Monday 30 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Review : One Without - Sweet Relief

One Without - Sweet Relief
Rating: 6.5/10

The first thing that hits you with the opening track "Hunger" on the second release from Swedish metallers One Without is the contrast between the clean, crisp, melodic vocals of female vocalist Catrin Feymark and the guttural screams of Kenny Boufadene.

While Feymark keeps her clean vocals excellently under control, the music itself is pure heaviness at times with dual guitars and the bass and drums providing a solid backdrop to support the vocals while other tracks have a gentler guitar approach.

The production of this album really is impeccable with just the right levels for vocals and instruments alike. The only criticism that I would have would be perhaps the album is slightly too long. While there is variation between the album's tracks there is perhaps not enough to justify the 17 tracks on the album and it would be a shame for anyone to stop listening before they get to one of my stand out tracks the closer "This is War".

The album is strong with all elements from vocals to drums playing out in a technically excellent way and while not one of the greatest gothic/dark metal albums I have listened to I think that if the band can introduce a little more variety particularly in terms of the vocals into their next release then this will be a band to look out for in future.

One Without - Sweet Relief is available for download on their website:
One Without Website

Track Listing:
1. Hunger
2. Forget Your Pride
3. Persistent
4. Catatonic
5. Accusing Eyes
6. Souls of Thousands
7. Sweet Relief
8. Spit it Out
9. Nothing To You
10. Burned Once Again
11. Pretender
12. A Bright New Insight
13. Open Wound
14. Burning With Your Hopes and Dreams
15. Leaving Traces
16. Stained with your Words
17. This is War

Friday 27 January 2012

Heavy Metal DJ Interview : Diamond Sam - Evil Broadcasting

Following on from the interview with Kory Allen from Evil Broadcasting Diamond Sam one of the DJs agreed to answer some interview questions for Heavy Metal Bullet and here is what he had to say...

Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): So when is the radio show on and where can you hear it?
Diamond Sam (DS): Friday nights at 7pm EST on Evil Broadcasting and soon to be on Wednesday night at the same time on Distant Thunder Radio. Online is the best way, cos then the listeners get the chat room and the web cam.

HMB: Is there a specific theme to the show, a certain genre? A certain time period? New or Established Bands? Just Metal to the Masses?
DS: Yes, No, Maybe, not really, LOL to tell ya the truth, I wing it for 4 plus hours. I try just to keep it about drugs, sex and rock and roll but sometimes I'll see something in the paper that gets me mad and I'll go off on the show. As for music, I play classic rock, and metal, some new stuff, but for the most part I really get off on playing indie bands.

HMB: When did you start on the show?
DS: I started about five years ago on Distant Thunder Radio, and I've worked for a few other stations until I found Evil Broadcasting which is one of the best times I've had doing this, and with me going back to Distant Thunder Radio it's like going back home.

HMB: Was this your first radio show or have you done others before?
DS: I think I'm very lucky cos I always had my own show, and I try to do something different for every show. Since I do my show on camera there are some things that I have to do almost every show. Like the cantaloupe thing, LOL, or the Strip Tease, or put on a bow tie. LOL all for the love of music LMAO!

HMB: What are your own personal music tastes?
DS: As long as it's not that whiney country music where the song is about killing a pet bullforg in a pick up truck, and Rap, then I'm goof. LOL

HMB: What do you think is the single most important thing for a new metal band to do to promote themselves?
DS: Hit things like Twitter and Facebook but mostly You Tube. Reach out to internet DJs to get them to play your stuff.

HMB: Any other tips on new metal bands promoting themselves?
DS: You Tube to me is the best way, record some shows, make a video, that way people can see what your band is all about.

So tune in using the links below Fridays 7pm EST on Evil Broadcasting (and soon Wednesdays 7pm on Distant Thunder) and follow the below accounts on Twitter to keep yourself updated!

Evil Broadcasting
Distant Thunder
Twitter @DiamondSam
Twitter @MistressT5150

Thursday 26 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Album Review : Enthrall - Throes of Fire

Enthrall - Throes of Fire
Rating: 7.5/10

Enthrall is for all intents and purposes now a one man band from Bangalore, India. The second release  at the beginning of December 2011 follows the signing from independent Greek label Metal Fighters.

The album is a concept album based around a fictional character Raven who comes face to face with emotions such as torment, anguish, sympathy and sadness through his phases of life.

With progressive elements to the music the album is hard to fit into a specific genre and not easily comparable to other metal bands, which speaks volumes to the individuality of the music. To be perfectly honest when I discovered this is now essentially a one man band I wasn't sure what to expect but it really works. I should clarify that the recording of the album involved some other musicians but the concept, writing and all the creative side was completed entirely by Neil Rego.

The album is strong both creatively and instrumentally and while none of the tracks sound the same the theme that unites them allows the album to flow seamlessly from track to track.

Slower more melodic guitar sections alternate with heavier distorted parts both within and between tracks, undepinned by a strong drum beat and overlaid with clean vocals that serve to both emphasise the lighter portions yet still managing to highlight the heavier parts. Some spoken word sections also offer a little extra diversity to the album.

Rather than stand out tracks I think this is an album that you need to sit and listen to start to finish. I am aware I recommend you give this a listen for yourself I don't think you will be disappointed!

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Wednesday 25 January 2012

Heavy Metal Album Review : Krankenstein Dirt Nap

Krankenstein - Dirtnap
Broad Horizons Records 2011
Rating : 7/10

Krankenstein's Dirt Nap is an almost progressive metal album blending classic old school Thrash Metal heavy on the guitars with elements of power metal in particular some of the vocals.

Recorded in 2000 and not officially released until 2011 on Broad Horizons Records while the album has a definite classic style Krankenstein still retain their relevance in the modern metal scene.

Strong vocals combined with twin guitar attacks and an underlying heavy percussive element make this a strong metal album definitely worth a listen.

One of the stand out tracks for me is "Fight For Your Life" with it's percussive beat, mixture of almost power metal vocals combined with a rough almost spoken style and some excellent guitar sections. The track also contains lyrics that probably speak to metal heads around the world!
"Just because we're different they are afraid"
While listening there were points where the album almost became too much of the same thing, however, little interesting diversions such as the voice over before "Pearl of the Pacific" and the slight change of style and tempo on this track bring the album back to life and it continues strongly from there!

So if you're in the mood for a classic metal album that's still relevant today then look no further...

Reverbnation

Tuesday 24 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Profile : Killed The Fixtion

Killed The Fixtion

Robert Asencio : Bass
Kevin Izquierdo : Guitar
Abbad Ibn Townsend : Drums
Nelson Ceron : Vocals

New Jersey based Killed the Fixtion grew up together as friends, following on from injuries from aggressive inline skating taking their toll they all picked up instruments sometime around 2009 and the rest as they say is history.

Killed the Fixtion currently have their first single "Pulse" available on their facebook page (links at the end of the post) so Heavy Metal Bullet decided to take a listen...

The single starts off heavy on the percussion and bass generating a heavy sound from the start. The mixture of vocal styles with an almost James Hetfield style clean vocals interweaving with some rougher vocals adds layers and depth to the track. The guitar solo that comes in around two thirds of the way through completes the full showcase for the band and the end result is a really good metal track but with hints of different genres shining through to give the band a more individual sounding style.

The breakthrough of other styles within an essentially metal track is not surprising when viewing the bands wide range of influences from Pantera to Willie Nelson and from 2Pac through to Miles Davies the band come across as people who really like music.
"In the end, we play what we feel and what is in our hearts"
In terms of other releases the band do have a self released, self titled EP that was released in 2010 copies of which can be obtained through the band (contact details on the FB page), but looking forward Killed the Fixtion are currently finishing up their 2nd single release "Moonlite Blue" working at the Trax East Recording Studios with engineer Eric Rachel (previously worked with God Forbid, Mastodon and Black Dahlia Murder).

And so onto the Heavy Metal Bullet interview questions...
"The one that comes most clear to mind is the tradition of punching each others food into oblivion"
Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): What was the first Heavy Metal album you bought?
Nelson Ceron (NC): Korn - "Follow the Leader"
Robert Asencio (RA): My brother always bought heavy metal albums so I listened to everything. My 1st albums I ever bought were Bee Gees "Greatest Hits", 50 Cent "Get Rich or Die Trying" and Kid Rock "Devil without a Care". Bawitdaba was the heaviest shit I heard at seven years old
Abbad Ibn Townsend (AIT): Metallica - "And Justice For All"
Kevin Izquierdo (KI): Metallica - "Master of Puppets"


HMB: What was the last Heavy Metal Album you bought?
NC: Down - "NOLA"
RA: At The Gates - "Slaughter of The Soul"
AIT: Dethklok - "Dethalbum II"
KI: Opeth - "Heritage" (Won it from Jose Mangin of Headbangers Ball)

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
Killed The Fixtion (KTF): No, we are not embarrassed by anything we own. We love and listen to all music. We really don't care about what anybody thinks. We know who we are.

HMB: What's the strangest thing you have seen at a gig?
KTF: Strangest thing was when we went to a Misfits Concert and we were in a pit with someone dressed as The Ultimate Warrior. It was great! Another great concert we played was a Bachata/Merengue Dance Party, it was a mix of properly dressed people with dirty metal heads. It was so strange, but awesome. It was a fan's birthday party. We love you Casey!

HMB: Any funny band related stories you would like to share?
KTF: There are so many funny stories within this band. The one that comes most clear to mind is the tradition of punching each others food into oblivion. After gigs we are starving so we go eat at a diner or resturant. There is usually one moment that sparks the event and then all hell breaks loose. Peoples looks at us are always priceless. We then proceed to eat what's left.

HMB: Anything else you would like to add?
KTF: We would love to thank all our KTF family out there that are supporting us and sharing us with the whole world. We would love to thank Hellhound Rehearsal Studio in Rahway, NJ for all their constant support. Our manager Rigo Asencio for his hard work and diligence with helping us so much. Thank you to WSOU Street Patrol & Jersey Rock Maria Mar for all their help with pushing us on the radio.

And so that sums it up and all that remains is for you to check out "Pulse" on the facebook site and to wait in anticipation for "Moonlite Blue"!

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Saturday 21 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Profile : BurnOut

Getz - Vocals
Vid - Guitar
Hufkes - Bass
Transfo - Drums
Haverans - Guitar

BurnOut are a metal band from Belgium formed in 1998 because four friends couldn't keep spending their money on burnouts on their bikes but the energy had to go somewhere, so a band named BurnOut was born.

On their Facebook page at the moment (link below) are three of the new tracks already recorded for their upcoming release "The Winner Digs the Grave" although the band have added the disclaimer that these are likely to undergo a few minor adjustments prior to the release.

So what to expect? The band cite some of their many influences as Pro Pain, Devil Driver, My Dying Bride, Hatebreed, Coal Chamber and Type-O-Negative. When I asked them about which genre they feel they would fit into the band describe themselves as more of a crossover band. They combine a lot of different metal styles although in the words of vocalist Getz "not necessarily all in one song"

Vocalist Getz answered the Heavy Metal Bullet interview questions:
"Telling a true metal head you're really into the 'Trans Siberian Orchestra' does attract some, how can I put this, 'different' reactions" - Getz
Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): What was the last album you bought/downloaded?
Getz (G): I visit my record store, Metalzone in Vosselaar every two weeks. The last two silver blades I came home with were: "American Capitalist" - Five Finger Death Punch and "For Lies I Sire" - My Dying Bride

HMB: What was the first metal album you bought?
G: Here too I have to fill in two albums. "Appetite for Destruction" - Guns 'N' Roses and "Make War not Love" - Pro Pain

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
G: I really don't think in boxes. I own a lot of different styles of albums. But telling a true metal head you're really into the 'Trans Siberian Orchestra' does attract some, how can I put this, 'different' reactions!

HMB: What is the strangest thing you've seen at a gig?
G: I do remember a great gig we did in Grasheide. A big party going on. Stage divers everywhere and at one point, one guy just disappeared into the ceiling, at least that's what we saw. A few minutes later the same guy dropped from a roof window in the middle of our stage only to get up and dive again. It was the first time something like that had happened to us. Pretty weird to see a guy falling down from the ceiling, I can tell you that.

HMB: Are there any funny band related stories you can share?
G: We rehearse in a great rehearsing room, but unfortunately, no toilets. It's our guitar player Vid who made the expression "if you got to go, you got to go" come true to us... anywhere!

HMB: Anything else that you would like to share?
G: We hope to receive some great responses on our newest songs/EP and we'll be able to get the support we need. If all works out, we hope to see you all on the road!

So now to the links where you can go check these guys out for yourselves:
Facebook
Reverbnation



Wednesday 18 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Band Profile : IKILLYA


IKILLYA

Mansa Gory - Bass & Horns
Dave Kerr - Guitar
Jason Lekberg - Vocals

Straight out of New York City IKILLYA released their debut album "Recon" to much critical acclaim, including the Heavy Metal Bullet review here

The band have been around since 2005 and started under the name Wraith but after learning this was already taken a brainstorming session outside of rehearsal resulted in the new incarnation called IKILLYA. Vocalist Jason says "To me it personifies that beautiful moment when you resolve to make a change in life".  The band currently use two rotating drummers, Jeff Gretz (Zao/Austrian Death Machine) who recorded on the album and Matt Zebroski (Alex Skolnick Trio).

There influences are varied from bands like The Haunted, Lamb of God, Pantera, Gojira and Testament, to musical styles such as Jazz and Classical all the way to the melting pot that is New York City itself!
"We are all very inspired by the thought of combining things in ways that haven't been thought of" Jason
While the band never stop writing this year for them is all about touring and there are several opportunities to go and check them out:
Jan 28th @ Champs in Trenton, NJ
Feb 17th @ St Vitus, Greenpoint
Apr 14th @ Trash Bar, Brooklyn
They also plan to announce some UK and Ireland dates.

Vocalist Jason answered the Heavy Metal Bullet interview questions:
"He started dancing, badly, and then passed out in the middle of the stage" Jason
Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): Would you consider yourself part of a specific genre and if so which one?
Jason Lekberg (JL): I would definitely say we are metal but I'm not sure where we fall beyond that. Some have said Thrash, and we definitely have those influences. Some have said hardcore, and we definitely have those influences. Some have said Metalcore but I don't really think that's justified. We're just metal.

HMB: What was the first Heavy Metal Album you bought?
JL: That's a tough question. I was into Rock before I was into Metal so I owned several albums that at the time were called "metal" but I don't know that I would say that now. I'd have to say the first proper metal album was probably Metallica "And Justice For All"


HMB: What was the last Heavy Metal Album you bought/downloaded?
JL: I just recently bought Alekhine's Gun new EP "Meditations in Wrath". It fucking KILLS!

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
JL: I'm not embarrassed about any of the albums I own but I'm sure there would be some people who would disapprove of some of my collection. I'm a big post-rock fan so I've got every album from bands like Sigur Ros and Portishead. Maybe that would fall there?

HMB: What's the strangest thing you have seen at a gig?
JL: One time a drunk bum stumbled up on stage and kept trying to take my mic. When I wouldn't give it to him he started dancing, badly, then passed out in the middle of the stage. That was rather random. Ha!

HMB: Any funny band related stories?
JL: When you're in a band with Mansa, there are plenty. One time right before we went on stage he and Dave went into a burrito place. I guess he didn't eat all of his so he had it in a to-go box on top of his amp while we were playing. In between two songs I was talking to the audience and when I looked back he was standing with his back to the audience chowing down. I asked him what the hell he was doing and he looked like a kid who got caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Really funny shit.

So all that remains is for you to go check these guys out using any of the myriad of links below!
AKILLYA Website
Twitter
Facebook
You Tube
Reverbnation
Sound Cloud
Band Camp

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Album Review : Electric Sister - The Lost Art of Rock & Roll

Electric Sister - "The Lost Art of Rock & Roll"
Rating : 6/10

Electric Sister's album "The Lost Art of Rock & Roll"  is a old school 80's Heavy Metal extravaganza from a new metal band.

The album fits probably more into the Hard Rock category than metal today with it's old school sound heavy on power chords and riffs and with a definite KISS styling to it.

Having said that the album doesn't sound as dated as you might expect and there are some excellent twin guitar attacks to be heard. The band has also recently supported Black Label Society.

A couple of the stand out tracks for me would have to be "Monster Girl" with it's strong riffs and good lyrics and also the title track "The Lost Art of Rock & Roll"


With old school bands such as Twisted Sister, Wasp, Anthrax and Maiden all making come backs at festivals over the last few years this album really fits into the vintage sound flying around out there. My only concern would be that while we all love our old favourites playing this style will it be as easy for a new band to make it using a similar sound?

Overall "The Lost Art of Rock & Roll" is a solid album, well written, musically sound and some good lyrical content so if you like your old school metal, be brave, give the new band a listen!

Track Listing:
1. New Mother Earth
2. I Want it All
3. The Leper
4. Monster Girl
5. Goddess
6. The Lost Art of Rock & Roll
7. Rock is Religion
8. Echo Park
9. City of Night

Electric Sister Website
Facebook

Monday 16 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood EP Review: Saint [The] Sinner - Da Vinci's Demise

Saint [The] Sinner - "Da Vinci's Demise"
Rating: 6.5/10

So where to start in trying to tell you about this album? It is definitely the most unique album I have so far reviewed. Describing it is difficult but a review just wouldn't work if I can't do that so here goes... I would say metalcore mixed with some death metal vocals, some clean vocals and a dose of Electronica.

Strangely though the mixture of heavy guitars and the electronic segments really work well together and compliment each other far better than it may sound in my description.

The EP is a five track EP although the first track is a short etheral opener so essentially it is a four track EP. Once the slow "Forgive and Forget" ends brutality kicks in with the fierce opening growl of "Joker's Grin" The clean vocals are a little shaky in places but overall a good track.

"7000 miles" continues in the same way with the exception of a much more prominent electronica section in the middle. "Struggle Within" is probably the weakest track on the EP but fortunately the closing track "Yeah... Even the Mona Lisa is Falling Apart" pulls it back on track.

So in all honesty purist metal heads or "true" metallers are probably not going to like this EP but for me at least the band tried something a bit different and for the most part it really works. There are a few areas that need to be worked but still a pretty solid record and definitely worth a listen!

Track Listing:
1. Forgive and Forget
2. Joker's Grin
3. 7000 Miles
4. Struggle Within
5. Yeah... Even the Mona Lisa is Falling Apart

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Sunday 15 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Album Review - IKILLYA Recon

IKILLYA - "Recon"
Released April 2011
Rating: 8.5/10

One of the best debut albums I have heard in a while this hardcore/groove/thrash band from New York have opened with an album that should get them far with "Recon"


The intro track "At My Signal" with it's emphasis on horns is a fairly weak start to the album but the brutality of "...And Hell Followed With Him" more than makes up for it.

"E.H.R" continues in the same vein with a great chorus sure to be a hit at IKILLYA's live gigs. "Razorblades" opens with some great guitar work leading up to some brutal vocals.

Surprisingly the horns on "Jet Fuel Genetic" work really well and lend a sense of epicness to what in my opinion should have been the closing track rather than "Echoes in Eternity" which takes away from the amazing energy that had been present since "...And Hell Followed With Him"


The stand out track for me personally, and it was hard to pick just one, would have to be "Bomb's Away". Fast paced and brutal and with great lyrics, furious guitar work and mental drumming in places. Having said that "Escape Plan" also rates pretty highly for energy, brutality and choruses destined for live gigs.
"And I hope you packed your parachute, cos I won't be here to catch you. Bombs Away!"  "Bombs Away"
While still being something a bit different, for a point of reference think growling Devil Driver style vocals and almost Lamb of God style music. All in all this is an awesome debut album and has definitely made it into my personal music collection. I urge you all to check this out as soon as possible using the links below, seriously do it now!

Track Listing:
1. At My Signal
2. ...And Hell Followed With Him
3. E.H.R.
4. Razorblades
5. Godsize
6. Lifesblood
7. Bombs Away
8. Escape Plan
9. Jet Fuel Genetic
10. Echoes in Eternity

IKILLYA Website
Twitter
Facebook
You Tube
Reverbnation
Sound Cloud

Saturday 14 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Profile : Twilights Embrace

Twilight's Embrace

Al - Bass
Allan - Drums
Ben - Guitar
Dan - Guitar
Dee - Vocals

Twilight's Embrace are a metal band from Nottingham. Having had music written for years Ben and Allan just needed to find the right musicians but everything came together in early 2010 with the addition of Al, Dan and Dee and before long the band were out gigging in their home town.

The main influences for Twilight's Embrace are dark, melodic and heavy metal bands including well known bands such as Paradise Lost, Swallow the Sun and Insomnium but also some lesser known acts like Before the Dawn, Morgion, Daylight Dies, Forest Stream etc.

Following on from their EP "Reflections" (check out the review here) Twilight's Embrace are currently half-way through recording a second EP due to be released early 2012 and then they hope to start work on a full length album later in the year.

While they currently have no upcoming gigs booked Twilight's Embrace intend to play up and down the UK this spring/summer so keep your eyes peeled for that!

So no band profile would be complete on Heavy Metal Bullet without the interview questions so here goes:
"Helping three guys dressed as one yellow submarine climb onto the shoulders of a crowd during Skream and Benga was pretty unique" Al
Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): What Genre would you see the band fitting into in today's metal scene?
Twilight's Embrace: We're arguably somewhere between "doom-death" and "gothic metal"

HMB: What was the last album you bought/downloaded?
Al: Devin Townsend - "Unplugged"
Allan: Opeth - "Heritage"
Ben: Michael Mc Cann - "Deus Ex - Human Revolution Original Soundtrack"
Dan: I think it was "Fables from a Mayfly: What I tell you Three times is True" by Fair to Midland

HMB: What was the first Metal album you bought?
Al: Slipknot's first album
Allan: Opeth - "My Arms, Your Hearse"
Ben: Sepultura - "Chaos AD"
Dan: I remember getting Metallica's eponymous "Black Album" and "Introduce Yourself" by Faith No More on tape in the early 90s, but I think I was already borrowing Type-O-Negative, White Zombie and Clawfinger albums off friends by then. I don't like admitting to Clawfinger, but I was young and stupid. Still love Type-O-Negative and White Zombie though.

HMB: Do you own any albums that you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
Al: Embarrassed? No, but as a fan of Rock/Metal/Hip Hop/Trance/DnB/Dubstep/Classical/Indie/Folk and more I probably like a lot of music that may be looked down about by anyone who takes music too seriously. I do love The Bravery's first album, that's probably given me the most grief.
Allan: Creed - "Weathered"
Ben: I don't tell many people that I have "Fallen" by Evanescence, but it's actually a very good album. Beats the last three Lacuna Coil records, anyway...
Dan: I got rid of Clawfinger... I own a lot of stuff you might expect me to be embarrassed by, but I'm not. Folk music, electronica, world music, lots of different stuff. I'd get bored listening to one sort of music all the time.

HMB: What is the strangest thing you have seen at a gig?
Al: Helping three guys dressed as one yellow submarine climb onto the shoulders of a crowd during Skream and Benga was pretty unique
Allan: Someone nearly setting the stage on fire after using a special effect
Ben: Too many to mention, but I think the guy at Wacken who was crowd surfing over a Kataklysm mosh pit while wearing a fluorescent green suit was a contender this year.
Dan: I was at a Twin Zero gig a few years ago, and this guy was strutting backwards and forwards in front of the stage occasionally doing cartwheels, alternating between polite and aggressive. He then eventually accidentally kicked a girl in the face and apologised profusely before wandering off somewhere.

HMB: Are there any funny band related stories you can share?
Al: We are not funny, we are serious business!
Allan: We have all been fired by each other more times that you can possibly imagine.
Ben: I quite enjoyed 'de-harmonising' one of Dan's solos in practive once - basically playing exactly the same thing, except being careful to deliberately pick a completely wrong note each time. Ok, so perhaps you had to be there...

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"Demons" performed at The Shed Leicester
"The Path" performed at Bloodstock Open Air 2011

Friday 13 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Profile : Without Waves

Without Waves

Anthony Cwan - Vocals/Guitar
Zac Lombardi - Guitar/Chapman Stick
Garry Naples - Drums
John Picillo - Bass

Hailing from Chicago Without Waves were formed in 2010. Previous to that Zac, Anthony and Garry had been playing together since high school and wanting a fresh start with new muscial goals, John (known from a previous band) was added and Without Waves was formed.

In November 2011 Without Waves released their first album "Scab Platter" and you can check out the Heavy Metal Bullet review of that right here. Without Waves also headed back into the studio in late DEcember to record a new EP aiming for an early 2012 release.

Without Waves will be playing a gig 18th January in Chicago check out this link for more details and be sure to head down to see them if you are in the area!

And without further ado onto the Heavy Metal Bullet interview questions, as a rare treat the entire band have answered the questions.

Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): What was the first Heavy Metal Album you bought?
Anthony: Pantera - "Reinventing The Steel"
John: I honestly have no idea. By the time I got into metal no one was actually buying albums anymore. The first CD I bough was Green Days "Dookie"
Zac: Korn - "Follow the Leader"
Garry: Black Sabbath - "Paranoid"

HMB: What was the last Heavy Metal Album you bought?
Anthony: Czar - "Vertical Mass Grave"
John: Steven Wilson "Grace for Drowning"
Zac: Czar  "Vertical Mass Grave"
Garry: Ulcerate - "The Destroyers of All"

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
Anthony: Vanilla Ice - "Hard to Swallow"
John: I guess I could be embarrassed about the amount of Limp Bizkit there is on my ipod
Garry: The Without Waves album.. haha

HMB: What's the strangest thing you have seen at a gig?
Without Waves: We played a gig in Chicago at a small dive bar about a year ago. The singer of one of the first bands took a razor and intentionally cut himself on his head during one of their songs, covering a portion of the stage and some of our gear in his blood. It was all very odd for a bar show.

HMB: Anything else at all you would like to share?
Without Waves: Check out our new album "Scab Platter"! It's available for download on our bandcamp page for only $5
HMB: Following that with one more not so sneaky link to the review

So that is Without Waves all that's left is for you to go ahead and check them out!
Bandcamp
Facebook

Where to Promote your Metal Band: Hard Rock Nights Radio Show

Hard Rock Nights is a radio show that features hard rock and heavy metal music and tries to introduce people to newer bands.

I caught up with host Brian Basher to find out a bit more about it and to get the new metal bands out there some more tips on promotion!

Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): When did the radio show start?
Brian Basher (BB): I've owned and been hosting Hard Rock Nights for a year and a half now. I took over from the old host he asked me if I would be interested in taking over the show I said yes and picked up the ball and ran with it.

HMB: What was the reason behind starting the radio show?
BB: When I was growing up I always noticed that bands I really liked were never getting airplay on traditional radio and I told myself if I ever had the opportunity to do my own show I would give as many bands as I could a chance for airplay.

HMB: What does the radio show aim to do?
BB: Let people know that hard rock is still very much alive. I'm talking about 70's, 80's inspired hard rock not the alt rock that corporate radio tries to pass off as hard rock these days.
I use the classics like Motley Crue, Poison and Kiss to try and introduce people to newer bands like Wildstreet, Crazy Lixx, Diamond Lane and so forth. I want to expose people to as many of the new up and coming bands as I can.
There are some great music scenes around the world that very few people outside of the local area know about. Belfast, Sydney, Melbourne and Vancouver all have some fantastic bands not getting radio airplay that deserve to be heard.

HMB: What do you think is the single most important thing for a new band to do to promote themselves?
BB: If I can only pick one it has to be connecting with the fans. Don't just post dates for your next show on facebook or Twitter actually communicate with your fans and get to know them for lack of a better word.
For me personally when a band shows interest that I'm playing their music and talking about them on the show it shows me that they care about the band, the music, and what people are saying about them.

HMB: Any other tips on promoting bands?
BB: You have to get your name out for people to see and hear nobdy is going to do it for you. Take advantage of what the internet and social media offers it gets to be a hassle keeping up with everything there's no denying that, but these days bands have to be their own PR machine.

HMB: What are your own personal music tastes?
BB: Honestly I don't listen to anything but hard rock and metal. I really love the Australian rock scene right now. Pretty much what you hear each week on the show is what I'm listening to when I'm at home or in the car.

HMB: Anything else at all that you would like to add?
BB: Thanks to everyone that listens to Hard Rock Nights each week. Thanks to you Maria and Heavy Metal Bullet this is the first time I've been interviewed so hopefully I didn't put everyone to sleep that reads this.
Don't be force fed what corporate radio wants you to hear on the radio. There are tons of great bands from all over the world not being played on terrestrial or satellite radio a person just has to make the effort to go and find them.

Hard Rock Nights is heard on 40+ stations both FM and Internet in 11 countries and can be heard over 60 times a week. You can find participating affiliates here

Check out the links below for more details:
Hard Rock Nights Website
Facebook
Twitter

Thursday 12 January 2012

Where to Promote your Metal Band : Great New Metal

Great New Metal is a new project designed to provide exposure and generate revenue for emerging acts in the world of heavy music.

Great New Metal already has support from some big names including the Buried and Me founding member Paul Waggoner, prog metal pioneer Paul Masvidal of Cynic and Brian Fair of Shadow's Fall who not only support the project but have also agreed to advise Great New Metal.

Heavy Metal Bullet thinks this is a great project, anything that can generate exposure for new metal bands is always a good thing it can be difficult for some genuinely talented bands to get noticed in any music genre, but with the limited press/radio play for metal music in comparison to more mainstream genres the the new metal band can face a tough task to get themselves out there!

So how does it work? Launching 1st March 2012 Great New Metal writers known as "Authorities" will award seals of approval to eight up and coming acts each month spread out over all the major metal sub-genres. The aim is for the site to then create a buzz around these acts with daily updated professional journalistic content.

Great New Metal's signature designers will also create a unique t-shirt for each artist which will be available exclusively through their platforms and the proceeds of sales will be shared with the bands.

There is already a buzz being generated around Great New Metal:

"Great New Metal will give bands the push that they need, that initial kickstart to get some recognition and then hopefully they will take that ball and run with it, and play shows and sellmerch and get signed" - Paul Waggoner
"It seems like it's a genuine, groovy idea, and it's something that's needed." - Paul Masvidal
"Its really hard now as an up and coming band to do anything without self-financing it. I think Great New Metal can help young bands make that process just a little bit easier." - Brian Fair
So don't delay get involved from the start by checking out the links below:
Great New Metal Website
Facebook
Twitter
BTBAMs Paul Waggoner Supports Great New Metal
Cynic's Paul Masvidal Supports Great New Metal.
 

Wednesday 11 January 2012

Where to promote your Heavy Metal Band : UnsignedHypeUK

What better way to promote your unsigned Heavy Metal Band than a website and company dedicated to unsigned bands and artists. The site covers a wide range of musical genres and not just heavy metal but all publicity is good promotion.

Robyn from Unsigned Hype filled me in on the details and as usual provided some useful tips on promoting your band.

"Maybe we could do a battle of the bands mixtape!" Robyn
Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): When did the website start?
Unsigned Hype (UH): It began roughly 10 weeks ago.

HMB: What was the reason behind starting the website and what does it aim to do?
UH: To represent our company and what we have on offer. We decided that when running our music company an easy way to get information across was to create a website! A website that not only represents us but can support unsigned artists all over the world.
The website aims to support, promote and give unsigned artist the exposure they deserve!

HMB: What do you think is the single most important thing for a new band to do to promote themselves?
UH: To get yourself a logo and professional picture and promote yourself on as many websites/social networking sites as possible!

HMB: Any other tips on promoting bands?
UH: To keep your promoting consistent! Its important to build partnerships with others also!

HMB: Anything else you would like to add?
UH:Thanks for having us! Check out the website and see if Unsigned Hype is something for you! Maybe we could do a battle of the bands mixtape! Who knows!
HMB: *thinks* If enough bands signed up and mentioned Heavy Metal Bullet perhaps they could name the battle of the bands tape after me :)

So use the links below and keep getting your music out there!
Unsigned Hype
Facebook
Twitter

Friday 6 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Album Review : Desekratewhore - Shadows of the Past

DesekrateWhore - Shadows of the Past
Rating: 4/10

1. As the Angels Burn
2. Fuck Philosophy
3. Illusions in the Mist
4. Rising Flames, Falling Ice
5. Shadows of the Past
6. Souls of the Insane
7. The Cave Part 1 - Prelude to Insanity
8. The Cave Part 2 - Forever Descending Slumber

Having only looked at the cover I was already expecting a pretty raw album and raw is certainly what it kicks in with on the opening "As the Angels Burn". Unfortunately I think the rawness detracts a fair bit from the musicianship, key elements such as the timing of introducing the lead guitar seem quite off in particular on "Fuck Philosophy".

The album is reminiscent of one of a supporting bands first gigs, while not bad, you know there is a lot of work needed to be done yet. Perhaps slightly less focus on speed and more on unity while playing would help extract the good bits from the mess this album sometimes becomes.

"Illusions in the Mist" starts out well albeit a little rough around the edges although the guitar again seems slightly out of time which spoils it slightly.

The rest of the album continues in the same vein, some good parts, some out of time parts and some parts where it seems quality has been sacrificed for speed.

There is potential there and the raw sound isn't necessarily a bad thing all the way through, it does make it sound edgy in parts giving an almost live quality to the album. Overall I think there is a lot of work to be completed before the potential in the band can be fully realised. Having said that maybe it's just not my thing, check it out for yourselves:

Facebook
You Tube
You Tube


Wednesday 4 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Band Profile : Garagedays

Garagedays

Marco Kern : Rhythm Guitar/Vocals
Dominik Eder: Bass
Rene Auer: Lead Guitar
Matthias Mai: Drums

Austrian metallers Garagedays formed in Rattenberg in 2005 founded by vocalist/rhythm guitarist Marco Kern to bring together a band dedicated to 80s metal.

The band have been busy with releases starting with a 10 track demo called "Wild and Dangerous" in 2007, Garagedays released two further albums in 2010 "Sight of the Blind" and "Dark and Cold". Heavy Metal Bullet reviewed "Dark and Cold" and you can check out that review here

All this hard work hasn't gone to waste as "Dark and Cold" was awarded "Demo of the Month" by a German webzine and soon after were signed by Massacre Records and towards the end of 2011 with US Management Bear Metal/Strange Brew Concerts (Tokyo Blade).

Named after their rehearsal room in a scrap yard Garagedays have a range of influences in particular NWOBHM bands and US bands of a similar style, Testament, Saxon, Judas Priest, Motorhead, Savatage, Iron Maiden, Slayer, Metallica and more.

And so onto the usual questions from Heavy Metal Bullet answered by Marco Kern...
"we don't fit in any category! That's what we WANT!" Marco Kern

Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): Would you consider yourself part of a specific genre and if so which one?
Marco Kern (MK): It's hard to say, I think it's a good mixture of styles like Thrash and Power Metal, Heavy Metal and maybe a little bit of Dark ;). So I don't think we are a thrash band or a power metal band at all. I totally agree with the critics in the magazines we don't fit in any category! That's what we WANT!

HMB: What was the first Heavy Metal album you bought?
MK: I can't remember, In my childhood I bought the albums together with my father! I've a big collection of Metal inherited from my father!

HMB: What was the last Heavy Metal Album you bought/downloaded?
MK: I prefer a physical CD, I think it was "The World is Yours" Motorhead

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
MK: As I said, I have a large metal collection inherited from my father! The collection includes such a lot of GREAT albums that I can't name any :)

HMB: What's the strangest thing you have seen at a gig?
MK: At a WASP concert Blacky got an electric shock through the microphone. The concert was cancelled of course, much to my chagrin!

So where can you check these guys out?
Myspace
Garagedays Website
Twitter : Garagedaysmetal
Facebook

Tuesday 3 January 2012

Heavy Metal Album Review: KREEP - Lead us Not

KREEP - Lead Us Not
(Metal Powered/Maximized Entertainment)
Rating : 8.5/10

"Lead us Not" is KREEPs debut album and what a sensational debut, but with a stellar band line up including an ex member of White Zombie I expected nothing less!

KREEP was formed by vocalist Brett Pirozzi as a way of expressing his anger at what he was hearing on the radio as portrayed excellently in "Metal to the Core" with lyrics including "Bring the metal back to the core" and "whatever happened to master of puppets".

Ivan de Prume of White Zombie fame among others makes himself known with his skills on the skins that provide the backdrop and fast paced tempo throughout the album. Carmine D.Amico, ex Butane, on guitar and Alan Vine on bass complete the line up of this power house of a metal band.

The album flows cohesively mixing the potent and passionate vocals with excellent guitar work and the the sonic wall of heaviness that emanates from the percussion.

Tracks in particular that stood out for me "Metal to the Core" with it's great lyrical content, "Bloodletting" has an almost early Marilyn Manson feel to it, "The Way that I am" has some excellent percussion.

To be honest I can find something good to say and a reason for you to listen to every track on this album so I will stop delaying you and let you get on with listening for yourself!

The album is available now on ITunes, Digital Stores, Amazon and finer record stores worldwide


1. Unheard
2. What
3. Bloodletting
4. Metal to the Core
5. Lie Down
6. Curb your Bitch
7. Lead Us Not
8. The Way that I Am
9. Left Alone
10. Bro Hymn
11. So Close I Breath You
12. Is It Everything
13. I Hate
14. I Never wanted to be your Friend
15. She watched Channel Zero


Monday 2 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Profile : One Fell Down

One Fell Down

Dan : Vocals
Daren : Bass
Russ : Guitar
Perrin : Drums
Sparx : Guitar

From South-end-on-Sea, Essex based metallers One Fell Down formed around 2003 after the collapse of the former band of Dan, Deren and Perrin, STOOPI. After losing touch for a while Perrin was then carried from the car to the bar, due to being on crutches, where over a few beers One Fell Down was formed.

With vocals, bass and drums all that was needed was guitars and after getting through Darren White (The Unrest), Nanz (Legion) and Aaron Darling (Romeo Must Die) they were finally joined by Russ in 2008 and Sparx in 2009.

With influences stemming from a lot of 90s bands, Pantera, White Zombie, Sepultura, Crowbar and so on individual band members also bring other influences to the mix, Mastodon and other classics (Russ), Djent/Tech (Perrin, Sparx) and Blues (Dan). The emphasis is on Heavy!
"The emphasis is on the Heavy, that's why we're a Heavy Metal Band" - Dan
One Fell Down have released a 4 track EP, 'Cartoons on Crack' which has been available since 2008 and is  available for free download on their Facebook page A new release will be coming out in 2012 and will be something Heavy Metal Bullet will be watching out for. The EP 'Deadman Walking' is just in the mixing stage and should be finished in the first couple of months of 2012

Despite being busy with the EP One Fell Down have still made time for some tour dates:
8th January @ The Arctic Festival in London
18th January @ The Fighting Cocks, Kingston
4th February @ Nambucca in London along with Romeo Must Die, L Sol Tace and Generation Graveyard.

And so onto the interview questions and in the hot seat today Dan Mcaninch (Vocals)
"The time when five friends travelled Middle Earth to get to Mordor and destroy a ring made of bad stuff... Hang on!"

Heavy Metal Bullet (HMB): Would you consider yourself part of any specific genre, if so what one?
Dan Mcaninch (DM): Crushpitballnanfucker core? Sinkpissingsisterfister core? There's a thousand and one genres at the moment. Heavy Fucking Metal... full stop.

HMB: What was the first metal album you bought?
DM: Slayer - 'Reign in Blood'! I was 4... Enough said!

HMB: What was the last album you bought/downloaded?
DM: The Deftones - 'Diamond Eyes' and it was bought in a shop where I interacted with a human being and handed over money that I had earned for a compact disc! Hintitty hint hint!

HMB: Do you own any albums you would be embarrassed to tell a metal head you own?
DM: Absolutely not! If I like an album, band, artist, song, I couldn't care less what other people think. Most music had merit somewhere in it... Unless you have anything to with Simon Fucking Cowell and X Factor, then merit is replaced by brain washing tactics and a propaganda plan. Hitler did that in the 30's, we called it Facism

HMB: What's the strangest thing you've seen at a gig?
DM: It wasn't till I watched a video back of us after a gig a few years ago, that I discovered electric fans can attach themselves to your arse as you fall from a 5ft high stage, and land square on your head and shoulders without spilling a single drop of beer from your left hand. Suck that David Blaine.
HMB: I guess One really did Fall Down (sorry bad I know I couldn't resist!) ahem... back to the questions!

HMB: Any funny band related stories you want to share?
DM: Too many! There's the time Perrin got picked up by the Police completely naked and told them he was robbed.
The time we all went out for drinks and a friend of ours shat on an unmarked Police car
The time when Sparx got kicked out from Paintball because he ran out of bullets and threw his gun at a warden
The time we all got kicked out from bowling when we discovered it had a kph gauge. Wicked!
The time when five friends travelled Middle Earth to get to Mordor and destroy a ring made of bad stuff... Hang on!

Check out the links below for more!
Facebook
One Fell Down Website

Heavy Metal Gigs January 2012

Heavy Metal Gigs January 2012

What better way to chase away the January blues than with some live music, below is a selection of the UK offerings for January 2012 by location:





Aberdeen:
21.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ The Tunnels

Belfast:
16.01.12 GWAR @ Spring & Airbrake
21.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ Spring & Airbrake

Bournemouth:
27.01.12 Bloodshot Dawn @ Sound Circus

Birmingham:
10.01.12 Thunder @ Glee Club
16.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ O2 Academy
19.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Asylum 2
21.01.12 Diamanthian @ Asylum
28.01.12 La Dispute @ Asylum 2

Brighton:
10.01.12 End of A Year (Self Defence Family) @ Green Door Store
21.01.12 Conan @ Cowley Club
25.01.12 Thunder @ Komedia Theatre
28.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ The Fleece

Bristol:
12.01.12 GWAR @ Bierkeller
17.01.12 Henry Rollins @ St George's Church
22.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ O2 Academy
27.01.12 Sheer Terror @ The Croft
29.01.12 Seregon @ The Croft

Cambridge:
12.01.12 Thunder @ The Junction
21.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Man on the Moon
25.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Cambridge Corn Exchange

Cardiff:
11.01.12 End of a Year (Self Defence Family) @ Undertone
19.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ Cardiff University SU

Carlisle:
13.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Brickyard

Colchester:
13.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Colchester Arts Centre


Coventry:
14.01.12 GWAR @ Kasbah

Dublin:
17.01.12 GWAR @ Button Factory
19.01.12 Steelwing @ The Pint
20.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ The Pint

Dundee:
23.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Beat Generator Live

Edinburgh:
14.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Bannermans

Gateshead
05.01.12 Thunder @ The Sage

Glasgow:
06.01.12 Thunder @ Oran Mor
12.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ ABC
14.01.12 End of A Year (Self Defence) @ 13th Note
15.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ 13th Note
19.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Barrowlands
22.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Cathouse
24.01.12 Monster Magnet @ The Garage & G2

Hull:
25.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Lamp

Leeds:
15.01.12 End of A Year (Self Defence Family) @ The Well
24.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ The Cockpit

Leicester:
22.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Soundhouse
23.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ De Monfort Hall
26.01.12 Azriel @ Lock 42

Liverpool:
27.01.12 Thunder @ O2 Academy

London:
07.01.12 Harm's Way + more @ Underworld
08.01.12 One Fell Down @ Arctic Festival
11.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Underworld
12.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Underworld
13.01.12 End of A Year (Self Defence Family) @ Purple Turtle
13.01.12 GWAR @ Electric
14.01.12 Chickenfoot @ O2 Academy Brixton
14.01.12 Slabdragger @ The Windmill
18.01.12 One Fell Down @ The Fighting Cocks, Kingston
20.01.12 Henry Rollins @ Royal Festival Hall
20.01.12 Steelwing @ Underworld
20.01.12 Thunder @ Bush Hall
21.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ HMV Forum
21.01.12 Thunder @ Bush Hall
27.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ The Borderline
27.01.12 Explosions in the Sky @ O2 Academy Brixton
28.01.12 Sheer Terror @ Underworld
28.01.12 Skepticism @ St Giles in the Field
28.01.12 Bloodshot Dawn @ Camden Rock

Manchester:
07.01.12 Thunder @ Manchester Academy 3
11.01.12 Harm's Way + more @ Star and Garter
12.01.12 Chickenfoot @ Manchester Academy 1
12.01.12 Henry Rollins @ Bridgewater Hall
14.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ The Ritz
15.01.12 GWAR @ HMV Ritz
18.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Moho Live
22.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ Moho Live
27.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Roadhouse
28.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ O2 Apollo
31.01.12 Biohazard @ Manchester Club Academy

Mansfield:
18.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Diamond

Margate:
10.01.12 Harm's Way + more @ Westcoast Bar
31.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Westcoast Bar

Newcastle:
13.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ O2 Academy
15.01.12 Henry Rollins @ Tyne Theatre
20.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ O2 Academy
21.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Newcastle City Hall

Northampton:
15.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ The Roadmender

Norwich:
11.01.12 Thunder @ Norwich Arts Centre
14.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Waterfront

Nottingham:
16.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ Rock City Nottingham
17.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Rescue Rooms
21.01.12 GWAR @ Rock City

Oxford:
18.01.12 Henry Rollins @ The Regal

Plymouth:
27.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ White Rabbit
31.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Pavillions

Portsmouth:
23.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ Portsmouth Pyramids
24.01.12 GWAR @ Highlight
26.01.12 Bloodshot Dawn @ The Edge

Reading:
22.01.12 GWAR @ Sub 89
30.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Sub 89

Sheffield:
19.01.12 Thunder @ Sheffield Memorial Hall
19.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Corporation
26.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Corporation
29.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Sheffield City Hall

Southampton:
29.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Joiners

Stoke-On-Trent:
26.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ The Sugarmill

Swansea:
20.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Garage
20.01.12 GWAR @ Sin City

Wakefield:
12.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ Snooty Fox

Wolverhampton:
19.01.12 Henry Rollins @ Wulfrun Hall
20.01.12 Asking Alexandria @ Wulfrun Hall
26.01.12 Thunder @ Wulfrun Hall
26.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ The Slade Rooms
27.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ Civic Hall

Wrexham:
18.01.12 GWAR @ Central Station
24.01.12 A Pale Horse Named Death @ Central Station
25.01.12 Black Dahlia Murder @ Central Station


York:
19.01.12 GWAR @ The Duchess
24.01.12 Thin Lizzy @ York Barbican
28.01.12 Morpheus Rising @ The Duchess

Heavy Metal Album Releases January 2012

Heavy Metal Album Releases January 2012

So from the long list of offerings to help make a bleak season bearable the one I am most looking forward to at the moment is Lamb of God's new album.

Someone told me the other day I was cliché for looking forward to Lamb of God? Not sure I follow the logic but definitely sure I don't care and will be blasting this on the old stereo towards the end of January!

However, for those who feel like being less cliché check out the remainder of January's offerings below in order of release date:

01.01.12
Aggression - Viocracy

02.01.12
Decaying - Encirclements
Lvcifyre - The Calling Depths

03.01.12
Anatomia/Absconder - Audible Assault (Split)
Horrendous - The Chills

09.01.12
Artificial Wish - Subconscious

10.01.12
Thy Catafalque - Rengeteg
Lunocode - Celestial Harmonies
Caspian - Live at the Old South Church
Dies Arae - Secret Veils of Passion
Haemoth - In Nomine Odium
Majestic Downfall - The Blood Dance
Vise Massacre - Expendable Humans

12.01.12
Alltheniko - Back in MMLXVI (2066)

13.01.12
Mosfet - Deathlike Thrash 'N' Roll
Nekromantheon - Rise, Vulcan Spectre
Amarna Reign - Storms

14.01.12
Eclipse Eternal - The Essence of Hopelessness

16.01.12
Drakkar - When Lightening Strikes
Your Tomorrow Alone - Ordinary Lives
Disguise - Second Coming

17.01.12
Abysmal Dawn - From Ashes (Re-Release)
The Devil's Blood - The Thousand Fold Epicentre
Secrets - The Ascent
Almah - Motion
Attack Attack! - This Means War
Buck Satan and the 666 Shooters - Bikers Welcome! Ladies Drink Free
Detrimentum - Inhuman Disgrace
Everything went Black - Cycles of Light
Farsot - Insects
Lantios - Agape
Lioncloth - Iron Balls of Steel
Rising - To Solemn Ash
Shining - Blackjazz Live
Spectral Mortuary - Total Depravity
Touchstone - The City Sleeps

20.01.12
Desert Sine - Destination Paradise
Ecliptica - Journey Saturnine
Blind Guardian - Memories of a Time to Come
Pilgrim - Misery Wizard
Beyond the Bridge - The Old Man and the Spirit
The Cage - The Third Cage
Primal Fear - Unbreakable

21.01.12
Winter Deluge - AS the Earth Fades into Obscurity

24.01.12
Descravity - Implicit Obedience
Racebannon - Six Sik Sisters
Dodecahedron - Dodecahedron
Nothnegal - Decadence
Aborted - Global Flatline
Lacuna Coil - Dark Adrenaline
Rise to Remain - City of Vultures
Wolfen - Chapter IV
Lamb of God - Resolution
Behold the Monolith - Defender, Redeemist
Dead Icons - Condemned

27.01.12
Nexus Inferius - A Vision of the Final Earth
Irdorath - Dekonstrukteur Des Fleisches
El Caco - Hatred, Love & Diagrams
Krossfire - Learning to Fly
Iron Fire - Voyage of the Damned
Re-Armed - Worldwide Hypnotize
Steelwing - Zone of Alienation

31.01.12
Azaghal - Nemesis

Happy Listening \m/

Sunday 1 January 2012

Heavy Metal New Blood Album Review: Garagedays - Dark and Cold

Garagedays - Dark and Cold
(Massacre Records)
Rating: 7.5/10

Mixed and mastered at Sweden's Sonic Train Studios by Andy La Rocque (King Diamond), Austrian metal band Garagedays new offering "Dark and Cold" starts off heavy!

The album has quite an 80s metal feel to it, particularly with the vocals. Having said this the album is not a cheesy throwback but manages to bring the good parts of the 80s and repackage them for a modern audience.

On the opening track "Last Breath" the vocals initially give an almost punk feel, but soon the guitar solo kicks in leaving you in no doubt that this is metal.

Everything works well together on this album the vocals compliment the virtuoso style guitar and the percussion both underpins and comes into it's element of it's own accord, in short a solid, decent old school metal album that doesn't pretend to be anything different.

Stand out tracks are a lot for fast paced heavy look no further than "Last Breath" or "Piece of Shit". In the mood for something a bit darker try "Father", something slower "Four" or something mixing a bit of everything and probably my personal favourite "Conscience".

Check these guys out at the links below (no seriously go now and check them out!)
Official Video on You Tube
Facebook
My Space
Garagedays Website

1. Last Breath
2. Lord of the Darkness
3. Father
4. Blow Away
5. Four
6. I'm your Hate
7. Piece of Shit
8. Conscience
9. Black Bridges
10. Dark and Cold