Τρίτη 31 Οκτωβρίου 2023

REVIEW: DEATH, The Sound Of Perseverance

 


DEATH, The Sound Of Perseverance (1998)


Nuclear Blast Records


Η επιμονή ανταμείβει.


Οι πρωτοπόροι Death, ίσως νονοί του σύγχρονου Death Metal, ή τουλάχιστον ηγέτες της αμερικανικής του μεριάς στο τελευταίο τους άλμπουμ ένεκα του πρόωρου τέλους του φυσικού ηγέτη κι ιδρυτή τους Chuck Schuldiner (το 2001). Ένα άλμπουμ που αν και δίχασε το κοινό αρχικά, γρήγορα πήρε τη θέση που του αρμόζει στη δισκογραφία τους. Progressive, Death Metal είναι το υποείδος που οι τέσσερις μουσικοί απ' τη Φλόριντα ήδη είχαν εισαγάγει απ' το Individual Thought Patterns,  Human και ειδικά με το τρομερό Symbolic.  Τα πιο ωμά στοιχεία της πρώτης εποχής ως το 1990 και το τρίτο τους άλμπουμ Spiritual Healing, έτειναν να εκλείψουν με μόνο την τραχιά death-growl φωνή του Chuck να μένει ίδια. Ε, εδώ ακόμα κι η φωνή είναι τραχιά μεν αλλά πιο κοντά στο black Metal scream παρά στο Death Metal στυλ. Μουσικά το στερνό αυτό cd της μπάντας περιέχει πραγματικά μόνο άριστο υλικό μουσικά. Αρχίζοντας απ' το τέλος η τρομαχτική διασκευή στο Painkiller των  Judas Priest, το Spirit Crusher, Scavenger of Human Sorrow, A Moment Of Clarity, Story To Tell, To Forgive Is To Suffer, Flesh And The Power It Holds είναι τα αξέχαστα σημεία του άλμπουμ.


English Text:



Persistence reaps rewards.


The trailblazing band Death, often hailed as the forefathers of contemporary Death Metal, or at the very least, the vanguards of the American scene, faced a pivotal moment on their final album due to the untimely passing of their charismatic frontman and founder, Chuck Schuldiner, in 2001. This album, initially met with divided opinions, swiftly secured its well-deserved place within their discography.


Within this record, the band delves into the realms of progressive Death Metal, a subgenre they had been exploring since "Individual Thought Patterns" and fully embraced with the remarkable "Human" and "Symbolic." Their early, raw elements, dating back to their third album, "Spiritual Healing," seemed to fade into obscurity, leaving only Chuck's distinctive death-growl, though even here, his vocals possessed a rugged quality, closer to the haunting screams of black Metal than the traditional Death Metal style.


Musically, this masterpiece album offers nothing short of excellence. From the spine-tingling rendition of Judas Priest's "Painkiller" to the unforgettable tracks like "Spirit Crusher," "Scavenger of Human Sorrow," "A Moment Of Clarity," "Story To Tell," "To Forgive Is To Suffer," and "Flesh And The Power It Holds," it's an extraordinary collection of musical gems that resonate with listeners.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Κυριακή 29 Οκτωβρίου 2023

MATANZICK Unleashes Thrilling New Music Video


 

MATANZICK has just released a brand-new music video for their track "Two Birds One Stone," featured on their latest album, "Pandemonium." The band took full control of the production process, recording in their own studio, with mixing done at Red Line Studios and mastering handled by Jelöy Sound Mastering.


Formed in 2010, MATANZICK is the brainchild of guitarist and vocalist Tore Lunner and bassist Fredrik Vindfallet. Known for their fierce sound and impactful lyrics, they quickly earned a reputation. The current lineup includes Tore Lunner, Fredrik Vindfallet, drummer Pål Gundersen, and lead guitarist Terje André Rønningen.


SCARLET ANGER Releases 'Martyr' Single and Video!

 


Having garnered immense respect and appreciation through their first two albums, SCARLET ANGER, led by vocalist Joe Block, is now ready to unveil their highly-anticipated third album, 'Martyr,' set for an early 2024 release. As a tantalizing preview, they're treating fans to an electrifying new single and the music video for the title track, 'Martyr'.



Band explains about the lyrical background of "Martyr":


"The lyrics explore the concept of martyrdom and how one sacrifices to achieve personal goals. The text encourages facing the pains and challenges of life and overcoming one's fears. It emphasizes the need to free oneself from negative influences and the past in order to step into the future.


The chorus speaks of the necessity to accept pain and break free from the chains of the past or one's habits. It's about the ability to detach from external expectations and controls and forge one's own path.


The middle passages address life's challenges and the need to overcome them. It's about dealing with emotions and fears, both positive and negative.


Finally, the last passage presents the idea that the light at the end of the tunnel is visible and that one should seize the opportunities they've been waiting for. It's about the moment of breakthrough and embarking on a hopeful future."


Σάββατο 28 Οκτωβρίου 2023

MOURNING WOOD Unleashes Their Debut EP

 


Finnish Heavy Metal enthusiasts, MOURNING WOOD, have made a powerful entrance into the music scene with their inaugural EP, "Fill Your Grave." This release, a testament to the band's artistic prowess, was expertly recorded and mixed by Mikko Hirvelä and masterfully fine-tuned by Juhana Itäkylä. The striking album cover artistry was brought to life by the gifted Teemu Räty.



Originating from Kainuu, Finland, MOURNING WOOD was born in 2021 after the dissolution of their former band, "Selvityksen Alla." The band consists of Jussi Holopainen on vocals, Eino-Akseli Koski on guitars, Lari Lämpsä on bass, and Hanna-Leena Lassila on drums. Their music channels the haunting echoes of classic Finnish metal, evoking the spirit of legendary bands like Sentenced. However, their musical roots also bear the indelible influence of iconic acts such as Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, and Type O Negative. This promising ensemble is poised to carve a unique and lasting niche in the world of heavy metal.


REVIEW: NEVERMORE, Enemies Of Reality / Remixed (2005)

 


NEVERMORE, Enemies Of Reality / Remixed (2005)


Century Media Records


Το CD του 2003 που ξανά μιξαριστικε το 2005, με τα χρώματα του εξωφύλλου κι οπισθόφυλλου σε αρνητικό χρώμα, -έχω και τις δύο εκδόσεις, υπό την διεύθυνση του Kelly των Queensryche αρχικά στη παλιά μίξη-  εδώ πλήρως ανανεωμένο απ' τον Andy Sneap  βγάζει μίσος. Σχεδόν Thrash Metal, ο Warell Dane  κι η κουστωδία των φίλων του στο πιο τραχύ Nevermore cd... Μετά το πολύ mainstream Dead Heart... εδώ τα πράγματα σφίγγουν εφιαλτικά. Tomorrow Turned Into Yesterday, Create The Infinite, Enemies Of Reality, Who Desides και το κλασικό I Voyager είναι σκοτεινά διαμάντια.


English Text:



The CD released in 2003, which underwent a remix in 2005, featuring negative colors on both its front and back covers – I happen to own both editions. Originally under the guidance of Kelly from Queensryche in the initial mix, it has been entirely rejuvenated by Andy Sneap, exuding an intense sense of animosity. It ventures into the realm of almost Thrash Metal, with Warrel Dane and his comrades delivering their craft at its most raw, resulting in what can be considered one of Nevermore's most rugged albums.


After the rather mainstream "Dead Heart," the album takes a dark and nightmarish turn. Tracks like "Tomorrow Turned Into Yesterday," "Create The Infinite," "Enemies Of Reality," "Who Decides," and the timeless classic "I Voyager" shine as darkly brilliant gems amidst the music's depths.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Πέμπτη 26 Οκτωβρίου 2023

REVIEW: BEAR MACE - Charred Field of Slaughter

 


BEAR MACE - Charred Field of Slaughter


Redefining Darkness Records


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Bear Mace's latest album carries a strong Death influence, particularly reminiscent of 'Spiritual Healing,' among other classics. As Chicago natives, they bring a potent dose of kick-ass death metal to the scene. I believe this album deserves a solid "B" rating, especially considering its impressive follow-up to their debut.


This five-piece band showcases their musical prowess, with vocals that possess a unique, echoic quality. What truly sets them apart are the guitars, featuring killer riffs with intense tremolo picking and distinctive frenzies. Bear Mace shows immense potential for long-term success, even in the competitive Chicago scene alongside acts like Cardiac Arrest, Cianide, and Usurper.


Despite their talent, Bear Mace faces the challenge of expanding their fan base and getting the recognition they deserve. I discovered them through a friend and took a chance on their CD, ignoring a less-than-stellar "C" rating – a decision I don't regret. The album's musicality and instrumental prowess are striking, seamlessly blending the Death influence with their unique vibe.


The vocals, enhanced by reverb, harmonize seamlessly with the music, creating a captivating experience. The standout feature is the guitars, which boast a robust sound with killer riffs, complemented by powerful drumming. The production and mixing quality are exceptional, leaving no room for imperfections and enhancing the precision of their sound.


Bear Mace has undoubtedly made strides in the death metal scene with this album, leaving fans in awe. Their music deserves a global platform due to its undeniable uniqueness. Beyond their influences, Bear Mace showcases remarkable maturity and variety in their compositions, demonstrating a clear progression from their debut. This album, with its music and vocals, has unquestionably hit the mark.


In summary, Bear Mace's latest album is a winner and a must-listen for metal enthusiasts, making it a valuable addition to any collection.



Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi

Δευτέρα 23 Οκτωβρίου 2023

REVIEW: MORBID ANGEL, HERETIC (2003)

 


MORBID ANGEL, HERETIC (2003)


Earache Records


Μούργα, λάσπη, τουρμπίνες κι έρεβος.


Η συνέχεια τρία χρόνια μετά το Gateways To Annihilation για τους κλασικούς Death Metal παιχταραδες μας Steve Tucker, Trey Azagthoth, Pete Sandoval σε ένα άλμπουμ στα ίδια σταθερά επίπεδα που ξέρουμε. Αγνό κι ανόθευτο Death Metal σχολής Florida, σε σημεία Thrashy και ταχύτατο αλλά κι αλλού απελπιστικά στο βούρκο. Απ' όλα έχει μέσα στα ... 44 παρακαλώ κομμάτια του. Ναι βέβαια μόνο τα 14 πρώτα είναι κανονικά τραγούδια. Το υπόλοιπα είναι είτε silent tracks ή διλεπτα-τριλεπτα το πολύ ακουστικά σόλο κιθάρα!  Μια πρακτική που την έχω ξαναδεί στο CD W.F.O. των Over Kill. Δε ξέρω τι ακριβώς θέλανε να μας πούνε αλλά εν πάση περιπτώσει, τα κανονικά κομμάτια του άλμπουμ θερίζουν.


English Text:



Three years after 'Gateways to Annihilation,' our classic Death Metal maestros, Steve Tucker, Trey Azagthoth, Pete Sandoval, return with an album that stays true to the familiar elements we know. Pure and unadulterated Florida-style Death Metal, sometimes thrashy and blisteringly fast, yet at other times, despairingly submerged in filth. It encompasses everything in its... 44, please note, tracks. Yes, indeed, only the first 14 are regular songs. The rest are either silent tracks or two-to-three-minute-long acoustic guitar solos! A practice I've seen before on Overkill's 'W.F.O.' CD. I'm not sure what they exactly wanted to convey, but in any case, the regular tracks of the album are devastating

.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


REVIEW: DIO, SACRED HEART (1985)

 


DIO, SACRED HEART (1985)


Vertigo


Το τρίτο άλμπουμ των DIO oχι του DIO.


Ο Ronnie James Dio (RIP) νομίζω δεν χρήζει συστάσεων. Το συγκροτήμα που έστησε μετά το Live Evil των Black Sabbath δεν φτιάχτηκε με σκοπό να είναι το "προσωπικό" του μέσο έκφρασης αλλά μια ομάδα μουσικών με ίδια κατεύθυνση δημιουργικά.  Σε αυτό εδώ, ίσως πιο εμπορικό από πλευράς ήχου, όχι όμως κατωτερο από τους δύο προκατόχους του, Holy Diver (1983) και The Last On Line (1984),  βρίσκονται λοιπόν κομμάτια σαν τα King of Rock And Roll, Sacred Heart, Hungry For Heaven, Like The Beat of A Heart, Just Another Day  που θεωρούνται επίσης κλασσικά.


English Text:



DIO's third album, distinct from Dio, merits attention. The late, great Ronnie James Dio requires no introduction, his legendary status in the rock and metal realms is well established. The band he assembled after his time with Black Sabbath, post-"Live Evil," was no mere solo endeavor; rather, it represented a collective of like-minded musicians sharing a unified creative vision.


This album, despite its leaning towards a more commercial sound, doesn't compromise on quality when measured against its predecessors, "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984). Noteworthy tracks like "King of Rock And Roll," "Sacred Heart," "Hungry For Heaven," "Like The Beat of A Heart," and "Just Another Day" have all achieved classic status in the rock music pantheon.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Σάββατο 21 Οκτωβρίου 2023

ALACRÁN Unleashes Their Latest EP

 


Spanish Heavy/Speed Metal titans, ALACRÁN, have set the metal world ablaze with the release of their electrifying new EP, "Luzifer." This stunning musical opus was meticulously crafted within the hallowed walls of the band's personal recording sanctum, where the magic unfolded. The EP received a touch of sonic wizardry through the skilled hands of Christian Oliva and Diego Lafuente, who not only played pivotal roles in the production but are also integral members of the band.



ALACRÁN's journey began in 2012 in Zaragoza, Spain, with a powerhouse lineup featuring the charismatic Sergio "Cachorro" as the vocal maestro, Christian "Oli" wielding the fiery guitar riffs, Jorge "Judío" manning the relentless drums, and Diego "Petroski" delivering the pulsating bass grooves. In 2018, a significant chapter unfolded with Jorge's departure, opening the door for the arrival of the exceptional Roberto "RK," culminating in the formation of the band's current formidable lineup.


This musical force had already left its mark on the scene with two remarkable EPs. The eponymous debut EP "Alacrán" in 2014, and the evocative and resonant "Siempre en la Brecha" in 2016. Now, with the unveiling of "Luzifer," ALACRÁN continues to expand their sonic empire, poised to enrapture metal enthusiasts worldwide with their unique fusion of Heavy and Speed Metal, solidifying their position as a true force to be reckoned with.


Παρασκευή 20 Οκτωβρίου 2023

VENUS release new video

 


VENUS, the Greek Technical Thrash Metal sensation, is back with an electrifying lyric video for their track "Artificially Prolonged Existence." This marks the second thrilling sneak peek from their highly-anticipated debut album, "Obscured Until Observed," set to drop on November 14th.


"Obscured Until Observed" promises to redefine the boundaries of metal, showcasing Venus's technical prowess and innovation. This album is a testament to their musical mastery and is sure to leave a lasting impression.


The album will be available in various formats, including CD and digital, ensuring fans from around the world can get their hands on the music. With Xtreem Music overseeing the release, November 14th is a date you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for more updates and gear up for this highly-anticipated metal moment.


Πέμπτη 19 Οκτωβρίου 2023

GRAVE DIGGER, proudly introduce their latest guitarist!

 


Today, GRAVE DIGGER is ecstatic to welcome Tobias "Tobi" Kersting (formerly of Steelhammer and ex-Orden Ogan) as their new six-string virtuoso. Tobi is a proven master of Heavy Metal riffing, and the band couldn't be more thrilled about this musical addition. With boundless excitement and anticipation, they look forward to what the future holds as a new era for GRAVE DIGGER dawns.


Tobi's electrifying debut performance with GRAVE DIGGER is set for October 28, 2023, in Düsseldorf, Germany, at the sold-out 40th-anniversary celebration for the Metal Queen herself, DORO. This promises to be an unforgettable baptism of fire for the newest member of the band's lineup.

Τετάρτη 18 Οκτωβρίου 2023

REVIEW: GRAVE DIGGER, The Reaper (1993)

 


GRAVE DIGGER, The Reaper (1993)


GUN


Ο Χάρος (ξανά) βγήκε παγανιά...


Μετά από τρία καλά κι ένα αμφίβολο άλμπουμ ως σκέτοι Digger, ως το 1986, οι τύποι αυτοί ανήκουν στην συνομοταξία των Accept, όχι μόνο λόγω των φωνητικών του Chris Boldedahl που έχει παραδεχτεί άπειρες φορές την αγάπη του για τον Udo Dirkschneider ε, τον οποίο, κοπιαρει ανοιχτά, αλλά κυρίως λόγω της μουσικής τους: Heavy/Speed Metal γερμανικής τεχνοτροπίας. Μπήκαν στο πάγο το 1987 και ξαναεμφανιστικαν το 1992 ζωντανά με τους κ.κ Uwe Lulis κιθάρα, Thomas Gottlich μπάσο και τον άρχοντα των δερμάτων, τον γυρολόγο των σκαμπω του ντράμερ τον Jorg Michael. Το πέμπτο αισίως άλμπουμ τους ήρθε αλλά δεν άγγιξε και πολύ το κοινό. Κακώς, λέω εγώ. Έχει την μαγιά των τριών αρχικών συν μερικά εμπορικότερα ψήγματα κομματιών που είχαν μείνει στο ράφι μετά το '87.


English Text:



Charon has once again embraced pagan themes...


After establishing themselves with three well-received albums and one that left room for speculation during their Digger days, a significant transformation took place in 1986. They found themselves in the same league as Accept, and this connection wasn't solely due to Chris Boldedahl's remarkable vocals. Boldedahl openly expressed his deep admiration for Udo Dirkschneider, a passion that resonated through his performances. However, what truly cemented their place in the Accept legacy was their unique take on German-style Heavy/Speed Metal.


In 1987, the band decided to take a break, only to reemerge in 1992 with a live lineup featuring Uwe Lulis on guitar, Thomas Gottlich on bass, and the drumming virtuoso, Jorg Michael. Unfortunately, their fifth album didn't gain the traction it deserved. In my opinion, this was an injustice, as it still encapsulates the band's original spirit, complemented by a handful of more commercially appealing tracks that had been shelved since '87.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


REVIEW: BLACK SABBATH, PARANOID (1970)

 


BLACK SABBATH, PARANOID (1970)


Vertigo ‎


Δεύτερο χτύπημα την ίδια χρονιά, δεύτερο άλμπουμ, πρώτο για εκατομμύρια ανθρώπους.


Οι τέσσερις άγνωστοι νεαροί το 1970 Παρασκευή 13/2 κυκλοφόρησαν το ομονυμο ντεμπούτο τους. Μήνες μετά... έκρηξη! Οκτώ νέα τραγούδια ντυμένα κάτω από το εξώφυλλο ενός "χίππικου φουτουριστικού μαχητή με ξίφος κι ασπιδα κάποιο βράδυ σε κάποιο δασος..." Εμμμ ναι. Το εξώφυλλο δεν προδιαθέτει για το τι ακούγεται μέσα, αλλά τελικά εκεί είναι η παγίδα: War Pigs, Paranoid, Iron Man, Hand Of Doom, Electic Funeral, Fairies Wear Boots είναι κλασικά παραδείγματα του τί σημαίνει οι πατέρες του Heavy Metal, οι προπάτορες του Doom Metal, οι Hard Rock ηγεμόνες. Ναι οι Black Sabbath του Paranoid, είναι το εφαλτήριο της μουσικής που αγαπάμε.


English Text:



In 1970, on Friday the 13th of February, four unknown young men unleashed their second album, a debut for millions. It was explosive! Under a cover featuring a 'hippie futuristic warrior with a sword and a shield, one night in a forest,' the trap was set. Inside, classics like 'War Pigs,' 'Paranoid,' 'Iron Man,' 'Hand Of Doom,' 'Electric Funeral,' and 'Fairies Wear Boots' defined them as the progenitors of Heavy Metal, the pioneers of Doom Metal, and the rulers of Hard Rock. Black Sabbath's 'Paranoid' was the launchpad for the music we cherish.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Τρίτη 17 Οκτωβρίου 2023

REVIEW: MAYHEM, DE MYSTERIIS DOM SATHANAS (1994)

 


MAYHEM, DE MYSTERIIS DOM SATHANAS (1994)


Deathlike Silence Productions


Τέσσερις μουσικοί το έγραψαν...


Όταν κυκλοφόρησε ζούσαν μόνο οι τρεις κι ο ένας απ' αυτούς ήταν φυλακισμένος λόγω του φόνου του κιθαρίστα-ηγέτη τους.


Μεγάλη ιστορία. Μπάντα που ο Euronymous άρχισε με τρεις φίλους του το 1983-84. Cult ζωές, cult χαρακτήρες. Αργότερα ο Σουηδός Dead ήρθε στη φωνή, τίναξε τα μυαλά του στον αέρα, χάος εν κρανίο γενικότερα. Τα κομμάτια που το απαρτίζουν, είναι το στούντιο ντεμπούτο τους υπολογίστε, υπήρχαν τουλάχιστον από το 1987. Υπήρχαν στα Live in Leipzig και Dawn of the Black Hearts κι ας μην είχε βγει ακόμα πραγματικό άλμπουμ! Η ιστορία με τους εμπρισμους εκκλησιών στη Νορβηγία και την τελική κατάληξη της δολοφονίας του Euronymous απ' τον Vikernes υπάρχει αν και με πολλές προσθήκες αλλά κι ανακρίβειες στη ταινία Lords of Chaos. Το τραγούδι σήμα κατατεθέν τους Freezing Moon στη στούντιο εκδοχή του και με την ερμηνεία του Attila Chihar σε αυτό το cd, στοιχειώνει...


English Text:




Four musicians authored it...


Upon its release, only three remained among the living, while one was incarcerated for the murder of their leading guitarist.


This is a grand narrative. A band that Euronymous initiated alongside three companions in the years 1983-84. An epic saga of cult lives and enigmatic personalities. Subsequently, the Swede, Dead, took the helm as the vocalist, shattering conventions and introducing widespread chaos. The compositions that make up their work, effectively marking their studio debut, had already been in existence since at least 1987. These songs were present in "Live in Leipzig" and "Dawn of the Black Hearts," even before the release of an official album. The account of church burnings in Norway and the eventual tragedy of Euronymous's murder by Vikernes are indeed part of this history, although embellished and somewhat inaccurate in the film "Lords of Chaos." The track that epitomizes their artistry, "Freezing Moon," in its studio version, featuring the haunting vocals of Attila Csihar on this CD, continues to mesmerize...


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


REVIEW: STORMGOAT – Stormgoat

 


STORMGOAT – Stormgoat


Independent


Facebook


Στην τελική τι θέλουμε από μια heavy metal κυκλοφορία; Κατ’ αρχήν να έχει καλές συνθέσεις που θα κρατήσουν το ενδιαφέρον μας από την αρχή μέχρι το τέλος και θα μας κάνουν να πιάσουμε την air guitar ή να κάνουμε headbanging ή και τα 2. Επίσης σημαντικό είναι να χει και 80’ς metal νοσταλγία μέσα της χωρίς όμως να υπερβάλει σε βαθμό που να καταλήγει μιμητισμός.


Ακούγοντας, λοιπόν, την κυκλοφορία των Σουηδών STORMGOAT θα αντιληφθείτε άμεσα ότι έχει όλα τα παραπάνω στοιχεία. Οι Σουηδοί στο πολύ όμορφο αυτό ντεμπούτο τους δηλώνουν θιασώτες του Βρετανικού metal ήχου και μάλιστα σ’ ένα εύρος που πιάνει τους πρωτομάστορες BLACK SABATH, MOTORHEAD, JUDAS PRIEST και καταλήγει στο NWOBHM κίνημα όπως εκφράστηκε από τους IRON MAIDEN (απλά ακούστε τη σύνθεση «Man and His»), DIAMOND HEAD και HOLOCAUST.


Μπορεί να μην διακρίνεται για την αυθεντικότητα της η κυκλοφορία αυτή, αλλά έχει κάτι πολύ ουσιαστικότερο. Διαθέτει έμπνευση και πάθος για τον κλασσικό heavy metal ήχο. Μια  κυκλοφορία που ακούγεται λες και είναι συλλογή συνθέσεων της Βρετανικής metal σκηνής του 70 και 80. Δεν υπάρχει περίπτωση να μην την αγαπήσετε, αν είστε φίλοι του ήχου. Προσωπικά παίζει αρκετά συχνά στο CD PLAYER μου.


English Text:



Ultimately, what do we desire from a heavy metal release? It all starts with captivating compositions that grip our attention from the opening notes, prompting us to wield the air guitar and headbang with fervor. Of equal importance is a nod to the nostalgia of 80s metal, all without veering into mere imitation.

Enter the Swedish powerhouse, STORMGOAT. Their debut album is an embodiment of these very qualities. In it, the Swedes proudly salute the British metal tradition, weaving a tapestry that spans the pioneers, including BLACK SABBATH, MOTORHEAD, and JUDAS PRIEST, and reaches the zenith of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), akin to the mighty IRON MAIDEN (listen to their track "Man and His"), DIAMOND HEAD, and HOLOCAUST.


While their work may not shatter the mold of originality, it exudes something more profound: an unwavering passion and reverence for classic heavy metal. This release feels like a carefully curated compilation of tracks from the golden era of British metal in the '70s and '80s. If you're a fan of the genre, it's impossible not to fall in love with it. Personally, it's a fixture in my CD player, spinning on a regular basis.


Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης