{"title":"Hollenthon","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"hollenthon-domus-mundi-black-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - Domus Mundi \/ Black Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn unique album far ahead of its time in 1999 and an absolute classic! This album mixes Folk, Death Metal, and Pagan Metal. First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI was introduced to Hollenthon in 1999 when “Domus Mundi” was released. “Domus Mundi” has since been a favorite album that I always like to hear again, due to its endless replay value and\u003cbr\u003e\nunique style that no other Metal band can replicate. All the more amazing since it was all created and arranged by one man, namely Martin Schirenc, known best for his work in Pungent Stench.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis album would be best described as Orchestral Extreme Metal, though epic, folky, and medieval are all also adequate adjectives for this work. Schirenc proves that he is not only a great guitarist, but also a brilliant arranger, integrating Gregorian Chants, Spoken Word, Middle Eastern ethnic music, native New Zealand war chants, and heaps of classical music into his music. Samples range from Rimsky-Korsakoffs “Sheherezade” to a bagpipe film from the film Braveheart, to spoken samples from Ridley Scott’s Legend, and a whole lot more. These samples add such a unique touch to the album and make it extremely diverse, something you never heard before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSchirenc uses simple song structures and employs hooks in his guitar work to keep long songs and repetitive structures interesting. Variation often also occour, with harmonies being employed often as well. The guitar tone is very low end oriented, and the dropped tuning helps reinforce the very heavy feel that the guitar brings to the table. Basically, Schirenc employs the guitar in almost every way possible for a metal band, even adding a great solo at the end of Eclipse “Vita Nova” which serves as a 2-minute ending to the epic song.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrumming is top notch, done by Mike Gröger of Raventhrone. It is technical to grab interest on its own, yet it doesn’t get in the way at all. The production is great. Fills are very nice, creating smooth transitions, and the simple time and dynamics, as well as Grögers consistency are remarkable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to Schirencs harsh vocals, similar to his Pungent Stench work, there are also female vocals done by his ex-wife. They add nice diversity to the music, creating even more interest and variation to the already unique sound. The keyboards also add a nice touch and are used sparingly as well. Mostly during sampled orchestral parts, or chants, Schirenc employs layers of keyboards to reinforce polyphony, and at first it is very likely you won’t even notice all the keyboard melodies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn all, this is one of the most unique and creative albums I have heard, and anyone seeking a unique metal sound should not hesitate in getting this album. The sheer depth of the album and its endless variance make it an album no one should be without in their collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Enrapture - Hinc Illæ Lacrim\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Homage - Magni Nominis Umbra\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Vestige - Non Omnis Moriar\u003cbr\u003e\n4. Lure - Pallida Mors\u003cbr\u003e\n5. Interlude - Ultima Ratio Regum\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Reprisal - Malis Avibus\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Premonition - Lex Talionis\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Eclipse - Vita Nova\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359009558748,"sku":"HHR2023-26","price":22.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/79277_hollenthon_domus_mundi_black_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529296"},{"product_id":"hollenthon-domus-mundi-grey-black-marbled-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - Domus Mundi \/ GREY BLACK MARBLED Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn unique album far ahead of its time in 1999 and an absolute classic! This album mixes Folk, Death Metal, and Pagan Metal. First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI was introduced to Hollenthon in 1999 when “Domus Mundi” was released. “Domus Mundi” has since been a favorite album that I always like to hear again, due to its endless replay value and\u003cbr\u003e\nunique style that no other Metal band can replicate. All the more amazing since it was all created and arranged by one man, namely Martin Schirenc, known best for his work in Pungent Stench.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis album would be best described as Orchestral Extreme Metal, though epic, folky, and medieval are all also adequate adjectives for this work. Schirenc proves that he is not only a great guitarist, but also a brilliant arranger, integrating Gregorian Chants, Spoken Word, Middle Eastern ethnic music, native New Zealand war chants, and heaps of classical music into his music. Samples range from Rimsky-Korsakoffs “Sheherezade” to a bagpipe film from the film Braveheart, to spoken samples from Ridley Scott’s Legend, and a whole lot more. These samples add such a unique touch to the album and make it extremely diverse, something you never heard before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSchirenc uses simple song structures and employs hooks in his guitar work to keep long songs and repetitive structures interesting. Variation often also occour, with harmonies being employed often as well. The guitar tone is very low end oriented, and the dropped tuning helps reinforce the very heavy feel that the guitar brings to the table. Basically, Schirenc employs the guitar in almost every way possible for a metal band, even adding a great solo at the end of Eclipse “Vita Nova” which serves as a 2-minute ending to the epic song.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrumming is top notch, done by Mike Gröger of Raventhrone. It is technical to grab interest on its own, yet it doesn’t get in the way at all. The production is great. Fills are very nice, creating smooth transitions, and the simple time and dynamics, as well as Grögers consistency are remarkable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to Schirencs harsh vocals, similar to his Pungent Stench work, there are also female vocals done by his ex-wife. They add nice diversity to the music, creating even more interest and variation to the already unique sound. The keyboards also add a nice touch and are used sparingly as well. Mostly during sampled orchestral parts, or chants, Schirenc employs layers of keyboards to reinforce polyphony, and at first it is very likely you won’t even notice all the keyboard melodies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn all, this is one of the most unique and creative albums I have heard, and anyone seeking a unique metal sound should not hesitate in getting this album. The sheer depth of the album and its endless variance make it an album no one should be without in their collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Enrapture - Hinc Illæ Lacrim\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Homage - Magni Nominis Umbra\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Vestige - Non Omnis Moriar\u003cbr\u003e\n4. Lure - Pallida Mors\u003cbr\u003e\n5. Interlude - Ultima Ratio Regum\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Reprisal - Malis Avibus\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Premonition - Lex Talionis\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Eclipse - Vita Nova\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359009755356,"sku":"HHR2023-26-2","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/79278_hollenthon_domus_mundi_grey_black_marbled_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529298"},{"product_id":"hollenthon-with-vilest-worms-to-dwell-black-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - With Vilest Worms to Dwell \/ Black Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003e“With Vilest Worms to Dwell” is an epic and majestic powerhouse! This album mixes Folk, Pagan Metal with Death Metal tendencies. First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis album is a powerhouse, there, we said it... With flashes of Therion mixed with melodic death metal tendencies, “With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” erupts in all its majestic and epic magnitude and it is still a great pleasure to listen to 22 years after its initial release in 2001. Hollenthon demonstrate their symphonic elements from the get go, and the first three tracks are genius compositions that, although incredible, demand patience from the listener, and then have a big reward. Hollenthon have crafted an accessible record, but you hear new bits with each listening session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRight from the word go, “Y Draig Goch” leaps out with a wonderful “build-up” verse before launching into one of the most headbangable, uplifting choruses you will hear in a long time. Sounds like Power Metal? Far from it, Hollenthon play a thrilling blend of death metal and orchestral music, reminiscent of Therion meets Morbid Angel but much, much better than that bad comparison might sound like. It’s not until the fourth track that we get our first dose of what we believe is a wondrous mix of epic and catchy riffage and vocals. “To Kingdom Come” bursts immediately into its chorus, and the male choir only enhances the grandeur of the song. Catchy guitar riffs drive the piece, and enchanting female vocals adorn its bridge. It is definitely what we would designate as the album’s standout track, but it by no means shames the remainder of the record. From this track onward the album continues to soar. “The Calm Before the Storm” and “Fire Upon the Blade” push on with the same force as the fourth track, while “Conquest Demise” and “Conspirator” craft a conclusion of epic proportions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe guitar work on this album is fairly understated, preferring to give way to the choirs and orchestral arrangements. These symphonic elements are truly the driving force of the music, and are woven together with the traditional band instruments in such a way that it is at once apparent how much thought has gone into the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e“With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” is a landmark release in symphonic metal, and really shows what can be achieved when symphonic elements are put to good use in metal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Y Draig Goch\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Woe to the Defeated\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Lords of Bedlam\u003cbr\u003e\n4. To Kingdom Come\u003cbr\u003e\n5. The Calm Before the Storm\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Fire Upon the Blade\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Conquest Demise\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Conspirator\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359010312412,"sku":"HHR2023-27","price":22.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/79439_hollenthon_with_vilest_worms_to_dwell_black_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529300"},{"product_id":"hollenthon-with-vilest-worms-to-dwell-yellow-red-marbled-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - With Vilest Worms to Dwell \/ YELLOW RED MARBLED Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003e“With Vilest Worms to Dwell” is an epic and majestic powerhouse! This album mixes Folk, Pagan Metal with Death Metal tendencies. First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis album is a powerhouse, there, we said it... With flashes of Therion mixed with melodic death metal tendencies, “With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” erupts in all its majestic and epic magnitude and it is still a great pleasure to listen to 22 years after its initial release in 2001. Hollenthon demonstrate their symphonic elements from the get go, and the first three tracks are genius compositions that, although incredible, demand patience from the listener, and then have a big reward. Hollenthon have crafted an accessible record, but you hear new bits with each listening session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRight from the word go, “Y Draig Goch” leaps out with a wonderful “build-up” verse before launching into one of the most headbangable, uplifting choruses you will hear in a long time. Sounds like Power Metal? Far from it, Hollenthon play a thrilling blend of death metal and orchestral music, reminiscent of Therion meets Morbid Angel but much, much better than that bad comparison might sound like. It’s not until the fourth track that we get our first dose of what we believe is a wondrous mix of epic and catchy riffage and vocals. “To Kingdom Come” bursts immediately into its chorus, and the male choir only enhances the grandeur of the song. Catchy guitar riffs drive the piece, and enchanting female vocals adorn its bridge. It is definitely what we would designate as the album’s standout track, but it by no means shames the remainder of the record. From this track onward the album continues to soar. “The Calm Before the Storm” and “Fire Upon the Blade” push on with the same force as the fourth track, while “Conquest Demise” and “Conspirator” craft a conclusion of epic proportions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe guitar work on this album is fairly understated, preferring to give way to the choirs and orchestral arrangements. These symphonic elements are truly the driving force of the music, and are woven together with the traditional band instruments in such a way that it is at once apparent how much thought has gone into the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e“With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” is a landmark release in symphonic metal, and really shows what can be achieved when symphonic elements are put to good use in metal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Y Draig Goch\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Woe to the Defeated\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Lords of Bedlam\u003cbr\u003e\n4. To Kingdom Come\u003cbr\u003e\n5. The Calm Before the Storm\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Fire Upon the Blade\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Conquest Demise\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Conspirator\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359010345180,"sku":"HHR2023-27-2","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/hollenthon_with_vilest_worms_to_dwell_yellow_red_marbled_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529302"},{"product_id":"hollenthon-opus-magnum-black-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - Opus Magnum \/ Black Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn excellent record which should appeal to every Black, Death or Symphonic Metal fan! First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHollenthon is a Symphonic Death Metal band founded by Pungent Stench’s Martin Schirenc Hollenthon made their debut in 1999 with “Domus Mundi” and gained a cult following with their second album “With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” in 2001. All was quiet on the Hollenthon front after that album as Schirenc focused on putting Pungent Stench back together. However, after two Pungent Stench albums Schirenc went back to Hollenthon and “Opus Magnum” was the result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e“Opus Magnum” showcases a new evolution of the band’s sound, as the symphonic orchestral elements merged seamlessly with the Death Metal on offer. The album features liberal use of choirs, synths, string arrangements, and female soprano vocals, all blended perfectly with Schirenc’s use of classical and ethnic European folk elements. The guitar playing has reached a new level, with incredible solos throughout the album. The album is perfect as a whole, with each song being different yet working together flawlessly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHollenthon fearlessly experiments with different sounds on this album, and it all works incredibly well. The album is a non-stop, high-energy experience, and each song is unique yet cohesive. Fans of Therion and Symphonic Extreme Metal will love “Opus Magnum,” which we believe is even better than anything Therion has released in a long while. Overall, “Opus Magnum” is one of the best extreme metal albums of 2008! Highly recommended!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. On the Wings of a Dove\u003cbr\u003e\n2. To Fabled Lands\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Son of Perdition\u003cbr\u003e\n4. Ars Moriendi\u003cbr\u003e\n5. Once we were Kings\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Of Splendid Worlds\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Dying Embers\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Misterium Babel\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359010377948,"sku":"HHR2023-28","price":22.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/79930_hollenthon_opus_magnum_black_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529305"},{"product_id":"hollenthon-opus-magnum-blue-black-marbled-vinyl-lp","title":"HOLLENTHON - Opus Magnum \/ BLUE BLACK MARBLED Vinyl LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn excellent record which should appeal to every Black, Death or Symphonic Metal fan! First time on vinyl!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHollenthon is a Symphonic Death Metal band founded by Pungent Stench’s Martin Schirenc Hollenthon made their debut in 1999 with “Domus Mundi” and gained a cult following with their second album “With Vilest of Worms to Dwell” in 2001. All was quiet on the Hollenthon front after that album as Schirenc focused on putting Pungent Stench back together. However, after two Pungent Stench albums Schirenc went back to Hollenthon and “Opus Magnum” was the result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e“Opus Magnum” showcases a new evolution of the band’s sound, as the symphonic orchestral elements merged seamlessly with the Death Metal on offer. The album features liberal use of choirs, synths, string arrangements, and female soprano vocals, all blended perfectly with Schirenc’s use of classical and ethnic European folk elements. The guitar playing has reached a new level, with incredible solos throughout the album. The album is perfect as a whole, with each song being different yet working together flawlessly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHollenthon fearlessly experiments with different sounds on this album, and it all works incredibly well. The album is a non-stop, high-energy experience, and each song is unique yet cohesive. Fans of Therion and Symphonic Extreme Metal will love “Opus Magnum,” which we believe is even better than anything Therion has released in a long while. Overall, “Opus Magnum” is one of the best extreme metal albums of 2008! Highly recommended!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTRACKLIST\u003cbr\u003e\n1. On the Wings of a Dove\u003cbr\u003e\n2. To Fabled Lands\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Son of Perdition\u003cbr\u003e\n4. Ars Moriendi\u003cbr\u003e\n5. Once we were Kings\u003cbr\u003e\n6. Of Splendid Worlds\u003cbr\u003e\n7. Dying Embers\u003cbr\u003e\n8. Misterium Babel\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hollenthon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359010410716,"sku":"HHR2023-28-2","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/4123\/6444\/files\/79931_hollenthon_opus_magnum_blue_black_marbled_vinyl.jpg?v=1740529306"}],"url":"https:\/\/hammerheart.indiemerch.com\/collections\/hollenthon.oembed","provider":"Hammerheart Records USA","version":"1.0","type":"link"}