Desertfest Belgium is close! The line-up looks promising as always and the whole ambience around one of Europe’s most admired festivals is starting to set. But while there’s still some time to burn, we have five new records, of our choosing, that you should definitely check and don't miss it live if you are to attend the Antwerp based festival. 

 

Yob - Our Raw Heart

Yob’s discography is something worthy of comparison to archaic beauty. Pick a random album by hand and you won’t feel empty handed, by any chance. Their latest contribution, a statement of self-preservation that goes in-depth to everything that frontman Mike Scheidt gone through with his sickness, takes the band to new shapes, soundscapes and song-structures. It feels like a cascade of emotions, but the energy is unremoved of the soul. Despite Yob being a regular presence at this festival, the truth is that its relevance never expires, especially with this new record.

 

Naxatras - III

As the name spoils, this is the third full-length installment from the Greek trio Naxatras. A band whose self-merit has elevated them within the European psych scene to an extent where they are now recognized as one of the most admired newcomers. Not only is their fanbase increasing exponentially, they are also building a solid background of presences in relevant festivals such as Sonic Blast Moledo and now Desertfest Belgium. Found in an evolving, exotic and mystical psyche atmosphere, this album symbolizes a renewed chapter of their odyssey by the more sidereal, warm and masterful side of Psych Rock in pleasing consonance with the more relaxing, meditative and dazzling side of Space Rock. A real must.



 

Eagle Twin - The Thundering Heard

Undeniably one of the most refreshing vocals in the sludge section of doom metal, Eagle Twin really do know how to build and pile up layers upon layers of distortion and mountain moving riffs. On The Thundering Heard, nature embraces the soul’s texture and the melody of progressing sections. Don’t get it wrong, it’s still dirty and wholesome. Something no one should miss if in a live setting, that’s for sure.



 

Wiegedood - De Doden Hebben Het Goed III

One could call Wiegedood a super-group, since they are indeed composed by members of Belgium’s most notorious acts in the underground. Incarnating the dimmest elements of Oathbreaker, Amenra and the defunct Rise And Fall, in the third installment of this band’s saga, we encounter sheer aggression, uncompromising speed and raw fucking power. The sound is ever-growing since their first attempt, so it’s safe to say, this showcases the group, at its finest.



 

Frayle - The White Witch (EP)

Here’s an interesting new project. Melding elements of occult rock and doom metal, invoking the most captivating ideas of traditional doom, they execute song-writting with the utmost admiration for external influences. Naming Chelsea Wolfe or even Portishead, Bjork and Massive Attack, might be enough to pull your attention in, but their own name and music does more justice. Just check it.