Preview: Avaland - Theater Of Sorcery (Theatrical Metal Opera, 2021)

The release is set for April but the story revealed this far already feels like reading a book.

Inspired by heroic fantasy, history, mythologies, and esoterism, bandleader Adrien G. Gzagg decided to create an epic story album with 8 characters. 

Entitled “Theater Of Sorcery”, the debut will be a theatrical metal adventure that tells the story of a young sorcerer Adam Wilstorm who could be the salvation of bringing back the light to the kingdom of Avaland and during his journey, he must learn to control his powers linked to the Storm.  

The first single is the title track of the album. It has the typical broadband sound and refrain inside of it. But besides that I liked to hear that it is also able to keep things basic and simple in the verses. You can feel that that the music doesn't rely just on bombastic elements to keep you entertained. Instead it adds room to enjoy the moment on the simpler parts.

I'm looking forward to this. How will the story evolve ? How are the other chapters of the journey going to sound like ? With a guest list including Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear), Zak Stevens (Savatage/TSO), Zaher Zorgati (Myrath), Emanuelson (Rising Steel), Stéphan Forté (Adagio), Madie (Nightmare) is looks as if it could have very various moments. Keeping guests and instrumentation in mind I think maybe we will be able to follow the story just sitting in front of our stereo.

If you'd like to keep a eye on the release make sure to stick to Avaland's Facebook page. I'm sure more will follow in a not too far distant future.

Victoria K offer live DVD for pre-order

One more idea to enjoy some live music these days is grabbing your trusty DVD player, put in a disc and there you go.

These option for sure goes more for the bigger bands since they often have live recordings on hold that they can put out now. But I was surprised to read that the symphonic metal newcomers Victoria K are about to put out a Digital Versatile Disc as well.

Victoria K surprise us with a live DVD release in January 2021.

 

The release is called "Live Isolation Concert". It was recorded during the pandemic crisis and includes all the songs from the debut album "Essentia" unleashed during April 2020.

The music of the band is for dedicated fans of symphonic metal with intensive female vocals inside of it. It's emotional and sensible all the way. 

The DVD is available for pre-order here: https://bit.ly/VictoriaK_DVD

The live show will be also released as a digital album on the major online stores.

Track Listing:
1. The Haunting
2. Mist Filled Sky
3. Forsaken
4. Humanity
5. Surreal
6. Freaks
7. Shroud of Solitude
8. Lacuna
9. Freedom Uncharted
10. Matrix 

Update 22.01.2021: 

Finally one full track called "Freaks" has been put out for preview. I think it underlines that the DVD priced at 12,99 Euro plus shipping and handling could be well worth it. 

 

"Freaks" is also available for stream and immediate download
Spotify - http://spoti.fi/3q3ezmX
Apple Music - https://apple.co/35pSYgo 

Manach Seherath take us back to first rehearsals with free EP

I love demos! They sound much rougher and direct than polished studio recordings. It's also for me as if I can feel the joy and power a band can have when performing their songs at the rehearsal space.
 
Gladly italian Symphonic Metallers Manach Seherath have decided to let us be the fly on the wall at their rehearsal room.  But they give us even something more special. It's a free EP that holds the recordings of the first rehearsals the band did at all. 

Sneak into the rehearsal room of Manach Seherath, cover (c) by Manach Seherath

 

So if you listen closely now you can re-feel the evolution of tracks like Arti Manthano, Timeless and All in All. Make sure not to miss out this possibility and pick up your free download from the band's homepage.
 

The first post on the Facebook page of the band holds a fast access to all the free downloads the band has on offer. You can also download the first demo of the band as well as the latest full length studio album that came out in 2018.

So if you decide to take the full path of listening you can follow all the steps some of the tracks took over the years.
 
Make sure to follow the band on Facebook or the videoportal YouTube so you won't miss out how the story (hopefully) moves on. 

Another option is using the Manach Seherath app. All the instructions on how to get it are located on the band's homepage.

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

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

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

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

8/23/2019 Los Angeles, CA The Satellite

8/24/2019 San Jose, CA The Ritz

8/25/2019 Sacramento, CA Holy Diver

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

8/28/2019 Seattle, WA Club Sur

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

8/31/2019 Denver, CO Marquis Theater

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

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

9/8/2019 Toronto, ON Velvet Underground

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

Tulip will open up for swedish melodic metal band Evergrey.

Darkwell bridge time with intensive performance video

Symphonic metallers Darkwell released their album "Moloch" to positive reactions some time ago. As the band told me they're currently back in songwriting mode having taken a break before.

The cover of Darkwell's "Moloch" already shows that something different from all the other is going on with the sound of this band.

To help skip the waiting time until something new surfaces the band has taken the chance to put out a live video of the "Moloch" track "Clandestine". That one picked my attention. It captures the joy but also the full concentration the musicians put into their performance really well. It also shows the reactions of the audience starting positive but let's say in a waiting way. They move over to realise the quality of the material and finally giving back with positive feedback.

Make sure to keep track of what's going on further with a like click on Darkwell's Facebook page or see the band's website for updates.

Tragul cover Netflix series intro music

What can bands do to waken some interest in their music? Tragul have done something unusual. They picked the introduction music of the series "Dark" that can be seen on the Netflix streaming service and covered it.

A scene from the video along with the coverart for the Track "Goodybe" from Tragul

Musically it's different from the other songs the band already released in their song-by-song release-string of 2018. It's sort of a haunting piano ballad with touching guitar inserts and words that shine through with it's whispering note all across the whole duration.

On top of all of this the song was mixed and mastered by the renowned film score engineer John Rodd who has been working on everything from major studio feature films (Elysium), television (Breaking Bad), video game projects (Call of Duty: Black Ops II, Assassin’s Creed), and for numerous CDs and soundtrack recordings with artists such as Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Madonna and members of The Rolling Stones, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more.

Originally founded by composer Adrian Benegas, TRAGUL features an insanely talented cast of collaborators that includes Spanish singer Zuberoa Aznarez (Diabulus In Musica), American guitarist Steve Conley (Flotsam and Jetsam), Paraguayan guitarist Diego Bogarín, German bassist Oliver Holzwarth (ex Blind Guardian, ex Rhapsody of Fire, ex Tarja) and Dutch drummer Sander Zoer (ex Delain).

You can pick up a copy of the track from CDBABY, iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Deezer, and on the major platforms digital right now.

Keep a eye on the band through these sites:

Website: www.tragul.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tragulmusic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/tragulmusic

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tragulmusic

Twitter: www.twitter.com/tragulmusic

Ninth Sphere looking for vocalist and share album for free

Dallas, Texas based Symphonic band Ninth Sphere have put out their album "Zenith". Ninth Sphere is the brainchild of guitarist Brian Cravey, one of the original founding members of The Browning, and is heavily influenced by artists such as In Flames, Born of Osiris, Betraying the Martyrs and Architects.

I just had a quick listen into the release and it's fantastic. It gives a redemptive feeling. In addition it shares a lot of positive and dreaming vibes. The tracks have a compact duration so they never feel lengthy or make you feel stressed and overloaded with all the noise. Instead the atmosphere constantly keeps intact also the tracks evolve and change inside each other so much. But they can be followed easily because they always keep the focus on one element at a time. I think that's something not to be found out there too often.

The cover of the "Zenith" album of Ninth Sphere, cover art produced by Nick Baxter

I was so surprised to read that you can pick it up for free but I would love to see people leaving at least a donation for this fine recording. You can listen and download it up from Bandcamp, Soundcloud and the band's own homepage.

In addition to this it's surely a great challenge to all vocalists out there looking for something new and fresh to work on. Currently the band is on the outlook for a person to take over the vocal duties.

Therefore the band is holding open, public auditions for a vocalist. To be considered the band is asking for potential candidates to choose a song from the album and make an audition track and/or video. Submissions can be posted to any of the bands social media accounts like Facebook or emailed to ninthsphereofficial@gmail.com

Have a listen to the music right here.

Ninth Sphere is planning a physical re-release of the 'Zenith'  album once a vocalist is found. They have even more plans for the future. Brian Cravey states, "“After leaving The Browning in 2011 and accomplishing some life long goals outside of music, I decided it was time to get back to a music project.

I’ve been writing this material for a couple of years and finally found a few like minded musicians to join the band. Travis is a true visionary artist and he will create the imagery for the band, as well as holding down bass duties. Dylan is a professional live sound engineer and an amazing drummer. We have big plans for this band and tons of music written. Once we find the perfect voice to finish our sound we will take things to the next level. Expect some live shows and videos very soon!"

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.

CD Review: Manach Seherath - Timeless Tales (Symphonic Heavy Metal, 2018)

A ancient book long lost has been found again...Symphonic Heavy Metaller's Manach Seherath have put out one hell of a epic debut album. 2018 kicks off heavy!

Having heard their demo back in the day it gave me great feelings because it reminded me of a style in metal music long lost. The use of keyboards was outstanding.

The cover of Manach Seherath's debut album Timeless Tales drawn by Roberto Toderico, (c) by Manach Seherath, used with kind permission

Story Telling
This time around the band has taken all of their strengths and exanded them to the very maximum. The biggest one is the ability to give the listener a narrative experience - you know the way a good story is told. But they underlay the fine lyrics with even more power letting their instruments speak out properly and heavily skilled.

What can be found inside?
The album turned out to be a surprise to me. I didn't expect such a fast album when it comes to tempo. Just listen to the opener "The Cursed Collector" and you know what I'm writing about. The vocals have evolved a lot since the days of the demo. There's much more volume and variations in them and they sound more dry and professional this time. Plus they reach much higher parts. Think of the classic vocalists of the 80s and you know what I'm speaking about.

As for the music: there are many diverse sides to be heard on the record. Also the overall style is constant and can be heard as trademark on all of the tracks they vary and every tale has a own vibe and character with it.

There are always changes coming in and I didn't had the feeling that the album became too one-sided instead there were surprises around every corner. I think that's one of the hardest parts for band's like Manach Seherath - to keep the listener entertained. But the band kept a close eye upon this and "Timeless Tales" has many changes in it that will keep you at the stereo. So many details that have been put inside of tracks such as "Restless" or "Chasing The Beast" that will reward re-listeners with many fine moments. The guitar solos for instance are furious. Many times they give a new ignition to a different section of the song.

The timing is challenging on this silver disc. There are fast parts to be heard many times but you can also find slower parts that come creeping through your boxes. "Asleep" is the song that stands out as proof of this for me. I love band's that use this formula but they are rare. This song package holds this special something I'm after. It's hard to believe how the band managed to get all of this together. It's such a big bag of fun to listen. All the up and down's "Sword in the mist" has gives the feeling of experiencing a adventure of depth and intensity yourselves. Close your eyes and you'll feel.

The tracks of the demo have been included at the end of the record but have been outworked and fully professionallised for the album. They sound bolder, straighter and darker this time. Happily the songs have not been changed otherwise too much.

Booklet with a extra
The lyrics have been visualised on the outside of the release and the design of the booklet. I feel that this could be a unique mark this offering could point on the map of releases. There are illustrations to be found that point towards the meaning of each track on the page of the corresponding lyrics . It is one more reason beside all the great music to pick up this album. It's a full feature experience well worth all your money and time.

Purchase-Link and Preview-Track
Make sure to keep a eye on the Manach Seherath Facebook page. That's where you'll be notified where to buy the record but I'll also update this post as soon as the release details come in. Below I can give you a listen to one full track of the album.

You can already purchase this track as a digital single with more songs and bonus material in high quality format at the Bandcamp page of the symphonic Heavy Metal band.

Darkwell give in-depth look into making of videos

Music videos have a long tradition and they have evolved from simple videos to mini-movies. But how are these clips created and what does it take to put them together? It's rare that these questions are answered. Most times you find such making of's on DVD's at the bonus material section.

Female fronted Symphonic metallers Darkwell have given us now a extensive look behind the scenes. The band made two high quality clips for the tracks "Yoshiwara" and "Moloch" both centered around the Metropolis movie theme.

Find out how the band brought the unreal world of the movie to life and what else happened in the five days the clips were shooted. Besides much work you'll also spot some funny scenes and have fine Darkwell music with it. More info on the band and purchase links for their latest album "Moloch" can be found on Facebook.

CD Review: Mercy Isle - Undying Fire (Symphonic Metal, 2016)

A epic piece of symphonic rock and metal that sets it's focus on dedicated listeners of intensive sounds.

Mercy Isle are a American-Dutch symphonic metal/rock band with massive female vocals. The band is a fusion of American pop/rock with elements of European symphonic metal. "Undying Fire" is the first full length release.

The album art for Mercy Isle's "Undying Fire" record, (c) by Mercy Isle, used with kind permission

Summary

Having heard this album several times now it always makes me wonder how deep and completly musicians are able to turn towards music. This album is like it was made to show how much the creators are giving there all and everything into the music.

The longplayer start's out easy with the first three tracks being all songs you would expect of a symphonic metal release these days. The tunes are direct rockers going straight to the meat. You can imagine a crowd going all on it They invite you to let your feelings let go and are a good opener to warm you up for what's to come.

Song four is a ballad turning the tides. Yet easy to access it already becomes more detailed and has some changes in it. This serves as a bridge to "No one will save you" and "Uncaged" both being the hardest to get by tracks. They need the full attention of the listener and are loaded with massive sounds and vocal layers. Being patient pays off and will reveal it's full potential to you.

"I Am" is sort of a crawling number, midtempo all the way but feels warmly welcomed through it's fresh attempt. Something not to be heard that often in this genre of metal. "Saying Goodbye" gives more silent moments - they give you time to take a moment off of the everyday stress and let you dream. The last two tracks give room for the more complex formula deserving higher attention to have the full point. The more often you listen the more you'll enjoy them.

Purchase-Link and Album Preview

If you're after a album that needs several rounds and offers complex and deep song structures "Undying Fire" will give you satisfaction for months. There are also lighter tracks but it surely is for all those that love to focus themselves on music and nothing else. Pick up a copy digitally on Bandcamp or order the silver disc from the same location. The band deserves some bucks for giving us such in-depth music.

For a quick overview I've included the full album stream below.

Upcoming Shows / Contact Data

Some shows have been announced for October 2017 in the Netherlands. Check the band's homepage for more details. Hold a further eye on this band using Reverbnation, Twitter or Facebook.

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.

CD Review: Celestial Ruin - Pandora EP (2016)

Do you remember the myth of the box of the Pandora? It is greek mystery about a ancient box holding a lot of evil. In today's context it is often used as a phrase expressing that with a small decision one can cause a lot of negative consequence as a result.
How would it sound like if you opened up the box of the Pandora? The symphonic band Celestial Ruin has created a record that could be a soundtrack to such a experience. Open the box right now. There's no risk for you this time but a lot of great music you can find...


Summary

It's a deep and meaningfull record. Besides the obvious female symphonic surface this output has a lot more to offer than similar EPs. It starts with the song structures which build up in a more clever way. It's far more subtle and you need to listen closely so you won't miss out on the fine elements that are kept inside.

The songs build up step by step through a good part of the duration and often redemption awaits at the end rewarding you for your listening patience. Overall the music comes around in a slower tempo compared to other band's of the same genre but if you prefer a intense, emotion-breathing atmosphere over fast rhtyhm patterns you will find a lot of satisfaction through listening to the Pandora EP.

It's a intense experience reflecting a lot of passion that has gone into the making of Pandora. You'll feel this when you take a closer ear to the guitar solos, the powerfull vocals and the overall fine-tuned sound package the whole band banned on tape.

The cover of Celestial Ruin's Pandora EP, (c) by Celestial Ruin, used with kind permission

Meaning of the lyrics

Lyrically the EP talks a lot about life experiences. They are thought out in detail and every track comes with a deep and meaningfull message. I'll list up a resume statement below so you have a idea of what the lyrics are all about.

Vocalist Larissa Dawn comments on the tracks of the EP:

“All the lyrics on "Pandora" were written about unleashing destruction into the world. Chaos caused by all the pain that negative emotions can create. A sort of cause and effect scenario. Each of the songs tells a different story and explores what happens when you make the wrong decision or fail to make any decision at all. Remaining stagnant and letting the world collapse in on you. The only song that kind of swerves from this theme is "No Quarter", this song is more of a movie told through song. It follows the story of infamous pirate Davy Jones and the battle that ensues between him and a rival ship.

Pandora has a much darker feel to it and I hope it paints different pictures in peoples minds when they hear it. I want them to be able to imagine exactly what is going on, like it's their own personal movie.”


Purchase-Link

You can pick up a digital copy of "Pandora" through the band's homepage or order one of the silver discs that are available there as well. Alternatively you can buy a digital copy via iTunes.

Please support such outworked creations with your purchase. Bands can only survive and continue with your own personal support. They'll thank you with more music and concerts taking you far away from your everyday troubles.

Connect with Celestial Ruin through the well known social channels such as Facebook, Twitter or add them on Youtube to your watch list.

Interview with Mistheria about Vivaldi Metal Project.com (2016)

(c) by Vivaldi Metal Project, used with kind permission

Short Introduction
 
The all-metal-stars VIVALDI METAL PROJECT involves 70+ world-famous musicians from all around the globe such as

Rick Wakeman (YES), Michael Lepond (SymphonyX), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire / Angra), Rob Rock (Impellitteri), Dani Loeble (Helloween), Marco Sfogli (J. LaBrie), Andreas Passmark (Royal Hunt), Chris Caffery (Trans Siberian Orchestra / Savatage), Steve Di Giorgio (Testament), Atma Anur (T. MacAlpine, G. Howe), Tommy Denander (Radioactive / Toto)

The Project will make a Metal version of Antonio Vivaldi's legendary masterpiece “THE FOUR SEASONS”. Moreover, the project features the "Sinfonietta Consonus Symphonic Orchestra" conducted by Szymon Morus and the "Academic Choir Manolov" conducted by Darena Popova. Here you can hear a short trailer:


The international Vivaldi Metal Project was launched at the end of 2013 by keyboardist, composer and producer Mistheria (solo artist who also worked with such top artists as Bruce Dickinson, Rob Rock, RoyZ among others) together with his co-producer, bassist/composer Alberto Rigoni (solo artist,TwinSpirits).
The album release is set on 2016. More names will be unveiled soon!

In the meantime, The Vivaldi Metal Project launched a crowdfunding campaign on PledgeMusic with the album pre-sales (will be available as mp3 for digital download or USB key and on CD) and various additional exclusive options such as autographed CDs, CD boxes, Skype interviews, online lessons and shows. A part of donations will be used for charity purposes. More information is available at this location: http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/vivaldi-metal
The campaign is up and running so there's still a chance of picking up one of the exclusive offers.

Heavy Metal Underdogs was very curious when we first heard about the project. Happily we had the chance to talk to one of the masterminds behind the project (Mistheria). Find out how it's like to be when the production of such a massive project lies in your hands, the current status of the ongoing recording process and get to know about the further future plans in this interview. 

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Who had the initial idea to the project?

Mistheria: Hi Joern! I've started thinking to a symphonic-metal remake of the Vivaldi's "The Four Season" several years ago, then on 2013 I made a demo to check how it would have sounded, I liked the idea and moved ahead...

Why did you pick the four seasons suite?

M: I've been listening to this masterwork thousand of times during my life, simply I love it! Then I found a Piano reduction score (quite rare music sheet) and played it time by time for my personal enjoyment, but then the vigorous rhythmic, the wonderful melodies and metal-oriented harmonies convinced me to arrange them mixing my two favorite genres, Classical and Metal.

Is Vivaldi amongst your favorites / influences that made you start with music?

M: Definitely yes! I was a kid, and I found a Classical collection in the newsstand and asked to my parents to buy the first issue, it was dedicated to Bach, Handel and Vivaldi ...

Why did you decide to split up all the several parts to various musicians instead of sticking to only a few?

M: Because I think to Classical music and Vivaldi are an "universal world of music" that artists must live and enjoy together and give, each one, his/her own contribution, like in the real world each of us make possible the other people living through his/her own job and activity, in the same way each artist should contribute creating this metal-opera adding personal talent, musicality, feel and love.

Mistheria in the studio, (c) by Mistheria, used with kind permission

Can you please give a little overview on the steps that were necessary to build up such a massive project? I know at least that it needed around two years of preparation before the project could start into the recording phase.

M: The basic idea was that I'd have arranged the full opera and give the parts to the various artists, something I do for my solo albums. So I made couple arrangements but then I felt that it would have been a new album of mine instead to be a real “project”. So, one day I submitted my idea to involve other arrangers to my co-producer Alberto Rigoni, he loved the idea as well. So, I've started calling some friends that, I knew, they would have loved work on it as arranger and afterward we launched some contests to engage new arrangers. This took some months since I had to collect demos, listen and analyze them, give directions, suggesting changes, etc. Meanwhile, artists were invited as performers and we've started receiving lot of requests from any artists to participate (still arriving in our inbox as we talk...). A lot of material for me to check and sort out... We started recordings after year and half since the project has been launched.

Can you already give a little insight on who will exactly play which part of the suite or should it be kept as a surprise until the release of the record?

M: Well, time by time we post on our social networks about recordings progress and the most of time we also mention the songs that they have worked on... the exact lineup of each song is not complete yet so we cannot give it out, several artists are still recording, some parts can be switched among artists for production needs, etc. However, following us on www.facebook.com/vivaldimetalproject anyone can try to collect the info and for some songs maybe already get the final picture.. ;-)

Is the list of musicians contributing to the project already complete or can people who would be interested in joining the project still get in touch with you?

M: Let's say that the 90% of lineup is complete. We have a “waiting list” quite long of musicians (many of time very excellent artists) which already sent their request time ago, but, you know, it's pretty impossible to give a spot to everybody at the moment, because we're looking now to fill some very specific parts which require very specific requirements. Sometime I give a look back to the guest-list and pick some artist which I think can complete some parts still unassigned, etc. Some artists have been recalled after one year … sometime it is not a nice job to do for me and especially I hate to say no to someone which would have loved to participate, I thank always for understanding.

Mistheria and Alberto Rigoni, (c) by Mistheria and Alberto Rigoni, used with kind permission

  
How did you find the best fitting musician for each part of the suite?

M: As said, I needed and still need hours per day to analyze artists' skills, a proper study on their works and musical attitudes (of course except the well known artists which I've already worked with or that I simply know from their past albums). Then I write down some memos and immediately assign them to a song, although not as a definitive choice. Then, days after I'm back to that assignment, checking if I was right or maybe need to change it, etc. A long process, sometime choices are hard to make and at risk, but that's my job here...

Will the finished product also include parts of modern metal music (use of harsh effects, brutal production, low tuned guitars etc.) or do you prefer a more classic attempt on the songwriting?

M: I love some intersection of genres although keeping always tightly the final goal. I've required some harsh parts, low tuned guitars, etc. during the recordings, and during the mix we'll tune and add them even more.

Do you think their will be live-performances of the album with at  least some of the musicians that contributed to the project in the future?

M: There is already an idea about it and we've already got some interesting and nice proposals for live shows. I cannot focus on it right now, since my main job at the moment is to complete the recordings and mix the album. Several artists which recorded on the album have already given their availability for live performances. There are already some collaborators and agencies working on it, we'd really love the Vivaldi Metal Project live on stage!

Do you see the chance of putting together a DVD one day that shows the making of the recordings in detail?

M: This could be a very nice idea although it's the first time someone asks me about. Well, sure it'd be interesting as a “bonus” material and we've definitely to consider it, I'll pass your idea to my staff... thanks for such a great suggestion! ;-)


All the best and have a great rockin' weekend :)

M: Thanks to you Joern and to all Heavy Metal Underdogs readers! Please, keep following the Vivaldi Metal Project on www.vivaldimetalproject.com

Elferya streams first track of new album "Eden's Fall"

Female voices can be such a strong element in the sound of a band! This sentence came to my mind when I listened to a track of the brand new Elferya record, that has hit the shelves exactly one month ago.

(c) by Elferya, used with kind permission

This one touches my mind so deeply because it has such a intensive atmosphere to offer. That starts out with the many variations in the vocals in the first part of "Cruel Night". If fits so perfectly to the stomping power and the heavyness of the track.

The second part is set up with the music taking a bigger role and getting louder all the while. Yet the vocals keep up it's massive impression on the listener. It all comes over to me as a sort of musical expression full of passion. It feels as if you're giving your all and everything of  your spirit and the feelings of this very moment into this one piece of music. Just check out this epic piece of music.


Elferya are a melodic symphonic power metal band based in Switzerland. Also the band is unsigned yet they managed to gather quite a impressive Fanbase on Facebook already.

(c) by Elferya, used with kind permission

Elferya is going to celebrate the album release with a mini-tour in their homeland starting already today. Here are the dates.

10.10.2015 Switzerland, Avenches, Aventicum Culture Club

23.10.2015 Switzerland, Versoix, Caves de Bonséjour

30.10.2015 Switzerland, Echallens, ZR Live Music

29.11.2015 Switzerland, Pratteln, Z7

You can purchase the full length album directly through the band's webshop. If you're yet not sure if the record meets you expectations check out the album trailer below. It is short, but gives a good overview on the album and also some insight into the recordings of the record. Also make sure to see the official website for more album trailers and videos.

Manach Seherath to play first show with new guitarist

Happily Symphonic Heavy Metal Band Manach Seherath found a new guitarist after some time of rehearsing several candidates. The new man on the guitar is called Joe Dardano (ex-Marshall; ex-Heavenshine).

In addition to this already great news the band announced their next live show, which is going to take place on 30th of September 2015 at Hades Pub in Naples. The band will play stuff from their first demo as well as give a insight into the upcoming album. There will be no entrance fee taken so don't miss out this show and band. See the promo poster for all the details of this event.

Posted by Avernus Media on Dienstag, 1. September 2015

The opening act on this evening will be thrash-black metal outfit Terrorfront, a band from Naples,too. They have a EP coming up called "We don't come in peace" and will kick in to the evening with a very raw and heavy package of music. The single for the EP already sounds promising so get ready for them.

Make sure to let the people out there know that you'll take part on the show through the Facebook event page and invite all of your friends to this special night full of metal!

In the meantime check out some music from both bands in the player below.

CD Review: Darling Down - Never Tell

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

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

Short Introduction 

The band in my eyes is a classic symphonic metal band which is termined by the haunting, strong and sometimes even fragile voice of lead vocalist Amanda Legault as well as through the hard, compact guitar riffs while the rhythm section keeps the punch constantly and heavily moving forward.

Committed to lyrically thoughtful and melodically engrossing songwriting with powerful hooks, Darling Down's lyrically relatable songs full of enough edginess, passion and real life to appeal to a wide audience. The deep lyrics are sometimes juxtaposed with eerily strong, pretty vocals and heavy guitars, as on their earlier recording, “Revenge is Sweet Like Cherries.”

In 2014 Darling Down released the new album, “Never Tell,” produced by the nationally acclaimed producer/ engineer/mixer Chuck Alkazian (Soundgarden, Trust Company, Pop Evil) and recorded at Pearl Sound Studios. “Never Tell". This album features guest appearances by Clint Lowery of Sevendust, Vinnie Dombrowski of Sponge, Stephen Richards of Taproot, and Brett Hestla of Dark New Day.

(c) by Darling Down, used with kind permission

The band has performed alongside many notable acts including Theory of a Deadman, Nonpoint, Taproot, Smile Empty Soul, Pop Evil, Red, Ra, Framing Hanley, Saving Abel, Evans Blue, Saliva, Hed PE, Mushoomhead and many more. Make sure to see the linked websites for tourdates and more information.

Official website: www.darlingdown.com
Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/darlingdown
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darlingdownband

Summary / Purchase Links / Player

The record comes as a package full of beautifull and heartfelt music. While the music is kept straight forward and comes directly to the point with the pumping rhythm and sharp guitar riffs and effects (very cool effects at some parts that really rip the tone for a while) it's also the contrast with the female vocals that gives this album such a great atmosphere.

Those vocals are set with many variations. Sometimes they are powerfull and strong, sometimes you can feel the doubt in there and some parts feel like fragile, broken pieces. There are quite some parts in there where you party to the music but there are as much in there that will make you think again or even cry a bit.

"Never tell" is a superb record which should find a lot of fans out there, especially if you like music in the style of Evanescence or In This Moment you should definitely give the songs in the player a listen. The fine thing about this record is that it comes with so many various songs on it. So it will feel like a musical journey when you listen to it - something which only very few records offer to the listener.

The album has been released worlwide digitally, so you can purchase it directly through itunes or at the Amazon MP3 Store. If you prefer to download music to your Smartphone you might like the possibility to download the album at the Google Play store.

Update 2015/06/24: If you're in need to save some money you can purchase a "Value Edition" of the album the band just released via Bandcamp. It contains the first seven tracks of the album so it misses out the softer songs of record but you'll only need to pay 5 Dollars to get your hands on this. 

 
Track-by-track review

Pressure (feat. Stephen Richards)
A direct and very powerfull start to the album. The song goes straight forward and the vocals show the direction - while kept more compact in the verses it's the refrain with releases the Pressure unleashing the full vocal power and letting some of the pressure burn. The guest appeareance of Stephen Richards adds some diversity and surprise towards the songs end. Great opener!

Collide (feat. Clint Lowery)
Pumping, hard riff and rhythm starting this one. This goes over to a straight rocking number and back to the compact riff of the beginning again. A soft refrain giving it a softer note. Very melodic and direct tune.
   
Scars
The song start directly with music and vocals together. Pumping riff in here with a very catchy refrain that perfectly fits to the message of the lyrics and reveals some fragileness that makes the music of Darling Down so special. The guitar effect ripps this nicely up and will make you even more remind this one.

Never Tell
A burning riff kicks this one in before we are lead over to a sharp riff-hacker. The refrain gathers a lot of guitar power along with straight vocals keeping it more straight forward yet with a yelling ending that lasts at especially at the end for a good amount of time and ends with a hard riff-cut.

Empty Nights
It's time to relax a bit. A beautifull half-ballad with much power and technical finesse. Strong refrain showing even more of the deep emotions Amanda Legault is able to transport through her voice. Very cool ending giving some live-feeling towards the record (as if you're directly with them in the studio).

(c) Darling Down, used with kind permission

No Expectations
Some variation in here. A slower midtempo number with some nice bass guitar arrangements. A fine solo section part you wouldn't expect - a surprise on the first listen and also fine for listening again to it. The song burns out in blast of melody and great vocals - so much intensive feelings in here.

Gypsy Soul
Anothere diverse track showing a different side to the band's sound and giving a good idea on other musicial sides this band is also able to perform. Softer and slower tune yet with a very intensive refrain. A good bridge to the upcoming tracks which are all softer.

Sex Drugs & Rock 'n' Roll
Surely not what you would expect from the title. Not a party song, not a track saying it's good. But surely one saying it's time to get sober again. A very fragile and sensible acoustic ballad with great vocals.  

Scars (Acoustic)
What can be made of such a powerfull track when transformed into a acoustic track? This example shows how great this can turn out. The message comes out even stronger. If you like the distorted version already you'll love this one. Hope they'll do it live one or another day.

Empty Nights (Orchestral Mix)
Soft orchestration was carefully added to the outstanding vocal performance giving this a more breath taking atmosphere. This gives so much positive vibes that you don't want to let it go. A great song to end this fine album with. I've given it a repeat immediately and will do again and again. Go and get this album!

Darling Down release cinematic video for "Never Tell"

Music videos have become a important part to all the musicians out there. It looks sort of "common" to put out a video if you have a new release coming or already out.

But it's seldomely coming along that these videos have a quality that could even fit for showing off in a cinema. Such came to my mind when I saw Darling Down's video of "Never Tell". It could be taken out of one of those hard action films where things are set on trial and survival or death is what is the question.

While musically held as a strong symphonic metal band with very intense, female vocals the clip not "only" has a story which is worth following but it also makes use of special effects.



Those were also a big surprise to the band. By the end of the day the drummer of the band Ryan Hudson had to say about doing the movie:

"The best part of the video is all the gore. We filmed it with inspiration from Eli Roth and Quentin Tarantino. I was surprised to learn how the special effects makeup artist made blood splatter. Let’s just say there was a lot of spitting."

(c) by Darling Down, used with kind permission

The band has some shows on the list in the USA, you could be happy to be able to check them out very soon (please note that the Nashville show already takes place today):

 May 05  FooBar Nashville, TN    
 May 15  MVP Sports Bar & Grill , OH    
 May 24 Brauerhouse Lombard, IL    
 May 29 Blacklite Lounge , MI    
 May 30 Betsie River Music Festival Thompsonville, MI    
 Jun 12  Here's To You Pub and Grub Hillsdale, MI    
 Jun 13  The Playground Stony Lake, MI    
 Jun 18  5th Quarter Lounge Indianapolis, IN    
 Jun 19  The Music Factory Battle Creek, MI    
 Jun 20  Jersey's Tavern Tecumseh, MI  
 Jul 10  Czars 505 St Joseph, MI

The album of the same name like the video "Never Tell" has already been released and can be purchased on all digital retail stores for example via itunes.

Make sure to follow the band on social channels like Facebook or Twitter or have a look on their homepage.

Manach Seherath searching for guitarist

Manach Seherath is a Symphonic Heavy Metal band based at Naples, Italy. The name of the band means in a dead ancient language 'to draw from the source'. This cryptic phrase, with all that it hides, is well representative of the marriage of heavy rhytms with epic keyboards and mysterious lyrics, which togheter make the trademark of M.S. sound: a modern heavy metal band which doesn't forget the gloomy lessons of the past.

(c) by Manach Seherath, used with kind permission

The band has recently posted a seach for a guitarist on Facebook to complete their line-up again.  The old guitarist Minus Karma left the band because of health problems. Here is what the band wrote regarding the search for a new guitarist:

"We are looking for a guitarist
Do you want to know more?
Send us an email: manach.seherath@virgilio.it "

I'm pretty sure you want to know how the band sounds like before getting in touch with them. Make sure to check the first demo below and to get a copy of the songs since they are available for free download from the Soundcloud account of the band. It surely is fun to use them for a play along and remember to email the band once you've done...

CD Review: Light Among Shadows - Welcome...Back!

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

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

Short Introduction

Light Among Shadows are a female fronted symphonic metal band from the south of Spain. In the past years the band released two full length albums entitled "At the Gates of Dawn" in 2011 and only one year later "Welcome...Back!" and toured with both records in the meantime. The style of the band is inspired by fairy tales and horror stories.

At the moment the band is working on the third record with María Barragán on vocals.
This review talks about the second release of the band named "Welcome...back!" with Tatjana Klee, the female voice of the band performing the vocal tracks on the songs of the first two albums.

(c) by Light Among Shadows, used with kind permission

Summary / Player / Purchase-Link

I like albums like these very much. While they are very smphonic and detailed bands like Light Among Shadows keep the heavyness straight in which means that the power doesn't get lost in all the details and sometimes epicness of the tracks.

What we have here is a very riff-oriented album with very outworked vocals on all tracks. You can hear and feel that a lot of time has been spent making the tracks sound perfect. The drums are pushing hard forward with gives the album the extra power. Luckily enough it's not only a album full of smashing tracks but also has a lot of softer moments to offer and never misses out the melody to keep the tracks heart-touching. All in all the album comes with much diversity and often changing parts that can be found in each song.

Please check out this album and if you like go and buy this record to support bands like this one and to have a diamond in your collection that will shine on through moments in life when there's darkness around you. It's well worth it.

The album can be purchased in digital format in stores like Amazon or itunes. Also make sure to have a listen to it first in the Spotify player below. The video for the title track is also one everyone should have a look at. It tells the story of the album compressed in one video so it's a short film which is highly recommended by me and can be seen below in the track by track section.




Track-by-Track review

Welcome...Back!
Very heavy and compact start of the album, much riff-along to the double-bass attack. The refrain comes straight from the heart. A perfect kick in for the album.




Children of the Underworld
Riff-oriented midtempo rocker. The refrain pushes up the speed and makes one want to sing along. Think this could turn out very well on a live show.

When you close your eyes
A balladesque intro followed up by a riff storm intermezzo start this one. A softer bridge leads over to a riff-hacking stomping track. The beautifull vocals are giving it a warm touch. This track is very diverse and shows a wide range of emotions in it. Music speaks out so much more than words could ever do...

Homecoming
A spoken, soft dreaming intermezzo giving the listener a moment to take a break. I like it when a album has parts like this that give you a little pause before the journey goes on.

Of wonder and horror
It's a strong, riff pounding track with stretched vocals and a slightly progressive touch in it. This track needs some time to sink in, so a re-listen is recommended to get the full point in this one.

Through the maze of thorns
A song with a powerfull, hard intro going over to a softer first verse and a pushing refrain. This piece of music has many changes between soft and hard parts in them while the vocals come in majestic and also some spoken verses are inside which surprises the listener. Great solos here. A long and very intensive track.

(c) by Light Among Shadows, used with kind permission

Lost in a sea of nightmares
A powerfull start followed by softer but a bit reverbed vocal parts. It goes over back to the intro rhythm then. This song plays a lot with diversity in the vocals which seem to fit to the theme of the lyrics so it fits very well here.

Mirage

Some time for relaxing again. A soft spoken bridge leading over to the next song.

Dreamshaping

The intro starts soft and the guitars play around with the songs theme. A rougher refrain while the rest comes with a slightly balladesque feeling to it. The end has a effect sort of a redemption feeling to the writer of these lines. A warmly welcomed feeling.

The world behind the mask

The push-in goes fast with a soft going-over while the refrain presents in a slow and stomping way. The feeling overall in this track is somewhat ghostly with many fast changing parts in them. The end comes as a overburning experience which gives more redemption feeling while the end is soft and slowly fading away leaving one behind with many thoughts...

A tarnished mirror

Time for another break! Another soft intermission with dreaming notes in them. The drums are kept very hard and cold on "A tarnished mirror".

Back to where you've never been

We start with a compact riff before vocals and drums are the only things that can be heard. The riffs are set very hard here and the track is catchy. The refrain is outworked a lot with many layers of vocals all around. You'll surely remember this one once heard.

Alone

A soft start and the song moving forwards slowly. The changes between soft and hard parts are arranged epicly with a outstanding solo in here. The vocals are also set in a epic direction while the tonality overall is set on heavyness with a focus on working out the details a lot.