DEAD METAL

Macabra is a collaboration between Mark Riddick (probably best known best for his artwork, but here showcasing his musical abilities); and Beligian vocalist Adrien 'Liquifier' Weber. They play atmospheric, otherworldly old school-style death metal; and have a lot of character. Special mention has to go to the occasional keyboard parts, which really add to the eeriness. Their debut full-length,  Blood-Nurtured Nature , was released on Metalhit ‎in 2012: A second album,  ...to the Bone , was released by Morbid Visions/Apocalyptic Empire in 2016: Both are excellent. Don't sleep on Macabra.

A post about Macabra can be found here ; and a post about the debut album from Nucleus is here . Each band brings three tracks to this Morbid Visions release, which sees them both following up extremely well on their 2016 full-lengths. It's a cohesive split too, and the Dan Seagrave cover tops off the package very nicely. Fragmented Self is well worth picking up if you're a fan of either act, or if you would simply like to introduce yourself to a couple of strong death metal up-and-comers. You can listen to it below, and buy it  here .

FaithXtractor is a death metal band from Ohio. Here we have their debut full-length, originally released by Aphotic Records in 2007. Morbid Records went on to reissue it on cassette in 2017; then 2018 saw a CD reissue from Reaper/Redefining Darkness, and a vinyl pressing from Reaper/Redefining Darkness/Austenitized. The CD features four bonus tracks - the band's contributions to a 2007 split with Crucified Mortals on Hells Headbangers. Thrashy death metal with hints of Deicide  and  Monstrosity , amongst others. Also one for fans of the first  Macabra  album. Catchy riffs, excellent lead guitar work, strong vocals... it's a highly enjoyable listen. You can preview Razing The World Of Myth below, and buy it here .

Once Still Cosmos is very strong outer space-themed release, brought to us by Morbid Visions/Metalhit. Fetid Zombie is a solo project from Mark Riddick (who produced the excellent artwork, and has previously been featured in relation to his  Macabra band). Mr Riddick is joined here by a number of special guests, and brings three tracks of powerful old school death metal to the table. Svierg is also a solo project, and also features a special guest for this offering. Five tracks of highly enjoyable atmospheric black metal from them. Split albums can sometimes feature artists' lesser works, but that is certainly not the case with this one. The limited edition CD (which comes with a poster, patches and flyers) is almost sold out, but can still be ordered  here  for now. Alternatively you can download the Svierg 'side' via that same link, and download the Fetid Zombie 'side'  here . A choice Fetid Zombie track, and four Svierg tracks, can be heard below. ...