NIGHT SINS – ‘New Grave’ LP
Born by members of hardcore bands Salvation and Mother Of Mercy, Night Sins is the aural proof that life does not walk so dark all over Europe alone. Emerging sometime around 2011 under the oppressive skies of Philadelphia, these overcast malcontents are fitly connected to a city engrossed in shadow-soaked vices and dilapidated architecture. Not to imply that there isn’t a comforting sort of gloominess in this musical malaise as Night Sins frolic down a musical path originally cut by The Sisters of Mercy and Clan of Xymox, with enough hints of Pink Turns Blue, The Mission, and other extensions into 80’s darkwave to produce memorable songwriting that stands on its own. Bass and drums punch through the mist thick as thieves, guitar lines circle like falcons overhead, minimal synths street clean some of the residual dirt, and singer-songwriter Kyle Kimball’s vocals confidently press through an intimate fog. There is a brilliant light in the midst of dimness, and Night Sins is carrying the torch. Comes on black vinyl with insert with band pics and lyrics.
HORROR VACUI – ‘In Darkness You Will Feel Alright’ LP
Horror Vacui is taking the hard-line instead: how to play goth music with a strong, arrogant attitude. This five-piece got together in our own town Bologna circa one year ago, collecting members of crust and hardcore acts like Kontatto, Campus Sterminii and Sumo, with the intent of playing some kind of darkened punk rock and that’s exactly what came out with their debut 7-inch single Can You Still See Reality?. Powerful 4/4 drum patterns, catchy guitar riffs, deep angry vocals. Think of the Sisters of Mercy or Lords of the New Church played by a bunch of filthy punx. And that’s what you’re getting with their first full-length we’re proud to release in cooperation with the band’s own imprint Legion of the Dead (sublabel of Agipunk). Eight brand new songs where lyrics range from anti-militaristic activism to mental illness issues, without overlooking personal feelings of disenchantment and frustration. Fans of Lost Tribe and Anasazi will find their European answer here, so get your studded leather jacket on! Comes on violet vinyl with insert with band pics and lyrics.