Sunday Singles: Lilith and The Knight-Wake Up

Red Vixen Records
2016


Calling London home, Lilith and The Knight is a up-and-coming heavy rock/hard & heavy band with one truly inspired single to it's name thanks to the recently-released "Wake Up". Formed by guitarist Stephen and lead vocalist Lilith a little over a year ago, Lilith and The Knight draws it's inspiration from a wide-range of sources that are both new and old. From classic rock to modern metal you'll find a little bit of everything has  made it's way into the heart of this band's fresh sound and with guitarist Adam, bassist Tom, and drummer Francesco rounding matters out it sure seems as if NOTHING can stand in the way of this group's ultimate success! Fans of female-fronted rock and heavy metal would do well to invest in the magnificence that is "Wake Up" especially as this in one new single that is sweet as F**K!!!!

Saturday Single: Righteous Reprobates-We Go With What We Know

Self-Release/Independent
2016

Due for release on April 15th, 2016, "We Go With What We Know" is a upcoming single from one of UK's latest rock and roll discoveries, Righteous Reprobates. Based in London & Kent and comprised of Rob White (guitar, vocals), Jack Griffiths (guitar, vocals), Jack Collier (bass), and Charlie Kenny (drums) this up-and-coming four-piece offers up a distinctive take on rock and roll that is all at once heartfelt and heroic. Influenced by not only the current state of British rock, but by the classic rock and pop legends of the 60s & 70s and Britpop acts like Oasis and Blur, Righteous Reprobates combines the old with the new on this catchy single as witnessed by heading here.With a full-length album due for release in very near future this young and hip quartet could make a real difference in not only the UK, but worldwide! Here's hoping their new/debut album (which was incidentally recorded with the help of Grammy winning Sean Magee at Abbey Road studios of all places!) is even half as good as "We Go With What We Know"....

Interview with Bad Frankenhausen's Tom Goldman

How's this for perfect timing? Just this past Monday I reviewed Bad Frakenhausen's new album "Eins" and here it is Wednesday(!) and I am now proud to present an interview that I conducted with this London band's guitarist/vocalist, Tom Goldman. I want to thank Tom for taking time out of his schedule to chat with us about his band and Bad Frakenhausen's (highly-recommended!) debut album. If you haven't read my review of "Eins" yet then be sure to check it out by heading here. Meanwhile you can find "Eins" online by following this link.


Andy (A)-For our readers who might not be familiar with your band could you give us a brief rundown on who's who in Bad Frankenhausen and what you...or rather your band...is all about?

Tom Goldman (T)-We’re Bad Frankenhausen, a three piece Hard Rock/Metal band from London England. We follow the traditional ‘Power Trio’ formation of me (Tom) on guitar and vocals, Rob on Drums and Paul on Bass. The general idea behind the band is to have a Classic Rock/Metal vibe with some modern influences as well, with a focus on big, memorable riffs!

A-I'd say you succeeded with that game plan Tom! How and when did your band form and how did you decide on your unique moniker?

T-Although Bad Frankenhausen was formed officially in mid 2014, it’s existed quite a bit longer in different forms. Rob, Paul and Myself have played together since 2009, with various vocalists, but nothing really led to anything. In late 2013 after a bit of a break we got together as a three piece and I took over the vocal duties. From there we rewrote or started afresh with the material we had previously written and soon after we launched as Bad Frankenhausen.The name comes from a town in Germany. We all liked the sound of it and it’s quite different from many of the ‘typical’ metal band names. It also continues a proud tradition of rock bands named after places!

A-That's so very true LOL! Who is the primary songwriter in the band? Lyrically-speaking there seems to be a great deal of fantasy going on. Not that I'm complaining any since I totally dig the material that you guys have put out!

T-I think it's pretty mixed. We all contribute quite a lot to the music side. Occasionally I will bring something complete to the band, but even then we will work on it together and swap stuff out or improve on riffs. It's become a really collaborative process. Sometimes it might be a starting point of a simple riff or idea, or maybe we jam something. It's different every time, but the collaboration is key.The lyrics on "Eins" are done in much the same way, in that we have all pitched in ideas at various points. In some cases there has been a general idea, in others its more specific. We've tried to keep sense of humor about things too. There's quite a strong 'tongue in cheek' element to what we write too. I think "Eins" as a whole lyrically deals with the idea of desperate or deluded characters, it's a theme that we come back to quite a lot.

A-On your full-length debut I can hear traces of Black Sabbath and Motörhead. What are some of the bands that influenced you?

T-Well, as you mentioned Sabbath are a huge influence on us. As well as other classic rock bands like Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin. We certainly use their bluesy approach to riffing quite a lot in our songs. You’re quite correct in saying that Motörhead are important too, particularly vocally. Definitely some Priest and Megadeth there too!There’s some other stuff in there as well. Paul and I listen to a lot of Black and Death Metal, and although it may be subtle, there are some references to that in our songs, particularly in the guitar work – Although you may have to look for them! Also there’s quite a substantial Prog influence too in places.I would also say there’s particular influence from a lot of Doom and Stoner bands too. Bands like Electric Wizard and Orange Goblin, and also many bands from The USA, particularly Southern Metal and Desert Rock groups. Pantera, Down. Basically anything with great riffs and a strong groove!

A-Coolness! Not counting your odds and ends collection entitled "Vol 1",  "Live" was your first full-length release. What made you decided to go that route?

T-We'd written a lot of material and we just wanted to get it recorded. We've been lucky in that we're quite prolific in that respect. It just seemed logical to us to do a full length, to get definitive versions of our music on record, rather than doing a few separate EPs.

A-Well, it worked for the band MC5 so why not you guys! LOL! We briefly touched on it, but talk to us about your new album. How did it all come about and how have fans and critics reacted to it?

T-It's been a long time in the making! We recorded it and mixed it in June/July last year. The artwork was done over the Summer and Mastering was completed in October. We've been sitting on if for a few months, so it's good to have it out. Reactions have been great. Considering we have not had an "official" release for it yet, it's been a pleasant surprise to find that people have discovered it. Hopefully more people will get to hear it and enjoy it soon; we plan on sending out copies to a range of people/place. It will be "interesting" to see what the reaction will be!

A-In a very good way "Eins" has an almost live feel to it. Was that purposeful?

T-Absolutely. We are big fans of the natural live sound of music and want to give people the impression that they are in the studio with us playing when they listen, rather than have something over produced and artificial. It just seems to fit in with our style.

A-In our email exchange you mentioned "Eins" getting a physical release. When can fans expect that?

T-We are hoping that we will have the first physical copies early March, with an aim to have them for sale later that month or early April.

A-Awesome! Who are some of the bands that you've played with so far?

T-We've played with quite a lot of excellent bands on the London scene. Last week we played with Overthrow and in the last year we've been lucky enough to play with the likes of Empire Warning, Possessor, Suffer No Fools, Morag Tong, Unheard Before the Wake, Slave Steel and so many more - apologies to those who I've missed! We've been very lucky with who we have got to play with.

A-As a follow-up to that question who would you like to play with if given the chance?

T-In the immediate future, would love to play with some of the other local bands we haven't had the chance to like Wretched Toad, Wychhound, DBM, Khadian, Jackknife Seizure... But in the future who knows? There are obvious big name choices... But we've a while to go till we are there yet.

A-Since we're kind of on the subject already Tom what is your local scene like?

T-It's really good and getting better. I keep seeing new bands who are really impressive, whilst those who are have been on the scene for a while are progressing so much. The only thing that is a pain is that every month another venue seems to close, restricting where we can play. That being said, there's a dedicated group of promoters and venues who put in a huge amount of effort to support the scene. It's a really cool time to be involved in it.

A- Are there any other local bands that you'd like to suggest for our readers?

T-There are so many! Overthrow UK, Wretched Toad and Empire Warning are good places to start.

A-Thanks Tom. I'll have to check those bands out. Let's get back to your group though. What are some of your favorite moments so far with Bad Frakenhausen?

T-Definitely the live shows. They've gotten to be so much fun for us. It's great to see people's responses to new material, as well as seeing the same faces in the crowd!

A-To that end, what's the one thing that your band always has to have with them when you hit the road?


T-Either beer or guitar tuners.

A-Both of those are essential items that's for sure! Does Bad Frakenhausen rock out any cover songs live?

T-We do a pretty tasty version of "Tales of Brave Ulysses" by Cream...

A-Sweet! I'd love to hear your take on it. Alright, it's either or time. Black Sabbath with Ozzy or Dio?

T-Love Dio, but Ozzy.

A-I'm more of a Dio man myself, but it's all good. How about Metallica or Megadeth?

T-Megadeth - Love that guitar work.

A-Dave is one hell of a guitarist. An underrated one, but one of the greats all the same. OK, how about this one. Electric Wizard or Orange Goblin?

T-Electric Wizard.

A-Judas Priest or Iron Maiden?

T-Priest. I think most people in the UK would go for Maiden, but there's just a consistency with Priest I love.

A-I can't argue with that. So, what does the rest of 2016 have in store for you guys?

T-We've got a few more shows lined up (check the Facebook), then we intend to hit the studio again - We have a bunch of new material that we need to get down, so look out for another release later in the year! After that more live shows and hopefully we can expand out of the London scene, and journey to the rest of the UK and beyond.

A-I'll be sure to keep an eye out for your new material as I suddenly find myself hooked on your sound! Now I always let artists have the last word so go ahead Tom. The mic is all yours so feel free to share your words of wisdom. Or if you'd rather not go that route then you can feel free to share your favorite cocktail recipe! Whatever it is you want to lay down then have it!

T-We really want to thank you Andy for covering us. It does mean a lot. We would love if some of your readers would check out "Eins" on our bandcamp page, or even some of other, free releases. We want as many people as possible to hear our music, and we'd love to know what you all think.

A-The pleasure was all mine!


As a word of closing I am going to second Tom's suggestion my friends. For all of our readers out there (and yes, I'm especially talking to all of you who are fans of  raw/real metal and hard & heavy rock n' roll!) be sure to check out Bad Frankenhausen's "Eins". This power trio's riff-heavy & barroom-approved debut album has so much to offer and the more times that I listen to "Eins" the more I find myself wanting to wave the banner that is Bad Frankenhausen! Every-bit as loud & proud as they come, Bad Frankenhausen is one band that I not only plan to follow, but share with all of my metal brothers and sisters! And of course if you live in London and/or any of the surrounding areas be sure to check Bad Frankenhausen live. Having heard this band's live material (thanks to their bandcamp page) I can tell you that this type of heavy rock/hard & heavy metal simply SLAYS on the live stage! If you get a shot at seeing Bad Frankenhausen live then do it! God knows I would if I only lived across the pond! 

Bad Frankenhausen-Eins

Self-Release/Independent

2016

 

For the uninformed and/or those who are just not in the know, Bad Frankenhausen is a wicked cool heavy rock/hard & heavy band that hails from London and is comprised of vocalist/guitarist Tom Goldman, bassist Paul Commerford, and drummer Rob Hollinshead. With influences that would seemingly range from Motörhead to Black Sabbath, Bad Frankenhausen just released it's full-length debut, "Eins" on February 20th and yes, it is every-bit as distinct and mischievous as the above artwork would suggest! Serving as the follow-up to a 2015 live album and an odds and ends collection called "Vol. 1" (which was also released last year), "Eins" features seven solid studio tracks and a foreboding live version of "Blind Wizened Man". Of those seven studio numbers there's not a single dud to be found and that says a hell of a lot about the overall raw talent that this trio possesses! Whether or not this album will be released on CD or not is anybody's guess, but according to the following picture that was posted on the group's Facebook page there will be freaking awesome t-shirts available in the very near future! This is one band that I can't help but get behind and recommend to all of the metalheads, rads and rockers reading this!

Orca-Universe

Self-Release/Independent
2016

Formed in 2014 out the ashes of the dark metal outfit Martian Time Slip (and originally starting out life as an instrumental act before the fateful addition of lead singer/mood stabilizer Chris Edwards ), Orca is a ambitious UK-based alternative metal/progressive rock band that is self-described as a "cracking band" and has one album to it's name in the form of this forthcoming 12-track release. Obsessed with all of the limitless potential of space and the unique and challenging mysteries that it holds for all of mankind (and in a very real way just as dark, cold, and haunting as the source material that serves as this group's inspiration!), London's Orca approaches all aspects of life with a DIY mindset in place and by extension that outlook spills over onto their fifty minute plus debut album, "Universe". Very much a keen and intellectual reflection of their numerous influences (of which Tool would be the obvious starting reference point and then we could work our way down through the Tool side-project A Perfect Circle and onto the likes of Karnivool, Deftones, King Crimson, Porcupine Tree, 10 Years, Isis, and to a lesser extent both Muse and the Smashing Pumpkins!) this up-and-coming London act (who should not to be confused with the Cleveland, Ohio post-hardcore act of the same name) is already being hailed as one of the leading pioneers of "space metal" and for band members Matthew McGuinness, David Vezzoli, Christian Edwards, and Ben Murray-Smith that tag is something to be proud of! With a release date of April 1st, Orca's first album (which incidentally tiptoes back and forth between smart progressive rock melody and beefed-up metal madness!) will be preceded by the single "Aquarium" on March 4th and other than the small issue of it's length (there's no two ways about it, but at fifty or so minutes "Universe" is a lot to digest in just one sitting), "Universe" is a success in terms of what it sets out to do. This 12-track album introduces the harsh narrative that is Orca's experimental sound and in doing so it offers listeners a solid look at alternative metal's (seldom seen) dark underbelly. For a debut album, "Universe" has just the right amount of passion, promise and potential to help move Orca up the rungs of the alternative metal side. With the right amount of guidance and the possibility that someone might be able to explain to Orca that sometimes less is more this London alternative metal/progressive rock band could have a nice long career ahead of itself.

Healthy Junkies-Box of Chaos

STP Records
2016

Formed way back in 2010 by French vocalist/lyricist extraordinaire Nina Courson and the exceptional UK-born guitarist/singer that is Phil Honey-Jones, Healthy Junkies is a London-based punk rock/grunge band that is making all kinds of noise thanks to top-tier albums like "Box of Chaos". Self-described as  "Female fronted New wave punk grunge band" that is "DIY and hungry.." this (potentially) radio-friendly four-piece* offers emotionally-charged materiel that hits all of the correct notes as it simultaneously gives the listening audience intellectually-stimulating songs that will stick around in your subconscious long after the actual music is done. All at once deliciously dark and creatively positive, Healthy Junkies makes highly-personally music that takes it's cues from the classic (underground and independent) sounds of yesterday. For this up-and-coming (rock n' roll-infused) four-piece influences seemingly range from Blondie, The Pixies, Iggy and the Stooges, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Joy Division, T-Rex and David Bowie to bands such as The Avengers, Killing Joke, The Damned, Sonic Youth, Flower Leperds, Nirvana, The Swans, Lords of the New Church, Sex Pistols and even the Courtney Love-lead Hole! The highly-recommend "Box of Chaos" is the band's 3rd full-length album overall and it joins a impressive back catalog that includes the EP "Hair Of The Dog" and the previously-released albums "Sick Note" & 'The Lost Refuge". Currently available for download off of iTunes, "Box of Chaos" will be released on CD next month** and it is custom-made for fans of old-school punk and eighties "alternative" rock. With Quite Great Communications now handling the PR work for this female-fronted punk band, "Box of Chaos" has a good chance of becoming a surprise sleeper hit in 2016! Be sure to keep an eye of this London four-piece as bigger things are all but guaranteed!


*The band is currently rounded out by bass guitarist Ivan Baragone on  and drummer Tony Alda. 

** Pre-orders available now from www.stprecords.co.uk

Novacaine Nothing-Noughts and Crosses

Self-Release/Independent
2015

With a release date of December 18th (which is incidentally this Friday ladies and gentlemen!), "Noughts and Crosses" is the first major release from alternative metal/ nu metal band Novacaine Nothing. That particular fact wasn't lost on me as I made my way through the lead single, "Closure", and the rest of this EP's equally stellar tracks ("Kill You", "Smiling", and "Generation"). Then again neither was the part about how this London-based band has been through 3 drummers, 4 vocalists, 5 bassists, and 4 guitarists since forming back in 2013! Despite all of that noise (and the admittance on the part of some of the band members that there has been personal struggles with depression and addiction*) Novacaine Nothing has released one hell of a bang up EP in "Noughts and Crosses"! For a general ideal of what is in store for you should you decide in engage this band in one on one combat, "Noughts and Crosses" is the explosive sound of one highly-skilled and extremely-diversified (culturally at least) band** whose aggressive take on extreme rock/heavy metal comes by way of influences that include the likes of Korn, Slipknot, and Stone Sour. Now, that was certainly a mouth-load of a sentence, but one does have to go a bit out of the way in order to properly describe everything that this London metal band brings to family game night! As this is just the beginning of Novacaine Nothing I do get the feeling that there are much bigger and better things waiting in the wings for this act. With the right kind of backing and a stable line-up this emotionally-provocative band has all the makings of a knock you the freak out (!) powerhouse!!. Let's all hope they get that shot. In the meantime Novacaine Nothing has posted a trailer for the new EP. You can check it out by heading here. And for more information on this up-and-coming band be sure to check out their Facebook page.


*As someone who has struggled with depression for well over 28 years I appreciate this group's honesty of the subject. These personal struggles have obviously influenced the nature of this EP seeing as "Noughts and Crosses" simply bleeds pain and anger.

**Band members Jason Leung (vox), Ronan Kemp (guitar) Roman Uetskiy (lead guitar), and Jamie Parker (drums) hail from various parts of the globe including Russia, Canada, Hong Kong, and France.

Jupiter in Velvet-The World Didn't Start With U

Free 2b Free Records
2015

Look! Up there in the sky! Is it a bird? No! Is it a plane? Nope! Is it a band? Kinda. You're getting closer! Well then, is it a man who happens to be a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and electric rock and roller? Yes, you finally nailed it! It's Jupiter in Velvet!! Born and raised here in the U.S. (and now calling London his home base of operations), Jupiter in Velvet is a out of this world musician with a grand total of four albums to his credit. First sighted in 2012 (by way of Jupiter in Velvet's critically-acclaimed debut album, "Screaming the Love Behind the Scars"), Jupiter in Velvet has grown stronger with each new release and now this US/UK singer/songwriter looks to take things even higher with album number four. Last week I covered this album's title track and lead single, "The World Didn't Start With U" and now I'm happy to report that the rumors are true. It might seem impossible (or at the very least improbable), but "The World Didn't Start With Us" is one of 2015's best "rock" recordings and there is actually physical evidence available to back up that wild claim! What kind of evidence is there you might be asking? Well, by clicking on this link you can actually go and stream this album and hear it all for yourself! That's right! There's no need to be a Doubting Thomas when you can just go directly to the source and play "The World Didn't Start With Us"! All I ask is that you please wait on doing that until the ride comes to a complete stop. You wouldn't want to miss any of sights would you? I didn't think so. Where were we then? Ah yes, Jupiter in Velvet circa 2015. Reportedly this is the "heaviest" recording of his career. Or was it the most aggressive? It's certainly the most ambitious one to date. Beyond that I honestly cannot remember which one it was. Not that it really matters if you are new to this band. And if you are? Well, first things first then. When it comes to this underground rocker it's worth mentioning how Jupiter in Velvet has been (vocally) compared to the likes of David Bowie and Paul McCartney and that he has a PhD in Finance. So, not only is he musically skilled, but Jupiter in Velvet is also highly intelligent. Both ideals play towards the absolute strength of this album. As far as that first part goes one need not look any further than "Martini Rock" for David Bowie and "Dive In2 My Seas" for Paul McCartney. There are other tracks that fir those molds, but those two numbers spring to mind so I went with them. And the second part? Well, that's the album as a whole. Other than "When Love Rules The Day" (which sounds suspiciously like INXS) this album is chock full of clever ideas and infectious material. The individual songs that make up "The World Didn't Start With Us" are intelligent, well-structured, and challenging. Genre-wise there is something for everyone. At it's heaviest there are songs that cut a path between post-grunge and (goth-infused) nineties alt. rock. At it's lightest there are psychedelic like moments that hint at what The Beatles would have sounded like if they were still together in the eighties. In-between all of that you'll find fuzz-heavy electro rock that is honest and optimistic. Of the twelve tracks on "The World Didn't Start With Us" only "When Love Rules The Day" struck me the wrong way. That's just one out of twelve! Highlights for me would be too many to count, but the album kicks off with the tile track first, swings into "Alpha Me Omega U" and then moves through key moments like "The Beauty of U", "No Matter Where U Go", "The Everything & The Nothing", "Eat Your Fear", and the aforementioned "Dive In2 My Sea". Looking over my physical notes I see that I wrote down and then underlined phrases like 90's alternative rock, bass-heavy, and fuzz-tastic(!) and then I jotted down bands as diverse as Cracker, Gin Blossoms and My Bloody Valentine. Besides the fact that I need to do a better job of making sure that my notes are better worded(!) the key thing to take aware from all of that is the diversity of this album and the fact that it reminds me of a better era (as far as great rock/alternative rock is concerned!). For what's it's worth this album also reminds me of a show that my daughter and I have been binge watching on Netflix. Try not to laugh, but Jupiter in Velvet's "The World Didn't Start With U" brings to mind Buffy the Vampire Slayer's TV soundtrack! That's actually a positive note as the former CW horror TV show featured TONS of amazing underground/up-and-coming indie/alternative rock acts and it had a dark and mysterious vibe to it. While Jupiter in Velvet isn't exactly dark there is a little bit of mystery to all of this and one could favorably compare the two separate, but equally enjoyable features. But yet again why not stream it for yourself? Now that we're all wrapped up be sure to head here and hear what all the fuss is about! I can't see how you'd regret it!


PS-I'm loving how this album brings to mind so many great bands and acts! I pick up on everything from "Achtung Baby"-era U2 to a David Bowie-lead N.I.N. (that is if N.I.N. grew up on/was more influenced by psychedelic garage rock and shoegazing!).

Good Guy Dies-"Restart" Single

Self-Release/Independent
2015

Based in London and comprised of  (absolutely amazing!!!!) lead vocalist Cherry Makej and guitarist extraordinaire Joe Hodgson, Good Guy Dies is a buzz-worthy indie project that has previously been covered here at Heavy Metal Time Machine. For those of you might not remember that special occasion (and it really was a special time seeing as it served as my first introduction to this up-and-coming/must-hear electronic rock duo!) then let's play catch-up before we drive on forward. Once upon a time I covered this band's (domestic abuse awareness) single, "Hit Me Back" and I thoroughly enjoyed not only the positive message of the track, but the way in which it mixed together the best parts of classic rock, electronica, and punk-pop! That thought-provoking single was a slam dunk moment for the pair of Cherry and Joe and it showed just how far you can get when you work hard and are dedicated to the to the task at hand! It was all at once enlightening and energetic and for Good Guy Dies a smash hit in the making like "Hit Me Back" should have been the perfect launching pad to finally get this (deserving) dynamite duo from point B to point A (with point B serving as the group's initial formation back in 2012 and point A representing wide-spread praise and admiration!). For whatever reason that didn't happen so the logical question is where do you go from here if you are Good Guy Dies? The answer seems simple enough. You head back to the studio and get hard at work on a proper follow-up. And that is where "Restart" comes into play. In some ways "Restart" is just like "Hit Me Back" in that it combines large amounts of classic rock and electronic rock with tiny flakes of punk-pop. It is also lyrically-deep and thought-provoking and just like it's 2014 precursor this image-rich single is dripping with passion. The raw emotion on display here is right in line with where "Hit Me Back" left off.  Even so these two singles are like night and day. Whereas "Hit Me Back" was powerful and got right in your face with a positive message this forthcoming single is much more angry and confrontational. For "Restart" lead vocalist Cherry Makej and guitarist Joe Hodgson added industrial rock elements to the studio mix as well as some slight instances that could be construed as alternative rock. While it still sounds like Good Guy Dies it is a bit more temperamental and it comes across as edgy. But then again so is the video for "Restart"! You can check that out below this article and you can find Good Guy Dies online here.With a scheduled release date of September 28th, "Restart" goes a long way towards showing the full-extent of this duo's talent and just how all-encompassing their music can be. They may have been absent for way too long (again, it was almost a full year in-between the sweet "Hit Me Back" and the equally awesome "Restart"!), but Good Guy Dies is back all the same. And I for one couldn't be happier!!!!

Metasic-"New Design" Music Video

Tradiio Recordings
2015

Formed in November of 2014, Metasic is a London/Essex five-piece whose heavy rock/alternative rock sound has justifiably-enough drawn comparisons to the likes of Faith No More, Queens of the Stone Age, and Nine Inch Nails. "New Design" is the second single from the group's 2014 debut EP, "Falling Into Place", and come August 17th it looks as if it is all set to see a (new and improved?) re-release with two re-mixed versions being tacked on for good measure. In the meantime be sure to check out the band's official video for "New Design" which can be viewed by heading here.

Seven Sisters-Lost In Time 7"

Warden Records 
2015 

Now here's a good Father's Day gift if every there was one! This little gem (or at least the digital version of this two-track beast) showed up in my inbox over the weekend and it proved to be the perfect soundtrack for a day of ribs, beer bread, baked potatoes with the works and of course ice cold hard cider! But then again why wouldn't it? I mean we are talking about Seven Sisters here! Oops, wait a second. You guys do remember Seven Sisters right? How could you not? I know I could never forget about this N.W.O.B.H.M.-inspired band. Not after they gave us the stone-cold killer "The Warden"! I absolutely love that demo and I have the cassette version to prove it!! And yet as good as that EP is this 7" single is even better! Yes, that does sound unbelievably crazy! Somehow it's true though. Perhaps it's musical growth? The natural progression that takes place from day one to the present if you will. Or maybe it's the fact that this band finally has a complete line-up*? Whatever the case, "Lost In Time" is a fantastic 7" single that not only features the cool title cut, but the exceptional "Wicked Steel"! Everything that I loved about this band's 2014 debut is present and accounted for with the only real difference being the vocals of Kyle McNeill. Now serving time as the band's front-man, Kyle McNeill does double duty as both a singer/guitarist and on "Lost In Time" he puts his best foot forward thus turning this London band into a legit heavy metal quartet! Still influenced by the N.W.O.B.H.M. scene of old and eighties meal, Seven Sisters has returned with a new and improved edge and a clearer sense of direction. That being said, "Lost In Time" is still Seven Sisters as this metal band has (amazingly enough!!!!) already developed it's own familiar sound! So even if this singles'  righteous material is new and improved and (seemingly) more focused this is still Seven Sisters and their ever so cool take on traditional heavy metal. Thank God for that! Needless to say this is one great single that should please both new and old fans alike. It comes with my highest recommendation folks. In the end I simply cannot say enough good things about this band. Bands like Seven Sisters make me fall in love with true heavy metal all over again. If you live on the other side of the pound and you have a chance to get out and see Seven Sisters live then by all means do it. Bands like this need our support and encouragement. It's obviously they love what they do and they love the music as much as their fans do. I'd argue that Seven Sisters also love their fans so why not show them how much they mean to our scene? And really if you like classic heavy metal or the N.W.O.B.H.M. sound you simply cannot go wrong with a release like this. If you collect 7" singles I'd be sure to pick this one up a.s.a.p! I have a feeling it will be gone in no time at all! It has collectors item written all over it! One day soon Seven Sisters is going to be the talk of the town. I can feel as much in gut. They have all the necessary tools needed to break out and now that they have a full-fledged band at their disposal it's only a matter of time before Seven Sisters is a household name. For their sake I hope it's really soon as these guys truly deserve it. 




*Formed in 2013 by Kyle McNeill (vocals/guitar) and Graeme Farmer (guitar), Seven Sisters originally started out as a writing project between the pair. On "The Warden" lead vocals were handled by Josh Winnard (Dark Wizard, ex-Wytch Hazel) while Kyle McNeil took care of the bass parts. Now rounded out by bass guitarist Adam Thorpe and drummer Steve Loftin, Seven Sisters has made the move from studio project to full-on band and (frankly speaking my friends) the results speak for themselves!

Interview with Damn Dice

Damn Dice is a somewhat new hard & heavy quartet from London that has slowly, but surely made the move from hometown heroes to national treasures. This rock-steady four-piece cites bands as diverse as Mötley Crüe and Judas Priest as it's influences and just last week I covered the group's excellent full-length album, "The Great Unknown". Now it is my extreme pleasure to post a interview that I recently conducted with Damn Dice's front-man (and all-around cool guy!) Alex! If you haven't had a chance to scan over my review of this up-and-coming band's stellar debut then be sure to head that way after checking out this interview and as always I'd like to remind all of you out there to support your own local scene. It's up to each and everyone of us to keep the indie and underground scenes going and when you go out and watch these local bands play live you're telling these acts that you believe in them and that what they are doing matters!
Andy-Could you please introduce yourselves and tell us who's who these days in Damn Dice?

Alex-Hi! Yeah, so we have Fransoa on drums, Wallis on guitar, Marco on bass and Alex (that's me) on vocals.

Andy-"The Great Unknown" seems to signal a change in direction for the band. Would that be a correct assumption?

Alex-Yes. Kind of, I mean we make the music we want to make, it's not like we sit down and decide, 'ok, we're gonna change direction here'. The music is what we want it to be. This is our first album, so despite having released an EP, this is the one that says what we are about more than anything else. It is what it is, and it's not as if we've gone electro or any weird shit like that! This is a hard rock/metal album. I think it's obvious to anyone who heard the EP that this is a different animal. I grew up listening to Sabbath, Dio, Priest and the like, and I'm not saying that that's what the album is like or what you can expect, but it's in the spirit of Metal.

Andy-Could you tell us about the new album? Who produced it and whose responsible for the majority of the songwriting?

Alex-We recorded the album in London with the same producer who did our EP, Akis Kollaros. He really helped us out because we were in a bit of a situation. We were supposed to have a big name producer on board, but it turns out it was all a bit of a swindle. You live and learn, I suppose, but anyway, he was able to come in at short notice and do the album. Unfortunately, just over a week after the last sessions, he lost his life in a road accident. We are so thankful to have known him, he was an awesome guy; the album is dedicated to him. The music is a collaborative effort with Wallis and Fransoa contributing the main body of the songs. We work on getting everything right in terms of overall sound, arrangement, vocal ideas and lyrics. There is nobody that puts anything in without everyone being happy with it, which means sometimes things change and get adapted, but we all have very similar ideas of what we want, and we're not afraid to put in ideas or give criticism. When I do the words for the songs, I would never just say 'this is it, get used to it', I always ask for input, ideas etc... The writing is actually a really fun process.

Andy-It's been two year since we last heard from the band. What have you guys been up to?

Alex-The making of this album has taken over our lives for the last year; things were put on hold and so it may seem that we've been inactive, but behind the scenes we've been beavering away, constantly working on everything. I think our experience of the whole time is reflected in this record. We've shot some vids, played some shows, but for the release of the album we're looking to get out there as much as we can.

Andy-I've got to say that your new album surprised me. I certainly did not see it coming! I mean "No Fear" is BOMBASTIC!

Damn Dice-Haha! Yeah, I love that song. It's a big gut-punch when that riff comes in. I have to say I'm glad to hear that it surprised you. I don't think it'd be as cool if you already knew what you were getting. The whole album in a heavier vein, but it's still Damn Dice. As I said before, we are very happy for this album to set down what Damn Dice is all about, but you'd really have to see us live to really understand. For this reason we are planning to get out and about and we're sure to be heading somewhere near you soon!

Andy-Where can fans find out more about Damn Dice? 

Alex-Anyone can find out about us on pretty much all social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Insta, all /damndice or @damndice, and of course our website www.damndice.com  

Andy-Do you have a link for the new album? Will fans be able to pre-order it? 

Alex-Yeah, the album will be available to pre-order very soon, perhaps by the time you are reading this. So go check it out!  

Andy-I agree with that 100%! Go check this album out people!!! So, what does the rest of 2015 have in store for Damn Dice? 

Alex-Well, until the album comes out we will be concentrating on making sure everyone knows it's coming. Then we are looking into organizing a tour and and generally playing as much as possible. We're eager to get out and play these songs and we're sure the live show is going to be intense!  

Andy-I always let bands have the last word. Any parting shots Alex? 

Alex-I would give a message to anyone reading that if you like hard rock and metal music, high energy live shows and having a good time, then check out this album and come to see us live. We want you to be a part of this crazy journey we've been on for the last couple of years. 'The Great Unknown", our first album is out this year, 2015, so why not have a blast and be part of it while it's happening, because it's happening right now! So lets be cool to one another as we head into the great unknown!

Andy-Thanks Alex!

Cherry White-Staring At The Sun

Self-Release/Independent
2015

Formed in 2009, Cherry White is a four-piece band from London that is comprised off Donata Sounds  (vocals), Russell Jones (guitars), Ralph Beeby (bass), and Felipe Drago (drums). "Staring At The Sun" is the group's latest studio recording and this recently-released EP was engineered at Bark Studios by Brian O’Shaughnessy (Primal Scream, The Firm, My Bloody Valentine). It was preceded by the single release of the EP's lead-off track, "Drifter", and for a indie blues-rock band that had previously made a name for itself thanks to upbeat shows this new recording goes a long way towards transferring Cherry White's live energy onto tape! As the inspiration behind "Staring At The Sun" was the city in which Cherry White live and perform this buzz-worthy recording could be seen as a more than suitable soundtrack to London's vibrant nightlife! And seeing as "Staring At The Sun" was just issued some nine days ago this six-track EP is still hot to the touch! In fact it's hot of the presses and more than a little anxious to find it's way into the hands of indie blues-rock fans!!(Properly) self-identified as a band that "Folds the old school songwriting smarts of Fleetwood Mac into the contemporary edge of the Raconteurs'' and featuring four musicians that are at the top of their class, Cherry White is a adult contemporary act that has somehow managed to stumble upon the fountain of youth! Carefully-crafted with indie rock fans in mind, "Staring At The Sun" is intelligent blues-rock with an alternative mindset and a warm and inviting personality.  The music here is rich and deeply rooted in the culture that surrounds it's band-members. And in the end it is as classy and charming as the four Londoners that perfected it. If you are into creative blues-rock or you consider yourself a fan of indie rock then be sure to try this album on for size.

Damn Dice-The Great Unknown

Self-Release/Independent
2015

"The Great Unknown" is the full-length debut from London's Damn Dice. If that moniker sounds a little familiar then you're not alone. It took me awhile, but the name finally came to me. This is the same band that released the "Wild 'n' Ready" EP. That was back in 2013. Apparently a lot has changed in the past two years because this doesn't sound like the same band. Then again this doesn't look like the same band either! Thankfully this London hard rock band has dropped the hairspray and make-up and in it's place they've adopted leather jackets. And with the leather jackets Damn Dice has brought a whole lot of attitude!! Honestly, two songs in and I couldn't believe that this was the same band that I once compared to Poison, Quiet Riot and Mötley Crüe! Once you hear the explosive opener "Power" for yourself you'll understand what I mean! Wow! The band follows that metal cruncher up with "What Now" and by this point in the album I'm starting to get the impression that this London band has fully made the jump over to heavy rock/heavy metal. "Drive" is more of the same and while there are still a few hints of the past this is obviously one band that has tightened up their sound and fully embraced the leather and denim lifestyle. "Down" proves to be more of the same. It's filled with rock and roll riffs and yet it's distinctly hard & heavy in it's approach. Song after song plays and the reality hits me that I really like this album. The mixture of heavy rock, hard rock and heavy metal is thoroughly enjoyable and the band's energy helps move everything along at a nice pace. Each and every track is upbeat and from opener "Power" to the album's final curtain call, "Home", there's never a dull moment. While I would like to throw out some names for comparisons sake I find myself at a loss. Damn Dice has definitely evolved in that department. The band has become a solid hard rock band and I would be surprised if this album's material didn't just kill it live! It's certainly heavy enough to get crowds moving. Hell, there's even a couple of tracks that push the envelope into true blue heavy metal territory.  "No Fear" is one such track and it's blazing leads damn near woke up the neighborhood! The same goes for the aptly-titled "Rock (Like You Mean It)"!! Talk about a number that lives up to its name! As epic as these cuts are "The Great Unknown" is still a creature of habit. So make no mistake as to this album's true intention as this is still hard rock through and through. And to that end modern hard rock fans should eat this album up. So should heavy rock fanatics. And of course Damn Dice fans should appreciate a album like this. For Damn Dice it looks as if second times the charm. I can see good things for these Landon-based hard rockers. Everything about "The Great Unknown" points toward that obvious outcome. To Damn Dice I say "Hell of a job guys!". Keep up the good work. This album has set a precedent so don't let us down!!!!

That was then...

 

This is now!

The Franklys-Bad News

Electric Wood Records
2015

The Franklys are an all-girl garage/rock n' roll band whose members hail from Sweden, the UK and the US. A London-based quartet, The Franklys made their debut in February of 2013 with the release of a self-titled EP. Preceded by the singles "Puppet" and "What You Said", "Bad News" was released this past April and this three-track EP was produced by Sean Genockey (RedRacer) and mastered by Ed Woods (Muse, Roger Daltrey). Digitally-speaking, "Bad News" is available to purchase on Amazon and iTunes. Incidentally, iTunes is where I downloaded this particular EP even though promotional material had been sent my way courtesy of Metal Mark. Give this EP a try for yourself and you'll understand all too well why it is I'm interested in supporting this band. I've got a good feeling about The Franklys. One listen to "Bad News" was all it took to get hooked on that feeling with the title track alone simply flooring me with it's Black Sabbath meets The Runaways in a dive bar vibe! Meanwhile there's "What You Said" with it's slightly twisted take on garage rock. It has a bit of a Blondie feel to it and this number shows just how easy it is for The Franklys to adapt their personal influences into something fresh and unique. Other influences include artist such as The Hives, The Strokes, Queens Of The Stone Age, Arctic Monkeys, Led Zeppelin, Mando Diao, and The Who. That said, "Puppet" all but rocks to it's own beat and said beat is provided by American drummer Nicole Pinto. The other members of The Franklys are Jen Ahlkvist (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), Fanny Broberg (lead guitar), and Zoe Biggs (bass) with "Puppet" cutting a huge hole in the atmosphere thanks to it's trailblazing rock and roll fire! If "Bad News" doesn't get The Franklys noticed then I have no idea what will! You can find this AMAZING rock n' roll band online here as well as over at their Facebook page. If you're lucky enough to live on the other side of the pound then by all means check these ladies out live! This kind of rambunctious rock and roll always sounds better live even if that idea sounds close to impossible! I mean if "Bad News" is this good on tape could you imagine it LIVE and LOUD? The band must do some deadly-serious foundation shaking when they take the stage and if I lived in London you better believe that I would be right there front and center when they did it! Don't miss out on this one friends!

Deadly Circus Fire-The Hydra’s Tailor

Musicarchy Media
2015

Formed in 2009, Deadly Circus Fire is a progressive metal from London. "The Hydra’s Tailor" is the group's latest release and it follows a 2010 self-tilted EP and the band's 2013 debut full-length, "The King and the Bishop". So far the band has received high praise in publications such as Metal Hammer, Classic Rock and Prog Magazine with Metal Hammer even going so far as to physically release the band's debut album in one of it's issues. If we're to go by "The Hydra’s Tailor" then such glowing admiration isn't unwarranted! Neither are the comparisons that have been made to the likes of Mastodon, Deftones, and Tool. Especially Mastodon and Tool. Much of "The Hydra’s Tailor" sounds like a heavier, more metallic Tool as envisioned by a progressive thrash version of Mastodon and as far as Metal Hammer goes they were spot on when they called this London four-piece "one of the most imaginative and formidable" prog bands around! The group's line-up includes vocalist Adam Grant, guitarist Save Addario, bassist/vocalist Mike Enort and drummer Paul Igoe and while I've never claimed to be the world's biggest prog metal bands there is something about Deadly Circus Fire that makes my hair stand up on end! And in no way, shape or form am I talking about the band's early days when they use to get all dressed up in zombie make-up! That's just silly! After all you don't need such strange stage theatrics when your music is this menacing! Or this HEAVY!!

 Between Adam Grant's impressive mic skills and the sick guitar work of Save Addario there's no need for extra make-up or fake blood. And then you go and add in the pair of  Mike Enort and Paul Igoe into the mix? That's just madness plain and simple! Anyway, here's a video of the album track "House Of Plagues". This is just one out of the twelve numbers that make up "The Hydra’s Tailor". Keep that in mind while it shreds you to pieces....

The Deep-Premonition

Artwork courtesy of CadiesArt

Self-release/Independent
2015

It's taken band members Tony Coldham (lead vocals), Paul Smith (guitars and vocals), Mick Feleppa (guitars and vocals), Don Whiberley (bass and vocals) and Steve Kingsley (drums and percussion) a few years, but they have done it. They have pulled it off and then some. All of the hard work and perseverance has paid off for The Deep as their upcoming debut album, "Premonition", is everything that the band and their fans could have hoped for. Let's just be clear of that from the very start and state the obvious and that would be that for N.W.O.B.H.M./traditional heavy metal band The Deep the 10-track "Premonition" is as near a classic as you can get! British hard rock and heavy metal fans as well as N.W.O.B.H.M. collectors of old and new should look towards this band from London and give thanks as this is how it should be down. This is how you issue a long-awaited full-length debut album and for a band that can trace it's roots all the way back to to the early 80's (and even sooner if you'd like) and the N.W.O.B.H.M. scene (vocalist Tony Coldham alone has ties to bands like Minas Tirith, Ocean, Strutt, Airrace, The Rodford Files, GMD and of course Deep Machine!) this is one remarkable collection of tracks that glistens with youthful enthusiasm while simultaneously pulling off that oh-so-familiar/well-loved classic British metal vibe! For The Deep (who I had the privileged of interviewing back in April of last year*) 2015's "Premonition" is proof that they've come a long way since the release of their 2013 demo (http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-deep-demo-2013.html) while showing the world that said demo was far from a fluke! Of the ten tracks on "Premonition" six are new to this recording while the following four tracks ("The Rider", All I Want", "Spellbound" and the title cut) all appeared on the group's 2013 demo. "The Rider" was actually my favorite number from the group's previous demo and as the opening number on "Premonition" it really sets the stage right. From there you are greeted warming by "You Take My Breath Away" which is a rugged heavy rocker with a smooth A.O.R. after-coat!With new songs such as "Nightstalker", "Cold Hearted" and "Out Of Touch" filling the gap between 2013's demo material and now you end up with a LP that is consistent enough as far as quality of product is concerned while (style-wise) it offers something from everyone. For example let's cue up the tracks "Nightstalker" and "Saga". While the former is A.O.R. done right (I absolutely LOVE how it starts of subtle and then picks up steam! And the slick lead guitar work? Don't even get me started!!) the latter could almost be seen as The Deep's take on epic metal! Both songs have the same great quality while showing off two different and distinct sides of this respectable London band! And as far as the re-recorded material here is concerned? Well, it's not just "The Rider" that stands out! The title cut alone is slick and absolutely sick it as harkens back to the N.W.O.B.H.M. days. "Spellbound" is just good hard rock as is "All I Want". Collectively this London act works the lines between the old and the new making heavy yet tuneful material with multi-generational appeal. From "The Rider" up to and including album closer "Turn Me Loose", "Premonition" works it's magic as it entertains listeners and outperforms the competition. Everyone from the vocalist to the drummer is on their A Game here with "Premonition" achieving top marks all around. This LP left me happy as could be and it offered assurance that 2015 is going to be another good year for heavy metal fans!

You can find London's The Deep online here: https://www.facebook.com/TheDeepUK

*Interview with The Deep:
http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2014/04/interview-with-nwobhm-band-deep.html


CandiesArt can be found online here: http://cadiesart.com/home.php

Witchingseason-Witchingseason

Self-Release/Independent
2014

Part hard rock and part alternative rock, with 90's grunge making a much-appreciated appearance here on "Witchingseason" in order to serve as the well-traveled bridge which connects those two long-lived and long-loved genres together, London trio Witchingseason will finally satisfy the cravings of their fans once this self-titled release hits the scene on or around November 10th. Preceded by the singles "Spiders" (a number that I previously covered here: http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2014/08/witchingseason-spiders-single.html) and "Codeine" (https://soundcloud.com/witchingseason/codeine) this four-track EP finds Witchingseason once again tearing down heavy rock's highway with the likes of Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, The Doors,  The Stooges, Queens of the Stoneage, Mudhoney and Dinosaur Jr. loudly blaring from the speakers! With guitarist/vocalist Tom Reynolds sounding all the more like Chris Cornell's illegitimate child and the pair of  James R Willans and Wayne Summers (bass and drums respectively) soaking up the sunshine and radiation that is everything hard and heavy from a post-Black Sabbath/post-Nuke 'Em And Let God Sort 'Em Out wasteland this London trio knocks it out the ballpark with the new song "False Light". Meanwhile "Mechanical Failure" is anything but a failure thanks to it's wide-open structure and the overall crafty way that Reynolds, Willans and Summers combine the mid-late eighties alternative rock scene, heavy  garage rock and the likes of Mother Love Bone and King's X into one clever cut! Even "God's Waiting Room" with it's  Bush-like vibe has plenty going for it making "Witchingseason" a gold mine for fans of grunge, nineties hard and heavy rock and the darker side of the alternative rock scene! For more information on this up and coming London rock band be sure to check out any of the links posted below.

www.facebook.com/witchingseason   
www.twitter.com/witchingseason  
www.soundcloud.com/witchingseason

Amulet-The First

Century Media Records
2014

Active since 2010, London's Amulet made their debut with the 2011 demo, "Cut the Crap". Independently released on cassette with a limited run of 222 copies (22 yellow, 25 red and 175 white) that recording would eventually see a limited release of 100 copies as part of a CD/DVD package before it was released as a 7" by Mordgrimm Records (100 white, 400 black-now sold old!). Somewhere in-between all of that chaos the four-track demo in question was magically transformed into a digital download and that would proved to be my first exposure to this spellbinding British heavy metal band. Like many before me I was hooked with "Cut the Crap" all but turning me into an obsessed Amulet fan! And now we are gathered together to behold the glory that is "The First". Released this past September, "The First" is exactly how I imagined it would be. Without mincing words, "The First" by Amulet is partly A) A tribute to the likes of  Diamond Head, Blitzkrieg, Tygers Of Pan Tang and Tokyo Blade (with a few sparkling glimpses of Budgie) as evident by the first half or so of this 14-track album and  B) Ozzy/Ronnie Black Sabbath appreciation day as heard the clearest on "Talisman"/"The Sacrifice" and expressed lyrically with this album's theme of black magic, mysticism and warning's about "preachers and fools" ("Wicked 'n Cruel")! Along the way you might pick out some highly appreciated affection for Italy's one and only Goblin (the instrumental "The Flight" is spectacular!), but musically this dark and spooky LP is all about the N.W.O.B.H.M. scene and occult doom metal. The CD version at least contains a cover of Coven's "Wicked Woman" all but furthering that particular agenda and if there's any fault to be had with "The First" I certainly haven't found it yet! Jamie Elton's vocals elevate the mood and if his bewitching voice (all but snatched from the windpipes of many a great lead vocalist with Ozzy and Dio merely heading that pack!) isn't enough Elton's backing band features a guitar great in the making by way of 'Nip' Blackford! Who knows where this guy has been hiding, but one simply rule out the involvement of the black arts as 'Nip' comes across as another time traveler plucked from Britain's truly glorious heavy metal past and deposited in London's post-N.W.O.B.H.M. landscape! And that is simply two of the five members who were involved with making this memorable debut album! As the title suggests this is just the beginning for Amulet and if "The First" is this desirable one can only imagine what these Londoners might have up their sleeves for a sophomore outing!

The Fireflies-The Fireflies

Self-Release/Independent
2014

Harry Shearer (lead vocals, guitars) and Luca Serino (guitars) are The Fireflies and this charming London-based duo might just represents one of pop rocks best-kept secrets. That might sound like a bold proclamation to make, but this poetic EP more then backs up that claim thanks to it's soulful take on pop rock and roll. Having first sampled the track "Silver Leaflets" (the lead off single from this delightful EP) I jumped at the chance to hear more music from this dynamite new act. Especially seeing as Harry Shearer's great voice channels the spirit of James Taylor! Needless to say I was not disappointed! With "Silver Leaflets" The Fireflies offer up a blissful take on (radio-worthy) modern day adult contemporary rock/alternative rock. Meanwhile those wonderful James Taylor-like vocals give extra charm to the number  "Leaving Home" which, besides featuring some wonderful interplay between voice and guitar, is folk-rock for today's enthusiastic youth! More folk-leanings come into play on refreshing cuts like "Rise and Fall", "She Walks" and "Stop Running" although each and every number on this EP appears as if plenty of attention was paid to pop rock sensibilities. The Fireflies excel at creating meaningful songs that are soft and sensible and if I was to make a judgement call as to what party in particular would benefit the most from this near-perfect collection I would have to point towards casual, everyday folks who enjoy great conversation and a nice glass of wine at the evening's end!