Album review: Autokrator - Persecution (2021)

Autokrator - Persecution

France

Krucyator Productions

"Persecution" is the fourth full-length album by the French black/death act Autokrator, which was released earlier this year through Krucyator Productions.

The music can be described as black/death metal replete with horrific nuances that will deeply penetrate your mind and make you feel as though you've crossed a portal into an abysmal realm. An atmosphere of pitch-black darkness permeates this album along with horror-like aesthetics.

Drums are mercilessly fast and sound almost programmed at times. However, it was confirmed they weren't, which makes the performance even more impressive, considering how dynamic the drummer is.

The vocals are very deep and abrasive, yet also well-balanced in the mix. They add a menacing aspect to the music, which further accentuates the heaviness of the riffs and drums. 

The fast and relentless bludgeoning of "De Gloria Martyrum Et Confessorum" will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up, while "DCLXVI" features savage vocal lines and nailing percussion that makes it equally devastating in its execution.

As a theme, the album examines the persecutions of Christians in ancient Rome, under the reigns of Diocletian, Marcus Aurelius, Domitian, and Trajan.

The songs have a tendency to blend into each other without the listener noticing it, so you'll be forgiven for thinking that you're still listening to the same track, while the music is well into the third track already. It's not a bad thing. The songs have a very cohesive flow, featuring drawn-out riffs and sinister nuances that will drag your soul into the very depths of hell. That, combined with the onslaught of brutal vocals - all makes Autokrator's latest offering worthwhile, although it is not without its shortcomings: while the album is severely punishing during some parts and gets better with repeated listens, it also has a tendency to drag a bit, particular during the last two tracks, which are a bit more instrumental, but still enjoyable.

Autokrator's approach varies from album to album, and that is what makes them interesting. The sound is cleaner and less cavernous than "Hammer Of The Heretics" without losing any of its relentlessness.

Overall, "Persecution" is a solid album that packs a powerful punch. It is certainly one of the more notable releases of this year and should be investigated by fans of dark and relentless black/death/doom. (HT)

Promo review: Abominablood - Agonizing Symphony of Deity (2021)

 

Abominablood - Agonizing Symphony of Deity

Argentina

Independent / Promo 

Abominablood hails from the dark Patagonia of Argentina and has already released a series of demos, splits, and EPs, that amount to quite an impressive discography.

The band is led by L. Warpig Venomous Abominator, who is the morbid composer behind everything, even though there are session musicians who collaborate.

Musically, this is ritualistic blackened death packed with nuances composed of utterly insane, throaty vocals radiating pus that fill your ears with worms, accompanied by overwhelming blast beats, and riffs that rip everything to shreds. It conjures up a filthy atmosphere unleashing vile aberrations at the listener in a pure Lovecraftian frame. The sound of the guitars fascinated me, especially when I heard those spectral guitar solos. Warpig achieves a sound that goes well with the concept it tries to convey through its four songs (an intro, two songs, and outro). His vocal style changes from an acute guttural growl to a serious one from the putrid bowels of death with surgical precision. The melodies that accompany the slower parts of the compositions are profoundly morbid and induce the listener into a deep and terrifying trance. Fans of bands like Cruciamentum, Disma, and Krypts will enjoy this. (Catacombs Walker)

Interview: Goatpenis (2021)

Brazilian cult GOATPENIS needs no introduction. They are true legends of underground Black/Death with a trajectory dating back to 1989 when they began their activities as SUPPURATED FETUS. Not even the recent passing of former frontman Sabbaoath can deter them from waging war on the world. The following interview was done with guitarist Virrugus Apocalli.


Hails! Thanks for taking the time to do this interview. Could you please inform us of the current status of GOATPENIS? Are there any new releases or reissues planned for the near future?


Thanks for the opportunity. Goatpenis is keeping up the works. After Sabbaoth’s death, we took some time to process what happened, create a plan of attack and come back to the front with total power! We’re currently finishing a new material that should be released in 2022. It will be dedicated to the legacy and memory of Sabbaoth.


How did the passing of your former singer Sabbaoth (RIP) affect the band and will you continue making music under the GOATPENIS name? Who will take over the vocal duties?


No doubt Sabbaoth’s death was a shock, completely unexpected. However, if we left the front it would be the same as surrendering to the enemy because of a casualty of a soldier! As long as there are men to fight, the war must continue! Sabbaoth was the founder and will never be replaced but the attack can not stop. We’re currently counting on Necro Abhorrence’s vocals, the last member to join the Anti-Human Command.

How would you describe the evolution of your sound over the years? Has the core philosophy and influences remained the same?

I would describe it as natural. The more you do something, the better you become. The philosophy will always be the same: The repudiation of the human species.


What kind of elements did you focus on during the writing of "Decapitation Philosophy" and what can you tell us about the recording process?


The focus was always contempt and hate for human existence. D. P. is another album that envisions several ways to exterminate people. It can be through beliefs, religions… About the process of recording, it was like the other albums: fast and intense!

Can you tell us something about the inspiration behind the title "Decapitation Philosophy" and what it means? Who did the artwork?

I’m always focused on composing songs. Sabbaoth was the one who created the arts and the lyrics. After that, we would get together to discuss the name of the album. When we decided that the album would be called Decapitation Philosophy, we focused the creation process on something that would forward to the methods of execution of some cultures.


Can you share with us some highlights and anecdotes from your time with the band? And what would you say are some of the factors contributing to the band's longevity?


I became a member right after the Inhumanization album. When I got in, the band was quite unstructured, Sabbaoth was the only one fighting to not let the band break up. Since then we gathered forces and raised the band exactly where we wanted. Sabbaoth and I always had the perfect sync in the ideas and in the attitudes. We had different members through the years, but the two of us always held strong. I believe you must have commitment and willpower. Luckily today we’ve got a very solid and killer band: MGM.666 on the drums since the Anesthetic Vapor album and Necro Abhorrence on the guitars since the D.P. album and now taking on the vocals!

What is your opinion on the media and how it exploits people's weaknesses by filling their heads with nonsense, similar to how religions indoctrinate people? Is the vast majority of people utterly ignorant and beyond contempt?

Very simple: people are so stupid, weak, and lazy. Those who influence and the ones who are influenced. They deserve the worse and I hope they get buried in their own mediocre existence!


Do you have any hope for the human race and do you believe we are destined to become extinct because of our own self-destructive nature?


My hope is that actually happens!


What are some great Brazilian bands that everyone needs to check out in your opinion?


I'd rather not recommend because I don’t usually listen to anything.


How would you react if some basement-dwelling hipster accused GOATPENIS of being an NS band?


If it would be an accusation through the internet, I wouldn’t react based on my 7th answer. However, if one of these potheads finds a ball lost in their pants and comes talk shit to me in person… Decapitation Philosophy… Hahaha


Finally, what's next for you and GOATPENIS? Thanks again and good luck with everything!


Thanks for the interview, excellent questions! We must continue, honor Sabbaoth’s legacy. We will remain focused, work hard, create new materials, keep the mind and body strong, and hope for the worst!!! 

In memory of Sabbaoath aka Evandro Siebert (1970 - 2021)

EP review: Tempter's Sacrament - Temptation Steel Scourge (2021)

Tempter's Sacrament - Temptation Steel Scourge

USA

Invictus Productions

Furious and well-executed Blackened Death/Thrash informed by the likes of Vomitor, Aura Noir, and Gospel of The Horns is what Tempter's Sacrament brings to the table with their debut EP, "Temptation Steel Scourge", which was recently released by Invictus Productions.

Throughout each of these four tracks, you will be subjected to a barrage of face-ripping riffs with wild, turbulent solos, unyielding and energetic drums, and infernal shrieks from the depths.

The EP is inaugurated with "Putrid Triumph" and immediately we are pulled into the abyss as the band belches out some sick as fuck riffs, thrashing ahead with confidence, with occasional bursts of speed and fury.

It's pretty clear that the band is well-rehearsed. Everything flows together really well and the arrangements are tight. In terms of musicianship, the guitars and song structures are verily impressive, paired with how utterly savage it all sounds.

The cover of Morbid Angel's "Unholy Blasphemies" will rip right through you, as it conveys the right amount of intensity, with the band adding their own evil and sick twist to this much acclaimed classic track.

As I understand it, the group is already working on their debut album, so this EP will serve as a taster for what's to come, and from what I can tell, the forthcoming album should be an absolute ripper.

Overall, this 14-minute EP comes as a blessing for those with a penchant for true unholy metal mayhem, as "Temptation Steel Scourge" delivers the goods. (HT)

Album review: Loup Noir – Requiem (2021)

Loup Noir – Requiem

France

Death To Peace Productions

Loup Noir ("black wolf") from France is the project of sole musician Alrinack. He seems to be behind a dozen other projects as well, although this is the first of them that I have heard.

"Requiem" consists of six songs of pure black metal with minimalist arrangements and an underproduced sound that suits the music they play.

You can expect nothing less than an auspicious slab of raw black metal done right, as the whole album is replete with compositional depth and an atmosphere that is both melancholic and rich in texture.

Loup Noir has that characteristic French sound, which is always apparent in their music. While I wouldn't claim this to be the next best thing, Loup Noir's music is certainly moving enough to leave an impression on the ears of anyone with a proclivity for true underground black metal.

The interplay between the drums and guitars differs in interesting ways as the music incorporates intriguing passages filled with spooky, yet decidedly melancholic riffs, which in addition is complemented with an array of haunting howls and screams.

The songs range from mid-tempo to slower, more brooding passages, but one thing that is certain is that the flow always feels right, including the fact that each composition flows together seamlessly.

Overall, "Requiem" has a very strong feeling of decadence, in addition to its minimalistic approach giving it an emphatically nostalgic tone. Furthermore, the music has a lot of replay value, with the music hardly wearing off after the first couple of spins. This is simply excellent black metal. (HT)

Death To Peace Productions · Loup Noir - Hymne Guerrier

Album review: Paganfire - Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths... (2021)

 

Paganfire – Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths...

The Philippines

Bandcamp

Thrash is definitely not dead, and Paganfire proves this with their latest opus, "Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths...", which is a total poser holocaust from beginning to end.

Over the years, the band has put out a dozen demos, EPs, and splits, but for some reason, this is only their second full-length. They are definitely an underground band in the true sense of the word.

Paganfire's brand of thrash is unyielding, brutal, and energetic, often defying easy categorization due to sounding rawer and more violent than most bands in the genre. Make no mistake, this is essentially thrash, but with more than a fair share of black/death influences in their sound.

As opener "Bloodsoaked Life" kicks in, guitarists Nonoy and M.A. complement each other with a plethora of cunt-shredding riffs, brutalizing ears with sheer ferocity and precise arrangements. Riffs are aplenty and Paganfire makes good use of them.

Alvaro's screams are fierce, pissed off, and in your face, as he utters every word with intense determination.

Paganfire follows the tradition of having solos in their music, as each track features at least one solo, but also inflicts trauma with Jay's hard-hitting, yet well-played drums and Alvaro's thunderous bass lines. As a whole, each member contributes to the madness, yielding a sickened and furious slab of skull-fucking thrash that will leave you wanting more.

On "Poseurdom Shall Fall" you can hear infernal riffs and screams reminiscent of Sarcofago, while "The Executor is Back" is a fiery track filled with razor-sharp solos and a Slayer-inspired riff towards the end.

The cover art is perfect for this kind of thrash and gives a good indication of the band's sound and ethos.

Paganfire's second album was well worth the wait and features some of the best material they've released so far. In my opinion, "Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths..." is the best thrash album of the year, and if not, it sure as hell comes close. Check them out if you enjoy Num Skull, Sarcofago, and Demolition Hammer. Apparently, a few labels will release this, although the labels haven't been announced yet. (HT)

Album review: Invultation – Unconquerable Death (2021)

Invultation – Unconquerable Death

USA

Born For Burning Productions (CD) / Sentient Ruin Laboratories (LP)

Hailing from Ohoi, USA, Invultation strike with their second full-length album entitled, "Unconquerable Death", which was released by Born For Burning Productions earlier this year. Andrew Lampe (Echushkya, Longbarrow, The Wakedead Gathering) is the sole musician behind this project.

Musically, the sound leans towards bestial and filthy Black/Death informed by bands such as Teitanblood, Proclamation, and Archgoat. Those who enjoy the aforementioned bands will certainly appreciate what Invultation has to offer, as the music exudes a profoundly blasphemous atmosphere.

Opening track, "Hanged Mass" begins with a short, but sinister ambiance before a roar of pure unbridled chaos plunges the listener into the abyss.

The songs on this release offers a variety of tempos, from mid to hammering fast parts, as well as a series of whore-sodomizing riffs that will have you bang your skull from beginning to end.

Tracks like "Insatiable Cruelty" and "Banners Under The Moon" feature blistering guitar solos that will make your brain explode. As a matter of fact, this whole album is full of sick riffs and frantic solos, which certainly adds a very chaotic aspect to the music, coupled with the mix of insanely deep and evil vocals.

One of the biggest strengths of this album is the compositional depth and consistency of the music. The music is easily distinguished from one track to the next, as there is enough variety to keep it from becoming monotonous.

All in all, "Unconquerable Death" is an apotheosis of filth and darkness, as Invultation offers an arsenal of bestial metal styles that epitomizes the genre. From its killer aesthetics to the artwork to its ominous music, everything about Invultation feels right. (HT)

Interview: Diabolizer (2021)

When it comes to brutal Death Metal brimming with pure devilish rage, then DIABOLIZER from Kadıköy is a band you need to hear. Here is a conversation with vocalist, Ali Abomination. (Also formerly of Malefic Order and Godslaying Hellblast.)

Prophet beheading hails! For the kunts out there not yet familiar with DIABOLIZER, can you give us a little idea of your sound and influences?

Angel lacerating hails from Kadıköy! Diabolizer was formed By Mustafa (Guitars), Aberrant (Drums), Malik (Bass) and me (vox) in 2012. Some of the earliest riffs have been around since the early 2000's though. We wanted to achieve a style that was different from all our other bands. We just had the vision of creating a really violent, aggressive and destructive Death Metal. As for influences there may have been many many influences from the past two decades, so instead of making a list I could easily summarize it: Metal. Evil to the fucking bone Metal.

There's something utterly menacing about Turkish bands that makes them sound more brutal compared to some European scenes. Do you agree and why do you think that is? Are there environmental, religious, political factors involved?

I wouldn't necessarily say that bands emerging from our circles are more brutal or anything in comparison to another scene. But I do agree that there's an easily sensible feeling of utmost madness and rage flowing through our songs. Living in one of the most chaotic cities in the world under pretty fucked up social circumstances surely would be adding to that feeling. The daily dose of sickness and decadence we are constantly being subjected to is way too fucking high when compared to Europe.

Can you talk a bit about the recording of your debut album, "Khalkedonian Death," and the inspiration behind the title? Are you happy with the overall outcome?

Along with most Turkish bands you know, we come from Kadıköy, right at the southwestern edge of the Anatolian part of nowadays' Istanbul. Kadıköy's historical name was Khalkedon, it is what this place was called when this area was under the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Kadıköy has a lot of meaning for all of us, we all grew up, learned about Metal and met each other in the streets of Kadıköy. So with this title, we wanted to pay our tribute to the streets where everything we're all about has emerged throughout the years.

As for the recording process, the guitars were recorded by Mustafa at home, the drums were recorded at the Deadhouse Studio in Ankara (another very important city in Turkey's underground.), the bass were recorded somewhere in Copenhagen since the bassist has been living in there since 2014) and the vocals were recorded at Mezar Studios. The mixing and mastering were handled by Ozan Yıldırım, at the Deadhouse Studio again. I can surely say that we are all satisfied with the final output. It took a painfully long time to get everything complete, but at least it's worth the wait.

Let's discuss one of your biggest influences, DEICIDE. Do you agree that their last excellent album was Serpents of the Light? I tried getting into their later material several times, but to no avail.

I totally agree. Stench... has some interesting moments, I'll admit that, but it hardly ever sounds like Deicide.

Would you describe your journey into metal and how you got to where you are now? Who are some of your favorite bands?

It dates back to my elementary school years, where a kid had put on this magical sounding tape. I'm talking about 3 decades ago now, haha. My journey has mostly been chaotic, through many highs and lows throughout the year, but somehow I have managed to not conform to society's norms and I will remain a permanent part of this until the day I die. Some faves would be (old) MayheM, Urgehal, Morbid Angel, Immolation, Funeral Winds, Azarath, Infernal War, Angelcorpse, Sodom, (old) Deicide, Bathory, Necroholocaust, etc just to name few which immediately got spilled out.

In your opinion, does playing in a band and being into this kind of music entail a certain extreme lifestyle?

Well, I gotta be honest, you can not make a living through Metal in a country like Turkey, so I do have a white collar job. That doesn't mean we don't take shit to EXTREMES at every opportunity, but you gotta be able to finance that first.

What's some killer Turkish bands you can recommend to all the maniacs reading this?

Engulfed, Thrashfire, Nihil Kaos, Hellsodomy, Burial Invocation, Decaying Purity, Cenotaph, Decimation, Deggial, Death Ritual, Hyperdontia (half-turkish).

There is a legion of idiots on social media giving extra support to bands from "non-white" countries, mostly due to having some vain, savior complex. What do you think of these retards and what kind of fans would you prefer?

Now this sounds like a double-edged sword. On one hand, as a 3rd world cunt, I find it good that bands outside Europe/USA receive more recognition and appreciation, because these parts of the world generally get ignored by the metal crowd. Countless times I have come across comments like "Turkish band? Nah, I'll pass". It can be frustrating at times, you know. One important person who needs to be nominated would be Shaxul (Manzer, ex-DSO). for many years he has released tons of killer material via his label, "Legion of Death Records". He has always supported and promoted bands from obscure countries. It is a shame that the label went broke, but his contribution to many bands was unmatchable.

On the other hand, there are these trendy bandwagon jumpers who keep praising bands from obscure countries, for the sole reason that those bands are hailing from "there be dragons" countries. I mean, it doesn't really matter to me where a band is from, as long as they play good and sincere stuff. But seeing some really shitty bands getting endless praises just because they are from somewhereistan is fucking annoying too.

What can you tell us about your shows? I've seen some videos and they seem pretty out there. You guys are definitely purveyors of true extreme metal.

Thanks a lot mate! Some respect ought to be handed down to the fans too. Not too many concerts happen in Turkey and this causes the crowd to be a lot more bloodthirsty. When their bloodthirst and our bursting evil energy crashes, all hell breaks loose.

Photo by Cem Gaygusuz

Every decade has its jewels. What are some of your favorite albums from 2010 onwards?

Would you mind if I'd rather not list anything? The list can and will be changed any other day, and I really don't feel like making lists like this. There's a huge abundance of worthy new stuff, with the numbers growing every year.

Well, that's that. All hail Hell and Metal Any closing remarks before we put this interrogation to rest?

Thank you very much for your sincere support throughout the years and huge respect for Death by Hammer! Keep following us, we intend to spit out our devilish khalkedonian venom across Europe next year. Satanic hailz!

Album review: Brutal Sphere - World Decomposing by Vermin (2021)

Brutal Sphere - World Decomposing by Vermin

France

Independent

"World Decomposing by Vermin" is the second and latest full-length album from French death metal band Brutal Sphere, which will be released independently by the band on 17th December.

Now, I haven't heard their first album (yet), but the band seems to have new members in their line-up, including Nick on vocals, whom I interviewed in regards to his label, Hessian Firm.

The music presented here is death metal through and through, as guitarist Pierre belches out an array of unholy riffs that will tear your soul apart.

The track "Death Is Just The Beginning" features a killer mid-tempo and some verily evil vocal effects, while "Declaration of War" mixes a somber atmosphere with crushing riffs. The aforementioned track has a slight blackened feel to it.

I really like the vocals. They're powerful and filled with aggression. From vicious growls to blood-curdling screams, the vocals are well arranged and balanced in the mix.

A good deal of creativity is present in the songs, which keeps them interesting and entertaining throughout their duration.

This album contains some good bass playing from Olivier. His bass is thick, well played, and always audible, as exemplified by the track "Sphere of Evil".

The drumming is pretty basic for the most part but provides fitting tempos and some great double bass to go with the various arrangements.

The drums and bass complement each other in a way that reminds me of Bolt Thrower, but there are also riff segments that resemble Cianide, especially the track "Trinity," which is a near six-minute track filled with stomping riffs.

The artwork appears to resemble wormlike creatures from another planet, which is presumably the sphere referred to in the band's name.

Overall, "World Decomposing by Vermin" is an excellent release from these French death metallers, which will undoubtedly earn them some acclaim. Recommended. (HT)

EP review: Goat - Collapse (2021)

Goat – Collapse

Greece

Independent (Promo)

Goat from West Macedonia, Greece, attack with their latest EP called “Collapse”, featuring three short tracks of devastating Blackened Death Metal.

I'm surprised I haven't heard of these Hellenic tyrants before. The only other "Goat" I know is the one from Denmark, then of course Greek bands like Goatvomit and Wargoat (both excellent).

"Collapse" is obviously meant as a promo for labels to get the band signed, hence the short duration, although I don't think they will have any trouble linking a deal with some killer underground label considering how deadly and well-executed their music is.

A totally filthy production permeate this release, as an absence of melody gives the music a verily brutal dynamic. Their music is as crude and blasphemous as their name implies, with goat representing the devil in all its ferocity.

The track "Obliterate The Bastard Breed" will rip your ears off, as fast and merciless drums pound away atop visceral grunts and savage guitar riffs, while the title track "Collapse" offers more of the same with its rapid drums and pulverising riffs.

There is certainly a Greek influence in their riffs that is discernible and can also be heard in other Greek bands. That being said, there's definitely more to their sound than just brutal War Metal. A better artwork would be a great improvement, but as a promo, it is OK in my opinion. A little more variety and creativity in the songs would also be a good thing.

All in all, if you like bestial Black/Death Metal or "War Metal", then Goat from Greece is the band for you. For fans of Morbosidad, Abhorer, and Goatpenis. (HT)