Music: Black Metal
Country: Italy
Website: www.stormcrow.it
Cool Songs: Demons, Dark Promises (are always Kept by Satan)
STORMCROW hails from Italy, but judging by the brand of black metal the group plays, one could easily mark them as a Swedish band. Much of their music is reminiscent of Swedish acts NAGLFAR and DISSECTION, only less on the melodic side.
The version of Wounded Skies Im reviewing was originally self-released by the band. Then in 2006, STORMCROW re-released the said album on Dwell Records and the band added a fitting intro. Keeping the Serpents Path starts the album in true black metal fashion, with a subtle synth layer that ends with the cawing of a crow. The addition of this track adds an atmosphere not included on the original, and with the crow call, allows the band to stamp their mark onto the album.
The first song on Wounded Skies, Dark Promises (Are Always Kept by Satan) has a catchy, back-and-forth groove in the style of IRON MAIDEN. The track begins with crashing bar chords then transitions into blasting drums and buzzing guitar speed. Where the Maiden influence comes in is during the tempo changes. Their guitarists hammer notes back and forth, causing a slight pause in the chaotic rhythms, while the drummer bridges the gap with a Nicko Mcbain-type drum fills. This undulating rhythm is one of the most memorable parts on this short album.
Demons and Anthems from our Martyrs Graveland both bare a strong resemblance to NAGLFAR and DISSECTION. Much of the riff styles recall the late Jon Nordveit of DISSECTION fame due to the higher guitar notes the two guitarists use, especially the quick, high notes hit to punctuate the end of each riff. Vocalist, Goraathwho also plays drumsvocals seem to mimick NAGLFARs vocalists tone.
While many of the songs have a catchy groove, Wounded Skies mostly comes off as a marginal black metal album. Although hailing from Italy, STORMCROW does nil to separate their band from the countless other blackened acts around the world. Without the melodies of NAGLFAR and DISSECTION, STORMCROWs music seems even less interesting; however, having only released an EP and a demo, the group is bound to become more creative and improve musically in future releases.
note: 6/10
Tracklist
1. Keeping the Serpents Path (Intro)
2. Dark Promises (are always kept by Satan)
3. Demons
4. Anthems from our Martyrs Graveland
5. Wounded Skies
Total Playing Time: 17:56
Line-up
Zedar – Bass
Goraath – Drums and Vocals
Loki – Guitar
Narchost – Guitar
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