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Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Void Cruiser's Call of The Void

Void Cruiser's "Call of the Void" is a captivating journey into the realms of heavy alternative rock and psych music. Hailing from Helsinki, Finland, Void Cruiser has been honing their craft since 2011, crafting a unique sound that merges the raw energy of 90s grunge and heavy rock with elements of desert rock, post-metal, and shoegaze. With "Call of the Void," Void Cruiser delivers a sonic experience that is both vast and relentless. The album's unrelenting riffage and expansive soundscapes create a captivating atmosphere that envelops the listener. The band's mellow and melancholic sonic aesthetics, coupled with their smoothly dejected lyrical expression, add layers of depth and emotion to the music. Drawing influences from the likes of Alice In Chains, Type O Negative, Deftones, and Kyuss, Void Cruiser has crafted a sound that is uniquely their own. Their evolution is evident, with each album showcasing their growth and establishing their own path. ...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the King Howl's Homecoming

King Howl embarks on a mesmerizing sonic odyssey with their latest album, "Homecoming," released by Electric Valley Records. In this captivating musical endeavor, the band masterfully blends elements of blues, stoner rock, psychedelia, and classic rock to create a vivid soundscape that transports listeners to the heart of a 1960s American road trip. "Homecoming" represents a significant evolution in King Howl's signature sound, as they weave together new compositional and sonic influences while staying true to their roots. The album opens with "The Rooster," an electrifying blues-infused track that serves as a gateway into the band's narrative-driven journey. With gritty guitars and soulful vocals, King Howl immediately sets the stage for the protagonist's escape from a rural setting. The energy continues to soar with "From the Cradle," a rock 'n' roll anthem that captures the rebellious spirit of the era. As the journey unf...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Rainer Landfermann's Mehr Licht

Rainer Landfermann, the avant-garde metal artist known for his innovative and intensely dark sound, unveils his latest masterpiece, "Mehr Licht" ("more light"). With a musical approach that defies convention and pushes the boundaries of the genre, Landfermann once again proves himself as a visionary force in the world of avant-garde metal. Following the success of his debut solo album, "Mein Wort in Deiner Dunkelheit," Landfermann delivers two new songs on "Mehr Licht" that showcase his exceptional songwriting skills and unique instrumentation. The EP maintains his trademark intensity while exploring diverse sonic landscapes, resulting in an intriguingly grim and mesmerizing experience. Landfermann's vocals, which have been hailed as some of the most extreme and haunting in metal, take center stage throughout the EP. His vocal range spans from howling shrieks to guttural growls, creating an atmosphere of unease and unpredictability. With ea...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Acid King's Beyond Vision

Acid King, the reigning heavy rock royalty, has unleashed their highly anticipated album, "Beyond Vision," marking their triumphant return since 2015's "Middle Of Nowhere, Center of Everywhere." True to their legacy, Acid King delivers an onslaught of monolithic riffs and bone-rattling tones that have become their trademark. "Beyond Vision" was born from an experimental mindset and blossomed into a gateway to a silver-lit future. Longtime producer Billy Anderson captures the band's raw power, as blistering guitars and swirling power dirges collide. The album's tracks seamlessly flow into one another, devoid of traditional beginnings or endings, propelled by an undulating, lysergic pulse that carries listeners on a cosmic voyage of their choosing. Tracing the winding path of interplanetary existence, "Beyond Vision" stands as a monumental return, signaling a new era for Acid King. The band's pioneering influence on thundering, sw...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Najing's Najing

NAJING, the instrumental band from Pisa, delivers a captivating debut album that showcases their ability to merge diverse influences into a cohesive sonic journey. Drawing inspiration from renowned acts such as Isis, Neurosis, and Russian Circles, NAJING masterfully blends heavy riffs, atmospheric textures, and dynamic song structures. Recorded at the esteemed Saffa666 Studio with sound engineer Delio Nanni, the album exudes a rich, immersive sound that perfectly captures the band's unbridled passion and exceptional musicianship. Each track takes the listener on a captivating sonic journey, seamlessly transitioning between brooding, contemplative passages and explosive, cathartic climaxes. The synergy between the band members is evident, as they effortlessly create an atmosphere that is both haunting and mesmerizing. NAJING's self-titled album is a mesmerizing exploration of instrumental post-metal, doom metal, and stoner rock. The band effortlessly channels the genre's d...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the The Crooked Whispers's Funeral Blues

"Funeral Blues" stands as a testament to the band's mastery of their craft, immersing listeners in a world where darkness reigns supreme. Each track tells a tale of malevolence and occultism, unveiling the sinister depths of the human psyche. From the opening notes to the final crescendo, The Crooked Whispers deliver an unrelenting barrage of bone-chilling riffs, thunderous drums, and haunting melodies that evoke a sense of dread and fascination. The album pays homage to the roots of doom and occult-infused metal, with echoes of Black Sabbath resonating throughout. Tracks like "Funeral Blues" and "Pleasant Death" capture the essence of doom metal's forefathers, while incorporating their unique touch. The dense and atmospheric soundscapes invoke a sense of ritualistic darkness, conjuring images of black masses and forbidden ceremonies. Drawing inspiration from occult literature, The Crooked Whispers weave intricate narratives of horror and mystery...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the ASTRODEATH's Vol. II

Prepare yourself for an auditory assault of cosmic proportions as ASTRODEATH unleashes their highly anticipated album, Vol. II. Released through Tuff Cuff Records in Australia and Heavy Psych Sounds Records in Europe, this album is a cataclysmic sonic journey that will leave you breathless. ASTRODEATH, hailing from the Cadigal Land in the Eora Nation (Sydney), consists of singer/guitarist Tim Lancken and drummer Yoshi Hausler. Together, they have crafted a monstrous sound that transcends earthly boundaries and immerses listeners in a realm of madness and revelation. Vol. II takes the foundation laid by their previous works and elevates it to new heights. The album is a testament to the band's ability to create a sonic landscape that is both haunting and captivating. From the very first note, ASTRODEATH plunges you into a universe of darkness and chaos, where the boundaries of reality dissolve. The music of ASTRODEATH is a sonic alchemy that defies easy categorization. It combine...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Ciminero's Shadows Digging the Grave

From the first notes of "Shadows Digging the Grave," Ciminero envelops the listener in a sonic landscape that is simultaneously haunting and enchanting. The band's heavy mixture of doom and occult rock is masterfully executed, showcasing their ability to craft captivating melodies that linger in the mind long after the music has faded. The psychedelic moments scattered throughout the album add an extra layer of intrigue, enhancing the overall experience. Ciminero's sound is a unique fusion of Italian mysticism and Finnish heaviness, drawing inspiration from the likes of Blood Ceremony and Cathedral. This unholy covenant gives birth to a musical entity that is both familiar and innovative, paying homage to its origins while pushing the boundaries of genre conventions. "Shadows Digging the Grave" builds upon the elements heard on their debut, showcasing the band's growth and maturity. One of the album's greatest strengths lies in its ability to capti...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the F/E/A's Anti

"Anti" marks the third release from the Majorcan post-rock band/collective F/E/A (Forces Elèctriques d’Andorra), and it is a testament to the group's musical prowess and their unique sonic identity. Recorded live at Diorama Sound with Toni Salvà and mastered by Doug Henderson at Micro Moose Berlin, this record captures the band like never before, showcasing their peak performance and a distinct blend of mantric primitiveness and evocative epicness that has garnered them respect and recognition in both the underground scene and beyond. F/E/A's sound can best be described as instrumental rock, heavily influenced by avant-garde sounds. Their music draws inspiration from various genres, ranging from the post-rock textures of Godspeed You! Black Emperor and Mogwai to the forceful post-metal of Russian Circles. They incorporate elements of minimalism akin to Glenn Branca, while also channeling the abrasive noise-rock of Boris or Sonic Youth. F/E/A effortlessly blends Swans...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Hemplifier's The Stoner Side Of The Doom

Hemplifier, a Stoner/Doom band hailing from the island of Malta, unleashes their sonic force with their album "The Stoner Side Of The Doom." Comprised of Emanuel Portelli, Bażaż, and Dino Mifsud Lepre, each member brings their wealth of experience from various bands to create a heavy and captivating musical journey. With a shared passion for crafting the heaviest riffs possible and an affinity for all things cosmic and occult, Hemplifier delivers an album that combines the hypnotic groove of stoner rock with the weight and darkness of doom metal. "The Stoner Side Of The Doom" is the result of the trio's desire to come together, jam, and send seismic waves to the planet from their spacecraft. From the opening moments of the album, it becomes evident that Hemplifier worships the almighty power of amps and vintage gear. The sound they create is rich, textured, and drenched in heavy distortion, providing a satisfying experience for fans of both stoner and doom genr...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the AKTOPASA's Journey to the Pink Planet

AKTOPASA's debut album, "Journey to the Pink Planet," takes listeners on an immersive musical expedition through a sonic landscape that defies traditional boundaries. Comprised of Marco Sebastiano Alessi on drums, Lorenzo Barutta on lead guitar, and Silvio Tozzato on bass guitar, this three-man band hailing from the Venetian hinterland demonstrates their adeptness at crafting an otherworldly experience through their psychedelic compositions. The band's name, "Aktopasa," derived from the Nepalese word for octopus, immediately sets the tone for their unconventional approach. Although Nepal is known for its majestic mountains rather than oceanic creatures, AKTOPASA seeks to intertwine the mystical frequencies from various sources, including the heights of Mount Everest, the shores of the British coast, the allure of Caribbean islands, the depths of the Underground, and even the vast expanses of outer space. The result is a collection of songs that transports l...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Deadly Vipers' Low City Drone

Prepare for a debauchery of decibels as Deadly Vipers unleash their highly potent and unadorned fuzzy rock sound in their latest album, "Low City Drone." With compositions rich in depth and propelled by irresistibly catchy yet devastating grooves, the band offers a unique and personal vision of the genre. At the heart of their musical universe lies the riff, serving as the fuel that powers interstellar engines and catapults listeners on a transcendent journey from desert expanses to the farthest reaches of the universe. "Low City Drone" showcases Deadly Vipers' mastery of their craft, delivering a sonic experience that is equal parts raw and mesmerizing. The band's distinctive vision of the future/past manifests as a dystopian tale, depicting humanity's last breath, while simultaneously weaving a thread of utopian hope for reconstruction in the aftermath. The album serves as a sonic warning, urging listeners to watch out for the drones lurking above, eve...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Oaks's Genesis of the Abstract

Paris-based instrumental progressive metal act Oaks has finally unveiled their highly anticipated debut album, Genesis of the Abstract. With this release, Oaks introduces listeners to a world of powerful, conceptual, and enthralling metal that takes them on an immersive sonic journey. Drawing inspiration from esteemed bands such as Mastodon, Russian Circles, and Pink Floyd, this French trio presents a diverse mixture of brutal incursions and serene moments, skillfully crafting a musical experience akin to standing at the precipice of an approaching storm. Genesis of the Abstract showcases Oaks' mastery of their craft as they deftly navigate the intricacies of their instrumental compositions. From the opening notes, it becomes evident that Oaks is here to make a statement. The album is an unyielding force that pulls the listener into a complex sound universe, where every track unfolds like a chapter in a captivating novel. The musicianship displayed throughout the album is nothing...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Stramonium's Elder Moon

Stramonium, an Italian four-piece band, invites listeners on a captivating journey through their debut album, "Elder Moon." Drawing influences from a wide range of musical styles, including classic rock, 70s psychedelia, modern stoner, and old-school doom, Stramonium's sound is a fusion of these elements intertwined with heavy blues-styled jam sessions. Their music pays homage to legendary bands like Black Sabbath, Pentagram, Iron Maiden, as well as iconic artists like Jimi Hendrix, MC5, and Motorhead, resulting in a rich tapestry of sonic references. "Elder Moon" is a testament to Stramonium's ability to seamlessly blend different genres and create a sound that is uniquely their own. The album's colossal and dark sound evokes themes and atmospheres associated with occultism, esoteric doctrines, symbolism, and the mysterious allure of the Moon. Each track delves into a decadent and obscure landscape, immersing the listener in a world of pagan worship and...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Dozer's Drifting in the Endless Void

After a hiatus spanning over a decade, Swedish stoner rock pioneers Dozer have resurfaced with a momentous comeback in the form of "Drifting in the Endless Void." Hailing from the town of Borlänge and instrumental in the initial wave of European-style desert and stoner rock, Dozer's impact on the genre cannot be overstated. With their signature fusion of proto-metal, riff-rock, and punk, Dozer's latest offering is a testament to their enduring relevance and their pivotal role in shaping the genre they helped launch. "Drifting in the Endless Void" resurrects Dozer's fuzz-laden, amplifier-splitting sound with an invigorating fervor. From their early releases on Man's Ruin label to their milestone third album, "Call it Conspiracy," Dozer consistently demonstrated a mastery of high-energy anthems and lockdown grooves. This latest release stands as a triumphant continuation of their musical legacy. The album kicks off with unyielding force, pr...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Chrome Waves' Earth Will Shed It's Skin

Chrome Waves returns with their highly anticipated album, "Earth Will Shed Its Skin". Produced by the talented duo of Jeff Wilson and Tyler Watkins, with Tyler handling mixing and mastering duties, this album showcases the band's evolution and delivers a captivating musical experience. From the opening notes, it becomes evident that Chrome Waves has crafted a sonic journey of introspection and atmospheric beauty. The album's artwork, created by the renowned Valnoir/Metastazis, sets the tone for the ethereal and haunting soundscapes that await listeners. "Earth Will Shed Its Skin" is a testament to Chrome Waves' ability to blend genres seamlessly. The band incorporates elements of post-metal, shoegaze, and black metal to create a mesmerizing sonic palette. The songs ebb and flow with a sense of urgency, drawing the listener into a world of emotional depth and introspection. The musicianship on display is exceptional, with each member bringing their unique...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Red Eyed Hyena's Tried & True

Red Eyed Hyena's latest offering, "Tried & True," is a compelling journey into the realm of stoner rock infused with blues and doom influences. The band's powerful sound and raw energy captivate listeners, making this album a standout in the genre. From the first notes, Red Eyed Hyena grabs your attention with their infectious riffs and grooves. The guitar work is heavy and fuzz-laden, creating a dense and immersive sonic atmosphere. The rhythm section drives the music forward with thunderous bass lines and solid, steady drumming that provides a solid foundation for the entire album. One of the notable strengths of "Tried & True" is the band's ability to seamlessly blend elements of blues and doom into their stoner rock sound. The bluesy guitar solos add a touch of soul and emotion, while the doomy undertones create a sense of heaviness and intensity. The result is a unique and captivating sonic experience that keeps you hooked from start to fini...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the TANKZILLA's TankZilla

TankZilla's self-titled debut album is a testament to the raw power and relentless energy of true rock 'n' roll. The band's journey leading up to this release has been an adventurous one, with unexpected turns and explosive live performances that have solidified their place in the scene. The album opens with a bang, immediately grabbing the listener's attention and refusing to let go. From start to finish, TankZilla delivers a high-octane sonic assault that will leave fans of the genre craving more. The band's chemistry and camaraderie shine through in every track, showcasing their years of collaboration and dedication to their craft. Recorded live at the esteemed Ultra Elektric Studio, the album captures the raw intensity and authentic sound that TankZilla is known for. There are no gimmicks or frills here, just pure, unadulterated rock 'n' roll played with passion and precision. The production allows the band's energy to shine through, creating an ...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the King Potenaz's Goat Rider

King Potenaz, hailing from Fasano, Apulia, Italy, emerges from the depths of the occult stoner doom metal realm with their debut album, "Goat Rider." Drawing inspiration from the likes of Sleep, Electric Wizard, Kyuss, Monster Magnet, and the legendary Black Sabbath, the band delves into the dark and mesmerizing realms of heavy, hypnotic riffs and haunting atmospheres. Formed as a result of intense jam sessions in 2019, King Potenaz has evolved into a formidable power trio, consisting of Giuseppe on guitar and vocals, Francesco on bass guitar, and Piero on drums and synths. With a rich background in the local heavy and underground scene, the members bring decades of experience and musical prowess to the table. Giuseppe and Francesco have previously collaborated in black, doom, and drone projects such as Helvete, Moriendoom, and Rius de la Mort, while Piero's drumming skills have left their mark on punk and hardcore bands like No Exit and Erpice, alongside his electronic s...

Witching Chronicles: Exploring the Hellgrimm's Ritual

Hellgrimm, a powerful trio hailing from the depths, presents their latest offering, "Ritual." Formed in 2018, this band takes listeners on a dark journey through the realms of addiction, death, and demons, intertwining tales of fiction and reality. Drawing inspiration from the nostalgia of 1970s-80s stadium rock, Hellgrimm combines sonic wizardry with raw emotion. "The Hunger," their debut full-length album released in 2021, garnered praise from critics, setting the stage for their newest release. With "Ritual," Hellgrimm unleashes a collection of rhythmic melodies, punctuated by haunting solos and a piercing voice that offers glimpses of hope amidst the darkness. Writer and guitarist Jerry Connor, along with drummer and singer Erica Missey, lead the charge of this sonic triumvirate. The band's sound evokes a sense of destructive power and salvation, as they navigate through both physical and psychological demons. Each track feels like a spell cast, we...