Based out of Athens, Georgia, Rowland crafts an ongoing narrative for the Hobbit Jamwine, who decided to leave his home in Frogmorton with only a walking stick and a long pipe. 2024’s ‘Flies the Coop III’ continues Jamwine’s sonic story, although in a new manner. 

‘The Blossoming’ by Ætheria Conscientia is an impressive album that mixes a multitude of progressive elements. Black metal acts as the foundation for progressive psychedelic arena prog rock influences and even borderline techno and EDM breakdowns at times. 

‘The Collector’ evokes a sense of wonder and enhancement through the mundane with simple, droning synths veiled beneath the sound of ethereal tides churring over and over. Through these calming songs, Witch Bolt creates a hopeful, reflective, and renewing album.

We didn’t know we needed a black metal band inspired by the power and daunting force of the open sea until we encountered France’s Houle. The band has released their debut album, 'Ciel Cendre et Mis​è​re Noire,' roughly translating to “Ashen Sky And Black Misery.”

Aquilus incorporates various styles of atmospheric music, including classical and folk. Aquilus’ latest release, Bellum II, continues to build upon their discography with epic, lengthy songs reflecting nature's beauty and complexity with ambitious and experimental song compositions. 

‘Brogvar and Wyrgan's Quest for the Basilisk Horn’ is not just a collection of tracks, but a cohesive narrative that immerses the listener in a fantastical, reptilian world. Pauldron’s ability to guide the listener through a classic RPG story without using lyrics is truly remarkable.

Dawnbreaker, led by artist Tomrair, has been a force in the underground metal scene. Their latest release, ‘Banisher of Unlight’, continues this trend of exploring new territories while maintaining the brutality and crushing sound of its death metal roots. 

Eternal Gaze is quickly working to become synonymous with the high-quality blackgaze of Deafheaven and Alcest. The artist does bring something new to a genre that features plenty of cookie-cutter acts, including unique progressive, grunge, thrash, and hymnal influences.

Atmospheric black metal is synonymous with contemplation, mystery, and emotion. One of the artists who I feel best embodies these characteristics is Eldamar hailing from Norway. We caught up with the artist for a brief look into the project.

From the majestic scenery of Northern Arizona has arisen a black metal artist who immediately captured my attention upon first listen – Majesty. Musically, majestic is one word that could be used to describe it, lending itself to an atmospheric and melodic approach to the genre.

Lammoth is a fantastic new black metal artist with thematic elements surrounding Tolkienism, particularly hobbits. With their first EP titled ‘Tales of Treachery’ set to be released on July the 12th, this is the beginning of a black metal act that I’m really excited about.

I am so glad I stumbled upon Vitalith, a dungeon synth project hailing out of the magical land of Iowa. It is calming music for a weary soul, destined to bring vitality and refreshment. Yes, there’s a play on words there.

Out from the ashes and memories of the dark, conflicted history of the land arose Fellwarden (founded by the vocalist of Fen), a black metal project that embodies everything we love about fantasy and legend.

Hesychast, a black metal band based in the U.S., has been lost in silence the past 8 years after their sole album was released titled ‘Ageless’. Blacforje was able to catch up with the band to ask about their hiatus and what lies ahead.

From New Jersey to the Netherlands and back, Dawnbreaker is a black metal act that has been incredibly consistent. With ‘Banisher of Unlight’, their 6th album releasing on May 17th of this year, it will make 6 albums in 6 years. Brilliant.

After an 8-year hiatus, Slechtvalk is back! We had the honor of interviewing Shamgar of Slechtvalk, where we dove into the band’s 8-year break, what’s on the horizon, and who the guys are outside of music.