Chapter VI is Candlemass' first album since their debut without Messiah Marcolin. It is because of this that this album often gets little recognition, even amongst die hard Candlemass fans. Tomas Vikstrom's vocal delivery is absolutely stellar, and is just as good as Messiah, albeit less operatic. Musically, the songs aren't overly different from what was found on their last album Tales Of Creation. This is still very much an epic doom metal album. I suppose Tomas' vocals place less emphasis on the occult atmosphere of older Candlemass and more on an epic, heavy metal atmosphere. Definitely a worthy addition to Candlemass' stellar discography.
DOWNLOAD
Relatively unknown US death metal from Pennsylvania. Deteriorate plays the prototypical US style of death metal, close to what bands like Monstrosity and Brutality were doing, but added their own unique edge. The production is unique and incredibly raw, and the vocalist has a stellar range.
1986 demo from pre-Grave band Corpse. Black Dawn is a vicious thrash-fest somewhat reminiscent of the Nihlist demos, in that the death metal wasn't yet fully realized. One of my favourite demos ever.
Black Witchery's two song EP, featuring their most melodic and dare I say, catchy material. But don't be fooled, this is just as uncompromising and crushing as their newer material, just with a little more variation put into the riffs. There's even a clean guitar section near the end of the song.
Atlantean Kodex are a German band playing epic doom metal. This 35-minute EP contains some of the most breathtaking, inspiring music I've ever heard. The Solstice influence is clearly heard throughout.
Totality is a mind-blowing chaotic maelstrom of technical, claustrophobic black metal riffing with maniacal shrieks and break neck speeds. For fans of all things extreme.
