It’s been a while since we paid attention to the leftovers of the Metal world, or in other words, the EPs. As you know, I usually avoid them like the plague, but sometimes it’s good to step out of the comfort zone and try something different. These are a few EPs that managed to keep me awake when all I wanted to do was sleep. That should tell you everything you need to know, right?
Hammerfilosofi – SOLUS (Igne Natura Renovator Integra): Back in the day, as any normal 11-year-old, I read almost all of Nietzsche’s works, so seeing a band with a name clearly inspired by the OG of edgy philosophy is always interesting. However, SOLUS isn’t easy to describe, but if I had to, I’d say it’s what happens when you mix Desolate Shrine with Shining. It has that sinister and unforgiving portrayal of human decay, with vocals that remind me of Shining (minus the wacky antics, like self-harm…). So, it’s not just Black Metal; there’s more nuance and depth here. While I’m not entirely sure what Hammerfilosofi’s goal was with SOLUS, I see a lot of potential in this project, especially if you can get used to those vocals.
Emasculator – The Disfigured and the Divine: Old-school death metal that chops heads? Yay! Okay, I love the lore surrounding this EP and how Emasculator draws from myths we don’t usually explore in metal. Some might say this is just another by-the-numbers Death Metal release, but I really enjoyed the mix. It sounds clear yet organic, which isn’t easy to achieve—that balance between clean and dirty. There’s even an interlude track that gives the EP a bit of a folk touch. I really hope this isn’t the last we hear from Emasculator, because this feels like a bloodthirsty goddess ready to spade a bunch of annoying neckbeards!
Grave Sermon – Liturgical Perversions: I know this one’s already out and, yes, it’s also Death Metal, but hear me out! Grave Sermon focuses less on brutality and more on groove. Instead of hostile deities, Liturgical Perversions is centered around the pain, penance, and depravity of religious dogma. So if you want death metal that’s a bit more grounded in the real world but still delivers a reliable dose of aggression, Grave Sermon is what you’re looking for. And look at that artwork! Even Dante would give it a thumbs up—it looks like hell itself!
I’ve done my part for the small bands; now it’s your turn to give the deep and filthy underground a chance to help you deal with your issues (because we both know you’ve got plenty). If the reaction is good, we might do this more often. So, if you want these small fish to live long enough to become megalodons, you’ll have to support them more (and yeah, that includes your infernal reviewer too!).
Metal Eclipse Reviews 