Rough Edge: Tartharia CD Reviews

TARTHARIA

"Abstract Nation" (Crash; 2004)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

The dynamic death metal duo Tartharia come back to us from Russia with scorn on "Abstract Nation." Mixing in elements of power metal with a gloomy yet guttural feel, tracks like "At Every Step" cross Children of Bodom with Jag Panzer, while the riffs found on "Warlife" sound as if they were lifted straight from the Carcass songbook.

Experimenting with orchestral movements on "DI" as much as they are creating molten metal on the scolding "Stand in the Wind," Tartharia's bold visions leave extreme metal purists out in the cold. However, those that can appreciate melodic death metal with a twist are in for quite the treat.

Tartharia: Antti Ihalainen - guitar, bass; Tahvo "Audry" Kenonen - vocals; Jan Svetlanen - guitar; Jussi Watanen - guitar; Pekka Turtiainen - keyboards; Sam - drums.

For more information visit http://www.crashmusicinc.com/Bio-bands/Tartharia.htm.

"A Secret Device" (Crash; 2003)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Tartharia, featuring members from Finland and Russia, is a death metal/black metal hybrid that still finds room to explore other realms of extreme metal. "A Secret Device" is the band’s debut; this mini-CD contains five songs and a multimedia section.

"A Secret Device" features more influences from the death metal genres than the black metal genres, but a solid merging of the two styles results in a pleasing listening experience. Overall, Tartharia's "A Secret Device" is consistent on the heavy and extreme side of all things metallic, but lacking a bit in terms of overall catchiness. Still, Tartharia is a band worth watching in the future.

"A Secret Device" was produced by Ansii Kippo. As is to be expected when Mr. Kippo works, "A Secret Device" features solid sound that pays respects to both the death metal and black metal genres for a sound that has intrigue and mystery along with pummeling riffs.

Tartharia is Tahvo Kenonen on vocals, Antti Ihalainen on guitars and bass, Jussi Waanen on guitar, Pekka Turtiainen on keyboards, and Ville Huttenen on drums.

For more information visit http://www.crashmusicinc.com/Bio-bands/Tartharia.htm.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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