Tag Archives: Christopher Hathcock

Xael – Bloodtide Rising (2021) – Review

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There is such a thing as the sophomore cliff for record releases. A blackened metallic rock that any new band somehow must navigate around with their second full-length record. Because failing that, they may not reach those stellar future hunting grounds that will make them stinking rich1). Yet sadly, many a band inexplicably shipwrecks on those accursed submerged reefs.

The RMR crew followed Xael around pretty much since its inception. But somehow the band never quite made it to a full review. Their debut full-length record The Last Arbiter only netted them a short article. A write-up that … [...] Click to raid more!

The Reticent – The Oubliette (2020) – Review

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The Reticent likes themes. Big, thorny themes. And even larger emotions, about problems and issues that not many musicians like to tackle.

After all, there’s no mainstream or glittery fame to gain in all this. No snazzy rockstar perks beckon you just around the corner. Just hard, emotionally draining music creation that peddles to a decidedly limited audience.

The Reticent‘s last album On the Eve of a Goodbye was all about suicide, projected on a pretty stellar platform of outstanding Progressive Metal and genuine anguish. This record practically oozed emotion so realistic, it actually served as this ‘fil-rouge’ that … [...] Click to raid more!

The Reticent – On the Eve of a Goodbye (2016) – Review

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I love Progressive Metal. This is where metal meets the grey unknown. Far, far away from the ‘established’ legions of bands. Those that seemingly always want to produce more of the same. 

Of course, Progressive Metal covers lots of sins and it takes a lot of musical skills to produce good content. On the other hand, the style is usually also an indicator of much creative energy at work. Of that urge to go the extra mile.

Now, a large crowd out there professes that their forte lies in the progressive nirvana of the metal universe. Many of them strum a few djents, madly hit the percussion, howl weirdly around the stage and call this … [...] Click to raid more!