Marc Almond imparts the right dramatic charge to the cursed stories of the protagonists while Cashmore carefully crafts a rich yet gentle, non-intrusive, and classy tapestry.

 An autumnal album. Beautiful. It enters among my favorites of this 2011.

Feasting With Panthers is a poetic and expressive album by Marc Almond and Michael Cashmore, blending literary works with sophisticated music production. The album avoids heaviness by balancing dramatic vocals with a refined sonic backdrop. It features lyrics from renowned poets and delivers an autumnal mood. The collaboration is likened to Antony & The Johnsons but with a unique chic-pop sensibility. A standout album and a personal favorite of 2011. Discover the poetic world of Feasting With Panthers—listen now and immerse yourself in a unique musical journey.

 Simplicity, this is the watchword.

 Storm Seeker flows light and fresh like a waterfall.

ICS Vortex, a notable figure in Norwegian black and Viking metal, releases his solo album Storm Seeker. The album features concise, balanced tracks with classic metal elements and subtle 70s prog influences. Vortex's straightforward vocal style complements the accessible and fresh compositions. Though not groundbreaking, Storm Seeker delivers an enjoyable and well-crafted listening experience. Listen to ICS Vortex's Storm Seeker for a fresh take on classic Norwegian metal with captivating vocals and balanced compositions.

 The piece is never monotonous but perpetually differentiated in a highly refined sound kaleidoscope.

 I wouldn’t be surprised if some of you, upon first hearing this music, mistook it for electronic music, perhaps dark ambient.

This review highlights Giacinto Scelsi's unique and visionary orchestral compositions featured on this CD, showcasing his pioneering use of microtonal variations and innovative sound textures. The works, influenced by Eastern mysticism and ancient legends, create an exotic and immersive listening experience. Pieces like 'Four Pieces on a Single Note,' 'Anahit,' and 'Uaxuctum' demonstrate Scelsi’s contribution to 20th-century avant-garde music. The review encourages exploring this distinct sound world as an introduction to Scelsi’s legacy. Discover the mesmerizing orchestral world of Giacinto Scelsi—listen now to experience his groundbreaking sound innovations!

 Lulu is not metal, let’s clarify this: it is sick and tormented rock, nihilistic and dark, prophetic and hallucinated.

 It’s impossible not to go back in time to 'Sister Ray' by the Velvet Underground, impossible to remain impassive in front of such sublime narrative force.

The review praises 'Lulu' as a challenging yet rewarding album that defies traditional genre labels. It highlights the successful fusion of Lou Reed's poetic nihilism with Metallica's robust sound. Tracks like 'Pumping Blood' and 'Frustration' demonstrate the album's dark, hallucinatory narrative and powerful execution. The reviewer emphasizes the album's depth and artistic ambition, urging listeners to engage beyond ideological preconceptions. Dive into the intense and unique world of 'Lulu'—listen now to experience Lou Reed and Metallica like never before!

 The goal is to survive. The ultimate goal is to reach the end of the book still sane and realize that everything is over and at least we are safe.

 War is the ultimate game because war is at last a forcing of the unity of existence. War is God.

The review delves into Cormac McCarthy's Blood Meridian as a challenging yet thrilling read marked by extreme violence and philosophical depth. It highlights the intense characters, especially Judge Holden, and McCarthy's vivid portrayal of the harsh desert landscape, which acts almost as a character itself. The book's dark atmosphere contrasts raw brutality with moments of natural beauty, making it a unique literary experience. McCarthy’s solitude and refusal to engage with mainstream literary culture profoundly influence the work. Dive into the brutal beauty of Blood Meridian and experience McCarthy’s epic western like never before.

 Few bands open their hearts to serve it on a twelve-centimeter-diameter platter.

 If_then_else breaks free definitively from its metallic chains and produces entirely new music, a music made of emotions as well as sounds.

If_then_else marks a daring stylistic shift for The Gathering, blending trip-rock with emotional depth and expansive soundscapes. Anneke's captivating vocals lead a richly textured album that balances introspection and innovation. The review highlights standout tracks like 'Amity' and 'Herbal Movement,' praising the band's courage to evolve and experiment. This release stands as a key transitional work linking their past and future sounds. Discover The Gathering's groundbreaking album If_then_else—listen now and experience a unique trip-rock journey!

 A modern western monument is erected, dark but not lacking in irony.

 The soundtrack was directly composed by the director, to draw an even more personal nightmare.

John Carpenter's Assault on Precinct 13 is a masterful low-budget film blending craftsmanship, tension, and dark modern western themes. Set in a crime-ridden 1970s Los Angeles precinct, the story emphasizes atmosphere and psychological suspense over complex plot. The film's minimalistic characters and Carpenter's personal soundtrack deepen the sense of isolation and impending violence. Though considered a cult classic mostly for enthusiasts, it stands out against today's often over-the-top cinematic violence. Discover the intense atmosphere of Assault on Precinct 13—watch Carpenter's classic and experience a true cult modern western.

 Songs made of mud and tar, sometimes unbearable in their lugubrious distortions, intense but lacking in liberating moments.

 An honest work, primordial yet less avant-garde compared to other works by the group.

Endtyme by Cathedral reflects a dark, pessimistic return to doom metal’s roots amid a changing metal landscape around 2000. The album offers intense, lugubrious compositions with moments of beauty alongside less successful passages. Lee Dorrian and the band take a step back from avant-garde experimentation, focusing on oppressive, muddy soundscapes. The artwork reinforces the bleak mood. While honest and compelling, the album feels somewhat fatigued and interlocutory within their discography. Dive into Cathedral's Endtyme and experience a dark, atmospheric journey through doom metal's depths.

 "1000 Autunni is elusive. No matter how many listens I dedicate to it, I can’t grasp its essence, so well hidden that it makes me doubt its existence."

 "If National Health were musicians full of personality, in '1000 Autunni' this ego is not perceived, it cancels itself in favor of the collective."

The review describes Ske's '1000 Autunni' as an elusive and complex album that defies easy understanding. It highlights the album's delicate, varied sounds and intricate compositional structures. Though the reviewer remains unsure if it is a masterpiece, they recognize its unique charm and timeless quality. The album incorporates influences from Canterbury and National Health but emphasizes collective musicianship over individual ego. Explore Ske's '1000 Autunni' and dive into its mysterious, timeless progressive soundscape.

 The celebrated "Azimuth" is the absolute manifesto of Larkin's sound, one of the most beautiful things to come out of Detroit.

 A sound that sometimes assumes sacred tones, imposing peaks of ‘humanity’, that knows how to stand out and willingly plunge into experimentation.

Kenny Larkin's Azimuth stands as a landmark album in Detroit techno, blending melodic, soulful, and experimental sounds. It showcases his mastery of analogue instruments and evokes comparisons to jazz greats. The album offers a warm, deep journey marked by elegance and timelessness, highlighting Larkin's important role in electronic music history. Dive into the soulful sounds of Kenny Larkin's Azimuth and experience the pinnacle of Detroit techno’s spiritual and melodic journey.

 His is the digital sound par excellence, every minimal sound... generated through digital signals and intricate sinusoidal waves, zero analog.

 Heard in its entirety manages to sound very warm and enveloping, as well as ecstatic, at times approaching the Indian sitar ragas.

The review praises Komet's contribution to the Raster-Noton's 20' to 2000 series, highlighting Frank Bretschneider's innovative digital minimalism. The music is described as cold and cerebral yet warm and enveloping, a balance rarely achieved in this genre. Positioned as a mental journey beyond typical electronic releases, it stands apart from pretentious sound art with a focus on pure sound. The album is celebrated as a timeless masterpiece within minimalist electronic music. Discover the visionary digital minimalism of Komet’s 20' to 2000 – experience this timeless electronic journey now!

 We haven’t understood a damn thing because we’re both always searching.

 'La marmellata' is one of the highest points you could reach, and it is as simple as morning breakfast.

The review warmly embraces Bobo Rondelli's album Per Amor Del Cielo as a poetic and intimate work filled with simple arrangements and heartfelt lyrics. The writer reflects on personal and social themes, highlighting standout songs like 'La marmellata' and 'Madame Sitrì.' While some parts verge on excessive simplicity, the album’s emotional depth and autumnal mood connect deeply. Overall, the review conveys strong affection and appreciation for Rondelli's musical honesty. Listen to Bobo Rondelli’s Per Amor Del Cielo and experience its poetic intimacy and honest storytelling.

 Beauty to spare. And power, lots of it.

 "Nux Vomica" is pure malice. Raw, direct, fierce, it messes up your hair and doesn’t ask for permission.

This review praises The Veils' album Nux Vomica for its intense beauty and emotional power, anchored by Finn Andrews' remarkable voice. Though not flawless, it features memorable tracks like "Pan" and the title track, which deliver raw energy and haunting atmospheres. The album balances softer moments with fierce, impactful ones, making it an addictive listen for fans of dark indie rock. Listen to The Veils' Nux Vomica now and experience a powerful blend of beauty and raw emotion!

 Sorrentino directs a banal story, one that’s been seen many times before; a journey in search of oneself, and he does it poorly, with flat direction that never takes off.

 The images of the piled-up corpses in Auschwitz wink at a third-grade sensationalism.

The review expresses disappointment in Paolo Sorrentino’s 'This Must Be The Place,' criticizing its banal story and flat direction. While Sean Penn delivers a solid performance, the convoluted and sensationalist plot weakens the film. The attempted themes feel shallow, and supporting elements, including the soundtrack cameo, fail to uplift the experience. Ultimately, the film leaves the viewer dissatisfied. Read the full review and decide if Paolo Sorrentino’s film lives up to the hype or falls short.

 Maynard, with Puscifer...what the hell are you trying to tell us?

 With this plethoric bunch of monsters along with MJK’s nightmare voice, it should turn out to be an album to lick your toes over. But no, or rather, I am conflicted.

This review critically examines Puscifer’s album 'Conditions Of My Parole,' acknowledging some progress from its predecessor but expressing mixed feelings about its industrial and experimental sounds. The reviewer highlights standout tracks like 'Green Valley' and 'Lustful' while questioning some stylistic choices and influences. Despite the notable lineup of collaborators, the album never fully convinces as much as expected from Maynard James Keenan. The review ends on a puzzling note about the album's artistic message. Listen to Puscifer’s 'Conditions Of My Parole' to explore its unique industrial blend and decide where it stands in Maynard James Keenan’s musical journey.

 Dave McKean translates with his crooked shadows, his hallucinatory faces, the straight lines dripping with madness.

 There is the mad bitterness of Bradbury, there are the shadows with which he paints the canvas of his books.

The review praises Dave McKean's evocative and hallucinatory illustrations that complement Ray Bradbury’s dark and haunting story, The Homecoming. It highlights the themes of fear, family, and sadness depicted through both words and art. The reviewer appreciates the way McKean's artwork intensifies the original narrative with shadows and madness. The classic story’s macabre elements and melancholic mood are effectively brought to life by this new edition. Dive into the chilling world of The Homecoming with Dave McKean’s mesmerizing illustrations—discover this haunting classic today!

 'The sound is very varied and, as usual, they have managed to surprise once again.'

 'La musica leggera è potentissima' deserves the prize for best track on the album for the uniqueness of the sound.

Negrita's 'Dannato Vivere' builds on their previous work, offering a varied sound rich in rock, punk, reggae, and electronic influences. The album features emotionally charged lyrics and notable contributions from band members Pau and Drigo. Standout tracks include 'Fuori controllo,' 'La musica leggera è potentissima,' and 'Splendido.' Overall, the album demands multiple listens to fully appreciate its depth and diversity. Discover Negrita's unique blend of rock and global sounds in 'Dannato Vivere'—listen now and experience their powerful musical evolution!

 Encountering a new release from Vintersorg is a bit like meeting an old friend after several years.

 'Jordpuls' continues on the neo-acoustic lines already traced by its predecessor, marking a third era in the sonic evolution of the duo.

Vintersorg's 'Jordpuls' continues the artist's neo-acoustic Viking metal phase with a mix of heavy guitars and melodic passages. The album balances familiarity with fresh immediacy, recalling earlier works while pushing forward. Andreas Hedlund's signature growl and nature-themed lyrics persist. Standout tracks feature dynamic rhythms and atmospheric breaks, showcasing artistic growth and silencing critics. Overall, 'Jordpuls' is an inspired return for Vintersorg. Dive into Vintersorg's Jordpuls and experience a powerful blend of Viking tradition and progressive metal spirit.

 Bad as Me is not just the latest Waits album, but one of the most successful episodes of his entire discography.

 To hell with it, indeed.

Tom Waits' Bad As Me marks a triumphant return after seven years, blending piano-driven melodies with experimental guitars. The album features strong collaborations, notably with Keith Richards, and balances furious rockabilly with tender ballads. The review highlights it as one of Waits' best works, dismissing opinions that undermine its strength. A powerful and poetic masterpiece that resonates deeply. Listen to Tom Waits' Bad As Me and experience a raw, emotional journey through his masterful music.

 J-Ax reaffirms himself as one of the few musicians still worth listening to in Italy.

 Rap’n’Roll is something new, never heard before, distinguishing itself from any type of sound already experimented with in both rock crossover and rapcore.

The review covers J-Ax's 2011 live show at Alcatraz Club in Milan during his Meglio Prima (?) tour. Praised for his unique blend of rap and rock, J-Ax delivers an energetic two-and-a-half-hour performance. The band is strong, but some choices, like the presence of a second vocalist and the slow mid-set songs, detract from the concert's momentum. Despite some disappointments and a less enthusiastic crowd vibe, J-Ax proves himself as an original and influential Italian artist. Experience J-Ax’s dynamic Rap’n’Roll live — listen to the album and feel the unique energy yourself!