MAY 2003 UPDATE
(reviews are listed alphabetically...)
ANTHEMON
"Arcanes"
CD 82/100
Gothic Doom Metal
France
Let me start with
this: Anthemon truly has a place amongst bands like Anathema or My Dying Bride.
This one-hour-lasting epos is simply brilliant! The melancholic music of Anthemon
is at the same time dark, powerful and very, very melodic. I can assure you,
this CD really eases your mind. The guitars are taking the leading role in the
musical base of Anthemon, together with piano work, frequently present in the
masterpiece. Other instruments, simulated or not, are diversifying the compositions
even more. The keyboards are only supporting the songs. The male Death Metal
grunts are alternated with very lyrical feminine chants and enrich the compositions.
This CD is sung in English, except of the title track "Arcanes", which
is in French. An excellent song, and since French has always been a very lyrical
language (at least more than English) it suits the style perfectly as well as
the atmosphere created by Anthemon. Anthemon went to Finland for the mixing
and the mastering of the CD; one might say it is a bit far but the result is
just brilliant. Quite normal I would say, considering that Mika Jussila (Nightwish,
Therion, Emperor, Edguy, Avantasia, Impaled Nazarene…) at Finnvox took
charge of the mastering. It is very difficult to point out a favorite song;
all the 11 tracks have something special and are equally interesting.
One last piece of general comment: their score could have been higher, but record
labels should understand that a CD, including its artwork, is one piece of art
(well at least it should be, it is not always the case). Therefore, it is necessary
to have the complete product if you want a right judgment. In this case, I did
not receive either any form of cover or a booklet. How the hell am I supposed
to evaluate the artwork???… This really pisses me off, especially with
such an excellent CD. And even more when you know it was done by Jean Pascal
Fournier (Immortal, Edguy, Avantasia, Tristania…)… But even so, "Arcanes"
is highly recommended.
AOD
http://www.thundering-records.com
ARTHEMIS
"The Damned Ship"
CD 79/100
Natural Born Epic Metal
Italy
Arthemis are storytellers. Not content to merely churn out some clichéd fantasy lyrics accompanied by some fast drumming and other musical bravado, then push the magical button for "Epic Music" and hope for the best (many other Italian bands come to mind), they instead craft songs that would come across as epic hymns even if the texts were about taking the subway everyday (which they're not actually). This is together with the Powerquest debut, definitely one of the best things coming out of Underground Symphony for some time. The musicianship on display stands beyond question, but instead of indulging in self-glorifying guitarwankery, the song is the center point. Lyrically, they do tread trodden territory, but as pointed out before the music itself is strong enough to convey the message on its own. Rhapsody, beware.
Samoht
http://www.undergroundsymphony.com / Bertus
ARTRACH
"Through Archways of Dark"
CD 70/100
Heavy Epic Metal
Belgium
Through Archways of Dark opens up with a moody instrumental piece, the sort you're more likely to find on a Gothic Metal release than on a power metal record. And this more or less sets the tone for the entire demo. Not that the music is that dark, it's rather that the band is quite apt at leading you in the wrong direction and then smack you on the head with some monstrous hook when you least expect it. The staccato riff that kickstarts Legionnaire's Pray is even somewhat reminiscent of fellow countrymen Manic Movement. That is before it erupts as a grand homage to Bruce Dickinson. My personal faves are "The One" and the title track, where the vocalist comes through on his potential. However, I would like to point out that, talented as this guy may be, he does constitute the band's Achilles heel. It seems as if he is still searching for his niche within the genre and wavers between very emotive, epic singing and less fortunate Halfordesque escapades. Still, if they manage to smooth out these details, I definitely see a very bright light at the end of their archway.
Samoht
BETHLEHEM
"Suicide Radio"
PC CD-rom 73/100
Black/Industrial Metal
Germany
When I got this CD to review, I was wondering if it was Bethlehem, the Black Metal band I used to know from "Dark Metal". I doubted, as this essentially looked like an Industrial CD. Well, it is the same band; the style really changed a bit. They still play Black/Dark Metal songs, with however a lot of Industrial influences (some are pure Noise/Industrial). This new work by Bethlehem is a new audio/visual CD-rom including video clips, remixed songs, photo gallery, discography and more. The global result is a bit disappointing; I watched the video clips using my regular player, not via the Bethlehem presentation window. It took me a lot of time to visualize the thing on my first computer, I had problems opening the CD; on the other one, I needed to look and install a rather recent version of Quick Time (version 5.0.1 or higher, not provided on the CD) to get the thing working. But then again, the 3 video clips, and the 5 video tracks (with some overlaps) are OK and I must say, they are very intriguing and bizarre. These guys are weird! Dead old people, "You must kill yourself" message, war scenes, you name it. Add to this the combination of Black Metal passages, bizarre noise and compositions, hypnotic childish or circus tunes and the extremely shrill and hostile voice of the singer, the result sticks to your bones. I dunno if I can recommend this thing to you people, but it is for sure worth seeing and/or hearing at least once, the video clips being most interesting.
AOD
CADAVERES
DE TORTUGAS "Incarnation"
85/100
Adrenalin Gorged Thrashcore
Hungary
Never heard of them? Wake up and smell the coffee! In case you didn't know yet, Eastern Europe and Hungary in particular is swarming with serious and talented musicians and Cadaveres De Tortugas are no exception. These guys have been working assiduously since 1993, independently producing no less than four albums. This latest one, "Incarnation", is the logical product of steadfast progress, technique, hard work and dedication and it deserves to be the last independent release these guys will ever make. Not that it sounds bad, no sir... It actually sounds amazingly professional for an autoprod. What I mean is: if Sepultura caught the attention of the labels, then I don't see any reason why these guys don't deserve a break. Their combination of eighties Bay Area Thrash and New York Hardcore, cleverly spiced up with some tribal elements and quality vocal work kicks you in the face but it's only when you see these guys perform live that you realize how far you'll have to crawl around on all fours to get your teeth back. Take your protein pills and put your helmet on 'cause it's stagedivin' time! Reminiscent of Machine Head, deadly precise guitars groove on, electrifying the audience to the verge of frenzy. Viniczai's massive arms pound away on the skins and bouncing Perso's corrosive vocals rip your guts out to finish off the job his bassline started. So, if you ask me if this band is ready to take the next step, I'd definitely say yes. They've got all it takes: balls, impressive live experience and matching charisma, technique, originality in the details and pro attitude. Just pay attention to the small ethnic elements, excellent three-headed part-singing, acoustic interludes, percussions and such niceties when you feed the album to your player. O, and did I mention that the lyrics are both in English and Spanish? If you're still looking for a cure for Monday morning slacking, seek no longer. Get "Incarnate"... it works.
Fae
http://www.cdtmusic.hu / http://www.hardebaran.com
CRIONICS
"Human Error - Ways To Selfdestruction"
CD 84/100
Black/Death Metal
Poland
Emperor did stop playing, right? Yeah? Well, that's a good thing because Crionics sound as the Scandinavian masters sounded in the past and therefore we're gonna avoid the usual and boring discussions about "Why do you play this? Your neighbor already does...". I know this introduction may seem cruel because Crionics apparently worked their asses off in order to play good music (Aren't their technical skills astonishing? Yes, they surely are!) and the only recognition I offer them is "Wow, you sound like Emperor"... That is a little discourteous indeed! But let's bring some nuances to this all-gray canvas... Crionics added a personal touch and it's very noticeable when you get to know them better. That means you need to take a few listens before you can actually say that. But it's true. Totally! They're not gonna win any originality cup with such an album, but they certainly won't end in the somber lanes where all the Metal clones are usually relegated. So, everything is cool. We're not talking about vulgar impostors and the four Polish guys did a hell of a great job, I swear! In case you see this black and blue album in a shop near you, don't hesitate to grab one and put it in your basket. Or in your pocket if you're broke... You won't be disappointed!
RNO
http://www.empire-records.com.pl
CRYONIC
TEMPLE "Chapter I"
CD 65/100
True Metal
Italy
Oh yeah, Metal brother, raise your hand…Fight,fight,fight for your right. Anyone who didn't think Manowar in the past 3 seconds, please leave the room. Still with me, awright. Now, there's two ways to go about looking at this record. On the one hand you have lyrics that are replete with Metal clichés (Heavy Metal never dies, Metal Brothers… you get the idea), the sort of eighties remnant postmodern metalheads would hope the world had forgotten. But that's not the point, is it? You can't fault the album for being what it is, namely a fun, pretentionless METAL album. This is pure escapism and - make no mistake - the album does rock. The opening track is inescapably headbang inducing. And sometimes that's all we need.
Samoht
http://www.undergroundsymphony.com / Bertus
DESPISE
"Confinement in Decrepitude"
demo CD-R 87/100
Brutal Death/Grind
Czech Republic
Despise is a Brutal Death Grind band from the Czech Republic, which sounds more Brutal Death than Grind, mainly formed with members from Imperial Foeticide. "Confinement In Decrepitude" proposes 5 tracks. The 3 first tracks are original tracks from the band. These tracks could be described as a mix of Mortal Decay, Enmity, Incestuous and older Dying Fetus. Some riffs are very groovy and almost Core, typical for Dying Fetus. These tracks also make me think of Alienation Mental, especially during the most brutal parts made of raging blast beats. If you already know Imperial Foeticide, there are similarities between the two bands, with some similar riffs à la Fleshgrind. Vocals are guttural in the Disgorge (US) vein. The 4th track is a cover of Pyrexia, "Confrontation", and rather cool to listen to. And the last track is a Techno remix called "Despiseremix". This useless 5th track is the only weak point of "Confinement In Decrepitude", because the whole thing has a really good sound and 4 killer tracks!
Kaigan
FABULOUS
DISASTER "Panty Raid!"
CD 80/100
Punk Rock
USA
When it comes to music, things are simple: either it's good or it isn't! About a year ago I saw Fabulous Disaster on their European tour and I was pretty amazed with how this girl band rocked! But there was one aspect I didn't like at all. At the gig I heard people saying things like: "Hey, not bad for girls", "Sounds pretty good for a girl band"… That's the wrong attitude! My reply to that is : "They're good! They rock! They rule!" and nothing more! I've got to admit one thing: girl bands like Sahara Hotnights, The Donnas and let's even say Josie And The Pussiecats don't blow me off my feet, because they don't have the technicality of Fabulous Disaster. This album proves it all. It's got all the ingredients we need for a good Punk Rock album. When they slow down, they do it with style, when they go fast, they hit it hard, when we hear backing vocals it gets very catchy, and believe me, they can play more chords than most Punk Rock bands. The songs are worked out very nicely. This is an album for those who like bands like NOFX, The Descendents and The Ramones. Ladies and gentlemen: Destiny's Child, Atomic Kitten and other bullshit girl bands don't know what it is to be a true musician. These four ladies do!
YVES
http://www.fabulous-disaster.com / Sonic Rendezvous
HONCHO
"Corporate Rock"
CD 80/100
Pure Stoner
Norway
The Scandinavian Stoner scene has indeed a lot to offer with bands such as El Caco and this present record won't tarnish its good reputation. Eleven top notch songs holding their fair share of grooving heaviness (opener eGrebo Mentor") or Sleep-like blues mayhem ("Industrial Lane"). The lads prove to be versatile and swing from almost Doom riffing ("Messy Ferguson") to appealing weirdness (the Punk fury of "Peyot" merging into Arabic lines distorded by a flanged wah- wah.Yes!). They actually managed to write a kind of miracle song which can save your day or provide an excellent lets-get-out of here atmosphere: "In The Woods" (available on their website for free: you really don't have any excuse left), with its sky-high exciting riff and rhythm along with soulful vocals between Chris Cornell and Grand Magus JB (you don't know Grand Magus? You losers!). Would Spiritual Beggars care less about showing off their musicianship and throwing around used up seventies clichés, they would surely sound like Honcho. No less.
Halcyon.
http://www.waterdragonrecords.com / Rock inc.
IMPERIAL
FOETICIDE "Promo 2001"
demo CD-R 80/100
Brutal Death/Grind
Czech Republic
After an epic intro, Imperial Foeticide proposes 5 tracks of Brutal Death Grind that can remind of Devourment and Alienation Mental. This is very good and very brutal!!! Indeed, the Devourment sounding parts are the ones who sound groovy, and the ones sounding like Alienation Mental are really the most brutal! If you like these two bands, don't hesitate to put an ear to this promo stuff or on other material from the band!! The line up mentions a drummer, but it really sounds like a drum machine… I can't say more about it, but it doesn't sound "human", and technically too… To me, this is a drum machine and the way it has been programmed reminds me of Mortician, especially for the bass drum. But I can be wrong; it could be a real drummer (who's not human!). The short intros/outros between the tracks can also remind of Alienation Mental on "Ball Spouter" with its Indus sonorities. The sound is rather good, even if the drums are too much out front, but it remains good and pleasant to listen to these 5 tracks. Well, that's it! At least if you're into Devourment, Alienation Mental and Mortician, Imperial Foeticide is for you!
Kaigan
KAMINARI
"Kaminari"
CD 70/100
Heavy Hard Rock
Germany
On a brief linguistic
note: Kaminari is the Japanese word for thunderstorm. At first glance, you would
say, aah, thundering riffs. Sounds heavy. Cool…
To me, it struck a different chord though, namely that our German meteomancers
swept through 30 years of rock history and took along a bit of everything in
their wake. "Fire And Dice" and "Stairway To The Galaxy",
for instance, effectively combine seventies Rock melodies with classic Saxon
style Heavy Metal. The one track that stands out - and is recorded in 2 versions
on the disc - is "My Black Colors". Not only quality wise, but also
because this song alone refers to a musical history beyond the 70/80s. With
an opening riff, ripped from "Alive" and the nasal singing, is sounds
like the late Alice In Chains vocalist force-fed intravenously on Whitesnake.
A curious combination of styles, but it works.
Samoht
MASTIC
SCUM "Scar"
CD 82/100
Grindrock
Germany
This is the 2nd full length album for Mastic Scum and I really like how this one sounds, perfectly defined by the bio: "Massive grooves turn into blast beats. Aggressive, harsh vocals, raw driving guitars, sub-end bass and grooving drums with blast attacks". Indeed, Mastic Scum plays what they call Grindrock, not in the CSSO way, but more as a groovy version of cult acts from the beginning of the 90's like Napalm Death or Extreme Noise Terror. This fact can also be confirmed by some song structures, typical to the previously mentioned bands. The most groovy - and sometimes almost Rock - parts are sometimes really close to Blood Duster "Cunt" or even Mucupurulent "Soul Reaver". Also, some Punk/Crust riffs remind me of The Exploited. The sound is excellent, the packaging looks well and I like the lyrics, especially the way they are written, with a very ironic point of view on the world of today, in pure Napalm Death style! Very good album!
Kaigan
MONUMENTUM
"Ad Nauseam"
CD 95/100
Atmospheric Gothic/Electro
Italy
Picture yourself washed upon a shore of some unknown hostile world... A world the color of rust and concrete, sterile and ruled by technology, where humans would be kept in cages like pathetic specimens of pointlessness. A world where emotion has become obsolete and the only decent thing left to do for them is lie down and die slowly of bereavement and deprivation, listening to the wind and the waves and the repetitive screeching of machines... Monumentum are masters at creating estranging atmospheres, crammed with little electronic sounds and samples but they also deliver wonderful melodies. Once vaporous, then heavy with indescribable sadness, but always eloquent, they weave their panoramic fata morganas of emotion. Just try it with headphones on for an optimum effect: the trip will make you totally schizo but the feelings you will end up with are all too familiar! The longing, the loneliness, the insignificance of your petty existence... it all comes rushing back. While rhythm sections are kept discrete yet efficient, your attention is drawn to marvelously expressive lyrics. Andrea, the male lead vocalist cleaves your soul with deep and tortured sighs, occasionally crying out in high agonizing pitches and the equally beautiful guest vocals delivered by Alis Francesca echo his anguish, ethereal and warm at the same time like a sand-laden desert wind blowing through forests of ice. "Ad Nauseam" speaks of our helplessness and decay indeed but has the strangest effect on one's mind. Surprisingly, when the music abruptly stops, you feel uplifted, not depressed. As if one way or another, you escaped time itself... You're free...
Fae
http://www.tatra-records.com / http://www.monumentum.it
MOONLIGHT
"Candra"
CD 85/100
Atmospheric Metal
Poland
Compared with the previous release " Yaishi ", this isn't a better one. But it's a different one for sure! Lately I noticed that lots of Atmospheric bands are slowly changing their Metal style into some sort of Heavy Atmospheric Rock and, though I still feel that strong Metal flame in my heart, I must admit it's not a bad thing. I mean, there's an evolution and no one can say it sucks. That would be bad faith! Either you like it or you don't. But you can't lie to yourself and claim there's something wrong with certain elements or... you know... Anyway, some people told me they don't like The Gathering anymore. Well, that I can understand, since this band went though major changes that made their music turn into some unrecognizable style. But I'm pretty convinced that no friends of mine will tell me they didn't like the latest Moonlight disc because it still has a very noticeable personal mood, some sort of trademark, see what I mean? Now, it's true: things have become much sweeter. Moods are quiet. We're dealing with pure intimacy here... There even are a couple of parts where the singing of Maja reminded me of Tori Amos on her latest productions ("To Venus And Back" and a couple of others) or even Enya (no, I'm definitely not drunk, believe me, there IS a similarity...). Among my favorite tracks, I'd like to mention "Body Dialogue" which is tremendously expressive and still very easy to listen to. And, yeah, it's quite heavy... But I swear that I like the whole album; the cool parts as well as the heavier ones... This band released lots of CDs and is still pretty unknown. I think it's about time to show them the support they deserve... Come on guys!
RNO
Metal Mind Records / http://www.metalopolis.com
NECROPHAGIA
"The Divine Art of Torture"
CD 85/100
Death Metal from the Crypt
USA
Ah Death Metal… without any doubt the most adapted style to retranscribe the unhealthy and crazy atmosphere of a gore film, its slimy horror, its debauchery of meat, its sadistic - and enjoyable - madness. They are numerous, the champions of the genre, where you can find Mortician, Six Feet Under… and Necrophagia that has definitely acquired a cult status we won't question here. The Divine Art Of Torture is a new anthem to those famous poets of gore: Romero, Fulci or Argento, a Death Metal fresco full of powerful riffs and crushing rythmics struck with a salutary perversity. On the whole, the group privileges monumental swarms and heavy tempos to brutality, but never loses its violence and vigor, far from it. Excellently carried by its psychopath-leader Killjoy, this funeral march permits him to reveal a tessitura to wake up the dead, a scorched vomiting that perfectly becomes the celebration of such venomous creature. Now and then the group polishes up ambiences faithful to the soundtracks of that good old "films de genre", painting a macabre scenery where Necrophagia's cadaverous heaviness asserts itself with the whole of its weight. The know-how is undeniably here. The earth of the kingdom of monsters is still wet of blood, Necrophagia has trampled it for you and brings back from it sordid and very delightful stories just for you.
Satha
NEGATIVE
CREEPS "In Uterus Rebirth"
CD 74/100
Trashcore/Satancore
Greece
"In Uterus Rebirth" is actually the first real full-CD of Negative Creeps on a label, even though they were formed in the early 90's. As they originate form Greece, Black Lotus Records seems to be a logical choice. Negative Creeps bring us "Satancore", which is kind of a crossover between Thrash, Hardcore, Death and Black Metal. Their sound is rather electric and really clear, as industrial as for example the sound of Myrkskog or the new Strapping Young Lad CD. The heavy guitars are dominant and their sound is quite characteristic for this band. The CD cover perfectly fits this music and will give ya a hint to what Negative Creeps stands for. Negative Creeps have supported Biohazard and Rotting Christ on tour in Greece (in 2002 and 2001 respectively), which is another indication that they are quite a good value in the country of the Gods of the Olympus. To me personally, this CD is a bit too monotonous and therefore, it does not really manage to catch my full attention. If you want to know more about this band, check out their website at www.negativecreeps.com; this site is really well done.
AOD
http://www.black-lotus-recs.com / Rock Inc.
NOSTRADAMEUS
"The Third Prophecy"
CD 78/100
Power Metal
Sweden
Class. That's the first word that sprang to my mind upon hearing this record, the third one for Swedish Progmetallers Nostradameus. Everything about them exudes professionalism, from the crystal clear Finnvox production to the well-balanced songwriting. Track after track do these fellas manage to hit the musical nail on the head with the accuracy of a guided missile. The melodic yet heavy riffing provides the nail, which is then deeply driven into your skull through the sing along choruses. This IS catchy music that should work exceptionally well in a live environment. Coming soon to a gig near you. See you at the front.
Samoht
http://www.afm-records.de / Rock Inc.
POWER
QUEST "Wings Of Forever"
CD 75/100
Melodic Power Metal
UK
With the unset of spring, my heart usually leaps from the doom-laden ghastliness of winter to more positive tones. The perfect mindset to fully appreciate the wonderfully uplifting melodic Power Metal of Power Quest. This quintet hails from England but their musical tastes tend to veer more towards the mainland; think Rhapsody rather than Maiden. Especially in the synth department does their love for the European school come to the fore. The formula these Metal magicians use is a classic, albeit an effective one. Duelling twin guitars stride to keep up with the rather fast paced drumming. All the while the keyboards either swathe the heavy riffing in a pool of lush bombast or rush past the guitars and head off into a melody of their own, creating that typical epic feeling of grandeur. The lyrics and vocals are in line with this train of thought, but are - and this is where they truly shine - excessively catchy with a gargantuan singalong factor. If this album doesn't lift your spirits and sends you bangin' yer head, nuffing will. For a debut, this already sounds quite professional. Also production wise, they have managed to maintain that precarious equilibrium between the keyboards and the guitars. A noteworthy first offering indeed. Especially in the faster songs with their infectious choruses will lodge into your brain and you just can help but raise your fist in the air and go "Wings Of Foreveeeeeer."
Samoht
http://www.undergroundsymphony.com / Bertus
REVENGE
"Triumph. Genocide. Antichrist."
CD 77/100
Sulfurous Grindcore
USA
Revenge…I'd like to know what one has done to them to put them in such a flaming temper! To help you to understand their music they have put keywords in the title and one of it, not the least sulfurous, seems to perfectly square: genocide… ok it's not delicate at all, but far less is the album. That's precisely what Revenge is doing by playing the Antichrist through a warlike Grindcore that has no other goal but to clean up, obliterate, put things away. We've said it, Revenge smells like the opened mouth of hell and their "true" darkly militarist imagery, made of more than ambiguous symbols certainly has a role in this impression. Musically it's quite simple and quite impressive in the end. Everything happens in a tissue of low tones from where emerges in sustained bursts a furious and omnipresent blastbeat; the guitars and the bass build in the background an opaque wall of riffs where hysteric, hateful growls creep up to nausea. All that breathes the filth of war, the murderous madness and the human corruption. For lovers of the style only… Revenge is the Antichrist you need! Revenge sounds of guns, as sweet as AA firing above a battlefield, as sweet as a waltz under a rain of shells.
Satha
http://www.osmoseproductions.com
ROLLERBALL
"Rollerball"
CD 70/100
Stoner'n'Roll
Australia
Packed to its maximum capacity with material taken from two earlier EP's, three previously unreleased cuts as well as two videos: the Aussies can hardly be labeled as tight fisted, just like their sound which shows a fair deal of flanger ("Classical Stimuli") or a dry and bluesy warmth ("Lowly Sublime"). And there is "Lost In Space", where the guys perform the miracle of capturing the pure essence of what was Kyuss' brand: strange, trippy and slightly sad…and the singer doesn't try ripping John Garcia off. Kudos to him. Otherwise they craft catchy songs ("Dragon" and its sly tempo changing riff or "Eye Of The Storm" that would deserve to be featured in one of our Cowboys & Aliens records) and even break into classical Rock'n'Roll. Still the occasional weirdo gimmick is present, such as those degenerate Ennio Morricone-like choirs on "24 Hours". Strangeness freaks be forewarned that this beautiful cover holds, on "Reflections", the most terrible cowbell sound ever.
Halcyon
http://www.waterdragonrecords.com / Rock Inc.
ROSAE
CRUCIS "Worms of the Earth"
CD 69/100
True Metal
Italy
Celtic Mythology has always been a fertile breeding ground for Metal's favorite lovechild, the concept album. As is also the case here with these Italian upstarts debut album " Worms Of The Earth". A tale of a Celtic king who in an attempt to fight off those pesky Roman soldiers turns to ancient demons for aid. The album marches along from one up-tempo fist raising hymn to the next one, setting up camp here and there at a role-play like interlude. These theatrical bits pose a much-needed break from the relentless pace and this is where I want to make my last stand against their mighty Metal banner. Although the songs themselves are fine and work as an entity onto themselves it is precisely this that hampers them also. It's my feeling that if the tracks had flown more into one another, it would have solidified the album as a true concept album. Now it's basically up to the lyrics and the nonmusical parts to string everything together.
Samoht
http://www.scarletrecords.it / Bertus
SCISSORFIGHT
"Potential New Agent for Unconventional Warfare"
MCD 75/100
Southern Heavy Stoner
USA
Here are the mighty
Scissorfight back with a much appealing mixed bag of bones: a five song EP wandering
convincingly into various degrees of southern heavy boogie. Let me tell you
guys that after a brief period of silence, hearing the heavily bearded gentleman
Ironlung singing "I'm a lighthouse, I'm radiant" (on "Maritime
Disasters") feels good for sure. The self-proclaimed sexiest band alive
delivers a wide range of goods, from rough riffing through greasy choruses,
helped out by Ironlung´s raspy vocals. The powerful southern grooves ("Riverhorse")
sound less aggro than let's say, Beaten Back To Pure, but bring back the warm
vibe of Corrosion Of Conformity from the "Deliverance" era.
On the oddities side, let's not forget the crazy arpeggios à la Voivod
on the frenzied (and aptly titled) "Running The Risk Of Raining Buffalo"
and the icing on the cake, the MOST PATHETIC German lesson ever recorded, closing
this already rich collection of wild emotions. Truckstop Rock'n'Roll at its
best.
Halcyon.
http://www.tortugarecordings.com / Invisible Youth PR
SHADOWS
OF STEEL "Second Floor"
CD 77/100
Symphonic Heavy Metal
Italy
Usually, the mere mention of the words 'steel' or 'metal' in a band's moniker already makes me cringe in fear of yet another uninspired, clichéd and blatantly redundant outing. As a matter of fact, when this thing started spinning in my CD player, I realized I was rather mistaken. As it is, the only thing I do not like about this album is the band's name. (guys?) Shadows Of Steel also, do not really play True Metal in the vein of Hammerfall or Sacred Steel. They are far more symphonic than that. In fact, the first name that sprung to mind is Queensryche (in their younger days, of course). The songs are crafted as an amalgam of Heavy Metal riffing, Progressive structures and rather inventive synths. (My hat off to the keyboard player, nice work!). Most lyrics are carried by the adequate male singer, while a sweet heavenly voice helps out a vocal chord or two. Definite favorites of mine include "Heroes" - which intentionally or not takes its chorus from Anne Clarke's "Our Darkness", "Dame And Lord" and "Crying" where the guitars and the synths fight it out on who's got the biggest cojones). This said, although it's not as bombastic as say Rhapsody, if you simply like good songwriting, please help yourself.
Samoht
http://www.undergroundsymphony.com / Bertus
SILENCER
"Structures"
demo MCD 79/100
Melodic Death Metal
USA
Damned, too bad this was only an EP… This was my first reaction when I first finished hearing the CD and I really stick to that. "Structures" is the new five-track auto-produced mini CD of the Americans of Silencer. The CD starts in a brilliant way with the instrumental opener "Black Hole Engine [Markarian 573]". Heavy guitars and drums immediately bring your neck-muscles to temperature. Following tracks sure do not loose any intensity, exquisite elaborated guitar riffs happen in quick succession. Vocals can be compared to those of Anthrax in the glorious days. The fourth track, "This Mythic Image", is more a mid-tempo song, but then again, when the last track "Megalith" starts, all hell brakes loose! This track was my personal favorite; I especially enjoyed the psychedelic intermezzo and the acoustic end of this track, a bit like I heard before in some Death albums. The artwork of this CD is also magnificent! I'm not sure it is gonna be easy to find this EP easily in Belgium, but those who might be interested have no excuse and should check out Silencer's website.
AOD
SOTHIS
"Instinct"
demo CD-R 81/100
Thrash
Italy
With this demo CD called "Instinct", Sothis is looking for a label contract but they also seem interested in the opinion of Metal fans like you and me. Well guys, I tell you, you can be proud of this demo and I really hope you get a deal soon because I definitely want to hear more from you! Sothis already has five years of experience, this is their third demo already, they participation to competition and they are going through intense live activity. They play an original form of Thrash Metal with an own sound, melodic and powerful at the same time. Their main influences are Thrash bands but it is clear that they also like Death Metal, which is reflected trough their music. The sound balance is very good, which is not always the case with Thrash Metal demos. Sothis stands for power, healthy aggression, not for chaos! This demo contains four tracks, the first three are fast and catchy, the last one "To The Philosopher" is much more modest and melodic. Even though this one also slowly grows to a powerful climax. Truly a very nice homage to late Chuck Shuldiner… You can't kill Metal indeed. Finally, I also really appreciated the sober but tasteful booklet, which is another indication that these guys know what they are doing and really want to get somewhere. And I hope they will…
AOD
SPAWN
OF POSSESSION "Cabinet"
CD 80/100
Technical Brutal Death
Sweden
Making a good Brutal Death album is not an easy thing. It needs of course to be fast, extreme and powerful and at the same time interesting (OK, this holds of course for any kind of music), in this case technical and varied without turning into total chaos. Well, I must say I did not hear a Brutal Death CD corresponding to all these criteria for a while (except of course the recent CD of Nile, my all time favorite Brutal Death band). With "Cabinet", the guys from Spawn Of Possession have proven it is still possible. From the very first time I listened to this top CD (and I can assure you I already put it on a lot since then) it caught my attention and that's normally a good sign! Their music is very technical indeed, not only Karlsson's trenchant solos, but also the compositions in general. The lead guitars and the vocals of drummer Rödum (hey, he was doing a great job on this CD, we'll see if the new singer will do as good) work perfectly together. The lyrics are yummy! There's nothing else necessary to be said. Just get the bloody thing and savor it! One thing, which could be better, is the overall sound. The sound is good though, but it sure can be improved, which would make the score even higher. Maybe something for the next Spawn of Possession CD; I'm already looking forward to hearing it!
AOD
http://www.uniqueleader-europe.com
STELLAR
TUESDAY DemoCD
76/100
PopPunk
U.S.
Stellar Tuesday formed recently in February 2002 and they are promoting themselves so heavily that we also start to hear their voices in Europe. They define themselves as a Pop Punk band, but I would rather put the emphasis on Pop. I'm a true Punk Rock fan, but I've put all that aside to judge their music for what it is and that's more of a mixture between Pop and Rock. The demo kicks off with a typical Pop Rock song "Go Home With Me", melodic and kind of catchy. Just when you get the feeling it gets too repetitive, they introduce a nice guitar solo, which makes the song complete. There's something very typical about this band: they try to combine classic and modern music and that's something that you can notice by listening to Eric Hauptman's voice, which reminds me of eighties Rock bands, like for example the band Dokken. The second song "Indie Queen" is slower and less catchy, but actually not bad at all and there again they introduce a guitar solo in the middle of it and for this song they went even further back in time: the late fifties. Does the band The Shadows ring a bell? "More To Come" has got a nice melody and brings harmony between calm and heavy breaks. The piano gives an extra edge to it. The lyrics of the songs tell us stories, personal chronological stories. So why try to create a difficult structure that no one understands if you can do it the easy way? It's actually just not quite enough to judge a band by a three song-demo. I don't dislike what I hear but I also don't get the "I'm Going To Disneyland" feeling. What I can tell you is that this band, despite of just existing for about a year, takes things very professionally: promos, their website, the way to make songs… and that's something that can be noticed and will maybe even be rewarded if they keep up the good work. As for myself, I would keep an eye on them…
YVES
SWEET
SILENCE "Fallen Angel"
digipack CD 73/100
Power Thrash Metal
France
"Fallen Angel" by Sweet Silence is the first CD released on the new French label Anvil.corp. Musically speaking, most of the songs on this CD stand solid as a rock. The guys from Sweet Silence really know how to play good, fast and entertaining Metal. Their music is a crossover of different Metal styles. The basis is Thrash Metal, with some Death, Power and Industrial Metal influences. Their songs are really intense and explosive, they are really bashing on their guitars! Excellent stuff for moshpit activity! Which disturbed me a bit, was the singing. The vocals are varied, going from clean vocals to "industrial" screams, which is a good thing. But, at some points it just did not feel right. Most of the singing is in English (sometime with the French accent if you know what I mean making it hard at some points actually to identify the used language, with a few French parts as for example in "Pocket Nazi" - last word in the title being struck through in red). Very good and funny song; for some dark reason, it makes me think of Pokemon (I guess my brain is totally fucked up, or not????). All together, this CD, presented in a nice digipack, is not bad at all. Look for the white fallen angel…
AOD
http://www.anvilcorp.net / Rock Inc.
THE
THEORY OF ABSTRACT LIGHT "Same"
CD 70/100
Ambient drone
USA
Under this strange moniker goes the side project of 5ive noisenaut Ben Carr; it's also the first release of his record label, Odd Halo Recs. Experimentation is at the order of the day here and I could not advise much to you except to wander through this Odyssey in one full piece. This abstract light expresses itself by wavering between crystalline acoustic guitars and layers of droning noises, sometimes within the same cut ("Self Loathing (realizing)"); yet the overall feel is one of strange serenity rather than chaotic lack of structure, helped as it is by enigmatic and evocative titles. "Outside The World's Fair (1912)' opens the record with a beautiful cascading acoustic piece blossoming into "Is The Dream...", where the reverb and slightly delayed rich tone texture evokes an atmosphere of impending disaster, which actually happens in "Self Is Taught (daemon)" as the noise kicks in in the form of swirling multi-layered drone patches. This record is the musical completion of the movie "Koyaanisqatsi (Life out of Balance)" and is supposed to be played along the flick, as it was the case for Neil Young's mesmerizing "Dead Man". Without going as far as Sunn o))) in its sonic extremism, tToAL is to be experienced rather than listened to.
Halcyon.
http://www.oddhalo.com / Invisible Youth PR
THY
DISEASE "Cold Skin Osession"
CD 82/100
Death Metal
Poland
Any Polish Death Metal fan can be proud of its national scene and I'm not that surprised since they do have excellent bands over there, despite the fact that only a few are famous. Even among the signed ones... Let's take Thy Disease for example: they're good, they're fast, there's nothing bad to say about their technique either... and who knows them? I mean, really... You know, I'm totally persuaded that most of you never heard about these killer musicians and I think that's a real shame because they rule! The whole thing here isn't so damn original but any Death Metal fan will feel a certain freshness emanating from their direct yet complex music. Structures are very well arranged and one can listen to "Cold Skin Obsession" without ever getting bored. That is actually the most important thing. At least, to me! I've heard so many bands in that genre that I've started to become way more selective over the years. And everyday. So, you have to believe me when I say it's not boring. I would even say it's catchy. That's true also! Now, honestly, not everything is catchy... But some parts do succeed in grabbing one's maximal attention and I can imagine that some of you will find a couple of those twisted guitar riffs truly irresistible (those actually remind me of Morbid Angel's unique guitar-work...). Synths are still very well integrated in the compositions as they already were on the band's previous album. So that's another good mark! I don't think there is much left to say about this album. Oh, sorry, I nearly forgot: the band covered "The Last Of the Mohicans" (again, I'm not drunk... they really did it!) and also "Without Judgement" (written by the mighty - and sadly dead - Chuck Shuldiner and published on the "Symbolic" album - now this is a more believable one, isn't it?). So... just buy it!
RNO
Metal Mind Records / http://www.metalopolis.com
WATERDOWN
"The files you have on me"
CD 89/100
Emo Punk/Hardcore
Germany
Music genres get popular, fade away and come back again with force! It's the case for this genre and the bands "Finch" and "The Used" recently put that door, which has been closing down these last few years, wide open. But Waterdown blew that door out of the wall and goes even further than the others! Some bands mix some genres to create their own music style, Waterdown even more: Hardcore, Emo, Punk Rock and even Metal! This 6 piece has got 2 singers who really add their thing to the music, not like the monotonous bands such as Crazytown or Linkin Park. The first one screams with his hoarse voice while the music crushes it really hard and the other one brings a clean voice on melodic and emotional tunes. A weird combination but in perfect harmony! This album is very technical, slightly metallic, but has been recorded in a live sort of way, except for the vocals, which says enough for their capacities on stage. Waterdown's producer also did albums for Beatsteaks and if you know this band, you'll hear some familiar elements in the songs "Decaffeinated", "Going Back" and "Disgrace". The song "Nothing" reminds me of the nice guitar work of Trigger Happy. I particularly love the first song and the heavy "Interrogation". After a serious portion of energy, you get the chance to chill with the last track. Waaw! No wonder Victory Records came to sign this German band!
YVES
http://www.victoryrecords.com / Hard Life Promotion
WUMPSCUT
"Preferential Legacy"
2CD 82/100
Dark Electronic
Germany
What a luxurious packaging! I can see tons of penises and vaginas everywhere but hey, none of these pseudo-shocking representations will prevent me from listening to this new Wumpscut album, especially since I know some of the band's previous songs and what I recall is sort of a positive sensation coupled with very deep weirdness. I can't name it but it surely is a pleasure of some kind... Since we're a Rock and Metal webzine, some of you may be a little unfamiliar with Wumpscut, which is not a real problem because you'll recognize a lot of Metal elements here, though it's clearly electronic music, thus... no guitars, no acoustic drums... Only a big bunch of very dark sounds put together that will kick your brain's ass! The majority of the songs are led by straight and recurring rhythmic patterns/loops. Some can become a tad boring after a while, but one mainly focuses on the extremely catchy melodic phrases that embellish the compositions and make them all sound really interesting. Some beats will lead you to more Techno or even Trance moods but they have a strong Old School aura. In fact, a lot of those synth-driven tunes remind me of the '80s New Wave. Maybe you liked Ultravox, Visage and such bands back then? Whatever... The whole (double) CD is a real masterpiece. Both the new songs and the various bonus/remixes are cool. If you're a lost soul who exclusively feeds on deep and gloomy electronic atmospheres, don't look any further...
RNO
Betonkopf Media
/ Hardbeat Propaganda