New Model Army announce Nights of 1000 voices

To sing along together to a song is awesome. It gives a special feeling as if you're a part of something bigger that is all around you. This event may hold a lot of those moments.

New Model Army have announced a revolutionary two-night event at the Round Chapel in Hackney, London, April 13th/14th/15th 2018.

You know those moments when a band plays quietly and the whole audience sings the words? Sometimes, these are the most emotional experiences - because singing together is the oldest and most basic form of human art, something primal and truly shared. So we are planning two nights of just this, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been attempted by any band ever.

We have chosen the Round Chapel in Hackney both for its amazing open acoustics and for the circular layout of the room, which we believe will be perfect for the spirit of the event.

A picture of the Round Chapel in Hackney

These are not concerts as such; this is a community singing event for all those people who love our songs, who love singing and love the feeling of singing together with others. The venue will be fully seated around a small stage constructed in the centre of the room; the whole band will be playing but the arrangements will be deliberately stripped down and very quiet - there will be no big PA system. The nights will be all about the participation and voices of everyone who comes.

While we are open to suggestions, ultimately we will choose the songs that lend themselves best to the idea – strong melodies and slower, easy vocal rhythms will suit best and we will vary these over the two nights. We will issue song-books (included in the price of the ticket) as we understand that people often know particular lines and choruses but usually not all the lyrics; and, of course, we plan to record and film both nights.

If you love singing and love New Model Army songs and love the sense of community that we have created over the years, we hope you’ll join with us from all different corners of the World for these special nights.

Tickets went on sale from the band’s own website at www.newmodelarmy.org (in order to undercut crazy ticket agency fees) on two weeks ago and sold out within an hour.

UPDATE: A further Sunday matinee show on the afternoon of April 15th has now been announced. Tickets here https://shop.newmodelarmy.org/product/nights-of-a-1000-voices-sunday-april-15th-2018/

Here is one of the newer New Model Army tunes to have a idea of what could be:

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/

Kepler Ten share positive feelings throughout the change of Time and Tide

As the times change so does the tide. It all just seems to be coming and going. So does life look at least to me. Kepler Ten seemed to have picked up the topic with their latest track "Time and Tide" and it's not only a song of thinking out loud but also packed with immensive power showing how much three musicians are able to put out of sheer musical expression and sharing positive thoughts and feelings this way. It's uplifting for me.

Steve Hales, Drummer of Kepler Ten who wrote the lyrics for this song, says this about the track:

‘No matter how in control of our lives we feel when it comes to the passing of time we are merely passengers. Our journey is flagged along the way by important personal moments such as falling in love but metaphorically the same powerful tide that brings two people together can in the blink of an eye tear them apart (in the song through illness). Whether you call it fate, probability or just dumb luck it's still outside of our control and there is no way that we can ever stop the clock or turn it back for a second chance. The song is sad but the message is not. Don't take anything for granted and make the absolute best of those good times. Fly their flags high!’

The cover for the video single "Time and Tide" by Kepler Ten, (c) by Kepler Ten, used with kind permission

Kepler Ten’s debut album ‘Delta-v’ was mixed and mastered by John Mitchell and will be released on February 10th 2017 via White Star Records.

Make sure to keep a close eye on the band on their homepage or connect through Facebook with them.  

Rock out with Santa Claus on free Incendia Music Compilation

So Santa Claus comes early this year and since you all out there were so kind to follow my blog so regulary and support me with music and information, here's a early present I can hand to you thanks to the nice people of Incendia Music Management and PR company.

This FREE sampler holds 15 bands that Incendia was working with over the last year, and bands they're excited to be working with in early 2017.

Examples include Agent, Brutai, Defences, Elbrano, Empire, Voyager and more....

The cover of the Incendia Music Christmas Compilation '16, (c) by Incendia Music

Some of those bands have been featured here on the blog as well but it should be mentioned that the compilation also includes tracks of bands that have not been mentioned yet.

I think of The Dreamer Within for example who created a exciting mixture of metalcore with synth-elements in their sounds. Very powerfull and unique music. There are The New Device up for listening, a hard rock act reminding of classic rock in the style of the 90s. Music that keeps you going through the day. In short this sampler features great music for all that would like to discover new music. You can check it out in the stream below or go straight on over to Bandcamp to download your copy.

If you'd like to get in touch with Incendia Music Management check out their homepage or see their Facebook account.

Brutai share Bloodstock 2016 memories along new track "Relapse"

The outdoor festival is over and out. But it's nice that we sometimes can collect some sweet memories of those times that we may recall later. Brutai have had a little look back recently when they looked through their live footage of their performance at the Bloodstock Open Air 2016. They decided to share it along with a reworked album version of the song "Relapse" which is taken of the forthcoming record entitled "Born". Read more about the upcoming release further down underneath the video.

As for me this is fine, outworked and well structured modern metal music. I like the ongoing constant vocals which change all the while during the track all along with the technical aspects. For example the bass guitar lines have much varitaions to offer and the keyboards come in slightly to create a atmosphere that adds to the overall topic of the track. The drums are a monster pushing the whole track. It's heavy but always in a way you still feel comfortable while listening.

The band have just signed to Transcend Music, and 'Born' will be out on 25th November 2016. You can preorder the record here.

A bandshot of Brutai, Photo Credit: Will Ireland Photography, www.willirelandphotography.co.uk

The band's album launch party will be in collaboration with Transcend Music's Christmas Party at The Borderline on 22nd November. You can buy tickets for the show right here or see more details about the event on Facebook.

Also make sure to stay up to date with Brutai on Facebook.

Idlewar bring back fun of straight forward rock classics

Ok, today's music often is held in a more complex way. Things have become more diverse and multi-layered when it comes to the sound. I like that but I'm also a big fan of the old straight forward style of the old days.

This band called Idlewar has brought some of it back to me. Their newest video creation "On our knees" has this straight forward formula with it that brings up the topic and expression directly upfront. You can feel it through the punch and the clear guitar riff all along with the lyrics that this one speaks out a message to you.


This is the second insight into the upcoming album titled "Impulse" wich is set to drop on 30th September 2016 via PHD. The band has also booked a UK tour this November/December. Dates can be seen in the flyer below.

The tourposter for the Idlewar UK Tour 2016, (c) by Idlewar, used with kind permission

For rock fans wanting to hear more from Idlewar right now, the band's Pledge campaign will end next week. Pledge now to  pre-order and unlock 2 instant music downloads ('Criminal' and 'On Our Knees'), receive the album before it's officially released plus grab an Idlewar Impulse access pass exclusive offer.

In the meantime check out the band's website, Facebook and Twitter account.

UK Event Incendia Insights provides vital info for young bands

I'm glad I got this info on a networking event that should help young bands to get the information on how to overcome some of the obstacles they face each and every day.

This conference will take place in Camden / UK and it's aim is to transfer some of the knowledge of the speakers that have experience and knowledge about the needs and working mechanism of today's music business. Check the info below to find out if it's worth attending.

The Incendia Insights event and its speakers currently feature the likes of In De Goot Entertainment, Red Essential, Sony Music, Kerrang! TV, Napalm Records, ASYLUMseventy7, Metal Hammer, Hold Tight PR and more. 

The informal set up of panel discussions at Incendia Insights will allow for those attending to gain a real insight to the workings of the contemporary music industry from the perspective of the Rock and Metal world, and will allow for an opportunity to ask those all important questions at the Q&A at the end of each talk.

Current speakers announced:

Lulu Davis- Incendia Music, Founder (Host)
Alex Berry- Label Manager, Red Essential
Tye Hunter- Digital Operations, Sony Music
Mark Adams- Music Director at Box Plus Network (Kerrang! TV)
Wally Van Middendorp- In De Goot Entertainment/Napalm Records UK
Liam Spencer- The Daily Dischord Agency (Empire, Press to Meco, Now, Voyager)
Tom Lynam- Kontraband Merch (Bring Me The Horizon, Pvris, Enter Shikari)
Mark Leary- ASYLUMseventy7 (Graphic Design for Earache Records and Incendia)
Eleanor Goodman- Features Editor, Metal Hammer
Hannah Gillicker- Account Manager (Broadcast/Online), Hold Tight PR
Paul Matthews- Producer/Engineer, Paul Matthews Music Production (I Am Giant)
Daniel Andrew- A&R, Metropolis Studios/Publishing

The poster for the Incendia Insights event, (c) by Incendia Music Management

This intimate event will take place at The Black Heart on Saturday 16th July 2016 from 12-5pm.

Tickets start at £35 for Early Birds, £30 for students (ID must be provided) and will increase to £50 from July 1st.

Limited availability. Goody bags and refreshments will be provided.

Purchase tickets at incendiainsights.bigcartel.com 

The proceeds from this initial event will go into hosting the next event with a more extensive list of speakers, plus a band showcase after the workshops.

You can check out more details of the event on the Facebook event page and also make sure to invite others who might be interested in this as well. More info on the hosting company can be found on the homepage of Incendia Music Management.

Host Lulu Davis of Incendia Music Management has specialised in developing bands through management, PR and booking over the past 5 years, and now wants to collaborate with other music industry moguls to educate and inform bands and aspiring industry as to how everything works. She was recently long-listed in Music Week's 30 Under 30, and spoke at Global Rock Summit in Los Angeles back in April.

Fins a Luminous share haunting Double A side single

This brand new digital single released by UK based band Fins A Luminous shows that you can also work with fine electronic elements to create a deep and intense atmosphere. I think it's the idea that stands behind the music and how detailed it's worked out that decides if it touches the listener.

The cover of the Double A side single, (c) by Fins A Luminous, used with kind permission

This said the single starts out rather soft and silent with "Setting Souls". The song is styled in a minimalistic way but once you let it sink in you'll discover what this simpleness will do for you. It's this easy toned style that helps to concentrate on the music itself. This track that will take you away from your everyday life and lead over to a more relaxed state of mind. Enjoy some refreshing of your soul while listening to it.

The second number "Funeral Shake" gives things a more raw and powerfull tonality featuring elements of drone and shoegaze in it. While it still creates landscapes of imaginations through the music it definitely goes a bit deeper and works with various sound layers to create it's atmosphere. The lyrics are inspired by the Twin Peaks series.

If you enjoy what you hear don't hesitate to go to Bandcamp and pick a copy of this release. While the band has been so kind to give it away for free please consider giving at least a few bucks back on a donation basis to help them creating more atmospheric and refreshing tunes for you.

Follow the band through their social accounts on Facebook or Twitter to stay up to date about all the upcoming works of Fins A Luminous. You can also visit Soundcloud for more tunes of the band.

Brutai show how different songwriting these days is

Today's upcoming bands have a lot more complexity and variation in their sound. Sometimes it's not easy at all to sort out the elements that come along when you start listening to their music.

I mean their are sometimes these straight songs that come with a clear structure. A straight riff, the fitting rhtyhm to it and some vocals with the typical song structure marking the way through the song.

As of today it takes various times to get through all of the stuff because some of them are so complex and diverse you wonder how it's all coming together. A good example for that is the London-based modern Metal band Brutai who have just released a new single with accompanying music video for their track 'Deep', taken from their forthcoming album which is due for a summer release.

While the beginning goes in straight with some vocals and a good amount of riff hacking kicks into the song it's quickly getting diverse when the vocals change for the first time from the clear style over to the harsh and deep tonality. This is where the song starts to grow in my ears in some sort of monster style, much heavier and harder.

It's followed up by a pumping and pushing part which leads back to the first formula. After the next break of deep vocals their's another ride taking the track to a rougher edge. Finally the end part is quite different from what can be heard of other bands - what a different yet cool way to end a song and letting it fade out with some soft keyboards...

Felix Lawrie (Frontman, Guitarist) says about the track:
"Lyrically, Deep is about a time when we were struggling as a band during the writing process of the album. It talks about challenges we faced when overcoming adversities such as writers block and other struggles in our personal lives. We needed to come back and finish what we started. This song is a reminder to never give up."

Photo credit: http://www.willirelandphotography.co.uk/
(Left to right-  Mathieu Bauer- Drums, Alex Lorimer- Backing Vox and keys, Felix Lawrie- Frontman/Guitarist, Henry Ryan- Guitars, Christian Sturgess- Bass)

The band has some live dates coming up so don't miss them out if you're around:

25th February- The Underworld Camden (supporting Textures)
10th March- Hammerfest (Wales)

If you'd like to have a copy of the song check out Bandcamp or itunes to purchase it.

Also make sure to mark their social accounts with a like or follow so you won't miss out on the further developments via Facebook or Twitter.

Final Coil release thought-filled animation lyric video

Lyric videos have become something that a lot of bands do these days. It's simply cheaper than doing a full blown video but at the same time is not as boring as a standing picture with sound in the backround would be.

But how about making the best of it and do something with a message that goes a bit over the obvious animated lyrics that come with every of these vids? At least there is room to show something off if you really want to.

The metallic-grunge band Final Coil have let this idea become reality. In collaboration with Andy Pilkington they created a lyric video that comes with a message and some visual expression of the lyrics as well as putting in the rawness of the music in wave-forms. You can not only hear but see the tension that the ripping guitars and tight drums create. It really leaves something behind once you've watched it.

"Daylight Fades" is taken from the band's current output "Closed to the light". You can download the whole EP for free from Bandcamp. It's also one of the releases that's worth some money and while I'm typing these lines a limited edition CD is still up for purchase for a fair price on Bandcamp. 
 
Don't forget to follow the band on Facebook and check them out live at TBFM’s Christmas party at Duffy’s Bar in Leicester, England on Dec 3rd 2015. No entrance fee will be taken so it sounds like it could be a great chance to check them out along with two more bands on the billing.

CD Review: Arcade Messiah - II

Short Introduction

Arcade Messiah is a one-man instrumental metal music project from KingBathmat frontman John Bassett. It combines a mix of Metal/Post Rock/Stoner/Doom/Prog elements all together on one disc. The first album was released exactly one year ago and received a lot of positive feedback from fans all over the world.

John Bassett spoke to Prog Megazine about the resonace he received. He was surprised about the positive reactions so he decided to create a sequel. He further said that it's meant to be a sort of continuation of the first record but with the hope of being a better, bigger and more dramatic piece of music. The intention was to grow the music without losing the vibe and atmosphere of the original album. The next chapter in the history of Arcade Messiah is set for release on 22nd November 2015 via Bandcamp and then everywhere else on Nov 27 through Stereohead Records.

(c) by Arcade Messiah, used with kind permission

Summary / Player / Purchase-Link

Please bring some time to listen to the album properly. It comes with many layers of melody and variation in them that are ofter overwhelming on the first listen. But if you give them more spins you'll discover so many fine points that you'll wonder what you may've overheard the time before. 

The album is well worth some money. Currently the pre-order price is set at 0,99 GBP on Bandcamp until the release on 22nd of November 2015. Afterwards you'll be able to set the amount free of choice. Please give some bucks so independent and progressive music can continue to push on forward and offer all of us even more of these great musical journeys. It will take you out of your everyday life for a good amount on time and I remember having enjoyed every single minute of it.

If you decide to pick up a physical copy packed in a six panel digipack you'll be rewarded with a ninth track on the disc that add's a playing time of 19 additional minutes to your playing time. That track is something very special, all of you guys out there digging the long-tracks of progressive music will love this. It's like a never-ending epic.

The record will be released on 22nd November via Bandcamp. Currently a album preview is available for streaming as well as two full tracks. I've included the full songs at the Album-Overview section of the review. Here is the album-roundup to get a quick idea of the record:

Album-Overview (Track-by-track review)

Moon Signal: after a slow intro section the album starts with a high complexity. This is a well outworked piece of guitar work. It really needs a lot of time to get through all of the sections and comes in very rough. Don't let this hinder you. It's a rather heavy start to the album but the further tracks go in a bit easier.

Red Widow: More groove based progmetal. It's a breaker and positive "push-it-forward-track". Complex yet very fitting drums and guitar shred on this one. Rough sections follow cleaner parts and surprisingly some total soft-toned notes see the light towards the last third of the song. They lead over to a very dirstorted part with crushing guitars all over. The end comes fast and abrupt.

Black Dice Maze: The song starts out as a beautifull ballad with clean and pure guitars. The drums fit very well to this starting a soft rhythm. Drastically it all changes and a lot of roughness comes rushing in. This goes over to a typical prometal riff and finally unfolds into some more rough crushing and edgy guitar sound giving it all a more complex and hard sound structure. The next move goes back to the progmetal style and comes around clearer and in a more compact style. The end comes in very climatic and dramatic before the whole soundsphere collapses and goes back to some soft notes but not in the same style as at the beginning.

Gallows Way: A clear and calling sound speaks out of the guitar. Is there someone out there? This creates a very spheric and haunting atmosphere. I often wonder why some of the roughest records include hard tracks but at the same time there are these soft pearls in there as well. Those give you freezing chills. This is one of those shining diamonds. It doesn't last long but maybe you'll remember it as long in your mind as I did... The slightly distorted ending builds a crossing to the next track.

(c) by John Bassett, used wth kind permission

Fourth Quarter: A fine mixture of rougher and silker soundscapes can be found in this one. Held in a typical progressive style it's slightly hard but with a very warm and melodic tonality to it. Beautiful melodies can be found a lot in here.
It's like walking through a garderen that offers so many flowers to see. A intensive journey through what instrumental progressive music can offer in all of it's variations, diversity and complexity.

Via Occulta: A short intermission. Clear guitar notes flying around. The drums catch them up and form a little jam-alike atmosphere.

Read the Sky: A highly complex track. It get's back to the rough style. Held in a midtempo the track evolves around the main riff and comes with a lot of distortion. Inside of the storm you'll find a eye of melody that shine through. The darkest and hardest track of the album in my ears.

Start Missing Everyone: Spacy sounds start this one.But once that is gone sheer power takes over. A compact closing point. A good ending point for all people taking the download edition.

The Four Horsemen (CD-only-track): A catchy start to the epic with soft yet ever-changing guitar sounds and rhythm patterns. It evolves even further to a powerfull guitar bloom but not so heavily distorted as "Read the sky". It comes to a first peak towards nearly the half of the track and goes over to a somewhat ghostly spheric intermission just to come back with fresh power before going back in the softer mode and back to power again. The chilling and dreamingly sphere is present on the vast majority of the next track section before heavyness comes rushing back in. The drumming is most complex on this song. Lot's of variations and drum fills. The end set's a last mark on heavyness leaving me in the hope that we'll hear more of this great musician in the future.

Walter Trout becomes a Patron of the British Liver Trust and tours with new album

Renowned blues musician, Walter Trout, has proudly become a Patron of the British Liver Trust.
He has been given the gift of life and now he wants to help others.

Walter received a liver transplant after nearly facing death in 2014. He now feels like a new man and has immense gratitude for his supporters, his donor and the medical community who gave him a second chance at life. Recognizing that liver disease is a ‘silent killer’ and many people are unaware of it until it is too late, he has become a Patron of the Trust because he wants to help raise awareness, much needed funding and encourage everyone to ensure that their loved ones know their wishes regarding becoming a donor. Walter is supporting the Trust in his upcoming November UK tour.

  You can find out more info on the British Liver Trust, become a doner and get a free download of the song Move On here

His new album Battle Scars, released on Provogue/Mascot Label Group chronicles his battle with liver failure. Walter found out that he had liver disease in 2013. His health deteriorated and he almost died. He spent a month in intensive care and then a further five months on a liver ward first waiting for a transplant and then recovering after surgery.  His fans - many of them from England - used the internet to support Walter and help him raise $250,000 needed to help towards his medical bills for his liver transplant in 2014.

Liver disease is currently the third commonest cause of premature death in the UK – more than 12 million of us are at risk of liver disease yet we have very few resources compared with other conditions. With more funding into better research and care and by encouraging many more people to become a donor we can save more people’s lives. Without the funding that supports research and new developments in care and without people agreeing to donate their organs, Walter would not be alive today. He now feels he wants to give something back and raise awareness for the condition.

“I am delighted that Walter Trout has agreed to support the British Liver Trust and become our Patron.” Said Andrew Langford, Chief Executive of the British Liver Trust. “As Walter knows it is a silent killer and by the time that you have the symptoms it can often be too late. I would urge everyone to take the British Liver Trust's free online Love Your Liver health screener on our website to see if you are at risk. Please also make sure that your loved ones know your wishes regarding organ donation and consider joining Walter in supporting us.”

Talking about his involvement with the trust, Walter opens up; “Liver disease almost cost me my life. The disease progressively drained me of my life force until I was on the verge of death. A miraculous liver transplant allowed me to survive and thrive once again. I owe my life to the research and development in the medical field around treatment of liver diseases. I am happy to work with the British Liver Trust to promote awareness about the silent killer among us. I am thrilled because new treatments are emerging at the moment, and to help raise awareness around this, and to empower people to seek treatment, is something I feel privileged to do.”

 

At the end of each of each show on the tour, there will be leaflets at the merchandise booth with more information, where Walter will also be signing records.

Walter will be touring the UK on the following dates:

 

Tues 17 November – Stockton, Arc - TICKETS

Weds 18 November – Glasgow, ABC - TICKETS

Fri 20 November – Holmfirth, Picturedrome - TICKETS

Sat 21 November – London, Forum - TICKETS

Tues 24 November - Leamington, Assembly - TICKETS

Weds 25 November – Frome, Cheese & Grain - TICKETS

You can stream the full album "Battle Scars" at the Classic Rock Megazine website.

CD Review: Ravenous - We are become death

Short Introduction

Ravenous was formed in Southampton in early 2008 when (bassist) Leon Maidment Millar joined an old school friend (lead guitar/vocals) Dave Game and band mates (drummer) Rich Giles,(rhythm) Dave Foster in performing covers of the Thrash/Groove metal genre with only one original song named Ravenous!

After much indecision it was decided that Ravenous would be the most fitting name for the new direction of the band and the craving need to break the fashionable trends in metal and return to its rawer roots with more lyrical structure and 'lyrical' lyrics.

Ravenous perform live in and around the south of england with original sets and are always well received, supporting the likes of Kobra And The Lotus among others. Ravenous continues on the same path with more and more original material and an ever increasing appetite for anthemic and  meaningful composition. "We are become death" is the debut album of the band.

(c) by Ravenous, used with kind permission

Summary / Player / Purchase-Link

This album is a blast! When other bands have completed their songs and are about to unplug their instruments this is the time when Ravenous are about start over. Their songs scream out the attitude to really play heavy music. That's what you'll remember once you've listened to one of their songs. I would describe the band's sound as a mixture between Metallica in their early days and a good potion of Machine Head.

So if you'd like to hear music that gives you some extended time and heavyness after the "normal" formula of the song with intro, chorus, refrain and solo has come to the end Ravenous "We are become death" is for you. It's this plus that gives you more joy while listening to it. A extra potion of heavyness gives this band it's special sound and makes it a good time you'll like to repeat again and again.

I highly recommend buying this record. It has a classic appeal to me. You can hear the rawness of the beginning of a thrash band but are also quickly aware that they've spent quite some time composing and practicing the tracks since they come very tight and ass kicking. The sound is a pleasure since it is well arranged and produced and fits to the albums songwriting, very compact and crushing.

The band has put inside some meaningfull elements to the sound that will make you remember. It's just some few modern elements so no need to worry if you dislike the all too modern attempts on songwriting. All in all it's a good mixture of the traditionell way of playing this music along with a modern production and slightly updated songwriting. Just hit the play button and you'll quickly know what I mean. Enjoy this fine album.


The album can be pre-ordered digitally through plattforms such as itunes, Amazon or Bandcamp. For all who'd like to have a physical copy in their hands there is the possibility to order one through the webstore of the record company Coffee Jingle Records that the band is signed to. The official release date is 27th November 2015.

You can get in touch with the band via Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.

Album-Overview (Track-by-track review)

"We are become death" has a good mixture of various tracks on it. It's a brutal thrash ride that knows various tempos and moods. If you wanna quickly get a idea of the band just check in directly with the first number called "Abhor". It's a perfect presentation of the band's heavyness in all of it's variations.

The track with the cool title "Reverse (sympathy)" represents the groove metal abilities of the band with it's rough back and forth ride on the riff through heavy drums and fitting vocals. The second part has some modern solo's inside while the ending leaves you with some slow grooving. Well done!

The first single and video "Easter Island (We are become death)" has quickly become my favorite with it's changing parts in melody and heavyness which seems to flow into one each other. Finally the brutal side wins showing the great riffs the band is able to write. The guitar playing is very impressive and the vocals tell a lot of the bandwith the vocalist Dave Game is able to sing. A ballad also found it's way on the record. Properly entitled "Alone" it shows some of the melancholic side of the band, but again they didn't forget to ripp it up their own way so it's not one of these ballads that you may want to skip on a thrash record.

The band's first original track "Ravenous" also found it's way on the record. Starting out with a slow introduction the song that gave the band it's name fastly changes into a riff-hacker going in hard and direct. In the verse sections you'll recognize a lot of double-bass attacks going on. This one surely would make a good closing song for a live set giving the audience one more and leaving them behind with a smile and a good feeling.

The band logo (c) Ravenous, used with kind permission

This one is followed by the midtempo banger "Deathstiny". This track stand out and will make you remember it's hookline and sharp-upripping riff for a long time."Suffocate" starts out slow with clear guitars and quickly leading over to some classic distorted riffs. Finally it throws you in a wild and powerfull storm of rhythm oriented thrashing. The track clears up with a mixture of slower and midtempo solo sections showing various forms of modern and traditionell string treatment before returning to the main theme.

"The Architect" sounds very classic again with a traditionell riff and it's midtempo formula. It's agressive but at the same time gives you a positive punch on energy. I can imagine this going down well on a live set, just think of all the people banging to it and having a good time. The solo section has a going-all-on-it feeling to it. We are going to get all out of the guitar there is. :-) Great tune!

"The Strawman" closes the first album with a mixture of a lot of riffing. The most complex track but it's worth it. Just give it some more spins to unravel each and every section there is. I think you'll love most of the parts. After all this album turns out to be a cure for me. I feel better after listening to it so I hope we'll hear more of this band giving the thrash and groove metal genre a fresh kick of air.

Chasing Dragons funding upcoming album teaser EP

Leeds, UK based Metal Band Chasing Dragons are currently running a crowdfunding campaign to help getting the cash needed to record a 3-track record, fully produced by Lee Batiuk of Regal House Studios, featuring songs from the debut album "Faction".

The EP entitled "Faction: Prologue" is meant to be a teaser to the band's upcoming first full length record that the Chasing Dragons are working on since some time. Having found a new bass guitar player in the meantime the band decided to give the album the time it needs to be a decent recording. Since the fans are waiting for new material it sounds a good idea in my ears to build a bridge to the debut record with a EP teaser.

Being a independent band the campaign has been set up to raise the money for the whole recording process as well as for creating a video to help promote the release. The goal has already been reached but there's still time to reserve your copy and help the band to get a bigger and better PR & radio campaign and produce more merchandise for their fans.

There are lots of nice goodies available at the Kickstarter page to choose from that many fans may like, amongst them singing along to one of the EP's tracks, a guest appeareance in the music video as well as music teaching lessongs for vocals or drums via Skype or also in-person. You may also go on stage with the band during their set if you decide to choose that reward. The basic download comes along for 3 GBP and the other options are of course a bit more expensive.

CD Review: Final Coil - Closed To The Light

Band Introduction

Final Coil are a metallic grunge band located at Leicester, England. They've put out various EPs / albums on Bandcamp which all represent a own style the band is capable to play so if you listen to the various stuff you'll be surprised to hear how different they can sound like.

The "Somnambulant" record they've put out in 2014 saw the band going into a acoustic direction offering very sensible and deeply-emotional songs. In the time between "Failed Lights", a brand new and in my ears excellent acoustic song saw the light of day on YouTube, it's a recording of a web-broadcast the band did a while ago.

Only few details on the next record were spread through Facebook in the meantime. But this will end today....

(c) by Final Coil, used with kind permission

Summary / Purchase-Link

Having heard the songs I've talked about above I was absolutely sure that the band would come around with another acoustic record. The new track sounded like a perfect fit, a bridge between the "Somnambulant" tunes and the beginning of a more progressive era of new longer acoustic tracks held in the typical Final Coil style.

The cool thing is: everything about this was totally wrong. :-) In fact what can be heard right here is the heaviest stuff the band has come up with today. I would call it the heaviest songs the band has put out up to this point. The guitars are absolutely sharp and ripping everything to pieces that stands in their way. Meanwhile the drums and bass guitar maintain a fine note of rhythm, giving in a hard, dry and deep punch into the sound. The vocals put a perfect layer over this, transporting much of the emotions of the tracks.

Everything is held in a very tight style, it's crushing heavyness coming from every corner of the sound. It doesn't even leave a single chance of easy sound on most of the tracks (the last song is a exception from that). If you like your music heavy and ultratight this EP will make you more than happy.

In fact I would call this a mixture of the first EP "Goodbye to all that" and their second effort "Live with doubt". Don't miss out this gem. The EP will be released on 2. November 2015. You'll be able to get a free listen / download for a first spin over at Bandcamp starting at that day. There will also be a limited edition CD available. Please buy one of the CDs so underground bands can keep making music and move on. It's worth listening to it numerous times, a EP mixing up all the various styles of the band and bringing them out in the most beautiful form. Progression and heavyness in all of it's beauty.

Player 

The fine thing as of today is that Heavy Metal Underdogs can give you exclusively a first listen of one of the tracks of the brand new EP. I'm very proud that the band picked my blog for this song premiere. It's a honour for me. So without further ado enjoy the track "Daylight Fades" right here.


Track-by-track review

A short intro called "Close to the light" gives in some atmospheric touches with guitar effects and some vocal extracts before a sharp guitar cut comes rushing in quickly leading over to the first full track.

While the first track "Daylight Fades" starts with a simple rhythm it becomes quickly clear that the band had a hard sound in mind when writing this track. The repeating of the text is a kicker in my ears. Especially the second "can't" repeated several times makes this harking back to your mind. Some of the guitar sounds even remind me of good old Jimi Hendrix and his special sound effects. The bridge between the first refrain and the second refrain could easily be described as a sonic guitar bomb. I love this effect! The end of this first song offers a compressed part that only slightly let's room for variations but those played kick the number up even higher. it's like a glimpse of light falling out of a dark mass shaping a form into the darkness for just a few moments but long enough to keep you longing for more.

"Goodybe to all that" picks up where "Daylight Fades" left off, showing what the band is able to do with re-writting a classic track. This incarnation of the track features a much more compressed and heavy guitar sound compared to the original track. Besides that it leaves away most of the playing effects of the 2010 release giving a sharper focus on the main-theme of the song. It shows impressively that reduction can be a fine way of giving a track a new and much heavier interpretation. Nevertheless it doesn't mean the song works only with cutting away things. Moreover these elements were added back again but in a different and harder format. It's now all distorted, yet you will need some fine playing skills to get to replay this I'm sure.

The final track "Closed to the light" is a surprise to the listener. It stands out of the other material giving some redemption after the brutal heavyness that stormed through your ears before. The song starts out softly with some drums and few vocals. The volume is rising all the while as the music slowly starts to build up more. The tonality is set softer, more dreamingly at this point. Much room for the more progressive site of the band on this one. This touches softly the "Somnabulant" era but with more punch and drums before some slightly heavy guitars keep coming in. The vocals are very intense with much drum fills performed to the last silent corners of the song. The last third brings in some heavyness in the guitar section giving some thoughts to the legendary Pink Floyd. A epic masterpiece in my ears. After all I'm listening to the whole record on repeat. It's a big pleasure to have the chance to listen to such a talented band.

Final Coil reveal new acoustic track

Sometimes there are videos out there that give you this feeling from the start that something special is hanging in the air. It's as if a certain feeling or moment has been captured within a melody or the full song. This track then stand's for something and more than anything that could ever be said with a million words it tells you a story that you can re-feel.

That's what happened to me when I first heard and saw the brand new Final Coil song for the track "Failed Lights". It's starting with this soft melody and starting to drift onwards from there before coming to a rougher climax towards the end that you nearly have the feeling as if you'd been on a journey to a place far away. The last soft notes give it something even more special when returning to the soft style of the beginning letting you alone with your thoughts. Just try this out for yourselves in the video below.



Keep a eye on the band's Facebook page so you won't miss out on the further activities of them. The band is also playing a one-off acoustic date at Duffy's Bar on Thurs 8th October. so you might be happy to catch them live.

CD Review: Suffer No Fools - Songs For The Restless Youth

Note:  If you have a own band or project that you think might fit in well here for a review or as a presentation / introduction please drop me a line or two in a E-Mail. Please see my profile for my E-Mail adress. I appreciate new suggestions very much so don't hesitate to contact me. I'm also interested in band news / updates / tourdates so keep the stuff coming. Thanks!

If you're having troubles writing in English please send me a E-Mail in your prefered language or use the free Google Translator to transfer your message to English. I also use that tool, it's of course not perfect but I think it will mostly likely work out for our purposes.

Short Introduction 

Suffer No Fools was formed in Ealing in 2015 and is comprised of Ali Khan on vocals, Jack Kirby and Jamie Newdeck on guitar, Alex Bain on bass, and Mike Taylor on drums. The band set out to combine the best of their influences in order to create something contemporary that also harked back to the last few decades of metal. This led to a band that had the speed and melody of Metallica, the groove of Rammstein and the crushing edge of Killswitch Engage.
This EP entiled "Songs For The Restless Youth" is the very first release of the band which saw the light of day in May 2015 on Bandcamp. 

(c) by Mesozord, used with kind permission

Summary / Purchase Links / Player

This record has hit me like a storm! Wow, for sure a real pure thrash album but also not just one of the many. What's so different here? It's first of all the little details the band worked in on the songs. Just for example there are all these melodic, relaxing guitar parts in "The Bombing Campaign" plus the very melodic chorus which set's deep in your mind once listened to it. Then we have the track "Prey" which has a very unusual clean guitar going with it in the songs refrain. It's otherwise a raw and typical thrash metal track but this little element harks back and makes you give it a re-listen.

Then there are the vocals that are held in a bit softer tonality than usual thrash vocalists keep them - but I like it that way. It gives a bit more relaxed feeling when listening to them - something that's a big pro in my eyes since some thrash records tend to be a bit exhausting while listening to them. Just hit the play button and start enjoying this cool record.


The EP has a good variation of songs on them, it's midtempo as well as tracks going straight to the meat with more speed. You can easily headbang along to them but also pick them up later to have a closer listen. Most of all the music never get's monotone and has many parts in them that invite you to re-listen to them. So it's well worth spending the 4 GBP on them for a download in various formats on Bandcamp. There's also a very limited edition run as a physical CD up for purchase for all those people living in the UK.

Please support the artist by buying this recording and go to their shows. We need such talented musicians putting out so diverse and fresh records much more in my ears. If you prefer to buy your music on other sites than Bandcamp you can pick up the digital release on itunes, Spotify as well as on Amazon MP3.

Also make sure to visit the band on Facebook since they are going to play some shows in support of the record, just check in to see a detailed list of dates. There's also the possibility to keep in touch with the band on their ReverbNation page or have a look on Youtube to keep a eye on them. Soundcloud users can also stream and connect with Suffer No Fools through their account on that service.

Track-by-Track Review

1.Acheron
The intro to the EP. A dark und mysterious theme comes close to the listener. You can feel that something is coming near, yet you don't know what it is. It feels like some powers above you choose your destiny in those moments - like putting it together on a big map. Finally the guitars come in with distortion so you know the band is setting up and the storm is about to come down...

2.The Bombing Campaign 
Rough guitars start this one out leading you in step by step. Slowly the pressure builds up to explode in a double axe heavy hitting attack with accompaining drums. The vocals step in giving it back a relaxter feeling and a bit more melody back into the song. A slow intermission leads over letting you miss the refrain and bringing you to verse two. More crushing guitars ripp up the track before some clear guitars form a softer breaker into the track. The refrain shows up for the first time and the whole structure is repeated afterwards. A extensive solo-parts comes in before the clean part returns. The end brings back the beginning theme so the circle is perfectly closed on this one.

3. Prey
A straight and direct riff opens this song up. A short shredding intermission leads over to the refrain which has this clear, high notes in them I mentioned at the summary section. Very unusual and not heard often such idea will you surely turn your head and wanting to have a replay. Maybe you'll like it as much as I do - a big contrast to the traditional thrash song structures but a idea that's highly welcomed. There's more of that towards the end in a own clear section of Prey.
   
4. Forgiven Or Forgotten 
It's time to headbang a lot if you've not already on the previous tracks already. The most straight forward track of the record going directly to your ears and wanna surely make you have a party with your friends. Just forget all the troubles with the world and enjoy this one! The song has some cool specials in them like the distorted vocals at the beginning or the double-bass drum attack at the last third of the song leading to a very blistering solo bursting out of the music. Love this one!

(c) by Carly Marson, used with kind permission

5. Abyss
A bit more epic intro opens up to a midtemo piece of music with fast drum-fills in them. The refrain comes more stretched yet as a very welcome diversity for the writer of these lines. It's a very atmospheric element the refrain creates. Once more something that goes out of the usual song structures and gives a feeling of freshness. Guitars and drums go in a very close hand-in-hand connection on Abyss. Details have been outworked very sharp, must have surely taken some time to get this on that level on tape.
  
6. Dirge Of The Old Gods 
A classic riff open this one up very shortly. Short and sharp riffs are fired out very well together with much diversity on the drums pushing it through various changes in speed. Reminds me a bit of the compact riff-hacker Testament sometimes composes yet vocals are formed much more around the songs structures to fit in with groove and riffing structures. 
     
7.Into The Breach
Some open riffs start this shotly before a massive double-bass drum patters puts in more pressure to the final song of the EP. The refrain is stretched a bit more out before a riff change leads in some distorted vocals and opens up the way for a very compact riff intermezzo in a sort like the old In Flames had them back in the day. The drummer puts in some very hard timing-critical parts in here, reminding me a bit of Slayer with Dave Lombardo. More sharp riffs make me feel so good, sounding like the guitars were directly fusioned with drums, a totally tight sound mixture comes your way. Great ending for a great EP!

Chasing Dragons looking for new bass guitar player

Leeds-based classic Heavy Metal formation Chasing Dragons have recently announced that their bass guitar player Ant will leave the band. At the same time the band has set up a search for a new bass guitar player.

Here is what the band wrote on Facebook:

"(...) As with all great journeys, sometimes there are unexpected forks in the road... We are very sad to announce that Ant will be leaving our band...(...)

(...) As such we are seeking a bassist and a brother/sister in arms. We're looking for someone who wants to be a musician for life, who is a bassist who not only plays but writes music, who can sing backing vocals, is local to Leeds and has 110% commitment to our band.

They must be able to learn quickly as we need someone who can keep up on the road, be able to fund their share of any band expenses (sadly bands are expensive!), tour extensively (UK & Europe) and commit to at least one rehearsal per week in Leeds.

Think you've got what we're looking for? Please email bookings@chasingdragons.co.uk

Serious applicants only please! If you don't tick the boxes, please don't apply as we need someone who wants this with all their heart. You must also be aged 18+ as a lot of our shows have age restrictions.(...)"

If you haven't heard and/or seen the band in action before I've put the current video for the single "Broken Jaws" up here for viewing. I also reviewed their EP "Checkmate" some time ago, so check it out if you want to know more about the musical style of the band.

Book Review: Terry Chimes - The Strange Case of Dr. Terry and Mr. Chimes

Note: If you have a own band or project that you think might fit in well here for a review or as a presentation / introduction please drop me a line or two in a E-Mail. Please see my profile for my E-Mail adress. I appreciate new suggestions very much so please don't hesitate to contact me. I'm also interested in band news / updates / tourdates so please keep the stuff coming. Thanks!

Introduction

Have you ever dreamt of being a rockstar? How would it be to live a life like this? If you've ever asked yourselves then the answer is not to far away. This book will tell you about it - but in a clear and direct way without all the common legends and images attached that we all know already.

Terry Chimes used to be the drummer and is one of the founding members of The Clash!

Besides that I think many of the readers of this site will know him from his work with Black Sabbath where he played drums during The eternal idol tour. He also worked with Billy Idol, Hanoi Rocks and many other bands.

(c) Crux Publishing, used with kind permission

Rise up to the shining! (taken from the lyrics of the song "The Shining" from Black Sabbath, Album: The Tragic Idol. Make sure to see the promotional video for this song. You can see Terry playing drums in many scenes.)

So what is this book all about? The good first half goes out to the musician part of Terry Chimes. He describes how The Clash came together and adds in some anecdotes of that time. There are many memories I think in there that fans of that band will like to know about. He then goes over to his other bands and projects he has been involved with. That's the way the book is structured.

Most of the content is based upon the memories and stories of the author but the very end of many chapters also holds a photo gallery that shows a few, often rare pictures that are related to the content of the chapter.

Anyway, while reading through all of the entertaining moments of his musical career you will surely spot the point that there's a second side living inside Terry Chimes. This side tends more towards the healing arts.

The journey of the wounded healer (taken from one of the names of the chapters in the book)

So after 15 years there's a big change in the life of the drummer Terry Chimes. He finally decides to leave the world of the music business behind to find serenity by studying the skills of a chiropracticor and acupuncturist. This finds him to be such successful that be builds up a own chain of clinics and also ends up consulting other people in how to run their own business.

Is it "just" a autobiography of a musician and why should I read it?

The book is not only a autobiography but it is far more. It is of course a gift for everybody who is interested in the bands Terry Chimes played in. But it is also a look into the soul of a drummer. How does he think about the things he has done now and then? And why the heck did he change that much that he is now more of a healer than someone bashing the drums away? You may think that being a rockstar should be the first choice to have the most fun out of life but you may think differently if you've read through the full book (please do so).

It is also a good way to see how decisions have a impact on our lives. The book is filled with truth and wise words. If you read properly you'll find many of the fine diamonds all along the way that will made it well worth all of your precious time you've put in to read. Most of all it is a very entertaining experience.

(c) Maxine Chimes, used with kind permission

It is never a boring chain of "Now I did this, then I did that" and so on but it comes with many also smiling memories and anecdotes shining through. I've often agreed to what he is talking about and found out that I've made similar experiences in everyday-life. It's these moments that you feel that these people you often adore so often for the music they've given you (maybe one of the biggest gifts I've ever been blessed with) are really just normal human beings living by the same doubts and decisions and the mistakes we all inevitably run into then everyone else does.

Everything is well explained in this offer. Even if you're not too familar with the music or healing business you don't need to worry. All things are explained directly in the text so you don't need to look them up anywhere else. The book comes in english language but the text is kept short and straight forward so if you're having basic english knowledge you should be able to understand the content straight away. Sometimes I had to look a word up here and there but it doesn't really bother the reading experience.

Obviously it contains the topics you all expect from such a book. Nevertheless it is not a publication of scandals or cheap rumors but kept up to facts. I think that's what I enjoyed most - a clean, dry and down to the bottom look upon things as they are. Not the fame look or all the stereotype looks upon Rock music business but instead a look inside how it really is to live such a life.

Is it all just past?

No, happily it is not. Of course it is a book that takes you down the memory lane of the author. But Terry Chimes is still active and making music! He has a new band running called "The Crunch". Go and check out some fresh music from his new band below.

Learn how to get your music heard at ReverbNation.com

Can I have a look inside first?

Yes, nearly all of the retailers I list below offer the first chapter of the book for free online reading. For example just go to Amazon and hit the "Look inside!" button directly over the front cover image. A new window will open up with the first chapter ready to read.

Where to get the book

There'a a large number of stores offering The strange case of Dr. Terry and Mr. Chimes. Here's a list of retailer for purchasing the book in a ebook format. If you don't have a ebook device I can tell you that Amazon at least also offers a free software that let's you read the book on your PC, smartphone or tablet. All you need is the proper app for your device. Here are the direct links to the online-shops:

Amazon

iTunes

kobo/America

kobo/England

If you'd like to have a paperback of the book just go to Amazon/England or Amazon/Germany they offer the good old paper versions as well. The bookstores of the german Thalia company do also offer the paperback version on their website and I think you should also be able to go into one of their stores and order it directly over the shop. I lnow they have a big chain of stores here in Germany.

You may also have a look upon the website of the publisher Crux Publishing to find out about other books they offer. Also make sure to see the personal website of Terry Chimes which contains much more informations about both lifelines of Terry Chimes.

Desperate Journalist introduce album with emotional and message-filled video

I like videos that have a message. Some even show it with including keywords in their promo videos. This particular one hits the feelings very deep with words and faces expressing closely the songs message. Emptiness and loneliness is what I would describe it with. The refrain sticks in your mind with the vocals going up so intensive that it's hard to ignore. But try it out for yourselves, because everybody has a different view on things.



Desperate Journalist consist of two girls and two boys who have bonded in the abandoned wilds of North London. Jo Bevan (vocals), Simon Drowner (bass), Rob Hardy (guitar) and Caz Hellbent (drums) - for 'tis they – have been hauled together by a fearsome instinct for what makes alternative music actually really properly authentically alternative.

They started their journey at the local Negative Creep grunge club night in Finsbury Park on February 23rd 2013. Since those heady, dark days Desperate Journalist have released one EP and two independent singles and played every other shadowy basement in London Town, displaying a bold musical vigour and an admirably chaotic sense of coherence along the way.

The video is a first taste of the self-titled debut album ‘Desperate Journalist’, which was recorded almost entirely live in Soho’s Dean Street Studios, jointly produced alongside Keith TOTP and mixed by the band itself. If that wasn’t organic enough, Desperate Journalist designed their own artwork, get heavily involved in their videos. You can download the digital version of the record already on the well known places like Amazon or itunes. The physical album is going to be released on 26th January 2015 on CD and LP via Fierce Panda Records.

(c) by Desperate Journalist, used with kind permission

The band has some shows coming up, here are the dates:

NOVEMBER 21ST LINCOLN The Scene
NOVEMBER 22ND BIRMINGHAM Actress & Bishop

NOVEMBER 27TH - LONDON Buffalo Bar
DECEMBER 13TH NOTTINGHAM - The Chameleon

Don't miss out the further band's progress. Head over to Facebook to add them your watchlist or check out the band's own website. You may also have a look at the record company's website from time to time.