EP Review: The Great Lie - Burners (Hardcore/Punk, 2022)

Life is short. The Great Lie seem to have used this saying and put together a EP that goes straight to the meat.

The New York based band put's out a open stylistic EP called Burners.

It's main ingredient is a strong basis of heavyness. The tight drums and guitar sections make sure it all sticks rough and dirty together.

From it's stylistic "Burners" is a open release taking advantage of many styles of the heavy music genre. You can spot potions of Hardcore, Punk, Thrash and Metal all the way. The band makes sure the journey never becomes monotone because the five short tracks (the longest one is three minutes in duration) quickly change from one part to another. 

My favorite is the opener "Amputee" with it's change between vocals that stand alone in some moments and other segments where the rest of the band pushes in with all of it's sheer power bringing the whole song into a rush of fury. 

Partly It feels a bit like progressive Metal to me when I listen to the music on this EP. The dry production adds to this feeling. Happily the songs are very straight forward (just listen to "Winters Death") so things never become too complicated to follow.

You can pickup the digital release at a price of your choice from Bandcamp. As a alternative "Burners" can be added and listened to on Spotify. Please add them to your playlists so your friends can check them out, too.

Finally Facebook will help you to keep on track how the story of the band evolves further.

All Depraved take a stand against bullying

Bullying someone is no fun. It hurts the person heavily inside. You can see no scars because it's all "just words" that have damaged someone so bad.

I'm sure a lot of people in today's society suffer psychological problems caused by bullying. It's such a bad thing that needs to be spoken of far more in public and most of all removed.

The All Depraved put out a song with a important subject.

I'm glad thrashers All Depraved picked up this topic and put out a song with a proper title. People who commit bullying really "Don't care what's wrong or right" anymore. I hope this song helps to make more people sensible that this is a serious problem. 

If you see someone who is affected by this please them. Show courage and don't look away - fight against bullying!

Musically it's packed in a fat riff that spreads a lot of positive up-powering energy. You can hear the fun the musicians transport with their performance. I think they had a lot of fun putting the song together. Throughout all the heavyness you'll spot lighter moments that let the song breathe and prevent it from becoming monotone or overloaded in just one style.

Make sure to follow the band on Facebook. I'm sure they will have to say a lot more in the future. 

JamArt shares mystic metal with Wanted Dead single

This is music the way I would like to write it myselves. 

The cover by WormRot adds to the mystical atmosphere of the music.

The single takes you from rough, dirty riffing stages over to midtempo and crawling material. Finally it sends you to a soft and dreaming place just before it erupts like a vulcano into a passage of raw thrashing. 

The end comes like the start but with more details worked into the sound. The whole single comes in a compact sound shell that gives a thick sound feeling. All the sounds have been kept close to each other to give a strong atmosphere. Fine headbanger stuff in here. 

Well, let's see what the album holds that's slated for a August 2021 release and is already up for pre-order through Rockpit Records. The tracklist reads as follows 

Wanted dead
Cuxt
War King Cross
Public Killing
Disgrace
Djinn
Canvass Black
BanCkull

 

Make sure to hold on to the project through a follow click on Facebook or Instagram.  

Livestream Calendar opens it's doors

Currently the only way to have liveshows for musicians goes over the route of the World Wide Web. In the course of the recent days I got some info for upcoming shows I'd like to hand further to you.

Most of the performances are offered for free. If you can somehow support the musicians and / or organizers please do so with handing some bucks through the donation channels mentioned on the event pages.

Upcoming shows

17.7.2020 22h CEST Victoria K. (Symphonic Metal), free
https://www.twitch.t0v/rockshotsrecords

18.07.2020 Bang your head Open Air Online Special. Start time 16h CEST, free
Music clips, full shows, talks, behind the scene material from past years and more.
www.youtube.com/user/byhfestival

18.07.2020 Dance Gavin Dance (Post Hardcore), paid
https://www.dancegavindance.live/

18.07.2020 18:30-23:30 GMT Wolf Jaw, Hollowstar, Black Tree Vultures and False Hearts (Rock), £12.50 per Ticket
Live-Performances and Interviews and interactive Q&A sessions. The event will be hosted by Pete K Mally and Natalie Asteria.
https://www.wegottickets.com/event/502115

If you have info on upcoming shows please don't hesitate and send them my way. 

You may also leave a comment below or send stuff with a message through the Facebook page for the Heavy Metal Underdogs blog.

Past shows

Jupiter Hollow (Prog Metal), free
29.06.2020 (8:00 pm - EST)
30.06.2020 (8:00 pm - EST)
01.07.2020 (6:00 pm - EST)*
02.07.2020 (8:00 pm - EST)
* (Show on Canada Day will only be 50-60 mins)
Facebook.com/JupiterHollowOfficial 
IInstagram.com/jupiterhollow_

Candlemass (Doom Metal), paid
03.07.2020 20-22h CEST
https://blackbox.solidtango.com/live/candelmass-live-from-studio-grondahl?utm_source=Press+News&utm_campaign=1cb52f86ef-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_05_24_09_58_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7e4e555b47-1cb52f86ef-26346391

Monte Luna (Doom), free
July 3rd at 6:30 pm PDT
https://youtu.be/F404rOYGJ_A

03. & 04.07.2020 Lost Horizon - Festival, free
feat. Tallah (Nu Core Metallers with Max Portnoy on drums)
https://www.losthorizonfestival.com

The logo of the Lost Hoizon Festival

04.07.2020 Anvil (Thrash), paid
The event will begin at the following times: Saturday, July 4th at 5pm (EST), 10pm (UK), 11pm (CET) and Sunday, July 5th for 6am (JAP), 7am (AUS).
https://thepointofsale.com/tickets/d7p200704001

Until July 14th there's a chance to see the show (again) if you missed it out or want to watch it a second time (it's still a paid stream).
https://thepointofsale.com/tickets/abs200707001

04.07.2020 Space Of Variations (Modern Metal),
8:00pm Kyiv time/7:00pm CET, free
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAcsDTlPlUZmBBcdpqRRMCA

09.07.2020 Jinjer (Modern Metal), concert recording, free
www.knotfest.com

10.07.2020 Trivium (Modern Metal), paid, 20h CET
http://live.trivium.org

11.07.2020 Leatherjacks (Rock), free 06:00-09:00 UTC-03
https://www.indiestarradio.com/

11.07.2020 Magistarium (Power Metal), free, 20h CET
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yyBR46IB-zQ

CD Review: Solitary - XXV (Thrash, 2019)

I need to admit that I had some initial starting problems with this band. Their newer output always felt a bit close soundwise to Metallica to me so I always choose to not review them. This brandnew EP changed that for the much better.

The cover of Solitry's upcoming anniversary EP XXV, (c) by Solitary

25 years are Solitary already thrashing around their brand of music. These days the band put's out a EP that celebrates this with three re-recordings of classics plus two live recordings of older material.  What convinced me this time so much? It's the high pressure the UK based band put's into their sound. I've seldomely come around any combo that set's such a massive bar when it comes to creating their noise.

It almost feels like using a high pressure cleaner. You know cleaning with water helps in normal situations. But this one blasts every little thing of dirt away. But it's not only the brutality. It's also the changes and little part's included with the songs. There are always intermissions present that give room for letting off some of the steam. They leave space to headbang all around. You know the change to a more midtemo format. It's all those stuff that makes you smile once you've gone through the tracks.

The live tracks "Architects Of Shame" and "The Diseased Heart of Society" are something special in my ears. It's one thing to be heavy in the studio but another one to be so live. Solitary prove with this unpolished tunes that they can give it live in the same brutal way.

I love the drums sound. This high pitched snare along with the much deeper bass drums kicks it the perfect way. Especially the last track shows that more complex and progressive structures are also something they learned to master in their long lasting carrer.

The EP will be released on August 9th. Currently there's no preview snippet available. Keep a eye on Facebook, maybe something will show up in the coming time.

Support the band with a pre-order of the EP through Solitary's own website. It will help them to tour more and put out more music. Next stops on the touring schedule are Aggressive Music Fest this weekend (19th and 20th July 2019) and Bloodstock Open Air 2019.

Drop Oblivion release wicked performance video

It's a difference for me if I listen to music alone or watch a video with it. Most of the time I feel more drawn towards the music every time I watch the music video that belongs to the track.

It's been this way with the brand new video of death 'n' thrashers Drop Oblivion. While the visuals set a dark and wicked theme the music holds a constant push.

The cover of the single "Damaged Good", (c) by Drop Oblivion

What I love so much about this particular one is that the guitars move so slowly and constantly inside. The riffs remain creeping in more and more with the duration going on. Plus the small guitar effects towards the end give it a more ears up while watching. The cool thing is that in all the dark theme the video holds the ending makes me smile and it leaves a good feeling in me behind.



Make sure to pick a copy of the track on Bandcamp. Or pick the whole EP "Narcissistic Counselor", you won't regret. It's all well worth your full hard earned coins. Finally follow the project further on Facebook.

CD Review: Wreck-Defy - Remnants Of Pain (Thrash, 2019)

Nothing had been announced before the release. Now Aaron Randall (vocals, ex-Annihilator) and Greg Christian (Bass, ex-Testament) both return to the scene with a oldschool thrash format that added all evolutional steps until today with it and also leaves room for cool moments and atmosphere.

The album cover tells us that some oldschool-vibe can be found inside of the package

Summary
This means that the songs are build up the way you are used to from your classics but some small pieces signalise that few but important parts changed for the better. First off the vocals rip it up. I love to hear what Aaron Randall can do with his voice. He's going on it the agressive way. Forget the commercial vox you've heard of him before. This one is real thrash all the way.

As for the all of the guitars and drums: they go a far more powerfull direction on this one. That's the modern parts I spoke of before. The whole album blows out the pure strength the musicians put inside of it. Today more of this can be captured than ever before. The producer Juan Urteaga did a great job on "Remnants Of Pain". This is raw energy going all the full album duration.

This goes especially for the drums. They are held a overall lighter way soundwise yet they give a heavy hitting note while listening.

Some tracks go a cool direction and a bit apart from the fast thrash blowing notes. "Art Of Addiction" is a groove-oriented one that share's a little easier feeling yet it's still thrashing stuff. Similar goes for "The Devide", a midtempo thrasher which sources much of it's fun through it's going straight all the way with a direct riff.  "Angels and Demons" also comes out of the speakers in a mixed way. Some parts are lighter while other times the riffs dominante, all packed in a more midtempo style.

All in all I would highly recommend this to all the thrashers out there. You'll get a lot of fun out of this one. While it's easy to quickly get into the sound of the CD it also leaves enough room for re-listening and discoveries afterwards. It's well worth your money and time.

Purchase-Link and Pre-Listening
"Remnants Of Pain" is sold the oldschool way on a CD with the typical look of such a thrash record (frontcover plus black backside with tracklist on it). You can order directly from Wreck-Defy via Facebook. One CD comes around for $15 CAD plus shipping and handling. If you're lucky enough you may receive it along with a free bumper sticker.

If you need to have it faster then there's the chance to pick up a download of the album through Bandcamp in a format of your choice. This means you can have the files at the same quality level like on a CD or in any other format that you prefer for mobile listening nearly instantly. Listen to the album right here.

David Ellefson to tell his Basstory on upcoming clinics

Do you remember the bass riff that opens the song "Peace sells but who's buying"? I've heard it many times and sure as that it is one of the many great one's that can beard in the music of Megadeth. Just think of "Architecture of Agression" of the Countdown to Extinction album.

So how are these riffs played and how did they came to life? David Ellefson himself is going to give some insight into his playing techniques as well as he will tell background stories that have not been shared before in the string of upcoming clinics.

The flyer for the Basstory clinic sessions, many more dates can be found below

Be sure to visit his bass clinics entitled "Basstory" already starting this week in the US and continuing over the next couple of weeks further to Europe.

There will be opening acts on many nights so be sure to show up early - you will not want to miss the opportunity to warm up with some music. Those special guests vary from date to date. So far Bumblefoot (ex-Guns N’ Roses, Sons of Apollo), Dead By Wednesday as well as Green Death and Wrath have been confirmed. Please check the list for all the details.

BASSTORY will also include special VIP meet and greets, exclusive merchandise, and more.

Tickets and limited VIPS are available for purchase at davidellefsonbasstory.com

BASSTORY US:
9/20 Portland, OR - Dante's
9/21 Spokane Valley, WA - The Roadhouse
9/22 Fife, WA - Louie G's
9/28 San Antonio, TX - Fitzgerald's
9/29 Houston, TX - BFE Rock Club
10/3 Bradley, IL – The Looney Bin (w/ Green Death)
10/4 Lombard, IL - Brauer House (w/ Green Death, WRATH)
10/5 Sturtevant, WI - Route 20 Outhouse(w/ Green Death, WRATH)
10/6 Ringle, WI - Q and Z Expo Center (w/ Green Death, WRATH)
10/7 Mankato, MN – What’s Up Lounge (w/ Green Death, WRATH, Kublai Khan)

NEWLY ADDED
11/16 Manchester, NH - Jewel Nightclub (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)
11/18 Holyoke, MA - Waterfront Tavern (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)
11/20 NYC - The Iridium (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)
11/21 Albany, NY – Chrome (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)
11/23 Niagara Falls, NY – Evening Star Concert Hall (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)
11/25 Waterbury, CT - Shamrock Pub (w/ BUMBLEFOOT, Dead By Wednesday)

BASSTORY EUROPE:
(Presented by Metal Casino)
15 October: BIMM-Bristol/UK+
16 October: ACM-Guildford/UK+
17 October: Rockhal-Esch Sur Alzette/Luxemburg (https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/5750754/david-ellefson-basstory-eschalzette-rockhal-luxembourg)
18 October: 013-Tilburg/Netherlands (https://www.ticketmaster.nl/event/225801?CAMEFROM=013&brand=nl_013web)
21 October: Le Relais des artistes-Les Bioux/Switzerland (Reservations via email only valprod.management@gmail.com
22 October: Riff Megastore-Warsaw/Poland
23October: Private Club-Berlin/Germany+

+Private events. No public ticketing available.

For more information:

Davidellefson.com

Davidellefsonbasstory.com

Facebook.com/davidellefson

Facebook.com/ellefsontouringagency

Single Review: Drop Oblivion - Detached (Thrash, 2018)

A big pack of riffs and drums that creates so much fun like I had back in the day when starting listening to metal music. Come on take a ride!

Artwork by Barnaby Oakley at Crossfade Productions, (c) by Drop Oblivion, used with kind permission

Summary
Some songs give you this special something. This one has it. As for me the whole thing started to fully come to fruition when I focussed on the way the drums and six-strings add to each other. There are these sections when it feels like being in a loop on a racing track. It simply kicks my brain.

But let us look from the beginning of the new song. This one takes it up where "Damaged Goods" left the road opened up for more. I love this, it feels as if it's one or as if could be recorded at a live set.

There are two main riffs, one slightly lighter on the first verse with a rougher one following later on. Then there is the outworked refrain feeling big and out of this world. The verses offer a hacked feeling that is added by the words that perfectly fit into this structure.

Finally there are softer parts inside. One in the last third of the duration and one at the end. They add a breathing and relaxing note to the package. It's toped by the drums counting in back to the tune after the first section. It's those little things that make something great out of a good tune in my ears.

Purchase-Link / Crowdfunding / Stream
Don't hesitate any longer. Please support this project with a purchase of the track at Bandcamp or reserve the full album on the pre-order campaign. The digital album goes for 10 GBP while the "Detached" single can be downloaded in various formats for 1 GBP. You can also stream the music on Spotify and Soundcloud.



Contact-Data
Also see the Facebook page of Drop Oblivion for all the further progress of the project.

Single Review: Drop Oblivion - Damaged Goods Reworked (Thrash, 2018)

I reviewed and introduced this track already some time ago. Ian Mortimer, the man behind the project has constantly worked on the song since then. Can a good piece of music still be upgraded?

The cover for Damaged Goods, artwork created by Barnaby Oakley Crossfade Productions, (c) by Drop Oblivion

Reworked for the better
The answer is: yes it can! It is nearly unbelieveable how different the new version sounds compared to the previous version. It feels as if a new song comes out of the speakers right now.

In detail "Damaged Goods" sounds much sharper and clearer now. Most of all the different parts and sections come out to the front. Now it's clear how many riffs and finer undertoned effects this track has in it. The guitars are much louder on this version.

A new drum sound also supports the easier understanding of the track - it's like it's putting marks and properly pointing parts into their direction now. It feels easier to get a fast grip of what the song is all about now.

The guitars got some new riffs in them I think. One section is brand new - the one where the guitars are quite for a few seconds.

The vocals have been completly re-done. They have a more constant line in them now. The overall tonality of the demonicness feels like one layer being constant through the whole duration now.

It's fascinating to hear how much one track can change with such a overhaul. Very well done!

Purchase-Link & Album Crowdfunding
Pick up a copy from the digital plattform Bandcamp. It costs 2 GBP. More platforms will follow in the coming days. I'll add them as them come in.

Currently a full album is in it's finishing stages. Please help to cover the expenses for mixing, mastering and worldwide release with pre-ordering a digital copy of "Narcissistic Councilor" for 10 GBP via Crowdfunder.

Contact Data
Be sure to follow this project further through the Facebook band page of Drop Oblivion.

CD Review: Sweeping Death - Astoria (Modern Thrash, 2017)

Unusual is the main word that describes this silver round of thrash the best.

Cover: Jeff Carr, (c) by Sweeping Death, used with kind permission

Summary
If you think that there are way to many thrash bands out there that sound the same Sweeping Death may give you back fresh hope. While their overall attitude is based on the classic sound it's the experimentation that gives the meat to the bone. I think of the way of the production. It's easier to enjoy their tunes - they are hard produced but not that heavy to enjoy. It's the vocals. They are loud but their are never harsh or rude but always fit to the noise. You may wander around in wonder listening to them the first time. Is this really thrash?

Yes, it is but seen from a different point of view. I like those new attempts on a classic way of the metal music. It's band's like Sweeping Death that dare to go new ways even where tradition may say that it's forbidden to do this. They don't care and go their own way.

You can hear the fun the band spreads round playing tracks like "Devils's Dance" - the compact riffs played fast combined with the punchy drums and vocals shouting it out. You can't help but need to bang your head. It put's a big grin on your face. It's easier feeling all the way and doesn't give this pressed dark feeling but lift's you up from your everyday sorrows.

Purchase-Link & Stream
I think that's something worth your reward giving some coins for the record. You can purchase the album via Bandcamp. A deluxe edition of the record with new coverart and a bonus track is available, too. Best of all have a ear on their offers right here in the stream.

I'm looking forward to see where this band goes next. "Astoria" sounds promising and no one knows what's on the guys mind while typing these lines. Let's hope they'll continue their couragous path.

Contact-Data
Finally see the band's website for extended band info and updates such as tourdates.

CD Review: Antidote - The Truth (Progressive Thrash, 1992/2017 re-release)

Usually the Underdogs is glad to be able to check out new releases and let you know how they turned out. This one originally comes from way back in 1992. Why is it worth reviewing it anyway?

It's because Antidote were one of the first bands that added progressive elements to the classic thrash formula and dared to go new ways in this sector. This re-release came to me without warning out of nowhere.

The cover of Antidote's "The truth" album, (c) by Antidote, used with kind permission

Summary
The first disc offers the full classic "The Truth" as a remastered edition. The vocals are held in the screaming regions so it's oldschool all the way. If you've heard the "Mind Alive" album before this record this fact may surprise you but this style fit's the far more agressive material of the early days of the band perfectly. The songs often go straight, raw and with lot's of drive but with slight elements of progression so it's great to be able to see how the band evolved over the releases with this re-issue.

Another pro for this CD is the fact that finally you don't need to hunt it down heavily in second hand shops etc. for high prices anymore. In addition to that this edition comes with a bonus disc. I think not many people have heard the stuff pressed on this silver disc. It contains the two demo tapes the band made ("Epoch Of Insanity" and "Spaced Out") that came out before the band reached for bigger aims.

It's those tunes that bring the most fun. In today's context where most productions are heavy weight it's great to hear the simpicity of demos of back in the day. No need to follow complicated structures and layers just lay back and enjoy tracks going straight. It's those noise that makes this double treat as stuff to be remembered.

In addition those demos were never before available at least here in Germany so it was for me as if the band released a brand new album. The tunes itself lay it down heavy and fast most with compact song structures. At some points you'll spot some great experiments on the guitar worked in (just listen to "Spaced Out" with those high guitar notes inside - it put's a real spotlight on the song).I love the printing on Demo CD - it reminds me so much of back in the day when I used to collect demos myself.

Purchase-Link
Grab the double disc while it's up for purchase (looks like it is limited to 500 copies). So far I've only been able to find it on the web as physical release at the webshop of Minotauro Records. Alternatively you can buy it from the Bandcamp shop of the record company.

Contact Data
The band has a Facebook account talkin' a lot about the memories of back in the day so you may want to follow those stories with the famous "Like"-Click.

CD Review: Ben Blutzukker - Riptide (Thrash Metal, 2017)

We had the word here on the Underdogs already what two men can accomplish if they really want to. But what can one man alone do if he feels a need to contribute to the world of Heavy Metal?

The answer can be given straight: a lot. Today's technique allows for lot's of possibilities and Ben Blutzukker has taken advantage of them. While he took over all duties for vocals and guitars plus bass guitars by playing them on real instruments it was only the drums he had to add as programming them.

The cover of Ben Blutzukker's EP "Riptide", (c) by Ben Blutzukker, used with kind permission

Summary
It's result however is impressive moreover if you think how thick and heavy the sound is he provides. Currently he is preparing the release of EP number two entitled "Riptide".

The cool thing is that the first appetizer in form of a video has been set up as a mini-movie showing a pirate ship with pirates performing the track. It must have been lot's of work to set all of this up. Just think of how to include all the guitars in there (I think they cannot be bought straight away). Plus the drums are cool with many sequences been in time with the real sound.

My favorite is the second track "Stab by Stab". The riff and rhythm go straight and it's pure enjoyment I felt while listening to it. The track has a surprise with it at the very end so make sure to listen to the full track closely.

Track three comes as a wild track showing the rude side of the project going over to softer sides - something sounding surprisingly harmonic. The raw vocals once more give the music a unique stamp making it clear instantly who's playing music right here.

"Bloodlust" goes slightly faster with a straight riff but also few unexpected sound additions towards the end.

"Loose Ends" is a track different from the rest. The song structure is more clustered over the whole duration and comes more riff hacking than ever before. A small but cool drum solo closes out a fine EP.

Purchase-Link
The release draws near and is set for 6th October 2017 as Download, Stream, CD and LEGO USB Minifigure with many bonus stuff on it all available on his Bandcamp page.  

Contact Data
Follow him further on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

EP Stream
P.S. Don't stop the playback after the video finished. You'll know why once you've done it...

Music Records announces new releases ahead of CrossRoad Fest

Music Records has celebrated one year of existence a few months ago. They released a quality sampler called "Compendium 1 A Metal Quintessence". It featured a brief overview on the mostly very heavy and agressive bands the label has been working on in the first twelve months along with a extra booklet giving a overview of the bands.

These days there is still a lot going on at the French independent record company. Here's a overview on two of the next albums that come very close to it's release along with some touring info and events that have been set up to celebrate those new silver discs. At the end of the article there's a nice drum cam playthrough of Mexican band Mezcla you surely don't want to miss out.

U-Bilam [Urban Core] release their 1st EP " Evolutions of Mind ":
- September 30th, 2017 on the digital platforms
- October 20th, 2017 as physical edition in shops in Europe

This is a release worth a look if you enjoy bands such as Emmure, Whitechapel, Attila, We Butter the Bread with Earth up.

It is possible to pre-order the EP on the site of the label Music Records: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15775-u-bilam-evolutions-of-mind-9702304505007.html

The cover of the upcoming U-Bilam release "Evolutions of Mind", (c) by Music Records, used with kind permission

Of course it will be able to pick up the EP at the stand of the band at shows.

Update 29.09.2017: A very short first trailer for the EP of U-Bilam has been uploaded to YouTube by the label.

U-Bilam will participate in CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th, 2017 and will be on tour in France and Europe in the year 2018.

Event CrossRoad Fest 1: CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th in the Bar Phew to Cholet
Ticket: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15774-crossroad-fest-ticket-de-concert-prevente.html

*****

Eyestral [ Progressive Thrash Metal] release out their 1st album " Beyond ":
- October 14th during Release Party with Arcania and All is Dust

Their album will be available in shops in Europe and on all the digital platforms.

This is a release worth a look if you enjoy bands such as Death, Megadeth, Dream Theater, Coroner, Symphony X.

Event: Release Party in October 14th in Rouen in D3 Studio

Eyestral will participate in CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th, 2017 and will be on tour in France and Europe in the year 2018.

Event CrossRoad Fest 1: CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th in the Bar Phew to Cholet
Ticket: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15774-crossroad-fest-ticket-de-concert-prevente.html

*****

Thibaud, drummer from Mezcla [Death Metal - Flamenco], realized a video drum cam on the song " L’Usurpateur ".

This song is extracted from their last album " Metalmorfosis "


The album is available:
 On their stand
 cultural shops France and Europe
 digital Platforms
 Webstore de Music Records: https://store.music-records.fr/cd/13849-mezcla-metalmorfosis-9780201379624.html

Dates :

06/10 : MELUN

20/10 : PARIS w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

21/10 : ROUEN w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

23/10 : TBA w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

28/10 : CHOLET au CrossRoad Fest #1 | event Facebook : CrossRoad FEst #1 - 28 OCTOBRE 2017

18/11 : ROUEN w/ IMPUREZA

Meshiaak release "Sin City" styled video

I'm often of the opinion that it's the small things that make life beautiful. We all don't have much in life so we need to make the best of things.

Meshiaak have come around with a brand new video for the song "At the edge of the world". The small thing that makes this one a special clip is the fact that the band let's it rain while they play the track and also use only few color elements in the black and white styled promo video. Both are things you may remember of the "Sin City" movie.

A cut-out of the album cover and the band logo, (c) by Meshiaak, used with kind permission

But for me it's far more that this. The song itself has a topic with a meaning behind it. Also it's more of a darker kind I like to hear that the music comes along in a cool style. It breathes a deep meaning- and thoughtful atmosphere. Two elements that may have become lost in this fast living world. Plus there is the vocal performance of Danny Camilleri who put's in variations and haunting parts which I love so much. The drum performance of Jon Dette is hard and you can feel the push of the beat as he plays the drums.

The reason behind this outstanding performance is easy to see. The vocalist breathes his own experiences through the lyrics as he makes clear in a statement about the lyrics: “It’s the kind of song that would speak to people on a lot of different levels, something that most people would be able to connect with fairly easily. It’s a song that is very close to me personally, especially when it came to the lyrics. It’s where I’ve found myself in the last three years and my moments of doubt, trials and frustrations concerning experiences I’ve had to go through over that time.”

The album "Alliance Of Thieves" is out now via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group. Make sure to connect to Meshiaak via Facebook.

Medevil stream full album for limited time only

If you've read my article about Medevil's video "Nightwalker" you probably know about the band's qualities. Don't worry if you missed it out. You're still in for a treat.

Photo Credit - Kevin Eisenlord,  L-R - Eric Wesa (Bass/Backup Vocals), Ross Collingwood (Drums), Liam Collingwood (Vocals), Gary Cordsen (Lead Guitar), Brett Gibbs (Rhythm Guitar)

A little dream has come true for me with this band. Medevil capture all the things I love so much about metal. They combine elements of the best oldschool bands like Metal Church when it comes to the riffs, add the songwriting abilities of Iron Maiden and put in vocals that Udo Dirkschneider couldn't have layed down better on tape.

I guess many of you out there that have heard and seen the video can't wait to hear the full thing. Happily we are in luck and I can share a stream of the full "Conductor of Storms" record as a stream right here. But seize the opportunity. It will be up for a limited time only (from Aug 26-Sept 9).



If you like what you hear you can order a copy of the album over at medevilmusic.com or catch the band on the road in Canada these days (and maybe pick up a copy of the CD directly at the show).

Tourdates

Aug 28 - Chilliwack, BC - Main Street Night Club
Sept 5 - Kelowna, BC - Muninn's Post
Sept 8 - Calgary, AB - Verns
Sept 9 - Edmonton, AB - DV8
Sept 10 - Calgary, AB - Overtime Sports Bar

I'm sure this is a band we're going to see and hear of a lot in the coming years. I hope for that. Make sure to follow them via Facebook or Twitter.

Medevil mix thrash of the 80's with classic metal and razorsharp vocals

Today it is more than ever a exciting time that see's a lot of new bands emerging that are offering a wide variation of styles, influences and mixes. Today's metal scene has become more diverse and colourful than ever in my eyes offering a bandwith like never before. It's like the best is yet to come so we all should do our best so the metal scene can continue to evolve and survive and bring us all the music we love and need.

So how would it sound like if you mix up elements of old thrash classics of Metal Church, comine them with a songwriting attempt in a style of old Iron Maiden albums and round it all out with raw vocals reminiscent of Udo Dirkschneider? Well, Medevil is the answer in my ears. The new album of them is straight around the corner and set for release on 26th August 2016. In support of the release the band has set up three tracks as a prelisten and I'd like you to check out their newest video of the track "Nightwalk" which is the opening track of the record. You can pre-order the album "Conductor Of Storms" through the band's website. 
You can find the other songs on the Youtube channel of Medevil.


Medevil will play some shows these year. See the flyer below for the exact dates and the album cover.

The flyer for the Medevil tourdates 2016, (c) by Medevil, used with kind permission

Make sure to connect with them for updates via Facebook, Twitter or their homepage.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Contact Data

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

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

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

 

Psychotron release scream along single off new EP

How is the indian metal scene coming along these days? We didn't had some stuff up from there for some time now but this kick ass thrash song with great tradional flair and a refrain that fastly will let you sing along to it should make clear that there's still alot of activity going on over there.

This song is taken from the newest EP "Lethal Paralysis" which is available from Bandcamp: https://mortuaryrecords.bandcamp.com/track/grinder

Artwork: (c) Somluck Art, used with kind permission.