by Chris Wheeler | Oct 22, 2013 | Critiques, Critiques d'Albums
Toxic Holocaust
Chemistry of Consciousness
Relapse Records
2013
Portland Oregon’s, Toxic Holocaust have been a jewel in the “thrash revival crown”. Maintaining an rebelliously effective DIY attitude, vocalist Joel Grind and co. have been churning out potent albums of speed, thrash and black metal elements into a cohesive blend of audible fury! Enter this year’s, Chemistry of Consciousness, and the group find themselves in the same pole position.
Immediately, the album strikes an effective blow with Awaken the Serpent, which displays all the rapture and virulence fans will no doubt salivate over. Silence continues the momentum and recalls Motörhead’s classic, Overkill both in pounding aggression and blistering guitar solo. Acid Fuzz also calls to mind vintage Motörhead, even long after the song is done, the main riff will be tough to forget! Point of reference, Slayer, makes an appearance too on Salvation is Waiting and Deny the Truth. Both imbue a heady dose of vicious thrash streamlined with refined purpose.
Slower, mid-paced selections, Rat Eater and Out of the Fire (released on youtube by Relapse Records), show Toxic Holocaust’s steady rhythm section, maintained by catchy verses and unfortunately, one-dimensional drumming. If there is one fatal flaw on Chemistry of Consciousness, it’s the drumming. On most songs, the drums play a very dull, predictable and tedious pattern. Nikki Bellmore doesn’t add any twists or turns to his performance, but languishes incessantly with standard meter. However, what allows this album to work are the riffs and rhythms that stand out, particularly on Acid Fuzz.
Featuring a back to their “roots” styling, Chemistry of Consciousness shows a resurgence of the band’s old logo and colourful album cover art, which may be a sigh of relief to some purists. The album is not entirely lost on its disappointments, as many of the numbers can attest. Continuing the palpable energy Toxic Holocaust have been known for, their brand of “punky, black metal/thrash” will only deepen the love fans have for this U.S. band and draw attention from the uninitiated, if they can get past the drumming.
Standout Tracks: Awaken the Serpent, Rat Eater, Salvation is Waiting, Acid Fuzz
7.5/10
Chris
by Chris Wheeler | Oct 9, 2013 | Critiques d'Albums
Ihsahn
« Das Seelenbrechen »
Candlelight Records
2013
Ihsahn had slowly introduced progressive elements into the Emperor musical lexicon that eventually was best suited for solo work after 2001’s, Prometheus…. Four albums into his own discography, fans have begun to understand his musical vision, albeit with mixed results. So what to make of Ihsahn’s latest album, Das Seelenbrechen? Clearly, Ihsahn isn’t someone to rest on his laurels and release “run-of-the-mill” material, but a man with a vision and the confidence to challenge listeners time and time again. How far has he thought outside the box this time?
Beginning the album with Hilber, Ihsahn knows how to build tension by layering various ideas, and creating manic, jilted rhythms. Centering around one central theme, the instruments encircle the core in a beautifully, uncomfortable way. In fact, many of the songs on Das Seelenbrchen are “uncomfortable”. Tacit 2, Sub Alter and See all display a very eclectic side to Ihsahn’s pension for progressive music, even going as far as introducing electronic ideas. Bathed in spastic drumming and walls of noise, these songs perfectly divide the album between the chaos and serenity others offer contrarily.
Vocally, Ihsahn swings between his trademark rasp and clean style which meld wonderfully in numbers, like Regen, a soft piano piece that rises in intensity to full on epic guitar solos and dramatic choir. Likewise, Tacit continues the flare for the dramatic with rich trumpet and grandiose power while M demonstrates Ihsahn’s enthusiasm for Pink Floyd! However, as Pulse and Rec, sound a bit misplaced, even unnecessary, the album continues to intrigue; where is he going next?
Being such a legendary figure in Black Metal’s history, should fans idly accept anything Ihsahn releases? Absolutely, yes! Das Seelenbrechen is never boring enough to abandon completely. Songs are never predictable but challenge the listener to repeat listens. For all the bands that repeatedly churn out expected albums and keep the Metal genre stagnant, let Ihsahn’s latest work inspire you!
Standout Tracks: Regen, Nacl, Tacit, M
9/10
Chris
by Chris Wheeler | Oct 6, 2013 | Critiques d'Albums
Ramming Speed
« Doomed to Destroy, Destined to Die »
Prosthetic Records
2013
Within the last ten years there has been a steady influx of thrash metal bands reclaiming the glory days of the 1980’s, when tight black jeans and white Nike high tops were the official uniform of a bevy of Metal fans! With bands such as Evile, Havok and Bonded by Blood, a new generation can finally enjoy THEIR brand of thrash while enjoying the Classics of the past. Hailing from Boston Massachusetts, Ramming Speed is certainly a heady band of thrash revivalists combining the power of Speed Metal with the bombast of Grind!
Since their inception in 2007, Ramming Speed have upped the ante for traditional Thrash Metal with their first Ep, Full Speed Ahead and now have unveiled Doomed to Destroy, Destined to Die, a massive attack of no-holds barred thrash with gritty grind for good measure! The title track perfectly admonishes the band’s pension for all out chaos and gusto, with screaming guitars and blasts beats and sets to right tone for the rest of the album. Anticipating Failure, Gorgon’s Eye, Ashes and Extinction Event all prove Ramming Speed’s “no frills Metal mission”. Incorporating very little finesse or melody, Doomed to Destroy, Destined to Die is an ugly album, rife with beautiful urgency!
Vocally, Pete Gallagher’s throat produces a hearty death growl interspersed with the occasional raspy retch to full effect, especially on Dead Flags. His vocal also lends credence to slower, head banging numbers like Anthems of Despair, in which he sounds vaguely similar to Slipknot’s Corey Taylor, particularly during the song’s verses. Anthems of Despair isn’t the only song to include a stylistic change from the thrash/grind charge. Ministry of Truth and Hollow Giants are also slower in pace but no less seething in virulence. Musically, the songs stand out from the rest of the album, which is advantageous seeing as without those, the album may feel like one long song, which may be a tad off putting to some.
With only one full length under their collective belts, (2008’s Brainwreck) Ramming Speed have charged out of the gate with Doomed to Destroy, Destined to Die matching the intensity and upping the venom! An album with force and conviction, the Boston lads will surely win over fans and completely destroy city after city on tour with this one! So pull up those black jeans, tie up those white sneakers and push those arms through you favorite Thrash Metal band shirt, ‘cause Ramming Speed may head your way!
Here’s the title track put on youtube by their label Prosthetic Records.
Standout Tracks: Anthems of Despair, Ashes, Hollow Giants, Dead Flags
8/10
Chris
by Chris Wheeler | Oct 1, 2013 | Critiques d'Albums
In Solitude
« Sister »
Metal Blade Records
2013
2011 saw Sweden’s, In Solitude, really come into their own with “The World. The Flesh. The Devil.” not to mention a successful tour alongside country brothers, Watain. Fans have eagerly anticipated the release of “Sister” with ample enthusiasm. Here In Solitude continue their pension for Heavy Metal based ideas but have expanded their musical lexicon to include much more on “Sister”.
Beginning with album opener, “He Comes”, the Swedes set an ominous mood with soft acoustic guitar strumming/plucking to elevate the tension that is at the core of the album. “Death Knows Where”, displays head bobbing verses followed by an infectious chorus that’s sure to please the “die hards” live. What is interesting is that there seems to be a strong Heavy Metal presence, but also an underlying influence of 1980’s Alternative Rock! Songs on “Sister” gravitate slightly from Mercyful Fate –isms to heavier versions of The Mission or Depeche Mode. “A Buried Sun” exemplifies this both in its plodding nature and in Pelle Ahman’s vocal delivery. Anguished and tortured, the vocals dispel any notion of hope or levity.
In addition, Jarboe Living makes a special quest vocal appearance on “Horses in the Ground”, with a chilling whisper to accompany the tune’s frantic pace, while on “Pallid Hands”, the band display an affinity for early 1980’s New Wave before plunging headlong into traditional Heavy Metal bravado. Being apt to unpredictability, “Inmost Nigredo” closes the album with a dark, doom leaning crunch, perfect for head banging and raising the Horns!
Production wise, “Sister’s” sound is not overly pristine or digital. There’s a slight muffled quality that comes across only to add to the band’s fervent passion for the “old days”. The recording allows the instruments to breathe and open up space. The album isn’t a wall of sound but does permit keyboards to creep through and add to the prophetic stress heard on “Lavender”.
Three albums in since their inception in 2005, In Solitude have once again proven why they are relevant today in “Sister”. Though it may not win “album of the year”, the album is an interesting enough listen to hear while sharing a beer with friends. The occult, magic and dismal mystery will capture the imagination of fans as songs are marred in traditional Metal but with characteristics not usually acquainted with The Dark One. This could be a step towards a new direction….we’ll see.
Standout Tracks: “Death Knows Where”, “Pallid Hands”, “Sister”
8.5/10
by Chris Wheeler | Sep 23, 2013 | Critiques d'Albums
Tyr
Valkyrja
Metal Blade Records
2013
Hailing from the Faroe Islands, Tyr have been something of an enigma, blending folk with progressive guitar rhythms and a unique brand of vocal style to establish themselves as something beyond the conventional norms of “Folk Metal”. This year’s latest offering, “Valkyrja” sees the band ever expanding their sound and honing their musical ideas further!
Opener, “Blood of Heroes” is a somewhat traditional affair as Tyr display what has propelled them this far already; rousing, harmonious vocals against a backdrop of Swedish influenced riffing, akin to Amon Amarth and a stampede of feverish drumming. “Mare of my Night” delves into dark lyrical themes of falling victim to the advances of a female antagonist, much like a succubus or a Greek siren. Again, Tyr deliver solid songs but nothing truly out of the ordinary from what they’ve released before.
Songs on “Valkyrja” are short and to the point, keeping the listeners interest long enough for the memorable numbers to start to creep in. Case in point, “The Lay of Our Love” includes a surprising guest appearance from Leaves’ Eyes/Atrocity vocalist, Liv Kristine who shares singing duties with Heri Joensen on this “ballad” of sorts while, “Hel Hath No Fury” goes right for the jugular in energy and purpose. Excelling in a sweeping guitar solo cut right from the “1980’s heavy metal cloth”, Tyr maintain a nice balance between modern Metal and the days of yore. “Nation” also demonstrates this juxtaposition exploring more traditional Metal ideas.
As much as there are moments of mi- paced honour to the past, Tyr slip songs in that flourish in aggression, vicious execution and raw exuberance! “Another Fallen Victim”, “Lady of the Slain” and “Grindavisan” all punch the listener square in the face albeit with more melodious elements in the latter.
Ultimately, Tyr’s “Valkyrja” is an album that may sound uninspired initially, particularly the first half, but once “The Lay of Our Love” kicks in, it’s a satisfying listen showcasing unique ideas and a willingness to venture out of their comfort zone. Even the two covers of Maiden’s, “Where Eagles Dare” and Pantera’s, “Cemetery Gates” brazenly parade where Tyr are in 2013! Victorious!
Standout Tracks: “Hel Hath No Fury”, “The Lay of Our Love”, “Grindavisan”
8/10
