Voyager-X take a critical look on media overload

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

 © Artwork Album Tobias Roetsch | Artwork Singles Richard Touzimsky

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

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

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

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

VOYAGER-X „Magic“ Digifile CD:

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

🎧 VOYAGER-X „Magic“ Streaming & Download:

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

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

Single Review: Marc Vanderberg - Break Free (Hard Rock, 2022)

I think we all live more or less under circumstances that we like and dislike. Sometimes I'd like to break free from all of the bad sides of my existence. 

 

Music helps me to stick to my life and continue also many obstacles are on the way. The best example of a song that helps is the brand new single of german guitarist and songwriter Marc Vanderberg called "Break Free".

Like in the old days: music provided on a cassette tape.

It all starts out with the hammond sounds shining in at the very beginning and further at different sections of the song. They send a positive basic note my way. But it all starts to fully kick in with a drum roll and the rest of the band joining the party. 

Vocalist Jimmy Gee first comes into play with some longer spoken words. Quickly he opens up his organ to the full range and spreads his energetic performance giving the track a "fight on!" touch I love so much. 

The vocals stick the most into the mind. They are worked out a lot (most of all the big refrain). Gospel vocals that have been worked in also help to pump up the air with a more powerfull feeling.

Finally it's time for some guitar solo experience but it's held close to the song style so it doesn't get lost at some point.

Make sure to listen for yourselves to this classic Hard Rocker. It's available on all major download and streaming platforms from February 18, 2022.

Keep a eye on Marc Vandeberg's Facebook page for further updates. 

Album Review: Herman Rarebell - Nip In The Bud (1981/2021 Hard Rock)

Did you know that Herman Rarebell (the longtime former drummer of The Scorpions) recorded a solo record 40 years ago ? Neither did I. The bigger was the fun of having the chance to listen to this gem in a remastered version of "Nip In The Bud" now.

The artwork was created by Storm Thorgerson’s team at Hipgnosis.

The sound on the album sticks to a compact yet pressure-filled structure. From the eleven tracks on offer "Rock your all" stands out with it's broken riff structures. It's a typical rocker going straight but the riffs present it a ear-splitting way. What a wild song!

"Triangle" follows on this route. It's a more rhythm-oriented number with drums being dominant and the guitar following a shredding way. The last third plays with effects. You won't get this out of your head too fast once listented to it.

"Slob" presents a wild and vicious voice rocking out a similar way Brian Johnson does in AC/DC. The instrumental side is more of a slightly inconstant drum pattern mixed with a direct riff attack. 

The journey continues with more of this. "Junk Funk" comes around put together in a jam session. You can feel the spontaneous vibe of the moment it may have been created. I love to hear such elements - it's hardly ever spotable on albums.

A typical stomper follows. This may be a track a bit closer to typical Scorpions songwriting so it's food that appeals to more people. It's still rude enough so don't think of any commercial song in here.

Track nine introduces more riff-fun all the way. I think it may have been done the direct and fast way, too. It's a no-pain track in three minutes duration spreading fun all the way.

Finally it's time to listen to "I'll say goodbye". As the name suggests it comes with a more hymm like format. It's not in a sad way. It's more of remembering good times in a "glad to have had it" style. The fade out keeps hope for a continue some other day.  

The remastered version will be available through Aviator Management on August 27th 2021. A pre-save link for the album is also available if you want to have it in your digital collection the day it comes out. Have a little pre-listen with the single "Rock you all" and keep in contact with Herman Rarebell through Facebook.

Leftover Bullets underwent intense odyssey period

In times like this music gives me more strength than ever and I hope it does the same for you. Remember to stay home whenever possible and follow the guidelines of social distancing. You take care for yourselves and others as well.

Some days ago Greece rockers Leftover Bullets once again touched me more than ever with the half ballad for "Might be miles away" of the debut record "Virtue and vice". It's the mixture of sensible guitars touching the ground along with powerful drums and bass guitars laying the basics for the rough vocals transporting the message so intensively that I couldn't get it out of my mind.

The band used the time after the album release well for new compositions but seems to have undergone a long journey throughout this process.

As the band states, there are 9 songs loaded with hard rock emotion that emerged after an intense odyssey period that lasted from the beginning of the compositions until the end of the recordings.

The cover for the upcoming Leftover Bullets album was created by artist ViktoЯia.

The album "Tell mama we're doing ok" will be released in digital and physical form right from the beginning - CD & LP (vinyl will include the album on CD)
on April 27th under the seal of Soldout music records. Arrival of vinyl will be delayed due to worldwide conditions.

Tracklist:

1. Wasted Silence
2. Confused
3. Free Speech For Sale
4. Trailless Smile
5. Sleazy Vibration
6. Nancy
7. Really Not There
8. It’s Alright
9. Till Next Time

The cover has been drawn for the second time by artist ViktoЯia with a 100% handmade Daza (the heroine of the LB cover art) and the digital editing of the album by Nikos Kitsos.

In the near future all the contributors of "Tell mama we’re doing ok" will be announced as well as pre-order information for the album.

Check Leftover Bullet's Facebook page for constant updates towards the album release day.

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.

Marc Vanderberg's You and I goes straight to the heart

Is there time for love in these days? I think we take to few time to listen to what our heart tries to tell us. There's simply too much noise all around us all the time.

German guitar wizard Marc Vanderberg released a great half ballad with his latest record "Phoenix from the Ashes".

The cover of Marc Vanderberg's "Phoenix from the Ashes" looks breathetaking in my eyes.

I've not heard such a wonderful piece of music in a long time. It touches my heart with it's softer guitar notes. The refrain is big but fits into the other song structures so it doesn't ruin the atmosphere. It has made me curious what the rest of the album might sound like so I'll take a listen for sure.

Listen to the fine tune right here or head over to Marc Vanderberg's Spotify channel and listen to it along with more tracks of him.

The album is up for purchase for only 5 Euro from Bandcamp in any digital format you may desire. You can follow his further activities on Facebook.

Leftover Bullets show us how it is to be confused

Christmas draws near. I think a lot of you guys out there (including me) feel stressed of all the things to do in preparation of the festivities. Sometimes you feel as if it is simply too much of all of it. You feel as if you could turn nuts.

Greek rockers Leftover Bullets have prepared a brand new video speaking out of a soft cell. The band performs the new single with the bands full dedication that is a mark they set on all of their tunes I've hard so far.

The logo of Greece Hard Rockers Leftover Bullets makes it clear of what to expect of the band's sound

You'll quickly feel their dedication in how the track builds up, the way all the instruments come together and the vocals set to fit in.

On some parts the band is shown in black and white clothes changing properly to the bounce of the single. It's fine metal with sharp tuned riffs that lead you into the mood. The guitar solo reminds of bigger names like Guns 'N' Roses showing how much vital skill the band has in it's hand's. Make sure to watch the full vid, the end is well worth a look. :-)

Leftover Bullets have a Bandcamp page. It has a T-Shirt with the logo from above to offer for a small price in various sizes as well as the first full album in digital format. Remember that you can gift someone with that. You can build a nice gift card and print it out to hand it to the lucky one. You may also email the card as a alternative.

Have a click on the like button of their Facebook page to keep in touch or go the oldschool route having regulary a look on the band's website.

Single Review: Marc Vanderberg - Legalize Crime (Neo-classical Hard Rock, 2018)

Neo-classical guitarist Marc Vanderberg get's support of Stefan Zoerner, a well known voice from bands such as Strangelet and SpiteFuel. Can such a cooperation of concentrated guitar power and melodic vocals work out for both sides ?

The coverart of Marc Vanderberg's single "Legalize Crime", (c) by Marc Vanderberg, used with kind permission

A little hurdle at the start
The intro is a proper introduction to the song theme. This song needs some "getting inside the sound first" as the sound may feel unfamilar from the "standard metal track". The massiveness of the guitars and vocals overwhelmed me a bit.

Both are mixed up to the very front. Once you've taken this point the new single of neo-classical guitarist Marc Vanderberg starts to unfold it's power.

The vocals take over
It spreads heavy 80s vibe to me with the slightly echoing vocals but without forgetting the here and now. This said those vocal performance of Stefan Zoerner shows more variations in it like ever before. His words feel as if they are constantly flowing though the whole track duration. They change a lot and morph which makes it a pleasure to listen again and again.

This first single of the upcoming record "Phoenix of the ashes" is surprisingly more dominated by the vocals than through the guitar work which doesn't happen too often in this genre of metal music. There are times the vox are more spoken, afterwards they get louder and finally there's a shout out to be heard giving it a alarming note.

Having written this review over a couple of time it's cool to see with reflection that it's this shout out that remained in my mind - that's not happening too often. Like one of those refrains you've heard before and are now searching your brain to which song it belongs.

The rhythm section pushes this power track but is set more to the background. You can feel the beat and the bass as if they're moving from the underground to the top but there's a ghostly border that keeps them from breaking out and taking over. Marc Vanderberg demonstrates his skills with few extra potions of guitar work but as said before they are kept to a limit so they're not destroying the feeling of the music.

Song Stream and Purchase-Links
Listen instantly to the music below in the YouTube player and get this track from the online stores like Amazon or iTunes. You'll push and motivate musicians this way to produce and release more content so it will be a investment into your own future pleasures.

Contact Links
Finally follow Marc Vanderberg through social channels such as Facebook or YouTube. Next to go will be the second single "Odin's Words" which will follow this very friday.

A quick roundup of Zombie Shark Records

Have you ever been discovered a new label but didn't knew how to get a quick idea of all the bands they offer? Sure some of them have a band roster on their site but it's cumbersome to click through to all of the single pages and press the play button of all the videos and soundsnippets.

Zombie Shark Records has found a far better way to give a comfortable overview to you with just one click. The label features Alternative Metal, Nu Metal, Hard Rock and Industrial.

They've uploaded a video to YouTube showcasing and zapping through all the combos that are currently active at the record label's home. In just around 4 minutes you'll quickly get a entertaining idea what they offer.

You can contact the label through their website or give them a shot on Facebook.

Saliva cover Eminem's Lose Yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here is the string of dates already starting today:

     Sep 23    Parkview Field    Fort Wayne, IN   

     Sep 24    The Firehouse BBQ & Blues    Richmond, IN   

     Sep 28    Amnesia Too    St Joseph, MO   

     Sep 29    Stormy's Music Venue    Beaver Dam, WI   

     Sep 30    Route 20    Sturtevant, WI   

     Oct 06    The Warehouse    Clarksville, TN   

     Oct 07    Ride The Ozarks Rally    Harrison, AR   

     Oct 12    Home    Arlington Heights, IL   

     Oct 21    MASON'S LIVE    Lakeland, FL        

     Dec 11    Whisky A Go Go    West Hollywood, CA

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

Moscow shares thoughts on the inner voice

Always listen to your inner voice! That's what Russian Rock Goddess Moscow tries to express with her song and video for the track "Queen of Sin". I like that raw screamed refrain. It cuts this part of the song out of the softer context of the rest of the music. Additonally there are some spoken distorted pieces in there, too. That add's even more to the special feeling this single represents in my ears.


Underneath the rocking attitude the track holds a strong message in it's lyrics which I think is well worth taking a moment to think about...

When asked about the meaning behind “Queen of Sin”, Moscow said: “The 'Queen of Sin' idea was originally based on the philosophy of Nietzsche, which basically says that you are your own god and your own devil, you are in charge of your morals, to decide what's good and what's bad. Listen to your own Queen of Sin, which we all have deep inside.”

Check out more of Moscow by following her on the social accounts hosted at Twitter and Instagram.or go directly to iTunes to purchase the EP of the same name.

Powerless Rise release redemptive clip of feelings

Sometimes it's hard to let go of bad feelings. Music has often helped me in a redemptive way here. Somehow it free's up the soul of it's bad condition holding us down and preventing us of feeling better.

This clip here of the US female fronted Hard Rock group Powerless Rise helped me to get over such a gap so I thought it would be great to share this moment with all of you out there.

If you like what you hear and would like to have a copy of the song to carry on with you it's surely fine news to know that Powerless Rise has set up a free digital download of the single available from Soundcloud.

The video delivers a very expressive performance. I like the blue tone of the video. It expresses the state of mind with the visuals perfectly. It's all about depicting the tormented spirit and emotional roller coaster associated with heart break and tragedy.

A bandshot of Powerless Rise while doing the video for "Battered Soul", (c) by Powerless Rise, used with kind permission

The track is featured on the band's debut record “Set Sail” which is available on iTunes, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and Google Play among many other online retailers.  The album is also available for purchase as a download or physical CD at the band’s official website www.powerlessrise.com.

The band is already working on a new EP so make sure to connect with the band via Facebook.so you won't miss out on the further band activities.

CD Review: Rebel Machine - Nothing Happens Overnight (Hard Rock, 2016)

Records like this one keep you going in times when everything seems to be nothing but a hard way. Tune in to some Rebel Machine to receive some uplifting feeling and read post number 500 on this blog.

Introduction
Rebel Machine are a Hard Rock band from Brazil. Their sound is mainly aimed at the rescue of classical elements with a modern approach. Being a DIY band, Rebel Machine signs the musical and executive production of their work. The album also had vocal production by Renato Osorio (Hibria) and mixing and mastering by Benhur Lima (Hibria, Keep Them Blind).

The cover of Rebel Machine's debut "Nothing Happens Overnight", (c) by Rebel Machine, used with kind permission

Summary
The biggest strenght of albums such as this one is the fact that they keep rocking so straight on forward as if nothing could ever stop them. It's this mixture of fresh riffs, the tight and modern production that creates all the happiness you experience through listening to the album. You can listen to the eight tracks straight away, they're not complex or anything but will kick your ass straight from the start.

The finest moments during the listening session are sourced of the vocal work of singer Marcelo Pereira. His finetuned work on the songs gives the album this special something it needs to stand out of the rest. I remember having the same feeling as back in the day when Gotthard's old vocalist Steve Lee was still around doing the vocals and outstanding show with the Swiss Rockers. I feel like Rebel Machine are a bit of the same.

But the band also has set their own trademarks. Rebel Machine sounds much more heavier and the tracks are shorter, very precise and head straight in without any intros or longer upbuilding. They rock from the first minute 'till the last. This is a pure Rock 'n' Roll rollercoaster shaking you through in a good half hour.

The only downside of this is that the album has no slower songs in it that give you a moment for refreshment. But I guess that's something the band may do in the next recordings that are hopefully to see the day of light in the future.

Besides that have a closer look upon the unique cover. What do you think it could express? As for me it says that everything in life has it's time. Once it's gone it's gone so live your life while you still can...

Player and Purchase-Link
The album is available on major platforms like Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music , Google  or directly from the band's Bandcamp page. Please support this band with a purchase - the album price is kept very fan friendly (starting at one dollar on Bandcamp) so you don't have to sacrifice that much to own a digital copy.



Contact Data
Make sure to keep a eye upon this promising band and support them with a follow-click on sites such as Facebook, Instagram or Youtube. They also have a homepage up and running if you prefer that way.

CD Review: September Mourning - Volume II (Dark female fronted Rock/Metal 2016)

A smashing piece of female fronted rock/metal music taking you deep into the world of dark and grown-up comic characters without losing the sense for the real world.

The front cover of September Mourning's Volume II, (c) by September Mourning, used with kind permission

Summary

Some albums take you into another world. This particular one is a fine example for this. Besides the heavy and diverse rocking music tracks that invite you to have a good time and rock out to them this release contains far more.

It let's you sink in deep into a realm of comic characters that could be easily transfered from the real world. While the characters for sure are fictional you can easily connect with them if you look upon the story with adult eyes. It's like in the real world we are living in. The actions they do for sure aren't real but like in a fairytale you can see all the relations have a consequence and you may be able to learn something of the plot in the end.

It's for sure a album that aim's at the grown-up audience. Much to much of the story is based upon hard facts but if you like to take a brief time of your own life without going into a unrealistic realm this album is for you. The music screams out for a proper show on stage and I think the band should be worth a visit. Just look at the end of this review for US dates starting End of Feburary 2017. I hope they'll come to Europe/Germany some other day, too.

The music itself comes around hard and heavy. Often there are haunting moments inside of them - the vocals give express so much of what the topic of the song is all about. The guitars and drums push you constantly but also leave room to breathe every here and there. It's a thin line between heavyness and melody but this band has the ability it takes to provide songs that are authentic and lighter at the same time.

Preview-Track

The album has been released via Sumerian Records.. Music is always worth it so please support those that provide us with such a great treat. I've added the video for "20 Below" to give you a quick first insight into the band's sound.


 
Tour Dates

Be sure to see the band live in the United States starting in February 2017 alongside Dope, Combichrist and Davey Suicide. Dates are given below:

02/27 @ Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
02/28 @ Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
03/02 @ Liquid Joe's - Salt Lake City, UT
03/03 @ Sunshine Studios - Colorado Springs, CO
03/04 @ Aftershock - Merriam, KS
03/05 @ Outland Ballroom - Springfield, MO
03/06 @ Underground - Omaha, NE
03/07 @ Gabe's Oasis - Iowa City, IA
03/08 @ Amsterdam Bar & Hall - St Paul, MN
03/09 @ Courtside - Dubuque, IA
03/10 @ Q&Z Expo Center - Ringle, WI
03/11 @ The Sandlot - Green Bay, WI
03/12 @ The Annex - Madison, WI
03/13 @ The Metal Grill - Cudahy, WI
03/14 @ The Agora - Cleveland, OH
03/15 @ HOME Bar - Arlington Heights, IL
03/16 @ Big Shots - Valparaiso, IN
03/17 @ The Apollo Theatre - Belvedere, IL
03/18 @ The Machine Shop - Flint, MI
03/19 @ The Music Factory - Battle Creek, MI
03/20 @ Trixie's Ent. Complex - Louisville, KY
03/21 @ Diesel - Pittsburgh, PA
03/22 @ Reverb - Reading, PA

The band September Mourning, (c) by September Mourning, used with kind permission

03/23 @ Highline Ballroom - New York, NY
03/24 @ Palladium - Worcester, MA
03/25 @ Fish Head Cantina - Halethorpe, MD
03/26 @ Arizona Pete's -Greensboro, NC
03/28 @ The Haven - Winter Park, FL
03/29 @ The Orpheum - Tampa, FL
03/30 @ O'Malley's Sports Bar - Fort Lauderdale, FL
04/02 @ Southport Music Hall - New Orleans, LA
04/03 @ Grizzly Hall - Austin, TX
04/04 @ Scout Bar - Houston, TX
04/05 @ Fitzgerald's - San Antonio, TX
04/06 @ Trees - Dallas, TX
04/08 @ Club Red - Mesa, AZ
04/09 @ The Regent Theater - Los Angeles, CA

Free sampler "Deliberately Loud" features bands from New Zealand

So it's cool to see that Heavy Metal is a music that is played and enjoyed around the world. One corner I've not heard too much of is New Zealand. What's going on there? Now with this free sampler we happily have the chance to check out some of the bands that come from so far away. 

ONLINE METAL PROMO and the CACOPHONY radio show (New Zealand) are proud to offer a FREE online digital music compilation download titled "Deliberately Loud" featuring 39 songs from some of the hottest established and up and coming hard rock / heavy metal bands in the United States and New Zealand music scenes.

The cover of the "Deliberately Loud" sampler, (c) by Online Metal Promo and Cacophony radio show, used with kind permission

Here is the bandlist of the compilation:

1. Alsatia
2. Angerhead
3. Awakened Inferno
4. Azrael’s Bane
5. Blasted To Static
6. Bow Messiah
7. Broken Teeth
8. Canedy
9. Chris Violence
10. Corners of Sanctuary
11. Decode The Design
12. Destructatron
13. Diamond Lane
14. Dire Peril
15. Empires of Eden
16. Eternal Voyager
17. Faith and Bullets
18. Flames of Fury
19. Helion Prime
20. Gundriver
21. Hellevate
22. Heterodox
23. Human Teenage Bonesaw Massacre
24. Ignitor
25. Lords of the Trident
26. Love & War
27. Malevolence
28. Malice
29. Maxxxwell Carlisle
30. Odiusembowel
31. Seventh Calling
32. Shallow Ground
33. Sorizon
34. St. James
35. Tainted
36. The Rods
37. Threshold of Terror
38. Vanlade
39. Zephaniah

Download the free songs, compilation artwork and track listing at this location.

To give you a little sneak peak into the compilation package here is one track up for streaming of one of the New Zealand bands that are featured.


Also make sure to have a look at the Facebook pages of Online Metal Promo and Cacophony radio show that kindly provided us with this gift for our readers.

CD Review: JC Crash - Electrified (2016)

Get down to this dirty classic rock 'n' roll and metal album and enjoy a good ride of tunes reminscent of old days but not forgetting the here and now. Life is here, life is now - check out JC Crashs new album!

Intoduction

This CD found the way into my postbox one day and made me curious with it's hairy child on the cover looking angry. Moreover the two snakes in the JC Crash logo were a eyecatcher so I was more than willing to risk a ear. A decision I shouldn't regret - the music won my heart from the start. It all centers around the saying inside the booklet "Legends never die" - dedicated to Bon Scott (1946-1980).

The cover of JC Crash's "Electrified" album, (c) by JC Crash, used with kind permission.

Summary

This album is a smasher to all those loving the pub rock sound that AC/DC made a big band back in the day. It's rough, dirty, hard and loud. The riffs are the core of the music. They constantly pump the energy that this release spreads in your mind along with the powerful vocals that are held in the style of Bon Scott's way of singing.

Nevertheless JC Crash's "Electrified" album is far more than "only" a hommage to glory days of the past. The production is held in today's modern and clear way without losing the mood of the old sound systems (which is perfectly represented by the picture of the speaker on the album backside). In contrast to typical releases of back in the day the record has far more variations to offer. You'll wonder how different the tunes sound like.

The album starts out fairly midtempo and traditionel. The lyrics of "She's no angel" are great - you should have a look inside the booklet of the CD and enjoy the little one night stand story all for yourselves.

"Gone but not forgotten" pays tribute to the Scott era again but shows how the band would transfer it to today's songwriting. It comes with a modern sounding riff and the tempo shows many variations throughout the whole duration. "Powder my soul" comes along with longer solos, something which is normally not to be found in music of such a genre where the riff and constant song structure dominate the music all the while.

"High 'n dry" could be a hit single in my ears. It's held in the midtempo and has a up to date modern melodic chorus inside. I guess this one could be in rotation for quite some time on rock radio stations. "Two minutes to midnight" stands out because of the blues influenced song structures. The refrain remains in your ears for a long time after listening.

"Bighead" is a good example on how the second half of the twelve tracks of the longplay sound like. Those numbers are held in the more straighter style with clear song structures all along the way and sing and scream along refrains with it. Both halfs of the record have something to offer and both are a bit different when compared to the other one. Have some re-listen and you'll know what I mean.

Purchase-Link

You can pick up a silver disc directly from the band's webshop for 12 Euro plus shipping and handling. Other alternatives are available through a digital download on portals such as Amazon, iTunes or Spotify.

Player

The Youtube albumtrailer is a good way to get a idea of most of the songs of "Electrified".


Contact data

Get in touch with JC Crash on Facebook, Twitter or see their homepage.

Let's speak with...Seventh Calling (2016)

Seventh Calling came to my attention through their mixture of old school styles on their album "Battle Call". The band is a good package of traditional metal elements along with slight parts of thrash mixed in that is rounded out by anthemic refrains. The production and songwriting of the music is kept in a more modern package so it is nice mixture of the best of the traditional roots all along with what today has to offer.

We spoke with Steve Handel, vocalist and guitarist of the band about the inspiration to the band's lyrics as well as the effect that being a musician has on the private lifes of the bandmembers and what happened when two ladies had a few drinks too much at a show of the band...

Heavy Metal Underdogs: How did the band come together?
Seventh Calling: 'This particular lineup happened from the result of getting together and jamming on cover songs first.  Then it progressed into doing the recording of the Battle Call album.'

The cover of the Battle Call album, (c) by Seventh Calling, used with kind permission.

Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?
'Well in some instances I use realism in life, or news that we will hear in the morning on tv, radio or read in the newspaper.  The song Perfect Silence on the new record is such a song.  Then there are other times such as in our song Battle Call, which is the title track, that is a strong anthem type song calling for all traditional metal heads to rise and stand strong in their beliefs in the metal.'

Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lifes?
'It certainly has a way to keep you focused by having the life of music to enjoy.  It is a way of getting together with friends and having a good time playing on some music or simply having conversation about random things that happened in the passing day.'

Social media surely plays a big role in the communication between a band and their fans. Do you feel that fans contact you more or less personally at gigs these days?
'As far as coming up and speaking to us after a show fans speak to us usually.  We encourage it actually.  But yes we are contacted regularly through our social sites and it helps out alot for fans to look us up and find us.'


Do you still prefer releasing music on traditional media like LPs, CDs and the like or do you feel the same satisfaction when putting out music digitally?
'We prefer to do both.  Yes, having the actual release of an album in my opinion, is much better.  It is nice to read the words inside our booklet when I forget the words! HA!  Seriously however, we do prefer physical releases as compared to digital only.'

Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?
'We have experimented with different styles within our genre surely.  However we still end up coming out sounding like Seventh Calling!  A call to the traditional or classic style heavy metal.'

The band Seventh Calling, (c) by Seventh Calling, used with kind permission.

Did you come along points where you thought about leaving it all behind? If you reached that point: how did you keep the motivation up to move on?
'Never.  I haven't ever thought of not performing.  It has simply been a way of life for myself since I can remember.'

What was the funniest story that came along your way when you performed live? Or did things happen that you would have never thought of to occur (not only at gigs but maybe anywhere else as well)?
'The funniest thing I have ever seen at a Seventh Calling show was one night we were performing in Superior, Wisconsin I believe. Anyhow, there were 2 ladies that were having way too much fun at the club.  Must have been a long day at work.  HA! But! As we began our set, these 2 lovely ladies walked up on the stage and proceeded to pull their pants down!  HOWEVER! What they did after that was awesome! They both took a run at the end of the stage and jumped off the stage trying to reach this pole that was about 15 feet off the front of the stage right in the middle.  They did not reach this pole.  Both of them bounced very hard off of the floor like in throwing horseshoes!  Needless to say, both got up and continued about the evening like nothing had happened.  Except it took them awhile to get their pants up! HA!

Contact Data

Check out Seventh Calling's social accounts on Facebook and Reverbnation to get in touch with them. 

The logo of the band Seventh Calling, (c) by Seventh Calling, used with kind permission

CD Review: Chemical Wedding - Don't Look Back (2015)

A massive hardrock metal album showing that good and clear riffs are not of out of date these days. The wonderfull production comes with much heavyness but it never misses out warmth and a little smile.

Introduction

A lonely man stands at the end of a road. The path is small and some vegetation can be seen at the right side. Where does he go? Well, I think you need to take a look for yourselves to find out. Just one thing is clear: he doesn't look back, all of his action takes place in front of him. So, let's follow the story on how we came here told by the french band Chemical Wedding...

The album cover of Chemical Weddings "Don't Look Back", (c) by Chemical Wedding, used with kind permission

Summary

This is a beautiful example of what a band is able to accomplish if they put all of their strenghth into one album. They are making it clear from the beginning that this band knows what they want. Massive, powerfull yet catchy riffs burst into your ears when you start the CD player. The constant pushing rhythm comes all along and it comes to the burst when the vocals come pushing in.

The song structures are kept clear on forward and heavy on most of the tracks. It's the driving power that brings on the fun when listening to the twelve tracks of the record. On some points you'll witness intermissions that bring in a fresh breeze. The track "Dead Man Walkin'" is a good example for that. It contrasts the other songs with a more complex build structure and a bit unusual drum pattern towards the end of the song.

But it's not all just guitar riffs. "Don't Look Back" also lives off the beauty of the slow and silent tracks. It's as strange as it is but many records that roar it out heavy are the most intensive in their slowest and soft moments. It's like this with songs such as "A poor toy in your hands" and "Bereaved Soul" that you realise how much deep emotions this band breathes. It's these breathtaking moments that make you aware how much the musicians give you that you realize the worth of all the work they spent on this album.

All in all this album made me feel good. It comes around with a smile and also doesn't miss some fun every here and there when the tracks begin or end in a unusual way with just screaming the song name.

Purchase-Link and Player

The album comes around as a digipack. It is wrapped in a case of outstanding artwork. This goes for the front as well as for the back cover and also inlay and CD have their own artwork with them. The band sells the album for twelve euro online in their online shop. This is a bit more than you may pay for other albums but keep in mind that you'll also get twelve instead of eight or ten tracks that are up on most records of today. You won't regret purchasing this one.

As a example here's the track "Dead Man Walkin'" of the album.


Contact Link and Tourdates

Chemical Wedding have a own Facebook page where you can get in touch with them.
Also make sure to see them live this summer/fall:

24/09/2016 Brin de Zinc (tribute Lemmy et Camille Marquet)
04/09/2016 Leyment Fest (01)
07/10/2016 Décines Warmaudio

Romantic Rebel share ripping explosive video for "Too Far"

I like it when a band goes straight on it and rips it all up in their songs. It's like explosive fire and it can be such a positive kick of energy for yourselves when listening to a band's song like I did with this brand new video single of the hard rock band Romantic Rebel.

The fine thing about "Too far" is that it comes with pumping energy that originates from the pounding guitar riffs along with the hammering drums that change all the way through the song. The drums always seem to fit to the part that is currently played. On top of this there is a voice and lyrics that deeply push into your mind once heard and are hard to get out of the ear.


The band is currently in the studio with Grammy nominated producer, Johnny K (Disturbed, Pop Evil, Sevendust, 3 Doors Down, Megadeth, Machine Head, Nonpoint, etc.) where work has begun on their sophomore album.  

I often asky myselves: what is the role of a producer what can they add to the music?
KT Paige, vocalist of the band gives some insight into the work that is currently going on in the studio:

"This EP is very special to us. Alex and I wrote these songs from the heart; about past experiences and struggles. That said, we were very attached to them and didn't want to see them change. Johnny, being the multi talented producer that he is, helped us take the songs we thought couldn't get any better, to a whole new level. It's amazing how a simple change in melody can make me feel even more emotional about a song than I had felt previously." Says KT Paige.

The cover of the single "Too Far", (c) by Romantic Rebel, used with kind permission

The track is off of their forthcoming EP to be released early Summer 2016 and is available for purchase at iTunes. In addition to the premiere, the band has announced a North American Summer tour with Smile Empty Soul that begins on July 14th in Joplin, MO and concludes September 14th in St. George, UT.

Tour Dates:

5/20/2016 The Back Bar
Janesville, WI

5/27/2016 Brat Fest 2016
Madison, WI

Tour Dates with Smile Empty Soul:
7/14/2016 Guitars Rock 'n' Country Bar Joplin MO
7/15/2016 Fubar St. Louis MO
7/16/2016 Outland Ballroom Springfield MO
7/19/2016 Open Chord Knoxville TN
7/20/2016 Hard Rock Café Louisville Louisville KY
7/22/2016 Oddbodys Dayton OH
7/23/2016 Six Pence Pub Parkersburg WV
7/24/2016 The Gin Mill Northampton PA
7/26/2016 Mac's Bad Art Bar Syracuse NY
7/27/2016 Pineapple Jack's Rochester NY
7/28/2016 The Outpost Kent OH
7/29/2016 The Music Factory Battle Creek MI
7/30/2016 The Machine Shop Flint MI
7/31/2016 Long Shot Rock Falls IL
8/2/2016 Top Fuel Saloon Braidwood IL
8/3/2016 District Bar & Grill Rockford IL
8/4/2016 H.O.M.E Bar Arlington Heights IL
8/5/2016 Q&Z Expo Center Ringle WI
8/6/2016 The Venue Dubuque IA
8/7/2016 The Metal Grill Cudahy WI
8/9/2016 Opinion Brewing Company Newport MN
8/10/2016 Bigs Sports Bar & Billiards Sioux Falls SD
8/12/2016 The Afterlife Lounge Algona IA
8/13/2016 Shamrocks Omaha NE
8/14/2016 The Voodoo Lounge at Harrahs Kansas City MO
8/16/2016 The Vanguard Tulsa OK
8/18/2016 The Rail Club Fort Worth TX
8/19/2016 Clicks Tyler TX
8/20/2016 18th Street Pier San Leon TX
8/21/2016 BFE Rock Club Houston TX
8/23/2016 Boneshakers Corpus Christi TX
8/24/2016 The Patio at La Nueve Luna Abilene TX
8/25/2016 Backstage Lubbock Lubbock TX
8/26/2016 Lowbrow Palace El Paso TX
8/27/2016 The Co-op Albuquerque NM
8/28/2016 Sunshine Studios Live Colorado Springs CO
8/30/2016 City Hall Events Venue Denver CO
9/2/2016 Z Bar Spearfish SD
9/3/2016 Rock Point Bismarck ND
9/4/2016 Bernie's Esquire Club Dickinson ND
9/6/2016 Pub Station Billings MT
9/9/2016 Studio Seven Seattle WA
9/10/2016 The Pin Spokane WA
9/11/2016 Faultline North Bozeman MT
9/14/2016 Firehouse Bar Saint George UT

For more information please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/RomanticRebelRocks
http://www.romanticrebelband.com/

GC Project Album shows drummers part in music

How much a drummer contributes to the music of a band? A lot I think. But I would agree to say it with Mike Portnoy's words that the stuff the drummer adds to a bands sound has to come at the decent time. He or she should know when to play more in the front row or better to stay in the back.

Here's one recording I came along that reminded me of what Portnoy said. It features Giacomo Calabria who's vita is quite impressive. But before going into the details just let the music speak and listen to one of the tracks of his recent progressive and diverse output "Face the odds" that covers many genres of music.It's this mixture of so many playing techniques in Calabria's drumming that make this music so exciting. It feels as if it is changing all the way through the song.

Giacomo Calabria has been on the scene since 1992. Once graduated at University of Music in Rome, he played live and recorded demos with several bands from the Naples rock/metal scene. He played on the album "A New Day" from Silent Field, for Nocturnal Music label, followed by a live tour. After moving to Ferrara, he recorded "Rock, Groove, Sexy & Funky" (2004) with Alias, "Misteriosevoci" (2005) and "Rebus" (2008) with Barock Project, for the french Musea Records label. He recorded two songs with GOS (Ivano Zanotti, Vince Pastano, Giorgio Santis) in 2006. Official drummer for Rain from 2011 to 2014, he played in "XXX" tour, "Mexican Way" album and the following 9-months tour. Member of Ypnos (actually in studio recording their first album) and Coda (Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin tribute).

Giacomo Calabria, (c) by Giacomo Calabria, used with kind permission

On September 2014 he started writing songs for his solo project, the GC Project, the Giacomo Calabria's solo project. After three years on tour in Italy and Europe, studio recording and many sessions, his desire is to play music that includes many genres, progressive, hard rock, heavy metal, blues, latin, and play with several artists who are friends too, to create an album with different kind of sounds, attitudes and interplay, All songs and lyrics are written by Giacomo Calabria.

The album is titled Face the Odds, released on december 7th 2015 by Sliptrick Records, and contains 11 original tracks and one ghost track, The Black Page #1, tribute to Frank Zappa, and it's available in stores, on Itunes, Deezer, Amazon music, Google play, Musimania, KKBox and others platforms.

Make sure to stay in connection with him via Facebook or follow him on YouTube.