V/A – Grazil Records & Friends Vol. 2. (Grazil Records)

Before the internet, samplers were a great way to hear new music, find out about new bands, and check out label activities. That way, you could handpick several bands and purchase their releases without wasting money on something you didn’t like. Sadly, the format lost in popularity with the rise of the mp3 era and streaming services, but these samplers are still a good and cheap way to promote some great music. Even today, when people discover their music through streaming services. I had a chance to listen to the first edition of Grazil Records & Friends, and I have to admit that I enjoyed the majority of the included bands. Perhaps some forms of metal music aren’t my cup of tea, but I can’t deny the fact those bands sound pretty damn good.

Recently I received the second edition of this sampler. It comes with the same cover artwork as the previous edition, but this time with blue-colored lettering. The bands who participated this time are Coma System, Red Mesa, Deumus, Mossadeq, Chorosia, Distaste, Nekrodeus, Pillars Of Cacophony, Morbid Abomination, Tears Of Fire, Ilun, Thosar, YXOU, Noise Transmission, Flowers In Concrete, and Violență Domestică. Judging by the line-up, most of these bands are part of the label’s roster, while the remainder consists of friends supporting the Grazil Records for years. Soundwise, this compilation is pretty much diverse like the previous one. You may encounter genres like hardcore punk, death metal, atmospheric black metal, sludge, stoner, doom, post-metal, experimental and avant-garde rock.

I must admit this edition resonates with so much sense of balance that I find it difficult to compare it with its predecessor. Also, each band gives its maximum, so Grazil & Friends Vol. 2. bursts with sheer creativity and excellent musicianship. It’s one of those samplers where you will think about how these quality bands even gathered together in one place. There are no weak spots included at all. Even if some tunes sound too noisy, it’s because a particular band wanted it that way. Also, it is good to mention that Grazil & Friends will suit those curious ears who’re profoundly into the extreme music genres. There are calmer parts included, but this compilation will be more suitable for listeners who’re into extreme music genres. Also, Grazil Records sorted these bands in a clever way, so the aggression becomes more hearable with every upcoming song. It’s a sampler you definitely need to hear. Head over to the Grazil Records Bandcamp page.