkier passages. To The Bridge brings their sound back to the gruffer, rough and ready sound that was evident in their opener. It's really good, especially when the soaring melodic vocals are heard in the mix. The instrumentation is spot on too, making the whole package pretty much perfect. They close their side of the split with a Dashboard Confessional cover, The Place You Have Come To Fear The Most. It's a subtle departure from the songs that have come before, as initially it's semi acoustic. About a minute in though Pentimento turn it on its head and their full blown sound back to the fore. It's a great way to end their side of the split and they've done the song proud.

So onto Young English's side and immediately you're greeted with a more modern take on punk. The guitars are super melodic, as are the vocals. Woke Up Under Water still has its moments and is a strong song. It showed me that I'm still a sucker for good melody and clean guitar. Old Wives Tale has a nice country music feel to it and is acoustic to begin with. It moves away to reveal a song, which has elements of Brand New (circa Deja Entendu era) in the vocals melodies. This is one of my standout tracks on this split, for that reason. It's hard, as I don't have as much to say about Young English's side of the split, but that doesn't mean I don't connect with it, as it's really listenable. What is nice is that both bands have different sounds and that's the great thing about split records. So Long, Connecticut is another pop-punk peach of a song, with plenty of heart and soul. The music doesn't seem forced or fake and much like the rest of this split, is well produced, well written and just good music. Young English's closer is an interesting choice. It's a cover of Tonight, Tonight by The Smashing Pumpkins. They've been bold in a way, by covering a song by band that play a different genre of rock, but have managed to make it sound their own song. It's a good way to round out this split and has cheered me up hugely!

This split was released by Panic Records and has been made available to stream and buy form their Bandcamp page below:-

You can keep up to date with what both Pentimento and Young English are doing on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PentimentoNY and http://www.facebook.com/YoungEnglishBand.

Gouge - Doomed To Death 7"

This is last review I'm doing today and the last of the six Hells Headbangers reviews. This is the latest 7" from Norwegian death metal band Gouge. On record, Gouge are a duo and they started in 2011. This is their debut four track EP that was released earlier this year and they come approved by none other than Fenriz from Darkthrone, so they must be doing something right.

Tracklist - 

1. Ritual of Gore
2. Evil Town Of Mud
3. Doomed To Death
4. Nuclear Vomit

Judging by that fact that Gouge are a Norwegian Duo, I was expecting Doomed To Death to be totally necro, brutal death metal and it was! Ritual of Gore was full of flailing drums and killer guitar lines, including an obligatory wailing solo. The vocals from Christoffer Bråthen were quality, low growls too which I like. Evil Town of Mud begins with a doom dirge of an intro, before the blasting death metal comes flying at you again. It's pure old-school worship at it's best and it's easy to see why it was picked up by Hells Headbangers to release.

The title track is up next, starting with a skewed kind of sample featuring some jazz piano and then out of the blue, Gouge hit the ground running again. Thanks to the production on the record, you get chills on the back you neck and you sit jaw agape, wondering what Gouge sound like in a live setting. I hope they come to the UK soon!

Those blood curdling screams are especially chilling! The last salvo, the affectionately named Nuclear Vomit again features a doom inspired intro, which adds to this bands repertoire really well. When they are thrashing away, they are at their best but when they slow things down, they sound equally as heavy and menacing. Just listen to the end of the song to see what I mean.

This is another great example of the different strands of death metal that are coming from Scandinavia at the moment and long may it continue!

Again, you can hear teasers of this 7" on Hells Headbanger's Bandcamp page below:-


The record can be purchased at http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/.

You can throw your horns at Gouge on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/GOUGE.NEKRO.

Heavy Cross - Street Wolf 7"

So I'm down to the penultimate review from my series of review on recent Hells Headbangers vinyl only releases. This one is the new two track 7" by Heavy Cross. I've been able to find out an awful lot about these guys, apart from that they are influenced by Scandinavian bands like Heavy Load and Gotham City and also NWOBHM.

Tracklist:-

1. Street Wolf
2. Red Light Woman

As soon as Street Wolf begins you get that NWOBHM sound from the guitars and it's rockin! The vocals are classing heavy metal, especially when the harmonised backing vocals come in. The coolest part for me though is the cleanly picked guitar, especially when it's got so much melody. They slow things down towards the middle of the song, so you can catch your breath and they can build up atmosphere for the rousing closing. This is some of the best heavy metal I've heard in quiet some time.

The B-side Red Light Woman is just as good as the A-side. The lyrics are every bit as you'd expect, but what more could you ask for from a song called Red Light Woman!

I remember a certain big American modern metal band did a song in a similar style on an outtakes record, but it sounded slightly out of place and contrived, whereas this sound authentic and Heavy Cross do a great job of sounding true to their sound.

In my view, two songs are just not enough here, I want more. They've hit the nail on the head with their sound and while it may not be fast enough for some, it reminds me of a simpler time before sub-genres and scene hopping bands and it's great fun to boot!

You can hear teasers of both these songs at Hells Headbanger's Bandcamp page below:-


If you like the teasers, go and pick up a copy of the 7" from http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/.

Never Again - No!

Never Again are another French hardcore band from Dijon. Again, they feature Bertrand Baudrion on Who Needs Maps? and Orchidscent Records. Their eight track album was released in March of this year and has long since sold out. It was a joint release between Orchidscent Record and Old School Records.

Tracklist -

1. Take It Away
2. Beer Color
3. Di - way
4. Infection
5. Fred & Jamy
6. Buddy
7. The Wheel
8. An Empty Diary

Never Again's sound if very different to that of Who Needs Maps?, the music is more akin to garage punk than to hardcore. The main vocals are made of very fast spoken word as well as hardcore screams. The guitar is pure rock n roll and sometimes they have a bit of psychobilly about them. Take It Away is a quick intro of a song and it's pace carries through to Beer Color.

When the hardcore screams kick in, the sound it pretty caustic, but there are moments quiet reflection, when the guitar is left to play. The recording sounds like it was done live, as the drums sound like their in the room with you. Never Again keep up a very frenetic pace and their punkier edge shine through during third song Di-Way. Like Who Needs Maps? from earlier, they too don't use Americanised vocal influences to emphasise their brand of hardcore, choosing to make sure their native accents do the talking for them.

The songs don't stick around for long either and before you know it your at the midway point of No! Infection seems to be more brutal in it's delivery, the mixture of clean spoken and shouted vocals works really well and those pounding drums battle with the raging guitars for supremacy. The way the band slows things down and grooves halfway through is good to hear and they even throw in some subtle ska influenced sections too. It's all good in the variation stakes. They show their off-kilter skills towards the end of Infection, which sees them end on a moody note.

The second half of the record follows a similar formula, with the speed Fred & Jamy showing their rock n roll credential once more, leaving you in know doubt that they could rouse a great party and pit at the same time, especially with that guitar solo that ends the song. I'd liken this to a lot of old skater punk that used to be on the soundtracks to the Tony Harks Playstation games at time, although Never Again do have more musical intelligence and use it well, to craft great songs, with energy and emotion coursing through them.

The Wheel is full of big sounding, chunky riffs and more breakneck drumming. The undercurrent of melody from the guitars helps make this an easier listen, especially for newcomers to hardcore but it should also appeal to seasoned hardcore fans, who appreciate something different. By the time you reach An Empty Diary, you've been put through the ringer just by listening to this record, as you can't help but bang your head with abandon as the good time vibes take hold! I thoroughly recommend that you either track down a copy of this record if you can, or just listen to it on their Bandcamp page, as it's great fun!

So as I mentioned above, you can stream the whole record via Never Again's own Bandcamp page below:-

Never Again can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Never-Again.  

Gutter - Modern Decay Demo

Gutter are a hardcore band from Athens, Greece that features Bak from Scull Crusher Records/Distro and Jagernaut, as well as members of Sarabante and other awesome Greek bands. This is eight tracks of bear-faced fury.

Tracklisting -

1. Why Do I have To Care?
2. Modern Decay
3. The Dogs Are Coming
4. Life In A Cell
5. No Class (Reagan Youth)
6. Forward
7. Influence
8. War Hero (Void)

Having review a Jagernaut split tape ages ago, I was expecting this to sound similar, but Gutter have a retro punk influenced sound, hellbent of paying homage to

American bands like Black Flag, Reagan Youth and Void (who they cover on this demo). The songs are fast and full of attitude. Gutter seem to capture some of the anger the their country must feeling currently, about the state of their economy and the austerity that grips them. The title track is especially ferocious.

The retro sound here isn't that common amongst hardcore bands I've reviewed recently, but it's refreshing. There's still a hint of crust here, which expected due to the members other bands. Listen to the drumming in The Dogs Are Coming, to hear what I mean. Vocalist Stathis chooses to sing in English, and the lyrics while screamed out are audible. The instrumentation makes it for me. It's well played and authentic enough to get you raging!

They keep their sound faithful when covering No Class by Reagan Youth, but Stathis's semi-melodic vocals are a nice touch. The melodic guitar and solos also help show how good they are. Forward includes some cool gang vocals and is a fast and furious as you'd like. More class guitar solos keep you hooked. This song is only one minute and forty seconds longs but it feels much longer.

Their final song here is a cover of War Hero by Void. This is more akin to Gutter's signature sound. Overall, this is a great fun demo by a band made up of well-versed members, who know what they're doing. It's great to hear people having fun and it sounds like they are! Another awesome Greek band to keep an eye on!

You can hear the whole demo on Gutter's own Bandcamp page below:-


You can also checkout more news from Gutter on their blog at http://gutterhxc.blogspot.com/.

Who Needs Maps? - Self Titled 12"

I've been sent so much music over the last few months, that due to my own slackness/lack of time/job and social life (choose whichever excuse you want), I haven't been writing as many reviews as I would like. The majority of records I've been sent have been part of big promo campaigns which is cool, but I've also been sent a lot of stuff directly from bands and individuals, so I feel compelled to write about some of those in order to let them know I;m not ignoring them and to clear my conscience slightly.

Bertrand from Who Needs Maps? got in touch with me ages ago, after I wrote a review of a Hexis 7" that he had a hand in releasing. He said he'd send me digi copies of a couple of releases by his own bands, Who Needs Map? and Never Again. I've already reviewed their demo, so it's not the turn of their eight track debut album. I've done some searching to and none of the track on this record seem to have names. but please correct me if I'm wrong.

Tracklisting:-

1. 01
2. 02
3. 03
4. 04
5. 05
6. 06
7. 07
8. 08

Who Needs Maps? is full of short, sharp hardcore. It's modern in approach yet has plenty of dissonance and feeling to it. Even though there are no reference points in the form of actual song titles, as a cohesive whole it's pretty damn good. There's plenty of melody in the riffs in track 01 and the fact that the vocals are not Americanised to the hilt and more native, makes them sound more real. This is raw hardcore with feeling, sometimes crossing into screamo territory but only subtly. Track 02 has a great punk feel too it and more of a rock n roll vibe that hits you immediately. It's another fast one thanks to the pounding drumming but it also proves that Who Needs Maps? are very adept songwriters, with ability to slow things down with the odd thoughtful refrain.

They use chords to good effect, beefing up the noise coming from their guitars and when all parts play in unison, it's a rewarding sound that comes out of the speakers. The introspective passage part way through Track 3 gives way to some twinkly screamo style guitar and clean singing, which brings variation to the fore. I like the fact that the production here isn't too clinical, as it allows Who Needs Maps? sound to jump out and helps you to appreciate what they must sound like live. It's really listenable and the indie/screamo guitar I keep waxing lyrical about really helps brighten the mood (screamo does seem to be one of my favourite sub genres of late).

The atmosphere of this record comes to fore in the majestic Track 05. The riffs give off a sense of menacing angst and it reminds me of why I'm so into this type of music, which normal people don't get or are even scared by! It’s the raw emotion that individuals portray; it resonates with me on a level I can't describe. Track 5 has it all, the passionate off the register screams, the nerve jangling instrumentation and even the sense of elation when it all comes to an end. This is a standout track for me. Track 6 sees Who Needs Maps? heading back to more familiar territory. Out go the crescendos of noise and in come more indie/screamo guitar and the general rocky vibe that makes their varied sound so engaging. I guess that's the key to this record, the variation. It's okay to stick ten songs on an album, that sound all the same as you know the formula works, but it's infinitely better to play around, to tug at your listeners heartstrings and to unleash the kind of fury that people rarely show in rational situations.

It may be my fog ridden stupor this morning, but I'm truly feeling this and as the view out of my window gets more and more obscure, my mind gets cleared by the cleansing experience of listening to this record and I'm not even at the end yet! The final two songs, 07 and 08 are more urgent pieces. 07 is a fast, punk ridden hardcore neck snapper and 08 is the bouncing song that you want as a closer. Its full of energy and underline one last time, the level of emotion and thought that Who Needs Maps? have put into this record. It features the majestic vibe of Track 05 but contains mixtures of the other ideas used here, to make a final all-encompassing hardcore song that leaves you with only a few words left to say, Allez Les French Hardcore!

I've not been able to find any Internet streams for this record. Who Needs Maps? do have a Bandcamp page though at http://whoneedsmaps.bandcamp.com and a blog at www.whoneedsmapsband.blogspot.com.

This 12" was released through a myriad of labels as well as Bertrand's own Orchidscent Records label, which can be found at http://orchidscentrecords.blogspot.co.uk/. These include Maldoror Records, Dream Comes True Records, Impure Muzik, Dingleberry Records, Shove Records, Ape Must Not Kill Ape Records, Emotionally Unstable Records, Gluacoma Releases, Estella Dead Fashion Distro.

You won't find this record in many places, as it sold out a while ago, but I managed to find copies on the Dingleberry Records Discogs page - http://www.discogs.com/sell/list?label=Dingleberry+Records&ev=lb.

Nunslaughter - Cerebus 7" (Pictue disc)

I told you I had a second Nunslaughter record coming! This time, it's purely theirs. It features four more tracks, two from the studio and two rehearsal tracks. This was originally released in 2003, without the bonus tracks, which are rehearsal versions of the original two tracks.

Tracklist -

1. Mother Cunt Whore (Studio Track)
2. Cerebus (Studio Track)
3. Mother Cunt Whore (Rehearsal)
4. Cerebus (Rehearsal)

So I'll start with the studio tracks. Immediately Mother Cunt Whore's sound is more akin to earlier death metal releases, with the instrumentation buried underneath those rasping growls. Nunslaughter like to keep a faithful sound and it's recreated well on this reissue. It still sounds every bit as brutal as they intended first time round and it's a rousing song, which is over before you know it. The title track Cerebus follows the same blueprint, but includes some wicked screeching guitar and unnerving gargled, low vocals. There's more that thrash sound to Nunslaughter's music, but without overpowering their staple death metal. I really like the fact the lyrics are audible yet are masked behind those blood curdling growls.

The rehearsal versions of these two songs give you an idea of what they sound like live. The guitars actually sound deeper here and that gives Mother Cunt Whore more of a twisted edge. The great thing about the inclusion of these songs is that, Nunslaughter throw more ideas in which increase the length of the songs. Cerebus again sounds like a strain of pure, possessed evil. Some people may prefer the clearness of the studio songs, but these rawer live songs are great additions too.

Again, it's another good record and it's cool because you don't see many bands doing this type of studio/live song thing very often. The rehearsal songs are usually cast aside as bonus tracks on countless compilations, but Nunslaughter use them to their advantage. Pure old-school death metal at it's mightiest.

Once again, you can purchase this record from Hells Headbangers at http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/ and you can interact with Nunslaughter via either http://www.nunslaughter.com or http://www.facebook.com/NunSlaughter.

Nunslaugter/Abigial - Fucking Satan (7" Picture disc)

As I sit here with my nice warming cup of Tea, I'm greeted by the first of two new Nunslaughter vinyl releases from Hells Headbangers. As the title of this post suggests, this is their new split with Abigail. Nunslaughter play death metal and hail from Cleveland, Ohio. Over the years they've been extremely prolific when it's come to releasing their unholy noise upon the world. Abigail is not a sweet, innocent female but an unholy black metal band from Japan.

Both bands spew forth two track on this snappily titled 7".

Tracklist -

1. Back To Hell (Nunslaughter)
2. God (Nunslaughter)
3. Night Of The Reaper (Abigail)
4. Violent Force (Abigail)

Back to Hell kicks things off for Nunslaughter, with a decidedly old-school sound.

The vocals are audible, yet raspy. The guitars skip along a quite a pace, as does the rhythm section. Their sound is one of almost a death/thrash crossover, but there is still an overriding satanic overtone, mainly in the lyrics. What do you expect with a song called Back To Hell! The chunky guitar riffs towards the end surprise me slightly, as they prove that Nunslaughter carry more influences and ideas in their death metal arsenal. Their second song God has more of an impact on you, with the buzzsaw riffing and fast, hair-whipping drumming. They sound angrier here and the song is over before you can draw breath.

Abigail seem a lot rawer, but then they lean towards black metal, so will do. It's actually the first time I've heard them and I like their take on black metal. The vocals may take some people a while to get used to, but they fit the menacing music really well. The drums are buried further in the mix here and the guitars compete with the vocals in the volume stakes. There's a cool metallic edge to some of the guitar here too, which is a nice change from the pure hissing you get with a lot of black metal. Their second track Violent Force well and truly lives up to its title. Again, Abigail seem to enlist some elements of thrash metal, but there is also a great sense of just good old rock n roll, which makes for an awesome listen. The solo is rip-roaring from Abigail and is the only one you'll hear on this record, so lap it up!

This is another great record and both bands make it work well. The differences in their music are enough to draw you in and keep you thrashing even when the needle's stopped! Look both these bands up, buy this record and do what the label says and headbang!

As with the previous releases I've reviewed, you can pick this record up directly from Hells Headbangers at http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/. 

Also you can find Nunslaughter at their website http://www.nunslaughter.com/ and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/NunSlaughter. I'm yet find anything in the form of a web presence for Abigail, so if you know of one, give me a shout.

Moloch - II

Those of you who've been reading my blog for a while should now be familiar with Ukrainian ambient black metal band Moloch. This release was put out in 2010 as a compilation by UK based label and distributor, Legion Blotan Records. It was originally released on a short run of 300 tapes, however I got sent a CDr version directly from Moloch. This release features 6 solely ambient tracks, all of which have featured on earlier releases.

Tracklist -

1. In einer Umarmung von tiefen kalten Wäldern
2. Kälte und Verwüstung im Echo eines sterbenden Winters
3. Im Schnee
4. l
5. ll
6. lll

The opening track on II builds slowly with the sound of the wind, which is characteristic of Moloch's ambient work. Ambient strings puncture the wind and overpower it, along with a deeper, droning string section in the background, creating a slow and winding melody. This song is very relaxing and a world away from Moloch's ice cold, black metal persona.

Second track, Kälte und Verwüstung.... has a more a sinister tome to it. Starting as it does, with louder strings and brass instruments. It's still got that droning effect thanks to the lower tones, but the melody played out is that bit more unnerving. I would liken this to classical music to a certain extent, as it's very regal and majestic in its delivery.

This song very abruptly and leads into third track Im Schnee, which is the first time you get to hear Moloch's piano playing.

Im Schnee almost upbeat at time this song, but it services as more of an interlude due to its length. The strings that heralded in this EP, make a second appearance in I. This song features a repetitive melody played on the same chords, which feature a varied pace, sometimes speeding up and sometime slowing down. There is not much else in the way of musical texture here, but it is meant to be a minimal ambient song, so that is not important.

II is more of all encompassing song, thanks to brooding piano and the droning strings in the background. The wind again also features to give it more of a solemn feel.

At this point I want to talk about the sound quality and production, which like the other Moloch releases I've featured here are impeccable.

So its just left to the short piano piece in III to bring this compilation to an end and again, it's very uncomplicated and clean and emphasises the variation in instruments and sounds that Moloch weave into their ambient music. Definitely a strong bedfellow alongside the bands black metal releases.

If you're intrigued and want to pick up a copy of this release, you can buy the tape version from Legion Blotan Records at http://www.legion-blotan.mutant-ape.co.uk/acatalog/Legion_Blotan_Releases.

You can visit Moloch on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Molochukr and via their website at www.moloch.com.ua. Also stay tuned here, for three more Moloch reviews coming soon!

Dirty East Godverdomme Need Your Help!

Dirty East Godverdomme are looking for a gig in the UK on the 26th of October. Here's the UK dates they have booked so far:-

25th Stourbridge UK
26th Need show UK!!
27th Nottingham UK

E-mail crashlandingrecords(at)gmail(dot)com if you can them out with a show. Cheers.

Today's Friday - You're Nothing But A Rib To Me EP

Today's Friday are a relatively new band from Queensland, Australia and they describe their music as "heartcore". I'm not sure what heartcore is exactly, but Today's Friday list their influences as bands like A Day To Remember and Bring Me The Horizon, so that kinda gives me a clue.

Anyway, You're Nothing But A Rib To Me is their debut four track EP, which was released earlier this through From The Depths Entertainment and they are currently recording an album, which will be due out by the end of this year.

Tracklist:-

1. Contrary To Popular Belief
2. You're Nothing But A Rib To Me
3. Jeremy You're A Sport (For What It's Worth)
4. Blatant Disregard For The Speed Limit

Mosh could be used to describe so many things in metal and is usually abused, but on this case it sums up Today's Friday perfectly at the start of Contrary To Popular Belief. They have a heavy deathcore influence in the deep growls. They employ crushing drums and chugging guitars in the verses and clean singing, to break up the core. I think the growls are an acquired taste, but used in the right way they could be extremely brutal with the right type of backing. Then again, this only their debit EP and so far it's impressive. The modern touch added by the clean singing certainly hints at bigger things. The breakdown at the end of the song has to be heard!

The title track is a more assured song, starting with a spoken word intro and relying less on the deathcore vocals. The riffs in the background are good, but buried slightly in the mix. That doesn't stop the twin guitar harmonies from sounding awesome! The twin guitar kicks off Jeremy You're A Sport (For What It's Worth). I'm now also starting to get "Heartcore" tag too, thanks to the clean singing. As the song builds it's actually really engaging, thanks to the melodic guitar and ideas that creep into the bands music.

Blatant Disregard For The Speed Limit closes things off here. It's over eight minutes long, so I'm expecting a progressive rock opera! It starts promisingly again with a pretty passionate guitar solo. It lasts almost a minute too! When the verse kicks in, it see Today's Friday going back to their deathcore inspired sound, alongside hints of Avenged Sevenfold and some good, almost regimental drumming. It certainly seems like a long song, as the pace isn't too fast, but the musicianship makes up for that in spades. The rock opera thing comes true too, as a huge and impressive guitar solo sees the song and the EP out in style.

Overall, as a debut EP, this is a pretty good effort. They are skilled musically and can write some good hooks, so I can't wait to see how their debut album turns out. They've assured me that it'll blow this EP out the water!

As with many other releases from From The Depths Entertainment, you can download this EP for free at http://ge.tt/6Fb73ki and you should!

You can also keep track on how Today's Friday are getting on with their debut album on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/todaysfridayband.

Muknal - Muknal 12"

Muknal are a new black/death metal trio from the USA. This is there debut three track demo, which was originally pressed on tape but has been released on 12" vinyl by Hells Headbangers. Muknal's members go by the names of Anxiety, Vahxak and Impious and they are already gaining notoriety in the catacombs of the black/death underground.

Tracklist:-

1. Cruciation
2. Rotten Genesis
3. Eidolon

This 12" has a very different sound to the Blackened Wisdom release I just reviewed.

It's more modern sounding, which I guess befits Muknal, as they are a modern band.

The build up of Cruciation is an encompassing one and Muknal's take on the black/death theme is very different. They use a lot of other textures and sounds to make their sound come alive. When the main verse kicks in, the instrumentation has a really evil undertone and the vocals lean more to black metal, with low growls and occasional high shrieks. These songs are longer in length too and employ murky, slower textures in places.

The brooding atmosphere is carried into Rotten Genesis. The intro guitar passage is a joy to hear. Not over-complicated, but menacing enough to remind you that Muknal are not messing around. As I've said before, the musical textures they weave are brilliant and at times sound otherworldly. The percussion here is a lot faster, especially the crashing cymbals and the guitars thrash away creating an energetic wall of sound. The vocals remain on the low side, to emphasise their death metal influences.

Closing song Eidolon is a shorter, more immediate slice of black metal. It underlines the chaos that Muknal are looking to achieve, but in a controlled way. Again, this is a truly harrowing song the Impious's vocals are in full flow. The sludgy undertones that reared their heads in the two previous songs make a brief appearance here, but they go even further to underline the skill of Muknal, in being able to weave different metal genres into their ungodly sound.

For a demo, this is excellent and certainly shows off their song-writing skills and passion for their genre. it deserved a release on vinyl and alongside their recent split with The Haunting Presence, it won't be long before Muknal are being talked about in much wider circles.

Now much like Blackened Wisdom before them, Muknal are not on Facebook or other social media site. Nor is their music, so again head over to Hells Headbangers to hear teasers for these tracks and to pick up a copy of this record - http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/muknal.asp.

Blackened Wisdom - The Angels Are Crying 7"

Renowned bringer of evil black/death/thrash metal Hells Headbangers has put out a slew of vinyl only releases. I've decided to review all six of them fairly close together, for convenience. Also, because I think that's how it should be. Anyway, here's the first. This is a three track 7" from a band called Blackened Wisdom. Blackened Wisdom formed in 1992 in Nebraska, but unfortunately broke up before they had the chance to release this record. This is finally seeing a release now, thanks to Hells Headbangers.

Blackened Wisdom is also special, as the band features members of other esteemed death metal bands. Bill Taylor who plays guitars and does vocals here, has spent time in Immolation, Angelcorpse, Xenomorph and Feldgrau amongst others. Second guitarist Dan Kohler and drummer Mike Gushar are from Laceration. They also feature Rich Sheibal on bass.

Tracklisting:-

A1 - After Me Come The Flames
A2 - I, Eternal
B1 - The Angels Are Crying

This is as raw as you'd like it. Its evil blackened death metal at it's best. After Me Comes The Flames is fast, thanks to the drumming and raging guitars and Bill Taylor's vocals are terrifying. This 7" sounds exactly like it should have sounded in 1993. It's worth noting that the tracks here have been lying dormant since they were recorded, so they have not be re-recorded, but just pressed straight onto vinyl and that helps them sound authentic. It takes you back to a time when black/death metal was truly scary.

As well the black and death metal influences though, there is an element of thrash in the music, which is no surprise. I, Eternal is a much more mid-paced song. It weighs in at close to three minutes, which is just right, as this is pretty intense. Before you've had time to blink, closing b-side track The Angels Are Crying kicks in with the sound of rain and thunder. Again the intro is mid-paced but heavy as hell and the wailing guitar provides some unheard flair. The guitars are chugging and again, Bill Taylor's high-pitched shriek chills you to the bone. After the extended instrumental section, The Angels Are Crying ends in a flurry of whirlwind blackened thrash.

This is low-fi, it's loud and it's exactly as the band intended for it to sound. If you like your old-school death metal tinged with black, you'll love this record. It's a piece of untold history that's finally seen the light of day and needs to be heard.

 This 7" is not up for full streaming, but you can hear teasers here http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/EPblackened_wisdom.asp.

The above link also takes to you to the Hells Headbangers store, where you can pick up the 7", with the first 100 records being on coloured vinyl and including a lyric insert.

Deviator - Fehu - Fohat - Fire

This is the latest full-length from Ukrainian ambient black metal band Deviator. It follows on from the 2011 compilation Way of Warriors, Hymn To Immortals, which I reviewed a while ago. Fehu - Fohat - Fire is Deviator's third full length, although that band have released a number of demos, splits and EPs since their inception in 2007.

I was lucky enough to receive a physical copy all the way from Deviator themselves. It was produced in cooperation between Depressive Illusions Records and lead creator, Lord Hastner's own label Kundalini Records and is only limited to 101 worldwide. The packaging and the artwork is top notch, so I was really excited to listen to the contents.

Tracklisting:-

1. Long Road To Salvation
2. Cost of Freedom
3. Way of Warriors - Hymn to Immortals
4. Eternity of Blood
5. My Thoughts...They Have No Rest (Winter Depression Cover)
6. Burning Bridges Become Ashes

As anyone who has listened to Deviator's music in the past will know, there is a heavy leaning towards ambient textures in their music and that shows through in the initial piano of opener Long Road To Salvation. This is merely an introduction though, to the frostbitten cold that lies ahead. The whispered vocals in Lord Hastner's native tongue at the start of Cost Of Freedom sent chills down my spine. The black metal that then presents itself is equally as chilling. Deviator is essentially a solo effort by Lord Hastner, who tends to play all instruments on recordings. The recording itself is very clean and clear, but it stills retains the essence of an organic black metal record, where the music seems more alive than more over-produced black metal albums can sound.

Way of Warriors - Hymn To Immortals was the title-track on Deviator's 2011 compilation but here it sounds a lot heavier, especially in the opening bars. The double bass can be heard in the background grinding away and the vocals are low screams that sound almost blood curdling. There are clean vocals the chaos, but these even manage to sound as possessed as when Lord Hastner is screaming. There are a lot of twists and turns to this song, as it's over seven and a half minutes in length, but the ideas used in it are varied and definitely add to the sense of foreboding that Deviator try to create. There are moments of sludge inspired riffage here as well as some subtle introspective passages that show a very mature style of musicianship and song writing.

There definitely seems to be different influences creeping into Deviator's music on Fehu - Fohat - Fire. Some of guitar melodies and textures used seem to take cues from a lot of traditional metal, yet still retain their black metal essence. This is especially true of Eternity of Blood. I'd go as far to say that the opening riffs are even hummable! In parts, this album sounds very uplifting but as Deviator will probably attest, this is meant in a cosmic way and not an emotional way. The penultimate song, My Thoughts...They Have No Rest, is a cover of fellow Ukrainian ambient black metal band Winter Depression. The song originally appeared on a split called Autumnal Melancholie, which was between Winter Depression and a band called Zarach "Baal" Tharagh, a similar entity from France. This song is purely instrumental and has some heavenly piano at it's core.

The closing song Burning Bridges Become Ashes. This sees Deviator switch back to their cold black metal sound. The rhythm section and the guitars seem a lot faster at times in this song, yet it still retains that melody which pleases me in black metal. It's kind of symphonic but not in a cheesy way. It adds a strong dimension to the album. That metal influence creeps in again at certain points, which again, is nice to hear. For someone who wasn't familiar with black metal below what was featured in the bigger metal publications, I feel at home listening to this. Fehu - Fohat - Fire is an assured record, which should help, gain Deviator more popularity, if they want it! It's well produced, well written and leaves you longing for eternal darkness!

You can here Eternity Of Blood, from Fehu - Fohat -Fire at Deviator's website -  http://www.wix.com/hastner/black-flame.

You can also purchase a copy of the CD from Depressive Illusions Records at http://depressiveillusions.com/.

Deviator is also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/DeviatorOfficial-Epic-BlackDeath-Metal.

Revel In Flesh - Deathevokation

It's been a while since I reviewed an actual, full-length album, so I thought I bring you some full on, 90's worshipping death metal from German nuts Revel In Flesh. Revel In Flesh formed in autumn 2011 out of the ashes of fellow German deathsters Immortal Rites and also features members of Dawn of Dreams and German DM veterans Apophis.

Revel In Flesh haven't wasted any time either, as shortly after they formed they went into the studio with none other than Dan Swano, to record their debut album Deathevokation, which has been released by FDA Rekotz.

Tracklisting:-

1. Culpa Et Inferna
2. Shadowbreeder
3. Wings of Death
4. Iron Coffin
5. Bloodfeast
6. Slavish Obedience
7. Opus Putrescense
8. Black Paled Elegy
9. Crowned in Darkness
10. Subconscious Error

The excitement is palpable as the scary intro builds. Revel In Flesh play ruthlessly efficient death metal, which you'd expect from our German cousins. It’s got a great sound, the riffs are fast but with good melodic twists and the rhythm section pounds you. The vocals range from low deathly growls, to the higher screams which are characteristic of the death metal genre. There’s also a hint of black metal peeping through, mainly down to the evilness of the music, and this is just opening song Culpa Et Inferna! At the start of Shadowbreeder, the guitars seem to have a thickness too them, one that makes it sound like there's about twenty playing at once! There aren’t obviously twenty guitarists and there doesn't need to be, as this record slays as it is! It's been a while since I've listened to some death metal and where sometimes, bands can sound a bit boring and samey, Revel In Flesh do a great job of sounding varied and exciting. Plenty of chops and expression make initial impressions good.

Wings of Death seems to fly by in a whirlwind of buzzsaw guitar and anthemic death metal madness! I think the melodic hints that Revel In Flesh throw in make this record even better, as It's something I can relate instead of just being all out, pig squealingly unlistenable. The use of the semi-breakdown midway through Wings of Death is brutal, showing they are not afraid to get down and dirty when needed! Next comes what could be described as their death metal epic! The seven-minute long Iron Coffin. It brings to mind a sound you'd get if Sourvein or Crowbar turned death. It's mid-paced, slightly sludgy and heavy as hell. The double bass is brilliantly effective here and the syncopated riffs sound awesome! The vocals are almost so low, only demons in the depths of hell can hear them!

The songs go back to being shorter blasts from here on in. Bloodfeast rages, with the drums leading the way, daring the rest of the band to catch them up. The pace is measured and things don't get out of hand. The sample at the start of Slavish Obedience allows you some respite, but this is short lived as they launch straight back into it before you've even caught your breath! You're also passed the midpoint of Deathevokation now and you're well and truly sucked in! Revel in Flesh show they are pretty adept at the old death groove too. A prime example is the closing bars of Slavish Obedience. By the time Opus Putrescence hits you, you don't know which way is up and you're baying for blood. The evil envelopes you and if someone were to take a picture of you, I'm pretty sure your eyes would be glowing red.

I've given up headbanging to this, as I don't have long hair so can't windmill and my head is about to come off my neck, such is the awesomeness of Black Paled Elegy. Instead, I'll sit here, jaw agape1. There's darker imagery painted by the sample at the end, to remind you that you're not listening to puny pop! As Crowned in Darkness comes into view, you realise you've only got two songs left. The songs so far have been the right lengths and not too long or obtuse, which is good. Revel In Flesh really hit their stride and create a great sound, partly thanks to the usual Unisound studios mastering job. Subconscious Error ends the torture with an initial drum intro that sounds like a drum n bass sample, only until Revel In Flesh swing into action for one last time.

Pure and simple, this is a great sounding death metal album. One that nods to the past while sounding fresh amongst a sea of pretenders. The collective experiences of the members make it what it is, with great musicianship and song writing craft. All hail Revel In Flesh!

As far as I can tell, this record isn't streaming anywhere but you can find various Youtube videos on the bands Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Revel-in-Flesh.

As well as that, pay their website a visit at  http://revelinflesh.jimdo.com and buy Deathevokation on CD or vinyl from FDA Rekotz at www.fda-rekotz.com.

Moloch/Closure - Split 7"

This split comes from the same label as the Horders LP I reviewed earlier. Feast Of Tentacles have been putting out rad records for quite sometime now, is this 7" is the latest. It contains music from two of our best heavy bands, Moloch from Nottingham, which features the FoT head honcho Chris amongst it's ranks and Leeds based band Closure. This also marks the last recordings done by Closure before they finish and disperse into new projects.

Feast Of Tentacles have put this record out alongside US label King Of The Monsters Records.

Tracklist:-

Moloch -
1. All Eyes Blind

Closure -
2. Drown
3. Confined
4. Constant Pain
5. Tyrant

The music spewed forth by Moloch and Closure could not be more different. Moloch presents one song, All Eyes Blind, which draws on the more drawn out, sludgy side of the hardcore spectrum. The rhythm section and bass guitar rumble and the guitar clear a path through the swampy atmosphere. Those crazed vocals that sit atop of it all sound mental! The riffs are low and the pace of the song lurches from slow to slower. If you're familiar with the like of Eyehategod and the like, you'll find plenty to enjoy here. It comes across really well on vinyl too, with the wax allowing it to sound really organic and somewhat more brutal. Closure presents four tracks at a total running time of about five minutes in all, which is still a minute shy of the one Moloch song.  This should give you a clue as to the speed at which Closure play.

Their style here is more akin to power-violence ridden hardcore. Drown kicks things off in chaotic fashion. They also make use of their low end to great effect. The volume is big! They do find time though to slow things down to a sludgy pace at times and this just adds to their heaviness. An example of this is in the opening bars of second song Confined. They play at breakneck speed only momentarily when the vocals are in full flow. The opening riffs of Constant Pain mixed with the occasional feedback, thicken the atmosphere formidably. The way Closure's songs follow on from each other allows them to keep their momentum, just like at the end of Constant Pain as it blurs into the opening of Tyrant. Closure end on a bowel crushing high here, with some subtle dirty southern groove poking it's hear through the mire. It end abruptly and with it, so do Closure.

This split works really well and does a great job of showing off two of our best-known underground bands. Both bands demonstrate the UK hardcore scene's love for downtuned sludge worship and show that are still the best at it. It’s sad that Closure have called it a day, as on this record they've been mighty, as on previous records. Moloch underline their reputation too, as they carry on marching forward in their quest for creative aural destruction. Basically, you need this split like you need air, water and food!

You won't find any of these songs on bandcamp pages but the entire record is being streamed via Cvlt Nation at http://www.cvltnation.com/exclusive-cvlt-nation-streaming-moloch-closure-7-split/.

You can buy this 7" from either Feast Of Tentacles at http://www.feastoftentacles.com/ or from King Of The Monsters Records at http://kingofthemonstersrecords.bigcartel.com/.

Moloch can be found at http://www.facebook.com/molochsludge.
Closure can be found at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Closure.

Horders - Fimbulvetr

 

Horders is the solo dark ambient music project from the eminent  artist Give Up. In the past, Horders has released a split record with Rot In Hell and Fimbulvetr is the latest release to come from the project. This releases have been put out on two different formats. Vinyl, but UK label Feast of Tentacles and on Tape, from Canadian label Prairie Fire Tapes. It features 14 challenging compositions.

Tracklisting:-

1. World Without End
2. South Of The River
3. Feral
4. Gateway
5. Destiny
6. Gallery of Plague
7. Icarian
8. Iantana
9. Santa Susana
10. War Lust
11. In Theater, In State
12. Psychic Apocalypse
13. Kings
14. Rotten Hell

Fimbulvetr opens up with the slow, sludgy droning guitar of World Without End.

It's a slow precursor to what's is to be unleashed and already it sounds crushing. The slightly muddiness of the guitars making the noise element stand out even more.

South Of The River carries that noise element on, but this time through the use of electronics. A droning semi-white noise sound permeates from the speakers during the first sixty seconds or so, before slowly dying away. There's subtle guitar rearing its head at this point, which gives the song a strangely medieval slant. It's a very relaxing passage of music after the initial deafening opening. There are also other instrumental elements at play here that help to build more subtle layers of intrigue, especially the keys.

Feral sounds like a hellish Western inspired soundscape. There seems to be the sound of persistent rain in background, created by the use of electronics, which gives it a very claustrophobic sense. To call this music just dark ambient is an injustice, as it morphs into some much more as it winds its way along. Gateway sees the re-emergence of the electric guitar, albeit briefly. There are also some whispered vocals, which conspire to set you on edge. The use of layered guitar and feedback here also makes the song sound very menacing. Destiny features solo piano, played over the top of strange noise and whispered, female spoken word. It sets a haunting but slow scene!

The slow building soundscapes of Gallery of Plague herald in guitar feedback and very slow, winding riffs. It has a sludge/doom feel to it, thanks the drums that can be heard deep within the mix. The more metal/hardcore edged influence really rears it head in the song, especially thanks to that long, ringing lead solo. Icarian is a strange acoustic driven song, with distant chatter in the background. It's a short, lonely piece.

The song carries straight on into Iantana. They seem to play out a story and provoke subtle imagery throughout the composition. It builds in it's second half, with guitar feedback boosting the volume as the song builds, alongside the acoustic guitar, which by this point is less sporadic.

Santa Susana sees Horders favouring the noise elements again. More white noise is followed by a sample from a crowd cheering, which provides a bit of surprisingly upbeat respite, before dying down and revealing a more guitar driven sound. It again paints a strange picture as it twists through three and a half minutes. War Lust seems to present more melody than previous songs, however this is not melody that most would expect, as it's only comes in the form of the opening riff, which is repeated in the first few bars before making way for more low-end noise. There's more drone being used in this song, but that sense of more traditional metal influence is still present.

This is pretty challenging music, especially for someone like me who tends to lean away from ambient music to a certain extent. I do however, see the art in it and can see why it is held so closely to the metal music in general. Especially after listening to In Theater, In State you get glimpses of black metal. Psychic Apocalypse is just that. It's a psychological thriller of a song. The haunting, bewildering soundscape is enough to make you think you're insane. The loud/quiet textures accentuate each other and make the effect even more harrowing. As you drift into the final two compositions Kings and Rotten Hell, you’re in a totally different world, forced upon you by the music. It could be the soundtrack to a desperately stark horror movie, but the sense of cold reality coming out the speakers is too real. You have to experience Fimbulvetr in full to appreciate it. It's hard for me to put my finger on what makes it so captivating. It's just the mysterious, almost mythical sense of solitude that you get from letting it take its grip of you.

Give Up, the creator of Horders has a blog at http://ingivingup.blogspot.co.uk/, featuring artwork and Horders related information.

Below, are two of the songs from Fimbulvetr, that feature on special cassette and are streaming on Horders bandcamp page:-


As mentioned above, you can purchase the LP version of this release from Feast Of Tentacles at http://www.feastoftentacles.com and the tape version can be bought from Prairie Fire Tapes at www.prairiefiretapes.com.

The Dissension - Imperium EP

The Dissension hail from Michigan and are part of the expansive From The Depths Entertainment roster. Imperium is their debut EP, having initially been released back in 2011. This six-piece have steadily been making a name for themselves in the US, but sharing stages with modern metal greats like As Blood Runs Black and Winds Of Plague.

Tracklisting:-

1. Cosmic Ultimatum
2. Prolific Con
3. Downfall
4. Tyrant (Words Mean Nothing)
5. Scourge of The Earth

The Dissension kick off Imperium with the track Cosmic Ultimatum. It's immediately apparent that these guys are aiming at the heavier end of modern metal. The intro is filled with a low, continuous grinding beatdown and is punctuated by low, deathly vocals. It's instantly moshable and probably stokes up a  mighty pit live. There's hints modern groove amongst the brutality and I can see why they've played with bands like Winds Of Plague. They do throw in more melodic riffage, to help break up the low chugging guitar and this works well alongside the vocals. There is a good, subtle hint of technicality nestling in the music too, although some people may be put off by the overuse of that breakdown.The dual high/low vocals work well though and the pinch harmonics add some skill to their barrage.

Prolific Con follows in similar fashion, but the single plucked bass at the start is a nice touch. This song is more groovy than Cosmic Ultimatum and it sees The Dissension settling down into a more relaxed and skilled playing style. The reliance on the breakdown is not as present and you begin to see their death metal influences coming to the fore, especially in the deathly growls. I'll be honest, I've not reviewed anything with this kind of modern chug sound for a little while, so in it's context it's pretty refreshing and their are some great parts to their sound.  Downfall has more of a militaristic sound. It's still crashing in it's delivery and the modern production helps the music to come across well.

Tyrant (Words Mean Nothing) is their most epic song, weighing in at just over seven minutes and early impressions are good, thanks to the dramatic guitar intro. Once over, The Dissension slip back into groove metal mode. The inclusion of clean singing here though, shows a new side to their sound and actually adds to the music. It's not over the top of cheesy, it just fits in well. There's more of a reliance on good instrumentation here, so while the main rhythm section stays on point, some really good lead guitar work adds colour and variation to their sound.

EP closer, Scourge of The Earth is probably the most technical song on the EP, if the intro is any thing to go by. The guitar is jazzy and pretty maddening in parts. This shows The Dissension in more assured form. The sound hear is pretty huge thanks to the production again. The introspective section midway through  is a nice touch, especially with subtle jazzy flourishes. They close things out in pure thrashing style, with a last passage of headbanging fury.

Overall, this is a great debut EP from a band who are making all the right noises. While it may not challenge the uber kvlt listeners amongst you, it certainly does no wrong.
I'm looking forward to seeing how The Dissension progress and grow as time passes. If they focus more on the technicality and less on the breakdowns, they'll fit in alongside many of the modern metal greats!

You can listen to the whole EP via their bandcamp page below:-

As a way of spreading their band's music around, From The Depths Entertainment offers the majority of it for free download here - http://ge.tt/6Fb73ki.

The Dissension can be found at http://www.facebook.com/TheDissension.

Coilguns/Nvrvd - Split 10"

Now here's a record you can get excited about! It's a split 10" featuring Swiss noise-monger's Coilguns and Germany's latest hardcore export Nvrvd (Never Void). It's been released by four labels in collaboration, Dead Dead Dead Music, Savour Your Scene Records, Invektiv Records and Hummus Records.

Coilguns have previously released a twelve inch, called Stadia Rods, also through Dead Dead Dead Music and reviewed a while ago on here. They play a mad amalgamation of hardcore/d-beat/grind and black metal. Nvrvd are a new band to me. They are a trio and play gloomy hardcore, inspired by bands like Converge and Disfear.

It features two tracks from both bands, brimming with chaos.

Tracklist:-

1. Mandarin Hornet (Coilguns)
2. Dewar Flasks (Coilguns)
3. Hungry for Needs (Nvrvd)
4. Direktore (Nvrvd)

Coilguns side begins with the seven minute Mandarin Hornet and foreboding, clean guitar. The music takes a turn after that short intro and morphs into a mid-paced, heavy dirge, with angular riffs and impressive drumming. It's a prolonged passage of instrumental music that gets things going. About three minutes in, Coilguns hit full stride, with some impressive and angry hardcore screams. It pretty experimental and very hard to pin down to one specific genre. There are moments of full-blown, grind inspired mayhem and moments of introspective serenity, however these don't last very long at all. It's very ambitious and when listened to at high volume, pretty scathing too. Dewar Flasks is where the grind influence takes flight. After the initial wall of feedback, a fast, dissonant song appears. It's a very different beast to Mandarin Hornet. It's more urgent and has a punky feel as well. It underlines the variance that Coilguns inject into their sound.

Nvrvd are a different proposition. The underlying hardcore influence is still present, but with a more traditional take on song structures and a pretty rad rock n roll inspired schtick. The ringing guitar that underpins Hungry For Needs gives this song a danceable feel and when you add in the heavier riffs, you've got an instant shot of caffeine-induced heaviness. Direktore is written in the same vibe, but with the low-end more prevalent this time. They slow things down slightly at times to add atmosphere and use dual deep screams to add texture. The guitar and bass work together really well and for a three piece, they make an unholy racket. This song weighs in at just under three minutes, but thanks to the ideas and vision of Nvrvd, it seems much longer and action packed. Their sound at times brings to mind Gallows (circa Orchestra of Wolves), but they've got their own personality and this is a great introduction to their music.

Now, that isn't all. If you've ordered this record (like me), you'll have been sent a download link, so you can download the songs contained on it, but you also get four bonus live tracks that are not on the record.

Bonus tracklist:-

1. Parkensine (Coilguns)
2. Mastoid (Coilguns)
3. Son Of Man (Nvrvd)
4. Null and Void (Nvrvd)

Once again starting with Coilguns and their first track is a live rendition of Parkensine, that opened their Stadia Rods LP. This gives you an insight into the live fury of the band. They allow their records to take on the sound that they transmit live and here they cross. This is a ferocious song and thanks to the great production, it comes across really well. Sometimes, live songs loose their impact due to limitations but this is just as it would sound on record. The sludgy passages are brutal midway through, giving you a sense of the claustrophobia that would be felt if you were stood up close to them. They pick the pace up again in the second part and finish with hardcore abandon and some really cool, angular melodic riffs. It's all pretty maddening! On Mastoid, vocalist Louis sounds possessed during his opening screams. It's a shrill noise that is created but fits the music perfectly and sets the scene for another crushing song. It again has more great experimental touches and just underlines the skill of Coilguns as musicians.

Nvrvd start here with Son Of Man, which is even crazier. This is a song that will have your jaw on the floor. There are riffs that are reminiscent of At The Drive-In at their least radio friendly and crazed, deep vocals reminiscent of a death/black metal band. Again the production is right on the money here. Null and Void seems like a heftier beast in terms of structure and texture, but it's no less vibrant. Again, like Coilguns before them, Nvrvd's musicianship is pretty astounding. While some listeners won't be able to spot the subtle differences in the two band's sounds, each have their own personality. Nvrvd accentuate their chaotic sound on Null and Void by throwing in a great, semi-improv instrumental section, which features some nice jazz inspired moments. It ends on a dime and they lurch back into their hardcore racket.

So, in summary you really are spoiled with this release. It shows off two forward thinking bands from fertile European scene's, who've come together with the sole aim of smashing you too pieces with controlled ferocity. Both the 10" songs and those live tracks are awesome and I can't wait to get my copy in the post! 

Talking of those songs, they can all be heard via Dead Dead Dead Music's own bandcamp page below:-



You can order the record itself from the following places:-

Dead Dead Dead Music - http://deaddeaddeadmusic.bigcartel.com/products 
Savour Your Scene Records - http://www.savouryourscene.co.uk 
Invektiv Records - http://invektivrecords.bigcartel.com/ 
Hummus Records - http://hummusrecords.bandcamp.com/ 

Coilguns are on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/coilguns 
Nvrvd are at http://www.facebook.com/NVRVD?fref=ts 

So what are you waiting for? You need this!