Schwarzblut &#8211; SIDE-LINE

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

Alfa Matrix releases brand new free download compilation + exclusive face masks

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 16:19:31 +0000

It has been a hectic year, also for Alfa Matrix, but luckily their bands took the time to work in their studio to record new material. Out now via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page is the label’s 10th edition in the “Matrix Downloaded” compilation series, again offering you a – free – insight in what the Belgian label is all about. You can discover 64 tracks right here on Bandcamp.

Matrix Downloaded 010 by Various Artists

The download holds tracks from Cubic, Psy’Aviah, Aesthetische, Digital Factor, Reichsfeind, Llumen, Zombie Girl, Diffuzion, Matthew Creed, Circuito Cerrado, Circumpolar, Venal Flesh, Mentallo & The Fixer, Freakangel, Alien Vampires, I:Scintilla, Schwarzblut, Totem Obscura, Reactor7X, First Aid 4 Souls, Lederman / De Meyer, Implant, AD:keY, Kant Kino, Die Robo Sapiens, ELM, Pouppee Fabrikk, Armageddon Dildos, Plastic Noise Experience, Synapsyche, Avarice In Audio, Elektrostaub, Junksista, First Aid 4 Souls, Benestrophe, Mental Exile, Star Industry, Halo In Reverse, Lovelorn Dolls, Helalyn Flowers, Essence Of Mind, Rector Scanner, Elektroklänge, Metroland, Lights A.M, Cosmic Armchair, Aiboforcen, H.O.W., 808 DOT POP, Suicidal Romance, Entrzelle, Technoir, Neuroactive, Mondträume, The Psychic Force, Studio-X, Studio-X Vs Simon Carter, Neikka RPM, Komor Kommando, Siva Six, Aengeldust, Acylum, Dunkelwerk and Növö.

Exclusive face masks

Next to that you can also get the download together with a face mask, out in a very limited series. You can either buy them separately or get all 3 in one. Check the set of 3 Face Masks (Blue Matrix + Endzeit + Red EBM Alert) or the separate masks.

Note that EVERY face mask order comes with a free compilation CD on top: “Sounds from the matrix 022” with 20 extra tracks.

Chief editor of Side-Line – which basically means I spend my days wading through a relentless flood of press releases from labels, artists, DJs, and zealous correspondents. My job? Strip out the promo nonsense, verify what’s actually real, and decide which stories make the cut and which get tossed into the digital void. Outside the news filter bubble, I’m all in for quality sushi and helping raise funds for Ukraine’s ongoing fight against the modern-day axis of evil. Besides music I’m also an SEO and AI content flow specialist and have an interest in everything finance from stocks to crypto. There is music in everything!

MATRIX:REB00TED – The PSY'AVIAH Guerrilla – Zion [Electro Dance] Warfare [07] by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Alfa Matrix offers 2 more ‘Matrix:Reb00ted’ remix albums, this time remixed by the electro dance / trip pop electro act Psy’Aviah

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:22:57 +0000

Alfa Matrix continues the ‘Matrix:Reb00ted’ series, this time with 2 remix albums by Belgian artist Psy’Aviah displaying his electro dance trip pop remixes cruising through the Alfa Matrix band catalogue. The releases are first released via Bandcamp and will follow on all other platforms in the next weeks.

Here’s what is available on both volumes plus also a preview of what to expect.

Matrix:Reb00ted – The Psy’Aviah Guerrilla – Zion [Electro Dance] Warfare [07]

This volume holds 15 songs from Alfa Matrix’s massive music repertoire remixed by Psy’Aviah. Offering the electro dance side of the Belgian band you can expect a harder selection of modern dancefloor assaults with these bands: Ayria, Suicidal Romance, Zombie Girl, Junksista, Leaether Strip, Essence Of Mind, Nebula-H, Diffuzion, Schwarzblut, Diskonnekted, Krystal System and Psy’Aviah. You can check all the songs below and download it from Bandcamp directly.

Matrix:Reb00ted – The Psy’Aviah Guerrilla – Zion [Trip Pop Electro] Warfare [06]

This volume also holds 15 songs from Alfa Matrix’s massive music repertoire remixed by Psy’Aviah. The “trip pop electro” edition reveals a selection of more moody and catchy synth electro songs thanks to bands like Mondträume, Metroland, Aiboforcen, Helalyn Flowers, Acylum, Junksista, Entrzelle, Llumen, Virgins O.R Pigeons, Halo In Reverse, Schwarzblut, Mildreda, Totem Obscura and Psy’Aviah, also including guest vocals by Kyoko Baertsoen, Mari Kattman and Fallon Nieves. You can check all the songs below and download it from Bandcamp directly.

MATRIX:REB00TED – The PSY'AVIAH Guerrilla – Zion [Trip Pop Electro] Warfare [06] by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Previous volumes

Here’s a list of the 5 previous volumes which Alfa Matrix released in the past with remixes executed by Kant Kino, Simon Carter, Acylum and Aesthetische !

Matrix:Reb00ted – The Kant Kino Guerrilla – Zion (EBM) Warfare (01) by VARIOUS ARTISTS Matrix:Reb00ted – The Acylum Guerrilla – Zion (Dark Elektro) Warfare (02) by VARIOUS ARTISTS MATRIX:REB00TED – the AESTHETISCHE guerrilla Zion [advanced electronic] (red pill) Warfare [04] by VARIOUS ARTISTS MATRIX:REB00TED – the AESTHETISCHE guerrilla Zion [advanced electronic] (blue pill) Warfare [03] by VARIOUS ARTISTS MATRIX:REB00TED – The SIMON CARTER Guerrilla – Zion [Hard Dance] Warfare [05] by VARIOUS ARTISTS

V/A A Tribute To Depeche Mode Vol.3 (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 19:00:18 +0000

Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, dark-electro, EBM, gothic, industrial.

Background/Info: Alfa Matrix clearly has something with Depeche Mode while the electro-pop masters remain an endless source of inspiration for other artists. You don’t only have the numerous Depeche Mode clones, but all these bands covering songs from Depeche Mode as well. Even Johnny Cash has made a cover! The Belgian label has released its third tribute to the ‘Kings’ of synth-pop music featuring 32 songs.

Artists: Komor Kommando, Alien Vampires, Star Industry, Acylum, Metroland, Armageddon Dildos, Ad:Key, Helalyn Flowers, Regenerator, Schwarzblut, Neikka RPM ao.

Content: Depeche Mode is a band we all know, but cover versions from their most famous hits is always tricky business. This tribute only features Alfa Matrix bands, which have seriously revisited the original versions to create a very personal edit. The compilation sounds pretty ‘pop’-like, but mixed with elements of EBM, dark-electronics, gothic and industrial music.

Metroland is the only band which has covered two songs while Ad:Key next to their cover also made one together with Die Robo Sapiens.

+ + + : The diversity of influences is captivating. I enjoyed the transformation of Star Industry and Lovelorn Dolls into gothic music, the industrial bombast from Alien Vampires and Neikka RPM, the Kraftwerk-ian approach of Metroland, the EBM boost of Kant Kino and Ad:Key, the dark and tormented versions by Acylum and Circuito Cerrado and the sensual style of Regenerator. Among the singers I especially like the voice of Noemi (Helalyn Flowers) singing on “Dream On”. Some of the biggest and most famous hits from Depeche Mode have been revisited.

– – – : Covering such a legendary formation and some of the most famous hits (“World In My Eyes”, “A Question Of Time”, “Little 15”, “Photographic”, “Black Celebration”, “Enjoy The Silence”, “Walking In My Shoes”, “Master And Servant”, “Shake The Disease”, “Personal Jesus”…) remains a pretty risky business and probably a blasphemy for some fans of the band.

Conclusion: This kind of tribute is an original way to re-discover Depeche Mode in a totally different style and approach, but also to discover the Alfa Matrix bands in a different format.

Best bands: Alien Vampires, Acylum, H.O.W., Regenerator, Neikka RPM, Metroland.

Rate: (8).

Label: www .alfa –matrix .com / www .facebook .com /Alfa .Matrix

MATRIX:REB00TED – the AESTHETISCHE guerrilla Zion [advanced electronic] (red pill) Warfare [04] by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Aesthetische remixes united on 2 brand new digital downloads – available now

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 18:49:33 +0000

The Belgian label Alfa Matrix has launched 2 brand download releases in the low-priced ‘Matrix:Rebooted’ series containing no less than 30 remixes by the Brazilian dance electro act Aesthetische. If you know Aesthetische, you know you can expect highly danceable clubfood which would do well in NJ Online Casinos as well.

The releases are now available via Bandcamp.

The two releases include remixes of tracks originally recorded by Diffuzion, Ayria, Junksista, SD:KRTR, Aiboforcen, Halo In Reverse, Aline Vampires, Virgins O.R Pigeons, Bruderschaft, Mondträume, Studio-X, Implant, Helalyn Flowers, Llumen, Schwarzblut, Pouppée Fabrikk, Star Industry, Kant Kino, Zombie Girl, Lovelorn Dolls and Aesthetische themselves.

MATRIX:REB00TED – the AESTHETISCHE guerrilla Zion [advanced electronic] (blue pill) Warfare [03] by VARIOUS ARTISTS

The 2 previous editions included remixes by Kant Kino and Acylum. You can check them out below.

Matrix:Reb00ted – The Kant Kino Guerrilla – Zion (EBM) Warfare (01) by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Matrix:Reb00ted – The Acylum Guerrilla – Zion (Dark Elektro) Warfare (02) by VARIOUS ARTISTS

‘Click Interview’ with Schwarzblut: ‘Freedom, Identity And The Celebration Of Diversity’

Inferno Sound Diaries — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 17:00:24 +0000

Hailing from The Netherlands Schwarzblut has released its fourth full length album “Idisi” on Alfa Matrix. The main sources of inspiration remain a dark-electronic composition mixed with ethereal elements. On previous releases the songs were constantly switching from one style to the other while “Idisi” reveals a perfect fusion between both influences. I consider “Idisi” as their absolute masterpiece, which naturally brought me to get in touch with the band’s front man ‘ZEON’.

(Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: Four years are separating the new work “Idisi” and its predecessor “Gebeyen Aller Verdammten”. Does it mean it was more difficult to achieve this new opus and find new inspiration or did you just need a longer break after your previous releases?

ZEON: We never do the same thing twice and we really wanted to take our time to make this album meet our high standards. So we did. Very early in the writing process we decided to focus on the root of the Germanic and Franconian languages. We heavily researched the earliest writings, dating back as early as the 6th Century. Most of the texts for “Idisi” took me quite some time to read and fully understand, due to the way they were written or printed. Very time consuming, but also very enchanting and a great way to slow my mind down. In our age of distraction nothing is so luxurious as paying attention. Besides great meaning, these texts also have a sound and rhythm that is very inspiring to me. They were instantly inviting us to turn them into songs. They have an abstractness to them that works great with our dark, rhythmical music.

The music on “Idisi” is predominantly based on electronic instruments, but has a very organic feel. To achieve that we also included a lot of acoustic instruments such as nyckelharpa, violin, hurdy gurdy and percussion. We have a few guest musicians on this album as well. Logistics was sometimes challenging, but it was a wonderful trip and we are very proud of the result.

Q: Sound-wise I always have experienced a ‘duality’ between the dark-electro side and the ethereal side while according to me “Idisi” is the real first album we can speak about ‘symbiosis’ between both influences. I’ve been really impressed by this sonic fusion, which has something original and refreshing. What’s your perception of this evolution in sound and the new work generally speaking?

ZEON: Thanks for the compliment! This surely was one of the things we aimed for on this album. When Herr Sturm left our line-up a few years ago, I became the solo-songwriter for the band. This allowed my preferences and ideas to really come to the forefront. I share my taste with our lead singer Angelika, so moved the new album towards a more ethereal sound. Trying new stuff kept things fresh. Also our new synth/vox/percussion guy Gijs van Ouwerkerk is a brilliant musician, who really earned a place on this album. Go check the songs “Dolorosa” and “Eiris Sazun Idisi” for some great vocal harmonies by him, Angelika and me to get an idea of what I am talking about.

Q: Another interesting aspect is featured at the limited edition of “Idisi” featuring a bonus disc, which is more into cinematographic-, mystic- and even ritual-like songs. That’s already something ‘new’, which can maybe open new horizons for further releases. What can you say about it?

ZEON: “Idisi’ is also available as a 2CD, that comes with an 8-track bonus disc. Besides 3 remixes it contains a series of ‘meditations’. This five movement cycle of original Schwarzblut works is comprised of environmental recordings, audio experiments and vocal intensity. Through this I place the listener inside the Hagia Sophia, at a western European harbor or in a morning forest. These pieces were written and produced during the same time as the album. Some of them were used in a series of theater performances in 2015 and later adapted for the album. All meditative pieces are very much related to songs on CD 1 of the album. I invite our fans to immerse themselves in the music and find the connections.

When I compose I often reach a meditative state of clear focus that makes ideas come in an ever flowing stream. Music in that sense is a way to transport myself and the listener. As one can expect from Schwarzblut, these meditative tracks have a dark and introvert character. “Meditation Auf Schnecken” is the opening track of CD 2 and indeed starts with the sound of a snail. Maybe more of this type of music will be released in the future. For now I invite everyone to immerse themselves in the music and be transported. Just like I was, when it was being created.

Q: I was rather surprised by your edit of the legendary “Palästinalied” featuring Hannah Wagner. I’ve to admit I was thinking ‘oh no, not again this song that has been already interpreted by numerous artists’. But next I realized his original composer Walther von der Vogelweide totally matches with the Schwarzblut concept so in the end you simply had to feature this song, right? How did you work on it and what did you like in its lyrical content?

ZEON: We deliberately took a risk by doing our version of this iconic 13th Century song. On the album this song connects the Western and Middle-Eastern worlds. We really made our own version by adding vocal harmonies, some spoken parts in Latin and hard hitting drums. It also features the majestic play of our German friend Georg Börner (Sangre De Muerdago) on the nyckelharpa. His medieval string instrument gives the song a mysterious and organic vibe. Having Hannah Wagner (Saeldes Sanc/Helium Vola) sing it as a duet with Angelika, gives the song an outstanding quality.

Q: Schwarzblut is one of these bands where the lyrics are as important as the music. It’s not just a simple concept, but a truly passion for literature, poetry, mythology. I can imagine it also takes a lot of time to find and write the right lyrics and next using an appropriated language to sing. Who’s taking care of this aspect and how does it really work?

ZEON: Most texts are sourced by me and come from my personal collection of old books and facsimile editions of rare and historical handwritings and prints. With additional online resources I am able to explore the content, context and pronunciation necessary to turn the text into songs. All Schwarzblut members have an interest in art, history and literature. In our rehearsal bunker we often discuss newly found texts during our coffee breaks. The new album features texts in a variety of historical European languages such as Middle-High German, Lower-Franconian, Old-Lower Saxon and Old-Dutch. For us this was a way to explore our own lingual culture and heritage, as for the first time we also included texts in old-Dutch and early versions of our own language. From there we decided to explore eastwards into new lyrical and musical territory. That’s how the album became so rich with sounds and languages from the Old-World. From the opening track “Eiris Sâzun Idisi”, with its powerful First Merseburg Incantation (Old High-German, 9th/10th century) giving the song a great rhythmical drive. All the way to the album’s closing hymn “Ghaselen Des Dschelal-Eddin Rumi”, with its mystique atmosphere set by the 1819 German translation of works by the 13th-century Persian poet Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi (1207-1273).

Freedom, identity and the celebration of diversity can be seen as the common thread running through all ten songs on the album. And indeed we did not shy away from also including some brutal texts about war and prosecution.

Q: You last year released the split-EP “Wildes Herz” with Saeldes Sanc. It already was your second split-release with this band featuring Hannah Wagner. What makes this fusion between both bands and are there further plans to work together? And what are your further plans generally speaking?

ZEON: We did a split-single release with Hannah Wagner back in 2015. She’s a great talent and very sweet person to work with. So while we were working on “Idisi” we decided to do a mini-album with her. We released the 8-track mini-album “Wildes Herz” in 2017. It features songs from her band “Saeldes Sanc”, some “Schwarzblut” songs and a few remixes. We are currently promoting the new album, doing concert and interviews in mostly Germany and The Netherlands. The next few weeks there are 3 or 4 compilation albums coming up around the world that feature our music. We will also record a song for a yet to be disclosed tribute project. And of course there are already musical ideas emerging for a future Schwarzblut release. We have a Facebook page where we post updates several times a week. We also have a monthly newsletter and an extensive website. So you know where to go, to keep up to date with us.

Schwarzblut – Idisi (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:00:40 +0000

Genre/Influences: Industrial-ethereal, dark-electro, neo-classic.

Background/Info: It took four years for Schwarzblut to achieve this new album, which is the fourth one in history. Hailing from The Netherlands they always have shown a particular approach mixing ethereal elements with dark-electronics. The title of this album is taken from German mythology, which remains one of the band’s favorite themes.

Content: The influences haven’t really changed, but the format became different. I’m used to hearing albums where ethereal- and dark-electro songs are alternating. “Idisi” sounds as the ultimate fusion between both styles. They found the key to bring heavenly voices, neo-classic arrangements and dark-electronics together. I think we now can speak about industrial-ethereal music.

The female voices -sung by Angèlika and featuring Helium Nova’s singer Hannah Wagner on two songs, are once more joined by Gijs’ male growls. Here again the band confirms certain duality, which in the end results in a true symbiosis. The vocals have been sung in different languages like Latin, German and even Old Dutch. Songs are refined and feature orchestral, bombastic arrangements.

The bonus disc reveals a few extra songs, which are more cinematographic-like, but also revealing fascinating ritual- and mystic passages. There’re also remixes by Zeon, Heliophile and Carsten Altena.

+ + + : “Ididi” is without a shadow of a doubt Schwarzblut’s masterpiece. The band always has revealed a great inspiration and a creative music format, but I sometimes got the feeling to hear two bands crossing each other on the same album. “Idisi” stands for a perfect harmony between somewhat opposite styles. This harmony is original, refreshing and totally efficient. This album reveals a great writing process alternating subtle sound treatments and heavier, orchestral arrangements.

The bonus disc reveals a somewhat different side, which sees the band experimenting with soundtrack-driven compositions. And here again they simply excel in eclecticism and artistic approach. Last, but not least I’ve to say a word about the female vocals, which are once again angelic, sensual and transcendental.

– – – : This album is an absolute masterpiece so it’s hard to find any single minus point here. The remixes aren’t my favorite cuts, but you don’t hear me to complain. Let’s say that Schwarzblut remains a particular experience in sound you gone like or not… but I love this work.

Conclusion: In times where too many bands and records are sounding the same there’s Schwarzblut. This band has their own sound DNA, which stands for artistic passion, intelligent music and ditto lyrics.

Best songs: “Die Zeit Geht Nicht”, “Lied Der Freiheit MMXVIII”, “Palästinalied feat. Hannah Wagner”, “Ghequetst” + “Meditation Auf Seefahrt”, “Meditation Auf Schmetterlinge”, “Meditation Auf Dornen”.

Rate: (9).

Artist: www .schwarzblut .com / www .facebook .com /Schwarzblutband

Label: www .alfa –matrix .com / www .facebook .com /Alfa .Matrix

Idisi (Bonus Tracks Version) by SCHWARZBLUT

Preview the first 2 tracks from the upcoming Schwarzblut album ‘Idisi’

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 13:07:52 +0000

The Belgian electro industrial label Alfa Matrix has announced the release later in April this year of the new album of one our most favourite darkwave bands, the dutch combo Schwarzblut. The band, known for their elegant mix of historical Germanic poetry with organic electronic music, will see their new album “Idisi” released in 2 physical formats and as a download.

Pre-orders are now available via Bandcamp and via the label’s own mailorder shop (and at the same time we really advise you to pick up some other albums as well). Below you can listen to 2 tracks already from what wiull be the band’s 4th album.

The 2CD version of the album holds an 8-track bonus disc offering 3 bonus remixes and a series of 5 exclusive ‘meditation’ soundtracks made of environmental recordings, audio experiments and vocal intensity. We have already received a promo download of the “Idisi” album and Without any doubt, this is an album that will be a contender for the best darkwave album of this year!

Highly recommended release, especially for the fans of Laibach and related acts!

Wildes Herz by SCHWARZBLUT vs. SAELDES SANC

Schwarzblut has a new album in the pipeline, expected for April

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 17:48:59 +0000

(Photo by Viorica Cernica) The – excellent ! – Dutch teutonic electro combo Schwarzblut have a new album in the pipeline. The band announced the news on Facebook where they also revealed the complete trackless of the new album which is going to be titled “Idisi”.

“Idisi” will be available as CD and 2CD, both in deluxe gatefold packaging. The official release date will be announced soon.

Check the artwork and track list below.

Schwarzblut (full name: Die goetheanistische Tonkunstgesellschaft Schwarzblut) was founded in 2007 and signed with Alfa Matrix in 2009. Through Alfa Matrix the band released the EP “Sehlenwolf” (2009), their debut album “Das Mausoleum” (2010) and their sophomore full-length release “Maschinenwesen” (2012).

Early 2014 Schwarzblut returned to the scene with the 5-track EP “Bis aufs Blut”. April 2014 the band released their 3rd full-length album “Gebeyn aller Verdammten”, followed by the 10-track EP “Judas” in 2015.

In 2017 the band released “WIldes Herz”, a collaboration with the German band Saeldes Sanc which you can check out below or here on MCD.

Sounds From The Matrix 019 by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Alfa Matrix has handed out more than 4000 (!) free ‘Sounds From The Matrix 019’ compilations during Front 242’s double concert in Brussels

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 18:30:42 +0000

Speaking of a big promotion campaign, the Belgian electrolabel Alfa Matrix has handed out over 4000 copies of the CD-sampler “Sounds From The Matrix 019” at the double concert of Front 242 this past weekend in Brussels. Also playing as support act were the electropop label mates of Front 242, Metroland.

On the CD sampler you find no less than 20 bands from the label’s roster with mostly new and/or exclusive material.

For those who missed the event, the compilation also comes as a free CD which each order that is placed on the label’s CD/DVD/vinyl webstore or as a download compilation at album price on Bandcamp. Each volume of the compilation series is a much sought after item as it regularly pops up on online auction sites reaching ridiculously high prices, especially when no longer available.

On this new volume you’ll find material from Elektroklänge, Metroland, Ad:Key, ELM, Mildreda, The Psychic Force, Star Industry, Crytek, Mondtraüme, Kant Kino, Junksista, Psy’aviah, Helalyn Flowers, Lovelorn Dolls, Sin.Sin, Imjudas, Komor Kommando, Mentallo & The Fixer, Implant and Schwarzblut. A very diverse compilation which showcasts very well the current line-up of the label.

You can stream the release below, or get it right here on Bandcamp. But if you place an order for a physical product, you’ll of course get it for free on CD!

Sounds From The Matrix 019 by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Alfa Matrix launches 19 volume in ‘Sounds From The Matrix’ series on Bandcamp (and on a free CD)

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 13:00:45 +0000

The Belgian electrolabel Alfa Matrix has launched it’s 19th (!) volume in their popular ‘Sounds From The Matrix’ series. On “Sounds From The Matrix 019” you find no less than 20 bands from the label’s roster with mostly new and/or exclusive material. The compilation comes as a free CD which each order that is placed on the label’s CD/DVD/vinyl webstore or as a download compilation at album price on Bandcamp (and if you use the code november84546 you’ll instantly get 30% off on top).

Each volume of the compilation series is a much sought after item as it regularly pops up on online auction sites reaching ridiculously high prices, especially when no longer available.

You can stream the release below, or get it right here on Bandcamp. But if you place an order for a physical product, you’ll of course get it for free on CD!

Schwarzblut vs. Saeldes Sanc – Wildes Herz (CD EP – Alfa Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 18:30:38 +0000

Genre/Influences: Medieval, dark-electro, ethereal, gothic.

Background/Info: After a previous split-release between dark-wave-electro-medieval band Schwarzblut (The Netherlands) and the the medieval formation Saeldes Sanc (Germany) featuring Hannah Wagner (also known from Helium Vola) they now joined hands to unleash this EP-collaboration. The common element between both formation is their love for ancient languages and poetry.

Content: The music is mixing different influences, which you for sure have already discovered in the work of Schwarzblut. It sounds like a melting pot between dark-electronics, gothic, but especially medieval music and ethereal vocal parts. Hannah Wagner supports this work with an angelic touch while acoustic instruments only accentuate the graceful writing of this work.

One of the noticeable cuts is the adaptation of the famous “Palästinalied”. You’ll also discover remixes by Heliophile, Maarten Pels and Noise Junk.

+ + + : “Wildes Herz” is an invitation to dream away, joining an imaginary distant and medieval world. The songs have been accomplished with epic arrangements at one side, but still an artistic approach achieved with violin and the beauty of the vocals. There’s a harmony between subtle treatments at one side and bombast at the other side. It’s the kind of work that will possibly appeal for fans of Qntal, Helium Vola, Arcana and related genres although Schwarzblut always inject a darker and more electronic-like touch as well. That’s what you can hear on the remixes as well. The duality between all the influences is fascinating challenge.

– – – : I enjoyed the “Palästinalied” interpretation, but was it really necessary to cover this famous song? I like the diversity of the production, but I’m not always convinced about the more electronic-like versions –mainly revealed on the remixes.

Conclusion: “Wildes Herz” is the logical continuation between two band sharing common interests and passion for beautiful and transcendental music.

Best songs: “Mit Manger Fröide Und Liebes Vil – Schwarzblut Edit”, “Palästinalied”, “Lucy Gray – Schwarzblut Edit”.

Rate: (7½).

Bands: www .schwarzblut .com / www .facebook .com /Schwarzblutband / www .saeldessanc .com / www .facebook .com /SaeldesSanc

Label: www .alfa –matrix .com / www .facebook .com /Alfa .Matrix

Schwarzblut announce new album for 2018, the first details have leaked!

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 20:00:50 +0000

The Dutch dark wave teutonic combo Schwarzblut is finally back with some fresh news! The band are close to finish a brand new album, which will be the follow-up to their 2014 album “Gebeyn Aller Verdammten”.

Zeon: “We have scheduled the final mixing days for early October and mastering will be done end of the year. The artwork concept is well underway as well so a new Schwarzblut album can be expected early 2018.”

The new album, titled “Idisi”, will be released in 2 editions: a 10 track CD and an 18 track 2CD. The bonus disk of the 2CD edition will feature further new Schwarzblut songs, plus a few remixes by the bandmembers themselves. Zeon: “We are also very happy to announce that both editions will have a new and exclusive type of environmental friendly packaging. Something extra that suits this very special release.”

Both the album and the bonus disk will hold quite a number of guest performances by vocalists and musicians alike.

Lyric wise the album is a journey eastwards. Zeon: “From the beaches of the North Sea to the desserts of the Middle East. Reaching deep into history, going as far back as the 8th century. Why? Because we believe history has stories to tell that are now more relevant than ever. Stories about identity, war, hardship, faith, refuge, destruction, division and unity. It will be something new and different. For you. For us. As we are the tree and the deep roots.”

Make sure to follow the band on Facebook to stay up to date!

The band’s most recent releases are the singles “Wilder Herz” and “Judas” which you can listen to below.

Alfa Matrix to launch 2nd volume of massive 116-track strong EBM compilation: ‘Electronic Body Matrix 2’ 4CD Boxset (+ bonus downloads)

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 16:00:20 +0000

Out of the blue the belgian Alfa Matrix label releases the 2nd volume in their massive ‘Electronic Body Matrix‘ series. The first volume of this compilation series (check the release here) got qualified by many as the ultimate anthology of the EBM / electro-industrial scene. The 2nd edition of the “Electronic Body Matrix” compilation box once again manages featuring a real “who is who” artist selection bringing all new, exclusive or rare tracks.

This 2nd edition presents some 76 bands across 4 CD’s plus an exclusive download link giving you access to another 40 additional bands for a total music play of 116 songs (over 70% rare or previously unreleased tracks), an astounding 10 hour sonic journey! Marketed as a deluxe carton box with an extensive 28-page booklet with band pictures and credits.

All together on one same compilation, the leaders of the electronic scene of yesterday and tomorrow come together and include: FRONT 242 (exclusive mix), NITZER EBB (exclusive mix), FIXMER/MC CARTHY, RHYS FULBER, DANIEL B. PROTHESE, DIVE, BRUDERSCHAFT, POUPPEE FABRIKK, ARMAGEDDON DILDOS, KOMOR KOMMANDO, ELEGANT MACHINERY, AYRIA, FUNKER VOGT, PLASTIC NOISE EXPERIENCE, NOISUF-X, NEUROTICFISH, AESTHETISCHE, THE PSYCHIC FORCE, IMPLANT, [SITD], ALIEN VAMPIRES, HOCICO, ORPHX, NÖVÖ, METROLAND, PITCH YAR OF MATTER, MONDTRÄUME, CULTURE KÜLTUR, TOLCHOK, DEUTSCHE BANK, AVARICE IN AUDIO, THE SEXORCIST, PSY’AVIAH, AIBOFORCEN, ELEKTROKLÄNGE, R.I.P. (ROPPONGI INC PROJECT), ENTRZELLE, and many more, without forgetting the impressive remix work contributions of bands like EISFABRIK, FADERHEAD, ORANGE SECTOR, NZ, ELM, etc.

Add to this all hardcore ambassadors of today’s pure EBM league in the likes of SPETSNAZ, ELM, NZ, AD:KEY, AUTODAFEH, AGREZZIOR, ORANGE SECTOR,KANT KINO, CELLULOIDE, LIGHTS OF EUPHORIA, DIFFUZION, PATENBRIGADE: WOLFF, ACCESSORY, CEPHALGY, AMORPHOUS, VENAL FLESH, PROTECTORATE, STOPPENBERG, CENTHRON, LLUMEN, CARDINAL NOIRE, MILDREDA, CRYTEK, KONER, etc.

The exclusive bonus download link included in this 4CD box also gives you access to some 40 additional songs from artists like MENTALLO & THE FIXER, ACYLUM, SERPENTS, ZOMBIE GIRL, AENGELDUST, EQUITANT, NETZ, STUDIO-X, SIVA SIX, NEIKKA RPM, ESSENCE OF MIND, DEKAD, INTERFACE, NEUTRAL LIES, CIRCUITO CERRADO, TRAGIC IMPULSE, WANT/ED, HELALYN FLOWERS, DIVERJE, SCHWARZBLUT, TOTEM OBSCURA, DIGITAL GEIST, KILMARTH, SIGNAL OPERATOR, ELECTRO SYNTHETIC REBELLION, DIGITAL GEIST, TECHNOID, DEN C.T. BUG, and many more!

The full track listing can be checked right here.

PreEmptive Strike 0.1 – Through The Astral Cold (CD Album – Digital World Audio)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 29 May 2017 19:30:18 +0000

Genre/Influences: Dark-electro, EBM.

Background/Info: PreEmptive Strike 01 is back on track unleashing their sixth album to date. It’s an important work as it marks the band’s move from Infacted Recordings to Digital World Audio, but it also was their first new opus after the release of electro-metal minded EPs. Should the Greek formation go on exploring the wider fields of metal music instead of the dark-electro approach, which got them recognized in the scene?

Content: The answer to my question comes quite rapidly after the first notes and sequences. The band holds on to their familiar dark-electro and EBM influences leaving the metal experiments behind. The songs are made with fast sequences and melodic leads. The vocals remain harsh and somewhat spooky-like. The songs are once more moving in between EBM and dark-electronics.

But PreEmptive Strike 01 always likes to do something special. They this time joined hands together with Schwarzblut (signed to Alfa Matrix) for one song, which resulted in an epic sonic experience. The work reveals a few more epic elements and other mystic chants.

+ + + : PreEmptive Strike 01 confirms their great writing skills and it would have been a pity they should have taken some distance with the dark-electro work. This is what they’re doing the best and the growing maturity of the band is an easy noticeable aspect on each new work. That’s an important evolution you can hear in the balance between powerful sequences, dark bass lines and melodic leads. But the production of the vocals became more professional as well. They also like to work with other artists and the collaboration together with Schwarzblut on “Phantom” is a really a successful one. “Killing Protocols” sounds a bit similar and this epic touch is absolutely great. Last, but not least I also want to mention the artistic and limited digipak/digibook format of this release.

– – – : The main thing I maybe regret is the rather similar sound formula, which is running throughout all the tracks. That might explain the metal experiment on previous EPs. The album features only 9 songs and I regret there are not one or two more songs on it. But on the other side I prefer a short, but successful work instead of an endless tracklist with less substance!

Conclusion: “Through The Astral Cold” confirms the great composing skills of this Greek formation while at the same time it also reminds us of the importance and talent of the Greek electro-underground scene!

Best songs: “Phantom”, “More Than Flesh”, “Killing Protocols”, Harbinger”.

Rate: (8).

Band: www .preemptivestrike 01 / www .facebook .com /PreEmptiveStrike 0.1

Label: www .digitalworld .audio / www .facebook .com /DigitalWorldAudio

Wildes Herz by SCHWARZBLUT vs. SAELDES SANC

Schwarzblut returns with a 2nd single featuring Saeldes Sanc: ‘Wildes Herz’ – listen here

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Wed, 03 May 2017 18:00:56 +0000

Following their split release “Virginis Memoriae / Lied der Freiheit”, the dutch dark electronic combo Schwarzblut again joined up Swith Saeldes Sanc to record the brand new single “Wildes Herz” (featuring 8 tracks).

For the recording of “Wildes Herz”, Saeldes Sanc members Hannah Wagner (vocals and piano, also in Helium Vola together with Deine Lakaien’s Ernst Horn) and Georg Börner (violin and nyckelharpa, now in Sangre De Muerdago) travelled from their hometown Leipzig, Germany to The Netherlands, to join Schwarzblut in a 5-day studio session in their hometown Deventer. You can already listen to 2 tracks on Bandcamp or below.

The single is out via Bandcamp and also on MCD which can be ordered straight from the band’s label Alfa Matrix.

We also recommend the below YouTube trailer which reveals even more from this brand new release.

For those who missed the previous 2-track single, check below:

Virginis Memoriae by SAELDES SANC vs. SCHWARZBLUT

Alfa Matrix launches Record Store Day 30% discount on webstore and Bandcamp – get your code here

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 18:00:14 +0000

It was Record Store Day this past weekend and for the occasion the Belgian label launched a special 30% discount code ( RSD2017 ) which is available to use until the end of this week. You can apply the code in the label’s webshop or on the label’s Bandcamp page. You will get 30% off on everything that is added in your basket (except on the forthcoming Metroland and Alien Vampires box sets).

Happy hunting!

Included in this massive discount action are releases by 32CRASH, Acylum, Aengeldust, Aesthetische, Agonised By Love, Aiboforcen, Alien Vampires, Ambassador21, amGod, Armageddon Dildos, Avarice In Audio, Ayria, Bruderschaft, Cosmic Armchair, Crisk, Cynical Existence, Depeche Mode (the tribute releases), Diffuzion, Diskonnekted, Dive, Dream Recall, Dunkelwerk, Elektroklänge, ELM, Entrzelle, Epsilon Minus, Essence Of Mind, Freakangel, Front 242, Gaytron, Glis, Halo In Reverse, HausHetaere, Headscan, Helalyn Flowers, Hungry Lucy, I:scintilla, Implant, Internal, Inure, Junksista, Kant Kino, Klutæ, Komor Kommando, Krystal System, Leaether Strip, Lovelorn Dolls, Malakwa, Male Or Female, Mari Chrome, Mentallo and the Fixer, Metroland, Mind:State, Mnemonic, Mondträume, Monolith, Nebula-H, Neikka RPM, Nitzer Ebb, Növö, O.V.N.I., Plastic Noise Experience, Pouppee Fabrikk, Prozium, Psy’Aviah, Razorfade, Recoil, Regenerator, Saeldes Sanc, Schwarzblut, Sebastian Komor, Seize, Sero.Overdose, Shaun F, Simon Carter, Siva Six, Star Industry, Stray, Studio-X, Suicide Inside, Tamtrum, Technoir, The Cure (tribute), The Psychic Force, Totem Obscura, Trisomie 21, Unter Null, Venal Flesh, Virgins O.R Pigeons, Virtual Embrace, XMH, Zombie Girl, … plus a long list of compilations.

And in order to save on shipping costs, it’s recommended to combine this with the label’s 2 newest releases although they are not discounted.

It’s EBM day at Alfa Matrix! Use code ebmday242 and get 30% of on all releases (incl. Front 242 vinyls)

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 10:20:47 +0000

“Today he has no means He’s alone and anonymous, but written in his cells he’s got the marks of a genius”, with these Front 242 lyrics (“Headhunter”) the Belgian electro label Alfa Matrix has launched quite an impressive EBM day action offering no less than a 30% discount on all of it’s physical (and download releases) including the much wanted Front 242 vinyls sets.

All you need to do is use the code ebmday242 to get 30% off on all of the labels releases (ltd editions, boxsets, t-shirts, vinyls, …) purchased via the Alfa Matrix webstore and the official Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page.

The code ebmday242 is only valid today and this weekend and will be applied on all products you have added in your basket.

And that’s not all! the label has also added a huge list of VERY low priced compilations right here.

Included in this massive discount action are all physical and download releases by 32CRASH, Acylum, Aengeldust, Aesthetische, Agonised By Love, Aiboforcen, Alien Vampires, Ambassador21, amGod, Armageddon Dildos, Avarice In Audio, Ayria, Bruderschaft, Cosmic Armchair, Crisk, Cynical Existence, Depeche Mode (the tribute releases), Diffuzion, Diskonnekted, Dive, Dream Recall, Dunkelwerk, Elektroklänge, ELM, Entrzelle, Epsilon Minus, Essence Of Mind, Freakangel, Front 242, Gaytron, Glis, Halo In Reverse, HausHetaere, Headscan, Helalyn Flowers, Hungry Lucy, I:scintilla, Implant, Internal, Inure, Junksista, Kant Kino, Klutæ, Komor Kommando, Krystal System, Leaether Strip, Lovelorn Dolls, Malakwa, Male Or Female, Mari Chrome, Mentallo and the Fixer, Metroland, Mind:State, Mnemonic, Mondträume, Monolith, Nebula-H, Neikka RPM, Nitzer Ebb, Növö, O.V.N.I., Plastic Noise Experience, Pouppee Fabrikk, Prozium, Psy’Aviah, Razorfade, Recoil, Regenerator, Saeldes Sanc, Schwarzblut, Sebastian Komor, Seize, Sero.Overdose, Shaun F, Simon Carter, Siva Six, Star Industry, Stray, Studio-X, Suicide Inside, Tamtrum, Technoir, The Cure (tribute), The Psychic Force, Totem Obscura, Trisomie 21, Unter Null, Venal Flesh, Virgins O.R Pigeons, Virtual Embrace, XMH, Zombie Girl, … plus a long list of compilations.

V/A Recovery >For You< (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 20:30:55 +0000

For You" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; clear: both; max-width: 100%;" decoding="async" srcset="https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Recovery-For-You.jpg 228w, https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Recovery-For-You-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 228px) 100vw, 228px" loading="lazy" />

Genre/Influences: EBM, dark-electro, electro-pop, gothic.

Background/Info: 2016 has been a particular year for the Belgian label Alfa Matrix. They celebrated their 15^th anniversary and the 35^th anniversary of the Godfathers of EBM: Front 242. Next to astonishing and luxurious Front 242 –re-releases the label closed 2016 by a surprising ‘celebration’ album featuring 32 bands of the label covering Front 242.

Bands: Metroland, Komor Kmmando, Ad:Key, Plastic Noise Experience, Imjudas, Sin.sin, Neikka RPM, Cosmic Armchair, Alien Vampires, Ayria, Implant, Avarice In Audio, Acylum, Schwarzblut, Star Industry, Regenerator, Elektroklänge, Elm, Kant Kino, Technoir, Diffuzion, Aesthetische, Circuito Cerrado vs. C-Lekktor, Növö, Totem Obscura, Venal Flesh feat. Chase Dobson, Llumen, The Psychic Force, Helalyn Flowers, Essence Of Mind, Armageddon Dildos, Xmh.

Content: I was honestly a bit afraid to discover this massive cover-tribute to the greatest EBM band in history. I’m still convinced there are some bands –like Front 242, you’d better avoid covering, but on the other side I think it also is quite exciting to hear non-EBM bands re-interpreting some of the most famous and legendary ‘242’-hits.

Most of the chosen songs belong to the glorious 80s period of the band. Songs like “U-Men”, “Kampbereit”, “Operating Tracks”, “gvdt”, “Body To Body” “Lovely Day”, “Don’t Crash”, “Lovely Day”, “No Shuffle”, “Commando Mix”, “Moldavia”, “Never Stop”, “Headhunter”, “Welcome To Paradise”, “Tragedy For You” and many, many others have been selected.

The result is quite diverse and of course not always that EBM-like, but clearly accomplished with a real devotion and I dare to say respect for this unique band in history.

+ + + : One of the first highlights is the modern adaptation of “Moldavia” into the pure Komor Kommando style. “Body To Body” has never been so sexy thanks to Neikka RPM. Ayria probably covered the biggest hit (cf. “Headhunter”) into a fully enjoyable body-pop style. Avarice In Audio transposed “Welcome To Paradise” into a technoid inspired cut. Acylum remained dark-electro inspired, covering “Serial Killers Don’t Kill Their Girlfriend” into their unique style. Regenerator (which has been produced by Daniel B) did a fantastic job covering “Religion”.

Elektroklänge (one of the new label signings) reworked “Funkahdafi” into a sterile, but cool robotic version. In the purest EBM vein I noticed great contributions from Elm (cf. “Operating Tracks”) and Kant Kino (cf. “No Shuffle”). Circuito Cerrado vs. C-Lekktor is another great dark-electro artist injecting a dark-electro boost into “Moldavia/Neurobashing”. Növö probably is one of the bands, which is the most close to the early analogue experiments of Front 242 and logically covered one of the early songs (cf. “Kinetics”). I also noticed a surprising and high-tech cover of U-Men” by Llumen.

– – – : There’s only one Front 242 and that’s precisely what this sampler confirms! I heard many cool cover versions, but none is better than the original version, that’s for sure.

Conclusion: Some will call it a blasphemy, but others (young fans) will maybe discover Front 242 thanks to this kind of compilation. I heard an entertaining album!

Best bands: Komor Kommando, Regenerator, Circuito Cerrado vs. C-Lekktor, Növö, Llumen, Kant Kino.

Rate: (7½).

Label: www .alfa –matrix .com / www .facebook .com /Alfa .Matrix

Final hours to enjoy 50% off on Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 19:10:19 +0000

We enter the final few hours to enjoy a 50% reduction on all of your purchases via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page. You get a discount of 50% when using the discount code january50432. Just enter it when checking out. The code is valid on ALL of the releases on the label’s Bandcamp page.

Included in this massive discount action are releases by 32CRASH, Acylum, Aengeldust, Aesthetische, Agonised By Love, Aiboforcen, Alien Vampires, Ambassador21, amGod, Armageddon Dildos, Avarice In Audio, Ayria, Bruderschaft, Cosmic Armchair, Crisk, Cynical Existence, Depeche Mode (the tribute releases), Diffuzion, Diskonnekted, Dive, Dream Recall, Dunkelwerk, Elektroklänge, ELM, Entrzelle, Epsilon Minus, Essence Of Mind, Freakangel, Front 242, Gaytron, Glis, Halo In Reverse, HausHetaere, Headscan, Helalyn Flowers, Hungry Lucy, I:scintilla, Implant, Internal, Inure, Junksista, Kant Kino, Klutæ, Komor Kommando, Krystal System, Leaether Strip, Lovelorn Dolls, Malakwa, Male Or Female, Mari Chrome, Mentallo and the Fixer, Metroland, Mind:State, Mnemonic, Mondträume, Monolith, Nebula-H, Neikka RPM, Nitzer Ebb, Növö, O.V.N.I., Plastic Noise Experience, Pouppee Fabrikk, Prozium, Psy’Aviah, Razorfade, Regenerator, Saeldes Sanc, Schwarzblut, Sebastian Komor, Seize, Sero.Overdose, Shaun F, Simon Carter, Siva Six, Star Industry, Stray, Studio-X, Suicide Inside, Tamtrum, Technoir, The Cure (tribute), The Psychic Force, Totem Obscura, Trisomie 21, Unter Null, Venal Flesh, Virgins O.R Pigeons, Virtual Embrace, XMH, Zombie Girl, … plus a long list of compilations.

The discount code only lasts till January 31st midnight, so make sure to use it asap!

for you<' right now from Side-Line : 32-tracks by Front 242's label mates on Alfa Matrix" width="1420" height="1414" srcset="https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/recovery-for-front.jpg 1200w, https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/recovery-for-front-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/recovery-for-front-300x300.jpg 300w, https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/recovery-for-front-768x765.jpg 768w, https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/recovery-for-front-1024x1020.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px" />

Stream the Front 242 tribute ‘Recovery >for you<‘ right now from Side-Line : 32-tracks by Front 242’s label mates on Alfa Matrix

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 17:00:31 +0000

For its 15th anniversary, the Belgian record label Alfa Matrix also celebrated the 35 years of existence of Front 242 and this with the Front 242 tribute album “Recovery >for you<” uniting 32 fellow label bands who have each covered one song from Front 242’s music repertoire.

The release is available on the Alfa Matrix webstore as a 2CD plus also on their Bandcamp page as a download.

You can preview the tracks right below:

The bands who collaborated to “Recovery >for you<” include Metroland, Komor Kommando, Ad:Key, Plastic Noise Experience, Imjudas, Sin.Sin, Cosmic Armchair, Neikka Rpm, Alien Vampires, Ayria, Implant, Avarice In Audio, Acylum, Schwarzblut, Star Industry, Regenerator, Elektroklänge, Elm, Kant Kino, Technoir, Diffuzion, Aesthetische, Circuito Cerrado Vs. C-Lekktor, Növö, Totem Obscura, Venal Flesh Feat. Chase Dobson, Llumen, The Psychic Force, Helalyn Flowers, Essence Of Mind, Armageddon Dildos and Xmh.

Alfa Matrix launches special discount action – get 30% off with this discount code: DECSALE16

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 19:00:16 +0000

The Belgian electro label Alfa Matrix has launched a mega pre-Christmas sale action via its online CD/vinyl web store. Just use the discount code DECSALE16 when completing your purchase and you will get 30% off on all physical releases (CD, DVD, Vinyl) which came out before mid-June 2016 (so in short you get a discount on most of the label’s huge catalogue).

The label webs tore can be accessed right here.

And in order to save on shipping costs, it’s recommended to combine this with the label’s newest releases although they are not discounted. The newest releases from the label come from the bands Underviewer, Front 242, Mondträume, The Psychic Force, Llumen, Kant Kino, Daniel B. Prothesesèse and many many more!

Front 242 gets unexpected 32-tracks tribute from their label Alfa Matrix – listen to the first exclusive previews!

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Wed, 02 Nov 2016 19:10:31 +0000

With “Recovery >for you<”, the Alfa Matrix label is closing this double-celebration year 2016 in beauty. For its 15th anniversary, the Belgian record label also celebrated in many ways the 35 years of existence of Front 242. Therefor the Alfa Matrix label family decided to pay homage to the band.

32 fellow label bands have each covered one song from Front 242’s music repertoire, picking songs from the full discography of the band, from “Geography” to “Pulse”. The release is already up for pre-order on the Alfa Matrix webstore plus also on their Bandcamp page.

“Recovery >for you<” resulted in a collection of 32 songs reflecting the Alfa Matrix band roster’s high diversity by bands such as Metroland, Komor Kommando, Ad:Key, Plastic Noise Experience, Imjudas, Sin.Sin, Cosmic Armchair, Neikka Rpm, Alien Vampires, Ayria, Implant, Avarice In Audio, Acylum, Schwarzblut, Star Industry, Regenerator, Elektroklänge, Elm, Kant Kino, Technoir, Diffuzion, Aesthetische, Circuito Cerrado Vs. C-Lekktor, Növö, Totem Obscura, Venal Flesh Feat. Chase Dobson, Llumen, The Psychic Force, Helalyn Flowers, Essence Of Mind, Armageddon Dildos and Xmh.

Classic Front 242 tunes covered include amongst others “Headhunter”, “Happiness”, “Lovely Day”, “U-men”, “Commando Mix”, “Masterhit”, “No Shuffle”, “Tragedy for You”, “Take One”, “Funkhadafi”, “Moldavia”, “Operating Tracks”, “Don’t Crash”, “Body To Body”, “Welcome To Paradise”, and many more. The full tracklist can be viewed here.

Below is a first exclusive preview which Front 242 have posted on their Instagram account earlier this evening.

#Front242 #tribute “Recovery>for you<” now available via www.alfa-matrix-store.com 32 tracks, this is an exclusive preview! @alfamatrix #alfamatrix

A video posted by Front 242 – Official (@front242official) on Nov 2, 2016 at 11:49am PDT

Hedera Helix – Pastiche (CD Album – 3RIOART)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Tue, 06 Sep 2016 18:13:03 +0000

Genre/Influences: Abstract-electronics, EBM, gothic.

Background/Info: They call their music ‘intellectro’ and definitely remain one of the most atypical bands from the underground scene. Hedera Helix is a somewhat forgotten Belgian band, unleashing their first new album in 13 years! “Pastiche” has been released on the very own label of Hybryds. The band has been characterized by their unique theatre-like live shows and the use of Dutch vocals.

Content: Hedera Helix remains faithful to their anarchistic sound approach, which mixes different influences. It often sounds pretty abstract-like and you can really feel the music totally fits with what they call ‘anarchistic theatre’. Other songs are carried by solid EBM sequences while refined with classical instruments like violin and clarinet. Hedera Helix mixes the extremes, which are often symbolized by electronics at one side and guitar plus classical instruments at the other.

The vocals have been nearly all sung in their Mother tongue (Dutch), which remains a weird experience for non-Flemish music lovers. I don’t know if it creates some frivolity, but it probably sounds as particular as when a Belgian is listening to a Russian or Finnish singing band. The vocals are another element, which makes me think of theatre and other kinds of live performances. The band reminds me now and then of Schwarzblut, but with a less distinguished sound.

+ + + : Hedera Helix is a band like no other. They use familiar influences to create a very own sound DNA, which is impossible to define. “Pastiche” becomes a real sonic patchwork featuring great electronic treatments and surprising vocal parts. The songs have been accomplished with delicate treatments and an artistic touch, which emerges from some clarinet parts.

– – – : Despite of their original approach it is not exactly the most accessible sound. The main point that hurts is maybe the use of the Dutch language and especially because of the lyrical content, which clearly sounds important (although sometimes totally weird), but here again less accessible to many people.

Conclusion: Hedera Helix is a real efficient vaccine to sonic clones and other artists without their own approach. “Pastiche is the only cure to fashion trends and a warning to remind musicians that music has to be an expression from their own instead of copying their idols.

Best songs: “Hypnochonder”, “Comorbitumen”, “Col Cassé”.

Rate: (7).

Band: www .hederahelix .be / www .facebook .com /h .helix

Label: www .3 rioart .be

Insane Records to launch ‘Terror Night Vol.2 Sound Of Dead Future’ compilation holding 100% exclusive tracks

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 27 Jun 2016 17:06:07 +0000

The Insane Records label and the Terror Night radio show have joined forces to release “Terror Night Vol.2 – Sounds Of Dead Future”, a compilation album that consists of 100% exclusive tracks by dark electro bands from all over the world. The release date is scheduled for June 30, 2016!

The compilation is the follow-up to the first compilation “Terror Night Vol.1 – Industrial Madness”. Compared to the first volume this volume has a more diversified tracklist catering to more styles related to dark electro. As a result you can expect aggressive Hellektro, but also more melodic songs.

A preview can be listened to below:

The compilation comes as a 6-panel 2 CD digipak limited to just 300 copies. The compilation album will only be available via the official Insane Records webstore as well as on the label’s Bandcamp page.

Here’s the track list:

CD 1
01. Reactor7x – Disorder (v20.16 Harsh Edition)
02. Encono – Visceral Absorption
03. Hell:Sector – ReHumanize
04. Alien Vampires – Harshlizer (Disorder Faith Remix)
05. 00TZ 00TZ – Ouroboros (Vocal Terror Mix)
06. PreEmptive Strike 0.1 – Death Of Talos Live Mas (feat. Totten Mechanismus)
07. Angels Of Suicide – Dancer Diabolus
08. Kill The Sleeper – I Am The Ocean; I Am The Sea
09. Asdeandare – Imprisonment
10. Larva – The Peace Of Suicide
11. Archazard – Revolution In Violence
12. Psyborg Corp. – Of Visions And Blizzards (Subliminal Code Remix)
13. T3RR0R 3RR0R – The God Of Fire (Terror Night Mix)
14. Schwarzblut – Vogala
15. Technolorgy – 23 (Club Mix)

CD 2
01. nolongerhuman – The Pawn
02. DYM – aDeiu (Terror Night Edition)
03. God Destruction – Redentor (A.D.R.O.N. Remix)
04. Bleeding Corp. – Automatic (Terror Night Edition)
05. Reaxion Guerrilla – Sacrifice (Asinaptico Remix)
06. Viscera Drip – Aggrosex
07. C-Lekktor – Juicio Final (Alien:Nation Remix)
08. Thornsectide – City Of Madness
09. Shadow System – Overkill (Exemia Remix)
10. Cygnosic – Crawl (Homicidal Feelings Remix)
11. Benjamin’sPlague – Sunday Night’s Slit Wrist Party
12. Sleetgrout – I Bought Coffins (feat. Cygnosic) (Destructive Noise Remix by Nero Bellum of Psyclon Nine)
13. Chamaeleon – Suppression (Hard Balls Remix by [ Sin.thetic Squad ])
14. Okkulta – Singularity-B
15. Vault-113 – Ami Go Home (Original by Ernst Busch)

Helalyn Flowers – Sonic Foundation (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 20:42:34 +0000

Genre/Influences: Electro-metal, cyber-goth-metal.

Background/Info: Helalyn Flowers are back on track unleashing their 4^th full length album, which has been released 9 years after their successful debut “A Voluntary Coincidence”. The band became one of the most successful formations of the impressive Alfa Matrix roster and their last year released “Beware Of Light”-EP featuring Chris Pohl (Blutengel, Terminal Choice) has only increased their popularity.

Content: The new work moves on where they left off from the previous album “White Me In Black Me Out”. Three years have passed and the Italian duo clearly took their time to reconsider their global production. The influences mixing violent and somewhat metal-minded guitar passages and electronic sequences haven’t changed nor the charismatic vocals of N0emi Aurora. The main evolution is hiding behind a judicious harmony between guitar and electronics and the symbiosis MaXX has realized bringing metal, gothic and electronics together like they have been always related to each other. The songs are filled with adrenaline and the arrangements accomplished with bombast and epic influences.

Over the years the guitar riffs became more violent while the electronics got injected with more power and more unique sound blasts. The songs are aggressive and the choruses are hard and punchy. Helalyn Flowers became more open-minded than before, yet more aggressive. It all feels like a super-sonic speed train annihilating everything in its path.

The regular album features Chris Pohl singing on “Beware Of Light – Version 2”, and there is also a song with Angelspit.

The “Bonus Tracks Version” features multiple remixes, which have been mainly accomplished by label mates. I especially recommend the great contribution of Schwarzblut and The Psychic Force plus a terrific and somewhat FLA-remix by Helalyn Flowers themselves.

+ + + : Helalyn Flowers is one of these unique bands, which never stops to increase their writing skills while the global production and mixing is ultra professional. This band is driven by the creative spirit of a genius producer (MaXX) and the sensual charisma of a talented vocalist (N0emi). The duo together with Chris Pohl is a pure sonic orgasm!

– – – : I’m not as convinced with a few softer and somewhat naughty-pop like songs while globally speaking I expected a bit more out of some remixes.

Conclusion: The “Sonic Foundation” accomplished by Helalyn Flowers sounds like a fist of steel that hits you right in the face. It’s a violent and furious production revealing many powerful songs.

Best songs: “Beware Of Light feat. Chris Pohl”, “Synthetic Paranoia”, “Karmageddon”, “Eerie” + “Frozen Star – Push Against New Fakes Feat. Ms Larsen Remix”, “Shadow Complex – Fallen Blackened Boys Mix By Helalyn Flowers”, “New Days Of Babylon – Schwarzblut Remix”, “Synthetic Paranoia – The Psychic Force Oldskool Remix”.

Rate: (8).

Band: www .helalynflowers .com / www .facebook .com /helalynflowers

Label: www .alfa –matrix .com / www .facebook .com /Alfa .Matrix

Sounds from the matrix 17 by VARIOUS ARTISTS

Alfa Matrix starts distributing its free ‘Sounds Of The Matrix 017’ CD with all online orders

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Fri, 22 Apr 2016 16:58:32 +0000

All new orders going via the Alfa Matrix webstore will be including volume 17 of the label’s popular free Sounds Of The Matrix compilation series. It’s again an excellent way to discover what this Belgian label and more precisely its bands are up to. The compilation will be added to all orders including physical products.

This time you’ll find 20 tracks from the following bands, including the label’s latest new addition, the Swedish act Elektroklänge. Here’s the complete list of bands on the compilation presenting their newest work: Junksista, Diffuzion, The Psychic Force, Psy’Aviah, Ayria, Zombie Girl, Kant Kino, Avarice In Audio Feat. Mondträume, Entrzelle, Sin.Sin, Studio-X Vs. Simon Carter, Elektroklänge, Metroland, ELM, Neikka RPM, Schwarzblut, Venal Flesh, Helalyn Flowers, Pouppee Fabrikk, Alien Vampires.

You can also get the compilation separately from Bandcamp as a low-priced 20-track standalone download compilation. Listen below.

Face The Beat: Session 3 by Distorted World

Side-Line introduces Distorted World – listen now to ‘Safe And Sheltered’ (Face The Beat profile series)

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 16:43:02 +0000

Track 20 on our free download compilation “Face The Beat: Session 3” is by Distorted World. On “Safe And Sheltered” you can hear the band’s mixture of dark electronics, orchestral melodies (Schwarzblut comes to mind) mixed with Laibach infested vocals and the strong female vocals by frontwoman Angelina L..

You can listen to the track below:

Distorted World was founded in 2010 in Moscow as a side-project by keyboardist of Anthracitic Moths, Ivan M. A year later Angelina L. entered the project with her vocals. So far the band released the full album “Between the Strophes” (2012, Artificial Sun), the single “Personal Necropolis” (2013, Artificial Sun) and the second full album “Shadow Empire” (2014, Insane Records).

The track we feature here is also part of the bands newest EP “Drowning” (available here on Bandcamp). The release includes 2 new songs and also several remixes and the new version of song “Dream” taken from the project’s debut full length. The new EP will show some changes in the band’s music moving to different and a more melodic sound as you can hear. You can listen to it below and also order it.

Drowning by Distorted World

Tracklist:

Cerulean Sea
Safe and Sheltered
Dream (Ver. 2015)
Dark Matter (Exemia Remix)
Cerulean Sea (Cutoff:Sky Remix)

You can order the new EP on Bandcamp or from the band’s official website. A new LP is in the making for 2016.

Schwarzblut – Judas (Digital EP – Alfa-Matrix)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 09:00:05 +0000

Genre/Influences: Dark-ethereal-electro, epic-electro, gothic.

Content: After their last year released successful album “Gebeyn Aller Verdammten”, Schwarzblut strikes back with an EP featuring multiple remixes of 4 songs that were originally released at this 3rd full length.

The remix formula remains an easy way to bring an album back in the picture, but it often also is an opportunity to (re)discover familiar songs a different way.

The main song “Judas” takes off with the familiar “Album Version” while the EP features 4 remixes. The song totally stands for the sound of Schwarzblut, which is mixing dark electronics and ethereal influences. The symphonic arrangements makes the songs pretty powerful while there’s a cool twist between the enraged -and typically dark-electro-minded, male vocals on one side and the sweet –and ethereal inspired, female vocals on the other side.

Among the remixes you’ll notice a hard and dark-electro empowered version by Binary Division. Another interesting remix is the so-called “Zeon Remix”, which features the rough and unpolished approach of the original song, but in a somewhat more club-friendly way.

Next to “Judas” you’ll get 2 noticeable remixes of “Zur Hölle”. Hell:Sector empowered the song by furious guitar play injecting a metal touch to this EP. The other remix is a fantastic and old-school inspired remix by the band themselves, which is called “ZC64 Remix” and which refers to the famous Commodore PC.

You’ll also discover 2 remixes of “Von Des Todes Gewissheit Und Der Tugend”. The remix by Vincent Uhlig reveals a nice twist between industrial- and gothic elements while there also is a kind of dramatic part running through the song. Schwarzblut’s compatriots of Cardinal Noire got the opportunity to make the other remix.

Last, but not least Pre.Emptive Strike 0.1 accomplished a fully enjoyable and electro-minded remix of “Hymnus An Den Zorn”. I think it’s an interesting choice as this Greek formation likes to explore epic and symphonic paths as well.

Conclusion: “Judas” reveals a few efficient remixes, but especially the one by Binary Division is absolutely outstanding.

Best songs: “Judas – Binary Division Remix”, “Von Des Todes Gewissheit Und Der Tugend – Vincent Uhlig Remix”, “Judas – ZC64 Remix”, “Hymnus An Den Zorn – Pre:Emptive Strike 0.1 Remix”.

Rate: (DP:8)DP.

Band: www.schwarzblut.com / www.facebook.com/Schwarzblutband

Label: www.alfa-matrix.com / www.facebook.com/Alfa.Matrix

Schwarzblut present video new ‘Judas’ single today – watch on Side-Line

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 12:33:49 +0000

One of the best electro export products from Holland, Schwarzblut, have just released a new video which goes hand in hand with today’s release of their 10-track single “Judas” on Bandcamp, Spotify and in the next 24 hours also on iTunes.

Judas EP by SCHWARZBLUT

It’s the 2nd EP taken from their 3rd full-length album “Gebeyn Aller Verdammten”. For those who already have that album, it was written in the stars that “Judas” would get a proper EP release as it mixes all the best ingredients which Schwarzblut has on offer as you can hear below: bombastic orchestral arrangements, a pumping bass sound and harsh male and subtle female vocals.

The specially low priced 10-track single features a selection of interpretations of the band’s music by acts from all around the globe: Hell:Sector, Cardinal Noire and Pre:Emptive Strike 0.1. Next to that you can also expect remixes by Binary Division and Noise Junk who both won a Schwarzblut remix contest.

You can view the brand new video for the title track below.

Schwarzblut launches teaser and pre-orders download EP ‘Judas’

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:54:28 +0000

After their charming collaboration release with Saeldes Sanc a few months ago, the Dutch teutonic dark electro act Schwarzblut returns with a brand new download EP “Judas”. It’s the 2nd EP taken from their 3rd full-length album “Gebeyn Aller Verdammten”. For those who already have that album, it was written in the stars that “Judas” would get a proper EP release as it mixes all the best ingredients which Schwarzblut has on offer as you can hear below: bombastic orchestral arrangements, a pumping bass sound and harsh male and subtle female vocals.

Judas EP by SCHWARZBLUT

A video for “Judas” is in the making and will be launched in the next few weeks. We have already seen a first cut and it’s looking great. For now you’ll have to do with a first video teaser of the album.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1towzGJqPAs&feature=youtu.be

For the smarter ones amongst you, “Judas” features words written by Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860), Otto Erich Hartleben (1864-1905), Heinrich Freimuth (1836-1895) and Friedrich von Logau (1605-1655).

The EP features a selection of interpretations of the band’s music by acts from all around the globe: Hell:Sector, Cardinal Noire and Pre:Emptive Strike 0.1. Next to that you can also expect remixes by Binary Division and Noise Junk who both won a Schwarzblut remix contest.

The EP is available now from Bandcamp, you get 2 tracks now, plus the complete EP the moment it’s released on 25 September 2015.

Virginis Memoriae by SAELDES SANC vs. SCHWARZBLUT

Out now as digital 2-track download: project with Helium Vola singer and Schwarzblut

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 14:25:58 +0000

Out now is “Virginis Memoriae”, a brand new 2-track split-single uniting Saeldes Sanc and Schwarzblut. The Medieval-Gothic Folk Ensemble Saeldes Sanc is the solo-project of Hannah Wagner who is also known for her vocal work with Helium Vola together with Ernst Horn (Deine Lakaien).

Next to a Schwarzblut remix of the older Saeldes Sanc track “Virginis Memoriae”, Schwarzblut also present a new song from the recording sessions of their forthcoming 4th studio album.

The 2-track single is available for download now from Bandcamp (iTunes, etc. will follow in the next days). You can check out the single below.

Virginis Memoriae by SAELDES SANC vs. SCHWARZBLUT

Helium Vola singer joins up with Schwarzblut for 2-track download single ‘Virginis Memoriae’

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 26 May 2015 08:55:34 +0000

“Virginis Memoriae” is a brand new 2-track split-single uniting Saeldes Sanc and Schwarzblut. The Medieval-Gothic Folk Ensemble Saeldes Sanc is the solo-project of Hannah Wagner who is also known for her vocal work with Helium Vola together with Ernst Horn (Deine Lakaien). Both Hannah and Zeon (Schwarzblut) share a passion for ancient languages and romantic poetry and that was the trigger for their collaboration.

Zeon approached her for a possible collaboration: “Before I knew, I found myself working on a remix of “Virginis Memoriae”, I picked that song because of its beautiful melodies and emotional vocal performance. My aim was to put Hannah’s voice in a new organic-electronic context, while keeping the atmosphere and drama of her operatic performance.”

Next to this remix of an older track, Schwarzblut also present a new song from the recording sessions of their forthcoming 4th studio album.

The 2-track single is available for download now from Bandcamp (and later on via iTunes, etc.), you’ll receive an immediate download of one track, the second track follows on the official release date 06/06/2015, that’s in a few days. You can check out the single below.