DEAD METAL

Thrombus is an Oregon band which only ever produced one recording. Active between 1991 and 1996, they self-released Mental Turmoil on cassette in 1993. La Caverna has now reissued the EP/mini-album, which features six tracks and clocks in at around 24 minutes. Old school death metal has seen a big resurgence in recent years, and this is a very solid example of the genre. Raw and heavy, with thrash influences and some doomy moments; it's a highly enjoyable listen. One for fans of early  Autopsy , Demigod , Benediction ,  Unleashed ... You can listen to it below, and purchase a copy  here .

Some highly impressive death metal from Israel here. Active since 2013, this is only the band's second EP; and release in general. Kever is Hebrew for grave, which is certainly an appropriate name for these guys. Delivered to us by Dark Descent, the backbone of this release is crushing and doom-laden. There's a lot more to it, though - catchy and diverse riffs, soaring leads, subtle flashes of synth... The production is very strong too, which also helps it to stand out from the crowd. You can pre-order a CD copy and/or download Primordial Offerings  here . The five-tracker can also be previewed in its entirety below.

Codex Constellatia is the second of three full-lengths from this Oregon band. It features five tracks of atmospheric, depressive, outer space-themed black metal. The production is strong, and the contrast between calm and chaotic/melodic and raw parts is very effective. Transitions between those parts are also effective, and progressive/experimental elements add some interesting twists. Originally released on cassette by Eternal Warfare in 2012, it was then given CD and vinyl treatments by Moribund and The Path Less Traveled in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Chasma went on to be signed by Candlelight Records, which speaks to the quality of this album. You can hear the opening track below, and pick up a copy here .

Necros Christos is a blackened death metal band from Berlin. They formed in 2001, and Doom Of The Occult is their 2011 full-length. It's a weighty release, consisting of nine songs and fourteen instrumental interludes; and clocking in at almost 75 minutes. It is not a release to be taken lightly in terms of subject matter, either - these guys stand out from the crowd because their output is born of authentic mysticism and spirituality. The music is well-produced and relatively accessible, catchy even; but make no mistake - this is a monstrous, abyssal work. Ancient Egyptian themes are recurrent, and many of the interludes feature Eastern instruments. Released on Sepulchral Voice/The Ajna Offensive/Ván, the album can be heard below. You can grab yourself a digital copy here , or a physical copy here .