Black Leather is the brainchild of Chilean psychotherapist Zvi Tacussis. Therefore, one might slyly suggest that Black Leather – along with Diamoth, Anima Mortuum and his other one-man bands – are the extreme musical outlets for Zvi’s multiple personalities. Zvi’s moonlighting activities aside, Black Leather fits outside the black metal trappings of his other bands, and is described by him as punk and crust metal – the likes of which are unparalleled in Christian music right now. The style and tempo vary greatly on this release, carried by croaking and shouting vocals, sometimes in English, sometimes in Spanish. This is truly a unique metal record. It’s hard to believe that one man is responsible for the brilliant artistry and strong Christian message displayed here. I appreciate the packaging, as well; there are two versions of State of Freedom, the normal version and the awesome “Cadillac” version, handmade from faux leather with patches for pages that includes the Hall of Pain demo.
Features
Heaven's Metal
When rock emerged from blues and 'heavy metal' began to surface, faith-based metal acts also rose to start their own journeys. Initially shunned by both believers and non-believers, they were fighting for their spot at the table, ultimately building a legacy that would go on to change the genre forever. HM presents an oral history of the beginning of Christian metal music, featuring Guardian, Tourniquet, Holy Soldier, Whitecross, and, of course, Stryper.
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Trapped in Limbo
Black metal may not be the first thing on your mind when you think of Portugal, but GAEREA is here to change that. HM contributing writer Andrew Voigt sat down with GAEREA to discuss the band’s music, their mysterious name and image, and how office work can be art.
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Five Death Metal Bands You Need to Know Now
Death metal is no longer strictly a one-kind-of-sound genre but a cloud under which many elements have formed. We have assembled five must-hear death metal acts you should be listening to now, each distinctly set apart from another in form, yet still brethren in the death metal community.
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Atreyu's Baptism
At their core, Atreyu is a hard rock band with metal riffs and pop choruses. Now, after more than 20 years, the band has stepped boldly into their next chapter with a change in lineup and an album that proves the lifeblood of Atreyu is stronger than ever.
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