Metalcatto
Shout-out time!
Mickey Lyxx – Gates of Buda: This track couldn’t get more Power Metal if it tried. I should say something about the video clip, but just watch it yourself. There are lots of flashy vocals, guitars, and war-like sounds throughout. You’ll need to be in the right mood for this kind of energy, but for those who don’t want their traditional Metal too clean and polished, this is a good starting point. The production has enough grit to keep things interesting without sacrificing the epic scope the genre demands.
Desu Taem – Trifecta of Hate, The Mad King and the Carpal Tunnel Juggler & The Boot in the Ass that I’ve Been Longing for: What can I say at this point? Our most consistent contributors have come up with some truly ridiculous names that perfectly suit the light and funny vibe these tracks go for (except that the tracks actually cover deeply concerning political events and the downfall of democracy). From repressed anger to almost sadomasochistic tendencies, Desu Taem keeps bringing the weirdness into the ordinary. The music itself is surprisingly accessible, with the kind of hooks that get stuck in your head despite the dramatic packaging.
Vihilija – Czorny Maladzik: Oppressive, melancholic, and challenging. This small act keeps bringing interesting Black Metal that, despite its conventional approach, offers more emotional depth than it initially lets on. This particular track moves at a slower pace than previous things we’ve reviewed from the band, but the pain remains intact, and probably that’s all you really want from this kind of music. The atmosphere does the heavy lifting here, and it works.
Liverum – Baltic Breath: Now this is interesting. It’s almost as if Mastodon went full shredding mode. Complex guitar and drum sections weave together without overindulgence, and the track remains dynamic and unexpected throughout. I know I’m a sucker for anything Prog, but this is truly an underground gem worth digging up. In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to get access to the whole album, just saying. Someone make that happen.
Alkine – Demoralized: Time for a local band, or well, sort of local. Swedish Thrash isn’t as developed as other scenes in the country, which is why Alkine comes with some surprises. It sounds like a lighter and less polished version of old Testament, and that should be enough information for you to give this a go if you love all things Thrash. The rawness works in its favor, giving the track a live energy that studio polish often kills. No complaints here.
Metal Eclipse Reviews 