Countdown to MDF X: (19) Backslider

Need a small band to play you some big, fast music in under a minute? Philadelphia's grindcore, fastcore, something-core act Backslider should fit the bill quite nicely. This two-piece, comprised of Logan on guitar and vocals and Patrick on drums, will kick off the final day of the 2012 Maryland Deathfest, Sunday, May 27.

Backslider put a smile on my face because they reminded me of all those un-named punk bands I watched tear up smokey clubs and basements in the late 80s. All the spit and vinegar is there, except these guys are, at times, just a bit doomier and sludgier.  Don't plant them too deep, water them just a little, and they might grow into something like Dragged Into Sunlight.

Check out their Bandcamp here. Don't worry, it will take less than two minutes.

I am not sure, but this video seems to be sped up a little. Either way, it's totally worth watching as the moshers and the drum set nearly collide on several occasions.

Countdown to MDF X: (20) Morbid Angel

Morbid Angel has seen some controversy of late, what with the mixed reaction by fans and critics to their most recent album, Ilud Divinum Insanus. However, this does not take away the fact that this Florida band helped shape the sound of death metal. They close out Saturday night, May 26, at the 2012 Maryland Deathfest.

All references to their most recent recording aside, Morbid Angel dominates when it comes to crushing riffs, ear-splitting leads, heavy vocals and impressive live performances that more than make up for any concerns anyone might have had about them becoming a techno industrial metal band. I am sure that bassist and vocalist David Vincent will whip the crowd into a sweaty frenzy before the night is over. Morbid Angel founding member and death metal guitar god Trey Azagthoth won't disappoint either, as I expect him to set the stage ablaze with his mighty solos.

Pete Sandoval is Morbid Angel's phenomenally talented drummer, however, it has been confirmed that Tim Yeung will perform with them live as Pete's back is still recovering from surgery. Also touring is guitarist Destructhor (Thor Anders Myrhen), who has done live work for 1349.

Here's a charmingly creepy track from Morbid Angel's first full-length recording, Altars of Madness, and a clip from a live show in 2011.

Countdown to MDF X: (26) Horna

I would like to think that Horna is the music that would have been created, had early pagan cultures had access to electrified instruments.  The roots of this Finnish group's music certainly dates back to bygone centuries and old "country" ways.

Formed in 1993, this highly melodic black metal group stays true by singing in their native language and sticking to themes like paganism, the occult and satanic philosophy. Their music has evolved over the years. I particularly like this quote in their Facebook bio, which sums it up well: "Throughout the years the lyrics of Horna ventured from harsh anti-christian hatred, paganism and fairy tales to severe exultations of the occult, the mysteries of the dark side of mankind and Satanism - from youthful outbursts of anger to ever more maturing inner enlightenment."

Horna plays "trve" black metal in the traditional sense. The vocals are harsh, the guitar picking fast, the drumming relentless. But they write thoughtful, contemplative melodies that are accessible and memorable, too. It's not all about blast beats and growling, but much more complex. And somehow, the music is meditative and comforting. Another thought, I think this black metal must be how all rock music sounds to the infant in the womb: filtered and distorted by the mother's own heartbeat and breathing. I know, weird, but I am funny like that.

The current lineup for Horna (which means abyss or hell, by the way) includes founding member guitarist Shatraug with vocalist Spellgoth, drummer Vainaja, guitarist Infection, and bassist Qraken. Their "ritual" will be performed Saturday night, May 26, at the 2012 Maryland Deathfest. If some of the early satanic acts have chased you away, Horna should invite you back in.