Reviews S

This is reviews from 1998 to 2001. They do not necessary represent my opinions now.

R A T I N G

**** = A brilliant masterpiece
* = A very good release
= A good release
* = An average release
** = A mediocre release
* = An awful relase

Sacrilege "Lost In The Beauty You Slay" CD (Black Sun)

Sacrilege has been branded as a modern Death Metal band by their label. Maybe it is right; maybe not. Sacrilege do mid-tempo Swedish Death Metal with both Death grunts and Black screams. The music are good, but not impressive. Sacrilege has really made an effort on this release tand they deserve credit for this release, who also are their debut release. Check it out.
****

Sacrilege "The Fifth Season" CD (Black Sun)

Their debut release was a very good release when it comes to it's variety of music-styles. It gave hope about big things to follow. They crushed that hope on this release. Sacrifice remains as a one- dimensional Swedish Black Metal band, without it's own identity. The tracks on this release are average and worse. Where their debut release was exiting; this release is plain boring. Sacrifice are good musicians and that is the only thing that saves this release from a total disaster. This release can be used to cure insomnia. It certainly cured my insomnia.
**

Sacriversum "Soteria" CD (Serenades)

More Goth Metal from Poland. This time; in the form of this five men and one female vocalist band. Sacriversum are trying very hard, but the result is only a half-decent Goth Metal album. The problem is the lack of good melodies and interesting details. This is a very boring release, but Sacriversum has proven that they are a good band on this album. This is by no means a band without talent. They have to transfer the talent to good melodies on the next album. The female vocalist certainly knows what she is doing and that is the most positive thing I can say about this album.
***

Salem "A Moment Of Silence" CD (BNE)

Salem from Israel are back after a long pause. This band released two brilliant CDs on Morbid Records earlier this decade, before they disappeared. They have reappeared again this year with a total new sound and music style. The "new" Salem does Doom Metal and they do it better than most other bands. This album is simply a stunning example of how you should do Doom Metal. Eleven good melodies, good musicianship and a lot of interesting details who add a lot of good spice to their music. This album is a very solid product from a band which were regarded as one of the biggest talents in the metal industry at the beginning of this decade. They have fulfilled their potential with this album.
Salem and BNE are now working one a license deal for this album on an European label and I believe that the revamped Salem can make it big with this album. They deserve it.
*****

Sanatorium "Arrival Of The Forgotten Ones" CD (Erebos Prod.)

After a couple of abysmal Goth Metal releases; Erebos Production has finally got their hands on a release that is worthy their hard work. Sanatorium has proved on two demo tapes that they are one of the most talented Death Metal acts from Europe at the moment. Sanatorium has unleashed their potential on this CD, their debut album. Sanatorium's brand of Death Metal are deeply rooted in the American Death Metal scene, with Cannibal Corpse as a reference. But Sanatorium has taken their brand of Death Metal a step further. Their music is very technical and at times, melodic. The result is a vibrant, ultra-brutal sound which throw up some surprises now and then. Sanatorium know that Death Metal can be spiced up with some variation now and then, without becoming soft. This album is a brilliant example of how Death Metal should be done. Great stuff, indeed.
*****

Sanity’s Dawn "Mangled In The Meatgrinder" CD (Shredded Records)

What a nice change from the bierkeller releases from Germany that has invaded our office in the last weeks. This German band do Grind in the vein of old Carcass and Napalm Death. The sound is gritty and dirty. The music is ultra-brutal. The quality on the material is great and this release is recommended if you are into Grind.
****

Sargatanas "The Enlightenment" CD (Conquistador Records)

Based on the press- sheet; I expected a normal old style South American Death Metal album with no variations at all. Well, I am pleased to say that I am wrong. OK, this album is deeply rooted in the South American Death Metal tradition, but Sargatanas has added some melodic elements to their music too. Which make this a rather sophisticated and mature Death Metal album. It is still brutal as hell and fans of ultra- brutal Death Metal will still find a lot of pleasure in this album. The quality of the material on this album is very good. Even the sound quality is good. The only negative thing is that this album do not have any real killer tunes. But overall is this a very promising and respectable album from one of the oldest bands from Mexico. I hope to hear more from this band in the future.
****(*)

Sarnath "Life….Lies" CD (Shiver Records)

I have never rated this band from Finland. The split CD with Nomicon and their first album were quite abysmal. Their new album does not convince me either. Sarnath's leaning towards Sentenced are too obvious, in my opinion. The material on this album is not bad. It is a blend of Goth Rock, Goth Metal and Heavy Metal with some Finnish folk music thrown in. Most of the material feels a bit dated. This album is pretty average. But I guess it will sell like hot cakes if Shiver Records are able to give it some decent promotion.
***

Satariel "Lady Lust Lilith" CD (Pulverized Records)

A new Swedish Black Metal band. According to our independent sources, Satariel’s first two demos was very good. It do not come as a surprise that their debut album is also very good. Satariel do a blend of brutal Black Metal and Swedish Death Metal. They are far from an original band, with their own sound. Sagtariel are very much a mainstream Swedish Death Metal band. But Satariel do this brand of metal better than most other bands. All the ten tracks are very good. This is a release well worth killing for.
*****

Satyricon ”Rebel Extragavanca” CD (Nuclear Blast)
This album has been branded as a masterpiece by Nuclear Blast. Which normally do not mean a shit. Hyping and bullshitting has become an integral part of the music business. But in this case; there is some substance behind the words. Satyricon & Nuclear Blast has finally delivered a masterpiece to the masses. Satyricon’s new (fourth) album contain over an hour of intense, sophisticated, ultra-brutal Black Metal. There is not even a faint hint of commercial compromises on this album. Instead; Satyricon has taken their music into Death Metal (reference: Bolt Thrower) and industrial metal. The result is an almost claustrophobic tight sound. The sound is tighter than a duck’s arse, darker than a pint of Guinness and meaner than an elephant on rampage in a warehouse. Satyricon has re-defined the terms ”dark” and ”Black Metal” with this album. It has set a new standard in the Black Metal scene. This album is simply a masterpiece. Satyricon, and in particular it’s creative force Satyr, has been experimenting with a lot of different music styles during the last years. I hope they have found their soul on ”Rebel Extragavanca”. The Black Metal scene desperate need bands like Satyricon. Sometimes; running this magazine is not bad at all.
******

Scarve "Six Tears Of Sorrow" CD (Scarve)

I have never heard about this French band before. They are one of the many bands who release their records on their own label. Scarve do melodic Death Metal, heavy influenced by Hard Core and Industrial Metal. In other words; a typical French metal release. The quality is reasonable good. It is a good release and it should secure Scarve a record deal, it they want a record deal instead of going independent.
***(*)

Scattered Remnants "Destined To Fall" CD (Repulse)

This American Death Metal band has released two highly successful MCDs on their own label. It is natural that Repulse Records signed this band. This merchant of anti- music did a smart choice when they signed this band. Scattered Remnants do ultra- brutal Death Metal as it was meant to be…with some added variations. Female vocals and some nice guitar harmonies have been added on one of the tracks. But do not be scared/relieved; this is still a very brutal album. Call this brand of Death Metal ultra- conservative and brainless if you want. I do not care. Scattered Remnants do honest Death Metal and that's it. This is an album for the dedicated Death Metal fans and nobody else. And it is a damn good album too. Nuff said.
****

Sculpture "Like A Dead Flower" CD (Art)

Old style Doom Metal can be incredible boring. Like for example this release. The music is boring and uninspired. This release is recycling of old ideas. There is nothing positive I can say about the music. The booklet is a masterpiece, and that is all. To listen to this CD is like watching wet paint dry.
*
Sculptured "The Spear Of The Lily Is Aureoled" CD (Mad Lion Records)

No, this is not the same band as above. This is a band from U.S.A. The Goth/Doom Metal scene is not strong in America, by one reason or another. The main problem might be lack of a good Goth Metal band. A problem Sculptured is not able to solve. Sculptured use a lot of different instruments, including both clear male vocals and death grunts. The main problem with this release, is the total lack of good tracks. Which means that you have to be a very dedicated Doom/Goth Metal fan if you are going to buy this release. Which exclude me.
***

Scum Noise "Chaotic Distress" CD (Rock Machine) Brazil

South America has their own GrindCore bands. This is one of them. This release is not terrible impressive. The material on this release sounds terrible outdated. Except from that; this is an OK release.
***

The Second Moon "The Second Moon" MCD (Oskorei Prod.)

This Norwegian one- man project (by Kjetil S. Matheussen) follows the same paths as Bal Sagoth. Symphonic Black Metal, in other words. It is a very ambitious project. But Mr. Matheussen has produced an almost- masterpiece. This release include a lot of synth, in addition to the usual Black Metal vocals, drums and bass. The result is a brutal, bombastic, progressive, avant garde symphonic Black Metal release. The quality is high throughout the whole MCD. I really want to see a full CD with The Second Moon before I want to call this project as the best band from Norway since Bethzaida. It is certainly the best release from Norway in 1998. Give this MCD the recognition it deserve. You will not regret it.
*****

Seer's Tear "Precious" CD (Goldtrack Records)

Seer's Tear from England tries their luck in Progressive Metal. Without much luck. The problem is that some of the material are very good, but the rest is average and far below.
The CD starts with some horrible tracks in the German Heavy Metal style. Suddenly; the CD totally change direction to British Prog Rock style before it return to the sins from the first tracks before they end the CD with two very good epic tracks. The result is very frustrating. But the CD are not horrible. It just total lack direction. On the positive side; the band has created three very good tracks; "Pressures" and "A Chronicle of Destiny Pt I" & "Pt II". These three tracks save this CD from a total disaster. Check this CD out if you are into Progressive Metal.
***

Seizure "Life In Freefall" CD (Copro)

Hard Core is not exactly my favorite music. But Seizure from England's new album is OK. Their music is melodic and not too technical. But it still has some interesting details. Their music is very much hooks based and straight- forward. Not the most interesting release I have heard in the past year, but it is an OK Hard Core release.
***

Sentencia "Sentencia" CD (Sentencia Records) Venezuela

This is a perfect choice for those who miss Sepultura anno their "Arise" period. The material on this release is a blend of Death Metal, Speed Metal, Industrial and Hard Core. This release are OK, without being impressive. This is not my kind of metal.
***

Sepsism "Purulent Decomposition" CD (Repulse Records)

A long awaited album has finally been released. Sepsism has had their fair share of problems with this release. But the final result must be very satisfactory for both the band and Repulse Records. "Purulent Decomposition" is a very welcome return to the Gore Metal days. This album contains twelve tracks of pure, no- nonsense, intense Death- Grind in the vein of Terrorizer. The quality throughout this album is very good. It is a brilliant headbangers ball album, if you understand what I mean. I still have a stiff neck. This album is a pure joy for true Death Metal fans. Check it out.
****(*)

Septic Flesh "Forgotten Paths" CD (Black Lotus Rec.)

Bad sound, brutal music…. Oh dear, Septic Flesh has had the displeasure of releasing their demos on CD. As usual with demo recordings released on CD; you could bet your horse on that this is a total different band from today's incarnation of Septic Flesh. This CD is very much a Black/Thrash Metal record in the vein of Venom. The quality is pretty bad too. This CD is only for die-hard Septic Flesh fans. It has no value in today's world. The three live tracks are the only positive thing about this album. If this album has not caused some red faces in Septic Flesh, I wonder…..
**

Septic Flesh "Fallen Temple" CD (Holy Records)

I have had this CD in my possession for the last two months and I have so far failed to review it. I have had a horrible workload in my funeral agency and I have not had enough time or patience to put my teeth into this album…..until now.
Septic Flesh has taken the train to Avant Garde Metal land. The music on their new album is melodic, brutal, avant garde and symphonic. This album is divided into three symphonies. Each of them has their own identity. It is almost like a Rush album from the '70. The first symphony (called "The New Order") on this album is good. The remaining two symphonies are not of the same standard. This is a very ambitious album and the risk of failure is huge. Septic Flesh has managed to survive without a stain on their reputation. But it is by no means a great album.
***(*)

Sepultura "Against" CD (Roadrunner)

New vocalist, same shit. As expected; Sepultura continues down the same path as on "Roots". Sepultura are very experimental on their new release "Against". There is not a proper song on this album; just forty- eight minutes of pointless noise. Sepultura released a brilliant, brilliant album ten years ago called "Beneath The Remains". I had high hopes to Sepultura back then. They have tried to crush my trust in them on several records, but they only managed to do the job on "Against". I do not know what they are against, but my guess is their old fans. Those who have supported this band through thick and thin during the last ten - fifteen years. For these fans; "Against" is like a kick in the face. Fuck off and die, Sepultura.
*

The Sequel "Down To Earth" MCD (self- financed)

Another self- financed release from Germany. Self financed are the normal route for German bands these days ‘cause the record labels are more interested in signing Norwegian Black Metal faggots than German bands. Strange world…. The Sequel is neither the best or the most exiting band in Germany. Their three tracks are middle-of-the-road Goth Metal, with death- grunts and keyboards. The material are very average. It is a very commercial release and The Sequel do not take chances on this album. This is a very bland and boring MCD, indeed.
**

Serenade "The Chaos They Create" CD (adv. promo tape)

This is an album I never thought was going to be released after the demise of Deviation Records. But Serenade from Glasgow has survived and they are back with their third album. This time on their own label.
Serenade has always had difficulties with finding their own style. This has never been more evident than on their third release. The title of this CD are therefore more accurate than Serenade would like. This CD is a chaos of very different ideas, thrown together on twelve tracks without any overriding idea or concept. It is supposed to be a Progressive Doom/Goth Metal release, but theory and practice are two very different things.
Serenade has always had a shitty sound and this release are no exception from this rule. In the overcrowded Doom/Goth Metal scene anno 1998; it is incredible naive to release a CD without investing some money in a proper producer and a state-of- the-art mastering. That could had salvaged something from this release.
On their third release; Serenade has not learnt anything from the mistakes they did on their two first releases. Any commercial success Serenade get with this release, would be a grave injustice to all good, hard- working Doom/Goth Metal bands on this planet.
If I got the choice of listen anymore to this advanced promo tape or take a swim in a pond full of hungry alligators; I would go for the alligators (that can be arranged.. - the web master).
*

Serenade "Plague Of Time" MCD (Golden Lake Prod.)

You have to give admire Serenade for their guts. Their music is extreme anti-commersial. Their releases are very unlikely to make them or their distributors much money. But they still hang in there. It is art for the sake of art they do. Not music for the masses.
"Plague Of Time" is 21 minutes of weirdo Death/Doom Metal. The music is both brutal and melodic. The music is a blend of Death Metal anno the '90 and Weirdo Rock anno the '70 (Vanilla Fudge is a good reference). Kind off, anyway because Serenade has their own unique style. This MCD consists of two new tracks and one old track. The quality is OK, but nothing more. Serenade's music is too weird for me to make any everlasting impression. Maybe next time…….
***

Serenity "Breathing Demons" CD (Holy Records)

The British Doom Metal tradition are taken care off by Serenity on their second album. References to Black Sabbath, Trouble and Candlemass are obvious on this album. Serenity are a true old style Doom Metal band. The material are also good and this album is an obvious choice for fans of Doom Metal. It is a pity that old style Doom Metal are out of fashion these days. Female vocalists, violins, cello and keyboards has completely taken over the scene. Sad, sad, sad.
****

Serpent "Autumn Ride" CD (Heathendoom Music)

A real stoner- Doom Metal release. I suddenly realize how much I miss Hellhound Records. The new Serpent release, would fit this label. But Heathendoom Records got the chance instead. The music on this release is deeply rooted in Black Sabbath, St. Vitus and Trouble. This release also has a hippie and drugs feeling over it. The music is so laid back. The material on this CD are very good indeed. The release contains forty- five minutes of high quality Doom Metal. What more do you want. To those who do not believe that Doom Metal without female vocals, acoustic instruments and keyboards are good; check out this release.
Sweden has produced a lot of brilliant Doom Metal bands in the past five years. Serpent are among the best of these bands. They deserve a lot of credit for this release.
*****

Seth "Les Blessures De’L Ame" CD (Season Of Mist)

The positive thing about this release is that this French band express themselves in French. The negative thing about this release is the music. We are in the middle of modern, epic Black Metal territory. This release are written with auto-pilot the on. Not many signs of creative thinking here. Dedicated, narrow-minded Black Metal fans would call this release a masterpiece. I call it uninspired and boring. There are some, very few, positive things on this release, but my main impression is thumbs down for this release.
**

Shadows Of Sunset "Reflection From Afar" MCD (Fadeless Records)

This is a very promising debut release from this band from Finland. Shadows Of Sunset do melodic and epic Death/Black Metal. References are the debut releases from Amorphis and Sentenced. The four tracks has an arctic feeling. The first two tracks is brilliant. This is one of the best releases I have heard so far this year. I cannot wait to hear their debut CD.
*****

Shub Niggurath "The Kinglike Celebration" CD (Oz Productions)

As far as we know; this is Shub Niggurath's second album. This Mexican band has gained a positive reputation over the last years. Shub Niggurath do old style Death/Black Metal. They can be compared to other great South American bands like Mortem, Masacre and Murder Rape.
The quality of the material on "The Kinglike Celebration" are good. The album lacks a real killer track, but that do not take away the fact that this is a good album. In a scene when certain bands pretend they are doing old style Death/Black Metal; it is good to get the real goods from Shub Niggurath. Avoid the copies; get the new Shub Niggurath album instead.
****

Siax "Inquisition" CD (Lucipher Records)

Thrash/Speed Metal has never gone out of fashion in Eastern Europe. This has given the metal scene in these countries it's bad reputation. Siax is one of these crap bands. Their CD is pure crap Thrash/Speed Metal. This is CDs I would prefer is not in my possession when I die. I have my reputation to think about.
*

Siebenburgen "Grimjaur" CD (Napalm)

Siebenburgen is one of the new talents in the overcrowded epic Black Metal scene. This is their second CD, as far as I know. Siebenburgen has included some female vocals and Folk Music in their melodic, epic Black Metal. The result is ten tracks with their own identity. This is one of the releases you should check out if you are into Black Metal.
****

Sinergy "Beware The Heavens" CD (Nuclear Blast)

So, this band is run by Kimberly Goss, an -ex member of Dimmu Borgir ? Well, I guess musical differences was the reason why she left Dimmu Borgir, because Sinergy is very far from what Dimmu Borgir does today. Sinergy has turned the clock ten years back when dinosaurs like Warlock roamed free in the streets. Where Warlock's brand of Heavy Metal had some degree of quality; Sinergy is just bloody hopeless. This album is a mix of ballads and uptempo songs in the German Heavy Metal vein, totally deprived of creativity. This album is just a thirty-five minutes long Heavy Metal cliché. Releases like this is the main reason why Heavy Metal is loathed by many people. Which is very unfair to those few good Heavy Metal bands who still exist. They must be horrified by this shitty album. I cannot by words tell you how much I detest Sinergy and this album. You have been warned.
(*)

Sins Of Omission "The Creation" CD (Black Sun Records)

This band has been hyped in the last months by their record label. As always when it comes to hyped releases; the result is a disappointment. This release is by no means a bad release, but it is certainly not "a landmark in the history of Death Metal".
Sins Of Omission do pretty straight forward Swedish Death Metal. The sound is brutal as hell, chaotic and melodic at the same time. In other words; a textbook Swedish Death Metal release. The quality on the material on this album is just above average. Sins Of Omission has plenty of talent, but they has not been able to show it on this album. This is a good debut album, but I expect a hell of a lot more of Sins Of Omission on their next album.
***(*)

Sisthema " Bioelectric, Violent Sisthem" CD (99th Floor)

Their world wide distributor Dawn Of Sadness call this Cyber Thrash. Which is probably is, whatever Cyber Thrash means. It is extremely noisy metal, in the vein of Sepultura. Sisthema can be compared to Sepultura's "Roots" album. Only without Sepultura's talent. Sisthema's vocals are horrible. The rest of the band are decent. The material on this album are rather average. It does not do anything for me. This band is not hopeless, but they have a long way to go before they release anything good. A new album is in the pipeline as far as I understand and I hope it will be much better than this album. It better be.
**

Six Feet Under "Maximum Violence" CD (Metal Blade)

Chris Barnes & his friends from Massacre and Obituary are back with their second Death Metal album. The stench of Cannibal Corpse is still strong on this album. The same goes for the two other above mentioned bands. Six Feet Under is a no-nonsense Death Metal band, who does no-nonsense Death Metal. The standard of the material on their new album, is good. Not exiting and brilliant, but good. There are no killer tracks on this CD and the result is therefore a good, solid Death Metal release and only that. Six Feet Under will not set the world on fire with this release, but they will at least satisfy their fans. I guess that is the whole point of this release. Well done.
****

Skepticism "Lead And Aether" CD (Red Stream)

Skepticism has returned with their second album after their "Stormcrowfleet" from some years ago.
Skepticism is one of the very few musically extreme and innovative bands in today's metal scene. Skepticism has taken Doom Metal to it's most extreme. Their music are extreme slow and tormenting. It is extremely difficult to listen to their music because of the slow speed on their music. There is not much happening in their music either. Skepticism's brand of Doom Metal are based around church organs, slow doomsday drums, some guitars and beyond-the-grave Death Metal vocals. This album contains six tracks; forty- eight minutes of music. This album is not exactly Top Of The Pops stuff and it takes time before you get into this album. That is; if you have not committed suicide in the meantime. This is a good album, although I am almost relieved when the last song on this album is over. I only have one life.
****

Skepticism "Ethere" MCD (Red Stream Records)

The three hymns on this MCD, has been taken from the "Lead And Aether" CD. The same can be said about this MCD as I have said about the CD. If you are into extreme dark and slow music, this is a MCD you simply must have. This is truly an extreme release.
***

Skunk D.F. "Equilibrio" CD (GoldTrack Records)

There are a lot of Sepultura copies in today's metal scene. Most of them are just copies and nothing more. But Skunk D.F. are something more. OK, they are very much in the Sepultura tradition, although you can also find clear inspirations from Red Hot Chilli Pepper and Fear Factory in their music. The music is very trendy in other words. Skunk D.F. sings in their mother language Spanish and it actually adds another dimension to their music. The quality of the music on this album is good, although the material is a bit bland and boring. I am sure this band will become a huge success in Spain and it is well deserved. Give this album a chance.
***(*)

Skyforger "Latvian Riflemen" CD (Mascot Records)

A difficult review, this one. Skyforger from Latvia has included Rock'n'Roll, Thrash Metal and Folk Music in their bombastic brand of Black Metal. The tempo/speed is never slower than fast. The music is OK, without being impressive. Most of it does not leave any kind of long lasting impression. I am not sure if I like or dislike this album. But I agree with myself that the quality is high throughout this album. You should give this album a chance and find out for yourself.
***(*)

Slayer "Diabolus In Musica" CD (American Records)

Nothing is sacred anymore. Slayer, the band who invented extreme metal with their five first albums, has nose dived to the ground with their new album. There is not much that remind me about the band who ten years ago did the brilliant "South Of Heaven" album. Slayer is now just one of many bands who do a blend of Thrash, Hardcore and Industrial metal. It is about time someone takes Fear Factory to the court for crimes against humanity. The music on "Diabolus In Musica" is mediocre and nothing to write home about. Slayer has lost their way and the only thing remaining, is the good memories. Adios, amigos.
**

Smokehouse "Hot Rocks" CD (Brennus)

Rainbow has reformed under the name Smokehouse ? Actually not; this is a French band. But this mistake is easily made. "Hot Rocks" could be included in Rainbow's long back- catalogue without any protests from Rainbow fans. "Hot Rocks" is certainly as good as any Rainbow release.
For those of you who do not know Rainbow, shame on you, you ignorant bastards; Smokehouse do '70 style Hard Rock. The quality on the eight tracks on this album are very high. This is a very enjoyable album and it is highly recommended. Sometimes; we need a kick up our back and a good reminder how good the Hard Rock scene was in the '70.
*****

Snub "360' Conviction" MCD (Copro)

I am not updated on most recent hip thing in the trendy Hard Core scene, so I am a bit out of my dept when I try to describe Snub's music. Psycho based Hard Core is what I would call it, but I am sure somebody else could describe it better. The major ingredients are an insane rapping, rhythms in the vein of Biohazard and a down- tuned sound. The quality is not bad. Snub (from England) have some nice hooks and tunes. I do not like this kind of music, but I am sure Hard Core maniacs would love this music.
***

Soilwork "Steel Bath Suicide" CD (Listenable Records)

Death Metal meet Heavy Metal. Yes, this is a new Swedish Death Metal release. This is a very trendy release and it will sell like hot cakes in Germany and the rest of Europe. When it comes to the quality; there is no reason why this release should become a hit. The material are simply not strong enough. All eleven tracks lack identity. It is a repeat of other releases. This is an example of an overhyped, bad Swedish Death Metal release.
**

Solitude Aeturnus "Downfall" CD (System Shock/Pavement)

These veterans are still alive. I remember their debut album from the beginning of this decade. Solitude Aeturnus has not changed a bit in these years. It is the same old style Doom Metal as before. The references to Candlemass and Trouble are evident. The quality of Solitude Aeturnus music has never been in doubt. It is good, and nothing more than that. The problem with this release, is the lack of good tracks. Forty- five minutes can be too much of this kind of Doom Metal. But this is a good Doom Metal release. This CD comes with full bonus album. A very good deal, indeed.
***(*)

Sorath/Unclean "Split CD ‘96" CD (Pussy God Records)

The Czech Republic have a very good Black Metal scene and this split CD include the best two Black Metal bands in this area. Both bands are technical, very brutal and epic. It is basic Black Metal, but both bands do this better than most other bands. Both bands has released their own full length CDs and this two years old split CD is only a reminder about two very good bands. Support good Black Metal bands.
****

Soulsearch "Abred Vs Annwn" CD (Serenades)

It seems that Celtic folk music is becoming popular among the metal bands. Recently; we have seen Celtic folk music inspired releases from Waylander and The Lord Weird Slough Feg. To this list; you can add Soulsearch's new (second) album. This Avant Garde Doom Metal band from Germany has never impressed me and their new album has not changed my views on this band. The material on this CD is simply not good enough. This is certainly a weird and original album, but Soulsearch has lost the plot somewhere in the process of creating this album. Parts of this album are simply a disaster. Then again; other parts of this album are brilliant. Better luck next time.
***

Stahlhammer "Feind Hort Mit" CD (Nuclear Blast)

Stahlhammer is a household name in MTV and other music television TV channels. I fully understand why. Stahlhammer is popular in a world where fake music, plastic and image has replaced the real thing. There is no substance in Stahlhammer's music. Just an impotent mix of HipHop, House and HardCore. The material is a brainless as you can get on a CD. Which says a lot in 1999.
(*)

Stormlord "Where My Spirit Shall Be" MCD (Last Episode)

This band from Italy has delivered a hell of a good melodic, epic Black Metal MCD. Their MCD contain three tracks/thirteen minutes of high quality Black Metal. The three melodies on this MCD are brilliant. There are also a lot of interesting details in Stormlord's music. This MCD are highly recommended. I hope that this band will release their album in the near future.
****(*)

Stormlord "Supreme Art Of War" CD (Last Episode)

Without a shadow of a doubt; this is the best Black Metal album a band from Italy has ever done. Their MCD "Where My Spirit Shall Be" gave me a lot of hopes for this album and Stormlord has delivered the goods. Stormlord do Black Metal in the Norwegian vein. Very symphonic, epic and melodic, in other words. But the music is still brutal and fast. Stormlord has included all kinds of vocals on this album, in addition to some keyboards and flute. The quality of the music is superb. The masterpiece on this album is the instrumental "Sir Lorial". Brilliant stuff indeed. This album dies away a bit in the last twenty minutes, but that does not matter. This album is worth every single penny of your hard earned money.
*****

Stormwitch "Priest Of Evil" CD (B.O. Records)

This is a compilation CD with this rather unsuccessful German Heavy Metal act. Their recording career began in 1984 and ended in 1994. The quality of their material are rather unspectacular. Stormwitch can be compared to Running Wild, Helloween and to a certain degree; Manowar. Not my favorite kind of metal, but I gladly admit that Stormwitch has their qualities. They do honest, straight forward Heavy Metal. The booklet of this CD contains a lot of very interesting details about Stormwitch. It is obvious that this CD has been released by fans of Stormwitch and I therefore applaud this release. If you are into German Heavy Metal; get yourself a copy of this album. Stormwitch is Hammerfall's favorite German band and I guess fans of Hammerfall would love this album.
***

Stratuz/Noxious "In Nomine/Grotesque Death" split CD (Self-Financed)

This split CD is more or less impossible to get outside Venezuela, but this CD deserves world-wide distribution. The quality are f*** great!
Stratuz open this split CD with eight melodic Death/Doom Metal tracks with a Gothic feeling. Brilliant stuff !! Noxious is a band in the same vein and they also know the tricks of the trade. They are darker and more Heavy Metal orientated than Stratuz. Noxious even uses female vocals. Based on their seven tracks; I regard Noxius as one of the four best metal bands in South America.
This release alone makes it worth running this magazine! We are trying to get hold of this gem for our readers. If somebody out there can give us more information; please contact us.
*****

Strychnine "Strychnine" CD (Beyond Deranged)

I guess this is a collection of demos or ‘7. The sudden drop in the sound quality after track five is difficult to explain… Maybe the producer got fed up and left the studio ? Anyway; Strychnine from New Jersey, USA, deliver a potent Psycho Core Death Metal album. The sound quality is not good, but in general; the material is not bad. There is some good tracks on this release. This album is over seventy-three minutes long and it is good value for money. I hope to hear more from this band in the future.
***(*)

Suffocate "Lust For Heaven" CD (Erebos)

A kind of a mix of Hard Core and Grind Core from Slovakia. Mix that with some Industrial metal and you have the picture. In many cases, this is a combination that works. But not for Suffocate. There is some OK parts of music on this album, but they are far between. I just feel that Suffocate is trying very hard, but they never get this bird of the ground. Their music is varied, but never good. I am sorry, but I do not like this album.
**

Suicide Culture "Suicide Culture" CD (Suicide Culture)

It is a big shame that the vocals on this release are horrendous. Otherwise, this would be a great release. Suicide Culture from USA do catchy, riff-based, heavy dark metal. It is impossible to put a label on their music. Suicide Culture has invented a new form of metal. Their music can be found somewhere between Black Sabbath, Trouble, Testament, Metallica, Pantera and Morbid Angel. Suicide Culture has their very own style. The quality of their music are brilliant, expect from the horrendous vocals. But this album is highly recommended.
****(*)

Suicidal Winds "Winds Of Death" CD (No Colours Records)

This is Black/Death Metal from Sweden with a difference. Their sound is deeply rooted in old style Death Metal and the South American Death/Black Metal sound. In other words; both anti-commercial, anti-music and ultra-brutal. There are even some elements from the Swedish Death Metal scene thrown in for good measure. The quality is good throughout this album. This is an album for the old style Black/Death Metal purists and those who hate melodic stuff.
****
Suidakra "The Arcanum" CD (Last Episode)

This is Suidakra's fourth album. I have not had the chance to hear the three other albums, but if they are as good as this one; I have missed out on something good. Suidakra do ultra-commercial Black Metal with one leg firmly rooted in German Heavy Metal. But the most notable influence on this album, is Skyclad. You can smell Suidakra's blind admiration of Skyclad on this album. The sound is therefore very Celtic folk music influenced. Which is not a bad thing because Suidakra has managed to deliver a hell of a good album with their mix of Germany and Ireland. All nine tracks are very good. The Skyclad cover ("The One Piece Puzzle") are outstanding, but their own material lack a couple of real killer tracks. Besides of this; Suidakra has delivered a hell of a good album. Not to be missed.
****(*)

Super-Not "Phlegmatic Sun" CD (Yperano Records)

Super-Not from Canada has tried to create a stoner-metal album, with some elements of Alice In Chains, Kyuss and Metallica thrown in for good measure. I was stupid enough to listen to this album on the train journey to my day-time job and I fell asleep. I was four hours too late for work that day. Which sums up this album in a nutshell. There is nothing on this album I can say leave a kind of impression. It is just some uninspired riffs, with some highly forgettable melody lines thrown in for good measure. Super-Not has included The Doors classic "Break On Through" and they have even managed to make this song into a cure against insomnia. Nuff said !!
….but both my wife and her musician brother really love this album. Have I missed out on something here ?? We all have different opinions……
*

Surgical Dissection "The Inborn Malignance" CD (Erebos Prod.)

Slovakia has again spawned a damn fine Death Metal album. Surgical Dissection is very much in the Suffocation vein. Which means mid-paced, brutal Death Metal. The material is very good throughout this album. It sorely need a couple of killer and "signature" tracks. But overall; this is a good Death Metal album.
….and the name of the band is perhaps taken from Dead Infection's debut album ??
****

Svartsyn "The True Legend..." CD (Folter Records)

Primitive, Black Metal in the Scandinavian vein are more popular than ever. Svartsyn are surfing high on this wave. This release are nothing special. Just forty- six minutes of Black Metal. Sometimes; that is all you need. But I am not one of those in need.
**

Swan Christy "Today Died Yesterday" CD (Black Lotus Records)

Another band, with basis from the Goth Metal scene, who try to include every music style they can think of, onto one album. The result is a bloody mess. The music on this album totally fails to engage my few remaining brain- cells. The fifty one minutes of music is very bland and totally uninspiring. I give this album two points for the musicianship behind this album and the few very good ideas on this album. That is the only positive thing about this CD, I am afraid.
**

Taake "Nattestid…" CD (Wounded Love)

Dear Satan, when will Norway stop producing an endless stream of Black Metal outfits ? I am sitting here with another Black Metal album from another Norwegian Black Metal loner/loony. The quality on Taake's new (debut) album are pretty average. The sound quality are bad. There is nothing new on this album, just text-book Norwegian Black Metal.
Dear Satan, can you please reconsider your position on this Black Metal thing and start to produce an endless stream of Jazz and Death Metal outfits from Norway instead. You know you can if you want. Please !!!!!
***

Tales Of Darknord "Dismissed" CD (More Hate Prod.)

The Death Metal gods of Russia has released their second CD album. I liked their first album a lot, but I have some reservations towards their new album. Tales Of Darknord can be described as a crossover between Vader and Thrash Metal., with some melodic touches here and there. The quality is good, without being impressive. This album is to put it simple a bit too bland to get my full attention. Maybe I expect too much from this band. This is a release Death Metal 'eads will like, but nothing more.
***(*)

Tartaros "The Red Jewel" CD (Necropolis Rec.)

Emperor's tour keyboardist Charmand Grimloch has figured out that he also can cash in on the Norwegian Black Metal band wagon and unleash his own stuff. This is obviously a very brainy kid. Tartaros is not bad. It is a kind of a crossover of Bal Sagoth, Dimmu Borgir and The Second Moon. In other words; symphonic Black Metal. The material on this forty minutes long album is good. The sound is a bit of a let down. The very bad sound ruins a very good album. But Charmand Grimloch has a lot of talents and I hope we will hear more from him in the future.
****

Temple Of The Absurd "Mother, Creator, God" CD (High Gain Records)

This is one of the albums I find difficult to describe in words. This band is led by Sabina Classen; the veteran female in the metal business. This living legend was the leading spirit in Holy Moses before she started up this band.
Temple Of The Absurd's new album is their second album. Their first album was a commercial success, but I think they have to work very hard on the promotion and the marketing side of the business before "Mother, Creator, God" can become a commercial success. They will certainly not get much radio- airplay with their new material. The music is very aggressive, crass, weird and anti- commercial. The basic in their music is aggressive Heavy Metal. From this basis; Temple Of The Absurd has included a lot of Industrial elements. Sabina handles all the vocals, but her very distorted and bitter vocals are far from feminine (nothing negative about that). The same can be said about the rest of this album too. It is a very ugly album. The material is more like a wall of noise than eleven songs, except from the cover of Jethro Tull's "Locomotive Breath".
I do not find much positive to say about this album. The material on this album is simply not good enough. A great asset on this album, is the free 50 minutes long CD Rom. That alone is a good reason for a purchase of this album. But the music on this album……forget it.
***

Tenebrae "Hypnotec" CD (Shiver Records)

What a bloody minded, noisy release this is !! Tenebrae from Finland are back again to pester the lives of all true music lovers. The sound are in the vein of Industrial Metal. The music are more in the vein of Death and Thrash Metal. This release can therefore be described as a blend of these three music styles. This release has more than one reference to bands like Machine Head and Fear Factory. Those who are into these two bands will love this release. The featured ten tracks are not of highest quality, but Tenebrae are going somewhere. Probably to a major label (or Roadrunner) where they release a multi- million selling album in a couple of years. That would do this band justice.
***

Tenebrarum "Blood & Tears" CD (Voodoo Records) Colombia

This is a very strange release. Tenebrarum do a blend of Black and Goth Metal. They use both ultra brutal male vocals and nice female vocals. The sound are brutal, in the same time; beautiful. The material are great and this is a very special release. It is highly recommended.
*****

Tenhi "Hallavedet" MCD (Prophecy Prod.)

The two songs on this album is a reminder how influential Lacrimosa has been in certain quarters. If you added some nordic folk inspirations to Lacrimosa's sound; you would had ended up with these two songs. The music is OK, but nothing more. Tenhi do a stripped down form of Goth, and it quickly becomes boring. But Tenhi is a very welcome addition to the Goth scene. Better luck next time.
***

Terra Tenebrae "Subconscious" CD (Black Lotus Rec.)

A new band from Hellas, consisting of members from Necromantia, Obsecration and Thou Art Lord. Terra Tenebrae is their Swedish Black Metal project. The style varies from ultra- brutal to very melodic. Although this album has some good riffs and melody lines, most of the material are pretty average. The vocals has also been drowned somewhere in the mix and the guitar sound are not good either. This is an OK album, but nothing more than that.
***(*)

Tervet Kadet "The Ultimate Pain" CD (Solardisk)

Hard Core is not my cup of tea, but Tervet Kadet from Finland know what they are doing. Their brand of Hard Core are far from commercial. The music is ultra- brutal and dirty. It actually reminds me a lot about the underground Punk/Hard Core scene in the ’80. The Exploited are a band I would compare Tervet Kadet with. Their new album are OK, but nothing more. I am the wrong person to review this album and I guess Hard Core and Punk fanatics would love this album. It certainly has the right feeling. I have a lot of respect for Tervet Kadet, although this album will not be regular in my CD player.
***

Theatre Of Tragedy "Aegis" CD (Massacre Records)

Nothing is sacred in this world. Theatre Of Tragedy’s two first releases was brilliant. One of the reason was the very special sound. It was like a baroque sound. Something from the 1600 century. Theatre Of Tragedy has scrapped this sound on "Aegis" and gone for a more commercial, modern sound. That means that they have lost their trade- mark.
"Aegis" is not a bad album. The material is good, but nowhere as good as their first two albums. This album contains fifty minutes of average Goth Metal and nothing more than that. 1998 is the year when the Gods in my universe fell to the earth. When will the misery end ?
***

The Lord Weird Slough Feg "Twilight Of The Idols" CD (Dragonheart)

Another band who try to dip into Skyclad's and Thin Lizzy's fan base. The Lord Weird Slough Feg's chosen object of affection is The Highlands in the country where these lines are written. In other words; Scotland. Yes, there are lots of bagpipes on this album. But this band plunge into Irish folk music on the rest of the album and this album therefore becomes a joke for those of us who know the difference between whisky and whiskey. (so; Ulster is a part of Scotland ? Where did I hide the bag with my machine-guns again….?) The quality of the music on this album should not give the members of Skyclad any sleepless nights either. The Lord Weird Slough Feg are not even close to the standards Skyclad has set on their albums. But when that is said; this is a good album for those who like metal with a healthy dosage of Irish folk music. Try to forget that this band is from the sunny California, USA and has probably never experienced anything like the horrible weather/climate in Ireland and Scotland. Lucky bastards…..
***

Themgoroth "Highway Into The Unknown" CD (Erebos Prod.)

Help, the metal scene is currently drowning in Goth Metal albums from Poland. And people are complaining about the amount of Black Metal albums from Scandinavia…
Themgoroth do middle-of-the-road Goth Metal. There is nothing new on this album. Just Goth Metal with piano, synth, guitars, bass, drums, both clear, death and black metal male vocals plus the customary female vocals. OK, to do the band some justice; Themgoroth are doing a more dark form of Goth Metal than most other bands, but the music is still pretty standard Goth Metal. The quality is OK, without being impressive. The sound is OK, without being good. This is an OK Goth Metal album, but nothing more than that.
***

Therion "Crowning Of Atlantis" CD (Nuclear Blast)

Therion are one of the pioneer bands when it comes to combining Opera and Metal. With a couple of good albums as the main result. Their new album is a compilation album with some cover versions, new stuff and live stuff. More or less a stop-gap before the brand new studio album, in fact. The material on this album fails to make any positive impressions. Their new material are bloodless and bland, the live stuff prove that Therion are not a great live band and the cover versions are best forgotten. That leave a pretty average album. The press sheet says that this album was made for the Therion fans. I could not put it clearer. Therion will not win any new fans with this album. Nuff said.
***

Thor’s Hammer "Fidelity Shall Triumph" CD (Darker Than Black)

Is this a joke ?? This CD has horrible bad sound, it is full of Black Metal clichés and extreme right- wing shit. Not that I care about politics, but Thor’s Hammer are well over the top in their lyrics. The music are also awfull. It is bloody awful commercial Black Metal and Thor’s Hammer has stolen like ravens from other bands. There is no sign of creativity on this release. I bloody understand why the mainstream distributors in Germany boycott this CD. I guess that this release goes down well among skinheads. Who do I hate enough to hand over my copy of this CD to ? Not even my mother-in-law, I am afraid.
(*)

Throes Of Dawn "Pakkasherra" CD (Woodcut Records)

This is one of the best Black Metal releases I have heard in the last months. Throes Of Dawn from Finland do an epic form of Black Metal. Very melodic, very epic and very much a Scandinavian Black Metal release. The name of the record label really says it all. This CD is recommended.
****

Thron "Seductions Of The Unbaptized Darkness" CD (Metal Agen)

Russia has finally produced a good Black Metal band in Thron. Their new album are an orgy of Black Metal the Norwegian way. The music is fast, furious, brutal and epic. The quality is very good. From the sound quality to the quality of the eight tracks to the booklet. I am not a die-hard Black Metal fan, but this CD has been in my CD player more than most other Black Metal releases. This release offer good value for money if you can find a copy of it.
****(*)

Throneaeon "With Sardonic Wrath" MCD (Plague Records)

I will have to say that the title is slightly idiotic. It means absolutely nothing. I can not understand how two labels can allow for this title to (dis)grace the cover? The reason for saying this is that this MCD has been released through the Danish Helgrind Productions in '98 but is getting re-released now by the Dutch Plague. The actual sound recording is good and the band is aggressive -no doubt about that- but ultimately their brutal death metal is dull and pointless. Will only please the avid fans of this type of music.
*** Georgios Sidiropoulos

Thunderhead "Ugly Side" CD (Steamhammer)

Both Steamhammer and Thunderhead is living in the past. Or today. Or in the future. For all I know; the Heavy Metal scene is big in Germany. It is difficult to know, when you are sitting on a mountain top in Scotland. In any case; the music do the speaking. Thunderhead are very much a middle-of-the-road Heavy Metal band. Their music is both nice and heavy. I cannot say that I dislike or like their music. It is that bland. If Heavy Metal is your thing; perhaps you should check out this album.
***

Thyrane "Symphonies Of Infernality" CD (Woodcut Records)

Thyrane from Finland do the sort of Black Metal which has flooded the scene in the last years. Very symphonic and brutal at the same time. This is by no means a bad album. It is a well crafted Black Metal album and Thyrane does all the right things. Which means that no chances are taken whatsoever. The result is a bland and solid Black Metal album. And just that.
***

Thy Grief "The Frozen Tomb Of Mankind" CD (Solistitum)

This is the first time I have heard about this Norwegian band.
Thy Grief do melodic, grim, epic Black Metal. Some of the material on their debut CD are in the same vein as their fellow countrymen Hades. Thy Grief actually try to carve out their own identity in this overcrowded scene instead of play safe. The sound- quality is not good, but that is the only negative things I can say about this CD. The material on this CD is very good and I cannot wait for their new material. Keep an eye on this band.
*****

Thy Primordial "The Heresy Of An Age Of Reason" CD
(Pulverized Rec.)

More Black Metal from Sweden…. This time unleashed on a record label from Singapore, Asia. Thy Primordial still do the corpse paint and very traditional Black Metal in the Marduk vein. The music is ultra-fast and grim. The quality throughout this album is quite good. Thy Primordial has by no means re-invented the wheel on this album. There is no outstanding brilliant material on this album either. It is just good Black Metal. And sometimes; that is good enough. Overall, this is a competent Black Metal album.
***(*)

Thy Repentance "Ural Twilight Autumnalias" CD (Undead Wood Prod.)

Russia has produced some good Black Metal bands in the last two years. Thy Repentance is one of these bands. Their dark, emotional gothic Black Metal, is very refreshing in a quite stagnant Black Metal scene. The music has a clear Siberian feeling, which makes this almost a spiritual album. The darkness on this album, is almost overwhelming at times. The material on this album is very good and this album is recommended.
****

Tolgeist/Vlad Tepes "Black Legion’s Metal" split CD (Drakkar Productions)

This release give the phrase "primitive Black Metal" a new meaning. These two French bands state on this split CD that they hate melodic Black Metal. I understand why. There is not even a hint of melody in this split CD. The anti- music on this CD is not great, but it would be to easy to rubbish this release. Tolgeist and Vlad Tepes do Black Metal as it was before it became commercial and respectable. Remember; before female vocals, folk music and keyboards swamped the scene like a plague. This split CD is bloody primitive, but it is a honest release. That is far more than you can say about a lot of other Black Metal releases in the last years. If you want to know how the Black Metal scene was before it became a respectable and trendy music style; get a copy of this split CD. It will be a real eye- opener.
****

Totten Korps "Our Almighty Lords" MCD (Hellion) Brazil

It is no surprise that this band has been signed by Repulse Records. Ultra brutal, technical Death Metal are Repulse Records domain. If Totten Korps continue their work from this MCD, the future should be very good for this band. The material on this release are great. All those who are into Death Metal should keep an eye on this band.
****

Tristania "Widow’s Weeds" CD (Napalm)

Those who are looking for a band who combine the sound from Theatre Of Tragedy and The Third And The Mortal (from the Kari Rueslaaten era), do not have to look any further than Tristania. This band also comes from Norway and the first letter in the band name are T. Spooky......
The band use both female, Death and Black Metal vocals. The seven songs on this release, are more hymns than proper songs. There is no outstanding killer track on this release either and the release are therefore a bit boring. You should check out this release if you are into Doom Metal with female vocals.
***

Trivial Act "Mindscapes" CD (FaceFront)

If this band get good promotion; this band can be the next big band from Norway. According to our technical director; all musicians are veterans in the Norwegian Metal scene and ths band have more or less been around since 1991. By reasons I do not understand; this is their debut CD. If we take the amount of debut releases from Norwegian bands into account; bands from this country do not hang around long before they start to release CDs.
Various reports has compared them to Dream Theater. The similarities are obvious, but Trivial Act are also heavy influenced by German Metal bands like (early) Helloween. Especially the vocals are very German Metal scene orientated. The music are both complex and epic. The average length of the eight tracks (nine tracks in Japan) are over seven minutes. None of the tracks can be called commercial, to put it mildly. It take a lot of time to grasp the whole CD. The only negative I can say about this CD is that it is to technical orientated. In some of the tracks; the technical stuff takes completely over and it end up in an overkill. But if you are into this kind of music, this CD is a perfect choice.
I have no idea where you can get this CD. I have tried every major shops in Glasgow and London in the last months, without success. If you cannot find this CD where you live; please contact us and we will order if for you.
*****

Tumulus "Wodureid" MCD (No Colours Records)

The new MCD from these legends in the German Black Metal scene is split into two very different parts. The first part it Black Metal. The second part is Folk Music. Sixteen minutes and two very different music styles…. It is almost comical…. The Black Metal part is good. The Folk Music part is abysmal. Tumulus is a schizophrenic band and this MCD does not do them any justice. This is not a MCD you should waste your money on.
* Lord Loch Lomond

Twilight Ophera "Shadows Embrace The Dark" CD (Cacophonous)

The Goth Metal scene are overcrowded with new bands at the moment. Twilight Ophera is one of these bands. The sound are dark, the vocals are a blend of female and growling male vocals. There is plenty of synths and spooky sound effects. The lyrics are based on a kind of a religious idea. A brilliant alternative to sleeping pills.
The music is actually very good, although not very original. The band know what they are doing and this band might be a band to watch in the future. Time will tell. If you are into Goth Metal, this is one of the releases you should include in your CD collection.
**** Lord Loch Lomond

Tyran' Pace "Take A Seat In The High Row" CD (B.O. Records)

I am pretty sure that a Thrash Metal band with the same name, released a LP 10 - 15 years ago. But I am not sure. Maybe it is this band from Germany. Tyran' Pace anno 1998 do a blend of Hard Rock, Progressive Rock and Heavy Metal. Tyran' Pace has put three decades of Hard Rock/Heavy Metal onto one album. But Tyran' Pace is by no means a copy band. They have their very own style. The result is a good Hard Rock album, full of good melodies and interesting details. The only negative thing about this album, is that it also contains some cheap, bierkeller metal. But check out this album if you are into more melodic metal. Fans of King's X and Galactic Cowboys should check out this album.
****

U.D.O. "Holy" CD (Nuclear Blast)

Nice artwork… Udo Dirkschneider is back again with U.D.O. after a shortlived reformed Accept. The receipt is the same. Aggressive German Heavy Metal, based on Udo's voice. Accept and U.D.O. fans will love this album. I am not convinced. The material is too thin. There are also some re-circulated ideas here from earlier Accept and U.D.O. albums. But it is good to see Udo back in the scene with his U.D.O. band. This band is still several miles better than their copycats. Raise your glass and do the V sign to this album.
****

Ulcus Molle "Roles" CD (Ulcus Molle)

Ulcus Molle call their music progressive metal. Well, the band are obliged to have their own opinion. The truth is that the music on "Roles" are a blend of progressive metal, '80 German Thrash Metal and Megadeth. The musicians are good enough and the sound is OK. Most of the songs are good. They have committed the ultimate crime: Recorded a ballad. Grrrrrr !!!!! Except from this crime; "Roles" are good release and well worth checking out if you are not only interested in Norwegian Black Metal. There is a hell of a lot good Norwegian Heavy Metal bands and Ulcus Molle are one of them. It is tragedy that the lack of gigs & support prevent them from being more than just a good Norwegian Heavy Metal band.
***

Ulcus "Cherish The Obscure" CD (Shiver Rec.)

After a couple of self financed CDs (see review over), this Norwegian band, formely known as Ulcus Molle, has found a record label. Their earlier releases was very much in the Power and Heavy Metal area. But Ulcus has now finally found out that melodic Death Metal the Swedish way is the way forward. In many ways; Ulcus continue down the track where Fester once roamed. You can also add a strong dosage of Dimmu Borgir to the Ulcus brew. Ulcus is not a bad band and this is not a bad album. But this album does not have any outstanding tracks. Ulcus cannot claim that they do original music either. It is very much a standard album with very few positive surprises. It is good handcraft and nothing more than that.
***

Unclean "Ten, Ktery Se Vyhyba Svethu" CD (Pussy God Records)

This is Unclean’s long awaited debut album. Their contributions to the Sorath/Unclean split CD was very good. Their debut album is a blend of primitive Black Metal and Goth. Some tracks even include some female vocals. But the Black Metal bits are dominating. The quality is good. This thirty- five minutes long epos has some good tracks. They are all written in the Czech language, which is a good idea. This give this album an ethnic flavor. This album is a good Black Metal album.
****

Uncreation "Death To Humanity" '3/MCD (Quabalah/Repulse)
Uncreation "Uncreation" MCD (Black Dragon/Repulse)

Two MCDs with this Spanish Death Metal act is the sort of training the editor prescribed for me. "You seem a bit tired. You need training" he said when I walked into his office (the lift did not have enough space for both my Rolls Royce and me) after a better lunch at Cameron House. I followed his advice and sent one of his blonde secretaries a weak smile before I departed for a nice evening at my castle with these two MCDs.
The '3 are standard Death Metal. It reminds me a lot about Morta Skuld's two first CDs. It is a pretty boring release. NEXT PLEASE! Morta Skuld also heavy influences this MCD, but the music is a bit more brutal. This MCD is also boring. Overall; Uncreation is a below average band and I have difficulties understanding why Repulse is throwing money at this band. By the way; is not Black Dragon the French label who released Candlemass first CD?
**

Under Moonlight Sadness "Beyond The Cosmic Gate" CD (Oz Prod.)

During this sixty- seven minutes long album; this band is covering all kinds of metal. The band is VERY ambitious. They are mainly doing Doom Metal, without female vocals. But you will also find strong references to Obituary and Black Metal on this album. The quality of their material is abysmal. This albums consists of ideas and melody lines, thrown together without an overriding concept. This album is confusing and totally without good melodies. It is a total mess. Return to the record studio and sort out your ideas, dear Under Moonlight Sadness. Do not complicate things and try to write some good melodies, for a change. Do not release an album like this again. OK ??
*

Undertakers "Suffering Within" CD (Cryptic Sould Prod.)

Those Goth, Black and Art Metal heads who are into philosophy, art, literature and the deeper meaning of life, will resent and hate this release. Undertakers do no- nonsense Death Metal the American way. This release do not bring anything news to the scene. Neither are this release especially obscene or gory. It is just a Death Metal release and it is a good Death Metal release. This is a release that will interest all Death Metal fans.
***(*)

Unholy "Rapture" CD (Avant Garde)

This band has really turned things around since their last album. The "new" Unholy are an Avant Garde Doom Metal outfit with both female and growling male vocals. The music are painfully slow and melancholic. The eight tracks are very good. This is a good album. Check it out.
****

Unmoored "Kingdoms Of Greed" CD (Pulverized Records)

This album include both ultra-brutal Swedish Death Metal and ballads in the Type O Negative mould. A varied diet, in other words. This album is too varied. It is like this Swedish band has released two albums on one CD. Which they supposedly has not done, according to the press sheet. The music is OK, without impressing. It is standard, melodic Swedish Death/Black Metal and that's it. I am not impressed.
***

Unnatural "Throne Of Anguish" MCD (Qabalah/Repulse Records)
Spain has created some good Death Metal bands in the last years. Avulsed are still the kings, but Unnatural are not bad either. It is obvious that the Florida scene have inspired this band. This MCD feature some very technical Death Metal and bands like Brutality and Atheist springs to mind during the four tracks. The Florida sound has been out of fashion for a while so a band like Unnatural sounds refreshing in 1998. This MCD is interesting and I hope to hear more from this band in the future.
***

Usurper "Skeletal Season" CD (Necropolis)

These much hyped and talked about Celtic Frost copies from USA has managed to release their second album. Their first album was one of the first albums Head Not Found released and that has given Usurper an almost legend status. When it comes down to their new album, the talking stop and Usurper has to be judged on their music. Which is not a problem at all for this band. Usurper are exponents of old style Death/Black Metal. When they released their debut on Head Not Found; they were almost the only band in the world with this sound. This time; they have some stiff competition from some like-minded bands, but Usurper has maintained their very own sound, although it is very influenced by Celtic Frost. The quality on their new material is very good and this album is an obvious choice for those who are into Death/Black Metal. We are indeed entering the skeletal season.
****

Vader "Black To The Blind" CD (System Shock)
Vader "Kingdom" CD (System Shock)

Vader’s career is like a bottle of salad cream. First there is nothing, then there are a small blipp which land on your plate, then there is nothing, still nothing and then the whole content of the bottle comes crashing down on your trousers.
There has been a hell of a lot Vader releases in the last two years. The band has released two CDs this autumn. Why, is a mystery. Vader is nothing special. Their debut album "The Ultimate Incantation" on Earache many, many years ago, is a one of the best Death Metal albums of all time, and Vader has gone downhill since then. Neither "Kingdom" or "Black To The Blind" is bad releases. They are just average. Vader has run empty for brilliant tracks. Now it is time to secure the pension funds and quit. Which is what they are doing on these two releases. Fair enough. They bloody deserve it.
*** (both)

Vader "Live In Japan" CD (System Shock)

Do we really need third albums from Vader this year ? This is Vader’s second live album in the last two years and you really have to ask if this is release policy is more like a rip- off than giving the fans what they want. Vader do not add anything new to their songs on this live album. The sound quality is not good either. Vader’s best album was their debut album. The following releases has been mediocre. They have only included one song from their debut album, and the quality of this live album is therefore mediocre.
***

Valkates "Angeldust & Blasphemy" CD (Last Episode)

Last Episode has released some CDs with German Black Metal bands in the last month. Valkates is one of the new stars on the German Black Metal scene…..and that tells the whole story about the German scene. Valkates has taken a deep look at the Norwegian Black Metal scene and copied everything. Valkates do not have an identity. This album, who are their debut album, are by no means a bad album. It totally lack it’s identity and you have to ask a lot of questions about the value of this album. The Black Metal scene are getting lobotomized with albums like this and that is a shame. I prefer a cup of coffee instead of this album.
**

Vanaheim "Helter Og Kongers Fall" CD (Vanaheim)

The artwork are brilliant on this Norwegian band's second CD. The music itself leave a lot to be desired. You may believe this band with the arch- Black Metal name do the normal textbook symphonic Black Metal thing. You are wrong. Vanaheim do melodic, progressive Death Metal with few or none references to Black Metal at all. Vanaheim can be compared to the more melodic part of the Swedish Death Metal scene. The quality of Vanaheim's material is pretty average. My main problem with this CD, is the sound-quality, which is bit thin. More push in the bottom of the sound and the result could had been good. This band has plenty of potential and they deserve a chance on a decent label.
***

Vanize "Bootlicker" CD (Nuclear Blast)

HAHAHAHAHA…… This band has a long career ahead of them…….. as criminals. If they are as good in stealing other valuable assets as they are stealing Accept's clothes; the individuals will become millionaires within months. Vanize's music are simply a theft of Accept's music. Not riff by riff, but in every other sense of the word "theft". Vanize's vocals = Accept's vocals. Vanize's sound = Accept's sound. I can continue down this list, but I guess you have already got the picture. Vanize is so similar to Accept that I do not understand why Nuclear Blast had the nerve to release this album. Except that Vanize will become a major income source for Nuclear Blast. I wonder why…. The only honest reason for the release of this album, is that it is so damn good. I am actually applauding a major crime here. I am ashamed of myself… very ashamed of myself. This album contains eleven very good & catchy songs. There is not a weak song on this album. This album is one of the best Heavy Metal albums I have heard in the last two years. And I say that with a huge grin on my face. Enjoy this crime-scene.
*****

Violation "Beyond The Graves" CD (Last Episode)

This German band went to a studio in Sweden and got help from Peter Tagtgren on this album. It is therefore no surprise that the result is a melodic Black Metal album in the Swedish tradition. The quality of the material is pretty average too. This is by no means a groundbreaking album. If you are into this kind of metal; you might find something on this album. You're welcome.
**

Vomitory "Redemption" CD (Fadeless Rec.)

The music on this CD, takes of like a Scud missile. We are talking about ultra- brutal Death Metal the American way. But the tempo becomes more relaxed after some minutes and some hints of melodies are introduced. Still brutal as hell, but still with some melodic touches. The material are very good. Those who loved Vomitory's (from Sweden, by the way) debut album, will love their second album. This band is gaining a big reputation world wide and they more than justify their popularity with this album. This is another very good release from Sweden.
****(*)

Vulcano "Live" CD (Cogumelo Records)

Live albums is still a rarity and when you hear albums like this; you understand why. The sound- quality are solid bootleg standard. I know that Vulcano is a Speed Metal band from Brazil who has terrorized the metal scene in South America in the last ten years. Without getting any recognition in Europe and USA. Their primitive brand of Speed Metal are pretty much based on Punk. I am not impressed by this one dimensional material.
Vulcano has included three studio tracks as bonus tracks on this album and they show a much more Death Metal orientated side of Vulcano. On these three tracks; Vulcano can be compared to Obituary. These three studio tracks are very good indeed and I hope a studio album will soon follow this live album. If you are into raw Speed Metal; this live album might be your cup of tea.
***

Wallachia "Wallachia" MCD (Velvet Music International)

More melodic, epic Black Metal from Norway. The standard of Norwegian Black Metal releases has fallen like a ton of stones since 1995. 1997-98 has proved that we are approaching the bottom of the barrel. When that is said; this release is better than the average Black Metal release from Norway, but it is still not good enough to justify it’s release. Some hard questions has to be asked about the value of releases like this. This is just another release for the Black Metal Horde. How they get the money to buy releases like this, is an ope question. Nobody can buy all Black Metal releases released in the last four years, and releases like this release are simply not good enough. Prove me wrong. Another average release; another waste of time.
***

Wallachia ”From Behind The Light” CD (Velvet Music Int.)

Another I-am-more-evil-than-my-granny Black Metal bands from Norway has released their debut album. Their MCD was not bad. Neither is this album. With a blend of English and Norwegian lyrics; the world are ready to be conquered. Or perhaps not. This album do not represent anything new or are better than any of the other albums from this scene. You get what you want if you are into Black Metal. It is like a night in the opera. You get what you pay for. When that is said; the music is not bad. Wallachia is bringing a lot of brutal elements from Death Metal into their melodic brand of Black Metal. Which is good, but also very trendy. Wallachia is just another Black Metal band. Do we need releases like this ?
***

Warhammer "The Winter Of Our Discontent" CD (Voices Prod.)

Hellhammer or Warhammer….that is the big question. Hellhammer was the forerunner for Celtic Frost and they existed in the mid '80. Warhammer has copied Hellhammer's sound down to every single detail and created an interesting release. This is clearly a retro- release. The result is a breath of fresh air in today's Black/Death Metal scene. The quality of the material on this album is good. If you are interested in going back to the roots of evil; check out this album.
***

Warhammer "Deathchrist" CD (Grind Syndicate)

Warhammer has not changed much since their debut album "The Winter Of Our Discontent" (see review above). It is therefore a bit difficult to add more to what I wrote in the review of their debut album. But I will give it a try…..
Warhammer's music is so outdated that it is a trend in itself. The music is ultra- dark and raw. There is a lot of retro bands around these days, but none of them are even close to the quality level Warhammer has been operating on throughout their two albums. Warhammer is a bloody stylish band and they deserve a hell of a lot credit for that. On the top of that; the quality of their new material are bloody good. Forty minutes of first class, total retro metal of is what you get on this CD. Oh shit, I have forgotten to mention Hellhammer ?? Let me make it clear: Warhammer = Hellhammer. Got it ??
****

Warhead "Raping Of Angels" CD (Elegy)

This band come from USA, but the sound is on this release is in the melodic Scandinavian Black Metal vein, with some Death Metal vocals thrown in here and there. The band has also added some Goth feelings to this release. The result is very good. All eight tracks are varied and they all have their own identity. Warhead is one of the bands well worth keeping a close eye on. This release is recomended.
****

Waylander "Reawakening Pride Once Lost" CD (Century Media)

Waylander are attempting to do what the Scandinavian Black Metal scene has done in the last four years; create Ethnic Black Metal. Waylander comes from Ireland and they, thankfully, blend in Irish and Gaelic Folk music in their Black Metal. The influences from Skyclad are also very much evident. The result is only partly a success. Their main problem is that the material is not developed enough. This release is just an insight in what Waylander are able to do if they are given enough time. This is a highly talented band, their concept are very interesting and I hope that they take their concept further on the follow up to this album. In the meantime; get this album if you are interested in this kind of metal.
****

WE "Wooferwheels" CD (Voices Of Wonder)

This is the third album from the Norwegian noise merchants WE. The two first albums was more or less experiments. The result of these experiments is "Wooferwheels". The music can best be described as noisy avant- garde with elements from all music styles from Beatles to Burzum. Especially the elements from the ‘70’s prog rock are strong with it’s distorted guitars. This give this album are very dark feeling. The material on this release are good, but it will probably not win many friends among the Death/Doom/Black Metal fans. That is a shame.
****

White Skull "Tales From The North" CD (Nuclear Blast)

The laughter almost kills me…… Where shall I begin ? With the band- concept perhaps… Italians acting like Vikings is hilarious. What is the next chapter in this Viking adoration chapter ? The Vikings built Rome one thousand year before this tribe emerged from the glaciers in Norway ? I cannot wait for more crap in this saga. The art-work is also a shot in the foot. The guys in White Skull is obviously in the middle of their puberty and the existence of women's breasts are obviously a new discovery for these kids. I do not doubt for a second that the only reason for this band to record this album, is to get a sex life. These remarks are actually very positive, compared to what I planned to say about the music. But the lack of space and our magazine's standard, common decency makes it impossible to say what I really feel about this crap. The music is German Power Metal in the vein of Helloween. The quality is crap. Actually; crap is a very high standard compared to the music on this album. This album is one of the worst I have heard in my long life. It is so bad that it is almost funny. It is like a scene from a Monty Python's Flying Circus show. The guy who signed this band, should be hanged, quartered and drowned.
(*)

Witchery "Restless & Dead" CD (Necropolis Records)

It is not often a hype is justified. But the hype behind the debut CD from the new Swedish sensation Witchery are fully justified. This band has tons of experience from bands like Mercyful Fate, Seance and The Haunted. This experience has been put into Witchery. All of it. The music is brutal metal, with basis in melodic Death Metal. Or call it Speed Metal, if you want. All ten tracks are masterpieces in it’s own right. From full aggression to mellow, meditative tunes. But I still feel that the band has more to give. Especially when it comes to the sound quality, who are not up to standard. If this band continue to exist after this release; we are talking about the leading metal band in the first ten years of the next thousand years. There is no doubt about that. Get a copy of this CD or vanish from this planet.
*****

Witchery "Witchburner" MCD (Necropolis Rec.)

Witchery has produced one of the best metal album of the decade with their "Restless & Dead" opus. It is very rare to see all music reviewers in the underground agree on one thing !! We did that on our praise of the "Restless & Dead" opus.
Witchery are back with the MCD they were meant to release before they released the "Restless & Dead" album. This MCD consist of Accept, Wasp, Judas Priest and Black Sabbath covers + three new songs. The four cover tracks are great. Witchery has a feeling for metal that it is seldom to see. Witchery ARE aggressive metal. The three new tracks are very promising. This MCD are just a stopgap before a new album will be released early next year. It is a very good release and an essential purchase for all true metal heads.
****

Witchery "Dead, Hot And Ready" CD (Necropolis)

Those who love Witchery's brilliant debut album, will find pleasure in their follow up album. Witchery continues down the same path the choose on their debut album. It's still aggressive metal, or Speed Metal if you want. The quality is high. Witchery has now released three albums in the last year. Two albums with their own stuff and one with cover tracks. I detect a certain degree of idea- fatigue on their new album and I would suggest that Witchery should use their time wisely before they rush another album on the market. This is still a good album, though.
****

Withered Earth "Forgotten Sunrise" CD (Cryptic Soul Prod.)

Some American Death Metal bands try to create their own style instead of following the safe path as many other bands do. Withered Earth are one of these pioneers. The basis is pure Death Metal, but they have also added a touch of Dark, Black and Doom Metal on this eight tracks CD. This make "Forgotten Sunrise" more than just another Death Metal CD. All tracks on this release are very good. Death Metal are alive and bands like Withered Earth are bringing a lot of new inputs to the scene.
****

Wolfram "Misanthrope" CD (RKK/Wolfram)

Oh dear, oh dear. I thought that we had heard the last of third- rate Heavy Metal ten years ago. But Wolfram from the Czech Republic has proved me wrong. Wolfram comes across as a mix of Judas Priest and the heavier stuff from Scorpions. In other words; Power Metal. But the originals are far better than this shit. The musicians in Wolfram are OK, but the vocals destroy everything positive on this album. Stay clear of this album.
*

Wolfram "Liars In A Second Skin" CD (RKK)

Oh dear….. I slaughtered Wolfram's debut album "Misantrope" in a very comprehensive way in the old edition of this magazine. I am afraid that we are heading in that direction again….
Wolfram do Power Metal in the German vein. That means Gamma Ray, Helloween and Blind Guardian. If these three bands are your cup of tea; you should get a copy of this album. In my case, I cannot stand those three bands. I cannot stand German Power Metal. I live in a remote village in a remote valley in the remote Scotland, just to avoid German Power Metal. I have also made sure that my neighbours do not listen to German Power Metal. I am therefore not the right person to judge Wolfram. Noone else in this magazine is qualified either. I cannot stand this album and that is all I can say. Sorry !!
*

Yyrkoon "Oniric Transition" CD (Velvet Music)

Another untraditional French metal album, brought to us by Velvet Music. The basis is Black Metal, but this album are also strongly influenced by keltic folk music, guitar masturbation music, classic music, progressive rock and goth rock. The material on this music are a blend of melodic and brutal metal. The music is good and this album leave no doubt that Yyrkoon is a new, highly talented French band. This is a good debut album.
****

Xenomorph "Acardiacus" CD (Teutonic Existence Records)

This, for me, unknown Death Metal band from Holland, has re- released their two demo tapes on CD. The result is this CD. The music is both brutal and varied. The quality is good. In my view; this is a very under-rated release from a very under-rated band. Hopefully; a new album will follow soon because this is a band with a future. If there is any justice in the metal scene.
****(*)

Zephyrous "A Caress Of War And Wisdom" MCD (Velvet Music Int.)

This Greece band has never impressed me. This is their second release, as far as I know. The music is melodic, with Black Metal vocals. Very trendy music in 1998. Zephyrous has also included some Folk Music from their homeland on this MCD. This MCD is very typical for Black Metal anno 1998. This release is not bad, but it is not good either. Dedicated Black Metal fans will buy this release anyway.
***

This is reviews from 1998 to 2001. They do not necessary represent my opinions now.

R A T I N G ****** = A brilliant masterpiece ***** = A very good release **** = A good release *** = An average release ** = A mediocre release * = An awful relase

R A T I N G

**** = A brilliant masterpiece
* = A very good release
= A good release
* = An average release
** = A mediocre release
* = An awful relase