Rating: 3/5
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All things considered, I’ve never seen a band quite like Fallstaf, and the possibilities of ‘Brass Metal’ present an bright alternate path for misfit horn geeks with a heavy edge.

Rating: 5/5
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Does “Fables of the Sleepless Empire” hold up to “In a Flesh Aquarium”, a nigh perfect opus? I like the guitar and violin work better, though the production feels slightly weaker or overdone in parts, but the compositions are quirky, complex and ultimately awe-inspiring. The answer: yes, they still hold the torch.

Live review of Agalloch’s first concert in Montréal, with Worm Ouroboros and Musk Ox opening—complete with pictures and advice on earplugs.

Rating: 3/5
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Beneath the Massacre can play their instruments well, but solid songwriting slips from their grasp. It feels interchangeable: fast and noodly, say hello to double-bass and throat growls, we should meet up with breakdowns anytime. “Marée Noire” is cool in moments, but this sticks like a year-old Wacky WallWalker.