Acrania - An Uncertain Collision

For about two years now, I've been waiting for a band that combines my favorite sub-genre (Death Metal) with my favorite woodwind (Saxophone).  That band has finally arrived.  Acrania are actually a diverse Metal/Jazz hybrid with influnces reaching far back into Mexico's ethnic history as well as modern Metal that most of us grew up with.  This isn't just a regular Death Metal band with some sax solos (although that would be pretty sweet).  An Uncertain Collision is primarily driven by Jazz and latino rhythm styles that create a very loose feel, almost danceable.  The multi-layered drumming is also incredible, so good that it slightly overshadows the rest of the band.  But that's ok, as I'm sure we've all heard enough metronomic blast-beats to last us the rest of our lives.  Not just some nerdy white guy talking about "exotic" far away cultures that he's only read about, Acrania are the real deal, showcasing their own musical heritage.

it's in the trees, it's coming!

Trollfest - Brumblebassen

I know what you're thinking: "What, a novelty band!?  Has Kawana jumped on the Folky/Pirate Metal bandwagon?"  The short answer is no.  I'm as surprised as you are that I'm posting an album with an "evil bumblebee" on the cover, but I'm genuinely impressed with cohesiveness and musicianship displayed here.  There's just so many notes being played and so many influences coming through at once, but all executed with supreme precision.  Are they using computers to correct their timing?  It's possible, but I'm just paying attention to how fucking entertaining and refreshing this sounds to really care.  Ok, so it's probably not gonna make fans out you "bearded types" that are digging the new Krallice album.  If you wanna hear something that's a bit more atypical than your usual Nekkro or Guttural drivel, then fly away with me to the Nordic fantasy realm.

almost as tasty as bee spit