NECRONOMICON & HORTUS ANIMAE "Total Metal Over Europe Tour, Pt. 2" /TS/

The first live album by Italian Avant-garde Gothic Black Metal band.
“Piove Sangue” is a very special album, that celebrates the twenty-year anniversary of the Italian Extreme Metal pioneers, twenty years since the release of their first demo tape "An Abode For Spirit And Flesh" in 1998.
It was recorded live at Banská Bystrica (Slovakia), on the last date of the Total Metal Over Europe Tour, Pt. 2, which the band held with legendary German Thrashers Necronomicon, whose vocalist, Volker "Freddy" Fredrich, appeared on stage with Hortus Animae for a raging version of Slayer’s “Raining Blood” (from which the album also takes its title, in Italian).
This live highlights a tight band in great musical shape; it is an excellent overview of the band's history, and what you can expect when you see them live.
A must for fans of Enslaved, early Opeth, Cradle Of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, Arch Enemy, as well as for all the fans of finest Extreme Metal!!
LP comes with download card for the full album + bonus track "Aqualung".
BlackHeavens Music/Aesthetic Death/Azermedoth Records/Metal Scrap Records Inc./M.A.S.D. Records, 2018 (BHM003 / ADCD046 / AZH-CD/LP-159 / MSR140/GLP / #MRCD002). Made in Poland. First press. Strictly limited to 200 copies Gatefold 140 g Vinyl.


Tracklist:

Side 1:
01. Furious Winds / Locusts 04:25
02. Chamber of Endless Nightmares 06:31
03. Doomsday 07:57

Side 2:
04. Medley 09:40
I - In Adoration of the Weeping Skies
II - Cruciatus Tacitus
III - Souls of the Cold Wind
05. There's No Sanctuary 06:36
06. Raining Blood (feat. Freddy of Necronomicon) 04:41


 

First re-release of the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Re-release includes bonus-track and new cover artwork.
Total Metal Records, 2012/2020 (TMR035-167). Made in EU.


Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.



 

First time on cassette, the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Total Metal Records, 2020 (TMR035-167/MC).


Tracklist:

Side 1
1. Invictus
2. Unleashed
3. Bloody Bastards
4. Thoughts Running Free
5. Unconquered
Playing time: 26:54 min.

Side 2
6. Upon Black Wings
7. Face to the Wall
8. Pandora’s Box
9. Before the Curtain Falls
10. Possessed by Evil 2011
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged)
Playing time: 28:01 min.

The seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Box Set includes re-release of "Invictus" on CD with new cover artwork, cassette (released for the first time) and two patches.
Total Metal Records, 2020 (TMR035-167/BX).


CD Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.


MC Tracklist:

Side 1
1. Invictus
2. Unleashed
3. Bloody Bastards
4. Thoughts Running Free
5. Unconquered
Playing time: 26:54 min.

Side 2
6. Upon Black Wings
7. Face to the Wall
8. Pandora’s Box
9. Before the Curtain Falls
10. Possessed by Evil 2011
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged)
Playing time: 28:01 min.



 

Official merch.
Ø 27mm
Hortus Animae, 2014. Made in Italy.

Official merch.
Ø 39mm
Martyr Lucifer, 2014. Made in Italy.

First re-release of the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Re-release includes bonus-track and new cover artwork.
Total Metal Records, 2012/2020 (TMR035-167/DT). 


Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.

First re-release of the second full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon were one of the many Underground Thrash bands that didn't gain the recognition or respect they truly deserved. Hailing from Germany, they never broke through and achieved the level of acclaim or renown as the 'Big Three' of German Thrash, those being Kreator, Destruction and Sodom.
"Apocalyptic Nightmare" originally was released in 1987 and shows a band capable to truly catch the dark and brutal German Thrash Metal spirit. The music on here is raw, straightforward Thrash Metal the way it used to be played in the early 80s. There is a big influence from Destruction present, and to a lesser extent from Sodom's first few records. A gritty production increases the intensity present on many of the songs, with simple yet effective, 'rough' sounding riffs played at a high pace driving them forward. Adding to this is the guitar tone, which is scratchy with a lot of treble present. The vocals are harsh yells that sound undeniably German, complimenting the style of riffing nicely.
Necronomicon are still active today after 30 years in the Underground and they are still playing Thrash Metal, so that should tell you enough about their credibility. If you're into obscure and evil Thrash Metal, you will definetely love this!!
Limited to 500 copies (150 black + 350 purple) vinyl with poster, insert and 425gsm heavy cardboard cover. 
High Roller Records, 1987/2014 (HRR 341). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. The Ancient Ones 6:40
2. Apocalyptic Nightmare 6:27
3. The Following Century (Darkland II) 6:20

Side B
4. Rhetorical Dictums 5:14
5. In Memory 5:49
6. Broken Illusions 5:36
7. Retributive Strike 5:55

Total playing time: 42:01 min.

First re-release of the third full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Formed in 1984, the band from Lörrach, Baden-Württemberg, could have made it big, if only they hadn’t fallen prey to the wrong record label back in the days… be that as it may, Necronomicon never gave in, and they are still here today. “Escalation” certainly one of the most successful releases by Necronomicon and has reached cult status. It was recorded and mixed during the year 1987 at the Zuckerfabrik Studio, Stuttgart. When musicians wrote the songs, they wanted to leave the dark path of the two previous productions and musically to sound broader and more diverse… somehow more mature. And they must be very proud of the result. According to the reactions by fans & press, all these goals were met. The band had developed a much more focused approach to the songwriting, delivered a tighter and faster performance, and also Freddy’s vocals had changed. Compared to the former albums, they had become a lot harsher, and a lot more unique.
In general, this album is said to be the most convincing of Necronomicon’s first three outputs. The response was incredible, band gained worldwide attention and got a lot of great reviews. For the first time, Necronomicon earned a little money with one of their releases, because Gama Records held the exclusive rights only up to a certain sales volume... they simply had not reckoned with the success. The release of "Escalation" was followed by band's legendary East European tour that should herald the breakthrough for the band before then the big bang should follow. Necronomicon recorded “Escalation” as a three piece, as bassist Lars “Lala“ Honeck had left the band. But on the European tour, Michael Mörgelin came in as band's new bass player. 
“Escalation” comes with a bunch of great Thrash Metal tunes, some of which are even regarded as small classics, like the opener “Death Toll” and “Cold Ages (Dark Land 3)”. Only “Dirty Minds” is a bit unusual, being more classic Hard Rock than Thrash Metal. Memorable and razorblade-like riffs, galloping basslines and precise drumming are some of the qualities that can be found here. Everything sounds clear and no instrument overlaps the other. "Escalation" enjoys of a healthy wall of sound that would please any Thrash Metal fan! It's a highly recommended album for Thrash and classic Metal listeners!!
Limited to 500 copies (150 black + 350 mustard/black splatter) vinyl with poster, 425 gsm heavy cardboard cover and insert. 
High Roller Records, 1988/2015 (HRR 433). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Death Toll 6:09 
2. Black Forest 2:21 
3. Dirty Minds 3:40 
4. Skeletal Remains 3:27

Side B
1. Murder Of Profit 3:55 
2. ...And The Night Will Be Silent 4:29 
3. Mosh The Abc 2:14 
4. Cold Ages (Darkland III) 6:40

Total playing time: 32:55 min.
 

First re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 366 copies double black vinyls with 7 bonus tracks, including "Blind Destruction" demo (1985), housed in gatefold embossed  425 gsm heavy cardboard cover with insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2010 (HRR 115). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. Black vinyl.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Side C
9. Iron Charm
10. Possessed By Evil
11. Insanity
12. Blind Destruction

Side D
13. Bloody Revenge
14. Possessed By Evil
15. Blind Destruction

Tracks A1-B4 taken from "Necronomicon" LP 1986;

Tracks C1-D1 taken from "Blind Destruction" Demo 1985, remastered;
Tracks D2-D3 taken from "Break Out - German Metal Tracks No. 2" compilation LP 1986.

 

First re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 100 copies double Gold Vinyls with 7 bonus tracks, including "Blind Destruction" demo (1985), housed in gatefold embossed  425 gsm heavy cardboard cover with insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2010 (HRR 115). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. Gold vinyl.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Side C
9. Iron Charm
10. Possessed By Evil
11. Insanity
12. Blind Destruction

Side D
13. Bloody Revenge
14. Possessed By Evil
15. Blind Destruction

Tracks A1-B4 taken from "Necronomicon" LP 1986;

Tracks C1-D1 taken from "Blind Destruction" Demo 1985, remastered;
Tracks D2-D3 taken from "Break Out - German Metal Tracks No. 2" compilation LP 1986.

 

Second re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 150 copies black vinyl with poster, 425 gsm heavy cardboard cover and insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2014 (HRR 340). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. 


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Total playing time: 37:13 min.

 

Third re-release of the debut full-length album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 500 copies (250 black + 250 transparent ultra-clear) vinyl with poster, insert and 425gsm heavy cardboard cover. 
High Roller Records, 1986/2018 (HRR 340). Made in Germany.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Total playing time: 37:13 min.

 

The second single by the Italian Symphonic Gothic Doom/Black Metal band.
Hortus Animae are back with a new Maxi Single, that includes three various versions of the new song "There’s No Sanctuary", one of which features the Norwegian Queen of Gothic Rock/Metal Liv Kristine!
CD also includes four cover songs from the Kings of Norwegian Black Metal: Immortal, Burzum, Emperor, and Mayhem!!
In total, more than 40 minutes of new dark music. The soundtrack to old grudges resurfacing.
This is the first release featuring the new logo made by Christophe Szpajdel, the Lord of Logos (Moonspell, Emperor, Borknagar, Dimmu Borgir, Nunslaughter, etc.).
A must have for fans of the finest Extreme Metal!!
BlackHeaven Music/Azermedoth Records, 2016 (AZH-CD-233 / BHM001). Made in Mexico.


Tracklist:
1. There´s No Sanctuary (with Liv Kristine)
2. Blashyrkh (Mighty Ravendark) (Immortal Cover)
3. Dunkelheit (Burzum Cover)
4. Inno A Satana (Emperor Cover)
5. Pure Fucking Armageddon (Mayhem Cover)
6. There´s No Sanctuary (Martyr's way mix)
7. There´s No Sanctuary (with Liv Kristine / edit)
Total playing time: 42:58

The fourth full-length album by Italian Progressive Black Metal band.
Compared to the Symphonic Black Metal of the early years, Hortus Animae have moved towards a melodic Avant-garde Death-Black Metal, which incorporates elements of Dark, Progressive and Electronica.
In Hortus Animae’s music always crossed different styles, and the new album is no exception. Here we have classic Black Metal, Gothic and even Prog! The musicians always gravitated around Progressive Rock, but this tendency is more visible on this new album. That said, the music does not become too eclectic and marginal. All together, it sounds very harmonic, nothing gets out. This is clearly a band that is completely unafraid to follow their instincts, and that factor grants the whole record an authenticity that is too often lacking in albums by bands that want to do everything by the book.
Vocals are equally changeable but everything works fluidly and all the pieces get together admirably. Neo-classical piano runs add ghostly atmosphere and it’s near impossible to guess what sort of lunacy is going to unveil itself next from this melting pot of an album.
The songwriting on show keeps the listener on their toes. Conceptually more interesting and stylistically more intriguing than in the past. 
This is Secular Music worthy of praise and with so much going on the eccentric trip is a highly involving one.
This gripping album should pick your interest if you have the open mindedness to keep up with it!
Flicknife Records, 2014 (SHARPCD14064). Made in UK. First press.


Tracklist:
1. God and His Disgusting Children 07:18 
2. Blood of the Earth / The Truth Against the World 07:43
3. Dystopian Apocalypse 06:29
4. At the End of Doomsday 11:23
5. The Poison of the Naga 08:43
6. Impromptu Op. II / Pain Relieved 03:58 
7. Chamber of Endless Nightmares 06:53
8. Aqualung (Jethro Tull cover) 06:20
Total playing time: 58:47

The debut full-length studio album by Italian Dark/Gothic Rock/Metal band.
Amazing Dark Gothic solo project of Martyr Lucifer, singer of Hortus Animae and Space Mirrors.
Line-up features drummer Adrian Erlandsson (Paradise Lost, At the Gates, Vallenfyre, ex- Cradle of Filth), bassist Vrolok (Ygg, ex- Nokturnal Mortum), Grom (ex- Ancient) and various members of Italian bands like Hortus Animae, Doomsword, and Psychofagist, amongst others.
Imagine Katatonia and Tiamat mixing with Sisters of Mercy, The Cure and Joy Division! Excellent!!
Live Tribe Music/Buil2Kill Records, 2011 (B2K 0010). Made in Italy. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Janus 00:52
2. Farewell to Graveland 04:11
3. Turmoil 04:25
4. From Under the Ground 04:12
5. Noctua Munda 04:52
6. Onironauta (The Demon of the Earth) 07:20
7. L'albero ed Io 03:23
8. The Dustflower 04:34
9. They Said with Time All Wounds Will Heal 06:26
10. The Horseride 10:10
11. Waiting for the Dawn 05:46
Total playing time: 56:17 min.

The second full-length studio album by Italian Dark/Gothic Rock/Metal band.
It’s considered by band as not a full-length album, just a collection of three different EPs of the artist's unreleased material, which differ in terms of sound and atmosphere, but are united by the melancholy of Martyr Lucifer's dark soul. The collection gathers trilogy of "Shard One", "Shard Two" and "Shard Three" EPs.
Featuring members of At the Gates, Paradise Lost, Brujeria, The Haunted, Ancient and Nokturnal Mortum, this work raises points of interest not only from a musical point of view, but also from the occult and symbolic ones. The artist has accustomed us, since his solo debut, to complete works that offer not only sound, but also a complete artwork with puzzles to discover and interpret. And "Shards" is no exception.
Outline Rekordz, 2013 (OR002). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Shard One 00:05 
2. A Lesson in Murder 02:38 
3. The Sunrise in May 03:57 
4. The Horseride (Radio Edit) 04:28 
5. Shard Two 00:06 
6. Another Place, Another Time 06:16 
7. House of Sleep (Amorphis cover) 05:37 
8. Poison Heart (Ramones cover) 05:00 
9. In Upside Down Woods I Walk 06:50 
10. Shard Three 00:06 
11. Oddities 04:57 
12. And Still We Wonder Why 03:16 
13. The Morning Star 08:15
Total playing time: 51:31 min.

First time on vinyl, the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Pressed on Black (200 copies), Blue Translucent (200 copies) and Surprise-Colored (100 copies) Vinyl. Comes in Gatefold cover with a hard-paper colour innersleeve.
Total Metal Records/G.U.C. Records, 2022 (TMR035-167/LP | G.U.C. 040-21). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:07
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
Running time: 26:48 min.

Side B
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Running time: 23:52 min.

Total playing time:  50:40 min.



 

The third full-length studio album by Italian Dark/Gothic Rock/Metal band.
"Gazing At The Flocks" continues the style of the two predecessors, but is oriented towards an Alternative Gothic Rock, with a certain taste coming from the Dark Italian scene.
BlackHeavens Music/Seahorse Recordings, 2018 (SRCD310 / BHM005). Made in Italy. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Veins of Sand Part 1
2. Veins of Sand Part 2
3. Bloodwaters
4. Feeders, aka Heterotrophy / Saprotrophy
5. Leda and the Swan Part 1
6. Leda and the Swan Part 2
7. Wolf of the Gods
8. Somebody Super Like You
9. Benighted & Begotten
10. Spiderqueen
11. Flocks
12. Halkyone's Legacy, aka The Song of Empty Heavens


Samples: https://martyrlucifer.bandcamp.com/album/gazing-at-the-flocks

Deluxe Edition of the third full-length studio album by Italian Dark/Gothic Rock/Metal band.
"Gazing At The Flocks" continues the style of the two predecessors, but is oriented towards an Alternative Gothic Rock, with a certain taste coming from the Dark Italian scene.
The Deluxe Edition contains second CD, "Oniric Session (Live In Domination Studio)", which offers alternative versions of old and new songs of the band - an interesting experience for all the fans of the project!
BlackHeavens Music/Seahorse Recordings, 2018 (SRCD310 / BHM004). Made in Italy. First press.


Tracklist:

Disc One - “Gazing At The Flocks”
1. Veins of Sand Part 1
2. Veins of Sand Part 2
3. Bloodwaters
4. Feeders, aka Heterotrophy / Saprotrophy
5. Leda and the Swan Part 1
6. Leda and the Swan Part 2
7. Wolf of the Gods
8. Somebody Super Like You
9. Benighted & Begotten
10. Spiderqueen
11. Flocks
12. Halkyone's Legacy, aka The Song of Empty Heavens

Disc Two - “Oniric Session (Live In Domination Studio)”
1. Veins of Sand Pt. 1 & 2
2. Oddities
3. Turmoil
4. Leda and the Swan
5. The Horseride
6. Changes
7. From Under the Ground
8. And Still We Wonder Why
9. The Morning Star
10. Time Will Crawl
11. Lady Bird


Samples: https://martyrlucifer.bandcamp.com