Jan 282016
 

Ragnarok-Psychopathology

 

This is the second of two new-music round-ups I’ve compiled for this Thursday. Considering the two together, it’s a very large collection of new songs and videos that I think are worth your time, with so much variety that I would guess most metalheads will find something to enjoy. Of course, I like all of it.

Sometime soon I will have to start paying more attention to other things, like reviews and that Most Infectious Song list that has been stalled in its tracks while I’ve flitted from one new piece of music to another. But not today.

RAGNAROK

I’ve been beating the drum for this new album since news of its advent began circulating last fall. Today, finally, the first song from from Psychopathology debuted, and it’s the title track. The question is, does the music justify all of the eager anticipation for this long-running band’s first new album in four years? Continue reading »

Jan 202016
 

Urgehal-Aeons In Sodom

 

The Norwegian black metal institution Urgehal came into existence in the early ’90s, formed by vocalist/guitarist Trondr Nefas and guitarist Enzifer. Beginning in 1997 Urgehal released six full-length albums as well as assorted shorter releases and compilations. But in May 2012, Trondr Nefas passed away at the age of 34. To honor his memory, Urgehal have prepared one final, remarkable album — Aeons In Sodom.

This new work assembles Trondr Nefas’ final material — a collection of 12 songs that include his performances as lead guitarist and soloist, with Enzifer on rhythm guitar and bass and Uruz on drums. In place of Nefas‘ now-missing voice, the band enlisted vocal contributions from an array of notable Scandinavian artists, including Nocturno Culto (Darkthrone), Nattefrost (Carpathian Forest), Nag (Tsjuder), Niklas Kvarforth (Shining), Hoest (Taake), and Mannevond (Koldbrann).

We are honored to bring you today the premiere of the new album’s first advance track, a song called “The Iron Children” — which features the unique vocals of Nocturne Culto. Continue reading »