Author: Metal Storm

Nearly a decade after their sophomore effort, Greek black metal outfit Thy Darkened Shade unleashes “Liber Lvcifer II: Mahapralaya” upon the world. This 2023 release marks the continuation of their conceptual exploration of Luciferian themes, delving into the concept of Lucifer’s manifestations through various religious and occult practices. Fans of Thy Darkened Shade’s brand of…

In the realm of black metal, few artists have achieved the cult following and notoriety of Hoest, the enigmatic mastermind behind the Norwegian band Taake. With a career spanning over two decades, Taake has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering albums that are both raw and atmospheric, dark and melodic. Their latest offering,…

Metal Church faces a unique challenge on their 2023 release, “Congregation of Annihilation.” Following the tragic passing of vocalist Mike Howe, the band steps forward with a new singer, Marc Lopes, leaving fans wondering if they can recapture the magic of their earlier works. The answer is a resounding yes, but with a caveat. “Congregation…

French technical death metal outfit Gorod returns with their self-released 2023 album, “The Orb,” a record that pushes the boundaries of the genre while remaining grounded in their signature sound. Following up on the critically acclaimed “Æthra,” Gorod wastes no time showcasing their growth and continued evolution. “The Orb” is a masterclass in technical proficiency.…

Kruelty’s sophomore album, “Untopia,” isn’t for the faint of heart. This 2023 release is a relentless barrage of crushing riffs, guttural vocals, and pummeling drums, offering a potent blend of death metal and hardcore that will leave listeners breathless. From the opening moments of “Unknown Nightmare,” with its ominous intro and slamming breakdowns, it’s clear…

Tanith’s latest album, “Voyage,” blasts off with a dual-pronged attack, wielding heavy rock riffs and soaring vocals that weave a tale of both cosmic exploration and inner discovery. Released in April 2023, the album finds the band, formed by a transatlantic collaboration between the UK and US, drawing inspiration from fantastical themes rather than dwelling…

Dutch black metal duo Urfaust bid a melancholic farewell with their final album, “Untergang,” released in August 2023. This record marks the culmination of their two-decade exploration of the genre, weaving together elements of black metal, doom, and psychedelia into a cohesive and haunting soundscape. A Return to Raucous Roots: “Untergang” departs from the cleaner…

Ulthar, the Californian black metal outfit known for their Lovecraftian themes and unrelenting sonic assault, return with “Anthronomicon,” a record that plunges listeners into the abyss of cosmic dread. Released in February 2023, it serves as the more “conventional” half of a two-album release alongside the experimental “Helionomicon.” A Familiar Yet Frenzied Formula: “Anthronomicon” wastes…

German power metal veterans Iron Savior erupt once more with their 14th studio album, “Firestar,” released in October 2023. This fiery record finds the band in top form, delivering a potent blend of their signature sound – soaring vocals, galloping rhythms, and fist-pumping anthems – with a few unexpected twists and turns. A Familiar Formula,…

Swedish traditional heavy metal outfit Flight returns with their thunderous new album, “Echoes of Journeys Past,” a record that lovingly echoes the sounds of the genre’s formative years. Released in July 2023, the album is a potent blend of nostalgia and fresh energy, offering a satisfying experience for fans of classic metal and newcomers alike.…