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Showing posts from July, 2024

Wand - Vertigo (2024)

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Wand's latest album, "Vertigo," showcases their evolution with a blend of layered guitar and synth-based jams, reflecting a mix of influences from psychedelic rock to art pop. The album, recorded entirely in their own studio, captures an improvisational spirit, creating a cohesive yet exploratory sound. The opening track, "Hangman," sets the tone with a slow, ominous build, flowing seamlessly into "Curtain Call," which adds warbling strings and synths. The Radiohead influence is palpable throughout, especially on tracks like "JJ," which exudes a creeping, dramatic vibe​ ( Glide Magazine ) ​​ ( Glide Magazine ) ​. "Vertigo" features a variety of textures and tones, from the disco beat of "Mistletoe" to the feedback-laden "Smile," and the experimental closing track "Seaweed Head." The album's production and arrangement, which include strings and winds, add a cinematic quality to the music, enhancing...

Vaticinal Rites - Cascading Memories of Immortality (2024)

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"Cascading Memories of Immortality" by Vaticinal Rites marks a significant step for the London-based death metal band. Their debut full-length album builds on the promise of their 2021 EP with a mix of old-school death metal influences and modern production quality. Tracks like "Foiled Skirmish" and "Siphoning Plasma From The Gods" highlight their ability to blend raw aggression with complex, melodic structures. The album is characterized by its powerful riffs, guttural vocals, and dynamic pacing, creating an atmosphere that is both oppressive and captivating​ ( Metal Forces Magazine ) ​​ ( BLABBERMOUTH.NET ) ​​ ( Acta Infernalis ) ​. The album's thematic exploration of existential and philosophical concepts, such as the eternal nature of the soul and the transient nature of physical existence, adds a layer of depth to the brutal soundscape. Standout tracks like "Bowels of Gargantua" and "Corporeal Affliction" demonstrate the ban...

P.O.D. - Veritas (2024)

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P.O.D.'s eleventh studio album, "Veritas," captures the essence of their early 2000s nu-metal sound with modern nuances. The album features notable collaborations, including Randy Blythe of Lamb of God on "Drop" and Tatiana Shmayluk of Jinjer on "Afraid to Die," both of which stand out as high-energy tracks​ ( Kerrang! ) ​​ ( Tuonela Magazine ) ​. While the album offers nostalgic appeal with its heavy riffs and catchy choruses, some critics feel it lacks innovation and falls back on familiar tropes​ ( The Soundboard ) ​​ ( Distorted Sound Magazine ) ​. Despite this, tracks like "I Got That" and "Dead Right" showcase the band's ability to blend heavy and melodic elements effectively​ ( The Razor's Edge ) ​. Overall, "Veritas" is a solid addition to P.O.D.'s discography, maintaining their signature style while hinting at potential for growth​ ( Kerrang! ) ​​ ( Tuonela Magazine ) ​. Genre : Nu Metal Country...

Necrot - Lifeless Birth (2024)

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"Lifeless Birth" by Necrot is a formidable return for the Oakland-based death metal trio, marking their third studio album. This album builds on the powerful foundations laid by their previous releases, particularly "Mortal" from 2020. With Greg Wilkinson's production and Brad Boatright's mastering, the album delivers a crisp, powerful sound that balances brutality with melody. Tracks like "Cut the Cord" and "Superior" exemplify Necrot's mastery of groove-laden, intense death metal, while "The Curse" showcases their ability to blend technical prowess with ferocious energy. This album solidifies Necrot's place in modern death metal, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre​ ( Metal Injection ) ​​ ( Nine Circles ) ​​ ( Distorted Sound Magazine ) ​​ ( Last Rites ) ​​ ( New Noise Magazine ) ​. Genre : Death Metal Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 395th / 587 Highlight : Winds of Hell Mad...

Blue Lab Beats - Blue Eclipse (2024)

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  "Blue Eclipse" by Blue Lab Beats showcases the duo's signature eclecticism, blending jazz, electronic, afrobeat, and more into a vibrant and innovative soundscape. The album kicks off energetically with "Never Doubt," featuring dynamic Herbie Hancock-inspired keys and robust drumming. Highlights include the collaborative track "Say Wow" with Jay Prince and IDK, and the afrobeat-infused "Guava." The album's rich instrumentation and diverse guest features make it both an experimental and accessible listen, solidifying Blue Lab Beats' position as forward-thinking musicians within the contemporary jazz scene​ ( Clash Music ) ​​ ( Everything Jazz ) ​​ ( AllMusic ) ​. Genre : Nu Jazz Country : UK Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 278th / 585 Highlight: Rice & Peas Made me think of: Hiatus Kaiyote BADBADNOTGOOD Kamasi Washington #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlayi...

Dödsrit - Nocturnal Will (2024)

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"Nocturnal Will," Dödsrit's fourth album, is a powerful blend of melodic black metal infused with crust punk elements. The album begins with the expansive "Irjala," featuring sweeping melodies and dynamic shifts that set the tone for the entire record. Tracks like "Nocturnal Fire" and "As Death Comes Reaping" showcase the band's ability to meld intense black metal fury with melodic and atmospheric elements. Instrumental tracks, such as "Utmed Gyllbergens Stig," add depth and variety to the album, highlighting Dödsrit's skill in creating evocative soundscapes. The album is both emotionally charged and musically intricate, making it a compelling listen for fans of the genre​ ( Angry Metal Guy ) ​​ ( Metal Storm ) ​​ ( Nine Circles ) ​​ ( Man of Much Metal ) ​​ ( Metal Temple Magazine ) ​. Genre : Melodic Black Metal Country : Sweden Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 159th / 586 Highlight : Irjala Made me th...

Isabell Gustafsson-Ny - Rosenhagtorn (2024)

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Isabell Gustafsson-Ny's Rosenhagtorn is a deeply introspective and experimental album, focusing on the intricate interplay of piano, violin, and voice. The album, released by Warm Winters Ltd., explores the textures and harmonics of these instruments through a series of short, evocative pieces. Gustafsson-Ny's approach is akin to walking through a house with different sounds emanating from each room, creating a profoundly immersive listening experience. The music combines elements of repetition and flow, with the rawness of the pedal organ and the scratchy overtones of the violin, which Gustafsson-Ny revisited after many years. Tracks like "Fiolröst" and "Rosenhagtorn Och Björksly/Coda" highlight her ability to blend minimalism with rich, emotive soundscapes. The album's intimate and fragile compositions invite listeners into a contemplative space, reflecting both personal and universal themes​ ( The Arts Desk ) ​​ ( Kudos Distribution ) ​​ ( Isabell...

Bad Breeding - Contempt (2024)

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Bad Breeding's Contempt is a visceral and intense exploration of modern societal issues, delivering a powerful critique of capitalism, environmental destruction, and social injustices. The album combines the raw energy of hardcore punk with the political fervor of anarcho-punk, making it a compelling listen for fans of the genre. The album opens with "Temple of Victory," setting a tone of relentless aggression and unflinching critique. Tracks like "Survival" and "Devotion" showcase the band's ability to blend raw punk energy with thought-provoking lyrics. The title track, "Contempt," offers a slower but equally intense conclusion to the album, maintaining its uncompromising message throughout. Bad Breeding's commitment to their message is evident not only in their music but also in the accompanying essays addressing topics such as homelessness, pollution, and animal rights. This thoughtful approach, combined with their aggressive sou...

Geese - Alive & In Person (2024)

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Geese's Alive & In Person showcases the band's energetic and raw live performance style. The album features live renditions of their popular tracks, capturing the intensity and spontaneity of their shows. With influences from post-punk and indie rock, the album highlights their intricate guitar work and dynamic vocals. The live setting adds a layer of authenticity and immediacy, making it a must-listen for fans of their studio recordings. This release reinforces Geese's reputation as a compelling live act, bringing their vibrant stage presence directly to listeners​ ( Bandcamp ) ​. Genre : Indie Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 59% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 445th / 582 Highlight : Jesse - Live Made me think of: Parquet Courts Fontaines D.C. Idles #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #IndieRock #Geese #US #LP #Album #release  

Adorável Clichê - sonhos que nunca morrem (2024)

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Adorável Clichê's Sonhos Que Nunca Morrem is a compelling blend of dream pop and shoegaze, enriched with introspective and emotional lyricism. The album, produced during the pandemic, features lush soundscapes characterized by intricate guitar work and atmospheric synths. Tracks like "Amarga," "Medo," and "Um Sorriso Que Se Vai" delve into themes of emotional dependency, self-reflection, and personal growth. The band’s approach combines the melancholic tones of their previous work with a refined, evolved sound, making it accessible yet deeply resonant. This album not only showcases their technical growth but also their ability to create a profoundly engaging emotional experience​ ( Música Instantânea ) ​​ ( Hits Perdidos ) ​​ ( A Rádio Rock - 89,1 FM - SP ) ​. Genre : Dream Pop Country : Brazil Final Verdict: 56% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking : 532th / 581 Highlight : Amarga Made me think of: Terno Rei Slowdive DIIV #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albu...

Porter Robinson - SMILE! :D (2024)

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Porter Robinson's SMILE! represents a dynamic and multifaceted addition to his discography, embracing both playful and introspective elements. The album features a variety of sonic influences, ranging from Y2K rave and pop-punk to acoustic interludes, reflecting Robinson's intent to craft an album filled with fun and absurdity yet unintentionally layered with emotional depth​ ( The Skinny ) ​​ ( Wikipedia ) ​. Key tracks like "Cheerleader" and "Knock Yourself Out XD" highlight Robinson's talent for blending energetic, maximalist production with heartfelt, personal themes. The collaboration with Frost Children on "Mona Lisa" introduces a unique glitchy soundscape, adding to the album's eclectic nature. Overall, SMILE! balances its grand EDM ambitions with intimate, honest storytelling, making it a standout release in Robinson's career​ ( The Skinny ) ​​ ( Melodic Magazine ) ​. Genre : Indietronica Country : US Final Verdict: 56% (Ple...

Powerwolf - Wake Up The Wicked (2024)

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Powerwolf's Wake Up the Wicked is a testament to their evolution in the power metal genre. The album stays true to their bombastic and theatrical style, blending heavy riffs with grandiose melodies and operatic vocals. Tracks like "1589" and "Joan of Arc" showcase their knack for storytelling, delving into historical and mythical themes with cinematic flair. The production is top-notch, ensuring every element, from the haunting organ to the powerful choruses, shines through. While the band doesn’t stray far from their established sound, they introduce enough variety to keep listeners engaged. Overall, this album cements Powerwolf's place as a dominant force in modern power metal​ ( BLABBERMOUTH.NET ) ​​ ( louder ) ​​ ( BLABBERMOUTH.NET ) ​. Genre : Power Metal Country : Germany Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 238th / 579 Highlight : We Don't Wanna Be No Saints Made me think of: Sabaton HammerFall Kamelot #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albu...

Iress - Sleep Now, In Reverse (2024)

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Genre : Doomgaze Country : US Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 222th / 578 Highlight : Ever Under Made me think of: Holy Fawn Chelsea Wolfe Deafheaven #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Doomgaze #Iress #US #LP #Album #release  

Ghost - Rite Here Rite Now (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2024)

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"Rite Here Rite Now" is a live album and concert film that captures Ghost's performance at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. The album showcases the band's theatrical flair and musical prowess with a setlist that spans their career, including hits like "Square Hammer," "Dance Macabre," and a reimagined version of "If You Have Ghosts." While the album focuses heavily on their recent work, it lacks material from their early albums, which some fans might find disappointing. Despite this, the production quality and energy of the performance make it a must-listen for fans, encapsulating the essence of Ghost's live shows​ ( Metal Injection ) ​​ ( louder ) ​​ ( Wikipedia ) ​. Genre : Heavy Metal Country : Sweden Final Verdict: 72% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 21th / 577 Highlight : Square Hammer (Live at the Forum / 2023) Made me think of: Alice Cooper King Diamond Iron Maiden #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumofthed...

aespa - Armageddon - The 1st Album (2024)

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aespa's "Armageddon" is a dynamic and diverse album that explores themes of identity and the multiverse. The title tracks, "Supernova" and "Armageddon," showcase the group's signature blend of catchy hooks and powerful vocals. The album seamlessly transitions between different genres, from the hyperpop energy of "Supernova" to the darker, hip-hop-influenced "Armageddon." Notable tracks like "Licorice" introduce rock elements, while "Melody" closes the album with a sentimental ballad. Overall, "Armageddon" solidifies aespa's position as innovators in the K-pop scene, balancing experimental sounds with mainstream appeal​ ( TheBiasList ) ​​ ( HallyuSG ) ​​ ( The Honey POP ) ​​ ( Seoulbeats ) ​​ ( Rolling Stone India ) ​​ ( Glasse Factory - ) ​. Genre : K-Pop Country : South Korea Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 388th / 576 Highlight : Bahama Made me think of: Black Pink Red ...

Hakushi Hasegawa - Mahōgakkō (2024)

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Hakushi Hasegawa's "Mahōgakkō," released under the Brainfeeder label, is a dazzling blend of electronic maximalism, J-pop, and smooth jazz. The album is characterized by its ability to extract order from chaos, making sense of its seemingly disparate elements. Tracks like "Departed" and "Gone" showcase Hasegawa's skill in creating complex, overlapping rhythms and melodies, while "KYŌFUNOHOSHI" stands out with its arcade game-like sounds transitioning into a saxophone solo. The album's rapid pace and subversion of pop tropes resonate with the hyperpop genre, yet it maintains a unique generosity and enthusiasm. Hasegawa's manipulation of their own voice adds a fluid, mercurial quality to the music, reflecting their exploration of non-binary identity and sound design​ ( The Quietus ) ​​ ( Clash Music ) ​​ ( Ninja Tune ) ​​ ( Ninja Tune ) ​. Genre : Glitch Pop Country : Japan Final Verdict: 57% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 49...

SUMIN & Slom - MINISERIES 2 (2024)

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"MINISERIES 2" by SUMIN & Slom is a vibrant mix of R&B, hip-hop, and electronic influences. The album maintains a cozy, familiar sound while experimenting with genre-blending tracks. SUMIN's distinctive vocal style pairs seamlessly with Slom's meticulous production, creating a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience. Highlights include the Latin-inspired tracks and the seamless blend of genres, which showcase the duo's ability to innovate within the K-Pop landscape while maintaining broad appeal​ ( Random J Pop ) ​ . Genre : Contemporary R&B Country : South Korea Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 288th / 574 Highlight : NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Made me think of: Zion.T DEAN Heize #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ContemporaryR&B #SUMIN & Slom #SouthKorea #LP #Album #release  

Swamp Dogg - Blackgrass: From West Virginia to 125th St (2024)

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Swamp Dogg's "Blackgrass: From West Virginia to 125th St" is a genre-bending bluegrass album infused with his signature Southern soul and offbeat humor. Produced by Ryan Olson, the album features a stellar lineup of bluegrass musicians, including Noam Pikelny and Jerry Douglas. It blends risqué tracks like "Mess Under That Dress" with poignant songs such as "Songs to Sing," showcasing Swamp Dogg's ability to mix comedy with social commentary. The album also includes standout duets with Margo Price and Jenny Lewis, further enhancing its eclectic charm and emotional depth​ ( No Depression ) ​​ ( Americana Highways ) ​​ ( WVXU ) ​​ ( KLOF Mag ) ​. Genre: Bluegrass Country: US Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 154th / 573 Highlight: To The Other Woman (feat. Margo Price) Made me think of: John Prine Jerry Douglas Vernon Reid #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Bluegr...

Los Campesinos! - All Hell (2024)

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All Hell by Los Campesinos! marks their seventh studio album, showcasing a matured sound that blends their signature indie rock and emo influences with a more introspective and refined approach. This album encapsulates a mix of boisterous energy and gentle, introspective moments, reflecting both the band's established sound and a newfound sense of contentment. Tracks like "To Hell in a Handjob" and "Clown Blood/Orpheus’ Bobbing Head" stand out for their dynamic instrumentation and lyrical depth, while "Moonstruck" highlights the band's punk influences and fourth-wave emo revival feel​ ( Wikipedia ) ​​ ( The Scene - Music, Radio, Zine ) ​​ ( DIY ) ​. Genre : Indie Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 305th / 572 Highlight : The Order of the Seasons Made me think of: The Cribs The New Pornographers Belle and Sebastian #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscov...

Jack White - No Name (2024)

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Jack White's surprise album "No Name" is a bold blend of rock, blues, and garage rock, delivering a raw and thrilling listening experience. Critics praise its dark and heavy sound, capturing the essence of his early work with a contemporary twist. The album’s experimental nature shines through concise and hook-laden tracks, drawing comparisons to his work with The White Stripes. Released exclusively on vinyl through Third Man Records, this album reaffirms White's innovative spirit and commitment to physical media​ ( Wikipedia ) ​ . Genre : Garage Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 195th / 571 Highlight : Untitled #5 Made me think of: Led Zeppelin The White Stripes Arctic Monkeys #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #GarageRock #jackWhite #US #LP #Album #release  

Lava La Rue - Starface (2024)

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"Starface" by Lava La Rue is a genre-blending debut album that showcases their eclectic influences and creative ambition. The album is a sci-fi concept piece centered around an alien character exploring human emotions and experiences. With tracks ranging from funk-pop jams to psychedelic bliss, and guest appearances from artists like Cuco and Audrey Nuna, "Starface" delivers a rich and diverse sonic palette. The album's standout qualities include its inventive production, seamless genre-hopping, and emotionally resonant storytelling, establishing Lava La Rue as a bold and visionary artist in the contemporary music scene​ ( musicOMH ) ​​ ( Dork ) ​. Genre : Alt Pop Country : UK Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 249th / 570 Highlight : FLUORESCENT / Beyond Space ft. NiNE8 & Feux Made me think of: Arlo Parks Jorja Smith Bran Van 3000 #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #AltPop...

DJ Re:Code - ReVertPunk! (2024)

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ReVertPunk! by DJ Reis a genre-blending album that combines elements of hardstyle, nu metal, and hyperpop to create a unique "cyberpunk" sound. The album features high-energy tracks with digital hardcore influences, though some critiques mention a lack of strong choruses. Overall, the album is praised for its innovative production and genre-mixing prowess​ ( Apple Music - Web Player ) ​  Genre : Trancecore Country : US Final Verdict : 51% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 566th / 569 Highlight : Blood Box (feat. tracey brakes) Made me think of: Six Impala 100 gecs Death Grips #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Trancecore #DJRe:Code #US #LP #Album #release  

Soft Play - Heavy Jelly (2024)

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Heavy Jelly marks Soft Play's triumphant return, showcasing their signature punk rock energy with an added layer of emotional depth. The album features a mix of intense, humor-laden tracks like "Punk’s Dead" and "Bin Juice Disaster," while also exploring more serious themes in songs like "Everything and Nothing," a heartfelt tribute to lost loved ones. With influences ranging from nu-metal to British hip-hop, the album blends aggressive guitar riffs with playful and poignant lyrics, reaffirming the band's unique sound and defiant spirit​ ( Kerrang! ) ​​ ( Full Pelt Music ) ​​ ( Everblack Media ) ​. Genre : Punk Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking: 329th / 568 Highlight : Working Title Made me think of: IDLES Fontaines D.C. Bob Vylan #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #PunkRock #SoftPlay #UK #LP #Album #release  

Azketem - Azketem (2024)

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Azketem’s self-titled album, Azketem , presents a polished and atmospheric take on black metal, blending expansive guitars, commanding vocals, and authoritative drumming to create an immersive soundscape. The album shifts from haunting ambient intros to powerful and bombastic tracks like "Schwarze Schwäne" and "Nordtor," showcasing a balance of ethereal and dark elements. Reviews highlight the improved production quality and the intricate melding of post-rock and gothic influences, though some critique its emotional flatness and lack of dynamic variety​ ( Distorted Sound Magazine ) ​​ ( Home | Soundscape ) ​​ ( Spirit of Metal ) ​. Overall, Azketem is a compelling step forward in atmospheric black metal, with room for further exploration in future works. Genre : Atmospheric Black Metal Country : Germany Final Verdict: 58% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking : 460th / 567 Highlight : Azetik Made me think of: Wolves in the Throne Room Mgła Alcest #newalbum #newalbum...