Various Artists
Alaric / Atriarch - Split
20 Buck Spin (2012)
Splits, in general, are dicey: often two bands (or more) are vaguely similar, making for a decent record but one that usually acts as filler. These releases seem to contain cast-off songs from recent recordings that didn't fit the scope of the album.In this case we have two newer bands that are making waves by creating a sound somewhere between classic darkwave and metal. Both bands are a bit removed from their last full-lengths so it would be easy to say these songs are specific to this release, allowing new listeners to see what each band is capable of.First up is Alaric. The band contains members of more than a few well-known California bands. Their abilities show within their writing. The major stylistic pinpoint would be Amebix, right down to the vocals which share more than a passing similarity to the classic gurgling force of The Baron. The guitars aren't forceful or particularly heavy, relying on slight distortion and delay to give the songs a viably creepy vibe. The rhythm section works overtime to make the songs truly move, but never doing more than necessary.Atriarch made some waves last year with their debut LP. Those four songs did a lot … Read more
Royal Thunder
CVI
Relapse (2012)
Like many albums, I picked up Royal Thunder's CVI because I heard someone somewhere describe it as progressive metal. Like … Read more
Troubled Coast
I've Been Thinking About Leaving You
Pure Noise (2012)
I'll say, Troubled Coast are turning into one of the most steadfast bands I've heard. Their music has been on … Read more
Bosse-de-Nage
iii
Profound Lore (2012)
Pushing the black metal blueprint ever further from its roots, San Franciscan four-piece Bosse-de-Nage deliver a record of complex intensity … Read more
Memphis May Fire
Challengers
Rise (2012)
Ever since their debut full length, Sleepwalking, Memphis May Fire have departed from the southern tinged metalcore they were known … Read more
