2012 Highlights - Top 10 Releases

As 2012 draws to a close, we're going to have a look back at all the releases we have reviewed and highlight our favourite releases. It has been a great year for the UK extreme metal scene, with some absolutely outstanding releases. UKEM has not had the chance to review every single release, but have tried our hardest to review every release we have been sent (there are a few we've missed, time being an issue!!). The following releases are in no particular order, but are our top 10 favourite releases of 2012 and how we summed each release up!!

 

Wodensthrone - Curse

 

 

"It is fair to say that Wodensthrone have produced one of the greatest UKBM albums for a very long time, the atmosphere created throughout the entire album is absolutely compelling and when the band up the pace the final result is utterly devastating. Not only a highlight to the UKBM scene, this will probably a highlight in the black metal scene worldwide. Fans of the band will not be disappointed by this release at all, it shows a band who have matured since their debut release and have improved vastly, showing a more mature approach to song compositions and structures. If you thought ‘Loss’ was amazing, then ‘Curse’ is going to absolutely pummel you into the ground. If you’re into the band and into black metal, you definitely cannot be without this release"   9 out of 10

 

Bloodshot Dawn - Bloodshot Dawn

 

 

"Anyone that has followed the band’s video diaries on the making of this album will see just how much effort has gone into this album. It’s extremely safe to say the hard work has absolutely paid off; the production is first rate, sharp and packs a real punch. Everything about this album smacks of professionalism (as it is self released) and four musicians who appear to be at the top of their game and are yet another shining example of what the UK underground currently has to offer. Who said our scene lacks quality bands? Because judging by BD’s brand of thrashy death metal, our scene has another band that is setting a very high standard musically and is more than capable of standing tall on the international extreme metal scene. Comes very highly rated"

9 out of 10

 

Aghast! - Live Dangerously

 

 

"Aghast are something very special indeed, their technical proficiency first rate with a good ear for writing catchy, memorable extreme metal. If you haven’t heard this e.p you should really get it on your “to buy” cd list, it’s a remarkable e.p. (the artwork and packaging alone make it money well spent!) It’s just a shame there’s only three tracks because I could sit and listen to them all day, it really is that good. Very highly recommended"

9 out of 10

 

Flayed Disciple - Death Hammer

 

 

"A great blend of genres, all played flawlessly with a production that jumps right out at you, mixed perfectly to let each instrument really complement the other. There’s no faulting ‘Death Hammer’ at all, it reeks of professionalism, is never dull and is a CD you really should have in your collection. Once you have listened to it you feel the need to press play again, such is its appeal. Very Highly recommended"

 

8.5 out of 10

 

Eye Of Solitude - Sui Caedere

 

 

"Words are hard to describe the chilling atmospheres, the devastating melancholy and depressive sounds being created. It’s another master-class in how funeral doom should be delivered to the listener, and a sound I certainly never tire of. Never have a band impressed me quite so much as E.O.S. Their sound so unique in what is an exceptionally hard musical genre to “get right”, but get right they do. There’s no faulting this release at all. Impressed when I first heard the band, they have not let my expectations down. The album of 2012 so far, it will take something very special from another band to top the quality on show here. In fact I’m pretty safe in saying, I don’t think anyone will. Utterly devastating, punishing and compelling funeral doom/death, you really need to get hold of this release, turn the lights off and bask in the utter melancholy. As highly rated as it gets"

 

9.5 out of 10

 

Ancient Ascendant - Into The Dark

 

 

"Proving themselves to be one of the better bands in the UK extreme metal underground at the moment, Ancient Ascendant have produced an extremely well written e.p, packed full of intelligent song writing, catchy atmospheres which all smacks of a band who have found their style and are at ease writing songs which will instantly appeal to a lot of extreme metal fans. Limited to 300 copies, it is probably a good idea that you get yourself a copy of this, as they probably wont be available for very long. Highly recommended"

8 out of 10

 

Primitive Graven Image - Psychadelic Episodes

 

 

"This is a pure black metal album, and one of the highest order and all the talk of new ideas and influences was well founded, there are a lot of new ideas on show. Not enough to change the bands sound however, it is still very much PGI and those familiar with the band will not be disappointed at all. Very brave for a black metal band to add the kind of influences the band has, but they have done it and done it very well, the black metal core never spoilt by those ‘other ideas’. They have been incorporated and used extremely effectively and is testament to the bands song writing ability. This is their third full length and by far their best. Don’t be frightened by the words ‘Prog’ or ‘Spacey’ of ‘Clean singing’ because believe me, this album is packed full of absolutely amazing black metal songs, some with new ideas yes, but ideas that enhance the songs and only add to the appeal of the album. UKBM of the highest order and very highly recommended"

9 out of 10

 

Winterfylleth - The Threnody Of Triumph

 

 

"Winterfylleth are definitely getting better with age and this, their third album is by far their greatest piece of work to date. Having crafted a sound that is ‘Winterfylleth’ and ultimately unique, especially to these fare shores, these guys are riding high and at the top of their game with this album. If you’re a UKBM fan and you don’t have it in your collection, then may I suggest you get it as soon as possible because you really are missing out on something very special indeed. Very highly recommended"

9 out of 10

 

Anaal Nathrakh - Vanitas

 

 

"It’s fair to say that A.N have found something new in their song writing and seem to have found a new vigour and new enthusiasm for writing crazed and blasting black metal. There’s a real sense of purpose to this latest opus and we see some new elements introduced to the sound, which (for the most) work really well and enhance the torment being created. The cleaner production helps things along nicely as well with all elements clear in the mix. Although the pace has been slowed for a lot of this album, this is as devastating and dangerous and catchy as the band has sounded to date. It’s a truly vicious album that oozes pure quality as sees a band that has not only outdone themselves, but outdone everyone in the genre and produced an album of the highest order. Definitely at the top of their game, this is an album that if you do not own, you are missing out on an absolute masterpiece of punishing black metal. Quoting the band, "Anaal Nathrakh was created for one purpose - to be the soundtrack for armageddon, the audial essence of evil, hatred and violence, the true spirit of necro taken to its musical extremes"....no arguments here! As highly recommended as it gets, buy or die"

9.5 Out of 10

 

Old Corpse Road - 'Tis Witching Hour

 

 

"This is an album packed full of ideas, influences and atmospheres and to truly get to grips with everything offer more than one listen is a must. O.C.R have produced an absolutely outstanding debut full length album which does draw instant comparisons to Cradle Of Filth and Hecate Enthroned but that also offers the listener so much more, taking you on a musical journey which you will want to travel time and time again. With outstandingly unique, intelligent song writing and being lyrically exceptional, this is an album which is one the UK’s highlights in 2012. It’s been a long time in the making, but the wait was definitely worthwhile. Comes highly recommended"

8 out of 10

 

Some absolutely storming releases and its been hard picking the top ten as we have had to leave out some other amazing releases, especially from UNFATHOMABLE RUINATION, NORDLAND, ABOMNIUM, EVISCERATE CARNAGE, DE PROFUNDIS, PARTY CANNON and INFERNAL CREATION.

A great year for extreme metal in the UK, here's hoping that 2013 will be even better, there are some great releases on the horizon.

Finally, a huge thanks to everyone that has supported UKEM through its 2 years of existence, the support is hugely appreciated. Onwards and upwards!!

UKEM ARE "DEDICATED TO EXTREMITY, SUPPORTING THE UNDERGROUND"

 

 

 



Morbid Atrophy - No Grain, No Glory

Self Released

 

1.Monster Of Hops 2.A Feast Of Yeast 3.Behind The Cask 4.Dont Forget The Hops

5.Food For Wort 6.Fizz To Pizz 7.Fuggle Me Muggle 8.Go Another Keg

9.IPA (I Praise Ale) 10.Mugwort 11.Real F*Ale 12.No Grain, No Glory

13.Fuggle Me Muggle (Wife Beater Mix)

14. Mugwort (Blench Mix) 15.Dont Forget The Hops (Filth Mix)

 

Second album from ‘Real Ale Grinders’ Morbid Atrophy blasts open furiously with ‘Monster of Hops’ which is an almost black metal infused punk and grind whirlwind of a track. Short, sharp and blast beat laden it’s a catchy opener and sets the tone for the rest of the album nicely. ‘A Feast of Yeast’ follows in similar fashion, the dirty grinding guitars open the track up before the pace is dropped to a filthy crawl before opening back up in a hail blast beats and dirty riffing. ‘Behind The Cask’ is a morbid song, the ultra -guttural vocals accompanying the doomier, slower pace being reminiscent of Autopsy. Again, short and to the point as is ‘Don’t Forget The Hops’ which varies the pace nicely, moving from blasting fastness to a morbid crawl in an instant. Similarly ‘Food For Wort’ takes a similar approach, with the dual vocals being used to great effect here, mixing the screamed and growled vocal style well.

‘Fizz To Pizz’ has a punkier feel to its structure, simple in composition, again a very short track but still remaining grind at heart. ‘Fuggle Me Muggle’ is one of the shorter tracks, clocking in at only 0:59 its over in a flash, blast beats and furious guitars opening the track before the pace is dropped to another doom laden crawl before the pace is re-introduced to end the track. The guitar riffs again taking on a punky black metal sound. The same can be said for ‘Go Another Keg’ which follows on with more punk infused, black metal inspired grind madness and is another of the shorter tracks on the album. ‘IPA (I Praise Ale)’follows on in much the same fashion, short, fast and dirty as does ‘Mugwort’. Sasha’s vocals really standing out here, especially the deeper guttural vocal style which is really brutal when mixed with dirty guitar sound.

‘Real F*Ale’ takes on a slightly different approach, sounding more like conventional death metal but given that it is the shortest track on offer, at only 0:52 it could still be branded as grind. Title track ‘No Grain No Glory’ sounds very much like ‘Ugra Karma’-era Impaled Nazarene blasting furiously, again the black metal influence in the guitars being used to great effect. The final three tracks and industrial / techno re-mixes of three of the songs from the album – wife beater mix, blench mix and Filth mix. These three re-mixes are a recurring theme from the band’s debut album which is as far from the actual songs as it possible to be whilst still remaining extreme. Quite unnecessary but some might enjoy them. Overall, this is another fine instalment of Sasha’s ‘Real Ale Grind’ and the fact that this album has been played by just one man is testament to his ability and dedication to his cause. It’s nasty, it’s dirty and it’s full on in your face grindcore that encompasses several influences (such as black metal, punk and crust) to create an extremely short, but enjoyable album which is a blast to listen to and would probably be excellent in the live arena. Grab a copy, grab a beer…..and grind, you won’t be disappointed.

 

8 out of 10

Old Corpse Road - 'Tis Witching Hour..As Spectres We Haunt This Kingdom

Godreah Records 2012

 

1.‘Tis Witching Hour 2.The Cauld Lad of Hylton 3.Hag of the Mist

4.The Buried Moon 5.The Wild Voice Came 6.The Crier of Claiffe

7.The Secret of the Rolling Waves 8.Isobel – Queen of Scottish Witches

9Glassensikes at Witching Hour 10. As Spectres We Haunt this Kingdom

 

There is an extremely grandiose beginning to opening and title track ‘Tis Witching Hour’ with sweeping keyboards being accompanied by acoustic guitars and menacing spoken vocals. There is a real triumphant feel to this, what only can be described as an ‘intro track’ as musically the keyboards and guitars are the prominent theme throughout. It’s only when ‘The Cauld Lad Of Hylton’ bursts open that the album really begins. And what a beginning it is, razor sharp guitars accompany blast beat laden drums all backed by some eerie sounding keyboard work. As the track begins to gather pace, the guitars drop off leaving the keys, drums and vocals to create a melodic interlude which doesn’t last particularly long but that breaks the track up nicely and swamps the track with epic atmospheres and tones. Even more elements are introduced half way through the track with the acoustic, folk influenced guitars. These then drop off in favour of the keyboards which once again surround the listener in grandiose, yet menacing atmospheres. There is a hell of a lot of elements to the band’s sound with even more on show as the chanting vocals take over in epic fashion. A lot to take in, but ultimately all pulling together in the same direction perfectly to create something quite unique. ‘Hag Of The Mist’ begins in similar fashion to its predecessor, blasting opening in a scathing assault of hellish black metal .Similarly, the track is then broken down structure wise for the drums and keyboards to take over in a short sharp blast before the guitars are then re-introduced. It sounds a lot like ‘The Principle…..’ era Cradle of Filth even down to the production, but that’s never going to be a negative point now is it? As the song once again drops off and the keyboards take over, they again create great atmosphere, especially when accompanied by the acoustic guitars. It’s not very often you’ll hear the drums playing ‘rim shots’ on a black metal inspired album, but here they are and not sounding out of place or uncomfortable at all, instead fitting in perfectly as the tension and atmosphere of the song builds. Unique would best describe what is being created. ‘The Buried Moon’ acts as an atmospheric keyboard and acoustic guitar interlude and works well enough, carrying on the themes and atmospheres already created in the previous tracks. Probably quite a good song to play at a funeral to remember lost ones.

‘The Wild Voice Came’ is another short, interlude track; folk inspired vocal chanting on offer which drifts into ‘The Crier Of Claiffe' very well by using water/wave samples that add to the mournful atmosphere. The re-introduction of the harsh, scathing black metal themed guitars is more than welcome as it does seem like quite a long time since we’ve heard them. Speed and pace are also re-introduced which again, is welcomed back with open arms/ears; blast beats sounding exceptionally devastating when used with the faster black metal style riffs. Keyboards and spoken vocals again take over the track as the drums and guitars fall off, but as ever, this doesn’t last for long and is used as an interlude to create and add more atmospheres to a song that already drips with just that, pure atmosphere which is beginning to border on the epic. Never far from the band’s sound is the underlying folk element which is harnessed through the guitars and keyboards and is what gives O.C.R their uniqueness. ‘Isobel – Queen Of The Scottish Witches’ again sets an atmospheric, yet menacing and brooding tone as it slowly comes to life before fading into an extremely melodic passage with spoken and screamed vocals being mixed to great effect. As the ice cold guitars then kick in, the atmosphere is maintained giving the song a wintery and bleak sound. Pace wise, the band has slowed things right down which allows the dense atmospheres to swirl back and forth. Speed is then introduced in a haze of blast beats and fast black metal guitars, a complete contrast to the first half of the song, but working well and it is how O.C.R writes songs after all! Mixing the slow passages with the fast sections and then back to the atmosphere laced slower sections.

‘Glassenskies At Witching Hour’ sounds almost medieval as the keyboards introduce the track. This doesn’t last long however, the familiar black metal riffs blasting forth and accompanied by the now standard blasting drums. Vocally it is another good mix, the ultra-high pitched screaming being mixed with low guttural, almost spoken vocals. Again, if reference points were needed, then ‘Vempire-era’ Cradle of Filth is as near the mark as you will get. A lot more atmospheric than that though, so maybe add the atmosphere of Hecate Enthroned and you’ll be there or there abouts. Where O.C.R set themselves aside though is that ever underlying folk element that is added to the guitar riffs to really make them stand out. Closing this monster of an album is ‘As Spectres We Haunt This Kingdom’ which to all intents and purposes is an ‘outro’, dense keyboards are used with chant like vocals to create an epic ending to the album. It could almost be the soundtrack that accompanies a film such as Lord Of The Rings or something suitably epic. This is an album packed full of ideas, influences and atmospheres and to truly get to grips with everything offer more than one listen is a must. O.C.R have produced an absolutely outstanding debut full length album which does draw instant comparisons to Cradle Of Filth and Hecate Enthroned but that also offers the listener so much more, taking you on a musical journey which you will want to travel time and time again. With outstandingly unique, intelligent song writing and being lyrically exceptional, this is an album which is one the UK’s highlights in 2012. It’s been a long time in the making, but the wait was definitely worthwhile. Comes highly recommended

 

8 out of 10

Nerrus Kor - Frenzied, Savage, Inhumane

Zine Records 2012

 

1.The Unnamed 2.Frozen In Fear 3.Indoctrination 4.Carthage

 

Short intro before ‘The Unnamed’ blasts opens furiously in a barrage of blast beats and ultra-heavy guitars, a storm of pummelling death metal from the outset. Speed is then replaced with a more mid-paced groove which really opens the song up with a multitude of influences clearly on display. Death metal throughout, there’s a hint of American (Cannibal Corpse) style mixed with a more European feel, sounding especially Swedish influenced in places. ‘Frozen In Fear’ follows on in similar fashion with tempos being chopped and changed regularly but maintaining a good speed, never really falling far from the mid-paced assault. This second track does sound a lot more brutal than the opener, mainly due to the higher pace and speeds being maintained and this seems to be where the band sit more comfortably, sounding particularly sharp and dangerous when they’re at full throttle and blasting their way through the track. Extra ‘punch’ is added through the varied vocals with the main ultra-guttural vocals being replaced sporadically with the screamed, harsh and spite ridden style which offers up a good mix. ‘Indoctrination’ backs off pace wise, only slightly however and takes on the groovier theme heard in the opening track. There’s a bigger U.S Death metal sound to this track, the pinch harmonics are responsible for that and they really add to the heavy and groove ridden guitar work. When the pace is taken up a notch, there’s a real frenzied feel to the song with a real sense of urgency to the music – it’s all good!

Closing this four tracker is ‘Carthage’ which begins in particularly pummelling fashion with Cannibal Corpse springing to mind once again along with European acts such as Vomitory and Grave; and it is as brutal as the band have sounded so far. Blast beats leading the opening portion of the track before a slower, more mid-paced section takes over. Again, a good mix of tempos make for a good, interesting song that absolutely destroys, pummels and lets you know exactly how it is! The band cites a black metal influence, but to these ears I don’t see where that is. Death metal is definitely at the centre of the band’s sound, and what a brand of death metal it is, absolutely destroying from start to end, bludgeoning the listener with the sloppy stump of a still twitching hacked off arm (or leg, or head, whichever limb is preferred). From the opening menacing riffs, the intensity, aggression and brutality on display is second to none and it’s all extremely well played with a production that kicks you square in the chest and then thumps repeatedly until the e.p. ends. More than enough line-up changes have not deterred NK from producing an absolutely killer four track e.p. that shows a professionalism that really stands out. Hopefully the band can find themselves a drummer and continue to lay waste. Full on, in your face, brutal death metal with a monster of a production and packaged superbly, this is very worthy of your attention and comes well recommended.

 

8 out of 10

Peacemaker - 3 Track Album Sampler

Self Released 2012

 

1.Dead Man's Eyes 2.Sorrow Trip 3.The Siberian Problem

 

Tortured is the best way to describe the opening to ‘Dead Man’s Eyes’, tortured almost sinister with a real sense of brooding anticipation. The atmosphere being created is absolutely crushing. Heavy metal orientated guitars are slowed to a doom laden crawl with the song being split into sections, cleaner acoustic passages set the tone initially, with the cleanly sung, almost whispered vocals used dramatically before the heavy as hell guitars crash in with devastating fashion, the bass heavy rumblings and screamed, harsh and scathing vocal style really set a miserable musical scenario. The pattern of cleaner acoustic passages mixed with the heavy end sections is basically how the song is constructed and in fairness it works very well, the contrast in styles and sound bouncing off each other effectively. ‘Sorrow Trip’ opens up in with a similar feel, the heavy, groove orientated guitars crawling along at a macabre pace. A similar theme as used in the opening track is utilised once again, the track being split into cleaner sections with the heavier sections following on thereafter. However, this track is more repetitive, the riffs dragging out for an eternity with lead guitars and solos used to break the monotony. Not sure about the cowbell though! As the track draws to a close, the pace is dropped even further, the simplistic heavy riffing really taking the track over and seeing it through to its dramatic conclusion.

‘The Siberian Problem’ closes this relatively short ‘album sampler’ (used to showcase the bands talents to potential labels) with the re-introduction of the harsher singing style which were sadly lacking from the second track. The pace and groove are upped slightly and when mixed with the harsher vocal style makes for a really enjoyable listen. In doom metal terms these songs are relatively short and do seem to pass over really quickly, but maybe that’s the appeal. Anything longer might just have been too much. Peacemaker has managed to capture a sense of absolute despair in these songs which lyrically deal with everything that is wrong with the human race…and more! It would have been nice to be sent the full album to review, but if these three songs are anything to go buy, the album will absolutely crush. Hopefully a label will pick these guys up because their album will probably do well with the right backing. Crushing doom, full of malice and despair with some hate filled spite to drag you own even further into their pit of doom! Recommended and looking forward to the full length album.

 

7.5 Out of 10

Unfathomable Ruination - Misshapen Congenital Entrophy

Sevared Records 2012

 

1.Preface To The Forlorn Spectrum 2.Pantheonic Synchroschme

3.Carved Inherent Delusion 4.Extinction Algorithm In Procession

5.Monochrome Obedience 6.Consequential Failure 7.Futile Colossus Decapitated

8.Anti-Genesis 9.Edges Of Disfigured Atrocity

10.Vacant Planets (Death Cover)

 

No messing around here, we’re straight into the onslaught as ‘Preface To The Forlorn Spectrum’ crashes open menacingly, a real brooding atmosphere building through the heavy as fuck guitars, news clip samples and ultra-guttural growls. It’s short and to the point and introduces the first ‘real’ track ‘Pantheonic Synchroschme’. U.F display an amazing technicality to their music, ultra precise guitars are backed up by some crazed drum work with Daniel’s ever guttural voice making the perfect accompaniment. It’s very bass heavy, which is a good thing where brutal death metal is concerned, packing a real punch as it does here, pounding mercilessly throughout. Tempo wise, the band use a variety, from all out blast laden madness through to a sludge laden crawl. Definitely adds the required variety, no fear of a one dimensional sound. ‘Carved Inherent Delusion’ really shows off the production to the extreme, the ultra-heavy guitars really smash through from the speakers. There’s a lot more blasting here, which is going to please the speed freaks, gravity blasts introduced by Doug which really add to the ‘Crazed’ feel of the whole song. As the track breaks into its second half, the pace then drops slightly, the menacing and brooding atmospheres return, things taking a really sinister turn. The guitar harmonies/solos are one point to note, sounding extremely catchy and providing the song with ‘something different’ – great stuff!

‘Extinction Algorithm In Procession’ is an absolute monster of a track, having already used these words to describe the band, they seem fitting again – brutal and punishing. Again, the bands technical excellence shines through. Speed and technicality are a hard balancing act, but U.F has found the balance and are showing it off brilliantly. A theme followed through on ‘Monochrome Obedience’ which opens up in a barrage of gravity blast laden brutality and there’s real no let up. Sonic booms add to the intensity on offer. ‘Consequential Failure’ is yet another slab of extreme death metal played flawlessly and effortlessly. Again, there is no let-up in the onslaught, the guitars and drums an absolute whirlwind of grinding insane wizardry. These guys are accomplished musicians and it really shows here. As ‘Futile Colossus Decapitated’ begins it is delivered in a similar vein to the opening intro track, slow and sludgy with a slight ‘slam’ edge to it. This is where Daniels ultra-guttural vocal delivery is really pushed to the fore. I once mentioned in a review of Daniels other band (Eye of Solitude) that I thought he was one of the best death metal vocalists the UK has to offer, and I stick by that statement. His style is best described as ‘Devastating’; in fact the whole track is just that!

‘Anti-Genesis’ begins life rather differently than any of its predecessors, having a very discordant, almost out of tune lead guitar effect which actually works very well over the simple, but heavy guitars and is only really used as an instrumental interlude, or filler. The last of the bands own tracks, ‘Edges Of Disfigured Atrocity’ is a superb way to end the bands own material. Another absolute torrent of technical and brutal death metal and showcasing everything the band has to offer in terms of pace, ability and technicality. A joy to behold, especially when the guitar solo kicks in towards the end of the track; giving it a really amercian death metal feel with bands such as Monstrosity and Brutality spring to mind. Their cover of Death’s ‘Vacant Planets’ is amazing and they have done justice to what is an amazing track anyway. Well done, Chuck will be throwing you the horns from wherever he is now (R.I.P). Yet again, a UK band has produced a ‘genre leading’ album that is heads above many around them. The band has definitely improved since the release of their first self-titled e.p. This is technical and brutal death metal of the highest order, an album which many a band can only dream about making. This could be the album which see’s the band springboard onto bigger and better things, here’s hoping. A must have for fans of brutal death metal who like their music to be challenging and interesting to listen to. Very highly recommended

 

9 out of 10

Anaal Nathrakh - Vanitas

Candlelight Records 2012

 

1.Pulvis Et Umbra Sumus 2.In Coelo Quies, Tout Finis Ici Bas

3.Todos Somos Humanos 4.You Can’t Save Me, So Stop Fucking Trying

5.To Spite The Face 6.Make Glorious The Embrace Of Saturn

7.Forging Towards The Sunset 8.Feeding The Beast

9.Of Fire, And Fucking Pigs 10.A Metaphor For The Dead

 

There was a real buzz surrounding Anaal Nathrakh's latest opus ‘Vanitas’, social media sites rife with theories and predictions. As ‘Pulvis Et Umbra Sumus’ opens up in typical Anaal fashion it’s fair to say that all the anticipation was well worth the wait. Blasting, snarling and oozing spite as only these boys can do. The production had definitely been cleaned up somewhat for this release, but this only adds to the appeal of the songs, the clinical guitar work and blasting drums really suiting  this cleaner sound, even giving the track (dare I say it) an even more black metal feel than many of the albums before this. The catchiness seen in ‘In Coelo Quies, Tout Finis Ici Bas’ is not something normally associated with Anaal Nathrakh, but there’s a real dose of melody added into the raging guitars which again give it a more ‘traditional black metal’ sound. The vocal delivery is especially catchy in the choruses, the now familiar cleanly sung vocals used extremely effectively especially when the snarled screaming vocals are added underneath as a back-up. Something only this band does, and does very well indeed. ‘Todos Somos Humanos’ begins life relatively slowly and melodically, but only for a very short section, before all hell once again breaks lose, the barrage of hyper-blasting intense black metal really pushing the boundaries. Melody is once again added to the riffs, and when the pace slows and the cleanly sung vocals re-introduced, its amazingly catchy, a real sense of foreboding being created in a hell storm of negativity. The song continues on the same catchy path until it draws to a conclusion, utterly brilliant! When ‘You Can’t Save Me, So Stop Fucking Trying’ comes to life, there is an extremely industrial feel to the opening section, particularly in the production of the drums. This is merely used as an intro however, the now familiar punishing and intense musical onslaught resumes. The industrial drums are re-introduced sporadically throughout the track and they do tend to sound slightly uncomfortable, not fitting in particularly well with the sonic barrage of hellish black metal that is Anaal’s musical style. Nonetheless, it shows a band experimenting and taking their sound and identity to even further extremes and boundaries, which ultimately should be applauded.

‘To Spite The Face’ begins in a more familiar fashion and yet again the band show just how adept they are writing utterly pummelling black metal which incorporates melody that actually pushes the extremity further rather than diluting it. Mixing the cleanly sung vocals with the tortured, scathing screams is genius; it works so well and is now the bands trademark sound. To prove that speed isn’t everything, the pace is slowed throughout a lot of this track with guitar solos used to add atmosphere. And they are actual solos, not just hyper fast walls of noise. As if to prove that last point perfectly, ‘Make Glorious The Embrace Of Saturn’ starts at a slower pace, sitting comfortably in the mid-paced territory and taking on almost anthemic feel. Apparently speed isn’t everything when it comes to blasting and grinding black metal, a point made well. As ‘Forging Towards The Sunset’ starts, the slower pace used in the two previous tracks is used to introduce the track, but this downturn in pace doesn’t last long, normal service is soon resumed and the blasting returns. It is however, very catchy; something which is normally quite hard to achieve, to be catchy and fast. Bands normally having to sacrifice one for the other, but here Anaal get it spot on, being both fast and catchy and once again laying waste to all in their path. ‘Feeding The Beast’ is a tortured and distressing song, grinding along at a snail’s pace with some absolutely schizophrenic and discordant riffs that give the song a crazed, manic like feel. When guitar harmonies and solos are introduced the atmosphere being created takes on a whole new feel, a real sense of brooding anticipation, as if something utterly distressing is about to be unleashed, but instead the torture continues, grinding away as it does until the track finally draws to a close, almost leaving the listener exhausted and drained, but actually wanting to hear more. In complete comparison, ‘Of Fire, And Fucking Pigs’ spews forth in an horrendous torrent of abuse and blasting black metal mastery, the pace upped to the absolute maximum, the guitars an absolute whirlwind but never sounding out of control…if anything this is as precise and ‘in control’ as the band have sounded so far and it is absolutely devastating with no let-up in sight, amazing! ‘A Metaphor For The Dead’ closes this album and has a slightly different feel to all of the previous tracks. The pace has once again been lowered to allow the qualities of the song to break lose. When the song drops out and the industrialised vocals take over the track alongside the clean singing I’m actually reminded of Dimmu Borgir, which may be sacrilege to many Anaal fans but personally it’s not a bad thing. The song really begins to build momentum as it starts to end, the guitar harmonies and solos are utterly captivating and create a meal melancholic atmosphere and is an excellent ending to this fantastic album. It’s fair to say that A.N have found something new in their song writing and seem to have found a new vigour and new enthusiasm for writing crazed and blasting black metal. There’s a real sense of purpose to this latest opus and we see some new elements introduced to the sound, which (for the most) work really well and enhance the torment being created. The cleaner production helps things along nicely as well with all elements clear in the mix. Although the pace has been slowed for a lot of this album, this is as devastating and dangerous and catchy as the band has sounded to date. It’s a truly vicious album that oozes pure quality as sees a band that has not only outdone themselves, but outdone everyone in the genre and produced an album of the highest order. Definitely at the top of their game, this is an album that if you do not own, you are missing out on an absolute masterpiece of punishing black metal. Quoting the band, "Anaal Nathrakh was created for one purpose - to be the soundtrack for armageddon, the audial essence of evil, hatred and violence, the true spirit of necro taken to its musical extremes"....no arguments here! As highly recommended as it gets, buy or die!

 

9.5 Out of 10

When Gods Burn - Interview

 

Delving deep into the underground, UKEM discovered When Gods Burn. We decided to get an insight into this four piece extreme metal act....

 

For those unfamiliar with the band, please give us a brief history of the band? We started in November 2007 as a group of 6  mates just wanting to jam and have a laugh .we did a demo in 08 played numerous gigs etc , then in 09 we lost a vocalist, drummer and lead guitarist due to other commitments !we decided at that point to remain a 4 piece and spent the later half of 09 and the beginning of 2010 auditioning drummers .and we found the right guy eventually and were still going now and getting stronger every year .

 

Who came up with the band name and what is the influence behind choosing such a moniker? I Poshie(guitars)came up with the name after months of going over other names and ideas with the rest of the guys .the name, well it has many possible meanings  such as when gods actually burn !or when gods burn us !or even when gods burn as in a group of religious icons sitting around smoking a spliff! In all honesty we never put any real thought into the name and it was just a load of random words that we put together and they seemed to fit and we all agreed on it. It was only later that we found out that it was also the title of an e.n.t. song , but it’s a great song by a great band so its all good.

 

 

Please give us an idea of the bands discography. So far we have our first self titled  demo that we put out in October 08 and gave away over 600 copies to try and get our name out there and obtain gigs. And in april this year we put out an ep “a state of diminished responsibility “which has 4 new tracks and a reworked track off of the demo which can be downloaded for free from the links on our facebook page . we sometimes have physical copies available at gigs also. Both were home recorded affairs with only the drums being done in a studio, that’s because we are most probably the most skint band we have ever known ha ha.

 

Are there any new releases on the horizon? We're currently in the process of writing songs for an album which we will more than likely self release in mid 2013. Were looking at around 10 tracks hopefully.

 

Musically, who influences you, if anyone at all? Well we have a vast age difference in the band with me being the oldest at 38 and sam being the youngest at 25  so as you can imagine our inffluences are vast as well. Im influenced by everything from the early stuff like Sabbath, zeppelin, purple , maiden etc all the way up to modern proggy tech death stuff and pretty much everything in between. Mass (bass)is into his extreme metal but also loves the beatles and a lot of classic rock. Sam(vox) id say main influences are what he grew up with in his youth so stuff like pantera, sepultura, and 90`s metal  but hes pretty much into everything and has a very open mind musically. And dan(drums) is pretty much very open minded to all forms and genres of music. To put it short our main influences are thrash/death/grind/black/doom/hardcore and traditional metal .

 

What themes and topics do your lyrics deal with? Sam writes 99% of the lyrics and they cover topics from politics ,religion etc all the way to personal experiences hes had whilst being off his tits ! The only subject we don’t really dabble with is the whole gore/fantasy style of lyrics simply because we tend to write about stuff we know  not that we have anything against that style of lyric writing we love stuff like that but it just isn’t what were about .

 

Composing songs can often be a frustrating process, how do you go about it? I will mostly work on riffs at home and then bring them to the practice room  and show them to the guys , and we just build on it from there. Dan will write his own drum parts  and mass his bits and once weve got the music side sorted sam will then go off and write his lyrics . sam unlike most vocalists has a lot of input in the writing/arranging of riffs drums etc as well so were all involved in the whole process and also if theres parts of sams lyrics we don’t like then we will tell him  ha ha. It can be frustrating especially when your trying to not rip off anyone ha ha .

 

What could we expect from one of your live performances? Half an hour to 45 mins of non stop extreme metal,played faster than we do on the ep  cause of the rush you get from playing live. Playing live to us is all about enjoying the moment but at the same time holding it down and keeping stuff tight.we enjoy it and we hope that whoever comes to see us live has a great time to .its all about hanging out with people having a great time and a laugh.

 

Plans for the future? Firstly to get this album recorded and released ,and  to play as many gigs as we can. Were in this purely for the love of playing what we play and having a good time and anything else that comes from being in this band is a bonus. The second we stop smiling and enjoying hanging out onstage and in the practice room is when we call it a day . if its not fun then its time to stop .

 

What merch do you currently have available and where can we get it? We currently don’t have any merch cos were skint ha ha , on a serious note were currently in the process of getting some shirts sorted out ,and when they are done you will be able to get them from our big cartel page or from gigs .everything you need to know about everything can be found on our facebook page . www.facebook.com/whengodsburn.

 

Any final words? Yes !  cheers for doing this interview with us and helping us to get more exposure ,we really appreciate it and love what your trying to achieve for the uk underground metal scene .also everyone get of your arses and go out there and support your local metal scene by going to clubs/pubs and checking out  the local bands as well as any small touring uk bands that might be passing through your neck of the woods.without you people out there ,there is no point in bands doing what they do,and all you will be left with is kerrang friendly shite. And lastly please come check us out .Cheers everyone and thanks ukem.

 

Spawned From Hate - Withered And Decayed

Self Released 2012

 

1.Withered And Decayed 2.Asphyxiate 3.Empty Grave 4.Biotech Contagion

 

As ‘Withered And Decayed’ opens up this debut four track e.p. from Birmingham based death metallers Spawned From Hate, the bands influences are immediately obvious, rooted firmly in the old school death metal swamp. Listening to the opening track it almost feels like you’re taking a trip down memory lane, to the early nineties when death metal was in its infancy and all the bands and music were new, fresh and interesting. Tempos are mixed with a broad range of speeds being utilised, from the slow and creepy through to blast beat laden madness. It’s certainly a damn fine death metal song, and a good introduction to this relatively young band (being formed in late 2011). At 1m54 ‘Asphyxiate’ is the shortest of the songs on offer, opening up in a barrage of pummelling drums and equally pummelling dirty and rotten death metal riffing. There’s a real US death metal influence on display throughout this all too short track, Immolation springing to mind, spiced up with a slight influence from Baphomet maybe. Short and to the point. ‘Empty Grave’ begins in similar fashion, the band once again mixing tempos well, the song generally remaining in ‘mid-paced’ territory, which actually suits the old school inspired riffing extremely well. The pace allows the guitars to lead the track and set the tone throughout; making the song and actual song and not an exhibition in speed or technicality as so much of today’s death metal can be.

Closing this e.p. is ‘Biotech Contagion’ which opts for a slightly different approach, the old school influence still very prevalent but here the band seem to let all hell break lose and mix things up completely, adding in a lot of different time changes and tempos are mixed in a stop start fashion giving the whole song a more technical sound to the three previous efforts. There’s even a bass and drum outro to the track, finishing things on rather a soft tone. All in all this a damn fine debut release which shows some real promise from such a young band and it’s a pleasure to listen to. It’s not the most technical music you’ll hear, but it’s not meant to be. The band isn’t the tightest in the world, but their playing style is appealing and tightness will come with time and experience. Pummelling old school influenced death metal with brutal music and guttural vocals, it’s all that’s needed really isn’t it? Spawned From Hate are well worth checking out and one to keep an eye on for the future.

 

7 out of 10