EP Review: Silver Nightmares - The Wandering Angel EP (Prog AOR, 2019)

A wonderful EP that invites to dream away of your everday troubles but also shows the inner fights we all have to struggle with.

The cover already let's you think of another world.

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The strongest part of this italian release is it's fairytale like concept. It's already the packaging that tell's you that something different awaits inside. Maybe it's the old tree that reveals truth and it may guide us through the minutes of listening.
 
The Silver Nightmares EP shares a wealth of instrumentation with the listener, even a flute like on "Dick Dastardly" or the trumpet on "David The King" have been put inside. 

It's not a common thing to have two vocalists but it works fine here.
They come around to me as if they both stand each for one side. Maybe it's the light and the dark with both fighting against each other. 

It's a rough experience so be prepared that listening this piece of music is challenging at times. Overall it's deeply rooted in the AOR music style with many high notes flying around. My favorite is the title track for it's heavyness and song number four "David The King" with the groove and wide sound inside.  
 
A epic balladesque feeling comes in at "Dame Nature" and marks a point of reloading of energy. Warmly welcomed.
Overall you can listen to this many times, there are always new things to discover.  

The only thing that I've found being negative is the mid-quality of the sound. It would have been nice to have more clarity.

Please support the band with a purchase so they continue to create more fine tunes for all of us. Physical copies are available at Bandcamp as well as the download both at a very fair price (7 Dollar CD, 3 Euro DL).

EP Review: Another Day Dawns - Stranger (Rock, 2019)

Does really just Another Day Dawn? I think every given day is something special and should be treated like this. Anyway this five song EP goes in very straight with solid Rock music.

The cover sleeve is a bit different from the usual packaging that such records come with.

Also the overall tone is set to straight and easy listening it's not a lightweight pack of music. There's room for heavyness and in some parts detail-work shines through like multi-layered vocals or outworked guitar solo arrangements.

The production is set on big foot with stomping bold guitars. Unusual feelings come up through the heavy punch of the snare. I think this prevents the tracks of the "Stranger" record to be just commercial tunes for standard Rock Radio rotation.

All tracks are held in a compact duration format. You won't get bored with long songs that never end. The band kept the focus on the short and good saying in my ears.

The only downside of this is that no fresh ideas are thrown in. It's all solid and fine worked music but it misses the Aha-effect you may want to hear. Don't get me wrong. There's nothing bad in here - it's just that it feels like already been heard before.

Just the last one "Forget Me Not" gives a idea that the band may be in a more experimenting status right now. The effects come in more often. Let's see how the band evolves in future. Check the band's Facebook to see what happens next.

If you're after some solid Rock tunes with slightly heavy production this EP is for you. Just taste a little here and you'll quickyl get the idea if it's for you. The record is available directly from the band's own webshop.

Album Review: SpiteFuel - Flame To The Night (2019, Metal)

Dark, darker, Flame To The Night. A album that reflects upon the feelings of anger and agression.

This record calls for the prize of being as brutal, tricky and heavy as can be. But at the same time there is still a light in the dark in the mood of the music as well.

The skull finally is alive on the album cover of SpiteFuel's "Flame To The Night"

It started out with "Machine" that I realised that the band has made a complete turn with "Flame To The Night". It's a beast of a song with a punishing refrain. I think this will go down extremly heavy on stage also it's hard to imagine that it could get any more bone crushing like on the album.

The new vocalist Phillip Stahl adds a much metalcore-like note to the sound. His growls are blackening the whole sky. But he also adds a twist with a little psycho touch in songs like "Trick Or Treat" - one of the most going under the skin going tunes of 2019.

The second half of the twelve tunes calls out to the older fans of the combo.

"Bad Boys" is one of the them. It's a midtempo rocker with sing-along refrain.The same goes for the compact number "Two-Faced". But they all sound with updated soundpackage through your speakers along with modern refrain structures. This said it's clear that SpiteFuel have changed to a up-to-date soundformat on the new longplayer.

"Firewater" is one of my favorites. It shares big bright riffs brought garned with lots of groove. This feels great and relaxed alltogether. "Silent Guard" goes more straight-forward but has at the same time special in it that will make it hang on the listeners mind later on. It's this feeling of emptiness in it mixed with slightly agressive moments that makes the track stand out.

It all comes to the close on "Try to hate me". It feels like a mixture of new brutality mixed up splitters of melodic elements. This one melts both worlds of the record into one piece of music.

Listen to the heavier side of the album as a teaser right here.

You can pick a copy from the MDD Records / Black Sunset webshop. Since the label has distributors all around the globe I think you can also get it at a local retailer / mailorder which may save you shipping and handling.

Album Review: Held Hostage (feat. Ripper Owens) - Epic (Classic Metal, 2019)

You can't keep a good man down! This goes especially for Tim "Ripper" Owens who thankfully refuses to give up. Instead he contributed guest vocals to a album for all the straight rockers out there that goes into the ears at the first listen already.

Held Hostage have shown themselves with a varity of guest musicians in the past. They also shared parts of the income they were able to earn this way with veterans in need. Both things combined sounded like a album well worth checking out to me.

The hammer comes down on us with Held Hostage's new record "Epic".

I wasn't disappointed giving my time to check "Epic" out. This record that is yet to be released (December 15th 2019. digitally, CD January 17, 2020 via Metal Mania Records / MVD (Music Video Distributors) gives the good feeling of listening to classic metal from the first seconds of duration all the way to it's end.

To be precise it opens with "Lightning" going straight, short and to the point. "Tonights The Night" calls for sing-along and makes sure that every day is the right one to do what you ever wanted. I love the repeat of the refrain at the end. I'm still having it in rotation on my mind.

The album turns it's tides on the upcoming two tunes. Both a bit rougher, louder. The guitars make me nervous and shaking while the vocals show the darker, more subtile parts Ripper Owens voice is able to perform. This makes such a voice stand out in my ears.

"Turn The Light" brings the listener down back again with a little more relaxed atmosphere. This doesn't last long as already "It's all over you" turns out to be a riff-ladden song that shares a strong 80s AC/DC vibe but with more agressive vocals inside.

Number seven "Hot Night" is a solid one. Nothing too special here but you'll go along with a solid rock track. All the other tracks go a much riff-based way with excellent vocals on top. They all feature hooklines that invite you to sing along.

This album is a perfect fit for all those looking for straight Rock 'n' Roll that goes quickly into your minds and hearts. Ripper Owens performance gives the songs the extra something. I think the people out there will love this silver disc once they heard it. Please don't miss this one out.

As a preview here's the track "Lightning". Please check Held Hostage's Facebook page for more details on where exactly to order "Epic" on CD or how to get it digitally starting December 15th 2019. The CD will be released January 17, 2020 via Metal Mania Records / MVD (Music Video Distributors).

Lets speak with...Haiduk (Black Metal, 2019)

How far can one man alone come when he put's all of his passion into music? Haiduk crafts a special form of Black Metal. His songs are short but always feature some melody with it that can be remembered once heard. It leaves something on your mind but listen for yourselves.


Heavy Metal Underdogs had the honour to speak to Haiduk about the beginnings, inspiration for his special way of crafting music and how people react to his music at liveshows.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: What does the name "Haiduk" stand for?
Haiduk: Haiduk is the death metal solo project. The name is based on ‘hajduk’ - a warrior from the forests of Europe.

Can you remember the time you started the project Haiduk? What happened in those days?
In the early 2000’s I wrote a lot of material but then abandoned it. The songs sat dormant for years until I finally revisited and recorded them in 2009. That became the demo ‘Plagueswept’.

I would say that one of the marks that sets Haiduk sound apart from similar music are the little melodies you can find in each track. Are those coming to your mind in special situations or do they find you while working on the material?
It all comes from playing and coming up with riffs and combinations.

The cover of Haiduk's latest album "Exomancer"

 
So far you've put out 3 releases. Would you say that there are connections between those records? Having checked out them on Bandcamp I somehow felt like they could be related to each other.All albums are based on black magic and fantasy set in the realm ‘Callost’ which I’ve been developing. Every release delves into some aspect of that world.

The lyrics are held very short. Do you feel that short messages get more attention than longer one's?The vocals are there to reinforce the theme, not to grab attention. My focus is on the music. Music is more powerful than words.

Do you have plans to play live shows with the new album "Exomancer" ?
There have been shows for 'Exomancer' and there will probably be more.

A shot of Haiduk at one of his live performances.

Would you say that people react different at your liveshows compared to other bands of the dark genre?
Yes, I’ve seen a lot of strange reactions, but always a lot of support.

How important are CDs these days in your eyes? Do you think people prefer to pick music the digital way?
Physical format is best because it lets you add more to the album; extra texts, artwork, maps, stories, etc., and push the album concept further.

Can you give us please a little insight into the creation process of new songs?
I usually pick a key and tempo and start writing riffs in that style. The best riffs are arranged so the song builds momentum and atmosphere. When things align, the song takes a life of its own.

Have you built alliances to be able to write and release music or how do you go along?
Haiduk is a lone wolf. I work with no one.


Keep in touch with Haiduk through these links:
www.haiduk.ca

www.facebook.com/haidukmetal

www.youtube.com/haidukplague

Tourdates Overlook 11/2019-Start 2020

Nothing is compareable to the intensity of a live show. Please support your local venues and go there to see great bands giving you unpayable memories. Here's a uplisting of shows in the next days and months along with a short band description at the beginning to give a idea of the band's sound and genre.

Some of the tourposters that belong to the dates listed below.

Make sure to listen to some Jinjer in the background while going through the list. It's the perfect soundtrack - raw energy mixed with intensive sensitive moments. Just imagine that live.


JINJER just released their newest modern metal milestone, Macro and there’s no stopping them now. They will present songs cut from their new album, as well as fan favorites – proving once more that they are one of the best live bands around.
JINJER LIVE
special guest: THE AGONIST
supports: KHROMA, SPACE OF VARIATIONS
13.11.19 CZ - Prague / MeetFactory
14.11.19 DE - Berlin / Lido *SOLD OUT*
15.11.19 DK - Copenhagen / Pumpehuset
16.11.19 DE - Hanover / Musikzentrum
17.11.19 DE - Hamburg / Knust
19.11.19 LU - Esch-Alzette/ Kulturfabrik
20.11.19 DE - Frankfurt / Das Bett
21.11.19 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
22.11.19 DE - Annaberg-Buchholz / Alte Brauerei
23.11.19 DE - Cologne / Gebäude 9
24.11.19 DE - Bochum / Zeche
26.11.19 NL - Amsterdam / Q-Factory
27.11.19 NL - Eindhoven / Dynamo
28.11.19 NL - Antwerp / Zappa
29.11.19 UK - London / Heaven
30.11.19 UK - Birmingham / Asylum
01.12.19 UK - Newcastle / University
03.12.19 UK - Manchester / Academy 2
04.12.19 UK - Bristol / Thekla
06.12.19 FR - Paris / La Machine
07.12.19 FR - Annemasse / Chateau Rouge
08.12.19 FR - Toulouse / Le Rex
10.12.19 ES - Murcia / Garaje
11.12.19 ES - Madrid / Mon
12.12.19 ES - Barcelona / Salamandra
13.12.19 FR - Toulon / Omega Live
14.12.19 IT - Milan / Magazzini Generali
15.12.19 CH - Zürich / Dynamo
16.12.19 DE - Munich / Backstage Werk
16.12.19 AT - Graz / Dom Im Berg
18.12.19 AT - Vienna / Simm City
19.12.19 HR - Zagreb / Tvornica Kulture
21.12.19 SK - Bratislava / Majestic
22.12.19 HU - Budapest / Barba Negra
# w/ The Agonist only

The pioneering German Gothic Metal band CREMATORY will release a new album, which they will accompany with the upcoming tour. In their 28 year long career the band released 14 studio and three live albums, played hundreds of shows around the globe and they are still hungry for more.
CREMATORY LIVE
09.04.20 DE - Hamburg / Logo
10.04.20 DE - Berlin / Nuke Club
11.04.20 DE - Hagen aTW / Stocks
12.04.20 DE - Cologne / Helios37
01.05.20 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
02.05.20 DE - Munich/ Backstage Club
08.05.20 DE - Trier / Mergener Hof
09.05.20 DE - Kaiserslautern / Kammgarn
21.05.20 DE - Frankfurt a.M. / Nachtleben
22.05.20 DE - Erfurt / From Hell
23.05.20 DE - Zwickau / Club Seilerstrasse
30.05.20 DE - Lindau / Club Vaudeville
31.05.20 CH - Bern / Gaskessel

When good friends invite you to a birthday party, you don't think long: As co-founders of the “Neue Deutsche Härte”, MEGAHERZ  went straight up and rocks the boat with a new chapter of their very special live shows! And also present: the well-known german punk rocker SERUM114 - if you want to experience their explosive energy, you have to see them live!
MEGAHERZ & SERUM 114 LIVE
w/ Hämatom
29.02.20 DE - Geiselwind / Event Zentrum
06.03.20 DE - Osnabrück / Hyde Park
07.03.20 DE - Hamburg / Grosse Freiheit 36
13.03.20 DE - Leipzig / Haus Auensee
14.03.20 DE - Berlin / Huxleys
19.03.20 DE - Frankfurt / Batschkapp
20.03.20 DE - Cologne / Carlswerk V.
21.03.20 DE - Munich / Tonhalle
27.03.20 CH - Pratteln / Z7
28.03.20 DE - Stuttgart / LKA Longhorn
02.04.20 DE - Memmingen / Kaminwerk
03.04.20 DE - Memmingen / Kaminwerk

The German Melodic Black Metallers THULCANDRA will support Obscura on their Diluvium Tour throughout Europe. The band marches through different sound-landscapes, garnished with mystical moments of tranquillity. THULCANDRA is more than ready to prove this live on stage again!
THULCANDRA LIVE
w/ Obscura, God Dethroned, Fractal Universe
15.02.20 CH - Zug / Galvanik
16.02.20 IT - Bologna / Locomotiv
17.02.20 SL - Ljubliana / Orto Bar
18.02.20 AT - Graz / Explosiv
19.02.20 BH - Tuzla / Palma
20.02.20 BG - Sofia / Mixtapes
21.02.20 RO - Bucharest / Quantic Club
22.02.20 SR - Belgrade / Bozidarac
23.02.20 HU - Budapest / Dürer-Kert
24.02.20 SK - Bratislava / Randall
25.02.20 CZ - Prague / Futurum
26.02.20 PL - Krakow / Kwadrat
27.02.20 PL - Warsaw / Proxima
28.02.20 LV - Riga / Melna Piektdiena
29.02.20 EST - Tallin / Tapper Club
01.03.20 FI - Helsinki / Tavastia
03.03.20 SWE - Stockholm / Klubben
04.03.20 NO - Oslo / John Dee
05.03.20 DK - Aarshus / Voxhall
06.03.20 DE - Essen / Turock
07.03.20 DE - Landshut / Rocket Club

THE NEW ROSES are back on tour presenting their latest release Nothing But Wild with strong and energetic Rock’n’Roll live on stage. After successful live appearances all over the world, lately playing with the legendary Scorpions, THE NEW ROSES is ready to hit the stage.
THE NEW ROSES LIVE
w/ Fighter V, Stray Train
13.11.19 AT - Vienna / Szene
14.11.19 HU - Budapest / Dürer Kert
15.11.19 AT - Wörgl / KOMMA Veranstaltungszentrum
16.11.19 DE - Wiesbaden / Kulturzentrum Schlachthof
21.11.19 DE - Munich / Backstage München
22.11.19 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
23.11.19 CZ - Zlin / Winter Masters of Rock
30.11.19 UK - London / Borderline
05.12.19 DE - Aschaffenburg / Colos-Saal
06.12.19 DE - Osnabrück / Rosenhof
12.12.19 NL - Weert / De Bosuil
13.12.19 NL - Hoogeveen / Het Podium
14.12.19 NL - Amsterdam / Melkweg
15.12.19 BE - Ittre / Zik-zak
07.02.20 ES - Barcelona / Sala Bóveda
08.02.20 ES - Madrid / Nazca Club
15.08.20 DE - Balve / German Kultrock Festival

POWERWOLF's history of success is a true metal fairytale! With their last three records all hitting the TOP 3 of the German album charts, two of them at #1 POWERWOLF prove: Metal is religion! They are on tour with their Power Metal label colleagues GLORYHAMMER.
POWERWOLF LIVE
w/ Gloryhammer
13.11.19 DK - Copenhagen / Amager Bio
15.11.19 NO - Oslo / Rockefeller
16.11.19 SE - Stockholm / Fryshuset
17.11.19 SE - Gothenburg / Traedgarn
19.11.19  FI - Helsinki / The Circus
20.11.19 EE - Tallinn / Rock Cafe
22.11.19 PL - Gdansk / B90
23.11.19 CZ - Zlin / Winter Masters of Rock
24.11.19 PL - Wroclaw / A2
25.11.19 PL - Krakow / Studio
27.11.19 RO - Bucharest / Arenele Romane
28.11.19 BG - Sofia / Music Jam
29.11.19 GR - Athens / Piraeus 117 Academy
30.11.19 GR - Thessaloniki / Principal Club Theater
02.12.19 SK - Bratislava / Refinery Gallery
03.12.19 AT - Graz / Orpheum
05.12.19 AT - Linz / Posthof
06.12.19 AT - Innsbruck / Music Hall
07.12.19 CH - Bern / Bernexpo

Portuguese dark metal pioneers, MOONSPELL, will embark on an extensive European Tour with ROTTING CHRIST. The finest metal package will travel two months literally all over Europe, including dates in the UK, Spain, Turkey, Scandinavia and many more!
MOONSPELL LIVE
w/ Rotting Christ, Silver Dust
15.11.2019 TR - Istanbul / If Performance Hall
16.11.2019 RO - Bukarest / Quantic Club
17.11.2019 BG - Sofia / Mixtape 5
18.11.2019 HR - Zagreb / Mochvara
19.11.2019 AT - Graz / Dom im Berg
20.11.2019 SK - Bratislava / Majestic Club
21.11.2019 AT - Vienna / Simm City
22.11.2019 HU - Budapest / A 38
23.11.2019 CZ - Zlin / Winter MOR - Euronics Sports Hall
24.11.2019 PL - Krakow / Kwadrat
25.11.2019 PL - Warszaw / Progresja
26.11.2019 PL - Gdansk / B90
27.11.2019 LV - Riga / Melna Piektdiena
28.11.2019 EE - Tallinn / Tapper
29.11.2019 FI - Helsinki / Tavastia *SOLD OUT
30.11.2019 FI - Tampere / Klubi *SOLD OUT
01.12.2019 FI - Turku / Apollo
03.12.2019 SE - Stockholm / Slaktkyrkan
04.12.2019 NO - Oslo / Parkteatret
05.12.2019 DK - Kolding / Godset
06.12.2019 DK - Roskilde / Gimle
07.12.2019 DE - Berlin / Columbia Theater
08.12.2019 DE - Hanover / Musikzentrum
09.12.2019 DE - Mannheim / MS Connexion Complex
10.12.2019 LU - Esch Alzette / Kluturfabrik
11.12.2019 CH - Geneve / PTR
12.12.2019 CH - Pratteln / Z7
13.12.2019 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
14.12.2019 DE - Würzburg / Posthalle
15.12.2019 DE - Munich / Backstage

NANOWAR OF STEEL, masters of paradoy metal, hit the stage on their European Reggaton Tour. Known for their extraordinary live performances, while mixing contrasting musical styles like ska and true metal into a genre fluid fun formation, NANOWAR OF STEEL is back on stage.
NANOWAR OF STEEL
NANOWAR OF STEEL LIVE
28.11.19 GR - Athens / Gagarin 205
29.11.19 GR - Thessaloníki / Eightball Club
30.11.19 BG - Sofia / Mixtape 5
01.12.19 RS - Belgrade / Klub Fest Zemun
02.12.19 HR - Zagreb / Boogaloo
+ more to be announced

Known for their intense high-energy and beer-soaked Rock`n`Roll live shows, MAMMOTH MAMMOTH will be hitting the road again. With a heavy touring schedule to follow:
MAMMOTH MAMMOTH LIVE
w/ Dead City Ruins
14.11.2019 DE - Cologne / MTC
15.11.2019 DE - Frankfurt / Das Bett
17.11.2019 DE - Weinheim / Café Central
18.11.2019 DE - Nürnberg / Hirsch
19.11.2019 DE - Bochum / Rockpalast
20.11.2019 DE - Hamburg / HeadCrash
21.11.2019 DE - Berlin / Musik & Frieden
22.11.2019 DE - Erfurt / Museumskeller
23.11.2019 DE - Leipzig / Bandhaus
26.11.2019 DE - Munich / Backstage Club
27.11.2019 DE - Stuttgart / Goldmarks

Single Review: The Outsider - Suicide Is Progress (Advant-Garde Metal, 2019)

From Symphonic Death Metal to Advant-Garde Metal? This sounds like a transition of a longer road. But one to be worth giving a listen.

The cover introduces a new logo and a "sigil" of The Outsider.

This one man project is called "The Outsider". It started out with several releases on the Symphonic Death Metal sector. Those included guest appeareances and this tradition is kept up in the newest single that should work as a teaser to the new direction the project is going to take on the upcoming yet untitled album.

The song starts with a unusual drum pattern and lot's of spoken words. Such song structures remind me of the 90s metal where spoken samples were built into songs to underline the statement the lyrics should send out.
Agressive drum fills and heavier vocals come in that show that this stems indeed of older Death Metal roots. They've not been forgotten but work now a different way.

"Suicide Is Progess" takes the next step with a Saxophone solo performed by Jørgen Munkeby. Once again something raising the attention of the listener. It comes out like Jazz music but surely is a warmly welcomed idea to the reviewer.

The agressive drum pattern und vocals come in once more to bridge to a finally Rock guitar section. It shines beautifully but also raw and marks the burning end of a release that made me curious on more to (hopefully) come.

Unusual from start to finish but a wave of fresh air in todays music scene I would like to invite you all to listen.
Finally grab a copy at Spotify or iTunes / Apple Music and follow the next steps of The Outsider on Facebook.

Video premiere: Calibre - The Agony (Metalcore, 2019)

We often forget how important freedom of speech is. In countries like the one I live in (Germany) it seems normal but there are others were it's dangerous to express your opinion. So it's a great honour for me to be able to present a premiere of a band based in Tehran, Iran today.

These guys dare to live their dream of metalcore music. And they do it with much passion. The video shows how detailed and precise they go to work when crafting new music in the studio is on the schedule. Besides the great riff filled music it's the range of vocals that impressed me most.

It's great to hear cleaness in all the darker toned vocals and it adds a lot to the atmospheric feeling. There's so much expression in those parts that it made me watch the digital single "The Agony" again and again. The sound production is great and you can hear all of the instruments and details very well. That's not to be heard everywhere.

Calibre (metalcore) is one of the best bands out of Tehran, Iran (!) ,​ the band was formed in 2015 by Hamid Saleh. ​

After three instrumental shows during 2015-2016, Amin Yahya Zadeh joined the band as vocalist, and the band had more sold-out shows in 2017-2018. ​

In early 2018, the band started to work on their own stuff leading to Calibre’s debut album The Storm Inside. It took almost a year.​

The Storm Inside contains 8 tracks and will be released worldwide through Downfall Records in late December 2019.​
Their sound is loaded(!), with catchy riffs, heavy drums, growls and clean vocals!​
-Their songs and lyrics are about human feelings, and the struggles we all have inside. ​

Make sure to keep a eye at the band Calibre on Facebook or through a look at the website of Downfall Records.

Video premiere: Intoxicate-Retention Rumba (Thrash, 2019)

Today we've got a premiere to hand to you. This time it's a thrash metal fast attack caused by swedens Intoxicate. They've a brand new longplayer coming up called "Cross Contamination" digitally on October 11th 2019.

Also the music is going down rough and dirty the music never misses to keep a melodic note throughout the whole duration. The constant vocal attack also feels as if it messages you directly to speak strongly to you.

Besides the fine music the lyrics have a strong meaning behind them asking the sense of free behind so many offers of today. The presentation in the background is excellent with computer screens and plenty of green colours and movements of various fitting objects to the topic. But enough said enjoy it for yourselves right here.
The whole album has 8 songs of fast & melodic Thrash-Metal from Gothenburg, Sweden!​
The album is mixed by Anders Backelin (ex-Lord Belial) and​ mastered by Andy LaRoque.
Cover art by Raimo K. layout by Daniel T.​
The band was formed in 1988 and was one of the first Thrash-metal​ bands from the area. Now they are back and stronger than ever!​

Intoxicate (SWE) - "Cross Contamination" (FALLCD043) ​
 ​
Digital out:11/10-2019​
CD out:tba!​
​
Pre-order of the record is available at Downfall Records.

www.downfallrecords.com

SpiteFuel return with a Flame To The Night in November

After the release of the outstanding concept album "Dreamworld Collapse" last year, moving months lie behind SpiteFuel, which caused a lot of unrest among their fans with the departure of their frontman and the introduction of the new singer Philipp Stahl.

Without a long creative break the songwriting machine of the guitarists Eurich and Pflüger continued to run at full speed and created 11 tracks which have opened a new chapter in the history of the band.

"Flame To The Night" is the name of the new longplayer which was produced in summer, again at the Gernhart Studio Troisdorf under the direction of Martin Buchwalter and will be released on November 8th via Black Sunset/MDD.

So how is the new album going to sound like? The record company states: "The guys combine on their new album well-known trademarks of the band like the technically sophisticated guitar riffing and a lot of feel for melody with a new, more "snotty" attitude to a wild, rocking, metallic mixture, which shows that there is only one direction for the band: Full speed ahead! Be prepared!"

I'm looking forward to what SpiteFuel has made of a precious situation like this. Many big stories in Metal history have proven that it can be a chance for a change. I'll keep a eye on them on Facebook to see how the story goes on.

Voyager gives live-preview to coming album "Colours In The Sun"

Open mindeness combined with their own dream-like style sound. This band has found a place in the world of sounds that expresses everything they've ever dreamed of I suppose. So far the cover of the coming full length has been revealed along with the first single and tourdates.

All of Voyager's covers are different. This one is no exception of that.

As for me I can only say that the mixture of rough and sharp riff packed power parts along with clear sections and silk vocals are what I've always searched for. Enjoy every single second of this new single taken of the coming album.

Also make sure to see them live in Europe these days. They'll give a preview to the upcoming record "Colours In The Sun" (available to pre-order from https://smarturl.it/Voyagerinthesun ) at these liveshows so that's one more massive reason to go.

TOUR DATES
21st September - Space Rocks - Indigo 2 - London (featuring Anathema)
22nd September - 229 - London  (Intimate headline show)
23rd September - The Lanes - Bristol
24th September - The Flapper - BirminghamI
25th September - Satan’s Hollow - Manchester
29th September - Euroblast Festival - Cologne, Germany*
4th October - Progpower Europe, Baarlo, Netherlands (Headline set)
6th December - Good Things Festival, Melbourne, Australia**
7th December - Good Things Festival, Sydney, Australia**
8th December - Good Things Festival, Brisbane, Australia**

*(w/ Car Bomb, Between The Buried and Me, Dead Letter Circus)
**(featuring Parkway Drive, Karnivool, Coheed and Cambria)

Updates and more info on these shows can be found at the band's Facebook page.

In Sanity promote album with free entry acoustic shows

This is something unusual that crossed my way. In Sanity are a melodic death metal band. They have a new album coming on 18th October 2019 called "Welcome To The Show" via MDD Records. So normally you would think that a promotional tour would consist of a full blast metal show.

Instead of that the band decided to head out on the road for a string of acoustic shows here in Germany! The entry is free on all dates. Starting time is 20h, so make sure to be there on time. Here is the list of dates:

13.09. Kump - Brilon
14.09. Stud - Offenburg
20.09. Kulte Paderborn
21.09. Heartbreaker - Erfurt
27.09. Zigeunerkeller - Bad Hersfeld
28.09. Nordpol - Schwelm

The flyer for the acoustic promo tour of In Sanity.

Talking of further details on the fresh record it can be said that it was recorded and produced by Seeb Levermann at Greenman Studios (Orden Ogan, Brainstorm, Almanac, a.o.). The album features 12 tracks which will undoubtedly be the highlight of the sextet's musical work so far.

Listen to a very short snippet of the new album below and connect with the given links at the end of this blog post.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insanitymodernmetal
Website: https://insanitymetal.com/

Movie Review: Date From Hell (Horror Short, 2019)

Some dates are horrible. That's the way it looks like with the pair that can be seen in the beginning of the horror short movie "Date From Hell". The two have a little controversity going on (like so many have) and finally the man stands up. He had enough and leaves. She follows him and he disappears in a sideway.

The excellent cover for the horror short "Date From Hell"

Afterwards the movie starts a life of it's own. I won't spoiler anything here just saying that it will keep you shocked, laughing and wondering behind once you finish the full movie. I never thought it would be possible to do such a strong film in such a limited duration.

But this is in fact way better than many movies I've seen that last for the standard 90 minute format. This is even more surprising for me as I'm not the strongest horror movie fan at all - please take this as a sign for a strong recommendation to check "Date From Hell" out. For a first teaser I can give you a small look inside with the official trailer. You'll get a idea of what it is all about.

"Date From Hell" Horror Short Teaser Trailer from Amadon-Shannon Media Group on Vimeo.

I could even imagine this to be a new trend since time is always limited but sometimes you have a few spare minutes on your hands. That's the moment people may seek something like this. Anyway, make sure to visit a screening near you or stream it of the official sources.

The first screening will be September 13th 2019 at GAS MONKEY Bar & Grill in Dallas, TX, as part of their CORPSEPAINT SHOW PARTY benefiting FOUNDATION 45 Powered by FANGORIA, where the film can be viewed alongside "Satanic Panic" and "Road Trash".

The second screening, coinciding with the film's official release on ALTER, will be September 16th 2019 at Independence Brewing Company in Austin, TX. This will be coupled with the official INDIGNANT DOG FILMS formation party, celebrating the creation of IDF whose founders (Ven Scott, Brandon Torres, and Tracee Beebe) were thrown together for the production of Date From Hell.

New David Ellefson track feat. legendary hip-hop MC Darryl “DMC” McDaniels

News coming in from the David Ellefson camp. The title track of the new album has been uploaded to YouTube. It's a great pushing track that helped me to move on with my life on a day when things seemed to be down all the way. You know these situations when things don't turn out the way you want them to and you just sit there thinking of how to change for the better.

David Ellefson at the set of the "Sleeping Giants" video

At this moment the song came in. Music is like fuel for me. Nothings goes without. It centers me when I don't know where to go. Make sure to stay on the screen once the song finishes. It's well worth and a fine smiler.



Besides all of these good news even more showed up. They say that the album will also come out in Europe in November 2019 and shows over here in Europe are in a planning stage for that time frame!

Next week will see the Ellefson troop moving around in America showcasing more live music and looks behind the scenes of David Ellefson's career with Megadeth and his other projects.

BASSTORY MORE LIFE WITH DETH 2019 DATES

Thursday 9/5 – Fullerton, CA – The Slidebar (w/ SYMBOLIC)
Friday 9/6 – Ramona, CA – Ramona Mainstage (w/ SYMBOLIC)
Saturday 9/7 - Phoenix, AZ - Joe's Grotto (w/Fatal Malady)
Tuesday 9/10 – Phoenix, AZ – Changing Hands (Book signing/Q&A)

Attention! Chris Poland will perform live with David Ellefson Thursday, September 5th in Fullerton, CA at The Slidebar, as part of David Ellefson’s BASSTORY tour.

See David Ellefson's Basstory Facebook page for further info and updates.

Tulip add more groove to symphonic metal / US Tour Aug. 2019

Some bands add few but important elements to a existing sound. This time symphonic metallers Tulip got me. They add a fresh dose of dry and well thought-out groove to the well known and popular symphonic metal world.

This working style gives a more calming element into the sound. That's something I think postive of. It makes the music more actionable. Try it out for yourselves with the music video of "Total".

It's great to see that the band that isn't around for too long has secured a opening slot on a package with Evergrey and Shattered Sun starting end of August 2019 in the United States.

8/23/2019 Los Angeles, CA The Satellite

8/24/2019 San Jose, CA The Ritz

8/25/2019 Sacramento, CA Holy Diver

8/27/2019 Portland, OR Bossanova Ballroom - TBA

8/28/2019 Seattle, WA Club Sur

8/30/2019 Salt Lake City, UT Metro Music Hall

8/31/2019 Denver, CO Marquis Theater

9/2/2019 Dallas, TX Gas Monkey Bar & Grill

9/3/2019 Austin, TX Come and Take It Live

9/8/2019 Toronto, ON Velvet Underground

Pick the flyer for a reminder to the shows and visit Tulip's Facebook page for updates and more info.

Tulip will open up for swedish melodic metal band Evergrey.

Crossing Rubicon perform in a wrestling arena

Does Wrestling and Metal music have something in common? A lot of people agree. What's certain is that there are many cooperations out there between the fightting and the music gangs.

This particular one is a appetizer to the new Crossing Rubicon record. The music video was filmed in partnership with the forthcoming documentary about famed ECW wrestling star Justin Credible that will also feature the track.

This is how the new Crossing Rubicon record sleeve for "Seeing Red" will look like.

Musically it gave me a strong reminder to the classic times of metal music. Especially the drumming picked my interest. It's build the way it used to be in those times holding a basic pattern that is held straight forward. Throughout the duration there are variations of this pattern but it doesn't leave the trace.

The whole song is packed in a modern sound shell but without the mastering set to high. The volume level is kept on a moderate level. This makes it more enjoyable in my eyes.

The track is part of Crossing Rubicon's new album, Seeing Red, that has been pushed back to August 9th. The band, which features a former All That Remains member, also announced that pre-orders for the album are now live on iTunes. Also keep a eye on Facebook for future updates on liveshows etc.

David Ellefson to tour with new solo album and memoir

Want to hear how the new David Ellefson solo record "Sleeping Giants" sounds like in advance? Do you have questions regarding his bassplaying techniques?

You are in luck. You can have both. A new leg of the "Basstory" tour has been announced for the US in July 2019 .

The shows will feature a Q&A/discussion, with co-author and partner Thom Hazaert, about Ellefson’s upcoming memoir MORE LIFE WITH DETH, in stores 7/16 via Jawbone Press, and a full live-band set including songs from the companion album SLEEPING GIANTS, in stores 7/19 via COMBAT RECORDS. Have a very short 30 second preview on three album tracks:
Plus you can check out some bands from the label roster of the EMP Label Group in live format. Please check local show listings for info which band will perform at your town. So far WRATH, Archer Nation, Last Crack, Bleed/Crawl, Voodoo Terror Tribe have been confirmed.

The show that FatBoy Authentics presents on July 27 in Indianapolis promises to be something special. On that evening they will be unveiling the “Masters of the Bass” Series which David Ellefson will be the first to be featured! These cards will be available at FatBoy Authentics table while supply’s last.

Get  your tix here for the Indianapolis show.

2019 BASSTORY: More Life After Deth Tour

 Satuday 7/6 - Providence, RI - Fete Music Hall
Sunday 7/7 - Long Branch, NJ - Brighton Bar
Monday 7/8 - N. Branford, CT - Strangeland (Book Signing)
Wednesday 7/10 - New Bedford, MA - Vault Music Hall
Thursday 7/11 - Waterbury, CT - Shamrock Pub and Grill
Friday 7/12 - Halethorpe, MD - Fish Head Cantina
Sunday 7/14 - Long Island, NY – Revolution
Weds 7/17 - Lakewood, OH - The Winchester
Thursday 7/18 - Pekin, IL - Twisted Spoke Saloon
Friday 7/19 - Lombard, IL – Brauerhouse
Sunday 7/21 - Green Bay, WI - SV2
Monday 7/22 - Rockford, IL - Whiskey's Roadhouse
Wednesday 7/24 - Tama, IA - Tama Ballroom
Saturday 7/27 - Indianapolis, IN - Citadel Music Hall
Monday 7/29 - Minneapolis, MN - Turf Club
Tuesday 7/30 - Mankato, MN - What's Up Lounge
Saturday 9/7 - Phoenix, AZ - Joe's Grotto (w/Fatal Malady)

More dates TBA. See the Facebook page of Basstory for all the updates and links to purchase tickets.

CD Review: Final Coil - The World We Left Behind For Others (Progressive Metal, 2019)

Finally a album that gives a carthasis! That's what I thought when I finished listening to the newest output from England's prog heads Final Coil. It's like a rollercoaster ride to a inner fight between good and bad. Happily at the end you'll feel fine and refilled with new energy to move on with your own life.

The cover of the new Final Coil album was created by Andy Pilkington, (c) by Final Coil.

 
Changes in the band's sound
But what happened since the first full length album "Persistence Of Memory"? I think most of all the sound has taken a more sharper and clearer form. All of the sound ingridents come out strong and direct to you. The most remarkable sign speaks of the drums that set the beat heavier this time.

The new album also see's a lot of progress on the vocal site. Phil Stiles and Richard Awdry outworked their parts much more. You can feel more of the story through the vocal performance. Last of all the guitars show up more diverse than ever taking it with more surprise. The silver disc holds much moments that will have you raise an eyebrow since sounds come in you won't expect. Finally all the tracks vary. It's never a montone record but always one that keeps you on the stereo. Each song feels like a journey in itself.

More changes? Yes, "The World We Left Behind For Others" features intermissions. Some tracks seem to be composed as bridges between tracks so it will be one big artwork in the very end.

Track Overview / Analysis
It's hard to pick favorites for me but "Scattered Dust" was the most emotional moment for me. I love the softness mixed up with hammered powerparts that have been worked in. "Keeping going" comes around a bit like a electronic effect ladden song with open minded style. It's catchy and a bit of Depeche Mode shines through.

Some tracks are softer, feel dreamlike. Take "Imaginary Trip" and it will send you to a land far away. The title track is a good mixture of soft and slightly heavier parts. The ten minutes duration are gone before you'll notice it. The monotone setting of "Convicted Of The Right" is great along with the more creepy rhythm.

Conclusion / Purchase-Link / Stream
Finally if you're after a good progressive rock/metal album that is diverse and gives great feelings while listening you've found it. Be sure to pick the Deluxe Bundle. It has a bonus cassette tape with it holding not only three demo tracks of album songs but also one additional one not used for the record that is not available anywhere else. I bet this is going to be a collectors item many people will hunt after one day. All formats are available directly from the Bandcamp page of Final Coil.

100 remastered vinyl copies of Corners Of Sanctuary's Galloping Hordes available

Some opportunity's only come once your way in life... This experience from real life may also count for the vinyl album offer of Old School metal revivalists Corners Of Sanctuary.

This is how the originally intended cover artwork looks like

Currently 100 copies are up for pre-order as a crowdfunding campaign the band set up on Qrates.com. If you decide to pick up a copy for 17.98 Dollar plus shipping and handling you'll be rewarded with remastered sound, optimised for vinyl by Bill Metoyer. A bonus track plus a alternative cover round out the package.

It is available until 30th June 2019. You can stream the whole record on the Qrates page if you're not sure about the album yet. Or stream the title track right here.

In other news the band is working on a new album plus further singles and will continue to play shows in the upcoming months. This band is for sure all about taking chances.

April 26 - Threatpoint Benefit - Wilkes-Barres, PA
April 29 - McStew’s - Levittown, PA
(supporting Blaze Bayley formerly of Iron Maiden)
May 4 - TBA
May 17-18 - Finger Lakes Metal Fest 2019 - Clyde, NY
June 6 – Cherry Street Station - Wallingford, CT
June 7 – Trish Stock – Oswego, NY
June 8 – 33 Golden Street – New London, CT
June 28 - TBA
June 29 - Basement Transmissions - Erie, PA
July 27 - Vinyl Closet Records Metal Fest - Norristown, PA
August 30 - Border Bar - Wilkes-barres, PA
September 11 - Skinny’s – North Hollywood, CA
September 12 - TBA
September 13 - Whiskey – West Hollywood, CA (supporting The Iron Maidens)
September 14 - Malone’s House of Metal – Santa Ana, CA

CD Review: Wreck-Defy - Remnants Of Pain (Thrash, 2019)

Nothing had been announced before the release. Now Aaron Randall (vocals, ex-Annihilator) and Greg Christian (Bass, ex-Testament) both return to the scene with a oldschool thrash format that added all evolutional steps until today with it and also leaves room for cool moments and atmosphere.

The album cover tells us that some oldschool-vibe can be found inside of the package

Summary
This means that the songs are build up the way you are used to from your classics but some small pieces signalise that few but important parts changed for the better. First off the vocals rip it up. I love to hear what Aaron Randall can do with his voice. He's going on it the agressive way. Forget the commercial vox you've heard of him before. This one is real thrash all the way.

As for the all of the guitars and drums: they go a far more powerfull direction on this one. That's the modern parts I spoke of before. The whole album blows out the pure strength the musicians put inside of it. Today more of this can be captured than ever before. The producer Juan Urteaga did a great job on "Remnants Of Pain". This is raw energy going all the full album duration.

This goes especially for the drums. They are held a overall lighter way soundwise yet they give a heavy hitting note while listening.

Some tracks go a cool direction and a bit apart from the fast thrash blowing notes. "Art Of Addiction" is a groove-oriented one that share's a little easier feeling yet it's still thrashing stuff. Similar goes for "The Devide", a midtempo thrasher which sources much of it's fun through it's going straight all the way with a direct riff.  "Angels and Demons" also comes out of the speakers in a mixed way. Some parts are lighter while other times the riffs dominante, all packed in a more midtempo style.

All in all I would highly recommend this to all the thrashers out there. You'll get a lot of fun out of this one. While it's easy to quickly get into the sound of the CD it also leaves enough room for re-listening and discoveries afterwards. It's well worth your money and time.

Purchase-Link and Pre-Listening
"Remnants Of Pain" is sold the oldschool way on a CD with the typical look of such a thrash record (frontcover plus black backside with tracklist on it). You can order directly from Wreck-Defy via Facebook. One CD comes around for $15 CAD plus shipping and handling. If you're lucky enough you may receive it along with a free bumper sticker.

If you need to have it faster then there's the chance to pick up a download of the album through Bandcamp in a format of your choice. This means you can have the files at the same quality level like on a CD or in any other format that you prefer for mobile listening nearly instantly. Listen to the album right here.