VM-Underground

Underground Extreme Metal Fanzine


A new review section: Buried by Time And Dust

We added a new review section, coincidentally another Mayhem reference following 'The Past is Alive', with the title 'Buried by Time and Dust'. Over the years, a lot of promos have been gathering dust simply because a fresh wave of promos arrived the following month and they were consigned to oblivion. We will review them here to make a clear distinction with our other reviews. We will also use it to complete a discography in terms of reviews. Feel free to contact us if you would like to submit your music or would like to join the staff.

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Nightspell is a one-man project; all instruments, songwriting and production are handled by its sole member, Vladislav Biedniy. Canti Eretici were generous enough to shower VM-Underground with a promotional copy.

‘Darkness Spreads Around’ is a six-track EP on cassette by this Ukrainian Black Metal solo-project Nightspell. It was self-released on September 7, 2025 via Bandcamp and premiered on YouTube the same day. The EP, the third release, runs 25:35 and combines raw tremolo riffs with melodic leads, grim vocals and lo-fi atmospheres.

Nightspell emerged in Kyiv in early 2024 as the solo vision of an anonymous musician steeped in the second-wave Black Metal ethos and Eastern European folklore. Inspired by theaters of war, pagan imagery and medieval ballads, the project aims to blend frostbitten riffing with narrative songwriting. Within months of its formation, Nightspell recorded and self-released ‘Darkness Spreads Around’, establishing a DIY approach: raw production, digital distribution and minimal online presence.

Think the freezing antics of Satanic Warmaster, Bilskirnir, Moonblood or Sargeist. ‘Darkness Spreads Around’ boasts a raging, powerful and clear sound. It has everything: a haunting atmosphere, memorable riffs and emotive solos. Execution of the songs is flawless with room for variation (added chorus) and personal input. Musically, Nightspell navigates between Scandinavian and Pagan Black Metal. This entire EP is a whirlwind of aggression and makes me lust for more – an upcoming full-length is expected late 2026.

Do check this one out.