Forgotten Gem: Bone Shaker-BANG...You're Dead

Turkey Vulture Records
2007

As of late I've been trying (Yet again for what seems like the millionth time!) to clean out all the nooks and crannies of my CD collection. While shifting through a pile that felt as if it was going to engulf my room (Seriously, where did I get all these CDs come from? Have they developed the ability to breed like rats?) Bone Shaker's "BANG...You're Dead" fell out. Needing a break from the mad disaster that was once my bedroom I decided to slid this disc into my CD player and see what was what with this band. Logically there had to have been some reason that I had the album I figured. But, whether I bought it, traded for it or if it was some random gift I just couldn't recall. Looking over our records here at Heavy Metal Time Machine I do see that Metal Mark actually interviewed this group at one time and may have even reviewed this album! I fully admit though that I was just too lazy to scroll down through all the postings so it may or may not be there*. Not that it matters right? Even if Metal Mark did review this album it's brand spanking new to me so hey, why not do a write-up I figure. What's the real harm? With that said let's see what is what with the guys (and gal!) in Bone Shaker. Formed back in 2006 under their original name Unholy, under which they released the one album "13 Ghosts", the heavy metal band would change their name a year later before releasing this album on Turkey Vulture Records. Opting to take the name Bone Shaker seemed like a wise-call to me as there were/are far too many bands with either the name Unholy or the name Unholy plus something or rather. With the move to Bone Shaker came this album and, seeing as it was the same three members in both bands, the transaction must have gone fairly smoothly. Here the name of the game is heavy metal with chief songwriter David "Gonz" Gonzalez handling both lead vocals and guitars while drum duties are taken care of by Brian DeHarde. On bass/vocals you have Camille Gonzalez. That means you've got a heavy metal combo made up of  either a husband-wife or brother-sister. I'm guessing it's the former. As for what kind of heavy metal you're going to get from this Milwaukee trio? Well, here's a clue. This album features three, yes count them, three songs with hell in the title. You've got "Hell and Back", "Raising Hell" and "Hell Razor"! So, with this band, or rather on this album, you're looking at a heavy metal that is somehow old-school, think W.A.S.P. (only with a bite more of a raw vibe) or maybe older Accept (pre-"Balls To The Wall" meaning with less AC/DC going on), without sounding like an 80's metal album. That might not sound like such a hard feat, but when you've got all these metal tracks with hell in the title (as well as a track called "How we Rock"!), you're just screaming for it to sound like retro "80's metal". If you've confused as to what's the difference between this form of old-fashioned metal and "80's metal" (as a genre) then be sure to click here: http://www.bnrmetal.com/v3/genres/one/8 . If not then just trek on as this 10-track album sounds for all the world as if you've got these three musicians who were big fans of early W.A.S.P. and bands like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Accept. No doubt they said "Anything they can do we can do to!" and from there it just steamrolled With quality in mind, as this is quality heavy metal if nothing else, the three set out to record "BANG...You're Dead" and, for the most part, they succeeded in creating one of those albums that will appeal to older heavy metal fans. It's really not all W.A.S.P. worship (even if this does sound to me a lot like early Blackie Lawless and company!)or all Accept or what have you. There is everything from Iron Maiden to Kiss to be found within this release. It's just that W.A.S.P. would be my first reference point with Accept and maybe Judas Priest following closely behind. So yeah, it's worth pointing out that while a band like Bone Shaker might be considered to be more of a "new" act then write material that would appeal to fans of "older" metal. If that describes you then Bone Shaker might be worth investigating. Fans of the previously mentioned acts should like this Milwaukee band as well as those folks who enjoy solo Ozzy (more of his earlier material), the heavier side of Twisted Sister (if there really is such a thing!) and maybe even Motörhead! The only drawback to this album is the lead vocals which could be better. Otherwise this album proved to be a pleasant surprise as it reminded me of a time when heavy metal was still exciting. To a point it still is although it's getting harder and harder to find these kinds of bands that want to play no-frills, blue-collar heavy metal without all the flash and splash that comes from having an "image". I close acknowledging the fact that I'm torn between wanting to hear more from this band** (as there is a great deal of potential here ) and the fear that any other material would suffer the same cruel fate as this one (so-so vocals which do little to enhance the cause or advance the band's standing). So this may or may not be my last time hanging out with a "new" Bone Shaker album. Time will tell.

*After finishing up this review I took the time to go back and dig around in our previous postings. I discovered that Metal Mark had reviewed this album and, in addition to the W.A.S.P. and Accept reference points, he brought up Grim Reaper. I must admit that I didn't hear that as much my first time through the album so I may just have to go back and give it another spin soon!

**The band did release a follow-up album in 2009 called "Union".

 

The Answer-New Horizon

Napalm Records
2013

Due for release at the end of September, The Answer's upcoming new album, "New Horizon", should please both fans of old and new. Produced by Toby Jepson (Little Angels) and mixed by Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Metallica), "New Horizon" is the killer sound of rock and roll all revved up and ready to go! With the soon-to-be released "New Horizon" making it album number four for these Northern Irish rockers (time flies when you're having fun after all!), if they weren't a household name before this album then The Answer should be shortly! Here we are looking at a 4-piece band that is all dolled up and ready for the party to begin. All that's needed is an eager listening audience that's been craving real rock and roll. If that sounds like you then have no worries. Your appetite will soon be taken care of seeing as The Answer's upcoming LP reads like a how to manual on the proper way to create a real  rock and roll album! Simply put "New Horizon" sounds like a down-right killer rock and roll album so if you're looking to add a new name to your collection then look no further. As "New Horizon" unveils itself for the listener in such a smooth fashion it comes across as more of a long lost classic rock album than one assembled in 2013! And that's not easy folks! As for the four guys behind this album you might be asking? Well, guitarist Paul Mahon, whose father was a renowned jazz trumpeter in his native Ireland, actually formed The Answer back in 2000, but it would take a little while before the group's first-album would be released. That's getting a bit ahead of ourselves though so let's get back to how guitarist Paul Mahon first put this group together. Enlisting his school chum Micky Waters as a bassist, the band would soon enough be rounded out by the talented lead vocals of Cormac Neeson and the mad drumming skills of James Heatley. With Paul Mahon providing the same sort of lead guitar solos that made rock and roll so dangerous to the establishment to begin with (in other words his guitar playing is crafted from the spirits of bands like Cream and Deep Purple as well as artists like Jimi Hendrix) and bassist Micky Waters burning the house down with some meaty riffs it was pretty obvious from the start that this 4-piece had good things in store for the listening public. For whatever reason though it did take a little time before they were able to pull-off a studio release. The band's 2006 debut album, "Rise", (which has yet to see an official release here in the US oddly enough) was certainly a long-time coming, but it proved to be more than worth the wait! "Rise" would end up on the receiving end of almost universal praise as would it's follow-up, 2009's "Everyday Demons". When it came down to the group's last album, 2011's "Revival", it was pretty much the same deal as the band's classic rock-tinged hard rock had appealed to those longing for the good old days when rock and roll was more about sound and less about image. With "New Horizon" it's more of the same, which isn't a bad deal at all when you're talking about rock and roll like this, only this time around it seems much more refined as if The Answer has just about perfected their own individual sound! The group's influences, which run from A (AC/DC) to Z (Zeppelin), seem less noticeable on their forth album as if these four guys are finally taping into their own groove. Even if their potent brand of heavy rock/hard rock might still point an approving figure towards the likes of Thin Lizzy it's more as if The Answer is just acknowledging their roots then rehashing them. In the end "New Horizon" makes for a great listen. It's that plain and simple and, as such, it's a no-brainer for both fans of The Answer and those people who are always on the lookout for that old-fashioned, well-loved rock and roll sound! And speaking of which, this new album will be well-loved and duly appreciated by yours truly as it finds a way into my stereos heavy rotation section!

Aruna Azura-A Story Of A World's Betrayal

Metal Scrap Records
2013

Somehow the full-length debut from this Russian band had slipped my mind. I had actually downloaded this album for review purposes sometime back and I only just now (or rather this morning) happened upon it by chance. It seems a shame that I had somehow overlooked this one as Aruna Azura's "A Story Of A World's Betrayal" isn't all that bad. Despite the fact that their name makes me think of  Hakuna Matata (yes, I know I'm weird to think of such a silly rhyme!) this youngish Russian band has some skills going for them. Technical death metal is the game these guys plays with the only difference being this group and a dozen similar such outfits is that there's some progressive metal intertwined throughout their debut album. Oh, there's also the clean and harsh vocals. Death growls mix up with clean singing and while it doesn't exactly deliver the desired effect for Aruna Azura it's the sign of a band that's trying to stand out from the crowd. There is room to grow for this bunch, but as far as debut-albums go this one is solid if unspectacular. Find out more here:
http://metalscraprecords.bandcamp.com/album/aruna-azura-a-story-of-a-world-s-betrayal

Gwar-Battle Maximus

Metal Blade Records
2013

There's no need for a long introduction when it comes to Richmond, Virginia's Gwar. Chances are if you're here reading this then you know who the band is and what they do. If you're not familiar with the band then I honestly have no idea what to tell you other then perhaps it's long-past time that you crawl out from under that rock that you've been calling home! Anyway, my first taste of Gwar came courtesy of "Scumdogs of the Universe" which was released back in 1990. I wore out a copy of that tape (yes, a cassette tape!) thanks to cool tracks like "Sick of You" and I dreamed of one day being able to indulge in one of their live shows. Of course their music has always been heavy on the juvenile humor, but seeing as I was 16 when that album came out what can I say? Now here we are 24 years later and I'm faced with two certainties when it comes to this new album by Gwar. First off this is the group's first studio album since the tragic loss of their longtime guitar player, Flattus Maximus (Cory Smoot), so no doubt the emotions were running high for the group when they laid this to tape. I'd be lying if I said that his death wasn't weighing on my mind the first time I listened to "Battle Maximus". Cory Smoot's death was a sad event for his family, friends, band-mates and fans. This album is said to be both a tribute to Cory and a continuation of the Gwar storyline. So yeah, that was the first point to consider and as for the second point? Well, even though I loved Gwar's second full-length album I would eventually lose interest in the whole Gwar storyline. While the music was/still is cool it just got to a point where it was like "OK, now what?". So, while I do have their second album downloaded (as well as other misc.tracks from their long career!) I've long since moved on from being a hardcore Gwar fan. Maybe that's for the best though as it gives me a different perspective then other reviewers who might actually be diehard Gwar junkies. Maybe. I will say this about this new album-It's straight-up dope heavy metal with or without it's "storyline". For those of you who might be interested in the storyline anyway here's the deal. This new album works as both a tribute to their fallen comrade, Flattus Maximus, and as a documentation of Gwar's "latest struggle against what may be their greatest enemy yet...the insidious "Mr. Perfect", who has travelled through time itself to steal the power of Gwar--the power of immortality, and use this power to mutate the human race into his twisted vision of what the "perfect" human should be". It goes on to add "Once again Gwar finds themselves as the only thing standing between the human race and the latest super-powered shithead bent on the destruction of Gwar and the enslavement of their worshipers". Pretty heavy stuff right? Anyway, let's move on to the good stuff-The Music! Recorded at the group's brand-new Slave Pit Studios Brent, this is the Gwar's first album to feature new lead guitarist Pustulus Maximus  (aka Brent Purgason) and yeah, his skills fit in quite nicely! As I said above this is some pretty dope heavy metal and when I actually use the term "dope" then that says a lot! By this point in their long and successful career the guys in Gwar have created an original sound to go along with their original "theme metal". There's no mistaking that familiar Gwar sound which has always come across as a mixture of punk metal, traditional heavy metal and thrash...or at least to these ears. And this album is no different really. With a punk attitude and metallic riffs that could easily do some serious damage to both your eardrums and face this is the continuing story of a band that done it their way, critics and naysayers be damned! To listen to "Battle Maximus" is to listen to a band that has persevered and shows no sign of ever stopping. That same Gwar energy and twisted enjoyment of all things weird and ooze-filled that was on display on "Scumdogs of the Universe" is on display here and I can find little to fault these guys over on this 12-track album (it's really 13 tracks, but why count the brief intro?). Fans should find plenty to enjoy about this album that was year-and-a-half in the making and, with a new show being designed around this album's storyline, the latest incarnation of Gwar should be able to level the same kind of earth-shattering destruction as always when they appear live. Even if I haven't kept up with the continuously evolving world of Gwar it's good to hear that they are still rocking out to smash-mouth heavy metal. It's good to see that some things never change.

Nomad Son-The Darkening

Metal on Metal Records
2013

With all due respect fuck Black Sabbath! Or at the very least fuck "13". Hear me out first before you get the torches and pitchforks. So unimpressed and uninspired was I by the new Black Sabbath album that I couldn't even bring myself to write up even the simplest of reviews for it. I'm ready for the onslaught that such a bold declaration will bring so on with the grief and ill-will if you must. Why though would I bring up their name and their album for this review? It's quite simple folks. This my friends is the real deal. This is how you properly do doom metal. It is so much better than "13" that it almost seems as if the two albums come from two different realms! And it's not as if Nomad Son has been going at it for all that long either! Having been formed back in 2006 by veteran musician Albert Bell (Forsaken), with "The Darkening" serving as my "proper" introduction to this Malta-based band, the bass player has transformed this band into a lethal outfit. The first time that I actually heard Nomad Son was on the Metal on Metal compilation "Compendium Of Metal Vol. 5.". At the time I enjoyed the group's contribution, "Can't Turn the Tide" (said song ended up on the group's last recording, 2010's "The Eternal Return"), although I admit that it didn't seem to be anything all that special. That's simply not the case with "The Darkening" though!. The band, who yet again choose to work with producer David Vella (he also did the mastering and mixing on this 9-track album), have released one of the best doom metal albums I have ever had the experience of listening to! That might sound a bit hard to swallow, but "The Darkening" is just such a good album that I don't even know where to begin! Maybe we should start off with lead vocalist Jordan Cutajar then? On Nomad Son's third full-length recording his voice fluctuates between being eerie and downright evil! Whether he is offering up "clean" singing (nice and sinister) or going for the role of a lifetime by playing the part of a demonically possessed front-man (spooky and unnerving) he handles both with ease. His vocal delivery plays a huge role in the atmospheric vibe that is found on "The Darkening" and when it's added to such classically-constructed doom the album goes from being good to great! As mentioned the bass parts are played by Albert Bell and his ability is never a question as these 9-tracks feature the perfect amount of bass to guitar ratio. Speaking of guitars, it's the skills of Chris Grech that also help to make this one dangerously enjoyable collection of metallic doom numbers! His leads are great on "The Darkening" and when you add in the abundant skills of  keyboardist Julian Grech and drummer Edward Magri the focus soon shifts into overdrive! Favorite tracks of mine would be the killer pair of "Age of Contempt" & "Decent to Hell" as well as the "Holy Shit Batman that is one damn deadly number!" title track which just slays the dragon if you will! Even if those are my fave cuts on Nomad Son's new disc there isn't a bad song to be found among this batch. Each cut perfectly fits with the next as you're treated to sharp leads and heavy bass riffs. Nomad Son has achieved so much in such a (relatively) short time that it's hard not to gush all over this album. But, if all modern doom metal was as good as this one was (or hell, even half as good!) the world of heavy metal would be oh so heavenly! It isn't though (or at least the doom scene needs more of these sorts of bands) so you have to snatch 'em up when they strike gold. And this is golden doom goodness. I think you get my point by now on how I feel about this kick-ass album so the choice is all yours to make. Do you settle for doom done up by bands that are (seemingly) just going through the motions or do you hunt out bands that live, breathe and flat-out sweat doom? You know which side of the fence I'm standing on....

Damn Dice-Wild 'n' Ready EP

Self-Release/Independent-Release
2013

Damn Dice, who are clearly living the life of glam metal (their looks alone are a dead giveaway so there's no spoiler to be had), are a fairly new face in the (reborn and booming!) hair metal crowd. Formed in 2001 by brothers Wallis (guitarist) and Fransoa (drummer) this 4-piece hail's from the UK (London to be exact), but their version of glam is clearly fashioned after U.S. acts like Poison, Quiet Riot and Mötley Crüe. Speaking of Mötley Crüe, Vince Neil himself gave this band a hearty thumbs up as did Beau Hill of Beau Hill Productions (Alice Cooper, Europe, Warrant, Stevie Nicks) so there's some lofty praise being thrown this young group's way! Filled out by Alex (vocals) and Marco (bassist) this young band will be releasing their "Wild 'n' Ready" EP later on in October. The cut "Bang Your Head" (no, not the Quiet Riot track) starts off this glittery 6-track EP with the group's first single, "Wild Into The Night", finishing things up. With a video of "Wild Into The Streets" documenting the band's hedonistic lifestyle (there's a link to it below) the guys in Damn Dice look as if they're hungry for fame and eager to move their way to the top of the hair metal mountain!  Let's be fair though and point out that it's not all generic "wine, women and song" glam metal on this EP. Or at least not when it comes to the actual music (the lyrics are another matter all together!). There is an attempt to funnel both classic rock and modern hard rock into their overall character, but listeners are more likely to hear the former then the latter if either at all. It doesn't end there though. Seeing as this band is endowed with "the energy of a 70’s punk band" there does seem to be the spirits of  both The New York Dolls and Hanoi Rocks floating around on "Wild 'n' Ready". Damn Dice's upcoming 6 track EP, which falls under the 30 minute mark, is obviously not perfect as this band does show some growing pains. The vocals of Alex sounded a bit "rough" as if they were either not mixed entirely right or he was simply having an off day. Nothing horrible mind you, but occasionally it just didn't sound quite right. Also, while "Wild Into The Streets" is a good single, this is a young band that will need to tighten up their sound a bit around the edges and/or could benefit from working with a top-notch producer. Listening this this EP you do get the feeling that this is a band that could really EXPLODE if they just had a little help tapping into their full potential. With the backing of a good label and producer these four could easily jump right into the spotlight! You can hear the potential here on this EP. Since this band is loaded to the max with "the energy of a 70’s punk band" the skies the limit for Damn Dice if they listen to their critics and (naturally) continue to seek out their own sound as they grow together as musicians. I'm wishing them nothing but the best and rooting for these guys. While I'm not a huge fan of this sudden resurgence of  the glam metal/hair metal scene there are some good bands coming out it and you can add Damn Dice to that list.

http://damndice.bigcartel.com/product/wild-n-ready-6-track-ep

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CO3Q9rfjj4

Norselaw-Serpent In The Circling Sea

Self-Release/Independent-Recording
2013

Let me just start off by saying that there are underground bands and then there are DEEP UNDERGROUND bands. Take a wild guess as to which category Norselaw falls into. That's right folks, this is one of those WAY DOWN deep underground names. We're talking WAY DOWN past the C.H.U.D.S. and even past the Morlocks! That says something alright. Or does it? What exactly does it say (if it says anything at all?) and what exactly does it all mean? Mostly it just means that's not a whole lot to go by when it comes to the somewhat mysterious Norselaw and the slightly-odd album that is "Serpent In The Circling Sea". Here's what I can tell you. First, the band supposedly hail from the bad streets of Cleveland, Ohio. And when I say "bad" I really mean the righteous streets of Cleveland or rather the metal-loving scene that hails from Cleveland. What's weird though is the fact that even though they were supposedly formed during the winter of 2003 this is the first time I've heard of this Cleveland act. More and more there's all these "new" Ohio bands popping up that I never knew of meaning my so-called "expert knowledge" of Ohio heavy metal is pure bull-shit! Oh well and hell. Anyway, the second piece of info that I was able to dredge up suggested that Norselaw originally went by the name "Valhalla Ice" (clever!) and was (maybe?) a rap/metal outfit to begin with! Now that would be strange. The thing is it's all so vague. I ended  up going to what seemed like dozens of sites just to dig up some/any bits of information so I could add some background information to this piece. Who knew that it would be so hard to cut through all the misinformation to get to the truth of about this heavy metal act? It's like trying to get the real scoop on our government! It's a daunting task! But, it is what it is so let's move on down the road and get to the next piece of info. As you may have been able to figure out by that last piece of info Norselaw is less of a band and more of a musician. On the self-produced "Serpent In The Circling Sea", which was written by Norselaw, our main-man "sings"* and handles all the guitar playing. That's not too unusual so far right? Well, not only does he handle lead vocals and all the guitar playing, but he also finds time to showcase his skills on bass guitar by pulling off a bass solo! That's a little different I'd say. On the track "Green Lazer", which FYI is a lovely little track all around, our songwriter/vocalist/guitarist (and part-time bassist!) channels the spirit of the late and, damn wasn't he, great Cliff Burton for a quick little bass solo that is down-right sick! That's not to say that Norselaw (the "band") lacks a bass player as there is a "Theon Greyjoy" mentioned in the credits. Both "Theon Greyjoy" and drummer "Jaime Lannister" go by  pseudo names which only adds to the mysterious nature of not only Norselaw, but also of this recording. Why there was the need for pseudo names is any ones guess. It's not as this rhythm section falters or anything. This pair does a pretty smash-up job all around. So, that brings us to the million dollar question I suppose. What exactly does Norselaw sound like? The easiest answer would be that Norselaw sounds like a N.W.O.B.H.M band as imagined by a punk heavy metal band. That's it. That's all there is to it. It's all so rather simple if you think about it and yet it flat out works. And no one is as surprised about that then I am! But, while it might be a simple mash-up there is nothing simple about Norselaw and his skills as a guitarist. There are some sweet licks on here that bring to mind Motörhead while at other times it's almost as if Norselaw has ripped some pages out the N.W.O.B.H.M. handbook to serve as a blueprint to rock out! Otherwise I have no idea who to compare this band to (sound-wise) which is a remarkable achievement for Norselaw. An original sounding band? Yes, it's pretty true! Sure, you might pick up Motörhead and maybe some Lord Weird Slough Feg. And, truth be told, there were some parts of Norselaw's sound that reminded me of Valiant Thor (another band that mixes in punk, classic metal and Lord knows what else in order to rock to their own beat!), Ironboss, Motherboar and Brutal Attack (minus all Brutal Attack's racist bullshit of course!). But those kinds of flashback moments happen all the time when you're listening to (newer) bands. You're likely to always find something familiar in any metal band these days as there are so many bands that have come before. Even in this case the roots might show through on occasion, but it's still an original sound overall and one which any open-minded metalhead would enjoy! This slab of unique metal is going to get quite a few more spins this week and in the weeks, months and years to come!

*The vocals of Norselaw go from being gnarly to downright weird. Sometimes it came across as if he had been gargling petrol before hitting the mic while other times he came across as some old punk trying to find a measure of redemption. All in all though Norselaw gets it done and gives this act a wicked underground feeling!

Sinner-Touch of Sin 2

AFM Records
2013

Germany's Sinner, which features Primal Fear member Mat Sinner on vocals and bass, has been around for a very long time now. Since forming way back in 1980 the group has released well over a dozen full-length albums, tons of singles, a split recording, a live album and more then their fair share of compilations. With "Touch of Sin 2" (the title is of course a reference to Sinner's 1985 album, "Touch of Sin") the group has decided to go back into their past catalog and re-record some of their older material. These 11 re-recorded tracks are reportedly from albums that are not readily available anymore. That means these tracks are a way for fans of old and new to hear some of Sinner's classic material without having to fork over piles of cash for rare or (flat-out) out of print releases. Sinner has given these older cuts a new lease on life and they all sound remarkably fresh. If you didn't know any better it would be easy enough to think that these were new and original (and damn enjoyable) slabs of modern heavy rock/ hard rock. So there's nothing really here to knock Sinner for. If you're an older fan though and you're saying "Why should I pick this album up when I already own all of their older albums?", which would be understandable in my eyes as I often view these types of re-recorded albums as being more about making money then anything else, then there is still a good reason to pick up "Touch of Sin 2". In addition to the 11 re-worked numbers Sinner's new album features three brand new tracks. In order they are "Don't Believe a Word", "Blood on the Sand" and "Heat Of The City". The first one, "Don't Believe a Word", is a real catchy heavy rocker that (somewhat) recalls the better parts of the old hair metal scene. It's more straight-forward rock then glitter and glam, but for comparisons sake it reminded me quite a bit of that same kind of mid-late eighties melodic metal. Meanwhile "Blood on the Sand" is strictly a metal number with more grit and a gung-ho attitude then was expected. The same could be said for the hard-driving "Heat Of The City". As it closes off this collection of re-worked classics and new numbers it does it with on foot on the pedal and one hand throwing up the devil horns! With some rather tasty licks it's one of those tracks that reminds you of heavy metal's heyday when traditional heavy metal was king. Of the three new numbers it's a close call between "Heat Of The City" and "Blood on the Sand" as to which one rocked harder, but I'm leaning towards the former because of it's snazzy guitar solo! This collection, which was mixed by Achim Köhler (Primal Fear, Brainstorm), sounds great from track number one until track number 14. We're talking about a crisp and clean sound that helps highlight the radio friendly nature of some of these cuts while also giving this album a fantastic glow (if that makes sense). It's worth mentioning that "Touch of Sin 2" also features guest appearances by the likes of David Readman (Voodoo Circle, Pink Cream 69), Erik Martensson (W.E.T.), Diego Valdez (Helker) and Tom Naumann (ex-Primal Fear). All told "Touch of Sin 2" finds Germany's Sinner standing tall and proud. They have come a long way since releasing their first album, "Wild n' Evil", back in 1982 and a package like this should satisfy both old and new fans.
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Reaper's Riddle-"Drop" Single

Self-Release/Interdependent
2013

I'm pleading ignorance when it comes to Perth-based Reaper's Riddle. Until this morning I had never heard of this heavy rock/heavy metal band. Thanks to the cool folks over at Killshot PR, who actually dropped the music video for "Drop" onto my lap, that's all changed. I now have another up-and-coming band to keep an eye out/ear out for. After checking out their new single "Drop", which mark's their first foreign into the world of music videos, there was no question at all that I'd be adding them onto my radar. There was one other question though. Does a band that's been at it for 5 years now actually count as a up-and-coming act? Maybe or maybe not. If that's the only issue I walk away with after checking out "Drop" then this band must be doing something right! Formed in 2009, with their self-titled demo LP dropping the very same year, the band has slowly been building up a loyal fan-base in their home country thanks to some solid studio-releases and, what is said to be, highly energetic live performances. Reportedly the band's first record-release party  resulted in a packed venue that was completely sold out of alcohol by 11pm! There's no doubt in my mind that the people who did manage to gain entry into the group's "record-breaking debut launch" worked up quite a thirst thanks to the band's early working-class style of hard rock. I know as much thanks to the fact that (after listening to "Drop" a few times) I went and picked up their back-catalog on iTunes! Having done so I can honestly say that this is one group that has improved with each new release. So, besides being described as a beast when it comes to playing live, Reaper's Riddle do know their way around a studio. It's easy to hear the group's musical progression with all things eventually converging on "Drop" and (subsequently) their upcoming concept album "The Ballad Of Tristan Daye" (expected for release sometime in mid-2014). With a strong front-man like Clayton Mitchell standing front and center the band's future does look promising. He's got just the right kind of pipes for this sort of heavy rock/heavy metal band and while he stays busy on the mic there are two guitarists on board who do more then just throw out  bunch of random riffs. Michael Willis and Dan Bishop help to keep things moving along with some solid hard rock solos. That makes sense as this band knows a thing or two about good hard rock bands and great hard rock hooks! Classic acts like Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, Judas Priest, Kiss, Metallica, AC/DC, The Four Horsemen, Dio and Megadeth have no doubt crept through the tiny cracks and influenced this bunch. Then again we're also talking about a group that "likes" newer acts such as Rob Zombie and Disturbed and has probably picked up a few pointers along the way from bands like Godsmack, Pantera, Dark New Day and Avenged Sevenfold. If all of that leaves your head spinning then just stop, sit down, take a deep breath and plug into "Drop". It will all make more sense then. From the vocals to the guitars and yes, even all the way down to the rhythm section (featuring bassist Jason Edwards and drummer Wayne Frodyma) Reaper's Riddle has the right kind of line-up and the right kind style and sound to make it. Heavy rock like this is really the best of both worlds as you could imagine this single played on FM radio just as you could easily as you could picture these guys hitting the road with a heavyweight act like Motörhead. Heck, I could easily see "Drop" getting the Lemmy seal of approval! Reaper's Riddle are just that kind of band and one worth keeping an eye and ear out for.




Music video for "Drop"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdVwbQtVec8

Scythe-Subterranean Steel (North American version)

R.I.P. Records
2013

Chicago, Illinois' act Scythe (who are, yet again, another band which shares a similar name with crap-loads of other acts) was formed in 2009. Featuring former Usurper front-man Rick Scythe (Nightshade, ex-The Dead Youth) on lead vocals and guitars, Scythe, in a way I suppose, could just be seen as the next step for Scythe's former band. But, while Usurper ended up being viewed as one of  Chicago's most legendary bands (and justly so!) when it comes to Scythe we're talking about a band that is fighting for name recognition. Or is it their just fighting to become known as THE ONE and ONLY Scythe? Who bloody knows? Another album or two like this one though and it won't matter if there were hundreds (if not thousands) of other Scythes as these guys will be standing on-top victorious! They'll most likely get there soon enough as "Subterranean Steel" shows. In much the same way Usurper forged their own nasty sound out of the better parts of black metal and thrash (somewhere around here I have a copy of their cool as fuck debut-album, "Diabolosis") the three members of Scythe tear the lid off of blackened thrash and bath in it's bloody after-birth! The only real bit of difference between the two acts is that while Usurper stuck rather close to that sinister combination (black metal + thrash) the guys in Scythe tap into some old-school speed metal as well as straight-up, kick you in the teeth, traditionally heavy metal! Joined by bassist/vocalist Dan Geist and drummer Joey Contreras (who both do much more then just provide the other two pieces of  Scythe) our former Usurper front-man is free to take things in whatever direction he wants with his new band. On his second album that means that even if Rick Scythe and his band-mates have a release on their hands that is 100% fueled by full-out rage (it's every bit an ugly, hate-infested album kiddies) somehow, and yeah it does sound odd I realize, the group is able to do an experiment or two and stretch their sound out to include some rock and roll! True, black n' roll isn't some new, just discovered, creature of the night. It's been around in various shapes and forms for some time so "Subterranean Steel" is not some kind of groundbreaking album. What it is though is one bad-ass album that initially offered up the appealing combination of raw thrash and primitive black metal, but ended up delivering so much more then it promised! When was the last time that happened? As it is coming at you with ugly thrash and demonic black metal, which is made all the better thanks to the album's unassuming production job, this Chicago group's sophomore release is not meant for the casual metal fan. "Subterranean Steel" will be more appealing to the metal fans out there who always wished that Slayer was more like Venom and that Venom was more like Deströyer 666. If you're the kind of person that laid awake at night pondering those kinds of extreme musical car-wrecks then this might just be the kind of band to answer your prayers. Look for "Subterranean Steel" to drop in mid-September.

Civil Protection-Stolen Fire

Bunnysnot Records
2013

It was back in 2010 when a group of friends, partly inspired by a love of bands like The American Dollar and Mogwai, decided to pool their talents and come up with their own band. Despite their individual hometowns "spanning the length of the United Kingdom", which could (and most likely did) easily create all sorts of problems, the guys in Civil Protection honed their skills over the course of some early demo releases before signing on with Bunnysnot Records to release their full-length debut album. With "Stolen Fire" the group, vocalist/guitarist Adam Fielding, guitarists Nathan Bradley & Josh Clark, bassist Philip Birch and drummer Kenny Skey, has pushed themselves hard in order to create a debut-album that demands to be noticed! Their music is is boldly post-rock and it's clear to see that Civil Protection is certainly not shy when it comes to tinkering with that sound while in the studio! After working with Active Audio studios the result speaks for itself. Here is a group that, having grown from it's humble beginnings, has branched out musically. Seeing as their full-length debut album offers fresh and original material that is both treasured and tragic it's not that far-fetched to suggest that "Stolen Fire" will make it's way onto one of more year end "Best-Of" lists! Even though they were born from the shared love of The American Dollar and Mogwai and had their sound further nurtured thanks to support shows with Vasa and The Indelicates (both of which were/are like-minded acts) the group found their own pathway. Granted, that pathway was once paved by the likes of This Will Destroy You, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Caspian, If These Trees Could Talk, Maybeshewill, Tool, Nine Inch Nails, Pixies, Smashing Pumpkins and Pink Floyd, but here on "Stolen Fire" things do come together in a rather splendid kind of way. "Stolen Fire" sees a band that can move between (and sometimes even converge the two extremes) these beautiful passages and haunting melodies while making it all seem so natural! Such a talent should never be taken for granted so when this album sees it's release later on in October it should be rapidly picked up and devoured by any/all post-rock fans. As for everyone else? That just depends on how flexible you are when it comes to your personal tastes in music. Of course that can just about be said about any album posted here right? For every album that gets covered here on HMTM there is likely someone somewhere who thinks it is all a bit "off ". Given all of that, an album like this (where words like "ambient" and "experimental" could be thrown around) might not be "everything for everyone", but for those who crave life with a little bit of "spice" added in then this album, which I really just outright dug, should be on their radar. 

Ambush-Demo Tape

Self-Release/Independent
2013

I'm far beyond the point of being surprised when some new "latest & greatest" heavy metal band pops up from Sweden. Don't mistake that statement for cynicism though. Anymore it's almost a given that if you wait long enough (like say 5 minutes or so LOL!) some new band will arrive on the scene and prove that yes, Sweden really does seem to be the center of the universe when it comes to ass-kicking, old-school heavy metal! This one, which was formed on November 27th in 2012 and, well,  let's just let re-post the part that hooked me (in regards to the band forming on said day back in November of 2012): "...five guys were sitting in a basement and shared a couple of beers, listening to old school 80’s Heavy Metal. In the middle of all joviality, they somehow felt nostalgic and a bit frustrated that various new productions could not measure up to the old pure masterpieces. They decided to do something about it and as a result, Ambush was born". And that's it. Otherwise I have the band members involved, but no one is listed as to who plays what. Instead the information, which I originally scanned on my friend Stappado's site:http://strappadometalblog.blogspot.com/ , is somewhat vague. We've got:
Linus Fritzson
Olof Engkvist
Oskar Jacobsson
Ludwig Sjöholm
Adam Hagelin

OK, not that it matters as it's the music that it's all about right? Well, first off don't let the "demo tape" tag mislead you. This one sounds amazing (in a perfectly blissful combination of old school and modern production) and is available on all the usual digital sites (iTunes, Amazon, etc.). The 4-track EP really had me feeling good as this Tygers Of Pan Tang meets Demon vibe laid down soft kisses on my ear drums! On the off chance that some record label might be reading this then here's a bit of advice: SIGN THIS GROUP! Considering all of the crap retro heavy metal acts that have already flushed away the joy that is sincere heavy metal and what not it's band's like this that are the real deal and will serve as the true saviors of real traditional heavy metal! Ambush, who share a similar name with more then a few other groups (including, confusingly enough, an older Ambush also from Sweden), come off less as some novelty act (despite how they may have come together initially) and more as a band playing music that comes naturally from their souls. Given the fact that this digital EP is really inexpensive (less then $4.00) it's a no-brainer for fans of the NWOBHM scene or traditional heavy metal in general. Let's just hope though that this is just the start for this Ambush and that as time goes by we get better (read: LONGER) releases that would really shine of vinyl!

https://www.facebook.com/Ambushsweden 

Cleric-Gratum Inferno

Tofu Carnage Records
2013

Now that my friends is what I would call one sweet-ass LP cover! As I was scrolling down through promo after promo this one caught my eye and it's easy enough to see why! One look at that gorgeous album cover, which was masterminded by Jason Barnett (Noothgrush, etc.), and I just knew that I needed to hear "Gratum Inferno". While my first thought was "That is the coolest shit ever!" (album-art wise), which I realize I'm babbling on about, it was quickly followed up by "Man, I hope the music is half as good as that art". That was/is a legitimate fear as I'm old enough to remember flipping through new vinyl releases/cassette releases and buying albums based solely on the cover art. Back then, and we're talking mid-eighties to early-nineties, it was not all that uncommon to buy an album, take it home and then, upon playing it, realize that you got burned. So, as I settled in (with notepad in one hand and coffee in the other) to listen to "Gratum Inferno", I hoped for the best. This full-length release, which was promised to be "Stockholm-bred but Americanized death", is actually the debut album for Dallas-based Cleric. The band, which really is death metal through and through (and good death metal at that!), was formed by members of Kill the Client, Baring Teeth and Tyrannosorceress. On this 7-track release, which is due for release on colored vinyl, the members of Cleric   terrorize the listener with nearly a half-hour of aggressive, piss and venom death metal that is as fun as the album's front-cover suggests! This young death metal act will receive quite the treatment at the hand's of Dallas-based Tofu Carnage Records. I'd say that Cleric is more then deserving of such honor as this album,  while admittedly not a drop-dead brilliant debut, is full-on death metal done with style and grace. These guys are a class act even if we are technically talking about death metal that will rip your head off and then feast on the bloody remains of your dying body! As previously mentioned this full-length debut album from Cleric, which was recorded by Garry Brents (Kill The Client, Phobia, Noisear) and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege (From Ashes Rise, Nails, Sleep), will receive the royal treatment from independent label Tofu Carnage Records. Known as a label that gives careful attention to every aspect of their vinyl releases (the label has previously released quality vinyl records for the likes of Dead To A Dying World, Akkolyte, Unconscious Collective and Ecocide) the fine folks at Tofu Carnage Records sound as if they have outdone themselves when it comes to "Gratum Inferno". This LP (per the promo) is "pressed on 200-gram, translucent yellow wax with blood red and milky clear splatter and features heavyweight spot-varnish printed jackets, gold foil-stamped inner-sleeve graphics, and was mastered at 45rpm for superior sound quality. This is an album that was truly meant for vinyl". Now that sounds freaking awesome! And all of that fuss is over  a relatively new name to the death scene! But, as I said before, this Dallas-based death metal act more then deserves it I figure. This is high-quality, unfiltered for quality taste, beautifully-constructed and executed death metal that is a treat for your eardrums! For more information check out the group's Facebook page below. . 
https://www.facebook.com/666cleric666

The Mezmerist-The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty

Shadow Kingdom Records
2013

Before we take a look at "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty", which was originally released in 1985, please indulge me as I share with you a pet peeve that I have. Well, it's just one of many pet peeves that I have, but we're talking music right now so let's stick to that. When it comes to re-issues (like this one from L.A.'s The Mezmerist) I've been critical in the past as to what some labels consider "cult albums" and/or "cult bands". While now is neither the time nor the place to start naming names or highlighting what I would consider to be questionable record labels (let's just say that when it comes to some of these labels, and their re-issues, their idea of what is considered to be a "cult" release and my idea of what makes for a "cult" release usually vary by quite a bit!) let's just say that I cannot be the only poor sucker to have been roped in by some clever marketing with descriptions (we've all been had by the "recommended if you like band X, band Y and band Z) that prove to be far from the truth. When it comes to digging up old cult records though Shadow Kingdom Records seems to have a fairly solid track record. Let's mark this one down as a plus for the label. And that's a plus added on to the end of the letter A for something more akin to A+! Yes, this one is a real winner and the very thing needed to keep you and I from getting far too cynical about all these so-called "cult" re-issues. "Psychedelic Heavy Metal" is how the promo describes this somewhat mysterious US metal band. Lead by vocalist/guitarist Tommy Mezmercardo, who was the only common thread between this releases collection of two EPs (one officially released and the other one looks as if it was unearthed for this re-issue), the band's original release of  "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty" was in 1985. According to the Metal Archives it was actually recorded "partly in 1982 and partly in 1983", before seeing release later on in 1985. That would make sense as the bonus EP, which we'll look at in a bit, looks as if it was recorded sometime in 1985. First things first though so let's get back to the original release of the 4-track EP "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty". As it was limited to just 500 copies, which was a really short run for a LP like this, it naturally went on (years later) to fetch high prices on eBay. Today is a new day though and thanks to Shadow Kingdom Records a whole new generation of heavy metal fans and collectors will finally be able to get their hands on "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty". Now, while Shadow Kingdom Records isn't to far off with the "Psychedelic Heavy Metal" description I'd prefer to tag this one as "Psychedelic Heavy Doom Metal". When it comes right down to though The Mezmerist, or at least Thomas Mezmercardo, this was a group that experimented with lots of different sounds and textures. The first four tracks though, which made up the original "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty", are pretty close to the mark ("Psychedelic Heavy Doom Metal") while it's actually on the last three bonus cuts (which come from recordings done in 1985) where we see Thomas Mezmercardo relaxing the rules a little bit and adding new ideas into his music. I would kick myself though if I didn't bring up the most interesting part about "The Innocent, The Forsaken, The Guilty". So, before we get to the bonus cuts and all that jazz, we should mention that Thomas Mezmercardo was able to get none other than Bill Ward to play drums! And yes, his presence is most definitely felt and appreciate on those 4 tracks. Although there's not as much doom as would be expected. It's there of course, but we're also talking about some traditional heavy metal riffs and (odd indeed) Led Zeppelin-style hard rock. With bassist Roger Abercrombie filling in the last open spot, as both sets of recordings presented here feature "power trio" line-ups, the band merges the likes of Cirith Ungol, Mercyful Fate, Coven, Hawkwind, Rush and even Italy's Paul Chain (who is also a bit of a hidden gem) into their own little art form. These 4 tracks are nice enough on their own and it's cool to see them presented on CD like this. OK, as for the bonus cuts? They include "Kingdom of the Dead",
"No Family, No Friends" and (a new fave of mine) "The Jam". For these 1985 recordings
vocalist/guitarist Tommy Mezmercardo (who incidentally sounds to me like cross between King Diamond and Geddy Lee!) is joined by bassist Steve Conrad and drummer JR. These bonus cuts are also psychedelic and come packed with some doom and gloom, but they also bring to mind the punk and early new wave scenes. Or at least in my mind they do! Thomas Mezmercardo is a fantastic guitarist through-out all of these tracks and with each new song comes new arrangements that offer the listener something different. Truly this is a band that you have to hear to appreciate. Besides, any band that can have me simultaneously picturing both Mercyful Fate and Elvis Costello deserves a package like this! Ah yes, the complete package. Well, not only do you get the one disc with all these charmingly mysterious tracks, but then you've got this bonus DVD where Mezmercardo himself sits down and tells the story of how the band and everything else came together. So, you've got a nice CD/DVD package from Shadow Kingdom Records which seems like it would make more then a few collectors of cult recordings and doom fans happy. What more could you want?  
http://store.shadowkingdomrecords.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=4815

The Sterling Sisters-Hale

Pesanta Urfolk
2013

I remember that the first time I heard alt-country, and then subsequently cowpunk, I walked away realizing that there was so much more music that I had yet to experience. That same feeling hit me when I listened to "Hale" by Baltimore’s The Sterling Sisters. No, this isn't alt-country or cowpunk. This is something all together different. Although there is a part of this band with ties to alt-country. That would be George Cessna who is the son of alt-country pioneer Slim Cessna. Together with Scout Paré-Phillips you're looking at the chief songwriters behind The Sterling Sisters and, naturally, "Hale". Andrew Haas, Eric Paltell and Corey Hughes are also listed as musicians on "Hale", but who plays what is not established. Not that it matters as it's easy enough to picture this band's sound just by it's apt description. Anyone for Dark Americana then? Yes, Dark Americana. Now we're talking! After a "handful of bold EPs" this bravely original act is hoping for bigger and better things with their full-length debut album. Or at least they're hoping that they'll reach in and grab a few more hearts while they ramble on down the dusty back roads that are filled to the brim with folk, blues, rock and roll, country and so much more. Gothic undertones also come into play on "Hale" (gothabilly never sounded so sincere as it does here!), but at their core, which is filled with this graceful understanding as to what exactly it is that moves people to embrace your music, you'll hear an album rocks much more closer to roots music then anything "electrified". Thanks to their engaging take on one of America's more charming institutions (Americana is just one of those things where it's really hard not to find some kind of enjoyment out of it) an album like "Hale" feels so comfortable. Even if "Hale" comes across as being more focused on the darker side of nature then on it's lighter side (hence the "Dark Americana" tag) this album still feels relaxed and calming. This is one band that I'll be keeping a firm eye on just as this album is one I plan to return to often. 

Stonegriff-Prologus Magicus

Metal on Metal Records
2013

Sweden's Stonegriff  was formed in 2009 with this 45 minute, give or take a few seconds, LP serving as their proper introduction to the heavy metal community. Before their debut-album, "Prologus Magicus", was all wrapped up though, and in such a prim and proper fashion to boot!, the group had gone about releasing three demos and one EP. Not that they were all in that order or anything, but it does help to fill in some of their back-story (as does the fact that a few singers have come and gone with the latest being Jacob). Actually, since 2012  it's been all Jacob and damn if he doesn't just make for the perfect front-man/pitch-man for what this bunch has been cooking up! Traditional doom metal is the dish at hand, but please don't go scurrying off just yet with the fear that this is more, much too more, post-Ozzy/Black Sabbath worship.  That's all been done a thousand times over so thankfully these cats rock out to a different set of influences. Comparison's have been made to fellow Swedish act Krux, but for those of you not familiar with their sound (Krux) then let's roll out the other "influences". Band's like Trouble, Pentagram, Candlemass, Nomad son, Spiritus Mortis and Las Cruces are name-checked on the promo (yes, as well as Black Sabbath), but I'd throw in a little Witchfinder General to be on the safe side. Crunched all together into one big doom metal sandwich, which is a lovely visual if I do say so myself!, here we have a band that takes on both older and newer doom bands while challenging themselves to be their own vehicle of sonic destruction! Under the strain of heavy riffs you'll find yourself being crushed as Stonegriff, with all the moving parts perfectly fitted into place, creeps about as their own comfortable pace. For a debut album this is quite nice with doom metal that is neither too slow or too fast. It's also got a tiny bit of a underground rock attitude so, as this young band is stepping up and laying down their own "sweet embrace of death"-style doom, they're letting everyone know that Stonegriff is much more then "just another doom metal act". The band pulls off a release that promises better things to come while it also shows a lot of maturity and integrity. This is one doom metal release that deserves special attention and consideration when it comes down to fans adding new music to their doom collection!
 http://metal-on-metal.com/albums/stonegriff-prologus-magicus-cd/

Mingmen-Cross The Line

Self-Release/Independent
2013

Switzerland and rock and roll? You know it! Those two go together like peanut butter and chocolate and beer and pretzels! The latest group to find it's way to my ears is the interestingly named Mingmen. Sway (which I'd assume is her christian name LOL!) fronts this group as well as playing guitar. Her vocals are a real highlight on this EP as she sings with passion and power that is tightly packed next to raw integrity. The other three members are no slouches either. Guitarist JGeorge helps Sway out with his own set of skills and together they lay down some nice, heavy rock riffs that are given plenty of time to develop. That's thanks to  the length of these tracks. The EP's opener, "Beneath the Surface", clocks in at 6:19 while this releases shortest cut ends up being "Doesn't Matter" due to a run-time of 3:55! So yeah, this is more akin to real rock then what passes for "rock" on the radio these days! Moving on, I am well aware of the fact that I've said this next part on more then a few occasions, but it rings just as true today as the first time I typed it up. And that is "Every good band needs a good rhythm section". Simple enough I know and yet there's been countless times when bands, especially new ones, can't quite grasp that fact. Thankfully that isn't a problem here as bassist Etienne and drummer Dem add all the right extra parts that are needed to make "Cross The Line" a smooth experience. This isn't the group's first go round though so maybe they have had time to really gel. It sounds like they have. Prior to this (newer) release we've got 2006's "Undercontrol" and 2009's "Back To The Ground". Both of those were full-length albums while "Cross The Line" is an EP. So, we've got a 4-track EP from this 4-piece band that draws from such influences as Skunk Anansie, Alter Bridge, Evanescence, Shinedown and Lacuna Coil. Or at least that's coming from their ReverbNation page. The group's Facebook page also suggests Metallica and Tool as bands that Mingmen "likes", but when this rock hits the fan there's a fair share of originality going on then all those "influences" might suggest. More or less the group falls under the blanket of heavy rock/hard rock, but seeing as there is some metal going on here it's all good. At times I did think up a more rock oriented Sister Sin, but again Mingmen does a good job of formulating their own take on all things loud and heavy. Seeing as "Cross The Line" left me smiling I might just have to check out the other two full-length albums. In the meantime you can get this EP on some digital sites and you can find out more about Mingmen at their Facebook page linked below.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mingmen/23481451711