JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2004 UPDATE
(reviews are listed alphabetically...)
ABOMINATOR
"Noctemeron Descent" CD 68/100
Fast and Brutal Death Metal
Australia
Most of the more prolific Australian metal bands belong to the extreme end of the spectrum (apart from AC/DC obviously). Destroyer 666 or Sadistik Exekution to name but two. Abominator who just released their third album, Noctemeron Descent, are of the same ilk: uncompromising, hyperspeed blasts and gutwrenching vokills from alpha to omega with nigh a pause to breathe. The foursome from down under delivers the kind of qualitative punch we have come to expect from a band signed to Osmose: good decent songs with an albeit not too high or unacceptable degree of innovation. Straightforward, no holds barred, aggressive Death Metal, just the way our neighbors used to hate it.
Samoht
http://www.osmoseproductions.com
ACHERON
"Rebirth: Metamorphosing Into Godhood" CD 70/100
Satanic Death metal
USA
Following the disappointment many devil worshippers had felt when the world had failed do go asunder in a blaze of apocalyptic fire with the turn of the century, the dark legions seem to have found new strength in this unholy year four. First Deicide decides to step down from their self erected and -of late- undeserved pedestal to brand the true nature of Evil in our foreheads and now, long time runners Acheron show us another lesson in satanized Death American style. Darkness exudes here from every riff as if every note was not simply played but spawned from the infernal pits of hell, coated with bile and sulfur, invocating the ancient ones through either Christ brutalizing blastbeats or torporous ritual chantings. Let he who hath understanding…
Samoht
http://www.black-lotus-recs.com / Rock Inc.
AFTER@ALL
"Something/To/Show"
promo CD-R 95/100
Modern Progressive Rock/Metal
Hungary
Certainty has definitely been reached: Hungary has more to offer than we thought... even way more! Look here: after@all is another rather unknown yet unbelievably talented band that makes you want to knock at all label doors until your phalanges bleed. In fact, I'm hundred percent sure that giving them the right exposure outside their homeland would make lots of Rock and Metal fans very happy. Coming up with music such as the one these guys came up with is indeed not an ordinary thing. I mean, it's not just "good"... I would rather say it's divine! What I really enjoy is the fact that their progressive edge is not just made of odd measures, complex harmonies and the habitual palette of artifices. There's been a very thorough research here and I'm talking about sounds, effects, the postproduction work etc. Imagine Nickelback's singer Chad Kroeger writing music with Dream Theater's drummer Mike Portnoy and guitarist John Petrucci. Give them some time to share their ideas and make sure you play some 70's groovy and thrilling Rock in the background when they take a break (any Led Zep should do). You'll soon find yourself in the same neighborhood where I stand when I listen to after@all. Careful: I'm not saying they're similar to each other, at least not separately, but the final outcome is nothing but a great mixture of Progressive Metal And Modern Rock, a style that has probably been explored sometimes but certainly never this very same killer way...
RNO
http://www.after-all.com / Hardebaran
ALIAS
EYE "A Different Point of You"
(DVS Records) CD 70/100
Progressive Rock
Germany
On "A Different Point Of You" Alias Eye are continuing on their road of multi-influenced Progressive Rock, with lots of surprising passages and good use of original acoustic instruments such as the sitar, clarinet and accordion. Let's start with a quick overview of the best tracks on the CD: "A Clown's Tale" is a strong opener thanks to the exotic eastern influences. The second track "Fake The Right" is probably the best song on the CD. It has a strong chorus and the funky guitar makes it sound rather joyful. Other good tracks on the CD are "On The Fringe" (with its twists and turns it's the best track on the CD from a composer's point of view), "The Usual Routine" (simply an uplifting poppy Rock song), "The Great Open" (of the three ballads on the CD, it's the best one, because of the contrast with the heavier segments) and the odd closer "Too Much Toulouse" (a vintage lounge Jazz song which should've been sung by a velvet-voiced diva). The aforementioned songs represent more than half of what's on the CD, so it's by no means a weak offering. What's left is a couple of problematic tracks: "Your Other Way" is a lackluster affair that progresses too slowly. The bit with the accordion and the acoustic guitar is good though, but it's not enough to save the sinking ship. The reason why it seems to be going nowhere is in part due to the vocals, which aren't varied enough. That's an odd thing because the singer actually has a good melodic voice. It's just that throughout the album he sometimes gives me the impression of being bored or frightened of doing something different than what he's used to. But let's get on with it. "Icarus Underworld" is a bland ballad. It only gets interesting at the end when the instrumental part starts with its beautiful low profile guitar solo. "Drifting" is another syrupy ballad and easily the worst track on the entire CD. It's great stuff if you're a 15 year old girl in a romantic mood but not if you're a large sweaty troll-like person with a hairy butt and an Amazon forest of nostril hairs, like yours truly (…and proud of it, thank you very much). Those of you who know Alias Eye's previous CD "Field Of Names" will notice that their new CD is very similar in style and approach. You could consider it a companion CD. But it's softer on average. I also have the impression that it's less expressive. Finally it doesn't have a real standout track (such as the title track of their previous CD). On the other hand, after having listened to it a few times, it's an album that seems to grow on you. It wouldn't surprise me if in a few weeks time I'll prefer it to "Field Of Names", especially if I skip the two ballads. So in the end I'll have to say that it has enough strong points and an overall high enough song quality to label it a good album. It surely offers lots to enjoy for anyone who's into Prog Rock.
Foob
http://www.dvsrecords.com / Rock Inc.
AMBRAZURA
"Storm In Your Brain"
CD 72/100
Brutal Death Metal
Russia
This is the first official release of Ambrazura of what seems to be a long list, according to the somewhat confused release note; three other albums are in preparation and ready to be released. Much information about this band is not available. Ambrazura is a trio from somewhere in Russia (yeah, it is a huge country isn't it, and the few names of Russian cities I could find on the CD did not ring a bell at all!) and they play very loud and very fast music, a bit like Mortician but then with a real living (?) drummer. They basically play old school Brutal Death Metal, with very nice and elaborated guitar solos. The overall sound is not great (frankly, I did not expect the contrary) but it is still acceptable. The cover of this CD looks pretty cheap, but I liked it anyway, it really reminds you of the old Thrash and Death Metal CD covers from for instance Slayer, Obituary and many others... "Storm in your Brain" is really the right title for this album; put this CD on and you will see, it does not leave a lot of your brain left to think or do something else (except drinking beers maybe!) I am just curious to see if this album will ever reach our little country…
AOD
AMPLIFIER
"Amplifier"
CD 86/100
Airy Rock/Metal
UK
This utterly enjoyable piece of plastic was supposed to be released earlier in 2003 but for some reason it was delayed until now. It's not a problem per se but when I got to discover the album, I was full of eloquence and now that I finally get the occasion to express myself about it, I feel like all my words have turned into nothing. Strange, especially since one could "normally" write a whole book instead of just giving Amplifier a simple review. In fact, there would be much to say because Amplifier has so much to offer... But I can't quite clarify that anymore. Probably because I've listened to the CD too much and have explained everything to myself already; I don't feel like using words is the most adequate thing to do anymore: listening to the record is enough. At least, to me. Amplifier is a sort of Rock/Metal band with a Stoner edge, which makes their music extremely delightful. Like groove and grace molten together in perfect harmony. Led Zep had an impact on the trio but they didn't just copy. They alchemized...
RNO
http://www.music-for-nations.co.uk / Zomba
ANATA
"Under A Stone With No Inscription"
CD 82/100
Death Metal
Sweden
After having released two albums under the label Seasons of Mist, Anata has signed a new deal with Earache's sub label Wicked World. Ever since their first album was released, Anata's popularity has increased, and it probably still will, as this new CD is once again one excellent Death Metal jewel. Their music is described as a 'perplexing mix of technical Metal such as Cryptopsy, Death or Theory in Practice and modern noisecore sounds' and I can only agree with that. Their sound and music is very technical indeed, but also ultra-fast, heavy and aggressive and thus puts all the best elements found in the different Death Metal sub-'categories' together in one band. Believe me, we don't find this very often and sliding one CD in my player just makes the day! One sure thing for me is that the day this band ceases to exist - and I hope this is not gonna be soon - there is definitely gonna be a name on their stone: ANATA, with big red capital letters, and they will be remembered forever and ever!
AOD
http://www.earache.com / Zomba
ANTI-FLAG
"The Terror State"
CD 85/100
Punk
USA
This is the Anti-Flag album I have been waiting for my whole life! I already heard a couple of their previous albums and I wasn't very enthusiastic about them music wise. There was something missing to persuade me to buy them. Now, Anti-Flag has always been very famous for their politically engaged lyrics, which is something I respect them for, and which I think is very good. But for a reviewer, it is difficult to judge a band only for their beliefs instead of for the music they write. But this album has got both the politic view on things and the rhythms. Who said politics are a tough subject in school? I think music is the best way to express how you feel about these issues: Bush, the social situation, the 'oppression' in the US …all topics are represented in every single song of this album. This way of expressing yourself gets even more interesting if you do it in a very amusing way like in this "Terror State" album (produced by Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine/Audioslave). They push the music that far that you even start to sing along with these catchy tracks. This is the perfect way to learn something you haven't thought about yet, or that you saw from a different point of view. And even if you aren't interested in what they have got to say - which I might doubt - you get for over half an hour's worth of quality (old school) Punk Rock. Thumbs up and respect!
YVES
http://www.sonic.nl / Sonic Rendezvous
A.O.R.
"Dreaming Of L.A."
CD 80/100
Westcoast
US/France
There are 2 ways to tackle this one: starting an argument that AOR (the band) does not really play AOR (the music) or fill this review with endless namedropping. Let's do a bit of both. AOR is a project led by Frenchman Frédéric Slama who clearly has a thing with L.A. as this is AOR's 4th release with a reference to the city of angels in the title. It's the first time (outside Japan) that he really has the backing of a label, which is strange as already before he worked with a lot of "big" names in the industry. The 2002 release "L.A. Reflections" had practically all Toto members participating; now it's only Steve Lukather, but with people like Tommy Denander, Bruce Gaitsch and Michael Landau the Toto connection is never far away. Besides the opener "You're My Obsession" (vocals by Steve Overland of FM) there is not a lot of AOR on the album. Mostly it's pure Westcoast, so pretty soft material in the vein of Chicago ("Teach Me How To Love Again" featuring Bill Champlin), Doobie Brothers ("Lost In Your Eyes"), Richard Marx and eighties Toto (from "IV" till "The Seventh One"). In the end it all looks a bit like "I scratch your back, if you'll scratch mine"! "On Dangerous Grounds" features David Roberts who released a solo album with the help of Toto back in '82. "Worlds Away", one of 3 songs already on "L.A. Reflections", features Dane Donohue, solo album in '78 with the help of Toto and Bill Champlin. Got the picture? What's there left to mention? That "Haunted By Your Smile" sounds like Quarterflash, that "Sensation" on the previous release was sung by Goran Edman. That David Chamberlin, who sung most of the tracks on the previous release, now only features on 3: "Malibu Escapade", "Fly With Me" and "Don't Give Up On Love", which isn't too bad as these are not all that "clean" in the vocal department. Summing it up, if you are into easy listening you can't do much better than with this record, but it could have done with more tracks like "You're My Obsession" and "Sensation".
Jo-1
http://www.AOR.com / Germusica
ASMALLVICTORY
"The Pieces We Keep"
EP 81/100
Punk rock
USA
Yes! When you look at the bands on Lobster records, you can certainly conclude that this is a big quality label. Asmallvictory is one of their latest conquests, and when you listen to their latest album, this "The Pieces We Keep" EP, you understand why. The first impression I got, was less enthusiastic than what I think about it know. In the beginning I thought this was one Emo Punk Rock band more to be added to the endless list of newcomer bands in this genre. But quickly I realized that I was wrong and I reconsidered my opinion. So you have got to listen to an album many times before you come up with a judgment! Asmallvictory brings enough variation, freshness and "content", so much even that they started moving upwards in this so-called list. I can't tell you which of these songs is my favorite. They are all different and equally well composed, so my conclusion is that this entire album rocks! The only thing I regret about this album is that I just can't get enough of the 6 songs! This makes me look forward with great expectations to their next release. Let's consider this EP as a small victory for many other great battles this band will fight!
YVES
ATTIKA
"Attika"
lp/cd 85/100
80's Power Metal
USA
I'm not sure how many of you out there remember this band's debut CD from '93 (Massacre Records) but those who do will undoubtedly think back on it with fond memories. In a day and age when Grunge was taking the world by storm and Death Metal was the trend of the day, classic sounding Metal albums were hard to come by and sadly, those who did get released were almost destined to die a silent death. But some bands like Attika stayed loyal to their roots and refused to change their direction in order to sell more albums. And their "When Heroes Fall" was destined to become one of the most overlooked albums of the 90's… But anyway, now thanks to the label Cult Metal Classics (Greece) we are finally able to enjoy the band's debut album on both vinyl and CD (it was released on cassette format only in 1989). And I must say it was well worth the wait. If 80's Metal is your thing you just have to pick this one up… Anyone into bands like Helstar, old Fates Warning, Attacker, Omen, etc. will love this one! A mixture of Epic, Power and Speed Metal, this one has all the ingredients of a real cult classic. I am really grateful to Cult Classics for unearthing material such as this, for many people are simply dying to hear some real old school US Metal and Attika is able to satisfy that need with ease. A must have for any old school fanatic and an album which will show many youngsters exactly how godly the 80's really were! And did I mention that it's also available on vinyl!?!
MJ
http://www.cultmetalclassics.com / Rock inc.
AUTUMN
"Osen Vechna"
76/100
Melancholic Doom Metal
Russia
Living in Russia is not an easy thing. That's why Russian music sounds so sad. Cheap deduction, I know... Nevertheless, I guess what most listeners tend to forget when they hear Doom Metal is that the ways of sadness are somehow very parallel to those of beauty and that every single expression of grief can rapidly turn into a jubilant serenade if interpreted with a sensitive spirit. In the case of "Osen Vechna", even though Autumn has clearly been inspired by Moonspell, My Dying Bride, Dissolving Of Prodigy and other European Doom Metal bands of the nineties, one can effortlessly perceive that the band transcended its inner melancholy to finally come up with an awesome suite of airy and atmospheric songs that - together - form a very coherent ensemble of lights and colors. Autumn are not your average eastern impersonators and are thus highly recommended to check out.
RNO
AXENSTAR
"Far From Heaven"
CD 84/100
Melodic Power Metal
Sweden
Axenstar's "Far From Heaven" is a record I can really advise to every Melodic Power Metal maniac that's into great Melodic Metal such as Sonata Arctica, Stratovarius and friends. Why do I compare them with those two bands? Well, because they give me almost the same 'magical, happy feeling' Sonata Arctica and Stratovarius give me. The musical quality of this Swedish band reaches very high levels. Axenstar is able to make fast and earcatching songs (e.g.: "Blind Leading The Blind", "Don't Hide Your Eyes", "Abandoned", "Children Forlorn") with cool guitar and keyboard duels (e.g.: "Far From Heaven", "Death Denied"), variegated drumming and all the other things a good band needs (bass!). I think everything is present to become a great band. The voice of singer Marcus Winterwild is also a major advantage. He has a very pleasant voice to listen to. The only minor point, in my opinion, is the typical ballad at the end of the record. Not that it's a bad one - it certainly isn't - but it's just too much 'I've heard this before'. Anyway, it still remains a very good record. Credits to the nice artwork as well!
Mr Moshpit
BESTIAL
MOCKERY "Evoke The Desecrator"
CD 85/100
Filthy Black Trash
Sweden
Sons of Satan, gather thyself round to witness the unholy spawning of this demonic motherf**ing beast. Grasp your bullet belts and prepare for the sleaziest, dirtiest, blackened trash this side of Belphegor and Nunslaughter. This is completely and utterly uncompromising, excruciatingly retro and unmistakably irresistible. Like Bathory reinvented (and to be preferred over the poor 'would be' rehashes our beloved demon child Quorthon regurgitated these past few years.) Expect no subtlety here. Neither musically nor lyrically. Eloquent Phrases like 'Open your cunt, Necroslut!!' are quite commonplace. The vocalist sounds like a dead ringer for fellow heathen Legion, formerly of Marduk. Actually he sounds so much like him, I wouldn't be surprised if it really were him. The songs themselves are midtempo, Frost inspired Black Metal that occasionally grinds down to a creeping, crushing death rattle. Highly recommended for blackening your soul.
Samoht
http://www.osmoseproductions.com
BLIND
ALLEY "Infinity Ends"
CD 85/100
AOR
Sweden
Respect! What else is there to say for a band that believes so much in its music that they released their debut via mp3.com, which created the possibility to release this follow-up via AORHeaven. The band consists of 3 Swedish musicians with backgrounds in some less familiar bands with names like Fortune (not the US band(s)), Shadow Play and Stargazer. "Infinity Ends" is clear-cut stuff for lovers of AOR of the "softer kind", which means most tracks are super melodic, mid-tempo covered in thick syrup of keyboards. But this is so "effing" catchy that I gladly become a diabetic. Pick any song from this album to get an idea of what to expect: "Here Comes The Heartache" (Styx), "We Still Belong", which starts like "Don't Answer Me" from ELO and then turns into classic Alan Parson's Project, "One Life" (Asia), "From Now On" (Westcoast), "Hunter" (Toto), and so on. The excellent vocals, the sugar-sweet (there we are again) choirs, the great song writing… it's all there. One track definitely sticks out here (musically), namely "Wild Rose", this is so like Dare (album "Belief") that it's hard to believe it is not a cover! For completeness, the 2 bonus tracks "Internal Affairs" (Streets) and "In Your Hand" also featured on their debut. There is only 1 word to end this review with and that's the same word that started it!
Jo-1
BONFIRE
"Free"
CD 68/100
Melodic Hard Rock
Germany
Wow, this took me completely by surprise! How I would have liked to start this review with those words, but I'm afraid it's yet again not to be. Bonfire is still Bonfire and that's the conclusion after listening to this 13th release (including live albums and compilations). The promo material refers to "a different music-style" with "some songs sound like Led Zeppelin, Queen, REM, Tom Petty, Beatles or AC/DC"? Excuse me? There is something to say for the first statement on musical styles though. "I Would Do Anything 4 U" is modern Rock like Rubber (Harem Scarem) produces and an excellent example of it too! Opener "On And On…" and "What About Love" are great songs that immediately bring Gotthard to mind. The 4th track "Rock'n'Roll Star (Born To Rock)" thrives on a vocoder gimmick, but after that it's "classic" Bonfire again. The ballads "Free", "Love CCA" (Frontline) and "Friends" are all suffering from the same problem, that indefinable "German sound" ('I'm Fwee'). Not sure if lyrically you still get away with "Kickin' ass all night, we all wanna rock, do you feel allright, we all wanna rock" or "this song is written for the ones who rock and all the dj's in the world who suck… for the wild and young and ladies with big boobs on"!!? (from "Preachers & Whores"). And "September On My Mind" (guess what that's all about) is totally misplaced for a European band. With respect for the thousands of records sold and for the long history, but pure mathematics make for the result above: (4 x 80) + (6 x 60).
Jo-1
http://the-flame.com / Rock Inc.
BURMA
SHAVE "Smile City"
CD 85/100
Alternative Rock / Pop
Netherlands
This Dutch band is probably not unknown to some of you as they had some success in the past in their home country and in Belgium and France. To those who know their earlier CD's, 1991's "Burma Shave", 1992's "Stash" and 1995's "Zeal" (which, if you haven't heard them yet, are still worth your attention) I can tell that this new release - their first one on the small Red Sea label - sounds more mature. Hey, after all they're 19 years older than when they first started out. Some songs on "Smile City" have a laid back aspect à la Morphine (such as "Rain" and "Mr. Karaoke"), others are quirky in an interesting way and may please fans of Brian Eno or even Soul Coughing (especially with the weird samples in songs like "Icarus", "Art" and "Something"). The mood varies from upbeat ("Kabootar") to downright moody ("Straight") as the songs skip from soft warm slightly Bluesy or Funky Pop over Rock 'n' Roll ("Walther") to rather powerful Alternative Rock ("Hotel Kabul"). The CD is sometimes straight-forward, sometimes arty, but never bland or inaccessible. In short, everything's in near perfect balance. And tasty too. If Burma Shave were the name of a restaurant it's clear that it wouldn't serve fast food. Instead you're treated to a varied dish filled with the finest and slightly exotic ingredients. And even though the courses taste different enough there's no feeling that the meal as a whole lacks unity. Nevertheless, metalheads will not be as pleased though, when I tell them that "Smile City" is less Metal influenced than "Zeal" was. But don't let this stop you, because "Smile City" is one of those rare high quality thinking man's Rock/Pop albums that don't sound overdone or pretentious.
Foob
Red Sea Records / Rock Inc.
CADAVERIA
"Far Away From Conformity"
CD 80/100
Horror Metal
Italy
Mistress Cadaveria is back with a new horror metal release! I actually never had the chance to listen to Cadaveria's first CD, but if I remember well, the debut album was in most cases approved. Well, I personally also approved this second release! The term 'horror' Metal suits Cadaveria totally, the music is pretty aggressive, sharp as a razor blade, but most of all, the vocals of Cadaveria chills you trough the bone. Both her high vocals and death grunts are pretty scary, luckily for the listener; she is sometimes also using her 'normal' voice, which leaves you some time to breathe again! But also the rather monolithic heavy rock guitar sound as well as the sick and distorted bass lines of "Killer Bob" have something maleficent. According the release note I got, a lot of attention was put in order to have a much cleaner sound compared to Cadaveria's first album, of course without losing any power! I particularly liked the fourth track "The Divine Rapture". This mid tempo song has a very recognizable main theme and an extremely high evil content. And some of you might recognize the song "Call Me", originally brought by Blondie... I sure prefer this version, it is pretty sick! I have the feeling that at last tracks of this album are maybe a little less intense, but in general, this album is surely worth being given a try!
AOD
CASUAL
SILENCE "Once In A Blue Moon"
CD 68/100
Neoclassical and Folk influenced Progressive Metal / Neo-progressive Rock
Netherlands
I have a problem. While nearly everyone seems to be raving about this Dutch band ("a masterpiece", "a rare gem", etc…), I can't see what the fuss is all about. Yes, they are pretty good. Yes, this CD has a lot to offer, but I don't think they are the next big thing. Not yet anyway. Another thing I don't understand is how many reviewers are going on about those strong vocals, while to me they sound like those of many other neo-progressive singers I have heard in the past. They are average but certainly not exceptional. To my taste the vocals of the main singer (two other vocalists contribute as well) are too nasal, a bit insecure and not really pleasant to listen to. But let's now turn our attention to that which is the most important. The songs. On the surface they seem well crafted. They lie somewhere in-between Progressive Metal and Neo-Progressive Rock, which means they are not as complex as your average Dream Theater track for example, but not as poppy as Pallas or IQ. There are influences from Folk (folky keyboard melodies that sound like flutes are sometimes present) and Neoclassical Metal (most of the time the keyboards are rather symphonic, hence this reference to the Neoclassical Metal genre). So, normally everything should be in place for a Prog Rock joyride. Nevertheless, at least half of the tracks fail to get me excited at all because they are either to patchy or because they lack an "element of instant appeal", something which sets them apart from the rest. But even to an extremely hard to please listener as myself, the CD has many fine elements. In fact, the musicians are good. The guitar playing especially is one of the strong points (having three guitarists helps of course). The canon bit in "Dreampath" is fun, just the kind of thing Spock's Beard would do. The song "Moon" is great in its entirety (apart from those vocals, that is). It has nothing of the dramatic feel of most other tracks, partially because it's a soft semi-ballad and too many layers of instruments would've killed it. And finally, there's the female guest singer. She's better than the three male vocalists combined. In short "Once In A Blue Moon" is a better than average effort with a decent (but not exceptional) production of a band that shows a lot of promise. It will appeal to the Progressive metalheads who like their music a bit on the dramatic side, but not too brainy. I only hope that next time I will be able to rave about them as well.
Foob
http://www.casualsilence.nl / Rock Inc.
CATCH
22 "Dinosaur Sounds"
CD 80/100
Ska Punk
USA
Finally! I thought they were never going to release a new album anymore. Well, I've been surprised in many ways. First of all: the voice. I thought it sounded kind of different… of course, it's a new singer! (The former singer now sings with Streetlight Manifesto) His voice is kind of the same and he did a pretty good job at it, but you can clearly hear his influence in the music. And although there have been some line-up changes, this album still sounds how Catch 22 has always sounded, but I think it was very difficult to make a better record than their previous ones, among which the excellent "Alone In A Crowd". Catch 22 is a band that spontaneously makes me start skanking from the first tunes I hear. Now, either I'm getting older, or it took me more time with this album this time to get my feet and moods swinging. Why is that? Because this "Dinosaur Sounds" is more mature (maybe except for the title ;p) musically I think. It's not only about swinging, but this time the songs have better and more solid structures and there's more variation, but it still remains rather much fun. Once you get used to this new 'concept', you start to appreciate what they did. And I think they made a great album. It's not one I'll be listening every day, but it will bring a smile to my face every time I'll hear it. This is quality Ska/Punk!
YVES
http://www.hardlifepromotion.com / Hardlife promotion
CEA
SERIN "...Where Memories Combine..."
CD 84/100
Prog Metal
USA
"...Where Memories Combine..." is the kind of disc you may try to avoid as a reviewer. Not because it's bad... On the contrary! The thing is that it's so well done that one feels awfully responsible for writing an equally perfect review, detecting all the cool details that have been kept in the background and making sure no one passes by without noticing all the efforts that have been made in order to obtain such an expressive and intelligent recording. Now, I can't make an in-depth description of all that is happening in my headphones but at least I can assure you that it's worth the detour. The production of the album is very nice, though in my opinion the guitars lack some warmth (while the definition is just perfect) and the drum machine should categorically be cast aside... but the compositions are just superb! Rhythmic patterns are not the craziest but they're quite sophisticated and make the songs sound more personal. Melodic lines are easy (speaking of scales and stuff) but they're also very rich because of the clever incorporation of harmonies brought by keyboards and/or other additional instruments. Furthermore, J. Lamm's voice is tremendously calm and assertive at the same time and that's another good point because not all singers can achieve what he did here. Let's see what the demanding specialized Prog world will think of Cea Serin. I say they kick ass...
RNO
CERBERUS
"Chapters Of Blackness"
CD 56/100
Black Metal
Germany
The previous CD I got to hear from this German Black Metal band was a true nightmare. The recording was so cheap that I thought I had accidentally entered a time travel machine and I had been warped back to the Middle Ages, when "recording" was not even a word. Now, this new release isn't an Andy Sneap production either, but at least I can hear what's happening... Unfortunately, what I hear is not good. It's nothing more than very basic Black Metal influenced by Dark Throne, Burzum and such... Nothing special to talk about actually... I'm wondering: are people still willing to buy this kind of stuff? I don't believe so...
RNO
CORPUS
MORTALE "With Lewd Demeanor"
CD 65/100
Modern death metal
Sweden
Swedish Death metallers Corpus Mortale are like the cars built in their country. Reliable, steadfast, up to standard, but somewhat lacking in originality and personality. Their modern take on technical Death Metal is pleasing to the ears and won't put off anyone who takes some liking to Swedish Tødtsmetall. They combine virtuoso blastbeat sections with grooving parts, a touch of latter day Carcass here with a pinch of Death there. And it's all executed quite well. All three musicians share some true professionalism together with their common love for extreme music. Yet, and you probably see where I'm getting at here. Throw them in with a No Mercy festival. No problem, they'll have the place rocking. But on album it just doesn't gel the way it should.
Samoht
http://www.neurotic-records.com
CRYONIC
TEMPLE "Blood, Guts & Glory"
CD 95/100
Sublime True Metal
Sweden
Wow, who had ever expected these five Swedes to come up with something this overpoweringly convincing? Last year's debut "Chapter I", was an unassuming piece with no pretensions, but performed with an irresistible, almost childlike enthusiasm. It was a textbook example of a record where the common love for the genre made up for any lack in songwriting skills or technical expertise. With "Blood , Guts & Glory" this is hardly the case. In fact, this is, basically, strides ahead of most True Metal I've heard this year. Morphine Dreams, the intro, is not your average breezing horses and clashing swords cliché, but a very moody piano piece with a subtle hint of modern electronics in the background. Then "Mercenaries Of Metal" kicks in. Even though the title might send shudders down your spine, the sheer quality of this song can't be denied. This is one Metal anthem that just sticks in your head and it's no one hit wonder neither; "Inquisition, Swords and Diamonds" and following all share the same goal to blow the speakers of any infidel who might claim that Heavy Metal has no place anymore in today's world of heaviness. Buy or take that leather jacket off now, I mean it.
Samoht
http://www.limb-music.de / Hard Life Promotion
CYNICON
"Cybernetic"
CD 77/100
Black Metal
Norway
"Cybernetic" is the first official release of Cynicon. Two demos preceded this CD, which next to some new material contains new versions of the tracks on demo 2 and one of their first. Cynicon rose from the ashes of the atmospheric Black Metal group Solemn. When their drummer left and was replaced by a drum machine, the band was forced to take on a new musical course. Due to these major changes, the band name was replaced and Cynicon was born. Nowadays, Cynicon counts five members, again wit a flesh-and-blood drummer. The music of Cynicon can be described as basically Black Metal, but with a strong melodic Heavy Metal input. Especially the very industrial keyboard and drum sound is pretty close to what we've heard before from e.g. Luca Turilli, Airborn or Star One. Also the vocals are particular, most of the time very Black Metal but sometimes also very Heavy Metal, as it is clearly the case for the track "Intragalactic". From time to time we even get the high King Diamond-like screams! Original it is, however the result is - to me at least - somewhat bleak and not atmospheric enough. But then again, this was maybe the precise result Cynicon wanted to obtain. I could not lay hands on the lyrics, but song titles like "Cybernetic", "Astral Luminance" and "Neutronomicon" speak for themselves. No blasphemy and devil worshipping here! Cynicon is definitely a part of the new Norwegian Black Metal wave, but, to be honest, they did not totally convince me and I still prefer to stick to the 90ties wave. Nah, maybe I'm just getting old and at least everyone should make this up by himself, for instance by giving this CD a try.
AOD
DARK
AVENGER "X Dark Years"
MCD 85/100
Power Metal
Brazil
Dark Avenger celebrate their 10th anniversary in the Metal scene with this mini-CD, containing a rearranged version of their song "Dark Avenger" and 3 other new songs. For me personally, it's a first encounter with this Brazilian band's music and that's a real shame. This mini CD truly is a masterpiece of epic, sometimes aggressive, sometimes very gentle and subtle Power Metal. The intro on "Dark Avenger 2003" is very magical, mysterious and brings you straight into the right mood. "Caladvwch", the second track on the CD is one excellent ballad, very technical and delicate with so many different soft sounds. You don't hear those very often… "Utther Evil" starts with a nice piano solo (hey, usually I do not really like those too much, but again here it's totally in its place, announcing the doom of the upcoming song). "Utther Evil" is very dark indeed. "Unleash Hell" is the last track on this silver disc. Nah, the title speaks for itself, no further comment is necessary! Of course, this MCD goes with very nice artwork, just have a close look at it… It actually is the reflection of the four tracks on this album. My conclusion: every Power Metal fan should at least have "X Dark Years" in his collection! Having read this, there is no excuse left for delaying your salvation!
AOD
DARK
EMBRACE "Bitter End"
CDr 71/100
Doom-Metal
Spain
"Bitter End" is the first demo of this Spanish Doom Metal quartet. After the first auditions I had a feeling that I heard this many times before in our local Metal scene. It was nothing special. A little bit later I appreciated this already a lot more. It's still nothing very special and you can hear it's a demo, but it has it charms. I really start to like this Doom Metal and although Dark Embrace still has a lot to learn it has some potential. About the music now. After a short piano intro, named "Dying Breath", the demo starts with the title track "Bitter End". It's a 7 minute song with a simple but nice lead riff and good keyboard and cello parts. Unfortunately, in the parts where the vocalist uses his clean voice, you can hear his Spanish tongue and it isn't always in tune. I believe this problem can be solved in the near future. His screams and grunts are good. The singing itself isn't top shelf, but it isn't bad either. The third track, "The Threat Of Flesh And Its Libidinous Storms of Silence" isn't a silent song at all. This song starts very fast, with a hard scream and although there are a lot of tempo changes, this is a very enjoyable song. There are a lot of Black Metal influences in it. When you listen carefully you'll hear it isn't always played tight and some things aren't yet as they should be (rhythm changes), but it comes close. I think that, given that it gets the chance to evolve some more, this can become a much better song than it is now. I would say this is the embryonic phase of a song which can only get better… Then it's time for the last track, called "Fragility Of Life". It's less than 3 minutes long and lies more in the vein of the first song. Nice lead again, fine solo and also good guitar plucking and drumming, but I think this song isn't finished yet. The keys at the end are a little bit disturbing; the fadeout doesn't feel right to me as well. Keep on working guys (and girl)!
Mr Moshpit
DARK
MOOR "Dark Moor"
CD 86/100
Atmospheric Metal
Spain
Only 6 months separate the release of this new - over one hour - Dark Moor epos from the previous one. Talk about high productivity! But a lot has changed in so little time. Three members, among which singer Elisa, left the band in order to start a new band and to discover other musical horizons. The remaining members (guitar player/front man Enrik and bass player Anan) decided to go on with Dark Moor, did some serious auditioning and managed to form a new quintet. Most of the material being ready at that time, the new Dark Moor went straight into the studio to record this new album and three months later it is released. The essence of Dark Moor's music remained, even though this album is indeed a bit more intense and heavier than the previous releases. We still have different choirs used in most of the new Dark Moor tracks; the instrument variety is maybe a little smaller, but still very commendable! New singer Romero is doing very well, he is singing as high as Elisa used to; the difference is actually very small. The guitar riffs are still very catchy, the compositions and lyrics always interesting. Not just any band could present two interesting albums in the very same year, especially having undergone such an important line-up change in between. Dark Moor is really becoming on of the leading bands in this type of Atmospheric Metal.
AOD
DEADLY
TIDE "Deadly Tide"
Demo-CD 77/100
Hard Rock
Italy
This 5-track demo CD confused me a bit. The band looks like Ratt and with names like J.D. Nitro (vocals), Mr. Black (Drums), W. Rumble (Bass) and Easy (Guitar) you'd expect kinda Sleaze Rock wouldn't you? But much to my surprise the album opens with a song that reminds me of Queensrÿche! Too bad the vocals are a bit lost in the mix, but "Song For Nina" is great stuff! This is followed by "Never Goodbye", which is more modern Rock style (again take Queensrÿche as a reference, but now their latest release). The third track "No More Lies" is the best of 5 here, a great bluesy ballad with a catchy refrain. But finally they give in and the 2 last tracks offer you the sleaze rock you'd expect! Titles as "The Drunk" and "Dandy Rapsody" (sic) tell you enough and both lyrically and musically we are now in the area of QUIREBOYS, L.A. GUNS and even GUNS'N'ROSES. Whatever direction they'll choose, either like the first 2 tracks or like the last 2 tracks (the middle one will fit anywhere), this band's got potential in both. This might well be their first review outside their home country, so, good luck guys!
Jo-1
DEATHWITCH
"Violence Blasphemy Sodomy"
CD 71/100
Death f*cking Thrashmetal
US
Blasphemy, yep Deathwitch has got that one down pretty well, seeing the four letter word is used more often than in the average Dennis Hopper flick. This is the kind of Death Metal where you either get it and then simply adore their primordial brand of uncompromising Death Thrash or dismiss it as a brainless concoction of swear words and infantile musick. Well, actually it is all of the above, that's the genius about Deathwitch. Singer Terror wouldn't string together one sentence without using die or fuck (preferably in that order) if his life depended on it. The musick itself also is effectively primitive, but that has never held back the likes of Bestial Mockery or Belphegor, nor will it stop these muthas.
Samoht
http://www.earache.com / Zomba
DEBODIFIED
"Utopia In The Eyes Of A Beast"
CD 74/100
Brutal Death Metal
USA
Here comes another Brutal Death Metal band from the US... a band that doesn't even exist anymore! This isn't getting very interesting, right? The actual problem is that this album that the trio released before they broke up is quite good in its genre. Technically, it's rather remarkable and the songwriting isn't bad at all either... I especially enjoyed the guitars that are very articulate and also the drumming that sounds chaotic without actually being wrong. Somehow, it reminds me of Axis Of Advance, which I guess is a flattering comparison since the band's latest album ("The List") was highly appreciated by lots of Metal journalists. Now what's gonna happen? Will they reconcile or not? We'll let you know...
RNO
DECREPIT
BIRTH "...And Time Begins"
CD 63/100
US
Fast Death Metal
Music can soothe your ears, take you to a calm place within yourself where you can find inner peace or slam into you at 300 000 miles per hour, run you over and grind you down to the smoldering heap of nothingness that we humans are. "…And Time Begins" falls into the latter category. Each riff is not so much a stroke from the guitar but a relentless hailstorm, an undying rage upon the ears of your sanity; each triggered drumbeat a carpet bombardment on the plains of your frail, futile belief in all that is good and worthwhile in our puny lives. Decrepit Earth never lets up for a millisecond up until the last track, the title track, an apocalyptic soundscape, the physical result of the aural Armageddon that has come upon us.
Samoht
DEFENDERS
OF METAL "Vol.1-The Seduction"
CD 75/100
True Metal Underground Compilation
USA/Poland/Italy/Austria/UK/Spain/Sweden
Reviewing a compilation
album is never easy, especially when there's no less than 18 bands featured
as is the case here. So where to start? Well, the good news is that the overall
quality is quite high and even the lesser bands are still of high enough quality
to guarantee a pleasant listening experience. Some of the absolute highlights
are Jesters Moon, Hell Candidates, Dr.Mastermind (yes Matt McCourt's band who
some of you might remember from their debut album on Roadrunner/Shrapnel records),
Still Life (all from the USA), The Prowlers, Rain and Metharia from Italy and
Stairway and Mercury Rain from the UK.
Although this album is being labelled as a True Metal compilation, there's still
plenty of diversity as the band's direction ranges from truly old school to
a more modern happy Metal sound. The only let down is the absence of a few bands
which are obvious to be destined for greater things. The only one I can see
getting signed up by a bigger label is Austria's Madog who will go down a storm
with Blind Guardian and Hammerfall fans. But old school fans could do a lot
worse than this. You might want to do yourselves a favor and give this one a
try; I don't think you'll regret doing so. All the lyrics and the bands bios
can be accessed at the label's website...
MJ
DEVIL
LEE ROT "Metal Dictator/Soldier From Hell"
CD 70/100
Blackened Heavy Metal
Sweden
The press info of this 2 on 1 CD states that Devil Lee Rot are free from female whorecalists or gayboardists. Hell yeah, Devil , talk dirty to me. Devil Lee Rot, who claim the prize for best moniker of the year, play good ol' retro Thrash like Infërno and Gehennah (the Swedish beer metallers, not to be confused with the Norwegian Death/Black gods Gehenna). One thing that sets it apart from many in the competition is the rather technical, proficiency on display on this record. Phrases like Metal Dictator or Soldier From Hell do not really raise any hope for anything more than simplistic, no brainer, drinking songs. Unjustly so. In fact, even though they definitely share the carefree, ballsy attitude of their fellow thrashers, the musical approach is far more interesting. A healthy dose of British Heavy Metal added to these Frosty riffs should give you all the fun you need halfway through New Year's Eve.
Samoht
DIMENTIANON
"Seven Suicides"
CD 68/100
Black/Death Metal
USA
I'm not sure whether I should write good things about Dimentianon because I listened to "Seven Suicides" a couple of times already and I still see this album as a very clumsy record that barely deserves to be considered a professional release. At least, from the outside... On the other hand, every time I play it, I feel like something spiky penetrates my entire body and makes it feel bad. And it's not just the chaotic music that produces that painful effect. There's something more... I think this opus has been deliberately composed with the aim of purging your soul from each single positive thought life may have engraved in your spirit. This is pure evil... Nice, isn't it?
RNO
http://www.paragonrekors.cjb.net
DIONYSUS
"Anima Mundi"
CD 90/100
Symphonic Power Metal
Sweden
When saying 'Symphonic Power Metal', we immediately tend to think of bands like Rhapsody or Avantasia… Well, from now on we will be able to add Dionysus to that list. Dionysus started back in 1999 in Sweden and consists of 5 very talented musicians with a remarkable background. Singer Olaf Hayer was the vocalist on Luca Turilli's (Rhapsody) solo albums, while drummer Ronny Milianowicz got his name playing with Sinergy. Guitarist Johnny Öhlin and bassist Nobby Noberg are known for their work with Nation and Keyboard player Kaspar Dahlqvist has already backed up musicians like Yngwie Malmsteen… So we can honestly say that these guys are not the least bit amateurs, but what about the album itself? "Anima Mundi" is the band's 2nd album after their debut album "Sign of Truth" and is simply put… mind-blowing! Although one can clearly hear the famous Power Metal elements in their songs, Dionysus managed to create a very unique sound by using superb combinations of heavy riffs, bombastic choirs and crystal clear vocals. Songs like "March for Freedom", "Forever More" and "Anima Mundi" (to name a few), all contain really catchy melodies and will take you to higher atmospheres for sure! This album will probably mark the beginning of a very promising career for Dionysus and I have no doubt as for their potential to surprise us again in the future with an equally good album, if not better…
Yves V.
http://www.afm-records.de / Rock Inc.
DREAM
THEATER "Train Of Thought"
CD 92/100
Progressive Metal
USA
I'm sure you all know how the Sumo wrestlers put their weenie between their buns. Have you got the picture? Well, that's probably about the same thing Dream Theater did when they recorded their previous "Six Degrees...", which alas definitely lacked androgens. Now, with "Train Of Thought", things have changed. A lot. It's like the band became aware of its miscalculation and that's a very good thing for them because they were already dead and buried in my subconscious. The new album focuses on darker - therefore catchier - atmospheres, which are just about the best Dream Theater created so far! This doomy edge astonishingly fits with their usual progressive madness. Even impeccably… I first thought this change occurred because Petrucci has finally discovered the right way to make the most of his 7th string, but I soon remarked that the guitar wasn't the only element making the ensemble sound so different: Portnoy for example has stopped wanking around and now focuses on the groove solely. I don't think he has sold his technician soul (he probably never will), but he clearly bought something good from a voodoo master, I don't know what, but… he's back in the circle of my faves. This new opus can briefly be described as: deep, emotional… simply passionate.
RNO
Elektra / Warner Music
DUSTSUCKER
"Promo E.P."
(Zylinder Records) 3 track CD 72/100
Hard Rock'n'Roll
Germany
This EP is the fifth release on their own label Zylinder and it's something that simply SCREAMS to be played loud! It's no frills, maximum fun overdrive Rock'n'Roll. A complete album of this high speed Rock stuff might've been too much of the same but with each one of these three tracks clocking just under the three minutes mark, this EP is bitesize and very digestible. The opening track "Backslider" has a lot in common with your standard uptempo Motörhead rocker. "Bronco Buster" sounds like a forgotten Rose Tattoo track (even though the chorus is un-Rose Tattoo-like). But the most potent venom is in the tail of this EP, as "Live To Be Burned" blasts through the speakers with near-Hardcore intensity, which makes this track sound like an Exploited classic. As you might have gathered by now, this E.P. does not sound very original. Dustsucker follows the beaten path that aforementioned bands and hundreds of others created over the past 2 and a half decades. Normally this would have bothered me, but these four Germans are so good at bringing across their enthusiasm that it's extremely difficult to not get up and jump around the room shouting (it's a good thing for the furniture that my mother-in-law and her pink poodle are here to scrutinize my every move). In short, these four Germans clearly know the meaning of the word 'fun' and they write it with capital 'F'.
Foob
EASY
RIDER "Animal"
CD 85/100
Power Metal
Spain
It's been a long time since I heard a band that could bring me back to the 80's, yet Easy Rider flawlessly succeeded in doing this. With songs filled with mind breaking riffs, licks and super-paced solos, one can relive the joys of the 80's Metal music scene. I have actually been very skeptical about Spanish Metal bands in the past, but after listening to their latest album "Animal" and its predecessor "Evilution" (2001), I changed my mind instantly and hoped to hear more bands like this in the future. The only thing that could have been a bit better is the production, but this is not even worth mentioning compared to the whole of this fantastic album. I do tend to think of Easy Rider as a True Heavy Metal band, but they do have quite a few songs with your typical bombastic Power Metal elements, which will surely satisfy metalheads of both genres. All in all, if you like legendary bands like Judas Priest, you will surely love this album and - like me - look forward to seeing these guys live.
Yves V.
http://www.locomotivemusic.com / Rock Inc.
EL
SHIT "Eat My Dust"
self-produced digipack CD 65/100
Nu Metal
The Netherlands
Everything looks and sounds so clean here… Yet, the music itself is so damn unoriginal… Most Nu Metal fans are gonna love El Shit for sure, especially the younger ones who got liters of Korn in their nursing bottles, but I doubt that real music aficionados will praise such a dreary release. Nevertheless, I'd like to underline a couple of positive features though. First, the guitar sounds - they're pretty varied and make the whole disc way less boring than it would be without such variations. Another good thing is that the grooves have also been intelligently molded in a sort of perfectly square structure. That means you can easily headbang on the songs without ever being surprised much by odd breaks or tempo changes. On the other side, this makes the record too linear and eventually not as catchy at it should or at least could be. Additionally, the singer doesn't impress me at all… His screaming is OK, but in the clear parts, he sounds extremely weak, vacillating, even off-key sometimes… Fortunately for him, most kids have forgotten the meaning of "singing" lately…
RNO
END
OF APRIL "If I Had A Bullet For Everyone..."
CD 82/100
Nu Punkish Metalcore
USA
Last year, when I saw End Of April on stage in Belgium, I immediately understood why Seamiew Records signed these five rebels. Of course they have an impressive background, but I think it's most of all just because of the energy, the very positive energy that emanates from their music... In fact, when the guys play live, something very special happens. Something rather inexplicable... Dude, they rock! Now, if that seems so common to you, please go watch more shows around the country and count how many really caught your full attention. I bet five fingers will be more than enough for your total! I guess that means something... The other great thing is that End Of April is a band that you can't put in a well-defined category. Sometimes you hear a Punk beat, then a Heavy Metal riff, a groovy Nu Metal bassline, Rapcore vocals... it's as if the band let go all they have inside through an inexorable flow of creativity. On the new album, which is their first full-length, End Of April shows great maturity and didn't repeat the little gaffes one could find on their first MCD. So this is getting pretty exciting...
RNO
http://www.seamiewrecords.nl / Zomba
ERDBEERTÖRTCHEN
"Wald"
CD 78/100
Guitar Rock
Germany
There are a few weird bands around. And Erbeertörtchen is among them. Not because it's Guitar Rock without a singer. But because it's accessible instrumental music. And I don't know any other instrumental band that is accessible. "Wald" is their first album. It's quite close to late Celestial Season. For a bigger name I'd refer to a band like Mogwai, but Erbeertörtchen is more Rock, less lunatic. You might enjoy this album really much if you don't mind the -absence- of a singer. That has to be the difficult part for most listeners though. Cause, strangely enough, it seems pretty easy to add a vocal line to all the songs. But you can sing along with your own written lyrics of course. There is always a melody to be found here or there. Unfortunately it sometimes happens to be one with a cheesy keyboard sound. But none the less, the songs are very well-written, relaxing, with a nice build-up, ending into great climaxes. And they've managed to keep it flowing through the whole album. For my part they should search for a singer, but that's probably the thing that they will never do. And you have to give them respect for that. They don't care about the commercial trends, without forcing themselves to be alternative.
Mariner
http://www.tumbleweedrecords.com
ERIC
MARTIN "Destroy All Monsters"
CD 70/100
Melodic Hard Rock
US
Solo-album number eight already for the former Mr. Big vocalist Eric Martin. This one continues in the direction of "I'm Going Sane", his previous effort (leaving out the "Pure" album for a moment as that basically contained acoustic tracks from "I"m Going Sane" and Mr. Big). That "direction" might be bad news for those that appreciated his more AOR-like earlier albums. Advice: listen to the first two tracks on the album, they will give you an excellent idea of what to expect. "What's The Worst That Can Happen" and "Kansas" could well have been on "I'm Going Sane" and are the best tracks on offer here. Which brings me straight to the main problem with "Destroy All Monsters", it's not as good as "I'm Going Sane". "Jamie Won't Open" carries on in the same spirit as the openers and the ballads "You're Too Good For Him" and "Living In Black And White" are excellent stuff too, but after that the album kinda lingers on to the end. Nothing bad, but not much that catches your attention until the last song "If" which, much to my surprise, is a rocking cover of a Bread song. A band that only released extremely soft acoustic pop songs, but this version proves that these songs were damn melodic. Nice cover, and this goes for the packaging too!
Jo-1
EYEKON
"Tabula Rasa"
demo CD-R 85/100
Progressive Metal
Sweden
Another damn short demo by Eyekon here... Why the hell don't they record some more songs? Because of the cash I suppose... At least, that would be a valid motive... On the other hand, what I don't understand at all is how these young people haven't been signed yet, especially since I heard a couple of new Prog bands this last week and I swear to God, if I ran a label, I would never release such crap on the market! So where has the concept of recognition ended today? Is there an ounce of cleverness into the label bosses' intellect or do these guys just play the Russian roulette picking up the bands hazardously among the dozens of demos that sleep on their desks? That's the question... However, I would say let's keep it cool. Eyekon's day will come sooner or later. Sooner being the most preferable end of course...
RNO
FACEBREAKER
"Bloodred Hell"
CD 60/100
Death Metal
Sweden
Well, it seems that these Swedes are not the kind of musicians who play with the aim of offering something new to the fans. Luckily, their riffs are biting enough to wake up the deadest of dead so I guess efficiency is - at least - the definite keyword here. In fact, Death Metal freaks who feel familiar with Dismember, Entombed and Co. won't be surprised and may even be enthusiastic about "Bloodred Hell", because it's exactly what they're comfortable with. The sad thing is that I would never counsel the others to buy this album. My motto in this case would rather be "you better get the original ones, not the copycats...". Apart from the zero groundbreaking factor, I must say that the songs are clean, the sound is OK but... do I really wanna spend more time and ink for this review? Honestly no.
RNO
FONZIE
"Built To Rock"
CD 80/100
Punk rock
Portugal
Welcome the European Blink 182! And I'm not talking about the nowadays MTV Blink 182, but the one from the good old days (album "Dude Ranch"), when they were in full glory to my opinion. Fonzie sounds different from the average European band, that's for sure. But we haven't heard about them a lot, yet. They have been touring around the entire world, but only just started to concentrate on the European market. I think they will do well and it won't take long before we all know about them. "Built To Rock" is fun from the beginning till the end, with their 12 sing-alongs, where the second guitar defines the sound. I must admit that I find the singer's voice a bit moany on one hand, but that makes the tracks very recognizable and "original" on the other hand. But then again, there's enough harmony with the backing vocals to cover up this little detail, so let's just forget about my remark… Fonzie rocks! You will also find 4 videos on this enhanced CD, so don't forget to stick this album in your PC.
YVES
http://www.punknationrecords.com
GLENN
HUGHES "Songs In The Key Of Rock"
CD 75/100
Heavy Rock
England
Glenn Hughes of course is no stranger to anyone who is at least a bit interested in the history of Heavy Rock. As vocalist and/or bassist he spent time in important Hard Rock bands such as Trapeze, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, so if his name doesn't ring a bell, you're either very young or simply brain-dead. This, his fifth or so solo album, is released at about the same time as HTP's second album (HTP stands for Hughes Turner Project, which is a similar sounding project he started with ex-Rainbow vocalist Joe Lynn Turner), so Mr. Hughes doesn't seem to be showing signs of fatigue yet. So how does his new offering sound? Actually, it's exactly what one could have expected since it's completely in line with what the man has been doing throughout his entire career. It's melodic Hard Rock, complete with that Moog organ which gives it a really vintage 70's feel. Of course, this being the year 2003, the overall sound is quite a lot fuller as is proven straight from track one by the up-tempo Hard Rock song "In my blood". Following is "Lost In The Zone", which sounds like a runaway Bad Company cut. Hughes' powerful and versatile vocals make this song work to the full. Any lesser a vocalist and we'd just have a cliché track on our hands. "Gasoline" is another up-tempo hard rocker and this time you'd swear you were listening to "Stormbringer-era Deep Purple. Overall "Songs In The Key Of Rock" has enough variation to keep things interesting. The tracks vary from quite energetic Hard Rock ("In My Blood", "Gasoline" and especially "Standing On The Rock") to more laid back material such as "Higher Places", the funky "Get You Stoned" or "Courageous" with its Steely Dan-like chorus. Of course, an album like this, which derives heavily from 70's and early 80's Hard Rock isn't devoid of clichés, but nevertheless there are no really weak or bland tracks on it. Well, actually the choruses of bonus track "Change" and of "Whenever You Go" aren't particularly engaging and the semi-ballad "The Truth" is at times in danger of crossing into cheesy territory but that's about it. The fact that these three tracks are all at the end of the CD ("Change" is even labeled as a bonus) suggests that I am not the only one who has spotted some weaknesses in them. Yet, the overall very decent quality of the album, and of course Glenn Hughes' unique voice, should be enough to pull any fan of melodic vintage Hard Rock over the line.
Foob
http://www.shrapnelrecords.com
GORGASM
"Masticate To Dominate"
CD 80/100
Grind Death Metal
USA
"Masticate To Dominate" is Gorgasm's second opus, 30 minutes of Brutal/Grind Death Metal at best. Gorgasm is originating from Chicago, USA, and they fit in the Brutal Death wave coming over from the new continent, together with for example Spawn of Possession or Nile (even though the content of the lyrics are not comparable of course). Talking about the main themes on this CD, the band's name does not leave a lot of options: murder, rape, mutilation, necrophilia… you got it all. These people are totally sick! Not for sissies! The few samplings in-between the tracks with the screaming females and stuff, as well as the artwork, are just one reflection of Gorgasm's twisted mind! From a musical point of view, this CD is nearly perfect. Gorgasm's music is technical, varied, equipped with the necessary tempo changes, heavy and of course ultra fast, relentless and very brutal indeed. For those who like this genre, do not hesitate, this CD is worth its money (id est depending how much your favorite CD provider charges you for this CD of course…). There is a big chance Gorgasm will tour in Europe in mid 2004, together with for instance Spawn of Possession. Oh man, some necks are gonna snap that day!
AOD
http://www.uniqueleader-europe.com
GOTHIC
KNIGHTS "Up From The Ashes"
CD 65/100
Symphonic Power Metal
USA
Sometimes the sands of time seem to have stopped running altogether. Take, for instance, Gothic Knights. This American Power Metal outfit are down to their 3rd album, "Up From The Ashes", and have been sticking to their guns for what must be 13 years now, playing very melodic Power Metal with a lot of classical influences and undoubtedly a score of Malmsteen records in their collective CD rack. Despite their ridiculous moniker (carry on brave, brave, brave…brave Sir Robin), the end result is not that bad. Sure, it's generic with absolutely no inclination towards leaving the trodden paths of former crusades, but you can't really fault them for that. Towards the end of the record, one track stands out in particular: Dear Queen, a ballad of sorts with some nice keys. Not without merit, but not my first choice either.
Samoht
http://www.limb-music.de / Hard Life Promotion
HATESPHERE
"Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Black"
CD 85/100
Death/Trash Metal
Denmark
This mini CD of Hatesphere starts with something new. One brand new killer song called "Release The Pain" which actually brings the pain (especially in my neck). This track is fast, furious and one of the very best I ever heard from this Scandinavian band. Damned, if the next album will contain all tracks like this, this has a very big chance of being 'the' killer album of 2004 (if next album is foreseen for 2004 of course…). Next, we have something borrowed. Yes indeed, two covers of real famous tracks are featured on this silver disk. First we have the one of "Bark At The Moon" from the dark lord Ozzy himself. Mmmm, it sure sounds more like a brand new track to me, I guess, except for the lyrics and the first guitar riff maybe; not a lot of the original remained. I'm pretty sure it is played twice as fast (nah, did not feel like really checking this out, I leave that to you if you think that is important). And to be honest, I actually only found out it was a cover after checking the play list. But, actually, when listening very carefully you can recognize the original song. After that, we have the excellent cover of Anthrax's "Caught In A Mosh". For sure more recognizable than the previous one, not that also this truly matters. This one too is really well done; it is obvious Hatesphere is into Thrash music in hart and soul and they manage to give it a new dimension. Aaah, it brings back so many fine memories! This CD is closed with four outstanding live tracks ("something old"), 4 classic Hatesphere songs played tight and loud with good sound quality! These Vikings really know how to trash! Buy it and like it!
AOD
KILLAMAN
"Killaman"
CD 86/100
Death Metal
Sweden
After only a few months of existence, Killaman managed to obtain a deal from Displeased Records, and honestly, after hearing this CD only once, you exactly know why. This Death Metal debut is truly one hell of a record; I truly thank Displeased for getting those guys a deal that fast! Well the members of Killaman all have some Metal background as they play(ed) in other bands. All this experience brought together and blended is something fantastic! Killaman plays very fast Death Metal, with Thrash influences. The Slayer aggression and sound is indeed sometimes very close. Well, Killaman has his own sound and identity of course, what really attracted me was the excellent guitar sound. I really can't get enough of it; I have to admit that I played this record almost daily, listening to it sometimes three times in a row. The Death grunts of Rune work pretty well with the concept and I can assure you, he is not sparing his voice on this one! I tried to find a favorite track but honestly I failed in my mission; this CD is excellent from the first second to the very last. If by chance, you find this record in your store, you have to buy it. You won't regret, I guarantee. Except if you don't like Death Metal of course, but then again you were already wasting your time reading this…
AOD
http://www.displeasedrecords.com
Lelio
Padovani "Unknown Evolution"
CD 80/100
Instrumental Rock
Italy
Lelio Padovani is a fusion guitar teacher at various Italian schools and he already has contributed to some very interesting projects. Now he has released a new completely instrumental CD which would not be out of place in the catalogue of a label like Food For Thought as it shows similarities to CD's of Steve Howe, Robin Crow, Jan Cyrka, Joe Satriani and a few other highly skilled Rock guitarists. He clearly knows how to handle a guitar and you can almost picture how his fingers become a blur when he plays those intricate passages. But it's not all about technique with Padovani, as he never shies away from slow melodic guitar work, or even acoustic dreamy passages. It's this abstinence which keeps "Unknown Evolution" out of the ego-tripping guitar wanking cul-de-sac. As a result the CD is varied enough to make it genuinely pleasant to listen to, something to be enjoyed in one go without getting utterly bored after two tracks. Due to the abundance of soft songs it is however advisable to stay clear of this release if you are solely into extreme forms of music. If on the other hand you are a fan of Progressive Rock or the aforementioned guitarists, I'm sure you'll agree that Mr. Padovani has his act together. Frankly, the only negative point about "Unknown evolution" would have to be the uninspired artwork of the booklet.
Foob
MAINLINE
"Neurasthenic"
demo CD-R 82/100
Nu Metal
Italy
Mainline... I suppose that doesn't ring any bell, right? Well, we shouldn't answer no to the question but rather "not yet", because this is a band with a future - yet a future that lays in your hands, not in theirs. As a matter of fact, they did everything all right, from the writing of the compositions 'til their interpretation, from their recording to their mixing. And I swear this is Nu Metal that sounds just perfect... So it's definitely up to the (Nu) Metal community to be there for this band and to encourage it, as they deserve it. In the meantime, all that Mainline can do is stay true to themselves and keep on delivering great music... Now, one thing I'd like to highlight - something you may miss by just hearing an MP3 around or by visiting the band's website - is the following: there has been a huge Nu Metal wave in Italy since a couple of years and many (I really mean many) Nu Metal bands popped up like pimples on a rotten dog's ass, and of course not all were talented. And Mainline is part of the bunch of good bands that made it through without falling into silly and boring clichés. So don't judge them too fast by their origins and get this sweet sauce in your ears. Viva Italia!
RNO
http://www.mainlinemusic.it / Hardebaran
MENNEN
"Mennen"
(Re-issue) CD 75/100
Hard Rock
The Netherlands
First some history as this album was originally released almost 10 years ago. Joss Mennen was the lead singer of the Dutch band Zinatra that released 2 albums and had a small hit with "Love Or Loneliness" from their self-titled debut. With the follow-up, "The Great Escape", they drastically changed musical direction (influenced by band member Robbie Valentine) and that one is considered by some as a true (soft) AOR classic. Too soft for a lot of fans of the debut and maybe also for Joss as he formed his own band after that, which brings us smoothly to this record, basically a re-release of Mennen's debut. Three further releases followed: "Back To The Real World" ('96), "Age Of Fools" ('98) and "Circle Of Live" (live at Biebop! - '00). Mennen is probably most known for the "River Of Tears" single released as a benefit for the victims of the river floods in their home country in '95. Though I never heard this album the first time round, I saw them live when they opened for Killers (Paul Di'Anno), Vicious Rumours and Metal Church, which immediately gives you an idea of the musical direction of the band. Although overall "less Metal", both lyrically and musically that is what you can expect from this re-release: no nonsense Hard Rock like "Power On", "Movin' On" and "Rock And Roll Over" and some heavier tracks like "Killerdog". The album contains two covers, "Hot Summer Nights", a song originally written and released by Walter Egan who worked with members of Fleetwood Mac, but Mennen's version is based on that of the band Night. The second cover is the Dutch classic "House For Sale" a big hit for Lucifer. This re-issue contains all that in a re-mastered version and 4 bonus tracks: "Lost", the original Japanese bonus track, one of the better tracks here! "The One Ring" an unreleased demo track and finally two demo versions of regular album tracks "World Affair" and "House For Sale". The reason for this re-release escapes me, except maybe for the fact that they have an upcoming album planned. Let's see how they progressed.
Jo-1
http://www.mennen.net / Rock Inc.
MOONSORROW
"Suden Uni"
CD 87/100
Pagan Metal
Finland
When I heard this CD for the first time, my feelings were contradictory. I felt happy, since it was a long time since I heard such an excellent new Pagan Metal release but on the other hand I felt ashamed and sad. Ashamed because I actually never heard about this band before while I should have, and sad because once again, I'm realizing that there are some Metal masterpieces in this world I will probably never hear while I will listen to music which is for sure not as good as this Moonsorrow CD. Nah, enough of my emotional escapade, let's talk about the main topic here, which is the remastered version of the first Moonsorrow CD "Suden Uni". For those who already have this album and loved it, there are a few valid reasons to consider buying it once again: it is remastered, so I believe the overall sound will have improved (it is actually great), there is a new cover and it contains one bonus track. I don't know one word of Finnish, but I am almost 100 % sure it is a drinking song. Who doesn't like those, huh? Moreover, this remastered version goes with a bonus DVD with some promotional videos and a live performance, which, unfortunately, I did not get to see, but it can only be an additional reason for buying this CD. The Epic/Pagan Metal of Moonsorrow can be situated somewhere between Bathory and Falkenbach, two bands I particularly like. It won't surprise you to hear that I was in love with this album the minute I heard it. It has the power and singing of Bathory and the Epic/Folk content of Falkenbach. In my eyes at least, but I'm pretty confident I'm close. Moonsorrow's music is very original, they created their own warm atmosphere, partially obtained through the many samplings (sea, ice-cold wind, war cries, battles, …) and some very typical instruments (flute, melodeon, …) they are using throughout the album. If you get the chance to hear it, check out track 6, "1065:Aika", it's my personal favorite. For your information, "Suden Uni" is released by Spikefarm Records, a sub label of Spinefarm Records. Keep an eye on this label; it is not the first very good release I heard from this company recently. Well, only leaves me to order this CD in the store (hey, I want the DVD man) and the following releases of Moonsorrow; it seems they have 2 other albums and one MCD out already. I hope they will be at least as good as this "Suden Uni". Hail Metal!
AOD
MORNING
AFTER "Beneath The Real"
65/100 CD
Dark Metal
Greece
Black Lotus is apparently tapping into a new vein, namely the aorta of the Rock oriented Dark Metal. As opposed to their labelmates and long time runners On Thorns I Lay, Morning After are pretty new to the game and audibly so. Especially the vocalist has a hard time to follow the subtle path the music follows. Where the guitars elegantly wander between violent, yet restrained Nu Metal outbursts and Gothic tinted melancholy, the singing often fails to evoke any genuine emotion in the listener. That in combination with True Metal like outings as e.g. the soloing in "Hell In Heaven" sells the definite potential of this duo short in a grave way. Perhaps a more stripped down sound and some fine tuning on the vocal department would do them no harm.
Samoht
http://www.black-lotus-recs.com / Rock Inc.
MR.
BIG "Influences And Connections: Volume 1"
(Tribute) CD 80/100
Hard Rock
US
Another "tribute" album and gladly they didn't call it "To Be With Mr. Big" or something, as that is as creative as marketers get these days. This one's called "Influences and Connections - Volume 1: Mr. Big" which probably means other bands will follow. Anyway, if you have former Mr. Big members Sheehan, Torpey and Kotzen performing on it, can you still call it a tribute? You'd expect some name-dropping with a record like this, so here we go! We got Chuck Wright on bass and Lanny Cordola on guitar (both a/o Giuffria, House Of Lords). We got guitar solo's by Ty Tabor (King's X), Marty Friedman, Steve Lukather, Gene Black (Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Tim Feehan), Stevie Salas and Yngwie Malmsteen. Of course we got some famous vocalists, but let's discuss them as we run through the track listing. It'll come as no surprise that most songs here come from the 2nd release "Lean Into It" (4 tracks) and the follow-up "Bump Ahead" (5 tracks), as this was Mr. Big's most interesting period. The album opener "Mr. Big" is a perfect song for Paul Rodgers, which in fact is no surprise as this was originally recorded by Free. The next track "Take Cover" features the typical voice of Doug Pinnick (King's X). Joe Lynn Turner transforms "Colorado Bulldog" and "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy" into classic Deep Purple and continuing on that note, "Price You Gotta Pay" is typical Glenn Hughes. It's been a long time since we heard something from Ann Wilson, so her version of "Promise Her The Moon" is highly appreciated. If you didn't know better you'd think this was a Heart song and that brings me to the strength of this record, most artists really make the songs their own, which makes it one of the best "tributes" around. The songs covered (sic) by former Mr. Big members are the least exciting on offer here, but maybe that's because these do not originate from the "success period". Keanu Reeves' band Dogstar does OK with "Shine", another track from outside that period. We finish our walk through the "hall of fame" by mentioning Donnie Vie (Enuffznuff), John Waite and Micky Thomas (Jefferson Starship). When I tell you this'll also be available on DVD, you have been fully briefed. Dismissed!
Jo-1
http://www.frontiers.it / Bertus
MY
DYING BRIDE "Songs Of Darkness, Words Of Light"
CD 82/100
Doom
UK
Some say that Aaron Stainthorpe and his gloomy laments are not "in" anymore. And from a certain viewpoint, they're right. My Dying Bride has indeed nothing left to propose but their old bitter tears. Yet, reopened sores sometimes excite Doom fanatics very much and I think this newest release of MDB is gonna be one of those classics that won't make high marks on the originality scale but that will work anyway. Furthermore, one must admit that some parts, like the last minutes of "Catherine Blake" for example, are forged in rock-hard steel and they'll undoubtedly keep the listener attentive to every note that flows through his soul. "The Blue Lotus" also features lots of strong moments that won't leave anyone indifferent. MDB has gone through major line-up changes during the 90's but eventually I have the impression that these changes have been for the best.
RNO
NEW
BOMB TURKS "Switchblade Tongues, Butterknife Brains"
CD 68/100
Punk 'n' Roll
USA
One thing's for sure: New Bomb Turks have always had strange but cool and funny album tittles and this one is another of many more to come. As for the band, they are as they say legendary. Many of you will agree. But as for the music, it's simple: if you always loved New Bomb Turks, you will keep on loving them, if you don't, you won't. New bomb Turks seem to be repeating themselves musically. But this album is slightly different as it is sort of a "best of" with unreleased songs. You will hear songs coming from several unreleased EP's (like one in 2000 and another one in 2001). Then you'll also find a couple of B-sides and some unreleased cuts from their previous album. And to end it all up (or should I say: to start it all up when you stick this album in your computer) they have an enhanced promotional video with live footage and interviews on how their DVD will look. This is a way to release stuff while we have to wait for the forthcoming album. It's a good idea, but it makes this release kind of one you put in your CD-collection, forget about and probably won't listen much to anymore. I have heard better qualitative albums from this band.
YVES
http://www.sonic.nl / Sonic Rendezvous
NOBODY'S
FOOL "Temptation"
CD-Demo 65/100
Sleaze Rock
Australia
Nobody's Fool is a band that sprung out of Sydney sometime in 2000. This is the 4th demo release by the band and it consists of 4 songs of the previous release "2002", 4 new tracks and a video track. If you are into (Sleaze) Rock from bands like Ratt, Poison, Britney Fox and even some Kiss, check them out. The band that springs to mind most here however, is Faster Pussycat; just listen to "Cat's Got My Tongue" and "Inside Out" (which also appears as a video track). The first 4 tracks are clearly the most interesting; after that it becomes all a bit mediocre with an absolute zero for the ballad "Forever", which is vocally below standard. This band surely has got potential and still shows growth as the best tracks on offer here are the newer ones. The logo, the video, the packaging… it all shows that this band is really making an effort so they don't deserve to be overlooked.
Jo-1
OC
TOONS "Funny Guys For…"
DemoCD 76/100
Punk Rock
France
I'll start with a life lesson… Never judge somebody or something by looks, but learn to appreciate what's inside… Same goes for this demo CD. Many of you would have filed this CD vertically (in the bin). I'm sure of it. Let me explain to you: It's a copied CD, you can barely read the title they wrote on it with a black marker, the front and back cover are low quality black and white wrinkled copies, and the promo sheet also made his passage through the copy machine, which forgot to copy parts of it, and makes it hard to read. It gives the whole thing a look that is everything but professional… But…I started to write reviews out of love for music in the first place and this is what I do! So I listened to the demo… This French 5-piece plays fast Punk Rock, with some Ska riffs. The backing vocals are very nice, they're very fast; the music in general is not bad at all; they worked out well every single intro on each song, but once the song has started, it seems to become monotonous. OC Toons is not bad, but to me it is another Punk Rock band that saw the light of day but will probably never reach the highest top. Although their album sounds OK, they don't have anything particular that differs them from other Punk Rock bands. But never underestimate the power of these guys. Maybe they will do much better than I presume.
YVES
ON
THORNS I LAY "Egocentric"
CD 85/100
Emotional Dark Metal
Greece
On an evolutionary scale, standing still is like taking a step backwards. Listening to Egocentric, the sixth album from these Greek Dark metallers, this certainly has a true ring to it. Last century On Thorns I lay stood for classic Gothic Metal with beautiful female vocals and enchanting viola melodies that were unfortunately hampered by some of the most simplistic riffs ever to be found on the Peloponnesus. Now in 2004 the changes that had set out with "Angeldust" have come to full fruition. Gone are the days of Gothic splendor. Enter a very successful mélange of Dark Metal and gloomy Alternative Rock. One would have never suspected it, but OTIL are one of the first bands to actually bridge the seemingly abysmal gap between Eurometal and American style Nu Metal Rock. Opener "Life Can Be" showcases their apparent love for latter day Katatonia - perhaps even a tad too much - but "Poster On A Wall" and the grungy "Afraid To Believe" prove that these 4 Greeks have much more up their sleeve. The guitar work still reminds strongly of Blackheim's typical riffing, especially the "Discouraged Ones" album must have made a strong impact on OTIL's musical maturing. Yet this is just one of the elements they need to make Egocentric something quite of their own. The aforementioned "Poster On A Wall" metamorphoses midway in an Trip Hop like trance and , likewise, the next track takes you to a new surprise opening with a textbook Nu Metal riff and vocals that keep the middle ground between System Of A Down and Eddie Vedder. Greece's finest craftily dodge any pinholing right up until the last song, the constrained crescendo of "Quotation For Listening." This is their rite of passage into greatness.
Samoht
http://www.black-lotus-recs.com / Rock Inc.
PARASOPHISMA
"A Variable..."
CD 77/100
Experimental Metal
Czech Republic
Experimental is the definite keyword here. I remember the band's earlier works and knew they were one of a kind already. Yet, I'm still impressed by this great craziness they perpetuate on "A Variable...". Jazzy accents, elaborated harmonies, great creativity... This band rules! Now, the album was due to be released on Twelfth Planet Records but for some strange reason the deal didn't happen. So they're like orphans now, which is a real pity because I'm sure this would please a lot of Metal fans! Now that bands such as Forgotten Silence and Demimonde are so silent, it would be good if Parasophisma could take over because the Czech scene seems to stagnate a little bit since last year... I hope they'll find the right contacts to get out of the small underground circle...
RNO
PARK
"It Won't Snow Where You're Going"
CD 85/100
Emo Punk
USA
I have always had a soft spot for this band, Park. It was one of the first bands bringing this new fresh style of music, this so called Emo-(Punk)Rock, although for these guys we've got to more put the emphasis on Emo and Rock. That's what they did with their album "Signal", which was excellent. This "It Won't Snow Where You're Going" is again an improvement compared to its predecessor, in every sense of the word. Everything is taken a little bit further, with very emotional and very diverse tunes, metaphorical lyrics, and a theme - that needs to be taken very seriously - throughout the whole album that makes you think differently about the way things go now. Therefore they deserve a spot in my annual top 10 although there will be many more other albums to come. It's just the way they combine this theme (suicide) with the music; as if the music has been especially written to fit, and has a very natural feel. Music has always been a great medium to deliver a message. So listen very carefully to what Park has got to say.
YVES
PAUL
SHORTINO/JK NORTHRUP "Back On Track"
(re-issue) CD 75/100
Hard Rock
US
This 10th anniversary re-issue was originally released as "Paul Shortino (featuring Jeff Northrup)", now it's "Paul Shortino/JK Northrup" and next it will be "Shortino/Northrup" as they signed a deal with MTM and a new record will follow shortly. OK we've established the names, but who are these guys anyway? Well, vocalist Paul is known for his work with Rough Cutt (excellent debut) and short stops with Quiet Riot (their '88 come-back album), Badd Boyz and Mitch Perry after which he released 4 solo albums. He appeared on loads of tribute albums: Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck, Queen, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Motley Crue, Scorpions, Def Leppard, The Cult and Aerosmith, so that's what to expect in the vocal department: raw and bluesy. Guitarist JK (or Jeff if you like) had short stops with Rail (2 re-issues in 2003), King Kobra and recently XYZ (their '03 come-back "Letter To God"). Which leaves us with 2 questions for the re-issue: What has changed and is it any good? Except for the changes in name and artwork (trendy brown colors), the track order has been turned around, the sound is a bit "fuller" and you've got 4 bonus tracks. The album was good in the first place, so that hasn't changed but the bonus tracks do not really offer a lot of added value. "Used To Be" is the best one, "Holy Man" and "Far Too Long" have some eastern influences. As a result of the change in track listing the best song, "When There's Smoke", opens the album now (originally it was the final track). This really does this song credit as it is the fastest and heaviest track on offer (reminds me of Mr.Big). Other great tracks like "Body & Soul", "Forgotten Child", "Bye Bye To Love" and "The Kid Is Back In Town" also have touches of Mr.Big, Bad Company, Thin Lizzy and Gary Moore… you got the picture? Nice album, but except for making the people that own the original feel old (yes, it has been 10 years!), the sense of these re-issues still escapes me. According to both artists the upcoming album will be more AOR… looking forward to that!
Jo-1
http://www.paulshortino.com / Rock Inc.
POEMA
ARCANUS "Buried Songs: The Early Times"
CD 80/100
Doom/Death
Chile
Many Doom addicts know Poema Arcanus as the band that brought out the fantastic "Iconoclast" album in 2001 and ignore all of their past. With the recent release of "Buried Songs: The Early Times", the Chilean masters of Doom finally got the opportunity to present their early efforts to a wider audience. Let's check out the content of this special anthology... Formerly baptized Garbage, the band released its first demotape "Underdeveloped" back in 1995. From what I hear here, the music was absolutely different compared with what they play nowadays. In essence, it was nothing more than just basic Death Metal with furious and I must say rather imprecise blastbeats. For the most part, I don't think it was a very promising preliminary part... But that happened about a decade ago, so let's just skip this irrelevant piece of history and let's move up to 1996. That year, the band changed its name into Garbage Breed and recorded another demotape: "Innocent Shades". Now, that is good music! Many progressive and atmospheric outlines start appearing through all the songs, and Claudio finally decides to (occasionally) make use of his great clean vocals. If I had bought this demo at the time it was originally released, I would have put it in my faves collection for sure! The 4 last tracks of the CD are 2 promo songs registered back in '97 ("Timeless Sands" and "Winds Of July") and demo versions of both "The Crawling Mirros" and "Elixir" (those ones you probably know already...). All in all, if you're not a fan of Poema Arcanus, this CD could represent something needless and overpriced. Otherwise, you definitely need it!
RNO
RAIN
"Headshaker"
CD 80/100
Melodic Hard Rock/Metal
Italy
This is the band's 5th studio album already. Now, I won't be going into the band's history because these guys have been around since 1980 (!) and just giving you a brief biography would take forever. I'd rather concentrate on the band's latest release because I feel any fan of classic melodic Hard Rock/Metal will enjoy this one quite a bit. The closest comparisons I can come up with are bands like Axxis and even Pink Cream 69 but with a more Metal edge. Nothing too complicated, just down-to-earth good time Hard Rock. Not too many bands wander off in this direction these days and just for doing so these guys should be given a chance. The production is excellent and there are plenty of standout tracks. My personal favorites include "Viking", "Only For The Rain Crew" (which can also be found on the "Defenders Of Metal" compilation CD - see review elsewhere) and the title track. Melodic, catchy and yet heavy enough to invite you to some serious headbanging. Quite impressive!
MJ
RAISING
FEAR "Promo 2003"
CD 80/100
Power Metal
Italy
Italy is one of the largest suppliers of Melodic Power Metal these days and Raising Fear (founded in 2002) is another excellent band, which has recently released its debut (demo) CD. As some of you might have guessed, the band took their name from the Armored Saint album and unlike many of their colleagues Raising Fear was able to come up with a truly excellent mixture of the American and European Power Metal styles. The two guitarists are also active in bands like War Trains and Helreidh and their experience really shines through on songs like "Theseus" and "Amon Ra". I urge anyone who calls him- or herself a fan of Melodic Power Metal to check this band out; you won't regret it. I'm not the biggest 'happy Metal' fan around but Raising Fear's blend of Euro/US Power Metal left me wanting more! Definitely a band to keep an eye on!
MJ
RAMESSES
3 track advance promo
87/100
Psychedelic Space Blues Doom
UK
After quitting the inimitable Electric Wizard, Mark Greening and Tim Bagshaw warp our doped out minds again with the mind altering Ramesses. Good as Electric Wizard may have been and still is, Ramesses paint from a much wider palette. "Master (Your Demons)", the first of the two tracks coming from the split with sludge doomers Negative Reaction, is a true doomfest driven by infectious bluesy bass grooves, while Ramesses II sounds a bit like early Cathedral. The magnum opus, however, is the third track; from the upcoming Psychedoomelic records sampler "Dreams Of What Life Could Have Been" (which also features i.e. Grief, Unearthly Trance, Moss and my hometown boys Thee Plague Of Gentlemen). "Black Domina" is not just Doom, it is a synthesis of DOOM, it is 3 generations distilled into one Lovecraftian trinity of despair. It combines the megalithic drone of Sabbath, the infernal vocals of early nineties Doom/Death and the shattering feeling of utter depressiveness of today's funereal mists.
Samoht
REVEREND
BIZARRE "Harbinger Of Metal"
CD 80/100
Ultraditional Dooooom
Finland
One of the much appraised forerunners of the traditional-true (call it as you wish) Doom scene steadies its position thanks to this 74 minutes long testimony of their craftsmanship, structured by long epics sprinkled with almost ambient interludes. Opener "Harbinger" sets the tone with its monolithic and awe inspiring riffing, leaving enough space between the chords to let us ponder the shape of things to come from... "Strange Horizon", which slowly unfolds itself. Oddly enough, this piece reminds me of sludge gods Acid King in the way the dirge inducing heaviness is building up. "From The Void" is the most epic of all the cuts, including unfortunately the mandatory cliche'd drum solo (waugh!) and albeit avoiding the high pitched vocals, they are still going through FX not so convincing either. "The Wandering Jew" is another odyssey centered around this o-so mysterious figure of occult history and forms another great journey into the land of pounding and relentless riffing culminating in a crystal clear solo of Floydian proportions. After a brilliant last ambient intermezzo ("Into The Realms Of Magickal Entertainment"), "Dunkelheit" closes the record with an almost droning tone and frost forming arpeggios, helped by distorted vocals having this time a much better impact on the desperate feel of the cut than previously. Records such as this move the term 'traditional Doom' from the 'retro' to the 'timeless' category. Convert yourselves!!
Halcyon.
REVOLTONS
"Night Visions"
CD 70/100
Power Metal
Italy
Starting out as a cover band way back in 1991, some unfortunate setbacks delayed their very first own debut, "Night Visions" with a good twelve years. One can clearly discern that the songs presented here have indeed been maturing for several years. Not only does this account for the relative variety of the material on offer here, it also goes a long way in explaining the quality of the tracks. This isn't your average assembly line Italian rush job. These songs have grown together with their composers and have taken on a life of their own, like the emotional "Hands Of Magellano" or the Power stomper "The Autumn Believer". Italian Power Metal seldom comes across this committed and natural.
Samoht
http://www.limb-music.de / Hard Life Promotion
ROYAL
ANGUISH "Mysterion"
CD 79/100
Hybrid Metal
USA
I discovered this band back in 1992 when they recorded "Shocking The Priest", a professional four-track demo tape that apparently was successful enough to convince the guys to carry on with their musical career. As far as can I remember (I'm too lazy to search that old tape in my collection and play it... damn me...), I recall their music as something simpler: some sort of Death Metal with barely any flourishes. It was nicely played and technical enough, but it was not as it is today for sure! As a matter of fact, Royal Anguish has become a band with a very rich and unique sound. Influenced by Gothic and Power Metal, their tunes have reached a level of accessibility that should help them to climb the ladder way more easily. Female vocals, keyboards and melodic guitar duets are now part of the band's very own sound. And the result is awesome. Maybe there should be a couple more catchy riffs but all in all, it's a very good job they did here. Get one if you can...
RNO
SCHANDMAUL
"Hexenkessel"
CD 73/100
Folk rock
Germany
Mixing folk with heavy Rock music has always been an excellent formula to get a crazy crowd. I wish I could have been there, at "New Backstage" in their home city Munich, the venue where they recorded this live album. I reckon that must have been some "hexenkessel"! After 3 studio albums and 5 years (busy band!) they decided to make this live album. I'm glad they did, cause live is the best way to bring folk music. This means not that "Schandmaul" is an exquisite band. The song writing is mediaeval style, so forget about your standard expectations of 'Irish' folk; it's nothing like that really. Pity the mediaeval feeling got lost at times because of the rather useless Rock (even Metal) guitar riffs. The singer sings about mediaeval stories in German, which appears to be rather pleasant. Of course there is a whole bunch of instruments next to the standard ones, like flute, bagpipes, violin, and a few more of 'em, which keeps it interesting. If you're a newbie to this genre, then you should listen to some Skyclad first, 'cause they are just masterful. To anyone who thinks he heard it all, these lads should be very welcome guests. Party on!
Mariner
http://www.schandmaul.de / Rock Inc.
SCYTHE
"Poetry Of Illusions"
CD 70/100
Atmospheric Death Metal
Germany
Anyone remembers when Opeth was still an obscure Extreme Metal band? Great in quality but unlocked to only a few blessed passers by. Scythe remind me a bit of them. Not that they really sound like them. The Unlord knows the last thing we need is another Opeth wannabe that thinks acoustic pieces in between blastbeats is an instant formula for success. Actually, an accurate description would be: the band that is most like Opeth without sounding like them. I just get that same chilly winter feeling of yore when the guitars stop sounding like riffs and transform into hypnotic chants, mesmerizing bass drones as one usually only finds on a Burzum or Forgotten Woods record. A small release, inconspicuous, but maybe the herald of something bigger.
Samoht
SEVERED
REMAINS "A Display Of Those Defiled"
CD 68/100
Brutal Death Metal
USA
When I read "Liege Of Inveracity" on the back tray of this album, I felt really excited because I thought "a band that covers Suffocation must be really cool!". Unfortunately, it wasn't as cool as I expected. I mean, it's not bad at all but it's no Suffocation either... Still, Severed Remains play a similar genre featuring nice complex riffs, a blasting drum style and extreme guttural vocals. The only difference is that the songs sometimes lack catchiness... Also, they put in too much breaks in my opinion. Even the Suffocation cover sounds like they didn't work on the fluidity at all, which I think is a shame. However, Brutal Death Metal fans are probably going to appreciate what these five young Americans play. Looking at the picture, they even seem very young, so I guess there's hope and room for progress yet...
RNO
SILVER
"Intruder"
CD 65/100
Melodic Rock
UK/Germany
Three albums in 3 years time, unproductive is the last word you'd use for the Anglo-German collective Silver. However, the saying goes "quantity doesn't always equal quality" and in this case that truth can be used twice! Firstly because this third record is clearly their weakest effort, secondly because, despite the "big names" (the likes of Gary Barden, Bernie Torme, Don Airey, Michael Voss and guests like Bob Daisley, Tommy Denander and others), this does not live up to the standard you would expect from these guys. They started out all right though; the self-titled debut album contained some very catchy songs: "Silver", "Pretender" and "Sweet Sister" that kicked off that album in style. The second album was somewhat less interesting overall. This one already kicks off with rather mediocre tracks like "Intruder" and "Troublemaker" and it doesn't really get much better after that. Luckily it doesn't get worse than "How does it feel?" (as if that would be possible). Can someone wake up the drummer? Maybe he was exhausted after covering Cozy Powell's "Dance With The Devil", although they don't do this instrumental much justice - and why is it on the album anyway? Highlights? Yes there are some, "I Don't Love You Anymore" is a nice AOR-like track, "Come On" is straight-in-your-face Rock 'n Roll, "Bleed" has a more modern feel to it, "When The Lights Go Down" is an OK ballad and "Drowning" is not too bad either. Five bites but then the (silver) plate is empty that's enough to whet your appetite, but it hardly counts as a full meal now, does it?
Jo-1
http://www.point-music.com / Germusica
SNAPCASE
"Bright Flashes"
CD 77/100
Progressive Hardcore
USA
Many of you will agree that this is a 'strange' album compared to their previous album, which was an excellent one with no doubt. It's like the album consists of three different albums, which makes it a 'B-side' collection album in my opinion. One part of the album is filled with 'leftovers'; five songs that should have been on the tremendous "End Transmission" album. Three songs are (electronic) remixes from existing songs, also from the "End Transmission" album. And the 4 remaining songs are covers from bands such as Devo and Jane's Addiction, which are not very fabulous and too simple in my opinion, but a cover is and will always remain a cover, right? Snapcase has been a pillar for many Hardcore bands and they have always been trying new stuff and pushing everything a little bit further. That's why I think they deserve to be called a Progressive Hardcore band. This album as a whole has got a spacey sound and has got influences from other musical styles like Jungle, Electronic music… I think this is just a foretaste of what their forthcoming album will be. Anyway, if you are a diehard Snapcase fan, you will love this album although it sounds different. Still, the Hardcore is prominent. As for myself, I think it's pretty hard to listen to this album but at least I don't think they are doing something wrong - on the contrary - this "Bright Flashes" makes me want to look out for their next release…
YVES
http://www.hardlifepromotion.nl / Hardlife promotion
SPIRITUS
MORTIS "Spiritus Mortis"
CD 78/100
Doom Metal
Finland
Hey, here's a truly excellent hybrid. Something between Candlemass and Saxon... Oops, I think I've lost half of my readers... Damn youth! Whatever... And the greatest thing is that this record sounds as if Spiritus Mortis have taken only the best from their inspirational guides. As a matter of fact, with the strong epic edge of (old school) Heavy Metal and the sludgy heaviness of Doom, the Finns have created some sort of quite refreshing new style that should please lots of metalheads. Yet, I'm still wondering if this mix of two "outdated" styles can really work for a younger audience... probably not. At least, the band found an alternative way to set itself apart from the rest. I wish them good luck and hope they can push their crossbred style even further next time.
RNO
SPLATTERHOUSE
/ GRUESOME STUFF RELISH "Split CD"
MCD 79/100
USA/Spain
Grindcore
Splatterhouse was not part of my vocabulary until recently. Now I can remember them as a very good Carcass influenced Grind band. Their music is astonishingly powerful and no, it's not "just Grind"... In fact, the guys are in total control of their instruments and they develop excellent artistic skills throughout the four tunes that are present on this split MCD. Their sound is also very good. Deep and cruel. In the end I think there's absolutely nothing bad to say about them. Every Grind freak shall love them for sure! Gruesome Stuff Relish is a band I already heard of in the past. They released a split CD on Bizarre Leprous Productions a couple of years ago I think. And it was pretty cool! These guys have also been very influenced by the old Carcass but their sound reminds me more of old Scandinavian Death Metal (Dismember, Entombed etc.). Again, nothing but a great sonic assault and I don't think we're asking for more... that's just perfect.
RNO
http://www.noescaperecords.com
STEVE
HOWE'S REMEDY "Elements"
(CMM / Inside Out) CD 67/100
Instrumental rock
U.K.
Steve Howe is one of Rock's most respected guitarists, famous for his work with GTR, Asia and of course Yes, which just happens to be one of the most successful bands in the history of Progressive Rock. "Elements" was created with the help of his two sons (on synth and drums) and a few additional musicians and guests. Although officially this new release is a group effort - the band's name is Remedy - this is in my opinion nothing else than a new solo album as it offers nothing really out of the ordinary when compared to his other work. As with most of Howe's solo stuff it's less progressive than Yes and it will therefore probably appeal more to the "progrock-lite" fans of Asia. But even among those this album isn't a certified hit because it's mostly instrumental (as are his other solo albums) and because of the loads of other influences that are present. Of course there are bits that will interest a fan of classic progressive stuff, but on each new solo-album Howe covers a lot more ground than that, sometimes even into relatively bizarre territory. On "Elements" we're treated to doses of Jazz fusion, Folk, Funk, Rock 'n' Roll, Blues, Hard Rock and Pop. Of course Howe's often instantly recognizable guitar playing has a prominent place in all this. Luckily he has never let his technical dexterity stand in the way of a good melody, so again he has come up with a few enjoyable tunes. The number of notes played per second are not important to him, so the fans of Malmsteen and the likes should look elsewhere. If I also tell you that sometimes there's a real wall of synthesizers à la Vangelis present (courtesy of his son) and that there are a lot of dreamy passages as well, this CD is something that should be approached with caution when you're into more extreme stuff. I'd also like to add that while "Elements" is a good and certainly interesting album, it's not his best. If you really want to get to know his solo work, I'd suggest you start with 1979's "Steve Howe Album" or 1993's "The Grand Scheme Of Things", which show him at his creative best. If you like those, "Elements" will almost certainly please you as well.
Foob
http://www.insideout.de / CMM
SUPERBUTT
"The Unbeatable Eleven"
CD 95/100
A fresh sort of Nu Metal
Hungary
Metal music stores have been the inevitable rendezvous of the connoisseurs for many decades. Yet lately, times seem to change... With all this damn easy-to-find info they pluck on the net, kids now just enter the stores with a readymade shopping list, get the stuff without even having to give it a listen and go back home struck by an incredibly daft bliss. I'm sure they don't even know there's a human being behind the counter. Ask the kids what the cashier looks like; they'll probably answer "I don't know, I focused on my shoes...". Yes, indeed, buying a CD has now become a very mechanical and emotionless act. There's no surprise anymore: you just buy the CDs you heard MP3 excerpts from... The rest: you heard it, didn't like it and thus don't buy it, or you didn't hear it and don't wanna take the risk to purchase something bad. The good thing with this is that you definitely never get to regret anything anymore. But on the other side, you also skip the possibility of discovering something new that may be really special after all. OK, why am I boring you with all this shit? Well, can't you figure it out? Come on! Because it would be a tremendous shame not to buy "The Unbeatable Eleven", whose audio fragments cannot be found on thousands of websites (yet)! I'm telling you: missing such a cool band just because you didn't hear a fucking MP3 excerpt of their album would be the stupidest thing you could possibly do, and I mean it! Now that a Nu Metal band has finally come up with songs that carry a really original edge, furthermore preserving all of the energy inherent to the genre, not giving it a chance would be... sacrilege!!! I know many of you are still under the impact of the latest System Of A Down but please clean your ears and check out this very hard-working Hungarian band! If their first album was a bomb, this second one is its deflagration! The few lucky people who saw them on stage will positively back me up on this.
RNO
http://www.superbutt.net / Hardebaran / Sonic Rendezvous
SWALLOW
THE SUN "The Morning Never Came"
CD 91
Doom/Death Metal
Finland
Next time someone asks me about a truly recommendable Doom album, I'll probably think straight away of this magnificent opus that has stayed in my player for several weeks already and that will undoubtedly regularly keep on traveling between my CD shelf and my hi-fi system. It's a killer one indeed… Some may say that Swallow The Sun are no huge technicians, but one thing you can't deny is that they're outstanding composers and that's positively their major (yet not only) asset. I know it's not really comparable, but I haven't heard such good Doom/Death songs since the first My Dying Bride. Now you can imagine how impressed I am! Plus the guys haven't been around for a very long time, which means they're still "fresh" and ready to kick ass for a pleasant couple of years… This is the kind of band I'll keep an eye - both eyes even - on in the future…
RNO
TERROR
2000 "Slaughter In Japan - live 2003"
CD 66/100
Thrash Metal
Sweden
This is the first CD of Terror 2000 I got to hear; it's always difficult to appreciate the music of a band you don't know in a proper way with a live album. Well, yeah, sometimes it is, but I'm afraid it is not the case here. And the very kitsch album cover is not helping a lot! Compared to the previous Terror 2000 album covers, this one really looks cheap, but maybe, that was done on purpose. But OK, what is really important is the music. Terror 2000 play classic Thrash and I guess they gathered the best songs from their previous 2 albums on this live album. The CD was recorded in Tokyo, in May, during a tour with Destruction. My honest global impression is of a somewhat monotonous CD, even though some tracks like "Faster Disaster" or "Back With Attack" have some recognizable riffs and chorus. What I mean is it does not have the power and variety as we have it on Slayer's "Decade Of Aggression". But they sure know how to butcher Elvis songs!!! That is proven on this CD with their cover of "Devil In Disguise". The sound quality, always an issue with live albums, is not really great also, we have heard much better before. I was somewhat disappointed with this CD; if Terror 2000 fans might think about it in a different way, so be it.
AOD
THE
BLACK LEAGUE 'Man's Ruin Revisited'
CD 65/100
Rawk'n'roll
Finland
The Finnish leaguesmen have decided for the release of their third output to completely shift from their brand of Epic Prog Metal towards a simpler, more direct Rawk'n'roll approach. As surprising as it could be, this stylistic U-turn proves to be a winning one as we end up with a 45 minute slab of entertaining mean music. The gang holding in its ranks former members of Sentenced and Legenda(!) chose to tackle a well known topic in American folklore and especially in the tattoo field: man's ruin, i.e. the doomed trinity of booze, gambling and loose women, guaranteed to turn any good man into a complete worthless wreck within a brief delay. No surprise then that the songs deal with the various degrees of degeneration induced by this way of life, with cuts such as "Black Water Fever", "Ain't No Friend Of Mine" or "Cold Women And Warm Beer" (such unspeakable horror!), you can rest assured the boys know what they are talking about... A dry and raspy sound serves as a guideline for these tales of damnation, which is where the sore point of the record actually lies: you can tell those musicians come from a Metal background since no matter how hard they try, they still show an almost surgical precision in their delivery; they never sound the least bit chaotic...dirty noise in full control.
Halcyon.
THE
KILL "The Soundtrack To Your Violence"
MCD 67/100
Grindcore
Australia
I presume that every Grind aficionado remembers about that old song of Napalm Death that was entitled "The Kill"... It probably was one of the most intense songs they ever made. Why am I mentioning it? Well, there are two reasons. The first one is pretty obvious: the band we're about to talk about is called The Kill. The second reason is that the intensity that was contained in those few seconds of madness wherein Lee Dorrian literally slaughtered his vocal chords can be found back on this record from these crazy Australian psychopaths. And it lasts for more than 13 minutes. Needless to say, one feels totally washed out after he's heard this MCD... Still, it's pleasant to discover such bands that can start out hard and end as hard as they've started. No miracle here, just bombastic brutality.
RNO
http://www.noescaperecords.com
…THE
SUN OF WEAKNESS "…The Sun Of Weakness"
demo CDR 74/100
Ambient
Italy
The names of the musicians put me on the right track and after a short search on the almighty 'web' I can confirm you that…The Sun Of Weakness is originating from Italy. Much more info I cannot give; my Italian is pretty poor and honestly, I did not feel like putting a lot of effort in it too (for more info, id est in Italian, check the link below). Not that I did not like this demo, on the contrary. It is not bad at all. This is probably the first CD I cannot really qualify as Metal, this is why I ranked it under ambient, be it with guitars (rhythm guitar and excellent howling solo's) and singing, but no drums. We have heard this kind of passages before, for example in the work of My Dying Bride, especially on the 'softer' albums (like on "The Angel And The Dark River"). The music of …The Sun Of Weakness is very melancholic; soft guitar and keyboard tones ease your troubled mind and carry you into some kind of peaceful dream world. The whispering and soft singing strongly contribute to the special atmosphere created by this band. When listening to it with a little more focus, it proves to be not as variegated as I would have liked it to be. Outstanding background music I would say, but for the release of a full CD I would suggest our Italian friends to diversify somewhat more before the music becomes boring.
AOD
http://utenti.lycos.it/thesunofweakness
V.
A. R. "Fast Like A Bikila"
7" 65/100
Thrash Metal
Czech Republic
Forgive me for not being too familiar with the assembled works of the "legendary" Czech thrashers, V.A.R. The Czech Republic is not really known as a breeding ground for talented Metal bands, even though it has spawned some interesting yet obscure creatures like the bizarre Black Metal of Master's Hammer. Even though V.A.R. may be as obscure a name to some, I fear their fate will not pass along the same lines of their avant-garde comrades. "Fast Like A Bikila" will do very little, I'm afraid, to elevate the cult status of V.A.R. to widespread fame. They may have swapped their native tongue for more generally appealing English, the music remains as it was: no nonsense mid eighties Thrash Metal. Interesting mainly to true Thrash collectors or as chauvinistic indulgence.
Samoht
http://www.brnovjak.com/var
VARIOUS
ARTISTS "Motörmorphösis part 2"
CD 79/100
Heavy Metal
Various countries I presume, but my little toe says Germany for the most of
them…
Let me put things straight from the beginning: I have been a Motörhead fan for over 15 years already, so it was very unlikely that I would not have liked this tribute CD. "Motörmorphösis - A tribute to Motörhead Part 2" is the follow up of the CD with the same name, id est part 1 of course. Very logical, isn't it? Well, I never heard the first one (to be honest I also ignored its existence). I suppose part one is full of covers of the most known and classic Motörhead songs. On part 2, we still find covers of some classic songs like "Bomber", "Iron Fist" or one of my favorites "Orgasmatron", but most of the tracks on this compilation are Motörhead sub toppers. Still, all excellent tracks of course! 23 of them in total, almost 80 minutes playtime! I won't go through the list of bands bringing the covers. Frankly, except of Nifelheim, I do not know any one of them. Is there anybody in the house who knows the bands Fyredogs or Holy Moses? Exactly what I thought… Well not that it is really important; in general the covers are (very) well done. Some bands tried to give an own input and sound to the track, some other bands excel in bringing the most accurate copy of the original track (including the Lemmy voice!). We have got a little bit of everything. But honestly - and this is the first thought I had when I heard this tribute CD for the first time - there is not one band to overclass the masters themselves! I must say I am very used to hearing the original Motörhead, maybe that's why. This CD is food for people who like Motörhead in the first place, but who also like covers and compilation albums and of course for those collecting everything they can find concerning their favorite band (Motörhead groupies, does that exist????!).
AOD
http://www.remedyrecords.de / Rock Inc. Promotion
VARIOUS
ARTISTS "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre"
CD 80/100
Metal
International
I haven't seen the remake of this cult gore movie yet but the soundtrack makes me want to check it out as soon as possible! Featuring big artists such as Pantera, Hatebreed, Soil, Static-X, Mushroom Head and even more extreme ones like Morbid Angel, this nice compilation has its place in every metalhead's car hi-fi. For the most part, the tunes are more rhythmic than melodic but a couple of more groovy and rocking bands (like Seether) will facilitate your digestion by incorporating some refreshing atmospheres in their music. Yet, if you don't wanna get hurt, avoid it. You sissy boy!
RNO
http://www.texaschainswamovie.com
VHÄLDEMAR
"I Made My Own Hell"
CD 74/100
Power Metal
Spain
Unlike most Power Metal bands Vhäldemar doesn't start the CD with an intro. The first song and title track "I Made My Own Hell" bashes right in the teeth. It's a fast song with pulsing double bass rhythms and a catching chorus. The only minor point I noticed immediately is the singer's Spanish accent, but after a few songs you get used to it. Besides this, he has a pleasant voice and the rest of the band is composed of capable musicians to. This guarantees us some decent, but not very innovative Power Metal. Then, after the first furious song, another one follows in the same vein, called "Breakin' All The Rules". Helloween riffs and Maiden chords all over the place, but I can't understand the meaning of the lyrics. This song has a nice Spanish guitar interlude near the end. After the first good tracks a few more normal songs follow. Nothing special about these ones, neither good nor bad. Their titles: "No Return", "Steam-Roller", "Old King's Visions (part II)",which is a Manowar-type ballad in the vein of Defender, Courage, Masters Of The Wind and the instrumental "Mystery". Then comes "House Of War", a rather good song in the vein of the first two, with some nice sing-along parts. Next song is a short Spanish guitar instrumental. Then, when the end is near, Vhäldemar brings with "Death Comes Tonight" and "I Will Raise My Fist" again two very decent tracks. "Death Comes Tonight" has some cool riffs in it - a bit too Manowar typecast to my opinion - and "I Will Raise My Fist" is (again) more in the vein of the first songs. The record ends with "March of Dooms", their poorest instrumental I think. So I must say that, to my opinion, this is a decent record, but not good enough to stand out in the vast mass of Power Metal releases nowadays.
Mr Moshpit
VII
GATES "Fire, Walk With Me"
CD 70/100
Classic Heavy Metal
Sweden
Having little to do with log ladies, backward speaking midgets or cherry pie, "Fire, Walk With Me" is still a damn fine Heavy Metal record. Taking their main influence from Iron Maiden, Gary Moore, the whole classic range of available forefathers, VII Gates manages pretty well in extracting one harmonious guitar lick after the other, resulting in wondrous pieces like the extremely maidenesque "Seconds Left Live" or the endearing Power ballad "So Far Away". To produce this record a whole bunch of guest musicians have been called to the fore, the most significant of which are Lee Marcello of Europe and Swedish pride, Arch Enemy's Chris Amott.
Samoht
http://www.soundriot.net / Rock Inc.
WASTEFORM
"Ignorance Through Sovereignty"
CD 65/100
Death Metal
US
This record takes brutality to new extreme heights. Such slogans have disgraced the ads section of your favorite zines for so long its meaning has been completely eroded, its impact nullified and its alleged innovation the laughing stock of the entire scene. Wasteform make no such claims, even though they are actually a band that finally could and maybe should make one. The sound of "Ignorance Through Sovereignty" is devastatingly crushing, not so much on grounds of them breaking any sound barriers, but due to the pummeling percussion that triggers drum salvo after drum salvo. It feels like you are listening to the inner workings of some unholy machine rather than actual music.
Samoht
WUTHERING
HEIGHTS "Far From The Madding Crowd"
(Locomotive Records) CD 75/100
Folk Metal / Neo-classical Metal / Progressive Metal
Denmark
This Danish release draws narrow circles around the Folk-influenced Thrash of Skyclad, the Folk Power Metal of (for example) Mago De Oz (which happen to be label mates of theirs) and the Neoclassical Metal of Rhapsody, Luca Turilli or even ye olde Rising Force. Because of the melodic yet energetic approach, most songs will probably appeal to Power Metal fans whereas the neoclassical elements are bound to win over quite a few Progressive Metalheads. Playing is extremely tight to the point of becoming impressive. Just listen to the instrumental track "Bad Hobbits Die Hard" for example and you'll hear what I mean. The vocals are strong as well, operatic even, and somewhat reminiscent of James LaBrie ("Virgin Steele"), only a bit darker. The production is rock solid too, so normally this album should've received a higher quotation than it did. Most reviewers probably would've done so. But technical skill and power can only win me over partially and there are a few minor points that annoy me a bit about this CD. First of all, there's the rather cheesy sound of the keyboards that pop up from time to time. Especially the soft passages are spoiled by them. In this band's particular case it would've been more convincing with the keyboards replaced by real violins (like they did for the flutes). Then there's the fact that the songs sound a bit bloated. By this I mean that it's all very grand, theatrical and extremely serious, a bit like a Wagner classic, but that at the same time it's generally not very subtle. The word "pompous" springs to mind. But despite this I'm sure many metalheads will enjoy "Far From The Madding Crowd" simply for what it is, a technically outstanding piece of work. And if you're into Fantasy stories, there's added value in the sense that it's a Tolkien-ish concept album.
Foob
http://www.locomotivemusic.com / Rock Inc.