Reviews
ANY BANDS/LABELS that want their releases reviewed can send me a
promo kit at the following address. Anything sent will be reviewed and posted
within 30 days.
METAL CORE ZINE c/o CHRIS FORBES PO BOX622 MARLTON, NJ 08053 USA
MORTIFICATION/Envision Evangelene (Metal Mind Productions) This
is another release by this band and it is some hard hitting death metal that
rips into speed metal at times. The band are a Christian band, but that certainly
does not turn me off. The music is the main thing for me and the music on this
release is pretty damn good. Riffs that will move your neck and vocals that
are sung with passion and hate, even though the message is positive. The production
is good and the band get a pretty different and cool guitar sound that I liked.
I never really paid this band much attention back in the day, but this is a
solid release and you get 4 bonus live tracks on this puppy too. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFCATION/Triumph Of Mercy (Metal Mind Productions) Another re-release from
this band and this is different from the above release. This is more built around
speed metal. The band rip into some ripping almost grind parts and the vocals
are more extreme on this release. The production has that raw haunting sound
and the band use a different guitar sound on this as well. This is another solid
release and don't let the lyrics stop you from buying this. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MACABRE/Sinister Slaughter/Behind The Wall Of Sleep (Metal Mind Productions)
I remember this band way back when and I had not heard much of their music only
that they liked to sing about serial killers and the like. Well, this release
is being re-issued with an EP as 4 bonus tracks and this is some pretty killer
death/grind. It is not a wall of noise and the production is pretty heavy and
good. The band mix up the tunes and it is not just a wall of noise. The band
has that early 90's death metal sound/feel with bits and pieces of fast blast.
21 songs of murder and serial killers and this sounds fresh to these ears and
it is shame I didn't pay more attention the 1st time around, but I am glad this
came out and I am now a fan. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MOONSPELL/Night Eternal (SPV) I tried to get into this, but the vocals and
the sound, just sounded like too many other bands from overseas that grow out
of the death metal sound and go for a more goth type sound. The vocals were
just growls and the songs just didn't click with me and they dragged and didn't
have that killer riff I was waiting for. The production is good and the music
does have a sort of haunting feel, but I just didn't feel it. Info:
www.spv.de
I SHALT BECOME/Requiem (Moribund Records) This is a one man band and I must
say this is a pretty damn good release. This is raw, pure black metal with lots
of haunting and chilling parts. This isn't about playing as fast as possible
or being evil. This is just pure evil by the way of the mood of the tunes. This
is so fuckin haunting and freaky it isn't funny. The riffs are simple, but the
music is very moody and just haunting. It is hard to describe as this is one
release musicwise you need to hear for yourself. The mood this guy creates with
his music is incredible to say the least and prepare to be surprised and blown
away. Wow this crushed me and sucked me in deep. This is the soundtrack to your
personal nightmare. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
NASTROND/Muspellz Synir (Moribund Records) This is more sick black metal from
this label. Where in the hell do they find such bands? This is raw as fuck black
metal played with such feeling and passion. Again I was blow away by this. Some
may not like the ultra raw production, but I "get it" and music like
this in this setting needs to be this way. Total black metal vocals that are
haunting and evil to the core. Amazing release. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
AT THE ODDS WITH GOD/Earning Damnation (At Odds With Gods Records) I couldn't
believe that this was a female singing, but it is and she has a great growling
death metal voice. The band mix in a heavy dose of death metal with bits of
thrash and melody and even some heavy metal riffs The production is nice and
thick and the band just crank out killer riff after killer riff. The band just
have the right blend of thrash, death and heavy metal to make this a must have.
And trust me you'll be amazed at the vocals and I would thought it was a guy
if I didn't have a bio. Info:
www.atoddswithgod.com
THE BACKSLIDERS/You're Welcome (Self Released) This was decent power pop punk
with a female singer who sounded pretty good to these ears. The songs are simple
poppy punk tunes that will have your feet tapping. The girl singer has a pretty
voice and it sounds good and fits in with the music. I can't really think of
any band they sound like, but think of stuff like The Bangles or The Go Go's
if they had a more punky edge to them. Info:
www.myspace.com/thebacksliders
SLAUGHTER/Strappado (Metal Mind Productions) Oh was this a pleasant surprise
to get in the mail. I have a bootleg version of this on CD, but this is much
better. This is a re-release from this band that originally came out in 1985.
The packaging and sound are better, not to mention tons of live bonus tracks
on this. This is a pure thrash metal delight as it is like a mixture of thrash
metal meets Celtic Frost complete with the "uh" grunts. The band just
simple crush as this a prime example of when thrash metal was king and these
were one of the bands delivering the goods. The music still sounds fresh and
holds up rather well and this blows away 99% of the bands in the underground
today and this is over 20 years old. The bonus tracks are a cool little extra
kinda like fudge on top of your sundae. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
DISSENTER/Furor Arma Ministrat (Metal Mind Productions) Fast pounding death
metal while not super original, more than gets the job done. Think Malevolent
Creation and bands like that. This is speedy death metal with no jump riffs
or tough guy vocals. This is just blazing speedy death metal with tons of fast
riffs, heart pounding drumming and sick death metal vocals. The production is
thick and man does this band play fast. They do slow it down at times and then
they remind of Immolation, which isn't a bad thing at all. This is death metal
they way it should be. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ACROPHET/Corrupt Minds (Metal Mind Productions) I saw this band way back I
think in 1987 with Sacred Reigh up at a club called Escapades and about 12 people
were there. They kicked my ass and when I saw this in my mailbox I did a double
take. I popped in the disc and was taken back many moons ago. This is killer
speed/thrash metal with tons of blasting speed parts and intense thrash riffing.
The vocals are of a thrash/hardcore style and this band I feel was very underrated
as this release is a gem of a release and you must get your hands on it. Listen
to the riffs of fury and the vocals being screamed and yelled with the fury
of a charging bull. This is a classic piece of underground 80's thrash that
should not be ignored. If you find this, buy at all costs. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
PANCHRYSIA/Deathcult Salvation (Dark Essence Records) This is a combo of death/black
metal, but leaning more toward death metal. The music has some elements of black
metal as does the vocals for the most part. The band rip through most of the
tunes with a fast beat, and that isn't a bad thing. The production is good and
I like the thick guitar sound the band use. This didn't blow me away, but it
didn't suck. I would give it a bit better than average type of release. Info:
www.karismarerecords.co
MICROTIA/Distance Is Oval (Exigent Records) This is an alternative band and
I thought this was OK. The band mix in some modern rock with a bit of a punkish
edge and to me the songs just lacked that killer hook or punch that I crave.
The singer reminded me of the guy from The Red Hot Chilli Peppers and he has
a good voice, but the songs just lacked that melody that my ears want. This
will be something I am sure some people will go bonkers over and the band are
pretty original and I am sure it will be some people cup of tea, just not mine.
Info:
www.exigentrecords.com
DEAD TO THIS WORLD/First Strike For Spiritual Renewance (Karisma Records) Killer
black/thrash metal with riffs that will have your neck moving in no times. Oh
the production is perfect and the guitar sound is unreal. Just one listen to
these riffs and if your neck is moving there is something wrong with you. The
vocals are more in the black metal vein with a mix of thrash vocals too. This
brings back to the old days of thrash and the guitar sound the guy gets is totally
in the early 80's thrash vein. I can't say enough how killer this is and I'll
try and beg for an interview ha ha. This has power, emotion, feeling that most
bands wish they have and it is one man band with a session drummer. Unreal.
Info:
www.karismarerecords.co
DEADENING/Of Perverse Subversion-How old school is this? I got this on cassette!
Yes, I still have a cassette player too. What we have here is a one man project
of death/black metal that wasn't too bad. I don't know if the drums are a machine
or not, but they sound pretty real to me. The 3 tunes are fast black metal tunes
with some death metal stuff mixed in. The vocals are pure black metal as the
guy sings his lungs out and sounds like he is dying in the process. The production
is raw, demo sounding, but that is OK, cause stuff like this needs a raw sound.
The guy can write some really good tunes and the riffs had my neck moving and
this is some very good old school death/black metal that sounded good to these
ears. Info:
deadening666@gmail.com
BOURBON FLAME/Self Titled (Karisma Records) This is rock n roll and not very
good to my ears. The band play sleazy rock n roll like something out of the
mid 80's, but it sounds boring and considering the band members used to be in
such bands as Enslaved, Hades Almighty), etc I kinda got a chuckle out of the
bands bio. This to me was like a bad Circus Of Power. Info:
www.karismarerecords.co
UNDER THE BLACK SAILS/Self Titled (Self Released) This was some OK punk rock/hardcore
music that is old school in style and is minus all that jump metal and poppy
punk crap that fills the airways nowadays and passes itself off as hardcore.
The band play quick, fast tunes that wouldn't be out of a place on a CBGB'S
show in 1985. The production is raw and not polished and it to me is the way
hardcore should be. This has a nasty garage type of sound and I mean that in
a positive way. This got better with repeated listens and it is one of the few
hardcore bands playing this style the way it needs and showed by played. I dig
it. Info:
www.myspace.com/blacksails
BACKHOE BUTCHERY/Mailbox Full Of Mousetraps (Self Released) This is the bands
3rd release and while I have not heard the other 2, I might just want to seek
them out. This band play hard hitting thrash metal with the old school edge
to it and no Pantera or nu metal crap from this band. This is old school and
old school thrash and it is pretty damn good to these ears. The speed parts
had my neck moving and this isn't something far removed from say Wargasm was
doing way back when. The band mix up the tunes as this is not just a speed metal
band and the mid tempo stuff blended in nicely and the pissed off (not tough
guy) thrash vocals had me grinning from ear to ear. A really awesome release
and a pleasant surprise for me. 2 horns up for this. Info:
www.myspace.com/backhoebutchery
AGUYNGUERRAN/Perverting The Nazarene Cult (Shiver Records) Sick heart pounding
black metal with tons of blazing speed. The vocals are hate filled and are the
perfect style for this release. He sings out the words with hate and passion
that would make Satan proud. The tunes are blazes of fury with tons of wicked
fast parts and riffs that will have your neck getting a workout. The production
is thick and the guitar sound they get I love. Great release. Info:
www.shiver-records.com
BATTALION/Welcome To The War Zone (Shiver Records) This was decent death metal.
The band break no new ground and the tunes for me were heavy, fast death metal
tunes with some kick ass vocals. The music is mostly up tempo death metal with
a Swedish sound to it and some blast parts here and there. This just jumped
up and bit me. I love the guitar sound and this is a pure death metal delight.
Info:
www.shiver-records.com
DEDICTED/Argonauts (Shiver Records) This was jump dance metal with tough guy
vocals and they also throw in some clean vocals like a million other bands have
done before. This was just too generic for me to like and there is way too many
other bands doing the death growl and clean vocals with the nu metal dance riffs.
Info:
www.shiver-records.com
MALEVOLENT CREATION/Manifestation (Metal Mind Productions) This band has always
played solid death metal and was never into trends or going away from their
death metal roots and this re-release is another example. This is solid death
metal with no groove or jump metal and no generic crap. This is 100% straight
forward death metal with a thick guitar sound and smashmouth drums and pure
throaty death metal vocals the way it should be. If you missed this back in
2000 it might be time to give it a spin. Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl or www.mvdb2b.com
ELYSIUM/Godfather (Metal Mind Productions) I normally don't like these groove
death metal bands, but this was a pretty good one. The band play groove metal
with a Swedish death metal sound and a bit of thrash here and there and it made
for a decent listen. The singer thank god doesn't do the tough guy style or
clean vocal crap, as he just belts out the tunes with pure aggression, but in
a tough guy sort of way. The production is good and like I said the songs are
good and this wasn't bad for what it was. Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl
or www.mvdb2b.com
BATTLEROAR/To Death And Beyond (Cruz Del Sur) This was some cool power metal
with plenty of hooks and melody. The singer has a good, solid voice and he fits
what a power metal singer should sing like. I don't like some of the chanting
choruses as they are done by too many other bands, but that is OK. The music
is full of riffs that will have your toes tapping and your neck moving and that
to me is the bottom line. The songs are solid, catchy tunes and will make any
metal fan proud. Info:
www.cruzdelsurmusic.com
DANTESCO/Pagano (Cruz Del Sur) Oh this was just plain awful. The music is not
so good power metal, but the singer is beyond bad. He sings in an opera voice
and this is something you will either love or hate and I hate it. If I want
opera vocals I'll listen to opera. This was worse than female goth vocals. His
voice and singing have got to go as with him this band had no chance with me.
Beyond awful with those putrid vocals. Info:
www.cruzdelsurmusic.com
DEMISE/Torture Garden (Metal Mind Productions) Hard hitting straight forward
death metal that will dull your senses. The riffs will have your next going
in circles. The blast beats will have you air drumming in no time. Good, solid
death metal vocals. While this breaks no new ground, it is an enjoyable death
metal release with no groove or tough guy vocals and the band just play straight
forward brutal death metal. Enough said. Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl
or www.mvdb2b.com
RASPATUL/Devils In Renewed Birth (Obscure Sombre Records) This is some awesome
death metal that is different from a lot of the other death metal bands out
there. The band go for a raw almost black metal style of production and the
sound just kills. The singer sounds like he is taking in his last breaths as
he belts out the words. The guitar sound is not typical and is very different
and is almost thrashy at times. This is like the best mix of thrash and death
metal in 1. Info:
www.obscuresombre.tk
STILLNESS BLADE/The First Dark Chapter (Obscure Sombre Records) Holy shit is
this some fast death metal. The band just rip into overdrive and never look
back. I am not a big fan of this new blasting groove metal, but for some reason
or another, this clicked with me. The production is raw and the drums thank
god don't sound like tin cans being wacked on. The music is groove death metal
with tons of fast parts and low, but not cup the mic vocals. If your into the
groove thing, this band is better than most. Info:
www.obscuresombre.tk
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM/Cuatro (Metal Mind Productions) This I don't remember the
1st time around, but this is a little gem here. This is some prime thrash and
the tunes just kicked my ass. This might not be the fastest or the most heavy,
but the tunes have some awesome riffs and the singer is top notch of this. The
tunes flow rather well and the music still sounds fresh and I can't believe
I missed this the 1st time around. You also get 4 bonus tracks and a video to
boot. If you don't have this, you need this in your collection. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
DELIGHT/Breaking Ground (Metal Mind Productions) This was goth metal with female
vocals and the vocals reminded me of Pink and Kelly Clarkson, which is not a
good thing. The music wasn't bad, but the clean female vocals did nothing for
me and the music is like poppy goth music and this just didn't click with me
and bored me actually. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
DISGUST/A World Of No Beauty (Metal Mind Productions) I remember this band
back in the day, but had not heard their music. Now this, their 2nd release,
is being re-issued with 8 live bonus tracks. The music is a mix of death and
a bit of grind metal. They remind me of Napalm Death minus some of the blazing
speed parts. The band do speed it up, but it mostly mid paced parts with growl
vocals. The production is nice and thick and the guitar sound I liked a lot.
The live tracks sound good and the band sound tight and the tunes sound a bit
faster live. This was a pleasant surprise. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ABOMINATION/Self Titled (Metal Mind Productions) This I remember back in the
early 90's and this still sounds fresh today. The band get a nice clean production
and this almost reminded me of like a thrashy Carnivore at times. The tunes
hit hard and fast as this is some furious music to say the least. Paul Speckman
belts out the tunes and damn his guitar player does he lay down some of the
best thrash riffs. This is some killer shit and includes 3 bonus tracks and
if you are a thrash fan, you must own this now or call yourself a poser. Paul
sounds awesome on the mic and he belts out the lyrics with passion and feeling
not matched by many. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
SUBROSA/Strega (I Hate) This was like a mix of Blue Cheer meeting old Black
Sabbath. The band get that really old heavy almost fusion guitar sound with
a female singer. The tunes are up tempo and they have a bit of melody to them.
The singer, Rebecca, has a nice voice and she sings and belts out the words
with a fury and sounds rather good on this. The more I listen to this, the weirder
and more out of wack this is, and that is not a bad thing. This is totally off
the wall and wacked shit. Info:
www.ihate.se
EMMURE/The Respect Issue (Victory Records) This I thought was OK. The vocals
will be a love hate type of thing and I didn't like them. The singer just almost
whispers the vocals at times and then does those, at least to me, annoying death
metal screams. The music is groove metal in nature not far removed from some
of the later stuff Pantera was doing. To me this didn't suck as the music was
decent, but the vocals I wasn't a fan of and that dragged it down a few notches
in my book. Info:
www.victoryrecords.com
JEX THOTH/Self Titled (I Hate) This is something I don't like at all due to
the female vocals, but with that being said, she does have a tremendous voice
and she sings with a lot of emotion and passion, though this is not my cup of
tea. The music is mostly keyboard in doom parts and some will love this and
others won't. I am not a fan of this vocal style, but I can see some going nuts
over this. The music is heavy and will put some of you in a sad mood ha ha.
This is not for me, but if you love or thing think is cool I wouldn't blame
ya. Info:
www.ihate.se
MOONSPELL/Night Eternal (SPV) I thought I was gonna hate this, but this was
actually pretty good. The band mix in death metal and some goth to a point and
some keyboards and they create a really cool sound that sounded fresh and fascinating
to my ears. The singer growls out the tunes in a death metal style and this
just had enough melody and power to make me a fan. I know this band was more
of a death metal band early on and changed their sound and now I think they
have found the right mix. The tunes flow freely and they didn't bore me at all.
Production is meaty and heavy and the tunes just crush. Info:
www.spv.de
ZERO HOUR/Dark Deceiver (Sensory) This was a like a combo of Dream Theatre
if they mixed in death metal with their sound. The band play progressive metal
with a thrashy edge (think Images and Words era of D.T.) and this band mix in
just a spice of death metal in the music and in the vocals at times. I thought
this was cool as the songs were full of passion and the melodies and riffs sucked
me and kept me there. Production is right on the money and the guitar riffs
had me playing air guitar and this had me on a ride that I didn't know what
was coming next. This is a rollercoaster ride you don't want to get off. Info:
www.lasercd.com
Dead To This World/First Strike For Spiritual Renewance (Karisma Records) Decent
death metal with some really good vocals. The singer has a nice style to his
voice and just belts out the words with passion and emotion and doesn't need
to growl low or do screaming to get his point across. The music is mid paced
to faster death metal played the way death metal should be played. No groove
or generic or over played out tunes or song structures. They remind me of Incantation
in spots, but not a copy of the band. Production is nice and thick and the band
get a crunchy guitar sound to boot. Info:
www.karismarerecords.no
BLASPHEMOUS CREATIONS/Shadows Of Evil (Self Released) With all the CDs and
stuff I get for review, how this band is still unsigned is beyond me. The 4
tunes on this simply kill with Kreator inspired death metal. The songs are heavy,
fast pounding numbers that make me proud to call myself a fan. The vocals are
pure hate filled death metal growls. The drum fills will blast through you and
cut you in half. This band is on fire and nothing can stop them. Take a listen
to these lighting riffs and just hear the sweat pour off the notes and on the
drum kit. Listen to the singer pour out the hate and fury as he belts out the
words. If any label is reading this, sign these guys now they are the real deal.
Info:
www.myspace.com/blasphemouscreation
DARK MONARCHY/Poisoned Thorns Of Human Sorrow (Self Released) 3 tunes of super
fast hate filled black metal. This wasn't too bad and I actually dug the 3 songs
here. This is a one man band and it is a pretty damn good one. The vocals are
strong black metal style and you will fell the hate as this plays on as he spits
out the words. The music is fast paced black metal, but not just a bunch of
noise. He slows it down and lets you breath and then sticks the knife in deep
again. Really good one man band/project here. Info:
audio666@access4less.com
DARM MASS/Medium (DMSP Records) I kept waiting for some vocals that never came.
This was progressive death metal and it was OK, but lack of vocals really hurt
this. The tunes flow pretty good, but a voice would have helped out plenty.
The tunes won't go over your head and the band sounds and plays good, but you
need some vocals guys. Info:
www.darkmass.net.ru
DARK MONARCHY/Seven Visions Into The Epoch Of Holocaust (Self Released) This
was not as good as the above release cause the vocals were more deep and buried
in the mix and sounded like a cement mixer. The music is a bit more on the death
metal side and that was fine with me, but the vocals take a hit cause they sounded
like cup the mic style unlike the above release. The music on this is more death/black
metal style and is also a bit slower at times. Not bad, but the above release
I found to be better. Info:
audio666@access4less.com
HATEPLOW/Everybody Dies (Metal Mind Productions) This was like a side band/project
from the guys in Malevolent Creation and this band played a wicked style of
death/grind. They weren't even like the Creation guys neither as this was more
in the grind style with fast blast beats and low and high vocals. This also
has 2 bonus tracks and I hadn't heard this in quite some time and this was a
pleasant surprise as I really liked the sound this band got. The fast parts
fried my brain and the blast parts had my playing air drums too. The band slow
it down at times to give me a breather. Thumbs up from me. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ANAL STENCH/Red Revolution (Metal Mind Productions) This I thought based on
the name was going to be some grind metal, but it is death metal played with
lots of speed. The band play at a mostly fast speed and have a few breaks here
and there. The music is decent, nothing that knocked me out of my chair, but
it was far from sucking. The vocals are good as the singer has a strong death
metal voice and doesn't go into any of those annoying screams or super low vocals.
He just belts out the lyrics with good death metal growls. Production is good
as well. Not bad. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com or www.metalmind.com.pl
PYORRHOEA/Desire For Torment (Metal Mind Productions) This was some wicked
fast balls to the wall death metal with some wicked time changes, riffs that
had my neck moving and blast beats that would whip any Kelly Clarkson fan. The
vocals I don't like the lower than low cup the mic grunts that the singer does
at times. He doesn't do it all the time so I can live with it. The production
is thick and the guitar sound the band get rules. This is not that cheap blast
beat shit neither. This is some fast, powerful death metal and just overlook
some of the vocals if you are like me. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com or www.metalmind.com.pl
SPINAL CORD/Stigma Of Life (Metal Mind Productions) This is well played death
metal. The band is straight forward, speedy death metal with no nu metal parts
or tough guy vocals. This is just the way death metal should be. While I would
not say this is original, it is more that average. The band mix in plenty of
weird riffs sort of like Immolation at times and they sound as tight as a pair
of tight spandex. The vocals are growls of death that are real death metal vocals
and the production it thick and the guitar sound is mint. A goodie here. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com or www.metalmind.com.pl
MORTIFICATION/Scrolls Of The Megilloth (Metal Mind Productions) I didn't think
this was anything special. It was below average death metal and the songs on
this release were weak and the songs just didn't click with me like some of
the other releases I got from this label. You also get 3 bonus tracks on this,
but to me the songs just weren't strong enough for me. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ACROPHET/Faded Glory (Metal Mind Productions) This is the 2nd and final release
from this sadly missed band, but a 3rd release might be in the works. This is
a bit more in a hardcore vein as the vocals were more punk in style and some
of the tunes have that hardcore feel mixed in with their speed metal sound.
The band mix up the speed on this as their is some slower parts, but the there
is plenty of speed to make you smile. The songs are a bit more complex and have
more time changes. I love both releases and the cool fact is one if different
from the other too. This is crossover no doubt and well worth getting. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
CONTROL DENIED/The Fragile Art Of Existance (Metal Mind) This is the late Chuck's
band after Death. This band were more into progressive metal and stuff and less
about death metal. Just listening to this brought back members as I remember
this when it came out a few moons ago. The singer has a clean voice, but he
was still pretty powerful. The music here isn't death metal at all and is more
of a progressive metal style mixed in with a few bits of pieces of death metal.
The production is quite good and everything can easily be heard. No bonus tracks,
but this is a very underrated band and Chuck should be proud of the stuff he
did with these guys. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
CAAMORA/Embrace (Metal Mind Productions) I didn't think I would like this when
I heard a female singer, but this was pretty good. The band have some melody
to them and the songs were quite catchy and good and didn't sound generic at
all. The female singer at least doesn't sing in an opera voice and she belts
out the words rather well. The band mixes in like a death metal/goth sound with
keyboards as well. The bottom line to me was the songs were decent and she had
a voice that didn't bother me. This was good for what it was and I was sad to
read that this is the final release for this band. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFICATION/Hammer Of God (Metal Mind Productions) This is another re-release
from this band and this one I liked. The band seemed to have slowed down a bit
on this release as their is less super fast parts on this release. The music
is still heavy, but it is more controlled and I saw this was from 1999 so maybe
the band decided not to write as much speed metal stuff and make the music more
mid paced. The tunes on this still have that death metal crunch and it is cool
that they slowed it down at times and you don't want to keep making the same
album over and over ya know. You also get 3 live bonus tracks and this follows
a more death thrash sort of style, but still crushes nevertheless. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ABOMINATION/Tragedy Strikes (Metal Mind Productions) Some more killer thrash
metal from this band and on this baby you get 4 bonus tracks. This just has
killer song after killer song and just ripped my brain in half. The songs are
catchy and heavy and fast as well. The band just crushes as tune after tune
will dull your senses as this was like a thrashier Carnivore at times as least
that was how my ears heard it. The production is right on the money and Paul
just sounds so killer on vocals and this just the way thrash metal needs to
be played. Played with a passion and fury not matched by many. If you missed
this the 1st time around, you need this in your collection. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
METAL MANIA/2007 DVD (MVD Music Video) This is a double package with a DVD
and a CD to boot. The DVD is 215 minutes long and features live performances
by such awesome bands as Vital Remains, Entombed, Destruction, Testament, Sepultura,
and Paradise Lost. You get 30 tunes in all on this as well as interviews, and
band info. The CD is 11 bands 9 of which I had not heard of except for Root.
Some of the bands were pretty good such as Carnal, TYR, and Benediction. The
CD is like an added bonus as it cool hearing some new bands and stuff. We never
get metal fests anymore over here so this is the next best thing to being there.
Over 3 1/2 hours of video and about 45 minutes of just music. What a bargain.
Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl
EARACHE MY EYE/Various Artists (MVD Visual) This is a neat package of some
classic videos of such classic Earache bands like: Godflesh, Entombed, Cathedral,
At The Gates, Carcass, Sleep, Fudge Tunnel, and a few others. Some of these
videos were seen on Headbanger's Ball at 3am, but you had to sit through 2 hours
and 45 minutes of hair metal to see a good video. I actually stayed up some
nights to see these videos. This is when Earache was one of the premier underground
labels going and watch these vids and you'll see why. This is the soundtrack
of hell. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFICATION/Blood World (Metal Mind Productions) This is some fast death
metal that almost verges on grind at times. The band just rip through the tunes
on this with 4 bonus tracks. The vocals are sick growls of death and the band
only slow down here and there and let you catch your breath and then kick it
into overdrive again. The production is very good as well and if you like it
fast, here ya go. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
CRIMSON GLORY/Self Titled (Metal Mind Productions) I never liked this band
much when they were around back in the late 80's, but I popped this in and I
can appreciate them more now. The vocals were a love or hate type of thing as
"Midnight" sang really really high pitched notes. The vocals I can
tolerate as I guess I am older now ha ha. The music is some really good power
metal not built so much on speed, but on just playing and having some quality
hooks. This just has some great songs with lots of great hooks and even though
I am not a big fan of the high pitched vocals, I have to admit "Midnight"
had a very unique voice and fit the style of music the band was playing. This
I will say this is much better than a bunch of the power metal bands making
the rounds today. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
CRIMSON GLORY/Transcendence (Metal Mind Productions) This is the 2nd album
that originally came out on Roadracer and is now being released by Metal Mind.
This is another great power metal release as the band continue on where they
left off on the above release as this is chock full of more killer power metal
that doesn't rely so much on speed as they just rip out and crank out killer
riff after riff. The vocals again are a love/hate thing as I remember some people
loving his vocals and others hating it. Years ago I hated his singing, but now
as I am older, this isn't bad and like I said before, this blows away all of
these new power metal bands for sure. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
DECAPITATED/Human Dust (DVD) This is one killer DVD. This has footage from
their 1st show in 2002 and they also played an Ozzfest in 2002 in Poland and
there is footage of that as well here. The sound quality is A plus and the band
sound as tight as a tight pair of spandex from the 80's. The band, if you don't
know, played death metal in the vein of Vader and Immolation and they play with
a fury of a charging bull. You also get some footage from a fest that played
in 2004 and also 3 different interviews and a video clip. This is one killer
DVD. Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl
MORTIFICATION/The Silver Cord Is Severed (Metal Mind Productions) Another re-release
from this band and this is another solid double (you get a bonus disc) dose
of fast death metal. The band sound tight as hell on both discs and the songs
are strong, catchy, fast numbers. The vocals are strong death metal vocals and
the production is right where it needs to be. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFICATION/Lost Momentary Affliction (Metal Mind Productions) This is more
ripping death metal from this band. On this disc the band just rip through fantastic
tune after fantastic tune. The riffs had my neck moving in no time and the vocals
just went right through me. The band mix it up rather well and the speed parts
just went right through me. The production is the perfect blend and the vocals
are perfect. 4 bonus tracks on this, 3 are live tracks. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFICATION/Primitive Rythm Machine (Metal Mind Productions) This I wasn't
as keen on as some of the other re-releases I have got. This is more of thrash
metal groove and the songs aren't as strong on this as some of the other releases.
The band had just way back on speed on this and also went for a more shouted
hardcore style of vocals on this. This wasn't bad, but as compared to some of
the other releases I got this didn't stack up as high. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MALEVOLENT CREATION/The Fine Art of Murder (Metal Mind Productions) I have
always had a soft spot in my heart for this band as they have plugged away for
many years and never strayed away too far from the sound that brought them to
the dance. On this they just rip through another set of balls to the wall death
metal. This is fast, whirling death metal with no gimmicks. This is straight
forward death metal with tons of REAL blast beats and no the drums don't have
that stupid tin can sound. The vocals are just growls of death, the way death
metal vocals should be. This is the way death metal should be, not that dancy
happy riffs with groove. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
MORTIFICATION/Blood World (Metal Mind Productions) Now this is more like the
sound and style I have grown to like from this band in reviewing these re issues.
The band just rip, blast and destroy these tunes and lay down everything in
their past. This is almost grind at times. The cool thing is even though this
is fast and heavy, the band have a different guitar sound on this and even the
vocals are a bit different and this didn't sound like some of the other releases
this band has out. The cool thing with this is, even though it is fast and heavy
and killer, it is different from the other releases I have reviewed. This band
put out a bunch of releases and I liked all of them except for maybe 1 or two
and this band after hearing all these releases has turned me into a fan. Also
4 bonus tracks, 2 live and 2 studio. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
ROG GEE/Says (Rock Ridge Music) I wasn't into this too much as it was all this
metal and rap stuff with lots of groove riffs and rapping vocals at times. This
isn't my cup of tea and there is way too many other bands doing this same style
and they all sound the same to me. Info:
www.rockridgemusic.com
DAY WITHOUT DAWN/Understanding Consequences (Forgotten Empire Records) This
was some decent alternative rock with some metal mixed in. The band come with
some wicked riffs at times and the tunes will catch you off guard no doubt.
This got better with repeated listens as the band just go off the deep end with
certain tunes and this is almost like a thinking mans metal band. Think Voivod
without all thrashy parts. The singer has a killer voice and he fits in with
the music and he sings with songs with passion and emotion. 2 thumbs up from
me as this one me over with repeated listens. Info:
www.daywithoutdawn.com
DAYLIGHT DIES/Lost To The Living (Candlelight Records) Some decent doom metal
sort of like newer Paradise Lost at times. The singer has a good solid voice
and the music is doom metal and mid tempo doom metal at times. The songs didn't
bore me and the riffs and the music are quite heavy. The band get an extra thick
guitar sound and if you like doom this is something I think you'll enjoy. I
know I did. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
HEADHUNTER/Parasite Of Society (Candlelight Records) Yes this is Shmier's old
band Headhunter with their 1st release in 13 years. This is pure balls to the
wall thrash as only this band can do. Crushing riffs along with his killer vocals
make this a winner on both sides of the coin. The band just rip through these
tunes with a fury and passion not matched by many. This is not as fast as say
Destruction, but it is oh so powerful. This simply kills. Nuff said. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
NEFASTUS DIES/Urban Cancer (Candlelight Records) This was wicked fast death
metal almost to the point of grind. The band was OK, but this just sounded the
same as any of these other fast death metal bands. The vocals weren't so great
as the guy just growls and yells into the mic and I just didn't feel it with
his vocals. The production is good and thank god the blast beats don't have
that stupid and generic tin can sound to it. No when this band hits the speed
button, they hit it and hit it hard. This wasn't bad, but it didn't knock me
out. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
KOMMANDANT/Iron Hands On Scandinavia (Self Released) 3 tracks of old style
Morbid Angel death metal. The tunes were wicked blasting numbers that had me
smiling. The vocals were a death metal delight as well. The production was good
and the guitar sound is thick and the blast beats are real blast beats not that
thin tin can sounding blast crap. 3 tunes were not enough as I want more, more,
more. Info:
www.myspace.com/kommandantofficall
THE MAN FROM THE MOON/Rocket Attack (Black Mark Productions) This is a one
man project and it is very different and you better have an open mind when you
pop this baby in. The man will take you on many different spacey moods. Track
# 2 I love the hook and the way he sings his vocals are done with such passion
and emotion and that hook just dragged me in deep. This just will take you on
a ride with many ups and downs and ins and outs. His vocals even change depending
on the way the song is. This took a couple listens to really get into, but once
I did I became a fan. Nice job on this. You can get this through Relapse Records.
Info:
www.relapse.com
OBTEST/Gyvbes Medis (Osmose Productions) This is a weird band and I wasn't
sure if I would even like this when I popped it in. I gave it a few listens
over a couple weeks, almost putting off reviewing it. I am not a huge fan of
the vocals, but I think that is due to him not singing the words in English.
The music is like a mix of pagan music meets death metal. It was different and
it took a few spins for me to get into it. This isn't something I would play
on a regular basis, but it is something cool and different and the don't sound
like any band I can think of. This is the kind of band that will be hot or miss
with people and I lean a bit more on the hit side. Info:
www.osmoseproductions.com
DEF LEPPARD/Songs From The Sparkle Lounge (Island Music Group) I had no idea
what to expect when I popped this in and I must say I was pleasantly surprised.
This band have gone away from their 80's pop roots and while this is still poppy
in it's own way, it is more than grown up. The band still can cranky out the
catchy rock tunes, but the have updated their sound to a more modern sound and
I am with them on this. The tunes sound more mature and they still have those
catchy hooks that made them sell all those records way back when. The production
allows everything to flow freely and this gets a thumbs up for me. Just plain
great rock n roll is what this delivers. Info:
www.defleppard.com
IHSAHN/Angl (Candlelight Records) This is the 2nd solo release by the singer
from Emperor. This was a pretty cool listen at least to my ears. This is not
a clone Emperor and he doesn't stray off that far from extreme metal, but it
is different from his band too. The music is vicious and I actually enjoyed
this better than the Emperor stuff. The production is great and his vocals sound
awesome on this. This is a very cool and different release at times too and
I actually liked the song with the Opeth singer and I am far from a Opeth fan.
Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
FLESH ENGINE/07 Demo-Lition (Self Released) I saw these guys open for Faith
or Fear (both bands crushed) and the band gave me this CD as they were giving
these away. The band play some killer old school thrash metal that I really
liked. The riffs are catchy and the songs crush and the singer has a nice rough
thrash metal sound to his vocals. The band, thank god, stay away from the nu
metal sound and are more into the old school thrash sound. The production is
good and the guitar crunch is mint and I love the fast parts as they got my
neck moving. Will work on an interview with these local thrashers. Info:
www.myspace.com/fleshengine
WARREN APPLEBY/Pennsylvania Gothic (Maskr Records) This is a new release from
the former Blacktask singer and this was another gem of a record. There isn't
many vocals, but the songs are just so damn good they put a permanent smile
on my face. The music is metal with a rock n roll feel to it. The songs just
flow rather well and they are catchy as well. The tunes just sucked me in like
a sponge to water and I soaked in every last drop. How Warren does all this
by himself is beyond me. This is a diamond in a rough type of release. Info:
www.myspace.com/warrenappleby
BLACKLIST UNION/Breakin Bread With The Devil (Blu Records) Excellent rock n
roll with tons of great hooks and vocals. The tunes just flow like a nice water
stream and the singer has a great rock n roll voice that sounds good to these
ears. The music still has a heavy edge to it and the riffs just had my neck
moving and don't sound generic or out of place. This is the way modern rock
n roll should sound and this gets 2 big thumbs up from me. One of the best new
rocks bands I have heard in a long time. Info:
www.blacklistunion.com
MORTIFICATION/Conquer The World (Metal Mind Productions) This is a cool release
for any of the bands fans that have not had a chance to see the band live here
in the US and other places since to my knowledge the band hasn't toured much
in the US, except for 1 tour that I can think of. You get a concert from the
band from 2001 and also 4 bonus tracks. The band sound tight and as always with
Metal Mind, the video quality is top notch. You also get some footage from various
places that this band played as well. I have pretty much liked most of the stuff
this band put out via the recent re-releases that I have heard and this DVD
is another you need to add to your collection. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
CANVAS SOLARIS/The Atomized Dream (Sensory Records) This was some progressive
instrumental music. I found some of this rather cool, but lack of vocals did
hurt it a bit in my opinion. The music seems to be very complex at times and
it has many times changes and stuff, but it didn't go over my head. The production
is good and the guitar sound almost has a jazz like sound to it. This is something
I would listen to if I was going to sit outside and read a book or just relax
or if I wanted some that would put me in a relaxing mood. This might not be
for everyone, but I thought it was kinda cool for what it was. Info:
www.lasersedgegroup.com
ATTITUDE FOR DESTRUCTION/Rock N Roll Blood Guts An Sluts (MVD Visual) This
is a neat little low budget slasher film about a band that wants to get rid
of their lead singer and they do and he comes back from the dead to kill his
ex band members. Sort of think along of the lines of Guns and Rose he he. This
has the usual blood, girls, sex and metal music that any fan of the genre would
want. Some of the stuff will make you laugh especially the lead singer at times.
This was a fun film. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
INSANITY/Time To Kill (Turkey Vulture Records) This is almost a crossover band
with a female singer, who has a pretty damn good voice mind you. The band mix
in an old school thrash sound with a bit of a punk attitude at times. This wouldn't
be out of style in the late 80's mind you. The female singer has a pretty good
nasty, aggressive voice and she fits the music well. The music is a mix of old
school thrash with like a said a bit of a punk edge. The production is old school
too and I love the guitar sound. A solid release. Info:
www.turkeyvulturerecords.com
HELLS HEADBANGERS/Various (Hells Headbangers) This is a comp CD that I got
when I ordered an Agent Steel CD and what a collection we have here. Evil Army,
Destruktor, Nunslaughter, Witchtrap and Evil Incarnate among others. I would
assume this might be free when you buy something so what the hell are you waiting
for? Go to website listed below, order something and ask for this comp CD and
trust me, you'll be glad you did. Info:
www.hellsheadbangers.com
LANFEAR/Another Golden Rage (Unknown) This to me was just another typical progressive
power metal band. They don't suck, but they are just another one of tons of
bands that have a high pitched singer, chanting vocals and a progressive power
metal sound to them. The songs don't sound bad and the singer has a strong voice,
but as this played on I was just like it was kinda there. This didn't knock
me out of my seat or blow me away and I was like "eh' to a point. This
is like the case of the same ole same ole. I have no further info on this sorry.
SAINT/Crime Scene Earth (Armor Records) This is some killer power metal with
tons and tons of killer hooks that just knocked me out of my chair. The singer
also has a good solid voice and the music is so damn catchy it isn't funny.
The production almost has that mid 80's power metal feel to it as well. This
band just rip out classic tune after tune and I was loving every second of it.
This band shows that you can have melody, power and still retain that heavy
feel and this is something I just fell in love with. Awesome release. Info:
www.saintsite.com