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
AC/DC/Black Ice (Columbia Records) I have never, ever in all my
years of doing Metal Core got an AC/DC CD to review and lo and behold I got
the bands latest to review. AC/DC has been my favorite band since 1979 and they
have never let me down. Sure some albums have been better than others, but the
band has always put out good to great releases and have never let me down live.
The band return after 8 yrs and this latest is easily one of their best. 15
new tunes and the band just rip out opening tune, "Rock N Roll Train"
that is easily one of the bands best tunes ever. The trademark riffing of Angus
and his brother shine and Brian belts out the tunes as only he knows how. "Big
Jack", "War Machine", etc just had me smiling from ear to ear.
All 15 tunes on this are classic AC/DC tunes and the Young brothers easily amaze
me as time after time and album after album they can come up with these killer
rock n roll riffs. This band have never failed to deliver the goods and once
again they showed me why I consider them my favorite band. Angus forever. You
can find this at any Wal Mart store and at:
www.acdc.com
AC/DC November 12, 2008/Live at Madison Square Garden-I have always wanted to see them live at the Garden and I plucked down $94.00 for my ticket and I headed up to NYC via NJ Transit after I got done work. Just walking into the Garden, where I had never seen a live concert, I got goosebumps. I wanted the NY Rangers game and after the opening band got done I went and got to my seat. The band opened up with Rock N Roll Train and for the next 2 hours me and the sold out crowd was treated to a bunch of classics and 5 new tunes, which didn't seem out of place at all. The crowd was big time into the show and the new tunes got as just a great reaction as the old ones. The band still do a bunch of Bon Scott tunes, Whole Lotta Rosie, Highway To Hell, TNT, Dirty Deeds, etc. I don't know how Angus does it and at 53 yrs old he still rocks and owns the stage. The sound was great and the band were tight as balls and dead on. The set list I thought was on the money and I couldn't hear for 2 days. Let There Be Rock and For Those About To Rock were the 2 highlights for me, but the entire show was a 10 plus for me and the band just showed me and everybody in the crowd that when it comes to rock n roll, nobody does it better. It is 2 days later and my ears are still ringing and I am loving it.
LEVERAGE/Blind Fire (Blistering Records) This was some very good hard rock
mixed in with some power metal with a good singer. His has a nice voice and
he fits the music and what the band is doing rather well. The guitar player
rips through the tunes and his solos and riffs are out of this world. The production
is right on the money and this band sort of reminds me if Dream Theater played
hard rock. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
CREAMATORY/Pray (Blistering Records) This I just couldn't into due to the dual
vocal thing, which I have now grown to hate. I know they use 2 singers, but
that is so overdone now that when a band uses it, it sounds generic and stupid.
The music is goth mixed in with a little death metal and the songs were just
kinda boring to me as the gruff vocals just didn't do a thing for me and the
music wasn't much better. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
LAAZ ROCKET/Left For Dead (Blistering Records) I was never a big fan of this
band, but this was one of those "holy shit" releases. This band takes
no prisoners on this baby. This is prime old school thrash with tons of killer
riffs and fast double bass drums and some killer thrash metal vocals that put
the weak to shame. Your neck will be moving in no time and I just love each
and every song on this. You also get 3 live "bonus tracks" that are
only on the US version, which is cool with me. The production is perfect and
the band just have that "it" guitar sound and this just kicked my
ass from pillar to post. This just blew me away. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
ECLIPSE/Are You Ready To Rock (Blistering Records) Oh this is just some awesome
melodic rock with tons of hooks and some great singing. The singer has a perfect
voice for AOR rock and he sings the songs with passion and feeling as the band
churn out some killer melodic riffs that had my foot tapping and my neck moving.
I love the guitar sound and the song arrangements and this just totally blew
me away with how good it was. An AOR fan's dream. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
EXCITER/Thrash Speed Burn (Blistering Records) I have been an Exciter fan since
Heavy Metal Maniac and I have watched the ups and downs with the band and to
me it is amazing they are still around after all they have been through. They
now return with yet another singer and he does a pretty damn good job on this
baby. He has a similar style to the previous singer, but he doesn't hit as many
high notes as the previous guy, but he still hits some and he to me fits right
in. The music is Exciter played thrash with John Ricci's incredible guitar sound
and style of thrash metal. The band just rip and tear through the tunes on this
with thrash and speed and any fan of thrash metal should bow down to the band
as they have put out yet another killer release. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
JOE LYNN TURNER/Live In Germany (Blistering Records) Joe was the lead singer
during Rainbow's heyday and on this live CD he sings many of those classics
including Power, Death Valley Driver, I Surrender, Can't Happen Here and others.
He also plays a few solo songs from albums he has done over the years and also
does a Deep Purple cover of Burn, which kills by the way. His voice sounds great
on this and he and his band play all the songs to perfection. If you were a
fan of Rainbow back then or love melodic rock, then this is one release you
need to get. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
JORN/Lonely Are The Brave (Blistering Records) This was decent melodic rock
with a metal edge to it. The singer has a good powerful set of pipes and he
sings the songs with a fury, but still keeps that melodic edge to it. The music
is heavy metal with a commercial edge sort of like old Helix meeting Saxon.
The production is good and the guitar sound is meaty and thick. 9 tunes to sink
your teeth into. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
LIVING COLOUR/CBGB OMFUG Masters: August 19, 2005 The Bowery Collection (MVD
Audio) 12 tunes are presented here in awesome sounding live disc. This was sort
of a reunion type of thing from what I remember and the band just rip through
the tunes. From Glamour Man to of course the Cult of Personality, you get the
band whipping it up on stage. This band was very original back in the day as
they mixed in rock, metal, and some funk into their brand of music and they
sounded great back then and they sound great on this disc. The live sound on
this is godly and the band are sadly missed, but here is something I can remember
them by. Well, worth getting and a testament to have really good the band was
in the history of music. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
STIFF DONUT/Once You Go To Chocolate You Never Go Back (Self Released) This
is dirty garage rock with a metal edge. The songs were pretty funny. I mean
with song titles such as Fake ID, Fucking Retards, etc, I am sure you are getting
the picture. The vocals are kinda buried in the mix, which would be my only
complaint. The band are sort of like Scatterbrain if anybody remembers them.
This is like a humor rock/metal band. This wasn't bad and I got more than a
chuckle at the lyrics. Info:
www.cdbaby.com
AFFLICTED/Prodigal Sun (Metal Mind Productions) This was a weird band to say
the least. Sort of like a death metal Voivod at times. The riffs are weird and
warped and there is also speed metal parts too. The vocals are growl death metal
vocals, but not that lower cup the mic crap. I don't remember much about this
band, but I will say this is a refreshing release and it gets better with repeated
listens. The production is solid and like I said riffs come out you from left
field and you don't know what is going to happen next. This is like psychedelic
death metal and was a really cool, fresh release and it was awesome of Metal
Mind to re-issue this baby. Well, worth hunting down. Info:
www.metalmind.com.pl
SHOOTING BLANKS/You're Not Gonna Want To Hear This (Zero Music Group) This
band is like a mix of poppy music and David Bowie mixed in with Mott The Hoople.
The band write good poppy tunes with a good singer. Songs with hooks I am a
sucker for and this had plenty of that. You also get DVD with this and if your
into a cool band that write catchy riffs and not bad songs, here ya go. A very
good band here. Info:
www.zeromusicgroup.com
SOTHIS/De Oppresso Liber (Candlelight Records) Decent black metal with bits
and pieces of death metal. The band write some good tunes and the riffs and
the intensity are there big time. The vocals are good growl death/black metal
vocals and the production was strong and I like the guitar sound. Solid release.
Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
ABIGAIL WILLIAMS/In The Shadow Of Thousand Suns (Candlelight Records) Holy
shit is this some vicious, raw, unrelenting black metal. This band shreds. This
is some fast, powerful music here my friends. The production is prefect, not
over the top, and raw enough that it will make your ears bleed. Some of the
best black metal vocals I have ever heard as well. This a crushing release that
should not be misses. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
OMNIUM GATHERUM/The Redshift (Candlelight Records) I had not really heard much
about this band, but this is one fine release. The band play melodic death metal
with tons of hooks and melodic playing, but still retain brutality within the
music. The vocals are a pure death metal delight and the band just rip into
some wicked death metal at times and they had my neck moving by track # 2. Think
Swedish death metal with a melodic twist. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
KISKE/Past In A Different Way (Blistering Records) This didn't start off on
a bad foot, by track 3 I was bored. This is just way too mellow for me as the
songs just all sounded the same. The singer has a fantastic voice and if he
was in a melodic rock band his voice would be perfect for that style. The is
really mellow rock music that works in spots, but then every track sounds the
same and it doesn't sound fresh, it sounds boring. I like all kinds of music
and this just didn't connect with me after a bit. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
TIM ERICKSON/Play To Win (Self Released) Tim plays everything on this and it
sounded pretty damn good to these ears. The music is rock n roll with a metal
edge to it, but with a grunge sound, which isn't a bad thing trust me. Tim knows
a good riff and his fingers strum and play many of them on this disc. His voice
is kinda dark and eerie and it fits the music rather well. It amazes me he plays
everything on this. A very solid release that he should be proud of. Info:
www.myspace.com/timerickson
UNDER EDEN/Phoenix On Frozen Wings (Self Released) Really good death metal.
The band just rip through the tunes with the fury of a charging bull. Vocals
that remind me of Ross from Immolation. The band also have a bit of melodic
side to them and each tune is not a total blast of fury. The band take their
foot off the gas petal at times and let you rest before they knock you back
into next week. The production is solid and I see no reason why this bands next
release is on a record label. Info:
www.myspace.com/undereden
BEN AVERCH/Start At The Beginning (Self Released) This is not something I would
listen to all the time, but this is some decent alternative rock. The music
isn't bad and Ben has a decent voice. The tunes are rock tunes with an alternative
edge to them and like I said this isn't my cup of tea so to speak, but the tunes
are decent catchy numbers that fans of this style of music would I think like.
Info:
http://averch.blogspot.com
ACTION OVER DRIVE/Dare (Self Released) This band have sort of a spacey sound
to them kinda like an old 70's rock band mixing in with Soundgarden. I couldn't
really get into this as I thought the tunes were flat. The vocals are kinda
buried in the mix and I didn't care for the singer neither. Somebody might like
this is they were high on pot, but I am not and the tunes and the vocals were
flat as a pancake and this just didn't peek my interest at all. Info:
www.myspace.com/actionoverdrive
KOMMANDANT/Iron Bands Of Scandinavia (Self Released) 3 crushing tunes of prime
time black metal with hints and pieces of death metal. This is fast and furious
and the speed is on the dial on this. Killer death/black metal vocals and the
intensity of this is not matched by many. The production is good for a demo
and this just smoked and blew me away. Info:
www.myspace.com/kommandantoffical1
ARCKANUM/Antikosmos (Moribund Records) This is the bands newest release in
about 10 years. This to me was OK black metal. It to me sounds like a bunch
of other black metal bands with the raw production and screeching black metal
vocals. The band do play fast and furious and slow it down at times and this
isn't bad, but nothing knocked me out of my chair. This band was just kinda
there and didn't suck, but didn't do anything to blow me over. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
OCTOBER FALLS/The Womb Of Primordial Nature (Moribund Records) I didn't know
if I would like this or not, but this grew on me and it is an awesome release.
Now this is not something I would listen to every day, but the band have tons
of feeling within their music is covers many different styles and not one of
them seems out of place. The band play a mix of haunting black metal with some
slow classic music parts that work for them. The songs sucked me in and I just
went along for the ride. The vocals are pure evil black metal vocals. This is
a very different band that I really enjoyed. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
MEGADETH/Anthology Set The World Afire (Capitol Records) This is a killer double
CD of the best this band has to offer and included is a couple live tracks and
un released track too. 35 tunes that spans stuff from album # 1 up to the present.
Rattlehead, The Mechanix, Devils Island, Anarchy In The UK, Hangar 18, Skin
O My Teeth, Kill The King, and the song list goes on and on. This is one CD
to go get and crank up LOUD my friends. A double thumbs up from me. Info:
www.capitolrecords.com
HILLS OF ELYSIUM/Gigadent (Sinister Records) This was a weird mix of death
metal, heavy metal and alternative with a female singer. The female has a killer
voice, but I hate when she goes into those annoying screeches, which to me ruin
what the band is doing and just make the band sound generic. She doesn't do
it all that much and the band make the 2 musical styles work and they are quite
heavy and catchy. The production is perfect and the band write and play some
quirky and interesting riffs. They are heavy, catchy and different for sure.
I thought this was a pretty cool band. Info:
www.hillsofelysium.com
DESTRUCTION/D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N. (Candlelight Records) This is another classic
from these German thrashers. I have been a fan of this band from way back when
they started and they did put out a couple stinker releases when Schmier left,
but since he has returned they have released nothing but classics, and this
is another one. Just crushing riff after riff played only as this band can do
it. Schmier sounds awesome on the vocal side as well and just prepare your neck
to get in a workout. I was playing air guitar within seconds. This kills. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
KHOLD/Hundre A Gammal (Candlelight Records) This is some really good black
metal that I enjoyed very much. The band play more of a mid paced feel style
and I thought that was kinda cool. The singer has a killer black metal voice
and he belts out the lyrics with conviction and passion. I love the raw guitar
sound and production on this. The songs didn't bore me at all and this had my
neck moving more times than not. This was a pleasant surprise. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
PHAZM/Cornerstone Of The Macabre (Osmose Productions) This is one weird band
I must say. They play black metal, but use some of weirdest and craziest riffs
I have heard in a long time. This is by far not your typical black metal band.
Each time I listen to this I come up with a different vibe. The band can play
slow, mid paced and then blast into hyperdrive. The vocals are a pure death
metal delight. The production is thick and heavy. If your looking for something
different and off the wall, here ya go. This is a mix of black and death metal
and just extreme music. Info:
www.osmoseproductions.com
HOUSE OF LORDS/Come To My Kingdom (Blistering Records) This band was formed
back in the late 80's and were a hard rock band, but in all that poser make
up shit. They have reformed a few other times and I had not herd any of that
other material, which brings me to this new release that I got. This is a masterpiece
of hard rock. The tunes are catchy pure rock numbers that wouldn't sound out
of place on any of their early releases. Singer James Christian sounds godly
on this as his vocals will take you to places you haven't been in. His vocals
are so smooth and so brilliant and just had me caught in his spell. I have not
heard a pure rock n roll release like this in quite some time and this is easily
a top 10 of the year for me. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.com
GLEN HUGHES/First Underground Nuclear Kitchen (Blistering Records) I loved
Glen Hughes when he was in Pat Travers and I just ordered Hughes/Thrall off
amazon.com. This I had mixed feeling with. I don't like all the funky style
he uses on this, but I have to admit the tunes are catchy and I even liked some
of the tunes on here as he had my foot tapping in spots. I think I just have
to be in the right mood or frame of mine to listen to this. He sings great and
the production is right on the money. This is something I have to be in the
right mood to listen to. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.com
REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE/New Era (Blistering Records) This is just some godly
power metal with some incredible singing. The singers voice took me on a journey
that I never wanted to end. Just killer tunes with riffs that were so catchy
and heavy it wasn't even funny. The singer blends in perfect with the music
and this was just a perfect package. The production is right on the money and
there is not one back thing to say about this. Well, worth getting. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.com
DETENTE/History 1 (Cognitive Records) I don't have much info on as when this
stuff was recorded, but let me tell you it is quite the slab of thrash metal.
This is breath taking to my ears. Dawn Crosby is sadly missed and she had a
unique voice at it shows on this as she sings these tunes with a passion and
fury not matched by many. The riffs of Mike Carlino are out of this world and
they just force the head to bang as they are so damn catchy and heavy to boot.
I assume this is some old demo stuff maybe mixed in with some newer unreleased
stuff. All I know this is something you need in your collection asap. This crushes.
Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
SUSPYRE/When TIme Fades (Sensory) Pretty cool progressive power metal in the
vein of Dream Theater. The band play some long tunes with a progressive feel
and also throw in some power metal and even thrash here and there. The singer
has a strong, clear voice that I enjoyed and the tunes were full of wicked riffs
and just heavy overtones. The production is nicely balance and you can hear
everything quite clearly. The riffs will not go over your head and while it
is progressive and the tunes are long, trust me you will not be bored. Info:
www.lasercd.com
OVIF/Devast (Self Released) This is a 2 man band/project and it is simply blew
me away. This is just a wicked thrash metal release with some punk overtones.
They remind me of Biohazard and I love that band and they remind me a little
in the vocal department of that band. The riffs will have you giving your neck
a workout or moshing up in your bedroom. The production is right on the money
and the guitar work is crisp and they get such a heavy sound. They almost remind
of older Sacred Reigh in spots as well. Simply put, this is an incredible release
and these 2 guys should hold their heads up with this baby. Incredible job guys.
Info:
www.myspace.com/ovif
DRUG HONKEY/Death Dub (Self Released) While this was quite heavy and doomy,
I couldn't get past the vocals, which were just grunts and growls. The music
is some crushing doom metal and it is heavy as heavy can be, but the vocals
kill it for me. If he would just even just growl it wouldn't be bad, but he
grunts and just almost makes just noises with his throat and that is just something
I am not into at all. Musicwise this is some crushing doom. Production is good
as well. You can judge for yourself at:
www.myspace.com/drughonkey
TEMPLE OF BLOOD/Overlord (Self Released) This is the 2nd release I have got
from this band and I have no idea why this band is not on a label yet. This
is a godly release (pun intended) of power/thrash metal that would please any
fan of metal. The riffs are brilliant, the vocals are soaring and sung with
passion and feeling. This is total old school 80's thrash and I loved every
note from note # 1 till the last one. This reminded me of the 1st brilliant
release of Agent Steel in spots. It had that vibe and production and just overall
feel to it. If you like old school thrash, this is easily a must have. Info:
www.myspace.com/templeofblood
BETTER LEFT UNSAID/The Fight Within (Stillborn Records) This is yet another
typical groove metal band with those throaty death metal growl vocals and then
clean vocals. The music is so tiredsome and generic and the vocals are another
case of heard it all 1000 times before. There is nothing new or exciting on
this disc as it just another faceless groove metal band. Info:
www.stillbornrecords.com
HOT BUTTERED ANAL/Lies (Spare Change Records) This is another funny and cool
release from these guys. They don't care who they piss off and the lyrics will
have you laughing your ass off as I was. The music is a mix of death, grind,
speed metal and even a bit of crazy rap in there. They have a bit of the SOD
sound to them, which isn't a bad thing. There is 17 tunes here and I thought
this was really cool and the production is good and this was a very fun review
and listen to. Choke The Bitch was classic. Info:
www.sparechangerecords.com
BLACK METAL SATANICA/Same DVD (MVD Visual) I was around when this crazy stuff
was going on and if you weren't, then have a seat and put this on and your world
will be turned into murder, church burnings and Satan. This takes you back to
when black metal was first formed, but focuses mostly on the Norway scene where
churches were getting burned, people were blowing their brains out and people
got stabbed and died. Me I thought some of this stuff was way on the extreme
and 2 people are dead and one is still in jail and I am sure he regrets what
he did. If he isn't he is even a bigger idiot than I thought. This sent chills
down my spine as I can recall all this stuff and it was kinda fascinating going
back once again and re living all this crazy stuff. Info:
www.mvdb2b.com
OUTTASITE/Careful What You Wish For (Outtasite Music) This was like a mix of
rap and metal and I this was not my cup of tea. It isn't done bad and a few
riffs here and there weren't bad, but I can't take all the rapping and album
scratching as to me rap is just a bunch of noise with guys singing or talking
etc. I am sure this might go on to sell a bucketload, but this isn't my thing.
Info:
www.myspace.com/outtasitemusic
XYSTUS/A Rock Opera (The Laser's Edge) Are you prepared? Prepared to take journey
of many ups and downs and twists and cracks. This is some wicked progressive
metal with lots of twists, turns, and lots of highs, lows. The singer has a
godly voice and he sings each note and song with such passion and feeling it
isn't funny. This also features some orchestra stuff and it fits right in with
the band and I loved it actually. It was a nice change of pace and this kept
me on the edge of my seat and even in the car when I popped this is I was sucked
in and sucked in deep. An absolute brilliant release and this was something
different, something fresh, and it easily won me over. Buy it NOW. Info:
www.thelaseredgegroup.com
HEAVY JACK/Multiply (Self Released) This is some just great ass kicking rock
n roll with a metal edge to it. The band just rip out incredible tune after
tune with no groove, no generic singing, just plain heavy, catchy tunes that
really caught my ear. They reminded me in spots of really early AC/DC (Let There
Be Rock era), which is not a bad thing at all. I also got an early Rush feel
(think Fly By Night). The 8 tunes here are just plain great to awesome and I
take a bow to this band they kicked my ass. Info:
www.heavyjack.com
NEVERRA/Origins (Self Released) This is some hard hitting death metal and it
hits in the right spots. Killer riffs and some nice throaty death metal vocals
made this a pleasure to listen to. The production is nice and thick and the
guitar sound the band use is right what the doctor ordered. The band have plenty
of speed and power and slow it down to catch your breath and then whip it back
into the speed lane to give your neck another workout. The band have a nice
mix of the old school style of death metal while also having a touch here and
there of the newer death metal sound. Very solid release. Info:
www.myspace.com/deverrametal
Lustra/What You Need And What You Get (X Off Records) This is a poppy alternative
rock band and they are a pretty good one. Again it comes down to songs for me
and riffs and vocals and this band had all 3. The music is poppy punk alternative
style, but the riffs still have a catchiness about them and the riffs stuff
in my head. The singer has a good almost grungy punkish voice that fits in well
with the music. The production allows everything to flow and the bottom line
is the songs were good, catchy tunes that had my bobbing he head and not growing
bored. Info:
www.myspace.com/lustra
ATTACK ATTACK/Self (Rock Ridge Music) This band reminded of the Foo Fighters
in spots. The band play a decent style of modern rock n roll with some decent
songs. The singer has a good voice and the production is good and allows everything
to flow. This didn't blow me away, but this was some decent modern rock n roll.
Info:
www.rockridgemusic.com
KILLGASM/Goat Grind (Self Released) This some wicked, crushing black/death/grind
music. This band just blast and crash through these tunes with the fury of a
put bull. The riffs will snap your neck and the drummer smashes and trashes
his drums into complete submission. The production has that raw underground
feel, which for a band like this, works. The vocals are unholy and are deep
growls of death, in other words, perfect for this style of music. This is a
tidal wave of extreme music. Info:
www.myspace.com/killgasm
PSYCHOMANTHIUM/Blueprint For Murder (No Joke Records) This reminded me a lot
of Biohazard both in the music and the vocals. The band rip through these tunes
with a NYHC style and the riffs I am sure will have many a pits forming and
moving. The singer has that cool punk/hardcore vocals style down pat and he
sings the tunes very well, not sounding forced or generic. The production is
not over polished and almost keeps that dark almost cellar sound that punk bands
need. This is a perfect blend of metal core. Info:
www.nojokerecords.net
IMPETITY/Dominator (Pulverised Records) Another excellent release from these
sick black metal hordes. 5 tunes are on this including a cover song by Scarfago.
This crushes just like all past releases. Fast, pulverizing black metal with
tons of speed, grit, passion and power. The vocals are a black metal delight.
The blast beats are real, not that fake blast all those groove bands do. This
is the real deal and I wish there was more than 5 tunes on this. Bow down to
the masters. Info:
www.pulverised.net
FOR THOSE WHO BRING THE TORTURE/Tank Gasmask Ammo (Pulverised Records) This
was death metal that was OK. The band sound like a million other bands and I
am not a fan of the vocals as they just sound like any run of the mill death
metal band. This band doesn't suck, but there is nothing to really get me pumped
up and excited. This is just another case of the same ole same ole. I do like
the thick guitar sound at times, but this overall didn't excite me much. Info:
www.pulverised.net
ETHERBIRD/The Ghost Collector (Pulverized Records) This was some weird death
metal at times as some of the songs go way off the deep end into some really
weird black metal territory. This took a couple listens to get in to and even
though is not something I am doing backflips over, it more than gets the job
done. This is not your typical band. Some parts are all in out death/black metal
and then the guitar sound just drifts off into some crazy riff and stuff. It
is hard to describe. The vocals are growls of death and they aren't the greatest,
but they don't suck. This is something I have to be in the right frame of mind
to listen to and it is different at times and out there. Info:
www.pulverised.net
FROM SNEW/Snew You (Self Released) 10 tunes of ass kicking rock n roll that
isn't far off from AC/DC or Krokus. The singer has a little Marc from Krokus
in him and the tunes are just simple, but effective rock n roll tunes that will
have your toes tapping and your head bobbing to the music. The band have a total
garage like feel on the production too. 10 tunes on this and not a bad one in
the bunch. If a label was smart they would snatch these guys up. Info:
www.snewyou.com
HUZZAH THE INFORMANTS/Fiesta Obscura (Just Rock PR) This is some decent power
pop, but the singer has the little quirky voice and sounds out of place and
it totally ruined any chance of this being any good in my book. The music is
catchy power pop, but these guys should look at another singer. The production
is good and like I said the songs are catchy pop tunes, but lose the singer.
Info:
www.myspace.com/huzzahtheinformants
GOREGONIK/Demo 2008 (Self Released) 7 tracks of solid no frills death metal
is the package you get with this band. No silly groove riffs, no generic low
and high singing, just balls to the wall death metal played hard, fast and with
intensity and feeling. The singer has a good death metal voice. The guitar sound
is thick and heavy and the production is right on the money. The band mix up
the speed and slow it down just enough to catch your breath. This band in my
opinion would be a wise option to sign to a good record label. Info:
www.myspace.com/goregonikuk
MURDER IN GREENWICH/The Greatest Story Ever Told (Romulus X Records) The music
on this isn't too bad, it is a mix of death metal and groove metal. The vocals
in some parts aren't bad as the singer has a pretty decent set of death metal
lungs, but when he goes into that lower than low growl it sounds stupid and
generic. The production on this is ultra thick and the guitar sound is one of
the heaviest I have heard in quite some time. Thank god he doesn't to the lower
than low crap a ton. Not too bad for the style of death metal they play, which
I am no fan of. Info:
www.romulusxrecords.com
RAGE FROM WITHIN/Loyalty Before Dishonor (Romulus X Records) This was some
really good death metal. The singer has a killer voice and the band pound out
the tunes hard and fast and with the fury of a charging bull. This is more of
a new school style, but I still enjoyed it a lot. The singer just belts out
the tunes with a fury and the band mix up the sound with some hardcore now and
then and that in a way kinda gives it an old school crossover feel. The production
is nice and solid and this was just a kick ass release. Info:
www.romulusxrecords.com
RED 13/My Bitter Story (Romulus X Records) This band was more rooted in nu
metal with a mix of death metal in there at times. This wasn't bad for what
they do and the band write some catchy riffs and tunes. The singer has a strong
voice and the music is quite catchy at times and doesn't seemed forced or generic
like a lot of other bands that do this style sound like to me. The tunes just
rock and that is the bottom line and this was a good, solid release. Info:
www.romulusxrecords.com
BADMOUTH/Self Titled (Romulus X Records) This was just awesome rock n roll
with a metal edge to it. The band just bang out killer tune after tune on this.
The singer has the perfect voice for the style of music the band is doing and
they play old school rock with a metal edge that not many bands are doing these
days. I found each tune had some catchy vocals, wicked riffs and I love the
guitar sound they have as well. This gets a 2 thumbs up from me. Info:
www.romulusxrecords.com
LEST WE FORGET/Shadows Of Centralia (Romulus X Records) This was typical groove
death metal with all the same tired, generic riffs that all the other band use.
The vocals were just growls and the songs were nothing special as they just
plodded along with little or no direction. This band just sounds like a million
other bands I have heard doing this same style. Info:
www.romulusxrecords.com
GUILLOTINE/Blood Money (Pulverised Records) Just crushing thrash metal that
had me smiling from the 1st note to the last. This reminded me a lot of Destruction,
and that my friends is not a bad thing. Rip roaring riffs and killer signing
were a highlight to me. The guitar sound and that old school feeling were around
in bunches on this. The production is perfect and the gallop riffs had my neck
moving and my foot moving to the beat. Just a pure thrash metal delight that
any thrash metal fan must own. Info:
www.pulverised.net
CLOSER/A Darker Kind Of Salvation (Pulverised Records) This was modern groove
death metal and it wasn't too bad. The band follow the same formula that most
of these bands do as they have some groove riffs and a few fast parts and growl
and some clean vocals. The music is OK, it doesn't suck, but it also doesn't
blow me away. Some of the riffs are cool and stuff. I would say this band is
decent. Info:
www.pulverised.net
HELLVETO/Neohersey (Pulverised Records) This is some deep, dark black metal
with a few goth and viking metal overtones. The band really set up the mood
and suck you in. Now this isn't something I would listen to all the time, but
it is really good for what it is and that is some deep dark and almost fascinating
music. The music sucks and pulls you in and it just creates this eerie mood.
It is kinda hard to explain. The band is very original in sound and the vocals
are of a dying man on his last breaths. The band can also go to the other extreme
and rip into some fast black metal as song # 3 just ripped my head off. This
was something different and not of the norm and I liked it. Info:
www.pulverised.net
BILOCATE/Same (Self Released) Wow this is sort of like Symphony Of Grief. This
band really puts you into a sad mood like you were walking down a dark alley
at 3:00am. The music is ultra heavy as a ton of bricks and just the mood and
feeling I got as this played on, almost melted me. The vocals are pure death
metal and they just help create this mood that the band gets off. The production
is nice and thick and the guitar sound they get will melt you like a warm summer
day. This is what doom metal and sadness are all about. Info:
www.bilocate.net
FROM THE INSIDE/Visions (Blistering Records) This has the former singer from
Tyketto singing and this is an excellent slab of AOR rock that I absolutely
loved. This is classic AOR rock in the vein of Journey, Balance, and Frankie
and The Knockouts. Danny the singer has an absolute godly voice and he sings
these songs with a passion and emotion that is not on many other records. The
music is just classic 80's AOR rock that I loved back then and I love now. This
will easily be in my top 10 at the end of the year. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
STARBREAKER/Love's Dying Wish (Blistering Records) Ah more great AOR rock from
this label. This is a bit darker than the above release, but they band still
retain their melodic edge. This has the former singer from TNT and his vocals
shine on this as the band takes you through 12 tunes of hooks, great vocals,
and just beautiful tunes. Tony the singer belts out the lyrics with ever ounce
in can from his soul and this band just blew me away with their hooks, melodies
and vocal lines. Another winner. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
ALMAH/Fragile Equality (Blistering Records) Some decent power metal here. The
band follow the formula of a lot of the newer power metal bands, with melodic
vocals, lots of double bass, etc. The tunes are catchy and heavy and no doubt
your neck will be getting a workout from this. The band just sounded similar
to many of the other power metal bands I have heard to blow me away, but this
was still quite good. The playing is great, the singing is great, but the sound
structure and style just sounds like many other bands doing this. Some will
do backflips over this, me I thought it was good not great. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
FAIRYTAIL ABUSE/Perversions Of Angel VI (Blistering Records) This band mix
in death and black metal. The band can blast into hyperdrive black metal and
then have more moody parts. They are definitely not your typical band and they
have carved a neat little niche for themselves. The band work on their songs
setting more of a mood than just blasting out evil riffs and they can knock
you for a loop as the song will go into fast pounding black metal. The vocals
are pure evil black metal style and this was a different kind of band and this
is not your typical band. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
SIEBENBURGEN/Revelation VI (Blistering Records) This was some really good melodic
black metal with hooks and black metal singing where you can hear what he is
saying! The band just tear through these tunes with a mix of melodic parts and
fast blasting black metal parts. The vocals are awesome as the singer sings
with a ton of passion and feeling and you can just feel the evil ooze off his
lungs. There is even some female vocals and they even sound cool to me and don't
sound out of place. This is one of the best black metal releases I have heard
this year. Info:
www.blisteringrecords.se
AYAT/Six Years Of Dormant Hatred (Moribund Records) Holy shit is this some
crushing black metal. The power, passion and feeling I felt as this played gave
me goosebumps. The vocals are so powerful, filled with violence and hate. The
music is killer old school black metal and these guys can churn on the hyperdrive
when they need to and also slow it down to a more moderate pace. The production
is heavy and the guitar sound is perfect. One of the best black metal releases
of the year no doubt. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
HORNA/Sanojesi Aarelle (Moribund Records) More crushing black metal as this
label delivers the goods again. Just more rip roaring black metal. The vocals
could be from hell itself. The band mix up the fast blazing parts with some
crushing slower parts. The band have a wicked weird guitar sound. The production
is on the raw side, but for a band like this, it works, not hinders. The band
just evoke such power, feeling and emotion in the songs. Great release. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
BLOOD STAINED DUSK/Black Faith Inquisition (Moribund Cult) This band return
with a new release and I thought this was really good. The band don't just play
fast to play fast. The band mix more feeling and more mid paced stuff than just
the speed stuff. The vocals are vocals from hell. This band evoke more of a
feeling and stuff within their music. What is cool is they are different from
a lot of the other black metal bands I have been hearing lately. Another gem
of a find by Moribund. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
DODSFERD/Death Set The Beginning Of My Journey (Moribund Records) I didn't
like this too much. The vocals are just screamed and just lacked any passion
and it seemed to me just some guy yelling and growling into a mic. The music
wasn't much better as the tunes just dragged on and there was no hook or anything
to reel me in so to speak. The songs just sounded flat to me and I couldn't
get into this. It is just one guy doing this and I commend him for doing it
all on his own, but for me I just didn't like it. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
NECRONOCLAST/Haven (Moribund Records) This is another one man band/project
and this I found much more to my liking than the above release. This just created
a mood that hooked me and kept me there for good. Vocals that the devil himself
would be proud of. This is music that belongs at a funeral. From doom to fast
black metal this will take you on a ride you won't soon forget. The music goes
from doom to exploding fast black metal in seconds and the slow parts crush
and the fast parts take your fuckin head off. The production is perfect and
this guy can really create a mood and the slow stuff just melted me. Info:
www.moribundcult.com
BIBLE BELT/Freedom Metal (Cruz Del Sur Music) This was awesome heavy metal/rock
n roll in the vein of old (1st release) Def Leppard, UFO, etc. The songs are
built around simple, but bone crushing head banging riffs. The tunes are catchy
and heavy and the singer has a great voice and he sings the songs with passion
and fits the music rather well. There is not many bands doing this style and
this was like a breath of fresh air after a week of crappy weather. This is
pure spikes to the wall heavy metal that should not be missed of any fan of
metal. Info:
www.cruzdelsurmusic.com
BLOODBATH/The Fathomless Mastery (Peaceville Records) This was a good solid
death metal release. The riffs are right on the money and the songs just kicked
ass. The singing was also very good and the songs didn't lack punch and had
my head moving. This has more of an old school metal sound to it and that of
course was fine by me. Production is very good and I love the heavy guitar sound.
Fast, pounding death metal with tons of hooks and power. Info:
www.peaceville.com
SLANK/Anthem For The Broken Hearted (Self Released) This was some decent modern
rock n roll with a pop edge to it. The opening track, "DevilInU" is
a poppy track with a nice little hook that sucked me in. Track # 2 "Caricature"
was another track with a simple, but effective hook that sucked me right in.
This band in some ways reminded me of the 80's band, The Producers. All the
tunes on this are quirky little pop tunes with the right hooks and vocal melodies.
This band is so much better than about 98% of the new bands I have heard as
this band write some good to great catchy tunes and this is one of the best
new rock/pop bands I have heard in quite some time. Info:
www.myspace.com/slank
PRO PAIN/No End In Sight (Regain Records) I have mixed feeling on this record.
Some of the tunes were pretty good, but others were just flat and just kinda
plodded along and just didn't represent the Pro Pain I am used too. This band
was one of the first to have the so called "groove metal" sound and
I didn't mind it with these guys cause they did it way long before it got trendy
and over used. On this release the band went for a more melodic sound and style
and to me I was kinda disappointed as I felt some of the songs were flat and
just kinda there. This band needs to go back to what got them to the dance.
The opening track would be a perfect example of what the band should be. They
got away too much from what them here and the melodic tunes were just flat and
lacked that killer hook and sound that I expect from these guys. It has its
moments, but I am kinda disappointed in this. Info:
www.regainrecords.com
DARK FUNERAL/Attera Orbis Terrarum DVD (Regain Records) This is a 2 disc DVD
from this black metal band. It contains 2 discs from 2 different shows and on
each disc you get some extra bonus stuff from other tours that the band did.
The band sound as tight as tight spandex from the 80's on these discs. The band
just shred through the tunes on both discs with the fury of a 100 miles and
hour fast ball. The South America show on disc 2 is the highlight for me. The
fans are totally into it and I know extreme metal fans down there and in places
like Mexico, the fans are extremely nuts. If you have never seen the band live,
this is the next best thing and next time they do tour, do yourself a favor
and go witness the onslaught for yourself and Satan will be proud you did. Info:
www.regainrecords.com
PAT TRAVERS/Stick With What You Know Live In Europe (Provogue Records) I have
loved some of the stuff Pat has put out and LIve Go For What You Know is one
of the best live albums ever. This is another live record with a new line-up
that was recorded in 2007. This has 13 tunes including some of Pat's best know
tunes: Boom Boom Out Go The Lights, Crash and Burn, Snorting Whiskey and Born
Under A Bad Sign. Pat's vocals still sound good and he still can rip out the
riffs and his backing band sounded good to these ears. There is several other
covers including Jimi Hendrix's Red House. If you a fan of Pat's like myself
then this easily belongs in their collection. Info:
www.provoguerecords.com
ADRENICIDE/Natural Born Thrashers (Thrashard Records) Killer old school thrash
metal is the ticket here. 19 tracks that would not be out of place on an old
DRI or Municipal Waste CD. Razor sharp riffs and shouted vocals are a highlight
on this. The music just had me ready to mosh around my house. The production
is perfect and the band just have that killer old school feel and sound that
can't be matched by a lot of bands. This is a release any fan of thrash metal
would enjoy big time. Info:
www.myspace.com/adrenicide1
FILTER/Remixes For The Damned (Pulse Records) This was just too much on the
technical side for me to really enjoy. I'd really have to hear these songs in
their original form to judge them against these, but the songs here are sort
of like old Nine Inch Nails with a lot of techno beat to them and I hate techno
music to the core. I think it is absolutely worthless. This just didn't appeal
to me and I am sure the songs in their original form are much better.
ROSS THE BOSS/New Metal Leader (Candlelight Records) Most of you know Ross
The Boss from his work in Manowar. This is a new release from him and Ross says
this is a full band and let me tell you this packs quite a wallop. The music
is a combo of straight forward fist pounding metal and power metal. The riffs
on this had me banging me head in a matter of seconds and to me this blows away
any Manowar record. The singer reminds me of the new singer of Exciter. The
songs just kick ass and this is heavy metal of the highest order. This was a
very surprising release. Any metal fan would love this. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
SINNER/Crash And Burn (Candlelight Records) Sinner return with another kick
ass release of Sinner style metal. The band just rip and crush these tunes as
only they know how. This is a pure fist banging metal delight. This may not
be as thrashy as some of their earlier releases, but it is chock full of metal
tunes that will satisfy any headbanger. They sort of remind me of older Accept
in spots. These tunes will have your neck moving and the singer has a great
voice and fits the music very well. Production is good and solid and the guitar
sound is mint. Metal onward. Info:
www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
MOTIVE/Self Titled (Self Released) Steve Buschart has been in metal bands as
long as I have been doing my zine and I give him a hug metal horn salute for
that. He and his bandmates return with a new EP of material. This still retains
the bands original thrash metal style, but also mixes in some heavy metal at
times. The tunes have a thick edge to them and that is due to the production
I think. The singer has a nice thrash metal growl and thank god doesn't go the
Pantera route. This sort of reminds me of Megadeth "Rust In Peace"
period, which isn't a bad thing. The 5 tunes here are solid tunes that old school
as well as newer metal fans would like. Horns up for you Steve. Info:
www.myspace.com/motivemetal1
KISS/Ikons (Mercury Records) This is a 4 disc set, with each disc being dedicated
to one of the 4 original members of Kiss. Besides each members favorite Kiss
tunes are some solo song favorites as well. Over 55 tunes are on this and the
only thing this lacked was some rarities or some good juicy live stuff. Kiss
was one of the best bands around in the 70's and put out godly release after
another and my chance most how are Kiss fans like me have all this stuff maybe
minus some of the solo work. This is a killer CD car box set that will be in
my vehicle for quite some time. Info:
www.ilovethatsong.com
RUSH/Snakes And Arrows DVD (Anthem Entertainment) Oh I am a huge Rush fan and
this 3 DVD set is just what the doctor ordered. This band has release some amazing
music and if your a fan of the band, this is easily a must have. The camera
work on this is unbelievable and just check out some of the songs that are this
baby: Freewill, Subdivions, Witch Hunt, YYZ, and many, many more. On disc 3
is some bootleg stuff and with Red Barchetta, The Trees (one of my personal
favs), and 2112. This DVD will give you hours of pleasure and with the camera
work you will feel like your in the front row and this band still have all these
years sound great live and put on one hell of a show. Rush and this DVD just
plain kick ass. Info:
www.rounder.com
PAUL STANLEY/One Live Kiss DVD (Universal Music) Paul Stanley and his band
rip it up on his 1st DVD with his solo band. Playing some solos tunes as well
as some Kiss classics this was a very enjoyable DVD. Paul still commands the
stage and he is still one of the best frontman in the biz. 20 tunes are here
with a nice mix of Kiss tunes and solo stuff. The band sounds good live and
the camera work is superb and the venue is a nice place it looks like to see
a show. Got To Choose and Do you Love me were pleasant surprises in his set
as well. No Rock N Roll All Night, which was great cause that song is so overplayed
and I am glad he didn't just pick the typical Kiss tunes for this show/tour.
Are you a KISS fan? Then what are you waiting for? Info:
www.ilovethatsong.com
GAMMA RAY/Hell Yeah-The Awesome Foursome DVD (SPV) This is a 2 DVD set that
is also available on CD as well. This was taped at a show in Canada and clocks
in at about 2 hours. 18 metal tunes that if they don't get your blood pumping
then perhaps nothing will. I don't know all the releases from this band, but
the songs on this were really good to some that were great and the band and
the crowd seem to be loving every minute of this. The band sound tight and the
sound on this is excellent as well. On disc # 2 you get a history of the band
and some offstage footage and that is like a little added bonus, you get all
the video clips of the band, which is like hot fudge on top of a sundae. The
live stuff from Live Wacken Fest is unholy as well. The label really went all
out with this and this is the way DVD releases should be done. Info:
www.myspace.com/spvusa.com