Cassidy Paris encourages to pick up a guitar instead of a phone

In these times we all see so many people running around and caring hardly about anything else than the smartphone. Australian rocker Cassidy Paris uses her time to write and release music that comes with a message.

The cover of the upcoming new Cassidy Paris album "Bittersweet".

The newest one listens to "Getting Better" and comes partly with sections that only let's Cassidy's voice stand for herself. Afterwards harder parts come into play that let the track run up and down like a roller coaster. Guitars wind through the music like a snake while the drums follow in these pattern.The same goes for her voice that moves and changes as the music moves further. Sometimes spoken passages come in while other times she just blows it out.  

The message she points out is clear:"‘Getting Better’ is the missing puzzle piece to ‘Stronger’. Together they tell an important story about overcoming difficult situations and not tolerating degrading and hurtful behaviour. You are strong and you are powerful. You are deserving of where you are, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. It is vital to me that people know my story and the truth. Through these songs, I am able to deliver that”.  

Besides a new full album called "Bittersweet" that is about to come out on November 21, 2025 Cassidy Paris is also very active at Metalheads Against Bullying. She regularly performs in schools around Melbourne, using her platform to inspire resilience and authenticity in young fans. If you'd like to support her music you can pre-order the new record at https://ffm.to/cassidyparis_bittersweet Make also sure to follow the next steps her website or a service like Instagram.    

Single Preview: VIMIC - In Your Shadow, Reunion show and Album release

After drummer Joey Jordison departed from Slipknot in late 2013, he shifted his focus to various other ventures. One of these projects, Scar the Martyr, released a self-titled album before disbanding, with some of its members going on to create a new band called VIMIC. 

Photo credit: Horrible Herbert

The initial lineup of VIMIC included Jordison on drums, Kalen Chase as the vocalist, Jed Simon and Kris Norris on guitars, Kyle Konkiel on bass, and Matthew Tarach on keyboards.  

VIMIC released four singles from the project between May 2016 and October 2017: “Simple Skeletons,” “She Sees Everything,” “My Fate,” and “Fail Me (My Temple),” the last of which featured Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine.

On August 8th 2025 a new single is going to be released called "In Your Shadow". Heavy Metal Underdogs has been lucky enough to hear the new track and has been blown away by it's intensity. It all starts with the dark and evolving guitar riff. Drums come in and bring the music into movement. A first climax comes with the refrain bringing the vocals to higher emotional points. "In Your Shadow" moves further with guitars performing a solo bridge that leads into a faster riffing section with the vocals keeping the tension up. A slow intermission brings the whole song a bit down before the final section blows it out with a powerful hard riff attack and midtempo drums bringing in fresh wind into this great track. You can pre-save the new music on https://ffm.to/vimic_inyourshadow

Open Your Omen is VIMIC's only album that has been completed and shelved since 2016. VIMIC will be reuniting for the first time since 2018 in conjunction with the album's release on October 3rd, 2025.  

The reunion show will take place at Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles (USA), the Joey Jordison Charitable Fund will not only honor Jordison’s memory but also celebrate the release of the album. Tickets are available from https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/090062C2BD8915A3

VIMIC will be supported by Wednesday 13 (who worked with Jordison in Murderdolls) along with some very special guests; there will be exclusive event merchandise available. 

The band’s first album, Open Your Omen, was first expected to be released in 2018. Produced by Jordison and Kato Khandwala (The Pretty Reckless, Pop Evil), progress came to a standstill in 2018. Khandwala tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on April 25, 2018, and Jordison, Konkiel, and Simon shifted their focus to Sinsaenum, Bad Wolves, and Imonolith, respectively. Jordison sadly passed away on July 26, 2021, further delaying the plans on the album.

After years of working to secure the rights to the music, the Jordison Family Estate is releasing Open Your Omen independently to get the album into the hands of the fans that have been asking for it for years. You can still contribute late pledges to the Kickstarter campaign HERE. 

In a December 2016 interview with Shockwave Magazine, the late and famed Slipknot drummer Joey Jordison discussed the making of his other project VIMIC’s first album: "The way we wrote 'Open Your Omen', is exactly like how a garage band would do their demo tape. We went all the way back to the basics, and it was cool doing it like that because you didn't have the influence of your label, and the huge studio, and cars, hotels, and fancy dinners, all this b—---- that goes on along with being in the record industry. It was done literally in my home, organic, and we went out just to the studio not too far from my house and we just laid it down there. So, it was pretty much born in my home and then we just cruised up to the studio and just laid it down really quick."

Let's speak with Thomas Wright (bassist & creative leader of Rootbrain)

The german / finish alternative band Rootbrain came along to me with a lyric video showing beautiful nature scenes. It's music content is a slower tune with fine melodies that is building up constantly throughout it's duration. At the proper moments heavier parts come in but it all remains fitting very well with each alltogether.

Picture of Thomas Wright taken by Varjo Art.

The info that came with the music was very exciting so it was a close idea to ask the band a few questions how the new EP "Mothertomb" came together.

Heavy Metal Underdogs:The video for "Mothertomb" shows a lot of scenes filmed in beautiful nature locations. Have you recorded them in the surroundings of one of the recording locations? 

Thomas Wright (bassist of Rootbrain): Yeah, the scenes are filmed around our Rootbrain hq, a cabin on an island in the middle of beautiful Finnish nature. A place baptised the Temple of Bad Habits by our drummer Fat Tony. Beats me why. I’ve been fortunate enough to call this place my home for the past few years. The clips on the video are just little observations during the last two years or so. I think they go very well with the song. You’re right we also recorded part of the Mothertomb ep there in our pop-up cabin studio. Vocals, bass and acoustic guitars to be precise. Victor and Helle nailed the distorted guitars later at Woodshed Studio, Germany. Tony had delivered his magic earlier at Q7 Studios in the same country 

The songs on the new EP "Mothertomb" were written more spontaneously. How exactly did you go along to catch the idea of the moment? 

It’s always been a part of our sound and approach that in the studio we deliver our parts pretty fast and try to capture a live feel. But it’s not like we enter the studio and just start jamming. There’s a lot of creative work in the background. Usually the process starts with me writing the core of a song. This usually takes a few demo versions before they start to find their form. If the song passes Helle’s scrutiny it usually proceeds to the next phases where we arrange it with Helle and Tony at the rehearsal place. That’s our expanded rhythm section. Then the more melodic elements get more attention closer to the studio sessions and that’s where Jules and Santura enter in a signifigant way. It’s true the vocal recordings were more spontaneous and intuitive this time and we could work on the songs in a way that gave more room to the vocals. All elements were more aligned this time. On the debut the album was already done when Jules joined the band and he just recorded his parts on top of the ready songs. He did that in a phenomenal way, though and created the genre of black grunge in the process. On these Mothertomb sessions it was very fruitful to work with the songs as entities and communicate much better. We even wrote some of the lyrics during the vocal recordings together. There is so much creative talent in this band that it’s a priviledge to have sessions like these. 

Does it mean you didn't practice the songs for a longer time but instead directly recorded them straight away? 

We didn’t practice that much before the recordings but we did have a couple extremely dedicated rehearsal camps with Fat Tony and Helle. Our rehearsals always last for days since we don’t live close to each other. That works very well for us and gives us the opportunity to get deeper into the songs compared to shorter sessions. They are also special occasions with special friends and during them we shut all outside life out and focus only on the present and the music. But yeah, we worked a lot on the vocals and lyrics on the spot. All the actual recordings we usually deliver quite fast trying to capture the magic of the moment. If it sounds awesome it’s much better than if it sounds perfect. One of our key principles is to have a bit of edge and danger that so much of the modern metal lacks because it’s all quantized and polished into perfection. We leave our fingerprints. 

Are you going to perform the new songs live this year? 

I sure hope so. So far our tour calendar is empty though. But we’re working on the second full length album and the plan is to start recording in the summer so we’re not resting on our laurels. Hopefully a couple festival shows will drop for the summer and who knows maybe there’s something in the autumn. Our music belongs to the stages. We have already played all the four new songs live. They worked really well. 

You can listen to more songs of the band on Spotify. Follow Rootbrain on Facebook so you won't miss out on future updates.

Let's speak with Stephen Chesney about All-Star-Project Agents Of Your Demise

Slash's Snakepit Vocalist Eric Dover, Bass Legend Billy Sheehan, KoRn Drummer Ray Luzier and Dizzy Reed of Guns N' Roses - that's together with guitarist and songwriter Stephen Chesney who stand's behind the brand new band Agents Of Your Demise.

A mix of the single artwork along with the musicians that performed on it. 

Having heard the very first single it became quickly evident that this wasn't going to be one of the many All Star Projects without substance. The raw, heavy and punching sound breathes real music life and energy that can be felt by the listener. Heavy Metal Underdogs took the chance to speak to Stephen Chesney and get some more in-depth information about what is going to be the upcoming debut album, due for release in the first quarter of 2025.

Question: Do you still remember what exactly brought you to the world of music (maybe an event or a song)?

Stephen Chesney: To be perfectly honest with you, I was around music from the time I was born. My mum was a singer, my dad had played guitar in bands outside of his career profession, and I was carrying around toy guitars from the moment I was able to walk… probably before I could walk, actually.

My late cousin was a massive fan of the British rock scene back home. He suffered from cystic fibrosis, and rock music was his escape from what he had to fight daily. When I was probably five or six years old, he made me a mixtape of Guns N’ Roses, Little Angels, and Thunder, and that was it for me. I fell in love with it then and never grew out of it or changed. I’ve broadened my horizons a little, but I still love now exactly what I loved then.

That might’ve been a bit young to have been training me to get into GN’R, looking back, but hey, I’ll take it—no complaints, lol.

Question: Having read that you perform in various genres, do you think every musician should try other musical territories to learn better writing abilities?

It depends on what their goal is. If someone’s passion is strictly within one realm, then that’s exactly what they should adhere to if they feel led that way. But personally, for me, I can’t see it as anything other than a positive to listen to different genres. Even if it’s not something you’d write or choose to listen to as a first choice, you’re still going to hear melodic structures, chord changes, and ideas that you may have never thought of, which you can bring to your own writing and into your preferred style.

I grew up a massive Jimi Hendrix fan. There was a BBC show called Rock Family Trees, and during an interview with Chas Chandler about Jimi, Chas said that no matter what style of music— even if the band was terrible—he always took one thing away from every song or performance he ever saw. Because even if something was terrible, there was always one hidden gem that he could add to his own playing and writing. That stuck with me.

The single is also available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer and YouTube Music.

Question: Do you have certain people in mind at the time of writing songs, or does this part of selection happen after the music is complete?

It depends on what I’m writing for—what the project is. For the Agents of Your Demise record, I already knew who I had involved, so I was writing whatever I wanted musically because there was absolutely no question as to whether the guys involved had the ability to pull off what I wanted to do. Knowing who was waiting to play on these songs pushed me to be better to make sure I could keep up with them, lol.

That said, I purposely wrote the music to Hat on a Hat, which is the lead-off song on the album, specifically to play with Billy. I put the demo of that together in 2015 after I’d first started jamming with him, so that song was definitely written knowing exactly who I intended to have on board, lol.

Question: Is the upcoming full album of Agents of Your Demise reflecting on your private life or things that happened to you as a musician?

All of the above, lol. There’s a cover song at the end of the record that ties into a lot of my own life too. I think there’s really only one song that isn’t personal to me. Track 4, Raise Hell or Die, was one where I wrote the music, but Eric wrote the lyrics, so that one particular song is a separate thing. But everything else on the record is basically the story of the last 10–15 years of my life in some form or fashion.

There are probably going to be some people that hear it and think, “WTF? Is that about me?!” And guess what, pal—it might just be, lol. It might not be… but it might.

Question: Do you think the lyrics could also help people looking for advice?

When I wrote these songs, they were, in a lot of cases, my own form of therapy. But that said, my hope is that they’re relatable enough that someone may find some sort of help in them and be able to adapt what they hear to their own life experiences.

Some of the lyrics are more lighthearted than others, but across all of the tracks, if you listen to the actual musical style, the songs sort of camouflage how serious the lyrics are. I tried to make sure that the tunes are still upbeat—something you can nod your head to—without immediately realizing, Oh… this is kinda dark.

There’s a lot of very personal experience in the songs, and I think people who seek out the words will find they can relate to them in some way. Hopefully, they’ll be reminded that no matter what situation they’re in, everyone is in the exact same spot in some way, regardless of their standing in the world. It’s okay to feel like giving up… but don’t f***ing give up.

Question: The cover art of the single Nothing’s Made to Last shows a darker atmosphere presented in a comic style. Do you prefer this style, or does it just fit better with the heavier guitar sound that’s so prevalent in the first single?

There are a ton of different things I intend to do with bits and pieces of artwork styles for pushing the songs. When possible, I wanted to try and get away from the stereotypical rock image… which is ironic because I wound up with a skull and a rose on this one, so I guess I didn’t move too far away from it after all, lol.

That said, there’s a lot of other imagery coming that’s entirely different from what was used with the first single.

In my head, it probably has different meanings than just being a rock skull or whatever. There’s a bit of humor in where it came from when I designed it. In a way, it’s like… there were people who knew of me and what I was doing, and then I sorta went quiet publicly for a few years after the pandemic. Then life got in the way of things moving along quickly.

So that skull version of me has a bit of a “Hey, what’s up? Uhh… told ya I’d be here—so how’s it goin’?” vibe in the pose, lol. But I think you’ll see a lot of different styles for each song as we go.

Make sure to stay in connection with Agents Of Your Demise so you won't miss out on how the other songs sound like.

https://www.agentsofyourdemise.com/

https://www.facebook.com/StephenChesney

https://instagram.com/stephenchesneymusic

Mission Jupiter explore the Human Nature

 “People tend to be divided and not to look beyond their own doorstep, which is a major problem. This song asks if we are able to be less selfish and greedy to try and overcome this typical aspect of human nature, or at the very least attempt to be better?” - Quote Mission Jupiter asked about the meaning of the new track "Human Nature".

Where has Kate Varsak arrived?

The topic of the new music the band released a few days ago is underlined by the way the music builds and changes. If you listen closely at a moderate volume level you will surely discover not only the many variations in the voice of vocalist Kate Varsak. In general the tonality changes with nearly every step she walks through the forest at the Minsk sea. 

It's wonderful to hear the dynamics flow through. Softer and lighter parts show up and are enriched by harder guitars for few moments. But it doesn't last long and drums come in a bit more. If you prefer to stream the music on a different service look at this overview to select your streaming agent.

This is already the second single release. What can we expect of the upcoming album "Aftermath"?  Fans of alternative and hard rock, prog, metal and even Eurovision-esque crossover rock with a Cocteau Twins twist (on ‘Jak Spyniajecca Bol’, recorded in the group’s mother tongue and translated as ‘How The Pain Stops’) will also be wowed by the group’s new songs. 

Take a look on Facebook or Instagram to see how the band takes the way towards the album release day. 

Xenotrone kick off the year with fine progressive thrash

I like thrash metal, but most when it comes with progressive elements that make the music a bit more variable and not monotone. Ukrainian progressive thrash metal band Xenotrone's debut full-length album, "Into the Void" is drawing near these days with a release date set to February 21, 2025.

Within the vastness of space, humanity is but dust says the upcoming album by Xentrone.

The first single "Evolution of Soul" speaks with many breaks throughout it's duration. It's sometimes not clear how the song may continue it's way but it keeps pushing forwards along with a nice bass guitar sound running smoothly through the sound keeping it all together.

Another ear catcher are the guitar solos towards the end that make the ears open up - they sound different with the high tonality but are kept short in duration something warmly welcomed to keep the tension of the track moving.

Catch a quick glimpse with the YouTube player or head on over to a a overview of other streaming services on offer.

The track list also let's my imagination fly on what to expect of the album.

1. Into the Void (instrumental)
2. Evolution of Soul 
3. Tower of madness
4. Elysium
5. I Have no mouth and i must scream
6. Conatus Ad Deliciendum
7. Luminous Fast Blue Optical Transient (feat. Orphun)
8. Stone cross (feat. Kelly Shaefer)
9. Territorial Pissings (Nirvana cover)
10. Boötes Void

You can follow Xenotrone further through the following websites and services.

https://sites.google.com/view/xenotronethrash
https://www.instagram.com/xenotrone_thrash
https://open.spotify.com/artist/11KKTzeDAhsXLj0Bz3qtYF

Let's speak with Still Dusk (Alternative Rock)

In the beginnings it was the music that was compelling for me. It was the creativity, the never ending of expression and feelings through melodies and sometimes the raw energy of the guitars or the beat of the drums.

Later on as I began to buy music I started to watch the lyric sheets that often came with the records. That's the second time music became so important to me because I often felt that I was able to relate to the text. Other times it was inspiring to see other perspectives on a similar topic. 

Still Dusk give a fresh look upon today's society.

The alternative rock formation Still Dusk quickly draw me into their music with the lyric video for "Sugar". Having been teased before by a short info in a mail I was curious to hear how this sounds. Minutes later saw me be being feeling touched by the straight rocking riffs mixed up with lyrics that create some reaction and reflection in my mind. I was sure I wanted to know more about who stand's behind all of this and some questions for a interview were sent away. 

Here's what vocalist Konstantina answered to mostly lyrics-related questions about the music of Still Dusk.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: Thank you very much for taking the time to answer some questions for the Heavy Metal Underdogs blog. How did the band find together in it's initial days?

Konstantina (vocals): The band initially came together in 2018 through an ad posted on a website by a former member who had the vision to start a music project. In its early days, the band explored a different musical style. However, the pandemic brought a period of reflection and change. Afterward, we reorganized, redefined our direction, and evolved into what we are today. Now, we're thrilled to be just a step away from releasing our debut album, marking a new chapter in our journey.

Your lyrics seem to be outworked a lot and something you center upon. How do you work them out?

Our approach to lyrics is like weaving a tapestry. Every thread has a purpose, and every detail matters. We don’t write them just to fit the music; we see them as an extension of the song's soul. Sometimes, a lyric begins with a single word or phrase that lingers in our minds, and we build from there, layering meaning and emotion. We also like to explore contrasts, pairing raw vulnerability with bold imagery or blending abstract ideas with vivid storytelling. It’s less about following rules and more about creating something that feels alive and honest.

Are the topics based upon personal experiences?

Many of our topics are drawn from personal experiences, but we don’t limit ourselves to just that. Sometimes, a song starts with a deeply personal moment or emotion, and other times it’s inspired by observing the world, exploring human nature, or imagining alternate perspectives. Even when the lyrics come from personal stories, we like to write in a way that leaves room for listeners to find their own meaning. It’s a mix of introspection and storytelling, always aiming to connect on a deeper level.

Do you write the music first or are there moments where the lyrics define the sounds they are going to be combined with? 

It’s a bit of both, depending on the inspiration behind the song. Sometimes the music comes first, an idea, a riff, or a melody that sets the tone and the lyrics are written to fit the emotional landscape of the sound. Other times, the lyrics are so vivid or powerful that they dictate the mood and direction of the music. There are also moments where everything happens simultaneously, as if the words and music naturally find each other. We enjoy the flexibility of letting each song take its own path during the creative process.

Follow the band on social media so you won't miss anything on the upcoming album.

Bandcamp: https://stilldusk.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stillduskofficial
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StillDuskofficialchannel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stillduskofficial

Mission Jupiter bring us to the light

This song picked me up so quickly. Sometimes I feel like music finds my way and knows how I feel. 

It's the mixture of silent, deep and heartfelt verses that raised my attention at the beginning of "Sometimes it hurts". But things go a deeper route once the refrain comes in and the vocals take a louder and explosive statement. It's nearly impossible to get this piece of music out of my mind. 

Mission Jupiter starts a new chapter with new singer Kate Varsak. 

Lyrically the song evolves as guitarist Vlad Shvakel of the Belarusian alternative rock band points out: "The protagonist is mentally down, but by the end he chooses the light side, battling all the negativity."

The lyric video may start in a simple style but keep watching. As the song unfolds so does the video.

You can listen to the song right here or select your favorite digital service to listen to "Sometimes it hurts".  

Make sure to keep a eye further on this band through Facebook or Instagram.  A full album is coming in 2025 so it will be exciting to discover how the music on the other tracks will sound like.

Losing Gravity put "All in" this time

Bands are pushing hard in order to reach the goal they set themselves. The southern rock formation Losing Gravity is comprised of German and American musicians. Together they build songs that incorporate straight forward songwriting without sounding dull or commercialised. 

The single for "Another Day" is a fine example for that. Building on the solid basis that the drums and bass guitar provide it's the finetuning with keyboard notes and guitar melodies that gives the track a special taste.

The colorization of the video is held in blue tones giving it a cold touch that surely relates to the topic of the lyrics. Happily there's always still some light shining every here and there.

"Another Day" comes as a teaser to the full album called "All in" that is going to be released on September 6th 2024. Losing Gravity is going to tour with the new songs through Germany. Here are the dates:

01.09.24 - BAD ORB / DEHAAM MARKT  

07.09.24 - HABBELS / SCHMALLENBERG  

13.09.24 - MARIAS BALLROOM / HAMBURG  

14.09.24 - LUX / HANNOVER  

19.09.24 - PONYHOF / FRANKFURT  

20.09.24 - SOUNDCHECK ONE / WALDBRONN  

21.09.24 - B.I.S. / MÖNCHENGLADBACH  

04.10.24 - BACKSTAGE / MÜNCHEN -  

08.11.24 - DIE KLINKE / BERLIN

Tickets are available through the links that the homepage of the band provides. 

Tomorrows Outlook free you of fears with Silver Ghost single

I think we all have to fight with fears in one or another way at times. It's not a nice feeling that can be felt rising up in your mind and sometimes taking control. Happily music has proven to be a effective way of treatment.

It helps a lot to have music by your side. It can take the bad effects away and let you move further. These thoughts came once more to my mind as I listened to the newest output by Tomorrow's Outlook. The combination of the solid riffs all along with the punching groove section set's a good basic at the start of the song.

The new album tells stories based at the surrounding of the Gressholman peninsula.

The story starts as the singer unfolds the story step by step through each verse and the refrain. It let's you follow the message as if it was a book. With every line and every minute the whole thing unfolds and through it's way the fear is revealed but also dissolved.

"Silver Ghost" comes with lyrics that have a deeper meaning in them as the band explains:

In the year 1905, Hanna was a hard-working northern Norwegian woman whose husband had tragically just passed away. She took on his duties as lightkeeper at Steglholmen near Gressholman, the old trade centre in Vågsfjorden south of Harstad. For more than 20 years she dutifully kept the light shining, guiding the ships safely past her post and on their way. The light was often exposed to the harshest of weather, but the job was an important one for more than one reason – the homestead they had bought when her beloved husband was still alive must be paid for, so the money was needed. 

The work was challenging, both physically and mentally. Crossing the dark, stormy sea in a small rowboat, that’s one thing. Another was the ever-present knowledge that once upon a time, this was the place of execution for three murderers whose remains were mounted on stakes and left there until time and nature had done away with them. As the black waves beat her boat and the wind howled at her light, she often glimpsed their horrific spectres beneath the foamy sea. But Hanna remained a brave and dutiful human, and she stood ever firm in the face of these trials.  

It's a first teaser to the upcoming album "Black Waves" that will be released early in 2024 on the band's own record label Sörvik Rock Music. Black Waves is a concept album based on real events from the coastal region surrounding the Gressholman peninsula, stretching from 1748 to the early 1900s. We hear the deeply shocking story of a brutal double murder which shook a small community, and also about a once vital and important trading post which met its ultimate end in a fire centuries later. The stories are mostly told through the eyes of the people involved, whose stories are guided by the superstitions, fears, and beliefs native to the northern part of Norway.

Keep a eye on the band's website as the release day comes closer and closer.

Neocracy open the road to the new album with heavy catchy single

I remember the time the first Neocracy album hit my inbox. It was a special album full of sensible and broken feelings beautifully packed in riffing songs. The raw sound made it sure all the feelings came through in a direct way without changes.

The new Neocracy is a bit different from what the band released this far.

The newest single called "Torment" goes a different way. It's sound is still soaked with riffs but the drums are way heavier this time and a word on precise timing. The contrast comes in with the vocals that are fine and full of emotion. It's refrain is a earworm that once it's inside your mind won't leave you again. 

But the track has even more to offer. The last third comes with a surprise showing dark toned vocals that the bassist throws into the sound. It all get's a heavier touch before a extended guitar solo and the female vocals close the single. You can intensively feel the dedication the musicians put into the making of "Torment". It's a well worked out track with fine mixing - you need to listen closely to hear all the details that are inside.

Make sure to follow Neocracy further on Facebook and the popular Instagram network. After this teaser I'm sure many of you out there can't wait to see and hear how the band moves on in the upcoming time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Steel Panther release dating app and sexy new video

How can I find someone with similar interests? Wouldn't it be even better to find someone who you can share your interest in a certain band with?

Steel Panther have made this dream come true.

Get ready to pitch.

The app " Rock N’ Talk" works like any other popular dating app, but this one is based around subscribers that share a mutual love of the band. 

People can sign up and connect with other individuals in their cities and make plans to meet up at shows and develop friendships all thanks to their common interest in the band comprised of Michael Starr, Satchel, Stix Zadinia, and Spyder. 

The app will also look to expand to integrate other artists in the future. The app and sign-up will be free and is available for all smartphones now. Fans that want to sign up for Rock N’ Talk can go here to download the app.

In other news the band put out a brand new video for "“Friends With Benefits". It is a song that lyrically explores a mutually beneficial relationship between two consenting adults. 

The music video, directed by longtime collaborator J.T. Arbogast–is Steel Panther’s take on the immensely popular show Shark Tank. The band appears in Panther Denas they try and pitch a series of creative ideas to four high-powered cougars.

Products such as the GloriousHole, The Coolcumber, and Slikknutz all sound like meaningful creations until Michael Starr arrives selling himself and his companionship package.The band performs in front of the panel of female business leaders and by the time the song is over–there are more than just their wallets out.

Since the video comes with a age restriction you need to jump to YouTube directly and sign in. That's why a embed doesn't make sense this time - sorry for that.

Factory Of Art restart activities after 20 years

It's great to hear a band is coming back you didn't even knew before. This is what happened to me as I was introduced to the progressive Power Metal music of the german band Factory Of Art.

Factory Of Art bandshot taken at a liveshow.

Having sent me a Email with two linked YouTube videos I was blown away by "No tears" taken of the 2002 output "The Tempter".

It's music performed and composed like I had wished for in my mind. The riffs go a straight way and some keyboards in a lighter way set the basic for the mood of the song.

The drums powerfull and hard keep it straight forward so the progressive style never becomes too complicated and unstructured also this is surely not a easy pattern to perform. The drum sound is also great - it's held in a more dry tonality so it's good to follow.  

But most of all the vocals left a lasting impression on me. They haunt you with it's spoken und darker tone and totally leave a emotional expression left behind in me. it's going under the skin as we are here in Germany going to say.

Happily it's not all past as the band is going to perform the next show in 2022 on the 10. December 2022 at Tonelli's in Leipzig (Germany).

In addition to that the guys are working on new material and the first four songs are said to be already finished with some guests who aren't revealed any closer yet. 

In the meantime they are occasionally going to publish live videos of Factory of Art concerts from the past year to bridge the waiting time in an interesting way. 

Make sure to keep a eye further on this great band. I can't believe I should have missed them in all the years before.

Factory Of Art website

Factory Of Art Facebook

Evil Brain Taste crushes society's insanity with riff smasher

I think today's society suffers of it's complete overload in everything. There's so many things expecting us to click everywhere that we nearly forget what really counts.

Evil Brain Taste performing the newest single "Artithmophobia".

UK based thrashers Evil Brain Taste have brought this subject on point for me. The "Arithmophobia" video shows how much this civilisation has been downgraded that it's near to pure madness. Visualised with few elements everyone quickly knows that humanity needs to change.

The music side of the single presents a blasting riff monster that relentlessly pushes on forwards. It's labeled deathmetal by the band but feels more like a mixture of death and thrash metal elements to me. Various sections put itself into the mind of the listener and give it a positive push-up. Blasting vocals are raw and remind me a bit of Mille Petrozza of Kreator.

It's a taste of the album to come that is set for release in early 2023. Keep your ears and eyes open for twelve tracks of deathmetal fun shortly entitled "Number Two".

Just follow Evil Brain Taste through Bandcamp, Facebook or Instagram and share the video with your friends to help it spread all around.

Is this the best Heavy Metal song of the year?

Motorfinger in particular are a band from Norway and I think they will make a lot of waves with their heavy music strongely inspired by the 90s.

We're holding good cards also this one looks a bit scary.

Why? The first taste of the upcoming album is massively attracting with it's structure. It starts with the slow building of the track "Crawl".

It gives listeners time to sink into the music first. Once it's all set and done the vocals hit the scene and the rough and dirty organ surely opens many ears. It's the massive range that Daniel Garjá is able to perform that impresses me so much. I've not heard a new vocalist of that quality in a long time now.

But the party continues once it all comes to a climax at the refrain that's hard to wipe of the mind once tasted. The last part comes to fruition with the rough guitar solo that fit's to the dark tonality. 

Finally the vocals take over again and the end comes fast leaving me behind with looking forward to what hopefully is yet to come.

Check the track also on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/72IRLS2Y4F6otPmQ8nEGWo?si=OvRYl9I2TSKqztuXp5gJeQ

Follow Motorfinger on Social Media.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motorfinger

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motorfingerband

Homepage: http://www.motorfinger.org 

Supernaut hit the road tomorrow with fun riffhacker single

This is the sort of music that keeps me on the stereo. The stoner metal formation from the United States created a heavy riff that rocks straight through my ears. It's going agressively in but never misses to form something that remains listenable.

The cover reminds me a bit of computer game shells.

The drums accompany to the guitars and keep the groove tight and round. But what I liked most are the vocals on "Resist the urge". They have this legendary spirit in it. These direct vocals only pure underground bands have in them. They hit you direct in the face and keep it short and straight forward. No holding back, no overload just straight in to the noise. The lyrics accompany to this.

The overall sound is also like these thrash bands used to have them when they started out. 

Make sure to listen to the full song 'till the end. The last third holds some nice play-around with more rough riffing that spread a lot of fun. 

The brand new single comes packed in a nice sleeve that hopefully will see a T-Shirt release sometime.

Make sure to support this combo on the coming tour in the United States that already starts tomorrow! Here are the exact dates.

August 2022

Friday 19th The Blue Lagoon - Santa Cruz, CA
Saturday 20th The Partisan - Merced, CA
Sunday 21st Jerry's Pizza and Pub - Bakersfield, CA
Tuesday 23rd Transplants Brewing - Palmdale, CA
Wednesday 24th Supply and Demand - Long Beach, CA
Thursday 25th The Continental - Fullerton, CA
Friday 26th The Pourhouse - Oceanside, CA
Saturday 27th Bancroft Bar - Spring Valley, CA
Tuesday 30th Yucca Taproom - Tempe, AZ
Wednesday 31st The Rockin' Bar - El Paso, TX

September 2022

Thursday 1st The Deadhorse - San Angelo, TX
Friday 2nd Wake The Dead Coffeehouse- San Marcos, TX
Saturday 3rd Green Jay - Austin, TX
Sunday 4th Acadia Bar - Houston, TX
Thursday 8th Freetown Boom Boom Room - Lafayette, LA
Friday 9th Gasa Gasa - New Orleans, LA
Saturday 10th The Tavern - Hattiesburg, MS
Sunday 11th TBD - Memphis, TN
Tuesday 13th TBD - Fayatteville, AR
Wednesday 14th TBD - Norman, OK
Thursday 15th Leftwoods - Amarillo, TX
Friday 16th Longhair Records - Albuquerque, NM
Saturday 17th The Attic - Prescott, AZ
Sunday 18th The Sand Dollar Lounge - Las Vegas, NV

A full album release is also slated for the 19th of August 2022. Keep a eye on Bandcamp for the moment it hits the shelves.

Keep in touch with the guys directly through Facebook or Instagram.

Interview with Norman Skinner (Vocalist of Niviane, 2021)

Norman Skinner came to my attention the first time as I listened to Niviane's album "The Druid King". I liked the power of the voice also the songs felt a bit overloaded to me. The powermetal band left my attention but some time later the "The Rutheless Divine" album knocked at my door and the far more straight forward and direct sound brought me back to them.

Around the same time I found out that Norman Skinner also performs in several other band's and projects so I thought it would be great to have a short talk with him. He gave us a very first insight into the upcoming albums of Niviane as well as his Elemantis project. We also go back to the very beginnings and talk about his very first steps into the music (very cool story, I think I never got such a great response before).

Norman Skinner is able to sing on a wide range.

Heavy Metal Underdogs: How did you start out with singing ?

Norman Skinner: It was actually by complete accident. I had friends that were going to play the high school talent show. They weren't an actual band, just a group of guys jamming for this one show. A couple weeks before the show their singer bailed on them and I just happened to be the guy that was hanging around. I had never sang before and I believe they asked me out of desperation and\or convenience. I was always up for a good adventure so I agreed and was hooked ever since. 

You are active in many bands and projects. How do you manage to keep your voice in good condition ?

The fact I am and always have been involved in multiple projects helps to keep my voice conditioned. I am always singing & recording so it stays nice and strong. 

How do you pick the topics for the lyrics you write ?

It is completely random. I gather inspiration from movies & TV, history & mythology, personal experience & situations\observations of those around me. I never go into writing a song with an idea of what it will be about. I 1st hear the music and discover the mood it sets and go from there. 

How would you describe the evolution of Nivianes sound between the album "The Druid King" and the second output "The ruthless divine" ?

The Druid King was mainly composed of music written by the individual members prior to the band being formed with the exception of 1 or 2 tracks. I took those tracks and put melodies & lyrics to them. The band was still finding our collaborative sound on that album. The Ruthless Divine has a much more cohesive sound which is also more technical and overall heavier. The 1st album was a nice out of the gate effort and production-wise sounded more polished and the new album was more modern sounding.

A new Niviane album is currently in the works. What can the fans expect of the new material ?

Yes, we are working on the details of the last 3 songs before we enter the studio next month to track drums for an untitled 3rd album. Fans can expect more of the same in terms of style. The heaviness is still there as well as the dynamics our fans have grown accustomed to. We did however try to concentrate on the chorus hooks a bit more this time around.

Can you give us any closer idea on how Norman Skinners Elemantis could sound like once it's out ?

The Elemantis project is a very diverse project in terms of sound. It really combines Symphonic Metal w\Traditional & Power Metal. 22 track concept album with a lot of guest musicians & vocalists. The songs range from acoustic ballads to heavy driving tracks and everything in between.

Listen to Norman's performance on a Niviane track called "Crown of Thorns".

Single Review: Fullmåne - Started A War (Black Punk, 2022)

The London based band talks about being an outsider and going down a destructive path chasing an ever more distant dream. I think in today's context many people can relate to the lyrics of this track.

Fullmåne released a brand new single today.

As for the music this particular track is a hardly ever heard combination of Black Metal elements with strong splitters of Punk inside. The vocals dominate to the front of the sound giving it a pure underground charme. "Started A War" takes no prisoners but goes down a straight route without being too brutal, so happily it's not a one sided Black Metal attack.

This goes even more for the guitars and the spacy keyboards which are held in the background and give the feeling of being recorded a very basic way that has not been altered at any way. The good old four track tape recorder comes to my mind. I think lot's of bands that start out in the garage know how this feels. The voice reminds me of Blackie Lawless on the very first W.A.S.P. records from back in the 1980s.

Finally make sure to listen for yourselves on Spotify and please share it on your playlists.

You can also follow Fullmåne on Facebook and Instagram. Two more singles and a album are said to be in the working stages.

KKs Priest calls us to keep music alive and kicking

In these times we're living in it's quite easy to give up. So much seems to be lost and down. So I'm glad to see and hear that KKs Priest gives us a call not to let it all go to waste what we all love and believe in so much. 

The title track of the upcoming album has already been revealed.

"Stick further to the music and keep the flame burning" this video talks to me. 

Musically this track stems from all the classic material we all know but holds the power and pressure tight 'til the last second. The vocals Ripper Owens performs feel very concentrated and to the point without going on one's nerves with too many high notes. The more classic sort of production without overload on noise adds to the positive feedback the title track calls in me. 

The release of the Sermons Of The Sinner album via Explorer1 Music Group/EX1 Records will come on August 20. Fans are able to pre-order the debut album in various configurations including an exclusive limited edition autographed Metal Vinyl (Silver Disc) with bonus CD Album, via the band’s online store here: https://found.ee/KKsPriest. The album can be pre-saved via all global digital streaming partners as well. 

 

With Downing on guitar, KK’s PRIEST also features ex-Judas Priest member Tim “Ripper” Owens on vocals, who fronted the band for eight years and recorded two studio albums, Jugulator, featuring the GRAMMY® nominated track “Bullet Train,” and Demolition, plus two live albums. 

 

They are joined by Tony Newton (Voodoo Six) on bass, A.J. Mills (Hostile) on guitar and Sean Elg (DeathRiders/Cage) on drums. Original drummer, Les Binks, unfortunately sustained a wrist injury, but will make special guest live appearances when the band tours. 

 

KK’S PRIEST is set to tour worldwide as soon as current restrictions are lifted. Details of touring to be announced. 

 

Connect with KK’S PRIEST via… 

Website - www.kkspriest.com 

Facebook - www.facebook.com/KKsPriest