Δευτέρα 30 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

REVIEW: SODOM, Agent Orange (1989)

 


SODOM, Agent Orange  (1989)


Steamhammer


Μέσα στο AC-47 ο πόλεμος είναι εσωτερικός.


Έχοντας αφετηρία αρχές της δεκαετίας του '80 οι και με πολύ πιο ακραίο image οι Sodom έθεσαν τις απαρχές του Death και γιατί όχι και του Black Metal μουσικού κινήματος. Η εποχή της ωριμότητας μουσικά μετά το In the Sign Of Evil  Ε.Ρ. και το Obsessed By Cruelty ντεμπούτο , ξεκίνησε με τα Thrash Metal αριστουργήματα πολεμικής (αντιπολεμικής μάλλον) θεματικής όπως το Persecution Mania και φυσικά το θρυλικό τους  άλμπουμ που βλέπετε. Οι τρεις μουσικοί (Tom Angelripper, Chris Witchunter, Frank Blackfire) φτάνουν σε αυτό το τρίτο πλήρες άλμπουμ τους δια πυρός και σιδήρου. Αποτελούν ιδιάζουσα επιρροή για δεκάδες σχήματα που ενστερνίστηκαν παρόμοια θεματική. Πάντως εδώ με καθαρόαιμο Thrash Metal και κομμάτια σαν τα Tired And Red, Incest, Remember The Fallen, Agent Orange, Ausgebompt, Magic Dragon, Exhibtion Bout κι η κεφάτη διασκευή στο Don't Walk Away των Tank, έχουν φτιάξει δίσκο σαν best of.  Απίστευτη εποχή για την τριάδα του αρχηγού Tom Angelripper στο  τρομερό αυτό άλμπουμ.


English:



Inside the AC-47, the war is internal.


Starting in the early 1980s, Sodom, with their much more extreme image, laid the foundations for the Death and, why not, the Black Metal music movement. Their musical maturity began after the "In the Sign of Evil" EP and the "Obsessed by Cruelty" debut, with Thrash Metal masterpieces of war (or rather anti-war) themes like "Persecution Mania" and, of course, the legendary album you see here. The three musicians (Tom Angelripper, Chris Witchhunter, Frank Blackfire) reached this third full album through fire and iron. They have been a unique influence on dozens of bands that embraced similar themes. Here, with pure Thrash Metal and tracks like "Tired and Red," "Incest," "Remember the Fallen," "Agent Orange," "Ausgebombt," "Magic Dragon," "Exhibition Bout," and the lively cover of Tank's "Don't Walk Away," they have created an album like a best-of. An incredible era for the trio led by Tom Angelripper in this amazing album.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης




WHIRLWIND's "1714": A Metal Homage to History

 


Spanish metal band WHIRLWIND has made a significant mark in the metal scene with their album "1714," released on November 22, 2022¹. Known for their homage to the legendary band RUNNING WILD, WHIRLWIND's music is a blend of powerful riffs, historical themes, and epic storytelling. "1714" is a concept album that delves deep into the historical events surrounding the Siege of Barcelona, a pivotal moment in Catalonia's history.


The Historical Context: The Siege of Barcelona



The Siege of Barcelona (25 July 1713 – 11 September 1714) was a crucial event during the War of the Spanish Succession. This war was a major European conflict that arose after the death of the childless Charles II of Spain, leading to a struggle for the Spanish throne. The siege itself was part of the larger conflict between the supporters of the Habsburg candidate, Archduke Charles, and the Bourbon candidate, Philip V.


Barcelona, a stronghold of the Habsburg supporters, faced a relentless siege by the Bourbon forces. The city's defenders, despite being outnumbered and outgunned, held out for over a year. The fall of Barcelona on September 11, 1714, marked the end of Catalonia's resistance and led to significant political and cultural repercussions for the region. This date is now commemorated annually as the National Day of Catalonia.


WHIRLWIND's Musical Interpretation



WHIRLWIND's "1714" captures the essence of this historical siege through its powerful tracks. The album opens with an atmospheric intro, setting the stage for the epic tale. Songs like "The Call" and "Under Siege" depict the initial stages of the conflict, highlighting the bravery and determination of Barcelona's defenders.


Tracks such as "Rebels Arise!" and "Torture, Knife & Fire" delve into the intense and brutal nature of the siege, while "Cannons of Infuriation" and "The Bastard Duke" bring to life the ferocity of the battles fought. The album's narrative reaches its climax with "Immortal Heroes" and "Red September," paying tribute to the fallen and the enduring spirit of the Catalan people.


Musical Style and Influence



WHIRLWIND's style is heavily influenced by RUNNING WILD, evident in their galloping rhythms, melodic solos, and historical themes. The band's ability to blend traditional heavy metal with elements of power metal creates a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. The production quality of "1714" ensures that each instrument is heard clearly, adding to the overall impact of the album.


Conclusion



"1714" by WHIRLWIND is more than just an album; it is a musical journey through one of the most significant events in Catalonia's history. By combining historical storytelling with powerful metal music, WHIRLWIND has created a work that resonates with both history enthusiasts and metal fans alike. The album stands as a testament to the band's talent and their dedication to preserving and celebrating historical events through their music.

Nick Parastatidis

 

Κυριακή 29 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

REVIEW: SODOM, Masquerade In Blood (1995)

 


SODOM, Masquerade In Blood (1995)


Steamhammer


Σε σημείο καμπής.


Καλά μόνο γι'αυτό το εξώφυλλο του κου Marschall, όπου o Knarrenheinz (ο κλασικός στρατιώτης - μασκότ τους με τη μάσκα ΡΒΧ πολέμου) "αγκαλιάζει τρυφερά"  μέχρι να σκάσουν τα δύο νεκρά πλέον πολιτικά καθάρματα, Χελμουτ Κολλ και Μπόρις Γιέλτσιν αξίζει...Όχι αξιζει και για τα Masquerade in Blood, Murder in My Eyes, Verecke!, Gathering of Minds, Unwanted Youth, Peacemaker's Law, Fields of Honour, Mantelmann, Shadow of Damnation από τα 13 συνολικά κομμάτια που το αποτελούν. Πάντως μια κάποια αλλαγή την προσέχεις στο στυλ του δίσκου. Πιο punky, πιο "motor-χεντικο" και πιο νεωτεριστικό, σε κάνα δύο τραγούδια σαν να ψιλό ραπαρει ο Tom Angelripper. Βέβαια η παραγωγή δεν είναι τέλεια, αν κι ο πιο ακατέργαστος ήχος του, δεν του κάνει κακό. Μόνο Thrash λοιπόν και πάλι και για κερασάκι στο τέλος το Let's Break The Law των punk rockers Antinowhere League. Να σηκώσω μοικανα; Μπάα όχι κι έτσι!


English:



At a turning point.


It's worth it just for the cover by Mr. Marschall, where Knarrenheinz (their classic soldier mascot with the CBRN warfare mask) "tenderly embraces" until the two now-dead political scoundrels, Helmut Kohl and Boris Yeltsin, burst... But it's also worth it for the tracks like "Masquerade in Blood," "Murder in My Eyes," "Verecke!," "Gathering of Minds," "Unwanted Youth," "Peacemaker's Law," "Fields of Honour," "Mantelmann," "Shadow of Damnation," among the 13 total tracks that make it up. You do notice some change in the style of the album. More punky, more "Motörhead-like," and more innovative, in a couple of songs it's like Tom Angelripper is almost rapping. Of course, the production isn't perfect, but its rawer sound doesn't hurt it. So, only Thrash again, and for the cherry on top, there's "Let's Break The Law" by the punk rockers Anti-Nowhere League. Should I raise a mohawk? Nah, not that far!


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


REVIEW: BOLT THROWER, War Master (1991)

 


BOLT THROWER, War Master (1991)


Earache Records


Επικές μάχες στα πεδία του θανάτου.


Προφανώς με τη πρώτη ματιά στο εξώφυλλο, δε δείχνει για αυτό που είναι. Μοιάζει με επικό metal άλμπουμ αλλά φυσικά οι γνώστες είναι ενήμεροι ότι οι Άγγλοι ήταν απ' τις προμετωπίδες του ευρωπαϊκού Death Metal. Αυτό είναι το τρίτο άλμπουμ τών πέντε παιδιών Andy Whale, Barry Thomson, Karl Wallers, Gavin Ward και της Jo Bench και μπορεί να μην είναι Epic όσον αφορά το μουσικό ύφος, αλλά η πολεμική θεματολογία τους έκανε πάντα να διαφέρουν απ' τα υπόλοιπα σχήματα του πιο  ακραίου ήχου τόσο στη Βρετανία (Napalm Death, Carcass, Onslaught) όσο και στην απέναντι μεριά του Ατλαντικού που Ε, πως να το κάνουμε είχε τότε αρχίσει να έχει παράδοση στον ήχο. Δέκα κομματάρες με προεξάρχοντα τα What Dwells Within, The Shreds Of Sanity, Profane Creation, Destructive Infinity, Cenotaphe(απόλυτος ύμνος!!!), War Master, Rebirth Of Humanity.


English:



Epic battles on the fields of death.


At first glance, the cover doesn't reveal what it truly is. It looks like an epic metal album, but of course, those in the know are aware that the English were at the forefront of European Death Metal. This is the third album by the five members Andy Whale, Barry Thomson, Karl Willetts, Gavin Ward, and Jo Bench. It may not be epic in terms of musical style, but their war-themed lyrics always set them apart from other extreme sound bands, both in Britain (Napalm Death, Carcass, Onslaught) and across the Atlantic, where, let's face it, the sound was starting to become a tradition. Ten amazing tracks, with standout songs like "What Dwells Within," "The Shreds Of Sanity," "Profane Creation," "Destructive Infinity," "Cenotaph" (an absolute anthem!!!), "War Master," and "Rebirth Of Humanity."


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Σάββατο 28 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

Parris Hyde with Mark Stone has released the video for the new single "Days of Redemption."

 


From September 27th, the new album "On the Road to Santiago," published by Mood Promotion, is available.


The wait is over. The new album by Parris Hyde with Mark Stone, titled "On The Road to Santiago," published by Mood Promotion, is finally available in digital format on all specialized platforms and in physical format.



With the release of "On The Road to Santiago," the video for the new single "Days of Redemption" is simultaneously available on YouTube. It is a "visual video" alternating images of the authors with videos related to the Camino de Santiago, which the entire concept album is based on. The video was shot and edited by Afterspell Studios.


The Legend of Huma: From Fantasy Novel to Epic Metal Anthem

 


“The Legend of Huma”, a fantasy novel by Richard A. Knaak, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature and music alike. Published in 1988, this novel is part of the Dragonlance series and narrates the heroic tale of Huma Dragonbane, a Knight of the Crown, who battles the dark goddess Takhisis during the Third Dragon War. The story is rich with themes of bravery, friendship, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, making it a perfect muse for creative minds.


One such creative mind was that of the Australian heavy/power metal band Dungeon. Their debut album, "Resurrection", released in 1999, features the song "The Legend of Huma", which stands out as the only epic metal track on the album. This song is a tribute to the novel, capturing its essence through powerful lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.


The Novel's Influence on Dungeon



Dungeon's "The Legend of Huma" draws heavily from the novel's narrative and themes. The lyrics vividly depict the epic battles and the dark forces that Huma faces, echoing the novel's intense and dramatic storyline. Lines like "The armies of darkness are coming to poison the lands" and "Takhisis, the queen of the night has risen again" directly reference the novel's plot and characters.


The band's choice to include this song in their debut album highlights their appreciation for the novel's rich storytelling and its alignment with the epic and grandiose style of metal music. The song's powerful riffs and soaring vocals mirror the novel's high-stakes battles and heroic feats, making it a fitting homage to Huma's legendary tale.


The Unique Place of "The Legend of Huma" in "Resurrection"



While "Resurrection" features a variety of tracks, "The Legend of Huma" is unique in its epic scope and narrative depth. It stands out not only for its length and complexity but also for its ability to transport listeners into the world of Dragonlance. This track showcases Dungeon's ability to blend storytelling with music, creating an immersive experience that resonates with fans of both the novel and the metal genre.


In conclusion, “The Legend of Huma” has transcended its origins as a fantasy novel to inspire a powerful and memorable song by Dungeon. This cross-medium influence underscores the enduring appeal of Huma's story and its capacity to inspire creativity across different art forms. Whether you're a fan of epic fantasy or heavy metal, "The Legend of Huma" offers a thrilling journey into a world where heroism and music collide.


Nick Parastatidis


Παρασκευή 27 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

REVIEW: WARLORD, Live In Athens 2013 (2017)

 


WARLORD, Live In Athens 2013 (2017)


Alone Records


Ντοκουμέντο με αξία ιστορική.


Ο αείμνηστος Bill Tsamis, κιθαρίστας και στιχουργός/συνθέτης, ουσιαστικά η ψυχή αυτού του συγκροτήματος από τις αρχές της χρυσής δεκαετίας του '80 ήταν η ουσία του ίδιου του ήχου και του λόγου αυτου του συγκροτήματος. Μπορεί ο Mark Zοnder, κορυφαίος ντράμερ (και στους Fates Warning) να είναι το άλλο μεγάλο όνομα, αλλά δεν ήταν το άλλο μισό. Ο Τσάμης (προφανές ότι ήταν δικός μας και στη καταγωγή, τα ελληνικά που μιλά με το κοινό εδώ ανάμεσα στα τραγούδια!) ήταν οι Warlord ! Αυτό το άλμπουμ και DVD είναι μια  ανθολογία ενός απ'τα μεγαλύτερα ονόματα τόσο του Underground όσο και στο mainstream Epic Power-Heavy Metal  που υπήρξε πάνω σε αυτό τον δύσμοιρο πλανήτη. Με ένα τρομερό lineup μπροστά στο ελληνικό κοινό που λάτρεψε κι ακόμα λατρεύει τον "Πολέμαρχο" , έστω κι αν ο βασικός του ιππότης δεν είναι πλέον στον κόσμο αυτό να το δεί. Ανατριχίλα με διακατέχει γράφοντας αυτή τη τελευταία γραμμή υπό τη μελωδία του Winter Tears....


English:



A Document of Historical Value


The late Bill Tsamis, guitarist and lyricist/composer, was essentially the soul of this band from the early golden decade of the '80s. He was the essence of the band's sound and lyrics. While Mark Zonder, a top drummer (also with Fates Warning), is another big name, he wasn't the other half. Tsamis (obviously of Greek descent, speaking Greek with the audience here between songs!) was Warlord! This album and DVD is an anthology of one of the greatest names in both the Underground and mainstream Epic Power-Heavy Metal that has ever existed on this unfortunate planet. With an incredible lineup in front of the Greek audience that adored and still adores the "Warlord," even though its main knight is no longer in this world to see it. I am overwhelmed with chills writing this last line under the melody of "Winter Tears"...


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


REVIEW: SAINT VITUS, Live Vol.2 (2016)

 


SAINT VITUS, Live Vol.2  (2016)


Season of Mist


Απόσταγμα της ιστορίας τους.


Στο δεύτερο ζωντανά ηχογραφημένο άλμπουμ τους οι τέσσερις μουσικοί, Scott "Winno" Weinrich φωνή, Dave Chandler κιθάρα, Mark Adams μπάσο, Henry Vasquez ντραμς αποδεικνύουν τη ποιότητα τους και ζωντανά αφού το βαρύ, μαύρο, βασανιστικό Doom Metal τους, για το οποίο υπήρξαν από τα πρώτα σχήματα που το τελειοποίησαν,  δεν χωράει αμφιβολία ότι είναι φοβερό και πάντα ενδιαφέρον και κρυμμένο στους εκπληκτικούς στούντιο δίσκους τους. Γραμμένο σε την εποχή της περιοδείας για το Lille: F-65 άλμπουμ τους, έχει υλικό για όλα τα γούστα κι όλες τις ηλικίες των οπαδών τους.


English:



A Distillation of Their History


In their second live-recorded album, the four musicians—Scott "Winno" Weinrich on vocals, Dave Chandler on guitar, Mark Adams on bass, and Henry Vasquez on drums—demonstrate their quality live as well. Their heavy, dark, and torturous Doom Metal, which they were among the first to perfect, leaves no doubt that it is incredible and always interesting, hidden within their amazing studio albums. Written during the tour for their album "Lille: F-65," it has material for all tastes and all ages of their fans.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Πέμπτη 26 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

LEAGUE OF DISTORTION Unleashes New Single “Chainsaw” + Official Video

 


Modern metal band LEAGUE OF DISTORTION has released a new track, "Chainsaw," from their upcoming album "Galvanize", set to be released on October 25, 2024, via Napalm Records. The song features a powerful electronic intro, hard-hitting verses, and a catchy chorus, highlighting Anna "Ace" Brunner's commanding vocals and Jim "Arro" Müller's dynamic guitar riffs. The lyrics address global injustice and hypocrisy, and the accompanying music video delivers strong horror movie vibes, making "Chainsaw" a modern metal anthem filled with energy and hope.


The band debuted two years ago with their self-titled album, bringing a fresh and unique style to modern metal. Their most successful song, "Wolf or Lamb," has over 1 million streams. They have performed at major festivals and supported bands like Kissin’ Dynamite, Caliban, and Kamelot. LEAGUE OF DISTORTION will embark on their first headline tour starting November 15 in Cologne.


ARCTIS Release Lambretta Cover as Second Single

 


ARCTIS, a Finnish modern metal band, is set to release their second single, a cover of Lambretta's hit "Bimbo," from their upcoming self-titled debut album, out November 1, 2024, via Napalm Records. The band, known for blending nature and technology inspired by Finland's seasonal extremes, will also tour with Apocalyptica. Their debut album was produced by Jimmy Westerlund, mixed by Stefan Glaumann, and mastered by Svante Forsbäck. ARCTIS aims to bring new life to "Bimbo" with their intense sound, hoping to evoke excitement and nostalgia in listeners.


The Convergence of Metal and Literature: Burning Shadows and Assassin's Blade

 


In the realm of heavy metal, concept albums often serve as a canvas for storytelling, blending powerful music with intricate narratives. Two bands, Burning Shadows from the United States and Assassin's Blade, a Canadian/Swedish collaboration, have both drawn inspiration from Fritz Leiber's classic science fiction novel, “Gather, Darkness!”, creating albums that explore its themes and storylines.


Burning Shadows: Power and Heavy Metal from the US



Burning Shadows, hailing from Savage, Maryland, has been a staple in the power and heavy metal scene since their formation in 2000. Known for their thematic focus on fantasy, history, and mythology, the band has a discography that includes albums like “Truth in Legend” and “Into the Primordial”. Their concept album “Gather, Darkness!” delves into the dystopian world created by Leiber, using their signature blend of melodic and aggressive metal to bring the story to life.


Assassin's Blade: A Fusion of Canadian and Swedish Metal



Assassin's Blade, formed in 2014, is a heavy/speed metal band that combines the talents of musicians from Canada and Sweden. Their album “Gather, Darkness”, released in 2019, showcases a hybrid sound influenced by bands like Exciter and Judas Priest. The album's tracks traverse various metal subgenres, from thrash to power metal, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative inspired by Leiber's novel.


Fritz Leiber's “Gather, Darkness!”



Published in 1943, “Gather, Darkness!” is a seminal work of science fiction that explores themes of power, rebellion, and the clash between science and superstition. Set 360 years after a nuclear holocaust, the novel depicts a world where techno-priests wield scientific knowledge as a means of control, masquerading it as divine power¹⁹. The protagonist, Armon Jarles, rises from peasant origins to become a priest, only to rebel against the corrupt theocracy. His journey intertwines with a burgeoning witchcraft movement, leading to a dramatic confrontation that questions the very foundations of their society.


The Intersection of Music and Literature


Both Burning Shadows and Assassin's Blade have successfully translated the complex narrative of “Gather, Darkness!” into their music, each bringing their unique style and interpretation to the story. Through their albums, they invite listeners to explore Leiber's dystopian world, experiencing the tension and drama through the lens of heavy metal.


These concept albums not only pay homage to a literary classic but also demonstrate the enduring power of storytelling in music. By drawing from “Gather, Darkness!”, both bands have created works that resonate with fans of both metal and science fiction, bridging the gap between two vibrant artistic communities.



Nick Parastatidis

 

REVIEW: IRON FIRE – Thunderstorm

 


IRON FIRE – Thunderstorm


Noise Records


Iron Fire's debut album, "Thunderstorm," released in June 2000, is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of melodic power metal. From the very first track, "Final Crusade," the album sets a high-energy tone that carries through to the closing notes of "Glory to the King."


One of the standout features of "Thunderstorm" is the strong influence of Running Wild, evident in the galloping rhythms and epic storytelling. This influence is seamlessly blended with Iron Fire's unique sound, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.


At the heart of this album is Martin Steene's distinctive vocal performance. His voice, with its raw power and emotive delivery, adds a unique flavor to each track. Steene's ability to convey both strength and vulnerability makes songs like "When the Heroes Fall" and "Thunderstorm" particularly memorable.



Despite its strengths, "Thunderstorm" was initially met with some criticism, with detractors labeling Iron Fire as a mere HammerFall clone. However, this assessment fails to recognize the band's originality and the album's depth. Over time, "Thunderstorm" has proven its worth, standing the test of time as a classic in the power metal genre.


In conclusion, "Thunderstorm" is more than just a debut album; it's a powerful statement of Iron Fire's potential and a must-listen for fans of melodic power metal. Its blend of Running Wild-inspired riffs, Martin Steene's unique vocals, and timeless appeal make it a standout release that deserves recognition beyond the initial comparisons to HammerFall.


Nick Parastatidis

 

Τετάρτη 25 Σεπτεμβρίου 2024

REVIEW: NECROMANTIA, Crossing The Fiery Path (1993)

 


NECROMANTIA, Crossing The Fiery Path (1993)


Osmose Productions


Μαύρη σχολή.


Ο μεσογειακός δρόμος του Black Metal με το ντεμπούτο πλήρες άλμπουμ αυτού του αθηναϊκού σχήματος, συνεχίζει τη πορεία του μέσα στη δεκαετία του '90. Με το split E.P. The Black Arts / The Everlasting Sins με τους  επίσης συμπατριώτες μας και επίσης πρωτοπόρους στον ακραίο ήχο Varathron να έχει προηγηθεί, Magus Wampyr Daoloth (επεκτείνεται και στους Thou Art Lord, Rotting Christ, Raism, N.A.O.S, The Magus η πολιποικηλη καριέρα του) και Baron Blood (RIP) σε φωνή/τετράχορδο μπάσο κι οχταχορδο μπάσο αντίστοιχα ορίζουν με επτά κομμάτια ένα ακόμη καύχημα της ελληνικής σκηνής. Κι όμως η απουσία ηλεκτρικής κιθάρας δεν γίνεται αντιληπτή, το παίξιμο του Baron Blood φροντίζει να μη γίνεται αισθητή κάποια τέτοια απουσία αλλά κι όσα καθαρά κιθαριστικά riff υπάρχουν παίζονται από τον Dave P. Στα drums ο Nick Adams από Dark Nova! Ηχητικά η πιο παράξενη επιρροή είναι οι Manowar στο CD  των Necromantia, όχι βέβαια θεματολογικά αλλά σε επίπεδο σύνθεσης κάτι που κι ίδιος ο Magus δε το έχει αρνηθεί αφού ήταν παρέα με τον Baron Blood οπαδοί τους όταν ήταν συμμαθητές και ξεκίνησαν γκρουπ. Η ομορφιά πάντα είναι υποκειμενική πόσο μάλλον στον σκοτεινό, βαμπυρικό κόσμο των Necromantia. The Warlock, Lord Of The Abyss, Tribes Of The Moon,  Unchaining the Wolf (At War) είναι τα πιο χαρακτηριστικά του δίσκου και το μέλλον προβλέπονταν φωτεινό ή μάλλον πορφυρό...;


English:



The Black School.


The Mediterranean path of Black Metal, with this Athenian band's debut full album, continues its journey through the 1990s. Following the split E.P. The Black Arts / The Everlasting Sins with our fellow countrymen and pioneers of the extreme sound Varathron, Magus Wampyr Daoloth (who also extends to Thou Art Lord, Rotting Christ, Raism, N.A.O.S, The Magus and his prolific career) and Baron Blood (RIP) in vocals/tetra-string bass and octa-string bass respectively, define with seven tracks another pride of the Greek scene. And yet, the absence of electric guitar is not noticeable, as Baron Blood's playing takes care to make it unperceivable, and what clear guitar riffs exist are played by Dave P. This unique synthetic situation becomes even more 'weird' as the album features Nick Adams ofDark Nova fame! The most unusual influence is Manowar on the CD of Necromantia, not necessarily in terms of theme but in terms of composition, which Magus himself has not denied, as he was a fan of Baron Blood's group when they were classmates and started the band. Beauty is always subjective, especially in the dark, vampiric world of Necromantia. The Warlock, Lord Of The Abyss, Tribes Of The Moon, Unchaining the Wolf (At War) are the most characteristic tracks of the album and the future was forecasted bright or rather purple...


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης