Hi there! This is going to be a short introduction. We’ve got way too many EPs and singles from you to discuss this week, and I don’t want to waste precious time. We have bands from all over the Metal spectrum—Death, Black, Doom, even a Symphonic band. You can’t complain there’s no representation at MER. Let’s go!
In God’s Way – Slow Torture: Direct and crushing Death Metal that reminds me of Obituary. That’s a pretty good compliment, right? It even sounds properly recorded. Sure, it’s not reinventing the wheel, but it packs a lot of feeling and doesn’t abuse its technical resources. Plus, don’t you love that cover art? Looks like you after a night shift at the local pub (oh, you don’t hit the pub? Better that way—keep it up, kid!). Anyway, if you enjoy consistency, Slow Torture is for you. Click here!
Vrag – Rendületlenül: Alright, I don’t speak Hungarian, so I can only describe what this EP seems to be about. Luckily, it’s straightforward and evident MeloBlack. I know many of you might think it sounds like 90s Black Metal but with better production (though those drums still sound kvlt, to say the least). There are melodic layers reminiscent of more recent times. Perfect for a crushing and dark day, but remember that with traditional albums like this, the writing can get a bit repetitive. Not that it bothers the true fans—you can get hit by the same three riffs and ask for ten more rounds. Either way, I enjoyed it. Click here!
Foretold – Foretold: First, I have to say I find the art charming—so retro-Nordic. Now, about the music: is it Doom/Black? Imagine traditional Black Metal riffs played with the speed and grime of a Doom/Sludge album. Sounds like it wouldn’t work, right? But it does! Especially with those harrowing shrieks and the sluggish guitar tone. Sure, the band could take more risks next time (there’s lots of potential here!), and while the production is warm, it might alienate more modern fans. Still, Foretold was interesting, so click here!
Magefa – Bombs Over Europe: Given the current situation here in Europe, this title feels a bit uncomfortable, but okay—it’s just a single. No-nonsense Death Metal clearly inspired by Bolt Thrower. However, I’d say this track focuses more on groove than sheer smashing, which is always fun to hear. Click here!
Dark Shadow – Dark Shadow: Another EP, but it’s only one song. You might say, “Why isn’t that a single?” Well, the track is over 17 minutes long! I wasn’t ready for that. It’s Proggy Symphonic Metal, a huge contrast from our previous entries. The production is solid, and the track is packed with solemn, epic moments that all you Dungeons & Dragons geeks will love (question: aren’t all shadows dark?). Just be ready for the occasional corniness that comes with the genre. Click here!
There you have it—more music you sent us this week. I must say, even if not all these works blew my mind, I was pleasantly surprised by the overall production quality. So varied, yet each achieves its purpose. Alright, enough cheesy words. See you next week as we start preparing our end-of-the-year lists. Who knows? Maybe your work will be on one of them.
Metal Eclipse Reviews 