Incidentally, has anyone noticed how fucking hot it is this summer? I wish I was referring to a slew of hot metal releases, but I don’t have the energy to laugh. But then again, I suppose laughs around these parts are few and far between. It’s that time when life is doing its damnedest to remind you that misery is only a step away from happiness. These days I feel like that suicidal robot, from that show… so close to remembering its name… oh well, it’s too hot to think. Oh, and how are you? Doing well? But metal makes everything better. Right? No. But it couldn’t hurt. The new Deathspell Omega must be heard to be believed. It’s still a great experience to be struck with wonder at a metal album, being admittedly disenfranchised with much of what’s coming out these days. I’ve finally become that guy—“Metal isn’t what it used to be.” Not that metal has changed much; it’s more attributable to my growing up (and away) than anything. Were all bands that started in the 90s better bands then, or now? For me it’s a clear-cut answer, to others such a question is in need of further explanation. I would certainly engage them, had it not been so god damned hot outside! Perhaps another time. Okay, happy face on, and… welcome back, up for another round? This issue seemed to come together nearly perfectly, so there are hardly any complaints there. Have you kids heard of this thing called the Finnish black metal scene? Seems like a good sampling inexplicably found itself within these pages, so take a look if such a thing sounds interesting. Nothing comes close to Beherit or old ImpNaz tho, but god bless ‘em for tryin’. Hopefully that balance between popular and underground metal was hit, something we always try to aim for with any given issue. Enjoy! The Day of the Equinox—a one-day metal festival coming this Fall—draws closer, and with each passing week comes new possibilities to make it a night to remember! With headliners Green Carnation, with Agalloch, Deceased, Novembers Doom, and Canadian acts Woods of Ypres and Unexpect already confirmed, check out www.dayoftheequinox.com for upcoming announcements and updates. Enjoy our work, Adam Wasylyk Editor of Unrestrained!