I posted this at metal-archives, but I thought I'd leave it here too; more coverage, more recs!
I've been "out of the loop," for a while now; I haven't given a ton of thought to music lately, and have had a lot of other things to focus on in my life. However, I'm bucking down and I've decided to reinvest my time in the things I enjoy. That said, I have a strong affection for metal that's largely instrumental, or at least atmospheric, with vocals that flow with the music, rather than step out in front of it. I like the brooding feel of black metal, and also droning, oozy sludge. When I think of both, I imagine getting swept up in the flow of instruments and carried through vast, grey landscapes. Yet, I don't like the ride too smooth; mixing it up with a faster pace, interesting instrumental sections or bridges keeps my attention and makes it fun.
A few bands that I've enjoyed that fit the criteria include Bölzer, Latitudes, Drudkh and Terra Tenebrosa. They're all a bit different in style, yes, but they have a way of evoking a similar feeling. I also listen to most of what you'd find on a classic, "essential" black metal list. One exception to what I wrote about vocals is SubRosa - I've only listened to their More Constant than the Gods album, but I loved the ride and the emotion of the vocals in it.
I've also just looked at a few underground artists lately and I'm fond of Cepheide, Naturvidrig, Wolvhammer, Zorakarer and Sleep White Winter.
On another note, I recently just gave a listen to Vektor's new Terminal Redux album and I'm loving it. That's a bit more energetic, thrashy, and scratches a different itch, but one that I also enjoy. I also like the conceptual side of the album, with a long-running story - reminds me of Bal-Sagoth's work.
I've been "out of the loop," for a while now; I haven't given a ton of thought to music lately, and have had a lot of other things to focus on in my life. However, I'm bucking down and I've decided to reinvest my time in the things I enjoy. That said, I have a strong affection for metal that's largely instrumental, or at least atmospheric, with vocals that flow with the music, rather than step out in front of it. I like the brooding feel of black metal, and also droning, oozy sludge. When I think of both, I imagine getting swept up in the flow of instruments and carried through vast, grey landscapes. Yet, I don't like the ride too smooth; mixing it up with a faster pace, interesting instrumental sections or bridges keeps my attention and makes it fun.
A few bands that I've enjoyed that fit the criteria include Bölzer, Latitudes, Drudkh and Terra Tenebrosa. They're all a bit different in style, yes, but they have a way of evoking a similar feeling. I also listen to most of what you'd find on a classic, "essential" black metal list. One exception to what I wrote about vocals is SubRosa - I've only listened to their More Constant than the Gods album, but I loved the ride and the emotion of the vocals in it.
I've also just looked at a few underground artists lately and I'm fond of Cepheide, Naturvidrig, Wolvhammer, Zorakarer and Sleep White Winter.
On another note, I recently just gave a listen to Vektor's new Terminal Redux album and I'm loving it. That's a bit more energetic, thrashy, and scratches a different itch, but one that I also enjoy. I also like the conceptual side of the album, with a long-running story - reminds me of Bal-Sagoth's work.
