Manatark

Beneath the layer of recognized leaders of the metal scene there has always been a world of it's own - the pillars and walls that support the mighty. Having just finished the work on their forthcoming album MANATARK, the premium blackened extreme metal band from Tallinn, ESTONIA, has taken different forms and roles in the construction of these underground halls. At the end of the year 2005 the band calmly takes a moment to look back and reflect upon the twisted path that has led them thus far.



Starting as a solo project in 1998 by Draconic with the demo “Roosteitk” and growing into one of the landmarks of Estonian metal with the debut CD “Viimanegi Veri”, Manatark quickly became a full-time band that toured lengthily in nearby scenes, including the INFERNO FESTIVAL 2002 in Oslo, Norway. By then guitarist Gates had become the second part of the nucleus of the band and Benton and Thonolan joined on bass and drums accordingly. The release of the previous album “Chaos Engine” marked some changes in the line-up – Thonolan was replaced by Suss, one of the most versatile drummers in the scene and Gates decided to concentrate on his own projects, resulting in Benton picking up guitar and a Martin – a long-time friend of the band – joining the band as a bassist.



It was this four-piece whirlwind of terror that fought it’s way thus far that they were invited to be the official support act for the Norway MAYHEM’S EUROPEAN TOUR 2004, bringing to 15 different countries a bright assault at everything standard, average and mediocre. Their flagship “CHAOS ENGINE” was a conceptional album, symbolizing the rise of Man by tasting the forbidden fruit, the real eye-opener, the Prometheus, bringer of fire. As the most successful release so far “Chaos Engine” still shines an eerie light at the Beast within Man and it’s creative as well as destructive force.



With the forthcoming album “CRIMSON HOURS” Manatark once again invites the listener to take part of a journey into the depths of human soul with haunting riffs and seducing poetry. The fact that the album was recorded with extraordinary dedication and care and that the final product was mastered in the studios of Finnvox also reflects in the uncompromising quality of the release. “If you liked Chaos Engine, the Crimson Hours is even more punctual and furious… If you liked Viimanegi Veri, the Crimson Hours radiates even more magic in the melodies… And those fond of Roosteitk will find a new favorite, that is thoroughly uncompromising and sincere,” claims Draconic.



Manatark has always steered clear of all possible definitions of “true metal”, thus enjoying lurking in the subconsiousness of the listeners, exploiting the dark side of their minds. This furious mix of broad-minded art and technical excellence has won the band a remarkable number of milestones, which include touring together with IMPALED NAZARENE, Mayhem and performing as a support acts to a wide range of world-class metal acts. Listen and behold. There’s unmistakable sincerity in their wrath.