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

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


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

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

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

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

The cover of Haiduk's latest album "Exomancer"

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

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

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

A shot of Haiduk at one of his live performances.

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

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

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

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


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

www.facebook.com/haidukmetal

www.youtube.com/haidukplague

Interview with Alex Garoufalidis (Kings Call, Melodic Hard Rock 2017)

The band played a club show last month in my hometown in Lingen as part of the new concert series "Lingen Volume". They brought a big bag of straight going Hard Rock numbers and combined them with longer songs that gave room for experimental solo sections as well as lots of lessons on how to use those instruments properly.

The live line-up is build as a three-piece combo. It was founded by guitarist Alex Garoufalidis who also performed the vocal tracks on that night. We had the pleasure to speak with him about the life and work as a dedicated guitar player, his origins and inspirations for songs and lyrics at the beginning and also asked about a little insight into the upcoming new album "Showdown"...
 
Heavy Metal Underdogs: Having heard some songs live I was impressed by the mixture of classic Rock, Metal, partly blues elements and some guitar wizardry. How do you inspire yourselves for new songs?
Alex Garoufalidis: The inspiration for new songs…life itself.  I don’t want to limit my music to a certain genre… to a certain expectation…I’ve travelled all over the world…all them impressions are reflected in my music

King's Call live at Alter Schlachthof Lingen Germany, 19.8.2017

Can you remember you picked up a guitar the first time?
I remember picking up that guitar in my early teens and I said to myself – this is it, this is me! It opened up an entirely new world to me…no limits of expression…I would go so far to say that music is a ‘just’ a means…because it’s art. For all I know it could have been acting, writing etc anything.
Decades ago we did not have all the ‘modern’ means kids have nowadays. We played them guitars ‘till they fell apart…so did all the vinyl LPs…as we tried figuring out our fav songs. That guitar we had to earn…our parents did not have much money…No money for lessons therefore. I was just into music 24/7…playing, playing, playing.

Are the lyrics based upon your own life experiences?
The songs I write are all ‘true’ …my own experiences, opinions.

You've used just one guitar at the show in Lingen. You re-tuned it at some point. Do you only play this model (I think it was a Gibson SG) or are there other guitars you experiment with? Is it maybe the good handling that let's you prefer the SG?
That gig night in Lingen I only used my ’87 Les Paul Custom. I’ve tried ‘Cobalt’ strings for the first and I loved ‘em right from the get go. I only own a couple of guitars. That’s all I need. I am not a collector , I am a player ;-)

King's Call live at Alter Schlachthof Lingen Germany, 19.8.2017

How did you find the people that are currently in the band?
The guys in the band…well, Asec the drummer has been with me since day one of ‘’King’s Call’’…all others are helping out whenever they can.

How did it come to the collaboration with Chis Tsangarides? How did you know he's the right choice for producing the "Lion's Den" album as well as the coming output? 
Some of my all time favourite Bands have been produced by Chris Tsangarides (Thin Lizzy,UFO, Black Sabbath, Gary Moore, Judas Priest). It was a natural step to approach him to work with …and let me tell you, he’s one great guy. Superb work he does… and the stories from ‘back then’ he can tell are priceless.

King's Call live at Alter Schlachthof Lingen Germany, 19.8.2017

Could you please let us have a little preview on the coming album, what can the listener expect?
Recording a new album is always a moment in time, a mirror of oneself …as we progress in life…so, does the music. It should at least.

As for the songwriting for the new record: did the other band members also had some influence on the new music or do you prefer to compose on your own?
I write all songs and lyrics, yes.

King's Call will release a brand new album called "Showdown" on 25th November 2017 via Lions Pride Music. It's surely a exciting time so a look upon the band's homepage and Facebook page is highly recommended so you won't miss out on the upcoming album revelations.

The concert series "Lingen Volume" will continue it's way. As for September no show will take place. It's time for the annual city celebrations that already offer lot's of concerts all across the city as Open Air shows. Make sure to follow the further annoucements of the crew behind the concerts on Facebook.

Interview with Shallow Ground (Thrash, 2017)

We had a longer talk with vocalist/guitarist Keith Letourneau of the US thrash metal band Shallow Ground. They play classic thrash with slightly added elements of the progressive. Discover how the band goes along with today's digital age in terms of release formats as well as social media as a way of talking with fans. It also shows what music means to a heartfelt musician and at the very end he also give's us a glimpse into what you may experience while touring around...Have some music while reading the little interview in the player below.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: How did the band come together?

Keith Letourneau: We started out back in 1992 with a different line up. Took time off when my daughter was born in 98 and reformed in 2009. We just found each other , Thrash is a brother/sisterhood that just finds one another. And it was time Thrash call to you if you play it lol

Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?

Life both good and bad crap that happens! Look around there is inspiration in everything you see feel and can touch,  Just have to tap into it.

Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lifes?

Oh 100% yes!! It becomes part of your DNA, make's up your soul. It just makes me happy!

The cover of Shallow Ground's 2015 release "Embrace The Fury", (c) by Shallow Ground, used with kind permission

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?

Social media is good.  I get a lot of Thrashers from all over the world hitting me up to BS" which i love" ! It diffidently makes it easier to talk to people all over the world. When we play a gig anywhere and someone comes up and says hay I'm so and so, Its awesome to really put a face with a name ! So I guess Social Media helps some people who are not to out going break there silence and enables them to talk to people they normally would not.  

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?

CD's its a thing you can hold and look at!! Then  use as a beer coaster after you down load it lol  I prefer CD's myself. Dig has its uses for a lot of people, right to phone and take it everywhere you go always have your tunes with u i get it !

Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?

Well I was playing Thrash in the 80ies left that band. Started Shallow Ground with Tim and we were more of a speed/ power metal band back then ! But my soul swims in THRASH and im back where I belong PLAYING THRASH! As far as changing things up. I am not a flavor of the month kind of guy. if you know what I mean?  Thrash makes me happy I think no other music out there can make me as happy as Thrash does.

The band Shallow Ground,  (c) by Shallow Ground, 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?

Quit no lol I did walk away for around 10 years to be the best dad I could be. but I'm back lol .

How did I keep the motivation up to move on? Easy when you love playing !

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)?

Playing Warriors of Metal open air fest in Ohio. Myself and our old bass player Nick were sharing a hotel room. got woken up by screams and yelling! a hooker was getting beat up by her pimp bad. cops came and the dude got busted but he was saying he was going to kill the hooker to the cop wtf. Cop kept saying sir im going to have to bring you in if you keep saying that. Well he did and cuffed and stuffed the whole time before the cops got there was worried about a stray bullet coming thru the window. Cuz the guy had her pinned up against our window saying he was going to shoot her in the head. Wont forget that one lol

Make sure to stay in touch with the band using their Facebook page or see their website for info and the merch section where you can order their music.

Interview with Corners Of Sanctuary (2016)

We started the year 2016 with a article about a video of the New Wave of Traditional American Heavy Metal band Corners Of Sanctuary. By that time they released a face expressive video for the track "Left Scarred" of the album "Metal Machine". In the last 12 months the band released more videos as well as a best of record and toured extensively. We shared many of that stuff here on the blog but who's standing behind the band anyway? What's their motivation to push on with so enormous power? Read about it in our little interview with guitarist Mick Michaels.

How did the band come together?
Mick Michaels: Corners of Sanctuary formed in 2011 after a brief reunion project with the 80’s band Seeker that took place in 2010. Several of us were involved in that project.  During that time we talked about working on material that reflected more of our music roots. Out of that Corners of Sanctuary was born.

A shot of the band Corners Of Sanctuary taken in fall 2016, (c) by Corners Of Sanctuary

Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?
MM: Everything seems to be an inspiration: family, friends, music, nature, history… It really is an infinite source of material to draw from. We just need to be open and aware that it exists. When we draw and write from experiences and the like, we find that the music has more of an honest quality to it – meaning we’re not trying to be or do something we are not. Songs always seem to flow better that way and I feel it is evident to the listener.

Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lives?
MM: Absolutely.  For me, music is an extension of myself. It is an opportunity for me to explore thoughts and ideas, so be creative, as well as a way for me to explore my own existence. I find great peace in writing.  I often learn something new about myself or am reminded of something I forgot.

Social media surely plays a big role in the communication between a band and their fans. Do you feel that fans contact with you more or less personally at gigs these days?
MM: There is no denying that social media has opened many doors to the band/fan relationship. If embraced properly and respectfully it can have great benefits. So it is not at all uncommon for us to meet fans at shows whose initial contact or introduction to us was through a social media channel. Communication today is worldwide and limitless – there is so much opportunity to meet new people.

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?
MM: We are definitely old school in that we enjoy releasing material that can be held and looked at by the listeners.  The album’s artwork and design along with all the liner notes, the music itself and its song order are all part of the total package.  Even the smell has an effect. There is something very special there.  However, we do understand the need and the demand to have material released digitally whether as an option to the album or as the only choice.  It is important that artists stay with the times and offer the fans diversity without losing integrity.

Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?
MM: I think as a song writer, experimenting with other forms and genres of music is natural and very enlightening.  Trying different things gives us new perspectives… it can be very beneficial in the long run.  Over the years I have written a handful of rock, acoustic and country-esque songs as well as some instrumental and experimental type compositions that were used in some independent films a few years back. I also worked as a producer on a Rap EP back in 2008. But Metal has always been my primary focus.

The logo of the band Corners Of Sanctuary, (c) by Corners Of Sancturay, 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?
MM: Who hasn’t?   Being a musician is a non-stop roller coaster ride. Every day I ask myself “Are you sure you want to do this?”  And every day the answer is yes!  I guess when the day comes when yes is not the answer it will be time to do something different… maybe a circus clown!

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)?
MM: There are things happening all the time – big and small. Funny could be a relative term depending on the situation. Frankie has taken a few trips, slips and falls during some shows. But to tell you the truth we never really notice until after when he says something.  We are so used to him jumping around during the set, that even we think it is part of the show.

Recently, though, while we were on tour in the Midwest, we were traveling from Ohio to Chicago going through Indianapolis.  We had all but sold out of T-shirts at the previous night’s show and we still had a handful of dates to go.  So, while driving, James and I were on the phone trying to find someone who would do a rush order of shirt within 24 hours.  We were trying our best to have it done locally to our next show to make it easier.  During this a state trooper pulls alongside us and begins to give us the once over.  Within seconds the lights go on and he is pulling us over.  At this point James is still on the phone and placing an order for T-shirts.  The officer comes up to the passenger side window, where James is sitting, James rolls down the window and says to the officer “Sorry officer I am trying to order some band T-shirts for the next show.”  The officer looks at him and then me and asks for my “driver’s license and registration,” which I provide.  James is still talking on the phone.  The officer asks me to “step out of the car.”  I step out onto a massively busy Indianapolis highway and walk behind the truck and trailer to meet the officer who proceeds to ask me if I am “armed or carrying any knives or weapons of any kind?”  I said “no.” He said “are you sure?” I said “yes.”  He asks to pat me down and I comply.  He then tells me to get into the patrol car at which point “Deliverance” starts playing in my head.  I ask if there is a problem and he say no and tells me to get into the vehicle. I get into the car to find a giant K9 Sheppard sitting in the back seat which is now sniffing me down and breathing heavily over my shoulder. At this point I figured I wouldn’t be making it to tonight’s gig. All the while the rest of the band is casually sitting in the truck and James still on the phone placing a T-shirt order.  After the in-vehicle interrogation the officer tells me there is not an issue but warned me about driving too close to other vehicles.  He then asked me “who’s the guy on the cell phone?” I went on to explain he was our bass player and business manager. It turned out he was not a fan of Heavy Metal, unfortunately. But I was sent on my merry way and the high point of the story is, the T-shirts were ordered and arrived the next morning at our hotel!

Not sure how funny that was – but I will say it was not at all funny while it was happening. 

Thanks for taking the time to talk with me and sharing with your readers a little bit about Corners of Sanctuary. COSnROLL! \m/\m/

Remember to download your free copy of the track "That feeling we know" until January 1st 2017 from the band's homepage and to tune in to the band's Facebook page to keep up to date about the recording process of the new album and upcoming tourdates.

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

Let's speak with...Angerhead (2016)

The thrash metal genre is exploding these days. We see a lot of bands coming and some of them go in a more traditional direction while others seem to bring in some fresh elements or songwriting structures in their music.

Angerhead caught my attention through their straight forward mentality. Their songs kick in straight all on it and don't leave room for any discussion or soft notes - they make it completly clear who's playing from start to finish.

So as much as their newest output "Fueled by rage" made me bang my head as much was I eager to know how the guys would react to some questions. Read on and get to know what's on the band's mind when it comes to topics such as their search for a record label, inspiration for lyrics, how the mood and community feeling is like at a Bay Area show is and what can happen when you play a gig at a party and decide to have a drink or two...

The cover of the "Fueled By Rage EP", (c) by Angerhead, used with kind permission

Heavy Metal Underdogs: How did the band come together?

Angerhead: Paul and I (Eric) met at a Green Jelly show. I was opening the show in my other band. My vocalist had a high voice and i was looking for more of a growler. We decided to meet up the following week. Within 15 seconds of hearing him sing over some songs I had recorded I knew we had something.

Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?

Musically, it has to be heavy and powerful. I believe lyrically we always like to write about current messed up events or something that has irked us for a while.

Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lives?

We love to play and write. It's really breaks up the monotony of real life, work and all. We especially love to play the tunes live, in front of people. The heavy, loud music pumping people up is addicting.


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?

We have a pretty constant and steady influx of friends and fans who come to our shows. Its a metal community in the Bay Area and everyone supports each others bands. Its really cool when we play shows and we get the local metal community coming out every time to see us play. It really is humbling.

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?

Since we have given out our music pretty much from day one, any way to reach a new fan is the right way. However, now we are looking to possibly sign a record deal, we have to back off with the free music to see where that goes. If we sign, then there will be push for people to buy the record. We plan on putting a lot of cool stuff inside the record so the fans will have something more that just the music when they buy it.

Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?

Not really. We know what we do, and we know what we like. We are Angerhead. Thrash Metal Punk. It will stay that way.

Bandpicture from Angerhead, (c) by Angerhead, 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?

It happens from time to time. Its a lot of work keeping a band together. We have been through 3 drummers and this is our second bassist. I feel that this is the most solid lineup. When I'm feeling like giving up, I usually call Paul and he centers me again. I try to think about the live shows and the fans, that usually makes me realize I love it and don't want it to end.

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)?

Our last show, Paul got pretty buzzed. He never does that. It was hilarious because he was behind the music. It was a party and they had some really good, potent beer. Hey, this is metal and that was a fun party, so we just rolled with it.

Contact Data

Finally don't hesitate to get in touch with the band using their website or Facebook.

Angerheads band logo, (c) by Angerhead, used with kind permission

 

Let's speak with...Malice (2016)

Malice came around to me as sort a positive sign of the truemetal side of the Heavy Metal genre. I can remember a couple of years ago when I used to listen to more bands of this sidearm of our beloved music but somehow things changed as they do ever so often in life and I began to listen more to other bands.

This band and their debut album "Triumph and Glory" brought back a lot of the good memories to me of the old days so I started to wonder who may be behind this band and what their intentions are to bring on music in such a subgenre of metal that is not heard too often these days when a lot of bands tend to go into the metalcore direction.

Gladly "THE METAL WARRIOR" Rayman James, Bassist and founder of Malice picked up my questions and gave a good insight into what keeps him motivated and how music influences the day to day life as well a a memory of his time on stage.

The cover of the Malice album "Triumph and Glory", (c) by Malice, used with kind permission

 Q. )How did the band come together?

A.) Like Magic it just happened.   I was trying to get it going for a while then the pieces all just fell into Place

Q.)Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?

A.) Inspiration is all around, in other music, or books and movies different stories will inspire things or certain moments in my life will inspire me to write something.  Its really in everything

Q.)Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lifes?

A.)  Well music kinda is my own personal life.  If anything writing and performing kinda hurts the social life and dating life I guess.  But i write or try to write more inspiring and empowering music so in that way It keeps me strong in my day to day life I would say cause I cant write about something I dont live or believe myself.   As far as the personal life and dating life goes it does hurt that. 

Q.)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?

A.) well at gigs it just depends on if we are around before we play or how long we are able to hang out after we play.   We always have a few fans able to catch us and chat a bit, and we do enjoy talking to them as well and knowing they had a good time.   It just dont always work with our schedule to be able to stick around and chat.  Lot of times after we finish its very late and the venue is closing and we have to pack our stuff up and get going. 

Q.)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?

A.) I still prefer to have a hard copy of everything, if I buy music I buy a cd, I am an old timer I guess.

Malice live on stage, Photo credit: MtLProductions.com, used with kind permission

Q.) Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?

A.) is there other styles?  I am who I am and write exactly what I think and believe.   I like this style and genre so this is what I play I couldnt have it any other way.

Q.) 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?

A.) Never give up never surrender.  Music is my blood, my oxygen my life.

The Malice band logo, (c) by Malice, used with kind permission

Q.) 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)?

A.) Oh well there are many things I guess for me the first thing that comes to mind is that I ran onto stage and busted the laces on my leather pants.   These were side lace pants and the spread started to go further down my leg and I started to fall our of my pants.  So I was attempting to still play the guitar while holding my pants from coming open and trying to signal my stage manager to come help me out.   Soon as the song ended I was able to fix the problem but that first song we play is MALICE and lasts a little more than 7 minutes so yeah it was a bit of a situation for me there.

Make sure you'll keep a eye upon Malice. Take a look from time to time on their homepage or give their Facebook page a thumbs up.

Let's speak with...Eternal Voyager (2016)

Eternal Voyager are a truemetal/powermetal band from Minneapolis. Their first album "The Battle Of Eternity" is a great record, a fine discovery for all the fans of bands like Omen, Iced Earth and Hammerfall. If you prefer your music oldschool in both songwriting and production aspects you should give this band a try.

The band Eternal Voyager, (c) by Eternal Voyager, used with kind permission

The band is currently busy recording the second album "Darkened Times" as well as preparing one or two new videos and playing shows. Happily Brian Blake, guitarist and vocalist of Eternal Voyager took the time to answer my questions anyway so have a look on his thoughts about social media, inspiration, digital vs. traditional media, motivation and what strange things may happen when you play a gig...

Heavy Metal Underdogs: How did the band come together?
Brian Blake: Well I am the founder of the band so i started, writing songs well over 15 years ago and, there's been alot of line up changes, over the years. But the resent one came about, In the last couple of years and so far is the best. It was always hard, to find the right guys, but now it's happened. I met them through a couple at a local event, and the others through a musician finding site.

Which sources do you use as inspiration for writing new songs?
alot things really, the musical influences I had growing up and till now, life. It's always been about the true spirit of metal for me, staying true to your beliefs and doing what what u really want to.

Do you feel that writing and performing music helps you to push on further with your own personal lifes?
absolutely, it's the biggest inspiration for me, it's my life therapy. If I didn't do it, or don't do music, I turn ont o a person no one wants to be around. It's that important for me.

Social media surely plays a big role in the communcation between a band and their fans. Do you feel that fans contact you more or less personally at gigs these days?
yeah I think it helps alot, some people may disagree, but it's great for then and business part of it, u can talk with people from all over the world, very easy and yes fans can connect with us directly as well.

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 sell both so people can get it in all forms, but i personally love hard copies of albums, i have a huge and ever-growing collection myself, and I could never just own a digital copy. That's not what metal collecting is about, for me. I like to be able to have a tangible copy that I can look at pics and lyrics in. It's not the same with a digital copy. it's also better quality with a real copy.

The cover of "The Battle Of Eternity" album, (c) by Eternal Voyager, used with kind permission

Have you ever experimented with other styles over the years and thought about changing?
no not really, so different styles come out naturally, of course like trash, black, or folk, but we have been and always will be power heavy true metal. I guess that the style if you will. I think it's best to just write how u feel, and this is what come natural for me. I'd never change the core of what we do, it's not who I am, and the fans wouldn't appreciate it.

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? 
well of course it's been very tough to keep doing this, and yes there's been some time when u want to give up, because things don't work out and u get frustrated. But I could never walk away, it's who I am, and it's what I need to be creative. I've had moments like alot of people have in this business, where, ask your self why is this so hard, but if it was easy , I don't think a person would appreciate it as much when u have successful things happen. Metal is life!

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)?
well that is a tough question, because we had a few crazy things happen. Years ago we when we were a young and very different band, we were playing a gig at a club and there was only a small crowd just sitting at tables watching and not really knowing what to think of what we were doing, and all of a sudden this random guy, just come flying in all by himself and starts moshing and slam dancing all around and then just went right out the back door, and left. We all looked eachother and didn't know what to think. But yes many stories, to many to tell. Thanks for your time and stay metal!!!

The band has some shows this summer / early fall. Check this Facebook post for the exact dates and flyer and make sure you won't miss them out. A good show always can give you a heads up and charge you with the power everyone needs to move on with their lives.

Follow Eternal Voyager through their website or Facebook.

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/

Drooble - a network dedicated to the needs of musicians

Social sites are important to a lot of people these days. As you can see on my blog I include links to plattforms where you can connect with bands and musicians nearly with every post. 

But all of the functions offered on those sites doesn't fit very much for the needs of musicians. I mean: you can read/listen to the stuff, you can write with people, give your comments etc. but it isn't very interactive when it comes to making music itself and earn money with your skills. The existing tools also only fit slightly to create a community, a one-stop place to bring all the people together that are living and loving music from their heart.

Here comes the good news - a team of enthusiasts lead by Melina (a guitarist and a brave entrepreneur) are building a project that is already making a Revolution for all people who love music.

Melina, Founder of Drooble

Imagine a place where you could connect with people who are passionate about music. Where you can learn from others and share your own knowledge and inspiration. Imagine a place where you can grow as a musician and earn a living doing what you love.

This place is Drooble – a web-based platform that connects all people who love music - fans, learning musicians, music teachers, performing artists and bands, record labels, booking agents, sound engineers. Everybody.

Right now in Drooble people can:
- Jam online for free
- Give lessons and get paid
- Take lessons and get better.
- Create Artist/Band Pages
- Find Bandmates and like-minded people

It sounds pretty cool, so if you don’t want to waste another minute, join Drooble today at Drooble.com. It’s free.

If you'd like to know how much the people creating the Drooble network are musicians themenselves just check the video below. It shows Traiko and Melina doing a Joe Satriani cover while taking a small break from working.