Staff picks

The Indonesian metal scene is more known for its brutal death metal but Vallendusk try and break that mould by showing that the scene has a lot more to offer by serving up some seriously high quality atmospheric black metal. Unlike the majority of atmospheric black metal bands that operate with that more depressive mid-tempo sound, Vallendusk differentiate themselves by employing a faster & more upbeat tempo with undoubted post & folk influences. The standout element of this record is without a doubt the excellent guitar work. Whether it's the melodic hooks or acoustic folk passages, it will grip you throughout.

Black Clouds Gathering consists of 7 tracks with the shortest track being 8 minutes long and is admittedly not the most varied record out there, so it will not suit those with a short attention span. But if epic melody-driven atmospheric black metal is your thing, I seriously suggest you give this a spin.

Listen here.