The Crown (SWEDEN)

[Horex]

The Crown - Death Is Not Dead (2015)













Year : 2015
Style : Melodic Death Metal , Thrash Metal
Country : Sweden
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans + Video
Size : 170 mb

Bio:

“Death Is Not Dead” is the somewhat programmatic title of Swedish THE CROWN’s 8th album (counting in “The Burning” & “Eternal Death” originally released as Crown Of Thorns) and marks a bold sonic statement showing the thrashing death metal lunatics at the top of their game. Profiting from the return of original frontman Johan Lindstrand, his merciless voice thrones above a barrage of riffs, insane paces and twisted song structures destined to please any THE CROWN supporter since day one.Formed as a primitive garage act in 1990, a compilation appearance in ’92 and the legendary dark and brutal demos “Forever Heaven Gone” (1993) and “Forget The Light” (1994) followed, leading up to a deal with Black Sun Records (Grotesque, Nifelheim, Ceremonial Oath) and the much-lauded debut album “The Burning” (1995). Blending a strong sense of melody with the thrashing ferocity of American acts and atmospheric flavor of Scandinavian tradition, the band impressed media and fans alike with a perfect amalgamation of feeling and sheer brutality. A video for “Of Good And Evil” was shot and further helped spreading the band’s moniker as did their cover of “Mandatory Suicide” on the “Slatanic Slaughter – a tribute to Slayer” compilation.In 1996, the band once again entered the studio to record its second assault entitled “Eternal Death”, which showed an even more focused and breathtaking approach. Its unique mixture of hellish riffing, blasting drums, mesmerizing melodies, ripping classic metal leads, killer vocals and possessed lyrics (just think of the epic 8min “The Black Heart” dedicated to Dead / Mayhem) turned “Eternal Death” into a catchy yet very dangerous and addictive album. It also featured a ravaging, reworked version of the 1991 penned pre-demo classic “Kill (The Priest)” which still is featured in the band’s live set. A video was made for the song “Angels Die”.July 1997 was a rather unpleasant period in the band history as Christian glam-pop outfit CROWN OF THORNS forced the band to drop its name and shorten it to simply THE CROWN, but as disastrous this might look to outsiders, the group unflinchingly moved onward and never wavered from its mission of spread hell and terror! A first nasty little teaser as THE CROWN was issued with “The Poison” on the “Statements Of Intent” compilation (Wicked World Records), and a blasting cover of Sepultura’s hymn “Arise” appeared on the "Sepultural Feast" tribute album.In January/February 1998, THE CROWN hit the road and raised some serious hell together with Sacriflege featuring Tomas Lindberg (ex At The Gates) and left a lasting impression at the Metal Blade Records-team (even after having a beer kicked in his face by singer Johan) and the band’s next album “Hell Is Here” (1999) followed. 11 ripping new tracks of death, darkness, destruction, revolution, violence, Satanism, war, drugs, Armageddon, sex, black magic and rock’n’roll. A perfect combination for a perfect album! During touring with Morbid Angel, Emperor, Impaled Nazarene etc. and even at Wacken Open Air the band played live as much as they could and kicked as many asses as they could find.Just a year later, THE CROWN delivered “Deathrace King”, a monstrous album turning their death metal roots into the ultimate rock´n’roll Überbeast destroying everything in its way. Featuring Tomas Lindberg and Mika Luttinen as guest vocalists, “Deathrace King” was unanimously hailed in press and the European and American tour activities with Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Krisiun, Enslaved, Vomitory and others left clubs in ruin and audiences deaf and dead.Unfortunately, in 2001 vocalist Johan Lindstrand quits the band, former At The Gates singer Tomas Lindberg steps in for the again, much celebrated “Crowned In Terror” (2002) yet drops out of the band already in the very same year due to personal differences. On 2003’s “Possessed 13”, Johan Lindstrand returns to the fold delivering another punishing performance resulting in a blistering album. Between October 2003 and February 2004, THE CROWN reworked “Crowned In Terror” with Johan Lindstrand on vocals releasing it posthumously as “Crowned Unholy”. However, THE CROWN had marched into the grave by then.Five years later THE CROWN return fronted by Jonas Stålhammar (God Macabre, Bombs Of Hades…) presenting a formidable comeback record on their new label home Century Media Records with “Doomsday King” (2009) and after the departure of Jonas can convince the mighty Johan Lindstrand to torture his lungs again for the new album. “Death Is Not Dead” features guitarists Marko Tervonen and Robin Sörqvist (who replaced Marcus Sunesson in 2013), Magnus Olsfelt on bass, and the aforementioned Mr Lindstrand who (de)composed a incredibly pissed off and intense record full of raging riffs, thrashing speed and devastating death metal force. Song titles like “Headhunter”, “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead)”, “Herd Of Swine” are definitely far from being love songs, so, folks, get ready to join THE CROWN’s deathrace again and ride to f**king ruin…

Album:

Swedish death metal veterans The Crown are currently finding themselves a bit in the latter category now with their new album Death Is Not Dead, which was released January 13, 2015 through Century Media Records.The album finds The Crown veering toward a more traditional metal sound and in certain passages even classic hard rock territory. Becoming less “brutal” is usually not highly desirable in the world of death metal and the move has some “fans” of The Crown that I know and/or have seen commenting online less than pleased.I, on the other hand, am a firm believer in the evolve or die Darwinism involved in creating art. Sometimes it works out well (Job For A Cowboy), sometimes not so much (looking at you In Flames). If I’m being honest, I wasn’t 100% on board with this album on first listen. Maybe due to the fact that the singer maintains his death metal growl even at the moments when the band begins to stray from tried and true territory. However, after several repeat listens, I can actually say that I have grown rather fond of it. Is it a masterpiece of death metal? No. But it is a very solid metal record.Highlights include “Meduseld,” “Ride to Ruin,” “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead),” the killer “Iblis Bane,” and the record’s first single "Headhunter".”Watch the video for “Headhunter here below. Warning: It contains graphic violence and is not suitable for children or the squeamish.All in all, I’m very glad that something about this record intrigued me enough to give it a few spins before passing judgment. If you’re open minded and looking for a metal record that’s a bit more dimensional than your average death metal offering, you should positively give Death Is Not Dead a listen (or a few).

Line-Up:

Johan Lindstrand - Vocals (1998-2001, 2002-2004, 2011-present) - See also: ex-One Man Army and the Undead Quartet, ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Incapacity
Marko Tervonen - Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Angel Blake, ex-Crown of Thorns, Lady Mourning, ex-Dobermann
Robin Sörqvist - Guitars (2013-present) - See also: Impious, Power Supreme
Magnus Olsfelt - Bass (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Dobermann

Tracklist:

01. Reign 01:55 instrumental
02. Headhunter 04:53
03. Iblis Bane 04:09
04. Eternal (Paradise Lost cover) 04:03
05. Struck by Lightning 05:00
06. Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead) 03:34
07. Herd of Swine 04:49
08. Horrid Ways 05:17
09. Ride to Ruin 05:50
10. Meduseld 05:44
11. Godeater 05:14

+ Video "Headhunter" (Official Video)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

The Crown - Death Is Not Dead (Japan Edition) (2015)













Year : 2015 (Japan Edition)
Style : Melodic Death Meatl , Thrash Metal
Country : Sweden
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 141 mb

Bio:

“Death Is Not Dead” is the somewhat programmatic title of Swedish THE CROWN’s 8th album (counting in “The Burning” & “Eternal Death” originally released as Crown Of Thorns) and marks a bold sonic statement showing the thrashing death metal lunatics at the top of their game. Profiting from the return of original frontman Johan Lindstrand, his merciless voice thrones above a barrage of riffs, insane paces and twisted song structures destined to please any THE CROWN supporter since day one.Formed as a primitive garage act in 1990, a compilation appearance in ’92 and the legendary dark and brutal demos “Forever Heaven Gone” (1993) and “Forget The Light” (1994) followed, leading up to a deal with Black Sun Records (Grotesque, Nifelheim, Ceremonial Oath) and the much-lauded debut album “The Burning” (1995). Blending a strong sense of melody with the thrashing ferocity of American acts and atmospheric flavor of Scandinavian tradition, the band impressed media and fans alike with a perfect amalgamation of feeling and sheer brutality. A video for “Of Good And Evil” was shot and further helped spreading the band’s moniker as did their cover of “Mandatory Suicide” on the “Slatanic Slaughter – a tribute to Slayer” compilation.In 1996, the band once again entered the studio to record its second assault entitled “Eternal Death”, which showed an even more focused and breathtaking approach. Its unique mixture of hellish riffing, blasting drums, mesmerizing melodies, ripping classic metal leads, killer vocals and possessed lyrics (just think of the epic 8min “The Black Heart” dedicated to Dead / Mayhem) turned “Eternal Death” into a catchy yet very dangerous and addictive album. It also featured a ravaging, reworked version of the 1991 penned pre-demo classic “Kill (The Priest)” which still is featured in the band’s live set. A video was made for the song “Angels Die”.July 1997 was a rather unpleasant period in the band history as Christian glam-pop outfit CROWN OF THORNS forced the band to drop its name and shorten it to simply THE CROWN, but as disastrous this might look to outsiders, the group unflinchingly moved onward and never wavered from its mission of spread hell and terror! A first nasty little teaser as THE CROWN was issued with “The Poison” on the “Statements Of Intent” compilation (Wicked World Records), and a blasting cover of Sepultura’s hymn “Arise” appeared on the "Sepultural Feast" tribute album.In January/February 1998, THE CROWN hit the road and raised some serious hell together with Sacriflege featuring Tomas Lindberg (ex At The Gates) and left a lasting impression at the Metal Blade Records-team (even after having a beer kicked in his face by singer Johan) and the band’s next album “Hell Is Here” (1999) followed. 11 ripping new tracks of death, darkness, destruction, revolution, violence, Satanism, war, drugs, Armageddon, sex, black magic and rock’n’roll. A perfect combination for a perfect album! During touring with Morbid Angel, Emperor, Impaled Nazarene etc. and even at Wacken Open Air the band played live as much as they could and kicked as many asses as they could find.Just a year later, THE CROWN delivered “Deathrace King”, a monstrous album turning their death metal roots into the ultimate rock´n’roll Überbeast destroying everything in its way. Featuring Tomas Lindberg and Mika Luttinen as guest vocalists, “Deathrace King” was unanimously hailed in press and the European and American tour activities with Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Krisiun, Enslaved, Vomitory and others left clubs in ruin and audiences deaf and dead.Unfortunately, in 2001 vocalist Johan Lindstrand quits the band, former At The Gates singer Tomas Lindberg steps in for the again, much celebrated “Crowned In Terror” (2002) yet drops out of the band already in the very same year due to personal differences. On 2003’s “Possessed 13”, Johan Lindstrand returns to the fold delivering another punishing performance resulting in a blistering album. Between October 2003 and February 2004, THE CROWN reworked “Crowned In Terror” with Johan Lindstrand on vocals releasing it posthumously as “Crowned Unholy”. However, THE CROWN had marched into the grave by then.Five years later THE CROWN return fronted by Jonas Stålhammar (God Macabre, Bombs Of Hades…) presenting a formidable comeback record on their new label home Century Media Records with “Doomsday King” (2009) and after the departure of Jonas can convince the mighty Johan Lindstrand to torture his lungs again for the new album. “Death Is Not Dead” features guitarists Marko Tervonen and Robin Sörqvist (who replaced Marcus Sunesson in 2013), Magnus Olsfelt on bass, and the aforementioned Mr Lindstrand who (de)composed a incredibly pissed off and intense record full of raging riffs, thrashing speed and devastating death metal force. Song titles like “Headhunter”, “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead)”, “Herd Of Swine” are definitely far from being love songs, so, folks, get ready to join THE CROWN’s deathrace again and ride to f**king ruin…

Album:

Swedish death metal veterans The Crown are currently finding themselves a bit in the latter category now with their new album Death Is Not Dead, which was released January 13, 2015 through Century Media Records.The album finds The Crown veering toward a more traditional metal sound and in certain passages even classic hard rock territory. Becoming less “brutal” is usually not highly desirable in the world of death metal and the move has some “fans” of The Crown that I know and/or have seen commenting online less than pleased.I, on the other hand, am a firm believer in the evolve or die Darwinism involved in creating art. Sometimes it works out well (Job For A Cowboy), sometimes not so much (looking at you In Flames). If I’m being honest, I wasn’t 100% on board with this album on first listen. Maybe due to the fact that the singer maintains his death metal growl even at the moments when the band begins to stray from tried and true territory. However, after several repeat listens, I can actually say that I have grown rather fond of it. Is it a masterpiece of death metal? No. But it is a very solid metal record.Highlights include “Meduseld,” “Ride to Ruin,” “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead),” the killer “Iblis Bane,” and the record’s first single "Headhunter".”Watch the video for “Headhunter here below. Warning: It contains graphic violence and is not suitable for children or the squeamish.All in all, I’m very glad that something about this record intrigued me enough to give it a few spins before passing judgment. If you’re open minded and looking for a metal record that’s a bit more dimensional than your average death metal offering, you should positively give Death Is Not Dead a listen (or a few)

Line-Up:

Johan Lindstrand - Vocals (1998-2001, 2002-2004, 2011-present) - See also: ex-One Man Army and the Undead Quartet, ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Incapacity
Marko Tervonen - Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Angel Blake, ex-Crown of Thorns, Lady Mourning, ex-Dobermann
Robin Sörqvist - Guitars (2013-present) - See also: Impious, Power Supreme
Magnus Olsfelt - Bass (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Dobermann

Tracklist:

01. Reign 01:55 instrumental
02. Headhunter 04:53
03. Iblis Bane 04:09
04. Eternal (Paradise Lost cover) 04:03
05. Struck by Lightning 05:00
06. Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead) 03:34
07. Herd of Swine 04:49
08. Horrid Ways 05:17
09. Ride to Ruin 05:50
10. Meduseld 05:44
11. Godeater 05:14
12. We Come in Peace (Piece by Piece) (Japan Bonus Track)
13. Agent Orange (Japan Bonus Track)
14. Candles - Burn Again (Japan Bonus Track)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

The Crown - Cobra Speed Venom (2018)













Year : 2018
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : Sweden
Audio : 320 kbps + scans + Video
Size : 185 mb

Bio:

“Death Is Not Dead” is the somewhat programmatic title of Swedish THE CROWN’s 8th album (counting in “The Burning” & “Eternal Death” originally released as Crown Of Thorns) and marks a bold sonic statement showing the thrashing death metal lunatics at the top of their game. Profiting from the return of original frontman Johan Lindstrand, his merciless voice thrones above a barrage of riffs, insane paces and twisted song structures destined to please any THE CROWN supporter since day one.Formed as a primitive garage act in 1990, a compilation appearance in ’92 and the legendary dark and brutal demos “Forever Heaven Gone” (1993) and “Forget The Light” (1994) followed, leading up to a deal with Black Sun Records (Grotesque, Nifelheim, Ceremonial Oath) and the much-lauded debut album “The Burning” (1995). Blending a strong sense of melody with the thrashing ferocity of American acts and atmospheric flavor of Scandinavian tradition, the band impressed media and fans alike with a perfect amalgamation of feeling and sheer brutality. A video for “Of Good And Evil” was shot and further helped spreading the band’s moniker as did their cover of “Mandatory Suicide” on the “Slatanic Slaughter – a tribute to Slayer” compilation.In 1996, the band once again entered the studio to record its second assault entitled “Eternal Death”, which showed an even more focused and breathtaking approach. Its unique mixture of hellish riffing, blasting drums, mesmerizing melodies, ripping classic metal leads, killer vocals and possessed lyrics (just think of the epic 8min “The Black Heart” dedicated to Dead / Mayhem) turned “Eternal Death” into a catchy yet very dangerous and addictive album. It also featured a ravaging, reworked version of the 1991 penned pre-demo classic “Kill (The Priest)” which still is featured in the band’s live set. A video was made for the song “Angels Die”.July 1997 was a rather unpleasant period in the band history as Christian glam-pop outfit CROWN OF THORNS forced the band to drop its name and shorten it to simply THE CROWN, but as disastrous this might look to outsiders, the group unflinchingly moved onward and never wavered from its mission of spread hell and terror! A first nasty little teaser as THE CROWN was issued with “The Poison” on the “Statements Of Intent” compilation (Wicked World Records), and a blasting cover of Sepultura’s hymn “Arise” appeared on the "Sepultural Feast" tribute album.In January/February 1998, THE CROWN hit the road and raised some serious hell together with Sacriflege featuring Tomas Lindberg (ex At The Gates) and left a lasting impression at the Metal Blade Records-team (even after having a beer kicked in his face by singer Johan) and the band’s next album “Hell Is Here” (1999) followed. 11 ripping new tracks of death, darkness, destruction, revolution, violence, Satanism, war, drugs, Armageddon, sex, black magic and rock’n’roll. A perfect combination for a perfect album! During touring with Morbid Angel, Emperor, Impaled Nazarene etc. and even at Wacken Open Air the band played live as much as they could and kicked as many asses as they could find.Just a year later, THE CROWN delivered “Deathrace King”, a monstrous album turning their death metal roots into the ultimate rock´n’roll Überbeast destroying everything in its way. Featuring Tomas Lindberg and Mika Luttinen as guest vocalists, “Deathrace King” was unanimously hailed in press and the European and American tour activities with Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Krisiun, Enslaved, Vomitory and others left clubs in ruin and audiences deaf and dead.Unfortunately, in 2001 vocalist Johan Lindstrand quits the band, former At The Gates singer Tomas Lindberg steps in for the again, much celebrated “Crowned In Terror” (2002) yet drops out of the band already in the very same year due to personal differences. On 2003’s “Possessed 13”, Johan Lindstrand returns to the fold delivering another punishing performance resulting in a blistering album. Between October 2003 and February 2004, THE CROWN reworked “Crowned In Terror” with Johan Lindstrand on vocals releasing it posthumously as “Crowned Unholy”. However, THE CROWN had marched into the grave by then.Five years later THE CROWN return fronted by Jonas Stålhammar (God Macabre, Bombs Of Hades…) presenting a formidable comeback record on their new label home Century Media Records with “Doomsday King” (2009) and after the departure of Jonas can convince the mighty Johan Lindstrand to torture his lungs again for the new album. “Death Is Not Dead” features guitarists Marko Tervonen and Robin Sörqvist (who replaced Marcus Sunesson in 2013), Magnus Olsfelt on bass, and the aforementioned Mr Lindstrand who (de)composed a incredibly pissed off and intense record full of raging riffs, thrashing speed and devastating death metal force. Song titles like “Headhunter”, “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead)”, “Herd Of Swine” are definitely far from being love songs, so, folks, get ready to join THE CROWN’s deathrace again and ride to f**king ruin…

Album:

If you like your Metal in the form of Classic Thrash, then this is for you.Swedish veterans Crown Of Thorns were formed way back in 1990 releasing their debut album in 1995 and the second album in 1996. In 1997 the band were forced to change their name to The Crown, however they did not allow this to change them and in 1998 they toured with Morbid Angel and Emperor.Name and member changes throughout the years have not detracted from the identity of The Crown, here they are 28 years later releasing their blend of Heavy Metal with Thrash Metal, throwing some groove in the mix.Cobra Speed Venom is an album full of tight Thrash that is quick, but not too quick that it becomes a blur. The speed is supplemented by some heavy riffs and that will leave you in a head banging frenzy.The title track is a classic Thrash Metal song that is very high quality whilst ‘World War Machine’ is uncomplicated in its performance and you soon find yourself singing along with ‘In The Name Of Death.’ Instrumental track ‘Where My Grave Shall Stand’ is a display of Hard Rock and Metal musicality that shows The Crown are not just about balls out speed.The combination of gravely vocals and Thrash Metal with Melodic influences makes Cobra Speed Venom a hugely enjoyable album to listen to and work out those neck muscles.

Line-Up:

Magnus Olsfelt Bass (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Dobermann, ex-Stolen Policecar
Marko Tervonen Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Angel Blake, ex-Crown of Thorns, Lady Mourning, ex-Dobermann
Johan Lindstrand Vocals (1998-2001, 2002-2004, 2011-present) - See also: ex-One Man Army and the Undead Quartet, ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Incapacity
Robin Sörqvist Guitars (2013-present) - See also: Afterbürner, Impious, Power Supreme
Henrik Axelsson Drums (2016-present) - See also: Implode, Soils of Fate (live)

Tracklist:

01. Destroyed by Madness 05:19
02. Iron Crown 03:23
03. In the Name of Death 04:55
04. We Avenge! 05:16
05. Cobra Speed Venom 04:55
06. World War Machine 05:05
07. Necrohammer 04:01
08. Rise in Blood 02:58
09. Where My Grave Shall Stand 04:35
10. The Sign of the Scythe 07:02
11. Nemesis Diamond (Bonus Track) 03:48
12. The Great Dying (Bonus Track) 06:06
13. Ride the Fire (Bonus Track) 03:22

+ Video "Cobra Speed Venom" (Official Video)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

The Crown - Royal Destroyer (Japan Edition) (2021)













Year : 2021 (Japan Edition)
Style : Thrash Metal, Melodic Death Metal
Country : Sweden
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 128 mb

Bio:

“Death Is Not Dead” is the somewhat programmatic title of Swedish THE CROWN’s 8th album (counting in “The Burning” & “Eternal Death” originally released as Crown Of Thorns) and marks a bold sonic statement showing the thrashing death metal lunatics at the top of their game. Profiting from the return of original frontman Johan Lindstrand, his merciless voice thrones above a barrage of riffs, insane paces and twisted song structures destined to please any THE CROWN supporter since day one.Formed as a primitive garage act in 1990, a compilation appearance in ’92 and the legendary dark and brutal demos “Forever Heaven Gone” (1993) and “Forget The Light” (1994) followed, leading up to a deal with Black Sun Records (Grotesque, Nifelheim, Ceremonial Oath) and the much-lauded debut album “The Burning” (1995). Blending a strong sense of melody with the thrashing ferocity of American acts and atmospheric flavor of Scandinavian tradition, the band impressed media and fans alike with a perfect amalgamation of feeling and sheer brutality. A video for “Of Good And Evil” was shot and further helped spreading the band’s moniker as did their cover of “Mandatory Suicide” on the “Slatanic Slaughter – a tribute to Slayer” compilation.In 1996, the band once again entered the studio to record its second assault entitled “Eternal Death”, which showed an even more focused and breathtaking approach. Its unique mixture of hellish riffing, blasting drums, mesmerizing melodies, ripping classic metal leads, killer vocals and possessed lyrics (just think of the epic 8min “The Black Heart” dedicated to Dead / Mayhem) turned “Eternal Death” into a catchy yet very dangerous and addictive album. It also featured a ravaging, reworked version of the 1991 penned pre-demo classic “Kill (The Priest)” which still is featured in the band’s live set. A video was made for the song “Angels Die”.July 1997 was a rather unpleasant period in the band history as Christian glam-pop outfit CROWN OF THORNS forced the band to drop its name and shorten it to simply THE CROWN, but as disastrous this might look to outsiders, the group unflinchingly moved onward and never wavered from its mission of spread hell and terror! A first nasty little teaser as THE CROWN was issued with “The Poison” on the “Statements Of Intent” compilation (Wicked World Records), and a blasting cover of Sepultura’s hymn “Arise” appeared on the "Sepultural Feast" tribute album.In January/February 1998, THE CROWN hit the road and raised some serious hell together with Sacriflege featuring Tomas Lindberg (ex At The Gates) and left a lasting impression at the Metal Blade Records-team (even after having a beer kicked in his face by singer Johan) and the band’s next album “Hell Is Here” (1999) followed. 11 ripping new tracks of death, darkness, destruction, revolution, violence, Satanism, war, drugs, Armageddon, sex, black magic and rock’n’roll. A perfect combination for a perfect album! During touring with Morbid Angel, Emperor, Impaled Nazarene etc. and even at Wacken Open Air the band played live as much as they could and kicked as many asses as they could find.Just a year later, THE CROWN delivered “Deathrace King”, a monstrous album turning their death metal roots into the ultimate rock´n’roll Überbeast destroying everything in its way. Featuring Tomas Lindberg and Mika Luttinen as guest vocalists, “Deathrace King” was unanimously hailed in press and the European and American tour activities with Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Krisiun, Enslaved, Vomitory and others left clubs in ruin and audiences deaf and dead.Unfortunately, in 2001 vocalist Johan Lindstrand quits the band, former At The Gates singer Tomas Lindberg steps in for the again, much celebrated “Crowned In Terror” (2002) yet drops out of the band already in the very same year due to personal differences. On 2003’s “Possessed 13”, Johan Lindstrand returns to the fold delivering another punishing performance resulting in a blistering album. Between October 2003 and February 2004, THE CROWN reworked “Crowned In Terror” with Johan Lindstrand on vocals releasing it posthumously as “Crowned Unholy”. However, THE CROWN had marched into the grave by then.Five years later THE CROWN return fronted by Jonas Stålhammar (God Macabre, Bombs Of Hades…) presenting a formidable comeback record on their new label home Century Media Records with “Doomsday King” (2009) and after the departure of Jonas can convince the mighty Johan Lindstrand to torture his lungs again for the new album. “Death Is Not Dead” features guitarists Marko Tervonen and Robin Sörqvist (who replaced Marcus Sunesson in 2013), Magnus Olsfelt on bass, and the aforementioned Mr Lindstrand who (de)composed a incredibly pissed off and intense record full of raging riffs, thrashing speed and devastating death metal force. Song titles like “Headhunter”, “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead)”, “Herd Of Swine” are definitely far from being love songs, so, folks, get ready to join THE CROWN’s deathrace again and ride to f**king ruin…

Album:

The Crown have been slashing throats and shredding eardrums for over 20 years; 30 if you include their first incarnation as Crown Of Thorns. High off the critical and fanbase accolades for their prior album, Cobra Speed Venom, the band is enjoying the recognition of their revered early records. Deservedly so, because the band is still releasing unrelenting, crushing death metal riffage and brutality. The album is out now, as they continue their legacy on Metal Blade with Royal Destroyer.The Crown do not deny a certain formula to begin with or establish a template for a record. But they challenge themselves and their fans each outing. Royal Destroyer has those moments of variety and testing boundaries with “We Drift On” and “Beyond the Frail” on Royal Destroyer, exploring a slow, doomy sludge swamp. But their meat and potatoes still fuel most tracks. The variety of thrash, death ‘n’ roll, death metal, death-doom gives enough fodder for the band to exorcise their rage and exercise their talents. And enough meat, potatoes, and gravy for fans to bite into.Witness the opener, “Let the Hammering Begin!” for relentless speed and vicious riffs. Noted as an homage to Slayer’s Jeff Henneman, the six minutes of brash punishment is centered around Henrik Axelson’s malicious drumming. So tight. “Hammering”, indeed. For fans, the song is also a glorious reuniting with Johan Lindstrand’s voracious growling as the album commences. His vocals are commanding; exhibiting depth and power.The Crown relish in the thrashy Death ‘n’ Roll established by Swedish brethren like Entombed. The track, “Motorbreath” epitomizes this. The song embodies the feel and simply rolls over anything in the way. “Ultra Faust” boasts a groove through six minutes with a brutal breakdown in the middle. “Glorious Hades” is another brash offering, scorching. Lindstrand dominates with his vocals; grand and sneering.“Full Metal Justice” flashes classic Crown with an incendiary atmosphere. “Scandanavian Satan” repeats the process with a fresh feel. Magnus Olsfelt’s bass joins forces with Marko Tervonen’s and Robin Sörqvist’s guitars. The riffs written are straight savage. Check the more grinding riff presented on “Devoid of Light”, twisting and disabling.Royal Destroyer is a cohesive beast. Potent music for fans new and old. Royal Destroyer is gritty and dirty, but with a big presence; never too polished. Infusing thrash and death metal for a impressive expansion on these legend’s repertoire. Kneel before metal royalty. Hail The Crown

Line-Up:

Johan Lindstrand - Vocals (1998-2001, 2002-2004, 2011-present) - See also: ex-One Man Army and the Undead Quartet, ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Incapacity
Magnus Olsfelt - Bass (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Dobermann, ex-Stolen Policecar
Marko Tervonen - Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Angel Blake, ex-Crown of Thorns, Lady Mourning, ex-Dobermann
Robin Sörqvist - Guitars (2013-present) - See also: Afterbürner, Impious, Power Supreme
Henrik Axelsson - Drums (2016-present) - See also: Implode, Soils of Fate (live)

Tracklist:

01. Baptized In Violence
02. Let The Hammering Begin!
03. Motordeath
04. Ultra Faust
05. Glorious Hades
06. Full Metal Justice
07. Scandinavian Satan
08. Devoid Of Light
09. We Drift On
10. Beyond The Frail
11. Absolute Monarchy (Bonus Track)
12. Dawn Of Emptiness (Demo) (Bonus Track)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

The Crown - Crown Of Thorns (Limited Edition Digipak) (2024)













Year : 2024
Style : Melodic Death Metal , Thrash Metal
Country : Sweden
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 131 mb

Bio:

“Death Is Not Dead” is the somewhat programmatic title of Swedish THE CROWN’s 8th album (counting in “The Burning” & “Eternal Death” originally released as Crown Of Thorns) and marks a bold sonic statement showing the thrashing death metal lunatics at the top of their game. Profiting from the return of original frontman Johan Lindstrand, his merciless voice thrones above a barrage of riffs, insane paces and twisted song structures destined to please any THE CROWN supporter since day one.Formed as a primitive garage act in 1990, a compilation appearance in ’92 and the legendary dark and brutal demos “Forever Heaven Gone” (1993) and “Forget The Light” (1994) followed, leading up to a deal with Black Sun Records (Grotesque, Nifelheim, Ceremonial Oath) and the much-lauded debut album “The Burning” (1995). Blending a strong sense of melody with the thrashing ferocity of American acts and atmospheric flavor of Scandinavian tradition, the band impressed media and fans alike with a perfect amalgamation of feeling and sheer brutality. A video for “Of Good And Evil” was shot and further helped spreading the band’s moniker as did their cover of “Mandatory Suicide” on the “Slatanic Slaughter – a tribute to Slayer” compilation.In 1996, the band once again entered the studio to record its second assault entitled “Eternal Death”, which showed an even more focused and breathtaking approach. Its unique mixture of hellish riffing, blasting drums, mesmerizing melodies, ripping classic metal leads, killer vocals and possessed lyrics (just think of the epic 8min “The Black Heart” dedicated to Dead / Mayhem) turned “Eternal Death” into a catchy yet very dangerous and addictive album. It also featured a ravaging, reworked version of the 1991 penned pre-demo classic “Kill (The Priest)” which still is featured in the band’s live set. A video was made for the song “Angels Die”.July 1997 was a rather unpleasant period in the band history as Christian glam-pop outfit CROWN OF THORNS forced the band to drop its name and shorten it to simply THE CROWN, but as disastrous this might look to outsiders, the group unflinchingly moved onward and never wavered from its mission of spread hell and terror! A first nasty little teaser as THE CROWN was issued with “The Poison” on the “Statements Of Intent” compilation (Wicked World Records), and a blasting cover of Sepultura’s hymn “Arise” appeared on the "Sepultural Feast" tribute album.In January/February 1998, THE CROWN hit the road and raised some serious hell together with Sacriflege featuring Tomas Lindberg (ex At The Gates) and left a lasting impression at the Metal Blade Records-team (even after having a beer kicked in his face by singer Johan) and the band’s next album “Hell Is Here” (1999) followed. 11 ripping new tracks of death, darkness, destruction, revolution, violence, Satanism, war, drugs, Armageddon, sex, black magic and rock’n’roll. A perfect combination for a perfect album! During touring with Morbid Angel, Emperor, Impaled Nazarene etc. and even at Wacken Open Air the band played live as much as they could and kicked as many asses as they could find.Just a year later, THE CROWN delivered “Deathrace King”, a monstrous album turning their death metal roots into the ultimate rock´n’roll Überbeast destroying everything in its way. Featuring Tomas Lindberg and Mika Luttinen as guest vocalists, “Deathrace King” was unanimously hailed in press and the European and American tour activities with Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Krisiun, Enslaved, Vomitory and others left clubs in ruin and audiences deaf and dead.Unfortunately, in 2001 vocalist Johan Lindstrand quits the band, former At The Gates singer Tomas Lindberg steps in for the again, much celebrated “Crowned In Terror” (2002) yet drops out of the band already in the very same year due to personal differences. On 2003’s “Possessed 13”, Johan Lindstrand returns to the fold delivering another punishing performance resulting in a blistering album. Between October 2003 and February 2004, THE CROWN reworked “Crowned In Terror” with Johan Lindstrand on vocals releasing it posthumously as “Crowned Unholy”. However, THE CROWN had marched into the grave by then.Five years later THE CROWN return fronted by Jonas Stålhammar (God Macabre, Bombs Of Hades…) presenting a formidable comeback record on their new label home Century Media Records with “Doomsday King” (2009) and after the departure of Jonas can convince the mighty Johan Lindstrand to torture his lungs again for the new album. “Death Is Not Dead” features guitarists Marko Tervonen and Robin Sörqvist (who replaced Marcus Sunesson in 2013), Magnus Olsfelt on bass, and the aforementioned Mr Lindstrand who (de)composed a incredibly pissed off and intense record full of raging riffs, thrashing speed and devastating death metal force. Song titles like “Headhunter”, “Speed Kills (Full Moon Ahead)”, “Herd Of Swine” are definitely far from being love songs, so, folks, get ready to join THE CROWN’s deathrace again and ride to f**king ruin…

Album:

Swedish death-thrash legends The Crown are back with their 12th regular studio album. With this one, they go way far back into their own past simply using their previous band name as album title. Not only that but also the cover is kind of retro on Crown Of Thorns. Where the previous album cover was colorful and some kind of epic, what you can find here is some kind of dreary, apocalyptic black-and-white painting. Might this be some anticipation towards what will come out of my stereo? Well, not at all. You can be relieved that the Swedes only changed their sound in nuances.Already the opener 'I Hunt With The Devil' is a sheer blast beat inferno with unerring death metal outbursts and furious vocals. This one is a straight continuation of 'Baptized In Violence' from its brutal predecessor Royal Destroyer from 2021. Hunting season is opened, so come and join them!! But apart from the substantial death metal influences, also some progressive, slight psychedelic parts crept into the song so that this one becomes a really interesting opener that makes you long for more.'Martyrian' is another slight different track, at least at the beginning. First of all I thought this would turn out into a thrash song á la old Metallica but like a whirlwind this thought was blown away after a few seconds. Here you have the typical The Crown-riffing, melodic and repetitive but at no point boring. Okay, now really a not-so-typical one 'Gone To Hell' starts very creepy and dark and doesn't speed up. The decent to hell is a slow and gloomy ride, underlined with whispered words and because all good guys go to hell, also with some epic melodies and keyboard layers. Although this one isn't a typical The Crown track, it fully unfolds its effect - a cool new band anthem!And because The Crown never shied extremes, 'Howling At The Warfield' is a stark contrast to that. This is probably one of the most diverse and fastest songs on the album and doesn't leave any time to rest first. Blasting relentlessly forward, the listener is sent on the warfield to escape the rattling crossfire that comes from everywhere. But after a while some cool Maiden-licks and other NWoBHM influences appear in the background and make the wild hunt a little bit more multidimensional.With 'The Agitator' the guys did their “Reign In Blood” or “Flag Of Hate”, I guess. This one is brutal thrash kicking in your face. Of course the vocals go more into death metal but with the gang shouts and the fast and simplified riffing this one might also be originally done by some thrash legends from the 80s. Oh, and I forgot the Deicide-homage 'Churchburner'. Check the chorus and tell me that they didn't ehm borrow that from “Once Upon The Cross”. “Fear him, fear him…”. But don´t get me wrong, this one is another sinister death-thrash attack without anything to criticize.I can assure you that you will be fully satisfied with Crown Of Thorns if you like the other stuff by the guys. Maybe here and there is the one or the other surprise that you might not have expected but all in all it is a very good new album. But you should check if you could get the version with the three bonus songs 'Eternally Infernal', 'No Fuel For God' (understandable considering the fuel price these days) and 'Mind Collapse'. They are all really cool tracks too and not like it happens often, some boring filler shit.

Line-Up:

Johan Lindstrand - Vocals (1998-2001, 2002-2004, 2011-present) - See also: ex-One Man Army and the Undead Quartet, ex-Crown of Thorns, ex-Impious, ex-Incapacity
Marcus Sunesson - Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-2012, 2024-present) - See also: Cyhra, ex-Crown of Thorns, Engel, ex-Night Crowned, ex-The Haunted (live), ex-Notre Dame (live), ex-Dobermann
Marko Tervonen - Guitars (1998-2004, 2009-present) - See also: ex-Angel Blake, ex-Crown of Thorns, Lady Mourning, ex-Dobermann
Mattias "Arvid" Rasmussen - Bass (2022-present) - See also: Bödel, Deny
Mikael Norén - Drums (2022-present) - See also: ex-Impious, ex-Conformatory, ex-Enthralled

Tracklist:

01. I Hunt with the Devil 04:55
02. Churchburner 04:14
03. Martyrian 04:50
04. Gone to Hell 04:46
05. Howling at the Warfield 03:52
06. The Night Is Now 03:10
07. God-King 03:07
08. The Agitator 01:50
09. Where Nightmares Belong 03:50
10. The Storm That Comes 06:58
11. Eternally Infernal 05:31 (Bonus Track)
12. No Fuel for God 03:46 (Bonus Track)
13. Mind Collapse 03:45 (Bonus Track)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/