The Crusader Fanzine

(Scripture 3)

THE DAWN OF THE METAL AGE

17 April 1998

INTERNET ALL TEXT VERSION

FOR A FULL HARD COPY CONTACT: (Subject to availability)

LUNATIC
P.O.BOX 39550
GARSFONTEIN
PRETORIA
SOUTH AFRICA
0060

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A CALL TO ARMS
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All of us have heard the old saying, "if you ain't a Metalhead, you might as well be dead". 
The age we are approaching is the Metal age a time when "if you ain't a Metalhead, YOU WILL BE
DEAD", Metal has weathered the betrayal of bands like Metallica, we were here when rave "rose
up", we are still here after it has died. We have seen a thousand more fads come and go, the
main thing is that they do go. METAL IS ETERNAL. Metal is the only way and as the final battle
approaches more and more people will rise up and accept the gospel of Metal. Yes the time is
close for the final battle. Metal will rule the earth. Dark Ages are back with the third issue
of The CRUSADER, unfortunately it's not free any more, but we couldn't afford to bring it out
for free. We are very proud of this issue and we hope that you will enjoy it just as much as
we did. DARK AGES would like to encourage you to write to the bands and companies in this
'zine. They are committed to supporting Metal, and they need your support to do it. Together
we stand for all that is True Metal. The Metal scene in SA and the world is definitely starting
to grow again, the growth will be phenomenal. Since the last issue we have seen many changes
in the Metal circle in this country. Proudly we had the chance to attend big shows like the
"Brutality in Exile" show on Halloween '97, Route 59 with Metal bands from across the continent
and of course THE AFRICAN SLAUGHTER TOUR which featured the great KRABATHOR from the Czech
Republic. News for the month's ahead is that Groinchurn is entering the studio soon for their
first release on Morbid Records in Germany, they are planning to releasing their new CD in
June of 1998. Dark Ages and Happy Hamster Records are bringing out a re-release of the limited
Krabathor EP "Rise of Brutality" with bonus demo tracks on CD. We would also like to encourage you to
contact Gutted Remains, to encourage them to release their CD, We're all waiting. 
Until next time......
METAL VICTORY

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Thank You list
Cover Art: Chris Cooper
Once again thanks goes out to all the Metalheads, bands and record companies that have
supported Dark Ages over the past year and a half, as well as those who provided us with financial support HAIL.
Special thanks to Mark (Groinchurn), Kristian (VOD Records), Black Label, Winfield, Bioplus
and Jack Daniels (for making things more coherent). Lunatic would like to thank Nerina for all
her support). Sorry for all the noise Mom. J.G. Mocke would like to thank J.J.J.Mocke (without
you this 'zine would never got printed), Joe, Monique and Midnightman for all the support.

THE CRUSADER IS A TOTALLY INDEPENDENT, INFORMAL EXPRESSION OF THE OPINIONS
OF TWO ABSOLUTELY NARROW MINDED METALHEADS. IF YOU DISAGREE WITH THE 
OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THESE PAGES, 
WE DON'T GIVE A FUCK....

(If we all had the same opinions the world would be fucking boring)

© Copyright Dark Ages 1998 Please write for permission to reproduce any material contained
herein.

This issue of The Crusader is dedicated to our fallen Brothers ELDON and JASON 
Rest Well

TILL THE FINAL BATTLE

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HAMMERFALL INTERVIEW

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NILE INTERVIEW

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CD REVIEWS

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RETALIATION INTERVIEW

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WICKED SCRIPTURES

KRABATHOR INTERVIEW

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DEMO REVIEWS

MESSE NOIR
THE THRONE OF NINNINHAGAL
INDEPENDENT
(10 BATTLE AXES)

HAAAAIIIIILLL!!!!!!!!!!! Messe Noir with this excellent 4 track demo.  The demo consist of 
"Excommunicated", "Heralds of Pestilence", both pre-release's, and two new songs "Passage to 
Tchort" and "Messe Noir".  The band kicks straight into Metal Mayhem from the beginning of 
the demo.  Their non repetitive playing gives their sound that extra aggression above the 
rest.  With vocals that goes from Death to wicked screams gives you only one thing to SCREAM 
HAAAIIILL!!!!!  The bands lyrics tell the stories of the Ancient Samaritan Gods.  A must for 
all extreme brutal Metalheads.  Band Contact: Messe Noir, P.O.Box 4059, Meriden, CT 06450, 
U.S.A.
(J.M)

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SOLSTICE
NEW DARK AGE (DRUNKEN DUNGEON SESSIONS)
BLACK TEARS DISTRIBUTION
(9,5 BATTLE AXES)

My introduction to Solstice only occurred a few months ago when I purchased their previous 
release "Halcyon", much to my disgrace. This band have been producing Metal masterpieces 
since 1991. This rehearsal tape contains three tracks The Sleeping Tyrant, Blackthorne 
(unfinished version) and Hammer of Damnation. Each track a masterpiece of doomy HEAVY METAL. 
Pounding, powerful with marching drumbeats and rhythmic guitar playing, incorporating 
elements of a Celtic heritage. Enough to bring out the warrior spirit in any soldier of Metal. 
The quality of the recording is lacking but that is to be expected with a rehearsal tape 
recorded on a four-track. A worthy introduction to an amazing band. If this tape is any 
indication of future material, then Solstice deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as 
Solitude Aeturnus and Candlemass. This is certainly worth the effort to track down. Available 
from Black Tears Distribution, 6 Elderfield Road, Stoke Poges, Slough, Berkshire, SL2 4DE, 
England.
(Lunatic)

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FLESHGRIND
SORROW BREEDS HATRED (BLEED ON ME)
INDEPENDENT
(9 BATTLE AXES)

AAAAARRRGGGHHH!!!! Fleshgrind are back. And they are NOT happy campers. Four, perversion and 
hatred glorifying, tracks of insane Death Metal. This is what Death Metal was intended to be. 
Perfect production combined with a professional packaging make this demo indispensable for any 
fan of extreme Metal. To create and maintain a voice like vocalist "Rich Lipscomb", you would 
have to start your day with a wholesome meal of barbed wire and raver foetuses, followed by 
gargling with bloodstained gravel and glass. The guitar sound is out of this world, perhaps 
due to the balanced diet? Each track is a pillar of monumental proportions. In a few years 
time, the future generation of Deathbangers will refer to the tracks on this demo with the 
same reverence as we refer to tracks like "Sepulchural Voice" and "The Anti-Christ". Demo 
available for $5.00 from Steve Murray, P.O.Box 7142, Grayslake, Illinois 60030, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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DISMEMBERED FETUS / DROGHEDA
MUTILATED GOD (SPLIT TAPE '97)
EXTREMIST RECORDS
(8 BATTLE AXES)

Did you ever see what a 44 Magnum pistol can do to a Woman's face? If you buy this split tape 
you will find out. Two of the most extreme grindcore acts in existence combine their talents 
to unleash this piece of absolute hatred. There is absolutely NO LOVE here. Each band is given 
approximately ten minutes to rape your ears. Dismembered Fetus plough forth their Whore hating 
screaming hate torture through 13 tracks with titles like "Whore in the Dumpster", "Suck my 
Cock and get out" and "Masturbation with a crowbar". Please note these are not Christmas 
carols. You have been warned. Drogheda once again deliver their brand of Fucking Terror with 
five tracks like "Godgrinder" and "Hate is my only reason to live". I can only hint at how 
brutal this Metal is. NOT for those who like Dancing. Once again, You have been warned. Tape 
available from: Extremist Records, 2221 13th ST., Akron, Ohio 44314, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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OMEN
PRACTICE DEMO
INDEPENDENT
(7,5 BATTLE AXES)

Hail Omen with this Practice demo of pure Thrash Metal.  Speed isn't what this band live for.  
This demo isn't that wonderful quality, but when you consider the way it was recorded, it's 
pretty good.  The demo consist of a few instrumental songs and a few songs with their old 
vocalist.  The style is real 80's Thrash Metal and it Fucking rules!!!!  Guitars that scream 
in terror, drums of Thunder and galloping bass makes this demo thrashing, moshing, headbanging 
music.  My favourite songs featured on the demo are "The Beauty of Thrash" and "Death wants 
You" 
The Beauty of Thrash 
The Power of Metal  
Band Contact: Omen C/O Charles Conradie, 121 Bouvardia Avenue, Lynnwood Ridge, 0081, South 
Africa.
(J.M)

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WICKED WAYS
TIME BANDITS
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

HEAVY METAL, what else do you need to know. The first thing that attracted me to this demo was 
the fact that it was produced by Chuck Schuldiner (Death), that of course gives no hint as to 
the direction of the music. Their bio states "reaching from the past and soaring into the 
future", which is a highly apt description. "Evil" Chuck's influence can be heard in the 
bottom heavy guitar sound while vocalist B.C. Richards sounds decidedly like Rob Halford when 
he screams, and scream he does! You almost get the impression of two vocalists. Not very fast, 
not brutal at all but there is no way you can deny the inherent heaviness of their sound, 
Metal doesn't necessarily have to have no melody, if fact melody was an integral part of the 
founding masters' sound. Buy this and you will get a three track, 16 minute tape EP of HEAVY 
METAL. I can't give a band a greater compliment and Wicked Ways deserve it all. Band contact: 
P.O.Box 162492, Altamonte Springs, FL 32716-2492, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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UNHOLY DEATH
DEMO 1994
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Raw as fucking hell. Not the music for nestling round the fire! This is the updated for '97 
version of Unholy Death's classic demo '94. Side 1 contains three studio tracks Evil 
Unholiness, Blood Bag and Rising Curse along with a newer bonus track. Side 2 contains a 1/2 
hour of live recordings. The sound is raw, but definitely listenable. The inlay is 
photocopied, but the message shines through. This is death in the style of the old masters 
like Deicide. The tracks are structured around a very guitar orientated sound with 
consistently pounding drums and absolutely insane vocals. Not for the faint hearted. Tapes 
available for $1.00 from Unholy Death. Write to: Tim Schlict, 421 Ball, Ortonville, MI 48462, 
U.S.A. Support this band, they deserve it.
(Lunatic)

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EUPHORIC EVISCERATION
IN THE MIND OF PERVERSION
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Mid-Paced gurgling Death Metal. Guitars with a definite "bite". A few flaws in the production, 
but nothing too serious. The overall sound is surprisingly good. Four songs two intro's, 23 
minutes long. Personally the second intro "sovereign" does a lot to bringing down the quality 
of this demo, shitty electronic sounds have never been big with me, unfortunately this idea 
creeps into the next track "Fractured", causing a little confusion. The song however soon 
recovers from this temporary setback and evolves into a song with interesting riffing and 
frequent tempo changes. The title track further showcases the bands versatility in tempo, 
making it a focal point and obvious choice in the bands live show. E.E have recently opened 
for Deicide, Broken Hope and Vader, which should give you some idea of their musical 
direction. Band contact: C/O Tony K., 129 E. Dennis St., Wheeling, IL 60090, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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ARCHITECTURE OF AGGRESSION
UNDER DESTRUCTION
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Interesting offering from Pretoria, South Africa's, Architecture of aggression. As I have made 
very obvious before I am not a fan of nineties/new style/hardcore or whatever the hell you 
call it Metal. I do however not detest it. This demo has a couple of songs that got me 
singing along with after a few listens. I especially like the drumming, the demo quality is 
very low but it is after all a first attempt (coupled with almost no budget), but the drums 
could definitely make the difference for A of A. What the fuck! I've just reached track 3 
"Intense" and it definitely is that, combining death and "hardcore" amazingly well. Watch out 
for this band they will definitely go somewhere. That is of course if they ever start playing 
gigs again. One of the advantages of reviewing SA bands is that you get to know their live 
shows as well which certainly helps to really understand the music. I have never seen these 
guys play, and they are from my home town; not a good thing. Band contact: Van Zyl, 344 
Grusstreet, Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, South Africa, 0181.
(Lunatic)

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RITUAL
IN NOMINE...
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Originally recorded in 1995, this is a demo of mid paced Death Metal incorporating acoustic 
guitars. Included with this tape are further more recent recordings of Ritual, which show them 
as evolving into a straight Black Metal band including the aforementioned acoustic guitars and 
now with added female vocals. Ignoring the trend following ideas that immediately spring to 
mind, you will see that Ritual do have something to offer the Metal world. Well constructed 
songs with diverse influences making for interesting listening. Hailing from the Czech 
Republic this musical proficient quintet is sure to find a willing market for their version 
of the Metallic gospel. band contact: Jan Vala, Zizkova 16, Novy Jicin, 741 01, Czech 
Republic, Europe.
(Lunatic)

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ARCANA XXII
DEMONFLOWER
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

A very weird offering from Namibia. I can't really decide whether I like this or not, actually 
I do like it, I'm just not sure about follow up releases. I feel that this demo "demonstrates" 
a considerable talent that will either evolve into a second release of legendary Doom/Heavy 
Metal or something that will be avidly snatched up by those who enjoy the "new" Metallica 
shit. The music is amazing, featuring Johan de Jager (ex V.O.D), very powerful Groovy styled 
Metal including blues bits. Parts are reminiscent of Pink Floyd. Vocals wise, I prefer a bit 
more aggression, but I suppose lyrics about Women in all their forms don't warrant extreme 
vocals. Professional packaging, recording quality needs work but is adequate. 4 tracks, 23 
minutes. Band contact: 111 Independence Ave., Windhoek, Namibia or dylan@nit.com.na 
(Lunatic)

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NECROPOLIS RISING
THE EVERLASTING
INDEPENDENT
(6,5 BATTLE AXES)

A very interesting offering from New York's "Necropolis Rising". I personally don't know what 
the fuck to think. 7 tracks in 22 minutes. Very big Hardcore influence with the music being 
closest to Death Metal, a lot of new and older style Heavy Metal creeps in especially with the 
lead breaks as well as a Metallic styled "rapping". Horror movie samples from Stephen King and 
Clive Barker add a further dimension to the music. Certainly not for trendy ears, unless they 
want those ears blown off, but unfortunately a bit cluttered for me. I don't really know what 
I'm listening to. Any new style Metalhead with an open mind would prize this demo as 
groundbreaking in the sense of breaking down the stereotypes that Metal is full off. 
Unfortunately/fortunately for me, the saying "You can't teach an old dog new tricks", rings 
true. Look out for a forthcoming full length release. Band contact: 1128 Gleason Circle, East 
Rochester, N.Y. 14445, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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TERTIUM QUIDS
DEMO 1
INDEPENDENT
(6 BATTLE AXES)

Does anyone remember "Gang Green", actually who could forget their Beer and Skateboards 
attitude on life. Tertium Quids sound exactly like "Gang Green" to me, minus of course the 
fun attitudes. You still have the large doses of noisy punk rock mixed with healthy doses of 
Metal for a very 'core attitude. I just hear a late eighties/early nineties garage band sound. 
I would enjoy this a lot more if it wasn't for the serious lyrics. I only enjoy this if it's 
party music: Beer, Chicks and Metal. If your tastes lie with more Hardcore and possibly punk, 
then this would appeal a lot more to you. Not a bad effort but I would suggest a lighter 
lyrical approach. Nine tracks, 30 minutes. Band contact: Gary Rosas, 822-A Ken St., Austin, 
TX 78758, U.S.A. 
(Lunatic)

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SUBLIME CADAVERIC DECOMPOSITION / INFECTED PUSSY
SPLIT TAPE 1997
NECROPHIL PRODUCTIONS
(5 BATTLE AXES)

Sublime Cadaveric Decomposition supply 14 tracks, five studio and nine live, of "fun slam 
grind gore" running in at around 25 min. S.C.D are extremely brutal in your face porno grind. 
Very interesting to check out for absolute intensity at which the Metal is delivered, the live 
tracks add a different dimension as well. Infected Pussy deliver 31 tracks in 16 minutes of 
their usual intro dominated "Encartelated Vaginal Explosion"(???). Infected Pussy would be a 
lot more fun if I understood French, well judging by the song title, "I've got a cool sense 
of humour (along with a working chainsaw)". I still unfortunately can't recommend Infected 
Pussy as their music bores me to tears. Tape Available from: Y Bruitos de la Vocce, 18 rue 
de la Presse, 78500 Sartrouville, France.
(Lunatic)

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CARDIOVASCULAR SUB-HYPOTHERMIA
PULMONARY DESCENT
INDEPENDENT
(4 BATTLE AXES)

Very much straight forward grind, what sets this tape apart though are the fucking irritating 
industrial like "banging on pots". I am very militant when it comes to the mixing of genre's, 
especially when one of the genre's mixed with Metal, is of a techno nature. Dance music sucks, 
whether it is played in an alternative club or whether its played at a rave, it all sounds 
the same to me - weak. Grind fans who don't feel this strongly about Metal, would enjoy this 
for the sheer brutality of which this tape has plenty. I don't recommend this tape for 
Metalheads! Band contact: CS-H, C/O Glenn Sykes, 2526 Heatherly Oaks Lane., Jacksonville, FL 
32226, U.S.A.
(Lunatic)

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LITHIUM
NEWSTAPE 2
INDEPENDENT
(1 BATTLE AXE)

Are you bored with hearing an incessant barrage of good music? Does the power of Metal leave 
you quivering in your shoes? Are you the type who can't handle criticism of any kind, do you 
really have to be liked by all you meet? Do you believe in sacrificing your integrity and self 
worth just to get laid? Well then I have the perfect music form for you "Alternative Music". 
As it plainly states, "alternative music" provides an alternative to music. Lithium, a band 
who's only call to fame is that they supported "Iron Maiden" on their South African tour, 
release the second in their subjectively informative news tapes. Featured on this tape is the 
band talking shit and a few sound samples that sound just as shit as always; space is given 
to upcoming bands (very noble), including a techno band (god as if Alternative wasn't bad 
enough) and a pop-punk band that make Green Day sound like Deicide, as well as Pothole 
(earning them one battle axe). A very good idea for a promo item. Contact: P.O.Box 43817, 
Fish Hoek, 7974, South Africa. 
(Lunatic)

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CASTRATI
WHO'S BAND
INDEPENDENT
(0 BATTLE AXES)

Castrati is definitely not what I would call a Metal band.  This three piece female band, that 
don't even have a guitarist, don't have the slightest idea what the word Metal means.  The 
demo starts off with two bass guitars playing the shittiest riffs (and this went on for hours 
it seemed) I have ever heard in my life.  The vocals I don't even want to talk about.  In some 
parts of the demo I actually thought the band forgot to switch off the TV, or then again maybe 
it could be one of those sound effects.  The demo was very boring especially after hearing the 
all female band November Grief.  Band Contact: Do you really want to know?
(J.M)

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LABYRINTH
DEMO
INDEPENDENT
(0 BATTLE AXES)

What is this, please help me!!!!  This demo is not for any Metalhead.  At least these people 
play some instruments and not like the above mentioned band.  This demo almost put me to sleep 
while trying to review it.  This is all Girly music for me and I didn't like it at all.  
"There is something you've got that you need". Yeah you guys need METAL!!!!! No contact 
address supplied.
(J.M)

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CRADLE OF FILTH INTERVIEW

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METAL ORISON INTERVIEW

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OMEN INTERVIEW

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IN THE NAME OF METAL
DARK AGES

Scripture 1 | Scripture 2 | Scripture 3 | Scripture 4 | Scripture 5