Seven Kingdoms talk about dangers on the road

Sometimes it may seem like touring is just fun all the time. In reality it is dangerous for musicians to travel that much. Just think of situations you all have been experiencing in day-to-day transportation.

Seven Kingdoms have recently travelled the road a lot, Photo credit Camden Cruz.

While this year has been a successful one for power metallers Seven Kingdoms with completing a North American tour and the release of a EP on the new label Reigning Phoenix Music they still put the mark on the dangers mentioned above.

The band comments the cover they did of a Mr. Misters song: "Kyrie translates to “Lord have Mercy” which when driving all around the world at all hours of the day and night, amongst responsible and non responsible people, we put our lives on the line every second we are on the road. I often refer to highways as “The river of idiots” which can be anyone at any given moment."

It's a wonderful slower track with high pitched vocals. The balance is set in a proper way and it feels like a piece of music written in thought without finally losing the faith.

Seven Kingdoms are going to hit the road again in February in Europe as support of Unleash The Archers.  

12.02 - Substage - Karlsruhe, DE
13.02 - Colos-Saal - Aschaffenburg, DE
14.02 - Live Music Hall - Cologne, DE
15.02 - De Kreun - Kortrijk, BE
16.02 - The Underworld - London, GB
17.02 - La Machine - Paris, FR
19.02 - Dynamo - Zurich, CH
20.02 - Legend Club - Milan, IT
21.02 - Backstage - Munich, DE
22.02 - Masters Of Rock Cafe - Zlin, CZ
23.02 - Barba Negra - Budapest, HU
25.02 - Szene - Vienna, AT
26.02 - Kwadrat - Cracow, PL
27.02 - Hellraiser - Leipzig, DE
28.02 - Rockhal - Esch-Sur-Alzette, LU
01.03 - Kronensaal - Hamburg, DE
02.03 - Patronaat - Haarlem, NL

Let's speak with Still Dusk (Alternative Rock)

In the beginnings it was the music that was compelling for me. It was the creativity, the never ending of expression and feelings through melodies and sometimes the raw energy of the guitars or the beat of the drums.

Later on as I began to buy music I started to watch the lyric sheets that often came with the records. That's the second time music became so important to me because I often felt that I was able to relate to the text. Other times it was inspiring to see other perspectives on a similar topic. 

Still Dusk give a fresh look upon today's society.

The alternative rock formation Still Dusk quickly draw me into their music with the lyric video for "Sugar". Having been teased before by a short info in a mail I was curious to hear how this sounds. Minutes later saw me be being feeling touched by the straight rocking riffs mixed up with lyrics that create some reaction and reflection in my mind. I was sure I wanted to know more about who stand's behind all of this and some questions for a interview were sent away. 

Here's what vocalist Konstantina answered to mostly lyrics-related questions about the music of Still Dusk.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Thank you very much for taking the time to answer some questions for the Heavy Metal Underdogs blog. How did the band find together in it's initial days?

Konstantina (vocals): The band initially came together in 2018 through an ad posted on a website by a former member who had the vision to start a music project. In its early days, the band explored a different musical style. However, the pandemic brought a period of reflection and change. Afterward, we reorganized, redefined our direction, and evolved into what we are today. Now, we're thrilled to be just a step away from releasing our debut album, marking a new chapter in our journey.

Your lyrics seem to be outworked a lot and something you center upon. How do you work them out?

Our approach to lyrics is like weaving a tapestry. Every thread has a purpose, and every detail matters. We don’t write them just to fit the music; we see them as an extension of the song's soul. Sometimes, a lyric begins with a single word or phrase that lingers in our minds, and we build from there, layering meaning and emotion. We also like to explore contrasts, pairing raw vulnerability with bold imagery or blending abstract ideas with vivid storytelling. It’s less about following rules and more about creating something that feels alive and honest.

Are the topics based upon personal experiences?

Many of our topics are drawn from personal experiences, but we don’t limit ourselves to just that. Sometimes, a song starts with a deeply personal moment or emotion, and other times it’s inspired by observing the world, exploring human nature, or imagining alternate perspectives. Even when the lyrics come from personal stories, we like to write in a way that leaves room for listeners to find their own meaning. It’s a mix of introspection and storytelling, always aiming to connect on a deeper level.

Do you write the music first or are there moments where the lyrics define the sounds they are going to be combined with? 

It’s a bit of both, depending on the inspiration behind the song. Sometimes the music comes first, an idea, a riff, or a melody that sets the tone and the lyrics are written to fit the emotional landscape of the sound. Other times, the lyrics are so vivid or powerful that they dictate the mood and direction of the music. There are also moments where everything happens simultaneously, as if the words and music naturally find each other. We enjoy the flexibility of letting each song take its own path during the creative process.

Follow the band on social media so you won't miss anything on the upcoming album.

Bandcamp: https://stilldusk.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stillduskofficial
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StillDuskofficialchannel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stillduskofficial

Mission Jupiter bring us to the light

This song picked me up so quickly. Sometimes I feel like music finds my way and knows how I feel. 

It's the mixture of silent, deep and heartfelt verses that raised my attention at the beginning of "Sometimes it hurts". But things go a deeper route once the refrain comes in and the vocals take a louder and explosive statement. It's nearly impossible to get this piece of music out of my mind. 

Mission Jupiter starts a new chapter with new singer Kate Varsak. 

Lyrically the song evolves as guitarist Vlad Shvakel of the Belarusian alternative rock band points out: "The protagonist is mentally down, but by the end he chooses the light side, battling all the negativity."

The lyric video may start in a simple style but keep watching. As the song unfolds so does the video.

You can listen to the song right here or select your favorite digital service to listen to "Sometimes it hurts".  

Make sure to keep a eye further on this band through Facebook or Instagram.  A full album is coming in 2025 so it will be exciting to discover how the music on the other tracks will sound like.

Final Coil comes to Europe this December

It's not a huge secret for everyone looking at this blog that progressive Post Rockers Final Coil are one of those bands that I'm excited about. Having put out the third full length album "The World We Inherited" this year I think many people out there have already thought about a tour of the Leicester based formation.

But besides a couple of shows with hand picked bands in England and a first appearance at the massive Bloodstock Open Air no other opportunities surfaced (also it needs to be said that every gig that can be confirmed is already something that needs to be accomplished first). Not until now - in December 2024 this is going to change as the band has finally been able to announce three gigs in Europe. 

Those are going to take place in France in Belgium but who know's maybe there are bookers or venues out there who still look for a band to perform? Don't hesitate to contact the band through the form on the band's homepage or use the links to social sites on the left of the page to get in touch through those services.

Confirmed dates:

December 12th - Fury Bar - Rouen - w/ Once Upon The End, Silent Injury
Event page: https://fb.me/e/5ir7Fev9x
Venue information: https://www.facebook.com/furybarrouen

December 13th - The Crossover - Ghent - w/ Far Beyond
Event page: https://fb.me/e/7l8STBYyL
Venue information: https://www.thecrossover.be/

December 14th - Supersonic - Paris - w/ Homecoming, Vestige
Event page: https://fb.me/e/1KFdSU292
Venue information: https://www.facebook.com/supersonicbastille

*please note shows are free entry, except for Ghent, where tickets are 8 Euro in advance and 10 Euro OTD

If you'd like to know how the band sounds these days please try the newest video, with dark and constant pattern you'll be introduced into the band's world of subtle and intensive melodies that are both relaxing and inciting together.

Hammerhead starts journey with EP release tomorrow

It's unbelievable that many musicians perform already for years before they find the proper people to create music with. In Nashville Tennessee it's the Heavy Rock formation Hammerhead that includes such people who have been active in the South East United States for years already. 

Mark Paradise is the lead singer and song writer for the band along with Micheal Graham Sally the riff meister. Mike comes up with the Monster Killer riffs and Mark structures the songs and writes all the lyrics.

Hammerhead are pushing heavy with the first EP "Chaos",

Drummer Joe Troutt hard hitting drive has carried him through many years of experience with many bands as as well as this one. Jeremy Arvin the bass guitar player has backgrounds of Metalcore and deathcore genre. Zayden Stankard is free a young gun slinger lead guitar player. Laying down scorching tasteful lead guitars from insprations of thrash an progressive technical music. 

Together they'll drop the six song EP called "Chaos" tomorrow. Heavy Metal Underdogs had the fortune of listening to three tracks in advance and a blast during that time. Having never heard any snippet before it was great to hear that the band already put together a organic and very heavy sound on it's very first release. 

The songs live of the contrast of the powerful riffs with the pushing groove on the one hand and the melodic and feeling deep-in-thought vocals that seem to fly like a bird over the place on the other hand. 

Hammerhead have put together a tight and pressure-filled sound that is filled up with massive riffing. They crush through the songs and they often find it's end in a release of emotional and often long stretched vocals. Happily it doesn't feel like many parts repeat themselves - the band always finds variations and the solo sections will surely ask guitarists out there how they were done.  

I hope the band is going to reveal the meaning of the lyrics in the coming time. They are presented with so many variations and intensive ways that the vocalist more lives and expresses them through his voice.

It's hard to let the music go of your head once you've heard it. The leave something in you behind and that's a good sign in my eyes. Make sure to pre-save this fine release for listening on services like Spotify or Apple music.

This live-video gives a idea what the band's sound is all about.

Submit your Record Store to the worldwide BraveWords Record Store list

Have you ever had the experience of walking into a record store? Posters all over the walls. Music blaring. Racks of vinyl and CDs. You are on the hunt for a new release or looking for that lost treasure. 

There is always something new or strange to discover. Taking vinyl albums, Compact Discs, Music Cassettes, VHS tapes or DVD's into your own hands gives a first look and feel for a release. It's very different compared to looking music up online. Just turn around a actual record and you know what I'm talking about. Share the experience with a friend and you can start talking about releases quickly.

Often there is a chance of having a listen to new releases through headphones directly at the store and if you purchase something free magazines or other goodies maybe added by the shopkeeper.   

Record stores are a rare breed these days. BraveWords.com wants to help fans around the worldwide find record stores. 

Keep the spirit of Record Stores alive by submitting them to the Record Store list.

Do you own or work at a record store that sells rock and metal albums? BraveWords.com is assembling a list of record stores around the world for fans to use. They will put this list online for all fans.

Note: Only store name, address and URL will posted. Phone number, email address and contact name will not be shared online.

To take part, find the BraveWords Record Store Submission Form here:     

https://forms.gle/Gnm3JkxCAR9bgx4J7

Please take the chance to help Record Stores survive in these hard times.

Let's speak with Darren Michael Boyd (Instrumental Rock/Metal)

Instrumental musicians work different in my eyes. Since they don't use refrains and anything of that kind they need to put in more and different elements to keep the music attractive to the listener.

This fact makes talking to such musicians extra exciting and when the chance knocked at my door to speak with guitarist Darren Michael Boyd I send him some questions without hesitation. Even more because the first song I listened to had sort of healing effect on me. ("Solitary Green Witch" - which you can listen to scrolling further down this interview)

Darren Michael Boyd creates a lot of positive sounds.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Did you start to play the guitar already before the car accident that seems to be the spark of your solo career?

Darren Michael Boyd: Oh yes, I’ve been playing guitar for as long as I can remember. I actually started out playing drums – I took lessons for a few years. Somehow, I always knew that guitar would become my main instrument. On my solo albums, I play all the instruments, with the occasional exception, but the guitar is my instrumental “voice”. 

Creating this instrumental music has been therapeutic for me, and I hope other listeners feel a similar benefit.

How did you start to write songs at the beginning?

I started attempting to write songs by about age 7, although I couldn’t really play any instruments. It was just part of artistic development, I suppose. Eventually I started to actually form bands and write complete songs by age 15. Back then it was a case of bringing the idea to the band members and hammering it out during rehearsals.

Is there a preference to write songs on your own or in cooperation with other artists?

I love doing both. Obviously writing music for myself gives me 100% creative freedom, but it’s also important to collaborate for educational purposes, and to be challenged. There’s definitely something magical about teaming up with another artist and creating something special together. I should make a point of doing that more!

Do you write music only when you schedule time for it or spontaneously when inspiration comes your way? 

I can certainly sit down at a scheduled time and write with intention, but I do love that feeling of pure inspiration, creating a killer composition that seemed to just float out of the air. Whenever I pick up an instrument I immediately seem to slide into writing mode for some reason, which makes hard to simply “practice”! I just let it happen, I’m in the passenger’s seat along for the ride, giving some directions. I also have notes and voice memos filling up my phone, like most writers, I assume.

Is there a favorite setup you use for writing music or do you put it all together the moment it happens?

I have a modest home studio where I record almost everything. I tend to take all those idea from my phone memos and start fleshing them out when I have a block of time.

Have you never thought of joining a band for a long time?

Yes, absolutely. I have played in bands my entire life, sometimes as a hired musician, sometimes as the leader. Either way, I’m happy to play great songs with great people, for a great audience. If I’m fortunate enough to get a great paycheck too, that’s a bonus haha!

But after my car accident, things had changed once I started to become active again, and I wanted to make things happen instead of waiting around – starting my solo career it allowed me that freedom.

What's coming up next? Any dates you can share with us?

My new album should be released by Halloween – I had some serious technical setbacks, so I’m currently concerned about that particular deadline, but I’m working late nights and crossing all my fingers (when I’m not playing guitar, of course).

I only have one live show coming up, at Avant-Garde Bar in Ottawa Canada on October 10th.

I will be attending the Josie Music Awards in October as a nominee in three categories; Musician of the Year (guitarist), Instrumental Song of the Year (Darkling), and Instrumental Album of the Year (Hexalogy).

The JMA’s are world’s largest independent music awards show, held at the Grand Ole Opry House, in Nashville, Tennessee, so it’s an honour to be nominated. Especially being this weird Canadian instrumental artist, playing “Spooky Surf” and Metal!

Thanks for including me on Heavy Metal Underdogs; it’s important work you do – sharing new Metal with the people! And thanks to the readers, it’s wicked to meet you!

Darren

You can check out the website or Bandcamp page for more details and music of Darren Michael Boyd.

Losing Gravity put "All in" this time

Bands are pushing hard in order to reach the goal they set themselves. The southern rock formation Losing Gravity is comprised of German and American musicians. Together they build songs that incorporate straight forward songwriting without sounding dull or commercialised. 

The single for "Another Day" is a fine example for that. Building on the solid basis that the drums and bass guitar provide it's the finetuning with keyboard notes and guitar melodies that gives the track a special taste.

The colorization of the video is held in blue tones giving it a cold touch that surely relates to the topic of the lyrics. Happily there's always still some light shining every here and there.

"Another Day" comes as a teaser to the full album called "All in" that is going to be released on September 6th 2024. Losing Gravity is going to tour with the new songs through Germany. Here are the dates:

01.09.24 - BAD ORB / DEHAAM MARKT  

07.09.24 - HABBELS / SCHMALLENBERG  

13.09.24 - MARIAS BALLROOM / HAMBURG  

14.09.24 - LUX / HANNOVER  

19.09.24 - PONYHOF / FRANKFURT  

20.09.24 - SOUNDCHECK ONE / WALDBRONN  

21.09.24 - B.I.S. / MÖNCHENGLADBACH  

04.10.24 - BACKSTAGE / MÜNCHEN -  

08.11.24 - DIE KLINKE / BERLIN

Tickets are available through the links that the homepage of the band provides. 

Let's speak with...Die Dorks (German Punk)

Sometimes there's a need to speak out clearly. That's at least how it feels in my mind. But with today's context we're living in people doing that have become rare. Small wonder if you consider the consequences.

Die Dorks are a band with in-depth and meaningful lyrics.

The german band "Die Dorks" are one of the few ones that are keeping the flag of free speech flying high. The newest album output can be translated to "Business model hate" in english language. Most of the lyrics question topics such as tolerance, freedom, violence, hate, pressure but also topics like missing someone are present. I felt the need to talk to band head Liza Dork to find out who stand's behind such a output.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Did you have to deal with hatred on social media yourselves ?

Liza Dork: Fortunately, we have never been exposed to real hatred or threats that would make us fear for our lives. However, it can be observed that cyberbullying towards others on social media has increased rapidly. It's bad enough that this still isn't punished more harshly. In my opinion, this phenomenon has increased even more during the pandemic and inspired us to write this song.

What do you think does hate do to the persons that suffer of it ?

Mental illnesses such as social phobias and anxiety disorders can be the result of cyberbullying. In the worst case, this can not only lead to isolation but also suicidal thoughts for those affected.

Have you received feedback to your thoughtfull lyrics on "Geschäftsmodell Hass" ?

We always get feedback from our fans that our lyrics are always reflective and meaningful. Far away from flat phrases. It is also our aim to work on every song lyric with great attention to detail.

Can you already reveal any toudates of upcoming shows with us ?

This year, booking is still a little slow, as we only accept selected shows that allow us to pay our expenses and hotel. It's not easy for a band like us who book themselves independently. The clubs' budgets are limited and the support slots for the bigger acts are scarce.

We are available for booking inquiries all year round to: lizal-dorks@hotmail.de

You can check the tourdates section on our homepage for all the latest info. 

Music speaks in many languages so I thought it would be great to include the video of the title track here.

CD Review: Factory Of Art - Back To Life (Progressive Power Metal, 2024)

 The new Factory Of Art album is a surprise to me in any way it could be.

Finally a brand new Factory Of Art album has been released.

Brand new songs by a band that has been inactive for a long time? I was a bit unsure what to expect.

But it's already the first track called "Abysses" that calms my mind down. A decent fast track with a lot of progressive splitters that ignites a light in my mind.  It feels a bit long towards the end.

The midtempo of "Burning Wings" continues the heavy trademarks of the band and enriches them with keyboard elements that run through the whole song. It's a solid track.

"Blessing in Disguise" sets a dark mood and majestic sound. Not my favorite. It's not a bad song but feels a bit long and I think other tunes of the album are far better.

The band sounds better when they keep it more on a heavy and direct note. That's why I prefer songs like "Silent Room" or "Face Behind The Mask". They simply keep me closer to the stereo system and give me a  bigger positive push.  Most of all the least one with it's many various vocal variations stand out of the ten tracks. 

Happily the band never stresses the listener with too long songs or too stretched instrumental sections. That why I like them so much - it all remains compact and well listenable.

The longer tracks deserve to be longer and towards the end of the record the duration is cut shorter. It's good to hear that the band has the ability to come to a end at the proper moments. When it's over - it's over. 

"Decadence" for example is a bright and fast track but at the same remains so good because everything's arranged to the proper moments so it remains exciting to listen. Hold on 'till the songs end - it's well worth it.

Listening to the sound it's for sure a modern production. I've chosen to listen on less high volume because more details came through for me this way.  

I would encourage listener of heavier progressive metal music to purchase this album. It's not available for streaming with the exception of the video of "Blessing In Disguise".

Beside the songs it's the fine artwork and the colored vinyl in gatefold packaging that deserve the record to be added to your collection. 

With prices ranging from 15 Euro for the CD up to 30 bucks for the double vinyl I think it's still not too expensive. It's available directly by the band's own webshop.

Smile Empty Soul send a Savior your way

Sometimes there's a need to have a band and song that kicks you out of everyday feelings. 

Smile Empty Soul have put out a new single "Savior".

I've had Smile Empty Soul on my radar for a long time now but never found the proper moment to blog about them. The newest single "Savior" is such a good treat if you feel down and pressed. The performance of the drummer gives me the feeling as if it is knocking down my bad feelings. 

In the vocals you can find a well balanced way of softer verses and a slight and good dosed potion of roughness in the refrain. It fit's so much to this "we kick it all away" moment but it's never done a overloaded way so it always remains in it's true and natural art.

The alt-rock veterans have picked this song as a preview of their upcoming EP, Swan Song, which is scheduled for release at the end of the year through TLG|ZOID / Virgin Music Group.

Check the video out to get your Monday kick now or stream the music on the service of your choice.

Make sure to follow the band on Facebook or simply call up the band's website from time to time to check back for news updates.  

Win Tickets for the album release show of Factory Of Art

Wonders happen every day. I believe in this. It's one of these moments when I saw that after twenty years the German Power Metal Proggers Factory Of Art are going to release a brand new record. 

It will be called "Back To Life". Without saying too much I can already promise you that it will be worth the waiting time. Factory Of Art performs the songs with a distinct own note that's full of dedication and intensity. I think that listeners need to take a close ear with patience to fully understand the music.

That's one good news but the even better one is that I can send three readers along with one friend each to the record release party that is going to take place on Thursday June 6th 2024 at the "Hellraiser" venue in Leipzig, Germany. 

The band offered me the chance to raffle those tickets. The winners will be put on the guest list and will have free entrance to the show. All you need to do is to send a E-Mail to the address mentioned in my Blogger profile. Let me know the name of one of the releases of Factory Of Art plus your full real name and you're in. Please send your messages until/before May 24th 2024.

For all those who don't want to try the luck: you can also purchase tickets directly of the band's webshop for just 10 Euro each plus shipping and handling. 

In case you're not sure if it's worth it...here's one of the new songs for you to enjoy.

Be sure to follow the band on Facebook. It's a exciting time as the release of the new album draws closer with every day...

Single Preview: Corners of Sanctuary - Hunter Prey (Trad Metal, 2024)

Philadelphia's Traditional hometown Heavy Metal artillery, Corners of Sanctuary (COS), have released a short preview video for their upcoming new single, “Hunter Prey,” in conjunction with a pre-ordering promotion for a limited number of autographed "Metal Up" CDs, “Metal Up,” 

The story behind the single hasn't been revealed yet.

Heavy Metal Underdogs was lucky enough to have a pre-listen to the first full single "Hunter Prey" through a digital advance tape. I would say that the band metalized up the COS sound. 

It's coming together quicker, harder and heavier to the point and it's filled up with more intensive atmosphere than ever before. It's already the hard hitting drum roll at the very beginning that starts the party more kicking than in every release before. 

The pressure remains in the following minutes, something the vocals benefit of a lot. The vocals have more room than before to breathe out and add life to the sound. The guitars change all the while with different tonality but stand compact with drums and bass guitars.

I'm looking forward to the time the full EP will come out. In the meantime make sure to place your pre-order through a Paypal order or pre-save the single release on the service of your choice.

COS’ latest extended EP, officially releases on March 29th via SODEH Records.

The band's Facebook page also holds the latest info on the band activities or go to the shows to enjoy the music and buy some merch directly of them.

Show Schedule (USA):

March 21st 

Century Bar

w/ Kazha 

Phila, PA

March 23rd 

Sherman Showcase 

Stroudsburg, PA

April 13th 
Tourist Inn
York, PA

w/ Ronny Munroe 

May 18th 
Gin Mill
w/ Denim and Leather
Northampton, PA

Finally listen to a snippet of "Hunter Prey".

Single Preview: Jeff Fabb - See No Evil (Rock, 2024)

The drummer of Black Label Society has started a solo project in November 2023 with the release of the first record "Stealing Souls". 

In a few days he's going to release his next single. The topic of the song describes being not in a nice situation. The music happily is not of a depressing kind.

Photo Credit: Neil Lim Sang

“See No Evil” means sometimes it can feel like no one wants to help you, everyone is passing you by. It feels like you’ll never finish what you’ve started…, but sometimes slow and steady will get you where you wanna be.”  -Jeff Fabb

The song plays around with a easy drum pattern but the direct and easy distorted guitars spread a somewhat spacy feeling.

It's underlined by the bass guitars that put a strong rhythm mark into the sound.  Throughout the singles duration these elements change to a more clear mood. That's something that gives the track a special note.

The vocals constantly keep the tension up in the song but fit very straight into the rest of the sound. They don't stand out at the front of "See no evil" but follow all the changes of the track which keeps just going on and on.

These elements are repeated several times and no guitar solo interrupts the structure. 

With it's catchy character this single is a good pusher for the mind to keep going in difficult times.  The sound may surprise some people who have followed Jeff Fabb's work so far but I'm sure it's more exciting this way than to release something that people might have already expected of the list of bands the drummer has performed with.

The single is going to be released on March 8th 2024. You can pre-save it now on a streaming service of your choice. 

With this little preview in mind it's exciting to see how the rest of the upcoming music might turn out. Well, let's keep a eye further on what Jeff Fabb is going to put out in the coming time with Instagram.  

EP Review: Chipper - Reality Check (Stoner Rock,2023)

Music has the power to overcome many bad things. Chipper, a band out of Greece had to face many troubles but they made it through. The Reality Check EP as a result hands the power further to the listener.

Chippers new EP comes with a gloomy artwork.

What I like so much is the combination of heavy power riffing mixed up with a lot of groove portions and easier parts putting in a lot of fine work on the instruments showing the talent of the four musicians. You can quickly check this out for yourselves by the first full song "Terror 'n Fame". The vocals are rough and dirty but keep listening - there's far more to come.

But there's more than "only" heavyness to be found on the EP. Already it's next track "Remedy Light" comes in a lighter package and tonality. It changes it's format from verses with lighter guitar playing up to a heavier refrain that put's in more of the raw powered sounds. It's the working with so many different sounds and moods that makes this release stand out.

The "Oldschool Rocket Army" is a slightly faster and more harder number with great chorus that invites to rock along to it. I like the more open and clearer vocals in that section.

Finally "Under No Gods Cloud" closes the release with rough notes but lighter vocals. There's a section towards the end which plays around with sound possibilities - a fine way to give more life into the music.

Make sure to take a teaser with the player below. A digital copy is available for five Euro on Bandcamp which will help the band to create new and more music for you.  

Voyager-X take a critical look on media overload

In this brand new song the re-formed progressive metal band Voyager-X cuts the topic slowly step by step yet in a very precise way.

 © Artwork Album Tobias Roetsch | Artwork Singles Richard Touzimsky

The song "Hypnotize You" is going down in a way that is very cool. With every verse the music feels like fading the audience in into the show. I can imagine this going down in a great way in a live situation yet the message of bread and games is vital and important. 

While the progressive metallish music walks down a straightforward and catchy way with direct drums and play-around sharply tuned guitars it's the vocals that put in a raw and dazing touch that makes sure a feeling rises up in me that not everything is as easy as it seems.

I think the pictures chosen to suit the lyric video speak on point that media can make us forget all the things around us that are truly of importance - the destruction of our nature, wars and much more. 

Make sure to pre-order the new album "Magic" that also holds "Hypnotize You" on it (out: March 2024). It's available at these places.

VOYAGER-X „Magic“ Digifile CD:

► www.dr-music-promotion.de/?p=23071/#shops

🎧 VOYAGER-X „Magic“ Streaming & Download:

► Amazon: https://li-nk.net/voyager-x-magic-amazon

► Apple Music & iTunes: https://li-nk.net/voyager-x-magic-applemusic