surut is self-described "blackened experimental hardcore" from Tampere, Finland. The five-piece made an impressive debut with their 2020 self-titled album 'Surut'. The four-track release clocks in around 20 minutes, showcasing an impressive range with an all around solid dynamic and consistency. Fans of screamo/post metal will likely find this a gem and worth checking back on.
Latest album from Ocean Wisdom, released 3/26. Can get it on vinyl or signed CD from his website, in a variety of bundles or digital. 'Stay Sane' sounds a lot more mellow compared to his previous releases on a surface level, but underneath exhibits a deeper understanding and scope lyrically. The concluding track "Can't Breathe Either" is the exclamation point statement on a more subdued yet refined great album.
Moderator is an Athens, Greece based instrumentalist with a hip/trip hop skeleton, fusing everything from psychedelic to soul on the surface. I'd first heard of him through his 2013 album 'The Trip' -- drawn in by the album's artwork, similarly how I've been reintroduced to the newest 2021 release 'Midnight Madness'. His latest is a little darker tinged than I remembered his sound being, with the all encompassing takeaway being that this is simply a 'cool' sounding record; whatever your background of preferences are I think you'll find it difficult to not vibe out to the big beats and polished production. The entire album just sounds massive and layered and that impact feels immediate and fluid throughout.
'Midnight Madness' and all of his digital releases on his bandcamp go for $1 a piece, which is somewhere between a steal and a gift. Due to the influx of demand more vinyl won't be available until June, but it seems like a good idea with the artwork put together by 'Irefaels'.
