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Review Archive: M

M.E.S.T. - Matter - Energy - Space - Time · Dwell
This collection of semi-Ambient Electronic soundscapes is a real ballsy move for Dwell, who are better known for bringing INNER THOUGHT to America. I guess M.E.S.T. do a good job at this, but I've not much experience in reviewing a bunch of swirling effects and voices repeating over and over, "Magic green dust." In all honesty, although I didn't mind this, it put me right to sleep. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

M.S.G. - The Unforgiven · Shrapnel
Absolutely un-fucking-believable. Another 12 tracks of completely bland, tired, and generally worthless Butt Rock by a drunk German whose best work was almost 30, count ‘em, 30 years ago! From the cheezy vocals to the uninspired guitar solos, and all the mid-tempo tripe in-between, I can safely say the world could have gotten along just fine without this piece of shit. When I think of the resources that got wasted in producing this, I don’t think I could forgive anyone involved. - 1 - <Brainhammer> **MC12**

M.Z. 412 - Nordik Battle Signs · Cold Meat
This is the third album by this band - or fourth, if you include the album released under a different band name at the time. MZ 412 is referred to as True Swedish Black Industrial and after giving this latest album a spin, I have to agree 100%. This is Death Industrial in the vein of BRIGHTER DEATH NOW, not Industrial in the commercial, NINE INCH NAILS variety. MZ 412 is as far away from Trent Reznor's music as WARRANT or BON JOVI is from real Metal. That's a world apart, for all you poseurs out there. Feedback abounds on this release, forming the backbone of most of the band's compositions. The music itself is droning, repetitive and ritualistic. They do generate a dark, evil feeling by using lower tones and some strange yet appropriate samples. I found that out of the three MZ 412 albums, this is the most accessible as it doesn't have that over-loud feedback burst thing going. On previous albums, there were segments where the feedback was so loud that it literally made my ears ring (and after all the Metal concerts I've been to, that's a real accomplishment!). Thankfully, that part is gone, yet this is much more evil sounding than their previous albums. If you like Industrial in the BDN style, MZ 412 is one to look up. I had a little trouble finding this album, but it was worth the effort. - 9.25 - <Ychoril>

M.Z. 412 - Domine Rex Inferum · Cold Meat
I suppsoe that the diabolical Ychoril should have reviewed this, but I'll give it a shot. Let me start by saying that although I'm not a big fan of "Dark Ambient," if more of it sounded this disturbing and evil, I just might be. This starts out with a blistering feedback attack of seriously brutal proportions, and then collapses into droning ambient synth work that would be perfect for a depraved horror moive. Even the packaging is 100% true, being all black, with only the barcode and Cold Meat address appearing in white. - 9 - <Ray>

MACABRE - Sinister Slaughter · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
Murder Metal from the bowels of Chicago. All the songs are about serial killers. And all the songs themselves kill. There is a certain element of humor, which makes it all the more sick. Heavy enough for Death Metal, sick enough for THE DEAD YOUTH, cool enough for me: This is an utter masterpiece. Favorite track: "Is It Soup Yet?" - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

MACABRE - Nightstalker 7" · Relapse
This has five tracks from their Sinister Slaughter album, but they're all a bit different than the album versions, especially "Zodiac." If you've not heard MACABRE before, now's the time. Their style of Murder Metal is without peer, and sick and brutal are too weak to describe them. You were warned. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MACABRE - Unibomber EP · Decomposed
It’s been forever since MACABRE have released any new stuff, so I think that you should drop everything and immediately go get this disc. It has three newly recorded tracks: Two from the upcoming Dahmer album, and one, this EP’s title track, from the also upcoming Murder Metal album. Apparently the band has two complete albums worth of material ready to go, but this is all they have recorded so far. Hopefully the new albums will be coming extremely soon. This EP also has two tracks each from the Gloom and Grim Reality releases, as if you needed more incentive to plunk down the $6 on it. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

MACABRE - Dahmer · Decomposed
Finally!! I've lost track of the years I've been waiting for a new album from MACABRE. After all this time, could anything possibly live up to my expectations? Maybe not. This is, after all, not Sinister Slaughter Part 2 (although I've heard that their next album, Murder Metal, will be!). There's less concern about extreme speed, and perhaps more placed on sing-alongs. That's not to say that this is an un-heavy disc. It's intense, and as you'd guess, plenty sick. But there are times while listening to it that I think it's more "Murder Punk" than "Murder Metal." Nothing new about that, though. Dahmer is certainly a memorable album, but for the most part, its extremity does lie more within the lyrics than the music. I don't have a problem with that, but some might. So, is this the perfection I had been waiting for? It's pretty close. And in some places, the playing is absolutely stunning, which is made even more so by the fact that they use their technical skill to write memorable songs, and not just show off. - 9.5 - <Ray>

MACABRE OMEN - Olympus · DEMO
Two tracks of majestic, atmospheric Grecian Black Metal. The playing and writing are superb, but the production is a bit fuzzy, although that really sort of adds to the eerie, mystical feeling, so I guess it’s a plus this time. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

MACHETAZO - Carne de Cementerio · Razorback
Any band with a song called "El Ataque de King Ghidorah" is fucking cool. End of story. MACHETAZO up the dose even further, with their unique brand of Grind Gore, that while perhaps not the heaviest, is ultra intense. I assume that the lyrics are equally as sick as the artwork and the music itself, but I don't have a lyric sheet, and don't speak Spanish anyway, so just this once, the lack of printed lyrics doesn't matter. For added insanity, they even cover ABSCESS ("Suicide Fuck"), and S.O.B. ("Delusion of Terror"). There's a weird "hidden" bonus track, too. Psycho (a.k.a. Death, of "Dear Death" fame) plays this disc when he needs to makes his harem start vomiting. - 9 - <Ray>

MACHINE HEAD - Burn My Eyes · Roadrunner
Discounting the ultra stupid, distorted [New Wave of So-Called] "Power Metal" vocals, this isn't so bad. Nothing too special, though, really. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

MACHINE HEAD - The More Things Change · Roadrunner
If you liked their first piece of crap, I'm sure you'll like this one, too, since it's (not surprisingly) the same start-stop riffing and tough-guy posing. - 4.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MACHINERY - Reconstruction · 6-Cylinder
These guys sent me the most bad-ass full color press kit I’ve ever seen, and they seem to be cool, so I tried to like them. But this singer is horrible. I believe that he is attempting to be like Rob Halford, but his voice isn’t powerful enough to handle it. When he sings lower, it’s a little better, but he always sounds very awkward. If MACHINERY had a more aggressive singer (not necessarily more harsh, though) things would be greatly improved. A more massive guitar sound would help, too. - 6.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

MACHINES OF LOVING GRACE - Gilt · Atlantic / Mammoth
Dance beats and guitars, and maybe half an idea on the entire album. Is this what "Industrial" is now? This is Industrial in the way that POISON are Metal. This is only for those who think NIN are Hardcore. - 6.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MACTÄTUS - Provenance of Cruelty · Napalm
Keyboards, female vocals, slick production. Black Metal. Hmm, well they’re good at it, I’ll give ‘em that. Very good, in fact. But the occasional high-pitched fruit-booty "male" vocals have just got to go, since they drag down the entire thing. And what the fuck does "MACTÄTUS" mean anyway? "Say man, you want some MacTatus with that Quarter Pounder?" - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

MACTATUS - The Complex Bewitchment · Napalm
I've heard some of these riffs before... Other than the occasional "homage" riff, the MAC is back to deliver some more Black Metal, plus keyboards, plus Thrashy sound. I don't know about this. Certainly it's nothing you haven't heard many times before, and generally better, but there's nothing really bad about it, either. - 7.5 - <Ray>

MACTATUS - Suicide · Napalm
Gee, I'm not totally sure why these guys decided it would be a good idea to strip all the melody from their sound. It sure makes for a boring listen. Yes, all the grim, eerie elements I appreciated Provenance of Cruelty for have been bartered for a more modern-sounding Black Metal approach. Yuk! Don't let the album's title or cover fool you, this album is not of the melancholy. The man on the cover photo has apparently slit his wrists due to the blandness of the material. - 5.5 - <Jack>

MADBALL - Demonstrating My Style · Roadrunner
I had really thought, thanks to the "tough-guy" poses all over the layout, that MADBALL would be complete dorks. Well, this is a classic case of not being able to judge a book by its cover. They may look like BIOHAZARD rejects, but they sound like early SICK OF IT ALL, which is to say, pretty impressive. As you may have surmised, they're a Hardcore act, and a damn good one. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

MADBALL - Look My Way EP · Roadrunner
Twelve songs in 27 minutes. I have a real strong feeling that Roadrunner will be charging a full-length price for this, and that’s not cool, as it’s not full lengthed. But enough of my "petty gripes." MADBALL are actually smart in keeping their songs short, as that allows them to stay interesting. Their style of Hardcore is more than a little Metal influenced (the drumming and guitar sound), and the production is such that the vocals are pushed to the front. Perhaps that’s a calculated attempt to appeal to more people, although I’m sure all involved would disagree. Honestly, this is pretty kick-ass - not as good as Demonstrating My Style, though. But I get a kind of weird "feeling" from it. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

MADDER MORTEM - Mercury · Misanthropy
I’m really blown away by this band’s diverse use of Medieval/Celtic melodies mixed with a fat dose of good ol’ MAIDEN-esque Metal. Don’t lump M.M. in with all the trendy "atmosphere" cheese bands out there. This act is light years beyond that in terms of musicianship and songwriting skills. The songs range from the somber, to the just plain raging, and their vocalist uses her excellent voice to its utmost. While I’m at it, did I mention the production is also brilliant? Warm and full, definitely not overproduced or fake sounding. If you possess that endangered species known as an open mind, buy this immediately. - 9 - <Brainhammer> **MC12**

MAELSTROM - This Battle to Make History Yet History Never Comes · DEMO
Damn, that was freaky. I was going to call this a concept demo but I believe it is more of a deranged opera. It tells the story of evil minions and the death of Avatar and oracle mirrors and... well listen to it. You'd better get the lyric sheet as well; beware the "Unsung Lyrics." Structurally the songs resemble slower IRON MAIDEN. Musically MAELSTROM is some kind of Metal-Classical fusion. Not unlike THE GREAT KAT's work- only better, though not so fast. They're good musicians and the story-line is cool. I like it. - 8 - <Lar> **MC5**

MAESTRO ALEX GREGORY - Paganini's Last Stand · Priority Rocks
Guitar heroes, especially those who consider themselves so superior to other guitarists that they would piss on Little Stevie Vai's grave, can suck me. But, I will admit to liking this album (it is technical as a motherfucker, yet still listenable) up until track three. If you build songs as excuses for guitar solos (as guitar gods are known to do), then the guitar solo should take the place of the vocals. But three of the tracks here have vocals. And guess what? The vox are thin, high pitched, and weak. Better off without 'em. I have heard all this guitar spank-off until I can't stand it anymore. Yeah, Alex is talented. Now go write some original, memorable songs, "Maestro." They can even have your ultra-techno, seven-string solos if they must. But, for now, I'm just not impressed. Yawn. - 6.5 - <Ray> **MC7**

MAGGOT FOOD - Demo 98 · DEMO
It’s good that this band has a sense of humor, and knows that this is a joke, because if they were serious, I’d be having a lot of fun ripping them apart right now. The only problem is that none of this is humorous - except their brilliant flyer whereupon it says that the song "Deranged in Death" is a hit single and has all the teenaged girls masturbating. Maybe I should give them a break just for that flyer, but I can’t stand to listen to this muddy mess at all. If it hadn’t been recorded straight to jam box, it might be better. At least maybe I could make out the funny bits then. Upped a little for having that cool flyer. - 2 - <Ray> **MC12**

MAHARAHJ - Repetition · Now or Never
I was thrilled to see this in my designated Metal Curse Metalcore review pile. This band's previous LP, Chapter One: The Descent was a phenomenal frenzy of barbaric Hardcore wavering anger-borne between Death Metal and Grindcore elements. This new release sees the band descending yet deeper into an abyss of unbridled brutality, leaving much of the Hardcore edge behind. Unfortunately, with this pilgrimage, much of the album is easily forgotten in a blur of super-fast, down-tuned technicality and all out tempo rebellion. The one track that stands out for me is "Cities & Script," which somehow remains focused in its musical schizophrenia. Somewhat of a letdown I suppose, but I truly believe this promising young act's best tunes have yet to be penned. Keep an eye out. - 7.75 - <Jack>

MAIMED - Demo '91 · DEMO
Fast, extremely heavy, and extra brutal Death Metal. But wait, that's not allÉ Talent. Also reasonably memorable songs. Fucking difficult combo to top. MAIMED successfully combines very brutal riffs & drums and raw, horrific vocals, with technical proficiency. The more I listen to this 4 song tape, the more I notice subtle things, like the very impressive solo in "Of the Dead." Subtly is new to most Death Metal this brutal. And that is why MAIMED is one of the best Death bands around- signed or not. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC7**

MAJESTY - The Natural Architect · DEMO
This band is aptly named. The riffs are simple, and unbelievably heavy, but arranged into complex songs, with occasional keyboards to back up the expected guitar and bass. I believe that Lord Gravehill played all the instruments himself, which would be quite an accomplishment. His vocals are of special interest, since they are unique. His sings, but not in the clean way of SOLITUDE AETURNUS or ST. VITUS, nor in a Death growl, but rather in the raspy desperation of a man who knows the bell tolls for him. I anxiously await more material from this band. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MAKINA - Chorizo · Mercury / Polygram / Manicomo
Let me start off by noting that this is very likely only available in Mexico, and I wasn’t given the address for Manicomo, so here’s the band’s address: P.O. Box 11-763 · Mexico 06101 D.F. · Mexico. Now then, about this album: There are short musical passages, followed bits of an interview, first in Spanish, then later on in English. Following the interview, we have the complete versions of the songs, which are very energetic "progressive" Thrash. In the first cut alone there are several different vocal styles (from female vox to a kind of hoarse yell), as well as some musical experimentation in composition and execution. I’m not sure that I really like everything they do, but I appreciate the high level of ability displayed here, and their willingness to take chances. This is certainly an original sounding release, I’ll give them that. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

MALAMOR - Dead to the World · Amputated Vein
Okay, their name sounds like a cookie, who cares? This is still high quality, mega-brutal Death Metal in the New York vein of SUFFOCATION, PYREXIA, and INTERNAL BLEEDING. These nine cuts just mow you down with an intensity and catchiness supremely in league with their aforementioned peers. Then they close it out with the coolest cover of DEATH's "Suicide Machine" I've ever heard. They really put their own brutal NY spin on the classic. I love it! Without the substandard production, this might have been a ten. I may regret not giving it one anyway. Features Frank Mullen of SUFFOCATION doing backing vocals on two tracks. How much cooler can this fucking thing get? - 9.75 - <Jack>

MALDICTION - Demo 1992 · DEMO
The production could be better, but these three songs aren't too bad. They follow the basic Death strategy, and do a good job of it. With some cash to blow on a better recording, these songs would come across a lot better. I'll bet these guys kill live. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALEDICTION - System Fear 7" · Thrash
The production here is a real problem. The level is way too low. The drums sound pathetic. Also, the vocals sound like they were processed into a super-distorted mess. However, the guitar sound is really heavy and the bass at the beginning of "Murdered From Within" is really distorted, which I think sounds cool. In fact, the vox on that song are not as distorted, but they are mixed way too high. I think if they could record in a better studio, that they would have a better chance for success. Studio 64 (where this was recorded) should be embarrassed. The cover, however, is totally offensive, so that's a plus in my book. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC5**

MALEDICTION - Malediction · DEMO
These guys really impressed me, even though there wasn't much, if any, double bass. But the raw vocals and heavy, deep sounding music really kicks you in your ass. Their line up consists of: Shaun on vocals, Mark on bass, Darren on guitar, Alastair on drums, and Rick on guitar. The solos are good and the production is way better than on the 7". The lyrics sound cool, too. These guys from England are definitely not a pussy band, so if you get the chance to hear their demo, do so! Check these guys out. Awesome, English Death Metal. - 8.75 - <Chris G> **MC6**

MALEFICARUM - Demo ‘97 · DEMO
Basic, fast, brutal as fuck Death Metal. Nothing too special, but played with a Hell of a lot of energy and conviction. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

MALEVOLENCE - Martyrialized · Maquiavel
Holy fuck, this is great! Probably no one remembers the old Death Metal band TORCHURE, but MALEVOLENCE reminds me of them a little bit. But with a more polished, modern Euro Thrash production. Their mixture of catchy riffs, technical playing and heavier Death Metal is close to perfect, and I hope it won't be long before I get to hear more from this very impressive band. - 9.5 - <Ray>

MALEVOLENT CREATION - 1990 · DEMO
Imagine a band that combines the sound of SADUS and ENTOMBED! Get the idea? Needless to say, MALEVOLENT CREATION are the gods of Death. Comprised of: Phil Fasciana (guitar), Jon Rubin (guitar), Brett Hoffman (vocals), Mark Simpson (drums), Mark Van Erp (bass); they are a major force. This tape only has three songs: "Remnants of Withered Decay," "Decadence Within" and "Impaled Existence." But any one of the three would be worth the price of the tape by itself. I found the first song to slightly edge out the other two, but only just barely. It’s easy to see why Roadracer signed these guys. I was also impressed when I got a copy of this after they were signed. That shows how dedicated they are. And what kind of people. I personally know of other bands that would have said to wait for their debut LP. You had better get a copy of this while there are still some left! - 9.25 - <Ray>
[Phil has weathered line-up changes galore, and never allowed his band to release a less-than-excellent album. And now, original singer Brett Hoffman has returned after an extended absence on their latest release, The Fine Art of Murder.] **MC4**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - The Ten Commandments · R/C
This is MALEVOLENT CREATION's first album for R/C and it's an extremely fierce debut. Mark Simpson is really becoming an excellent drummer. And the vox of Bret Huffmann are powerful and raw in a David Vincent (MORBID ANGEL) sort of way. This LP was recorded at Morrisound and engineered and mixed by Scott Burns, so that should tell you all you need to know about the recording quality and all that. The cover is by Dan SeaGrave, so it's cool too. OK, now about the songs: Very brutal, usually fast. "Memorial Arrangements", "Premature Burial", "Thou Shall Kill!" and "Injected Sufferage" are all even really memorable, the others are only slightly less so. "Multiple Stab Wounds" is a bit weaker than the rest of this slayfest, but the lyrics are cool as they are in all ten songs. This is an impressive first effort, and these guys are cool so pick this one up. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC5**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - Live EP · DEMO
Roadrunner are obviously insane for dropping this great band, they should have kept them and pressed this on CD [somebody should!]. The recording level on this EP is sorta low, but that's not the end of the world, and at least it's not muddy, just not real loud. Anyway, here we have live versions of some of M.C.'s best tracks, including my favorite, "Premature Burial." They've even included their studio version of SLAYER's "Piece By Piece." What are you waiting for? - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - Stillborn · Roadrunner
There is certainly no lack of brutality here. In fact, they may have even sacrificed a little feeling in the name of increased brutality. This is their first effort to not be recorded at Morrisound, and they have never sounded better. An excellent album, although not quite the perfect album I was expecting. Next time it will be, though. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - Eternal · Pavement
This band has been through some changes in the last year or so, and I was, well, a little worried about how this album would sound. But other than the occasional lapses into stupidly distorted vocals, as in part of "To Kill" (which is really disappointing, since otherwise the vox are great), this is amazing Death. And sometimes pretty damn fast, too. Probably their best since the classic The Ten Commandments. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - Joe Black · Pavement
The first 3, new, songs are pretty cool, although not quite up to the extremely high standard of Eternal. The next 3 are Dance remixes of songs from their last LP. I'm not kidding. They're only good if you need a laugh. I think that this type of remix is not necessarily worthless, but these are extremely inept examples of the style. Next we have an excellent demo version of "Genetic Affliction," that is easily the high point of the disc. This is followed by a really limp-wristed cover of "Raining Blood." Brett's vocals are amazingly weak on this track. I had to check to make sure it was really him. Finally, there are two cuts from the band's awesome '90 demo, recorded before Brett decided to apparently ruin his voice by "going Death." I really would have much preferred the Dance remixes and pathetic attempt at a SLAYER cover be removed in favor of some live tracks and the third track from the '90 demo. I guess you can't win them all. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - In Cold Blood · Pavement
I was a little disappointed with their Joe Black collection of various odds & ends, but let me assure you that In Cold Blood sees M.C. at their most fierce yet, even surpassing Eternal. Their blistering Death onslaught has simply never been more intense, or better produced. Never have they written better riffs, and never have they played them with such conviction. And I’d like to go record and say that Jason Blachowicz is easily in the top 5 Death Metal vocalists I’ve ever heard. His vox are extremely consistent and recognizable, not to mention raw enough to cut through steel, but still understandable. I think all new bands should view In Cold Blood as a textbook example of how to properly make a Death Metal album. It simply must be awarded the highest honor. - 10 - <Ray> **MC11**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - The Fine Art of Murder · Pavement
Poor Phil just can’t keep a lineup together. And after the perfection of their last album, In Cold Blood, I was really hoping that the lineup would never be altered again. But this disc sees the return of original screamer, and all around cool guy, Brett Hoffman (and hopefully I’ve spelled his name correctly, as it’s a little different every time I’ve ever seen it). I’m glad to see that Brett’s back, and his voice has never been stronger, but the lineup changes have somewhat altered the band’s sound, and while still a fine example of brutally memorable Death Metal, I wouldn’t exactly say that this is flawless. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

MALEVOLENT CREATION - Envenomed · Pavement
The drumming is so relentless that it's actually sort of distracting. Maybe the guitars could have been louder in the mix - I'm not sure. But the drumming alone could kick your ass. That said, M.C. has never delivered a bad album in all these years, and Envenomed is certainly one of their stronger efforts. The mix of musical styles covers quite a lot of the Extreme Metal underground, and everything is seamlessly blended. It's also really cool to have Brett back on vocal duty, as his unique rasp goes a long way to maintain the band's identity. - 9.25 - <Ray>

MALEVOLENT CREATION - The Will to Kill · Arctic
A new album and yet another new vocalist from the mighty M.C. The new guy isn't bad, he does his best Bret Hoffmann imitation in the Fine Art of Murder fashion, but it is a slight step down. However, when you're talking about MALEVOLENT CREATION, the musical prowess is always the star of the show anyway. When it comes to ultra-tight, ultra-fast Death Metal, you can't find it any more upfront and honest than MALEVOLENT C. They haven't changed a bit. The cream: title track, "Divide & Conquer." - 9 - <Jack>

MALEVOLENT SNEAKER TOOTH - Asthmatic Pterodactyl · DEMO
Insane extremity that encompasses the entire spectrum of underground Metal. I’m not really sure what to make of this. Some parts are pretty cool, and others are goofy, which I’m sure is intentional... - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

MALHAVOC - Premeditated Murder · Metal Blade / Epidemic
I guess they were trying to make a statement about using the same drum beat (you know the fucking one, it's in every Dance song) all the time, The only statement I got from it was how much I detest this beat. It made me hate this, even though everything else about this Industrial album is great. - 6 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALHAVOC - Get Down · Cargo
Over 72 minutes of Industrial, umm Metal, I guess. Well, there are a lot of guitars on here, and the vocals are normally somewhat distorted, but the beats they use are very un-Metal, very Dance, perhaps? As you might expect, some songs are pretty interesting, but some are simply beyond useless. It's very "hit and miss." But, hey you get 3 "alternate ways to program your CD player" for optimum listening pleasure. Spare me. - 6.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MALICE 420 - Hateful Preachings... · demo
Oh Jesus fucking Christ, are you kidding me with this shit? Could you please stop wasting my precious fucking time with this horseshit? Taken aback by the sheer brilliance and guile of this band's moniker? If you could only see their logo, which looks like it was drawn by a four-year old blind amputee with cerebral palsy, and their cover art (a stunning black-and-white sketch of a dog tearing out the innards of another dog), which you might find gracing the locker of a rebellious sixth grader with a learning disorder. The song titles are also very apropos, as gems the likes of "Hard to Swallow," "I'll Take You Down," and "Rape the World" are all soon-to-be classics I'm sure. Factoring in all these brazen character traits, it should come as no surprise that this grouping of enlightened superhuman elite play a brand of trailer park Death/Thrash that time forgot. Make all the stickers you want, guys. What you really need to do is change the name, make a bonfire out of the leftover copies of this CD (oh, what an inferno that would be), and start the fuck over! - 1 - <Jack>
www.malice420.com

MALICIOUS DAMAGE - Scorched Earth Policy · demo
Let’s see, stupid band name, overused album title, Windows 84 layout, unintelligent lyrics. Yep, total afterschool Basement Death/Thrash. It actually sounds better than it looks, but that ain’t saying much. It’s not that this Floridian quartet won’t get there, it’s just that they’re a long way off. - 6 - <Jack>
www.maliciousdamage.net

MALICIOUS HATE - Peace Thru Hate · DEMO
Speedy Hardcore with some Death Metal thrown in, plus a cover of NAPALM DEATH's "The Kill." To be honest, all 14 songs are really cool. The speed of the music and the Hardcore style vox remind me of the past, but this demo does not sound dated; they just took some cool ideas and updated 'em. The result is impressive. Check it out.   - 9 - <Ray> **MC7**

MALICIOUS HATE - Consumed By Hate 7" · Grinding Peace
Duke and company Grind the fuck out of this piece of vinyl. Here are five tracks of heavy, brutal Death / Grind, and believe me, these freaks know how to do it right and make you remember it. Duke's voice is as memorable as the riffs - and as heavy. Certainly one of the top five bands of this kind. If all that's not enough, also know that this is on sick pink vinyl. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALICIOUS HATE - In the Name of Hate · Grinding Peace
Okay, here's the poop: the MALICIOUS HATE tracks on here are blistering, intense Death/Grind. If you're weak, they'll kill you, fuck your corpse, and eat the remains. When I say intense, I am not bullshitting. These fucking freaks have been known to play (Scum era) NAPALM DEATH covers at twice their normal speed just for the fuck of it. And the vocals, you ask? Duke's style ranges from screams of unmitigated agony, to deep growls of insane horror. In other words, it's as brutal as the music. This is a masterful work of inhumanity and severity. Then, about ten minutes of dead air after the last M.H. song, the "hidden" bonus tracks start up. They're mostly pretty fucking bizarre Noise constructions., although there is some other stuff, too. For a more complete run-down on these tracks, check out the MALICIOUS HATE interview elsewhere in this issue. Suffice to say that I like this kind of stuff, so it was a real plus for me. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT - Thrashed Black · DEMO
MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT is simply not for me. They sound like they are doing a million things at once, in other words: they sound sloppy. Ted Hanauer’s vocals are annoying. The songs are too long but might hold my interest if they were shorter. Much shorter. Perhaps it’s just the recording quality, but I don’t think so. The songs are non-memorable and easily forgotten. This band does have a somewhat different sound. I’ve heard worse, but I liked it better. - 6.5 - <Ray>
{M.O. would improve with every release, and eventually put out a pair of pretty good Black / Death albums (Rebellious Mayhem and Brutal Gore).} **MC4**

MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT - Rebellious Mayhem · DEMO
This demo sounds much better than their earlier ·Thrashed Black±. The production is improved and all three songs are more memorable, yet still heavy. Everything sounds more focused. I think the better production helps a lot. Ted's vocals sound better too. Now I won't say this is my favorite demo of all time- it's not. But these guys have improved in both writing and recording and this demo shows the talent of this Deathrash outfit. And even though this demo contains only three songs, you can tell that a lot of time and effort was put into each of them. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC6**

MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT - Malicious Onslaught · J.L. America/ Turbo
The flanger effect is detracting as hell, it completely fucks up both the vox and guitar of the first track. Thank Satan it ends with that song. After such a fucking poor start, this album really picks up. Yeah, it could use better production, but these guys don't have all the cash on Earth, and I'm sure Turbo gave 'em about $3. Anyway, the song "Beyond Evil" is just cool. It's worth the cost alone. And the rest are good as well. I wasn't too sure if this would be good at all, but actually it's great. - 9 - <Ray> **MC7**

MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT - Brutal Gore '93 · DEMO
This band improves with each release, and so this is their best effort thus far. It shows a dramatic improvement even from their Rebellious Mayhem album, which I liked. M.O. rip through these songs and leave the listener fucking dead in their wake. My only criticism is that the production isn't too good, but that can easily be fixed. Check this out. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MALICIOUS ONSLAUGHT - Brutal Gore · Unisound
This was a difficult review to write, as these guys incorporate little bits of every extreme style into their sound. That makes them a very unique band, and as such, an impossible band to describe in a few words. Suffice to say that those looking for insane Black Death Grind Metal shall look no further! Extremely chaotic and heavy. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

MALIGNANCE - Regina Umbrae Mortis · B.T.O.D.
This band is stuck in 1994. I can't say I blame them, but this would've been considered substandard, 20th rate Black Metal trash even back then. Let your dreams die, fellas. Just let 'em go. Death will set us free soon. - 3.25 - <Jack>

MALIGNANCY - Motivated by Hunger EP · United Guttural
At only 16 minutes, you wouldn't think there would really be much to go on here, but that's not the case at all. In fact, this kind of extreme Death Grind is probably better in smaller doeses anyway, and the band clearly knows that, cramming 5 new songs, plus a live cut, onto this disc. It's brutality for brutality's sake, sure. But they are good at it, and this is a solid pummeling from beginning to end. - 8.25 - <Ray>

MALIGNANCY - Cross Species Transmutation · United Guttural / Crash
Much like you know what you're getting when you buy a MORTICIAN album, the same can be said of Roger Beaujard's side project. While this isn't quite as catchy as Intrauterine Cannibalism, or as brutal as Motivated by Hunger, this 7-song EP is still a dizzying whirlwind of pinch harmonics, inhuman drumming, blood-curdling gurgles, and insane technical skill. When you need a fix of unbridled, jaw-dropping brutality, you couldn't do much better than MALIGNANCY. Favorites: "Postmortem Perception," and the title track. - 8.75 - <Jack>

MALIGNANT ETERNAL - Alarm · Napalm
Weird. This sounds very MTV. Considering how "Black Metal" this band sounded not too long ago, this is a real surprise. MALIGNANT ETERNAL continues a rather strange trend that has emerged in the last year or so. A lot of the Norwegian hordes have forsaken their Metal roots and have gone the Industrial/Electronica route, totally changing their sound. In a way, this is a good thing as many of the bands emerging these days sound way, way too much like the bands that influenced them. The problem is that the new sound that these bands (SATYRICON comes to mind at once, as does DODHEIMSGARD and ULVER) are sporting has little or nothing in common with their previous style. In the case of DODHEIMSGARD, there was a direct transition. Satanic Art sounded more Industrialized than Monumental Possession and 666 International sounded even more Industrialized than Satanic Art. This one follows the SATYRICON model and sounds like a completely different band. Alarm sounds very commercial, in the NINE INCH NAILS / MARILYN MANSON vein. The songs are in the style of typical guitar-based Industrial: repetitive structures, the appropriately distorted vocals, samples, funny keyboard sounds and mechanical beats in the background. The production is very slick with every instrument getting its own space to work in and all are clearly audible. The good news is that they were able to retain some heaviness but I think they lost some of their aggression. MALIGNANT ETERNAL did gain some in the atmosphere department, as there are some parts of this album that sound eerie and haunting. The net result is an album that would do well if it was on a larger label with more advertising muscle in the mainstream press. I don't mind bands playing in this style (I do enjoy STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, for example) but with a change this drastic, I have trouble holding back the accusations of selling out. - 8.25 - <Ychoril>

MALIGNANT TUMOR / SQUASH BOWELS - (split) · Obscene Productions
MALIGNANT TUMOR are Grindy/Thrashy and Metalish with practically inaudible guttural vocal gurgles. I tried following along with the lyrics but they don’t help much. Besides most of all the songs are simply definitions of diseases and infections from a medical textbook. They do cover AGATHOCLES on two tracks which breaks the monotony a bit, and the music is fun and I found myself grooving along. The production isn’t great but tolerable. With 26 tracks, do I have to tell you how short the songs are? - 7.5 -
SQUASH BOWELS rip through thrash blasts with all three members contributing vocals with a lower than low guttural gurgle, harsh yelled grunts, and predatory screeches. The vocals are a little easier to follow with lyrics in hand. Again the production is okay, with shorter (but intense) songs. - 8 - OVERALL RATING - 7.75 - <Bob> **MC11**

MALINTENT - Part I · Abyss
A weak and, at best, halfhearted attempt at Thrash, with even weaker, almost spoken, completely unemotional vocals. I can’t imagine that anyone would really like this, but sadly, I’m wrong about that sometimes. - 1 - <Ray> **MC12**

MALKUTH - Under Delight of the Black Candle 7" · Demise
This is not the usual fast Black Metal. It’s slower, almost Doomy occasionally. And the mix is odd, highlighting the vox over the music, and sometimes the drums and keyboards overpower the guitars, but then again, I happen to like a huge guitar sound. Minor criticisms aside, MALKUTH and their stylistic innovations are serious contenders. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

MALKUTH - The Dance of the Satan’s Bitch · Demise
After a traditional "symphonic" intro, the Black Metal kicks into high gear. The synths are still present throughout the album, but only as supplements to the guitars. MALKUTH have am impressive ability to write catchy riffs, and certainly know how to assemble them into great songs. And they keep things slowed down most of the time to allow the songs to really possess the listener. The somewhat raw production and mix occasionally undermine the power of the music, as when the female vocals come way too loud in during the second song and just totally obliterate everything else. But technical issues aside, the music is very hard to beat. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

MALVENTO - Regressus Ad Uterum · Vomitium Niger Productions
Middle-of-the-road Black Metal from Italy. I believe this recording may be their complete discography, featuring two demos from ‘98 and 2001, a full length from ‘01, and a bonus track. The band is mostly going through motions in a style similar to ABAZAGORATH or old ABIGOR, but nowhere near as good. - 6.75 - <Jack>

MAMMOTH VOLUME - Noara Dance · TMC
Huh... Stoner Rock that emphasizes the "Rock." Wow, I'm thrilled. This sounds like that lameass Lenny Kravitz ripping off of some unknown '70s band. - 2 - <Ray>

MAMMOTH VOLUME - A Single Book of Songs by Mammoth Volume · TMC
More BLACK SABBATH inspired Stoner Rock, this time from a Swedish band. If these guys had come out with this release in the '70s, it might have had some value. But, here we are in 2001 and this whole genre sounds old, tired and completely overdone. Unless you're so young that you missed the whole Stoner Rock / Metal movement the first time around, don't waste your time. - 1.75 - <Painkiller>

MAMMOTH VOLUME - The Early Years · TMC
It seems incredibly strange to me that a band this bad could possibly be from Sweden. The Early Years is compiled of all previously unreleased stuff, and I wish it'd been left that way. I suppose the very term "Stoner Rock" implies that you'd have to be high to enjoy it, but god damn, you'd have to be higher than the entire Milky Way galaxy itself to get any enjoyment out of this CD. But it will serve me well in the Backyard Tron wars. - 1.25 - <Ray>

MAN WILL SURRENDER - Man Will Surrender · Revolution
Limp-wristed guitar Pop played by sissified little twats. - 1.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MANEGARM - Nordstjarnans Tidsalder · Displeased
Fast, raw, extreme Black Metal, with a touch of Death. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MANGLED - Perish · DEMO
This looks and sounds a lot more professional than most demos I see. MANGLED play very high energy Death, and every single thing about them is pretty close to just right. I think we'll be seeing a lot more form this band. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MANGLED - Ancient Times · Fadeless
I have been waiting a long time to hear a full-length MANGLED album, and at last, here it is! These 38 minutes are jam fuckin’ packed with catchy Death Metal. Or as the band seems to like to call it, Grave Rock. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

MANGLED TORSOS - Godless · Morbid
Like HAEMORRHAGE, this disc made it's way to me without so much as a song list... On with the review: After the mandatory weird intro, this is Total Kill Mode. Extremely heavy and well produced. The vocals sound sort of like the heaviest end of MACABRE's vocal range. Then there are the really heavy parts, which sound like PATHOLOGIST at half speed. But, it's not all ultra-heaviness. They can, and often do, inject some more delicate elements, and that's what makes this one go totally over the top. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MANIAC BUTCHER - Lucan Antikrist · Pussy God
I actually got this disc from Obscene Prods., so it’s also available from them. Anyway, MANIAC BUTCHER play a very aggressive style of Black Death, that kinda reminds me of bands like DESTROYER 666. The thick sound of the recording really highlights the brutality, but there is little here that sticks with the listener, even after repeated plays. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

MANIAC BUTCHER / DARK STORM - (split) 7" · View Beyond
MANIAC BUTCHER solidly deliver one song of their deadly Black / War Metal. DARK STORM are much the same style, possibly making this a great split, depending on how you look at it. - 8.25 - **MC11**

MANIAC BUTCHER - Krvestreb · Pussy God
With a name like MANIAC BUTCHER, you’d expect a Death Metal band, but instead, you get a rather chaotic Black Metal band instead. All the trademark Black Metal-isms are here: raspy vocals that sound like EMPEROR’s, chaotic and rather thin guitars (hey guys, turn them up!) and a drummer that probably played in a Death Metal band before joining. Now add some really big swords and loads of spikes and you pretty much get MANIAC BUTCHER. I can’t say that MANIAC BUTCHER really do something new, but they have the DARK THRONE style of Black Metal down pretty good. Not the best I’ve ever heard, but not exactly the worst either. - 7.5 - <Ychoril> **MC12**

MANIAC BUTCHER - Cerna Krev · Pussy God
These crazy guys from the Czech Republic are back. Unlike their previous album, they have a more IMMORTAL-ish sound this time around, and the production is also cleaner. I guess they have either found a better studio or have a larger budget. The roughness that dominated their last disc has been replaced and they no longer have that DARKTHRONE style lo-fi Black Metal feel. They do, however, retain some of the DARKTHRONE style of song structure. If Transylvanian Hunger had been recorded at a really good studio (rather than in Fenriz’s closet) and had been sped up to IMMORTAL’s usual speed range, this is what it would sound like. Apparently, they have also lost a member and are now a two-piece. Unfortunately for them, I have a hard time taking them seriously after looking at the cover of this and their previous album. Someone forgot to tell them that while having spiked armbands and such might be cool, having excessive amounts of spikes (so that you look like a Satanic porcupine) is not. If you’re gonna take pictures of yourself in the dark in your corpsepaint for your album cover, make sure you don’t look like a fucking dork! While they are musically very good and I did like this CD, I can’t help but laugh when I see pictures of them. Use a painting or something next time. - 8.75 - <Ychoril> **MC12**

MANIAX - Prophecy. · DEMO
This trio plays aggressive Thrash with the occasional melodic passage. Sometimes there is some sort of weird stuff going on, too, which helps to make the songs easy to remember.- 8.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

MANIFEST - The Art of War · demo
Two-song offering of heavy Death/Thrash with very good production. Both tracks are essentially collections of extremely Thrashy riffs, some good, some just okay. A few of the riffs have a classic Old School vibe, while others border on trendy cheese. The vocals are a gruff bellow that takes some getting used to, luckily there is an occasional Death growl to save me. The clean vocals on "Dead End Spiral" were a bad mistake, much like my birth. Overall, nothing here really kicks my ass, however, nothing really makes me sick either. With just two cuts it’s hard to say which direction these Nordic Thrashers will go in. If they expand on the heavier aspects of their sound, they’ll be in good shape. - 7.75 - <Jack>
www.manifest-rock.com

MANIPULATED SLAVES - The Legendary Black Jade · Worldchaos
Imagine, if you can, second rate SLAYER riffs, third rate MAIDEN melodies, and vocals straight from Cowboys from Hell. All this further disgraced by the occasional Butt Rock howl that rates among the most pitiful of its tired ranks. Four minutes into track two marked the end of my listening experience with MANIPULATED SLAVES. Who knew their band name was autobiographical? - 1 - <Jack>

MANMADEGOD - Manmadegod · DEMO (CD)
Groove / Alternative crap with studio f/x that make it worse. - 2.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MANNTIS - Sleep in Your Grave · Century Media
Okay, I'll admit it, I watched the stupid fucking Battle for Ozzfest TV show. As much as I wish the next hijacked plane would fly into MTV's headquarters, I could not resist the show. I truthfully believe that these guys were the most talented of the three finalists, and I'm glad they found a deserving home (I'm sure being on millions of TV screens for a couple months made this a tough decision for Century Media). For those of you cool enough not to know what the fuck I'm talking about, forget I said MTV, these guys are no joke. Furious, breakdown-laden Metalcore in the vein of UNEARTH with the obvious Swedish Metal touch. It's very straightforward, the songs are kept short, but the talent is undeniable, abrasive yet precise. Underground Metalcore purists, do not hold this band's illustrious exposure against them. They are the real deal. - 9.5 - <Jack>

MANOS - At Mania of Death · Morbid
Brutal, memorable Death is just the beginning of MANOS. The ultra sick vocals, the old style riffs... Something does hold them back from perfection - maybe the production, which could have placed more emphasis on the guitars, or perhaps a little less on the vocals - but this is some evil shit. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

MANOWAR - Hell on Stage Live · Metal Blade
I guess that no one is satisfied with a single disc live album anymore. Anyway the Kings of Metal are back with, strangely enough, another live album, their second in a row. Well, actually, this may be more of a "part 2" to the Hell on Wheels Live 2-CD set which preceded it, since it has none of the same songs. Honestly, I much prefer the song selection on Hell on Wheels Live, although Hell on Stage Live does easily have the superior cover art, so really only the most rabid fans and collectors will want both albums, and they of course already have them. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

MANOWAR - Warriors of the World · Metal Blade
I'm glad to see that the so-called Kings of Metal have finally unleashed a new studio album. I'd say that two 2-CD live albums in a row was plenty of live stuff for the next decade or so. On with the review. The first song, "Call to Arms," is classic MANOWAR, and a damn fine way to start things off. This seems to be something of a concept album about freedom and liberty. Sounds good so far. But them the second track, "The Fight for Freedom," gets started... And I wish it hadn't. Piano, I know, is not utterly unknown to MANOWAR, but I've always loathed the wimpier side of this band... At least this sappy song is interspersed with bits of heaviness. Not so for the entirely wimpy "Nessun Dorma," which wouldn't even have counted as a "power ballad" in 1987. Things stay as flaccid as a Dairy Queen soft serve vanilla cone in the middle of August for the next two songs, almost as if the 'WAR men were afraid to really let loose for some reason. What happened to "All men play on ten"?!? And then comes "American Trilogy," and sanity itself is completely abandoned as the former champions of "Violence and Bloodshed" break into a mind-numbing (and I mean that in the worst possible way) rendition of "Dixie" (along with a couple other old chestnuts). I wish that were a joke. Or a typo. Or anything but the most unintentionally funny thing I've ever heard! Is the other half of the album any better? Somewhat. And at least things end on a strong note with the relatively intense "Fight Until We Die." But, despite a few good songs, this is probably the weakest, wimpiest MANOWAR album ever. - 6.75 - <Ray>

MARDUK - Nightwing · Osmose
By now I think that we all know what to expect from these blasphemers, and they certainly deliver the bads on this album. The weird, Industrial / Ambient into track is about all the innovation to be found here, but that’s fine with me. When you have perfected this style of blistering fast Back Metal, why fix what’s not broken? - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

MARDUK - Panzer Division Marduk · Osmose
I think this is the fastest, most furious thing MARDUK have ever released. And that’s really saying something. The amazing Abyss production really allows their blazing Black Metal to reach its full destructive potential. Favorite song title: "Fistfucking God’s Planet." - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

MARDUK - La Grande Danse Macabre · Regain/Century Media
You know, after the all-out speed assault that was Panzer Division Marduk, some slowdown was inevitable, but Great Satan Incarnate! Compared to Panzer Division…, this sounds almost like a Doom album! Well, maybe not that slow, but there is a definite and noticeable reduction in their speed. If you want to compare this to anything MARDUK has previously done, the second half of Nightwing is a good example of this album's direction. It's slower, heavier and more memorable than the bulk of their previous work though at the same time, the new material is still brutal as fuck. Legion still has one of the most horrific voices this side of Dead (R.I.P.) and that only helps things. The production is very clear - and we wouldn't expect anything less from Abyss Studios - which makes every instrument audible. I still can't believe that I can hear the bass so well. I could probably make out every note if I actually bothered to try. The only thing I thought this was lacking was a fuller guitar sound, though I think this has to do more with the fact that there is only one guitar on this album instead of the usual two. In the past, there were two guitars used for the studio work with Morgan playing both and a session member filling in on second guitar live. For those of you out there hoping for Panzer Division Marduk Part Two, you're going to be disappointed a little but La Grande Danse Macabre is still a sick ass album. - 9.75 - <Ychoril>

MARDUK - World Funeral · Regain / The End
One of the oldest bands from the second wave of Black Metal, MARDUK has always been one of those bands that has not only set the standards for the genre but also maintained a standard of quality that is hard to match. This album skirts the edges of both Panzer Division Marduk and their last outing, La Grande Danse Macabre, in that there are elements of both LPs not only on the album, but in each individual song. Panzer... was an all-out speed attack that never stopped nor did it slow down until the last song ended. La Grande Danse Macabre was more melodic and slower. World Funeral has speed, power and brutality to spare but it also has some melodic bits, heavier stuff and all of it is still consistent with MARDUK's sound. Add Legion's corrosive vocals and you have a package that is sure to peel the paint from your walls and your flesh from your bones. I still think that Legion most resembles the legendary MAYHEM vocalist, Dead, when it comes to vocal style and sound. Needless to say, this album is guaranteed to cause whiplash, concussions and the worship of our Lord and Master SATAN!!! - 9.5 - <Ychoril>

MARTYR A.D. - On Earth as it is in Hell · Victory
I was pretty upset when I learned of the departure of this band’s previous vocalist, Mike Fisketti. For those of you unfamiliar with this band’s 2000 Ferret Records debut, The Human Condition in 12 Fractions, it was one of the most innovative, technical, and balls-out heaviest albums of the recent Metalcore movement with Fisketti’s burly howl in part to thank. I was even more unpleased to find out his replacement was Andy Hart from the mediocre Old School band HOLDING ON. Well, the end result is much better than I expected, however, this edition of MARTYR A.D. is simply not quite as good. The production is not as sharp, which is a shock considering the label upgrade. A little less of a surprise, with the addition of Hart, is a slight injection of a more Old School Hardcore vibe. Thankfully the brutal breakdowns are still ever-present, as well as the band’s trademark rapid fire harmonics, but the overall intensity and chaotic tension have been taken down a tiny notch. Still, this would not be wasted money for the diehard Metalcore stalwart. - 8.75 - <Jack>

MARTYRIUM - Withering in Voluptuous Embrace · demo
Seeing as how these guys are from fucking Malta, I’m not going to give them too much shit for their band name, but I feel I should at least bring to their attention that there was a MARTYRIUM from Germany on Merciless Records in the mid-’90s (who were pretty fucking cool I might add). A more obscure, older band that probably weren’t that big in Malta, I’ll let it go. It’s nowhere near as sacrilegious as calling your shitty American Thrash band NIHILIST. Enough on that! The actual music here by this MARTYRIUM is symphonic Black Metal that is nothing spectacular, however, I will say the production is fabulous and while they may just be going through the motions, they do so with a lot of flair. I’m even going to go out on a limb and say that they are probably the greatest symphonic Black Metal band ever... from Malta. They’ve since been signed to American Line Productions, so somebody had to agree with me. - 7.75 - <Jack>
countmortem@hotmail.com

MARTYRUM - Frost Born · DEMO
Fairly impressive Black Metal, with some Doom elements. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MARY'S WINDOW - Whore · Slipdisc
Imagine taking some aspects of both SOUNDGARDEN and NINE INCH NAILS, adding vocals that are generally so annoying that I actually like them better when they're run through a distortion pedal (with is a fair amount of the time), and you'd have this band. Not even the lyric "I should have fist-fucked you when I had the chance," can save this, although the lyrics are easily the best part of this mess. I must admit that M.W. are heavier than either of the aforementioned bands, but not as innovative or creative. Now that I think of it, I wonder if this is what MARILYN MANSON sounds like? I've never heard them, but I have a feeling that's who these guys are trying to emulate. - 7 - <Ray> **MC10**

MASACRE - Barbarie y Sangre en Memoria de Cristo · Hateworks
The 2003 Hateworks re-release of the 1993 mini-LP, with three bonus live tracks and two videos. For those who don’t remember this record, it is well-played Old School Death Metal with traces of Doom and Speed Metal. Unfortunately for us English speakers, the lyrics are in Espanol. Luckily they aren’t very understandable, as for some reason I find a Death voice speaking conspicuous Spanish to sound overwhelmingly silly. Listening in retrospect, I guess this production was a little thin, the guitars a little weak, and the overall result a little boring. But that’s okay, at the very least this will serve as a trip down memory lane for the vintage underground dweller. - 7.75 - <Jack>

MASACRE - Total Death · Hateworks
Guess who’s back? These 15-year Death Metal veterans from Colombia have resurfaced with a vengeance. They have totally revamped every aspect of their game, transforming their status from obscure cult band to all-out, high precision Death machine. Everything is improved, everything just plain sounds better, which is nice for a change. So many times the ancient ones dust off their axes only to find they’ve lost a step, not the case here. The production is better, courtesy of Erik Rutan, the guitars are heavier, the vocals more bestial, the lyrics in English, thank you very much, and the overall result 100% more enjoyable. The old stuff has its place in Metal’s history for sure, but this 2004 effort is the real meat and potatoes. - 9 - <Jack>

MASADA - Midwest Terrorist · DEMO
The recording is at a very low level. Other than that, this is a pretty good Thrashcore demo. Lots of double bass and reasonable heavy guitars. The vocals are also a strong point: they go from a raspy yell to a full Death attack. The first three songs are all fast. The fourth, "Self Destruction", starts off slower, then speeds up to a nearly fast pace. This demo is good, but not really that memorable, which might be due to the recording being so low and the generally weak production. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC5**

MASDECAY - Veil of Death · DEMO
I believe that this may actually be a rehearsal tape, but whatever it is, I wouldn't really recommend it. The songs are really simple, which doesn't have to mean that they are also not very good, but in this case I think it does. The vocals are kind of yelled, but I just don't like them. They recorded a demo in a 16 track studio after this was done, but I've not heard it. I'm sure it must be better. - 4 - <Ray> **MC9**

MASOCHIST - Fuck Your God 7" · P.S.
After the long, backward intro, this transforms into a unique style of Black Death. The recording quality is bad, but with a "true" Black Metal band it's impossible to know if that is intentional or not. Some of their riffs are really interesting, and deserve far better than this to back them up. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MASQUERADE - Surface of Pain · Metal Blade
This comes close to being okay sometimes, but then they repeat the song title eighty times, or inject a little of the old PEARL JAM. Why? Metal Blade guys take note: Your name is Metal Blade, not Alternative Blade. Get it? - 6.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MASQUERADE - Flux · Metal Blade
Oh man, what is this? In the bio it says that this band has been mentioned "in the same breath as legendary Hard Rock alum WHITESNAKE and DEF LEPPARD" as if that were a good thing! Well, if you like the aforementioned bands, you still might not like MASQUERADE, since I don't think they sound too much like either of them. But they're still bad - just in a more '90s Alternative Rock kind of way. Pretty queer any way you chainsaw it to pieces. - 5 - <Ray>

MASS DEATH - At War With Santa · DEMO
This totally sucks, but I have a certain respect for things which suck in this way. Actually it's nearly funny. - 3 - <Ray> **MC8**

MASS PSYCHOSIS / EXTERMINANCE - Split 7" · Shredomatic
The MASS PSYCHOSIS track, "Gore Machine," is slower Death, although not as heavy as this might make you think. The vocals are unique in that a lot of the time they are sorta like Sean from VIOLENCE, but not exactly.
As for EXTERMINANCE, their song, "Vomiting the Trinity," is pretty fast and very tight. I can't make out the lyrics, but I think the title probably gives them away. Vocally raw, and apparently occasionally multi-tracked, which can sound cool if done correctly, as it is here.
Excellent sound quality and red vinyl help this a bit. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

MASS PSYCHOSIS - Necroporno · DEMO (CD)
Intense Death Metal played by rotting zombies. What could be better? Well, there could be chicks involved. Oh, you say the very name of the disc is Necroporno and that there's a naked zombie bitch on the cover? I guess they've covered all the bases then, and they're even gone the extra mile and made the songs catchy and the production clear. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

MASS PSYCHOSIS - Necroporno · Still Dead
The same intense Death release reviewed last issue in the "demos" section, released with vastly improved packaging by Still Dead. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

THE MASS - Demo ‘98 · DEMO
Oh man, that Techno intro scared me, but I’ll let it pass for the moment, as things do improve. For the first song, the Thrashy riffs and raspy vocals are backed up by good basslines, and interesting drums. But the way in which the vocals are phrased, how they fit with the music, is a bit too like the Rap influenced NWOHSCPM bands, and then the female sung "pretty" choruses start up, ala FEAR FACTORY. I mean this has some cool stuff going on, but also some trendy sugarcoated shit. But I was prepared to excuse that to some degree if things got better. However, the opening seconds of the second song proved that these guys have their heads up their asses. When the chick singer Cock Rock’s her way through the lines "Hey, hey, come on / Here we come, so come on," and then the raspy male vocals echo the same inane words, I knew it was over for THE MASS. But then the next song, "It Was Me," proves me wrong, with an upbeat take on CEMETARY’s Godless Beauty Death Rock formula, sung most (and best) with the now improved female vocals. Okay, when the male and female vocals are overlapped in this song, it once again proves that only PARADISE LOST can (or at least, could) properly do that sort of thing, but it’s not horrible. This should have been the first track, as it is the best one, but it got stuck right in the middle. Strangely enough, things stay nearly this good for the remaining two cuts, with the band sticking mostly to the Doomier / Death Rock sounds established on "It Was Me." Although the last song, "The Name of My Game," is something of a synthesis of their different styles, and so not nearly as good. All this begs the questions of what the fuck are the first two tracks even doing on this at all, and in what order were these songs written? Hopefully they are going toward this much better style, and not toward the crap that comprises the first two cuts. I’m torn on this rating, but despite the low score, I did really like two of the five songs, with one more being passable, and I’m not planning on keeping this one in my car for the sole purpose of throwing at some asshole who cuts me off. - 6 - <Ray> **MC12**

MASSACRE - Enjoy the Violence · Cargo/ Shark
Cool Deathrash. Not the most original, but I like 'em. They deliver the shit. Nothing really makes them stand far above the competition, but it's tough to do that. This is is a solid release and I'm interested to see what future albums will be like. I do have a single suggestion: they have the skill and ability, but the songs should be more memorable. This kills when I'm listening to it, but I don't scream the lyrics at people. Get it? - 8 - <Ray> **MC7**

MASSCARE - From Beyond · Relativity/ Earache
OK, in case you don't know, this band reunites Terry Butler, Bill Andrews, Rick Rozz and Kam Lee. All of whom have been members of DEATH. And furthermore, it is, so far, the best LP of '91, to say the least. And, yes, I have heard MORBID ANGEL's Blessed Are the Sick. The only thing holding this back from a ten rating is my fear that somehow their next LP will somehow be even better. The songs are powerful, fast, heavy, memorable, occasionally slow, brutal, and extremely well executed. Kam's vocals are, in a word, perfect. He is the best Death Metal singer of all time. This even includes the classic song "Corpsegrinder." From Beyond is mandatory. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC6**

MASSACRE - Inhuman Condition EP · Relativity/ Earache
More focused than From Beyond. Better production and everything else. Especially vox. I really liked Kam's vocals before, but now they are way more brutal. Fucking way more! Holy shit! These monsters even cover VENOM's "Warhead" and get Cronos to sing and play "Buffalo Bass" on this track! This is brilliant. Not as instantly memorable as the stuff on their debut, but this is more accomplished. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC7**

MASSMURDER - Slaughtered for Snuff · Unmatched Brutality
Please try not to be too skeptical when I inform you that this may be the fastest, heaviest Death/Grind ever made. I fully understand your doubt, people write that shit all the time, but believe you me, this is the real deal. Imagine if KRISIUN went fucking Gore! Yes, if MASSMURDER were a gun, they'd be the one Governor Ventura used in Predator. It is rare but wonderful when an album can truly mesmerize by sheer brutality alone, and make no mistake, "catchy" is not their m.o. But they tune to Z-flat, blast with a relentless ferocity so merciless it would make ASSUCK weep, and can stop on a fucking dime. I can't accentuate enough, this is the real fucking deal! - 9.25 - <Jack>

MASTER - The Final Word · DEMO
I never thought that I'd be reviewing a MASTER demo, but here it is. I guess I can see why this legendary band is without a label at the moment. These 3 songs are probably the least intense Mr. Speckman has ever written, although they are somewhat memorable. Not bad, but not up to my high expectations of Paul and company. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

MASTER - Demo 1996 · DEMO
Three more songs from these legends. They are a bit more intense than those on The Final Word, but my ass isn't exactly kicked. I did get a little laugh from the lyrics to the first song, "Fatso/Scumbag." - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

MASTER - Faith is in Season · Pavement
Terrible layout job and possible pro-christian lyrics aside, this is pretty aggressive old-style Death / Thrash Metal. But I expected better. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MASTER'S HAMMER - The Filemnice Occultist · JL America / Osmose
Freaky, orchestral Black Death. I like this. It's really interesting to hear these different styles combine. The vocals are sorta raspy, but for some reason, it seems to work just fine for him. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MASTICATOR - Masticator · DEMO
These guys are fucking heavy and very brutal. The production is adequate. The line up consists of Tom (vocals &bass), Jeroen (guitar), Camille (guitar), and Joris (drums). MASTICATOR is one of the rawest bands I've ever heard. The music sounds like ASPHYX, but the vocals are way deeper. Tom's voice is as deep as, if not deeper than, SUFFOCATION's vocalist. The song titles are also cool. "Celebration of the Morbid Necrofeast" and "Condemned to Death" being my favorites. All and all, MASTICATOR is a great band and deserves your support. - 9 - <Chris G & Tom> **MC6**

MAUDLIN OF THE WELL - My Fruit Psychobells · Dark Symphonies
I don't know what the fuck a "Psychobell" is but I do know "Artsy Metal" when I hear it. This is probably something that you would appreciate for its experimentation and strange structures - music made for other musicians, in other words - than something that you would just throw on to listen to something cool. I won't dispute their musical ability nor will I dispute their willingness to experiment but this one is a tough call for me. I really couldn't get into this album at all. This one went all over the place, had little memorability and might appeal to fans of FATES WARNING but not to a whole lot of other people. To top it all off, it wasn't all that heavy, either. There are parts that are brutal and aggressive, parts that are totally passive and parts that just leave me scratching my head. The problem is that there is little or no consistency between songs. One song will be totally passive and slow while the next will sound a whole lot like Death Metal with growled vocals and fast, heavy guitars. Clearly this is something geared to a very limited audience and if you don't like this style of music then you'll probably feel ripped off. Oh yeah, I hate FATES WARNING too, in case you're wondering. - 2 - <Ychoril>

MAUDLIN OF THE WELL - Bath / Leaving Your Body Map · Dark Symphonies
Since this pair of albums were released simultaneously, I decided to condense them into one review. Both are of the same style, so I didn't see any point in writing two separate reviews. This is not a double cd or a concept album though. Now, on to their sound - these guys are from way out in left field! The music is highly experimental consisting of a wide variety of styles including (but, by no means, limited to) Doom, Death Metal, Jazz, Progressive Rock, etc. The pace is mostly slow featuring atmospheric keyboard passages, acoustic guitars, flutes, and even pipe-organs! Most of the tracks have a lofty, ambient feel, but there are moments when the music gets pretty damn heavy. The vocals, both male and female, are sung cleanly for the most part (there are some occasional Death growls). The clean male vocals are a weak-point in the band's sound. They sound odd and off-key. Although very well-produced and somewhat interesting, there is just too much experimentation in the music for me to handle. There isn't any kind of flow to either of the albums - they're all over the place! MAUDLIN OF THE WELL is definitely a unique band, however. I can honestly say I have never heard anything quite like this. - 6 - <Painkiller>

MAVERICK - Under Fire · DEMO
Normally I like my Metal to be a bit heavier than this, but MAVERICK’s Traditional Metal / Hard Rock is so instantly memorable and so well done that you can’t help but to like it. The only real down side to this demo is that you only get two songs, and after hearing them a few times, all I can think is that I’d like to hear more. Hopefully I won’t have to wait for very long. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

MAY RESULT - Gorgeous Symphonies of Evil · CCP
Wow, I thought that ...AND OCEANS was a dumb band name! We have a new winner! Or, I should say loser. And that's really too bad, because MAY RESULT is actually an interesting band. They mix a sort of highly polished modern European style of Extreme Metal with early DEEP PURPLE-ish keyboards, and operatic female vocals. It sounds crazy sometimes, but when they really nail it, it's fairly awesome. - 8.5 - <Ray>

MAYHEM - Wolf’s Lair Abyss EP · Misanthropy
This is blasting, sinister, raw Black Metal with one of the most extreme vocalists I’ve heard in quite a long time. The music is fast paced, for the most part, but it does slow down every now and then and achieves a semblance of melody. Thankfully, this doesn't happen often. Sometimes the singer switches to clean, chanting vocals that are not particularly to my liking. The contrast with the harsh vocals makes it bearable however, and the music, which is extremely tight and extremely extreme keeps me dancing. When I first heard this, I nearly had a heart attack. Your reaction should be similar. This is no doubt a protest against all the bland, melodic bands pouring from Norway these days... - 9.5 - <Yury> **MC11**

MAYHEM - Grand Declaration of War · Season of Mist / Necropolis
A grand declaration of war upon their fans is apparently what the title means. Well, I for one have the necessary balls to call this "MAYHEM" sellouts. However, I will not call these feeble "Electronica" wannabes "The True MYAHEM," because that would be a lie. This new album is sort of Industrial - and very bad Industrial, I must add - that is utterly lacking in everything that has ever been associated with the name MAYHEM, with the singular exception of very occasionally fast drumming (that sounds as if it's programmed). Mostly gone are the horrific vocals, the riffs, the evil feeling, and in a lot of places, gone is any trace of Metal at all. Sure, there are bits of their former glory trying to claw their way through this disaster, but they're quickly destroyed and vastly overpowered by everything else. And then we get to the really bad section. And that's just one more insane thing about this disc: it's organized into different parts, but they apparently start with "Part II." Naturally, I don't have any of the real packaging, but what I do have makes no sense at all, and I can't even figure out what songs go with what titles. Not that I'd fucking want to, though. To say that I'm disappointed is an extreme understatement. Euronymous must be preparing a very special place in Hell for these pretenders. Hopefully they'll be arriving soon. - 1.25 - <Ray>

MAYHEM - Mediolanum Capta Est · Dwell / Avantgarde
This was recorded live in Italy, in November 1998, so other than the intro, it's before their conversion to Techno-gayness. I'd like to point out that Hellhammer's drumming is just as ultra-fast and exact live as it was on Wolf's Lair Abyss, which is reason enough for anyone to check this out if you ask me. God damn he's fast! As for the rest of the album, the sound is not bad, but certainly not great, with the instruments oddly seperated. But they do play most of what any old fan would want to hear, such as "Deathcrush," "Necrolust," "Chainsaw Gutsfuck," and of course "Pure Fucking Armageddon." It's tough for me to not think about Grand Declaration... and just dimiss this live album, too. But that would be a mistake. Plus it's pretty entertaining to hear Maniac talk in-between songs, and Attila even contributes guest screams on "From the Dark Past." Too bad they didn't stop with this release. - 8.75 - <Ray>

MAYHEM - U.S. Legions · Renegade
Recorded at several (unlisted) places around the world during 2000, and featuring songs from their entire career, this live CD is a lot easier to listen to than Grand Declaration..., and they even play "Chainsaw Gutsfuck" and "Pure Fucking Armageddon." It's almost worth the price just to hear Hellhammer beat the drums as fast and precisely as he does. Maniac's between song comments are often entertaining, as well, but not usually for the right reasons. You'd think he might try to sound more "evil" or something, but that's just not the case at all. Still, his vocals are suitably sick, and tha'ts the really important part. There's a funny bit before the last live song, where some dickweed who must work for whatever venue they were playing, gets on the mic and tries to lead the crowd in a "MAYHEM! MAYHEM" chant to bring them back out for the encore, but he sounds completely uninterested, and I'm not sure the crowd responded at all. The band returns anyway, to play "Necrolust." After that, we've got five "preproduction" studio versions of songs from Grand Declaration of War, which remove some of the Electronic/Industrial lameness, but are still a far cry from really being any good. I am glad to see that at least the band, or someone, realized that MAYHEM should not be MARILYN MANSON. Maybe this means that their next studio album won't suck ass. We will see. - 7.75 - <Ray>

MAZE OF TORMENT - Faster Disaster · Iron Fist
Damn! It’s that "Sunlight sound." It’s just hard to say no to the Sunlight studio guitar sound. It’s sort of like smoking pot… it makes everything sound a little cooler than it might actually be. The songs certainly move right along with no chance to be boring. These guys aren’t half bad, with a few real good riffs. Quick raspy and raw yelled vocals mostly, that don’t get old, but just don’t reach the power the songs convey. But I’ve got to wonder about any bands who get their name from song titles of other higher profile Death Metal bands. - 7.5 - <Bob> **MC12**

MD FLUSH - Mr. Scornful · DEMO (CD)
Reviewing stuff like this is difficult for me. MD FLUSH seem to combine some aspects of older Metal bands with what is known as Hard Alternative. They have a fairly unique sound, a lot of energy, and are talented musicians, but I find it to be grating on my nerves as I type this - especially the irritating vocals. - 6 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEAT SHITS - Bowel Rot · DEMO
Noisecore, Blurrcore: MEAT SHITS. These guys (and girl) are perverted as you can get. The songs (if you would dare to use that term) are just little bits of Death noise with some funny lines from various movies (porno and regular) thrown in for fun. This tape contains 134 "songs". They are mostly the same, with only the soundbites having any difference. MEAT SHITS suck, there has never been any doubt, but I like it. What can I say? Favorite titles include: "Fuck Off Cunt," "Use Three Fingers," "Elvis Danzig" and "Satan’s Buttplug." This is supposed to be funny, so sit back and have a good laugh on the SHITS. - 8 - <Ray>
{After releasing numerous demos and 7" EPs, the MEAT SHITS finally recorded a full-length album for Moribund Records, entitled Ecstasy of Death. At least two more albums of new material, and an album’s worth of cover songs were recorded after Ecstasy...’s release, but thanks to some problems with ‘SHITS main man Robert Deathrage, that material has (at the time of this writing) never been released. Mr. Deathrage has also disappeared from the Underground...} **MC4**

MEAT SHITS - Ecstasy of Death · Moribund
Robert Deathrage has really outdone himself with this release. It's the most complex, and heaviest thing I've heard from the MEAT SHITS. Also the most memorable, and I think the best. Of course all the gore and porn are still very much present, but this is a new level of sickness, beyond and above what has come (uhh, I mean "cum") before. This is really a work of art, and encompasses the entire spectrum of Death from Industrial, to Grind. And the packaging expertly combines, you guessed it, porn and gore, with emphasis on porn. You'll fucking puke up a lung, pal. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MEAT SHITS - Bowel Rot 7" · Champagne
134 pornographic Grind/Noise spasms crammed onto two 7"s. I reviewed this once before, but in it's demo form. The sound has been improved and, of course, it's on vinyl for the first time now. Somehow, MEAT SHITS and the 7" format seem to just go together. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS - Homosexual Slaughter 7" · Psychomania
More samples, more Noisy Death/Grind blasts, but somewhat refined into "only" 14 compositions this time. The tempo is more varied with this release, and there is more variety in the music. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS - Mindfuck Delirium 7" · Blurred
Only 18 songs this time, from the master of Porno Grind, Robert Deathrage, and his MEAT SHITS. This is a little more in the Death Metal vein than some other M.S. releases, but of course, the songs are still very short. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS / BUTT AUGER - Split 7" · Morbid Granny / Auger
BUTT AUGER manage to out do the legendary MEAT SHITS and pack 54 tracks on their side of this 7", as opposed to the SHITS' meager offering of 49. As you'd imagine, this is total Grind/Noise meltdown. Favorite song titles: BUTT AUGER's "Cacodemon Up My Ass," and the MEAT SHITS' "Lying Fucking Bitch (Time to Die)." - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS / CATATONIC EXISTENCE - Split · Morbid Granny
California's Brown Metal band, the MEAT SHITS, have improved drastically since 1993's 44 track embarrassment, Ecstasy of Death. The songs are longer. The riffs (yes, there are actual riffs) are heavier, as well as the vocals. The multitude of samples are of course still evident, and always a nice touch in my book (or in Ray's). CATATONIC EXISTENCE play a style similar to the MEAT SHITS, except it is much slower, the riffs are barely as heavy, and the vocals are truly pathetic. They obviously are also a band who digs samples because they eat up more than half their material. However, the samples are the coolest aspect of their music. - 8.5 - <Jack> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS / NECROPHILIACS - Split 7" · Morbid Granny
A mere nine songs for the mighty MEAT SHITS, which show a more clear sound, but still retain their classic samples and Blast speed. NECROPHILIACS deliver 3 live songs of German Hardcore, sometimes approaching the style of E.N.T., but are not exactly inspirational. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEAT SHITS - The Second Degree of Torture · Revenge
While this sounds as if it might have been recorded at the same time as the Vicious Act... album, since it exactly duplicates it's excellent production, it is in some ways a throwback to the days of shorter, faster songs. And while there are "only" 38 tracks on this, the majority of them are concise blasts of lust or hate. I find myself liking the newer "Brown Metal" style of somewhat longer, more complex songs better, but perhaps that's why these two albums have come out so close to each other - then all fans of the MEAT SHITS will be pleased, and all their detractors will have plenty to bitch about. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEAT SHITS - Vicious Act of Machismo · Revenge
Even though the first track is noted as being the "Woman-Hater-Dub-Mix" of "Tenebrae," I was completely unprepared for the synths and Dance beat. Stunned, I lasted through the song, which blended the aforementioned synth/Dance style with the SHITS' patented Brown Metal, and was equally stunned to discover the next song (the "Argento-Dub-Mix" of the first track) had the same blend of Dance and Brown Metal. The third song, "Violence Against Feminist Cunts," saw things get back to what passes for normal around Modesto, although the synths were still present and continued to linger around the edges of this album until the end. Robert has really perfected the new direction of the MEAT SHITS with these (mostly) longer songs - only 26 on this release! This self-proclaimed Brown Metal is super heavy, for once contains a wide range of tempos, has become memorable (seriously), and Robert Deathrage has emerged as not only a first-rate vocalist (in the proud Death Metal tradition), but also an excellent producer. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEAT SHITS - Violence Against Feminist Cunts · Moribund
What can I say about the MEAT SHITS? They're rude, raunchy, sexist, hate-filled, anti-homosexual, demented misogynists, but most importantly, they're funny! They're funny and they piss off the politically correct. This album (which is really the Vicious Act of Machismo, Tenebrae, and She was Asking for It recordings compiled) is like all their albums, 20-30+ songs, about 1,000 samples, delightfully deranged artwork and layout, growled vocals spewing obscenities, fast to mid-paced Grind, and even some keyboard meandering. All in all, one of the coolest "must be 21" novelty listens you'll find out there. - 8.75 - <Jack>

MEAT SHITS - Fuck Frenzy + Bonus · Moribund
At long last Moribund has reissued this album (with six bonus tracks), originally released on Wild Rags in 1992. For those unfamiliar with the SHITS, they play a raw form of anti-PC porno Grind, that earlier in the band's career bordered on Noise. This disc starts out slower, heavier, and much more musically oriented than before. At least for most of what was originally the A-side ("Side Fuck") of the original cassette version. But even the shorter stuff, more in the vein of early MEAT SHITS, still retains the newly enhanced heaviness. And then we have the omnipresent samples, which range from funny/cool porn noises and dialogue, to a few horror movie soundbites. The bonus tracks are a nice addition, as well. I'm glad that this finally got released on CD! - 8.5 - <Ray>

MEAT SHITS - Gorenography · Moribund
Another "lost" MEAT SHITS album is finally reissued! Recorded in 1992-93, between Fuck Frenzy and Ecstasy of Death, this slab of porn Grind sees the SHITS coming up with somewhat longer songs, but isn't as super-heavy as Fuck Frenzy, and more similar to the band's early work. As with the other MS reissues, it's great to see this finally available on CD, and the packaging is suitably depraved, too - even featuring the cover art from a couple of 7-inches. But no song titles, which is a shame, since they're always entertaining. - 8.25 - <Ray>

MEAT SHITS - Sniper at the Fag Parade · Moribund
Also known as The Second Degree of Torture, this lost classic (recorded in 1994-'96), starting with a sample from the infamous movie Bloodsucking Freaks, is perhaps the best thing Robert Deathrage (who, of course is the MEAT SHITS) has released so far, thanks to his band for this recording, INFESTER. But it's not just musically that this is superior. The samples are more integrated into the music, the production is just raw enough to be powerful, and even the vocals are the best I've heard from the #1 fag-killer. Will these Moribund reissues be it for the MEAT SHITS, or will we ever hear a new album? - 9 - <Ray>

MEATHOOK SEED - Embedded · Earache
This band features Mitch from NAPALM DEATH, and Trevor & Don from OBITUARY. The strange part is that MS really don't sound like either of the aforementioned bands. Trevor's vocals range from a near-Hardcore yell to Death-style, to electronically distorted. Musically just as diverse as the vocals, this covers all the bases from Death to the fairly Ambient, almost 14 minute, final track, "Sea of Tranquility." (sorry, Pete, they spell it with only one "L"). - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

THE MEATMEN - Evil in a League With Satan EP · Go Kart
It’s close to impossible to beat the mighty Dutch Hercules, Tesco Vee, and his MEATMEN, but when they start a CD with a VENOM cover, you know it’s one for the vaults. They go on to deliver such soon-to-be-classics as "Shut Up and Suck" and "Strap On" (with some help from BUTT TRUMPET’s Bianca Butthole), as well as their anthem "We’re the MEATMEN and you Suck," plus some other Porn Punk treasures. As if that weren’t enough, this CD-ROM has a bunch of live video footage, all the MEATMEN info you can stand, and a "game" where Tesco gets to smack Jesus around. How can you pass up such coolness? - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

MEATWAGON - Pretty in Pink · Red Eye
This appears to be a Punk band, and sometimes they're truly great. Just not all the time. "Voice of Help" is excellent, but not everything lives up to this intensity level. It's pretty close, though. The thick sound also adds a bit, but it's an odd sound for a Punk band, although I do really like it. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MEATWAGON - Left With Nothing · DEMO (CD)
Fast, intense Thrash with gruff vocals. The music, although very well-played, and lyrics can be too repetitious sometimes, but overall I think the band has done a commendable job. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

MECHANIX - Mindfucked · Earth A.D.
True to the description on the promo flyer, MECHANIX plays mid-80s style Speed Metal. More specifically, they replicate the sound of Peace Sells… era MEGADETH with uncanny accuracy, from the soaring solos to the crunchy guitar sound to Mustaine-like growls and wails. All that’s missing is a picture of Vic Rattlehead on the cover. That having been said, MECHANIX is talented enough to make this dated style of music seem vital. Actually, the credit should go to Wolf Reinish, singer, song writer, co-producer, and player of nearly all the guitar work on this disc. His passion for 80’s Speed Metal is what makes this disc. - 7.75 - <Doktor Necrosis> **MC12**

MEDICINE - Medicine · Def American
The repetition of Industrial with little of the power. And melodic vocals. Everything sounds like it was processed through distortion. The guitars are extremely fuzzy. This is truly a weird sound. And original. I'll give 'em that. It's original as hell, but it sounds like background music. It's not really too poopy, just kinda bland. The fuzziness really gets to ya after awhile, and I can imagine people (Alternative people, dressed all in black Ð that's my kinda woman!) dancing to this. That should be a clue for ya. Psudo-Dancy (sorta) Industrial for beginners. However it does have its moments, such as "A Short Happy Life." - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

MEDICINE - The Buried Life · American
As with their last album, this is sorta danceable Industrial. Musically still somewhat experimental, and lyrically, form what I can tell, improved. Not extremely powerful, but an obvious improvement. Favorite song: "I Hear." - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

MEDIEVAL DEMON - Demonolatria · Unisound
The idea of combining new-wave Black Metal’s raw speed and aggression with sorrowful, suicidal, even "Gothic," Doom passages and haunting keyboards seems like it would be a disastrous mismatch. But there are quite a few bands adept at making that very fusing of styles and tempos work. MEDIEVAL DEMON do a fine job, although they don’t normally combine the styles so much as juxtapose them. Still, this is an entertaining listen. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

MEDULLA NOCTE - Dying from the Inside · Copro Records
Rough and rowdy Hardcore/Metal from England. I'm probably not the right person to review this because I've never been into Hardcore. I simply can't handle that "shouted" vocal-delivery. But musically the intensity of this group rivals that of a Thrash or Death Metal band. There are some PANTERA-like "moshy" parts here and there that I could do without but, when these guys break out the speed, they lay down some seriously aggressive riffs! We're talkin' SLAYER-influenced shredding! A top-notch production really boosts this effort as well. Not bad, not bad at all. - 7.75 - <Painkiller>

MEDUSA OBLONGADA - Medusa Oblongada · DEMO
I think these 2 tracks were recorded after their album on Megalithic. If that's the case, I'm now somewhat excited about hearing their next album, as the first of these songs, "Ventilator," is a pretty Thrashy affair. However, the other track, "Hopeless," sounds more like NIN with some extra guitars, which I guess isn't as bad as it could have been. They still use the hated distorted vocals, but the Thrash element has been stepped up, and the recombined M.O. sound is improving. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEDUSA OBLONGADA - Medusa Oblongada · Megalithic
Rising from the ashes of VIOGRESSION, I did not expect this band to sound this Industrial. Right down to the distorted vocals, which I hate. Musically, this is occasionally fuckin' amazing, but mostly only pretty good. They fall into the Industrial trap of repeating everything until it makes me hate it. Chanting the song title 8 times in a row, in an electronically distorted voice, is always a bad god damn idea! These guys have more than enough talent, but seem fixated on not using it very often. That's a real waste. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEDUSSA - Convulsions · DEMO
First of all, the word "motherfuckers," as I have made clear, does not contain the symbol "*" you pussies. If you're going to print a word, print the motherfucker as is. Well, anyway, after that disappointing start (made confusing when I discovered the word "fuck" in all its uncensored glory, elsewhere on the J-card), when I actually listened to the tape, I was pleasantly surprised. MEDUSSA plays a speedy type of Thrash, with just a hint of Death, and the bass is mixed sorta loud, which I always like. This is pretty cool, but I have some questions: Why do people have to write again after getting the demo to get the lyrics!? That's stupid. And who decided to put "bonus tracks" on a demo? Is there another format without these "bonus tracks"? That's stupid, too. These guys need help with things non-musical, I guess. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

MEGADETH - Rust in Peace · Capitol
MEGADETH has risen from the dead, and has gained two new members along the way: Nick Menza (drums) and Marty Friedman (guitars). The addition of such a well known guitarist is surprising. I wonder if Dave (Mustaine) will be able to handle this arrangement for long. Remember that this is the third time that a new guitarist and a new drummer have been added. The two new members have not changed the sound of MEGADETH very much and neither has received any writing credit on this album. The songs are all performed very well. This is a very tight LP. Sometimes the lyrics are sort of weak, but that shouldn’t really ruin it for you. Although in one song, "Lucretia," the backing vocals are unnecessary and bothering. I feel that the best song on Rust in Peace is "Tornado of Souls," which was co-written by David Ellefson. Perhaps Dave (Mustaine) will let Marty and Nick help with the writing next time. This LP is actually a solid effort, but it could be that it’s just a little too late, and after such a long absence I expected a bit more. - 8.25 - <Ray>
{I’m sure everyone knows what happened to these guys. They’ve finally gotten some success, but seem destined to forever live in the shadow of METALLICA. Which is too bad, since as terrible as they are now, MEGADETH are currently far better than their ancient rivals.} **MC3**

MELANCHOLY PESSIMISM - Recompense to Saints · Metal Age/Taga
Fairly straightforward, but very energetic Death Metal. And they have come up with some catchy songs, too. Nothing amazing to be found on this release, but absolutely nothing wrong either. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

MELECHESH - As Jerusalem Burns · DEMO
As strange as it sounds, this Black Metal band is from the holy land of Israel. The production on this demo isn't too great, but it's good enough to reveal the dark hearts of these five songs. Both musically and to some extent even vocally, I am reminded of early ROTTING CHRIST, with the fuzzy guitars somewhat de-emphasized in favor of keyboards. This style is very unlike the popular super fast attack of, say, IMMORTAL, even though MELECHESH's drummer, Lord Curse, occasionally plays at impressive speeds, and I think this helps to create a sense of individual identity for these goat-fuckers. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

MELECHESH - The Siege of Lachish · label unknown
The sound on the advance tape I was sent is a clear improvement over that of their As Jerusalem Burns demo (see the review in this issue), and the keyboards have been turned down in favor of bass-heavy guitar tones. The riffs are still in more or less the same style as ROTTING CHRIST or VARATHRON (which is just fine with me), but there is also a lot of Eastern influence in the guitar work. The sound is almost mystical at times. MELECHESH have developed a more individual sound, and thus proven themselves to be a world-class band. I'm anxiously awaiting their next release. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MELECHESH - Djinn · Osmose
Many of you like myself may have read some of the coverage on this and wondered, "what the fuck is a Mediterranean drumbeat?" Or "what is an Assyrian melody?" Well, I'm on my third listen and I still couldn't tell you. I can say as a fan of their cult Black Metal debut, As Jerusalem Burns, that musically they have not changed much, other than drastically improved leads and the addition of Proscriptor (who apparently has been playing "Mediterranean drumbeats" all his life as his trademark erratic snare-snapping gives the percussive end of this LP a real ABSU feel). The production is most notably better, allowing all these elements to shine, and shine they do as the (un)Holy Land natives continue to write Black Metal that remains refreshing. - 9.25 - <Jack>

MELECHESH - Sphynx · Osmose / The End
This not only has a CD-ROM video clip for "Genesis, Sorcerers and Mesopotamian Nights" (which is from the band’s last album, Djinn) plus other multimedia goodies, but also a US-only bonus track, even if it is just their cover of "Babylon Fell," which is available elsewhere. I don’t usually like it when CDs have regional bonus tracks, but I guess as long as we’re not left out for once, I shouldn’t complain. As always, MELECHESH impress with their unique Black Metal, which flawlessly incorporates bits of many other styles. As I listen to this album, I am barraged with thoughts like "Hey! That was cool!" and, "Oh man, you never hear anyone do that - awesome!" They’re always just little things, like the kind of stuff that Mercyful Fate/King Diamond used to do that you didn’t even notice for the first 9 listens, and then once you did you just sat in awe. Maybe I just have King Diamond on the mind, since this was recorded in Andy LaRocque’s Los Angered studio, but it really is a highly layered, detailed album, that is somehow both a "first listen" experience and also one that takes several spins to really get into. In other words, it’s amazing. - 9.5 - <Ray>

MELENCOLIA ESTATICA - s/t · Aeternitas Tenebrarum Music Foundation
Whenever old KATATONIA is mentioned as an influence or comparison, you have my full attention. But its a double-edged sword, really. Sure I take extra notice, but you’d better live up to the lofty expectations, and MELENCOLIA ESTATICA does not. The truth is, they sound nothing like old KATATONIA. They play a fast and frenzied Black Metal, with aeon-long songs drenched in oddities. There are a few morose melodies, but nothing that can take the breath away like the godz used to, and still can. - 7.25 - <Jack>

MELIAH RAGE - Death Valley Dream · Backstreet
I never really ever gave a shit about these third-string Thrashers, but as of this album I at least respect them. In a time when even supposed die-hards are bending over and getting it up the ass in an attempt to court the Alternative market, MELIAH RAGE has done very little to alter their style. Speaking of style, imagine something along the lines of Practice What You Preach era TESTAMENT, but perhaps a bit heavier. So, this isn't really a great album (although it's certainly got its moments, such as the excellent, unlisted, demo recording of "Scarred"), but I upped their rating a little for being men enough to hold their ground. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MELISSA - In Mourning · MetalAgen
The precision and technical ability of this band reminds me somewhat of PESTILENCE's Testimony. album, although the vocals are for the most part more raw. This is the kind of band that Metal Blade should be signing. 'Nuff said. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEMENTO MORI - Life, Death and Other Morbid Tales · Black Mark
Messiah has returned again, with maybe the heaviest album on which he's ever sang. This is just a monster - it's way beyond their first album and is up there with the best CANDLEMASS stuff, I think. I even like the "secret" last track. Only a very few guys can sing like Messiah and have it sound convincing. This is inspirational to say the least. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MEMENTO MORI - La Danse Macabre · Black Mark
After the loss of the ever-amazing vocalist Messiah Marcolin, and drummer Snowy Shaw, I wasn't really expecting this band to continue. Messiah is such a powerful presence that it's easy to overlook the fact that guitarist Mike Wead writes virtually all the music and lyrics, and so is the real heart of the band. Well, this is made very clear upon the first listen to La Danse Macabre. They have not toned down their intricate Doomy style at all. This is at least as powerful as their two previous albums, although not as consistently heavy as Life, Death and., but even though their new singer, Kristian, does an excellent job, I miss the commanding presence of Messiah. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEMORIAL - Enter My Megaron · Baphomet Records
The first wave of '90s Black Metal exploded onto the scene like an all-out nuclear assault. The music was raw, cold, grim, and brimming with contempt for life. Bands like DARKTHRONE and IMMORTAL unleashed brutal anthems of hatred born of the very fires of Hell. True Black Metal had begun its unholy reign on Earth. As time passed, countless clones begin to spring up hoping to capture the essence of the pioneers of these demonic sounds. Black Metal began to mutate as well. New elements were incorporated into the style such as gothic and/or female vocals, and heavy usage of keyboards in an attempt to create eerie atmospheres and more complex song structures. The mutations continued to the point that Black Metal seemed to have strayed from its original vision. For the most part Black Metal had become "commercialized," and more emphasis was now being placed on image and money-making ability than on the music itself.
MEMORIAL's debut Enter My Megaron has almost single-handedly restored my faith in a scene which has seemingly lost its vision and integrity. As soon as I hit the "play" button I felt like I had been transported back in time to the early '90s. The icy venom spilling from my speakers was nothing but pure and true Black Metal! MEMORIAL has brought back the blood-freezing melodies, the raw and primitive sound, the minimalistic song structures, and an ample supply of seething hatred. All of which are so genuine that you would think this album was actually released nearly a decade ago! There are seven unique tracks on this masterpiece which are so memorable and so enjoyable that I have had trouble removing the disc from my CD player! Two of the seven tracks are instrumentals composed by guitarist Alco DeGroot. He wrote them in tribute to recently lost loved-ones. For me, this aspect gave the instrumentals even greater beauty while at the same time creating a deep underlying sadness. This is one of the many reasons I feel that the sincerity of MEMORIAL's music is simply unquestionable. If you have become disenchanted with the Black Metal scene of today, you need to hear Enter My Megaron! Welcome to the rebirth of true Black Metal. - 9.75 - <Painkiller>

MEMORY GARDEN - Tides · Heathendoom
I cannot help but to be reminded of CANDLEMASS and sometimes of SOLITUDE AETURNUS. Stefan even sings like Messiah, which is quite an accomplishment, if you ask me. Seek this out. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

MEMORY GARDEN - Mirage · Metal Blade
CANDLEMASS worship. Still, it's nicely done as far as clones are concerned. I had hoped that this band would have developed a little more identity by now, but at least they are generally good at what they do, and I can think of worse bands to imitate. - 8 - <Ray>

MEN OF PORN - Porn American Style · Man's Ruin
Slow, crushing drones grinding down your spirit into dust - sometimes. MEN OF PORN can musically resemble THE MELVINS' more ominous moments, which is quite a compliment. However, they just don't always choose to do that. The less crushing moments, are, well, not as good. And then there are the vocals, which, like UNSANE, are all too often distorted. Regular readers will know that I'm not a fan of distorted vocals, and so that kind of keeps this from being as great as it would be otherwise. My review copy didn't come with lyrics, but from what I can make out, they're pretty cool. When they're "on," these MEN are unstoppable, but on this album at least, they're "off" just as often. - 7.5 - <Ray>

MENHIR - Die Ewigen Steine · Ars Metalli
This band have very successfully combined Black Metal and Doom, by using melancholy riffs & truly interweaving the keyboards. Also the vocals are often sung "clean," but when they’re raw, it’s in a decidedly Black Metal screechy way. The mostly German lyrics make it difficult to really grasp what’s going on, but I’m sure they’re up to no good. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

MENSCLUB - Comin' to Take You Away · Bar/None
When there are no vocals this is only mildly annoying, highly repetitive Rock, I guess. There are some slight Punk influences (like the annoying snot-nosed vocals), and also a little Country. It's a fucking pathetic nightmare. - 2 - <Ray> **MC10**

MENTAL DISTURBANCE - Mental Disturbance · DEMO
This is one of the best 4-track recordings I’ve ever heard. And one of the better one-man-bands, too. Todd keeps things interesting throughout these six songs with his intense, well played Thrash, and yet never sings. This is all instrumental, except for an eerie spoken bit in one song, "Suffocation." For the last cut, Todd slows things down to a haunting drone, and leaves me wondering how long I’ll have to wait before hearing more. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

MENTAL HIPPY BLOOD - Pounds · Metal Blade
Arrrruuuuugggghhhh!!!!!!!! Why hast thou forsaken us, Metal Blade? This is crap! It sounds as if this band were fed a diet of MTV's Alternative Nation for a full year, and then they recorded these songs, which Babyface wrote for them. - 1.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MENTAL HOME - Mirrorland · MetalAgen
MENTAL HOME are a tough band to describe. Their unique style combines some Death and Black Metal with a healthy dose of Doom to create a bleak atmosphere of dark hopelessness. Also worthy of note are the vocals, which are a sort of mournful dirge, thus matching the music without using growly Death, or screechy Black Metal, vocals. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

MENTAL HOME - Vale · The End
Mournful dirges of melancholy Doom, interlaced with faster bursts of Death, and nightmarish Black Metal wails. Hopefully this masterpiece is the start of a Russian Metal invasion. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

MENTAL HOME - Black Art · The End
The production is more in the Black Metal realm, but the depressing riffs and solos are total Doom, and extremely well done. With every album they release, I’m more and more impressed with MENTAL HOME. This time they have even included a CD-ROM video track for one of the songs. This is a must buy situation, if you will. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

MENTAL HOME - Upon the Shores of Inner Seas · The End / Century Media
Someone has been listening to VOIVOD's Nothingface. The music, the vocals, even the sound... Is this is the "Progressive Metal" masterpiece that VOIVOD should have made instead of Angel Rat? Maybe, but that's another story, probably long forgotten anyway. Not precisely original, but flawlessly written and played Upon the Shores... is what some would call a "progression" for MENTAL HOME, but it's really a shift in style that is so well done and fully realized that I'm hard pressed to find any fault at all. Small refinements, plus (me) being more comfortable with their altered musical direction, might well see MENTAL HOME get the elusive perfect rating with their next release. - 9 - <Ray>

MENTALITY - Promo 97 · DEMO
Very brutal, ultra-intense Death Grind. There are keyboards, too, but they’re more for weirdness than for atmosphere. Great production and seriously raw vocals. These tracks are part of a full length recording that was done that will hopefully be released on CD by some smart label. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

MEPHISTO - s/t · demo
Symphonic Black Metal resembling early MOONSPELL. The thin production holds it back a little, but it’s not too large a detraction. Very capable musicians with some good ideas. With time and money they could potentially do great things. - 7.75 - <Jack>
Calle Gral Nunez Edif 3 · Apto 42 · Autilla, Holguiu · CP82400 · CUBA

MERAUDER - Master Killer · Century Media
There's nothing really all that wrong with this band, or their idea of a Hardcore/Metal crossover, but it just leaves me utterly nonplused. If you want something like this, then SICK OF IT ALL is better, and D.R.I. way better yet. If you want the truest Hardcore, I suggest anything on Victory Records. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MERCURY TIDE - Why? · Century Media
I was expecting to hear dated Power-Ass, but this isn't even that cool. This is sappy, weak Alternative Rock with faint echoes of only the weakest IRON MAIDEN material. Remember when all the good old Thrash bands started writing wimpy ballads (not coincidentally towards the end of their careers)? This album resurrects the collective pussiness of those ballads, adding a heavier, more modern edge. Aging Metal hippies and random Butt Rock enthusiasts (aka: dorks) will probably try to convince you that this is an epic, emotional masterpiece, but I'm telling you straight up, this is fucking open mic night. - 1 - <Jack>

MERCYFUL FATE - In the Shadows · Metal Blade
This is so great that not even Lars Ulrich playing drums on a newly recorded version of "Return of the Vampire" could ruin it. Unless the first "Metal" album you heard was PANTERA's latest piece of shit, you should already own this. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

MERCYFUL FATE - The Bell Witch EP · Metal Blade
This has live versions of "Come to the Sabbath," "Black Funeral," "Egypt," and "Curse of the Pharaohs." If you need any further information, you're beyond my ability to help. I, however, will go so far as to say that the two studio tracks taken from In the Shadows should have been other live tracks, since we all already have that album, and so we have those tracks. I guess I'm just really excited about the idea of any more MERCYFUL FATE live tracks. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MERCYFUL FATE - Time · Metal Blade
This isn't quite the masterpiece I was expecting. Don't get me wrong, Time is beyond what most other bands can do, but for the FATE, this isn't quite all there. I know there'll never be another Melissa, but I was sort of hoping for one. Oh, I don't really have to say much more about the grandfathers of Black Metal, do I? How could you really not already own this one? - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

MERCYFUL FATE - Into the Unknown · Metal Blade
This is a hard review to write. As I expected, Into the Unknown doesn't reach the heights attained by the flawless Melissa and Don't Break the Oath, but it does well against the band's next two releases, In the Shadows, and Time. And as on his new solo album, The Graveyard, King has taken a slightly more mid-ranged approach, although his vocals are more varied here, including some Death-like lowness on "Kutulu." There is quite a bit of amazing music on this album, but it's not as consistently stunning as I was expecting. Perhaps I expect too much from this seminal band, but they often live up to my expectations - just not always. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

MERCYFUL FATE - Dead Again · Metal Blade
Great title, but musically not as good as Into the Unknown. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

MERCYFUL FATE - 9 · Metal Blade
This is supposed to be a return to the style of the first two, all time classic, albums. But with only King and Hank still around from those days, I’m not sure how possible that could be. However, they have certainly delivered a great album, in any case. But while trying to concentrate on making this heavier than ever and a "return to greatness," they have also sort of made it a touch less memorable, and less perfect, and somehow King’s legendary vocals seem somewhat more restrained than usual. This did come in close to the deadline for this issue, though, so perhaps more time is simply needed to fully appreciate the apparently aptly titled 9. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

MERCYLESS - Abject Offerings · Restless
OK, first of all, this is not the MERCILESS from Sweden. These guys are from France. Ever hear of the band DEATH? Yes? Good. Imagine a heavier version of that band. Got it? That's MERCYLESS. They've got a similar style to DEATH/ PESTILENCE/ ATROCITY and similar vox. Real similar. But that's cool, they have their differences too. Like they are just not as fucking god as ATROCITY nor are they as as technical as PESTILENCE. However they are heavier. All in all, a good, even memorable, album. Actually approaching great. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC7**

MERCYLESS - Colored Funeral · Century Media
MERCYLESS have obviously tried really hard to forge their own identity, and this release proves that they have succeeded. Heavier, and more original than their debut, this should go pretty far towards establishing them as a unique Death team. Favorite track: "Beyond God." - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

MESHUGGAH - Destroy Erase Improve · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
Relapse is pushing the fuck out of these guys. It's a waste of money, if you ask me. Their brand of "Power Metal" is honestly nothing more than an admittedly higher octane PANTERA copy, which makes sense, since they copied METALLICA on their first album oh so long ago. These guys are strictly followers. But it is true that they are fifty times better than PANTERA. - 5.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MESHUGGAH - None EP · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
PANTERA worshippers. When will this horror end? - 5 - <Ray> **MC9**

MESHUGGAH - Chaosphere · Nuclear Blast
This seems somewhat less influenced by current trends than they have been in the past, but it’s a real chore to listen to, as it is extremely irritating. The vocal patterns have little or nothing to do with the riffs and drums, which doesn’t exactly make for a memorable album. These dudes can certainly play their instruments, but all these Industrial start-stop riffs are just shit! And apparently that’s the only kind of riffs they know how to write. They really need to stop trying so hard to show off and come up with a few songs. - 4 - <Ray> **MC12**

MESHUGGAH - Rare Trax · Nuclear Blast
Always a trend-following band, from the METALLICA-inspired debut to their PANTERA-worship era, to their more recent mutations on the "Nu-Metal" theme, MESHUGGAH has ever been uninteresting. The first track here is apparently a new one, and is a not-horrible Industrial Metal hybrid, complete with drum machine precision. It's been over 30 seconds, and I've already forgotten it completely, so I guess that makes it their best song ever. The next few cuts are from the band's first EP, Psykisk Testbild, from '89, and they sound like I recorded them on my Yamaha 4-track, although they really aren't terrible, as far as half-assed Bay Area Thrash is concerned. Also easily forgettable, though. Finally we're through with that stuff, and get to some other demo recordings, remixes and video tracks (which I didn't bother to watch). They're all crappy for various reasons. If you like MESHIGGAH, you probably got this when it came out (and probably feel ripped off). Otherwise, you're going to want to stay away. - 4 - <Ray>

MESHUGGAH - Catch Thirty Three · Nuclear Blast
I have never or will never understand what anybody sees in this band. From their earliest incarnations of a poor man's METALLICA, to their recent, seemingly global domination, I just don't hear the magic. Sure, they're talented as fuck. This guitarist has somewhat invented a style of playing all his own. But I have always despised the vocals, and I find their synthetic, robotic approach to Extreme Metal as sterile as it is boring. This album plays like one long song, and while they're the 33rd band to do this in the last few years, you know with their Billboard notoriety and legions of glossy mag supporters (these guys get glowing reviews in everything from People to fucking Field & Stream), they'll be revered as the sole creators of such a novel idea. It's chalked full of bends, hammering, harmonics, and whatever the fuck polyrhythms are, but by the end of the album, all I'm left with is the resonating question in my mind. Why does everyone like this? When A LIFE ONCE LOST put out A Great Artist last year, everyone said it was nothing but a shameful, complete MESHUGGAH rip-off. Okay, fine, I hear the influence, but I'd just like to take this opportunity to say that I would rather listen to A LIFE ONCE LOST tune than the best material that this criminally overrated band have to offer. - 5 - <Jack>

MESMERIZE - Eyes of Life · DEMO
Complex Death of varying speeds, played, and written, well. I like it, and the songs are even sort of memorable. 'Nuff said. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

MESMERIZE - My Lovagain · DEMO
The music is energetic Thrash, but the vocals are a little less easy to define. Sometimes they are strangely processed and echoes, and that is terrible. The rest of the time their singer tries to actually sing, and thanks to the distorted, muddy, production it doesn't sound too good, either. And while I'm complaining about the vocals, they're way too loud, and occasionally overpower the music. Honestly I think that a better studio would fix nearly everything, so hopefully they'll use one next time. - 7 - <Ray> **MC10**

MESSE NOIR - Messe Noir · DEMO
After hearing the (long) intro ("God is dead! Hail Satan!"), and seeing the pentagrams on the J-card, the last thing I expected to hear was straightforward Death Metal. I must admit that there are some cool Cronos-like bass slides in the second song, "Heralds of Pestilence," but other than the lyrics that's as close to Black Metal as it gets. They're very capable players, but there is really not much that gives them an identity of their own. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

MESSE NOIR - The Throne of Ninninhagal