МУЗИКА

The fourth re-release of the fourth full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic/Operatic Death Metal band.
During 1995, when many of their contemporaries were rooted deep in the extreme Metal spectrum, Christofer Johnsson and Co. decided to broaden their horizon to bring forth all their musical influences to such an extent that, despite their complete stylistically departure (which rightly unfitting to many), onlookers and open-minded fanatics can always find many things to ponder upon all sorts of classical references and can conceive all eleven songs with renewed interpretation.
Stylistically, "Lepaca Kliffoth" retains the aggressive riffing and sheds the harsh growls of the band's previous Death Metal output, while also incorporating more elements of traditional Heavy Metal (conventional, but with an undeniable dark feeling) and more pronounced Gothic and Symphonic elements, often leading to this album being viewed as a transitional album in Therion's discography. Adding the enticing bass-baritone voice of Hans Groning and the soprano singer Claudia Maria Mokri, who has already refined Celtic Frost's albums with her voice, reinforced the diversity of the album. Also, the dominance of keyboards, more Persian influences, more Progressive melodies, Fredrik Isaksson’s ever flowing basslines, Christofer Johnsson singing in a newer Hardcore way, established the combined songwriting and inventive prowess of the band. Notably, this record also beholds a production appropriate to their multi-faceted, partly Dark Symphonic Death Metal in the broadest sense.
The title refers to the qlippoth (in the Zohar, Lurianic Kabbalah, and Hermetic Qabalah, the qlippoth are the representation of evil or impure spiritual forces in Jewish mysticism), the opposites of the sefirot. Sefirot meaning emanations, are the 10 attributes/emanations in Kabbalah, through which Ein Sof ("infinite space") reveals itself and continuously creates both the physical realm and the seder hishtalshelut (the chained descent of the metaphysical Four Worlds).
"Sorrows of the Moon" originally performed by Celtic Frost, based on the poem "Tristesse de la lune" by Charles Baudelaire, with completely new lyrics translated by Therion. The first guitar riff in "Melez" sounds identical to the Scorpions' song "They Need a Million".
Enticing news in that sense for the old or newly exposed souls, this record comes alive again as part of Hammerherat’s re-release offensive in the remastered CD version (with startling double bonus tracks) now and then the LP version a little later.
Hammerheart Records, 1995/2022 (HHR 2022-16). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:
1. The Wings of the Hydra 03:33
2. Mele 04:06
3. Arrival of the Darkest Queen 00:54
4. The Beauty in Black 03:12
5. Riders of Theli 02:51
6. Black 05:02
7. Darkness Eve 05:19
8. Sorrows of the Moon (Celtic Frost cover) 03:26
9. Let the New Day Begin 03:35
10. Lepaca Kliffoth 04:26
11. Evocation of Vovin 04:54
Total playing time: 41:18 min.

The seventeenth full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic Metal band.
With defiant determination rarely found in a metal band, Therion have always and exclusively done what they deemed right. Never did they stick to a successful formula, never did they give in to fickle friends like expectation, commercial aspects or trends. Now, more than three decades into their storied career, they actually do something every fan had hoped for but never actually thought possible. “We wanted to give fans what they want this time,” is how musical mastermind Christofer Johnsson describes the second part in a trilogy.
According to Christofer Johnsson, this second part of the trilogy attempts aimed towards a "more moody and melancholic" sound, that rekindles the "mystic, melancholic aura" of their groundbreaking work "Vovin".
“Leviathan II” is a mystic, melancholic, epic, heavy, orchestral, catchy and atmospheric sonic feast, distilling the essence of Therion in magnificent songs!
Strictly limited to 500 copies, Orange with Black/White Splatter Vinyl in Gatefold Cover.
(6124 | NB 6124-1). Made in Germany. Pressed in France. First press.


Tracklist:

Side I
1. Aeon Of Maat 2:37
2. Litany Of The Fallen 4:11
3. Alchemy Of The Soul 4:11
4. Lunar Coloured Fields 5:40
5. Lucifuge Rofocale 4:43
6. Marijin Min Nar 5:46

Side II
7. Hades And Elysium 4:23
8. Midnight Star 4:43
9. Cavern Cold As Ice 3:26
10. Codex Gigas 4:07
11. Pazuzu 4:28

Total playing time: 48:15 min.

The second re-release of the ninth full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic/Operatic Metal band.
"Secret Of The Runes" is another perfect masterpiece made by Therion. A unique album full of musical genius, classical brilliance and fascinating Nordic tones!
 This time, Therion challenged to make a concept album, which concept is based on Norse mythology. Norse mythology is said to have nine different worlds or planes and, in this album, each song gets one of the names and concepts of nine worlds.
"Secret Of The Runes" sounds very different from any other albums of Therion, and it’s also one of the best albums Therion has ever made. On "Secret Of The Runes", Therion’s music style becomes more various than their previous albums. Aside from the Operatic choruses and Aymphony orchestra, they add many Scandinavian sounds such as Black and Viking Metal. More surprisingly, the music fits with the concept perfectly. This album is not only a perfect combination of music and concept, but also a unique album in Therion’s career. It is an extremeness of feeling, containing epic, majesty, beauty, peace, and passion, wih magnificent atmosphere of Scandinavian Epic Metal, which Therion has never composed before. Moreover, the musicianship in this album is better than all of their previous albums. The ability of Operatic vocals, used in this album, their best work so far.
Cover artwork features nine Scandinavian runes with the Elder Futhark alphabet, each corresponding to a certain mythological world.
Christofer Johnsson's Gothic flair for the dramatic has never been more pronounced than on this album, and the life he breathes into Underground Metal will make up for the breath it takes away from its listeners. Therion continues to be one of the most painstakingly original acts, and even those who think the band strays too far from their roots with each subsequent album have to marvel at the musicianship and imagination Therion displays on "Secret Of The Runes".
Hammerheart Records, 2001/2022 (HHR 2022-63). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:
1. Ginnungagap 6:09
2. Midgård 5:04
3. Asgård 4:08
4. Jotunheim 3:43
5. Schwarzalbenheim 5:18
6. Ljusalfheim 3:54
7. Muspelheim 2:15
8. Nifelheim 4:36
9. Vanaheim 4:04
10. Helheim 3:18
11. Secret Of The Runes 5:30
Total playing time: 47:59 min.

The first re-release of the eleventh full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic/Operatic Metal band.
One of the two classic Therion twin albums from 2004, "Sirius B", was released on the same day with "Lemuria" album, and it's definitely one of the best in their career. The album title refers to the star Sirius B. In the same way as "Lemuria", this album is a clear proof that Therion has left its “barbarian” beginnings to move on into something more mature and more harmonic, and of course a lot more Symphonic. "Sirius B" is certainly the calmed and Symphonic brother of this couple of albums, and it’s just great!
"Sirius B" is a lot longer than "Lemuria", lasting for about 57 minutes, resulting in the longest songs included in both albums: seven of the eleven songs of this album are longer than 5 minutes, and the longest is over 7 minutes long. But, if you think that a very long song is boring, you’re wrong: all the songs are very interesting. But, while "Lemuria" is aggressive, "Sirius B" is slower and involves the orchestra and the operatic chorus a lot more than its twin. This can only result in very beautiful songs, with very beautiful lyrics.
The lyrics of the songs talk about eastern mythology, journeys to that part of the world, and local legends from there. There’s a rough “West/East” split between the lyrical themes on "Lemuria" and "Sirius B". "Lemuria" takes on Western Europe and the Americas, while "Sirius B" primarily handles various parts of Asia. There is one crossover in the form of Greek/Roman mythology; both albums have several songs pertaining to that. The lyrics reasonably well written considering that they dabble in all sorts of weird occult mythology.
With a more Power Metal mentality and even more obscure esoteric subjects, "Sirius B" (and to a lesser extent it's sister "Lemuria") burst on almost every track with power and passion. From the first four wild songs to the later odder music, and even the slow, ominous title track, "Sirius B" never wastes a note. Every second of this thing is audio heaven. There is not a single song here that feels like a B-Side, rather every single work feels like it deserves its own Single.
Do not hear this album hoping for any degree of subtlety or Doom Metal mood. Only listen to this if you want exiting, crazy, fun, wild music by the wild beast of Swedish Symphonic Metal.
A must-listen for any Symphonic Metal enthusiast! 
Hammerheart Records, 2004/2022 (HHR 2022-65). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:
1. The Blood Of Kingu 5:45
2. Son Of The Sun 5:35
3. The Khlysti Evangelist 5:38
4. Dark Venus Persephone 4:02
5. Kali Yuga Part 1 3:27
6. Kali Yuga Part 2 5:48
7. The Wondrous World Of Punt 7:19
8. Melek Taus 5:31
9. Call Of Dagon 4:14
10. Sirius B 3:43
11. Voyage Of Gurdjieff (The Fourth Way) 5:56
Total playing time: 56:58 min.

The second re-release of the third full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic Death/Doom Metal band.
In Ancient Greek, ho Drakon ho Megas (ὁ Δράκων ὁ Μέγας) means "The Great Dragon". Uttering "Ho Drakon Ho Megas" is typically used at the end of ceremonies and rituals when conjuring the Draconian force in a magical order Dragon Rouge, in which head of the band, Christofer Johnsson, used to be a member.
Judging by the sudden change in style, like the band had somehow previewed the whole Symphonic Black Metal movement, it’s clear that Johnsson was attempting to go with a bang. Although the album is only 37 minutes long (and although only the closing suite seems to catch an actual Symphonic atmosphere), "Symphony Masses: Ho Drakon Ho Megas" displays plenty of variation during its mostly flowing course. The album displays the same C# tuning and marching rhythms, with very little faster sections. Fortunately, there’s more than Samael venturing: there are also minor harmonic scales, Ska-like off-beat rhythms and cinematic sounds and production enough to make it a fuller listening, even if not a more consistent one. The vocals are sometimes hoarse, sometimes distorted or radio-sounding, rarely even (*gulp*) actually sung by Johnsson himself. Some songs, like “Powerdance”, even boast interesting riffs or instrumental sections. At the end of the day, it may be a modest album, but Symphony Masses proved nonetheless to be the band’s breakthrough.
If you appreciate "Lepaca Kliffoth" though, then you wouldn’t want to miss this one.
Hammerheart Records, 1993/2022 (HHR 2022-15). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:
1. Baal Reginon 2:12
2. Dark Princess Naamah 4:19
3. A Black Rose 4:02
4. Symphoni Drakonis Inferni 2:34
5. Dawn Of Perishness 5:53
6. The Eye Of The Eclipse 5:02
7. The Ritual Dance Of The Yezidis 2:10
8. Powerdance 3:08
9. Procreation Of Eternity 4:06
10. Ho Drakon Ho Megas Act 1 - The Oragon Throne 1:26
11. Ho Drakon Ho Megas Act 2 - Fire And Ecstacy 2:52
Total playing time: 37:44 min.

The fifth full-length album by legendary Swedish Symphonic/Operatic Metal band.
Therion’s "Theli" may be the most essential Symphonic Metal album ever released. It’s the kind of work that is necessary to listen to at least once in a lifetime of fandom. It’s an album worth exploring thoroughly for Therion fans. What makes Theli stand out among other ambitious releases is the consequent will to fuse Operatic and Symphonic elements with Doom, Gothic, and even Power Metal in equal parts to invent something extremely courageous and completely unrivaled in originality. It’s something new from an intellectual point of view, but also from an Atmospheric and Technical approach. This album features sophisticated tracks including dark and raw vocals, full choirs, gripping riffing, vivid rhythm work, and the crowning keyboard orchestrations. Classical music and Heavy Metal have rarely come into such close contact as on this release. At a time when the Metal scene seemed to be waning in power, bands like Amorphis, Moonspell, and Therion kept an entire scene alive with their determined approach to inventing and reinventing themselves with each new release.
Most of old fans first listened to Therion’s "In Mega Therion" when it was included on a double DVD collection as part of Nuclear Blast’s “Monsters Of Metal” series. There are a very few precious moments in your life when you listen to a song and realize that it will change your perception of music. Listening to this song was one of those moments. The beauty and the beast mixture of heavy riffs and powerful raw male vocals with male and female choirs was special enough. When the incredible solo with dueling guitar and keyboard came up, followed by a section of sacred-sounding choirs, you got heavy goosebumps and a racing heartbeat. The conclusion kicked in, with enchanting piano and trumpet, and you had tears in your eyes. Choirs, pianos, violins, and even trumpets in a Metal song? This was something completely new to all Metalheads, and it shook up their world. Thanks to Therion, much of Metalheads started to listen to and to appreciate Classical Music at that young age. These long-haired Death Metal musicians had just reinvented a whole genre with a song!!
It’s hard to believe it, but the most amazing thing about "Theli" is that the rest of the album is just as amazing as the opening “Preludium” and “To Mega Therion”. The relaxing bass and the mysterious keyboard tones of “Cults Of The Shadow“ immediately will grab your intention, and the song becomes a catchy, yet diversified Symphonic Metal anthem with two different gloomy male vocalists in addition to the grandiose choirs. This song is very easy to approach and catchy from the beginning onward. The following “In The Desert Of Set” comes around with an obvious Egyptian feel. From the intro on, guitars take control and lead into passages where gracious female and male choirs interchange with both clean and harsh male vocals. The song surprises with its impressive structure that includes a short bass guitar interlude, recurring Folk elements, majestic grand piano, and faster orchestral parts. Therion put more ideas into this single impressive song than most others put into entire albums or discographies. “Nightside Of Eden” continues to convince with more Progressive, almost Space Rock-infused sounds a passionate ending with guitar solos of the highest quality. “Invocation Of Naamah” is the only faster track on the record that goes musically back to the band’s early days. The fast Melodic Death Metal verses meet the band’s typical Orchestral elements and operatic vocals for most of the rest of the song, and the final result sounds refreshingly balanced. “The Siren Of The Woods“ is by far the longest track on the record, and it’s a very appeasing and elegiac song that delivers more mysterious keyboard sounds, sacral chants, and an Epic atmosphere. It is mostly instrumental, and features almost no Metal instrumentation whatsoever. The soothing female vocals will make you think of new age music, but they also have a tender Asian Folk-like touch to them. The calm male singing that complements the female performer could have come straight from an Italian opera. Among many very impressive songs, this one is definitely Therion’s most courageous and radical, as it nearly breaks with any expectations held by critics and fans, as well as Therion’s own Doom and Death Metal ridden past. It’s very symbolic to choose exactly this title as a single. It shows the world that with Therion, you can only expect the unexpected. Despite its length, this floating lullaby definitely has its very own charm. It’s a perfect track to peacefully fall asleep to.
This was the last album on which Christofer Johnsson sang, and the final album to include any Death Metal growls until their brief appearance on 2004's "Lemuria".
There is no questioning that "Theli" is a revolutionary record!
Have fun with this mind blowing masterpiece!!
Nuclear Blast GmbH, 1996 (NB 179-2). Made in UK. Re-press.


Tracklist:
1. Preludium 1:43 
2. To Mega Therion 6:35 
3. Cults Of The Shadows 5:14 
4. In The Desert Of Set 5:29 
5. Interludium 1:48 
6. Nightside Of Eden 7:32 
7. Opus Eclipse 3:41 
8. Invocation Of Naamah 5:32 
9. The Siren Of The Woods 9:55 
10. Grand Finale / Postludium 4:05
Total playing time: 51:34 min.

The first re-release of the debut EP by legendary Swedish Death Metal band.
With their debut album, "Of Darkness…" (1991), Therion delivered a true milestone in Swedish Death Metal. Before that, they released the "Time Shall Tell" demo in 1989 and got a re-release as a 12" EP by House Of Kicks a year after. Now, 32 years later, Hammerheart Records gets it a much-deserved reissue.
Much deserved, as this has been hailed as being one of the pinnacles of the infamous early Swedish Death Metal scene. And not unjustified at all. These four tracks all have memorable hooks, catchy song structures and unparalleled dynamics. Maybe most ear-catching though are the strong vocals. Rather straightforward yet performed with such a fanatical power that they became half of the trademark of the early Therion-sound. The other half is the sound. Though being one of the earliest recordings by any band in that early Swedish scene and being recorded at the Sunlight Studios by Thomas Skogsberg, it does not have that typical Swedish buzz saw guitar sound yet. Nor has it that same Punk-based Nihilist sound that was basically the blueprint for many other bands that followed, instead Therion had more in common with early American Death Metal bands, which gave them a distinctive identity amongst their peers. Yet, they were still able to blend this all into something that sounds very Swedish nonetheless. All this together, combined with the rather dark production, makes this an EP of iconic stature, not equalled by many.
A much-deserved reissue, not only because the original 12" EP is rather hard to get. But also, to help us remind that before Therion grew into the hugely commercial giant they are today, they were a great and promising Death Metal band that helped kickstart a scene that is still so very vital even today!
Released under license and in co-operation with Therion, black vinyl in glossy cover with silver foil stamping.
Hammerheart Records, 1990/2022 (HHR 2022-13). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:

Side One
1. Time Shall Tell 5:07
2. Dark Eternity 4:45

Side Two
3. Asphyxiate With Fear 4:41
4. A Suburb To Hell 5:19

Total playing time: 19:52 min.

 

The first re-release of the debut EP by legendary Swedish Death Metal band.
With their debut album, "Of Darkness…" (1991), Therion delivered a true milestone in Swedish Death Metal. Before that, they released the "Time Shall Tell" demo in 1989 and got a re-release as a 12" EP by House Of Kicks a year after. Now, 32 years later, Hammerheart Records gets it a much-deserved reissue.
Much deserved, as this has been hailed as being one of the pinnacles of the infamous early Swedish Death Metal scene. And not unjustified at all. These four tracks all have memorable hooks, catchy song structures and unparalleled dynamics. Maybe most ear-catching though are the strong vocals. Rather straightforward yet performed with such a fanatical power that they became half of the trademark of the early Therion-sound. The other half is the sound. Though being one of the earliest recordings by any band in that early Swedish scene and being recorded at the Sunlight Studios by Thomas Skogsberg, it does not have that typical Swedish buzz saw guitar sound yet. Nor has it that same Punk-based Nihilist sound that was basically the blueprint for many other bands that followed, instead Therion had more in common with early American Death Metal bands, which gave them a distinctive identity amongst their peers. Yet, they were still able to blend this all into something that sounds very Swedish nonetheless. All this together, combined with the rather dark production, makes this an EP of iconic stature, not equalled by many.
A much-deserved reissue, not only because the original 12" EP is rather hard to get. But also, to help us remind that before Therion grew into the hugely commercial giant they are today, they were a great and promising Death Metal band that helped kickstart a scene that is still so very vital even today!
Released under license and in co-operation with Therion, limited to 250 copies Silver vinyl in glossy cover with silver foil stamping.
Hammerheart Records, 1990/2022 (HHR 2022-13). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:

Side One
1. Time Shall Tell 5:07
2. Dark Eternity 4:45

Side Two
3. Asphyxiate With Fear 4:41
4. A Suburb To Hell 5:19

Total playing time: 19:52 min.


 

The second re-release of the seventh full-length studio album by legendary Swedish Symphonic/Operatic Metal band.
The evolution of Christofer Johnsson's band from an early Death Metal outfit into one of the most influential Symphonic Metal entities of all time, which commenced at the beginning of the 90s, saw its logical conclusion with the release of "Vovin", Therion's indisputable magnum opus, the work of art that Johnsson had envisioned to create since he started to steer his band's sound into this particular direction.
"Vovin" (in Enochian occult language, means dragon) is Therion’s masterpiece and the definitive symphonic metal album. A well deserved classic! With their roots in Death Metal, Therion were one of the first to include Symphonic and Classical elements in their Metal sound in the 90s: with violins, cello, and double bass blending effortlessly with guitars, drums, and bass.
"Vovin" went on to be the band’s most successful release. Exceedingly symphonic songs like opener “The Rise Of Sodom And Gomorrah” alternate with faster numbers, and with “Eye Of Shiva” the album finds a beautiful ballad with impressive guitar solos and catchy vocals. Album highlight “Clavicula Nox” shines as an over eight-minute piece boasting acoustic guitars, strings, solo vocals, choirs, guitar solos and incomparably pleasant, sombre atmospheres, inviting the listener to lose himself completely in the music.
"Vovin" doesn't only perfectly blend Metal and the Symphonic with an exquisite balance, but has the benefit of superior production values that are just flawless, another advantage it holds over past Therion works. The album represents the culmination in every aspect of Johnsson's alchemy attempts to merge Metal music with Classical Symphonic art, and his utmost success. Even though it was released under the name Therion, Christofer Johnsson regards this as his solo album, as it was recorded entirely with studio musicians who were not members of the band.
"Vovin" is Therion's bestselling album. Selling over 150.000 copies in Europe alone, it marked the band’s place on top of the Metal scene.
Hammerheart Records, 1998/2022 (HHR 2022-61). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:
1. The Rise Of Sodom And Gomorrah 6:45
2. Birth Of Venus Illegitima 5:13
3. Wine Of Aluqah 5:02
4. Clavicula Nox 8:47
5. The Wild Hunt 3:47
6. Eye Of Shiva 6:17
7. Black Sun - Draconian Trilogy 5:08
8. The Opening 1:28
9. Morning Star 3:34
10. Black Diamonds 2:56
11. Raven Of Dispersion 5:57
Total playing time: 54:54 min.

The debut CD-release by Australian Doom Metal band.
Melbourne-based Thermal Mass were formed in 2013. At their Doom in the old-school Metal vein of Sabbath and Pentagram, the band also incorporate elements of Stoner/Sludge and other broader Metal genres.
CD comprises a core of eight tracks recorded back in 2015, plus three bonuses: one newer (2017) and a couple older (2013), all three sets recorded with somewhat different line-ups.
Should appeal to anyone who appreciates early Doom and proto-Doom!
Selfreleased, 2020. Made in Australia.


Tracklist:
1. All Ords 4:55
2. Off with the Medicine 5:32
3. No Exit/New Landlords 5:34
4. Mass Fear 6:00
5. Bad Eggs (Gargantua) 5:23
6. Numbered Days 8:43
7. Madhouse Earth 4:11
8. Oriente Lux 2:18
9. Married to Mayhem 3:01
10. Voice of the Planet Seed 7:13
11. Off with the Medicine 5:28
Total playing time: 58:20 min.


Samples: https://thermalmass.bandcamp.com
https://thermalmass.bandcamp.com

Debut studio album by legendary Irish hard rock band, released in 1971.
On 11 October 2010, a first remastered and expanded version was released.
CD includes nine bonus tracks from single, EP and more. Used: very good.
Decca Music/Universal, 2010 (984 447-7). Made in Germany.


Tracklist:
1.The Friendly Ranger At Clontarf Castle 03:02
2.Honesty Is No Excuse 03:40
3.Diddy Levine 07:06
4.Ray-Gun 03:06
5.Look What The Wind Blew In 03:23
6.Eire 02:07
7.Return Of The Farmer's Son 04:13
8.Clifton Grange Hotel 02:27
9.Saga Of The Ageing Orphan 03:40
Bonus Tracks:
10.Remembering, Pt. 1 06:00
11.The Farmer 03:37
12.Dublin 02:26
13.Remembering, Pt. 2 (New Day) 05:05
14.Old Moon Madness 03:53
15.Things Ain't Working' Out Down At The Farm 04:29
16.Look What The Wind Blew In 03:19
17.Honesty Is No Excuse 02:43
18.Dublin 02:29
19.Down At The Farm 03:58
Total playing time: 70:43

The fifteenth full-length studio album by legendary German Euro Disco/Pop singer, lead vocalist of Modern Talking.
Thomas Anders is back to Pop music with "Cosmic", the first English-singing album since 2016. After his recent releases in German Schlager genre, including his duet album with Florian Silbereisen, the Gentleman of Music is back in the record stores with Pop music!
The album sounds exactly like a classic Modern Talking sound, which has been consistently developed and transported into the present day. It illustrates that Thomas is still a great singer. The former Modern Talking frontman shines against shimmering contemporary Disco production, soaring backing vocals, and rippling synths. Album tracks feature backing vocals from the choir originally featured on the second Modern Talking album, "Let’s Talk About Love".
With the "Cosmic" album, including singles "Cosmic Rider" and "Modern Talking (Connect The Nation)", Thomas Anders hears the long-awaited wish of his international fan base - finally release an album in English again.
White Shell Music, 2021 (405380431622). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:

The Blue Planet Side
1. Cosmic Rider 3:55
2. Undercover Lover 3:43
3. Ready For Romance 3:51

The Other Side Of The Moon
4. Je Ne Sais Pas 3:23
5. Moonlight In Your Eyes 3:40
6. Today, Tonight, Together 3:45

The Red Planet Side
7. More Than Million 3:43
8. Don't Let Me Down 3:47
9. Heaven No. 9 3:41

The Sunny Side Of Life
10. Another Night, Another Heartache 3:30
11. Angel Blue Eyes 3:30
12. Modern Talking (Connect The Nation) 3:34

Total playing time: 44:02 min.

Debut full-length album by the German Heavy/Power Metal band.
The debut from the German duo of guitarist René Thomsen and Jürgen Wulfes is another of those nods to the old school which is unlikely to please the modern hive of Metal-come-latelies. However, for a select few in the old guard, it has a certain NWOBHM appeal that shines through its similarities to Saxon (Wulfe's meaty throatings often recall Biff Byford). Speaking of Saxon, the album's myriad guest spots include guitarist "Nibbs" Carter. Also appearing are Herman Frank (Accept, Sinner, etc), Jan-Sören Eckert (Iron Savior, Masterplan, etc), Neil Murray (Black Sabbath, Empire), Stefan Schwarzmann (Accept, Krokus, Helloween, Running Wild, U.D.O., X-Wild) and Bobby Jarzombek (Riot, Iced Earth, Halford, and many others)!! That's a lot of veteran credibility, and proof that Thomsen and Wulfes have a very healthy respect for their influences.
As far as the music, it's a lot of mid-paced, fist pumping material which recalls the 80s Hard Rock/Metal fringe emerging from its NWOBHM roots. And this is where it works best.
"Ruthless" opens the album with a big Judas Priest-like Power Metal hook with a dash of Sabbath. "Tears of the Sun" has another big hook accented by some little keyboard melodies. Wulfes gets a pretty deep tone here, sounding like a mix of Biff Byford and Blaze Bayley's lower range. "Heaven and Hell" features some playful guitar licks, and good interaction with the vocal lines. "Bang Your Head" might have a cliche title, but it's a pretty Hard Rocker which reminds one of a mix between Accept and Saxon's "Metalhead" album. "Show Me Your Fear" is down and dirty, with a sound like the first two Metal Church albums. "Everything I Ever Wanted" is also pretty good.
If you live and breathe Metal from the late 70s through the late 80s, in particular NWOBHM stuff, ballsy Hard Rock or German Power pioneers like Accept or Sinner, then this album is targeted at you directly! Some of these tracks were written up to 20 years ago, and they sound like it!!
BRS Records, 2009 (ASR032). Made in Germany. Used: very good.


Tracklist:
1. Ruthless 3:41
2. Tears Of The Sun 3:23
3. Time Again 4:03
4. Stand Up & Shout 3:26
5. You And Me 4:54
6. Heaven & Hell 3:50
7. Blind Your Eyes 3:13
8. Bang Your Head 3:44
9. Branded Man 3:52
10. Everything I Ever Wanted 4:15
11. Show Me Your Fear 3:09
12. You're In Love 3:54
Total playing time: 45:24


Samples: http://www.last.fm

The third full-length album by Chilean Death Metal band.
A somewhat surprising entrant that crawled out of the mountainous streets of Santiago, Chile, Thornafire have delivered to the world their latest full-length album. Sporting a catchy, sometimes Thrashy sound to coincide with their already-established Death Metal roots, "Eclipse Nox Coagula" is arguably the trio’s finest record to date.
The production is cleaner this time around, which breathes life to all of the instruments properly. Though the final mix comes off as a tiny bit too sterile regarding the drums and guitars, thankfully the raw energy and bite hasn’t been totally removed; the songs are still heavy. The tracks on "Eclipse Nox Coagula" generally follow a "Darkane / In Flames meets Carcass" between "Necroticism" and "Heartwork feel", meaning there are plenty of melodies and hooks encircling the underlying Death Metal.
The album is highlighted by the swirling, catchy “Malefactor Manifesto” but other powerhouses are “Inmortal Agonia” and “Sumisiуn” and there isn’t a lousy song in the bunch. "Eclipse Nox Coagula" flows smoothly from start to finish and while every song follows a similar style or formula, they are different enough to stand apart from one another.
Though Thornafire aren’t the most unique or original dudes to ever pick up some instruments, their take on a tried and true style of Death Metal is honest and entertaining!!
Australis Records, 2012 (AUS30CD). Made in Chile. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Carneval Caos 5:07
2. Malefactor Manifiesto 3:01
3. Ruptura 2:52
4. Vulgar Medium Ectoplasma 3:49
5. Immortal Agonia 4:25
6. Desintegración 4:09
7. Disarmónica Tensión 4:25
8. Sumisión 4:42
9. Final 5:09
10. Soluto 1:51
Total playing time: 39:30

Intense thrash metal from Mexico.
American Line Prods., 2010 (La-129)


Tracklist:
1.Thrash Bastards 05:15
2.Games for Annihilation 05:18
3.Genocide 04:16
4.Ritual of Dismemberment 04:40
5.Drunken Forces 05:10
6.Virus 04:44

3rd full-length album by Greek Black/Death/Thrash all-star band, consisted by Magus Wampyr Daoloth (ex-Rotting Christ, Necromantia) and Sakis (previously named Necromayhem, guitarist/vocalist of Rotting Christ). For this recording, the two main members have hired Set' (ex-Septic Flesh) for the vocals.
A unique mixture of fast modern Death Metal, primitive Black Metal, haunting melodies and the basics of the sound built by ROTTING CHRIST and SEPTIC FLESH. THOU ART LORD shows that a project can sometimes be better than a full-time band!
Black Lotus Records, 2002 (BLR/CD042)


Tracklist:
1.A Chaldean Hex 04:09
2.Baphomet's Meteor 03:51
3.Crowning the Winged Skull (Enthroning the Dragon) 04:14
4.Society of the Dilettanti 04:08
5.Desire, Lust and Incubus 04:51
6.Eyes Wide Shut and Lips Wide Open (The Dionysian Connection) 04:13
7.The Shadow Doctrine 04:19
8.Behind the Druid Walls 06:44
9.Those We Guide 04:28
Total playing time: 40:57

The debut full-length album by Australian Avant-garde Black Metal band.
ThrOes is Dissident Metal from Tasmania and the brainchild of Trent Griggs. ThrOes began life in 2003, and exist outside stylistic influence or trend (every imaginable mental, physical and financial obstacle had to be overcome). Thirteen long bleak years ensued that saw Griggs eternally at war with the energy involved in creating the material. He worked in solitude during this period. Great patience and execution of will was necessary to let the material evolve organically, and independently of any outside stylistic influence or trend. Every imaginable mental, physical and financial obstacle had to be overcome. And their debut album finally was released, featuring guest appearing by Trent Griggs, James Ludbrook (Damaged), Kevin Talley (Suffocation, ex-Misery Index, ex-Six Feet Under, ex-Dying Fetus), Mark Evans (Alarum), and David Caswell (WDD).
ThrOes shows off good qualities, in particular in the varied rhythms ranging from slowdowns, accelerations and sometimes unconventional time signatures; it is mainly the bass that places itself as the beating heart of the tracks, supporting the undoubted skills of Kevin Talley that adapts effortlessly to every stylistic variations. Acoustic guitars and keyboard inserts are embellishments that make their appearence only in rare occasions, perhaps they deserved more space in a work that doesn't manag to be always entertaining.
Ultimately, "This Viper Womb" could be appreciated by those, who are looking for an artist with his own personality. This is not like any Metal album you have heard before. This album will ruthlessly infect all utterly. This is Dissident Metal!!
Digipak comes with a 12-page booklet.
Aesthetic Death Records, 2016 (ADCD 036). Made in UK. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Permanent Midnight 04:54
2. Shock to the Guts 07:16
3. Dead Lights 06:41
4. Conscience Makes Cowards 08:29
5. Nothing Left for the Vultures 08:41 
6. Nowhere Else 06:52
7. This Viper Womb 06:02 
8. Lavish the Anguish 05:15
9. Feed It 06:31
10. D.N.A. Corruption 06:00
Total playing time: 66:41 min.


Samples: https://throesofficial.bandcamp.com​​​​​​​

Second full-length album by Industrial Death/Black Metal band from Italy.
One of the most progressive and unique black metal bands ever!!
Mass Destruction Records, 2011 (MDR01)


Tracklist:
1.Diverting Sea Levels 02:53
2.Beasts of the Vigilants 02:22
3.Molecular Deception 02:25
4.Ravishing Deathfields 02:31
5.March 02:51
6.Nuclear Christ 03:02
7.Impulsive Assault 03:09
8.7th Teratomb 02:30
9.Chaos in the War Rooms 02:06
10.Clonation Fields 02:06
11.Phantom Virus 02:33
12.Kosmic Rays Apocalypse 02:39
13.World's Arson 02:38
14.KKN 03:06
15.Kapoghal 01:45
Total playing time: 38:36 

Debut full-length album by Italian Melodic Death Metal band.
Intense and melodic Death Metal that represents a strong compromise between the European Melodic Death Metal and the recent American Hardcore/Metal acts.
An absolute musthave for fans of Dark Tranquillity, The Haunted, Soilwork and Dissection!!
My Kingdom Music, 2008 (echo031). Made in Italy. First press.


Tracklist:
1.Whispers to the Void 04:26
2.Desire 03:46
3.The Groom 03:50
4.War Children 05:52
5.Failure 04:30
6.Mass Killer 03:48
7.Winter Came 04:21
8.Scarred by Your Hands 04:20
9.My Blood 03:59
Total playing time: 38:52

The second full-length album by American Power/Thrash Metal band.
The Sardo brothers may not be well known to the mainstream Metal scene, but those who love the 80's underground tape trading circuit know all too well their impact on the California scene. Their appearance on "Metal Massacre 4" from Metal Blade with the band Sceptre included future Agent Steel vocalist John Cyriis - then known as John Camps and playing guitar. That band would mutate into Sardo, becoming faster with a more brutal overtone that helped the scene naturally evolve. Now Thrustor is the main band for vocalist/guitarist Phil Sardo and his bassist brother Tony, along with newest drummer Tomasz Pilasiewicz - residing in the Chicago, IL area and taking on an aggressive form of Thrash Metal with slight blasting Death/Technical overtones on this second album "Abysmal Fear".
Musically the 10 songs appear to toe the line of their California roots with heavier overtones - artists like Forbidden, Metal Church, Sindrome and Nevermore come to mind the most when taking in winning cuts like "Into the Blackest Hate", the moodier "Burnt Offerings" and killer double bass / stop and start riff action monster "Brutal Assault". Phil employs an imposing vocal stance - clearly audible but will never be mistaken for the Chuck Billy or Joey Belladonna's of the world - it's more of a half talking / half aggressive manner that gets the job done valiantly. It is interesting that the album delves deeper into the technical chops towards the second half - with "Screws to the Skull" being one of those head turners in terms of Tomasz fleet snare rolls, Phil's twisted riff endings and squeals and Tony having to keep up with the proceedings at hand.
This is a style that appeals more to the musicians at hand than the average consumer - but Thrustor could be worthy of your time if you are looking for a left of center Thrash band! These veterans of Metal still have what it takes to be creative and viable in 2012!!
Emanes Metal Records, 2012 (METAL 034). Made in Germany.


Tracklist:
1. Struck by the First Stone     05:30
2. Brutal Assault     04:51 
3. Shroud of Blasphemy     05:30 
4. Into the Blackest Hate     04:20 
5. Tormented Contradiction     04:58 
6. Abysmal Fear     05:39 
7. Nocturnal Within (Forever Dark)     03:18 
8. Burnt Offerings     06:44
9. Screws to the Skull     06:12
10. Chamber of Lost Souls     02:42
Total playing time: 49:44