Cover songs in metal-Observations

I have ranted on about cover songs before here. This time I just wanted to throw out a few observations about who to and not to cover.

The top three hard rock/metal acts to cover. Now this doesn't mean everyone can pull off covering these acts. However these are three of the most covered acts in metal and hard rock and with good reason.

1-AC/DC-So many bands cover AC/DC. Why? Because they are classic or because their music is easy to play? Some of both, but the second factor probably wins out. Not too difficult to cover.
2-KISS-Same reasons to cover as with AC/DC. Again many covers of their songs turn out well because they are very simple to play.
3-Black Sabbath-Certainly more difficult to cover than the above two, but another very popular act to cover. Many acts do target their more basic tracks to cover. Not a bad choice for a heavier act to tackle.


Top three hard rock/metal acts not to cover or you need to be pretty skilled to cover these guys

1-Iron Maiden-You have to have some guts and a whole lot of talent to take on covering a Maiden song. This isn't KISS, you can't fake or fill your way through a Maiden song. I do find it interesting that most bands that cover Maiden tend to cover Dianno era-Maiden. Is that because they love that period of that band so much or because their singer can handle Paul's vocals easier than they can Bruce's vocals? I would say it's the second one.

2-Led Zeppelin- Like with Maiden, you can't just wing covering Zeppelin. Fans know these songs by heart and you hit something weak in a cover it will be enough to make fans turn it off. As with Maiden I think bands frequently choose some of their more simple songs to take on.

3-Alice Cooper (anything they did between 1971 and 1974)-This one may sound like a strange choice because this band was not nearly as skilled of players as Maiden or Zeppelin. However they played offbeat quirky music that you can't just pick up and convey by merely reading the sheet music and hoping it works out. There was a certain feel to Alice's music during this time that's not easy to cover.

***Feel free to add your own thoughts about cover songs.

Impiety-Ravage and conquer

Pulverised
2012

Long running Singapore based death-metallers Impiety return with another truly venomous and blasphemous release. Only a few months into 2012 and these guys already had a DVD, a live album and this new studio album out. Impiety believe in just knocking out totally brutal death metal with raging blasts of thrash interwoven. These guys play merciless music and have done so for two decades. They never get much off track or try any new avenues. We are given eight songs here and six of those are over five minutes in length. So that's fairly long given the single mindedness of their music direction. They toss finesse aside go for straight ahead and complete bashing of their instruments. For the most part they pull it off. These guys are veterans of the field and take pride in being very steady at their craft. They do run out of ideas for a few brief periods, but they never run out of energy. This album does require some patience on the part of the listener, but overall I felt satisfied with the results.

Jack Blades-Rock-n-roll ride

Frontiers
2012

Jack Blades (Night Ranger, Damn Yankees) releases his second solo album only a year after the last Night Ranger release "Somewhere in California". So he has obviously been busy. I have always been lukewarm to the acts he has been in, but most surprisingly this is a fairly solid album. Of course there is nothing groundbreaking, but Blades sticks to what he knows which is AOR tinged hard rock. This album could have been released in 1989 from the way it sounds. I mean that last comment as a compliment for sure. Many of the tracks are very much radio friendly and call upon the sounds from Blades' previous bands and projects. Many of the songs are of a similar tempo, but he does an alright job of mixing up the pace with the likes of a solid churning track like "Say you will" and the smooth yet mellow "Don't give up". My only complaint on this album would be that the slower songs definitely outweigh the heavier ones. Overall a decent outing and Blades sounds very comfortable on every track.

NoMoreSpeech-NoMoreSpeech

Fernando De Luca
2012


“NoMoreSpeech” is the self-titled debut album from this young female-fronted Italian band. Unapologetic crossover rock is how the promo describes the group's blistering sound and as unusual as that might sound somehow it fits them like a glove. Lead by fiery and intense front-woman Alteria (who is also a television personalty with Rock Tv and RAI TV as well as hosting a radio show at Rocknrollradio.it) the band is rounded out by Tony Cordaro (guitars), Nando de Luca (bass) and Roby Fabiani (drums). Their album starts off on the right foot with "Lying Queen". This track shows off Alteria's intensity and her strong personality. Imagine if Paramore had more full-force impact and had been influenced by great heavy metal bands of old. "Bonjour" shows off the strength of this Italian rock band. Falling somewhere between new modern rock/alternative rock and radio metal it has heavy bass riffs and melodic vocals. The album's second single “Think Or Feel” is up next and like album opener "Lying Queen" flirts with the sounds of modern rock bands. Only with NoMoreSpeech there is more of a punk/metal and even lightweight doom vibe going on. "Bplan" starts off as funk punk metal before picking up steam. The band's first single “Picture Of Gold” has already been on heavy rotation on local television and radio stations and one can see why. "Void" features some interesting emphasis on texture while "Here And Now" features more of that bass heavy rock that made nu metal bands big the first time around. "No Reason" offers plenty of reasons to like this band and the same can be said of the slightly offbeat cover of "Relax". Hearing Frankie Goes to Hollywood as a heavy rock crunchy is certainly interesting. At almost fifty minutes in length this album is a rock and roll scorcher. Now I know for a fact that iTunes carries this superb debut album. Beyond that actual CD copies of “NoMoreSpeech” might be a bit harder to track down here in the States. For fans of crunchy radio rock/metal this is an album to search out. It has an edge to it thanks to the lead vocals of Alteria. Having strong women in rock music is nothing new of course it is only that this red head brings her A game to the table and really brings serious fury to the rally. Below I've provided a link to the band's "Think or Feel" video.












http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3dfkEMWCuQ

Accept-Stalingrad

Nuclear Blast America

2012

Considering the fact that Accept's first album came out in 1979 and that they originally owed a huge debt to AC/DC one can't help but marvel at how this band has changed over the years. Musically these German legends are heavier than ever and as "Stalingrad" proves there is still plenty of fight left in the band. 2010's "Blood of the Nations" may have introduced new singer Mark Tornillo to the world in grand fashion. For many it was one of the best comeback albums of 2010. Since then Mark has really stepped into the role of leader of the band and now they have returned with an album that is bound to be on many critic's album of the year awards come next December. This one is nothing short of heavy thrash metal goodness and Mark really shines on tracks like opener "Hung, Drawn and Quartered" and "Hellfire". If you liked 2010's effort I have no doubt that you'll find a lot to enjoy about numbers like "Revolution”, “Against The World” and “The Quick And The Dead”. Thrash metal has never shined so bright and Wolf Hoffman and Herman Frank’s guitar work is as good as ever. The lead work is classic Accept meets modern heavy metal and if one didn't know better you'd swear these guys saved some of the better riffs for Mark's second album with the band. Never forget UDO of course as he made Accept the band it is. Lets give Mark credit though as tracks like the slower "Twist Of Fate" showcase his range and give "Stalingrad" that extra push it needs to be great. Slowly Mark is making the case that Accept can carry on without UDO. "Stalingrad" is Accept in all it's glory and proof enough why they guys are real metal legends. One last note though before I go. If I didn't know better I would swear that "The Quick And The Dead" was "inspired" somewhat by Mötley Crüe's "Wild Side". Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I have only had one cup of coffee and need at least two cups to function in the morning. It could be as simple as that because Accept wouldn't be caught dead listening to Mötley Crüe right?

Black Burn-The Invocation

High Roller Records
2012

In the early part of the eighties heavy metal was alive and well over almost all of Europe except seemingly for the post-Cold War Berlin. In what little scene there was one name that stood above the rest was bassist Jörg Franke. He spent time playing with Tantalos, Skylla, Ballantinez and Calderone. Ballantinez recorded a EP entitled “Charged” for Noise Records in 1985 and Calderone released a s/t EP for Parallel Lines Records in 1988. In Between these groups he found time for numeros side-projects which is where Black Burn comes in. While most of Franke's work is either heavy metal or speed metal in sound this group was influenced by the likes Mercyful Fate, Venom and Black Sabbath. Interestingly enough Black Burn could be looked at as early black metal in nature. Backed by various session musicians the only "real" members of Black Burn were Marcel Klinger (who offers vocal growls for those of you into groups like Venom and Hellhammer) and Jörg Franke. On four of the songs (“Skylla”, “Dr. Vollin”, “Priest of Dread” and “The World is an immeasurable War”) Carsten Köhler played guitar and Timo Niedenzu played drums. Dark Avenger's Andreas Breindl plays drums on “Necrophile” a track which may or may not have influenced the Slayer track of the same name. Even if Black Burn was originally only intended to be a studio project it is hard to figure out why they received so little interest from record labels other than the fact that maybe it was just that the band was a little ahead of the times. Who knows what the outcome would have been if someone would have had the foresight to sign this group? In the end though we have this interesting High Roller Records collection of six tracks. Gathered together in these six tracks is some unearthly metal. My first run through of this album made me think that Metal Mark should have reviewed this one as this is something he would quite enjoy. I have no doubt that the doom elements (again Black Sabbath and possible Trouble) would have really interested him. With the early black metal vibe this release comes off as dark and dreary. It is cold and atmospheric. For those interested in the sounds of early black metal/doom these six tracks should be a real treat.

Current Playlist

Last one of these for March. Here you go.

Andy is listening to:

Randy-Randy
D.A.D-No Fuel Left For The Pilgrims
Killer Khan-Kill Devil Hills
Messiah Force-The Last Day
Killer-Stronger Than Ever
Roxcalibur Compilation
Crumbsuckers-Life Of Dreams
D.C. Lacroix-Crack Of Doom
The Hellraiser-We'll Bury You
NoMoreSpeech-NoMoreSpeech


Metal Mark is listening to-
Ignitor-Year of the metal tiger
Redrum-Power corrupts
Led Zeppelin-Houses of the holy
Introducing the Sonics
Alien Force-Hell and high water
Orchid-Capricorn
DOA-War on 45
Snatch-If the party's in your mouth...we're comin'
Witchkiller-demo 1982
Ted Nugent-Intensities in ten cities


***What are you listening to?

Steel Assassin- WW II: Metal of Honor

High Roller Records
2012


Boston classic metal band Steel Assassin was formed back in 1980. Originally known as Assassin they started out as a cover band playing music by the likes of Saxon, Raven, Accept, Judas Priest, AC/DC, Iron Maiden and Tygers of Pan Tang. They were one of countless eighties bands to get their start on the "Metal Massacre" compilations. In their case it was on volume VI with the killer song "Executioner". Despite a seemingly solid fan base and tons of potential they broke up around 1985. For whatever reason the major labels showed little interest and aside from an indie offer or two the band found themselves the victims of various internal problems. Fast forward many years and a compilation of remastered demo tracks was released. Called "From The Vaults" it would prove to be my first proper introduction to this epic band as I was afforded only a sneak peek on their "Metal Massacre" track. With a few proper albums to their name now Steel Assassin present this brand new concept album. Dedicated to the brave men and women who fought in WWII the album is another epic power metal affair. Musically not much has changed for the group so rest assured if you liked the group's last album then you'll like "World War II – Metal of Honor". Obviously the band seems to be becoming somewhat of a theme band as of late. That said isn't that the direction most epic power metal bands are heading these days anyway? What matters most to you and I is the music of course and that does not disappoint. In a year that has already seen more than a few great albums Steel Assassin have released a winner.

French Metal Friday: Highland Queen

Some days it does not pay to get out of bed. I had typed up a nice long article on this French group and despite the fact that I had little to go by originally it did explore this unheard of traditional heavy metal act. Well, after I typed up the last sentence and hit publish post it asked me to sign in again. That is when everything went downhill for me and somehow Blogger lost my work. This was even after I had saved it! Like I said, sometimes it is better to just stay in bed than to have to face day (or the urge to smash your PC into a thousand pieces). Anyway, this French metal act was formed in 1983 and released a single, demo and EP before calling it a day. Power Record's collected the single and EP and along with two live cuts gave us "Highland Queen 1983-1985". The live material includes a cover of "Live Wire" by Mötley Crüe. That is a good reference point as Highland Queen sound a little like early Mötley Crüe mixed with lighter Judas Priest. Nothing fancy mind you just no-frills early eighties heavy metal. I've included a link below to their "Living After Midnight" video and no it is not a Judas Priest cover!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W94uwSvO-D0

Tellusian-Scania

Handshake Inc.
2012

This 7 inch includes two tracks so I'll take each. "Eight years of rest" begins with a surge of force and despite the raw vocals you know right away this band is going to stress the technical elements of their playing. And indeed they shoot progressive elements in between the mid-tempo death metal assault. Some times this style doesn't blend together, but these are guys clearly competent to not only pull it off, but make it an enjoyable adventure as well. Side two contains Carnevale which begins with an abstract intro before being overtaken by raw blasts with underlying melodies. Eventually the technical pieces intertwine with steamrolling heavier parts and race towards the end of the track. This song had more power, but wasn't quite as creative. I definitely liked both tracks and would certainly like to hear more from this band.

Forgotten Gems-Viking-Do or die

In the last ten or so years viking metal is normally metal with some chants and maybe folk elements mixed in. Back in the mid-late 1980's in the thrash hey day there was Viking the band. They liked the viking and battle theme (obviously), but they played pure thrash. These guys hailed from California and started out as Tracer. They released a demo in 1986, appeared on Metal Massacre 8, signed to Metal Blade and this their debut in 1987. This album frequently gets split reviews. Half of the people seem to dislike them because they sound a like Slayer and Dark Angel and the other half like them...because they sound like Slayer and Dark Angel. Since I am putting this a category with the word "gem" you can guess what I think of it. The above influences are obvious, but other bands of the drew on this sound as well. However for me Viking go beyond just being a copy. They crank out the riffs like those two other bands, but they also stay heavy throughout their songs and don't just ride on one riff. I actually enjoy this album more now then I did when I first heard it in the late 80's. They knew how to really keep the momentum going. The production is raw even for the time, their sound prevails despite that. The band released "Man of straw" a year later then broke up in 1990 after two of the members had become Christians and decide not to continue with the band. Guitarist Brett Eriksen would end up in Dark Angel. A version of Viking would reform years later. Don't let this album fade into the past, check it out if you have never heard it and you should be delighted by some old style thrash.

Liberty N' Justice-Hell Is Coming To Breakfast

Roxx Records
2012


Christian hard rock group Liberty ‘n’ Justice was formed in 1991 by Justin Murr and Patrick Marchand. Since 2002 only Justin Murr has remained and he has been the driving force behind Liberty ‘n’ Justice ever since. With 2012 being the band's 20th Anniversary here we find the release of their 11th studio album "Hell is coming to Breakfast". This album is also the band's second release on Roxx Records and really after all is said and done remains another fine example of why this is such a successful melodic rock/hard rock group. Besides the fact that the album will no doubt be remembered for featuring the track "Sin" (the final song recorded by Jani Lane before his untimely death) "Hell Is Coming To Breakfast" features 7 brand new tracks and various demos. Personal favorites have to be the title track, "Whack A Mole" and "Stretch Armstrong" although all of "Hell Is Coming To Breakfast" works well. This should be more than enough to tide over fans until Liberty ‘n’ Justice release their 2 CD project "The Cigar Chronicles" sometime in 2013. As a side note I've included a link to my review of their "Chasing a Cure" LP below.








http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Liberty+%E2%80%98n%E2%80%99+Justice+

Forgotten Gems: Killer Khan-Kill Devil Hills

Independent/Private Print
1999

This album has only been in my collection a short time and already I have grown to love everything about it. "Kill Devil Hills" came my way thanks to a friend I trade with every so often. Had I know about these guys earlier I would have tracked down more music from them. Bands like this are all about playing metal for metal's sake and really letting other fans know about great music like this is the reason why Forgotten Gems is such a fun article to write. This North Carolina band was originally known as Holy Moses and played doom metal from various reports. Formed in 1994 by singer-songwriter Killian Khan the group released two albums under that name ("Latitude Zero" and "Rock 'n Roll Forever"- 1995 and 1996 respectively) before switching to Killer Khan. From the looks of it "Rock 'n Roll Forever" was re-released as Killer Khan and somewhere between album number two (which I have not heard either) and "Kill Devil Hills" the style changed as well. Said to be influenced by bands such as Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden and Dio the sound here is so eighties in nature that I had to check the date a few times to make sure there wasn't some sort of mistake. Not so as hard as it is for me to grasp this really was released in 1999. Frankly folks this is classic eighties metal in spirit and sound. The most interesting thing about the group though has to be Killer Khan himself. All I can say is that if Ozzy had a son who fronted a traditional heavy metal outfit this is what it would sound like. Now don't give me the speech about how Ozzy really does have a son because little Jack Osbourne is anything but metal. Sorry to disappoint all the mall metal kiddos. No, this guy sounds more like Ozzy's offspring than Jack does. Either that or he could perfectly front a Ozzy Osbourne tribute band. Killer Khan (the band) might have a Judas Priest/Dio vibe going for them (really though this album sounds like a lot of different eighties hard rock/heavy metal bands rolled into one big & beautiful collection!) but Killer Khan (the singer/guitarist) sounds like Ozzy himself during his early solo years when he didn't have to rely on studio tricks. Following this excellent little gem the band seemed to vanish so if anyone knows more about the group please drop me a line. "Kill Devil Hills" is just a fun listen and should be more known. It is no-frills hard/heavy metal with a sound rich in tradition. Before retro-loving heavy metal bands came along in the last few years Killer Khan was already marching to the beat of true metal. As someone who loved the scene the first time around I highly recommend this album to anyone that misses groups who used to wave the banner of heavy metal proudly.

Cathedral-The garden of unearthly delights re-issue

Metal Mind
2012

"The garden of unearthly delights" was eighth album from veteran doom mongers Cathedral and was released in 2006. The band had been around for over a decade and a half at the time when this album came out so their sound was well established. In their early days I really wanted to like Cathedral, but the first few albums were so slow and frequently dull. I think the band loved the idea of playing slow, but it took them a few years to really get a direction going. This album certainly had their tones, but they sure picked up the pace and even made their sound a bit nastier in places. Although there are some experimental bits in places as well as the usual sound effects and horror movie outtakes. There are some oddly paced pieces on certain songs, but most them just add to the mood. "The Garden" is around 27 minutes so it will get the label "epic" right away. It's a bit disjointed in spots, but it's no small task to make one song last almost half an hour and keep the listener's interest that whole time. Largely it's an intriguing song that has enough quirky blasts and interesting surprises tossed in. My favorite songs on this album include "Corpsecycle", "Upon Azrael's Wings", "North Berwick Witch Trials". This re-issue form Metal Mind includes a lyrics booklet and some brief notes about the band's history.

NWOBHM WEDNESDAY: BABY TUCKOO

Formed 1982 in Barnsley, England this short-lived band took their name from the James Joyce novel "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man". As part of the NWOBHM scene the band managed two full-length albums in 1984's "First Born" (Ultranoise) and 1986's "Force Majeure" (Music For Nations) as well a single and EPs. Baby Tuckoo featured Andy Barrott (keyboards) formerly of Geddes Axe (where he played guitar) in their ranks as well as future Jagged Edge member Rob Armitage (vocals). While the group was more on the melodic side of things (meaning more hard rock and less Iron Maiden worship) they were quite good at what they did. Certainly the genre could have used more than the typical Iron Maiden copy cat group and Baby Tuckoo provided that with an emphasis on melodic keyboard rock as much as guitar driven hard rock. Despite how that sounds on paper the band were harder edged than your Praying Mantis type British band of the band. After Armitage left the group in 1986 (in an attempt to join Accept of all groups) the band quietly folded. Their music is still readily available and while it might sound somewhat dated I still find it enjoyable. Melodic hard rock/NWOBHM won't appeal to everyone quite honestly but for those of you willing to explore the lighter side of the movement Baby Tuckoo could just surprise.

Ignitor-Year of the metal tiger

MVD
2012

Old school metal act Ignitor return with their forth album,their first on MVD records and their second with Jason McMaster (Watchtower, Dangerous Toys) on vocals. With just seven tracks I suppose it's technically an EP. My problem with this band in the past has been that they just seem to showcase a rather generic often times retrained style of classic metal without much of anything to really set them apart from others doing the same style. With everyone and their brother trying to re-create the 80's metal sound it's a crowded scene. Despite the corny album title this is a much better for this band. They still hold to that mid-80's metal sound along the lines of Accept, Judas Priest, Omen, Savage Grace and others. A number of the tracks are mid-tempo, but on occasion they get up to an early speed metal level in pace. This time around they are slightly more adventurous overall and they are definitely tighter around the edges. On previous albums I found them to be tedious, but this time around I was actually kind of sad when it ended. The music is all that you would expect from this type and as always McMaster belts out some impressive vocal performances. This band has been around for almost a decade and they have had some line-up and label changes over those years, but I think have finally gotten their sound to a very solid level. Here's hoping they keep it up and hopefully get to work on a full length effort soon.

Furyon-Gravitas

Frontiers Records
2012


For a Wednesday I would rather be doing a NWOBHM feature. Instead we will settle for a group from the UK. This full-length album from Brighton's Furyon was actually released back in 2010. All that Frontiers Records is doing is simply re-releasing the band's debut with 2 additional bonus tracks. Supposedly this group is the next big thing in the UK or so the hype goes. In case your paying attention even a little bit in life then you'll notice that we seem to hear that every month or so about some new act coming out of Britain. Are Furyon destined to stardom like the UK press predicts? Or more than likely will they just be one of those bands that you say "I wonder what ever happened to X?" and no one knows why we paid them all the fuss to begin with? Well, this is is about 50-50. Half is quite good while the other half one could take or leave. Modern rock/metal is what is in store for the average listener meaning a band raised on classic rock, heavy metal, prog and countless other genres we have all heard before. When the band is on everything clicks and one can't help but admit maybe the mainstream press is right. When things are off though I do have to wonder what this band was thinking or rather smoking. My best guess is these guys will do some fine things. That said in the end I highly doubt these guys will be the next big thing or even that we will remember them in 5+ years.

Big Daisy-Dig Daisy

High Roller Records
2012

I've always thought that if Rush were English and had been influenced by the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal movement they would have sounded like Big Daisy. That is the best way to describe this oddly named act. The band was formed in Lichfield in Staffordshire in early 1978 and are known for the above quirky artwork. This collection features demo material, various singles and the track "Don't go" from Ebony Records' 1982 "Metallic Storm" compilation. This is an essential purchase for NWOBHM collectors. If prog rock/British metal sounds interesting then you will certainly want to snag a copy of this one as well. High Roller Records has stumbled upon another hit release in the making. Good job guys.

Teramaze-Anhedonia

Nightmare / Sony / Red
2012

Australia's Teramaze formed in 1993 and despite having several albums to their name are pretty much an unknown entity outside their homeland. At first listen (and run through of the promo material) I thought these gentlemen are just another act lost in the field of thrash. With some patience though "Anhedonia" unfolds as much more than just common thrash. The band actually have adopted a sound that mixes in thrash, speed metal, progressive metal, power metal and groove metal. Fans of Nevermore, Karnivool, Pantera, Believer and Tool should find much to love about this album and these white metal musicians. Produced/Mixed by Dean Wells and mastered by Lasse lammert in Germany the album sounds sharp and flawless. Teramaze have provided a solid album of modern metal without the downside of the genre. Certainly this is a group that should appeal to progressive thrash fans as well as those who enjoy the more unique things in life like the styling of Devin Townsend.

Shroud of despondency-Pine

2012

This is a somewhat confusing album from Wisconsin's Shroud of despondency or maybe it's just that this band is confused about their direction. It's a black metal album first, but on occasion they seem to get a notion in their heads to be an experimental act as well. Unfortunately it doesn't always sound like they planned on both of these styles ahead of time. The results are that it works on occasion and at other times the experimental parts sound tacked on. That's kind of a shame because many of the experimental and oddly paced bits are quite good. They show some real skill in knocking out some crazed bursts although the placement of these passages doesn't always work. On the other hand the black metal elements which make up the majority of their songs tend to be fairly generic and uninspired at times. I think I am mainly bothered by this album not because it's bad. No, in fact there is some real potential here and at times they get into progressive elements and start to latch onto something. However I think lack of planning cut short what could have been a very interesting album. Maybe their writing skills will grow with time or perhaps this album turned out exactly how they wanted it to. For me it's a hit and miss affair from a band who had some decent ideas but they couldn't get them all in line.

Picture-Warhorse

Artist Station Records
2012

My first exposure to Dutch traditional metal band Picture came from a friend at my old workplace. This had to have been a good 10-12 years ago we are talking about because it was certainly before you could even hope to find their music on Amazon or Ebay. I have no idea how he came across the group or what made him decided to take a gamble of downloading their albums. He came in one day with "Heavy Metal Ears" and "Diamond Dreamer" (the band's second and third album) in his hands and thought it would be something I'd enjoy. After all he had helped school me in the ways of NWOBHM and Picture certainly fit that bill. Along with "Eternal Dark" (album number four) I grew to love the sound of Picture. Funny thing is that they were also one of the first bands I sent to Metal Mark when we were in the early stages of our friendship. Now here it is so many years later for both myself and Picture and somehow/someway we are both still trucking along. Granted Picture seems to have more steam in their pipes than I do because this album is hot to the touch. Has it really been 30+ years for these guys? Formed back in 1979, Picture is regarded as the first band to play heavy metal in their country. For a band that was huge in Holland as well as places like South America, Germany, Italy, Mexico and Japan they are largely unknown here in the States. Doubtful that will change after all of these years. For one thing their albums still are not easy to pick up here. "Warhorse" is an import and if not for friends in high places (or rather overseas!) the price tag would have been too much for me to justify given my single father status. Hopefully it will drop in price with time as "Warhorse" is a nice chunk of heavy/power metal. While the band might have started off as more hard rock than metal their new material is pure power metal with crunchy bass, pounding drums and tasty leads. Vocalist Pete Lovell (who was actually the group's third lead singer) sounds great. His voice has matured and might be a shade rough but it adds to the rugged power metal edge. Original members Rinus Vreugdenhil (bass) and Laurens Bakker (drums) really do a good job of holding down the back end. Guitarists Mike Ferguson and Peter Bourbon really work well here and as stated the licks are nice. "Warhorse" is an album Picture should be proud of as it sounds classic while having enough modern touches to appeal to the retro heavy metal crowd. If you can find this one at a good price I'd highly suggest grabbing it.

Exumer-Fire and damnation

Metal Blade
2012

Every band seems to come back at one time or another. I am rarely surprised by who comes back. It's what they do this time around that matters. Some bands are content to just be a copy of themselves, others go in a different musical direction, but the most effective route is usually in taking what worked the first time around and building around that. Germany's Exumer knocked out two albums back in the 80's before calling it quite in 1990. They reformed briefly in 2001, but more line-up changes seem to signal another end for the band. However in 2009 the line-up seemed more stable and a they put together a demo so a real comeback seemed possible and now the full length album is upon us. They have two members from the old days with guitarist Ray Mensh and Mem Von Stein (who was with the for a couple of years in the 80's). Rounding out the line-up are bassist Tony Shiavo,guitarist H.K. and drummer Matthias Kassner.So what does this version of the band sound like a quarter of a century after their last album? No surprise this is 80's style thrash which is fine by me because I'm all for a band sticking with what they know. Exumer excel with wide open, straight ahead stompers like "Vermin of the sky", "A new morality" and "Fallen saint". Actually the first six tracks are all fairly impressive. After that the album shows some shortcomings. "Crushing point" isn't all that crushing with a rather lukewarm pace and it's surprising tedious for a song that's barely three minutes long. "Devil chaser" is a little better and closer to the quality of the earlier tracks although it never quite explodes. "I dare you" comes on with an adequate riff, but the lame lyrics and barking vocals soon sink it. Easily the weakest song on the album. The closer "Tribal Furies" should have a monster to end this album on the right foot. It's a decent track, but it's doesn't have near the momentum of the majority of this album. So what we get here is about 2/3 of a really good album with a couple of filler tracks tossed in at the end. Still considering how long this band has been out of action this is a decent comeback album.

Ninja Magic-Lethal Ninjaction

Self-Release
2012

When you think about all of the names this band could have choose and then they settled on Ninja Magic? And that album cover? Wow. Just plain bad folks. Honestly it looks more like some sort of B-grade martial arts film right? Get past that and what you will discover is top of the line female-fronted melodic heavy metal/power metal with plenty of skill and memorable hooks. Hailing from northern Sweden this is another one of those bands to keep an eye on. Now, the best part of all of this it that Ninja Magic has made their new album available for free. Information can be found through the one and only Strappado below and as always much thanks must be given to my friend. Yet again he has helped turn us all on to a quite charming new act that really is flat-out rocking. One last thing it should be noted that the album is dedicated to the memory of Marcus Degerman. Follow them at Facebook for updates and click on the link below for more information on this free download.

http://strappadometalblog.blogspot.com/2012/03/ninja-magic-lethal-ninjaction-2012.html

Frantic Amber-Wrath Of Judgement

BlueFreya
2011



Fan's of either female-fronted or all-female metal groups should feel quite pleased with the wealth of material out there these days. It seems as if the more I look around for new acts to cover (or old acts to check out) wave upon wave of material comes pouring my way. The latest group that I stumbled upon (or rather tripped over as it was right in my way when I was off looking for another group!) is Stockholm, Sweden based melodic death/thrash Frantic Amber. Since I half expected another Mystica Girls I was pleased to be wrong when this 5-track demo debut downloaded. The moment I heard this one images of early Sepultura, early Slayer and early Metallica came my way although none of those three ever could be as infused with melodic death quite like this band. Is it a new sound? No, not by a long shot! Nothing groundbreaking here and this one is not at all perfect. Some of the material tends to overlap into other material and there are moments when things fall flat. But, (and there is always a but right?) the band shreds and has a vocalist who knows how to deliver. The music is heavy ladies and gentlemen and played with skill, speed and demonic intensity. If your looking for new melodic death/thrash you could do a lot worse.

Forgotten Gems-Blood Money:Red, raw and bleeding!

Back in the mid to late 1980's thrash was certainly my favorite metal sub-genre. I listened to any thrash I could get my hands on. That doesn't mean that I liked all the thrash that I heard back then, but I did enjoy a lot of it. However like any popular musical movement there are bound to be bands that slip through the cracks. Some times there is a good reason why that happens and some times not so much. Even though I am not as amaze by thrash as I was 25 or so years ago I am open to giving a chance to a thrash release from back then that I missed out on. I never heard of Blood Money until just a year or so ago and never got around to hearing this album until. This UK band had formed in 1984, knocked out a demo a year later and by 1986 released this their debut album. I always found it interesting that much of the roots of thrash can be traced back to the NWOBHM as bands like Venom, Raven and others were huge influences for the young acts that were hot on their heels. Yet the number of known thrash bands coming out of the UK in the mid-late 1980's seemed far less than the number of thrash coming out of the states or Germany. However that doesn't mean that there weren't some capable acts churning out thrash in the UK. For 1986 Blood Money may have been slightly behind the times with their sound on this album. The sound here is closer to what was going on in 84-85 as opposed to the thrash explosion that occurred in 1986. Still these guys were very tight and played some catchy, hard driving songs. Oddly enough the top two acts I here are Neil Turbin era-Anthrax and early Joey Belladonna-era Anthrax as well. Beyond that I also hear some Agent Steel and no surprise some NWOBHM influences too including Venom. This is unpolished, un-compromising early thrash. They won't earn a huge amount of style points, but I am sure they didn't care about that either. Instead they charge on and tie it all together as they go. For me I often preferred thrash before a band progressed or tried too hard. Blood Money certainly capture that sound on this album. These guys would knock out one more album after this one. Band members of went onto to be in China Beach, Morgueazm and Xanthoma. Definitely track this one down if you have never heard it before.

Jon For A Cowboy-Demonocracy

Metal Blade
2012


If you'd like a brief history lesson on Job For A Cowboy be sure to check out my review of their "Gloom" EP below. I'm going to just cut to the chase and say this nine-cut album slays.With new guitarist Tony Sannicandro (a session guitarist for Despised Icon) and Cephalic Carnage bassist Nick Schendzielos brought into the fold things have improved for the band as a whole. For one thing Tony's lead work brings the band to a new level. In his own words Tony states “I think I bring more of an old school guitar approach to the band. Obviously before the band got me there wasn’t a lot of lead work. On the new album has a solo on every song. I think I’ve done the best work of my life on there" and he couldn't be any more correct if he tried. With original vocalist Jonny Davy, drummer Jon “Charn” Rice and guitarist Al Glassman back for the attack the new guys join the mayhem and having this unleashed upon the senses reminded me of how much I appreciate true death/thrash metal. It is nice to hear a group not trying to get cute or fancy and instead just plug in and blitz the crap out of the listener. This one as stated just slays folks. It slays....





















http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Job+for+a+Cowboy-Gloom+

New Eden-Solving For X

Pure Steel Records
2012


Las Angeles' based New Eden was formed in 1993 by guitarist Horacio Colmenares. After making great strides thanks to their well-received "Through The Make Believe Now" four of the five members left due to personality clashes. While those four members would end up forming Destiny's End guitarist Horatio Colmenares carried on and after enlisting new members released "Obscure Master Plan" to rave reviews. With this being album number four great things are to be expected from New Eden right? Does it touch either of those first two albums though? By these worn in ears the answer falls somewhere in between. Better than their debut although not up to the standards of that excellent sophomore release. Since I have never heard the last album by these power metal warriors ("Stagnant Progression") I can't say if it is an improvement. I'm simply going by the first two albums which I have heard thanks to fellow metal lovers. Don't let that persuade you though if your a New Eden fan. Certainly I can't say if this is better or worse than album number three only that it sounds good to this old man. Without fail this is superb US power metal and while it might not go down as their greatest work ever it is a shinning achievement in the genre and an album I have no doubt to be visiting again soon.

Ufomammut-Oro:Opus Primum

Neurot
2012

Okay this is certainly one of my anticipated releases of 2012. Italy's masters of warped and twisted epic doom return with yet another release. This one follows on the heels of 2010'S eve which by the way was my favorite album of that year. As with previous releases they go for just a few long tracks so I'll tackle them individually. "Empireum" has a majestic yet spacey feel surrounding it. It is defined by a simple yet deliberate build-up of momentum. "Aureum" has a more traditional doom patterns which isn't always characteristic of this band although they can certainly handle it. They put their own stamp on this track and place such an emphasis on every movement."Infearnatural" is a rather noisy display drone with several directions going at once. At just over seven and a half minutes it's the shortest track on the album, but like all of the other songs they fit so many movements and tones into the running time."Magickon" picks up on the same style as the previous track. It is extremely repetitive at first but finds it's way with the different sounds playing off one another. "Mindomine" revolves are a slow pounding march of beats with distant ghostly vocals floating in. In time it hits a medium pace and winds it's way to the end. This album isn't terribly different from what this band has done in the past, but the album is certainly it's entity. Part of the beauty of this band's music is they don't try too hard to create, but rather they just let the sounds and moods flow. Obviously they such faith in their abilities and vision that they don't have to force it, but just let it unfold. Once again another fantastic album from one of the best drone/experimental/doom acts ever.

Revilers-s/t

PATAC
2012

Punk rock like many other styles has changed over the years. It's seen off shoots as well some watering down and sub-genre that are not always that faithful to what punk rock was in the 1970's and 1980's. Based on that it's always refreshing to hear a band today who embraces the pure, stripped down fury of old style, hard hitting punk rock. They smash their way through thirteen tracks of unbridled, noisy fury. Plus in the spirit of this style only one song is over three minutes. They realize it's about chaos and spirit instead of quantity. For influences think the Exploited, GBH, DOA and other early hardcore acts the way they sounded around 1981-1984. The Revilers attack quickly and get the job done effectively. After suffering through some album by bands that call themselves punk rock in recent years, it's great to be overwhelmed by something as simple yet magnificent as the Reviler's debut.

French Metal Friday: Angel Crash

Today I thought why not do a quick entry for French Metal Friday. This is one obscure band that few people I know have ever heard off. Even I don't know much about these French rockers other than the fact that they have been compared to fellow-French act Killers and had a silly satanic gimmick. Formed in 1983 the band managed one 5 song demo cassette and single (both in 1984) before breaking up. If it wasn't for how good the 1984 single is I doubt anyone would have cared about this quirky group. "Satan" is one of those singles that is pure heavy metal. It is sung in French and almost punk in nature with a gritty, raw and fast style. It is heavy metal done garage style and both evil and twisted. It is backed by the melodic and yet equally enjoyable track "Planète Espoir". With bands like this information is hard to come by so who knows what happened after these releases? More than likely they were just lost in the shuffle. If anyone knows more about the band please get in touch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zael2o8ScY4

DeathAmphetamine-The Lost Album

Obscenity Cult
2012



I have just a few questions for this Friday morning. Do you like grinding thrash? Do you still cherish the sound of cassette tapes? And finally do you like concept album's about "an apocalyptic future where all of their cynical paranoid conspiracy theory lyrics turned out to be true"? If you answered yes to all three questions then boy do I ever have good news for you! With members of Panzerbastard, Blessed Offal and Deathgod Messiah in it's ranks this is one act that should appeal to those of you who can't get enough of over the top extreme metal. For the record the band's promo lists influences like death metal, punk, hardcore, crust, classic grind, black metal and power metal. In reality this is insane grind/thrash with just enough raw, underground punk/hardcore to get the blood flowing. Life is full of surprises obviously and from the sounds of this release good things can still be found on those dusty old tapes.

Mystica Girls-Metalrose

Self-Release
2011


Mystica Girls is an all-female group that was formed in Mexico City in 2005 by bassist Jane. Originally started as a cover-band they were known initially as Mystica. Given the material they covered (Iron Maiden, Machine Head, Metallica, etc) you would think this would be an easy enough band to pigeon hole. Not so fast though. After various line-up changes the group started to write their own music and forge their own sound which you would expect to be metal or thrash right? Now while that sound is metal/thrash there is more to the story. First off the group uses a metal violin. Different to say the least. Second there is quite a bit of what could be called alternative influences (besides the obvious metal violin that is). Small pieces of goth and punk find there way into Mystica Girl's material and despite how that might sound it really works. The music keeps you on your toes and is refreshingly different. Now despite being listed as an LP on some sites this is more like an EP. There is only 6 songs and at under 3o minutes it is a quick listen. With just a demo and a 2009 EP under their belt this Mexico City act has plenty of time to grow. Worth tracking down for sure.

Current Playlist

Here's what we are listening to....

Andy-
Praying Mantis-Sanctuary
Mother Love Bone-S/T
SAIGON-One must die+WIZZ-Crazy games (2 on 1 CD)
Israel Unleashed Compilation
Murphy's Law-S/T
Kiss-Lick It Up
Ramones-Rocket To Russia
Firehouse-S/T
Slayer-Seasons In The Abyss

Metal Mark-
Dirty Penny-Young and restless
Ted Nugent-Scream dream
SNFU-...And no one else wanted to play
Cheap Trick-Rockford
Thorr-Axe-Roots of the mountain
Thought Industry-Short wave on a cold day
Ufomammut-Oro:Opus prime
Forbidden Planet soundtrack
Exumer-Fire and damnation
Buffalo-Volcanic Rock

***What are you listening to?

Huntress-"Eight of Swords" Single

Napalm Records
2012

Huntress is a new heavy metal/nwobhm inspired band fronted by Julliard-educated vocalist Jill Janus. The rest of the band is filled out by members of the California metal band Professor. While Julie is obviously the main selling point of the band (since promo pictures have her out front and in living color wearing very little in the way of clothes) there should be a built in market already in place for the group. We all know that when your front woman is smoking hot and you use that as a selling point then usually hormone driven male metalheads won't bother actually listening to the rest of the band. That said as I pride myself on actually listening to the project Huntress is wicked heavy and hard metal. Julie has a set of lungs on her and the rest of the band fires on all cylinders. With a full-length debut due out later this year Huntress will be an act to keep an eye on and not just because their lead singer is the stuff of wet dreams. Check out their video below.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo78chduJVA

Boulevard-What's Up

Yesterrock
2012

This Boulevard should not to be confused with the Canadian band of the same name. Rather this Swedish group hailed from Gothenburg and had a sound deeply indebted to not only AOR but also the likes of Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Poison, Europe, Winger and Hanoi Rocks. Originally this album was released in 1987 and like other Yesterrock re-releases comes packed with an improved sound and bonus material. In this case it is several demo cuts. Musically this one and done band had the hooks and looks to succeed. What happened then? Honestly, as much as I loved the music ("Solid As A Rock" is killer,"Fallen Angel" is quite good and "I'm What You Need" is unashamedly full on sugary pop rock) the one draw back is the on again-off again vocals of singer Roy El Hoshy. When he is in top form he blends in perfectly with his band mates and things really start cooking. Whenever he is off though his pitch problems become evident. Is it enough to say skip this one? With cuts like the smoking "Heart Of A Stranger" this one is worth a look up. "Running" is AOR in nature and so eighties it hurts and yet it made me fondly remember those years when big hair and cheesy keyboard rock could be found in my tape collection right next to my Bay Area thrash and punk mixes. Sure I rip on this era now and then and there were thousands of bands just like these Swedish rockers that made the genre fall flat on it's face. Still something about this one made me smile. Eighties hard rock and AOR fans should already be looking forward to this one and other Yesterrock titles.

Hair metal hodge podge-Circus, S.E.X. Department

Okay, I pulled two more hair metal discs from my disc.



Background-This is actually a tough category because there does not seem to be much information on this band. This was recorded in Lindenhurst,Illinois in 1989 and the names of the band members are listed. That's about it though. The quality sounds like a demo so unless told otherwise I am assuming that's what it was.

Influences-Poison, Pretty Boy Floyd

The Good-It's interesting hearing a hair metal demo from this time period because so many of the major label releases were so slick that this sound is actually a welcome change for once. The singer has a decent voice and sounds solid when he is himself (the flip side of this will fall in the next category). The guitarist knocks out several decent rhythms and I like it even better cosnidering I know it didn't spruced up by layers of production work. Most of the songs are mid-paced rockers and they handle them nicely.

The Bad-The vocalist tries hard to sound like Bret Michaels on several songs and it's painful. My advice would have been save that stuff for the shower and just be yourself. Guitar solos, were ther any? I don't remember them, but that was kind of standard for this style.

Final Word-Fans of Poison style glam will like it although if you like everything smooth as silk the sound quality may turn you off. This was nothing new, but they were alright at what they did.



Background-Hailing from Italy this actually a one man band, that man being Kelly "Trash" Mendess. As one guy handles vocals, guitars, bass and drums. Although there is a second guy helping with the background vocals. I am surprised more hair metal acts are not just one guy because it does not take much talent to do this style of music. Maybe they need extra guys to do each other's make-up though. Not when they tour the frontman brings in a touring line-up. This was done in 2007 and there has been a second release since then.

Influences-Pretty Boy Floyd, Alleycat Scratch,Faster Pussycat

The Good-The vocals are slightly nasal, but really not bad. There's some degree of character to his voice. The pace and mood on a number of songs is not your usual glam stuff. For the most part that's a good thing, they take some chances and some of them work out.

The Bad-Many of the songs are very repetitive and I mean like the same words and over and over. The first half of the album is much better than the second half. So for about three of the final five tracks you will be pushing the forward button. Those songs that are weak are very dull and I mean 40 seconds in and you may have had enough.

Final Word-This is a mixed bag. The decent songs slightly outweigh the bad and I respect Mendess for doing this pretty much all on his own. Still even for retro glam acts there are far better bands out there doing this style.

Sacred Heart-The Vision

Pure Underground Records
2012


It was shortly after 5pm on Monday night when I noticed that I had a new e-mail from Pure Steel Promotions. I only looked at it ever so briefly as I was set to leave the house for the night. Even though it was in German I did catch the Sacred Heart bit and spent part of the evening out wondering if it was the same Sacred Heart I knew from Ohio? Sure enough it is and what a strange thing it is to see this collection now after all these years! I don't recall hearing "The Vision" the first time around although I was familiar with the band thanks to Auburn Records and their Heavy Artillery compilation. The Heavy Artillery compilation was a collection of mostly Ohio bands and a big local seller back in the day. It turned me on to a lot of good Ohio heavy metal bands and was a much loved tape until I lost it in a move. I have been trying to track down a download of the compilation for old time's sake but that is another story for another time. Pure Underground Records is re-releasing the original three-track demo ( "The Vision") along with the band's Heavy Artillery track "Time After Time". Also included from Sacred Heart is a unreleased track by the name of "Take Hold". All of the Sacred Heart material come from the days when bands like Fifth Angel, Shok Paris and even Breaker were big so you can really see the influence there. The material on here has been tweaked and re-mastered so this is not some demo sounding material. It is nice sounding melodic hard rock and even if it has not held up that well over time it is still nice to hear this old Cleveland act again. Tacked on to the tail-end of the re-release is a six-track-EP from the Byron Nemeth Group. Byron Nemeth was one of the guitarists in Sacred Heart and actually went on to be a well respected solo musician after having spent time in another Ohio metal band (Amon-Ra). That is the only real connection between the time groups on this album as the Byron Nemeth Group is more progressive metal in nature. Both sets of songs are interesting in their own right although having this progressive rock/metal band (with some keyboard and even violin parts) tied together with US metal seems odd at best. But its not something that would persuade me from suggesting this re-release.

Craaft-Second Honeymoon 2012 Re-Release

Yesterrock
2012



One really has to appreciate Yesterrock's dedication to old school AOR and hard rock. Their re-releases are nothing short of superb. When it comes right down to it you can tell that these fine folks have a true passion for the music they deal in. The latest album to get the royal treatment by Yesterrock is Craaft's second album "Second Honeymoon". Released in 1988, it was an improvement over the group's debut album. Helped along greatly by the skills of Reinhard Besser the band operated in the hard rock realm. Said sound was also seen as a harder edged AOR and despite being unjustly overlooked by today's younger rock fans there is still hope to be found. This re-release is more rock than even I remembered and thankfully with the re-mastered sound everything sounds that much more crisp and clear. Will wonders never cease though. The label managed to keep in touch with some of the gritty hard rock that made this album really kick the first time around. With such a step-up of their debut I find it odd that this album is not more well known. The band crafted sharp rock that was well-written and witty. The re-release tacks on the bonus tracks on "Long Long Time" (Demo 1987), "Break Away (Demo 1987)" and "Take It Easy" (Demo 1987) and is highly recommended to AOR and hard rock enthusiasts.

Forgotten Gems-White Sister-s/t

Ignore that group picture on the album cover. No, don't look at it because the leg warmers, bandanas and headbands might sway your opinion and have you thinking these guys were in the same league as unworthy acts as Autograph and Loverboy. They were not because this was White Sister. That's right, White Sister. You never heard of them? Yeah, maybe not. You should have, we all should have because they were an impressive AOR/hard rock unit. This was their first of two albums and several years later 3/4 of the band would be in Tattoo Rodeo which was more of slightly southern tinged hard rock act. White Sister were a cross between solid melodic hard rock acts of the time along the lines of Dokken and Icon mixed in slick sounding AOR elements a little like Foreigner. However they developed their own personality right here on their debut. The guitars are powerful as they create a strong canvas for the melodies to be laid upon. Admittedly the first time I heard this album I wasn't thrilled by the keyboards. I was in a metal frame of mind and didn't take to this album right away. I let it sit for a year or two and came back to it. Then then the mix smooth melodies and, quick keyboards and some hard rock elements clicked with me. Not sure if the band was a little too late or a little early or that they didn't get the right push. Whatever the reason they never got their due back then which is a shame because they were on. However over the years this has been highly re-guarded by fans of this style which is understandable. AOR gets a negative reputation in many circles, but like all genres there's good and bad bands. White Sister were an efficient act with some impressive ideas.

Heavy Pink-Flower and song

Maple Forum
2011

Quick, who is the busiest man in heavy music today? Could be a number of people, but a definite consideration would have to be Mos Generator/Stone Axe front man Tony Reed. In addition to the above mentioned acts Reed now has Heavy Pink. This is a two track seven inch so I'll get at both songs. "Flower and song" sounds like some soft hippie title perhaps, but instead it's a lofty, deep drone. Reminds of a more forward version of what Sabbath were doing around 74-75 only with some space rock mixed in. No lost second in this one, every bit has something of interest. "There is a light" comes on with a meaty riff no far off from late 70's Judas Priest, but quickly settles down into more sedate mood. The vocals eventually float on while the music stays in the same steady gear. This songs rides it's repetition for more of the duration, but changes a little towards the end. You have to be a bit more patient for this one, but it's still and education in soulful heavy music. This project has more psychedelic elements than we have come to expect from Mr. Reed, but he handles expertly of course.This Heavy Pink disc is exciting, but the only complaint is now I want to hear from them than just these eight minutes. So hopefully Tony Reed has that in his plan and perhaps he might even time to squeeze it into his schedule as well.

Trappazat-From Dusk Till Dawn

High Roller Records
2012


The whole story behind the band Trappazat is kind of long and honestly would bring nothing news worthy to this review so I've condensed it a bit. No need to thank me folks. Back in 1989 a band was already in place featuring a singer by the name of Kerry Taylor. For whatever reason the rest of the band wanted to replace him (despite the fact that his replacement even thought he was a better singer with a "Klaus Meine type vocal thing going on"). The new singer would prove to be efficient and it was his dedication that lead to the release of "From Dusk Till Dawn". Now Trappazat only played two live gigs and these eight songs are all they laid down on tape. Interestingly enough after it was all said and done the band brought back in Kerry Taylor and re-recorded the music for a cassette-only release. Anyway, years later the material is finally put out thanks to our friends at High Roller Records. With all of that by way of an introduction I am so sorry to have to start off this review in such a way. It pains me as I'm sure Paul Britton is a great guy. From the sounds of it he was a single father just like me and he had a passion for true heavy metal. But if I am to be honest his vocals hold Trappazat back. This release has all the needed tools to be great. By 1989 this was dated obviously. It is NWOBHM in sound and style with some early eighties metal sprinkled on top. For the time there was no way this would sell to the public. This sort of heavy metal was dead in the water by 1990. That being what it is though the track "1 am D.O.A." might just be one of the coolest heavy metal tunes I have heard in a long, long time. It is simply killer. It has a chorus I'll be singing all day long. Really if it had been released in the early eighties it would have been a highlight of the movement. The band opts for a great sound that mixes in bits of Iron Maiden, early Def Leppard, Praying Mantis, Dark Wizard, Omen, Grim Reaper, Gotham City, Crossfire, Demon, Soldier, Incubus (not the modern rock ones!) and Jag Panzer. It really is the best of NWOBHM meets the best of eighties metal. "1 am D.O.A." could be a long-lost single from a time when heavy metal was still in it's humble beginnings and going through it's growing pains. If only those vocals didn't drag the whole affair down though because otherwise I'd give this LP a glowing endorsement. As is it remains a fun album for retro metal fans if you can overlook the strained vocals that is. Although even then I would probably buy it just for "1 am D.O.A.". Did I mention how freaking cool the track is?

Despite Exile-Scarlet Reverie

Self-Release
2011





I had the great hard rock band Vanadium on my mind when I sat down to listen to Despite Exile's 2011 EP over the weekend. Not that these two bands have anything in common other than being from Italy mind you. I was only thinking about how there have been quite a few excellent bands to come out of Italy. Do Despite Exile fall into the excellent category? Well, a few facts first before we get into that. The band was formed back in 2010 and unlike Vanadium (who every fan of early eighties metal should check out by the way) play a heavy (as in brutal baseball bat to the head heavy) form of deathcore with a small dose of metalcore thrown in as a last thought. I can only guess at to the band's exact influences. Maybe some early Death, Morbid Angel, Venom, Obituary and Deicide on the death metal side of things and stuff like the Cro-Mags, The Accused, Cryptic Slaughter, Terror, early Suicidal Tendencies and early C.O.C. on the hardcore side. Throw in a salt shakes worth of American metalcore and your there. Its almost like 60% death, 30% hardcore and 10% metalcore. Now seeing as these guys are only a year or so removed from their formation when this EP hit the scene I'd say the results are quite excellent. The band manages to be both technical in nature and drenched in brutality at the same time. With this being only a six song affair the beat down is over with though before the fun even begins. As it is an EP it clocks in at under 30 minutes so I'd like to see what happens when the band has a full-length to work with. Deathcore fans should like this one quite a bit.

Current Playlist

Another week has past us by. With Metal Mark feeling a little under the weather this past week I have tried to post more than usual. With that said I present my weekly play list. As always what are you listening to?

Pretty Maids-Red Hot And Heavy

Fate-Fate

Melvins-Houdini

Benediction-Subconscious Terror

Chinawite-Run For Cover

Ostrogoth-Full Moon's Eyes

Ezy Meat-Not for Wimps (+ Bonus Tracks)

Righteous Pigs-Stress Related/Live And Learn

St. Elmo's Fire-Desperate Years

Mystica Girls-Metalrose


As I look at my weekly list I realize that eighties metal has found a way into heavy rotation as usual. Sure, there is some variety to be found if you dig deep enough. The Melvins are there as is Benediction and Righteous Pigs (an excellent punk/hardcore/noise/grind band for those who are not familiar with the name). St. Elmo's Fire are really 90's hard rock/traditional metal/power metal in nature and Fate (the post-Merciful Fate group) are straight ahead hard rock. Mystica Girls are a newer group out of Mexico that I hope to review in the next few days. They play heavy metal/thrash with some interesting alternative influences tossed in. So, really if you think about it as usual hard rock and eighties metal make up the bulk of this week's list for me. I seem to be a creature of habit. How about you? What do you find dominating your stereo this week?

Existance-Existance

High Roller Records
2012



I have been neglecting my French Metal Friday posts so I thought as a way of making it up to everyone I'd cover this young band. By now most people should know that High Roller Records is the home of mostly traditional minded heavy metal and NWOBHM acts. Existance would fall somewhere in between those two styles although they are far too young a band to have seen the heyday of either of those genres. Formed in 2008 in a small town called Clermont (situated approximately 60 kilometres north of Paris for those who are interested) the band's first recorded output was a 2010 demo which was used to book concerts. A second 8-track demo was released in 2011 with the goal of shopping it about to get a record deal. In the end the band signed with High Roller Records who choose to release the 2011 demo pretty much as it was. Despite the fact that it was originally a promotional demo in nature the production and overall quality was that good that no changes were needed. That should say something about these eight tracks as High Roller Records is not some fly by night operation. Instead the label deals in top notch heavy metal so if no real touch-ups were needed to the album you know it is killer stuff. With High Roller Records behind them all the way the band choose to simply call the album "Existance" and I can't begin to express just how superb the end product is. The album easily reflects the band's influences and roots (more on that in a second) while showcasing a sound that is all their own. Existance is lead by vocalist/guitarist Julian Izard (the son of H-Bomb's Didier Izard) and includes guitarist Fred Labasque and bassist Tom Drouin. The drum parts were done by Laurent Louvrier. All four musicians bring their "A" game to the album. With French heavy metal running in Julian Izard's blood it would be easy enough to point out the similarities between H-Bomb and Existance. One could even argue that Existance is just the next evolution in French heavy metal and the logical progression from classic French heavy metal bands like Trust, Nightmare, Vulcain, Warning or ADX. With such a rich history to draw on I have no doubt that Existance would feel honored to be mentioned in the same breath as these greats. That said this young band has more in common with fellow High Roller Records label mate's Agincourt than H-Bomb. For one thing Existance sing in English (unlike many French bands of old) and draw upon British metal more than their fellow French metal bands. Existance have a sound rich in eighties heavy metal having already drawn comparisons to bands like the Tygers of Pan Tang, Iron Maiden, Hammer Fall, Saxon, Hammerhead (I caught nods of appreciation towards these cult rockers), Iron Maiden and the Scorpions. Speaking of the Scorpions it should be noted that Julian Izard has been compared to Klaus Meine as they both have that classic hard rock style. So, from the Scorpions to H-Bomb there are many bands that have helped to shape the very unique sound of Existance. Here's hoping that just like the classic bands of old they were inspired by these young French rockers have a nice long career ahead of them. I'd love to see the group have long staying power which would allow them the opportunity to fine tone their sound. This self-titled debut is a great addition for traditional heavy metal collectors as well as those into the French scene. Hopefully I can pick up a copy of their album as this is one release I want to have in more than just digital format.

Rotorvator-Heaven EP

Self-Release
2012

Do not adjust your stereo. The sound you are hearing is not of this world. Something dark and ominous has found a way to slip through the cracks and it's name is Rotorvator. From their own page (link below) we are offered this by way of explanation: "Rotorvator performs violent rituals constantly inspired by everything that is unbearable and unfathomable to the human mind. Its vision of music is one of loud, raw and deliberately offensive sounds, messing up black metal, noise, industrial and psychedelia." Actually, this 3-track EP plays out as if someone had opened up the Necronomicon and decided what the world needed more than anything was a black metal band made up of deadites. With that out in the open it would be wise to arm yourself for what awaits.Whenever you read the words aloud from the book of the dead things get downright twisted. This band was obviously raised on the book of the dead as much as they were extreme black metal and the music of rotted psychedelic rock stars. Find out why this one creeps me out at the link below. Be warned though this one is dark and dismal folks.


http://rotorvator.bandcamp.com/album/heaven

Zarpa-Las Puertas Del Tiempo

Karthago Records
2012



Traditional heavy metal act Zarpa have a long standing cult status in their home country of Spain. Formed as Wolframio back in 1977 (when I was just a four year old!) the group has been active on and off ever since. They played from 1977 to 1988 before stepping down as Spain's top metal act only to briefly reform in 1992. Since 1999 the band has once more been active and as their latest LP proves they have no interest in suddenly changing their sound or singing in anything but their native language. It is most likely due to the fact that the band only sings in Spanish that they are not more well known here in the States. My first taste of the band came by way of the excellent 1982 album "¿Ángeles o Demonios?" which is a cult record for many collectors. A superb full-length debut it was only the beginning as the band went on to bigger and better things. As stated they are huge in Spain and it is no wonder why given their superb take on hard and heavy metal. Like soldiers marching onward to the battle this Spanish act puts on a full suit of heavy metal armour. The band's sound is firmly rooted in 70's/early 80's heavy metal. Think along the lines of Accept/Scorpions/Judas Priest/Saxon style metal and you'll get an idea. The band has killer riffs and even if the lyrics are foreign to me the music speaks volumes. Pure heavy metal is a beautiful thing in any language!

Lynchmada-To The Earth

Truth Inc. Records
2011






Lynchmada was an outfit I was not too familiar with when their CD arrived in my mail. As I was on my way out at the time I just slid the disc into my car's CD player, hit play, turned the volume up and was greeted by this unearthly black/doom sound by way of "What Fresh Hell Is This?". Not too surprisingly I had a blank look on my face as I thought to myself "Andy, I thought the promo sheet said Lynchmada would appeal to listeners who were into bands like Deftones, Karnivool, Meshuggah and Chimaira?". Well, as I was just about to answer myself (since the only time I can ever find someone to agree with me is when I talk to myself) the rest of "To The Earth" kicked in and it certainly was not black metal or doom. Rather what it was was this incredible hybrid of thrash and almost deathcore. This Gold Coast, Queensland based band have a fresh sound that pulls from British metal, Scandinavian death metal, technical thrash, metalcore and interestingly enough progressive rock. Alright, maybe it isn't all that new and fresh as seemingly every new "modern metal" band is pulling bits and pieces of different genres out of thin air and pasting them together. What makes these gentlemen different though from the bulk of other modern metal bands doing the same thing is that here it sounds cool. Crushing and insane riffs, blasting drum beats, bulldozer like bass lines and both clean and rough vocals all swirl around creating an album that while technically not new or inventive is at least fun to rage out to. Sometimes that is all you need out of a metal act anyway right? Does a new band have to be new style and sound wise or can they just be a rage in a cage blast of heavy metal fury? For me sometimes it matters little if the sound is completely new as long as it is down right gritty and insane. With Lynchmada the sound is new (in that not every modern metal act out there these days is doing it right) and they destroy bodies in the pit at the same time. It is a win-win situation!

Forgotten Gems: Randy-"Shadows Are Falling" Single

Arp Grammofon
1986


Man alive I can not even begin to tell you how many times I came across this band over the years only to pass over them because of that cover art. Just about every eighties heavy metal blog site worth half a crap had this single for download though. With the name and cover I always expected this to be some sort of awful second wave thrash act named after their singer or something. If only I would have bothered to check Randy out sooner I'd have realized that this single might just be the best one to come out of Denmark ever! More than likely I'd wager that the band took their name from the fact that they were from Randers, Denmark. That would make sense. What does not make sense is how this single isn't more well known here in America? Supposedly it still has a huge cult following to this day over in parts of Europe and one can see why...or rather hear why. Randy pulled off superb heavy metal the way it used to be. No frills heavy metal like this was all the rage in the early part of the eighties and has only recently made a comeback. This three piece band managed to release only this single (backed with the excellent track "The Beast"!) and a seven song demo before folding. The single is highly sought by record collectors the world over and as stated pretty much every where on the web you can find it download wise. In 2011 the record label No Remorse came along and finally released a proper version of the band's catalog on CD. This Best of/Compilation includes the tracks from the "Shadows Are Falling", the 1987 demo and three live tracks (also from 1987). An LP release of the CD is in the works from the sounds of it and either one would be a worthwhile purchase for heavy metal fans. I've provided a link below for the track "Shadows Are Falling" that I found on YouTube. Enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jjsi-vghsbA&feature=related