Vinlander

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Nag Hammadi (Discovered 1945)

The Nag Hammadi Library, a collection of thirteen codices containing over fifty texts, was discovered in upper Egypt in 1945. This immensely important discovery includes a large number of primary Gnostic scriptues; texts once thought to have been entirely destroyed during the early Christian struggle to define "Orthodoxy"-- scriptures such as the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Philip, and the Gospel of Truth. The discovery and translation of the Nag Hammadi library, completed in the 1970's, has provided impetus to a major re-evaluation of early Christian history and the nature of Gnosticism. Highly recommended!

460 Page

The Gnostic Handbook (1997)

This is a manual of gnostic studies. Recommended for all those interested in mysticism, or those into alternate teachings of the original Christianity. Those interested in Christian occultism will worship this book! Written collectively by the the Institute for Gnostic Studies. Recommended!

124 Pages

Thyrfing-Farsotstider (2005)

Thyrfing's most recent album presents the evolved sound of the band. Far from the strictly viking black metal of their first album, this record incorporates more varied influences, and the music is presented with a much heavier edge than ever before. While the folk influence is still here to be found, it is more easily obscured by the crushing riffs found throughout. Recommended. Regain Records.

1. Far åt Helvete 5:06

2. Jag Spår Fördärv 4:21

3. Farsotstider 4:31

4. Höst 4:46

5. Själavrak 5:11

6. Elddagjämming 6:45

7. Baldersbålet 3:47

8. Tiden Läker Intet 8:01

9. Jämvidjors Dans 5:47

Total Running: 48:15

Sweden

Thyrfing-Vansinnesvisor (2002)

4th album from Sweden's viking hordes, Thyrfing. This album, while still retaining much of the atmospheric folk influence of their earlier albums, there is a more brutal edge to this album than previous ones. Nonetheless, this is, like all Thyrfing music, and absolutely terrific piece of music. Highly recommended. Hammerheart Productions.

1. Draugs Harg 4:01

2. Digerdöden 4:48

3. Världsspegln 4:52

4. The Voyager 5:12

5. Ångestens Högborg 7:03

6. The Giant's Laughter 5:19

7. Vansinnesvisan 4:43

8. Kaos Återkomst 6:59

Total Running: 42:57

Sweden

Thyrfing-Urkraft (2000)

Absolutely phenomenal third album from Sweden's viking metal hordes, Thyrfing. This album, it seems, Thyrfing really perfected their viking metal formula, mixing equal parts hard n' heavy riffs and pagan rasps, with beautiful melodies, tasteful synths, and even some really good clean vocals. Easily my absolute favorite of Thyrfing's... there is not a bad song on the album. Even the cover song at the end (a Gary Moore cover, of all things!), they manage to make a rousing, epic metal tune. Overall, HIGHLY recommended to all fans of folk/viking metal, or just some epic fuckin' metal in general. Hammerheart Productions.

1. Mjölnir 5:30

2. Dryckeskväde 3:54

3. Sweoland Conqueror 6:29

4. Home Again 7:44

5. The Breaking of Serenity 4:27

6. Eldfärd 1:31

7. Ways of a Parasite 4:39

8. Jord 5:16

9. The Slumber of Yesteryears 3:47

10. Till Valfader Urgammal 4:00

11. Urkraft 7:36

12. Over the Hills and Far Away (Gary Moore cover) 5:01

Total Running: 59:55

Sweden

Thyrfing-Valdr Galga (1999)

Second album of atmosphere-drenched viking metal from the hordes of Sweden's Thyrfing. This is one of my personal favorite Thyrfing albums, due to the absolutely EPIC atmosphere, gorgeous synth lines, ass-kicking riffs, and an overall very viking feel to the whole record. I HIGHLY recommend this to all viking/folk metal fans. Hammerheart Productions.

1. Prelude: Heading for the Golden Hall/Storms of Asgard 7:25

2. From Wilderness Came Death 4:56

3. Askans Rike 4:29

4. Valdr Galga 4:39

5. The Deceitful 4:40

6. Arising 5:12

7. Firever 3:00

8. A Moment in Valhalla 4:55

9. Mimer's Well 4:40

10. A Great Man's Return 5:10

Total Running: 49:22

Sweden

Thyrfing-Thyrfing (1998)

Thyrfing is another one of my favorite folk/viking metal bands. This debut full-length is really what started to break them into the scene, and with good reason. An absolutely pervasive viking atmosphere is present throughout, with wonderful melodies (mostly presented in the synth lines), and a mix of black metal rasps, and Bathory-esque viking choir sections. I highly recommend all Thyrfing albums, and this is no exception. Hammerheart Productions.

1. Raven Eyes 3:37

2. Vargavinter 2:59

3. Set Sail to Plunder 4:22

4. Ur Askan Ett Rike 3:04

5. Celebration of Our Victory 4:43

6. A Burning Arrow 2:50

7. En Döende Mans Förbannelse 3:34

8. Hednaland 3:34

9. Wotan's Fire 4:32

10. Going Berserk 5:09

Total Running: 38:24

Sweden

Black Messiah-Of Myths and Legends (2006)

Black Messiah is a folk/viking/black metal band from Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Melding beautiful folk melodies (including violins and mandolins), powerful riffs, delivered, at times, with black metal intensity. Really, a very underrated band, as this album is absolutely a gem. I'd recommend this for fans of bands such as Ensiferum, Wintersun, Varg, and even Turisas. A must for all folk/viking metal fans (And the Dschinghis Khan cover of 'Moskau' is a gem)! AFM Records.

1. In Remembrance 2:01

2. Of Myths and Legends 5:57

3. Irminsul 5:21

4. Father of War 6:21

5. Sauflied 4:13

6. Howl of the Wolves 4:03

7. Erik, Der Rote 6:08

8. Lokis Tanz 2:07

9. Die Sühne Des Feuerbringers 6:19

10. Moskau (Dschinghis Khan cover) 4:45

11. The Bestial Hunt of the Fenrizwolf 4:29

Total Running: 51:44

Germany

Download Part I

Download Part II

Candlemass-Tales of Creation (1989)

Fourth full-length release from the Swedish masters of doom metal, Candlemass. Considered to be the last album of Candlemass's golden era (their first four albums). Here, we have the crushing, doomy riffs and atmosphere that made Candlemass famous, complete with the epic feel they put into their music. There are even some occasional traditional metal and power metal influence on this album, but not in an overt, genre-departing way. This is doom metal the way it's supposed to be. Recommended! Music For Nations.

1. The Prophecy 1:28

2. Dark Reflections 5:06

3. Voices in the Wind 0:14

4. Under the Oak 6:00

5. Tears 4:13

6. Into the Unfathomed Tower 3:04

7. The Edge of Heaven 6:26

8. Somewhere in Nowhere 3:47

9. Through the Infinitive Halls of Death 5:07

10. Dawn 0:26

11. A Tale of Creation 6:55

Total Running: 42:46

Sweden

Candlemass-Ancient Dreams (1988)

Third release from Swedish doom legends, Candlemass. This album sees Candlemass focus more upon riff-based songs, creating doomy after doomy, crushing riff, the likes of which haven't been heard since Sabbath. If old-school, riff-plastered, epic doom metal is your thing, you must have this. Recommended. Active Records.

1. Mirror Mirror 6:16

2. A Cry from the Crypt 7:25

3. Darkness in Paradise 6:47

4. Incarnation of Evil 7:19

5. Bearer of Pain 7:23

6. Ancient Dreams 7:04

7. The Bells of Acheron 5:21

8. Epistle No. 81 4:38

9. Black Sabbath Medley 6:16

Total Running: 58:25

Sweden

Candlemass-Nightfall (1987)

My personal favorite Candlemass album, this is considered by many to be their finest work. Here, they perfected their epic doom formula, to make a truly EPIC release. Absolutely full to the brim with dark, doomy atmosphere, head-crushing riff after head crushing riff, Messiah's soaring vocals, this album has it all. If you want an epic doom metal release, this is the album for you. HIGHLY recommended. Active Records.

1. Gothic Stone/The Well of Souls 8:15

2. Codex Gigas 2:20

3. At the Gallows End 5:47

4. Samarithan 5:30

5. Marche Funebre 2:22

6. Dark are the Veils of Death 7:07

7. Moruners Lament 6:09

8. Bewitched 6:37

9. Black Candles 2:16

Total Running: 46:15

Sweden

Candlemass-Epicus Doomicus Metallicus (1986)

An absolute landmark for the doom genre, and the beginning of Candlemass's climb to the top of the doom pile, Epicus Doomicus Metallicus is exactly what it professes to be: fuckin' epic doom metal. Wonderful, dark and gloomy atmosphere pervades this release, mixed with absolutely skull-crushing riffs that would make Iommi proud. If you are a metal fan, regardless of genre, you should already have the first couple Candlemass albums; but if you don't, here's your chance for salvation. Highly recommended. Black Dragon.

1. Solitude 5:37

2. Demon's Gate 9:13

3. Crystal Ball 5:23

4. Black Stone Wielder 7:35

5. Under the Oak 6:56

6. A Sorcerer's Pledge 8:18

Total Running: 43:02

Sweden

Vehementer Nos- Vehementer Nos (2007)

Great debut release from French progressive black metal band, Vehementer Nos. This release includes violins, cellos, and double bass (all authentic instruments, not keyboards), as well as flute, and they combine brutal black metal sections, with gorgeous, juxtaposed acoustic sections, and very memorable melodies. Overall, a spectacular black metal release. Highly recommended. Osmose Productions.

1. Contre le Cycle 3:48

2. Les Dévastés 12:01

3. Absurde 10:48

4. Seuls 9:18

5. Dans le Flôt 5:30

Total Running: 41:25

France

Veil-Dolor (2005)

Spectacular first full length from little-known American DSBM band, Veil. This has everything a DSBM fan could want, from somber, yet beautiful melodies, melancholy-drenched vocals, Burzum-like vocal stylings... it's all here, and done VERY well. Highly recommended, if DSBM is what you're in to. Stellar Winter.

1. Suicide Winds 3:57

2. Dirge 7:20

3. I Follow 8:52

4. Ea, Lord of the Depths (Burzum cover) 4:56

5. Suicide Winds (reprise) 2:42

6. Endless Night 11:39

Total Running: 39:33

United States of America

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Forest Silence-The Eternal Winter (2002)

Great 2002 demo from Hungarian black metal group, Forest Silence. The music here is absolutely atmosphere-drenched black metal, creating a wholly dark and evil sound, with an absolutely vast-sounding quality to it. Overall, some very good, dark, macabre black metal. Recommended!

1. I: The Eternal Winter 9:13

2. II: I Feel the Claws of Darkness 6:41

3. III: Silence 5:33

Total Running: 21:24

Hungary

Opeth-Watershed (2008)

If you're like myself and many Opeth fans, you worried about what Martin Lopez' departure from the band would mean in terms of sound. He was an absolutely amazing, multi-talented percussionist, and a damn hard vacancy to fill. But on this album, the void has been filled by Martin Axenrot of Nifelheim/Witchery fame, and let me be the first to tell you, if there's one person who can live up to Lopez' drumming, it is Axenrot. He adds a harder edge to Opeth's music (even blastbeats!!), but is still just as versatile and talented as the departed Lopez. As far as music overall, this album is absolutely a thrill to listen to. Easily some of the heaviest material Opeth has ever written, but still with Opeth's progressive flare (complete with both heavy and light sections. Per Wiberg really shines on this album, his keys adding an amazing dynamic to the music. Also new on this album is the addition of Fredrik Åkesson on guitar, and he fills the departed Peter's shoes amazingly. I HIGHLY recommend this album...i've been listening to is almost constantly since I got it. Roadrunner Records.

1. Coil 3:07

2. Heir Apparent 8:51

3. The Lotus Eater 8:48

4. Burden 7:42

5. Porcelain Heart 8:01

6. Hessian Peel 11:26

7. Hex Omega 6:59

Total Running: 54:54

Sweden

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Opeth-Ghost Reveries (2005)

2005 album from extreme progressive titans, Opeth. This album sees Opeth in all their progressive death metal glory, with, for the most part, a very dark sound. The other key elements here are that they have turned to an even more progressive creative mode, creating moments that remind the listener of bands such as Dream Theater, King Crimson,and even bands such as Uriah Heep. The other addition here is with a new full-time member, a keyboardist, adding a touch of atmosphere that turns great progressive metal into AMAZING progressive metal, complete with mandatory rock organs and mellotrons. Of course, this album includes both the death metal aspects of Opeth's music, mixed with the brilliant acoustic sections, and ethereal, atmospheric parts. The atmosphere on this album is spectacular. Overall, another absolutely amazing Opeth record. Highly recommended! Roadrunner Records.

1. Ghost of Perdition 10:29

2. The Baying of the Hounds 10:41

3. Beneath the Mire 7:58

4. Atonement 6:28

5. Reverie/Harlequin Forest 11:39

6. Hours of Wealth 5:21

7. The Grand Conjuration

8. Isolation Years 3:52

Total Running: 1:06:49

Sweden

Opeth-Damnation (2003)

The sister album to Deliverance, this album sees Opeth in a completely different light. This is completely a progressive rock album... no traces of death metal to be found here. This is mostly acoustic and clean guitars, beautiful, flowing, elegant solos, Martin Lopez' amazing, world-music influenced percussive skills, and Mikael's beautiful, rich singing voice, and Steve Wilson (Porcupine Tree), producing, and lending his hand with keyboards, especially with a trademark progressive rock staple, the mellotron. This is a beautiful, atmospheric album, and a wonderful juxtaposition to the previous Deliverance album. Another one of my absolute favorites of Opeth. HIGHLY recommended. Music For Nations.

1. Windowpane 7:44

2. In My Time of Need 5:50

3. Death Whispered a Lullaby 5:49

4. Closure 5:16

5. Hope Leaves 4:30

6. To Rid the Disease 6:21

7. Ending Credits 3:40

8. Weakness 4:09

Total Running: 43:19

Sweden

Opeth-Still Life (1999)

Absolutely gorgeous 4th full-length from Opeth. This is where Opeth really began to come into their own, effortlessly melding their different influences and musical ideas into a wonderful, fully-coherent, beautiful album. Here, we have Opeth fully realizing the potential of their unique brand of progressive metal, creating a sound scape I could only describe as absolutely lush and full. This is the album that has set the tone for the following albums. HIGHLY recommended. Peaceville Records.

1. The Moor 11:26

2. Godhead's Lament 9:47

3. Benighted 5:01

4. Moonlapse Vertigo 9:00

5. Face of Melinda 7:59

6. Serenity Painted Death 9:14

7. White Cluster 10:02

Total Running: 1:02:29

Sweden

Opeth-My Arms, Your Hearse (1998)

Third album from Sweden's progressive death metal monsters, Opeth. This album sees the addition of Martin Lopez on the drums, although he doesn't start to really shine until the following album, Still Life. But nonetheless, this album is spectacular in it's own right; it has a slightly harder, more brutal edge (some may say it is a darker album) to it than the previous albums, with more concise songs, with more of a focus on making everything fluid and flowing. One could say this is the where the transitions that became very apparent in Still Life, started here. But fear not, there is still heavy juxtaposition of heavy and delicate, quiet parts, creating an overall wonderful album. Highly recommended! Candlelight Records.

1. Prologue 0:59

2. April Ethereal 8:41

3. When 9:15

4. Madrigal 1:25

5. The Amen Corner 8:44

6. Demon of the Fall 6:13

7. Credence 5:27

8. Karma 7:52

9. Epilogue 4:00

10. Circle of the Tyrants (Celtic Frost cover) 5:12

11. Remember Tomorrow (Iron Maiden cover) 5:00

Total Running: 1:02:58

Sweden

Opeth-Morningrise (1996)

Second full-length from Sweden's masters of progressive/melodic death metal, Opeth. This album is similar in style to it's predecessor, Orchid, with beautiful melodies, heavily folk-influenced sections, and a good balance of both very heavy death metal, and delicate acoustic sections. Highly recommended, as are all Opeth releases. Candlelight Records.

1. Advent 13:45

2. The Night and the Silent Water 10:58

3. Nectar 10:09

4. Black Rose Immortal 20:14

5. To Bid You Farewell 10:56

Total Running: 1:06:05

Sweden

Opeth-Orchid (1995)

Another change of gears for the blog for a while, i'm posting the Opeth discography because, A) I love Opeth, and B) I just saw them last night, and as always, they were great. Orchid is their debut full-length, and even though it is their first, it is undoubtedly a masterpiece. Filled with absolutely gorgeous melodies that stick with you, and lengthy, melancholic, folk-inspired parts, mixed with their trademark progressive death metal. People often dismiss Opeth as being too wankish or proggy and whatnot, but I urge you to really listen to their albums with a very open mind... what they write is absolutely genius stuff. As for this album, HIGHLY recommended. Candlelight Records.

1. In Mist She was Standing 14:06

2. Under the Weeping Moon 9:50

3. Silhouette 3:05

4. Forest of October 13:02

5. The Twilight is My Robe 10:59

6. Requiem 1:08

7. The Apostle in Triumph 13:01

Total Running: 1:05:31

Sweden

Monday, May 12, 2008

Bergthron-Leben und Lebenswille (2007)

Stunning, most recent album from Germany's Bergthron. This single album crosses many, many genres, to create an entire pagan metal listening experience. There are elements for fans of everything from death metal, to viking metal, to Teutonic folk music, to neofolk, to punk, to classic metal, and of course, raw black metal. This album keeps it's ideas fresh, and there is never a dull moment on this record. I'd recommend this to fans of everyone from Absurd, to Agalloch, Forseti, Vintersorg, Bathory, Wyrd, and everyone in between. Highly recommended! Perverted Taste Records.

1. Tagesraunen 4:14

2. Die Harpunen jagen wieder 4:45

3. Im Walhornbann 5:52

4. Unter schroffen Segein 9:50

5. Arktische Hysterie 5:22

6. Feuer und Tundra 4:56

7. Eistrollzorn 6:07

8. Geistesreise 4:36

9. Tausend Berge, tausend Flüsse 5:31

10. Unter dem Bogen des Nordlichtes 8:02

11. Rot 3:25

12. In des Freudentaumels' Griff 11:30

Total Running: 1:14:10

Germany

Download Part I

Download Part II

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Bergthron-Faust für Faust (2004)

More raw n' atmospheric pagan folk/black metal from Germany's Bergthron. This album includes the oft-used clean vocals of the previous album, mixed with the raw and hateful rasps of their earlier work, with a more black metal feel than the previous album. Above all, however, the important thing here is the atmosphere. This album is dripping with it... folkish, pagan, nature-inspired atmosphere is the order of the day in this band, and if that's what you look for in your black metal, this will be right up your alley. Recommended! Perverted Taste Records.

1. Faust für Faust 16:18

2. Frostrunen 10:22

3. Reigen der Waldjungfrauen 14:16

4. Tanz der Elemente 1:58

Total Running: 42:54

Germany

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Bergthron-Jagdheim (2001)

Another great album of pagan folk black metal. On this album, there is a slight shift in sound from the 'tr00 kvlt', more raw sound of previous albums, as this album focuses more on clean, heathenish vocals, and even some punk-ish influence, with some parts sounding akin to bands such as Absurd and Ulfhethnar. At the core, however, is still the pagan black metal sound Bergthron is known for. Recommended! Perverted Taste Records.

1. Aus edlem Blut 14:59

2. Im weißen Wald 7:43

3. Jagdheim 12:47

Total Running: 35:29

Germany

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Bergthron-Uralte Gedanken EP (1999)

Spectacular little EP from Germany's Bergthron. Here, Bergthron melds their trademark raw pagan black metal, with some very wonderful neofolk stylings, great synth lines, and pagan atmosphere to create a very engaging listen. Recommended! Perverted Taste.

1. Vergangene Zeiten 19:32

Total Running: 19:32

Germany

Bergthron-Verborgen in den Tiefen der Wälder... (1997)

First full-length from pagan/folk black metal band, Bergthron. Bergthron combines raw and melodic black metal, with a very pagan atmosphere, acoustic interludes, and tasteful synths. Recommended! Perverted Taste Records.

1. Den treuen Dienern der Nacht 33:25

Total Running: 33:25

Germany

Avrigus-The Secret Kingdom (2001)

Absolutely gorgeous piece of classical-influenced, atmospheric doom metal. This is Avrigus' first full-length, and it is an absolute gem within the genre, with ethereal female vocals, heavy classical-music influence from keys, piano, guitars, and an absolutely beautiful, dark, melancholic atmosphere. HIGHLY recommended! Hammerheart America.

1. Overture 4:12

2. Solitude*Salvation 4:22

3. Dark Angels' Ascension 4:31

4. Veritas 3:54

5. Qliphoth 6:24

6. Desolate 3:36

7. Flesh 5:48

8. 'Til Death Do Us Unite 7:35

9. Shade of my Heart 3:23

10. The Grail 8:35

Total Running: 52:20

Commonwealth of Australia

Ahab-The Call of the Wretched Sea (2006)

Wonderful first LP from German funeral doom band, Ahab. They have really seemed to capture the weight and immensity of the deep ocean within this release, creating a very special, crushing, deep, and atmospheric funeral doom release. In my opinion, one of the better bands of this genre. Highly recommended! Napalm Records.

1. Below the Sun 11:45

2. The Pacific 10:07

3. Old Thunder 9:54

4. Of the Monstrous Pictures of Whales 1:52

5. The Sermon 12:36

6. The Hunt 11:13

7. Ahab's Oath 10:11

Total Running: 1:07:38

Germany

Varg-Wolfszeit (2007)

Some excellent folk/viking metal from Germany's Varg. They are a relatively new, up-and-coming band, and this is their first full-length. This is full of ass-kicking riffs, full of melody and folk influence, plenty of head bangable parts, mixing melodic death metal, power metal, and folk metal in a way that is, in some ways, similar to Ensiferum's approach. Varg, however, manages to retain their own unique sound that is definitely a good thing. Recommended to all fans of folk/viking metal! Heiden Klangwerke.

1. Windzeit 1:40

2. Wolfszeit 6:53

3. Asatru 4:10

4. Skål 5:06

5. Donareiche 5:51

6. Schlachtgebet 1:36

7. Heldentod 6:43

8. Blutdienst 4:02

9. Das alte Feuer 6:26

10. Weltenbrand 2:43

Total Running: 45:14

Germany

Mael Mórdha-Gealtacht Mael Mórdha (2007)

More Irish celtic pagan doom metal from Mael Mórdha. This is some wonderfully made pagan doom metal, with a vocalist that reminds me highly of A.A. Nemtheanga, of Primordial. Unlike Primordial, however, this is more riff-based, with a more up-front, heavily doom-influenced approach, as well as tasteful usage of piano thrown into the mix. Recommended! Grau Records.

1. Atlas of Sorrow 10:37

2. Godless Commune of Sodom 6:01

3. A Window of Madness 5:50

4. Curse of the Bard 4:47

5. The Struggle Eternal 7:22

6. Gealtacht Mael Mórdha 5:23

7. Minions of Manannan 4:32

Total Running: 44:42

Ireland

Mael Mórdha-Cluain Tarbh (2005)

The first official full-length from Ireland's Mael Mórdha. They play a mixture of folk/pagan metal, mixed with a very pronounced doom metal influence, beautiful keyboard melodies, and a rich pagan atmosphere. Some aspects of Mael Mórdha are very similar to their fellow countrymen, Primordial, but Mael Mórdha takes a much more doom-laden approach, with more traditional metal influence, as well. An absolutely great band. Recommended! Karmageddon Media.

1. An Tús 0:56

2. Winds of One Thousand Winters 5:51

3. The Serpent and the Black Lake 6:55

4. Cluain Tarbh 6:45

5. I Am the Wench's Bane 4:21

6. The Man All Hate to Love 10:15

7. Pauper of Souls 5:02

8. Realms of Insanity 6:41

Total Running: 46:46

Ireland

Frank Joseph-The Atlantis Encyclopedia (2005)

A handbook of Atlantean information for general readers and specialists alike! This is an invaluable, one-of-a-kind reference. Unlike most other books on the subject, The Atlantic Encyclopedia offers fewer theories, and more facts. Although it does not set out to prove the sunken city actually existed, The Atlantis Encyclopedia musters so much evidence on its behalf, even skeptics may conclude that there must be at least something factual behind such an enduring, and indeed global, legend. In this book, you'll learn: *What is Atlantis?* Where was it located?* How long ago did it flourish?* How was it destroyed?* What became of its survivors?* Have any remains of Atlantis ever been found?* Will Atlantis ever be found?* Did Atlantis have any impact on America?*. This is a must-have book. Highly recommended.

314 Pages

The Emerald Tablet of Hermes

The Emerald Tablet, a very short text also known as Smaragdine Table, Tabula Smaragdina, or The Secret of Hermes, is an ancient text purporting to reveal the secret of the primordial substance and its transmutations. It claims to be the work of Hermes Trismegistus (Hermes the Thrice-Great"), a legendary Egyptian sage or god, variously identified with the Egyptian god, Thoth, and/or the Greek god, Hermes. This short and cryptic text was highly regarded by European alchemists as the foundation of their art, in particular, of its Hermetic tradition. This version has a few other translations from prominent intellectuals such as Isaac Newton and Madame Blavatsky.

22 Pages

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Sri Swami Shivananda-Kundalini Yoga (1994)

The theory that underlies the cosmic power has been analyzed to its thinnest filaments, and practical methods have been suggested to awaken this great pristine force in individuals. It explains the theory and illustrates the practice of Kundalini Yoga.

168 Pages

Michael Laitman, Ph.D.-Basic Concepts in Kabbalah (2006)

By reading and re-reading in this book, one develops internal observations, senses, and approaches that did not previously exist within. This book is intended to foster the contemplation of spiritual terms. To the extent that we are integrated with these terms, we can begin to see with our inner vision, the unveiling of the spiritual structure that surrouns us, almost as if a mist has been lifted.

112 Pages

Sri Swami Shivananda-Easy Steps to Yoga (1939)

This simple book will get you started on the path of yoga and meditation. Author Sri Swami Shivananda believes: "The goal of life is the attainment of self-realization or god-consciousness." And Yoga can get you there! Swami Shivananda's 91-page book Easy Step to Yoga is published by the Divine Life Society of the Tehri-Garhwal Himalayas. Here, he explains in an easy and homely style the basic principles that a beginner in Yoga has to understand and follow.

99 Pages

Forest of Fog-Abgründe (2006)

Most recent release from Forest of Fog. This, like all FoF releases, is just a magnificent piece of melodic black metal music. I cannot recommend Forest of Fog enough for lovers of well-crafted melodic black metal. Schwarzmetall Musikproduktione.

1. Der Letzte Triumph 6:29

2. Nebelnacht 4:30

3. Die Vision 4:37

4. Stumm 4:58

5. Boten des Unhells 5:18

6. Ein Neuer Tag 6:15

7. Der Turm 6:35

8. Am Abgrund 6:57

Total Running: 45:39

Switzerland

Forest of Fog-Nebelhymnen (2005)

Second album from Swiss melodic black metal masters, Forest of Fog. This is yet another amazingly crafted album, full of wonderful, very memorable melodies, and a very cold, raw, and dismal atmosphere. Highly recommended.

1. Feuersturm 7:18

2. Die Klage des Windes 5:16

3. Des Frühlings Ende 7:06

4. Vergessener Traum 6:29

5. Augenblick des Zorns 6:44

6. Chaos 5:04

7. In Vergessenen Ruinen 10:14

8. Wenn ich Sterbe 7:58

Total Running: 56:00

Switzerland

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Download Part II

Forest of Fog-Untergang (2004)

First full-length from Forest of Fog. This is absolutely wonderful, raw and cold melodic black metal. Beautiful, memorable melodies, dark n' dreary atmosphere, everything you want from a melodic black metal release. I highly recommend all Forest of Fog material, and this LP is no exception!

1. Begraben in Trümmern der Angst 6:51

2. Die Zeit des Sturmes 6:29

3. Gefallen im Reich des Nebels 8:20

4. Von Dunklen Geschichten 4:19

5. Seelenlos 6:36

6. Unter Schwarzen Himmel 9:42

Total Running: 42:17

Switzerland

Forest of Fog-Rabenflug (2003)

Debut release from Switzerland's Forest of Fog. This has been one of my favorite melodic black metal bands for a long while now, and every single release is just a wonderful, melody-filled, atmospheric piece of black metal. (Side note: the man behind Forest of Fog is also a member of Eluveitie). I HIGHLY recommend Forest of Fog to all black metal fans. They simply do not disappoint.

1. Intro 1:33

2. Schwertes Blut 6:01

3. Das Licht Erlosch 6:04

4. Walking the Endless Path 5:03

5. Nebelleben 5:29

6. Rabenflug 5:11

Total Running: 29:21

Switzerland

Nachtmystium-Worldfall EP (2008)

Amazing new EP from Nachtmystium. If you've followed them at all, you know their last EP, and last LP, started them in a new direction, blending their raw black metal attack, with amazing ambience, psychedelia, and more metal influences from outside the somewhat constricting confines of black metal. They have evolved from a fairly traditional black metal band, to a very intriguing, downright amazing band. On this EP, in addition to the new tracks, and a re-recorded track, we also get to see two new faces of Nachtmystium, with two VERY different band covers (those being Death in June and Goatsnake!). I HIGHLY recommend this album to any open-minded metal fans who are looking for something new in their black metal. Century Media.

1. Worldfall 7:10

2. Depravity 4:54

3. Solitary Voyage 6:24

4. Roseclouds of Holocaust (Death in June cover) 3:21

5. IV (Goatsnake cover) 4:29

Total Running: 26:18

United States of America

Lurker of Chalice-Lurker of Chalice (2005)

Official debut LP from Lurker of Chalice. Here, it seems Wrest has perfected his experimental ambient black metal attack, with vast, hollow chasms of sound washing over you, dismal and disturbing samples, bizarre ambient sections, and, in place, a certain neofolk/industrial vibe. HIGHLY recommended, to all fans of Wrest's work with Leviathan, and anyone looking for a unique and memorable black metal experience. Total Holocaust Records.

1. I 2:09

2. Piercing Where They Might 6:12

3. Spectre as Valkerie is 6:43

4. Minions 9:32

5. Paramnesia 4:08

6. This Blood Falls as Mortal Part III 10:36

7. Granite 5:27

8. Vortex Chalice 6:34

9. Fastened to the Five Points 8:32

Total Running: 59:53

United States of America

Lurker of Chalice-Demo 2002 (2002)

2002 Demo from Wrest's (Leviathan) other project, Lurker of Chalice. This demo is an absolute gem, up to the same quality standards as all of Wrest's other releases. Here, we have more of Wrest's sonic experimentation, with bizarre ambient parts, post-rock influenced sections, neofolk and industrial touches, in addition to Wrest's trademark twisted and macabre black metal stylings. Highly recommended. (While 11 tracks are listed, there are only 10 tracks on the demo.)

1. Lurker of Chalice 4:11

2. Drink Deeply, These Miles of Night 4:21

3. Unconscious Years of Mare Crisium Clavius 5:26

4. Donning the Cloak of Tides 6:33

5. Granite 5:10

6. The Glory Experiment 8:50

7. Piercing Where They Might 6:47

8. In the Court of the Crimson King Diamond 13:59

9. This Blood as Mortal 7:56

10. Phantom 16:40

11. White Spheres 0:01

Total Running: 1:19:54

United States of America

Lurker of Chalice-L.O.C. (2001)

The first demo from now well-known USBM act, Lurker of Chalice. Lurker of Chalice is a sort of side-project for Wrest, the man also behind Leviathan. While Leviathan is his outlet for sick n' twisted, dark and depressing black metal, in Lurker of Chalice, he opens up his experimental side a lot more, creating washing, post-rock-like soundscapes, industrial overtones, neofolk influence, and of course, some of his black metal influence, to create a very unique and wonderful sound. I highly recommend all the work of Wrest, and this first demo is no exception; while it is slightly more raw in sound than later L.o.C. recordings, don't let that deter you from a wonderfully dismal listening experience.

1. I 9:33

2. II 6:22

3. III 9:44

4. IV 8:25

5. V 10:00

6. VI 13:20

7. VII 13:03

Total Running: 1:10:27

United States of America

Download Part I

Download Part II

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Fleurety-Min Tid Skal Komme (1995)

Bizarre, progressive, and absolutely spectacular post-black metal from Norway. Everything from amazing guitar riffs, to sparingly-used and wonderful female vocals, down-tempo, post-rock-feeling sections, and even some folky elements, make this an amazing and oft-overlooked gem of the Norwegian scene. Highly recommended, especially for fans of early Opeth, Agalloch, and even Alcest. Misanthropy Records.

1. Fragmenter av en Fortid 9:37

2. En Skikkelse I Horisonten 11:33

3. Hvileløs? 5:24

4. Englers Piler Har Ingen Brodd 12:33

5. Fragmenter av en Fremtid 5:38

Total Running: 44:45

Norway

Fanisk-Die and Become (2002)

Debut from epic/symphonic NSBM band, Fanisk. Whether or not you agree with the philosophies expressed in this band, you should definitely check this out for music alone. Very, very epic, atmospheric, synth-laden black metal that reminds, at times of Summoning's symphonic offerings. All in all, a very very good release. Highly recommended. Firehand Forge.

1. The Breath of Boreas 2:16

2. Return to Ice 9:21

3. Catastrophic Light 10:00

4. Polaris 15:31

5. Winds of the Golden Lur 12:36

6. As the Sparks Sang in their Ascent 2:13

Total Running: 52:00

United States of America

Nyktalgia-Peisithanatos (2008)

Brand new album from Germany's Nyktalgia. This is yet another album of damn good depressive/suicidal black metal done right. They have expanded their sound a little, breaking out of the sometimes strict mold of DSBM, and i'd say it was an experiment gone right. Recommended. No Colours Records.

1. Nyktalgia 11:36

2. Nekrolog 7:26

3. Peisithanatos 12:14

4. Pavor Nocturnus 12:04

Total Running: 43:20

Germany

Nyktalgia-Nyktalgia (2004)

Debut release from depressive/suicidal black metal band, Nyktalgia. Unlike so many DSBM bands, Nyktalgia manages to mix a tasteful portion of Burzum influence, with their own distinct style, to create a cold, depressing atmosphere that doesn't sound hokey or trite. Recommended. No Colours Records.

1. Misere Nobis 11:06

2. Lamento Larmoyant 9:56

3. Cold Void 7:33

4. Exitus Letalis 11:51

Total Running: 40:26

Germany

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