Morbid Moon Records

Alright, I think it's time to point out a record label that I'm very fond of. In fact, I will dedicate the next few reviews to being bands from this label-Morbid Moon! They have a knack for enlisting bands that are filthy, evil, and always fun. Bastardator (one of the best thrash bands in existence), Bestial Raids, and Maniac Butcher are but a few of the awesome bands that call MMR home. With the quality releases and bands they spew from the bowels of the abyss, I cannot begin to fathom why they are not better known.

Regardless, this is an amazing label that everyone needs to familiarize themselves with. Support them and the awesome bands they promote, and read my next few reviews to get an idea of what kind of shit we're talking with.

Maybe one day I can get an interview with the guys over there...Stay tuned for more filthy metal, guys.

Lifelover-"Dekadens"

Lifelover is fairly well known in the realm of 'suicidal/depressive black metal'...as well they should be. They've made a name for using a lot of rock/post-rock influences whilst still jamming the saddening black metal. I've got to say, though, this EP (although long enough to qualify as a full length-about a half hour) took me by surprise.

To begin with, this one is much more METAL than previous releases. There are some truly heavy moments ("Lethargy" being the perfect example). The vocals are almost completely growls and shrieks as opposed to the abundance of drone voices on top of the riffs. Still, amongst the screaming and heavy riffs scattered here and there, lie some of the most heartfelt bits of black metal I've heard in some time.

There is plenty o' melody and memorable moments, so this is not an easily forgettable album. It's definitely more upbeat than typical suicidal bands, but no less melancholic. In fact, the upbeat moments are almost a parody of happiness...like sarcasm. In a way saying "Everything is fine...NOT!". So for those who enjoy the rockin' black metal, this will be worthwhile just as much as it is for those that feel the urge to spill their own blood while od'ing on heroin. This is very much the feeling: an opiate induced depression leading into one's final breaths.

Another high point is the production. Very clear, crisp, and nothing too overbearing. It's all done in a way that is audible but allows every instrument to breathe. So back off if you must have 'in the basement to sound kvlt' production. This will not supplement those needs. "Dekadens" will, however, make you feel like your life is worthless. You'll feel you're not alone in your sadness, but you won't care. This is what nightmares and suicide is made of, my friends.

I honestly have no complaints. Another half hour would have been nice, but I can listen to this for a straight week and never get tired of it. Definitely one of the best releases in the genre in the last couple years, and definitely worth your time.

Katatonia-"Night Is The New Day"

Everyone who's ever talked to me-be it in a forum, in person, or otherwise-knows that I'm a faggishly huge Katatonia fanboy. However, I will review this album in a fair and non-biased way (or, at least try to).

Coming off of the foundation laid by 'Viva Emptiness' and improved upon with 'The Great Cold Distance', this album brings about the most intense, heavy metallic-rock this Gloom Squad has ever delivered. Yet again, the two best bands to compare to are Tool and The Cure. Throw in some of the shit in this link, and you get the idea.

Things start off with an almost-by-the-book metalcore riff, actually. Don't let this turn you off. It's very tasteful and has a very Katatonic flare. Things are much more toned down and 'shoegazey' throughout the album. Songs like 'Day And Then The Shade' bring an upbeat factor in to break up the slow moving, gloomy tracks. It's rare, as overall, this album crawls and creeps like a big sad Godzilla. Darker, thicker, more textured...this is not a typical Katatonia album. Yet still, it's very much a Katatonia album and a very clear progression from the last two.

There are a couple faults, though. Two, to be exact.

1. The song 'Idle Blood'. It's a fantastic song. Very beautiful, very deep, very sad. But it sounds EXACTLY like something off of Opeth's Damnation. Not terrible if done right, but this is too similar for some fans. While I find it to be just fine, I've already heard from many that this is a problem.

2. The lyrics are a little dull, repetitive, and unenlightened. They are basically a reworded version of 'The Great Cold Distance'. Some new thoughts would serve this album well.

Other than that, this album is definitely worthy of the title "Album of the Year". I could go on for hours explaining/describing, but you simply must hear it to believe it. Go buy it, and get your sad on, everyone.