“It’s nine years since Arbrynth dropped their self-titled debut. At that time, these Australians were a five-piece, playing a brand of folk-inspired, prog-tinged black metal, given an almost symphonic note by then-bassist and vocalist Tina, who has since departed. Scrolling forward to 2020 and their sophomore effort, Arbrynth — now a quartet — have narrowed their scope and arguably been somewhat less adventurous on A Place of Buried Light, which is a 50-minute slab of atmospheric black metal. What makes this such an excellent release, however, is the quality of the songwriting and the depths of emotion it plumbs.” Crouching atmosphere, hidden light.
2020
The Ridiculous Year o’ Death Metal, Part 1 [Things You Might Have Missed 2020]
“We can all agree it has been a horrific year. Fortunately for the metal community, our lexicon is inverted. Rest assured that, when I say death metal has been absolutely disgusting in 2020, it can only be a good thing. While we at Angry Metal Guy have done our best to cover as much calamity as possible, it was inevitable that some releases would go unrecognized. To that end, this round-up exists solely to shed unholy light on those atrocities that didn’t quite make the cut, but still warrant your attention.” Become death.
Steel Druhm’s Top Ten(ish) of 2020
Lord Protector Steel Druhm proclaims that which is trve iron in 2020 with his mighty Top Ten(ish). Fear the ape, respect the list, forge the swords.
Seven Spires – Emerald Seas [Things You Might Have Missed 2020]
“Let me cut straight to the chase. Emerald Seas is my favorite metal album of 2020.” Nuff said.
The EP, Split, and Single Post [Things You Might Have Missed 2020] Part III
“The neglected, forgotten children; that’s what this post is about. Full-length albums are the proud first-born, strutting about with muscular arms and a beautiful face. But EPs?” Three times’ the harm.
Dr. A.N. Grier’s Top Ten(ish) of 2020
Doc Grier has a Top Ten(ish) of 2020 worthy of fear. Grab a beer and peer into the unknown.
Dr. Wvrm’s Top Ten(ish) of 2020
Dr. Wvrm delivers his Top Ten(ish) of 2020 to all his patients. It sure as hell ain’t no trve vaccine.
Svartkonst – Black Waves [Things You Might Have Missed 2020]
“What do you get when you cross Watain circa Lawless Darkness with what’s commonly been referred to as Entombed-core? Svartkonst, and it rules. Black Waves is the solo project’s second record and has none of the hallmarks of a sophomore slump.” Rough seas.
The EP, Split, and Single Post [Things You Might Have Missed 2020] Part II
“The neglected, forgotten children; that’s what this post is about. Full-lengths albums are the proud first-born, strutting about with muscular arms and a beautiful face. But EPs?” More short grist for the short grist mill.
Kronos’ and Grymm’s Top Ten(ish) of 2020
Kronos and Grymm prove their mettle as their Top Ten(ish) of 2020 hit the interwebz.