Sunday, December 1, 2024

Article: Meditation on Overcoming Unfulfilled Expectations by Goddess Rosemary

Meditation on Overcoming Unfulfilled Expectations
Goddess Rosemary, November 30, 2024

As we gather today for our meditation, let us take a moment to reflect on the theme of unfulfilled expectations. Often, our lives are shaped by the hopes and dreams we carry. We envision futures where our aspirations become reality, but what happens when those visions do not manifest as we imagined?

Acknowledging Feelings
Begin by finding a comfortable position, allowing your body to relax. Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your chest rise, then exhale through your mouth, releasing tension.
With each breath, acknowledge any feelings of disappointment or frustration that may arise from unmet expectations. It’s important to validate these emotions; they are part of the human experience. Allow them to wash over you, recognizing that it’s okay to feel this way.

Nature of Expectations
Now, let’s turn our attention to the nature of expectations themselves. Often, we build our lives around certain outcomes, imagining how things should be. Consider what expectations you have held onto tightly. Picture these expectations as balloons that you are gripping firmly in your hands.

Cut cords & Letting Go
As we meditate, imagine slowly releasing these balloons into the sky. With each breath, feel the weight of these expectations lift from your hands. Watch as they float away, recognizing that you are not defined by what you planned but rather by how you choose to respond to life's unfolding journey.

Embracing Present
Redirect your focus to the present moment. Take in your surroundings, the sounds around you, the warmth of the air against your skin. Engage fully with the ‘now.’ This moment is your reality. Instead of longing for what could have been, appreciate what is available to you.
Consider the gains you have made in your life, the lessons learned from every experience, both fulfilled and unfulfilled. Reflect on how challenges can foster resilience and growth. In this space of acceptance, find solace in knowing that the journey itself, with all its ups and downs, is what shapes who we are.

Gratitude
As we near the end of our meditation, let’s cultivate gratitude. Think of three things that you are thankful for today. Allow this gratitude to fill your heart, transforming feelings of disappointment into a source of strength.
With this newfound perspective, take a few more deep breaths, anchoring in this sense of peace and acceptance. When you are ready, gently bring your awareness back to the room, wiggling your fingers and toes, and slowly opening your eyes.

Remember, unfulfilled expectations are not failures; they are merely stepping stones on our path. By letting go and accepting what is, we empower ourselves to embrace the journey ahead, full of untold possibilities.
Thank you for joining in this meditation. May you carry this sense of acceptance and gratitude into the rest of your day.

Goddess Rosemary
Sahjaza meditations

Full Length Review: Nocturnal Breed "We Only Came For The Violence" (Folter Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Nocturnal Breed
Location: Oslo
Country: Norway
Genre: Thrash/black metal
Format: Digital, CD, vinyl
Label: Folter Records (Berlin, Germany)
Release date: June 28, 2019
Nocturnal Breed from Norway pack a huge sting with their full length album We Only Came For The Violence with its nasty and brash antics that leave the listener for a huge wake up call. Excellent timing and severe lyrics that are key to any perfect thrash album should have. These guys know how to hit it up to 11 literally. I can’t get enough of it. It is very well done and totally wicked. You get the ooouhs! And the guts it takes to bring out this possession in one’s own art.
Seriously heavy and seriously well rounded in its butchery, the guitar solos are nicely put in and the vocals cut through you like a burning knife. WOCFTV has everything you could want out of a blistering hard raged motorcycle riding engine fueled nightmare that brings you to absolute fucking glee. I can’t say it enough, pick this one up and check it out.
Fearful and vicious in its annihilating course you can feel the efforts put behind on this one are 110%. Filled with pulverizing riffs and serious attention to details, this one hangs onto you for a long period of time. Definitely filled with replay value and absolute pleasure those that can get down and truly rock out to this album track for track.
Nocturnal breed never fail to amaze me and keep me thoroughly entertained and impressed by the music they put out there. Get ready to dig your own grave because Nocturnal Breed can’t wait to throw you right in the casket. My favorite track I would have to say is Limbs of Gehenna. And I definitely enjoy the rest of the songs as well.
Give this one a spin if you dare! –Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
S. A. Destroyer: Bass, vocals
Axxeman I. Maztor: Guitars
Tex Terror: Drums, vocals

Track list:
1. Iron Winter
2. Choke On Blood
3. Nekrohagel
4. We Only Came For The Violence
5. Frozen To The Cross
6. Desecrator
7. Cannibalized By Fear
8. Sharks Of The Wehrmacht
9. Limbs Of Gehenna
10. War-Metal Engine
11. Can´t Hold Back The Night
12. Bless The Whore
13. A Million Miles Of Trench
14. Ut å Slåss

EP Review: Gormoth "My Own Funeral" (Independent) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Gormoth
Country: Hungary
Genre: Black metal, DSBM
Format: Digital
Label: Independent
Release date: November 21, 2024
Gormoth from Hungary really hit the spot for me as a recent black metal up and comer.
The songs here provide you atmospherics, depression and coldness throughout! All the antics you would expect but with superior power drawing the listener in to its landscape of doom and gloom. The drums sound like they well mixed in and the guitars wail on in melancholy to the singer’s voice carrying you into its frigid existence. Epic black metal with a somewhat DSBM feel about it, these guys know how to get the job done on this EP.
Nihilistic and lethargic they may be it also picks up nicely with all the instruments in sync with one another in the boldest of fashions. It all hits you like an avalanche and slowly tears you down again in its very doomy and funeral gloom like manner. I have to say it fits well with funeral doom but the black metal is also present in the songs with the guitars. For fans of None, Bethlehem & Draconian, this band really knows how to step in and make your day that more depressive. The singer sounds like he is authentically in pain which is what I like the most about it. Someone pouring their soul into their craft in such a way sometimes is never recognized but on this album you can feel the dread and yearning from miles away.
If you want an album to take you to a place out in the woods on a hike or on your free time this is the album to choose for just that. A very well composed black metal masterpiece to be had. –Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Adam: Vocals, all instruments

Track list:
1. Lake of Ashes
2. Autumn Lament
3. My Own Funeral

Single Review: Wax Mekanix "Silver Tongued Devil" (Electric Talon Records) by Daniel Ryan

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Country: USA
Genre: Metal, experimental
Format: Digital
Label: Electric Talon Records
Release date: November 4, 2024
With industrial and EBM sounding beats this one by Wax Mekanik is a club track for sure. I would recommend this song to people into KMFDM and Pig. The whole song is well done and leaves you wanting to hear more. The lyrics are very simple but very moving.
The acoustic version is basically the whole song with nothing but acoustic guitars and vocals that you hear on the original track. I’m still not sure which one I like more so I would have to go with both of them. The only thing left to do now is to hear their full length album when it comes out so I can get a better view of what Wax Mekanik is all about. Or just listen to any album prior to this single I just heard.
If it’s a party you want, Wax Mekanik may just be on your playlist. –Daniel Ryan

Recorded by: Lectriq
Mixed by: Lectriq
Mastered by: Lectriq
Produced by: Wax Mekanix and Lectriq
Lyrics by: Wax Mekanix
Music by: Wax Mekanix and Lectriq

Track list:
1. Silver Tongued Devil
2. Silver Tongued Devil (Acoustic)


Saturday, November 30, 2024

Interview with Ali Morsali of Bitter Wine by Daniel Ryan

Interview with Ali Morsali of Bitter Wine by Daniel Ryan

How long have you been making music for?
I started composing in 2016 and have been practicing how to make music with my personal taste and playing style ever since. It's difficult for me to gather what I have done from 2016 to 2021 because my approach to music and composing has been anarchistic and not at all academic or theoretical. I have simply been exploring my own musical preferences.

What is your favorite instrument to play on?
Of course, I prefer guitar, especially electric guitar and drums. However, I have planned to start playing the piano because it is so inspirational for me. Except for guitar and drums, I already play one of our traditional instruments called the Se-Tar. When you read and listen to traditional Persian music, you will be immersed in many feelings, emotions, and thoughts you never had before.

What acts have you played with before if any?
I was always the lead vocalist and lead guitarist in all of my projects even now . But sometimes I help my friends and colleagues in our own genre with vocals, songwriting, composing, arranging, and playing, and collaborating with underground artists makes me proud.

If you had to lay out all the bands in order you played in as a timeline what would they be?
First of them was Sightedness in 2019-2021. I founded this band with one of my friends in the black metal genre. We recorded an album, but because of misunderstandings, we decided to disband Sightedness. During the last year of Sightedness in 2021, I started my personal project, Bitter Wine. Bitter Wine started with 1 single demo, and the next month I released an EP. After two months, I released another single track. Because of security reasons and limitations in my country, I stopped Bitter Wine until March 2022. When I started composing music for my first album in Bitter Wine in March 2022, I created another melodic death metal band with Kianoosh Nasiri, and it's called Night's Blood. We released a single track in Night's Blood, and now we are in the recording process of our first EP. Also, we're going to record our second album with Bitter Wine with new members.

What is the coolest experience you have had as a musician?
Absolutely our first underground live show with bitter wine in March 2024 in Tehran. After that, our first tour in Georgia and Armenia in October 2024 with Satanath Records.

What inspires you to keep doing what you do?
I had a very difficult and sad childhood with my mother. Music was a refuge for me during that challenging time. However, in general, I prefer not to dwell on these issues and find it difficult to discuss them. Nevertheless, my main motivation in life has always been and will continue to be making my mother happy.

If you had to name some influences what would they be?
It's difficult to say, but my dark and depressed worldview in music and my personal beliefs also influenced me so much to criticize issues harshly and violently, and to express my criticism in the strongest possible terms. The history and politics have also had a significant impact on me.

What is your favorite moments about recording for your latest album?
In the recording of the "In the Soleness of Storm" album, every moment was precious for me. Except for the records, I learned how to record music independently, including all instruments, except for the drums. One of my favorite moments was the vocal recording, as I discovered some of my personal vocal signature during the process.

What’s life like doing gigs and shows for people? Do you enjoy it or do you like being in the studio more?
Each one has its own charms for me, but recording is very stressful for me because I try to be very precise about the details of the recording to give the best output. But in performance, it's not like that, and I'm really free, and I enjoy connecting with the audience. When I experienced the stage with Bitter Wine, I realized that I belong on stage, and this is the most favorite thing in my life.

To sum up this interview which website can we find your latest music and any shout outs to anyone for the readers of Asphyxium zine?
You can search "Bitter Wine - In the Soleness of Storm" on Google and you will find out that our album is available on all music platforms. Also, you can check out our YouTube channel for our official music videos and live show official videos.

-Daniel Ryan

Friday, November 29, 2024

Interview with Joe Di Taranto of Warmachine by Daniel Ryan


Interview with Joe Di Taranto of Warmachine by Daniel Ryan

How long have you been making music for?
Well I started Warmachine when I was 12/13 years old. So it's been almost 30 years now.

What is your favorite instrument to play on?
For a time, I was really enjoying playing drums quite a bit. But something happened probably about 9 years ago where I fell in love all over again with my main instrument, guitar! I became completely obsessed with playing, collecting and repairing/modifying guitars. It's been pretty much all I think about to this day.

What acts have you played with before if any?
Only 2 bands so far. My band Warmachine which I mentioned that I started when I was about 12 or 13 years old and it was the only band I was ever in, up until joining Sandman (Metallica Tribute Officially Licensed by Metallica) back in 2015.

If you had to lay out all the bands in order you played in as a timeline what would they be?
That's easy...Warmachine (1993 to Present) & Sandman (2015 to Present).

What is the coolest experience you have had as a musician?
That's a hard question, as there's been so many cool experiences I've had as a musician. Working with Megadeth and being signed by them to their record label back in 2002 and then later working with David Ellefson (original Megadeth Bassist) on Warmachine's debut album "The Beginning of The End". David really took an interest in us and ended up co-producing that album (along with our long-time producer Murray Daigle), and even played bass on the album.
Another great experience that comes to mind was touring the U.S. with W.A.S.P. back in 2010. Those guys really took us under their wing and became family to us to this day.

What inspires you to keep doing what you do?
It was my dream as a kid to be able to play music for a living and it's still my inspiration. A lot of that inspiration comes from gratitude for being able to play guitar, sing and write music and then tour all over the world. The creative process is very fulfilling as is performing live. Those two aspects of this lifestyle really keep me inspired.

If you had to name some influences what would they be?
I definitely have many influences. But my main two would be Queen and Megadeth. After that, I'd have to mention Extreme, Carcass and Ozzy Osbourne/Randy Rhoads. Queen really inspired me to start writing my own songs and Megadeth really influenced the way I write, musically.

What is your favorite moments about recording for your latest album?
Well the album that we are currently working on has been taking quite a long time to write and record. We've really taken our time with it and I think it's turning out to be a very diverse, deep record. We've all matured over the years between our last album "Left For Dead" and now, and have improved quite a lot as musicians. So that's made the songs much more interesting musically and at times, more technical and heavy than some of our previous work. I can't pin down any specific moments about recording as the whole process is always super fun and enjoyable. I just really enjoy the creative process and seeing the songs we write come to fruition.

What’s life like doing gigs and shows for people? Do you enjoy it or do you like being in the studio more?
I love both. Being in the studio is really exciting and creative. It's a really fun and inspiring environment. Seeing our songs come to life and take shape into what I'm hearing in my head is very satisfying. The studio can inspire you to take some really cool twists and turns in the spur of the moment that you may not have expected. But when it all comes together, it’s an incredible and prideful feeling. Playing those songs on stage for people is the reward for all the hard work you just did in the studio writing and recording. Now you get the privilege of seeing people reacting to and hopefully enjoying the music you created, which is another amazing feeling that I'm very grateful to be able to experience.

To sum up this interview which website can we find your latest music and any shout outs to anyone for the readers of Asphyxium zine?
We'd just like to say thank you to all your readers out there and we hope to see you all on the road real soon!
You can find us via our Facebook (http://facebook.com/WarmachineCAN),
You can also find us on Spotify & Amazon.

-Daniel Ryan

Full Length Review: Qaalm "Grave Impressions of an Unbroken Arc" (Hypaethral Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Qaalm
Location: Los Angeles, California
Country: USA
Genre: Blackened doom, atmospheric prog death
Format: Digital, limited edition vinyl, limited edition CD
Release date: November 1, 2024
Released just shy of a month ago from LA California's own is the latest by Qaalm. This band has memorable moments on their latest album that are often missed when it comes to making a superior doom Metal epic with serious attention to the vocals and guitars/drums as if it sounds like the last record they will ever make. With epic songwriting comes the structure of a song and it is here on their lengthy tracks that they explore just that. They don’t push the same at you but different stances on each moment of their songs that leave the listener wondering what will happen next. I really dig the clean vocals with the screaming ones. It’s is a trip of atmosphere they intend to put you in. For fans of Asunder, Mastadon and Baroness, these guys maintain an excellent feel throughout this journey and do so the only way they can and that’s by drawing you in with their stellar performances.
A progressive feat of sorts this band is determined to entice the listener with their many layers and compositions. It takes time to listen to this one and to fully digest. I would have to say my favorite track is Shadows Behind the Sun. That guitar solo 9 minutes into the track just does it for me. With Qaalm, expect the unexpected! -Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Henry Derek Elis: Vocals, lead and rhythm guitars
Minsu Dylan Kim: Lead and rhythm guitars
Dave Ferrara: Drums

Track list:
1. Borderlands
2. Shadows Behind The Sun
3. King Of Contradiction
4. Hangman's Lament

Thursday, November 28, 2024

Interview with Trébol Dot of Sun Descends Alone by Dave Wolff

Interview with Trébol Dot of Sun Descends Alone by Dave Wolff

I've been listening to Sun Descends Alone's Duran Duran cover "Come Undone" and album "Of Everlasting Cravings". The project is characterized by a melodic, mournful fusion of metal and gothic music. What inspired you to create a sound like this that was uniquely your own?
Although my background as a musician is mainly based on metal or extreme sounds, I always liked gothic rock, symphonic metal, dark, ambient and melancholic music in general. I just didn't find the right moment to develop it as a songwriter till now, so to speak.
I'm a music addict, maybe all-consuming, and I love plenty of different styles, which obviously influence me. I think this eclecticism defines the way I write songs.

How did you manage to combine an encompassing wall of sound with striking lead guitars and subtle keyboard nuances? This encompasses an appropriate feel for major indie labels with more of a distinct sense of melancholy than usual.
Melody has always been the cornerstone of my compositions, even in my previous band, Dawn Of Tears, which was more melo-death oriented. The melodic guitar and orchestral arrangements were the main element of the songs, and despite the accentuated twist of the musical direction I'm taking in Sun Descends Alone, this hasn't changed so far.
As an underground artist, I don't really think a lot about labels since my solo career has just started. Obviously the main goal is to reach as many people as possible, but I'm aware my music is maybe not for the masses, commercially speaking.

To what extent did Dawn Of Tears' combination of orchestration and melodic guitars aid in your musical development?
These are the two instrumental elements I use to focus when I'm writing music. It was like this in Dawn Of Tears and remains the same now in Sun Descends Alone. Now I give more importance to the vocal lines, melodies and harmonies.

Since the 1990s, the genres you listen to are gaining a bigger following from the grassroots. Particularly death metal and black metal in the mainstream. Has it been challenging at all to write in a cutting edge style?
In fact, no. All the songs came from out of nowhere very spontaneously. The most difficult part was to define the vocal lines and make the lyrics fit, since the voice in Sun Descends Alone is another melodic element.

In contrast to Dawn of Tears, how would you characterize the emphasized twist you chose to incorporate into Sun Descends Alone?
I just felt it was the right moment to explore other sounds, more intimate, romantic and melancholic. Maybe because of my current personal circumstances, maybe for the experiences lived... or maybe I'm just getting older. Anyway I don't discard coming back to my roots someday. I still love metal music.

Does composing for Sun Descends Alone spontaneously make for better songs? I take it you don’t have the intention of writing anything accessible?
I write for myself mainly, I don't sit down and think to myself "ok, let's write a sad song" or "let's try something more experimental” or whatever. Usually the starting point is a melody that comes to my mind. From there, I just develop it.

How many releases does Sun Descends Alone have to date, and how much has your songwriting evolved?
In fact, this is my very first solo album, though I'm already working on new compositions. I've recorded two songs for my upcoming EP or LP. Time will tell, but still I don't have a clear idea in which direction my sound will evolve.

How long does it typically take you to develop an idea, add additional embellishments, until you have a complete song?
Each song has its own process, but in general, once the main melody (usually the chorus) appears, it doesn’t really take too long, since I'm kinda constantly working (musically speaking). I sing in my head plenty of the time, I might be taking a walk, having a beer in a pub or whatever. Once I have the main idea, maybe it takes one or two days until I picture the whole song, the arrangements and sounds, even the vocal line, sometimes just a couple of hours.
What I struggle with the most is the text, because I also have a clear idea of the syllables which should be stressed, or the sounds, the vowels and consonants that must be used for example, and finding proper lyrics that actually make sense, is not easy.

To what extent did you use a personal flair to convey your lyrics in the songs on your first album?
Actually this is the most personal album I have ever written. In Dawn Of Tears I could get inspiration from books, films... but this is the very first time I used introspection to write lyrics and music. All the songs are based on very deep feelings, experiences, thoughts, and struggles. Somehow I'd say is the way to express myself, maybe even a therapy.

In what ways does Sun Descends Alone's vocal tracks contribute to the songs’ melodic qualities? Are the vocals like another instrument or meant to enhance the songwriting?
In contrast to Dawn Of Tears, and despite the importance that I keep giving to the instruments melody, in Sun Descends Alone I consider the voice as the main element, and I like to try different techniques and ways to express with my voice. In fact, the drama and expressive way of singing would also be an indispensable part of the songs.

What vocal approaches are you trying, and how do you determine which ones suit each song best?
I use plenty of resources, but in general I'd say that for me, expressiveness and the way of transmitting emotions while singing, is just as important as the technique.
You can be the best at technique, have a privileged voice, but if you don't manage to feel the song and add emotions to your interpretation, there's no point in my opinion.

Describe how your chosen vocal tactics enhance your lyrics just as much as your music. What kind of lyrics do your songs contain?
Where I feel more, let’s say comfortable, is using a mid-range warm and mellow voice, and although plenty of times I harmonize by octaves, also it depends of what the text says, I might use distorted voice, falsetto, whispers...
Regarding the lyrics, as I mentioned before, I have looked inside myself for the very first time and used those feelings to develop the texts. Love, unlove, the death of a loved one, mental health, depression and life struggles.

Do you generally see more or fewer bands singing with emotion and passion in addition to skill and professionalism these days?
To be honest, I don't really follow a lot of new bands, but in my opinion, the feelings and passion that singers from the 80's and 90's could display, are not comparable to what we can hear nowadays. Speaking about rock, I haven't heard vocal performances like, for example, Eddie Vedder in "Black", Sebastian Bach in "Wasted Time", or Axl Rose in "Don't Cry" to mention a few.

Did you learn octaves and techniques for creating distorted voice and falsetto mainly on your own, or did you have any kind of professional training in these areas?
I studied vocal technique for a while, when I was studying in music school. It was one of the subjects, breathing, intonation, technique...but I developed my style mainly on my own once the base was stablished.

Could you explain the music videos for "Of Everlasting Cravings," such as "Love You to the Grave" and your rendition of Duran Duran's "Come Undone"? Did you collaborate with someone to make these videos, or were they made independently?
I make the videos myself. I mean, I come up with the idea, chose the girl that usually accompanies me, and after the shooting I take care of the cut and edition, effects. I just collaborated in terms of edition with Clara Sánchez in "Cross my Heart and Hope to Die"; she also appears in the video as the mermaid.
Speaking about "Love You to the Grave", I wanted to represent two different stages of love by using female characters. Veronica, the young girl dressed in white, represents the first stage of love, passionate, pure, wild once it blooms, and on the other hand, Katia, the girl dressed in black, represents the mourn, the melancholy and weariness when it withers.
Regarding Duran Duran's cover, I worked hand in hand with my sound engineer Juan Nieva, to develop a more metallized version of this 80's classic, but also incorporate some electronic elements to endow the track of different dynamics.

What was your inspiration for covering Duran as well as A-Ha’s “Take On Me”? What about the original recordings led you to choose them specifically to cover?
I absolutely love 80's pop, and I think this is the most iconic of 'em all. In this case, contrary to the "Come Undone" cover, I wanted to give it a 180 degree twist and turn it to a pretty melancholic track.

Additionally, you made promotional videos for "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die", "Once", and "Ardent Hearts". Is the imagery in those videos likewise intended to convey the lyrics?
Not for "Once". I definitely tried to do it in "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die", which speaks about trying to find your place when you think you don't belong nowhere, and especially in "Ardent Hearts" which hides a pretty secret, sweet, but tragic love story behind.

How close did "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" come to putting across the idea of finding your own place?
The lyrics talk about dissociation, especially when you go through depression and keep all those feelings inside. It's like carrying a stigma and no matter what you do, you feel you belong nowhere. You try, but it just doesn’t work.
I think we managed to represent that idea pretty well in the video clip, by using the mermaid as a metaphor. She's isolated, buried in her thoughts and hoping to be "normal", one more. By the middle of the song, her mermaid tail turns into legs, so we can see her walking around the crowd, alone, but surrounded by people. I think the concept we created for this video is lovely and shocking.

How did you come to start working with the model that appears in "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die"? Has she appeared in any other videos you have made?
I got in touch with her through a friend, one of Dawn Of Tears’ guitar players. It grabbed my attention the concept of modelling she displays. In fact she was developing a shooting called "Urban Mermaids". It was funny because it turned out that we knew each other from the period where Dawn Of Tears was active. She was very enthusiastic with the idea and we started working together in the video. She did an amazing job and, despite she we have collaborated just in "Cross My Heart…" I don't discard working together again.

Now that alternative culture is more widely accepted, does isolation and angst still play a part in underground music as you see it, or do you see people discovering themselves and their own paths?
Definitely introspection should be a good way to get to know ourselves. It's not an easy task, and it might hurt, but I really think it's necessary from time to time. I know artists who used that introspection to create lyrics, some of them didn't end up well, sadly.

Did the notions of isolation back then refer to the desire to change for others or to make friends with like-minded individuals? Or was it more about individualism?
I would never change for others, or to satisfy other people, I am who I am, take it or leave it. And I think all of us should behave that way. Don't sell your essence, try to upgrade, but stay yourself, authentic.

Considering you're set on being yourself, has your material appealed to a select group of listeners, or are they easily related to for everyone?
I'd say my main listeners are fans of rock and gothic metal, but I think anyone who's into melancholic music would enjoy it.

With the new pieces you mentioned you were writing, how do you plan to broaden your musical horizons? Which genres, if any, were you considering expanding into?
I really cannot tell at the moment. I have just two or three new songs finished. I would like to move a bit from Gothic rock to more experimental sounds, without losing the essence of Sun Descends Alone, but the songs usually appear spontaneously, so time will tell.

Regarding your newly finished new tracks, is there anything you would like to share with the readers? Do you find them starting to head in different directions?
I really don't know. I have lots of ideas, but just two songs are already finished and recorded. I'd say it's a bit more experimental and mellow, in fact, there's no distortion in any of them, I'd say that I'm gonna try something more atmospheric.

When do you anticipate beginning work on your next release? Will you be doing anything somewhat differently or sticking to your previous recording strategies?
I've already started, but I'm not in a rush at all. Let's see how "Of Everlasting Cravings" keeps going and then, I'll decide what to do. Maybe an EP, maybe a full album.

What is the impact you would like Sun Descends Alone to have had on underground music when you look back? Are you thinking of starting other projects in the near future or are you going to put your energy into this one?
As an artist, I would like my music to be heard as much as possible, obviously, maybe take the project to the stage, find some musicians to play live...who knows?
So far I want to focus on Sun Descends Alone, but I must confess I'd like to do some metal again at some point.

-Dave Wolff

Friday, November 22, 2024

Full Length Review: Appalachian Winter "The Epochs that built the Mountains" (Nine Gates Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Appalachian Winter
Location: Schellsburg, Pennsylvania
Country: USA
Genre: Symphonic black metal
Format: Digital, limited edition CD digipak
Label: Nine Gates Records
Release date: November 9, 2014
It’s been 10 long years since this piece of black metal history has been released. Coming from one Dan to another, this album touches on many things all at once with the cosmic sounding guitars to the fatal drums in the background. It is a heavy album of sorts but not without its light qualities to it. Folk passages and choirs that turn things upside down and back up! The range of the vocals are always a surprise and the craftsmanship of it all is all really baffling to me to say the least! Being a fan versus someone who never heard a song before by Appalachian Winter, I say dive into it track for track. Each one has its own presence about it. Along with horns and fantastical sounds with falsetto vocals you can get a true taste into this one was made right in the good ole USA! Tremendous talent and a solid ear for what he wants, Daniel Klyne never fails to amaze me with this story of songs that go along better than a novel I have read or just 9 songs that gel so well together that it is a must have in my own collection. It all gets better and better on each release but I wanted to do this one a solid since it’s been 10 years and put out between Daniel Klyne and company. May you withstand the ages!
Check it out here… -Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Randy Smith: Guitars, excluding acoustics
Mike O'Brien: Choirs and choral progressions
D.G. Klyne: Voices, compositions and arrangements

Track list:
1. Laurentia
2. Close the Ocean
3. Rise to the Heavens
4. The Last All-Land
5. Clay Becomes Stone
6. The Cycle of Sea and Mountain
7. Watergap
8. Withstand the Ages
9. Hymn to the Ancient Mountains

Full Length Review: Eternal Tragedy "Origin" (Punishment 18 Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Eternal Tragedy
Location: Athens
Country: Greece
Genre: Technical death metal
Full length: Origin
Format: Digital
Label: Punishment 18  Records
Release date: August 30, 2024
Straight from the depths of Athens Greece lies a cold and sinister ensemble of technical death metal, Eternal Tragedy. With vocals that range from the dark and raspy to bellowing infernal, the band really knows how to kick things off. Solid guitar playing coupled with fierce drumming the band takes you into a world of its own. Taking ideas from such bands as Suffocation, Unanimated & even Death the pace doesn’t slow down for anyone. Guttural and challenging the music really touches on many layers and subject manner. To the opening of tribal drum beats of Origin the same name of album song, it burns an extreme amount of Krisiun and never stops. The song then moves into a slower paced tone with whispered vocals back into the pummeling sounds that exemplify pure extreme metal. There is a lot to be had on this album containing extreme riffs to the bone crushing pace the drums continue to endure. It is a progressive feat of sorts that keeps driving down the nails in the coffin. For it is otherworldly and also filled with plenty of cosmic riffing to keep things on a steady structure. Another one to keep your attention is the ability found in Cosmos. A more mellow tune that is a filler but afterwards you are hit with more melodic death metal with a vicious bite! I have to say my favorite track is Origin. You can find this offering here for your listening pleasure. –Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Stefania Ponzilacqua: Guitars, songwriting, lyrics

Track list:
1. ΣtaΣh
2. King of Nothingness
3. Origin
4. Infallible Machines
5. Cosmos
6. I'll
7. The Fallen God
8. Bond of Hatred
9. No More Time

Full Length Review: The Fair Sex "Thin Walls Part I" (Endless Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: The Fair Sex
Location: Essen
Country: Germany
Genre: Industrial
Full length: Thin Walls Part I
Format: Digital
Label: Endless Records
Release date: June 6, 2003
This band from Essen, Germany has left a mark on me for some time. Being one of my favorite industrial groups next to Skinny Puppy, Nine Inch Nails and Ministry. They have an overwhelming power about them that lets you know that something’s that sound impossible are possible and leave you wanting more. The band is fairly obscure and is a well kept secret from the dredges of Essen and continue to maintain a hidden aura about them that is unmatched anywhere else. I have 2 of their cds and a-lot of their stuff is tongue in cheek and flows well within their beats and guitar playing. The band tends to lean towards clean vocals with an anguish about them that lets you pick apart what each one means. If one band like this can be so in the dark and mysterious then it has to have some essential elements about it that they provide for the listener. Ones that go beyond most bands and leaves them wondering if they could make such dynamics to their own. Overall I have to say my favorite track is The Ever Unreached Aim, and the rest are very well done too.
If you want something dark, beat oriented, and has a real grim dreading feel behind it all like a Too Dark Park would leave behind then go here to check it all out! –Daniel Ryan

Track list:
1. Anne.Lyz
2. The Ever Unreached Aim
3. Not Now. Not Here.
4. Alaska
5. What's To Be Done Now
6. Soulspirit: Antifascism
7. Cyberbite
8. Fat Bellies' Hunger
9. Shelter
10. Cold Contempt
11. White Noise
12. You Know How
13. Woe.
14. Eat Me
15. In The Desert

Full Length Review: Thronum Vrondor "Dies Tenebrosa Sicut Nox" (Immortal Frost Productions) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Thronum Vrondor
Country: Belgium
Genre: Black metal
Format: Digital, jewel case CD, standard black vinyl, opaque white vinyl, opaque white/black swirl vinyl
Label: Immortal Frost Productions
Release date: May 28, 2021
This blackened black metal outfit from Belgium really amps it up and touches on the roots of true black metal worship. For fans of Immortal old Behemoth and Mayhem they run the course of eternal flames and make the snow hit you in the face ever so gently while you make your next trip off into the woods. This band has solid drumming, black metal guitars and an eerie presence about them which suits them nicely for the music they have created.
SVNs vocals on here really leave a devastating path of destruction in its wake while the bass shows off its skills in the background. Distant and cold this band give you a solitary escape from the norm while elevating you to get closer to your own animal instincts. The force that is demonstrated is nothing short of remarkable.
This album really kicks you into gear and has great tones to it that you can only find in the greatness that is black metal in its purest of forms. I have to say my favorite track is Worms. It reminds me of Astaroth from Soul Calibur wreaking havoc with his giant axe. Worms indeed! A off we go to the next and feel nothing but total darkness on what is to come.
These guys also remind me of a Pest like sound even though they don’t speak Swedish on this Belgium album here. Life is a journey through death is more like it and it all can be found here on this solid effort by this band here. Feel free to let go and let the twisting twilight consume you to the depths of your very soul. Not for the weak! Check them out! –Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
SvN: Vocals, lyrics
Vrondor: Guitars, bass
Crygh: Drums

Track list:
1. To Eternal Fire
2. Odium Humanis Generis
3. Worms
4. Ravenous Cult
5. The Wolf Must Roam Free
6. To Pierce The Heart of Lions
7. Cleanse This World of Filth
8. What Grace is There Left To Fall From


Full Length Review: Vile Species "Disqualified as a Human" (various labels) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Vile Species
Location: Athens
Country: Greece
Genre: Grindcore
Format: Digital, vinyl
Label: EveryDayHealth, Gore Kitty Records, Helldog Records, Nihilocus Records, Nothing to Harvest, Nostril Bush, Throne of Lies Records (vinyl)
Release date: September 13, 2024
With a rich ensemble of old school grind along with death metal madness this band here really knows how to resonant what it is to kill under two minutes on each and every one of its tracks. The void is filling and it is filled with Vile Species latest Disqualified as a Human. Athens Greece never fails to amaze me with what they put out these days. It reminds me of old Absu from 97 with a mix of Necrophobic and constantly pushes the envelope for more teeth shattering good times. Powerviolent in nature and grind / death metal to the core.
Their vocalist sounds like he is exorcising some demons here. The drums are really well placed as are the guitars during this session of bloodshed. The grinding of old OSDM carries on with some elements of Napalm Death added to it. With a fierce ferocity of Dying Fetus and a sick hatred like Blood Duster they certainly get the job well done here.
Swinging the axe with a powerviolent like feel they touch on many different layers of sub genre in the scheme of things. Leaving you to blast the volume and scream along with the band as they take their time in dissecting everything from any standpoint they can musically in such a short amount of time.
These guys get a cool party going and are fierce enough to even headline their own hometown areas till they can jump over to the states to handle some serious business. My favorite track I have to say is Plebs In Despair…. funny yet heavily brutal all at the same time. They have vinyl and cd & tape TBA so check these guys out! –Daniel Ryan

Track list:
1. Disqualified As a Human
2. Once a Body, Now a Corpse
3. Those Who Act Violent
4. Αγκυλωτός Σκοταδισμός
5. Self Inflicted Mind Imprisonment
6. Preaching Hatred - Side Casualties
7. Injected With Apathy
8. Plebs in Despair
9. Battering Scum
10. Predetermined Decadence
11. The Sound
12. The Invisible Ones
13. The Cradle Has Fallen
14. A Cross Up the Ass = God As a Weapon
15. Sverkoma

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Interview with Stefania Ponzilacqua of Eternal Tragedy by Daniel Ryan

Interview with Stefania Ponzilacqua of Eternal Tragedy by Daniel Ryan

How long have you been making music for?
I have been playing for 24 years, excluded learning my instrument.It takes time and dedication! I released two demos, and an album, and now my second album, Origin.

What is your favorite instrument to play on?
My electric guitar, my main instrument.

What acts have you played with before if any?
I founded Eternal Tragedy, and this is my only act.

If you had to layout all the bands in order you played in as a timeline what would they be?
I never played in any other band.

What is the coolest experience you have had as a musician?
I tell you, all the experiences are unique, so each of them are the coolest.

What inspires you to keep doing what you do?
It is something inside me, I have to do it.

If you had to name some influences what would they be?
Difficult question. I play technical death metal, but I listen to black metal, classical music or the radio.

What is your favorite moments about recording for your latest album?
The nicest moments were the ones where the others had to record ahahah!

What’s life like doing gigs and shows for people? Do you enjoy it or do you like being in the studio more?
Doing shows for people is amazing, but also the studio. I love both.

To sum up this interview which website can we find your latest music and any shout outs to anyone for the readers of Asphyxium zine?
If you like to listen to my music, you can check this link.
I also have physical copies of the CD if you are interested in buying it. I ship worldwide.
For latest news, feel free to visit, like and support Eternal Tragedy Facebook Page at this address.

Thank you for your time and support the underground! Stay Metal!
Stefania Ponzilacqua +30 6985874556 -ATHENS, Greece

-Daniel Ryan

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Full Length Review: Schizophrenia "Recollections of the Insane" (Redefining Darkness Records) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Schizophrenia
Country: Belgium
Genre: Death thrash metal
Format: CD, digital
Label: Redefining Darkness Records (USA)
Release date: February 17, 2022
Next one up on my list of awesome is Belgium artists Schizophrenia. This one has everything you need. A jackhammer of blackened thrash with glimpses of pure death metal this band really knows how to play with my heartstrings. They are bold, obliterating, and absolutely fucking stupendous. With their next level antics they can play many roles other than just plain old thrash metal. These guys take the earth on a whirlwind spin and clench tightly back on it revealing nothing left. A stretch for the imagination and an even bigger stretch for most bands out there seeking the same reputation with Schizophrenia just pounding out the goods and setting all ablaze. Much technique on the drums and blast beats here with a twisted vocal manor reminiscent to me of known other than my hometown boys from Demolition Hammer. With an eerie Carcass like filled rasp that matches absolutely beautifully with its guitars and riffs that would send normal listeners straight to the hospital! Ricky Mandozzi really puts you on a wild ride with what they can muster. It leads me to believe that their also is other bands that sound similar are close to which is very few and far between because what they put out on Recollections may be the blueprints to the extreme metal genre itself. I dig how they lead the way and destroy everything it touches. It killed my headphones and more! Leaving me with more questions than answers, this album is one to hold onto tightly with the rest of your collection. Never underestimate the prolific power house that is Schizophrenia, you might live to regret it. If you’re like me, where is all the madness at? Right here… enjoy! –Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Ricky Mandozzi: Bass, vocals
Romeo Promos Promopoulos: Lead and rhythm guitar
Marty Van Kerckhoven: Lead and rhythm guitar
Lorenzo Vissol: Drums

Track list:
1. Divine Immolation
2. Cranial Disintigration
3. Sea of Sorrow
4. Monolith
5. Onwards to Fire
6. Souls of Retribution
7. Inside the Walls of Madness
8. Fall of the Damned
9. Stratified Realities


Monday, November 18, 2024

Interview with Tamara Picardo of Upon Shadows by Daniel Ryan

Interview with Tamara Picardo of Upon Shadows by Daniel Ryan

How long have you been making music for?
Since 1995 non stop.

What is your favorite instrument to play on?
Keyboards definitely.

What acts have you played with before if any?
Before starting Upon Shadows I was playing keyboards in a death metal band called Eclampsy from 1995 to 2002.

If you had to layout all the bands in order you played in as a timeline what would they be?
With Upon Shadows I have been making music since 2002 to date, then the first band I ever played in was the uruguayan band Eclampsy which I mentioned before. Then I have been involved in two other projects, MARKHOR and Ad Noctum Project as a vocalist. Apart from that I did many collaborations with bands from different countries, which timeline order would be this:
Asbel (Colombia) Keyboards & Vocals.
Valkynaz (USA). Vocals.
Beltane (New Zealand) Keyboards.
Throne of Malediction (USA) Keyboards.
Episcopal Holocaust (Canada) Vocals.
Blackest Orchid (Canada) Keyboards.
IRONWORK (Switzerland) Vocals.
Eric Sartana (USA) Keyboards.

What is the coolest experience you have had as a musician?
The best experience of all is still seeing a finished album. Nothing beats the thrill of hearing all the finished tracks on a new album for the first time in the order they're going to be on the CD. And then being able to hold the CD in my hands. Everything else pales in comparison to that.

What inspires you to keep doing what you do?
The need for expression is what drives me. The day I feel that I have nothing important to say, nor anything new to contribute, I will stop making music. And inspiration comes to me from reality, from literature, from painting, from the world of ideas in general.

If you had to name some influences what would they be?
My musical influences are a mix of extreme metal with dark music, dark ambient and classical music.

What is your favorite moment about recording for your latest album Poetica?
My favorite moment during recordings is always when I start to record the arrangements. That's the climax of creativity as I think, the moment where magic can actually happen.

To sum up this interview which website can we find your latest music and any shout outs to anyone for the readers of Asphyxium Zine?
Our music can be found on Bandcamp or on platforms like Spotify, or on YouTube, but it is also available in chronological order and for free download on our blog. To the readers of Asphyxium Zine I would like to first thank you for reading this interview and tell you that in order to maintain underground art it is essential to have places where art in all its forms can be disseminated with the freedom and respect it deserves. And this is why reading and disseminating Asphyxium Zine is so important. The underground is made by all of us.
In rebellion we grow
No support to the unique thought!

-Daniel Ryan

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Demo Review: Brainseed "Demo 2024" (Independent) by Devin J. Meaney

Band: Brainseed
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Country: USA
Genre: Technical thrash metal
Demo: Demo 2024
Format: Digital, cassette
Label: Independent
Release date: October 22, 2024
Wanting to indulge in another short blast of thrash I found the 2024 demo for “Brainseed”! Although I do enjoy what I hear here, there is some very blatant Testament vibes. Be it rip-off or homage—you decide!
With that said all three tracks on this demo are pleasurable to the ears and the music is tight. I’d encourage fans of thrash to give it a listen!
This is a one man band from Kentucky and I’d like to hear more! If anything I was inspired to re-visit Testament’s “The New Order”! -Devin J. Meaney

Lineup:
Skyler Storm: Vocals, all instruments

Track list:
1. Brick Wall Self Destruction
2. Agents of the Material World
3. After the Rain

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Full Length Review: Windhelm "Au Crespuscule de l‘Existence" (Drakkar Productions) by Daniel Ryan

Band: Windhelm
Country: France
Genre: Black metal
Format: Digital, limited edition CD (sold out), limited edition cassette (sold out), Windhelm new pack (sold out)
Label: Drakkar Productions
Release date: April 15, 2022
Being one of the few exceptional French BM bands to get it done right is Windhelm. The spooky opening to the shredding riffs along with keys & organs really lays out the style you should expect to hear here. The first time hearing this black metal band reminds me of memories of listening to plenty of Les Legions Noires & Moevot. The vocal style also keeps things interesting while the guitars have a darkest atmosphere that is like the scales on a scorpions back. All instruments are played by Aldric on this album and showcases some of his best material to date. My favorite track I would have to say is Sous le Banniere Funebre for its feverish and cold riffs. Cursed and wretched Windhelm will leave a mark on the French black metal scene and has already. Check the latest album out here-Daniel Ryan

Lineup:
Aldric: Lyrics, vocals, all instruments

Track list:
1. Prélude...Une Offrande
2. Sur les Chemins Tordus de la Nuit
3. Sous la Bannière Funèbre
4. Les Souvenirs d'une Sombre Existence
5. Boire le Calice de Destruction
6. La Chapelle Oubliée
7. Le Village Endormi
8. Les Anges sans Ailes
9. Le Black Metal est Mort
10. Au Crépuscule de l'Existence
11. L'Eternel M'attend
12. Necronirisme
13. Quand un Âge Prend Fin