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Bands are listed alphabetically, with individuals listed by last name.

Review Archive: S

S.I.K. - Silicon Impregnated Krunch · DEMO
Excellent production. The heaviest guitar sound this side of CARNAGE. Awesome drums. Impressive songwriting. Good solos. The vocals, however, leave something to be desired. Chris just sorta "talks" the vox, it's almost like a Hardcore vocal, but with less emotion and power. This is really disappointing, because musically S.I.K. cannot be faulted in any way. The last song, "Love with a Porcupine," has silly lyrics as well as the weakest vocals on the tape. I hope Chris can improve his vocal style, it is all that holds them back from being one of the best bands in the world- signed or not. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC5**

S.O.D. - Live at Budokan · Megaforce
If I have to tell you who S.O.D. is, or anything about them, I must quote their singer, Billy Milano, and say, "Kill yourself now." All the songs sound great live: heavier and still as brutal as when they were written. The only compliant I have (other than the horrid fuck-up during "Douche Crew") is, even though they make it pretty cool, why cover NIRVANA's "Territorial Pissings"? Oh well. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC7**

S.O.D. - Bigger Than the Devil · Nuclear Blast
This is hardly the raw Hardcore/Metal/Crust of Speak English or Die, but I guess that was about 15 years ago. The production here is almost too slick, and nearly does the band a disservice, especially in the opening moments of the first song (the title track), wherein Billy and co. sound a bit too 90’s for me. That is, thankfully, corrected even before the song is over, though, and nearly every song has its own individual style/feeling. I guess the guys wanted to show that they can do it all, but it does sound a little odd when you listen through the whole album. In addition to all the new material, we’re treated to a rerecording of M.O.D.’s "Aren’t You Hungry," which sees the infamous "niggers" line changed in favor of something less controversial. That seems like a wimpy move to me, especially considering that Billy does in fact utter the "n" word at a later point on the album (in the song "Skool Bus"). And then there is the song "Kill the Assholes," which is apparently an old one that was just never before recorded. Check out the interview with Billy in this issue for more info. We’ve also got a couple more ballads, and they roast King Diamond, CELTIC FROST, and IRON MAIDEN. So, although not a classic like the venerable Speak English or Die, this is still a very enjoyable listen. Favorite song: "Celtic Frosted Flakes." - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

SPF1000 - Witch Hunt · Dark Future Music
A cheap MARILYN MANSON rip off so obviously crafted by closet Christians. The lyrics are a dead giveaway. These are the kind of immature things that sheltered Sunday School kids say when they talk shit about secular music they’ve never even heard. This music is the embodiment of youth group teens mocking Goth culture. How sad it is to become a parody of yourselves before who you are is even established. What’s even sadder is that the mainstream would most likely embrace this if given the chance. I can see the average Rob Zombie-loving cum stain totally digging this juvenile horseshit. Unfortunately for SPF1000, wastes of life like that do their music shopping at Wal-Mart, where I doubt you’ll be seeing Witch Hunt anytime soon. - 1 - <Jack>

SSD - Power · Taang!
This is a "best of" compilation from a band that played their last show in '85. So imagine the Hardcore scene back then. Actually, this is really energetic and it's all cool, but it sounds dated; 'cause it is dated. If you liked SSD then, this is a fucking must - it has all demo/ live/ session recordings. But if you weren't already a fan, I'm not sure this will convert you. But the more I listen to it the more I remember why Hardcore was king. And the more I like this album. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

SABBATIC FEAST - Reopen the Womb · DEMO (CD)
The sound is okay, but this mastered very low. Anyway, S.F. play simple Death Metal. They waste all their space in the CD layout (such as it is) and don’t bother to print the lyrics, but I’s guess that their lyrics are probably as straightforward as the music. Don’t get me wrong, though. I don’t mean that this disc isn’t good, just that it’s not great. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SABBATIC FEAST - Scaling the Vortex · L.T.F.B.
All-out bestial Death Grind with a few hints of atmosphere. This band has a supreme growler that commands attention and that is their greatest strength. The music could be more memorable, but I think this Louisiana quintet are more concerned with going in for the bare-handed kill and leaving no trace of the body. You have to respect that. Sick shit sick shit - still they get away with it. - 8.25 - <Jack>

THE SABIANS - Shiver · TMC
Weird. Apparently this band has two guys in it who used to be in SLEEP. You'd never know that from listening to this disc, since it is one of the least heavy things I've ever heard. Anyway, generally speaking, the mellowest stuff on here is the best, since the singer calms down and doesn't give me a headache as badly. And there are some good tracks, or at least parts of tracks, on here, such as most of "Sweet Misery," which made me go back and listen to this again, just to be sure that I really didn't like the rest of it, but it does kind of get better as the album progresses. - 6.75 - <Ray>

SACRAMENTAL SACHEM - Anxiety EP · Power
This was quite a pleasant surprise! SACRAMENTAL SACHEM meld melodic Thrash with traditional Heavy Metal. Anxiety packs a serious punch thanks to five dedicated musicians from The Netherlands. Singer Mark van Empel turns in an awesome performance with a Power Metal styled vocal, and his commanding presence is one of the strengths of this Dutch outfit. Of course, I always appreciate thought-provoking lyrics. I can only listen to "Satan Lives, god Sucks!" for so long before I start rolling my eyes and hitting the fast-forward button (please raise your hand if you're tired of lyrics that could easily have been penned by a nine-year old). These guys do a top-notch job of avoiding the typical lyrical clichés of this genre. The highlight of Anxiety is the incredible guitar sound. No guitar-noodling here. I'm talking about huge riffs that have a bone-crunching heaviness and a maniacal intensity! Listen up...this is good! - 8.25 - <Painkiller>

SACRAMENTARY ABOLISHMENT - The Destracting Stone · Catharsis
If I could just hear the guitars, this might stand a chance, but the mix destroys it. It’s totally overpowered by the constant-grind drums. That is until the vocals come in, and completely overpower even the drums. S.A. could have awesome riffs, but I wouldn’t know. I have a feeling that they’re ultra-simple speed picking patterns, though. Every now and then the drummer takes a one second blast-break, and things start to look up, and then... Yeah, you guessed it: Right back to a thousand beats per second. I’m surprised that they’d release this with such a weak guitar presence, but maybe they wanted it to be all drums and vocals. I sure hope not. And what the fuck is the story with the homoerotic screams in "Mist"? If that’s a trendy (and failed) attempt to be "retro," then these guys really are utterly clueless. Sometimes the vocals don’t even fit with the music at all, and are just screeched with no regard to the beat or riffs (and I use those terms lightly in this case). Oh boy, that sure does make these poseurs "evil." - 3 - <Ray> **MC12**

SACRAMENTUM - The Coming of Chaos · Century Black
The new wave Black Metal speed is there, but the production is thick, the vocals heavier, more like Cronos than Quorthon. SACRAMENTUM are maybe trying to combine the best of the old with the best of the new... Hmm, great idea. And it really works. Atmospheric, and yet able to pound the listener into the ground at the same time, and you’ll still think of these songs when you’re worm food. I’m impressed. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SACRAMENTUM - Thy Black Destiny · Century Media
Of course the excellent production of Andy LaRocque has helped this band, but their combination of Black Metal with Thrash and a little Death is what’s really impressive. As is their technical skill and their knowledge of when to use it, and when not to. Their last album, The Coming of Chaos, was nearly-impossible to top, and I’m not sure if I’d say that this has accomplished that mighty feat, but it’s at least as good. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SACRED REICH - The American Way · Enigma Records
The LP The American Way starts off weak with a song called "Love ...Hate." I do not know what they were thinking with this cut. They should have stayed with the mosh parts and cut the message. Song number two, the title track, is heavy but doesn’t reach out and grab me. I like (respect?) the song, but I do not like it enough to name an album after it. The singer should try to stay away from "really" singing. His grumble-growl is cool, why fuck with cool? I don’t know why they Rap, or what they were thinking with the final song, "31 Flavors." Just because they like such a wide variety of music, does not mean that anyone else has to, too. I can’t completely recommend The American Way, however the song "Who’s to Blame" is cool. It could be listed in my top 100 favorites. Overall I consider this album to be mediocre. A real change from the older stuff. This seems to happen often. I wonder why bands can’t see what "heavy changes and profound growth" will cause? Highlights include: "The American Way" and "Who’s to Blame." - <Lar>
{S.R. disbanded for a few years, but not too long ago, they got back together for an album (Heal) on Metal Blade. It was a very hit-and-miss affair, with some songs retaining their old identity, and others sort of treading on the currently trendy (so-called) Groove/Power Metal highway. Apparently they came mostly to their somewhat weed-dimmed senses, and removed the majority of the "new poseur" influences from their new stuff just in time to capture the improvements on a live album.} **MC2**

SACRED REICH - Heal · Metal Blade
I was glad to see that these guys had returned until I actually heard this LP. They have succumbed to the "dope worshipping tough guy" disease, and Heal is nothing more than a pathetic attempt to win over the extremely fickle, stoned fans of such talentless puppets as PANTERA. Infrequently, a little glimmer of the SACRED REICH of old shines through the shit (such as in the title track), but it's not nearly enough to redeem them. - 6.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SACRED REICH - Still Ignorant (1987-1997 Live) · Metal Blade
I’ve always been a fan of live albums, and even though I was disappointed with their last studio LP, Heal, when I saw that this opens with "The American Way," I once again had a little faith in these guys. This has plenty of older stuff on it (including their cover of "War Pigs"), and the material from Heal is a bit more palatable live, too. Let’s hope they’ve learned their lesson. If this is any indication, perhaps they have. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

SACRED SIN - Translucid Dream Mirror · Demolition
If these guys would just concentrate on trying to kick ass, this might be okay. But they have all kinds of pointless journeys into Hard Rock, '70s Retro Rock, what they might think is Black Metal, weird female voices... Fuck it, man. It's too much shit all rammed together with no cohesion, and I do not mean that in some kind of cool John Zorn way, either. If these guys stuck to ripping of just a couple of their favorite bands at once, like IN FLAMES and the lite-version of DIMMU BORGIR, I might be able to listen to this without having seizures. - 5 - <Ray>

SACRED STEEL - Reborn in Steel · Metal Blade
Listening to SACRED STEEL really takes me back. The lyrics & music are right out of the MANOWAR handbook, which is good news to me. Their singer is more in the Rob Halford style (by which I mean high pitched, not gay), which is also cool. I’m sure I mention this in probably every Metal Blade / Death Records review, but would it really kill the label to have more extensive booklets with their releases? Print the lyrics -I can’t be the only person to care about such things, can I? - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

SACRED STEEL - Bloodlust · Metal Blade
It gets harder and harder to review these Retro Metal bands. How many times can I say that they sound like HELLOWEEN or MANOWAR? Or in this case, kind of both at once. Maybe musically something from the Germanic proto-Thrash school of thought, and lyrically right out of Into Glory Ride, plus a ton of repetition. I think they say the title in "Stormhammer" about 256 times in the course of 4 minutes. And then there are the vocals, which I'd previously described (when reviewing Reborn in Steel) as being like Rob Halford, but really there isn't nearly as much depth as that, and vocally things end of being sort of monotonous. But these criticisms don't mean that SS aren't good at what they do. I'm not sure the music could really be much better, and the drummer gets a constant workout, but these vocals are kind of wearing on me... - 8.25 - <Ray>

SACRIFICE - Apocalypse Inside · Metal Blade
If you heard their last LP, Soldiers of Misfortune, then you have a good idea about what this album sounds like. They stick with the formula for the most part, although the coldly technical perfection of the playing sometimes redeems them. However, the lyrics to these songs are quite dunder-headed, particularly on the tunes "My Eyes See Red" and "Freedom Slave." This record will not reach those who remain unconverted, but if you already like these guys, then you'll enjoy this. - 8 - <Lar> **MC8**

SACRIFICIAL - Erect: Eloquent: Extinct · Mighty
This is really a lot more "modern" sounding than I'd expected. Staccato riffs, somewhat overdriven vocals... I suppose that it's not as terrible as that might make it sound, but despite a tremendous amount of energy, this is still pretty far from great, even for this questionable musical style. - 7 - <Ray>

SACRILEGE - Lost in the Beauty You Slay · Black Sun
Tell me if you've heard this one before: Melodic, technical, very memorable Death, with a touch of Black Metal. Yes, SACRILEGE sound a bit like DISSECTION, but this band manages to bring a little of their own personality to the style, and with this album have released an absolutely amazing debut. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

SACRILEGE - The Fifth Season · Black Sun
Another band from the DISSECTION school of Black Metal, SACRILEGE have really perfected their craft. The songs are extremely energetic, & just as memorable. The vox tortured and powerful, but I wonder if their singer, Daniel, can do this live, since he also plays drums. If so then they are all the more deserving of my praise. There is not even one less-than-excellent riff on this. I would have thought it to be a very difficult job to top Lost in the Beauty You Slay, but this does it. They will have to achieve utter perfection to top this masterpiece. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SACRILEGIUM - Sleeptime · Wild Rags / Pagan
After hearing the first track, I was worried that this was going to be a half-hour of minimalistic, tribal drums. As it turns out, it's 25 min of basic fast Black Metal. The vocals are very tormented, but musically it's a bit too by-the-numbers, although there are a few fiery moments. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

SACRIVERSUM - Soteria · Serenades
If you think that bands like PARADISE LOST have sold out by losing touch with their Death Metal roots, then SACRIVERSUM are your dreams come true. They combine Gothic Metal with female vocals, some Traditional Metal riffs, and Death/Doom Metal vocal growls and heaviness. The result is 40 minutes of near-perfect crushing sadness. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

SACRIVERSUM - Beckettia · Serenades
Extremely boring and unoriginal Goth Metal with alternating gruff male vocals and clean female vocals (some of the worst I've ever heard). Keyboards dominate the music rendering it utterly powerless. The songs are dull and predictable. Unless you're one of those people who has to have every Goth Metal release out there, you would do best to avoid this. SACRIVERSUM bring nothing new to the table whatsoever. Check please! - 1.25 - <Painkiller>

SACROSANCT - Recesses for the Depraved · 1MF
I'm surprised to say that this is not strictly a Death Metal band. SACROSANCT has a very Thrashy sound and feel. Michael's vocals are hard to describe, but I'll try: Thick. Not really too Thrashy sounding, and not at all Death. Sometimes it really works with the music (which is great!) and sometimes it utterly fails. It's something to work on, but I'm glad to hear this kind of attempt. Musically, I'm reminded a little of DARK ANGEL, although not as intense. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC7**

SAD ENTHEUS - Mournful Beauty · DEMO
The brand of ultra depressing Doom played by this extremely talented band is unique in that they concentrate on atmosphere and are apparently not very concerned with slow, heavy riffs. There are Death style vocals, but female vocals are nearly as frequent, and acoustic guitar, keyboards and cellos are used as much as slabs of distortion. And they experiment with different ways to achieve their dismal sound by as much varying their style as varying the instrumentation. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SADIST - Crust · Displeased
It’s been a while since I’ve listened to SADIST’s debut, Above the Light, and much to my dismay I never managed to track down their second opus. Crust is heavier and more harsh than I remember SADIST being. Their use of keyboards is very sophisticated, and unorthodox in a Metal context. They’re used to add hard textures to the sound, and almost never to "soften" the music with synth strings or the like. They’ve figured out how to use keyboards to make their Death onslaught more disturbing, and have lost almost none of their eerie atmosphere in doing so. This has obviously produced a uniquely modern Death sound. The only defect (and it’s tiny) in this nearly flawless album is that these sickos are all supreme experts at their instruments (Tommy supposedly plays guitar with one hand & keyboards with the other!), and they like to occasionally show off, which distracts me from trying to decipher what I think are pretty evil lyrics. Although my review copy didn’t come with a lyric sheet, hopefully the "real" version of this masterpiece does, so that everyone can sing along with such classics as "I Rape You." - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SADISTIC INTENT - Impending Doom · Wild Rags
A lot of people have told me they don't like this band. Well I'm glad I listened to SADISTIC INTENT for myself. This is a pounding, heavy, searing LP. The only real problem I have with this work is that "Existence" and the title track are a little too socially conscience for my taste. I like this one and I think you will too. Listen to them for yourself. - 7.75 - <Lar> **MC5**

SADISTIC TORMENT - Unearthly Horrors · Wild Rags
Pretty average Death Metal. Better production might help. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SADNESS - Danteferno · Godhead / Flying
This band combines their own unique style of Doom with bits of Black and Death Metal, and the result is usually pretty interesting. It can, however, get a bit plodding, such as in the first half of "Below the Shadows." So, while not the most consistently superb album, there is plenty on this disc that is worthy of notice. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

SADNESS - Evangelion · Mystic
Beneath the kick-ass bondage cover lies a strange album. This has two tracks from their Danteferno album remastered (which I suppose sound somewhat better now), and a demo track from 1990, along with four new cuts. Think along the lines of MOONSPELL or their sissified ilk, I guess. It’s okay, but this sort of thing doesn’t do much for me. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SADO MASSAKIST - Welcome to the Cult · DEMO
In virtually every way, this Death band is about as interesting as their alternate way of spelling "sadomasochist." I guess this isn't all that bad, really, but I don't think I need to elaborate further. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SADUS - Swallowed in Black · Roadrunner
Musically SADUS is gifted, these eleven songs are all powerful enough to kill at a range of several miles. The vocals are an added bonus. Darren (vocals/guitar) sounds somewhat like a younger, faster Chuck Billy (TESTAMENT) combined with a much rawer version of Russ Anderson (FORBIDDEN). The music is technical, very heavy and often fast. Swallowed in Black is one of the most impressive albums I’ve ever heard. I highly recommend this LP. ‘Nuff said! - 9.75 - <Ray>
{I was talked out of giving this album a 10, and after all these years, I’m still not sure if it deserved one or not. It’s certainly SADUS’ best release - but perfection? Time has not made that any more or less clear. But the good news is that the band is still around, and releasing albums. So maybe they’ll yet beat this one and land the solid 10.} **MC3**

SADUS - A Vision of Misery · R/C
Here is the third album from those speedsters, SADUS. It's really good and Steve delivers the awesome bass work again. I can really see SADUS going somewhere with their original Deathrash type of music. Darren has a unique voice, which is raspy but can be understood. All instruments are played well, and the songs are all great. Get this. - 9.5 - <Tom> **MC7**

SADUS - 1994 Demo · DEMO
In case you didn't know or weren't sure, SADUS was dropped from Roadrunner. This four-song demo sees them branching out from their former style a little bit. Still intense and deadly, but perhaps a bit more focused now. Maybe too focused, but what do I know? These tracks just don't seem to have the energy of pervious recordings. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

SADUS - Elements of Anger · Mascot
What do you expect from SADUS? Extremely well-played, ultra intense Thrash. And that’s once again exactly what they deliver. They do some experimenting here and there (mostly successful), but never fail to impress with their trademarked technical Metal assault. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

SAINT VITUS - C.O.D. · Relapse / Nuclear Blast / Hellhammer
Okay, they sound like BLACK SABBATH.
Don Dokken produced this.
These guys dig god.
If you are still reading this review after the above revelations, you may want to give this album a try. Don has surprisingly little neutering effects as a producer. And, if you are already a VITUS fan, you will not be disappointed. Favorite song: "(I Am) The Screaming Banshee." - 8.25 - <Greg> **MC8**

SAINT VITUS - Die Healing · Hellhound
Ahh, this is heavy. Recorded at the infamous Music Lab, by the master, Harris Johns, this is a slight improvement on their last album, C.O.D., which I worshipped. Unless you just don't like "clean" vocals, or Doom, you must hear this. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

SAINTS EVERLASTING REST - Live · Mysterious Land
This depressing, complex Doom is combined with occasional faster parts & some Death Metal vox, to give them an individual sound. The recording is somewhat raw, but acceptable for a live album, and probably adds slightly to the heaviness. This makes me wonder what the studio versions of these songs are like... - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

SAINTS EVERLASTING REST - All These Tears for You · DEMO
While the recording quality might not be the best (although it’s not terrible), this is amazingly heavy Doom, along the lines of the mighty SKEPTICISM at times. The vocals do have a greater range than that, though, incorporating various clean male and female lines along with the deep growls. That and the violins can give S.E.R. a MY DYING BRIDE feel at times, as well. With a better production, this would have been a serious contender for a perfect rating, and that’s without considering that it’s only 3 bucks. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

SALEM - Kaddish · Morbid
SALEM combine elements of Black and Death, and I think some rather Doomy parts, too. Anymore, this isn't such a unique sound, but they do it very well. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

SALEM - A Moment of Silence · BNE / MDMA
Awesome melodic Metal that ranges from Death to Black Metal to Traditional to melancholy Death Rock, I guess. And to top it off, we’re treated to an amazing Colin Richardson production. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

SALIENT - The Lesser Evil · DEMO
The singer sounds a little like the guy from SOLITUDE AETURNUS, but the music, while heavy, is Thrashier, and not as Doom laden, but some parts are slow and crushing. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

SAM BLACK CHURCH - Let in Life · Taang!
The strange vocals at first detracted from the power of the Hardcore influenced music. But with increased listens, I came to accept and even like this unique vocal strategy. It sort of combines a more traditional Hardcore scream with weirdly phrased vocal lines sung in a variety of styles. Very original sound, that may take some getting used to. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

SAMAEL - Passage · Century Media
One of the most surprising things about this amazingly progressive Black Metal album is Xy's decision to abandon his drum kit for a keyboard and programmed drums. Or, more precisely, that you probably wouldn't have noticed. Passage has not only the best drum programming I've ever heard, but one of the best drums sounds, too -easily the best as far as drum machines are concerned. That said, I must admit that this is my favorite SAMAEL disc so far. It may be neither quite as dark nor as blasphemous as their earlier work, but it is far more musically diverse and mature. Somehow they accomplish this without, at least in my opinion, losing their integrity or intensity. Change is natural and important. However, it is generally transparent when a band changes to accommodate the times, thus losing their integrity and my respect. Also, if a band, even of their own volition, changes too rapidly, their core fans usually become disillusioned, and consider the band to have forsaken them. However, if no change at all (or very little) ever takes place, the same fans who would have hated a big alteration, might now abhor the band for lack of growth, or stagnation. It can be a real lose / lose situation, and legion are the bands that have fallen into this abyss. Thankfully SAMAEL are not among this ever increasing number. They have somehow managed to grow and evolve without sacrificing the honesty of their music, or, worse yet, alienating their fans (at least not me). For those reasons, as well as their always impressive combination of brutality, technical ability, and complex, unforgettable songs, not to mention an amazingly clear, yet immensely powerful production, I must now bestow upon SAMAEL the highest honor. - 10 - <Ray> **MC10**

SAMAEL - Exodus EP · Century Media
Some new stuff, and a few old songs rerecorded with more or less the Passage sound. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SAMAEL - Eternal · Century Media
Before I got this, I'd heard a lot about how much of a drastic change this was to the SAMAEL sound. People were telling me this sounded like a Techno/Dance album or that it sounded totally like NINE INCH NAILS or KMFDM. As far as I'm concerned, that's a big fat load of bullshit. If you have Passage and Exodus, this is the natural continuation and progression of their sound. Some of this sounds meshed with Techno and Industrial but at the same time, it's still in the vein of the last album and EP. The vocals have some effects on them and the drumming sounds more mechanical but this still rips. I'll say for sure that this is no longer Black Metal but in spirit, this is still very Metal. The music itself is more percussive and less guitar dominated. The keyboards are as prominent as before (post Blood Ritual-era) and the all around sound is more "beat driven." If you want Black Fucking Metal, you may want to look elsewhere but fans of the last two SAMAEL releases will enjoy Eternal. - 9.5 - <Ychoril>

SAMAEL - Eternal · Century Media
Most of this sounds goofy to me. These guys are to deceased Metal what the SCORPIONS were to glam shit. You know it. Okay, they're worse. And I hate the SCORPIONS. - 3.25 - <Bob>

SANCTUS - Aeon Sky · Metal Blade
This is an interesting combination of different styles of Extreme Metal, with a heavy leaning towards Black Metal. There are fast, raw parts, and then also much more atmospheric bits with keyboards and female vocals. Also present are some more Thrashy riffs and various different raspy vocals. When they go to just keyboards and clean male vocals, they lose me, but it's not common. - 8 - <Ray>

SANGUINARY - Demo 1 '95 · DEMO
Recorded at Unisound. To some that will be all the review necessary, but for the rest, I'll continue. Obviously the production is amazing, but what may not be obvious is that the songs are too. Not so heavy as fast and intense, but with pretty raw vocals. These guys take simple riffs and construct complex songs from them, thanks in no small part to Raimo's insane drumming. Very engrossing while listening, but I was hoping for something a bit more memorable. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

SANGUINARY - Shedding Blood · DEMO
I know that these sick bastards would kick fuckin’ ass live. Their brand of simple Death Metal is best experienced that way. This demo is all brutality and frenzied energy, and as cool as it is, I can somehow just tell that their live "feeling" is even more insane and intense. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SAPFHIER - Under Eternally Grey Skies · God Iis Myth / Black Plague
The clueless posers at Pit magazine liked this, so I should've known it'd suck. Anyone want to hear this guy go through the tired Black Metal motions with a fast drum machine for an hour? No, of course not, why would you? Weak as fuck, dude. All these one-man Black Metal bands need to look to FORGOTTEN TOMB for a role model. - 4 - <Jack>

SARCASM - A Touch of the Burning Red Sunset · Breath of Night
I guess I really shouldn’t be reviewing this, as I did the layout, but what the shit. Here we have plenty of intense evil Death Metal, with I think more than a touch of old school Black Metal mixed in, too. Since you’re reading Metal Curse, I just don’t see how you could possibly not like this band. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

SARCASTIC TERROR / IN-QUEST - Split · Darkside
SARCASTIC TERROR tear through an intro and two heavy Death tracks. They have an interesting and somewhat individual style. The IN-QUEST side starts off as a mystical dirge, but progresses into a mid-paced Death machine, and Noise Grinder's insanely bestial vocals add the final element of sickness, as always. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SARCOMA - Mental Mutilation · DEMO
The thing I noticed first is how much I like how these songs are put together. A song might range from slow Death to Grind, but everything flows smoothly. It really shows a lot of talent, I think. Mike's vocals could possibly be a bit too screechy for some, but I find that they fit pretty well. I'd expect to hear a lot more from these guys. - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

SARCOMA - Preludio de Mortandad · DEMO
After the long intro, the raw Black/Death starts. They have excellent riffs, but this recording does them no justice. Listening past the noise is possible, though, and what lies underneath is some kick-ass stuff. The screechy vox also take some getting used to, but they are not used exclusively, and the more Death-oriented demonic vox dominate. In a better studio, this band would be a damn serious contender. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SARCOPHAGUS - Sarcophagus · DEMO
SARCOPHAGUS stands apart from the average Death Metal bands of nowadays. These guys are really heavy and powerful. The musicianship is outstanding, and the vocals are some of the best I've ever heard. One thing I really like is how this demo captures their great sound. Oh yeah, they also kick ass live. To make a point, this demo is excellent, and, I believe, should get them signed. - 9.5 - <John T> **MC8**

SARCOPHAGUS - For We...Who Are Consumed by the Darkness · Pulverizer
I remember when this band made the jump from Thrash to Death. I was watching them at a place in Chicago called The Oak, and I heard many accusations of bandwagon jumping that night (and an interesting bass solo, for which the crowd begged). Now this CD arrives and I discover that they have been converted from what I thought was a very talented Death Metal band into "grinding apocalyptic Black Metal art." Well, I don't know if their true allegiances lie with Satan or with whatever is trendy at the moment, but I would have to think that if a band makes an album this good, then their hearts are probably really in it. The level of musicianship is pretty high, and there is more than a little Death Metal left in these nine short tracks, except of course for the vocals, which sound absolutely tormented. I think this is a very solid debut for both SARCOPHAGUS and their label, Pulverizer. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SARCOPHAGY - Hunger Pains · DEMO
Occasionally these guys get nearly as slow and heavy as CIANIDE. The rest of the time is faster, but probably almost as heavy. The vocals are from the pits of Hell itself. So if you're in the mood for brutality, and think that gory lyrics are the way to go, then by all means check these guys out. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

SAREPTA - S.U.N.K. · DEMO
PANTERA wannabes. - 3 - <ANG> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SARGATANAS - The Enlightenment · DEMO
Intense Death Metal with brutally perfect vocals. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SARGATANAS - The Enlightenment · Conquistador
If you want brutal Death Metal, then look no further. Here we have a metric ton of intense riffs, an ultra-thick sound, raw vocals, and evil lyrics. For what more could a little Devil worshipper possibly ask? How about a cover of POSSESSED’s "Satan’s Curse"? Okay, they throw that in, too, at no extra cost. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

SARGATANAS - Knights of the Southern Cross - Barbarian Wrath
Mexico has always been a breeding ground for evil fucking Black and Death Metal bands. Though not quite as recognized as Sweden, Norway or even Brazil, Mexican acts such as SHUB-NIGGURATH, TRANSMETAL, XIBALBA and SARGATANAS have been plying their trade for quite some time now. SARGATANAS plays a style of Blackened Death/Thrash that has elements of both German Thrash (DESTRUCTION / SODOM / KREATOR / EXHUMER) and Florida Death Metal (DEATH, MORBID ANGEL, DEICIDE) with just a touch of older Black Metal a-la MAYHEM, VENOM and BATHORY. The combination of these different styles creates a caustic blend of brutality and memorable riffs that makes you bang your head and want to kill somebody at the same time. In other words, this is fucking killer. Though not blessed with the best production and packaging in the world, SARGATANAS has managed to create something truly unholy. Though this is probably out of print by now (Barbarian Wrath released this album in only 666 copies), it is still something that I would recommend should you happen to find Knights of the Southern Cross at your local record store or on a distribution list. - 9.5- <Ychoril>

SARKOMA - Completely Different · Grindcore
Yeah, OK. This is kinda Thrashy: mostly speedy. But it doesn't move me in any way. I mean, it's not bad or even really boring - just not too interesting. At best acceptable, at worst extremely irritating. It's the vocals. They fucking grate on my nerves. Clearly, they don't fit the music. New vocal style or new vocalist. Or maybe I should just listen to something else. - 5.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

SARKOMA - Integrity · Red Light
Nicely produced and executed. A few of these songs achieve a massive energy level, such as "Tabula Rasa." However, this seems to be in that "New Metal" style -you know, sorta like FIGHT or something- and that sorta makes it hard for me to like it, but this could almost convince me that I'm wrong. It's pretty cool. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

SARNATH - Cosmopolitan 7" · Regress
Inside the full color cover lies one of the best 7"s ever released. The music is intense, yet very memorable, thanks to the band's excellent songwriting and arranging. Of course the production helps, too. The songs are not instrumentals, but there is a distinct lack of vocals. Honestly, that's okay, since the music needs no vocal lines to "help" it. I can hardly wait to hear a full length from these guys. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

SARNATH - Overshine · Shiver
The intro to the first song made me not expect what was coming. Kick ass Metal! Very musical too. So musical in fact that it made me think if there were ever a Metal Broadway musical about Metal, these guys could do the score. I guess it sounds a little dated but I still enjoyed some of it. One thing concerns me though. The lyrics occasionally suggest, "The truth is god, and god loves you." Hmm. Stuff like that makes me think they hug people at their live shows, maybe. Don’t hug me man. Just play. Technical musical Metal. - 9 - <Bob> **MC11**

SARNATH - Life... Lies · Shiver
Interesting. SARNATH have apparently decided that a Hard Rock approach, with injections of Traditional Heavy Metal, and early HELLOWEEN-like Power Metal, would be a good idea. It's not bad, but the old masters are certainly in no danger of being dethroned. I'd have to be in the right mood to listen to this, and when that mood does strike, I'd spin something like Live After Death or Walls of Jericho, and never even think about this or the vast majority of all the bands now converting to this venerable style. - 6.75 - <Ray>

SATAN'S BLOOD - Christians to Ashes, Angels to Dust · Sound Riot
You know, I had a really good laugh when I compared this band's music to Sound Riot's marketing. The ads for this album say that SATAN'S BLOOD is the better German answer to MARDUK. This sounds nothing like MARDUK. If I were to compare it to any band or bands, I would have to say that DISSECTION and IN AETURNUM were big influences on their sound. The closest they get is sounding similar to Heaven Shall Burn... when it comes to their guitar tones and such. Besides, do we really need a band that can sound more like MARDUK than MARDUK? I don't know about you, but a clone band automatically gets minus points as far as I'm concerned. This is not to say that this band sucks. In fact, this album has a very high ass-kickage factor. So far, I've listened to this about seven times in the last three days and I still think it's some seriously face-ripping stuff. The intensity of the band is just off the charts sometimes and that is always good. The best material is where they vary tempos a bit, slowing down in places and getting heavier and more melodic. All of the songs are fairly solid though the only real detraction is that the drums were a little too high. In the opening seconds, you can barely hear the guitar because the snare drum was drowning it out. Next time, up the guitar, turn down the drums and keep up the intensity because that's what made this album kick ass in the first place. - 9 - <Ychoril>

SATANACHRIST - Demonologie '92 · DEMO
SATANACHRIST's only member, Gore Crucifix, evokes Satanism and black, unholy death with his quite different style of music. It sounds like Death Metal Disco, mostly due to the drum machine and under-distorted guitar. And could easily be the soundtrack to a horror flick- something from the 70's. The vocals sound like an evil Transformer, and Gore wears Black Metal make-up, with blood dripping down his chest. Cool cover and an awesome intro, but everything else I didn't like. - 6.66 - <Rob> **MC7**

SATANIC SLAUGHTER - Satanic Slaughter · Necropolis
For the most part these guys play traditional fast Black Metal, but occasionally they slow it down a bit, and that's when a more individual identity shows through their nearly bass-less soundscape. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

SATANIC SLAUGHTER - Land of the Unholy Souls · Necropolis
A lot of newer Black Metal bands play fast, have screechy singers, and simple arrangements, so it’s really the riffs that set apart this kind of Black Metal wheat from the chaff. SATANIC SLAUGHTER have the riffs necessary to kick ass, and they put them to evil use. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SATARIAL - The Queen of the Elves' Land · Beyond
I should always get Ychoril to review stuff that has any Folk elements in it. He just likes this stuff a lot more than I do. That said, when concentrating on their symphonic Black Metal, or even the naked female members of the band (and they appear in the CD booklet all over the place), this is pretty entertaining. But those aforementioned Folk bits... However, the CD-ROM video track (which features both naked women and fire - two things that make for good videos) does make up for them to some degree. - 7.75 - <Ray>

SATHANAS - Armies of Charon · Conquistador
Straightforward Thrashy Black Death from the bad old USA. This band has a history a bit too complicated to go into here, but in one form or another they’ve been around for a decade, and somehow this is their first full-length album to be released. Well, I’d say it was worth the wait, but hopefully they’ll get another one out before 2010. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SATHANAS - Black Earth · Blackmetal.com
Very middle-of-the-road Death / Thrash with trollish Black Metal vocals. A thin guitar sound and minimal production are the two major setbacks. A few good riffs, but certainly an uninteresting listen overall. - 7.25 - <Jack>

SATHANAS - Thy Dark Heavens · Blackmetal.com
With a much stronger production and highly improved songwriting, this band makes a huge turnaround, and I'm sure they'd agree with me. The vocals are filthier while at the same time cleaner, if that makes any sense. The rhythm section's tighter, and a lot more focus on melody (the title track is cult!) interspersed with a pure, riff-driven headbangability. The style and overall bite of this record could be compared to SAMAEL's Ceremony of Opposites with a tad more emphasis on traditional Old School Death Metal. That is to say not necessarily fast, but thick, meaty, and riff-oriented (and they even start-stop!). But heathens fear not, tracks like "March Through Fire" are still loaded with chaotic Blackish fury. A giant step in the right direction for SATHANAS. - 9.5 - <Jack>

SATURNUS - Paradise Belongs to You · Euphonious
This is a crushing avalanche of an album. The slow, melancholy Death / Doom is reinforced with some keyboards, and thanks in part to the excellent production, will leave you longing for death. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

SATURNUS - For the Loveless Lonely Nights EP · Euphonious
Marketed as an MCD, this has six songs, and clocks in at about 35 minutes, so the value for your money is there. And even more than that, so is the music. From the first cut of all-out Death Doom, to the mournful Gothic Doom of the next two, to the pair of incredible live cuts, this is flawless. And then there is the seriously eerie, seven-and-a-half minute long, final track of droning nightmare. There is no way that anyone should miss out on this. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SATURNUS - Martyre · Euphonious
Where do I start? This album is so beautiful. Majestic and sorrowful Doom from the bottom of six broken hearts. "Inflame Thy Heart" starts things out with shades of MY DYING BRIDE, later to be revisited on "A Poem." "Empty Handed" features that euphoric groove of old CELESTIAL SEASON. CATHEDRALesque in nature, but refined by these new found masters. "Noir" is a fucking heart-stopper! The exquisitely sung chorus gives you goosebumps and makes the eyes water. The vocalist, Thomas AG Jensen, masters three separate vocal styles to perfection. A deep Death growl, a more understandable discordant voice, and well done clean vocals. He also commands an eloquent spoken word throughout the album, and much like NOVEMBER'S DOOM, it does not detract from the gloom. In fact, the aforementioned speech over the acoustic ballad "Thou Art Free" is downright riveting. What a surprise. A flawless third effort from these melancholy geniuses. Look for the next one on a much bigger label, I guarantee it. - 10 - <Jack>

SATYRICON - Nemesis Divina · Century Black
In the last few years, the term "Black Metal Art" has been thrown around by every nearly band that likes the Devil, but in this case it would be an accurate statement. From the opening scream of "This is Armageddon!" to the bitter end, this monster never lets up, ripping & tearing through your ears & mind for nearly 45 minutes, and sticking with you forever. Somehow both frenzied and atmospheric at the same time, Nemesis Divina is certainly the high point of SATYRICON’s career. I predict that they’ll never top this, and probably won’t even try. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SATYRICON - Intermezzo II EP · Moonfog / Nuclear Blast
There is something about these four avant-garde Black Metal tracks that I really like. They are all more or less experimental, in their own ways, with the opener, "A Moment of Clarity," being the least so, and the closer, "Blessed in Black," the most. I just wonder if this experimentation will carry over to their next album, or if this has gotten it out of their system. And since I like this so much, I’m not sure what to hope for anyway. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SATYRICON - Rebel Extravaganza · Nuclear Blast
SATYRICON's first release, Dark Medieval Times, was an incredible display of cold, grim Black Metal. The Shadowthrone took it a step further with the addition of a thicker atmosphere. Nemesis Divina took the elements of its predecessors and incorporated them with a new-found symphonic fury. Needless to say, my expectations were very high for Rebel Extravaganza. After repeated listens, I'm disappointed with the new material. The coldness and hate that was seething within the music on their previous efforts simply isn't here. Rebel Extravaganza feels too "clean" and "electronic" for my tastes, and the production would be better suited to an Industrial release. The intensity level of Rebel Extravaganza is nowhere near that of SATYRICON's earlier releases, leaving the music sounding sterile and uninspired. If I had to use one word to describe Rebel Extravaganza it would be "boring." Those of you who are dedicated SATYRICON fans should probably give this a listen, but just don't expect too much. - 7.5 - <Painkiller>

SATYRICON - Rebel Extravaganza · Nuclear Blast
This is the fourth full-length album by Norwegian psychos SATYRICON and their first for Nuclear Blast. The previous albums, all on Moonfog (their own label), were of the Atmospheric Black Metal variety that put them in the category of EMPEROR more often than not. Apparently, they were not happy with the comparison and this new direction is the result. This album is more in the guitar-based Industrial mode though not as accessible as, say, NINE INCH NAILS. The bulk of this sounds more like DARK FUNERAL or IMPALED NAZARENE on an Industrial binge than NIN. Fast and furious guitars, drumming that sounds programmed (or sped up after they were recorded), rabid vocals and the occasional keyboards are what you get on Rebel Extravaganza. The structures are repetitive, which is consistent with the NIN formula, but I really expected more experimentation from a band that is supposedly as "cutting-edge" as SATYRICON is supposed to be. The problem that SATYRICON has with this new style and the new material in general is that it is so repetitive that it gets boring as fuck and fast. About 1/3 of the way through this album I was having trouble staying awake. On any album, that's a bad thing. Next time, break up the monotony guys!!! I know you have more fucking talent than that! - 5 - <Ychoril>

SAVATAGE - Handful of Rain · Atlantic
I was pretty surprised by this. I guess the inclusion of former TESTAMENT guitarist Alex Skolnick has heavied these jerk-offs up quite a bit. Give me a break, please. Lose the singer, and bring in someone else to write the lyrics, as they are surely the worst part of this inane mess. - 4.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

SAVATAGE - Dead Winter Dead · Atlantic
First they get heavier in order to follow the trend, now they are more orchestral, and have "winter" in the album title. These guys are poseurs, it's plain to see, and as some friends of mine would say, they should "heed the poseur death knell." - 3 - <Ray> **MC9**

SAVATAGE - Ghost in the Ruins · Nuclear Blast
This is a compilation of live recordings featuring late guitarist Criss Oliva who was killed some years ago by a drunk driver. It also happens to be one of the best damn live recordings I've ever heard! The mix is so flawless that these songs sound like they were all recorded at the same show! SAVATAGE's brand of Power/Heavy Metal is very impressive, with Jon Oliva's vocals sounding amazing in the live setting. And Criss Oliva's talent as a guitar player is more than obvious. These guys seem to have a commanding stage presence and definitely know how to work the crowd into a frenzy. Ghost in the Ruins is a very fitting tribute to Criss Oliva's memory, and essential for SAVATAGE fans. Actually, anyone who appreciates live music needs to hear this. Break out the air-guitars! - 9 - <Painkiller>

SAVATAGE - Poets & Madmen · Nuclear Blast
Hard to believe these guys have been around for 20 years now. They have gone through numerous line-up changes and have had to endure the tragic loss of guitarist Criss Oliva. But, through all the problems, they have continued to put out great music. Poets & Madmen sees Jon Oliva assuming the role of lead vocalist for the first time since 1991's Streets: A Rock Opera. The new material is, once again, presented in the form of a concept album. This story centers around Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Kevin Carter and how he was placed in a mental hospital after returning to his native country from Africa. Years after the hospital is closed down, some kids wandering through the building stumble upon Carter's file. The songs focus on the contents of this file. This chilling tale is brought to life in the grand style for which SAVATAGE have become famous. Poets & Madmen contains a heavier sound than previous efforts, with more emphasis being placed on the guitar work of Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery. I definitely like this change. The material here is everything you've come to expect from these guys - epic Heavy Metal cleverly written and flawlessly produced. - 9 - <Painkiller>

SAXON - Killing Ground · SPV / Steamhammer
For over two decades, SAXON has been at it, and I'm sure that real Hard Rock fans worldwide are happy to know that this band has a new album available. It's more or less what you'd think, with a sort of updated production, and strangely enough a few kind of staccato riffs sprinkled in here and there in the opener at least. I was never into this band, and although the skill displayed here is impressive, this album isn't going to change my mind, or anyone else's. - 7 - <Ray>

SAY BOK GWAI - s/t · Monkey King
This is some pretty fucked up Chink-Core right here, dude. Insane, erratic Hardcore with disoriented yelping and songs about two seconds long, mostly about food. I think this is supposed to be funny, but I’m not laughing. - 1 - <Jack>

SCABBARD - Beginning of Extinction · Deathvastation / Morbid
SCABBARD put their obvious musical prowess to excellent use crafting this masterpiece of Doomy Death. It is exceptionally difficult to write complex songs that are both brutal and memorable (or, in many cases, either), but that is exactly what this band has done. They are not afraid to experiment with different tempos, acoustic guitars, and different vocal styles (all in the Death domain). For many bands such attempts to be unique are not combined with the knowledge, skill, or luck to make them successful. SCABBARD, however, make it sound easy. They know exactly what they're doing and never falter for an instant. Track this one down at all costs. - 10 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCALD - Pelted · DEMO
Really heavy music and utterly demonicly sick vocals. This will make you puke. It's really experimental, and it totally works. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

SCALPAL - Demo 1990 · DEMO
This four song demo is mostly very Thrashy. Lots of double bass and rough vocals. The production is pretty good. However, nothing really sticks out here. This is not to say that SCALPAL is bad, they simply are not the best. They just need more time to develop. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC6**

SCARIOT - Deathforlorn · Demolition
Death and Thrash combined with Traditional Heavy Metal. But in a bad way. They seem intent on taking the worst vocals and the goofiest riffs and solos that Metal has to offer, and hugging and squeezing and loving them. When they're not doing that, this isn't bad. But they do it all the god damn time. - 4 - <Ray>

SCARVE - Six Tears of Sorrow · DEMO (CD)
SCARVE aren't afraid to try different stuff. One second they're brutal Death with raw vox, the next thing you know there are keyboards & clean vocals. Sometimes they combine the styles, or do something else altogether. I've got to give them credit for originality, and even though there are many different styles played on this disc, it never seems to lack direction. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCARVE - Irradiant · Listenable
Extremely technical Swedish Death/Thrash. The basic framework could be likened to older ARCH ENEMY or newer SOILWORK, but the angular rhythmic experimentation suggests a huge MESHUGGAH influence. It must've been a thrill to have Frederick Thordendal make a guest appearance. The vocals are the standard Gothenburg screech, but occasionally there will be injections of, not exactly clean vocals, but a sugar-coated grimey voice, kind of like the fag from RATT. Perhaps they were going for an IN FLAMES feel, but not everyone is born with Anders Friden's vocal chords, so needless to say it doesn't quite work. The vocals really aren't a huge obstacle, though. A much bigger detraction is, amidst this dazzling array of super-talented guitar work, as amazingly well-played and original as their riffs are, nothing hurts. I don't sense pain, hatred, or depression in a single note. This is intense, and damn impressive, but more emotion is needed to really push them into the forefront as far as I'm concerned. Worth hearing without question. (Note: DEFLESHED's Gustaf Jorde also makes a cameo). - 8.5 - <Jack>

SCATTERBRAIN - Mundus Intellectualis · Pavement
Is this the third version of "Down With the Ship" that these guys have recorded? It sure is. As long as they were stealing from their LUDICHRIST days, I wish they had stolen the heavy, cool sound they used to have. I long for days when a band could have a message, be funny when necessary, and still be heavy and fast. All SCATTERBRAIN have left is the humor, and their honestly amazing technical ability, and it's just not usually enough to make this a great album. Well, "album" isn't really the correct term, since it's only about 25 minutes long, and there are only 6 new songs. Admittedly, this is a "fun" record to listen to, I suppose. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

SCATTERED REMNANTS - Procreating Mass Carnage · DEMO
Everything is raw: the production, the vocals, the music. But, that's exactly what the band wanted, I'd bet, because it makes it all really heavy. No new ground is covered, except for the occasional high pitched screeches, which are sort of annoying after the first one, but as far as brutal is concerned these guys are masters. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

SCATTERED REMNANTS - Destined to Fail · Repulse
At long last S.R. have finally released a full-length album. Their ultra brutal Death Metal onslaught has never sounded better than it does on this masterpiece. The production is thick and massively heavy, but you can still hear everything that’s going on. The inappropriately titled Destined to Fail proves that Death this demonically brutal can be memorable. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SCEPTER - Up Thy Ass · DEMO
Former DEATH YOUTH bassist John Karnes' new band brings back memories of MANOWAR with their tales of amps turned up to 10, and killing poseurs. They preach a unification of all styles of Metal, and so refuse to be labeled as anything but "Metal." Sounds good to me. But I'll try to do a better job describing them than that. Sometimes the music hints of the aforementioned MANOWAR, others of IRON MAIDEN, but with a heavier sound. John's vocals are something like a less raw Johnny Hedlund (UNLEASHED). Their sound is unique and their songs are very memorable. The production is excellent, and I've even been known to quote their lyrics. What more could anyone want? - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

SCEPTER - Metal Supremacy · DEMO (CD)
Recalling the glory days of VENOM, MOTÖRHEAD, MANOWAR, and other true Metal bands, SCEPTER return with four new songs to crush in your head. Their slogan is "If you don't like it, you can fuck off and die." I agree 100%. John's raspy vocals screaming the lines "We got the power in our hands / To wipe out the weak / A master race of Metalheads / Metal supremacy" assures me that they do indeed deserve the highest honor. - 10 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCEPTER - I’m Going to Hell · Merciless
After two nearly flawless demos, Chicago’s masters of Pure Metal pull out all the stops to deliver an unstoppable monster of an album. Traditional Metal in the sense of VENOM, rather than JUDAS PRIEST, SCEPTER have always had a Death edge, but this is certainly their heaviest, and just as memorable as ever. The thick production (easily the best I’ve heard from Sheffield Studio) helps I’m Going to Hell deliver the bads, but it’s John’s distinctive voice that really puts this over the top. This makes ass kicking into an art form. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

SCEPTIC - Unbeliever's Script · Candlelight
Unlike their Polish countrymates such as VADER, DIES IRAE, and DECAPITATED, SCEPTIC do not go for the kill with super-polished huge production, unrelenting heaviness, and blazing technical speed. Their attack is primarily Thrash-based with roots in the Old School Death Metal soil. I cannot describe how large the influence of post-Spiritual Healing DEATH is on this band. The structures, tempos, dynamics, and overall delivery of the songs are pages taken from the book of Schuldiner, which ought to tell you these guys are no slouches musically. I absolutely love the clean melodic passages! Vocally, think NECROPHOBIC. A blackened but understandable rasp. While this certainly is not the essential Death Metal masterpiece I've seen it billed as, it was a breath of fresh air nonetheless. - 8.5 - <Jack>

SCHINDLER - Transverse Mercator · Golf / Plastic Head
I don't even know what this is. Some kind of guitar-based Alternative that sometimes sounds like '80s New Wave, I guess. This style could be done well - it could be interesting. It's possible. But you wouldn't know that from listening to SCHINDLER. - 3 - <Ray>

SCHODELFAHNE - The Heim of Firnschnee · DEMO
More experimental insanity from my old pals Steinbock and the Terrible Troll, except this is a little more musical than I was expecting. Still very weird, but in a more Industrial context, I think. Interesting, and one of their more listenable works. - 6 - <Ray> **MC8**

SCHODELFAHNE VON STEINBOCK - Moss Covered Larches · DEMO
Spoken word segments. Waterfalls. Rainstorms. Screaming. Steinbock's tribute to nature is disturbing, but interesting. I'm not sure what else to say, except that even from a master of originality, this is pretty unique. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

SCHOLOMANCE - A Treatise on Love · The End
Straight forward technicality, to an uncompromising degree. It puts me directly in mind of DREAM THEATER, but so technical that the parts and arrangements breed sterility. Free from impurities, yes, but without substance and potency. Through their aversion to all that is simple, dynamics suffer and they ignore the contrary facts that limit their music. The drums are programmed as well, which seem to add to the loss of dynamics. I do however admire this band’s response to the current incestuous trend of writing entire songs around breakdowns, and they can obviously play their instruments... but they harbor an arcane vanguard where none are allowed to penetrate and offer no entry point into the music. - 7.25 - <Bob> **MC12**

SCHOLOMANCE - The Immortality Murder · The End
It seriously pisses me off when a band as talented as SCHOLOMANCE goes virtually unnoticed while corporate cunts like DIMMU BORGIR get all the attention. This brilliant US act plays symphonic Black Metal in the vein of EMPEROR or DIABOLICAL MASQUERADE. Inspired and determined, The Immortality Murder executes track after track of epic, sophisticated, and complex material. There is definitely no lack of creativity here. In fact, this album will probably take most listeners several spins to fully absorb, and each spin will illuminate another shining aspect to the music. Whereas many Black Metal acts use a raw, "cult" (meaning "shitty") production to hide their lack of playing abilities, SCHOLOMANCE embrace a crisp, sharp production which emphasizes just how technically proficient these musicians are. One of the most defining elements of the band's music is the manner in which the keyboards are used. While bands like the above-mentioned "DUMMY BURGER" or CRADLE OF FILTH drown their music in overly-loud, dominating keyboard atmosphere, SCHOLOMANCE use an approach more akin to that of DREAM THEATER, thus supporting the music instead of overwhelming it. By the way, this album comes with a second disc that contains all-instrumental interpretations of the songs on the first disc. To put it simply, The Immortality Murder is a work of art! - 9 - <Painkiller>

SCHUBERT - Toilet Songs · Mausoleum
Except for the first song, which is a nearly tolerable Industrial Metal combo, this is a nightmare. They seem to be trying to use a little of every style they've ever heard, and it's simply ludicrous. Their pathetic attempt at diversity fails utterly. Add another disc to the stockpile for use in backyard games of Tron. - 1.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCID - Fucked Beyond Recognition · Unmatched Brutality
Fast, catchy and brutal Death/Grind with top-of-the-line Death roars. Throw in sick lyrics, great production, and heavier-than-heavy riffing that is actually memorable, and I don’t what else I could say to make you want to experience this German duo for yourself. Impressed by the likes of FLESHLESS, AVULSED, FLESHGRIND, or SKINLESS? SCID is next. Most moshworthy: "Cumplicated," "Queen for a Day, Cunt for a Lifetime," and "Fucked Up Beyond All Recognition." - 9.5 - <Jack>

SCORCH - Scorch · DEMO
This was utterly boring Death-by-numbers, until they slowed it down to a crawl, and even that was only interesting because it was such a change from their usual mid-paced sleep-inducement. I listened and listened for something of interest -I hate to be so negative about a demo- but this put me to sleep every time. A new singer and drummer might help a little. - 6 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCORCHED EARTH - Gods, Kings, and Conquerors · demo
Not the easiest thing to get into, but this band does have class and a ton of good hooks up their sleeves. They pay their respects to the oldest schools of Death and Black Metal, namely HELLHAMMER and SLAUGHTER, not to mention the inherent Punk vibe. Their hearts couldn’t be more in the right place. What’s wrong you ask? Well, little shit. The vocals aren’t too great. Not terrible, but they really can wear on you. The album has the tendency to become monotonous, and the solos are weak. Shit like that. I know I’m picky, but an A for effort all the way. - 7.75 - <Jack>
P.O. Box 4101 · Seattle, WA 98194

SCORN - Vae Solis · Relativity/ Earache
Mick Harris' new band has taken the Industrial influence he brought to NAPALM DEATH and intensified it. Along with Nick Bullen (and a helping hand on guitar from Justin {GODFLESH} Broadrick), Mick has crafted a heavy Industrial sound. I just hope they do not decide to explore the Dancier side of Industrial as some bands (GODFLESH) seem to be moving toward, and sticks to this Industrial/ Death sound. Hey, they even "cover" NAPALM DEATH's "Scum," and call it "Scum After Death (Dub)." - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

SCORN - Colossus · Earache
Death Metal through lenses of Industrial and Dub. From the Industrial realm they take samples, keyboards, and a clangy sheen to the production; from Dub they take deep repetitive basslines and dreamy dislocation. With its slithery low keyboard riffs and Doomy vocals, Colossus brings to mind JOY DIVISION's Closer in places, while at other times it's more like an evil-swamp-mist version of Ambient. You will not find a gloomy psychic attack that sounds better than this on headphones any time soon. - 9.5 - <J.J.> **MC8**

SCORN - Ellipsis · Scorn
Remix albums are often kind of a shuck, usually resulting from unimaginative or timid mixes from some DJ asswipe who can't rise to the occasion. Well, SCORN were smart and chose only remixers who were accomplished artists themselves (like COIL and AUTECHRE) and it paid off: COIL's mix of "Dreamspace," subtitled "Shadow vs. Executioner," even surpasses the original. The best mixes here are the ones who experiment the most with rhythmic dynamics and wide-open tonalities, heading for some kind of dub-leden, horrific anti-stratosphere. - 9.5 - <J.J.> **MC9**

SCORN - Gyral · Earache
Me reviewing this is not fair to SCORN. This review should be done by J.J., as he knows more about this shit than I do. But here I go anyway: This sounds a lot like Evanescence if you ask me. Too much so. I think that maybe Harris has run out of ideas. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

SCORN - Logghi Barogghi · Earache
This has an unlisted multimedia track that contains a complete Earache discography and catalog. That was the most interesting thing I could find on here. Harris' style of Ambient Dub does little to nothing for me, and this is his most monotonous and boring work yet. - 4 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCOTT MOSHER - Virtuality · The Ambient Mind
I guess if you like pretentious '70s era "Progressive Rock," then maybe you could make it through this CD alive, but it killed me a little more with each passing second. Still, I suppose that I should admit that these guys do have talent - they just choose to use it in the most lightweight and lame ways possible. Especially the indescribably queer vocals. - 4 - <Ray>

SCRAMBLED DEFUNCTS - Catacomb Abattoir · Relics
New York styled Brutal Death Metal from, of all places, Russia! Surprisingly well-produced. Songs range in pace from mid-tempo to fast. The drumming is so precise that I'm inclined to say they use a drum-machine. Unfortunately, I have no idea if that's true or not because this promo CD doesn't list the names of the band-members. Although not at all original, the music is very well-played. Those of you into early INTERNAL BLEEDING or early SUFFOCATION should give these brutal Russians a shot. - 8 - <Painkiller>

SCRAPE - A Taste of Brutality · DEMO
This is what would happen if someone mated BIOHAZARD, PANTERA and some third-rate Death Metal band. In other words, some gay riffs, tough guy vocals, and a lot of "attitude." - 5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SCREWTRACTOR - Eye · Gravel
The singer spends half the time in a sub-PETER MURPHY monotonous Alternative mode (for his "philosophical" ruminations), and the other half talking tough in a Mike Muir voice that sounds even less convincing than that twerp. In "Stupid Humans" these fucking dorks try to cash in on the Rap-Metal thing and holy shit is it lousy. Fortunately, this is an EP, so there's, like, 25% less bunk. - 3 - <J.J.> **MC8**

SCRIPTURE - Scripture · DEMO
Japan is the undisputed home of the world's best Thrash. BRAIN alone would be enough, but these guys are just as fucking good, and maybe even a bit heavier. They also have a full-time organ player, and put him to good use - which is an excellent idea, that they execute to perfection. This utterly kills everything. With more energy than I've heard in a while and as much atmosphere as any band on earth, this has got to get them signed, so write them immediately! Amazing. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SCULPTURE - Sculpture · Nuclear Blast
Formerly from CREMATORY, SCULPTURE main man Lotte is back with this new band. Oh boy! And if you didn’t think it could be worse than the wimpy CREMATORY, think again. Maybe with a different, heavier, production this might have been passable. Well, honestly they would have seriously needed a new singer, too, as this guy sort of sounds like James Hetfield’s retarded little brother. - 5 - <Ray> **MC12**

SCULPTURED - The Spear of the Lily is Aureoled · The End
If anyone remembers back to the melancholy of CEMETARY’s awesomely depressing Godless Beauty album, this sounds a bit like that, but better played, and a little more diverse tempo-wise (and thus somewhat less depressing). Also worthy of noting are the interesting use of keyboards (and trumpet), and the dividing up of the vocal duties between growled & clean. In both of these areas the combination of 70’s Hard Rock (like DEEP PURPLE) with Death / Doom is extremely clear, and for once very well done. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

SCULPTURED - Apollo Ends · The End
Horn section. I'd forgotten. Well, this is certainly more mellow than their last album, The Spear of the Lilly..., but also more diverse, I suppose. Really, I think I'd like this considerably more without the "clean" vocals, which simply aren't very good. And then there are all the bits thrown in to seemingly "prove" how different and original SCULPTURED is. Such "originality" includes, but is by no means limited to, the utterly insane layout, and the fifth track, which is all guitar feedback for the first five minutes (seriously), before it actually gets started. Being unique isn't enough, or even desirable, if the songs are made to suffer for it. And far too often, they are here. - 6 - <Ray>

SEA OF GREEN - Time to Fly · TMC
Lenny Kravitz, anyone? A rip off of a rip off. And their press release calls this "ground breaking." How could a Retro band possibly be anything even remotely like ground breaking? Not that a band needs to be that, of course. I just thought it was really funny. - 4.75 - <Ray>

SEA OF GREEN - Northern Lights EP · TMC
Tree-hugging Stoner Rock that glorifies that "higher" state of mind. I'm thrilled...really I am! Psychedelic, dude! Groovy, man! Wasn't this shit done to death in the '70s? - 2.25 - <Painkiller>

SEA OF TRANQUILLITY - First Demo · DEMO
I should admit to being pretty biased about this band, so this review will reflect that. Anyway, I think this is fucking excellent. Yeah, it's only two songs, but both of them are all anyone could want: Fast, heavy and very memorable music, and Pete's raw vocals. I have been told that this is Hardcore Death, and although mostly Death Metal (and not afraid to Grind when necessary, I might add), S.O.T. do take all the energy and aggression from Hardcore as well. The excellent production and playing only add to an already awesome thing. I will say no more about this, just get it. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEA OF TRANQUILLITY / NUM SKULL - Split 7" · Rage
There's only one song from each band. That's the only thing resembling bad news I can find about this EP. This is great and I need to hear more from both of these bands. S.O.T. play very aggressive and memorable Death, and are awesome, but this track is from their first demo. And NUM SKULL are increasingly heavy, and somehow manage to get slightly better every time I hear them, even though I always think they can't improve anymore, since they fucking kill and always have. You miss out on this and you should be shot in the head. Oh yeah it's on red vinyl. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEA OF TRANQUILLITY - Dead of Winter · DEMO
I'm not sure if these five tracks will end up as a new demo or a CD, or what, but however the format turns out, this is an absolute must for any Death Metal fan. Musically complex, yet memorable and insanely intense. The vocals are as desperate sounding as the last screams of a dying man, and convey that emotion through a brutally deadly growl. Everything is just stunning, and this should see them get signed immediately. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEANCE - Fornever Laid to Rest · Cargo/ Black Mark
A Swedish Death Metal band that didn't record at Sunlight (they 'corded at Berno). Cool. I like the Sunlight sound, but I'm really glad that someone had the scrote to record elsewhere. And it sounds great, too. Heavy, yet understandable vox and fast, heavy tunes. Totally great drums, by the way. Very impressive. 'Nuff said. - 9 - <Ray> **MC7**

SEANCE - Levitised Spirit · DEMO
It's not often that I review a band's CD, then in my next issue review the demo which got them signed. But SEANCE's guitarist, Jensen, was cool enough to send this demo, even though the album has been out a long time (and now their second album is out, too). Now about this demo: It's obvious why they got signed! This is great. Mostly fast Death, with harsh vox and a bit of experimental stuff thrown in, such as acoustic guitar. Get this if you still can. - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEASON - Nocurenofeeling · Hardgothic / Wild Rags
This is atmospheric, but the vocals are all "dreamy" and too wimpy. And speaking of wimpy, the mix and production are insane. I can hear guitars, but the rhythms are all buried and have their guts scooped out anyway, in favor of pushing up the vocals and drums. That’s the way you mix a Pop album, and since it was obviously intentional, it betrays their intentions. A different, more ballsy, mix might have saved this, but as is, this "Hardgothic" bullshit is fucking weak. - 5.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SEASON TO RISK - Season to Risk · Red Decibel / Columbia
More hard-edge Alternative wannabe stuff. Attempting to be as much like HELMET as possible, and falling horribly short. Uninspired and, at worse, unlistenable. - 4.5 - <Greg> **MC8**

THE SECOND MOON - The Second Moon EP · Oskorei
Raw, yet atmospheric Black Metal. Yeah, that’s hardly a new concept, but T.S.M. do it pretty well. I wouldn’t exactly say they’re great, though. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

SECOND SKIN - Second Skin · DEMO
Groovy and somewhat heavy Thrash. Not always very energetic, and occasionally not even interesting. However, mostly this is acceptable. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEDUCER - Motive Demon · DEMO
These guys deliver a very interesting, and pretty speedy, Thrash attack. I don't think it would be possible to pack any more energy into these songs. This is very professionally done, also: The sound is outstanding, the songs well written, and the playing superb. I'm really looking forward to hearing more from this talented band. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEDUCER - Enticing the Masses · DEMO
The Thrash played by this band is very energetic and well put together. The vocals may be a problem for some, as they are in the older kind of half singing/half yelling style, but I think they fit just nicely. The professional sound and packaging top off an excellent release. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEED - Seed · Giant / Mechanic
Does MORBID ANGEL know they share the label with these wimpy, sappy, poppy fucks? - 2 - <Ray> **MC8**

SELF HATE - At the Beginning God Created Fear · SMG
Poorly done Grindcore with a little Sludge thrown in. Nothing that is memorable or worthy of note. - 4.5 - <Jack>

SEMARGL - Attack on God · Deathgasm
A stealth Black Metal assault that often morphs into full-on Death Metal bravado. The chugging fury of "In the Sign of Chosen Names" abandons the Blackened delivery altogether. An album as memorable as it is vile, all the while paying homage to the influence of greats like HELLHAMMER, EMPEROR, DARKTHRONE and DEICIDE. Essential. Suggested mix selections: "Renunciation of God" and "Jesus-Insect." - 9.25 - <Jack>

SEMEN DATURA - This Love is Dead · CCP
Musically Thrashy, in a Black Metal sort of way, if that makes any sense. And vocally mostly terrible, with virtually all male and female operatic vocals, often double tracked. Going all instrumental, or sticking with the more brutal vocal styles would help immensely. - 8 - <Ray>

SEMPITERNUS - Existence
Its been awhile since I heard some refreshing Greek Black Metal. This duo definitely have that early ROTTING CHRIST/VARATHRON vibe going for them, and the production is way better than those two bands’ demos were. Still, I just don’t get that same passion out of the music. A fitting tribute that is more than tolerable, but doesn’t quite hit the same spots. However, if SEMPITERNUS is in ten years where ROTTING CHRIST is now, this demo may very well become a highly sought after collectible. - 8.25 - <Jack>
sempiternus1997@yahoo.com

SENTENCED - North from Here · Century Media
The keyboards are certainly not overused, and they add an ominous feel to the brutal Death. Stunning recording quality and songs. This kills. 'Nuff said. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

SENTENCED - Amok · Century Media
This reminds me of a speedier, less Groovy, version of CATHEDRAL's The Ethereal Mirror album. Same clear production (less heavy guitar sound, though), same slightly raw vocal style (Taneli sounds a lot like Lee D.), just mostly faster drums. Good thing I like this kind of stuff. They experiment a little here and there, and vary things somewhat, but there is always a huge amount of energy in the music. It works really well for them. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

SENTENCED - Love & Death EP · Century Media
I may just be the only fan of extreme Metal to still like SENTENCED, but I happen to think that this EP is pretty interesting. It sounds like their Amok album, more or less. And they cover BILLY IDOL's "White Wedding," which I also happen to like. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

SENTENCED - Down · Century Media
More or less picking up where Amok left off, but perhaps with an added dose of new PARADISE LOST, this sees the band going further into mainstream territory. That is mostly due to their new, somewhat smoother, singer, Ville, and the slick production of Waldemar Sorychta. The lyrics are occasionally very dark, and thanks to this the band has referred to themselves as "Suicide Metal." Sounds good to me, but do I miss Taneli's more aggressive vocals. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SENTENCED - Story - A Recollection · Century Media
Century Media finally has bands that have been around long enough for "greatest hits" compilations of their stuff. That must be one of the Seven Signs. Anyway, if you in any way like SENTENCED, and don’t already have their EP, The Trooper, then get this right away. Their cover of the IRON MAIDEN classic is seriously worth the price by itself. There is also one previously unreleased track probably recorded during the Down sessions, and one from their first album, Shadows of the Past. It’s also kind of interesting to hear how the band’s style has, umm I guess I’ll say "evolved," over the years. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

SENTENCED - Frozen · Century Media
This was a huge disappointment. I haven’t heard the releases that lie between Amok and this, or I would have had some kind of indicator as to the disease that has infected SENTENCED. Fans of early SENTENCED, and even those who stuck by their radical changes on Amok stay clear of this release. For fuck’s sake, it sounds like the new METALLICA! Avoid this like you would a leper. - 3.75 - <Quade> **MC12**

SENTENCED - Crimson · Century Media
With every album they're released, SENTENCED have gotten softer and more difficult to listen to. Crimson continues this spiral descent into mainstream Rock, and is easily their weakest effort so far. The funny part is the song titles and press release would have you believe that this is dark and depressing, when it's in reality about as dark as the surface of the sun, and the only depressing thing about it is that I had to listen to it all. Someone needs to bitch slap these guys and at the very least make them listen to Amok a couple times, so they can hear how far they've fallen since the cries of "sell out" first began. - 5 - <Ray>

SEPIROTH - 1993 EP · DEMO
The sound quality here is a lot better than on their 1992 demo, but although the new, unnamed, vocalist does an excellent job, I miss Robb's unholy screams. The songs have improved along with the production, and surprisingly they are in a more Death Metal vein than I was expecting. Interesting. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEPHIROTH - Cathedron · Cold Meat Industry
All I can really say about this kind of dark Ambient stuff is whether or not I like it, and this seems plenty depressing and well done to me, so I’m all for it. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

SEPOLMIA - When We Are Upset · DEMO
I know that $11 is a lot for a tape, but it has 11 songs, and the production is that of a professional label release. The heavy guitar sound, and all around great writing and playing, make the instrumental parts unbelievable. And there are a lot of them. The vocals are sparse, and the music is always changing. They insert different styles within each song, and may have a funky bassline behind viscous riff. The yelled vocals, however, may not exactly match up with the intensity of the music. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEPSISM - Severe Carnal Butchery · DEMO
For five bucks, this is a deal. Any fan of insanely heavy and gory Death must write this band immediately. The vocals are mixed a little low, but utterly destroy attempts at brutality by most other bands. The music combines a monstrously crushing heaviness with Blast speed, which produces something like the first CARCASS album, but without any screechy vocals. I only wish I had the lyrics, so I knew exactly how depraved these guys are, but I suppose I'll have to assume that any band with a song called "Sodomizing the Exhumed" passes the sickness test. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEPSISM - Purulent Decomposition · Repulse
The phrase "brutal U.S. Death Grind" hardly does SEPSISM any justice. This is awesomely brutal, which in and of itself is not all that impossible to accomplish. But what is difficult is how these sick bastards manage to make this so catchy. It has a lot to do with the unbelievable production, of course, but the songs are the key. They’re very well written and flawlessly executed. And to top it off, the art was done by the legendary Joe Petagno. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SEPTIC CEMETERY - Shattered · CCP
Keyboard-laden Black Death with a few oddly "New Thrash" sounding start-stop riffs scattered throughout. It's not enough to really bring things down, though. - 8.25 - <Ray>

SEPTIC FLESH - Dark Romanticism and Ancient Memory · Holy
This band's name made me think they might be a Grind/Gore outfit. Well, they can get pretty fast if they want to, but mostly they stick to the slower, Doom-powered, stuff. The excellently raw vocals don't really allow me to make out many of the lyrics, but if the song titles are any indication, then I think there is no gore in there. It's funny to hear a band do this much and think that they are maybe the least experimental band on their label, but that's probably true. Well, they may be the heaviest, too. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEPTIC FLESH - The Ophidian Wheel · Holy
This is produced better than ever before. Their keyboardist, lacking on their second effort, Esoptron, has returned home to roost, meaning that the neoclassical element is back. On top of that, a soprano has been drawn in to enhance the variety in several songs, which must be said is an experiment well succeeded. Indeed, they leave behind them labelmates NIGHTFALL and soar up right to the snowclad top of Mount Olympus. Although the CD boasts a triplet of pseudo-classical ditties in the forms of "Tartarus," "Microcosmos" and "Enchantment," which could be considered slightly superfluous (though they take up no more than five minutes of the whole CD), the whole is definitely a masterpiece. Especially the soprano’s haunting voice transforms a song like "Shamanic Rite" to an experience of true aural ecstasy. - 8.5 - <RK> **MC11**

SEPTIMO ANGEL - Total Genocide · DEMO
Since this recording these guys have changed their name to NOXIOUS CREED. But anyway, about this demo: Very intense Deathrash. The production is a bit shaky, but musically this isn't too far off of early SLAYER (of course with appropriate Death-style vocals), which is to say that it's pretty awesome. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEPULCHRAL - Internal Decomposition · DEMO
These guys have two vocalists, so I'm not sure who does it, but someone occasionally pukes up ultimately impressive, Godzilla scream. That alone should be all you need to know, but I'll continue. These guys play mostly fast Death, and even the regular vocals are superb. Heavy, memorable songs, and more than a few good ideas. Excellent. - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

SEPULTURA - Beneath the Remains (Re-mastered version) · RC Records
There has been a lot of talk about this band and this LP. I like the inclusion of the lyric sheet, but the original mastering was fine, the re-mastered version sounds kind of ‘muddy,’ but maybe it’s just my copy. Since none of their earlier efforts (Bestial Devastation EP, Morbid Visions, & Schizophrenia) have been released in the USA, I have nothing to compare this to. So I don’t know if this is a progression for SEPULTURA, or what. The songs are mostly similar, yet there is something about them...almost like the first time I heard Bonded by Blood (EXODUS). I really like this LP, it’s produced almost too well (at least the re-mastered version), but the power & feeling behind the songs is very much still there. Highlights include: "Beneath the Remains" (the echo, the fuckin’ echo!), "Inner Self," and ‘Mass Hypnosis." If you don’t already have this album, you should give it a listen. <Ray>
{Gee, I wonder what ever happened to these guys... Also worthy of note, is that this album has recently been remastered again (along with most of their other releases).} **MC1**

SEPULTURA - Arise · R/C
Here's the new one by the Brazilian Death Squad. It's a slayfest that reminds me of the other deadly jungle beast, the jaguar. Like the jaguar, Arise is both swift and elusive. The speed is comparable to Beneath the Remains, which we all know and love. The elusiveness is evident in the lyrics which come out of nowhere with the intent to kill and the force to accomplish the task. When these lyrics team-up with the masterful work of Paulo (bass) and Igor (drums) the bloody thunder drops on its victim like a jaguar from its perch, attacking relentlessly. It doesn't even stop when the prey is slain. Among my favorite tracks are the title track and "Altered State". I like the "machine guns" in "Desperate Cry" and the guitar solos throughout the album are excellent. Watch for the beast at your local record store, but remember the fiercest of hunters have fallen prey to the deadly jaguar. - 9.25 - <Lar> **MC5**

SEPULTURA - Roots · Roadrunner
Well, they're trying some new stuff, such as tribal beats and chants, and it's not a complete disaster. But for the most part Roots sounds more or less like WHITE ZOMBIE. It's not until the 5th track, "Breed Apart," that any of their old fire shows up, and it doesn't last long. Thankfully a little fighting spirit resurfaces here and there ("Born Stubborn" & "Ambush"), but it's clear that this was not meant for me. Roots is for those mainstream dorks who think that Chaos A.D. was this band's debut. - 6 - <Ray> **MC10**

SEPULTURA - Against · Roadrunner
I guess this is better than I thought it would be. Who knows if it’s their new singer, or just "progression," but this sounds a lot more Hardcore than I remember them. However, I did sort of miss out on the last couple albums, as Chaos A.D. left me cold, so maybe this has built up. It’s not completely horrible, and probably almost okay really, considering how huge these dudes are now, but there is nothing on here as kick-ass as the weakest track on Arise. Oddly enough, I do sort of like Derrick, the new screamer. He can be convincing, when the rest of the band isn’t freaking out on their tribal roots, trying way too hard to be different, showing that they are tougher-than-thou, or otherwise fucking things up. Which isn’t all that often. - 5.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

SERAPH - Awakened EP · Wild Rags
This keyboard infused Doom isn’t bad, but seems to not be fully developed yet. Sometimes the tempo increases, and I would call this Death Metal if not for the vocals. I think it would have been a good idea to put the amazing instrumental second track, "The Dawn of Crimson Skies," first, as it is the best one on this disc. Although I sort of like the kind of yelled/sung vocals, something about them seems to make the music sound odd when they are present. I think these guys just need a little more time to fine tune things, but if this is a demo on CD, as many of the Wild Rags so-called CD5s are, then perhaps they have already had that time. I’d like to hear more. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

SERENADE - The 28th Parallel · Deviation
I never would have though of making a Doom Metal concept album about the life of Christopher Columbus, but that's exactly what SERENADE have done. They combine the Death and Rock kinds of Doom into their own style, but it really only seems to work sometimes. The remainder is not exactly bad, but it can sometimes sound unfocused, almost as if they were trying a little too hard to be "original," and it backfired on them. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

SERENITY - Then Came Silence · Holy
Nice clean vocals, and old-Metal riffs, make for a Doomy combo. The addition of a few tasteful samples is a good touch. The occasional speed-ups to a slower Thrash pace, and the extremely clear production, also help to keep things interesting. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

SERENITY - Breathing Demons · Holy
SOLITUDE AETURNUS-style Doomy Metal, with melodic vocals. Actually the vocals are the weak link here. They don't quite match the power of the music, and thus hold it back. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

SERMON - From Death to Death · DEMO
SERMON’s Death Metal kicked my ass solidly for the entire 50 minutes of this release. The band’s intense Thrash influences are clear, and there is certainly a depressing, Doom element to this as well. Actually, everything about this band is amazing. The writing, the playing, the vocals, the production - all near perfect. According to their bio, this is their 4th release. I hope I can track down the other three. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SERMON - From Death to Death · Wild Rags
Cheers to Wild Rags for releasing this masterpiece on CD! Some readers may remember that this (on cassette) was reviewed last issue, when I apparently mistakenly assumed it was a demo, so let me be brief here, and say that this Thrashy Death is near-perfection and you’d damn well better check it out. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SERPENT OBSCENE - Serpent Obscene · Necropolis
WARNING: The contents of this release may cause severe whiplash! If SERPENT OBSCENE's self-titled debut doesn't get you banging your head like a madman, nothing will! This Swedish quintet plays 100% pure Death / Thrash Metal inspired by the early works of MERCILESS, SEPULTURA, and KREATOR. SERPENT OBSCENE rip and tear their way through nine blistering tracks of total aggression that lay waste to everything in their path. These crazy Swedes have taken the time and effort to create some genuinely intense music with songs of pain, hate, and torture that are executed with total conviction. A rock-solid production gives this release one helluva backbone. SERPENT OBSCENE are undeniably dedicated to Extreme Metal, and it is reflected in their music. Now, get off your ass and go out and buy this CD and bang your fucking head! - 9.5 - <Painkiller>

SETH - Les Blessures de l’Ame · Season of Mist
I don’t think that this is "the most majestic Black Metal," but it’s impressive. The vocals are lower pitched than normal, and raspy, rather than shrieks. And for all its majesty, the music is actually heavy and raw. It’s a combination of styles that I like quite a bit, and SETH seem to be experts at it. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

SETHERIAL - Hell Eternal · Napalm
Fast, raw Black Metal, with Themgoroth (ex-DARK FUNERAL) on "guest vocals." If I hadn't heard this thousands of times before, exactly the same, it would be pretty cool, but other than possibly their "scary" makeup (unless of course you think that since so many "evil" people wear makeup these days, it just makes you a trend-following sheep to do so - which is of course true), there is nothing individual about this band at all, and all they have is some intensity and speed. Both common commodities. - 7 - <Ray>

SEVENCHURCH - Nefarious · DEMO
Hail to the new Gods of Doom! SEVENCHURCH, from England, may well be the hottest Doom band (too bad nobody knows it yet!). This two song tape, whose content is at least 20 minutes of mayhem, is incredible. They don't play "formula" tunes. They seem to combine parts of many songs into one. This causes a roller coaster ride of Doomy riffs, haunting vocals, and pounding drum beats. God, they must play four songs in an hour! Definitely a band to watch out for. - 9 - <Gerry> **MC7**

SEVENSEAS - s/t · demo
What ever happened to giving your demo a name? Anyway, this is PRIEST/MAIDEN-inspired Power Metal with additions of Prog and choir bullshit. I can take this for about 10 minutes, making it the most tolerable Power Metal made in the last 15 years. Just kidding, this really isn’t that bad for this kind of thing, I just don’t like it. - 5.75 - <Jack>
www.sevenseasmusic.tk

SEVERANCE - What Lies Ahead · WWIII / Mercenary
Very sloppy, noisy, boring, uninspiring, fast Death Metal. Can somebody get this guy a vocal pattern? I think anyone who buys this record and can actually tell any of the songs or riffs apart should get an autographed guitar, or some kind of reward for his/her suffering. At least a fucking drumstick! - 4 - <Jack>

SEVERE TORTURE - Misanthropic Carnage · Hammerheart
I took this CD to the gym this morning. I slapped it into the Discman on continuous playback, and for the life of me, not only could I not tell the songs apart or when they changed, I couldn't even tell when the album started over. Since then, I've given it a couple more chances (marijuana-aided opportunities at that), and have come to the conclusion that these guys, as fast as they are, as extremely fucking brutal as they are, as good a vocalist as they have, are simply a boring Death Metal band lacking in heart and trying to compensate with skill. Certainly not what you expect from Dutch Death Metal bands, especially ones that feature Seth van de Loo from the mighty CENTURIAN on drums. Speed, gore appeal, and a handful of decent riffs is sadly all that SEVERE TORTURE have to offer at the moment. - 7 - <Jack>

SEWN SHUT - s/t · demo
A 3-song CDR of savagely underproduced groovy Thrash with an anemic guitar sound and the most average of average Hardcore shouts. Lending itself occasionally to uneasy Rap Metal/tough guy moments, this band’s sound is far too underdeveloped and scattered to command anyone’s attention at this point. - 6.25 - <Jack>
www.sewnshut.com

SEX, LOVE AND MONEY - Era · Rockworld
Kind of funky, with popped bass, and so on, but very Metal guitars. Much better than the band name would indicate. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

SEXORCIST - Sexorcist · Wild Rags
Other than the really screechy backing vocals, and the low production quality, this is better than I was expecting. Fairly speedy Death, with obviously juvenile sexual overtones. Cut the bad vocals, improve the better ones, and get a budget - then let's try this again. Not horrible, but not too great. - 6.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SHADE EMPIRE - Sinthetic · Magick
The label-proclaimed heir apparents to the throne of CRADLE OF FILTH and DIMMU BORGIR, and while they’re certainly not pretenders, I don’t quite think they’re up to that level just yet. They do have a fantastic drummer, a solid vocalist, crystal clear production, and more than a few hooks up their sleeves, but the synthesizers are insanely overdone. The keyboards should not overpower all the other instruments, yet they do on virtually every track, leaving Sinthetic with a disgustingly way-too-modern feel. Black Metal has to retain some primitive rawness, some barbaric grim in order to properly function. What works for FLOCK OF SEAGULLS won’t always work for Black Metal. Still, buried under the synths there is a precise demonic force brewing here. - 8.25 - <Jack>

SHADES OF GREY - Shades of Grey · DEMO
SHADES OF GREY are from Indiana, Chesterton to be exact. See, there is more than corn in Indiana! Anyway, SHADES OF GREY are: Jeff Dzikovsky (guitar & vocals), Pete Clemens (bass guitar), Alan Pearson (lead guitar), and Dave Hornyak (drums). They describe their sound as being like SEPULTURA, but I think it’s more along the lines of Reign in Blood era SLAYER, musically. And vocally, well, Jeff reminds me of what James Hetfield would sound like if he sang for a Thrash band (growly & mean). The overall effect is one of power & confidence. The songs ("House of Fools," "Terminal Affliction," "Rage of Insanity," "Pizza Face," "Under the Skeptic’s Eye," "Legions of Corruption" and "Sounds of War") are mostly very strong. "Pizza Face" is an attempt to show the band’s less serious side, unfortunately it just doesn’t seem to work (sorry Pete!). "House of Fools" isn’t quite as strong as the rest, but the other ones more than make up for it. A true must-have. <Ray>
{Here’s along story made short. Most of this band disappeared after one more demo (Under the Skeptic’s Eye). Only Pete Clemens was to stick it out through various line up changes and other difficulties, eventually dropping the SHADES OF GREY name and sound in favor of the somewhat ironically named SEA OF TRANQUILLITY, and a more Death Metal influenced approach to things. With a still evolving line up, and new attitude, Pete and company saw their efforts released first as half of a split 7" EP with the legendary NUM SKULL, then later as half of a split CD with technical Death Metal gurus PAX MORTIS, which was released on my very own label, Cursed Productions. As of this writing, SEA OF TRANQUILLITY’s debut full length CD, The Omegan Ruins, has just been released through Cursed for $13 USA, or $15 for anywhere else, including postage. No time like now to order a copy!} **MC2**

SHADES OF GREY - Under the Skeptic's Eye · DEMO
This is the new demo from those North Indiana, Thrash freaks. With all the new Death Metal coming out these days, it's good to hear some heavy Thrash. This demo has six sings, two of which are recorded live and have a very "underground/ bootleg" kind of feel to them. The other four have professional recording. The cover is full color and all that kind of good shit. All the songs are reasonable heavy, usually fast, and played well. And Jeff's vocals are more powerful on this demo than ever before. However, since the recording of this demo, the line up of this band has changed and the bassist, Pete, has had to assemble an entirely new band. So you had better write to him and show some support to this band. Favorite track: "The Art of Killing." - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC6**

SHADOW - Shadow · Spikefarm / Century Media
Swedish "melodic" Death Metal - from Japan! With a chick singer! Yes, that's what we have here, and I'm impressed. Tokiko's vocals aren't the most brutal I've ever heard, but her raspy death-screams and growls fit the super-energetic music very well, and the combination is deadly, and hard to forget. - 9 - <Ray>

SHADOW DANCES - Burning Shadows EP · Abstract Emotions
Well played, although average, Death/Doom that occasionally (oddly, usually the worst moments) owes a little to TYPE O NEGATIVE. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

SHADOW DANCERS - Equilibro · Lucretia
Upbeat and edgy Gothic Death Rock. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SHADOWBREED - Only Shadows Remain · Painkiller
Very clearly influenced by early UNLEASHED - well, maybe almost too much influenced by them, if that's possible. No, fuck that. I'd much rather listen to this very well done UNLEASHED worship than a lot of the stuff I've had to review for this issue. In fact, discounting their lack of "originality" (which is sort of an overrated concept, anyway), SHADOWBREED really deliver excellent old-school Thrashy Death Metal - just the way I like it! - 8.75 - <Ray>

SHADOWCASTER - Abandonment · Unisound
Haunting synths and keyboards backing up utterly tortured Black Metal style vocals. This kind of sounds like the score from a Satanic horror movie. It's an idea I like, and generally everything works out very well. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SHADOWCASTER - Psychelectronic Experience · Wild Rags
I remember this band (well, it’s just one guy, really) being more interesting than this. On their Abandonment CD it seems as if I recall there being more haunting keyboards and tortured vocals, and not the heavily effected spoken word stuff that passes for vox here, nor the ultra minimal synths found on this disc. I just kept waiting for the intro to be over, and for the music to start, which never happened. The press release suggests being "under the influence of LSD" while listening to this. That’s pathetic, but in this case, a solid suggestion, as it’s the only way I can think of to get anything out of this boring tripe. This has just got to be a joke. - 1 - <Ray> **MC12**

SHADOWCASTER - Temptation · Wild Rags
This is supposed to be a "new version" of their debut, the above-mentioned Abandonment. It’s missing some of the old tracks and has some new ones. All rerecorded. Why not just release a new LP, if you were already doing this much work? From what the press release tells me, he (one man band, remember?) somehow wasn’t happy with the kickass digipack that Unisound put his debut album in. That’s gratitude for you. But the most amazing thing is that although this is supposed to be "sometimes dark and haunting, other times depressed and melancholy," it’s really pretty lighthearted, and not dark at all. Well, it is depressing, though - depressingly boring. I dug out Abandonment just to see if I was on crack when I reviewed it, and sure enough, it’s way better than this "new version." This dude should have quit when he was ahead, but he just had to go and "fix" everything that wasn’t broken, and the result, as it always is and always will be, is a piece of crap. - 1 - <Ray> **MC12**

SHADOWCHORD - Farce · DEMO
Due to the extremely poor sound, it’s difficult to tell much more than that this is very simple Death Metal. I can detect some okay riffs, but everything else is buried too far in the background to make out. - 3 - <Ray> **MC11**

SHADOWS FALL - Of One Blood · Century Media
A hybrid of Hardcore, Death, and other "progressions." Okay, but progressions is codeword for excursions into dorky-ness. A lot of the melodies remind me of the boring parts of '80s Metal; and Thrash Metal pop culture hogs will wallow in this. Sure these guys can play, but >yawn< how come this bores me? - 7 - <Bob>

SHADOWS FALL - The War Within · Century Media
SHADOWS FALL is, without question, the most criminally overrated band in Metalcore's brief but illustrious history. Send me a 120 minute blank tape and I'll fill it with at least 30 bands about a thousand times cooler. Copy protection is Christ. - 5 - <Jack>

SHADOWS OF SUNSET - Reflection From Afar EP · Fadeless
I really wish a lyric sheet had come with the review copy of this. The band name, album and song titles would lead one to believe that this is a Doom band, but that’s not really the case. They’re actually mid-paced to sort-of-fast Death, with some Doomy overtones. So I’d like to check out the lyrics just to see what’s going on. Anyway, they’ve really done a great job with this EP, and I’ll be looking for a full-length release. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

SHALLOW - 16 Sunsets in 24 Hours · TMC / Rise Above
Lots of groove means nothing to me. And neither do 1970s Pop Rock vocals. Maybe these guys are good at what they do, but who cares? This would have put me right to sleep, if it hadn't induced such a terrible headache. - 3 - <Ray>

SHAM RAIN - Empty World Excursion · Watch Me Fall
Does anyone actually want to hear a Gothed out version of ALICE IN CHAINS? It is difficult to feel the melancholy because a hillbilly's sadness inadvertently becomes comedy. This features the singer of ENTWINE and occasionally reaches the emotional heights of AIR SUPPLY. - 1.5 - <Jack>

SHAMASH - Behind the Sun EP · Reborn
This can be awesome Black / Death Metal, and is mostly really impressive. But every now and then the vocals shift into an insane high-pitched screech that’s like a little kid shrieking in terror. And it’s instantly headache inducing. Thankfully SHAMASH don’t use that vocal style very often, but when they do, it just cripples everything else. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

SHÄNGO - Metal Mafia · Back Room
These guys are great, but a little tough to describe. At times I hear more Hard Rockish influences, maybe like AC/DC. And then they also have their dramatically more Punk and/or Hardcore influenced moments, and totally kick ass Hardcore style basslines throughout. And Thrash. The vocals generally remain more in a sort of Thrash/Punk realm, and are very strong. But what impressed me the most is their obvious extreme ability. And not so much that they possess it, but rather how and when they choose to use it. They create catchy songs that upon repeated listens yield more and more to the listener, but don’t resort to showing off just to prove how well they can play. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

SHANK - The Big Payback · Roadrunner
I get it now. Roadrunner dropped almost all of their good bands so that they could sign trendy pieces of shit like SHANK. What a great idea. Way to stick with your roots, Roadrunner. Way to turn your back on the Underground, which, you'll recall, made you into the big label you are today. Apparently Roadrunner easily forgets, but it will take me a long time to forget that they had me review such useless pap as SHANK. - 2.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

SHANNACAI - Merciful Release · DEMO
This band is nothing more than harder edged Pop Rock. They could be comparable to THE CULT in the late eighties with a happy Irish twist. There’s no doubt that these guys possess some talent. They show skill in their guitar playing and the vocalist can sing on key, but there’s nothing really new when it comes to the genre of music that they’ve chosen to focus on. For a band that’s only been together for two years, they seem to have cliqued well as a collective whole. - 6.25 - <ANG> **MC11**

SHATTERED i - Shattered i · DEMO
Too bad this only has two songs. It's an amazingly professional tape. The sound quality is just stunning, and the cassette shell is green. Pretty cool. Well, the songs are memorable, but I'm not exactly sure how to describe them. Both have a lot of feeling and energy, but the guitars are mixed low, which is weird. Sounds different, and I like it, but if the vocals were any more melodic, or if the music were only a bit less heavy, I might detect some Grungification. I may be wrong about that, though. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

SHATTERED REALM - Broken Ties... Spoken Lies · Eulogy
What we have here is a ferocious mix of Old School Hardcore, gruff Death Metal vocals, and true lyrical thuggery. These guys throw in a little of everything. Gang vocals galore, crushing school Metalcore breakdowns, and even the slightest dash of Emo ("The April Situation"). This shit would get Tibetan monks crowd-surfing! Okay, there are a couple of filler tracks scattered about, but for the most part this should definitely appease the tough guy within. RIYL: HATEBREED, HOODS, and UNTIL THE END. - 9 - <Jack>

SHEAVY - The Electric Sleep · The Music Cartel / Rise Above
SHEAVY want to be BLACK SABBATH so much it’s sort of weird. Having said that, there are 2 things I can’t understand about this recording: 1. Why would they run the vox through an effect to make them sound all "tinny"? That’s stupid, even if they don’t do it all the time. And 2. Why not have a thicker guitar sound? It would make the whole thing a lot more oppressively heavy, instead of concentrating so much on "groove." These guys offer nothing that SABBATH didn’t already do better 30 years ago. Without the real Ozzy singing, the real Tony I. cranking out the riffs, the real Bill Ward beating skins, and maybe most importantly (and most noticeable in its absence), the real Geezer on bass, this is just a tribute band with delusions of grandeur, who thought they could write their own songs. Every "original" idea they have (like the vocal distortion in the first song) shows just how inept they are. - 6 - <Ray> **MC12**

SHEAVY - Celestial Hi-Fi · TMC / Rise Above
Although still awesomely SABBATH influenced, this does seem to have a little more of its own identity than did The Electric Sleep, and the vocals are improved as well. Still, that doesn't mean that vocals are exactly great, or that this is a fantastic album. This kind of "Stoner Groove Rock" can be hard for me to get in to, and I generally find that the heavier it is, the more I like it. Just as I said in my review of their last album, a thicker guitar tone and less "nasal" vocals would go a long way towards making me like this more. - 7.25 - <Ray>

SHELTER - When 20 Summers Pass · Victory
Fairly decent emotional Hardcore / Pop-Punk. I could imagine this being on the radio. This is a vast improvement over the Mantra CD. Probably way too upbeat for the average Metalhead, but you never know. Simple 3-chord rhythms designed solely to carry the ever-so-catchy choruses. I could see this getting old after a few listens, but for what it is I can dig it. - 8.25 - <Jack>

SHOOTYZ GROOVE - Hipnosis · Roadrunner
Alternative / Pop Punk combined with Rap. What next? - 2 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

SHREDDED CORPSE - Exhumed and Molested EP · Wild Rags
Grinding Death with sex-gore lyrics. I'm glad to see that this style is still alive (undead) and that there are more corpses to be raped and devoured. For a total CANNIBAL CORPSE clone, it's pretty good. The writing and playing are great, and I honestly don't really mind the lyrics' juvenile attempts at horror. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SHREDDED CORPSE - Exhumed and Molested · DEMO
Too bad this didn’t come with the lyrics printed somewhere. I’ll bet the words to "Nailed Open Hole" are cool. You could probably guess by that songs title and the band name that S.C. play brutal Death Metal, but what’s not so apparent from these clues is their songwriting ability. And the excellent production. And the intensely raw vocals. And on and on. It just keeps getting better. If only I could growl along with the impossible to understand lyrics (which means I want a lyric sheet to make sure the lyrics are as sick as the music, and not less raw vocals, by the way), this might have been perfect. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

SHREDDED CORPSE - Human Obliteration · Frozen Dawn
Fast. Intense and brutal Death. Vocals are varied and multi-tracked, and just sort of whispered raspy. On "Sanity Fades," the cymbals sound weird, like huge frying pans at times. A few tracks such as "Hate Device" and "Eternal Torture" are good. But I’m not impressed on the whole for some reason. The last track is combined with nonstop demos, one after another, which sometimes outweigh their newer material. Anyone into SHREDDED CORPSE will love the shear volume of music here, but with no song titles or track markers, the unenlightened are surely lost. A wise decision? - 7.75 - <Bob> **MC12**

SHRINE - Psycha · Malicious Vinyl / Capitol
Occasionally these guys really Thrash it out. I was surprised by that, but happy to hear it. Their style of, what at one time probably would have been called Crossover (Hardcore and Metal), is complemented very well by their female singer, Xan, who typically sounds pretty fuckin' pissed off, but she can get mellow, when required by the slower songs. Good cover of JEFFERSON AIRPLANE's "White Rabbit," too. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

SHRINE OF SCARS - Violence is the Answer · Disfigured
This looks like it’s going to be awesome. The packaging and the message are great. Yes, violence is the answer and you should kill yourself. Only problem is, I was expecting either MARDUK, INVASION, or AGATHOCLES and I got Basement Thrash with pathetic vocals. Looks like the secret prize in my box of Lucky Charms is a big fat turd. - 5.25 - <Jack>

SHUD - Beyond the Real · DEMO
Here is a band to keep an eye on. This demo is very professional looking and sounding. Each of the six songs are interesting and motivating enough that even after reviewing dozens of demos, I'm glad to be hearing this one. Very quality Deathrash. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

SHUTDOWN - Against All Odds · Victory
What do all of the Hardcore bands on the Victory label have in common? They all kick ass. As you should expect by now, this is highly energetic, well played, and super memorable. I guess that for Hardcore, the Victory label is almost a guarantee of greatness. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

SHUTDOWN - Something to Prove EP · Victory
God damn, these guys have a lot going for them: an amazingly clear, powerful sound; great technical ability; and most importantly, more energy than a tactical nuke. This Hardcore attack is nothing short of amazing! Their singer, Mark, even has his screaming honed to an art form. With only 10:30 to go by, it's somewhat hard for me to say that this is perfection, but it's also hard to find even one second of anything less than flawless, other than the last minute of just talking. - 9.5 - <Ray>

SHUTDOWN - Few and Far Between · Victory
More of the above, with flawless production by AGNOSTIC FRONT's Roger Miret. Very impressive indeed. - 9.5 - <Ray>

SICK - Four Letter Words · DEMO
Oooh, slammy! These guys have a sort of high-energy Crossover (Hardcore and Thrash sound for those of you new to this world) sound, with decidedly Death Metal inspired drumming. The vocals are sometimes a little whiny in their yelling, and the riffs occasionally too jerk-offy, but it's not completely useless. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

SICK OF IT ALL - We Stand Alone · In-Effect
Undoubtedly the best Hardcore band to come out in a long time, SICK OF IT ALL, has just released this 7", which is brutal. Yes, SICK OF IT ALL is letting loose anger and aggression once again, and why not? We Stand Alone contains two new songs, "What's Goin' On" and "We Stand Alone." They even cover MINOR THREAT's classic, "Betray," and they do it great, if not better. On this slab the Koller brothers, (Pete and Lon) have added two new members to the band, Eoko on drums, and Eddie on bass. If you're in the mood for the true 'Core buy SICK OF IT ALL and shave your head. Well, you don't have to shave your head, just buy We Stand Alone. - 8.75 - <John T> **MC5**

SICKENING GORE - Destructive Reality · Massacre / Sonic Underground
Standard Death Metal. But it's been awhile since I really heard a "standard" Death album, so I'll let it pass. Plus, they have a lot of energy. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

SICKENING HORROR - Promo 2003 · demo
Extremely talented Prog-flavored Death Metal with guttural growls. Take DEATH’s layering, CEPHALIC CARNAGE’s rampant insanity, CYNIC’s bass acrobatics, and MESHUGGAH’s polyrhythms and you have a style that is damn impressive, but an attack so dizzyingly varied that it eludes all memorability, and the muddy production doesn’t help. Factor in these three tracks coming in at under ten minutes, and it’s over before you know what hits you. Still, it should be noted that these sick Greek freaks are definitely not fucking around. - 8 - <Jack>
sickeninghorror@hotmail.com

SICKNESS - Torture of Existence · DEMO
Basic and straightforward Death. But the vocals are impressively heavy. And the riffs are occasionally memorable, which is the key. I think they need a little time to develop, but I can hear some pretty interesting stuff going on sometimes. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

SIEBENBURGEN - Delictum · N