Undoubtedly, this is a kind of the best-to-listen 3-way split release that has unleashed in 2021. All three bands have their own history and their respective music brands. Malvento (Naples, Italy) started off with 3 tracks including a special intro for the split. Formed back in 1996, the band is back in action from their latest releases; 4th full-length “Pneuma” (2017) and “Ars Regalis” (2018) split with The Magik Way. Malvento, in this split, is musically fast & thrashing Black Metal with esoteric, horrific and ritualistic nuances. Satanic Black/Thrash Metal act, Abigail (Tokyo, Japan) is a name that needs no introduction. Established since 1992, the band has been considered by many as ‘The Most Evil Band in Japan’ meanwhile they themselves claim their musicstyle as ‘street metal’ perhaps due to the metalpunk elements. Abigail presents 2 tracks in their typical trademark; harsh and heavy in sound, raging speed riffages, ruthless metal mayhem! Malauriu (Sicily, Italy) is a slightly younger than the rest two but do not worry because they have an equivalent quality standard. Active and productive since its inception in 2013, Malauriu contributed 3 tracks including a particular outro for the split and also a cover for Nerorgasmo - Italian punk legend since 1983 which performed in Malauriu’s style. This is Black Metal occultist; supremely dark, devilish and conjuring! Above all, please check out this 3-way split which lasts over 25 minutes, it is for your blackest lust absolutely.
Precisely masterpiece!!! Never expected that this band from Arequipa, Peru has such high credibility and quality. Steel Sword has been there to become a band beyond our presumption. “The Steel Sword” comprised of 10 tracks (about a hour) of heavy and melodic power/speed metal deliverance. The abilities and skills possessed by this band are something that is undeniable; musically, soundwise and the overall production. Excellent songwritings and guitarworks, extensive symphonic/harmonic execution, superlative bass and drums, some thrash moments, some ballad elements and those beautiful singings from the female vocals has complemented all aspects of their music an art of perfection. Above all, this is an epic and majestic release!
For those of you who don’t know and yet whether you like it or not, Spell Of Niriti is a band with new flavours and fresh breath in the metal/underground music scene. You may not be comfortable bringing about change and creating something out of the ordinary but this quartet from Guanajuato-Mexico has the courage to do it. Bravery is a commendable trait and that is the quality that goes along with the workpieces of Spell Of Niriti. “Watch Under Your Bed” offers a total of 9 tracks that can be categorized in the modern sound of Death Metal; mixed well with technical/progressive fundamentals, djent and deathcore/metalcore elements. Their songs are really heavy, intense and rich in ideas. As I said earlier, if you get stucked in the old-fashioned Death Metal extremities, you will not be able to digest this album. But if you want to see innovation in metal, you should check out Spell Of Niriti.
Pueblo Fantasma means Ghost Town in english and the band consisted of Leonardo Bidonde (drums/vocals), Gabriel Campora (bass) and Manuel Luna (guitars/backing vocals). On the one hand, Pueblo Fantasma is heavier than the previous EP but on the other hand, this second 3-tracks EP “Imago Mortis” which was launched on April 13, 2021 is quite doomier in songs structure and arrangement. The essence and trademark of Pueblo Fantasma musicstyle is still there; the mixture of doom-death metal and classic doom-rock. Only this time I felt it was a bit gloomy and bleak in sound. When I look at the coverart of this EP, it is like showing that the contents will be more expressional, prone to depressiveness but still delivered in a brutal-aggressive way. One thing I love about Pueblo Fantasma is the minimalist nature as well as the simplicities in their songs which suits my ears who have been in the scene for over 30 years. Hail underground!
At a glance, Argentina’s Pueblo Fantasma is typical doom-death particularly but at the same time accompanied with black/dark metal elements and interestingly, psychedelic/stone rock riffages are also smeared in their compositions. “Nanga Parbat” is the debut 3-tracks EP from the band, launched on November 14, 2020. It sounds classic to my ears, musically. Straight-forward slow-pace and mid-tempo aggressions, non-technical melodies, coupled with heavy and loud sound. At most of the time, I have felt that the vocal techniques really fit right to the structure and flow of their songs. Everything sounded pleasant, like calmness in a storm.
Brutally mind-blowing madness! Murdered from Buenos Aires, Argentina strictly delivered their best through this EP entitled “The Grind Sessions Vol.1”. Four tracks were included; Silencio, Condenados, Infierno, and Nunca Parar (2018) – recorded at La Valvula Estudios, mixed and mastered at Ouk! Records. Be prepared for the ear shattering! Murdered stands for extreme terrorizing noise, ultra-fast grinding shred entwined with typical old-school metal riffages, fatal beat-blastings, raging vocals, shot-to-death kinda sound. Consisting of Guille (drums), Ton (vocals), Ale (bass) and Loky (guitars), this is a band worth listening to, without a doubt. The EP is 7:26 minutes of deathgrind mayhem to kill you remorselessly!
The original 5-tracks EP “The Assent” was released in September/November 2020; on Cassette-Tape by Skullism Records (Bali, Indonesia) and on CD-R by Black Mystic Production (Brunei). Now, it was re-released on Pro-CD by Sadist Records (Denpasar, Indonesia) launched on June 6, 2021 with additional 2 extra tracks and new coverart by Jenglot Hitam Artwork. Based in Surakarta, Indonesia’s MELATA is musically Black Metal. Soundwise, it’s raw and heavy but not kind of outrageous. All instruments still sound clearly and equally balanced. The structures of their songs emphasize slow- and mid-tempo, interspersed aggressively through fast-paced riffs and furious beats. In my opinion, Melata incorporates 90s Norwegian/Scandinavian Black Metal essences (e.g. Burzum and Darkthrone) with the Archipelagic nuances, as I heard something like the old As-Sahar (Singapore). Of all, “The Assent” is dark, doom-laden and evil!
This Bangladeshi Progressive Melo-Death act is absolutely promising! Arcanimus may be an unfamiliar name to you, but their talents and abilities are something that should not be overlooked. “Two Doors” is their second single, and this 7-minute song is fully energetic and highly creative. Progressive-death riffages with a variety of ideas, coupled with technical guitarworks as well as dynamic melodies in the musical arrangement make this track very charismatic. Drums, bass and vocals play a role in perfecting the whole song. A bit of metallic hardcore (or metalcore) elements add color to this song, and I truly love the ending section that sounds beautiful. So impressive!!
Spawns of pestilence, plague and destruction! Based in Uppsala - Sweden, DEBER was born to execute Funeral Doom. Consisting of Hcf (vocals, drums) and Die (guitars, bass, keyboard/organ), they have both recorded and released their debutant, “Aspire to Affliction” which contains four tracks; 1. Aspire To Affliction (intro) / 2. Pestilence / 3. Decay / 4. Soulbind. DEBER is something you need to check out! – Interviewed by Atandistorted, 19 August 2021
Funeral Hails! First of all, please introduce Deber; the history, the philosophy and band members?
Deber is a Funeral Doom Metal band created by DIE and me (HCF) in early 2020, about the time when the Corona virus struck the world. The main idea behind Deber was actually to create something far darker than we have ever accomplished, and Funeral Doom Metal was a natural choice of genre for that. Me and DIE have worked together for a very long time in the past, as we both derive from the Doom Metal act Anguish, which DIE still is a part of. Today I am mainly active in the Doom band Acolytes of Moros.
If ‘Funeral Doom’ is just a general word, please elaborate Deber in a more thorough and detailed description, musically and lyrically?
Musically we want to convey our darkest thoughts into pure music, basically. Lyrically we deal with subjects such as regrets, self-loathe and dark spirituality (no satanic bullshit, just working with lower energies). We like to think Deber as a vessel for our darkest and deepest thoughts and a way to express them flawlessly and honestly.
Who and/or what influenced and inspired you, in terms of songwritings and sound preferences?
If we are talking about inspiring bands; Worship, Evoken, Colosseum, Comatose Vigil comes to mind. Soundwise, I don’t think we aimed for anything specific. We just used the sound that we liked, and recorded it. But I do remember that we discussed the sound in the beginning and we both agreed on that we wanted it to sound unpolished and raw.
How do you interpret “Aspire to Affliction” as the debut? What does this album mean to the existence of Deber, and how strong can this release spread your name?
The name “Aspire to Affliction” basically means ‘the search for misfortune’ which pretty much sums it up. I’d say that “Aspire to Affliction” pretty much defines Deber as it is now and I think this is the album people will think about in the future when they hear the name ‘Deber’.
Share some important facts and other good information about the composing process and recording session of the album?
I don’t know about any important facts regarding the composing process but we worked both separated most of the time, DIE doing most of the music and I did the lyrics. There is one song we both worked on but other than that I focused on the lyrics and DIE on the strings. The actual recording were done between early 2020 and May 2021. DIE recorded the music at his homestudio and when that was done we met up and recorded the drums and vocals.
The cover art is quite simple but it is probably full of meaning for Deber. What is it all about?
It was actually the simplicity that made us use that coverart. The photograph is taken in the northern parts of Sweden, and is a very powerful place, energy-wise. Far from civilization spirits roam freely and is a perfect place to regenerate, and explore location-bound memories.
Tell us more about your plans for the physical release of "Aspire to Affliction"?
The plan is to release “Aspire to Affliction” on CD, and we have struck a deal with a label. We can expect the album to be released later this year.
What is on your mind for next recordings and future releases? Has Deber already prepared new tracks, and how do you see your latest works will be different from the debut ones?
We haven’t really thought that far ahead. As mentioned, we are part of other bands and are pretty busy with our main projects.
Would you please report briefly on the metal/underground scene in Uppsala, Sweden?
There is nothing much right now that is active, as I see it. Except the usual Black and Death Metal bands that have stayed true to the scene since early -00s.
Thanks and Salute from Malaysia. Any final messages?
Thank you very much for the attention and the interview. Hail to all you griefing Doom Metal maniacs in Malaysia, hope you’ll grab a copy of “Aspire to Affliction” when it’s out. Cheers! /Deber, Hcf & Die.
Blackened Death Metal horde Vitam Et Mortem is not a no-brainer. They are experienced and very skillful. “El Río de la Muerte” is their sixth full-length proving that this Colombian band has been very advanced and much more mature in their music careers. Energetic strength, boundless creativity and great musicianship are the backbone of the high prestige of their new album this time. I don’t want to comment on their songwritings as well as music arrangements which are indeed well-composed, but I want to commend their initiative to make their music remarkable, conceptual and stand on its own brand. Listen to this album and follow a storytelling that is worked on very carefully and in detail. Vitam Et Mortem is a band of true caliber. Honour & Salute!
Germany’s System Collapse is back, stronger than ever! “From Arrogance To Ruins” which was launched starting May 7, 2021 is their third release (and this is their debut full-length); contains 16 tracks lasting approximately 30:26 minutes. This band sounds more threatening, more assertive and more uncompromising. Musically getting heavier. The aggression is getting faster and denser, remaining in raw nuances but more crusty and rusty. Defiler (guitars) and Unrn (bass/vocals) this time have got help from Gaahl Lagerfeld (session drums). For the sort of d-beat/crust/grind music that is pitiless, anti-human and ear-bleeding, you need to listen to this band’s work. You have been warned: System Collapse is nothing but in total, hard to the core!
Raw, heavy and true old-school! This is the proper definition I can give for Thrash Metal presented by Xirrossix. “Latinoamérica” was originally released in 1992, but re-issued in 2020 after the band re-united recently. The original songs have been re-recorded with a much better sound, and this ‘reedición’ version has also re-included songs from the old tape. You can hear quite clearly that the band from Pico Truncado (Argentina) has been more advanced in terms of sound production, tighter and more solid skills, while maintaining the elemental Thrash Metal essences that have been their trademark since they existed in the 90s scene. This is Latin American Thrash that tears your soul apart!
This album has got me excited and really entertained. Promesa consists of Javi (guitars & vocals), Philipp (bass & backing vocals) and Luis (drums & percussion), and have released their debut full-length “Derribando Estructuras” in 2017. Quality guitarworks, featuring a variety of lively and catchy riffs alongside killer solo parts! Bass and drums have filled their strong spirits in compacting the flow of each song while the vocals are like a heartbeat that enlivens the entire music of Promesa. I believe this band is among the best Hard Rock bands in Argentina or at least they are climbing closer to the pinnacle of their glory. Rock Eterno!
GLORA NEXUS - A Grand Monument To Mortality (2021)
Masterpiece! A truly perfect Black Metal release we have here. Congratulations to Indonesia’s Glora Nexus and the genius behind it, Svarte. The “A Grand Monument To Mortality” EP contains 5 tracks (including intro & outro) that are very high quality musically. It is extremely sinister, heartless chaos and full of wrath! Predominant riffages, magnificent melodies (with a bit inclusion of ethnic elements), haunting rhythms, merciless hammering drums, searing vocals, all this is blended without any flaws. The sound production is hellishly on the peak. And the result is a vengeful, imperious and pervasive Black Metal!
ABYSS OF ANIMAS - Memory Resembles Emptiness (2020)
Deeply sorrowful, melancholic and gloomy atmospheres. This is my definition for music art performed by Abyss of Animas, through 2 tracks listed in the single entitled “Memory Resembles Emptiness”. Repetitive riffs, repeated verse & chorus, lengthy resonant sound as well as restless vocals are the ingredients in the musical compositions of this band, Depressive Black Metal; that play with inner emotion and expression. Abyss Of Animas has bright hopes for its still-long journey. This is a one-man-band project (by Santiago Sauza) from Buenos Aries, Argentina that needs attention. Lamented and suicidal!
A relatively new name in the scene, Malaysia’s one-man-band Abdi shocked the local underground through its own brand of Black Metal. It sounds inimitable and idiosyncratic eventhough you can simply consider it as primitively raw and orthodox Black Metal. “Demo I: Meneroka Samsara” was released in November 2020. The main part of this demo is ‘Trilogi Samsara’, featuring three songs. Meneroka Samsara and Nafs are antagonistic tracks; sharp & fast guitar riffs and chaotic drums. Di Segitiga Derita is quite mid-tempo; dismal and depressive nuances. The demo also contains an intro - 13 Malam that emphasizes acoustic passages, as well as an outro - 13 Tengkujuh that tends to dark ambient. As a additional bonus at the end, Di Segitiga Derita is re-included in instrumental format, without vocals. Let me conclude this first demo of Abdi; it is 13:25 minutes of vulgar, maleficent, narcissistic and savagery! Rejoice…
Malaysia’s one-man-band ABDI has already put out two demos as to date; “Demo I: Meneroka Samsara” and “Demo II: Jajahan Tahkluk Hyang Maha Zalim”. A relatively new name in the scene, ABDI surprised the local underground through its own brand of Black Metal. This is infinitely for the Immortal Slaves of the Eternal Hell. Rejoice! – Interviewed by Atandistorted, 7 August 2021.
Infernal greetings! What encourged you to start the band and run it as a solo-project? Why you named it as Abdi?
Hail & Salute to the mighty editor Brother Atan ov Distorted Reports Newsletter for this slot! Thank you so bloody much. Wish you have a brutal day.
ABDI is a one-man-act which symbolizes the full utilization of ownself. Back then when the first hit of covid pandemic, ABDI came without any doubt either try to fight and not to bow or die under the new norms.
ABDI is singular for slave, and I’m the slave of Hyang Maha Segalanya.
What is Black Metal in your eyes? How do you define the music and sound of your own band? Huge influences for Abdi?
Mysterious, Isolated, Exclusive. Thats black metal. By bringing the hatred into some isme and ideology, black metal actually is about being individualistic.
ABDI just wanna be known as raw black metal but to be specific, the 1st demo debut, “Demo I: Meneroka Samsara” bring strong vibe of 2nd-wave of Black Metal but ABDI expands the journey into “Demo II: Jajahan Takhluk Hyang Maha Zalim” by adapting the early sound of 1st-wave of BM, a bit metalpunk vibe, stoner, etc.
Our local metalheads are krieg and really awesome. Demo I sold out in 3 days and Demo II sold out a day after the launch. Thank you so much headbangers!
To be honest, early As-sahar and Burzum are ABDI’s big influence.
As we might know, Abdi has so far released two demos. Share with us some important facts and other informative notes of each demo?
That was such a great feeling when you totally DIY your strenght and weakness by your own and both demos were done under primitive and poor home recording but the exclusivity of the cruel BM sound is priceless n worthless.
“Meneroka Samsara” symbolizes the first assault by ABDI which is by the concept of ‘penafian wujud’ and “Jajahan Takhluk Hyang Maha Zalim” is a continious assault which is a willingness to live under any negative situation.
Tell us some of your other appearances (compilations, splits, etc) and anything under your future plans?
Demo I strikes on November 2020 and not to long, on March 2021 Demo II been spread.
Then the first 3way-split with one local Black Metal band and one from Singahell. Then, a few compilations have been under progres, I quest 2 for outside Malaysia and 4 by our local movements but the date of releases still under progress.
The main future plan by ABDI is a full-lenght/all tracks compiled by one of the best local label. Hopefully this year.
You have some unique titles for your songs. Where does the ideas come from? What are your lyrics all about?
I love literature especially 80s sastera bawahtanah tempatan (translate: local underground literaries).
I love to go into all kitabs: Quran, testament, veda, and any soul written book.
How do you rate the response & feedbacks gained from the listeners of your music?
I have no words, they are all krieg and awesome! Salute!
Thanks for answering. Express your last thoughts to close this chat?
Thank you so much brother for your time and for this slot. Yes, the rumours are true, I got a very brutal fatal accident, but beware, the time for ABDI to strike again will come again.
Brutal/Technical Death Metal from Uruguay, NERIUM has been on the extreme music scene for about three years by now. Quite new in age, but their capabilities and developments to be a great act need to be taken into consideration. The band has recently launched two spectacular singles; ‘Nerium’ (October 8, 2020) and ‘Cicuta’ (January 1, 2021) which gained widespread attention from the international underground. NERIUM is actually made up of experienced musicians and the release of their upcoming debut EP is definitely something to look forward to. Here is a conversation with José ‘Cannibal’ Pisacco, bassist and leader of NERIUM. – Interviewed by Atandistorted, 7 February 2021
Hail NERIUM! What’s up today?
Hello everyone, on February 4 we will be broadcast on a radio in Colombia and on another Radio in Mexico. On February 5 we will be broadcast on a Radio in Mexico and another in Argentina. Yesterday we left for Streeming from Portugal for the whole world and we have to thank several friends who are helping us from Poland, Chile and Brazil.
Tell us when and how this band started? What are the ideas behind the formation of Nerium?
In March 2018 we started to get together and make our first compositions. Our idea is to create compositions and compositions that may interest many Headbangers from all over the World.
Introduce more about each member of this band? Are you all previously and/or currently played in other bands?
Our current line-up is: Anibal Beduchaúd (voice), Alejandro Epitafio (second guitar), Pablo Magallanes (first guitar), José Pisacco (bass) and Ismael Perez (Argentine drummer) and the same line-up has been maintained to date. Anibal has a parallel band of Melodic Death, Alejandro and José had a Black Melodic band for 15 years, Pablo arrived less than a year ago from Sweden and has been in a lot of bands of different styles within Metal and Ismael has 4 bands of Death Metal in Argentina.
How do you describe your musicstlye and sound preference? Where did the influences and inspiration for Nerium come from?
Our style is Brutal Technical Death, influenced by North American, South American and European Metal. Our influences come from old Brutal bands and also current bands.
Please explain more about your lyrical concept; major topics and the messages?
The lyrics talk about deadly plants and animals for the human being and it is about that subject that we are interested in talking at first. Our bassist José writes the lyrics and those topics interest him a lot because he is very allergic and since he was a child he reads a lot about things that could harm his health.
What do you want to say about your debut single titled “Nerium”? What kind of response and feedback did you get for this inaugural attempt?
The song “Nerium” is just a small sample of our compositions, as it was our first composition and we hope you like our new songs more. The response to the Nerium topic was fabulous!! 15 days after releasing the Single they invited us to participate in our first Streeming, the following week they invited us to participate in another Streeming with bands from all over the world and yesterday we participated in our first Streeming for Europe, so we are very happy!!!
Nerium has released its second single “Cicuta” on the first day of the new year. Any good facts and information related to this sophomore song?
The theme “Cicuta” is different in the lyrics and in the composition it is more complex. We decided to launch it that day as a Marketing Strategy and it has been very well accepted and viewed by the general public.
We received a report that Nerium was ready to release an EP. Tell us further any progress about the recording and production of the EP?
The EP is not finished yet, because the Pandemic has hampered us a bit, but we are already in the last details to finalize it. We recorded it in our “Homestudio” and it was produced by Alejandro, our second guitarist.
What can we expect and what do you want for that coming EP? Have you prepared artwork for it?
Our listeners will make their ears bleed and they will feel our poison run through their veins; What we would like to achieve is to be able to contact several Labels from all over the World interested in editing our work. The cover of the EP was already designed by José our bassist.
Has Nerium done any gigs and tours?
We have not yet been able to perform concerts, because we are at the height of the Pandemic in our country.
Please share in brief about brutal/underground music scene in Montevideo, Uruguay?
Our Extreme Scene was created there for ‘85, it has good quality bands, but it lacks support.
Thanks for answering. The last few words?
Thank you very much for the note, greetings to all your readers and future listeners of NERIUM.
Formed in 2008, the solo Black Metal project of Norwegian musician Jørgen Sven Kirby (Nattskog) who is now based in Norwich - UK, SYKELIG ENGLEN incorporate the rich tundra of the Scandinavian forests with the dark resentment and self respective, misanthropic depression that lies within. SYKELIG ENGLEN will leave you cold, internally struggling and doomed to despair. Developing through experimentation in these Black Metal rituals, SYKELIG ENGLEN has not only a unique but also an ever-evolving approach to their art which always promises to be utterly savage and retain a monolithic atmospheric prowess in whichever direction the chaos of the Heavy Metal world takes the project. – Interviewed by Atandistorted, 24 January 2021
Hail Nattskog! What is new and to be next in the near future of Sykelig Englen?
Hey! The latest releases are “This Hollow Land” on CD (Clobber Records), vinyl (Legions Ov Darkness) and tape (Slime Citadel)! Also the split with Glemt! The future is unclear but what is right will be unveiled in due time. Currently I have 2 recent albums (2019 and 2020) for Hexivoid and have been working very hard on Garden Of Eyes which is Death Metal of the old school vein. For now Sykelig Englen is dormant but certainly not dead.
Before we go further, let us know how this band get started and what are the ideas and purposes behind it? What is the meaning of the band’s name?
The band was started in 2008 to fulfil a young desire to play Extreme Metal! Since it has become far more savage and dissonant as I have developed through clear progressions of the band. The malevolent energy will always remain the same though. The name is sickly angel in Danish, a language I chose because of my love for Mercyful Fate!
I think this is a one-man-band project, right? Introduce us about yourself in person? Who help you while playing live shows?
That’s correct! Due to my isolation both geographically and generally choosing not to be around people, playing alone was necessary! Live shows have featured musicians who have worked closely with the band and share the same visions!
Please explain more about the music and sound of Sykelig Englen? Where does most of the influences and inspiration come from?
The sound is Black Metal! Influences range from the classics of the first and second wave to the melancholy prowess of Finnish bands and some of the more discordant bands of Iceland too. It has always had its own direction but there can be found a common characteristic with some of these examples.
The latest release was a split with Glemt entitled “Monolith Of Chains”. Tell us any good and important facts about it and your opinions on Glemt?
Glemt is a fellow musician from the U.K. who shares the destructive visions! I approached him, believing we could collaborate in creating a visceral and haunting release and I believe we achieved this. Glemt is one of the acts I believe has huge potential in the underground.
Do you think that “This Hollow Land” EP 2019 a reminiscence to your debut effort “Immortal Throne” Demo 2012?
I think the raw vitriol has remained consistent but I was 13 when I recorded the demo in 2011, with all of the passion but a lot to learn about composition! This Hollow Land is to my ear the best offering thus far.
Please describe each of your 3 full-length albums and how do you interpret the band progressed musically (songwritings, soundwise, etc)?
“Hymns Of The Dead” definitely had a more melancholy feel to it, though still very aggressive and personally I don’t see it as a DSBM album as much as a reflection on a turbulent period of my life. “Hagall” has far more interesting ideas and yet a very straight forward approach that should be weird and uncomfortable yet still possible to Headbang too. “To Walk Among Death And Pestilence” closed this early trilogy with a much rawer and more basic approach as I decided to mix the album myself and use more primal songwriting. This last effort may be seen as a regression of sorts but like all others, it was made to satisfy something I needed to do. “This Hollow Land” is the only release which defines the sound as I intend it at this stage in life.
I found that Sykelig Englen also contibuted in several compilations. Which ones are essentials to you?
I am a firm believer in the underground methods of compilations, tape trading, fanzines etc. If I have an opportunity to spread the darkness via these means, I take it. The Legions Ov Darkness compilations are always killer and being chosen for Misantrof compilation by Vrangsinn of Carpathian Forest was a huge honour.
Tell us about your gigs and tours? Any memorable moments from the shows?
I have never considered Sykelig Englen as a touring band, being around people is far too spiritually draining for me to allow this. However the most recent shows were a weekend couple of dates around the U.K. and the turnouts, killer lineups and maniacal fans really made it worthwhile. Sadly where I live the local scene is practically dead for Black Metal but travelling around the U.K. in 2019 and getting a marvellous response was appreciated.
Share your thoughts about today’s Black Metal scene? Close this interview with the reasons why we should listen to Sykelig Englen?
Today there is more Black Metal than ever. This means more amazing bands and projects but also more that do not have the right feel for me. Obviously the listener can choose which is right for them but I certainly thing Metal only becomes stronger and stronger! Anyone who says it is dead or faltering is clearly too brainless to seek out the underground gems that have amazed me. Sykelig Englen is sonic despairing, an agonising hate for mankind and a narrative on the horrors of our species. If you have the same rage at humanity that I do, you may find catharsis in our music.
Hails to your zine and the maniacs reading it! Support Black and Death Metal and fukk the world!
Italian SHRIEKING DEMONS has just released an EP entitled “Diabolical Regurgitations”, available on CD and cassette-tape formats via Caligari Records. Consists of Gabri (Vocals), Giorgio(Guitars), David (Drums) and the newly added Mariya (Bass), this Palermo/Silicy-based band is a name to be reckoned based on the capabilities as well as the quality they have. Here is a short interview with Gabri and Giorgio. – Interviewed by Atandistorted, 10 August 2021
What a stunning debut. “Diabolical Regurgitations” EP will definitely feed the needs of Autopsy and Abscess fans. What encouraged Shrieking Demons to deliver this ancient-path of Death Metal?
Gabri: Thanks for the nice words about our EP. Well, I would say that both Autopsy and Abscess surely encouraged us, as well as Dream Death, Decomposed, Delirium, Celtic Frost/Hellhammer, Cianide, Divine Eve, early Paradise Lost, early Death… too many to name, but mostly ‘80s/‘90s Death/Doom/Thrash Metal bands that spawned so many gems in those decades that are still today a big source of inspiration for many bands. And, apart from that, our will to tell our own story, create our own path, trying to make our distinctive sound in the huge sub-world of today’s underground. Or maybe just the fact that we are all music junkies, addicted to making noise and vomit macabre stories, so we just can’t stay silent eheh.
What do you think Shrieking Demons actually has more surprises & specials in the tracks from the EP?
Giorgio: Well I wouldn’t know as we’ve only have that one out so far! You’ll have to wait for the full album to see which is better. I personally love EPs, it’s a great format as you can throw in stuff you might not necessarily put elsewhere. I guess some die hards will keep going back to our EP and ignore the rest of our future discography, just like they always do, ahaha!
The band is a name that suddenly pops up and continues to erupt without warning! How was Shrieking Demons established and who are its members?
Gabri: We took the Shrieking Demons name from a line of the Autopsy song “Hole in the Head”. Anyway, we all know each others since many years: me and David both played together in our previous band Gravesite as well as Undead Creep, a band where Giorgio played and composed music too (before I entered in the line-up). Giorgio and David also played together many years in Haemophagus and Assumption (and other bands too, for example I’ve just witnessed the first gig of their excellent Doom Metal project Bottomless), and we crossed our paths many times since we have often shared the stage with my other bands too (Cancer Spreading and Terror Firmer). In addition to that, Giorgio had also played with Mariya as a live fill in for her doom death band Lightpath.
So, it was not a big deal to start this project altogether, let’s say it was just a matter of time before it was meant to happen… we have similar musical tastes and we probably have a similar approach to music as well as excitement and passion that we put in what we do.
Nowadays, we have added Mariya (Death On/Off) on bass duties to the line-up, and we will add also a second guitarist (that will be annunciated soon) because otherwise would be impossible to reproduce our sound on stage. We are interested in playing live, so this has been a very natural choice, but it could be possible that new members will contribute on our next recording too… let’s wait and see.
What made you decide to sign with Florida-based Caligari Records for releasing/distributing “Diabolical Regurgitations”?
Giorgio: We love a big share of what they put out, really. It’s a solid, hard working label with crystal clear deals and a killer attitude. Caligari’s H has been enthusiastic about us right from the start and we couldn’t hope for a better situation for our debut.
The cover artwork is fuckin’ old school. Who drew it? It is definitely closely related to your lyrics & message. What has been written (in your lyrics)?
Gabri: Cover artwork, as well as our logo, has been made by Spanish artist Raul Fuentes/Mortuus Art. We love his style, and we already used his art for our (me & David) previous band Gravesite, so we already knew how talented he was and easy to collaborate with.
Actually, cover artwork it’s not strictly connected to our lyrics, since he made it before all lyrics were completed… let’s just say it fits our style and visions. Our lyrics deal with different topics but the common theme it’s (of course) death, darkness, macabre and horrifying visions, human suffering and misery… Death Metal & Doom Metal topics ahah, nothing so out of ordinary.
First song “Water Drop Torture” talks about an ancient form of psychological torture which was very cruel, “Hidden Cathedral Of Diseases” talks about a vision which I had about this otherworldly place where Lovecraftian-like creatures gather and make humans suffer in every possible way, “Unspeakable Rites” is about bizarre occult rites and horrible secrets passed on men since the dawn of time, and “Whispering Corridors” is another vision I had about a particular form of hell, where humans are doomed to wander in this sort of endless hallways, listening to this horrible voices of the other which are already lost there too. But the more they go on the more they start to become insane, so some just cry in agony, some other become at one with this terrible world and start to whisper ghastly words to the new ones… and the circle goes on and on.
Thanks! End up this short interview by mentioning plans for the next recordings/releases, and how do you look forward to the future of Shrieking Demons?
Giorgio: We already have almost enough material for our first full-length album, so we’ll try to get together and practice it until death each time we can. As for the future, we see dark clouds are gathering beyond the crimson horizon and the bell’s chimes are growing louder, so we guess death metal shall strike again very soon… Thank you for the opportunity! Take care and keep vomiting!
Arhat from Kyiv, Ukraine is a band born with high quality and unique and distinctive credibilities. They show this character clearly through the full-length entitled “Dead Life” where they prove that they are skillful and expert musicians. The album lists a total of 9 tracks that are so progressive, dynamic, rich with aggressive Death Metal riffs and full of technical, melodic and groovy values that are highly effective. The insertion of oriental elements in the band’s works adds to the overall brilliance of this “Dead Life” album. It sounded so stunning and I was amazed by the attempt. Without a doubt, this is a Death Metal album that is well worth owning and Arhat itself is a band that deserves special attention. Highly recommended!
I got an email from the band back on 11 February 2021 which only mentioning a link to their bandcamp, probably with an intention to get my review on their material releases. Without any large information, I found that Barebone Blizt is based in the Philippines, and “This is Sure More Terrifying!!!” comprised of two tracks; The Power That Be (1:44) and Die Was Cast (1:19). Musically, the band plays raw but heavy hardcore with lotsa punk attitude! We can hear simplicities through riffages and arrangements in both songs, infused with metal sound to make it loud. Of all, this is a nice band that deserve your support.
Great and immersive! Funeral Of Souls from Buenos Aires, Argentina released an album with a gothic doom metal concept that is quite well processed and delivered. “Requiem” stakes out 10 splendid and solemn songs, varied in symphonic and atmospheric elements on the guitar riffs, keyboard input, and even in the dynamic aspects of the song. Female vocals are majestically beautiful while growling male vocals are so dark and murky. You need to get the CD of this album if you want to enjoy the taste of Gothic Doom Metal from the South American continent which certainly presents its own exotic and obscure flavors. Overall, this is delicious and mesmerizing!
Old-fashioned Death Metal has always been my top choice, and this UK-based act quickly caught my attention. Garden Of Eyes seems to be one of the most successful efforts of several other projects set up by Nattskog, a multi-talented musician who is actually Norwegian. “Boomhammer” delivers two tracks that are totally tight, full of heaviness, pure mid-tempo old-school Death Metal riffages, such an intersecting between British doom-death elements and Swedish classic buzzsaw sound. The ideas are superbly excellent, whether in the aspect of songwriting, guitarworks including solo parts and also musical arrangements. The vocals are extremely nasty! Check out this 7" vinyl released by Ancient Entity Records. It is for sure a massive explosion in your head, a hammer that crushing your brain into pieces!
There are also many underrated bands that produce much better recording material than some well-known bands. I think a band like Lost Harvest is one example, where this Mexico/USA band produced a CD album containing 10 Death Metal songs that are very threatening and killing! “Capitulum” a truly intense and solid full-length; loaded with authoritative riffs, rugged and hard aggresiveness and even packed with extraordinary technical and melodic elements. Check this one, it is destructive, insane and on the whole is genuine and true Metal of Death!
Fantastic! This 5-tracks demo is equally amazing both on melodic sides and the aggresiveness. Rotura, the punk trio from Barcelona truly rocks my ears. The music is brilliant, mixed up of Spanish punk essences and the UK’s punk influences. All five songs are well-executed, built up with lively guitar riffs, energetic flows and punching drum-beats. The female vocals are nicely mindblowing! The sound production is good enough for a demo release. Check it out folks, sing-along with them, dance together with not doubt. Rotura is not only entirely entertaining but full of thoughtful messages at the same time. Punks not dead!
