tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-138521752024-03-13T06:37:58.343-07:00Heavy Metal Time MachineMetal Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18400759786407810475noreply@blogger.comBlogger5808125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-24881999199238588302021-03-10T09:57:00.000-08:002021-03-10T09:57:28.963-08:00Dungeon Wolf-Metal's Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rP89Au3t0y8/YEkIMiIvOzI/AAAAAAAAPI0/NGzrZbvdKr0mZrxvLPaSGAtDkvw7GAqogCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/received_869954170237587.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rP89Au3t0y8/YEkIMiIvOzI/AAAAAAAAPI0/NGzrZbvdKr0mZrxvLPaSGAtDkvw7GAqogCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/received_869954170237587.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Self-Release</p><p>2021</p><p><br /></p><p>Lead by Deryck Heignum (vox/guitars), Dungeon Wolf is a three-piece U.S. metal band that was last heard from on 2017's "<a href="https://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Dungeon+Wolf" target="_blank">Slavery Or Steel</a>". Recorded at Analog Vintage Studios in Florida, "Metal's Back" is the sophomore release from this gritty outfit that defies easy categorization. Mixing and mashing together elements of epic metal, doom metal, and power metal with the unrelenting, one-two punch that is raw metal/garage metal, Dungeon Wolf 's latest recording is a welcome return to the days when heavy metal was mean & ugly! Everything about this album just screams old-school!! From the unpolished/edgy production to the non-PC lyrics, "Metal's Back" is an appropriate title for this throw-back affair that had me deliriously day dreaming about late-80s/90s underground & unsigned metal maniacs! Self-recorded and distributed, Dungeon Wolf's second album is eight tracks of pure, unfiltered rage in a bottle just waiting to be released upon the world! For more information on this CD release be sure to contact to drop a message to Deryck on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Deryckheignum" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</p>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-45461293136689142992019-04-09T10:43:00.000-07:002019-04-09T10:43:12.005-07:00Invictus-Burst The Curse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MOYLmLLkCE/XKzK02Z0ivI/AAAAAAAAOtA/ZlS2p41If14qo4kuVdhTDkOzBYrrDC-BwCLcBGAs/s1600/burst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MOYLmLLkCE/XKzK02Z0ivI/AAAAAAAAOtA/ZlS2p41If14qo4kuVdhTDkOzBYrrDC-BwCLcBGAs/s320/burst.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2019<br />
<br />
Germany's Invictus, formed in 2017 with the 3-track "<a href="https://invictusheavymetal.bandcamp.com/album/burst-the-curse-ep" target="_blank">Burst The Curse</a>" serving as their debut offering, is a power/speed metal band that is fronted by Nicolas Peter (guitarist for the <u>awesomely-</u>named Beerhammer!). The five-piece group features three members with ties to the heavy metal/thrash band Avator and has one of the finest opening tracks in memory with this EP's title track! Influenced by many a classic German power/speed metal band (Grave Digger, Iron Savior, Primal Fear and Helloween), Invictus works best when they stick to high-end, catchy, well-crafted and blazing power/speed metal ("Burst The Curse") or gripping, straight-up power metal ("Someone Out There"). Those two numbers are the bookend numbers on this EP. Unfortunately, "Gaia" is smack dab in the middle of those two solid tracks. A poor attempt at a ballad, "Gaia" is a three minute plus exercise in patience that left me saying "What just happened to the epic band that gave me that wicked title cut?". While one can appreciated and maybe even applaud the band's attempt at creating three different sounding tracks, "Burst The Curse" would have been a better effort if Invictus would have stuck to what they are good at: engaging& energetic power/speed metal that seems almost custom-built for fans of Helloween and the like. Still, two out of three ain't bad. Especially seeing as the title cut of this EP is perfectly suited for power/speed metal compilations! Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-39256483619912727012018-12-17T09:00:00.000-08:002018-12-17T09:01:24.268-08:00Lords of Salem-Hell Over Salem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Based in Stuttgart, Germany and lead by vocalist Postel (a powerful and highly-expressive front-man that is <u>easily</u> the biggest selling point of this up-and-coming group!), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lordsofsalemmusic/" target="_blank">Lords of Salem</a> is a <u>goth-laden/horror rock-infused</u> hard & heavy rock/metal band that has one stellar EP to it's name. Released on October 31st of 2018, "<a href="https://lordsofsalemmusic.bandcamp.com/releases" target="_blank">Hell Over Salem</a>" is the debut recording from this four-piece outfit that looks as if it just stepped straight out of a 1980-something post-apocalyptic movie! <br />
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Starting off with the upbeat, groovy, and ghoulish "Monster Girl" (a horror rock and roll number that oddly recalls both The Cult and the likes of Rod Zombie & Wednesday 13!), this four-track EP by Lords of Salem clocks in at under 15 minutes in length, but that's more than enough time to get the job done. Boosted by the strength of the title track and "Zombie Monkey Woman", Lords of Salem's first offering showcases a young band that already knows how to write catchy material that is filled with great hooks, inspired-samples, and colorful lyrics! Mixed and mastered by Achim Köhler (Primal Fear, Brainstorm, etc), "Hell Over Salem" is a quirky fun recording that takes its cues from everyone from The Misfits to Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love Reaction. A short and sweet EP, this release should find a huge fan base with anyone that loves the likes of (later day)White Zombie, Rob Zombie, Wednesday 13, and quite possibly even The Murderdolls.<br />
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<br />Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-60564950512915111602018-06-26T08:47:00.000-07:002018-06-26T08:47:57.032-07:00Current playlist<a data-track="thumb" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/152042593@N08/41213618000/" id="yui_3_11_0_1_1530027849304_296" title="583195"><img alt="583195" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1778/41213618000_5271f15cc8_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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Hey, there. Yes, we have not posted anything in a while. Particularly me. I have been listening to a lot but writing very little other than a few lines here and there over at our Facebook page. Hoping to change that soon. Can't guarantee when exactly, but I'm aiming to get reviews out of the latest from Lizzy Borden, Lucifer, Kissin' Dynamite and the full length debut from Iron Hunter. I have not done an interview in years, but I briefly shook off the laziness when I saw a call out for interviews with Death tribute act Gruesome so I fired off some questions to them and will post those once I get them back.<br />
<br />
I'm currently listening to-<br />
All the albums above I said I'll review soon plus..<br />
DRI-Four of a kind<br />
Death- Human, Spiritual Healing<br />Gruesome-Twisted Prayers<br />
Exhumed-Death Revenge<br />
Armored Saint-Symbol of salvation re-issue<br />
YOB-Our raw heart<br />
<br />
Watching-<br />
World Cup of course<br />
Too many past episodes of Storage Wars<br />
Arena football (yeah, I know, I know)<br />
<br />
Reading-<br />
various cookbooks and not much else<br />
<br />
Waiting for-<br />
NFL<br />
NHL<br />
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***What are you listening to?Metal Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18400759786407810475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-77879141916543446732018-05-07T06:47:00.000-07:002018-05-07T06:47:20.167-07:00Monument-Hellhound<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Rock Of Angels Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
British heavy metal band Monument will release "Hellhound" on May 25th, 2018. Preceded in life by 2016's "Hair of the Dog", this 12-track recording* serves as the group's third full-length album since forming in 2011. Opening by way of the solid "William Kidd" (see official video below), "Hellhound" finds lead singer Peter Ellis (ex-The More I see, ex-White Wizzard) and crew once again mixing together the best parts of of N.W.O.B.H.M. (Iron Maiden, Judas Priest) and traditional heavy metal (everything from Anvil to Rainbow). With production courtesy of Tony Newton, Monument's forthcoming album is arguably the strongest effort to date from this extremely-talented lot! Frankly-speaking, everything about this album rocks!! Having aimed for the "live" sound of these London metal merchants, Tony's Newton's slick production highlights Peter Ellis' soaring vocals, the thunder and lightening sensation that is the rhythm section of "Hellhound", and the album's (epic and simply tremendous!) lead guitar solos! With each and every number offering something new and exciting(!), "Hellhound" is traditional heavy metal at it's absolute finest!! It is obvious that a lot of hard work went into the construction of the songs of this high-flying disc! And the individual performances? The fact is everyone has put their best foot forward on this must-have release. Packed with heavy metal glory that will blow more than a few minds, "Hellhound" is what happens when every member of a band gives 100% effort in a studio setting. As good as all of the material is musically, Monument's new album would be wasted if the songs weren't well-written. Thank the maker of all that is metal that this isn't the case. Lyrically the album covers a lot of ground (per Monument's awesome lead singer the lyrics touch on history, urban London life, the occult and personal relationships) while musically this is what makes British heavy metal so great to begin with. It's not only the blazing leads and stunning vocals, but the beautiful way in which melody and metal madness work so well together. Ending by way of two choice cover songs (one from Rainbow and the other one from Iron Maiden), "Hellhound" is all about waving the flag proudly for true heavy metal! If you are a fan of top of the line British heavy metal, this forthcoming album should be a part of your personal collection!!<br />
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*The CD consists of 12 tracks (9 tracks plus 3 bonus tracks) while the limited-edition vinyl version will only have the 9 "normal" tracks.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-18403613642478672432018-05-07T05:37:00.000-07:002018-05-07T05:37:15.420-07:00Stray Bullets-Shut Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sneakout Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Active since 2007, Italy's hard rock band, Stray Bullets, offer up some easy & sleazy glam on their full-length debut album, "Shut UP". Released on January 26th, 2018, this well-crafted release serves as the follow-up to the self-recorded album, "Lost Soul Town". Having teamed up with the good folks over at Atomic Stuff Studio, a huge chunk of "Lost Soul Town' was re-written & re-recorded in order to present this enthusiastic recording! Fronted by Alex Chinaski and featuring the mad skills of guitarists Steven Evil and Nick, bassist Dave Dufford, and drummer Zen, Stray Bullets official debut is sure to bring a smile to the faces of sleaze/glam fans as well as anyone that likes (catchy and fun) down and dirty hard rock!! This hidden gem features some <u>sin</u>sational guitar work and more than likely it will remind some of our older readers of the heyday of the L.A. hard rock/glam metal scene. If laid back (hard & heavy) sleaze is your drug of choice, "Shut Up" is the fix you need! Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-6434448409762901272018-05-02T09:39:00.000-07:002018-05-02T09:39:51.094-07:00AxMinister-The Crucible of Sin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
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Toronto, Ontario's AxMinister, fronted by vocalist/bassist Nicholas Klaus and citing bands like Megadeth, Metallica, Slayer, Iron Maiden, and Manowar as their primary influences, will release "<a href="https://axminister.bandcamp.com/album/the-crucible-of-sin-2" target="_blank">The Crucible of Sin</a>" on Friday, May 4th. It is a five-track EP that was produced by Ryan Jones and mastered by Harry Hess. Clocking in at just under twenty three minutes, this impressive EP opens up strong with the cut "Prey" and only gets better from there! With each passing track better than the last one, AxMinster's forthcoming EP is bound to impress fans of (rugged & tough) heavy/power metal!! Having first come together in 1999(!), AxMinister is a (razor blade sharp) group that has been tearing it's way through the scene since 2008. Lyrically the group covers topics such as film, history, politics, and religion. Guitarist Tim Smith and drummer Bas von Bismark round out the official line-up on this (classic heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M.-inspired) powerful metal release. Meanwhile there are some cool backing vocals courtesy of Nick Allaire. Available for pre-order at the link above, "The Crucible of Sin" is a lyrically-strong (hard & heavy) power metal recording with strong lead vocals, great guitar solos, a slick rhythm section, and inspired songs that will make you want to wave the banner of true heavy metal for all to see!! This is honest to goodness heavy metal that has been made possible thanks to hard work & dedication of true heavy metal maniacs. For more information on this heavy/power metal band be sure to check out AxMinister's Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AxMinister" target="_blank">page</a>.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-68150340082790697522018-04-24T09:04:00.000-07:002018-04-24T09:04:00.889-07:00Devils Rage-Desolation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Devils Rage is a D.I.Y. melodic death metal band that hails from Sursee, Switzerland. Having first come together in late 2006 (with their current line-up in place since 2010!), this highly-skilled & downright scary outfit has one EP and two full-length album to it's name. Released this past March on the 17th, the 11-track "Desolation" is the group's latest album to date. It serves as the follow-up to 2015's "Impending Demise" and was sent to me by one of the group's guitarists, Patrik "Schumi" Schumacher. Lead vocals come courtesy of Stefan "Lalas" Häfliger (a <u>brutalizing</u> growler that is a much-feared beast on the mic!) and with a run-time of just over 45 minutes in length, "Desolation" is a perfect way to get a quick fix of top-tier death metal! Well-crafted and featuring a nice production job that plays to the strength of this simply-savage release(!), Devils Rage has delivered an album that should appeal to fans of both vintage and modern-day melodic death metal!! If melodic death metal with monstrous guitars, gritty overtones and a pulverizing rhythm section is your thing (and why wouldn't it be?) then "Desolation" should be on your short list of new albums to buy!Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-33502064347033133872018-04-19T06:09:00.000-07:002018-04-19T06:09:47.475-07:00The Kut-Valley Of Thorns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Criminal Records/Cargo Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
The brainchild of vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Princess Maha, The Kut is a female alternative rock/grunge band that will release it's full-length debut on May 4th, 2018. With ten tracks in all, "Valley of Thorns" is a strong release that finds Princess Maha handling all of vocals and instruments. In a live setting (which more than likely offers a sweet sonic assault to the eardrums!) it is Princess Maha and a few of her female friends. With that piece of information out of the way, "Valley Of Thorns" deserves it's time in the spotlight. Let's take a look at the tracks one at a time. Starting things off we have the single "Mind Games" (see official video below). Falling somewhere between Melissa Auf der Maur's first solo album and a poor man's Hole, this three minute plus number wouldn't be my first choice to open an album, but it is decent enough to get the job done. From there we jump straight into the punk rock and roll track, "Hollywood Rock n Roll". Now this is more like it! Clocking in at just shy of three minutes, "Hollywood Rock n Roll" is a damn fun number that I could easily see G N' R covering! It's short and it's sweet. Slightly more punk than dirty rock and roll, this wicked little jam would have been my first choice to open the album. Next up we have "No Trace"". No doubt inspired by the band Hole, this one runs close to four minutes in length. It's a so-so number that is followed by "I Want Your Maniac". This one has L7 written all over it. From there we move on to "Rush Hour". Weirdly enough this rock song reminded me of Chrissie Hyde. As someone who likes her solo work and the cool stuff that she did with The Pretenders, "Rush Hour" offered a nice change of pace. "I am Vain" is next and we are treated to L7-styled grunge rock that almost crosses over into heavy metal territory. The Hole meets The Murderdolls/Marilyn Manson track, "Alekhine's Gun" comes next. Personally I've got mixed feelings about this one, but I honestly see a lot of people liking this twisted track. Moving forward we have "X-Ray Eyes". Here we have classic Hole merging together with Soul Asylum and (early) Goo Goo Dolls! That might sound bad on paper, but in real life it is a vintage-sounding rocker that most certainly would have charted back in the day! "Bad Man" comes on next and it is a blast!! Take Motörhead and cross it with The Runaways. Next up you'll want to give it a bit of a modern vibe. Finnish it off with some harsh vocals that take a step or two the punk/hardcore scene and you get a number like "Bad Man". Towards the end this heavy rocker cranks up the urgency and the anger! All in all this one slays!! The last track is called "Mario". This one starts off with some love for Lemmy and the boys before it turns into a grunge-light rocker with a rather boring chorus. Ultimately it never really goes anywhere. While that is a shame, "Valley Of Thorns" has more going for it than against it. There are some fantastic riffs on this album and Princess Maha is a killer lead vocalist. As someone that just loves powerful women who know how to rock the living daylights out the stage and studio, Princess Maha's alter-ego gets major props for their first full-length album. This one gets a 7 out of 10 with the added bit about how I simply cannot wait to hear more!!<br />
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<br />Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-18218390336258494532018-04-17T07:41:00.000-07:002018-04-17T07:41:43.051-07:00 Eryn Non Dae.-Abandon Of The Self<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Self-Release/Indepepednet<br />
2018<br />
<br />
French metal band Eryn Non Dae., formed in 2001 as END and currently comprised of Mathieu Nogues (vocals), Franck Quintin (guitars), Yann Servanin (guitars), Mickaël André (bass), and Julien Rufié (drums), makes their long-awaited return with "<a href="https://erynnondae.bandcamp.com/album/abandon-of-the-self" target="_blank">Abandon Of The Self</a>". It was back in mid-December of 2013 when I first covered this dark & experimental metal band (<a href="http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2013/12/french-metal-friday-eryn-non-dae_13.html" target="_blank">link</a>). . It's taken them close to five and a half years to release a follow-up to "Meliora". Released on March 9th, 2018, "Abandon Of The Self" is the group's third full-length album and their most haunting release to date! Once again mixing in elements of post-rock, depressive rock, sludge rock (mostly in regards to the gnarly guitar riffs!), post-metal, modern metal, and extreme metal, Eryn None Dae. (now coming at you with an extra period at the end!) strikes back at a scene that has dared to forget about them! Heavy, harsh, and as abrasive as ever(!), this bleak and <u>extremely-atmospheric</u> album <u>never</u> loses it's focus...even as it comes crashing towards you like a runaway train possessed by the devil himself!! Comprised of seven wicked wasteland songs, with the shortest one ("Eclipse") clocking in at 4:31 and the longest one ("Halo") running past the 10 minute mark!, "Abandon Of The Self" is like every nightmare I have ever had-only 1,000 times as <span style="color: red;">EXTREME</span>!! As someone who doesn't mind the zombie themes, demonic appearances, and slasher filled moments that constitute an avenge night's rest for me*, that apt-description comes with crocked smile and a pair of devil horns throw high up in the air!! Available on compact disc, vinyl, as a digital download, this 7-track recording is the absolute <u>best </u>studio release that this French outfit has ever released! Dark & dreary, angry, and filled to the tilt with apocalyptic-like rage, "Abandon Of The Self" gets a 10 out of 10 grade and comes with my highest recommendations!!<br />
<br />
<br />
*I take several medications that are known to cause vivid dreams. At this point in time I have grown so accustomed to the extreme nightmares that it more surprising when I don't have one!Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-48503750422173419792018-04-16T05:49:00.000-07:002018-04-16T05:49:10.108-07:00Killing Tyranny-Church Of The Twisted Prophet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AyYUluXFreE/WtSK3AeNlcI/AAAAAAAAOpk/sT3IaKELM48DpVkL-Iyo2ygvDVz_q6dwgCLcBGAs/s1600/268x0w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="268" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AyYUluXFreE/WtSK3AeNlcI/AAAAAAAAOpk/sT3IaKELM48DpVkL-Iyo2ygvDVz_q6dwgCLcBGAs/s1600/268x0w.jpg" /></a></div>
Twisted Prophet<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Killing Tyranny is a socially-conscious/politically-inclined heavy metal/power metal band from California that is fronted by George Gregory (ex-Outraged, ex-Ironworks). Active since 2013, this San Diego-based outfit's first appearance on Heavy Metal Time Machine was way back in early June of 2015. Having covered the band's <u>absolutely-stellar</u> album "<a href="http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2015/06/killing-tyranny-martyr.html" target="_blank">Martyr</a>", "Church Of The Twisted Prophet" showed up in my mail with high expectations. Once the disc's opener kicked in ("The New Covenant") I knew that it was all good and that everything was right where it should be when it came to this five-piece band. Once more taking their cues from traditional heavy metal (Judas Priest, Armored Saint, Halloween, Iron Maiden, Metal Church, etc.), power metal/thrash (Annihilator, Defiance, Helloween, Lääz Rockit, Megadeth, Metallica, Slayer, Toxik, etc.), and extreme/groove metal (Pantera and to a lesser extent Exhorder), Killing Tyranny has crafted their own masterpiece! Everything that was great about "Martyr" (the strong song-writing, expert- performances, <u>perfect-production</u>, etc.) is on full-display here. Only this time around it's even better! Thanks to incredibly tight performances, intelligent lyrics, and George Gregory's great set of pipes, "Church Of The Twisted Prophet" not only picks up where "Martyr", but it improves upon perfection!! Overall the lead solos are better and so is the rhythm section. Lyrically-speaking, Killing Tyranny has matured a lot in the three years between albums. And those vocals of George Gregory? Last time around I said that he sounded like the "long-lost step-cousin of James Hetfield". On "Church Of The Twisted Prophet" Gregory has grown as a vocalist. Slowly but surely he has developed his own sound and this time around it is something special! There is nothing better than an incredible front-man just doing his thing! Especially when said front-man is backed-up by one monster of a metal band!! Now in their fifth year together, U.S. heavy/power metal band Killing Tyranny is no long the up-and-coming metal band that I previously covered. Here in 2018 this (tech-savvy!) bashing & thrashing metal group has the feel of a long-lived veteran outfit. This California band is as good as it gets and it is long-past time that the rest of the world acknowledges that! Available on CD and in digital format, "Church Of The Twisted Prophet" was a long-time coming, but the wait for so worth it!! As with their 2015 album "Martyr", this incredible CD will find me shouting from the rooftops about how amazing Killing Tyranny really is! You'll want to have this CD handy for when some young kid walks up to you and asks "What is metal all about?"!!!Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-31072785765962901832018-04-12T05:31:00.001-07:002018-04-12T05:31:22.375-07:00Clouds Taste Satanic-The Glitter of Infinite Hell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw466I2rZEA/Wszohv7TSRI/AAAAAAAAOpQ/UhKPhW5w7CoHVpuqcH99ks-zWLqX64gjACLcBGAs/s1600/a0179291615_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw466I2rZEA/Wszohv7TSRI/AAAAAAAAOpQ/UhKPhW5w7CoHVpuqcH99ks-zWLqX64gjACLcBGAs/s320/a0179291615_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2017<br />
<br />
Formed in 2013 and calling Brooklyn, New York their home base of operations, Clouds Taste Satanic is the most underrated doom metal bands of our generation! Released on October 31st of 2017, Clouds Taste Satanic's latest album, "<a href="https://cloudstastesatanic.bandcamp.com/album/the-glitter-of-infinite-hell" target="_blank">The Glitter of Infinite Hell</a>", offers all the proof necessary to make such a bold proclamation. The hour-plus album serves as the follow-up to 2016's "<a href="http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Clouds+Taste+Satanic-Dawn+Of+the+Satanic+Age" target="_blank">Dawn Of the Satanic Age</a>" and finds band members Sean Bay (bass), Steven Scavuzzo (guitars), Brian Bauhs (guitars), and Greg Acampora (drums) transforming doom metal into the devil's own apocalyptic soundtrack! With mountain size riffs that could easily crush small cities, this four-song release is the stuff that hardcore doom metal fanatics dream about!! The average length of each track is 18 minutes and thanks to some truly unholy guitar work it is every bit as nightmarish as it's sick artwork suggests!! For the life of me I cannot understand why this instrumental doom act is not more well known. Really all it would take is one listen to a track like "Treachery" to rope more fans in! Limited to a mere 100 CD copies, "The Glitter of Infinite Hell" is the best release so far from Clouds Taste Satanic. It is extremely tight, well thought out, and chock full of incredible moments that will make you fall in love all over again with doom metal! If this masterpiece of a recording isn't in your personal music collection then you have no right to call yourself a doom metal fan! This golden gem is a 10 out of 10/ <span style="color: red;">A+</span> release!! Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-63541835169007298332018-04-11T11:26:00.001-07:002018-04-11T11:28:39.251-07:00Current Playlist<a data-track="thumb" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/152042593@N08/41392912221/" id="yui_3_11_0_1_1523470626714_296" title="SAXON-Thunderbolt-LP"><img alt="SAXON-Thunderbolt-LP" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/41392912221_a2ff4f9d12_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
It's April already although it still feels like Winter where I live. Anyways here is my current list. Feel free to add yours in the comments. As always we are always interested in hearing what everyone else is into these days.<br />
<br />
Listening to-<br />
Lots of Saxon<br />
Lots of Exodus<br />
Judas Priest-Firepower<br />
Dogs D'amour-King of thieves<br />
Sons of angels<br />
Skinless-Savagery<br />
Goat Worship-Shore of the dead<br />
Vomitor-Pestilent death<br />
<br />
Reading-<br />
books for work<br />
<br />
Watching-<br />
The Rockford Files the complete series<br />
Soon to be watching the NHL playoffs.Metal Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18400759786407810475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-77488212802061927642018-04-09T06:42:00.000-07:002018-04-09T06:43:54.152-07:00Crime Scene-Vengeance EP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wh6I9Rg0MPo/WstnEx9He9I/AAAAAAAAOow/-gahzISIqp8e4_Rc6mt4SPk3Vj_01uZFACLcBGAs/s1600/a3031100760_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wh6I9Rg0MPo/WstnEx9He9I/AAAAAAAAOow/-gahzISIqp8e4_Rc6mt4SPk3Vj_01uZFACLcBGAs/s320/a3031100760_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Cologne, Germany's Crime Scene plays a hard & heavy brand of (somewhat sleazy) rock and roll on "<a href="https://crimescenerocknroll.bandcamp.com/album/vengeance-ep" target="_blank">Vengeance EP</a>". Starting off with the heavy rock of "Hey", this four-track EP almost sounds as if it could have come from Los Angeles, California...circa 1985. For those of you who might not get the reference point, Crime Scene could have been Germany's answer to Guns N' Roses. It's not a perfect match, but at nearly 17 minutes in length, "Vengeance EP" certainly tips it's hat to Axl and company! From the looks of things this brand new EP appears to be Crime Scene's studio debut. It might not be perfect, but thanks to the strength of numbers like "Hey", "Sex Drive", and "Back To Cologne" it is a fun listen. This one is recommended to anyone that likes like hard rock with a little bit of sleaze and muscle. Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-3920121303770877972018-04-09T06:05:00.000-07:002018-04-09T06:05:50.738-07:00Free Metal Monday: Blood Curse-Angel Witch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZQvUtpDok4/WsthGtOlHOI/AAAAAAAAOog/UJ4CEXWXRpAuGMyHofr4R-qdVflV9ySigCLcBGAs/s1600/a2215510320_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZQvUtpDok4/WsthGtOlHOI/AAAAAAAAOog/UJ4CEXWXRpAuGMyHofr4R-qdVflV9ySigCLcBGAs/s320/a2215510320_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Blood Curse is a heavy metal band from Caneyville, Kentucky that is comprised of Aaron Franks (vocals/guitar/bass) and Olivia Franks (drums). Active since 2016, Blood Curse has one demo and two singles to it's name. The group's latest release is a name-your-own-price cover of Angle Witch's theme song. It is taken from the group's forthcoming debut album (which is due to drop this summer!) and is a must-have for fans of traditional heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M. Pumped up with metallic passion and some true appreciation for the classic British metal band for which it is named, Blood Curse's cover of "<a href="https://bloodcurse.bandcamp.com/album/angel-witch" target="_blank">Angel Witch</a>" is a bit more raw than the original version, but kick ass all the same! Hopefully come summer I will be covering this band's debut...Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-12071063944168769662018-04-05T06:00:00.000-07:002018-04-05T06:00:14.751-07:00Demon Head-The Resistance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsi5H6s2Z1U/WsYN5F7ZToI/AAAAAAAAOoM/KqN97VNAW0US-2XTbDm4un-IxvVj-sejACLcBGAs/s1600/993446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsi5H6s2Z1U/WsYN5F7ZToI/AAAAAAAAOoM/KqN97VNAW0US-2XTbDm4un-IxvVj-sejACLcBGAs/s320/993446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Sign Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Demon Head is a five-piece band that self-describes itself as "Diabolic Rock". The group is fronted by Ferreira Larsen (Alucarda, Scavenger Brats) and they have been active since 2012. On April 20th, 2018 this (spooky/sinister) hard & heavy rock/doom metal outfit with release the EP "The Resistance". Limited to a mere 500 copies, this atmospheric 7" includes the songs "River of Mars" and "The Resistance". That is the running order on my promo link so we will tackle the two tracks in that manor. With truly inspired lyrics and eerie rock music to match the mood, "Rivers of Mars" is the first single from this EP and arguably the better number of the two tracks. As the promo material correctly explains, this four minute plus song will haunt you long after the EP ends! Blessed by a vocalist that would make Glenn Danzig crack a crooked smile, Demon Head has constructed a true masterpiece with "River of Mars! This two-track release is well-worth it's weight in gold for that number alone!! With that being said, the title track of this 7" is great in it's own right. The aptly-titled "The Resistance" is a slow & steady (classic rock-infused) goth rocker that (ever so slightly) flirts with doom rock and vintage psychedelic rock. There's also a little bit of jingle-jangle guitar playing going on with the title track. When you put these two cool tracks next to each other you get a slick soundtrack for this retro outfit that is bound & determined to make it's own mark in the world. Serving as my first official taste of Denmark's Demon Head, "The Resistance" is a 7" that I plan on adding to my personal collection. For anyone that likes (seventies-inspired) hard & heavy rock/doom rock I would highly-recommend that you do the same thing too. Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-20269021510214079912018-04-03T05:46:00.000-07:002018-04-03T05:46:14.465-07:00Against Evil-All Hail The King<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMkLul9CB08/WsNsApycTYI/AAAAAAAAOn8/HzGYVh9B3Vc08J21M6075196yyin4PjxgCLcBGAs/s1600/a2153392108_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMkLul9CB08/WsNsApycTYI/AAAAAAAAOn8/HzGYVh9B3Vc08J21M6075196yyin4PjxgCLcBGAs/s320/a2153392108_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Formed in 2014 and featuring lead vocals courtesy of bassist Siri Sri, Against Evil is a classic heavy metal band from India with one single, an EP, and this fantastic full-length album to it's name. Having made their debut in 2015 with the release of the CD single "War Hero", this four-piece group plays an enthusiastic brand of traditional heavy metal that is second to none! Influences include (but are not limited to) bands like Judas Priest, Accept, Megadeth, and Black Sabbath. Due to drop on April 6th, 2018, "All Hail The King" is the full-length debut album from this up-and-coming band that also includes Shasank Venkat (lead guitars), M Sravan Chakravarthi (rhythm guitars/vocals), and Nobel John (drums). The album features nine great tracks in all (easily the best of which is "Stand Up And Fight!") and it serves as the follow-up to 2015's (highly-regarded!) EP, "Fatal Assault". Well-crafted and expertly-produced, "All Hail The King" includes a guest appearance by Jeff Loomis (Nevermore, Arch Enemy). Thanks to killer guitar solos and it's old school outlook, Against Evil's first album is a must for fans of vintage heavy metal.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-14593064186780244512018-03-28T14:07:00.001-07:002018-03-28T14:07:58.798-07:00Freeways-Cold Front<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCg3jAM_cg4/WqKRcJwj3oI/AAAAAAAAOkU/9zA4EcvwUbg4X660LDA3WP7sCQdf3chTwCLcBGAs/s1600/a3985411117_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCg3jAM_cg4/WqKRcJwj3oI/AAAAAAAAOkU/9zA4EcvwUbg4X660LDA3WP7sCQdf3chTwCLcBGAs/s320/a3985411117_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Heavy Chains Records<br />
2017<br />
<br />
Freeways is a (N.W.O.B.H.M.-inspired) hard rock/heavy metal band from Canada that takes it's cues from the likes of Thin Lizzy, UFO, and Blue Öyster Cult (to name just a few). Back in early September of 2017 the group released the 3-track EP "<a href="https://freeways410.bandcamp.com/album/cold-front" target="_blank">Cold Front</a>". In addition to the outstanding title cut, "Cold Front" includes the radio-friendly songs "One For The Road" and "New Drag City". Well-written and featuring three songs that could all be considered strong singles(!), "Cold Front" serves as the band's studio debut. It is available in cassette tape, vinyl, and as a digital download. Given how incredible the whole thing is, "Cold Front" would have made my Best of 2017 list had I created one! In fact I feel so passionate album this EP (it's so freaking good!) that I bought it on vinyl and cassette tape!! That is how much I love "Cold Front"!!! Available to buy at the above highlighted link, Freeways first release it one of the greatest hard rock/heavy metal debut recordings out there. This is a catchy EP from a band that has the potential to be the next big thing out of Canada. Hopefully 2018 will bring a full-length album from this incredible band, but in the meantime I am just going to play this EP none-stop!!! Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-84273580643013261802018-03-28T13:29:00.000-07:002018-03-28T13:29:09.193-07:00Evil Hunter-Evil Hunter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDpnXdcnjb0/Wrvp5jKF4JI/AAAAAAAAOnc/NG2c4h6PS0sVHnY5RSYNxgDM_rNz371vQCLcBGAs/s1600/853492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDpnXdcnjb0/Wrvp5jKF4JI/AAAAAAAAOnc/NG2c4h6PS0sVHnY5RSYNxgDM_rNz371vQCLcBGAs/s320/853492.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Fighter Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Evil Hunter is a (hard & heavy-infused) traditional/power metal band from Spain. The group is lead by vocalist Damián Chicano and features musicians with ties to such bands as WarCry, Nova Era, Lords of Black, Nightfear, and Black Hat. On April 10th, 2018 the group is planning to release their full-length debut album. It is a self-titled affair with eight original compositions. Starting off with the heavy metal banger that is "Surf the Waves" (I just love the guitars on this metallic jam!), "Evil Hunter" is a <u>great</u> example of modern day (passionate and precision-cut) heavy/power metal. Armed with killer guitarists and a cool lead singer who sounds like Axl Rose on a N.W.O.B.H.M. kick(!), Evil Hunter is cranks out hard-hitting /high-classic traditional heavy metal that is as melodic as it is powerful. On their first full-length album this talented Spanish band mixes classic heavy/power metal numbers with hard and heavy rock elements so that they can in give the audience a truly unique listening experience. Thanks in no small part to their versatile front-man and a rock-inspired rhythm section, Evil Hunter is able to pull of hair-raising heavy metal cuts and the obligatory ballad. Well-produced and comprised of nothing but solid numbers, this eight song album is something that that Spanish act should be extremely proud of. As far as recommendations go, "Evil Hunter" should appeal to fans of traditional heavy metal and power metal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
PS: While there are heavy rock and hard rock elements to be found on this well-assembled album, at it's core "Evil Hunter" is (guitar-heavy) classic/power metal with great vocals and top of the line musicians. That means the album is versatile enough to appeal to hard and heavy fans, but it's really meant for heavy metal fanatics.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-82916137141304538462018-03-26T15:08:00.002-07:002018-03-26T15:08:56.594-07:00Judas Priest concert review<div class="gn-search-box" role="menuitem">
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Black Star Riders, Saxon and Judas Priest<br />
The Anthem<br />
Washington DC<br />
March 18th, 2018<br />
<br />
<br />
The mighty Priest descended upon the nation's capital on an unusually warm March evening. Opening up were Black Star Riders who released their third album last year. This was of course the band that was formed out of was left of the band that was still calling themselves Thin Lizzy. Their sound is sort of a 90's hard rock mixed with occasional traces of Irish music. They come on just a few minutes late and the venue is maybe half filled. Their stage presence was steady but for me they were very average. I was glad to see veteran guitarist Scott Gorham still going at enjoying what he was doing.<br />
Highlight-Probably them doing Thin Lizzy's Jailbreak.<br />
<br />
The Anthem begins filling up nicely after their set and the banner goes up with the cover of Saxon's latest release Thunderbolt while the roadies get their gear set up. More people are pushing to the front because let's face it even though we were mainly there to see the Priest plenty of us were also there to see the NWOBHM legends as well. The band emerged in the dark and when the lights came on they erupted. It's hard to tell what older bands might be good or not live, but Saxon seem to tour constantly and they were on fire. There set was a mix of tracks from the newest release Thunderbolt and classics from their heyday between 1980 and 1984. The place was about filled early into Saxon's set and the crowd was into them the whole time. Biff Byford interacted well with the crowd even borrowing a denim vest from someone in the crowd, slipping it on and then launching into Denim and leather. They did what a good opening act should do which is get the crowd pumped up for the headliner and the mighty Saxon delivered.<br />
Highlights-The whole set really, but if forced to choose I'd say The power and the glory, Denim and leather, Princess of the night and the closer Heavy Metal Thunder.<br />
<br />
The crowd begins pushing up to the front as the curtain is dropped for Judas Priest's road crew to get their gear and stage set up. This was only my second time seeing Priest as the first time was way back in 1990 on the Painkiller tour. It seemed like we waited an eternity and then War Pigs comes on and everyone begins singing along as we know the start is near. Guardians the instrumental from the new album comes on then bam the curtain goes down, the metal gods appear and they launch into the title track from their latest Firepower and it's on. I have to admit I did not like the Ripper Owens era nor was I big on the first three albums with Halford back at the helm, but Firepower is their best album in decades and live it was like they hadn't lost a step at all. Faulkner went in for the retired KK seven years ago and of course Andy Sneep is in for the ailing Glen Tipton, but it's still Priest. After the opener they went into a number of songs they hadn't played as much live in recent years which only got the crowd more into it. The pace was relentless and they kept hammering the crowd with killer tracks like Bloodstone and Running Wild. Then now forgetting about the new album they went into Lightning Strike the first release off the new album. Next up was Saints in hell from Stained Class and this is of course the first tour they have played this song live. I was singing along and this guy about half my age puts his hand on my shoulders and says "sing it, man, sing it" and we both did as loud as we could. One of the great things about this show wasn't just that younger people showed up for this but that they knew the old Priest (and Saxon) songs and were just as thrilled and familiar with something like Saints in hell and Sinner as they were with the band's more known tracks. Halford ruled the stage knowing they were in control. Ian Hill stays semi in the background as always but is obviously into it too. Scott Travis (nearly 30 years in the band now) is a machine behind the kit. Richie Faulkner has gone from being the new guy to being a center of the show and making it look easy. Some people have criticized Andy Sneep saying he lacks stage presence or whatever but remember he is filling in as Glen has not left the band so I think Andy is being respectful and filling his role. He did very well at that in my opinion. Anyways back to the show Priest had everyone eating out of their hands as even turbo lover and Angel sounded good live. Some heads are gonna roll had the place buzzing with intensity. It got even louder with Rob road his motorcycle out and they launched into Hell bent for leather. Scott Travis got to introduce Painkiller and pit of about 20 or so people opened up near me. It was insane by this point which was all cool. After that they came back for the encore and Electric Eye had the place bouncing, Metal Gods had the place singing at a deafening level and the expected tracks You've got another thing comin' and Livin' after midnight closed out their set. The band rightfully took a bow and excited and the screen above them proclaimed the Priest would be back. Holy crap somehow, someway they were just as good as they were when I saw them in 1990. I had my doubts going into it, but the legendary band delivered (yeah, the goods). I made my way out into the air and like everyone else still standing around I was talking non-stop about how amazing that was. If you get a chance to see them then yes see them on this tour.<br />
<br />
Highlights-Yeah, the whole things, but if I have to narrow it down then Running Wild, Bloodstone, The Ripper, Saints in hell, Painkiller and Electric Eye.<br />
Metal Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18400759786407810475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-63030113788329364932018-03-26T09:54:00.000-07:002018-03-26T09:54:30.525-07:00Dream Tröll-The Witch's Curse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTGxVNDP2cQ/WpbIJLgd8FI/AAAAAAAAOiM/gKP6YtWR4zwkfEjWDWr33CcdJUq4DDYRwCLcBGAs/s1600/a3358346292_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTGxVNDP2cQ/WpbIJLgd8FI/AAAAAAAAOiM/gKP6YtWR4zwkfEjWDWr33CcdJUq4DDYRwCLcBGAs/s320/a3358346292_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Based in Leeds, England and currently fronted by Paul Walsh, Dream Tröll is a epic heavy metal/power metal band that made it's studio debut in 2017 with the full-length album "The Knight of Rebellion". The group's new EP, "<a href="https://dreamtroll.bandcamp.com/album/the-witchs-curse" target="_blank">The Witch's Curse</a>", was released in early February. It is a three-track recording with truly inspired lyrics and well-structured material that is as melodic as it is memorable! Arguable one of the most well-rounded N.W.O.T.H.M. bands out there these days, Dream Tröll has so much potential that you almost have to wonder if there wasn't some form of otherworldly-intervention! If true heavy with metal with great lead vocals, killer riffs, and epic metal overtones is your thing (and why shouldn't it be?) then "The Witch's Curse" is a must-have!!Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-25481470961843058172018-03-26T09:38:00.001-07:002018-03-26T09:38:50.662-07:00Druknroll-Unbalanced<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pv40rQ9yQxw/WrVTteosbmI/AAAAAAAAOnM/eOXmOja_rksYjCpwG7PkVJZ69GvMJfHKACLcBGAs/s1600/Unbalanced%2B-%2Balbum%2Bcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pv40rQ9yQxw/WrVTteosbmI/AAAAAAAAOnM/eOXmOja_rksYjCpwG7PkVJZ69GvMJfHKACLcBGAs/s320/Unbalanced%2B-%2Balbum%2Bcover.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Metal Scrap Records<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Formed in 2006 by Andrey "Druknroll" (guitars, bass, keys, and drum programming), Druknroll is a Russian metal band that I have had the pleasure of covering in the past (<a href="http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=druknroll" target="_blank">link</a>). The recently-released "<a href="https://metalscraprecords.bandcamp.com/album/druknroll-unbalanced" target="_blank">Unbalanced</a>" is the fifth full-length album from this dark & dangerous group that is currently fronted by Alexander "Horror" Tolgaev (Svartstorm). Having started out in life as a solo project, Druknroll's <u>one of a kind</u> sound combines elements of hard & heavy rock, progressive metal, melodic thrash metal, death metal, and modern metal. Now in it's twelfth year of existence (and every-bit as different as their name implies!), this edgy-outfit has a lot to offer to modern metal fans and heavy death thrashers.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-11970984796809461152018-03-22T06:10:00.000-07:002018-03-22T06:10:18.314-07:00Into the Storm/Smooth Sailing-Split<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csOxbu1FRZk/WrEIG8VmtxI/AAAAAAAAOm8/Ak3UiUvm9_ILowdWt_dbwSIKEz279So9QCLcBGAs/s1600/530701.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csOxbu1FRZk/WrEIG8VmtxI/AAAAAAAAOm8/Ak3UiUvm9_ILowdWt_dbwSIKEz279So9QCLcBGAs/s320/530701.png" width="312" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Seattle metal bands Into the Storm and Smooth Sailing have teamed up to release this simply-stellar split. Due for release tomorrow, the six-track recording features two tracks by Into The Storm and four tracks by Smooth Sailing. Starting off with the fittingly-named Into the Storm, tracks "Murder Murder Murder" and "So how do you explain all the dead unicorns?" showcase the noisy sounds of this stoner/sludgy modern metal band. Both tracks are epic in their own way, but it's the opening single "Murder Murder Murder" that really wrecks your mind and makes you want to hear what else this heavy-hitting band has up it's sleeves! Formed in 2010, Into the Storm has slowly but surely evolved into a truly-formidable outfit that needs to be heard to be fully appreciated!! Moving past these Seattle sludge warriors, Smooth Sailing might not have the most metallic moniker out there, but their music more than makes up for it! Armed with killer riffs and a beast-mode mentality, Smooth Sailing also flirts with stoner rock, sludge metal, and modern metal on their four tracks. Unlike Into the Storm, Smooth Sailing also tosses heavy (post) rock into the mix. Add in some progressive metal and a brief spot or two of space rock and you have this aggressive metal band that knows how to keep things interesting. It's for that reason that I actually prefer Smooth Sailing's tracks. That being said, Into the Storm is all kinds of awesome in their own right. When you combine these two extreme groups on a split like this the results speak for themselves. Available for pre-order by heading here <a href="https://smoothsailingtheband.bandcamp.com/album/smooth-sailing-into-the-storm-split" target="_blank">here</a>, this split release is proof positive that the Seattle metal scene is not only alive, but more menacing than ever!Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-42142365517022923202018-03-20T06:05:00.000-07:002018-03-20T06:05:48.158-07:00Children of the Reptile-The End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oDa1LFd-Rs4/WqkeojMhFaI/AAAAAAAAOmc/pF0j6bp_k9cnOScEShmtlAX6HTOrcO_XACLcBGAs/s1600/a3632331317_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oDa1LFd-Rs4/WqkeojMhFaI/AAAAAAAAOmc/pF0j6bp_k9cnOScEShmtlAX6HTOrcO_XACLcBGAs/s320/a3632331317_16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Self-Release/Independent<br />
2018<br />
<br />
Children of the Reptile is a U.S. traditional heavy metal/epic metal band that has been active since 2009. Lead by vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Ozzie Darden (ex-Death Machine Weapons, ex-The Disasters), this four-piece band is based in Wilmington, North Carolina and has two EPs and two full-length albums to it's name. Released in late-January of this year, the nine-track "<a href="https://cotr.bandcamp.com/album/the-end" target="_blank">The End</a>" is the second full-length release from Children of the Reptile. It serves as the follow-up to 2016's <u>well-received</u> "<a href="http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2016/11/children-of-reptile-four-weapons-ep.html" target="_blank">The Four Weapons EP</a>" and finds this U.S. metal band sounding better than ever! As with the group's last EP, "The End" features <u>damn catchy </u>material that should please not only long-time fans of the group, but anyone that appreciates true heavy metal. If your personal CD collection includes everything from Megadeth and Metallica to Thin Lizzy, Dio, solo-Ozzy, Manilla Road, Iron Maiden, and Judas Priest then you are going to dig this outfit. You simply cannot go wrong when you mix Ozzie's tremendous vocal delivery with blazing guitar solo and the one-two punch that is this album's rhythm section! Having made their debut in 2012 with a 3-song EP, Children of the Reptile has grown into one of the most dependable metal bands out there. There is no reason why this band shouldn't be in your personal music collection and I have no idea why they are still unsigned! Just like the group's last studio album, "The End" is a <span style="color: red;">A+</span> release in a day and age when far too many bands are just going through the motions.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13852175.post-83985531821428591962018-03-20T05:44:00.000-07:002018-03-20T05:44:28.790-07:00Enrico Sarzi-Drive Through<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EP0_EIv5uTc/WqLksBt8BQI/AAAAAAAAOkk/xd5R9H_EZlUEnXk3SWVeb1ZoLqvu1PfNgCLcBGAs/s1600/release_riempi_release_cover_Drive%2BThrough_59cba42c20f65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EP0_EIv5uTc/WqLksBt8BQI/AAAAAAAAOkk/xd5R9H_EZlUEnXk3SWVeb1ZoLqvu1PfNgCLcBGAs/s320/release_riempi_release_cover_Drive%2BThrough_59cba42c20f65.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Street Symphonies Records/Burning Minds Music Group<br />
2017<br />
<br />
Enrico Sarzi (Midnight Sun) is an Italian singer-songwriter/hard & heavy rocker. Back on November 17th, 2017 this veteran musician released his full-length debut, "Drive Through". With the album's title being a nod of appreciation towards Enrico's biggest passion (Formula 1 car races), the 11-track disc finds this Midnight Sun member drawing from a wide-array of inspirations. Self-dubbed "Easy Hard Rock", Enrico's first solo album features something for everyone's tastes. Not only is there a couple of real hard and heavy rockers, but (grunge-infused) classic rock, AOR-like ballads, and a excellent sax-laden number ("Strange Freedom"). Granted that is to be expected when an artist is influenced by everyone from Alice In Chains to Adèle! Geared towards anyone that just loves all things rock (from Bad Company to The Cult), "Drive Through" has great production values, well-crafted numbers, and a remarkably confident vibe. It's the perfect album for when you are in the mode for something slightly-different...Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15260014541945644481noreply@blogger.com0