CD REVIEWS
Scripture #3
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HAMMERFALL
GLORY TO THE BRAVE
NUCLEAR BLAST
(10 FUCKING BATTLE AXES)
THE METAL ALBUM OF 1997!!!!! This is the most incredible thing I have heard this whole year.
Take Manowar and mix it with old Helloween add a touch of brilliance and you have Hammerfall.
Every track is a masterpiece of pounding Metal. Nine tracks in 45 minutes and the most
incredible artwork I have seen in a long time. What makes this album so special is the
conviction with which the Metal is delivered. Hammerfall believe in what they sing, five
Metalheads who truly believe in the power of Metal, you CAN feel it. The album starts off
with a Speed Metal anthem "The Dragon Lies Bleeding" and ends off with the most amazing power
Metal ballad since Manowar's "Heart of Steel", "Glory to the Brave". Pounding drums, Galloping
Bass, Screaming guitars and Vocals, you name it, this album has it all. This is
truly the
dawning of the Metal age. Quiver in fear all those that did not keep the faith, all those who
are not Metal, for the Metallian is loose again. Available in a good record store near you!
Just follow your Heart, don't listen to the crowd
the wisdom, the voice is calling from inside
The time long forgotten will soon come again
prepare for the meeting, The Gods of Metal Reign
(Lunatic)
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SCEPTER
METAL SUPREMACY
MERCILESS RECORDS
(10 BATTLE AXES)
One of the things often forgotten by us "Underground Metalheads" is the rebel attitude that
first attracted us to Metal. Metal IS long hair, freedom, breaking away from society and
generally living wild. Remember WE ARE the chosen race. This CD stirs emotions in me that I
had believed long forgotten. THIS IS FUCKING METAL. Scepter spew forth four new tracks of pure
Metal, the sound we have learned to love from Scepter. Combine all you know about Metal and
you have Scepter. Undeniably catchy, powerful, vicious and yet still melodic. Don't think
melodic as in Black Metal, think melodic in the sense of Judas Priest and Saxon, with a large
influence from Motörhead and Venom with a touch of Death Metal to balance things out. Fucking
hell this rules. Band contact: P.O.Box 388068, Chicago, IL 60638-8068, U.S.A.
METAL SUPREMACY
I've been persecuted all my life
for being the way that I am
I may be a real son of a bitch
-That's what I am-
Parents, poseurs, preachers and cops
and teachers back at school
Now we're gonna turn the tables around
on you fucking fools
We got the leather
We got the chains
Metal pounding in our veins
We got the kids on our side
There's nowhere left to run and hide
If you don't like it you can
Fuck off and die
'Cause we will never change
The time is right for us tonight
To unleash our Metal rage
We got the power in our hands
To wipe out the weak
A master race of Metalheads
Metal Supremacy
(Lunatic)
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ORDAINED
LET US PREY
INDEPENDENT
(10 BATTLE AXES)
Haaaaaaiiiiil!!!!!! Ordained are truly the ministers of Metal and with this 6 track CD you
can see why. This is a band that fight with the old ways of thrashing screaming guitars,
pounding bass, thundering drums and clear 80's thrash vocals. "TURN THE MUSIC LOUDER". I
enjoyed every bit of this CD. If you are someone that enjoys thrash Metal then this is for
you. The Dawn of the Metal Age is upon us and I hope to see this band in the fight for Steel.
I would like to quote a few line's from the incredible song FLOW TO HELL.
"Day of judgement, day of Steel
Day of blood and Death
Guitar, Drums and Bass
Ordained upon the stage
HEAVY METAL in your face"
I don't think there is any more to say except where to get this weapon of Steel. Band Contact:
Ordained, 5621 South Greenfield Drive, Portsmouth, VA 23703, U.S.A.
(J.M)
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WICKED ANGEL
HEADS WILL ROLL
RAVEN MUSIC GROUP
(10 BATTLE AXES)
ALL HAIL WICKED ANGEL!!!!!! This opus of pure Heavy Metal contains 12 tracks, and is 51
minutes long. Now go buy it you bastard. Anyone who feels the passion of Metal, will soak up
the absolute mastery of this excellent release. The music is played by 4 classically trained
musicians who obviously perfected their technique with many hours of banging to Priest and
Maiden LP's. Many hours of examination were also necessary in front of legions of crazed
Metalheads. Wicked Angel pass with full distinctions, this CD is absolutely perfect! Each
track is powerfully led by Rob Rose's "wicked" vocals. Tattoos',
Bike's, Booze, Women and
Metal Metal Metal complete this package. Ask for this at your local music store. Contact:
RMG, 2108 Palouse Drive, London, Ohio 43140, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)
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KRABATHOR
MORTAL MEMORIES
MORBID RECORDS
(10 BATTLE AXES)
Haaaiiiill!!!!!! No rest for the wicked when it comes to this amazing 5 track CD of the great
Krabathor. Masters of Death they truly are and if you had the opportunity to see these guys
when they came to tour South Africa then you will agree 100%. This CD consists of "Breath of
Death", "Bestial War", "Apocrypha", "Orthodox" and "Slavery". All brutally fast and pure
Death Metal!!!!! The CD starts off with a full force that grabs you right on till the last
song. This is music you can do the Toxic Waltz to. An extra to this CD is the CD-Rom track
"Unnecessarity" and it's worth putting in your PC to watch these masters at work. There isn't
much to say about these dudes music ability, cause everyone knows that they are fucking great.
This is a CD that is worth checking out if you are a fan of Death Metal. All I want to add is
thanks to Krabathor for playing in our country. "Moshing is not an option but a necessity".
Band Contact: Krabathor, C/O Petr Hejtmanek, Ostrozka Lhota 140, 68723 Uherske Hradiste, Czech
Republic, Europe.
(J.M)
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VOICES OF DEATH
COMPILATION CD
VOD RECORDS
(10 BATTLE AXES)
HAAAAIIIILL!!!!!!! V.O.D Records for the best compilation I have ever heard so far since I
started reviewing for The Crusader. True Death and Black Metal bands make this an excellent
compilation and a must for any person that can handle these two forces on one CD. It consist
of 15 bands from the Northern countries Sweden, Germany and Norway. The music on this CD is
so well done and you can see that V.O.D records succeeded in keeping it equal for both these
forces of Metal. What was also cool for me was the inlay that gives you more info on each
band that plays on this amazing compilation. There is no better voice to listen to than the
VOICES OF DEATH!!!!!!! CD is available through DARK AGES, P.O.Box 39550, Garsfontein, 0060,
Pretoria, South Africa.
(J.M)
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INVERTED
THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE...
SHIVER RECORDS
(9,5 BATTLE AXES)
The latest offering from Sweden's most unholy Death Metal band, is certainly a pleasure for my
abused ears. Building on their successful, yet cult, previous releases including the brilliant
"Shadowland". Moving away from the typical European Death Metal sound, Inverted sound more
American, while still retaining characteristics of their homeland. Plenty of tempo changes
within songs and between songs. Very similar to "Morbid Angel" if comparison is desired.
Definite improvement in recording quality over their previous releases. 35 minutes of true
Metal. Prepare for the "Metal Victory". Shiver Records, c/o Hans de Wijngaert,
Bossepleinstraat 6, 3128 Baal, Belgium. Available from Dark Ages soon.
(Lunatic)
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AWAKENING
FEMALES IN EXTREME MUSIC
DWELL RECORDS
(9,5 BATTLE AXES)
Brilliant idea from Dwell Records. Females in Metal have always been overlooked, although
mainly due to the decided lack of them. Metal has always been regarded as men only music but
fortunately recent years have yielded an upsurge in the amount of female bands around. This
compilation varies from the down tuned doom death of "Thorr's Hammer" to the thrash of
"Witches" to the over the top intensity of "November Grief". November grief are proof of the
statement that the female is the more deadly of the species. My only problems with this CD
were that out of 11 bands only two (November Grief & Ebonsight) are comprised entirely of
women, and Opera IX uses those ridiculous gothic vocals that are becoming so popular these
days, a fact that spoils one of the best tracks on the CD. Hail to Dwell records for an
amazing
compilation. CD available from Dwell Records: P.O.Box 39439, Los Angeles, CA 90039,
U.S.A.
(Lunatic)
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DAWN OF DECAY
NEW HELL "3 TRACK ADVANCE TAPE"
VOD RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
Formed in the height of the Death Metal explosion of the early '90's, Dawn of Decay have been
waiting for the perfect time to release their hell on to this earth. The time has come,
tremble in terror Mortals for the New Hell has arrived. The third unholy release from VOD
records promises to be of as high quality as we have come to expect from these Swedish
purveyors of filth. Mid paced, to fast Death Metal, tasty leads and an undying sense of
melody. Perhaps not the most brutal you have ever heard, but crank this one up to 11 and
watch the flowers wilt and the ravers bleed. Brilliant Quality DEATH, played by true purveyors
of a sadly neglected art-form. In these days of the resurgence in popularity of Metal "Dawn
of Decay" will soon rise above to the level of classic, you will hear a lot more of these
dudes, believe me. This crushing release is available from Dark Ages for a mere R70.00.
(Lunatic)
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KILL YOUR IDOLS
COMPILATION
HAPPY HAMSTER RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
HAIL!!!! This Compilation is a tribute to AGATHOCLES and they are also featured on the CD.
The CD consist of 20 songs and 43:07 mins long. Moshing from the beginning to the second
last song. Now the last song really sucks, fuck it caused the CD to lose one battle axe.
But hey 1 out of 20 bands that suck isn't bad. A must for people that love death grindy
bands, fast playing and just straight aggression. Other bands that are featured on the CD
are: Brutal Truth, Groinchurn, Entrails Massacre, Disgust, Malignant Tumour, Rot, Desecration,
Necreous, Infectious Outbreak, Cripple Bastards, Lixo Urbano, Nyctophobic, Cornucopia, Bludge,
Shears, Panopticon, Mastic Scum and sorry to say Denial of State. There is also a hidden
track at the end of the CD from the band Malignant Tumour. CD is available through Dark Ages
for only R60/$12.
(J.M)
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GUILLOTINE
UNDER THE GUILLOTINE
NECROPOLIS RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
Blistering '80's German Thrash, an absolute masterpiece. If you like Kreator and Sodom in the
days that the still sounded like they originally did then this album is absolutely essential.
Everything about this package brings back memories of the glory days of Thrash, bullet belts
and denim jackets included. Guillotine, formed in '95 out of members of Sweden's "Nocturnal
Rites", bring forth an amazing debut album of 35 minutes with 10 tracks, each one a
masterpiece of Thrash. No intro's, no keyboards just fucking speed!!! Guillotine are
truly
spearheading the revival of the more brutal side of the eighties. Look out for future albums
of these masters from Necropolis records. Originality may be a good thing, but why pursue
something new and sacrifice that which you really love. Long live Thrash. Necropolis Records,
P.O.Box 14815, Fremont, CA 94539-4815, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)
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SORHIN
I DET GLIMRANDE MORKRETS DJUP
NEAR DARK PRODUCTIONS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
Another excellent production from Near Dark. Everything about this CD is exceptional. The
entire cover concept is a work of art. The music is 43 minutes of frantic Black Metal mayhem
without mercy. Absolutely no keyboards, all the Dark Throne inspired guitar work
is done by
the Axeman Eparygon, the infernal chants and voice being supplied by Nattfursth and the
absolutely phenomenal pounding drumbeats are handled by Zathanel. Melody plays an important
role in all 10 tracks on the album, without subtracting from the aggression. All aspects fuse
together to produce one of the Black Metal masterpieces of 1997. The blade wasn't sharp enough,
We are still alive, bleeding and depressed (if this CD indicates their future direction, I
hope they stay that way). Band contact: Sorhin, Box 194, 781 22 Borlange, Sweden, or the
Website at www.algonet.se/~ruach/Sorhin.
(Lunatic)
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MANIAC BUTCHER
LUCAN - ANTIKRIST
PUSSY GOD RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
The last battle approaches. The Lucan, nation of mighty warriors, bloody enemies of the church
and eternal adversaries to Christianity are rising. This CD consists of six tracks with a CD
only bonus of a live track and a cover of a Master's Hammer song. All lyrics are in
Czechoslovakian but full English translations are given. The most striking thing about this
CD is the absolutely demonic atmospheres created, not with the use of keyboards but pure and
simple Black Metal. Music to truly bring forth the darkest sides of life, any fan of true
Black Metal won't be able to turn this down until the last note has passed. The swordplay
sounds between the tracks "The Last Battle" and "The Judgement Day" really emphasise the bands
views on being against all that is pure and holy. Band contact: Pussy God Records, Radim
Hora, Stroupecska 2144, 438 01 Zatec, Czech Republic.
(Lunatic)
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WAR
TOTAL WAR
NECROPOLIS RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
This is part of a trinity of new releases from Necropolis I was fortunate enough to be asked
to review. An all star band formed from members of Vondur, Opthalmia, Abruptum, Dark Funeral
(ex member), The Abyss as well as the almighty Hypocrisy. This MCD consists of 7 tracks in 17
minutes of the most vile old school Black Metal. Total War sounds like it could have been the
1987 follow-up to the godly "Under the sign of the Black Mark", in fact this follows as a
direct link up to the true "Bathory", before Quorthon lost his black soul. Absolutely
essential to followers of true black Metal, the days of Satan, death and destruction, long
before the "forests" became such a fucking issue. WE ARE FUCKING WAR. The Warriors of darkness
have returned, there is no future! CD available from Necropolis Records, P.O.Box 14815,
Fremont, CA 94539-4815, U.S.A. or check out the cool website at
www.necropolisrec.com
(Lunatic)
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MELEK TAUS
EXPULSION FROM THE REALMS OF LIGHT - ENCIRCLED BY FIRE -
NEAR DARK PRODUCTIONS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
If Metal was ever destined to include the use of keyboards, this is what it would sound like.
This mini-album contains 4 tracks and lasts for 16 minutes, not nearly long enough in my
opinion. The music starts with a haunting track containing only piano and the spoken word
with occasional Black Metal style shrieks. The second and third tracks are total Black Metal
with Traditional Metal style riffs, the keyboards are still in the background but aren't too
much of a distraction. Just as you are about to set your house alight, comes track four....
Even more peaceful than track one. It lulls you into a dreamlike state, once again ready for
your next dose of Metal. An incredible offering from this one man band, a bit more info would
have been appreciated. A few shitty pieces creep in here and there but that's to be expected in
this era of the desperate search for that which hasn't been done yet. CD available from Near
Dark Productions, P.O.Box 6017, S 850 06 Sundsrall, Sweden.
(Lunatic)
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CRANIUM
SPEED METAL SATAN
NECROPOLIS RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
Cranium was originally formed in 1985, but the members left and formed/joined bands such as
Dawn, Niden Div. 187, Thy Primordial and Afflicted. Another slab of pure '80's aggression.
There are those amongst us that would say the eighties revival is just another trend in the
trend-soaked nineties Metal scene. This may be true, but I say what the fuck, anything that
results in me getting more of my favourite music cannot be a bad thing. MY music is the shit
that I grew up to, it's what gets me fired up, it is Metal. The passion and sounds of the
masters like Destruction and Razor come to mind as well as bands such as Hallows Eve and Holy
Terror. It is however possible to see the influence of more modern forms of Metal, making
this essential listening for all Metal hordes around the world. Support the war against
techno, disco, synth, alternative, pop and grunge. I can't wait for the full length release
coming later this year on Necropolis. Necropolis Records, P.O.Box 14815, Fremont, CA
94539-4815,U.S.A. or e-mail them at necropol@aol.com
(Lunatic)
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FLESHGRIND
DESTINED FOR DEFILEMENT
PULVERIZER RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
The day I've been waiting for has finally come: Fleshgrind are finally out on CD. As Nuclear
Assault once said "Now we'll see what is left, for the weak, there's not much". Grinding death
in it's most apocalyptic form, brought to us by those friendly chaps at Pulveriser Records.
This is most definitely the CD to play at engagements, weddings and kids parties, if you want
things to degenerate into a bloody orgy that is, and I do mean BLOODY. My only problem with
the CD is that it's a bit too short, 29 minutes for a full length release isn't that cool. I
do suppose that it's actually kinder of them to allow your body enough time recover from the
total onslaught. Building on to the legacy of their demo releases, this will most definitely
not disappoint their legions of fans worldwide. CD Available from: Pulverizer Records, P.O.Box
946, Dixon, Illinois, 61021, U.S.A. ; or directly from the band (see demo review section).
(Lunatic)
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DIMMU BORGIR
ENTHRONE DARKNESS TRIUMPHANT
NUCLEAR BLAST
(9 BATTLE AXES)
OK, is there one Black Metal fan on the planet that doesn't possess this one yet? I didn't
think so. So why am I reviewing it? Because I can! One of the most monumental Black Metal, if
not just Metal, CD's ever released. Dimmu Borgir never degenerate into the gothic swill that
pervades Black Metal today. There are no 10 minute keyboard instrumentals, unfortunately
keyboards are present but if they weren't, this album would be perfect and thus divine, which
would detract from the image. The keyboards thus serve a purpose. Beautifully composed tracks
that build atmosphere upon atmosphere, constant time changes from hyper fast to super slow.
Shoot the dork in the Abe Lincoln hat and you would have the ultimate Black Classic.
Available from Nuclear Blast or basically any good CD shop in SA (Not Musica).
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NAEVUS
SUN MEDITATION
MUSIC FOR NATIONS
(9 BATTLE AXES)
HAAAAIIIILLL!!!!! I can't believe this..... now I can finally imagine hearing Black Sabbath
for the first time. Naevus is definitely becoming a favourite of myself and Lunatic. 70's
Metal guitar riffs that will keep you entertained throughout the CD and for me the vocalist
has a voice that in some parts I would say, this is the great Ozzy. This 4 piece band creates
True Metal doom and in the days we live in it's cool having a doom band with balls. I hail
you brothers!!!! This 11 track CD will make any follower of the old Black Sabbath clan happy.
I'm just still amazed at what I am hearing. I would just like to end off with a quote from
the bands bio: "The result is a classic slab of Heavy yet melodic power doom that holds high
the torch of True Metal in an age of faceless trends and alternative bollocks". Band Contact:
Music for Nations, 333 Latimer Road, London, W10 6RA. For a full catalogue send a large sae.
(J.M)
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DIEVERSION / V
SPLIT CD
MARBIL RECORDS
(8.5 BATTLE AXES)
Hail to this split CD of Marbil. Yes I know this CD has been out for some time but finally I
got the chance to hear it for myself. Personally it was sure worth the wait to hear the CD.
V feature on the first four tracks on the CD. This is being done in a unique way and I
enjoyed all 4 tracks that they had to give to me. True Death Metal V is playing and they put
in a more African feel to it. With what I was very impressed with the Dieversion songs. This
band from Bloemfontein I only saw once on a video when they played live with some other band.
I always wanted to hear them after watching the video. My God was I
surprised. They start off
with a deep growl "Cry the Beloved country" and it grabs you from beginning to the end. Music
is very aggressive and done in the true ways of Death. Only thing that is really different is
their lyrics. Very positive and all on the side of "good". A band worth checking out. This
split CD will be enjoyed by anyone that loves the power of Death Metal. Bands contact:
Dieversion, P.O.Box 13191, Arboretum, Bloemfontein, 9300. "V", P.O.Box 101, Port Shepstone,
4240, South Africa.
(J.M)
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DAWN
SLAUGHTERSUN (CROWN OF THE TRIARCHY)
NECROPOLIS RECORDS
(8,5 BATTLE AXES)
ALL HAIL THE MERRY FOLK AT NECROPOLIS RECORDS!!!!!!!! Necropolis have an ear for talent like
no others. This is one label that I want to own every release of. DAWN are fucking amazing.
Not having heard any of their previous releases, I am unable to comment, but judging by the
majestic power of this release, I will track them down. Six tracks of absolutely unrelenting
Black Metal aggression with a softer traditional instrumental piece called "To
Achieve the
Ancestral Powers" thrown directly in the centre of an hours worth of pure Metal. Despite
the obvious aggression there is an underlying sense of melody that keeps up throughout the
CD, allowing for a more pleasant listening experience??????? Definitely one of
Sweden's top
exports. Contact Necropolis now. P.O.Box 14815, Fremont, CA 94539-4815, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)
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DISABLED
FAITH ABLATION (MCD)
CRAZINESS MUSIX
(8 BATTLE AXES)
TOTAL FUCKING DEATH! Underground Death Metal the way it was meant to be. Fast, brutal and sick
as hell. This release brings back memories of the hey-day of Death Metal in the early nineties.
Frantic, driving guitar work woven in between vocals that your mother would definitely not
approve of. A raw sound but one that is sufficiently polished to make it sound like a CD and
not a demo. The track "stab-wound butchery" stands out as a masterpiece, the delivery being
more brutal than the lyrics. This is quite a feat considering the depraved depths the lyrics
sink to. Very cool cover art, six tracks, 20 minutes with no wasted time, just extreme Death
Metal aggression. Trust me, you want this!!! Band contact: 65 cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux,
France.
(Lunatic)
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AGONY LORDS
THE SUN OF THE CURSED
OZ PRODUCTIONS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
There is something about this CD I can't explain, and that is why I enjoy it so much. Those
familiar with my reviews know that I love the old shit and I am heavily critical of anything
modern. This CD combines it all. The past is present in the form of Iron Maiden like melodies
but the vocal style could be associated more with a slightly less agro Max Cavalera, this
doesn't mean that the music is soft. Agony Lords inspire deeper feelings of aggression than
most of the modern Pantera clones, due to their music and not in spite of it. This is the
thing about their music I can't explain. I suggest you try it for yourself. The CD runs for
53 minutes and contains 12 tracks. The 12 page lyrics booklet serves to keep you engrossed in
this CD for longer than the hour running time, don't blame me if you play it more than once.
CD available from: Oz Productions, 3 1/2 Miles South, 10th street, Mcallen, TX 78501-1838,
U.S.A.
(Lunatic)
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MACTÄTUS
BLOT
EMBASSY PRODUCTIONS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
Atmospheric Black Metal at its finest. Black poetry from the frozen woods of Norway. Eight
tracks, 42 minutes with a far above average packaging. The music is well produced featuring
only Black styled shrieks, with a few spoken pieces. The guitar sound is very retro, which
always scores points with me. One amazing instrumental, I Trllriket (I wish these CD's came
with translations), that really sets a sombre mood before carrying on with the rest of the
album. Recorded between Dec. '96 and Mar. '97, this offering gives a very good picture of what
is currently happening in the Black sub-genre. The type of Metal to put all fans of Norwegian
Blackness in the mood for arson. Band contact: Hate Rodvitnesson, Lensmannsveien 8, 3730
Skien, Norway. CD available from: Embassy Productions, 27 rue Pershing, 60600 Clermont,
France.
(Lunatic)
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SETHERIAL
NORD...
NAPALM RECORDS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
The word Setherial means "Total darkness and Death" and the band Setherial believe fully in
this philosophy. This CD is dedicated to the coming Dark Age and the war against Christianity.
It has all the familiar trappings of the Black Metal scene Corpse paint, lyrics in Norwegian
and a mightier than thou attitude, the only thing that saves it from ridicule is the fact that
it is brilliant. Very much in the line of the infamous "Cradle..." it offers the listener a
trip into the realms of eternal winter and darkness, with enough conviction to make this
sound like a good thing. The cover art can only be truly appreciated first hand, the black,
white, silver and gold printing fits perfectly with the music. Six tracks clocking in at 45
minutes complete this package and make it well worth the effort. Contact Napalm Records,
Krumpentalerstrasse 3, 8790 Eisenerz, Austria.
(Lunatic
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CARCARIASS
HELL ON EARTH
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)
My introduction to Carcariass was through the "Stranger Than Paradise" compilation CD with the
track "Brain Dead". This is Carcariass' first full length effort and judging by the
improvement from the "Stranger Than Paradise" days, their hearts are really into this. This
CD consists of the aforementioned "Brain Dead" and eight other Metal tracks, with a running
time of just over 42 minutes. The music is extremely melodic Death Metal with a guitarist who
knows his scales the way a professional musician should. Definite Death vocals but the music
itself is not strictly Death. Superb production, rivalling the top names in Metal, possibly a
slightly boring CD packaging, but then again I suppose all CD inlays can't have rotting
corpses on them (but why not). Ultimately a definite piece of Death Metal history for those
who have followed the evolution of the genre since it's inception. To be with you... In your
grave, wins the award for the most romantic song title of 1997. Band contact: Simonin
Bertrand, 41 E Chemin de Valentin, 25000 Besancon, France
(Lunatic)
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POTHOLE
FORCE-FED HATRED
WAY-COOL RECORDS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
Mighty Hail!!! This album starts a little slow, then it bashes your fucking head in with
brilliant riffing and aggressive vocals and fucking fast drumming. "Force-Fed Hatred" if one
of these albums that you just want to Mosh to, every time you listen to it. Powerful fast
songs like "Hung to Dry", "Illegal Creed" and "People on the Highway of Lost Emotion". Now
this is a real Metal album. A Must for all Metalheads. When this disc possesses your CD
player,
you won't get it out. Band contact: P.O.Box 646, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051, South
Africa.
(Johann Du Rand)
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OPERA IX
SACRO CULTO
SHIVER RECORDS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
My introduction to Opera IX came with the "Awakening: Females in Extreme Music" compilation. I
was not impressed by Opera IX due to their use of irritating "Gothic" style vocals on the
track "My Devotion". The full length blew me away, there are no gothic vocals here, even on
the track "My Devotion", which has a different version on this CD. Cadaveria's vocals serve
to prove the strength of the female voice when it comes to Metal. A lot of keyboards are used,
which I don't particularly like, but I can live with. I couldn't find a weak point on any of
the six tracks on this album. 70 minutes of female fronted atmospheric, yet aggressive Metal.
Definitely worth checking out if you're after something different. Contact: Shiver Records,
c/o Hans de Wyngaert, Bossepleinstraat 6, 3128 Baal, Belgium.
(Lunatic)
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DEMONIC
THE EMPIRE OF AGONY
NECROPOLIS RECORDS
(8 BATTLE AXES)
The perfect Valentine's day gift. Buying this for your sweetheart on Valentines day is sure to
elicit some very unpleasant reactions, unless of course she keeps a dismembered, appropriately
gory Leonardo di Caprio doll by her bedside. If you are lucky enough to have a girl like this
then the desired reaction will be attained. If however you are like the rest of us, DON'T be
fooled by the February 14th release date. This CD supplies us with straight Norwegian style
Black Metal, the way it was originally intended. Fast and brutal! Slightly different to the
rest of the hordes in the production quality that seems to have a sort of 'fatter' sound than
that which is usually associated with the Norse. Nine tracks in just under 40 minutes, making
for shorter songs than I would expect from such blackened souls, but the work doesn't suffer
for it. Definitely better than the run of the mill and with the most amazing cover artwork
you can imagine in your blasphemous little minds. Band contact: Godheimvn. 60, 1290 Oslo,
Norway.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
DECOMPOSED
OVERCOME BY FEAR
PSYCHOPATHIA
MEETING THE LIFE
SPLIT CD
INDEPENDENT
(7.5 BATTLE AXES)
Hail Decomposed with these grindy Death songs. My this vocalist has got such a deep growl you
will think you have just entered the underworld. Music is your typical grind/death way of
playing and the blast beats will get you headbanging like a mad Metalhead. What is cool is to
see them thanking V.O.D from South Africa in the thank you list.....cool. Band contact:
Lipnicka 424, 768 61 Brystrice p. Host, Czech Republic.
Hail Psychopathia with their way of doing the death thing. Good old deep voice but with that
extra scream to make this very good. I was the most impressed by Psychopathia. They also
carry a "new hope" with their lyrics, with which I may not agree with all the time. It's a
split CD that shows you all Metalheads fight with the same weapons. Band contact: Sladovni
1185, 752 01 Kojetin, Czech Republic.
(J.M)
--------------------------------------------------
AGRO
EYES
TIC TIC BANG
(7.5 BATTLE AXES)
To be honest I don't like this nineties style Metal, but still Agro gave me a few laughs and
memories through their music. Agro is not a unknown band in South Africa and everyone that
has seen them play know about their ability. Eyes was for me a very good album although not
totally my taste. The main problem I had was the sound of their drums. I was told why it
sounded like that and well..... I can't remember. For me it's got no thunder to it's sound
and at some parts it sound very mechanical to me. The rest I really enjoyed but still their
first album were for me more like the Agro I would like listening to. For the Agro fans this
album is worth checking out. Band Contact: P.O.Box 145441, Brackengardens, Alberton, 1451,
South Africa.
(J.M)
--------------------------------------------------
BURZUM
DAUDI BALDRS
MISANTHROPY RECORDS
(7,5 BATTLE AXES)
OK! What to say about the latest offering from Norway's infamous Count Grishnackh? I have
always been an avid Burzum fan, but since his incarceration CG, also known as Varg Vikernes,
has become a bit of a strange character. OK, What is Metal, if you class it as being only
Heavy Guitars, Bass and Drums, then this is not Metal. I only like Metal, I like this, so
conversely this must be Metal. Or what? 6 long instrumental, Norwegian tracks with no guitars
etc. But it's still Metal. Amazing CD artwork, packaging etc, sort of like the Metal our
ancestors would have listened to. The only thing that sucks is that irritating wind instrument
that sounds like Donald Duck on heat, as used excessively in the title track "Daudi Baldrs".
If you are looking for peaceful Metal, buy this. Available from: Misanthropy Records, P.O.Box
9, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5AU, England.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
PSALM
THRESHOLD OF ESCAPE
CRAZINESS MUSIX
(7 BATTLE AXES)
Psalm are not a bad band. Death Metal, without a doubt, but unfortunately mixed with
"technology" and "futuristic sounds". This results in a slightly "industrial" sounding Metal.
Not as shit as bands like Fear Factory or White Zombie, due to the fact that the music still
retains its identity as Death Metal. This is the type of band that requires a trial by
everyone into extreme Metal. Purists such as me would most probably give the album a skip,
but the band is sure to find approval in the ranks of the fans of more modern sounding Metal.
Six tracks, 35 minutes with no instrumentals or intro's. Band contact: Sebastien Rivet, 130
Rue F. Sevene, 33400 Talence, France.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
FROZEN DAWN III
VARIOUS ARTISTS
FROZEN DAWN RECORDS
(AVERAGE : 7 BATTLE AXES)
I think that to make things as fair as possible, I will review each band on this massive 31
track compilation separately. DROGHEDA deliver 5 tracks of their usual extreme grind (7/10).
VIOLENT FURY produce three tracks of an interesting sort of Blackened Grind, well
that's my
opinion at least (8/10). Does anyone remember what the first track on Napalm Death's "From
Enslavement to Obliteration" LP, called "Evolved as One", sounded like? That is what GOLIAH
would have sounded like if they didn't suck (2 tracks, 4/10). EXCEED play 2 tracks of
marginally interesting new school hardcore (6/10). VIALS OF WRATH also deliver 2 songs of
Hardcorish sort of shit, which I can't stand (5/10). SEMINAL DEATH appeal to your twisted
inner child with 15 tacks of grinding, gurgling mayhem, absolutely nothing original here
(cool, 8/10). SHREDDED CORPSE are the cherry on top of this compilation for me (A bloodied
cherry that is), 2 tracks of brutal fucking death (9/10).
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
VULPECULA
FONS IMMORTALIS
MERCILESS RECORDS
(7 BATTLE AXES)
I was originally quite disappointed when I heard this CD. The members of this band are
veterans of "Order From Chaos" and "Nepenthe", being a big fan of Order From Chaos, I was
disappointed to feel the lack of raw intensity that was such an integral part of OFC.
Vulpecula survive on their own merits, however. This M-CD is a collection of older material,
that has been polished up in preparation for the release of the bands first full length, for
which preparation has already begun. 6 tracks, in just under 20 minutes, of raw but
atmospheric Dark Metal. Two instrumental tracks which do serve to create atmosphere but also
seem to be of a "filler" nature, rather than legitimate compositions. The "polished" tracks
from the "Phoenix of the Creation" 7" represent the Blacker side of the band, and those get my
vote. CD Available from: Merciless Records, P.O.Box 72, 97448 Arnstein, Germany.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
ELEND
THE UMBERSON
MUSIC FOR NATIONS
(7 BATTLE AXES)
Elend is a band that use one of the most ancient and influenced music form to get their
message across. What I am talking about is classical symphonic music. Yes some of you may be
surprised to see something like this in the Crusader, but if you are a follower of Richard
Wagner and other great composers then you will agree that this music was the start of what we
call Metal. Elend used 30 Vocalists of the joyful company of singers and the
internationally prized professional British choir on this CD. This isn't a CD for everybody,
but surely must for people that enjoys the most ancient form of Metal. The CD is 66 mins
long. For me it isn't my everyday wake up call music but still I have respect for what they
are doing. Band Contact: Music for Nations, 333 Latimer Road, London, W10 6RA.
(J.M)
--------------------------------------------------
ASGARD
CHAMANE
KALY PRODUCTIONS
(6 BATTLE AXES)
At first I couldn't figure out why I couldn't get into this CD. Heavy, well produced and
basically interesting. Then the samples started showing through, the over polished guitar
sound and the general nineties feel. No matter how popular the nineties style is I just can't
relate. I am just doomed to be unfashionable, oh the horror of it all! This isn't a bad M-CD
however, the musicians know what the are doing and there is a lot of styles
successfully merged
herein. Imagine Modern Hardcore with a large Black Metal influence, with a touch of Death
aggression in the vocal delivery. I haven't heard their previous full length CD "To a Golden
Age", so comparisons are unfortunately not possible. 5 tracks, 16 Minutes. Band Contact: 12,
Impasse G. Duhamel - F 33700 Merignac, France.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
PEACEVILLE RECORDS
'X' TENTH ANNIVERSARY COMPILATION
PEACEVILLE RECORDS
(5 BATTLE AXES)
This album is a celebration of Peaceville Records 'tenth anniversary'. A label that have been
responsible for some incredible music including Anathema and Autopsy, as well as some utter
crap like Pitch Shifter and GGFH. It's an album of specially recorded cover songs by
Peaceville artists of tracks they like. The problem with cover songs is that, paying tribute
to a band is only justified when the band deserves it. Band's like Thin Lizzy and Status Quo
certainly deserve tribute but bands like Tears for fears and Portishead certainly do not. I
can't hear anything expressly wrong with any of these tracks, they are Metal versions of
mostly non-Metal songs. Only intended for those of you with a serious depression problem,
"I'm crying on the inside", album earns a neutral 5 Battle axes, you decide for yourself.
Slaughter Tears for Fears now. Available from Tic Tic Bang, P.O.Box 2872, Parklands, 2121
South Africa or Peaceville Records direct.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
BRAWL
BOMB THE GOVERNMENT
INDEPENDENT
(5 BATTLE AXES)
This CD just oozes politics. To that all I can say is in the immortal words of Exodus ('87)
"FUCK OFF TO YOUR POLITICS!". I am just not interested. Apart from the lyrics I enjoyed the
CD up until the ninth track when those shit industrial style distorted vocals kicked in.
Typical hardcore styled "modern Metal", with leanings towards the punk side of things. Nine
tracks 30 minutes with plenty of political commentary. Not my style. Band contact: 11988 W.
Gunsmoke, Boise, ID 83713, U.S.A.
--------------------------------------------------
CANDLEMASS
DACTYLIS GLOMERATA
MUSIC FOR NATIONS
(4 BATTLE AXES)
The Guitar starts it's doom cry and in my heart I am so glad to know it's Candlemass. Pure
doom done in the Black Sabbath way. Track 2, okay the vocals sound different but still the
rest of the song rules. Well that's where the fantasy stopped for me. It just got worst and
worst. Then finally track 8 breaks the irritating sound effects but then it breaks into slow
but shitty doom. NO!!!!! This wasn't the best I have heard from the doom "masters". For me
Candlemass had such a superior sound because of their guitars but now they make the keyboard
the lead. If that's not bad enough then the vocalist can't even reach those favourable high
notes. This was really a disappointment for me, this isn't the Candlemass I could sit and
listen to for hours and hours. No more fantasy only reality. How boring. Available from
Tic Tic Bang, P.O.Box 2872, Parklands, 2121 or from a CD shop near you.
(J.M)
--------------------------------------------------
GARDENS OF GEHENNA
MORTEM SALUTA
SHIVER RECORDS
(2 BATTLE AXES)
This CD pissed me off more than you can possibly imagine. The most incredible doom death I
have heard in a long time, slowish yet mournful riffs combined with absolutely punishing
Morbid Angel (the slow parts of Morbid Angel) combined with Paradise Lost (the first album)
style vocals. Every word is sung clearly, dragging you further down into the
pits of despair,
that would kill one who didn't have the power of Metal flowing through their veins. Fucking
hell. I don't think it would be possible for me to give a better review!!!!!!!!!! Then comes
the cherry on the top, a German version of the best song on the album "Nebelmond", remixed
into full techno swill. It makes the song sound like early eighties disco/new romanticism.
I'm sure you remember the crap I'm talking about. Don't buy this, protest against the
combining of Metal with crap. Contact: Birgit Lages, Schillerstr. 25, D-95233, Helmbrechts,
Germany.
(Lunatic)
--------------------------------------------------
INHUMAN
FORESHADOW
MUSIC FOR NATIONS
(1 BATTLE AXE)
This is a 10 track CD that will make you think that you made a stop at the Fridge "your only
alternative" nightclub in Pretoria. The Guitaring has some impressive riffs as well for the
drums and bass and that is why it got the 1 axe. What really isn't making this band Metal for
me is like..... please someone kick that keyboard player. See I don't mind keyboards but in
this bands case it's killing the aggression and talent of the rest of the band. To be honest
it's giving the band a sound that only women with long black dresses dance to and males that's
got no pride. Okay I don't mind the babes, but please give us some Metal. Also I am not so
fond of the vocals. It's also taking away the Metal Sound from the rest of the band. Not a
bad CD if you only listen to music to pick up babes with. Band Contact: Music for Nations.
(J.M)
--------------------------------------------------
METALLICA
RELOAD
VERTIGO
(0 BATTLE AXES)
I wanted to review both false albums of Metallica and then I actually thought what is the
difference between the two albums. I would rather put a picture in the second review than
wasting more space on the fathers of false Metal. On this CD you will find the hit "The
Unforgiven 2" and some mumbling on track two. The best thing I heard this weekend from a
friend is that when he wants to listen to country, he will get him the Load and Reload
albums. If anyone can still say that this is Metallica then you must be turning 10 this
year. When this CD will be rated against "Kill 'em All", then Metallica should be killed!!!
DEATH TO FALSE METAL!!!!!
(J.M)