Translate

ALBUM REVIEW: Aklash- Reincarnation

-

 

Null

Words by Anselm Anderson


Atmospheric  Black metal traces its roots in the Nordic region during the nineties with acts like Burzum and Ulver. The genre has really taken off in the past twenty years with the addition of several sub-genres and outside influences such as folk and post-rock. However, British newcomers Aklash aim to challenge that statement with their newest EP Reincarnation. The quartet formed in 2010 in southern England but their fanbase has grown in that time with notable live performances and the release of their previous three efforts: 2013's self-titled album, 2018's Where The Ocean Meets The Sky, and 2021's Horizon.

Reincarnation is eight tracks of wonder and awe, as the band capture the influences of their European roots. The inclusion of folk, metal, goth, and prog-rock styles helps to convey the lyrics of philosophy, theology, and anamorphosis to the listener. The band consists of Nicholas Millar (Guitar, Violin and Main Vocals), Yiannis Panou (Guitars, Bouzouki, Flute and Vocals), Chris Kendell (Bass and Vocals), and Marco Silva (Drums, Percussion, Synth and Vocals). Most of the tracks on this 37-minute album are over six minutes long, allowing the band to explore their Celtic and Eastern folk roots and create compelling music.

Null
Photo Credit: Ajit Dutta

The self-titled track "Reincarnation" opens with a mix of haunting death growls and nineties-influenced gothic rock, presenting an interesting first track. It's a standard rock track with towering choruses and skull-crushing blast beats, set against skyscraping melodic riffs.

Next up is the folk ballad "Communion with Ghosts", which explores some Eastern folk sounds with dissonant chords and harrowing vocal melodies reminiscent of the band Ghost. The band demonstrates a good ear for music with mesmerizing and skilful arrangements that many churches would be proud of. 'Babylon' is an intense explosion of death metal featuring frenetic drumming and riffage alongside choral cries of "Babylon", sounding like a call to arms for the band. The macabre vocals blend with the choral screams and lung-busting vocal harmonies to show that the band can play with diversity and fluidity.

The band moves differently with their music by incorporating horns and violins to infuse progressive elements into their sound. The seven-minute song 'Cossak' stands out as it sounds fitting for a Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack with a catchy chorus, eerie guitar instrumental passages, and intense blast beats. 'Kaval' combines NWOBHM beats with headbanging riffs, and the album achieves its goals with another seven-minute track "My Will May Manifest," delivering a headbanging experience reminiscent of the Twilight Zone. The band revisits their progressive elements with howling vocals blended with a hook-laden chorus and sizzling solos and riffs that are terrifying and infectious.

Overall, "Reincarnation" adds to a long list of satisfactory releases that the Rambling Man has reviewed. The album incorporates all elements of rock and metal with a twist. There are plenty of good riffs, excellent showmanship, and thought-provoking lyrics to keep one amused for over half an hour. It is a diverse album with plenty of depth

RATING: 4.5/5

            





SOCIAL MEDIA 




Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following https://follow.it/anselm-s-rambling-man-s-reviews?pub




All rights reserved by Anselm Anderson ©



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

INDEPENDENT ROCK REVIEW: Lilith's Army- Doll

-
Image
  Words by Anselm Anderson Punk tri o Lilith's Army celebrates signing with Independent Labe l Criminal Records, releasing their latest LP, on March 28th. Hailing from Northampton, England, the trio comprises vocalist/guitarist Sylvie Studente, bassist Tommy Mayo, and drummer Steve Sherwood. They blend lo-fi punk with grunge and metal, citing influences from L7 and Nirvana. "Doll" features 13 tracks of new material and re-recordings of previous releases. The album has a fresh, boisterous sound, boasting catchy pop-punk choruses and edgy riffs told from a personal perspective on heartbreak, social anxieties, and mental health. Lillith's Army aims to provide an alternative to the punk scene. The trio developed a strong fanbase over the years after a guest slot at the highly sought-after Glastonbury Festival, with support from Total Rock and Kerrang!  Let's get on with the review! The tongue-in-cheek song "Eat My TV" kicks off with a jab at social media ...
Read more

Single Review: Allan James- Our dreams

-
Image
Words were written by Anselm Anderson for Rambling Man's Reviews Allan James  is a much-accomplished singer-songwriter, based in Northern Virginia, USA James is a self-taught musician, who began playing guitar and singing songs aged 8 and by the time he reached his early teens, James had started to record and perform his original music for school, dances, and charities. James returned to the US following a successful stint as host of his own guitar TV show in Iceland, whilst living over there. Allan James achieved critical acclaim following the release of his debut single on local radio stations, as well as releasing  6 albums to date. James has always been at the forefront of utilizing technologies and using the internet to build a fanbase.  He now returns with " Our Dreams", the latest single off his forthcoming new album. A beautifully structured track that captures the soul with its succinct guitar play and poetic lyrics. The track conjures feelings of serenity...
Read more

Song Review: Oswald Slain-UGLY

-
Image
 Words by Anselm Anderson Bristol's rock quartet Oswald Slain, formerly known as Little Chief, has released a new single titled "Ugly," which is part of the upcoming album "Kiss Me on the Mouth," expected to be released in April 2025. The band blends Americana with blues rhythms and energetic rock grooves, influenced by Neil Young and The Band. They tell stories with a quirky sense of humour and a reflective stance. "Ugly" is one such tale, inspired by the 1997 film Boogie Nights , which looks behind the scenes of the 70's adult film indust ry. The song tells the story of seeing the ugly side of the industry. Lead vocalist Charlie Fitzgerald takes on the sleazy lead with his strong, nasal vocals, complemented by the rousing rhythms of fuzzy guitars. The drum's steady beats help enhance the sound and give a 70's edge. The song's provocative lyrics add to the intrigue and enjoyment. Photo courtesy of GLK Media Oswald Slain was born out of...
Read more