mementomori

 With Notwendfeuer, Vogel delivers what can be considered the work of his maturity, finally replacing electronics with natural sources.

 Thematic focus centers on youth, passion, and the hope for change amid the weight of the past.

Darkwood's Notwendfeuer by Henryk Vogel exemplifies German neo-folk through its acoustic purity and rich thematic focus on nature, history, and spirituality. The album showcases Vogel's maturity, replacing prior electronic elements with natural instrumentation. It reflects deep cultural and historical awareness, especially about German identity and youth's role in change. Fans of apocalyptic folk and European folk traditions will find it both compelling and essential. Dive into Darkwood's Notwendfeuer to experience authentic German neo-folk storytelling and acoustic artistry today!

 This time, it must be admitted, the little Larsen (no longer so little) seems to have done it.

 'The Lone Descent' is a hyper-produced album, a path that unfolds over eleven passionate confessions.

After a six-year hiatus, Kim Larsen returns with 'The Lone Descent,' an album marking his artistic maturity. It combines refined arrangements, varied influences from sixties music, and deeply personal lyrics. The album balances haunting folk with melodic diversity, overcoming past repetitiveness. Overall, it stands out as a refreshing and captivating addition to the apocalyptic folk genre. Explore the melancholic depths and rich textures of 'The Lone Descent'—a must-listen for apocalyptic folk and neo-folk fans.

 Blood Axis are not a pastime, or worse still a money machine, but an artistic entity that has managed not to squander its seed in vain.

 You either love them or hate them: an overused formula, but never as fitting as in this instance.

The review praises 'Ultimacy', a comprehensive Blood Axis compilation spanning twenty years of scattered releases. It highlights the artistic journey blending neo-folk, industrial sounds, and esoteric themes. The album showcases the unique and evolving style driven by Moynihan's charismatic delivery. This collection is celebrated as a legendary and indispensable overview for fans and newcomers alike. Listening is encouraged over track-by-track analysis. Dive into Blood Axis' 'Ultimacy' and experience the legendary fusion of neo-folk and industrial sounds across two decades!

 The music... retains the disturbing neo-classical coordinates and the intricate baroque arrangements... settling on the faltering sounds of popular folk tradition.

 It MUST be listened to by those who appreciate this suffering entity that has managed to transform its existential discomfort into something wonderfully unique in the wider context of dark music.

This review explores Sopor Aeternus & The Ensemble of Shadows' album 'The Inexperienced Spiral Traveller' as a deeply personal and enigmatic work marked by isolation and self-discovery. It highlights the album's transition from early dark-wave influences to folk and neo-classical sounds and praises the emotional depth despite its flaws and inexperience. The album is seen as essential for fans of dark music and those interested in the unique artistic journey of Anna-Varney Cantodea. Discover the haunting, intricate world of Sopor Aeternus—listen to 'The Inexperienced Spiral Traveller' and dive into a unique dark music journey.

 From the first notes of 'Drover' we understand that Callahan arrives at a more mature and cohesive dimension.

 'Apocalypse' is his rebirth. More personal than this is impossible.

This review appreciates Bill Callahan's 2011 album Apocalypse as a refined, cohesive, and mature work that builds on his previous album's singer-songwriter transformation. It highlights the minimal yet inspired arrangements and his deep connection to American folk and personal themes. The album is described as intimate and emotionally complex, showcasing a well-balanced artistic phase representing both a personal and artistic rebirth. Discover the profound and intimate world of Bill Callahan's Apocalypse—listen and experience a masterful folk journey.

 "Tunnel Blanket is a dark album, at times gloomy and threatening, light years away from indie reminiscences or languid progressions of an emotionality relegated to a strictly adolescent universe."

 "Nothing is destroyed, nothing is created, everything transforms."

This Will Destroy You's Tunnel Blanket represents a mature and stylistically evolved post-rock album. The band masterfully blends ambient, drone, and post-metal elements, crafting a dark yet emotionally engaging soundscape. Despite some moments of prolixity, the album rewards listeners with repeated listening and deep emotional immersion. The band avoids clichés by pursuing a challenging and nuanced sonic path, standing out in an increasingly stagnant genre. Dive into Tunnel Blanket and experience the powerful evolution of post-rock through This Will Destroy You’s masterful sonic journey.

 "This latest work by Shining was a bit rushed, put together without much conviction and lacking a raison d'être."

 "Kvarforth's clean singing is irritating and often reminiscent of cheesy choruses like those of Linkin Park."

The seventh album by Shining, VII: Fodd Forlorare, marks a disappointing turn in the band's evolution. Although musically precise and well-produced, the album lacks the compelling edge and emotional depth that characterized their earlier work. Excessive clean vocals and uninspired performances diminish the impact, making it a lesser entry in their discography. Fans of the band's prior artistry may feel let down by this more polished but less innovative release. Discover why Shining's VII: Fodd Forlorare divides fans—read the full review and listen to decide for yourself!

 "The same old warmed-up soup, but warmed by the only chef capable of making it still appetizing."

 "An album that, accounts settled, ends up sounding like one of the best produced by the genre in recent years."

After a six-year wait, Sol Invictus returns with 'The Cruellest Month,' a solid album rooted in apocalyptic folk tradition. While it offers no major innovations, it satisfies longtime fans with compelling songwriting and evocative atmospheres. Contributions from Andrew King add vigor, and standout tracks like 'To Kill All Kings' and 'The Blackleg Miner' showcase the band's trademark dark folk intensity. The album captures a gritty, battle-ready spirit and is regarded as one of the genre's strong recent works. Explore 'The Cruellest Month' and immerse yourself in Sol Invictus’ compelling dark folk saga today!

 Was there a need to resurrect an old and captivating black and white film and take up its plot to propose a sequel in 3D? Antonio Bartoccetti with Pre Viam, fortunately, did not fail.

 Bartoccetti continues to be the bravest and most credible champion of a conception of art as a mystical experience, which becomes truly occult music as a vehicle to approach the supernatural.

Jacula’s Pre Viam marks the band’s long-awaited return, merging ancient mystical atmospheres with modern progressive rock. While differing from the original 70s avant-garde sound, it carries forward Antonio Bartoccetti’s visionary spirit with refined production and the influential presence of his son Rexanthony. The album combines dark ambient, gothic, and progressive elements with unique features like an exorcism recording, offering a compelling continuation of Jacula’s esoteric legacy. Despite some reservations about its modern style and artwork, the album stands as a victorious chapter in the artist’s career. Explore Jacula’s Pre Viam and experience a dark, mystical journey through progressive rock and occult soundscapes.

 Shining will embark on a journey that will progressively emancipate them from the expressive forms adopted at the origins.

 The immediacy, the impulsiveness that derives from it is the other side of the coin that makes 'Within Deep Dark Chambers' a great album.

Shining’s debut album 'I: Within Deep Dark Chambers' is a powerful and seminal example of depressive black metal. Niklas Kvarforth’s vision blends black metal’s classic intensity with Burzum-inspired melodic sadness and doom elements. The album’s rawness, despite some immature arrangements, captures a compelling mix of aggression and introspection. It’s a foundational work for fans of the genre, showcasing both potential and skill in extreme metal songwriting. Dive into Shining’s darkest depths—listen to 'Within Deep Dark Chambers' and experience the roots of depressive black metal.