2015

Desolate Shrine – The Heart of the Netherworld [Finland, Death] (2015)

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Dark Descent Records | 1-13-15

Dark Descent Records | 1-13-15

It takes a large album to have a 4 minute introduction. One must have an enormous sound to justify near 5 minutes of preamble. Despite Desolate Shrine existing for a few years, this Finnish project is swooping into 2015 on the wings of much anticipation and hype. Perhaps it is becasue of the growing appreciation for newer death metal or the fact that Desolate Shrine is a one man act aided by additional vocalists. Perhaps it is becasue the cover for the project’s third release The Heart of the Netherworld looks really cool. Maybe it is becasue of the really long intro. Regardless of any explanation, Desolate Shrine is a storm which is looming on the horizon of 2015.

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Kalmankantaja – Metsänkulkija [Finland, DSBM] (2015)

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Self Released | 1-13-15

Self Released | 1-13-15

I wish I could express the level of frustration which came after learning that Kalmankantaja had four albums released in 2014. Here was a haunting depressive black metal band, whose name means “death bearer,” that released all this great material without anyone telling me. While I am slightly joking, the fact that Kalmankantaja has gone this long with out proper attention is a near tragedy since there has been an audience for atmospheric dread for decades.

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Bewitcher – Midnight Hunters [US, Black / Speed] (2015)

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Heretic Fire Records | 1-5-15

Heretic Fire Records | 1-5-15

Until black speed becomes overblown and well worn, most practitioners of this style will always be greeted with open leather arms. While the style is steeped in the constructed nostalgia of 80’s speed and black metal, to pull off this sound correctly, a band must have not only the skills to play really fast but also attitude which will instigate a bar brawl. Bewitcher is still at the demo level but three releases in, this US based band is building a congregation which is ready to worship at the altar of engine grease.

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The Temple – As Once Was [Greece, Doom] (2015)

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Self Released | 1-1-15

Self Released | 1-1-15

As the year comes to a close, so comes a slew of records scheduled for 2015 release but actually in full late 2014. This is going to be hellish for classifying. It wouldn’t really matter if these records were not worth noting. Instead of a really boring EP from a Greek traditional metal band, As Once Was has to be something of particular interest and thus really hard to discuss at the end of the year. Goddamn it.

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