AEBA : Rebellion - Edens Asche (Last Episode Productions, 66'37', 10 tracks, black-metal) : Last Episode is proud to announce the come back of this cult band from the German underground and with their 2 established previous CDs, Aeba continues its way. The new CD begins as a Burzum album with only keyboards arrangements but it is only the intro of the CD, the next step is a true black-metal compositions and it continues with the next songs. This new CD is really more melodic with great melodies in the riffs and with some atmospheres but also more aggressive due to the blast double drums bass. I am only a little bit disappointed by the sound 'cause I don't find the production really excellent but if we except this, it is a good black-metal CD for Aeba, the next step and the continuity of the 2 previous albums with more melodic and aggressive passages. (7/10)

AETERNUS : Ascension Of Terror (Hammerheart Records, 43'54', 9 tracks, dark / black-metal) : For sure, Aeternus is the best band signed by Hammeheart Records and since Beyond The Wandering Moon, the debut album released by the band, Aeternus built a great notoriety and when you know the members played in Immortal or Gorgoroth, you can understand why Aeternus is a cult band. New album and again a great act and I would describe it as more brutal, more aggressive and less melodic than the previous CDs. In fact, the 9 tracks are pure Aeternus compositions but with more aggressive and brutal touches. For the rest, the fans will be really interested, all the Aeternus elements are in this CD. A great new album ! (8/10)

AGATHODAIMON : Chapter III (Nuclear Blast, 42'54', 9 tracks, gothic / black-metal, release date : 11/2001) : Many persons consider Agathodaimon as the most original black-metal band from Germany and it is sure, their black / gothic music is really excellent ! The debut CD was a great debut album but I was a little bit disappointed by their second effort Higher Art Of Rebellion. Agathodaimon is back with its third full CD and I can feel the band releases a great new CD and I can consider they confirm their maturity about the first full CD. Always between gothic and black-metal, the new compositions are really more aggressive, stronger but also more atmospheric by passages. Excellent new CD, it is the continuity of the first and the second album but we feel a great progression and you can be sure, Agathodaimon has now its full maturity ! (8,5/10)

ANCIENT : Proxima Centauri (Metal Blade, 55'11', 12 tracks, black-metal, release date : 18/10/2001) : Since The Halls Of Eternity, Ancient took another musical direction, more influenced by their roots of their debut CD and this new one continues in this way. The mini CD released in January showed a title track in this way and by this song, we could listen what will be the new studio album. Ancient unleashes now this new studio album and we feel really more heavy-metal influences and to describe the new materials, I could do the comparison between Mad Grandiose Bloodfiends and The Halls Of Eternity 'cause the new compositions are between both CDs. We feel all the members participated to the compositions of the songs (excepted Dhilorz) and we can feel a perfect cohesion between the several members. More heavy-metal but with the feeling of the beginning, this new full CD from the Norwegian band is really excellent, the best is and will be always The Cainian Chronicle but this one is really excellent ! (8/10)

ANOREXIA NERVOSA : New Obscurantis Order (Osmose Productions, 49'10', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Drudenhaus the last CD released by the band was basically the best CD from Anorexia Nervosa, an excellent black-metal CD, really symphonic but with a big aggressiveness. Maybe less influenced by Cradle Of Filth and this new one confirms this. Between Dimmu Borgir and Cradle Of Filth with an original step, Anorexia nervosa releases an excellent new CD, will full of atmospheres (keyboards) and a great aggressiveness, for sure, more aggressive than the previous CD. An excellent production (the band recorded the CD themselves) and with this CD, Anorexia nervosa confirms they are one of the best bands from France. (8,5/10)

ARCHAEUS : Unveiled, The Lust For Torments (Self released, 14'47', 4 tracks, black-metal) : Born 2 years ago, this new 3 band members from France proposes a debut mini CD releasing under the demo format. The band has material to release a full CD but they decided to release in first a demo CD with 4 tracks. The whole of the compositions is influenced by Mayhem, Burzum, old Emperor and we feel some French touches (Antaeus, Seth...). It is a good debut material, we feel some really interesting things in several songs and Archaeus must continue in this way 'cause the band could become a new masterpiece from our country ! (7/10) ; e-mail : angelofdeath_rob@yahoo.fr

AVENGER : Fall Of Devotion - Wrath And Blasphemy (Deathgasm Records, 38'47', 8 tracks, death / black-metal) : Deathgasm Records is a young label from USA but they released some good stuffs in the past (Maniac Butcher, Mortem...) and they release now the second album of the band from Czech Republic. In comparison with the previous, this new one is really more mature, more brutal and more aggressive. With stronger compositions, Avenger diversifies its way and we feel less the influences of the band. Yes, there are always touches of bands such Dissection, Immortal and some Swedish death-metal touches but the whole of the CD is more original. They are on the good way... (6,5/10)

AVERSE SEFIRA : Battle's Clarion (Lost Disciple Records, 35'01', 7 tracks, black-metal) : Formed 4 years ago in 1996, Averse Sefira from Texas released its first full length album 3 years later in 1999, a good debut album influenced by the black-metal scene from Norway (Immortal, Satyricon) with some death-metal touches and American black-metal influences. Averse Sefira got a deal with Lost Disciple that releases the second effort of the band. New album for the band and once again, we can listen what the American black-metal scene can propose in this style ; always influenced by the Norwegian style, the death-metal touches are always presents and we feel great Angel Corpse touches. A good come back for the band, this second album is really interesting and even if we feel the Norwegian influences, Averse Sefira proposes great compositions. (7,5/10)

BATHORY : Destroyer Of Worlds (Black Mark Production, 66'01', 13 tracks, viking / epic metal, release date : 08/10/2001) : It is one of the main fact of this year, the come back of the cult band Bathory that founded the black-metal scene and one of the legendary influences for many bands... We waited this new CD since a long time 'cause the last album Blood On Ice was released 5 years ago and it is a pleasure to listen the new full studio album from Quorthon. The new materials are really near of Blood On Ice and they take the same musical way that is to say a kind of epic / Viking-metal, not really black-metal as at the beginning but with full of atmospheres. If you like the last CDs released by the band, no black-metal music but a different musical way in comparison with the firsts albums, you can be sure, you won't be disappointed by this excellent new album ! The legendary band is back ! (9/10)

BELFEGOR : The Kingdom Of Glacial Palaces (WW3 Music, 46'02', 12 tracks, black / death-metal) : Don't confuse Belfegor (this one from Poland) and the other band with the same name Belphegor from Austria, both bands play the same musical way but we feel some differences between them and they haven't the same project at all. New three band members formed a couple of times ago, they signed with a young but really promising label WW3 Music and the first CD about this collaboration is out. Imagine a crossover between Marduk, Immortal (old ages) and Dark Funeral with some Behemoth touches due to the same origin of the band and you have the full Belfegor's identity and music. Black and death-metal with a great feeling, hyper blast double bass and heavy compositions, an excellent CD and sincerely, the last year one of the best black-metal CDs was the Belphegor's release, this year it is another CD from Belfegor but not the same... (8/10)

BLODSRIT : Supreme Misanthropy (Chanteloup Creations, 36'07', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Again a new band wanting to be a great black-metal but they don't understand to be like this, they should propose an original music. This debut album from Blodsrit contains any originality, you'll find all the black-metal elements and it is only a copy of the masters. Earlier Immortal CDs or Abigor influence the band but it is sure, the masters are better. It is only a new black-metal CD, don't search for originality, a simple copy of the masters... (4/10)

BLOODTHRONE : Storms Of Apocalypse (Forever Underground Records, 35'16', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Don't confuse Bloodthrone from USA and Norway's Bloodthorn 'cause both bands are really different even if they play black-metal music. New band signed by the young American label Forever Underground Records, Bloodthrone is born in 1998 and released 2 demos and more precisely this demo "Storms Of Apocalypse" re-released by their new label. The band plays black-metal music influenced by the scene from Norway but unfortunately, their music isn't really original and we feel too the influences of the masters such Mayhem, Immortal, Darkthrone and bands such Behemoth. They must continue in this way but they should try to diversify their compositions to propose a more original way. The bases are here and the band must work... (5,5/10)

BORKNAGAR : Empyricism (Century Media, 50'06', 10 tracks, Viking-metal, release date : 22/10/2000) : You must know if you are a Borknagar fan that Vintersorg joined the ranks of the Norwegian band and now he is the official singer. With this new CD, it is really great to listen his performance 'cause Borknagar had its own view about these vocals but any doubt Vintersorg has this major role in the band. The new album from Borknagar is the most brutal since the debut CD The Olden Domain. There are always the Viking-metal influences but with less keyboards and more black-metal compositions. My favourite CD stays The Archaic Course but this new release is in this way, near of The Archaic Course and not really as Quintessence for which I was a little bit disappointed even if it was a good album. (7,5/10)

BURDEN OF GRIEF : On Darker Trails (Massacre Records, 39'13', 9 tracks, black / death-metal) : Burden Of Grief is the new extreme and not heavy-metal band signed by Massacre Records and they released a debut album in the past but unfortunately, I haven't listened it. So, with this second effort and new deal, they can hope to have a great support and it is confirmed by the good musical way played by the band. Between black-metal, Swedish death / thrash near of Soilwork and Darkane, Burden Of Grief is more original due to more black-metal influences as I said but due to the German feeling 'cause the band comes from Germany and not Sweden. A good debut CD, between black and death / thrash-metal, they must continue to work in this way but personally, I feel a good potential. (6,5/10)

CEREMONIAL EMBRACE : Oblivion (Displeased Records, 36'28', 8 tracks, dark / black-metal) : Formed in 1996 under another name Chastise before to take the actual name in 1998, Ceremonial Embrace started to play heavy-metal music before to play a more black-metal musical style and the band from Finland released some demo tapes and a promo CD and in fact this first full professional CD contains songs taken from this promo CD. Between both releases, we feel a great evolution, the music played by the band is dark / black-metal that is to say the traditional musical style from Finland but these materials is clearer and more aggressive. For the fans of the dark-metal scene from Finland (Thy Serpent, Gandalf, Dawn Of Relic...), you can be sure, this CD is for you. (8/10)

DARK FUNERAL : Diabolis Intepium (No Fashion Records, 36'19', 8 tracks, black-metal, release date : 09/2001) : With Marduk, Dark Funeral is the best brutal black-metal band from Sweden ! After a great mini CD featuring an unreleased song with a different mix from their upcoming new CD and some cover songs, Dark Funeral presents this new full CD. Third album for the band and once again a masterpiece is born. The musical way is true Dark Funeral music, brutal and aggressive black-metal music. Sometimes we feel heavier passages but the whole of the CD is true brutal black-metal. Maybe you have be disappointed by the last Marduk's release but this new CD from Dark Funeral won't disappoint you ! Dark Funeral stays Dark Funeral, always the same identity with no keyboards or female vocals... (8,5/10)

DARKTHRONE : Plaguewielder (Moonfog Productions, 42'52', 6 tracks, black-metal, release date : 09/2001) : "Ravishing Grimness" showed a come back in the old roots of the band, it was the resurrection of the old Darkthrone with heavier compositions, melodic parts and really grimy compositions and of course the true black-metal production. The new material from the cult band is here and is composed by 6 brand new songs. This new CD continues in the same way than the previous that is to say melodic parts but more melodic touches and always in the old roots of the band. As always, it is a cult CD for Darkthrone, the legend continues with this new CD more melodic, more complex with technical guitars riffs... A due for all the black-metal fans ! (9,5/10)

DIACHRONIA : XX's Decline (Great White Noise Records, 39'10', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Poland's scene know a great revolution about the extreme music 'cause after the death-metal with Vader and younger bands such Decapitated or Yattering, many black-metal bands come from this scene. Of course, you have the cult Behemoth, the best black-metal act from this country, but you have also young band and Diachronia is one the new bands coming from this scene. Black-metal music with death-metal touches is the musical way chose by the band. Diachronia is born in 1993 but it is only with this album that we can discover them 'cause their first full CD was only released to 200 copies. With this new deal, you can wait for sure a better support for them and it is really justified. Influenced by Emperor (IX Equilibrium), XX's Decline uses also some Slayer and Cradle Of Filth touches (Saviour). The result is a good black-metal CD influenced by Emperor but more diversified 'cause the band uses also other influences. (7,5/10)

DORNENREICH : Her Von Welken Nächten (Prophecy Productions, 58'55', 9 tracks, black-metal) : I know this band since their debut album and I am really surprised once again to see the evolution of he band. First of all, Dornenreich decided to leave CCP Records to sign with Prophecy and finally, it is the German label that releases the new materials of the band. The 2 previous CDs were really near of Emperor but this new one is really different, more original and more avant-garde. In fact, if we feel always the symphonic black-metal roots, we feel also the coming of new influences, more theatrical and the result could be compare to Arcturus but more brutal, with a little Dimmu Borgir touch. Excellent new CD, original, theatrical and symphonic black-metal. (8/10)

EDICIUS : Aeon (Deadsun Records, 28'24', 10 tracks, black / death) : I didn't know this young band from France and I think it is their first CD but it is sure, it is their first deal with a professional label. Edicius is formed by 3 members and they are influenced by extreme black-metal such Vondur and bands like this but Edicius develops also some atmospheres with the synths. The sound is really powerful but unfortunately, it isn't an excellent sound 'cause it is too extreme. If you like Vondur, you'll like this album I guess but it is a special black-metal album like Vondur. (6/10)

EISREGEN : Farbenfinsternis (Last Episode Productions, 55'56', 12 tracks, black-metal) : Maybe you don't know Eisregen but it is a good band from the German underground and I consider them as one of the best and most original band signed by Last Episode. This new CD from the German act is really different in comparison with the previous. Different yes but we feel always the same step that is to say the Eisregen view. In fact, the compositions take a more heavy-metal way but with more Celtic and humour black-metal music ! So, you must understand even if the band is an extreme black-metal band, I don't know why but I find their music really funny. Featuring a Death cover song (Born Dead) and always really extreme lyrics, Eisregen proposes a good new CD and by this way, they confirm their original position. (7/10)

EMPEROR : Prometheus : The Discipline Of Fire And Demise (Candlelight Records, 51'50', 9 tracks, The black-metal, release date : 08/10/2001) : I think you might know this new CD will be the last album for the Norwegian band ! It is sad to learn these bad news but Emperor decided to split-up after the release of their new full album. It is sure, Emperor is one of the founders of the black-metal scene but they decide to stop and we can respect this choice. Before to take other ways with Peccatum and Zyklon B, Candlelight releases the last CD and for a surprise, it is a surprise. The last CD was really more death-metal but this new one is more diversified, more sophisticated, more influenced by classical music and with jazzy touches. In fact, I could say it is a mix between "Anthems To The Welkin At Dusk" with Peccatum touches. It stays it is a good CD, really different if you waited a CD like the previous but it is a true Emperor album and by this way, we feel the guys have others projects 'cause we feel the influences of these projects in the Emperor's music ! The last, no the best but a good CD... (7/10)

ENSLAVED : Monumension (Osmose Productions, 59'48', 10 tracks, Viking-metal, release date : 19/11/2001) : Mardraum - Beyond The Within is for sure the masterpiece released by Enslaved since this date but with this new CD, can they release a better album ? I don't know really... Monumension is really different in comparison with the last CD and more melodic by passages that is to say, Enslaved develops full of atmospheres and I think it is due to the presence of Tryve Mathisen and Denis Reksten who join the band to recorded Monumension. These 2 guys play folk and psychedelic music and we feel this in the new compositions 'cause some times, it is a little bit experimental. Enslaved plays always Viking-metal but it is more psychedelic, more dark-metal and not strictly Viking-metal as in the past... You can understand Monumension is built as a concept album and I think this word is the best to describe the new Enslaved's CD. (7/10)

ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW : A Virgin And A Whore (Spinefarm Records, 43'09', 9 tracks, Finnish dark-metal, release date : 24/01/2002) : With Children Of Bodom and Dawn Of Relic, Eternal Tears Of Sorrow created a new musical way from Finland few years ago. With their third CD, the band established a big name on the metal scene and they did tours with Nightwish and Sinergy. This time, their fourth CD shows a musical development. In first, the songs are really more melodic but also more technical about the guitars riffs (Aurora Borealis). Secondly, then keyboards give a lyrical aspect to the songs and diversify the compositions. It is a great new album for Eternal Tears Of Sorrow, a little bit different due to the melodic aspects but a great new CD always between Children Of Bodom and Nightwish. (8,5/10)

EVILWAR : Unholy March (Somber Music, 38'00', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Evilwar is a young band form Brazil born in 1999. After a fist demo tape, Somber Music signed the band and releases the debut CD. The band is formed by ex-members of the cult band from this country Murder Rape and you find this 'cause in the compositions, some passages have the same feeling. For the music, it is influenced by the old Emperor, old Satyricon and old Immortal with some heavy and death-metal touches. A good debut CD, not really original unfortunately but we feel a good potential as the debuts of Murder Rape. (6/10)

EVOL : Dies Irae (Beyond Prod., 43'10', 11 tracks, atmospheric black-metal) : When they released their 2 debut CDs, Evol from Italy was one of the promising black-metal bands but the mini CD Ancient Abbey and Portraits were a little bit disappointed. Beyond Prod. decides to re-release the 2 cult demos The Tale Of The Horned King released in 1993 and The Dark Dreamquest Part I out in 1994 'cause both are now sold out. Featuring 2 live songs, this CD is a due for the all the fans of the band and who haven't the original demos 'cause with these stuffs, we find all the best tracks recorded by the band (Sad Doom Of A Dark Soul). It is a due for all the fans but those who have the 2 demos, you can't take another way 'cause it is only the re-release of the demo on a CD with 2 live songs not really necessary... (7/10)

EZURATE : Infernal Dominatio (Forever Underground Records, 31'58', 7 tracks, black-metal) : Ezurate is born in 1993 and comes from Chicago. After 2 demos and a first full LP, the young label Forever Underground Records signed the band and re-releases the LP on a CD format. Since this release of the LP version, the band knew several changes in the line-up and I don't know really if the musical way is always the same due to the arrival of new members but the music played on this CD is true black-metal music influenced by the Norwegian scene. We feel many influences such Mayhem or Darkthrone and I think it is a little bit dangerous for the band 'cause if they want to propose something really original, they must work about the originality. So, a traditional black-metal CD influenced by Norway's scene. (6/10)

FLAUROS : Monuments Of Total Holocaust (The Twelfth Planet Records, 21'20', 5 tracks, dark / black-metal) : Flauros from Finland releases its first CD and more precisely, its first mini CD on Italy's The Twelfth Planet Records. 5 songs of dark-metal influenced by the black-metal music. Personally, I feel influences such old Morgul ages, ...And Oceans and the Finnish dark-metal scene (Thy Serpent, Gandalf...). A good production and an original music for this first CD from Flauros. Another vision of the Finnish dark-metal, different from the true dark-metal scene from Finland. (7/10)

FOG : Through The Eyes Of Night... Winged They Come (WW3 Music, 59'32', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Fog is one of the new bands unleashed by WW3 Music and they come from USA. If I say the band comes from USA you can be sure to have the American step that is to say black-metal music from this country. Indeed, even if the American black-metal scene isn't very known yet, some bands created the American style few years ago such Absu of course but also Kult Ov Azazel and some others. Fog joins these ranks and forces and they confirm the potential of the American scene. Influenced by the European style, we feel Fog uses Mayhem, Emperor and old Cradle Of Filth touches, they develop also American steps near of Absu by passages. About the compositions, I think they have a potential 'cause the bases are here but Fog must continue to work 'cause we feel really good things but it is really unusual to release an excellent album the first time, it is a good album but with the experience, Fog will be a masterpiece from USA I guess... (5,5/10)

FUNEBRIS : Triumph Of The Everlasting Fire (Last Episode Productions, 45'06', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Last Episode seems to be really interested by the young bands from Germany and after Zorn, it is Funebris that joined the Last Episode ranks. The band released 3 demos in the past and they wanted to attain a more important level with their debut CD. With Triumph Of The Everlasting Fire, Funebris releases a good debut CD, black-metal music influenced by the Norwegian scene and we feel many influences of Immortal but also some Satyricon touches (Funeral Anthem). The production is good but we feel a little lack of technicality and maturity sometimes. In spite of this, Funebris could become a new hope of the German scene 'cause they propose good things and develops good ideas in their music. (7,5/10)

FURIA : A La Quête Du Passé (Adipocere Records, 54'10', 13 tracks, orchestral black-metal) : Furia is born in 1997 and comes from France. With their 2 demos, Furia did many gigs in France and in 1999, they recorded a mini CD entitled Le Jardin D'Eden before to release this debut CD and containing songs taken from this mini CD. The band plays original black-metal music and I could do a comparison with Opera IX due to the way that the band uses 'cause the musical way isn't influenced by the Italian band but takes the same way and they try to develop orchestral black-metal with melodic and atmospheric passages based on a concept music. It is really original, the band presents a good maturity (not again a full maturity) and a professional view. For the moment, it is only a debut CD and even if we feel a little lack of maturity sometimes, it isn't a problem 'cause they can progress in this way and we feel this. Continue like this 'cause the music presents also great things... (7/10)

IMPALED NAZARENE : Absence Of War Does Not Mean Peace (Osmose Productions, 37'26', 13 tracks, black-metal, release date : 11/2001) : The most popular black-metal band from Finland is back with its seventh full CD and it is a little surprise 'cause few persons waited this new studio album. In fact, it is a surprise also 'cause this album is the most varied recorded by Impaled Nazarene and we feel the aggressiveness of the band but also great and crushing guitars riffs and heavier passages by moment. Impaled Nazarene stopped its punk way started with "Rapture" that wasn't a great success and it is more in the way of the last effort, maybe less technical and more brutal. It isn't my favourite album for the band, I prefer the firsts ages but it is a good CD for Impaled Nazarene and they confirm their statute of cult band. (7,5/10)

KULT OV AZAZEL : Triumph Of Fire (Arctic Music Group, 39'32', 11 tracks, black-metal) : I waited this first full studio album of this great American act. After a good debut mini CD, a split CD with Krieg and some features in various compilations, Arctic Music Group (Malevolent Creation, Hateplow) releases this first CD and what CD. Aggressive, brutal and extreme, here are the words to resume Kult Ov Azazel. Influenced by Mayhem, Dissection or Marduk with some old thrash influences (Destruction, Kreator), the compositions are really great. American black-metal yes, we feel this step but with a little European and Norwegian touch. A great debut CD, really extreme and brutal. (8/10)

LAMENTU : Liack (Inch Productions / Code666, 40'43', 10 tracks, black-metal) : New band signed by Inch Productions, Lamentu releases its debut professional CD. Born in Italy, they are proud to come from the Mediterranean scene and we feel this in the compositions 'cause the band plays black-metal music influenced by the Italian scene. This black-metal music is full of hate and I could do a comparison with underground bands such Handful Of Hate playing the same music. The only difference is Lamentu uses some tribal influences giving more atmospheres and more diversified songs. For the rest, it is true black-metal CD, really cruel and full of hate, maybe not really original but the bases are here. (6,5/10)

LUNAR AURORA : Ars Moriendi (Ars Metalli, 47'19', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Recently signed by Ars Metalli, the German band is back with its fourth studio CD. Many persons considered Lunar Aurora as one of the band that unleashed the black-metal style from Germany. It is sure, they don't unleash the melodic black-metal but the anti-commercial music, extreme black-metal music. This new CD is always so extreme, grim black-metal with only German lyrics, near of the first age of Abigor, old Bathory. It isn't a true black-metal CD but you feel any commercial steps, no keyboards, no female vocals, only grim black-metal as I said. For the rest, Lunar Aurora stays in its roots, even if the compositions are more aggressive and brutal. (6/10)

MEPHISTOPHELES : Modern Instinct's Purity (Last Episode Productions, 49'03', 8 tracks, black-metal) : The band knew serious problems in the past before to release their second CD Songs Of The Desolate Ones but finally, with this third CD, it is seems the problems are now finished. I am surprised about the new CD 'cause it is really different in comparison with the 2 previous CDs and the musical way is really more thrash-metal. The songs are more brutal and more aggressive and Mephistopheles is more influenced by Kreator and old Destruction for sure but the whole of the CD stays a true Mephistopheles CD by the riffs, by the ambience. This third CD shows an evolution for the band in a good way but don't worry, for the fans, Mephistopheles has always its own identity. (8/10)

MISTELTEIN : Divine Desecrate Complete (No Fashion Records, 48'00', 10 tracks, black-metal) : With their excellent debut CD released last year, Misteltein from Sweden got a great statue all over the world and I was really eager to listen the new full CD. The second CD is now unleashed and what album. In comparison with Rape In Rapture, the debut album of the band, Divine Desecrate Complete is really more mature, more aggressive and more technical. Always influenced by the old Dimmu Borgir ages but also by Cradle Of Filth, the new compositions are really more brutal as I said and more aggressive with excellent crushing riffs (Thy Kingdom Cum). In fact, you feel always the Dimmu Borgir and Cradle Of Filth touches but with more Dark Funeral and Marduk influences but the aggressiveness of the band. An excellent second CD and in my opinion, it is one of the best black-metal CDs of this year from Sweden ! Don't miss the blast ! (9,5/10)

MURDER RAPE : Evil Shall Burn Inside Me Forever (Evil Horde Records, 29'13', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Krisiun, Rebaelliun and Abhorrence are the best death-metal acts from Brazil but Murder Rape is the best black-metal band from this country. A new excellent album for their come back four years after their second effort. The music is always the same, true black-metal influenced by the scene from Norway but we feel stronger and more technical songs. I think this new musical direction is due to the coming of new members but it is really excellent to listen these great new materials and we feel a great development. An excellent new CD, traditional black-metal but with a great feeling and congratulations for the excellent artwork. (7,5/10)

MYSTICA : Blinded By My Blood (Painkiller Records, 35'04', 8 tracks, black / death-metal) : Ancient Rites and Enthroned founded the black-metal scene from Belgium and with bands as Mystica, we can wait really interesting acts. Mystica is born in 1999 by ex-members of underground bands from Belgium and after a first demo released in 2000, Painkiller decides to release the first full CD. The musical way is between death and black-metal and we can notice influences of bands such Immortal with more heavy-metal and thrash influences. An excellent production and sound done by Xavier Clarion (Channel Zero) and mastered by Attie Bauw (Halford, Gorefest...) give to their CD a good impression. It is a great debut CD, they must continue like this and they could obtain the same success than Ancient Rites and Enthroned, no doubt. (8,5/10)

NEBULAR MOON : Metamorphosis (CCP Records, 43'34', 10 tracks, dark / black-metal) : Nebular Moon was a good band signed by Last Episode Productions and they released a great debut CD Mourning but finally, the German dark-metal band decided to leave Last Episode and to sign with the label from Austria CCP Records. The new album is now unleashed and we can feel a progression in the musical way. In first, the band develops more atmospheric passages and more melodies in the compositions. Secondly, the coming of a new guitarist gives more technical steps to the songs. Between dark and black-metal with great melodies and aggressiveness, Nebular Moon releases a good new CD, we can identify their music, it is always the same but with a little progression. (7/10)

NOKTURNE : Embracer Of Dark Ages (WW3 Music, 43'18', 8 tracks, brutal black-metal) : Nokturne is one of the new bands signed by the young American label and in more, it is announced as a new masterpiece. It is sure, with a such brutality, Nokturne is as Kult Ov Azazel, one of the most brutal bands from USA. I think the comparison with Kult Ov Azazel is good 'cause both bands play the same musical way that is to say brutal black-metal and we feel the same influences, even if Nokturne is more influenced by the Swedish scene. When we listen songs such Exterminan or Nothing, we can notice great influences of the masters such Dark Funeral, Mayhem or Marduk. Extreme and really aggressive, the band from Los Angeles releases a good debut CD and if you are a fan of the brutal black-metal, you should listen Nokturne, I think you'll be really satisfied. (7/10)

NOVEMBRE : Novembrine Waltz (Century Media, 59'52', 9 tracks, dark-metal with gothic touches) : After their successful come back with their debut album for Century Media Classica, the Italian band presents its new full effort. Once again, the band proves they can progress in order to propose a more technical and diversified musical way. The songs are always between Opeth and old Anathema but we feel more gothic touches with more atmospheres but also more aggressiveness on several tracks (Cloudbusting). The whole of the CD is always between gothic and dark-metal CD but with more aggressive songs and more atmospheres, Novembre reaches to diversify its compositions and to release a richer and more interesting CD than the previous albums. (8/10)

OCULTAN : Belicus Profanus (Evil Horde Records, 29'47', 9 tracks, black-metal) : New band from Brazil, the 3 guys release here their debut CD and it is Evil Horde Records that helps Ocultan. Really dark, raw black-metal with some occult touches, we feel influences of the masters such Emperor, Immortal with thrash touches and mid tempo compositions. The production is good but could be better but I think for a debut CD, the rules of a good music are here. Really great vocals (extreme and piercing) give to this album a good atmosphere in coincidence with the music. A good debut CD and we will see the new materials... (7/10)

REIGN OF EREBUS : Humanracist (Blackend, 37'40', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Since their debut mini CD Of Blackest Magic... released in 2000, the English band knew some problems due to their line up and some members left the band. New members joined Rein Of Erebus and I think it is one the reasons for which this debut CD is really different in comparison with their debut mini CD. Humanracist was recorded in February but the band knew also problems with the producer and due to this, the CD was delayed but finally, it is unleashed. As I said, the music is really different, first of all, I find the compositions more underground due to the sound I guess but the new songs are really more underground. Secondly, the style is really more influenced by the death-metal music and we feel more breaks and fewer keyboards in the music to create several atmospheres. Always a black-metal music influenced by Enthroned but more diversified than the first mini CD, the band releases a good debut CD, with originality and a good technicality. (7/10)

SALACIOUS GODS : Sunnevot (ColdBloodIndustries, 41'17', 10 tracks, black-metal) : Born in 1994 under the Profanatica banner, Salacious Gods changed but times after for Salacious Gods. They released a demo tape before to sign with ColdBloodIndustries (the label founded by the God Dethroned members) and due to this new collaboration, the band released a good debut CD. This time the band is back with a second full CD always dealing with atmospheric and melodic black-metal. Influenced by Liar Of Golgotha, Abyssos and Cradle Of Filth, Salacious Gods diversifies its compositions in this CD with more thrash-metal and some doom touches (Tiamat...). Featuring members from God Dethroned and The Wounded, Sunnevot is a good CD for those who like this kind of music that is to say melodic and atmospheric black-metal, it is sure, it isn't original but it is a good CD... (6,5/10)

SATANS PENGUINS : Birds Of Darkness (Heretic Sound, 43'30', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Coming from Sweden, Satans Penguins is born in 1993 as a one man band but after the release of a first demo, the band became a full band. First full album for the band, Birds Of Darkness deals with black-metal and classical parts. In fact, it is really hard to give you the influences of the band 'cause Satans Penguins is really original and they try to compose avant-garde music. With original instruments and female vocals, Satans penguins releases a good debut CD, black-metal music with an avant-garde and classical step. An original album for sure and if the band continues to progress in this way, it will be a future masterpiece... (8/10)

SATARIAL : The Queen Of The Elves' Land (Beyond Productions, 38'39', 11 tracks, folk black-metal) : Formed in Russia 11 years ago (in 1989), Satarial plays an original black-metal with folk and gothic influences. The black-metal music is a traditional black-metal way but very great folk influences diversified the music. With the uses of flute, violin and soprano vocals giving a great impact to the music and it is for this, the musical way played by Satarial is really original. Folk, black-metal with gothic touches, here are the words that I can give you to describe this good debut CD. (7/10)

SIEBENBURGEN : Plagued Be Thy Angel (Napalm Records, 61'32', 13 tracks, black-metal) : Delictum was definitely the best album released by the band and the first CD was also really great but the second Grimjaur wasn't really excellent. So, with this new full album, the Swedish band is back and I find the new compositions more superior in comparison with the last album. The production is really more excellent, more powerful and even if the style is the same, we fell a more important technicality and the songs are more diversified and more aggressive. It is a good new CD for Siebenburgen, no problem for this. (7,5/10)

SOLEFALD : Pills Against The Ageless Ills (Century Media, 46'16', 8 tracks, experimental Viking / black-metal) : New band signed by Century Media, Solefald released 2 excellent albums in the past on Avantgarde Music (The Linear Scaffold and Neonism). Third album for the band and once again, this new one is really different in comparison with the previous acts. In first, the songs are more Viking-metal and more in a way near of Borknagar about the vocals. The musical way is always so original, really experimental and we feel more atmospheres, more catchy passages and really different songs with excellent breaks ! An excellent album, a true Solefald CD that is to say experimental music, a great surprise... (7,5/10)

STORMLORD : At The Gates Of Utopia (Scarlet, 47'03', 9 tracks, black-metal, release date : 19/11/2001) : Few weeks ago, the black-metal band from Italy released a mini CD and it was the first release with Scarlet (see the review below). Finally, after this good mini CD, Stormlord releases its new full CD and what CD ! Since Supreme Art Of War, we feel the evolution of the band and this second full album is really more interested, more professional and more mature. The music is more epic, more influenced by Mystic Circle, Dimmu Borgir or Bal Sagoth (about the keyboards) sometimes but the result is a good new CD, really more professional and epic in comparison with their debut album. Original black-metal really aggressive with a killer double bass but also really melodic with the great keyboards. (7,5/10)

STORMLORD : The Curse Of Medusa (Scarlet, 36'50', 7 tracks, black-metal) : It was a surprise when some persons told me the band left Last Episode and signed with Scarlet 'cause Stormlord was announced as a label mates but it seems the band from Italy knew problems and finally, they decided to get a deal with another structure. To start this collaboration, Scarlet releases a new mini CD of the band with 3 brand new songs in which, you can listen new compositions of their upcoming CD scheduled for September. These new compositions are really more aggressive than the older songs but also more diversified with different vocals, different guitars riffs. The others songs are 2 cover songs (Metallica's hit "Creeping Death" in live and a Death SS cover song) and another live song recorded during a gig in Rome in 1999. To conclude, the band added an old track taken from their previous full CD but this composition is remixed. We are waiting the new full CD, a great new CD I hope. (6,5/10)

SUMMONING : Let The Mortal heroes Sing Your Fame (Napalm Records, 56'34', 8 tracks, Celtic black-metal) : I was wondering to listen the new CD of the cult band from Austria and once again, Summoning releases an excellent CD, a cult masterpiece. Stronghold was a little bit different in comparison with the previous albums 'cause it developed more epic touches. With this new full album, Summoning releases a mix between Stronghold and Dol Guldur and you fell this crossover between both albums in the compositions (The Mountain King's Return...). All the songs have the Summoning step with their own Celtic influences and original black-metal vision. A great new CD and Summoning proves they are one of the most original bands of the black-metal scene. Don't miss this excellent new release from the Celtic black-metal band... (9/10)

TIDFALL : Instinct Gate (Nuclear Blast, 42'09', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Tidfall released a great debut CD with Circular Supremacy and any doubt, the Norwegian band began a great career. This time, the second CD is unleashed by Nuclear Blast and I am really surprised by it. It is always the same music that is to say black-metal music influenced by Satyricon and Dimmu Borgir (Enthrone Darkness Triumphant) but the songs are really more aggressive, stronger but also a little bit diversified due to the presence of some arrangements (My Wrath). It is a true Norwegian black-metal CD, the true roots of the black-metal music and Tidfall presents the best CDs and bands in one CD. (8/10)

TVANGESTE : Damnation Of Regiomontum (Valgalder Records, 51'44', 6 tracks, atmospheric black-metal) : Tvangeste is a cult band in its country, Russia due to the success of this mini CD in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus (5000 copies sold in these countries). Finally, Norway's Valgalder unleashes the same effort in the rest of the world and it is a great thing I guess. Personally, this band was unknown for me but I am really surprised by it. Playing atmospheric black-metal music influenced by Bal Sagoth, old Dimmu Borgir, old Old Man's Child and Cradle Of Filth, they use also a doom / heavy feeling to give a stronger and deeper aspects to the songs. Basically, a great CD from Russia, a great surprise with really long tracks but they aren't boring, on the contrary 'cause they are full of atmospheres. (8/10)

TWIN OBSCENITY : Bloodstone (Century Media, 39'16', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Twin Obscenity is born in 1991 but it is only their third full CD and the last (For Blood Honour And Soil) was released 3 years ago and for which I wasn't really satisfied 'cause it wasn't original and it is only a black-metal CD in more. The Norwegian band is back with its third full CD and I can listen a good progression 'cause the songs are really deeper, heavier and more technical than in the past. With female vocals (Tonje Ettesvoll) and featuring Dolgar (ex-Gehenna / Forlorn), Twin Obscenity proposes really diversified songs and atmospheres but the problem is the black-metal music 'cause it is a good way but not original, it is just a Norwegian black-metal CD. There are good new elements but without originality. (6/10)

UHRILEHTO : Viha Ja Ikuinen Vitutus - Hate Eternal (ColdBloodIndustries, 33'24', 9 tracks, black-metal) : Born in 1996, Uhriletho recorded 4 demo tapes before to sign with ColdBloodIndustries to release this debut CD. First of all, I am really surprised by it 'cause it proposes a good musical way. Influenced by Emperor, Samael with some Satyricon touches, the Finnish band develops really great atmospheres and the music isn't really brutal but heavier, more atmospheric and full of hate without to be a pure brutal black-metal CD. A good debut CD for this young band, for the fans of Samael / Emperor with atmospheric and some brutal passages. (7/10)

UMBAKRAIL : In Unity Painenne (Century Media, 36'16', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Umbakrail is a project of one member who decided to create this band in 1996. He released 2 demo tapes and one mini CD and Deadsun, due to the reactions about this mini CD, signed this band. The musical way played by the band is near of Immortal (Pure Holocaust) with some dark-metal touches and by this way, we feel also influences of bands such Dissection. The sound isn't really good, really underground but Umbakrail proposes a good full CD and I think the band can progress to obtain a better sound for sure but also to propose more interesting stuffs in the future, even if this debut CD is a good CD. (6,5/10)

VALAR : Magic And Wyrmfire (Chanteloup Creations, 43'48', 10 tracks, medieval dark-metal) : I think this young band from Finland is creating a new musical style that I would entitle medieval dark-metal. With this debut CD, the band releases a good first step and the music is really medieval, influenced by Summoning by the ambience, the atmospheres and Dragongod Narqath the only member creates a true world by this music. As I said, we feel some Summoning influences for sure, but the one man band is also influenced by Dissection or Sacramentum about the vocals. A good debut CD, a mix between Summoning for the music and Sacramentum and Dissection for the vocals. Continue like this... (7,5/10)

VENEFICUM : Dysphoria (Forever Underground Records, 43'48', 6 tracks, black-metal) : Again a young band from USA signed by Forever Underground Records. Veneficum is born in 1999 but the musicians knew a musical past with an other act called Profanacion that was a more death-metal project and finally, from the ashes of this death-metal project is born Veneficum. Some new members joined this new project and they released in 1999 a first demo CD. They play in famous festivals such the Milwaukee Metalfest and Forever Underground signed them and release a mini CD with 5 brand new recordings. Melodic black-metal is the musical style played by the band and we can feel influences of bands such Dimmu Borgir with a more extreme step and a more underground production 'cause the sound is really true black-metal. To conclude, it is a good mini CD, maybe a little lack of maturity but there are really good bases in the Veneficum's roots. (7/10)

VESPERIAN SORROW : Psychotic Sculpture (Displeased Records, 59'08', 9 tracks, black-metal, release date : 15/10/2001) : After a good debut CD Beyond The Cursed Eclipse, the American act is back with a new full CD and really more diversified in comparison with this first effort. Vesperian Sorrow plays black-metal music but with great classical and some doom touches. In fact, we could listen these influences on the first CD but they are more and more present and by this way, the compositions are really more diversified. With excellent female vocals, classical guitars riffs or violin, Vesperian Sorrow releases a great second CD, really more mature and more technical but also more interesting. A typical American black-metal musical style with classical elements, it gives a good new CD, really original. Only the sound is sometimes not really powerful but it isn't a big problem I guess... (7/10)

VINTERRIKET : Promo 2001 (Neodawn Productions, 58'15', 11 tracks, black-metal) : Vinterriket is a German band or more precisely a solo project and I discovered it few months ago with their first demo. The originality of this band is you believe to listen a Norwegian band but it is a German band 'cause Vinterriket uses German but also Norwegian lyrics and the whole of the music is influenced by the Norwegian black-metal music and Burzum. This promo CD in fact isn't a new full CD but contains an unreleased song, 2 demos of the band, an EP released in 2001. Don't miss the excellent Burzum cover song taken from "Hlidskjalf". If you don't know Vinterriket a good idea to discover it. (6,5/10)

WAYLANDER : The Light The Dark And The Endless Knot (Blackend, 58'27', 8 tracks, pagan-metal) : Since their promising debut CD released in 1998 by Century Media and entitled Reawakening Pride Once Lost, the band from Ireland knew serious problems. First of all, they left Century Media 'cause the label didn't pay a tour for them and secondly, they got a new deal with Ars Metalli but the German label decided to let the band to sign with another label to release their second effort. Finally, Blackend signed the band and releases this second full CD. New CD playing always pagan-metal with more death-metal influences but always with a great flute and ancient influences. The new compositions are really better, more mature and more diversified due to several vocals (black, death and cleaner vocals) and Waylander reaches to release a good new CD... Unfortunately, the problems are continuing 'cause 2 members left the band few days ago. Is it the end of these problems ? We hope... (6,5/10)

WITCHES SABBATH : Darkness Kingdom Coming (Chanteloup Creations, 36'57', 8 tracks, black-metal) : It is unusual to listen black-metal bands from Spain and it is always a pleasure to listen this kind of music from this country, even if the music is influenced by the Nordic black-metal. Witches Sabbath is a new band signed by Chanteloup Creations from France and they release their first professional album. 8 songs of brutal black-metal influenced by earlier Immortal albums wit some Mayhem touches. The production isn't really great 'cause we feel too the instruments and not really the vocals but to resume what I think about this album, it is black-metal CD without surprise, not really original but with a good technicality. (6/10)

WRATH : Regression (Deathcult Music, 18'41', 6 tracks, black-metal) : Wrath is a three band members formed in 1998 by guys who played in old band such Infected, Pain Overload... and they joined their forces to create this new project. Coming from Portugal, you could think to listen a band from Norway 'cause Wrath sounds as a band from this country. The sound, the production and the riffs are influenced by the Norwegian scene. Immortal and Emperor are the major influences and we feel also some thrash-metal touches (old Slayer ages). The whole of this debut mini CD shows a good potential but the band must do an effort about the originality.... (5,5/10)

WURDULAK : Ceremony In Flames (Baphomet Records - Housecore Records - Relapse Records, 39'22', 8 tracks, black-metal) : Wurdulak is with any doubt one of the project of this year. In the ranks, we find mainly Killjoy and Maniac but also members from Immortal, Bloodthorne or Perished... With this line up, you can be sure the band has the experience to release a great CD. Wurdulak is a full black-metal project influenced by the old Slayer, Bathory, Immortal or Darkthrone and you can listen each influence in the riffs, in the compositions. A great project, it is sure, the music isn't really original but due the name of the members, it is a respect due to them ! (7,5/10)

WYKKED WYTCH : Angelic Vengeance (Demolition Records, 39'49', 7 tracks, black-metal) : The great CDs from Cradle Of Filth Vempire and Dusk And Her Embrace created a new musical direction and since many bands copy these CDs and are influenced by them (Hecate Enthroned...). Wykked Wytch is in this way, we can think to listen Cradle Of Filth 'cause all the elements are the same. The only difference is the use of some classical female vocals and it is important to note the singer is a woman and she does all the vocals. For the rest, it is a true Cradle of Filth CD with the same elements and this CD doesn't bring something to this scene, only a simple copy. (5,5/10)

ZORN : Schwarz Metal (Last Episode Productions, 30'35', 8 tracks, true black-metal) : Zorn is a young band from Germany and formed in 2000. In spite of their young age, they released many rehearsal tapes in the past and finally, Last Episode decided to sign the band. The debut album is now unleashed and as the title of the CD says, don't wait melodic black-metal or atmospheric music ! Zorn is influenced by the true black-metal of the early 90's and we feel touches of Darkthrone, Gorgoroth, Graveland and bands like this. Extreme and aggressive, the compositions are really great and the production is as we like, a true black-metal production with an underground sound. Really interesting debut CD ! (7,5/10)