CD Review: Animae Silentes - Suffocated (Gothic Rock, 2017)

Fine gothic rock tracks that are playing with the heavyness of the music on the one side and laying it down softer on the vocal side.

The cover of Animae Silentes debut record "Suffocated", (c) by Animae Silentes, used with kind permission

Summary
The start is dark and strange with a classic intro. The first full song "Burning in silence" kicks in straight and I love the way it does. It lifts the mood and gives room to for the ears to find into the band's sound. The next track "Purgatorium" pushed me straight in. It's such a riff hacker it gave me no chance to stop listening to this silver disc anymore.

It's a album full of straight rocking gothic numbers. It's this mixture of the silk voice dancing on the rough riffs and the more melodic parts giving it a slightly mysterious touch. The band gives the listener a explosive experience with the dry heavvness of the album's sound. Happily it never feels cold or mechanical because of the warmth of the voice and it's melodic variations in them.

"Eville" track number four manages to show a uptempo number that fit's to the band's sound but you won't expect on such a album. "Nothing else to remind" stands out of the pack having a creeping slowness in it. It stays in my mind. A sign that the band has the power to make a lasting impression to the listener.

The only negative point to me was the end of the album. The last two track feel a bit lengthy to me at times but maybe it's only my attention being limited at this point.

CD-Packing and Booklet
The packing is great. It's kept all in black with the bird being the point of attention. He's boldly sitting there at the front cover, missing in the insert of the jewel case and flying majestically a the backside of the record. A cool optical gimmick in my eyes. The booklet features the lyrics and fine band member pictures at various locations. You'll get a feeling of the people behind the music this way.

Purchase-Link, Conatct and Preview-Stream
Pick up the record of the webshop of Sliptrick Records. The band has a webpresence
at Instagram and Facebook so you can contact them easily for show offers etc.

CD Review: Metalsteel - Beyond The Stars (Clasic Heavy Metal, 2017)

A concept record taking things back to basics. No heavyweight production, no special effects overload. Just pure music crafted directly of the instruments of those loving Heavy Metal music

The wonderful frontcover artwork for Metalsteel's "Beyond the Stars" album, (c) by Metalsteel, used with kind permission

Summary
This album has set a view on the power of the songs alone. You can feel that the composers of the slowenian band Metalsteel prefer their art to be pure and to be delivered this way to the listener.

Thus said the songs need to stand stronger than ever to reach the audience and they do with much ideas, variations and sing-along choruses. The last element like all the music stems from the musicians themselves. There are no choirs pushed up to sound big on this record but the backing vocals introduce the message with such emotion that they will adress you instantly and invite to sing along. Think of being at a show and you just can't help but need to add the choir all around you.

The songs span a wide sort of feelings, from softer half-ballads (End of the World) to straight midtempo tracks but most of the duration the double bass power set's the motor for the music and keeps it coming fast. The lead vocals change on some parts to the more rough direction, something warmly welcomed because it brings in a fresh touch.

My favorites are the title song making me imagine being on a journey beyond the stars myselves and the track "Materialist No More" with it's more edgy guitars and hard riffing mixed up with variations ranging from fast to midtempo and even soft parts.

Purchase-Link & Preview-Track
Fans that love the pure but also modern sound will welcome this silver disc the same way I do. Let's have some good feelings and rock out to this straight. The hardcopy in a beautiful digipack package comes around for ten Euros directly out of the band's hands at www.metalsteel.net

Listen to one track with the video below to get a idea of Metalsteel's sound.

Contact and Tour Dates
Make sure to see them live starting end of February 2018 in their homecountry Slowenia. All dates are up on their homepage or tune in to the social world of Facebook to be notified of a show near you.

CD Review: Sweeping Death - Astoria (Modern Thrash, 2017)

Unusual is the main word that describes this silver round of thrash the best.

Cover: Jeff Carr, (c) by Sweeping Death, used with kind permission

Summary
If you think that there are way to many thrash bands out there that sound the same Sweeping Death may give you back fresh hope. While their overall attitude is based on the classic sound it's the experimentation that gives the meat to the bone. I think of the way of the production. It's easier to enjoy their tunes - they are hard produced but not that heavy to enjoy. It's the vocals. They are loud but their are never harsh or rude but always fit to the noise. You may wander around in wonder listening to them the first time. Is this really thrash?

Yes, it is but seen from a different point of view. I like those new attempts on a classic way of the metal music. It's band's like Sweeping Death that dare to go new ways even where tradition may say that it's forbidden to do this. They don't care and go their own way.

You can hear the fun the band spreads round playing tracks like "Devils's Dance" - the compact riffs played fast combined with the punchy drums and vocals shouting it out. You can't help but need to bang your head. It put's a big grin on your face. It's easier feeling all the way and doesn't give this pressed dark feeling but lift's you up from your everyday sorrows.

Purchase-Link & Stream
I think that's something worth your reward giving some coins for the record. You can purchase the album via Bandcamp. A deluxe edition of the record with new coverart and a bonus track is available, too. Best of all have a ear on their offers right here in the stream.

I'm looking forward to see where this band goes next. "Astoria" sounds promising and no one knows what's on the guys mind while typing these lines. Let's hope they'll continue their couragous path.

Contact-Data
Finally see the band's website for extended band info and updates such as tourdates.

Single Review: Drop Oblivion - Damaged Goods (Thrash, 2017)

The last days of the year are running but there's still something going on. This time it's a brutal piece of heavy music coming our way giving a idea of how 2018 could sound like.

The single cover for "Damaged Goods" without background and title, (c) by Drop Oblivion, used with kind permission

Introduction
Drop Oblivion is the brain child of UK based solo composer Ian Mortimer. After getting into the local Metal scene in 2006 performing with various bands over the years, he started an outlet in 2014 for his own heavy creations with Drop Oblivion.

Originally conceived as a “just for fun” project, Ian began working with other musicians on some initial demo tracks,  and created an entire album of material over the course of a few days. As Ian progressed and focused on performing with his other ambient project “Skin For A Canvas”, Drop Oblivion took a back seat for a few years until 2017 when new demos were taken into full production at his home studio in England. The first single taster track for the new album was released in December 2017 titled “Damaged Goods”. The completed album is expected for release late 2018.

Summary
It's a plaesure to see that one man can give heavy music a push into a new direction. The fine thing about this single track is it's continous push it gives. I like the constant going of the drums and the overall song-structure as composed to sound as one piece. Guitars are riff-oriented but not too loud making the listening experience smooth.

It's also fine to hear that the vocals take part on this journey and also it remains sounding as one bold metal track it also changes in it's way of dark tonality. There are many various undertones of the dark vocals that are presented with various pressure. The end comes a bit surprising with a guitar solo offered as part of the song structure instead of forming a own part as usual.

Track-Stream & Purchase-Link
If you're into experimental heavy, let's say mostly thrashy music this one is a ear to keep upon. Devin Townsend came to my mind but also slight comparsions with Trivium rushed in every here and there. Expect raw heavyness mixed with little surprises and lot's of riffs with modern sound well produced for your listening pleasure.

Pick up a copy from the digital plattforms such as Bandcamp, CD Baby and Spotify
Have a listen by checking the visual video below.

Contact-Data
Make sure to follow Drop Oblivion on Facebook. The full album is set for release late 2018.

Interview with Liar Thief Bandit (2017)

Swedish rockers Liar Thief Bandit are currently on the rampage touring through Europe. Today the german leg starts in Rostock. Further stations will see the band also perform in Lingen on 21.12.2017 at the Bul Bar & Lounge as part of the Lingen Volume concert series. Through the show announcement for Lingen I got to know about them.

My first introduction to their music was the official video for "Lease On Life" and that made me so curious that I asked for a interview to find out more about the band. We had the pleasure to speak with vocalist Mike Jacobson how the band started, how the outstanding vocals changed over time and which unexpected meetings you can have while being on the road...

A bandshot of Liar Thief Bandit, Photo Credit:
Dan Leo Lindeberg
https://photobydan.se

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Do you remember the first time the band did rehearse back in the day? What happened?

Mike Jacobson: I remember the first time we rehearsed. It was a little special because our drummer William and I had started to work on one of my earliest ideas for the song “Moving On” that ended up on our debut album later on. We had gotten to know each other through our former bass player since we both played in his solo project and when he later joined us for our second or third rehearsal the magic started happen and the band formed for real. Those first steps were very important and I am happy that we took them!

Are many of your songs inspired by your own real life experiences or what else inspires you to write songs?

I write all the lyrics and they are inspired by both my own experiences and my own thoughts about things happening in my surroundings but also in the world at large.

The songs doesn’t always represent me but they always represent something I can relate to and I think that is important!



Do you have any anecdote of strange things that happened recently playing a show or traveling around?

We got a last minute show on our first European tour in April this year. This was in Slavonice, Czech Republic on a Sunday and we didn’t expect much. The show was outside a small town on the countryside, the place was like a barn. The show was pretty early in the evening and it was packed with people! Very unexpected, especially when a guy who was introduced to us as "an old punk rocker” came there by horse from his home 20 km away - he smoked some pot and asked if I wanted to trade my Orange guitar amplifier for his horse. I did not, but I loved that we got to meet this unique human being!

The vocals stand out of the sound of Liar Thief Bandit. Do you think your voice evolved and changed over the years?

My vocals have definitely evolved since we started. I have gotten way better at singing and I think it’s mainly because we have played so many shows, it really helps you to find the core of the voice when it’s exposed to so many different situations.

Your website is great - fast and easy to navigate. Was it your intention to go a different way than the usual overloaded websites you can find nowadays?

Thank you! Yes, this was intentional. I think that today people don’t really visit websites as much as before but when they do, it’s important that they find what they are looking for as fast as possible. I think we got that one right.

Futher tourdates and information on Liar Thief Bandit can be found on the band's Facebook page as well as the mentioned homepage.

CD Review: Antidote - The Truth (Progressive Thrash, 1992/2017 re-release)

Usually the Underdogs is glad to be able to check out new releases and let you know how they turned out. This one originally comes from way back in 1992. Why is it worth reviewing it anyway?

It's because Antidote were one of the first bands that added progressive elements to the classic thrash formula and dared to go new ways in this sector. This re-release came to me without warning out of nowhere.

The cover of Antidote's "The truth" album, (c) by Antidote, used with kind permission

Summary
The first disc offers the full classic "The Truth" as a remastered edition. The vocals are held in the screaming regions so it's oldschool all the way. If you've heard the "Mind Alive" album before this record this fact may surprise you but this style fit's the far more agressive material of the early days of the band perfectly. The songs often go straight, raw and with lot's of drive but with slight elements of progression so it's great to be able to see how the band evolved over the releases with this re-issue.

Another pro for this CD is the fact that finally you don't need to hunt it down heavily in second hand shops etc. for high prices anymore. In addition to that this edition comes with a bonus disc. I think not many people have heard the stuff pressed on this silver disc. It contains the two demo tapes the band made ("Epoch Of Insanity" and "Spaced Out") that came out before the band reached for bigger aims.

It's those tunes that bring the most fun. In today's context where most productions are heavy weight it's great to hear the simpicity of demos of back in the day. No need to follow complicated structures and layers just lay back and enjoy tracks going straight. It's those noise that makes this double treat as stuff to be remembered.

In addition those demos were never before available at least here in Germany so it was for me as if the band released a brand new album. The tunes itself lay it down heavy and fast most with compact song structures. At some points you'll spot some great experiments on the guitar worked in (just listen to "Spaced Out" with those high guitar notes inside - it put's a real spotlight on the song).I love the printing on Demo CD - it reminds me so much of back in the day when I used to collect demos myself.

Purchase-Link
Grab the double disc while it's up for purchase (looks like it is limited to 500 copies). So far I've only been able to find it on the web as physical release at the webshop of Minotauro Records. Alternatively you can buy it from the Bandcamp shop of the record company.

Contact Data
The band has a Facebook account talkin' a lot about the memories of back in the day so you may want to follow those stories with the famous "Like"-Click.

Autumns Eyes give seasons change a sound

We're going closer towards the cold days. Halloween marks the point between the last warmer moments and the going over to the less well-feeling times. How does this change sound in the world of music?

Autumns Eyes have given these season a own treatment with the release of the single called "Death Of October". Musically it cracks the borders of boundaries and limitations. It recalls some modern Paradise Lost songs in my mind, think of the "Host" album or the self-titled record of the same english formation and also Type O Negative can be heard.


This one comes around as a teaser to the full album "Ending Life Slowly" that's going to see it's release at the very end of October - exactly on Halloween 2017.

Pre-orders are now online at https://autumnseyes.bandcamp.com/album/ending-life-slowly and the album's track listing is as follows:

1. Death of October
2. Break the Skin
3. Your Last Day
4. Moments Into Memories
5. The Honest Liars
6. Couldn’t Hold On
7. Far Away From Fading
8. Internal Arson
9. Open Your Eyes, Not Your Wrists
10. Under the Skin of the Sun

Follow this band further using the links below:

http://autumnseyes.com/
https://twitter.com/autumnseyes

Dancehall to put out post punk on pea green cassettes

This one reminds me so much of how I got hold of my first demo tapes. I used to buy them directly of the hands of band members mostly at shows or when you meet them after school.

The inner sleeve was often handemade based on xeroxed copies made by the musicians themselves. All the music was stored on magnetic tapes that were dubbed by the creators of the music on their home equipment later on also on professionelly produced and printed cassettes.

These guys here called Dancehall have some sort of heavily distorted post punk in the pipe. The recording process came with some nice details that show how quick and raw you can keep things if you want them to. But best of all just have a listen to them while reading the making of.

Owing to the band's obsession with recording songs as quickly as possible, 'KO' and B-side 'Vitamins' were both recorded in one evening at the band's rehearsal space, Kluster Rooms, by friend, producer and co-Vibe/Anti-Vibe label manager, Christopher Smith. The band slept in the studio's live room once recording was completed, only to turn up the next day to their respective jobs unclean but accomplished.

A promo band shot of Dancehall, Photo Credit: Keira Cullinane

The songs will be self released on the band's own Vibe/Anti Vibe label. The fresh tunes will come self dubbed onto pea green cassettes and with risograph printed artwork on candy pink card sleeves for Cassette Store Day 2017. You can order them on Dancehall's Bandcamp page. Release date is October 14 2017 for the digital version, the tapes should ship on or around the same day.

Live dates

October 2017

13 - The Lock Tavern, Camden

14 - TBC, Amsterdam, Netherlands

15 - Roodkapje, Rotterdam, Netherlands

17 - TBC, Bristol

20 - Harbour Arm, Folkestone

More info of the band can be found on Facebook or Instagram.

CD Review: Trap Lord - Drowning In The Wave (Classic Metal, 2017)

Wow, it's not to be heard often that young bands completly give their passion to the classic days of Metal. This record shows that roughness can be found out there if you're tired of all the polished music.

The front cover of Traplords "Drowning In The Wave" record, (c) by Traplord, used with kind permission

Summary

Having heard the songs of Trap Lord several times it gave me a deep reminder of how I started out with music. I used to listen from tapes. They give a direct and raw rendition of the music and that's what these track do for me, too.

Drawing inspiration of bands such as Motörhead and Saxon the music that can be heard sounds as if taken of a live show or rehearsal recording. The band doesn't give too much on polishing their music but instead cares more of the pure heavness. The guitars scream it all out on this one while drums and bass give a very basic note to it as if taken directly of the instruments without any other preparation done instead of attaching a microphone to it.

The fine thing is that slight modern elements have been sneaked into the sound with cleverness. They mix up the straight on forward sound every here and there but never ruin the listening enjoyment. The tempo varies and many groove parts add to the fun of the music. Most tunes come with shorter duration but less can be more - it's better in my ears to have straight good material instead lengthy stuff that doesn't hit the point.

Don't let the raw sound of this package give a negative impression. I enjoyed every minute of it. It feels natural this way and having started out with analogue equipment it inspired me to resurrect my tapes once again.

Album Stream and Purchase-Link

If you'd like to have a quick tip I  point you to the track "Idle Minds" (Song five). It gave me a great intoduction to this band and I hope it will make sure you jump on the train quickly.

The full release is available digitally on the band's Bandcamp page or check out the Heavy Baby Records Bandcamp page to get one of the limited physical copies of the release.

Contact Data

The band shows up on Facebook so make sure to follow the guys over there.

Saliva cover Eminem's Lose Yourself

Cover songs can be fine stuff when done properly. Sure it's not easy at all since you not "only" need to infiltrate the classic track but also need to add a own touch to the music so something new and fresh calls to the attention of the listener.

Eminem's "Lose Yourself" grabbed my ears back in the day with it's furious and constant vocal performance power and permanent movement of the crowd in the video that came with the track.

These days Multi-platinum and Grammy nominated hard rock group SALIVA have picked up just that song and turned it into a straight high energy rockin' number that will pump you up for tonight's party. But it also breathes the spirit of the original. Along with it comes a cover sleeve also reflecting on the origins of the original plus adding some Saliva extra to it.

You can listen and purchase this special treat over at iTunes or have a look on Google Play.

The cover of Saliva's digital single for "Lose Yourself", (c) by Saliva, used with kind permission

Saliva are also currently hitting the road in the US with a special offer for all the young attenders of their shows. They have been adding a special twist to the performance of their well renowned hit “Click Click Boom” by bringing youngsters (ages 11 – 12) on stage to participate with them.

SALIVA lead singer Bobby Amaru says of the kids joining them on stage, “I always fantasized when I was a kid about being on stage with a band! I believe it makes them feel special. It's already a cool thing that their parents take them to rock n roll shows but to be able to have that experience takes it to another level for them. They are the new generation”

Here is the string of dates already starting today:

     Sep 23    Parkview Field    Fort Wayne, IN   

     Sep 24    The Firehouse BBQ & Blues    Richmond, IN   

     Sep 28    Amnesia Too    St Joseph, MO   

     Sep 29    Stormy's Music Venue    Beaver Dam, WI   

     Sep 30    Route 20    Sturtevant, WI   

     Oct 06    The Warehouse    Clarksville, TN   

     Oct 07    Ride The Ozarks Rally    Harrison, AR   

     Oct 12    Home    Arlington Heights, IL   

     Oct 21    MASON'S LIVE    Lakeland, FL        

     Dec 11    Whisky A Go Go    West Hollywood, CA

Check their website for constant updates and additions as well as ticket purchase links.

Voyager to tour Europe and UK September/October 2017

Some say that the beginning of a new week doesn't hold any good but this news blew me away. A mail reached my inbox saying that some of Australia's finest prog metal bands is going to hit some European and UK venues already at the end of this month.

Having followed the band Voyager since the days of the "V" album and being more than overwhelmed by the brand new "Ghost Mile" output this is news that needs to be shared all the way.

Voyager will open up for the French band Uneven Structure that also offers progressive metal music to the attenders. Make sure to come around for a event with bands that surely deserve your time and money.

Uneven Structure and Voyager tour dates

Sep 29: Cologne Euroblast Festival, Germany
Oct 06: Baarlo Progpower Europe, Netherlands (Voyager only)
Oct 09: London Underworld, UK
Oct 10: Birmingham The Flapper, UK
Oct 11: Dublin Voodoo Lounge, Ireland
Oct 12: Glasgow Audio, UK
Oct 13: Manchester Satan’s Hollow, UK
Oct 14: Guildford The Boiler Room, UK
Oct 15: Leiden Gebr De Nobel, Netherlands (Uneven Structure only)
Oct 16: Muenster Sputnik Cafe, Germany
Oct 17: Berlin Maze, Germany
Oct 18: Wroclaw Carpe Diem, Poland
Oct 19: Prague Underdogs, Czech Republic
Oct 20: Vienna Chelsea, Austria
Oct 23: Munich Backstage, Germany
Oct 26: Milan Legend Club, Italy
Oct 27: Zug I45, Switzerland
Oct 29: Barcelona Apolo 2, Spain
Oct 30: Madrid Caracol, Spain

Purchase tickets at  http://www.seetickets.com/ or via the venues' official websites for Europe.

Update 23.09.2017: Additional info about Uneven Structure - the band is going to play the newest album 'La Partition' in full EVERY night, as well as a few classics. Listen to the track "Incube" on YouTube.

Here are direct links that will let you quickly picking up tickets.

Buy Tickets for UK Shows

Buy Tickets for European Show

The tourflyer for the Uneven Structure /Voyager tourpackage fall 2017, (c) by Uneven Structure / Voyager, used with kind permission

If you've not heard something of the new Voyager record here is the title track their current album as a quick check out tune.

Helion Prime hold open vocalist audition

It's hard to read that the American Sci-Fi power metal band Helion Prime has parted ways with vocalist Kayla Dixon. Having released the excellent "Remnants of Stars" single I had hopes that this would be the end of the search. 

But this situation of a band looking for a new voice is also a chance for others who would like to join a professional band with their talent. The band has set up a online audition to find the proper person behind the microphone. Here's how you can seize your chance:

Location is not important.

All submissions must be a video performance.

The open auditions run until November 5th. (Ignore the deadline from the video)

The way to audition is simple:

1 - Download instrumental versions of "Life Finds a Way" and "Remnants of Stars" at this link.

2 - Record/film yourself performing "Life Finds a Way". Please include all that you can (harmonies, layers, etc). For those who wish write your own lyrics and melodies for "Remnants of Stars". Remnants is optional.

3 - Send video submissions to auditions@helionprimemetal.com and make sure to include your full name and contact information.

Please share this info with anyone and everyone so the band has a chance to find a new vocalist.

There's also a video that is a call to action to all the vocalists out there:

Oldschool thrash package with Onslaught, Artillery & Exarsis in Europe Fall 2017

This package promises to bring in thrash like in the old days with a massive billing featuring bands that will make the club burn! Plus you can pick up the brand new Exarsis record up to four weeks ahead of the official street date. Check all the details below.

The Greek Thrashers of Exarsis will release their new album, "New War Order", on October 20th. On the occasion of the release, the band will accompany Onslaught and Artillery on their Thrash 'Till Death European Tour 2017 from 23.09 to 13.10, on which the album is already available in advance!

"New War Order" was recorded again at the D Studios in Athens and mixed and mastered by Mike Karpathiou. The album contains 10 songs with a playing time of almost 40 minutes. A "must have" for every thrash metal maniac!

Thrash 'Till Death tourdates Fall 2017 for Europe

// tourdates //
23.09 Helvete Club – Oberhausen, Germany
24.09 Hedon Club – Zwolle, Netherlands
25.09 De Verlichte Geest – Roeselare, Belgium
26.09 Roxy Concerts – Flensburg, Germany
27.09 Garage Deluxe – Munich, Germany
28.09 Moonlight Music Hall – Diest, Belgium
30.09 Kiehool Burgum – Burgum, Netherlands
02.10 Schwarzer Adler – Tannheim-Egelsee, Germany
03.10 Escape Metalcorner – Vienna, Austria
04.10 7er Club – Mannheim, Germany
05.10 Musigburg – Aarburg, Switzerland
06.10 Dagda Live Club – Pavia, Italy
07.10 Revolver Music Hall – Venice, Italy
08.10 Borderline – Pisa, Italy
09.10 Utopia Sala – Zaragoza, Spain
11.10 SMAC de La Gespe – Tarbes, France
12.10 Sala Upload – Barcelona , Spain
13.10 Urban Concept – Vitoria, Spain

Next To None announche August 2017 US dates

Next To None are a cool new band that has come up to my screen. They've put out their second album "Phases" these days and I'm discovering their sound step by step. I think they have something with them that could develop heavy music further.

It's not so much if they are prog metal or anything else but in common I feel that the way the band takes it's steps could be something of giving way for a bigger understanding of music in general breaking the chains of limitations of music. Don't waste your time with limitations. If it's music you like and enjoy it's music you like and enjoy. This seems to be the message to me they send out through their sounds. Check it out for yourselves with the song "Pause":

Readers living in the US can see Next To None this month live touring with label mates Doll Skin.

8/9 – El Paso TX - Low Brow Palace

8/10- Albuquerque, NM- The Jam Spot

8/11 – Tucson AZ – Loadhouse

8/12- Las Vegas, NV- Dive Bar

8/16 – Portland OR – Rock Hard PDX

8/17 – Seattle WA – Chop Suey

8/18 – Lewiston ID - 3rd Wheel

8/20 – Colordo Springs CO – Sunshine Studios

8/22- Omaha, NE- Shamrocks

8/24 – Jackson MN – Ellefson Coffee Co.

8/25 – Mankato MN – Whats Up Lounge

8/26 - Chippewa Falls WI – EveryBuddys Bar

8/27 – Oshkosh WI – Burning Soul Studio

8//28 – Baraboo WI – Private Event

8/29 - Ft Atkinson WI - Hijynx

The band's second album ‘Phases’ has been released through InsideOutMusic in Europe and EMP Label Group in North America.

Next To None online:
http://www.nexttonone.net
http://www.facebook.com/NextToNoneband

XII Boar return as Twelve Boar with new album

These days the news reached my inbox that a new album of UK Rock 'n' Rollers Twelve Boar is on the way. The band decided to re-brand from XII Boar to Twelve Boar and announced the release of their third effort "No Forgiveness" (this means that the band made one album each year - going strong in my eyes).

In the words of the band we can expect "brash, Motörhead-esque riffage, huge sing-along choruses and an overwhelming sense of fun injected into every song." So far they shared the artwork and new logo which reminds me of old C64 and Amiga Computer games - I loved that thing on first sight.

The cover of the new Twelve Boar record made by Rahadil Hermana, (c) by Twelve Boar, used with kind permission

‘No Forgiveness’ was produced once again by Chris Fielding and is set for release on Friday 8th September 2017.  Pre-orders are now available from the band at http://xiiboar.bigcartel.com.

Track Listing:
1.       Steppin' Up
2.       Golden Goose
3.       The Curtain Call
4.       No Forgiveness
5.       Elders From The Deep
6.       Snake On A Lead
7.       All the Heavy Griftin'
8.       Panama
9.       Hellspeed Truckin'

Single Review: Mike Milan Dedic - Escape (Instrumental Rock,2017)

Shred guitarist Mike Milan Dedic presents a brand new track and it's a surprise to the reviewer. I never thought hat he would move on so much further with this release called "Escape".

The cover of Mike Milan Dedic's brand new release "Escape"

Summary
Heaving heard and reviewd his previous EP I was sure that more shred-oriented material would come along with this one. The new single "Escape" that comes as a one track download is a explosion of progress in my ears. It's much more song-oriented, there's more of a earworm feeling at times than on the first release which sounded more of a demonstration of the guitar playing abilities of Mike Milan Dedic. 

To me it's more of a rocking number that split's the dutys. The guitars take a good part of the sound but the backline of drums and bass also has their moments when they are able to shine for themselves.

The track feels much better, fresher  and sounds overall much more moving, diverse and changing throughout it's full duration. There's even time to relax at some  parts. A big step forward!  

Purchase-Link and Track Stream
Make sure to have a listen for yourselves. You can purchase and listen to the track at the same link (CD Baby).
 
Contact Data
Finally make sure to connect with this outstanding guitarist via Facebook to be notified of what's going on in the future.

Mathieu Bauer performs modern drumming in excellence

I'm always amazed to see today's drummer perform. Back in the day drummers in metal music for sure always had to perform with lots of power to properly give the beat to the music.

But these days the impression won't leave me that the level has improved a lot up to nearly infinity. What can be seen and heard these days that sticksmen show on their drumsets always sets me on fire. It's nearly impossible. Those people for sure most have spent many hours practising to gain the level they play on right now.

One of them is Mathieu Bauer who swings the sticks for modern metallers Brutai. He just recently put out a drum playthrough video for the track "Of Ashes" taken of the band's debut "Born". Just play click and you won't believe your eyes and ears what can be seen and heard:

Mathieu has recently been featured in Rhythm Magazine in the UK, and has been previously featured on Modern Drummer. The band he plays drums for is called Brutai and just played Download Festival and were nominated for 'Best New Band' for the Golden Gods in the UK.

They are signed to Fairwood Music publishing, home to David Bowie's music, and will be touring with Kobra and the Lotus later this year. Make sure to have a eye on Brutai's Facebook page for dates and all the further band updates.

CD Review: Final Coil - Persistence Of Memory (Alt-progressive Metal, 2017)

A dark toned alt progressive album with lots of details to discover and a lyrical concept
that provides a critical look upon our technical overloaded existence.

This album comes around a bit different than the previous recordings. The first full length goes a different way to keep you on the stereo while listening.

The artwork of Final Coil's debut full lenth "Persistence Of Memory", (c) by Final Coil, used with kind permission

Summary and Track by track review
First of all it kicks in with the well known heavyness of the previous EP "Closed To The Light" just to throw you into cold water with softer and fragile vocals. These elements need a moment to sink in but we'll see later why it makes sense to be this way. "Corruption" is a great opener and introduction anyway.

The following "Dying" comes around with a simpler structure and feels familar, yet it also is not so straight as other tracks of Final Coil. The more rounds you'll give this the more you'll enjoy the atmosphere and details in this song.

"Alone" variates a lot throughout it's duration, while the basic riff is kept simple. It reminds of the first ever EP of the band but with better vocals.

A touch of Depeche Mode reaches your ears with the next one. The second single "You waste my time" comes with pop appeal yet it's much more dirty and rough than songs from that style.

A surprise is send our way with "Myopic". This is going back to the heavy formula, yet it's structure builds tension just to stop at it's climax. Great tune and fat production.

A band picture of the Leicester based band Final Coil, (c) by Final Coil, used with kind permission

If you started to discover the band while they put out the "Live with doubt" EP you'll love "Spider Feet". It has lot's of the music of that release. A hard tonality mixed with soft notes in the verses just to give you a blast with it's long and stretched refrain. One of my faves of the record.

The best is yet to come. This saying comes true with "Failed Light". It's epicness is a love letter to the beginnings of progressive music in days when Pink Floyd started to record music. It's giving me chilling freeze and lot's of noise tension in the end. One of the best tracks ever written IMHO.

"Lost Hope" provides what the song title promises. Sweet and slow suffering mixed with melodies sounding like lost in the haze.

The rough edge returns with "Moths to the flame". A cutting riff runs through this one. It's definitely for the fans of early material of the band.

Want more riffs? You got it! "In silent reproach" has a propeller rotating riff shaker with it. The drums kick heavier in here. Something less often to be found on "Persistence of Memory".

The album is closed with a silent number called "Alienation". Musically I would compare it with the "Somnambulant" accoustic sessions. A piece of music deeply rooted in thoughts and emotions yet the end holds something like a "won't give in" sound with it.

Finally the question: has the band become soft and are the vocals too easy?
I think it was the best decision to keep a eye on change and progression. Life is change. Everything is changing. I would've been silly to keep it all the same. As for me the band has found a way to maintain the hard riffs but to build  them into the music a intelligent way to give room for atmosphere and darkness.

The vocals are lighter most of the album but looking at the lyrical concept of digital distortion and destruction of humans (my interpretation of the lyrics) other styles wouldn't have fit. It's about hurt and regret so this needs to be expressed properly in my ears.

Finally I would recommend this record to you but listen to it on a real stereo system. The full ingridents only come to life with a extended sound system. All the laptop and smartphone stuff I tried never provided the full listening experience. Don't worry: a normal stereo system of a basic range already fit's your needs. Just make sure it has sharp sound and good bass sound available.

Album Stream / Purchase Link / Contact Data
It's a treat of great music recorded and mixed for full audio pleasure so it's worth giving back with some money. Remember that music can give you enjoyment for years if treated a good way. Few things in life will do the same for you.

The digital release is available via Bandcamp as of today. The CD version looks gorgeous but will be released September 22th. Pre-order packs of the physical edition with T-Shirts and more goodies will be set up earlier to the release date of the CD version. Just make sure to like the band's Facebook page to be notified or have a look on their homepage the good old way.

Pryti speaks out about fears of life

Fear surely is a emotion we all have come across in our lifes. It's not easy at all to go through life and to face all the decisions we have to make.

Alternative singer/songwriter Pryti has picked up this topic and worked it up in a proper lyric video for her single "Angst" off her recent debut album, Tales of a Melancholic. This version of the song is newly remastered and available via the common digital plattforms.

It's a heavy, pushing and raw riffing track that came as a surprise to me. Being introduced to the softer side of Pryti before this kicking track made my ears open widely. The text also is worth having a look so the lyric video is a perfect fit if you're struggling with doubt every here and there.

In addition to that Pryti will also be playing her first live show in London, UK on June 14th, at The Black Heart with support from Awooga. This event offers free entry so don't miss out the chance to see this great singer/songwriter and experience her unique atmospheric tracks with your own eyes and ears.

All details are listed on the flyer below. Also make sure to invite your friends via Facebook because visiting shows is more fun with good friends by your side.

The flyer for the 2017 Camden show, (c) by Pryti, used with kind permission

Finally keep a eye on Pryti using social channels such as Youtube, Twitter or Instagram.

Female fronted doom band Mist confirmed for Bloodstock 2017

The Bloodstock Open Air has become a event of high profile. In the past years many great performances could be enjoyed there. The 2017 edition will feature well-known names such as Ghost, Megadeth, Testament, Obituary, Arch Enemy, Kreator, Blind Guardian and Amon Amarth.

But what about the smaller bands that will play? Which may be worth a look? One of them surely is be the female fronted doom combo Mist which have just been confirmed for the 2017 edition of the Open Air.

The band "Mist", Photo by: Uroš Spruk ,used with kind permission

The band is happy to be able to play a show there and has already announced to make this performance a special one:

»We are thrilled to have been given this opportunity! Our first album is coming out this year and we've decided to perform one of the unreleased songs for the first time at BOA. This will be our second time in the UK and we'll make sure it's a blast.« Grab the flyer below to make sure not to miss out their perfomance at the Bloodstock Open Air.

The showtime and stage for BOA 2017, (c) by Mist, used with kind permission

Mist build their music on the legacy of legendary bands like Black Sabbath, Pentagram, Candlemass, Coven and others. Check out the title track of the EP Inan' in the player below. 

The band released their first demo recordings in November 2013 which have been re-issued on CD three times due to great interest. 

In 2014 they signed to Dutch label Soulseller Records and released their first EP »Inan'« the following year. Currently the band is busy recording their first full-length album, the title is to be announced soon.

Make sure to follow them further to be notified on how the story of this uprising band goes on.

https://www.facebook.com/mist. doom
http://mistdoom.bandcamp.com/
http://mistdoom.tumblr.com/