by
Bill Vogel III
Prelude...
Greetings from the outer realms of Darkness. It is time for the shadows to
fall and the Armies of the Night to rise as infinity dimly fades into eternal
night. This is the epoch of the new Dark Age. Let us enter STRANGER AEONS.
Enjoy, tribes of chaos. Hail Darkness, and God.
Grit your teeth, and DARE it! Grim journeys...
In the news***
For a new darkness to come... Dark Metal masters CENTINEX have released
their new slab, "Hellbrigade."
The Texas Death Metal SEVERANCE has signed with Repulse Records. They've
been stompin' around since the early '90s.
Checkout the new self-titled debut by DREAMS OF DAMNATION. Featuring former
members of the legendary Deathrash Metal band DARK ANGEL, it is killer
Deathrash seeping in the veins of SLAYER and DARK ANGEL.
DERANGED's first 2 Mini-CDs will be reissued along with the "X-Rated" full
length, all on one CD. The latter release features a cover of "Paint It
Black," originally done by the Rolling Stones.
The Death Metal band SADISTIC INTENT has a new album ready for release. It
is titled "The Second Coming Of Darkness" and it will be out soon on
Necropolis Records.
INDECISION has sadly called it a day. This brutal, discordant Hardcore act
pushed the very limits of the genre. Their style was so heavy that it
bordered on Death Metal, being similar to acts such as ACID BATH, HATEBREED,
and TURMOIL. INDECISION had several releases, the peak of which was their
last..."Release The Cure" on M.I.A. Records. This is a moment of mournful
silence.
BLACK DAWN will be releasing their new album soon...
ENSLAVED's new CD, called "Mardraum: Beyond The Within," will feature the
following list of tracks...
Storre Enn Tid-Tyngre Enn Natt (Larger Than Time-Heavier Than Night)
Dandningekvida (Deadhymn)
Entrance-Escape (Inngang-Flukt)
Ormgard (The Hive)
'ges Draum (Aeges Dream)
Mardraum (Nightmare)
Det Endelege Riket (The Ending Empire)
Ormgard II - Kvalt I Kysk Hogsong (The Hive II - Strangled By Purity)
Krigaren Eg Ikkje Kjende (Warrior Unknown)
Stjerneheimen (Starhome)
Froyas Smykke (Freya's Necklace)
GLENN DANZIG vehemently denies that he will reunite with the MISFITS. Expect
a new live, double CD from DANZIG soon.
Expect a new release from ETERNAL OATH early next year on Pulverised Records.
The new soundtrack to the horror movie "Dracula 2000" has new music by ENDO,
SLAYER, HALF COCKED, STATIC-X, DISTURBED, SALIVA, FLYBANGER, SYSTEM OF A
DOWN, GODHEAD, TAPROOT, PANTERA, POWERMAN 5000 (with the first single "Ultra
Mega 2000"), LINKIN PARK, and MONSTER MAGNET.
Check out the new CD by ROTTEN SOUND, aptly titled "Still Psycho." Besides
the great Grindcore cuts, including a cover of Carcass's "Reek Of
Putrefaction," it has enhanced features that will run on a PC. The added
digital enhancements include live concert footage.
DOWNER has a new, self-titled release out on Roadrunner Records.
If you're into Goregrind Metal then you may want to try an Indonesian band
called BLOODY GORE. Their website is at:
http://bloodygore.cjb.net
Metal Blade Records has signed THE FALLEN.
RUDRA is a new Death Metal band. Their latest self-titled CD features Indian
and Middle Eastern musical influences.
OFFSPRING has just issued a new videotape/DVD package called "Huck It."
(Yes, that IS the name of it...)
Mexican Grinding Death Metal freaks DISGORGE has finally released their next
CD, titled "Forensick," on Repulse Records. I've got it, and I guarantee the
gory greatness of it. You won't believe the medical dictionary song titles.
They're whacked beyond all CARCASS... Excellent stuff. Expect a review
soon.
DYING FETUS has released their next album, titled "Destroy The Opposition,"
on Relapse Records.
Among the other terrors in this issue are REVIEWS of the following albums:
LUDDITE CLONE....................."The Arsonist And The Architect"
SERPENT OBSCENE..................."Serpent Obscene"
Various Artists..................."Power From The North"
OLD MAN'S CHILD..................."Revelation 666"
MALEVOLENT CREATION..............."Envenomed"
ORPHANAGE........................."Inside"
SHADOWS FALL......................"Of One Blood"
IMPALED..........................."The Dead Shall Dead Remain"
THY PRIMORDIAL...................."The Heresy Of An Age Of Reason"
Various Artists..................."Monsters Of Metal"
LOLLIPOP LUST KILL................"Motel Murder Madness"
GARDENIAN........................."Sindustries"
CATCH 22.........................."Alone In A Crowd"
These are 13 CDs that are sworn to brutalize without any tinge remorse, or
mercy for that matter. I offer only the best and most savage, never anything
less. Get brutalized!
Welcome to Stranger Aeons. These days are strange... Farewell.
//////William the Bloody [a.k.a. Bill Vogel III]
November 13, 2000 A.D.///////
***Hellion Crew***
This section has ten (or more) new or classic Cds that are cool. They are in
no particular order.
1. "Exile" by Anorexia Nervosa [Brutal minimalistic Industrial Death
Metal.]
2. "The Death Of Art" by Renaissance [A epic 2 track classic of Progessive
and Doomdeath Metal.]
3. "Unearthed" by Internal Void [Massive Doom Metal slag that is ultra
heavy.]
4. "Forensick" by Disgorge [Frenetic Gore Grind Metal with wicked, catchy
grooves and ferocious attitude. Gets better and more brutal with
every listen.]
5. "Renegades" by Rage Against The Machine [An album of their favorite
covers.]
6. "Drowning In Tragedy" by Eternal Suffering [Brutal Death Metal with a
crushing vibe.]
7. "Necronemesis" by Usurper [Death Metal in the old, sick style...
truly a cool thing to behold.]
8. "Let The Violence Begin" by Dreams Of Damnation [Deathrash Metal in the
Old School tradition ala Possessed, Dark Angel, etc. Soul
scraping mayhem!]
9. "Follow The Reaper" by Children Of Bodom [Blackened Death Metal with
monstrous, aggressive tempos...]
10. "The Gift Of Play" by Crazy Town [Industrial Rapcore Metal with touches
of Techno.]
11. "...And Then You'll Beg" by Cryptopsy [Brutal Death Metal with a
killer groove.]
12. "Look Me In The Eye" by Project 44 [Cool, chaotic Aggro Industrial
Death Metal.]
13. "Gift" by Taproot [Hardcore and Pop tinged Moodcore Metal with a
powerful edge.]
***Age Of The Blade***
More, more Metal news...
Century Media Records/// Here's a tentative release schedule for 2001...
JANUARY:
THE FORSAKEN Manifest Of Hate January 23rd
ONWARD Evermoving January 23rd
TAD MOROSE Undead January 23rd
FEBRUARY:
NIGHTWISH Wishmaster February 6th
CRYPTOPSY Blasphemy Made Flesh
(reissue) February 6th
CRYPTOPSY None So Vile (reissue) February 6th
LACUNA COIL Unleashed Memories February 6th
MARCH:
HASTE When Reason Sleeps March 6th
Upcoming Releases:
And Oceans - Allotropic / Metamorphic Genesis Of Dimorphism
Eyehategod - 10 Years Of Abuse And Still Broke
Marduk - Infernal Eternal
Marduk - Obedience
Krisiun - Apocalyptic Revelation (reissue)
Krisiun - Black Force Domain (reissue)
Madder Mortem - All Flesh Is Grass
Soilwork - Steelbath Suicide
Zyklon - World Ov Worms
16 - You're Not My Real Dad
V/A - CMR box set
Katatonia - compilation
Sonata Arctica - tba
God Forbid - Nothing
Stuck Mojo - tba
V/A - Identity 7
Skinlab - Channel III
Onward - Reawaken
Jag Panzer - tba
Tiamat - tba
Iced Earth - Horror Show
Krisiun - tba
The Gathering - B-sides
V/A - video compilation
Moonspell - tba
Earth Crisis/// Earth Crisis's "Last of the Sane" will be released January
23rd. The CD features cover tracks, rarities and one brand new track.
Tracks covered were by such acts as SLAYER, LED ZEPPELIN, BLACK SABBATH, and
the ROLLING STONES. The crew is currently taking a break from their tour.
Straight-Edge!
River City Rebels/// Here's some tour dates...
DECEMBER:
01 Dracut, MA @ THERESA'S CHURCH w/The Cool Kids
08 Middlebury, VT @ MIDDLEBURY HIGH SCHOOL w/Big D and the Kids Table
09 New Haven, CT @ TUNE INN w/The Pilfers
16 Albany, NY @ VALENTINE'S w/Murphy's Law, Joe Coffee
22 Winooski, VT @ HIGHER GROUND w/The Vigilantes, Kicked In The Head
28 Boston, MA @ BILL'S BAR w/The Pilfers
JANUARY:
06 Worchester, MA @ THE PALLADIUM (DOWNSTAIRS) w/Boy Sets Fire,
Bouncing Souls
28 Woodbury, CT @ WOODBURY SKI RESORT (Winter Festival)
FEBRUARY:
14 Woodbury, CT @ WOODBURY SKI RESORT (Snowboard Competition)
Misery Loves Co./// Has formally disbanded.
The Damned/// Has signed with Nitro Records.
Son Of Sam/// Has also signed with Nitro Records.
Corvus Corax/// These esoteric masters of extreme Metal have released their
new opus on Dark Symphonies Records. Titled "The Atavistic Triad," it is a
grim symphonic journey with elements of Black Metal, Gothic, Industrial,
Doom, Classical, and Folk.
Entombed/// Their new CD, "Uprising," will be released in the U.S. by Metal-
Is Records.
Garden Of Shadows/// Has released their debut on Wicked World Records. It
is titled "Oracle Moon," and is a slab of Progressive Death Metal.
Grade/// These Hardcore heroes have a new CD out on Victory Records. The
disc is titled "The Embarrassing Beginning."
Reach The Sky/// Dying for some new Emocore? Well, in March 2001 Reach The
Sky will release their next offering, called "Friends, Lies, And The End of
the World." They've added some new elements here.
Thursday/// Are currently laying down tracks for their new opus, "The Coming
White Days," at Blue Meanie Studios in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Yattering/// Their new CD, "Murder's Concept," is out now on Relapse
Records. Expect ferocious Death Metal...
Berzerker/// Check out the self-titled opus by this one man Death Metal
brigade. He is from Australia, and he has created a relentless disc of
Industrial Death Metal that is both acidic and addictive. Expect a review
soon.
Downer/// Will have a new self-titled opus out soon on Roadrunner Records.
Infestation/// Be on the lookout for their new opus, titled "Immolation," on
Pavement Records.
Unmoored/// Their new nihilistic vision is called "Kingdoms Of Greed." This
is Black Metal at its most vicious. Excellent stuff. Expect a review soon.
Rossomahaar/// This Russian band has signed a 4 album deal with X-Rated
Records, who will also reissue their debut "Imperium Tenebrarum."
ROSSOMAHAAR is Black Metal.
Necrophagia/// These Deathgore Metal monsters will re-release the classic
"Death Is Fun" CD through Red Stream in the coming months. The CD will be
accompanied by special bonus and unreleased tracks including the self-titled
"Necrophagia" and "Vomit", which are exclusives to this repackage.
///Bill Vogel III
November 13, 2000 A.D.
***Tongue Lash***
This section contains quotes from songs, bands, band members, books, movies,
TV, etc.
"What is life? It is a flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of
a buffalo in the wintertime. It is the little shadow which runs across
the grass and loses itself in the sunset."
-----Crowfoot.
"A little fact is worth a whole limbo of dreams."
-----Ralph Waldo Emerson.
"Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers."
-----Tennyson, "LOCKSLEY HALL."
"Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he
does not become a monster. And when you look long into an
abyss the abyss also looks into you."
-----from "Beyond Good And Evil" by
Friedrich Nietzsche.
"Our truest life is when we are in dreams awake."
-----Henry David Thoreau.
"Bad is never good until worse happens."
-----Danish Proverb.
"What was given to us by the past is adapted to the possibilities of the
future." -----Carl Jung.
"Man is the cruelest animal."
-----by Friedrich Nietzsche.
"It is not a matter of survival of the fittest but survival of the fiercest."
-----W.B. Vogel.
"The end is where we start from."
-----T.S. Eliot, "LITTLE GIDDING."
"All great things must first wear terrifying masks in order to burn itself
into the minds of humanity."
-----by Friedrich Nietzsche.
***Soulgrind***
This section contains album (Cd) reviews. Enjoy...
"'The Arsonist And The Architect' by Luddite Clone"
by
Bill Vogel III
Friday, November 10, 2000 A.D.
Dark realizations are the best...even better than epiphanies. Such was
hearing Luddite Clone for the first time, and they grow ever better with
every dose. The realization is this...Luddite Clone is the BEST NEW BAND of
2000. They are essential brutality, and their debut release "The Arsonist
And The Architect" [Relapse Records] is easily one of the BEST of the Year as
well.
Luddite Clone is a beautiful disaster in action and intensity. Their sound
verges the fiercest qualities of Death Metal, Hardcore, Grind, and
Sludgecore. Mixing distortion, vicious growls, and heavy Psychedelic, sludgy
guitars in tight and loopy rhythms is this New Jersey act's style of din.
They obliterate the extremities of aggression as they redefine fuzzy Hardcore
power with a psychotic's jagged, bloodstained genius.
Luddite Clone is Psychedelic Sludge Death Metalcore at its finest and
fiercest. The growls are a vicious barrage of vocal deconstructionism,
mixing with fiery, distortion drenched guitars with a guttural roar and
bestial savagery. Humorous, yet wicked spoken word samples open several
cuts, offsetting the grinding, brutal rhythms and aggressive, artful
melodies.
Frenzied tempos augment the din, leaving beauty juxtaposed against pure
aggression. The effect is sheer, brilliant darkness. All of the cuts are
excellent, but my 3 favorites are the frenetic "Circle Template," the savage
"Oratory Of The Jigsaw" (which is my favorite), and the title track as well.
Overall, this is a soul-crushing, mind sharpening opus that will be
remembered as a monumental piece of brutal beauty. It is a definitive work
by the BEST NEW BAND of 2000. Forget the trendy junk, and get angry with
Luddite Clone. After all, anger is a gift. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Indecision, Hatebreed, Dim Mak, Anoxia, Blood For
Blood, Dillinger Escape Plan, Turmoil, Today Is The
Day, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"SERPENT OBSCENE (Self-Titled)"
by
Bill Vogel III
November 29, 2000 A.D.
Aeons can pass, but what is truly great will forever be great. Not trendy,
but great...and there is a vast difference between the two. This law applies
to art, easily. A band that surpasses merely being good, and runs right into
the middle of great is Serpent Obscene. This vibrantly vicious outfit's
self-titled debut, out on Necropolis Records, is a fiery slab of Blackened
Deathrash Metal that is truly great.
Fast, tenacious guitar work is just the base alchemy here. Added to this
core are critical elements including wickedly manic rhythms, monstrous
growled vocals with a slight shriek, and enough jagged hooks to hang the
ashen moon in a lower orbit. Catchy, groove-digging tempos make their artful
anarchy even more venomous and addictive.
The most nihilistic (best) cuts include "Serpent Prophecy," the neck breaking
"Morbid Horror," "Act Of Aggression," the frenetic "Rapid Fire," and the
blackened brilliance of "Devastation" (which is my favorite cut). Serpent
Obscene has set a new standard for Deathrash greatness, surpassing even
legendary acts such as the POSSESSED.
Serpent Obscene (featuring members of MAZE OF TORMENT) has created a
monumental release in their debut album. It is no wonder that their last
demo, "Massacre," did so well...it was just a taste of the brilliance to
come. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Dark Angel, Sepultura, Possessed, Dreams Of
Damnation, Witchery, Marduk, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Power From The North' by VARIOUS ARTISTS"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 8, 2000 A.D.
From the murky darkness of the northlands there is a special grade of
heaviness to music. So was born an idea-Scandinavian bands covering other
Northern bands. "Power From The North" [Nuclear Blast Records] is that idea
in motion and dark deed. Don't think that it is a Black Metal compilation,
because it's not. While the area is famous for that style, such an
assumption would be a mistake. This is a varied sampler of heavy acts.
While not all of the tracks are good, the ones that are really are terrific
and more than reason enough to get this disc. There are 15 tracks in total
by acts such as Entombed, Transport League, The Crown (formerly known as
Crown Of Thorns), Hammerfall, In Flames, Meshuggah, The Haunted, Quill,
Southpaw, and others. Each has their own unique style and dark grace...
So here are the best ones of the lot. In Flames begins the assault with a
Melodic Death Metal version of "World Of Promises." It's a trippy, visceral
cut that breaks most conceptions of mayhem with sharp, dynamic guitars and
fierce vocals.
The next remarkable cut is Lost Soul's cover of "Deadly Legacy." It stomps
out an Aggro Death Metal barrage of crunchy instrumentals with vocal growls,
and a slight Moodcore vibe. We're talking testosterone and massive
aggression here.
One of the very best tracks is song 6. It's a cover of "Crazy Sioux" done by
the monumental act Transport League. This Deathrock Metal with enough
thundering groove to shake the teeth out of a charging rhino. The word
incredible comes to mind.
Another of the very best cuts is track 15 by Meshuggah. This cut, called
"Attacked By A Shark," is a live rendition featuring Meshuggah's complex and
interesting brand of Industrial/Grindcore Metal. It's fast, ferocious, and
amazing.
The Haunted's version of "Well Of Souls" is excellent. Sharp, midrange
guitar solos are laid over a barrage of Technical/Deathrash Metal frenzy.
The Haunted features former members of At The Gates.
And there is "Burnin' Leather." Covered by The Crown, this is a Death Metal
charger with an attitude. There's no meekness here, just direction and
force.
The crowning glory of this opus is Entombed's blistering version of "Albino
Flogged In Black." It's a swamp tinged Deathrock Metal masterpiece with a
definite streak of darkness. This cut is malevolent, beautiful, and brutal.
Entombed again illustrates here why they are still one of the world's best
bands.
In conclusion, this is an excellent compilation with several outstanding
tracks. That's reason enough to snag it. Stay savage. Farewell.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Revelation 666 (The Curse Of Damnation)' Old Man's Child"
by
Bill Vogel III
October 20, 2000 A.D.
One of the world's greatest Black Metal bands has returned with a fierce new
opus... The band is Old Man's Child, and the album is "Revelation 666 (The
Curse Of Damnation)" [Century Media Records]. There is a bit more barbaric
frenzy here, but without losing that brilliant skill and artful edge that
makes Old Man's Child monumental among a growing pack of Black Metal bands.
The vocals are a shrill, skull drilling screech with just enough lurking
growl to serrate the edges for increased collateral damage. The
instrumentals are fast and ferocious, leaving no room for doubt in a
darkening world gone mad. It's a superior opus, even though it is not their
best.
The songs of visceral note include the frenetic "Phantoms Of Mortem Tales,"
the ominous "Into Silence Embrace," "Hominis Nucturna," and the vicious "In
Black Endless Void." Every song shreds, but these are the best. Excellent
creative maliciousness is shining bleakly here...
Overall, this is easily one of the best Black Metal albums of 2000. And for
sure a milestone classic of the genre. If you're into Black Metal, then Old
Man's Child is the way! Farewell Sunlight.
Related Bands: Viking Crown, Mayhem, Immortal, Marduk, Emperor,
Dark Funeral, Lord Belial, Children Of Bodom,
Summon, Thornspawn, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Envenomed' by Malevolent Creation"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 13, 2000 A.D.
Every silver cloud has its black lining. That's why I love dark days...the
blackness suits me. And yet another dark day has fallen. Malevolent
Creation has returned with a new killer opus, titled "Envenomed" [Arctic
Records/Pavement Records]. And what a dark day it is.
Returning with an added ferocity, Malevolent Creation's sound is Florida
Style Death Metal with a Hyperblast tinge to their massive maelstrom. Fast
barrages of machine gun rhythms impale each onslaught with blasting
intensity, as colossal tempo changes swing into loopy, Florida style guitar
grooves with a meat-hook digging catchiness.
The vocals are a medium, and a deeper guttural growl. The drumming is a
frenetic artillery assault of cluster bombing beats that explode mercilessly.
The total effect is devastatingly beautiful, like blood running down a blade
in the pale moonlight.
Every track shreds, but the best ones include "Bloodlines Severed,"
"Conflict," "Halved," and "Night Of The Long Knives." But my favorite cut is
"Homicidal Rant," a frenzied rage with blasting segments of guitar fury and
more controlled moments of hook burying aggression. Scarring, abusive
barrages of instrumental brutality highlighted by supersonic drumming and a
bestial vocal roar are just the beginning of the chaotic glory. This is
their best album to date.
Overall, this is a brilliant, perceptive, and hostile work of blunt force
eloquence that should, and will, be a must for Death Metal and Extreme Metal
freaks. Let the darkness fall. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Diabolic, Monstrosity, Internal Bleeding, Lowbrow,
Kataklysm, Deicide, Morbid Angel, Hate Plow, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Inside' by Orphanage"
by
Bill Vogel III
November 28, 2000 A.D.
Darkness is infinite. For every direction taken, there are those
immeasurable numbers left undone. One band walking the dark paths of
eternity is the abyssal Orphanage. This Gothic Death Metal outfit sharpens
their edges with an ethnic tinge. On their latest work of moribund delights,
called "Inside" [Nuclear Blast Records], they recast the darkness.
There is no need for mercy here. Bludgeoning guitar riffs, guttural Death
growls offset by female vocals (of an angelic and slightly operatic variety),
and powerful Celtic rhythms burrow through this opus of the night like the
conqueror worm. Keyboards and pipe organs interplay through this sublimely
bleak cacophony. Lyrics of a mythic quality are used, as this somber act
from Holland interweaves silence into their minimalistic brand of Gothic
Death Metal.
The songs are slow and brooding, often beginning with an acoustic/vocal intro
or sometimes just a bare vocal. The most epic of the tracks include
"Behold," "From The Cradle To The Grave," "The Stain Remains," and "Pain."
The arrangements are complex, and George Oosthoek's deep, guttural growls are
contrasted greatly by Rosan Van Der Aa's ethereal vocals.
In conclusion, this is a stark, abysmal work of Gothic Death Metal with a
unique characteristic and beauty all its own. While it does demand a few
listens to really find its true strengths, for those who do it will leave an
everlasting impression. This one will appeal to fans of Gothic Death Metal
and the more eclectic Dark Metal freaks. Farewell Sunlight.
Related Bands: Darkseed, Aion, Babylon Whores, Cemetary, Sundown,
Diabolique, Gothic Sex, My Dying Bride, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Of One Blood' by Shadows Fall"
by
Bill Vogel III
November 28, 2000 A.D.
There's a brave new world out there. ...A place where shiny, happy people
make all of our decisions for us. It's a world where we don't have to think,
or even dream. Who the hell wants that? Not me. So let the shadows fall,
and the stars burn for evermore. I can see God in that night... He is, and
I am.
And from that mighty darkness comes the band Shadows Fall. On this
Massachusetts act's new opus, "Of One Blood" [Century Media Records], they
take Melodic Death Metal to complex and beautiful extremes. By using
multiple, intricate arrangements and a triple vocal assault they add a unique
edge to this brand of Death Metal. Brian Fair, a former member of the
Metalcore outfit OVERCAST, does a dual leading vocal barrage consisting of a
manic Death growl and a somber, clean utterance.
The guitar work is precise, and they use heavy, crunching guitar highlighted
by Classic Metal ax wizardry ala Iron Maiden and early Metallica. It often
has a slight Progressive Metal vibe in these old school guitar licks. The
end result, though, is a powerful, melodic, and melancholic piece with a
dark, almost Gothic feel.
The best songs on this disc are "Crushing Belial" [my favorite one], "Revel
In My Loss," "Pain Glass Vision," and "The First Noble Truth." Shadows Fall
uses several tempo changes per song, sometimes massive ones. But the groove
is never lost, and the hooks only dig in deeper...
In summary, this is a brilliant slab of Dark Melodic Death Metal. Fans of
Melodic Death, or just quality Death Metal, will find this is an essential
piece. I know that I will be looking for their debut, "Somber Eyes To The
Sky" [independently released in 1997].
...And so the shadows fall. Stay Dark. Farewell.
Related Bands: In Flames, Godgory, Gardenian, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'The Dead Shall Dead Remain' by Impaled"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 9, 2000 A.D.
From the sunny coast of Cali comes something brutal. Oakland's own rotten
sons Impaled have stepped forth from that California glare with their
excellent debut release. Titled "The Dead Shall Dead Remain" [Necropolis
Records], this amazing slab features ripping midrange guitar leads excising
through dense, heavy rhythms of molten Death Metal. The vocals are a sharp,
guttural assault similar to that of Usurper's.
The lead guitar riffs are Technical, yet frenzied. Drumming is tight and
precise, creating a tempo of mechanized aggression. Every track also carries
a good size dose of lyrical dark humor, reminding one of the legendary
Carcass.
The best cuts include "All That Rots," the rotten stomp of "Back To The
Grave," "Spirits Of The Dead," and the malicious "Flesh & Blood." Each track
has a definite, uniquely brutal slant. Surprising what can mutate and thrive
under all of that nasty California sunshine.
Impaled is excellent. In summary, this is one riotous slab of full-on, heavy
gauge Death Metal that is rotten to the gore. And that's just part of its
charm. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Usurper, Maze Of Torment, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'The Heresy Of An Age Of Reason' by Thy Primordial"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 12, 2000 A.D.
Some bands make a name for themselves based on sheer hype, while others do so
on skill. One band that is well deserving of its reputation is Thy
Primordial. Their new album, "The Heresy Of An Age Of Reason" [Pulverised
Records], is a hellish wonder to behold. Taking Swedish Black Metal to new
extremities of creative darkness and beauty, they have forged a monumental
opus as well as one of the best Black Metal releases of the year.
Isidor's vocals are a powerful raspy growl-shrill but not a shriek. The
instrumentals are a blasting barrage of Blackened fury with a heavy dose of
melody sharpening their malicious intent. This use of melodious brutality
makes for an entrancing and venomous experience that digs in, and then
explodes with an artful cruelty.
The most primal and devastating cuts include "The Enigma Of The Fall," "The
Dead Live-Shining Crown Of Night," "Ex Opere Operatu," my favorite "Ceased,
To Decay," and "Mere Are They..."
Overall, this is a brilliant Black Metal opus that will shine as being one of
the best of the genre. Thy Primordial is chaos unleashed, and unsurpassed.
Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Emperor, Marduk, Immortal, Nokturnal Mortum, Mayhem,
Children Of Bodom, Dimmu Borgir, Siebenburgen, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Tales From The Crypt Presents:
Monsters Of Metal' by VARIOUS ARTISTS"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 7, 2000 A.D.
Over the last few years there has been a great insurgence of Metal
compilations and soundtracks. Some were remarkable, several sucked or were
unnecessary, and the rest were average. But it is better to have too many
choices as none...
The latest addition to this maelstrom is "Tales From The Crypt Presents:
Monsters Of Metal" [Right Stuff Records]. Featuring a wide sampling of
modern Metal bands like Entombed to classic acts such as Black Sabbath and
Dio, it throws down a challenge. If your thing is a mixture, or you just
want to sample several bands or types of Metal, then this CD is for you.
The best cuts were the instrumental Deathrock Metal psychosis of Entombed's
"Wolverine Blues," the hyper assault of Deathrash Metal from "Hollow Ground"
by the Haunted, and the Technical Deathrock Metal blast of "Dead Inside" by
Arch Enemy." But I enjoy these heavier bands more than other styles.
There are other excellent cuts here though. The brilliant Powerthrash Metal
rampage of "Bordello Of Blood" by Anthrax (originally from the "Tales From
The Crypt: Bordello Of Blood" soundtrack) is a definite must have. For the
Pantera fanatic there is "Cemetary Gates" (Demon Knight Edit)...originally
from the "Tales From The Crypt: Demon Knight soundtrack."
Next there are classic cuts such as "Heaven And Hell" by Black Sabbath, "Eyes
Of A Stranger" by Queensryche, and "Don't Talk To Strangers" by Dio. Who
could forget the Industrial Metal stomp of "Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your
Neck" by Prong? It's here as well. Rounding out the disc are songs by
Megadeth, Armored Saint, Judas Priest, Mercyful Fate, and humorous spoken
word intros done by the Cryptkeeper.
Overall, this is a wicked little slab of Heavy Metal that is a good cross
section of the old and the new. It will add a nice dimension to any Metal
collection. Stay ghoulish. Farewell.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Motel Murder Madness' by Lollipop Lust Kill"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 2, 2000 A.D.
"There is nothing more satisfying than playing music that really pisses off
parents," stated Dead Greg, guitar player for Toledo's own Lollipop Lust
Kill. And on that positive note...
The renegade strain that is Lollipop Lust Kill is a chaotic mixture of
Thrashcore, Industrial, Gothic, Noise, and a slight touch of Death Metal that
strides the verge between White Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Ministry, and a nasty
attitude. Their debut release, "Motel Murder Madness" [Megaforce Records],
is a dynamic and ferocious slab of anarchy.
Given their influences, at first glance one would think that it's just
another trendy release. But it's not. LLK scorches the earth in their own
way. Sometimes the sideshow is better than the main event. Such is
LLK...better than the BIG DEAL.
Evvy Pedder's vocals vary from a somber drone to a bestial growl. Roaring
guitars, dark keyboards, whacked samples, and frenetic rhythms flow eerily
through the mix. The result is a crunchy, mood driven musical mayhem of a
most dreadful awe. It is an excellent work, and tenebrously wicked.
The coolest cuts include "Bury You," the raging "Knee Deep In The Dead,"
"It's Cold Inside," and the malevolent "Murder, House Of Love." The effect
is a freaky, relentless slab of pure Aggro drenched aggression.
In summary, this is a killer dose of Mood/Industrial/Thrashcore Metal with a
serrated edge and a jigsaw charm. Lollipop Lust Kill takes a new step down a
well-traveled road. So when the neon sign flickers on, remember there's
always room at the Bates Motel, and in the grave. After all, in Lollipop
Lust Kill's world it's all just sex and horror. Farewell.
Related Bands: Coal Chamber, Cold, Ministry, Marilyn Manson, White
Zombie, Godhead, Deftones, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Sindustries' by Gardenian"
by
Bill Vogel III
December 12, 2000 A.D.
From the subtle darkness, a shining, beautiful tenebrous shadow fell across a
glowing horizon. In one breath it smote out the sun. And all was a wondrous
night...
Gardenian was cast from just such an eloquent darkness. Their new opus,
"Sindustries" [Nuclear Blast Records], is a searing combination of Melodic
Death Metal and powerful Doom Metal. It is both sublime and savage, as it's
beauty enthralls and then crushes mercilessly.
Melodic guitar leads dance gracefully over stark, tenebrous growls and
backing instrumentals. The bleak union of these elements is an artful, and
aggressive, experience of the darkest beauty and melancholic atmosphere. It
is an excellent quality, making this album Gardenian's best yet.
The best cuts include "The Heartless," "Sindustries," "Funeral," the raw-
edged number "Long Snap To Zero," the morose "Self Proclaimed Messiah," and
my favorite, the powerful and epic cut "Doom And Gloom." They're visceral,
melodious, and dark.
In summary, this is a great release that tempers Gardenian's style even
further. Fans of IN FLAMES and AMORPHIS will love this. So get ready for
that long snap to zero... Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Amorphis, In Flames, Godgory, Pyogenesis, Beseech,
Babylon Whores, Aion, Darkseed, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
"'Alone In A Crowd' by Catch 22"
by
Bill Vogel III
November 28, 2000 A.D.
Catch 22 is a Ska Punk act of a different sort. First, they're cool. I tend
to despise most Ska, as the misuse and abuse of horns annoys me...really
enrages me. So, it takes an exceptional Ska band, a heavy and skull-
pummeling act, to overcome this revile that I have. Catch 22 has succeeded
where most have not.
Catch 22's new release, "Alone In A Crowd" [Victory Records], is a discordant
mixture of pummeling, midrange Hardcore Punk and wailing slabs of horns that
disturbs the edges of the extreme and the eclectic. At times the horn
sections are overwhelming, but the snotty Punk attitude and sarcastic wallop
more than makes up for it. The vocals are a smooth midrange yell with a
powerful, thundering quality.
The best cuts include "What Goes Around Comes Around," "Guilty Pleasures,"
and "Thinking About Things." My favorite song though is Catch 22's cover of
the old Beach Boys' song "Neverending Story." (Yes, you read that right...)
It's an amazing cut. They worked it over thoroughly, giving it a heavy,
tempered edge of angst filled aggression. There are no horns in this cut.
Then there is the hidden track. It is a hilarious redneck parody song with
twanging acoustic guitars and bad country-western vocals. This song is a
riot! It is reason enough to get this disc. Humorous and sarcastic, it
rounds out the album with a subtle kick in the face. Quite a nice touch in
levity... It is track 22 and starts 22 seconds in.
In summary, this is a good CD and a nice diversion from the usual Punk
aesthetic. It should appeal to any Punk fanatic who likes something a little
on the quirky side. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: River City Rebels, The Urge, Sublime, Edna's
Goldfish, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Piece.
Email address: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Provided courtesy of Stranger Aeons.
Copyright 2000.
*** Full Access ***
This is the place where you find out where and/or how to get Stranger Aeons
magazine.
On the World Wide Web:
Official Site...
http://strangeraeons.tripod.com/index.html
Secondary Sites...
http://www.student.nada.kth.se/~d90-two/music/stranger_aeons/
or
http://huizen.dds.nl/~pax/metal.html
***ATTENTION***
Hate Box is looking for a new assistant to do the mass
emailings for it, the Death/Grind Metal List, and my various
other scribings. Please apply through email at:
StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
LifeEraser@aol.com
I can pay you nothing, but you will have my undying gratitude.
Thanks.
*** Metal Slag ***
More Metal news than one person can stand in one issue!
HAUNTED, featuring former members of AT THE GATES, has released their
sophomore effort on Earache Records. This Deathrash Metal maniacal fit is
titled "The Haunted Made Me Do It."
The first 2 albums by Atmospheric Death Metal freaks NOCTURNUS, "The Key" and
"Thresholds," have been reissued with bonus tracks. Be sure to check-out
their latest, "Ethereal Tomb," as well.
HIDEOUS MANGLEUS, the Gore/Grind outfit, is currently hammering together
their next release.
TOTTEN KORPS has finished mastering their next opus, "Tharnheim: Athi-Land-
Nhi, Ciclopean Crypts Of Citadels." It includes 11 tracks and is scheduled
for November 1st, 2000 through Repulse Records. Totten Korps is from Chile.
DYING FETUS, the Grindcore/Hardcore/Death Metal band, has released their new
CD on Relapse Records. It's named "Destroy The Opposition."
NONPOINT's new CD is called "Statement."
REHAB will release their debut, titled "Southern Discomfort."
INTERNAL SUFFERING, Colombia's most Brutal Death Metal act, has a new CD out
called "Supreme Aknowledge Domain."
MURDER CORPORATION, a new Death Metal band formed from the ashes of the
legendary Death Metal act DERANGED, has released their debut album. It is
fittingly titled "Blood Revolution 2050."
CATASTROPHIC, a new Death Metal band featuring former members of OBITUARY,
has signed to Metal Blade Records.
Stay evil. Hail Darkness.
Stranger Aeons/// We're still evolving here. Please send comments and
responses. All input is gladly welcomed. Let the stones fly. Later.
Record Labels/// Would you like to have your items promoted through Stranger
Aeons? Contact us. All Metal is welcome.
You can email me at this Internet address:
StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
Thank you. Later.
December 15, 2000 A.D.
***Eye Tripz***
These are the best videos of the month.
1. "Synthetic" by Spineshank.
2. "Just Got Wicked" by Cold.
3. "Can't Get The Best Of Me" by Cypress Hill.
4. "Power Struggle" by Sunna.
5. "Turn Me On Mr. Deadman" by Union Underground.
6. "Drag You Down" by Finger Eleven.
7. "Last Resort" by Papa Roach.
8. "Back To The Primitive" by Soulfly.
9. "Again & Again" by Taproot.
10. "Leader Of Men" by Nickleback.
*** Rogue's Gallery ***
I still claim all rights to the names "Angst Industry" and "Hate Box," and
to the concept. Old issues of it can be downloaded, and distributed under
the same rules as Stranger Aeons.
Writers: B. "William the Bloody" Vogel III
Editors: Bill Vogel III (Managing Editor)
Layout Design by B. Vogel III
Coverpage Design by B. Vogel III
Published by Bill Vogel III
Produced by Anarchy Productions (TM.), in cooperation with Death Jam (TM.),
Night-Creatures, and The D.E.A.D. Ones (TM.).
Legal Junk: This is copyrighted material. It may be distributed freely, as
long as it is in its complete and original format, or credit is given for
quoted portions. We are not liable for changes made by idiots after they get
it or if they misinterpret it.
Note*** If you have a magazine and would like to use portions of Stranger
Aeons, contact me.
All scrivener's errors (typos) are the sole responsibility of me, B. Vogel
III. Any flak directed at other writers should be sent to me...I do not want
my friends besieged by silly crap. My views do not necessarily reflect those
of Rocknet, Compuserve, Prodigy, America Online, the World Wide Web,
Internet, the other writers, my friends, my church, my family, Jimi Hendrix,
James Hetfield, Glenn Danzig, or anyone else. So there. :)
Note to Pro-Censorship types: Bite me.
Beware of people who can do nothing but gripe, whine, and moan...by writing
or speaking trite, naive, and idiotic crap (i.e. certain members of the U.S.
Congress, and most of the White House).
Finished December 15, 2000 A.D.
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| | Bill Vogel III
| * | Of
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------------------- Spitting Blood [Death/Doom/
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|III| Metal List
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STRANGER AEONS
Email: StrangeAeons@compuserve.com
LifeEraser@aol.com
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