Lychgate are a new project, but it can be considered a continuation of Archaicus, a solo outfit by Englishman J.R.Y. Vortigern. This guy was also involved with another great act, Spearhead (he used to be this band’s drummer up to 2010), and some might know him from his collaboration with Macabre Omen’s Alexandros (aka Evil Dark aka I) in The One (for the purists: this Greek, Alexandros Antoniou, now resides in the U.K.
Mind you, this is not a new album, but merely a reissue of Ashent’s 2006 debut album ‘Flaws Of Elation’. This reissue follows only seven months after the release of their ‘Inheritance’ album. However what might incite Ashent fans to buy this album is the fact that this reissue also contains the four tracks that were released as a demo in 2004. What this Italian band brings us is decent progressive power metal.
German warriors Asenblut return with their second full length studio album, after 2009’s Aufbruch. In promotion to that debut release, the band played on many festivals, such as Heidensturm, Metalfest and R.U.D.E. A short while ago, the quartet (Claus, Tetzel, Phil and Balrogh) entered the famous Stage One Studio with one of the most experienced producers, Andy Classen, who gave this record an organic and energetic sound.
Abnormal Thought Patterns from California is the newest sensation in the world of instrumental heavy music. Although the band's name doesn't immediately ring a bell, twin brothers Jasun (guitar) and Troy Tipton (bass) along with Mike Guy (drums) were the back bone of Zero Hour. That band released five records in the 90's and was proclaimed to be one of the best progressive metal bands of that time.
Swedish band Zombiefication was formed in … oops, they are not from Sweden?!!!? Zombiefication hail from Mexico and consist of members from e.g. Inhearted, Majestic Downfall and Dies Irae (the Mexican one for sure).
Victorius was founded in 2004 by Dirk, Steven and Andreas, who are big fans of speed and power metal. Front man David and drummer Rainer joined the band. As a result in the following years the band played many live gigs, especially in the Middle German area. The slogan was 'Power Metal is alive'! And from one thing came another and it al lead to the release of their first recording 'Unleash The Titans' in 2010.
This is my first acquaintance with The Moth Gatherer, but I’m pretty sure it’s your first time as well. As a matter of fact, A Bright Celestial Light is the first official (full length) release by this Swedish combo.
I have to admit that when I first heard Chemical Reign I was ready to dismiss it as just another mindless metal release. But after a few listens, this album has really grown on me.
This Noise Rock/ Sludge Metal trio (currently consisting of bassist/ singer Mathieu, guitarist Sébastien, and another Mathieu on the drums) from the center of France (city of Clermont-Ferrand) was conceived only in late 2005, yet the band already has 5 EPs (three of which split-releases) and now 3 full-lengths to its name!
Principles Of Chaos isn’t but the debut album by Greek outfit Shadowcraft, even though the band was formed eight years ago. Shadowcraft recorded two demos during the early years, and a promo in 2009, but this first full length shows the band in its most matured, professionalised expression.
