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  • Ian Roland Entangled Lives Review

    Ian Roland Entangled Lives Review

    The track begins in a nearly pastoral manner, with vocals that softly cradle the listener. There is a gentle and soothing quality to the voice, reminiscent of romanticism. As the song progresses, it invites the listener deeper into its world with almost ethereal vibes. At times, the timbre of the voice evokes memories of Robbie Williams, while the melody has a refined elegance, reflecting nuances reminiscent of David Bowie’s compositional style.

    Ian Roland Entangled Lives

    This song transports the listener into space, evoking the imagery of an astronaut journeying into the vastness and contemplating the distance between him and his beloved back on Earth. It feels like a modern interpretation of Space Oddity, wrapping itself around the listener with intent. The arrangements artfully create a sense of distance, balancing both a futuristic and intense atmosphere with intricate artistry.

    The sonic experience is immersive and evokes feelings of inspiration and entertainment. The instrumentation supports the celestial theme, with expansive sounds that stretch across the audio landscape. Subtle layers in the arrangement contribute to a feeling of weightlessness, enhancing the imagery of floating through the universe. Ian Roland exhibits remarkable compositional talent throughout this track, demonstrating his skill in enticing and engaging listeners.

    Entangled Lives – Sound and Atmosphere

    The combination of the ethereal vibrations and reflective lyrics creates a thematic exploration of love and longing. There is a strong sense of nostalgia, driving one’s thoughts back to memories and connections left behind. The delicate balance of the arrangements allows for a seamless flow between the introspective moments and vibrant bursts of sound.

    The build-up to the chorus creates an exhilarating moment, resembling a lift-off into the unknown. This builds anticipation, compelling the listener to lean in closer. The reprise offers a comforting return, reinforcing the bond felt throughout the exploration.

    This musical journey resonates deeply, highlighting the emotional distance between lovers and underscoring themes of separation and yearning.

    Entangled Lives – Performance and Production

    Crisp production adds clarity to each element within the composition. The shimmering quality of sounds, along with precise instrumentation, brings an air of sophistication to the track.

    As the song concludes, the final notes linger in the air, providing a reflective moment. This lingering feeling invites contemplation.

    Roland’s distinct voice, along with the thoughtful arrangement, truly make this track an oasis of emotion and artfulness. It represents not only an exploration of space but is also an exploration of the complexities of relationships. Ian Roland continues to demonstrate tremendous skill, helping to redefine contemporary music with nuanced storytelling that resonates with listeners.



    Universal

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find Ian Roland here:
    Spotify | Instagram
    For fans of:
    Robbie Williams • David Bowie

    The post Ian Roland Entangled Lives Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • CANARY COMPLEX BEL ESPRIT Review

    CANARY COMPLEX BEL ESPRIT Review

    From the moment “Bel Esprit” begins, the listener is enveloped in smooth, soothing chords that evoke images reminiscent of an animated scene set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Fuji. This multifaceted song presents a strong and distinctive identity, reflecting the artist’s meticulous attention to detail and clear vision. The compositional depth of the track indicates the artist’s profound understanding of musical narrative.

    CANARY COMPLEX BEL ESPRIT

    Melodically, “Bel Esprit” is rich and intense, heightening a sense of nostalgia. The deep, resonant vocals convey powerful emotions that resonate with anyone familiar with life’s subtleties. The dynamic structure of the song plays a significant role in its impact. Following the atmospheric introduction, the verses strip down to create a more intimate feeling, allowing the listener to connect closely with the lyrics and melody.

    As the song transitions into the chorus, the energy elevates. Additional keyboards layer the rich instrumentation, while the rhythm from the drums pulsates with vigor. The vocals ascend in intensity, supported by delicate background harmonies that enrich the listening experience. This build-up fosters a scenario where the listener is taken on an emotional journey that balances quiet reflection with energetic release.

    BEL ESPRIT – Sound and Atmosphere

    At times, the rhythm quickens, pushing forward with urgency, before momentarily dissipating into a quieter passage. This ebb and flow illustrate a refined compositional vision that distinguishes the song. It is clear that this artist possesses significant musical talent coupled with a strong artistic direction.

    The arrangement is intricate and thoughtful, in perfect balance with Japanese visual kei. It allows for moments of tranquility, followed by surges of vigorous energy. The artist’s capability to navigate between these contrasts shows a keen understanding of musical storytelling.

    The ending of “Bel Esprit” is peculiar. The dramatic crescendo culminates in a powerful scream that resonates with raw emotion. Then, the listener is left with a suspended chord that lingers, inviting an immediate urge to press the play button once again. This moment encapsulates the essence of the entire track, in emotional pull and musical composition.

    BEL ESPRIT – Performance and Production

    “Bel Esprit” is a noteworthy single that exemplifies the artistry behind CANARY COMPLEX. It is a piece crafted with precision and passion that fills its surface with layers of meaning and emotional depth. The combination of varied melodic lines and a dynamic structure makes this song not only memorable but also a standout in contemporary music.

    The ability of CANARY COMPLEX to evoke such strong feelings through their music is fantastic. Each component of the song, from instrumentation to vocal delivery, reflects a unified artistic vision. This single has secured a place in the musical landscape, making it essential listening for those who appreciate depth and innovation in songwriting.

    This single solidifies CANARY COMPLEX’s position as an artist with a clear voice in the Japanese visual kei genre. Listeners will find themselves immersed in its rich melodies and dynamic shifts, making “Bel Esprit” a remarkable addition to their musical repertoire.



    Melodic

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find CANARY COMPLEX here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    The post CANARY COMPLEX BEL ESPRIT Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • Laura Guldemond Leaves Burning Witches After Seven Years

    Well, Halloween is cancelled. October is officially ruined.

    Okay, let’s calm down and try reporting some news.

    As if Floor Jansen leaving Nightwish and Diana Leah parting ways with Delain weren’t enough for one month, October has delivered another painful surprise for metal fans. This time, it’s Laura Guldemond, who has announced her departure from Swiss heavy metal band Burning Witches after seven years as their lead vocalist.

    Guldemond joined Burning Witches in June 2019, replacing original vocalist Seraina Telli, and made her live debut at Sweden Rock Festival that same month. Her first release with the band was the single “Wings of Steel,” followed by four studio albums: Dance with the Devil (2020), The Witch of the North (2021), The Dark Tower (2023), and Inquisition (2025). During those seven years, she became the voice behind some of the band’s most recognizable songs and helped carry Burning Witches through an important period in their career, including major festival appearances, international tours, and their move from Nuclear Blast to Napalm Records.

    In their announcement, Burning Witches explained that they had discussed the situation extensively and tried to find a way to continue together, but ultimately had to accept Laura’s decision. The band thanked her for the albums, concerts, and memories they had shared, emphasizing that her contribution would always be part of their history. They also reassured fans that all announced shows would go ahead as planned. Jennifer Gruber, vocalist of Fireborn, will step in for their performances toward the end of the year, while auditions are already underway to find a permanent replacement.

    Laura also shared a personal statement, expressing pride in everything the band accomplished during her time with them, particularly the four albums they recorded together. She explained that the decision came after seven incredible years and asked fans to respect everyone involved. Addressing the circumstances of her departure, she wrote, “There are no hard feelings—sometimes it’s simply time for a change when visions no longer fully align.” She also confirmed that she intends to focus on her own music and whatever other creative opportunities come her way, making it clear that this is far from the end of her musical career.

    Burning Witches, meanwhile, remain determined to continue, declaring, “BUT THE FIRE IS STILL BURNING – AND THE WITCHES WILL KEEP FLYING HIGH!” With a new vocalist search underway and their upcoming concerts still on the calendar, the band is preparing for another chapter in its history, even if saying goodbye to Laura marks the end of an era for the fans who have followed them since 2019.

    The post Laura Guldemond Leaves Burning Witches After Seven Years first appeared on FemMetal – Goddesses of Metal.

  • VHS SIGN WITH CDN RECORDS AND PREMIERE “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” MUSIC VIDEO AT TOILET OV HELL – @thebeast

    VHS SIGN WITH CDN RECORDS AND PREMIERE “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” MUSIC VIDEO AT TOILET OV HELL

    Horror-Driven Metal Outfit Unleashes First Single from Upcoming Album For The Love of Horror, Due February 2027

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Horror-inspired metal outfit VHS have officially signed with CDN Records and are celebrating the announcement with the premiere of their new music video for “Natural Born Killers” at Toilet Ov Hell. The track serves as the opening salvo from the band’s upcoming album, For The Love of Horror, scheduled for release in February 2027 via CDN Records.
    Blending death metal, thrash, punk, and hardcore into a vicious sonic assault, “Natural Born Killers” showcases VHS pushing their sound into new territory while maintaining the raw intensity and horror-driven attitude that define the band. Featuring guest vocals from Sarah of Antagonizor, the track delivers a fast-paced, blood-soaked introduction to the band’s next chapter.
    The premiere at Toilet Ov Hell, a publication known for its coverage of underground and extreme music, gives fans their first look at the new video and a taste of what’s coming on For The Love of Horror.
    Guitarist and vocalist Mike Hochins explains why the band chose “Natural Born Killers” to open the upcoming record:
    “Generally for the songs that kick off our records we tend to use something short but for this next record we thought ‘Natural Born Killers’ was the perfect song to start things off with a bang. It’s fast and to the point but also features maybe a bit more hardcore influence than VHS has ever used in the past. The song is a melting pot of all of our various influences and is a real kick in the family jewels if you ask us!”
    With their signing to CDN Records and the premiere of “Natural Born Killers” at Toilet Ov Hell, VHS are gearing up for another chapter in their ongoing celebration of horror, extreme music, and all things dark and twisted. The new single sets the tone for For The Love of Horror, promising a record that brings together the band’s diverse influences in a ferocious package.
    WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” AT TOILET OV HELL
    https://toiletovhell.com/premiere-vhs-natural-born-killers/
    NEW ALBUM: For The Love of Horror
    RECORD LABEL: CDN Records
    RELEASE DATE: February 2027
    Stay tuned for more news, music, and updates from VHS as they prepare to unleash For The Love of Horror in February 2027.

    Connect: 
    https://cdnrecords.com/artists/vhs/
  • VHS SIGN WITH CDN RECORDS AND PREMIERE “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” MUSIC VIDEO AT TOILET OV HELL – @thebeast

    VHS SIGN WITH CDN RECORDS AND PREMIERE “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” MUSIC VIDEO AT TOILET OV HELL

    Horror-Driven Metal Outfit Unleashes First Single from Upcoming Album For The Love of Horror , Due February 2027

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Horror-inspired metal outfit VHS have officially signed with CDN Records and are celebrating the announcement with the premiere of their new music video for “Natural Born Killers” at Toilet Ov Hell . The track serves as the opening salvo from the band’s upcoming album, For The Love of Horror , scheduled for release in February 2027 via CDN Records.
    Blending death metal, thrash, punk, and hardcore into a vicious sonic assault, “Natural Born Killers” showcases VHS pushing their sound into new territory while maintaining the raw intensity and horror-driven attitude that define the band. Featuring guest vocals from Sarah of Antagonizor, the track delivers a fast-paced, blood-soaked introduction to the band’s next chapter.
    The premiere at Toilet Ov Hell , a publication known for its coverage of underground and extreme music, gives fans their first look at the new video and a taste of what’s coming on For The Love of Horror .
    Guitarist and vocalist Mike Hochins explains why the band chose “Natural Born Killers” to open the upcoming record:
    “Generally for the songs that kick off our records we tend to use something short but for this next record we thought ‘Natural Born Killers’ was the perfect song to start things off with a bang. It’s fast and to the point but also features maybe a bit more hardcore influence than VHS has ever used in the past. The song is a melting pot of all of our various influences and is a real kick in the family jewels if you ask us!”
    With their signing to CDN Records and the premiere of “Natural Born Killers” at Toilet Ov Hell, VHS are gearing up for another chapter in their ongoing celebration of horror, extreme music, and all things dark and twisted. The new single sets the tone for For The Love of Horror , promising a record that brings together the band’s diverse influences in a ferocious package.
    WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “NATURAL BORN KILLERS” AT TOILET OV HELL
    https://toiletovhell.com/premiere-vhs-natural-born-killers/
    NEW ALBUM: For The Love of Horror
    RECORD LABEL: CDN Records
    RELEASE DATE: February 2027
    Stay tuned for more news, music, and updates from VHS as they prepare to unleash For The Love of Horror in February 2027.

    Connect: 
    https://cdnrecords.com/artists/vhs/
  • Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard – Missouri Review

    Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard – Missouri Review

    Some songs seem to arrive from a place we recognize, even if we have never been there. “Missouri” by Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard carries that feeling. Its slow, measured rhythm has the sway of a country waltz, and its nostalgic, desert-like atmosphere immediately finds a way into your heart. I imagined an empty road stretching to the horizon, with memories riding shotgun.

    Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard – Missouri single artwork

    Something about the sadness at the center of this song feels deeply relatable. Losing someone we love leaves us with questions that rarely get answered. We carry on, tending to our wounds and trying to understand how the world can keep moving when someone so important is gone. Joseph Turner gives those emotions a musical form, allowing the listener to recognize a little of their own experience in his performance.

    The slide guitar gently caresses the soul. Its lingering notes suggest distance, open spaces, and words left unsaid. The slow movement of the arrangement made me think of soft snow settling on your skin: delicate and beautiful, with a coldness that makes you feel alive while reminding you how exposed you are.

    Missouri – Sound and Atmosphere

    The minimalist arrangement gives the song room to breathe. There is space around the voice and between the instrumental phrases, allowing the emotion to settle naturally. Turner’s vocal delivery feels sincere and inspired, with the intimacy of someone sharing a memory they still find difficult to revisit.

    That restraint suits the introspective character of the opening. The unhurried rhythm lets you sit with the feeling, and the guitar seems to answer the voice from somewhere beyond the room. You can almost see the dust hanging in the evening light.

    Missouri – Two Sides of the Same Feeling

    Then, around the 3:15 mark, the song changes direction. The pace picks up, the intensity grows, and for a moment it feels as though another song has begun. The desert country atmosphere remains, now carried forward by a more driving country rock pulse.

    I particularly liked how these two sections fit together. The emotional thread holds, even as the music changes its stride. The opening feels like sitting alone with your memories; the later section feels like getting behind the wheel and taking those same memories out onto the highway. The grief is still there, but now it is moving.

    These are two sides of the same coin, and their connection gives “Missouri” its character. Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard show creativity in the structure and sensitivity in the performance. This is a beautiful song that lets its emotions breathe and has the confidence to take them somewhere unexpected.



    Heartfelt

    🔥 If you love this music:
    Discover More


    Find Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    The post Joseph Turner & The Dudes of Hazard – Missouri Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • Album Review | IGNEA – “Monumental”

    General Information

    Personnel:
    Helle Bohdanova – vocals
    Yevhenii Zhytniuk – keyboards
    Dmytro Vinnichenko – guitars
    Oleksandr Kamyshyn – bass

    Production: Jacob Hansen (mixing and mastering)
    Release Date: October 23, 2026
    Record Label: Napalm Records

    Setting the Scene

    Three years after Dreams of Lands Unseen, Ukrainian metal band IGNEA return with their new album, Monumental, released through Napalm Records. Recorded during the ongoing war in Ukraine, with freezing temperatures and long power outages making things even harder, the album explores nostalgia, memories, and dreams of a future that never came to be. Across nine tracks, IGNEA bring together their familiar heavy sound with industrial and electronic influences.

    First Impression

    I can’t imagine a better way to start this album than what IGNEA has done with the first track of Monumental. It’s not just about the common practice of having a calm introduction that eventually blows into a full metal song. It’s the atmosphere within the music that makes it so transformative. You could be angry, happy, sad, or mad at your stupid-ass manager at work (very specific, but let’s move on), and within seconds you’ll find yourself going, “Oh, wait a minute.” And once the heavier music kicks in, you’re already fully immersed in IGNEA’s world. The rest of the album doesn’t disappoint, with amazing vocal performances, beautiful melodies, powerful riffs, and a great balance between the heavy and softer moments.

    Similar Sounds

    If you’re into any of these artists, this album should be on your radar.

    Ad InfinitumSeven SpiresAephanemerMyrathEpica

    The Artwork

    The artwork captures the album’s concept beautifully, combining a sense of greatness with the sadness of something that has been left behind. There’s an interesting contrast between the past and the future, making you wonder whether you’re looking at the remains of an old civilization or a glimpse of a future that never happened. It fits the nostalgic atmosphere of Monumental perfectly.

    Track on Repeat

    “Prefab”

    “Prefab” is my pick for this album, with its electronic opening bringing a different flavor to the music. The vocal arrangements and exchanges are excellent, and I particularly love how the song starts with a lighter, more melodic sound before gradually turning into a thunderous extreme metal song.

    In-depth Notes

    Musical Shape 🎸

    IGNEA do a great job of keeping the music interesting with different approaches to their song introductions. While “Dreams of Lands Unseen” wastes no time getting into the heavy riffs, “Presence of the Past” begins with a gentle, almost serenading melody before suddenly exploding into a much heavier sound. The electronic beats in “What Buildings Dream of” also work really well alongside the guitars, adding a different flavor to the music. The guitar work itself deserves some praise, especially in “Between No Longer and Not Yet,” where the beautiful oriental melodies add so much richness to the song. The album also has some excellent heavier moments, with powerful riffs and drums that complement the melodic parts without overpowering them.

    Vocal Performance 🎤

    Remember earlier when we talked about how IGNEA create an atmosphere that pulls us into their world, instead of their music coming to us? Well, Helle’s voice plays a huge role in that too. It’s one thing to hit the right notes and deliver some powerful growls, but it’s another thing to make people feel the ideas and emotions behind the music. And Helle does both so damn well. Her clean vocals are just as powerful as her growls, and the way she uses both really adds to the whole experience. The guests also do a great job, with Combichrist’s Andy LaPlegua bringing his own flavor to “Prefab” and Britta Görtz of HIRAES adding even more power to “Harmony Manufactured.”

    Themes and Concepts 💭

    Nostalgia is a very important part of human emotions, and even our civilization. It’s interesting how something from the past can still affect us today, whether it’s a personal memory, an old building, or even a future people once imagined but never got to see. IGNEA explore all of this on Monumental, and they’ve done an excellent job of making the music express these ideas. The melodies carry that feeling of nostalgia beautifully, while the heavier parts and the changes in atmosphere bring out its different emotions, from sadness to excitement. The music tells as much of the story as the lyrics do.

    Final Verdict

    ★★★★★★★★★☆

    An album about memories that will surely live long in the memory. With music this powerful and a concept this well developed, IGNEA have given us an album that lives up to its name. Monumental in every sense of the word.

    Mood Meter

    %

    Intensity

    %

    Melancholy

    %

    Darkness

    %

    Emotional

    %

    Serenity

    %

    Energy

    %

    Romance

    %

    Joyfulness

    Perfect For…

    ☾

    Night walks

    a perfect companion for an evening of thoughts under the moon

    ✿

    Enjoying nature

    especially if you have a special place to sit and think

    ⚙

    Working

    perfect mood adjustment therapy for corporate shittiness

    ✎

    Art creation

    great sonic art can inspire other great forms of art

    The post Album Review | IGNEA – “Monumental” first appeared on FemMetal – Goddesses of Metal.

  • Five For Friday: October 23, 2026

    Greetings, Decibel readers!

    The season of the witch is indeed upon us, and fittingly we have a series of dark and mysterious records to create your soundtrack for October. Death metal, funeral doom, classic speed and thrash, and the latest from a USBM giant all united in one place!

    —

    Casket Dweller – River of Slumber

    High-quality Swedish-style death metal from a set of talented Greek practitioners. With such a well-established style, it takes a special level of dedication to craft effective songs and find your own voice. But Casket Dweller‘s voice emanates straight from the grave and pulls you down with them.

    —

    DET and Critical Defiance – Bloodsurge

    Finnish and Chilean forces unite! A thrilling split album worth of the Dying Victims imprint. DET has a decidedly more black-thrash feel while Critical Defiance feels like straightforward 80s speed/thrash. No complaints here!

    Stream: Apple Music

    —

    Grief Cathedral – The Graves We Hold Inside

    Eerie, haunting funeral doom. I particularly like the blending of different vocal styles, as the band does a great job of using each one to emphasize foreboding, terror, and suffering at just the right moments.

    —

    Last Agony – Death Wave

    Blackened d-beat ferocity that leaps from the speakers with the power of distorted vocals, crushing guitar chords, and relentless snare hits. It’s actually not quite right to reduce the band to only a few labels, as they’ve made a genuine attempt to smash so many styles together and still satisfy a recognizable need among extreme metal fanatics (this is the way). Expertly controlled but totally unhinged.

    Stream: Apple Music

    —

    Wolves in the Throne Room – Estuary

    Decibel are longtime fans and supporters of Wolves in the Throne Room, so it was a welcome surprise when I saw them pop up on a list of upcoming releases. The bands many loyal acolytes should be satisfied with what they hear here. The trademark flowing riffs and haunting growls are all here, and the veterans have taken pains to add extra aggression and power to this record — one that focuses deeply on the theme of what the earth will be like when humanity disappears.

    Stream: Apple Music

    The post Five For Friday: October 23, 2026 appeared first on Decibel Magazine.