FOR THE LOVE OF METAL
Monolith of Inhumanity is the most notable of Cattle Decapitation’s releases so far, and its more progressive passages suggest possible future additions to the band’s traditional approach to things. They’re additions that I would be happy to see the band build on as they continue their climb up to broader recognizability and an increasingly unique ensemble sound.
Metal Blade celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2012. While the label has already released a plethora of classic and genre-defining albums, and fostered and supported our dearly loved heavy metal community, it remains, to this day, as active and energetic as ever. What the metal realm would have looked like without Metal Blade’s steely presence over the past three decades is a frightening thought indeed.
To help celebrate this, here are four new reviews of new Metal Blade titles by our New Zealand based writer Craig Haze, who tackles the new releases by Angel Witch, Exhumer, Ram and OSI
Soulfly may not be the cutting edge band it once was, but it’s still a relevant bulwark of power in today’s metal scene. Enslaved is a poignant celebration of Max Cavalera’s musical vision and his longevity.
In April, Jay H. Gorania headed to Europe to flog merchandise for TODAY IS THE DAY on their tour. Now that he’s back and had time to get used to regular life again, Mr. Gorania has written a tour diary for Hellbound.ca. Here is his first entry from the tour.
In perfect grind form, the pace of the album is relentless and unforgiving. Riff after riff after blast after scream after roar, it constantly maintains tension and refreshes itself, never failing prey to monotony.
Murder Construct is the name of a new Los Angeles based grind outfit featuring members of Cattle Decapitation, Exhumed, Fatalist, Intronaut and others. Originally conceived nearly ten years ago by guitarist Leon del Muerte, the band recently released their first seven song EP through Relapse Records. Jason Wellwood recently had the chance to speak to Leon del Muerte over the phone, the results of which can be heard below.