Advance tape preview: Barbara Max - Goddess (Rock, 2024)

Female voices can add a lot to the music. It's different from what male voices add to the sound. I think there's more emotion and warmth but sometimes also harsh elements in them. A very good example for this came across my mind when I heard of Barbara Max.

Metal Underdogs listented to some of Barbara's new tracks.

The female singer worked together with legends like UFO and Nick Menza (Drummer of Megadeth in the 90s) for her new album "Goddess" which is going to present her vocal abilities on many levels in songs of various intensity and heavyness.

I've been given the honour to hear those new tunes in advance. It started with "All for the money" - the first single released already. It rocked me over and over. It's a soft riffing number walking slowly step by step. The first verse adds this special something I spoke of - the voice taking a center spot moving my feelings further with every note and passage. It builds up so much that you don't want it to end but surely it has to end also it feels infinite to me. Happily it never holds on to too many high notes so it has been well balanced.

The second tune "I'll wait" comes in a different style and character being a slow and intensive ballad from the start. Again the voice of Barbara Max set's my feelings in a moving direction. There are sections where the voice reaches it's climax but it stays in a  moderate way. The guitars follow the path showing a extensive performance towards the end. It feels like a track that could be a note to someone you love but cannot hold in your arms whatever the reason is. I'll wait comes with the late great Keith More on bass, Jacob Ziemba playing guitars and features Phil Martini on the drums - he is the signed drummer of Joe Elliots (Def Leppard) solo band.

Nick Menza joins Barbara with a drum roll in "Sweet Mystical Love". It's the song with the loudest setting comprised of harder vocals and the guitars not only showing a following but a rougher side with a extensive and heavier solo section something not to be heard of in the previous songs. Nick Menza performs on this track with drums taking a more backround role not showing too much of his harder performance talents he has become so well known for in the past but surely such drums wouldn't fit at all here.

The song also features Scott Warren keys (Dio ), Howie Gold Bass ( Alcatrazz) ( and Acoustic Guitar) and J.P. Cervoni ( Buddy Guy) Guitars

"Sweet Mystical Love" was also up for a King Arthur movie.

The final preview track "In our mystery" rocks things out and straight the heavier way. Recorded together with the guys in UFO (Clive Edward's showing his signature drum abilities, Laurence Archer on Guitars and Pete Way performing the bass guitars) 

It starts out a soft way before the rock mode kicks in directly. Set again in a heavier sound package the voice stays loud and clear all the time with a first passage that quickly sticks in my mind but the tune changes a lot during it's duration. 

It contains loud and high parts that are repeated several times with lot's of distorted guitars and finish into a solo performance without any instruments - something that is not like the many songs out there. 

All in all this preview shows many different sides of the voice of Barbara Max. With soft notes, balladesque material, directly rocking numbers and rough heavy songs it raised my attention upon what hopefully will be the "Goddess" album once it's out. One thing is certain: these recordings have made history in Rock music and will get a lot of attention of fans of the mentioned musicians. 

Surely a legend to be as she goes to the top of her field and that there is no doubt this incredibly talented artist and songwriter certainly deserves a major signing.

If you want to get in touch with Barbara Max or follow her further activities make sure to join her on Reverbnation or on her Instagram profile.

The release is slated for a release in Winter 2024 but we can skip the time until it's release with watching one of Barbara Max's videos right here.

Ferentes Tenebris breathe new life into dark sounds

Ferentes Tenebris have created a unusual mixture of cathartic female vocals on the one hand and rough and raw black metal elements with growling vocals on the other. 

The bandpicture is unusual like the music Ferentes Tenebris released.

Besides this contrast in vocal presentation it's also the melodies and performance of the other musicians that add something outstanding into the package that is the newest single called "Sirens of the deepest sorrow".  

It all starts openly with harmony in a opening section before the sky turns dark for the first time and heavier distortion and growling takes the stage. 

Shortly after this attack the female light returns but is once more pushed aside by the dark voices.

The instrumental section to follow set's up few dark notes in a midtempo pattern. Softer notes are to follow like in a jam session but shortly afterwards it becomes all harder once more. 

You can also listen to the single on Spotify.

I've been heavily surprised listening to this song. I would have expected it to be one of the many Black Metal releases out there but this is not what can be heard everywhere. The production has also been chosen cleverly and clearly so it adds it's share to make "Sirens of the deepest sorrow" stand out.

Let's see how the story of the band moves on. Follow them on social media sites such as Facebook or Instagram so you won't miss a thing.

Breathtaking proggers Acolyte to livestream from Chapel off Chapel

All bands add a lot to the music cosmos. But having had a ear on the single "Entropy" of Acolyte took my breathe. What I heard was pure crying from the very depths of the soul. 

It's not happening often that I can hear the heartbeat of a band but Acolyte provided this through their music to me. While most of the track comes a heavy way it's the transition towards a slow and dream/nightmare-like style at the end that never seems to end that got me in so deep. 

And this very band is going to host a global streaming event at the intimate and iconic venue in Melbourne, 'Chapel off Chapel'. Acolyte's live performance guarantees a stunning, powerful and emotive musical experience that will bring their new songs to life in a live setting. 

The interactive streaming event will premiere on SUNDAY JUNE 6TH 2021 [But will be available for rewatch] 9pm AEST/ 7pm AWST / 12pm BST/ 1pm CEST / 9am EDT 

Tickets on sale now and there is a tiered pricing structure so fans can choose what they wish to pay to discover and experience the fast rising prog metal act. https://acolyte.veeps.com/ 

Hellz reveals the Sinner in us all

Some tracks are just cool. This particular one rocked me step by step. In the beginnins things sound a bit thin and simple but beware. The music evolves heavily.

Hellz surprised me with a massive first single called "Sinner".

While the first seconds may make you want to turn it down again, make sure to hold on. It grabs you a bit more with each passing moment deep inside your heart.The refrain will give you a pusher. It kicked me straight and this single is once more something that proves, that music is motivation. So much energy that she sends this way. It keeps your head in the here and now and wants you to push on forward.


The song is up for purchase on iTunes as well as Amazon.

More music of Hellz is already on the horizont. The debut EP has been announced to hit the shelves early 2020 via R.I.N.D Records. Once the EP is completed touring will be on the horizon both in her native Australia, as well as internationally.

Make sure to keep a eye on the homepage of Hellz and to check Facebook so you won't miss the further story out.

September Mourning talk about the fragmented soul

A band that appears in the real world as well as in comic books - a great idea in my ideas. The comic characters are kept in a darker style aiming at adult readers. The music fits to the stories told.

A short look inside the video of "Glass Animals" by September Mourning, (c) by September Mourning, used with kind permission

These days a new issue of the comic stories called "The complete collection" is about to see the light of day. You can spot some parts of the story in the fresh video September Mourning uploaded to YouTube. Musically the band continues with more dark toned notes while the vocals reach higher regions this time. There's also a deeper meaning hidden both in the book and in the lyrics of the song:

”'Glass Animals' is about the fragmented soul. It's about the realization that we are all broken. Something or someone has broken us and within that broken state we ultimately find the strength to survive. Musically, it's a little bit of a tribute to one of our favorite bands: The Deftones. The song ties into the comic book as well…. Hannah is a broken soul who, through the help of September and Claire, finds the strength to face her personal demons and live again." - Emily Lazar (Founder)


The full package is rounded out with a tour in the US to promote the music and the comic book release. The graphic novel will be sold in comic stores, books stores (Barnes & Noble) nationwide and on Amazon.

Smile Empty Soul will also perform at these shows. I had the pleasure to hear a B-Side compilation some time ago and can confirm that they are well worth the entry price. It's heavy grunge with much groove and hooklines to remember. Be sure to show up early so you'll not miss one of the bands out.

Tour Dates:
03/01 @ Dirty Days Car Show - Atkins, AR
03/02 @ Rockhouse Live - Memphis, TN
03/05 @ Voltage Lounge - Philadelphia, PA
03/06 @ Stage West - Scranton, PA
03/07 @ Dingbatz - Clifton, NJ
03/08 @ Webster Underground - Hartford, CT
03/09 @ Wally’s - Hampton Beach, NH
03/10 @ Providence Tattoo and Music Festival - Providence, RI
03/12 @ House of Music - Portland, ME
03/13 @ The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY
03/14 @ Revolution - Amityville, NY
03/15 @ Fish Head Cantina - Baltimore, MD
03/16 @ HMAC - Harrisburg, PA
03/19 @ Frankie’s - Toledo, OH
03/20 @ Cheers - South Bend, IN
03/20 @ South Bend, IN - Cheers
03/21 @ Token Lounge - Westland, MI
03/22 @ Muddy Creek Saloon - Heath, OH
03/23 @ Music Factory - Battle Creek, MI
03/24 @ Route 20 - Racine, WI
03/27 @ Gabe’s - Iowa City, IA
03/28 @ Rose Music Hall - Columbia, MO
03/29 @ Riot Room - Kansas City, MO
03/30 @ OKC Limits - Oklahoma City, OK

For updates and latest information on these gigs see September Mournings Facebook page.

Onydia brings a surreal dream to life

Shortly before we leave 2018 behind many of us think of what the new year (hopefully) will bring. First let me wish all of you out there a good and safe going over into the new year.

New releases are already knocking on our door. The name of the band Onydia was created from two greek words, oneiro(dream) and diafanìs (transparent),”the display of a surreal dream in the real world, a mystical dream, our emotions when creating art.”

The album art of Onydia's upcoming album "Reflections", (c) by Onydia, used with kind permission

 After the release of the latest single Dyaphany and the videoclip for the song A New Safe Path, the female prog metal band is ready to release their debut album Reflections via Revalve Records on February 1, 2019.

Reflections is an imposing opera of modern female prog metal consisting of 8 tracks that range through melodic and evocative passages emphasized by the sweet and powerful voice of Eleonora Buono, to reach complex instrumental and guitar solo steps that surprise the listener!

You can preview the whole album with 30 seconds samples from the website of Revalve Records. Preorders are open starting January 11th online at the subpage created by the record company holding more details of the upcoming record.

CD Review: Graveshadow - Ambition's Price (Symphonic Metal, 2018)

Everything comes at a price in life. What is the price you pay for your ambitions?

The cover of Graveshadow's album "Price Of Ambition", (c) by Graveshadow, used with kind permission

Summary
On the first look you may think of this band as one of the many out there playing the all so well known symphonic genre. But taking a real ear reveals that there is not only the standard sounds to be heard.

In fact this one goes a bit more of the darker way. The voice is very present and it changes often from one verse just to another. So in one second you'll catch some lightweight and silk sound and will be confronted with the dark and rough tonality at the very next just around the corner. This may sound impossible but this is possible to fit into the song structures and Graveshadow form it to be a enjoyable experience.

It still remains to be headbangable stuff but it offers stuff with more depth. The songs vary and every one of them expresses something of it's own. It's like stations on a journey - every station comes with it's own colour, sound and content.

Darkness is to be found often but it comes in many different contrasts. There's light as well - you can party to most of the tracks of the second half of the record. All in all it's a solid album and the more progressive elements surely will find it's way into close analysis of any musician of the genre out there.

If you want to know straight away if this record is for you try the preview track below. It expresses what I've written above.

Preview Track & Purchase-Link and Contact-Links
You can pick up a physical copy of "Ambition's Price" straight out of the webshop of M-Theory Audio or get it from Graveshadow's Bandcamp site. You can also buy your package of songs digitally from the common retailers such as iTunes, Amazon or Spotify.

Follow them via Instagram or Facebook.

Corners Of Sanctuary show how Dreams sound like

Take chances when they come across in your life. At least as long as they include something good for you. That's what I would recommend to people out there thinking about this topic.

Corners Of Sanctuary recently had the chance to break out of the band's sound formula. This may sound strange for a band rooted in the traditional Metal sector but I like to see band's leaving their boundaries behind and daring to go new ways. It's impressive to hear a spectrum of feelings in it. The drums stand out a bit. It's not often that I've heard double bass drums on a slower track but here it works to my surprise. Read on and find out how that new song "Dreams" came to life and listen while reading. It's a longer read but well worth it.

"We wanted to try something different," said Mick Michaels, the band's founder and guitarist. "I had the opportunity to work with Kayla last year while producing Powerless Rise's first album. I knew she would make a great fit for the direction this song was meant to go in," he continued.

Breaking out of the routine
The song is a strong departure from the band's usual delivery of the modern classic heavy metal sound. "I think we managed to maintain our signature traditional style. It's definitely COS. We just tweaked the formula a bit to create another layer of the band's personality. You can't be afraid to take chances," Michaels added. “This is a sweet track! It actually strikes a nice balance between catchy hooks and the usual Heavy Metal sound. I think people will love it,” said Jason McGathey, President of Exquisite Noise Records regarding the new single.

The artwork of the new Corners Of Sanctuary single "Dreams", (c) by Corners Of Sanctuary, used with kind permission

Lyrics co-written with Drummer Mad T
Inspired by a friend as a challenge to do something different, Michaels wrote the music but co-penned the song's lyrics with drummer Mad T. "After the music was demoed, I asked T what he thought and if he had any ideas for the arrangement. He said he really liked it and handed me some lyrics he had already written. They fit. We did some rewrites and adjusted the arrangement... T wrote the bulk of the lyrics, I just COSified them," Michaels explained. “The lyrics were actually written a few years back,” states COS drummer Mad T. “When I heard the song, I knew immediately they would work. I’m absolutely blown away with how this song turned out. The combination of Kayla and the music. The song literally feels like a dream!” he added with a smile.

Status of upcoming album
"Dreams" comes on the heels of the band's recent completion of their "yet-to-be-released" fifth studio album, "The Galloping Hordes". The album, which began recording in late 2016, was being worked on in between the band’s hefty live date schedule and is slated to release this Fall.

"We are hoping to get the album out later this year. But there's no rush," said bassist James Pera. "We have a lot of stuff going on at the moment and when the time is right, it will be released," he added.

A promo shot of Corners Of Sanctuary done on a cold winter day, (c) by Corners of Sanctuary, used with kind permission

Song originally planned as Duet
When asked how he felt about having another singer take the lead for this single, current front man Frankie Cross quickly responded, "This band has done so much for me both personally and professionally. I am beyond grateful. For this song, we talked about doing a duet. I know that's what Mick originally had in mind for the song. But after hearing Kayla's recorded tracks, we knew immediately that having her voice as the lead was the right way to go. As a band we couldn't be happier with the way the song turned out."

In a recent interview on The Keep it Metal Show, the band talked about their consideration for releasing a video for the song in the coming months. “Some initial concept pieces have already been put together for a possible video. More so to give the song an even deeper complexity. But we will see. Like James said, we have a lot of stuff going on at the moment," commented Michaels.

“Dreams” is available on multiple online platforms such as iTunes, Amazon, and Spotify among others as well as on the COS website www.cornersofsanctuary.com/musiccatalog.html.

The song is also currently in full rotation on Digital Revolution Radio: www.digitalrevolutionradio.com.

Upcoming Tourdates
Look for Corners of Sanctuary this November as they make their way to California for The American Metal Mayhem Tour, November 3rd – 12th, sponsored by Metal Babe Mayhem.

September 22 - Coal Mine Taproom– St. Clair, PA.
(with Threatpoint)

September 23 - The New Penny – Scranton, PA
(with Threatpoint)

November 6 – The Rainbow Bar & Grill – West Hollywood, CA
(with Kantation & Taipan)

November 11 - The House of Metal at Malones – Santa Ana, CA
(with Resistance)

November 12 – C4CORadio.net – Santa Ana, CA
(In studio performance & interview)

More Dates TBA, check the band's website or Facebook page for updates.

Metalocalypstick Fest celebrates women in Metal

Some festivals have something special to offer. This particular one caught my attention with it's unusual wooden stage. In addition to that it has mountains as natural backdrop. A really special and cool location.

But what's even better is the fact that this Valemount, BC  Lone Butte, BC (Canada) (Explanation. I got a update in the mail today that the venue has moved.) based festival centers upon the female contribution to the world of Heavy music and has some band in it's line-up from countries you don't see often at festivals (Egypt, Mexico). Founded by Kaija Kinney of Vancouver’s Anarcheon after researching a lack of female based metal festivals to apply her band to, Kinney took matters into in her own and decided to produce the event.

Kinney comments:

“This festival means the celebration of both sexes coming together and creating something amazing. People like to say women in metal aren’t a big deal anymore and that we are all the same. I feel that is untrue, this is still a male dominated world and woman are still looked as lesser. I want to showcase all these bad ass ladies and celebrate the differences of men and woman rather than pretend we are all equal. Truth is we are different why can't we celebrate that?”

Check the short trailer below to find out how it's like to be at METALOCALYPSTICK FEST. Even if you can't make it there I recommend to watch the movie. It has some great band's rocking the stage so it's well worth checking it out.


METALOCALYPSTICK is being held during Canada Day weekend on July 1st and 2nd in Valemount, BC. Lone Butte, BC (Canada) at the outdoor grounds of the Interlakes Community Center in Lone Butte, BC. (Explanation. I got a update in the mail today that the venue has moved.)

This year's line up features bands from across Canada and beyond with Cabrakaan (Toluca, Mexico), Sovereign Council (Kingston, ON), Violent Betty (Saskatoon, SK), Atmora (Windsor, ON), Scythia (Calgary, AB), Massive Scar Era (Vancouver, BC / Cairo, Egypt) and many more.

There are day-tickets available (64 Candian Dollar) but there's also a option for both days (priced at 95 CAD including camping).

Poster created by Abradinfluence
https://www.facebook.com/abradinfluence/

Update 2017/04/26: The venue has moved. The festival will be held in Lone Butte, BC at the outdoor grounds of the Interlakes Community Center in Lone Butte, BC.

In addition to the festival celebrating women in metal, the METALOCALYPSTICK FEST gives back to the community by being a non-profit organization dedicated to raise funds and donating 100% of proceeds to local charities Girls Rock Camp, Vancouver Rape Relief and Women’s Shelter, Earth Protectors plus an audience picked foundation.

For tickets and more info, please visit the following links:
  
www.metalocalypstickfest.rocks
www.facebook.com/metalocalypstickfest/
Event Page- www.facebook.com/events/1158984924137688/
Ride Share - www.facebook.com/groups/metalocalypstickfestrideshare/

Hail Sagan take a stand against bullying and abuse

Bullying is a crime and not a normal way of treating others! It is a shame that this society doesn't seem to care about this important subject and most of all it is hard for victims to defend themselves or to protect against such attacks. That's the way I look at things and I'm glad there seem to be more people in the world of music who think that this topic needs to be expressed and talked about.

Female fronted Los Angeles hard Rock band Hail Sagan has taken a stand and brings this important matter up to the front in their video for the song "Dark Cloud". 

In a statement the band has clarified what can be seen in the video. Amery says "It's been a great experience being able to broach the subject of bullying and abuse with the lyrics of this song. We took it one step further and created a video with director Matthew Crum and DP Kenny Keeler that visually enhanced the sensitive subject matter.  

We chose to mask the members of the band in an effort to show the world that anyone can be a part of this, you never know who will be under there, maybe even a fan or someone who needs music to save them." 


At the moment you still have the chance to order the first EP that includes the song "Dark Cloud" directly from the band via Pledgemusic. If you order, you'll receive one of the limited edition copies on CD along with a signed print and a download of the songs. There's a second option which offers a signed copy of the record as well.

Make sure to follow the band via Facebook ,Twitter or Instagram so you won't miss out on all the further band activities.

CD Review: Evig Natt - Evig Natt (2016)

A band combining worlds that seem to be contrasts - there's heavyness in their sound but they're not really heavy. Then there's much of darkness in the music but also a light that shines brightly. Try this band that is one of the hidden gems in my ears.

Introduction

The Norwegian metal band EVIG NATT features former members of Enslaved, Einherjer and Thundra. They released the 3rd album entitled "Evig Natt" on March 19th, recorded and produced by themselves. It's hard to define a genre for this band because they are maybe even something of a genre of their own.

To make it sort of explainable I would say the closest you can say is that Evig Natt are sort of a dark symphonic/orchestral rock/metal band. This review talks about their latest effort entitled "Evig Natt" that has been released in 2016.

The cover of the Evig Natt album. Coverart by Monica Frivoll Sund, Photo from Jørgen Freim.

Summary

From the land of the midnight sun (Norway) comes this fantastic release. Entitled "Evig Natt" this record comes with a special note. It's from a band that has a own idea of how music should sound on their minds. That's at least how I felt when I listented to this album. Otherwise I cannot explain how they've come to create their unique sound. The main point is that it is not as heavy as you would expect it of a typical band with metal trademarks and influences but also not soft enough to be accepted in the world of rock or mainstream.

But it's this sensible sound construct I love so much. The songs come around mostly in a slower format and sound dark and majestic. There are drums sometimes but they're not hitting it the hard way as you know it of the typical bands in the genre. The music evolves and changes but they always keep a dark shell around it. In the middle, in the center of it that's where you'll find the light. Something that shines so bright in the darkness. It's the voice of Kirsten Jørgensen which sometimes tends towards a syphonic and even orchestra like voice but it doesn't reach the highest points which prevents the voice from getting too dominant and striking the nerves so that you want to turn it off.

In contrast there's also a darker voice of Oskar Naley present giving some parts sort of a good/bad scene. Listen to it for yourselves - you need to hear it to realize what I like to express with my words.Please give it some time to fully sink in. You'll be rewarded. This music helps to distress from things a lot. It's as intense as I've seldomely heard of any other band before.

Full album stream


Purchase-Link

You can pick up this diamond from the bandcamp page of Evig Natt directly. There's a download available but the band has also put out a edition on physical media for you to enjoy their music the good old way as a hardcopy. More configurations with T-Shirts are available from the same site, too.

A promo shot of the band, Photo-Credit: Jørgen Freim

Contact-Data

Make sure to keep a eye on Evig Natt using the well known plattforms such as Facebook, Twitter or have a look at their YouTube channel.

Night Legion offer download as little sneak into upcoming album

One of the cool things that comes along with running a blog is that you can discover so many new bands often in their early stages. This time we have been notified of a band that is giving a very early insight into their album production process and we have been picked to share it with all of you as a file free to download!

The new band on the radar is called Night Legion and they perform Power Metal with powerful female vocals. The people behind the sound aren't new to people following this blog. This band features members of Death Dealer and Knightmare as well as of Empires of Eden and Aussie metal royalty Dungeon.

A overlook on the band members of Night Legion, (c) by Night Legion, used with kind permission

How does this band sound like? One of the bands trademarks is the voice of Shannon Tipene. With an uncompromising and aggressive style that echoes Doro’s greatest triumphs, or Ann Wilson’s trademark microphone abuse, Tipene’s voice leaves something behind. You'll remember the high peaks of her voice as well as the anthemic refrain. It's like in the classic days of metal and you'll quickly feel home if you've always enjoyed music of this style. Just check out some excerpts in the clip below or even better head over to this place to pick up a free full song of Night Legion im mp3 Format.


Night Legion has recently begun work on recording their debut, slated for a 2017 release, and is in the early stages of exploring which label will offer the most suitable home for the album. This unconquerable touring animal also has its sights on Japan, Europe and possibly Australia in early to mid-2017.

For the latest band news, visit the official Night Legion website and Facebook page.

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/

CD Review: Van Halst - World of Make Believe (2016)

A album showing how it sounds if you put your whole heartblood, feelings and musical abilities on one disc.The female voice of Kami van Halst is going through all the various regions you could imagine. A symphonic metal album showing how different songs can be if you want them to be this way. Don't miss out this wonderfull recording.

Short Introduction

Edmonton, AB's Van Halst is a fierce, empowering force of hard rock fused with metal.  A project, which began as a solo artist for whom the band is named after -- Kami Van Halst, has since become a full group producing socially conscious, lyrical tracks that focus on disenfranchised and marginalized populations.

The band’s influences stay true to goth rock with Kami Van Halst demonstrating an agile vocal delivery in combination with pummeling growls. Lyrically, the band draws from black metal due to its focus on people suffering from isolation and rising to overcome the preconceptions of a judgmental society. In This Moment’s industrial fusion remains a primary influence for Van Halst, employing a sampler, synthesizer, and distorted vocals.

Their debut album 'World of Make Believe' is available as of March 4th 2016.

The front cover of "World of Make Believe", (c) by Van Halst, used with kind permission

Summary

This album is on my mind for some time now. Why? It's simply because you can feel so deep that it comes from musicians expressing their pure emotions and views of the world in such compositions that it's practically impossible to get them out of your heart. The album has this special something that only few recordings come with. It's symphonic metal in all it's variations and all it's beauty it can be.

It's like a ocean. Sometimes it's fast and wild like on the tracks "The End". On other times it's going up and down in itself just like on "Save Me" with it's variations between rougher and softer parts changing all the way through the track but never missing redemptive elements in them. It has epic, slower moments like with "Ryan's Song" as well as straight rockers like the title track that comes with a lot of pumping energy.

Finally there are also great balladesque songs on "World of Make Believe". "Questions" and "Denying eyes" are good example but "Plastic Smile" tops them all. A riffed melody that slowly builds up all the way through the song just to explode at the very end. What a outstanding song - it made me speechless.

Player / Purchase Link

The album is available as a digital download from Bandcamp and iTunes. It's priced at 10 Canadian Dollars on Bandcamp which is a bit more than 6 Euro. A download on iTunes comes around for 9,90 Dollar. Please take the time to prelisten to the album from the player below. I think you'll quickly re-feel what I've described in my summary.

I've seldomely heard a more diverse and intense album ever before. Since this is a self release you'll support the artist directly with your purchase. You have a mighty vote with what you buy - every time you open your pockets you'll set a sign that you want more of this. Artists will reward you with beautifull music taking you far away from your everyday worries and often help your to find the strength to overcome them. That's worth a lot in these troubled times in my eyes.


Upcoming gigs and Contact Data

Van Halst has two shows coming up on

Apr 29     Overtime Sports Bar     Calgary, Canada             
May 28    Hard Rock Cafe     Toronto, Canada

Keep in contact with the and using social tools such as Facebook, Twitter or make use of the good old traditional way visiting them on their own website. 

CD Review: Charm Designer - Everlasting

A dark and mysterious Gothic / Doom record. Besides the typical growling vocals it features a lot of groove, melody and a lot of blistering, haunting atmosphere. If you like a mixture of these ingridents you shouldn't hesitate and take a close look at "Everlasting".

Short Introduction

Charm Designer is a Gothic / Doom metal band located in Columbia. It was the first time for me that I had the chance to listen to a band from that country so I was extremly excited how they would attempt writing songs. Plus I didn't listen to a album of that genre for some time so I felt it would be a good idea to check it out.

My attention was raised even more as I got to know that the follow-up to 2008's “Blood Sounds” was recorded with legendary producer Waldemar Sorychta, known for his work with Samael, Tiamat, Lacuna Coil, Sentenced and Moonspell among others, being the first time for him to produce a Latin American band. The artwork was designed by Romanian artist Costin Chioreanu (At The Gates, Arcturus, Vulture Industries, Primordial, Arch Enemy, etc.).

The cover of Everlasting, (c) by Charm Designer, used with kind permission

Summary

Charm Designer did a outstanding job on this one. The album contains eight brand new tracks that will take you on a wild ride through your inner feelings and emotions. It's filled with all that makes us humans and it goes to all the extremes we all endure and are pushed through every day. It sounds extreme and will give you pain at some points but after all the harsh parts and heavyness there's always release and silkness coming back in giving you freezing chills and giving you the breath back. In the end it will strenghten you for all that still is yet to come.

The album lives of it's contrast of dark, brutal vocals and the much lighter contra female voice parts. The same goes for the music. Sure there's darkness and heavyness all around but it never presses you down. It still pushes on forward through the groove and there's always some melody shining through. Black clouds and silver linings. The best way to quickly check out if the record is for you is to see the lyric video of the title track which you can find at the Player and Purchase Link section further down in this review. If you feel like it touches you the you should give the full album a listen, because there's a lot more yet to come so prepare yourselves for the ride...

Album Overview

The album is well balanced but there are some tracks I'd like to point out. Besides the title track my personal favorites are Never After and most of all Inertial Dream for their very heavy attitude and remembering me of old classic Gothic metal times.

Disruption is one of the most flexible cuts of the full length bringing together a good mixture of oldschool and slightly modern elements. But all the modern stuff is kept in a discret way. They are never overused and only taken if they add to the mood so it sounds authentic. Some tracks have a length of nearly seven minutes but never sound lengthy. If you prefer the shorter one's make sure to listen to Mentors, it goes out as a very straight number.

It should be mentioned that the band did a cool cover version of Depeche Mode's "Policy of truth". The song remains intact in it's structure through the cover conversion, but you can heavily hear that Charm Designer put their signature of Doom 'n' Gothic brutality on it. It's a good cover I can see this going down quite well in Gothic or Metal clubs on a saturday night with many people handbanging along to it.

Player and Purchase-Link

The album is available through the store of the band's record company Inverse Records as a physical CD.
There also the chance to buy a mp3 version of the record from Amazon. 

Update 2016/02/20: You can also place your order via the band's Facebook account. Read this info sheet they released for detailed info. They also have some nice goodie packs available with T-Shirts plus CD and you can also ask for other combinations. Just send them a message and they'll put together a nice package for you.

As far as I've seen there's no album stream available so I've added the official lyric video of "Everlasting" here to give you a quick idea of the band's sound and style.

Update 2016/02/22: The album has been uploaded to streaming services such as Spotify and Deezer. I've added the Deezer widget under the YouTube lyric video of the title track. Also if you're not registered to the service you can at least listen to some 30 second clips of the album.


Links

www.facebook.com/charmdesigner
www.twitter.com/Charm_Designer
www.reverbnation.com/charmdesigner
www.soundcloud.com/charmdesigner
www.youtube.com/charmdesignervid