An exercise in the dark and heavy. One song from each band, and I would definitely like to hear more from Ruins. They walk in the Tragedy realm, though they have a slightly catchier and melodic side that helps propel them far ahead of others who tread the same ground. The song, “Only the End of the World” begins with an apocalyptic tone then kicks into a full-on attack that is as rocking as it is heavy. Time changes throughout to keep the listener interested as well as adding more depth to the music. Usnea slow things down considerably with their contemplative sludge that’s slightly marred by the higher range vocal growling that comes in towards the end. Should have left that out and just let the music do the talking.
–M.Avrg (Halo Of Flies, halooffliesrecords.com / Twisted Chords, twisted-chords.de)