Midnight-Sweet death and ecstasy

*Note- This is a review of the single disc version which is jus the new material, there is also a  two disc version where the second disc is rehearsal songs done before a show in 2015.

2017
Hell's Headbangers

Cleveland's Midnight returns under leadership of their main man the hooded Athenar. This band has been around for almost a decade and a half and have a number of releases once you add up all the singles and split albums with other artists. This release isn't anything you haven't heard from this act as they've hid the fact they love NWOBHM and very early black metal and early thrash. In fact they wear the old style metal badge high as they race through these tracks evoking in me memories of listening to Venom, Kreator, Sodom and others thirty some years ago. I knew pretty much what was coming with I started this album up. Yet that didn't deter me from enjoying the whacky charm of this I love Satan kind of material and the just charge ahead music. Athenar is obviously a fan of this kind of music he likely first got into and he's doing a good job of honoring this style with his version of this simple yet explosive old school metal. Rabid! and Poison Trash may have been just two of favorites but to be honest the whole album had me wishing I still had hair and my old patch covered denim jacket. Yes, I've heard much of this before but that doesn't away from it being a fairly well crafted piece of 80's inspired metal.

N.W.O.B.H.M. Wednesday: Overdrive-The Final Nightmare

Pure Rock Records
2014

Grantham, England's Overdrive (who should not be confused with the numerous other bands which have adopted that very same moniker!) are a cult N.W.O.B.H.M/heavy metal band that has been active on and off since 1977. Original formed by lead guitarist Tracey Abbott and percussionist/second vocalist Neil "Mad Dog" Streets (percussion and 2nd vocals), with bassist/vocalist Ian Hamilton and rhythm guitarist Paul Garner rounding out the initial line-up, Overdrive would release a demo in 1978 before following that up in 1981 with the three track single, "On the Run". By that point in time Neil "Mad Dog" Streets was gone* and the band had welcomed in lead singer Steve Farmer**. Unfortunately it would be some seven years later before Overdrive would release another recording (a limited-edition two-track cassette demo), but that recording merely paved the way for the group's 1990 full-length debut album, "Dishonest Words". Since then Overdrive has been fairly active with several studio albums, a 2004 live album and a 2007 compilation preceding "The Final Nightmare". The band's first full-length LP since 2006's "Three Corners to Nowhere",  "The Final Nightmare" is (admittedly) also the first full-length album that I have heard from this classic hard rock/heavy metal-infused five piece although I am well-aware of the group's excellent "On the Run" single! And the reason that I bring up that single is quite simple. Other then time (and the gradual appearance of grey hair and/or disappearance of long hair) not much has changed for this long-standing English metal band. Sure, "The Final Nightmare" finds Overdrive welcoming new lead vocalist David Poulter*** to the fold, but otherwise we are talking about a band that still features Tracey Abbott on guitars and Ian "Scratch" Padgett on drums and has seen the return of bassist/vocalist Ian Hamilton! Even keyboardist/vocalist Tim Hall (who wins extra points for wearing a Motörhead t-shirt in this picture taken from the Metal Archives!) has previous ties to the group!

Tim Hall (whose exquisite Hammond/keyboard solos give this album a cool Deep Purple/Rainbow vibe!) played on the group's last studio album ("Three Corners to Nowhere") so we're looking at a band with a fairly consistent line-up. Move past the line-up part though and we're still talking about a band that (musically at least) that hasn't changed that much other than aging gracefully. What I love best about the group's latest album is how much Overdrive still sounds like that same N.W.O.B.H.M./traditional heavy metal band that blew me away with "On the Run" while showcasing the obvious signs of growth. Overdrive has matured into a slick sounding classic metal band and one that understands the advantages of modern day studios. Each and every instrument present here on "The Final Nightmare" (and yes, we're going to include vocalist David Poulter in this category!) is effectively punctuated so that no one person shines brighter than the next! In other words every instrument has been fine-tuned so that it all gels together while simultaneously providing plenty of punch! But, here's the really cool thing about "The Final Nightmare". Despite all of the modern touches Overdrive's latest album (and first for Pure Rock Records!) feels authentic. "The Final Nightmare" plays like a classic heavy metal treasure and gives off this wonderful vibe of a long lost gem that has been rediscovered and re-released. And Overdrive does all of that without sounding outdated or as if they are simply trying to relive past glorious! For fans of Overdrive this album must feel like a gift from the metal Gods themselves! Whether that includes you or not "The Final Nightmare" is still well worth the price of admission as this is just about as good as it gets when you are talking about N.W.O.B.H.M./traditional heavy metal. All I can say is how sorry I am for not paying attention to the rest of Overdrive's career as this is one cult metal band that has blossomed into something amazing!

*Long-time member Ian "Scratch" Padgett replaced Streets.

**Along with drummer Ian "Scratch" Padgett one of Steve Farmer's finer moments was the "Lady of the Night" single in 1980. Released by N.W.O.B.H.M. band Marz, "Lady of the Night" is one hell of a catchy single.Sadly it's also one of the few numbers recorded by this apparently short-lived act.

***I'm not sure where they found this guy, but as the promo material justify points out he sounds remarkably similar to Saxon front man Biff Byford! That is by no means a bad thing. If anything it's just curious as Overdrive appears to be his first band making one wonder why it took this long for someone to notice just how good this guy is?

The Deep-Demo 2013

Self-Release/Independent
2013


Now, this is what you call a pleasant surprise! Anytime a N.W.O.B.H.M. band drops you a message asking it you would be willing to review their material is cause for celebration in my household! Sure, it might just be me celebrating but it's a celebration nonetheless! So, with that said what exactly are we looking at with London's The Deep? Well, if the name causes a light-bulb to go off in your head even a little bit or you have one of those "Hey now!" moments then you're not alone. Upon catching the name I was immediately thinking Deep Machine and for good reasons! For you see The Deep features three members from the1982 line up of Deep Machine. Actually, The Deep features various members with ties to a TON of sweet hard rock, heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M. acts including Rogue Male, Angel Witch, Vardis, Ocean and Airrace! Just who are we talking about then? Well, on lead vocals you have the one and only Tony Coldham (Ex-Minas Tirith, Deep Machine, Ocean, Strutt, Airrace, The Rodford Files, GMD). That right there is pretty kick ass and damn straight he sounds FANTASTIC on the mic! Backing him up are guitarists Paul W. Smith (Ex-Janine, Deep Machine, Strutt, Shattered Hearts, Bug-eyed Starfish, The Rodford Files, GMD) & Mick Feleppa (Ex-Great British Heroes, Havoc, Ash, Strutt), bass guitarist Don Whiberley (Ex-Equinox) and drummer Steve Kingsley (Ex-Omega, Deep Machine, Rogue Male, Vardis). If you're looking at that list of who's who and saying to yourself "There is no way that The Deep could possibly sound anywhere as cool as that line-up would imply" then let me tell you something-you'd be dead wrong! This 4-track demo is as good as it gets! Classic heavy metal/N.W.O.B.H.M. that is EVERY bit as good as the latest works from Angel Witch, Satan, Blitzkrieg, Battleaxe (review coming soon), Saxon, Tank and yes, Deep Machine! In fact this band could be looked at as being in the same boat as Deep Machine, but that wouldn't quite be fair to these five fine gentlemen as they bring their own flavors to the tasting party and trust me, this is one party that you want to find yourself on the invite list to! Of the demo's four tracks I'm most drawn to "The Rider", but this is one of those recordings where you could randomly hit play on any cut and the result would be the same-top of the line, heavy metal that AWAKENS the fire within! Band's like The Deep are the reason why I'm a fan first and a writer second! Great songs that are catchy, memorable and downright epic making you proud to be a metalhead and enthused to wave the banner for all to see! The downside of this one is obvious. It's far too short. Just when you're truly revved up and ready to go the brakes are slammed on you! The Deep need a full-length album with plenty of room to stretch their legs and  run! Hopefully somebody/some label will snag this lot up seeing as classic heavy metal like this is like life's blood. It's an essential like bread and water, the air we breath and love! There's no need to say more. Just seek these five out and support their endeavors! Let the world know that true heavy metal is always in vogue and always appreciated! And above all else honor them, as a band and as brothers in arms fighting the good fight for all things "loud and proud"!!!!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Deep/338137486254208 

N.W.O.B.H.M. Wednesday: Sparta-Welcome To Hell

High Roller Records
2014

Prior to High Roller Records releasing Sparta's career-spanning (1979-1990) compilation, "Use Your Weapons Well", in 2011 (with the double LP version collecting a whopping 25 songs!) the closest I had been to hearing this obscure New Wave Of British Heavy Metal band in all it's glory was when a (now-defunct I believe) blog-site assembled their own Sparta career-spanning collection. Before scanning over said collection, which I never downloaded as I had heard (and thus been turned off by) that the band's (at least early) material was more in line with early Def Leppard, I had never realized that this (initially) Nottinghamshire-based band had released anything more then an odd single or two. Quite obviously they had although "Welcome To Hell" marks the first "official" fell-length studio recording from this band that was formed in late 1979 by lead guitarist Tony Foster and bass guitarist Tony "Sapper" Warren (the two Tonys having previously played together in the band Xerox). While the band was only active from 1979 until 1990 it's still somewhat striking that it is only now (after 35 years) that this heavy metal five-piece is releasing their "debut" album! With that said the question must be asked. Is this an example of how all good things come to those who wait? Well, before we get to that let's see who's who (or at least who handles what) on the nine-track "Welcome To Hell" (And no, the title cut is not a cover of the Venom classic although that would have been cool!). Besides Tony Foster and Tony Warren we have three, yes, count them three(!), brothers in Sparta in the form of lead vocalist Karl Reders and his siblings Steve (guitarist who is nicknamed "Snake" ) and Paul (drummer who is nicknamed "Radge"). It was only after the well-received "Use Your Weapons Well" was released that the band (in it's original line-up no less!) decided to give it another go with "Welcome To Hell" being the result. Other than an updated version of the group's 1981 single "Angel Of Death", which stacks up rather nicely to to the original, and "Arrow" (an original Sparta composition from the eighties that was never laid to tape) all of the material on "Welcome To Hell"* looks as if it was written after the release of Sparta's 2011 compilation. According to the promos notes it was actually the title cut that was written first (serving as the first Sparta track to be written since 1985!) with the rest of the tracks then falling neatly into place. Of the nine tracks there is never really a dull moment to be found although some tracks ("Angel of Death (2013)", "Soldier of Fortune", "Wild Night", "Dreaming of Evil" and "Rock'n'roll Rebel") are better then others and a track like "Time" comes off as if Sparta was trying to reinvent itself as a modern metal act! Sparta itself lists influences like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Motörhead (along with "a little splash of AC/DC") and for the uninitiated that would seem to be as good a place to start as anywhere. Had this been my first taste of Sparta ever I would have been impressed, but knowing how long it's taken to get from their humble beginnings to this point gives me an even greater appreciation of "Welcome To Hell". If you've never heard this lot before then I would actually start with this new album and then work your way backwards towards the 2011 compilation "Use Your Weapons Well" (which was also released as a 2CD set although I don't recall that version having 25 total tracks). All of which brings me back to the original question that I posed. Is this album an example of how all good things come to those who wait? I'd confidently say yes and let me just add this-Great job Sparta and welcome back!!!!


*The very cool  "Soldier Of Fortune" is based on an original song that was first written in 1984, but it has been completely re-worked.

Metal Mirror-III

High Roller Records
2014

For someone who claims to eat, breathe and sleep the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal movement I sure drop the ball a lot! I've said it before and I'll say it again (and likely again and again and again and so on and so forth!), but I really do need to pay better attention to press releases! It looks as if I missed the announcement about this collection of Metal Mirror studio tracks as the news about this release, along with the bit involving fellow N.W.O.B.H.M. act Sparta having a new album out soon(!), hit me like a sucker punch! Well, maybe sucker punch is a bad choice of words as I was really excited (OK, more like giddy as a schoolgirl!) to find out about "III"! The thing is I knew that High Roller Records had previously released two collections of live Metal Mirror material (2006's "I" and "II") so the working relationship between the band and label was already established so in hindsight this release, which incidentally contains every studio recording the band ever made between 1979 and 1982, isn't all that shocking. Anyway, I've babbled on enough about how clueless I can be so let's talk about Metal Mirror instead. Prior to downloading this upcoming collection I was already a tiny bit familiar with the band thanks to their track "Hard Life" appearing on the 1981 compilation "Heavy Metal Heroes, Vol. 1". Well, that and then there's the fact that somewhere around my house I have a N.W.O.B.H. sampler that a friend made me years ago that included Metal Mirror's 1980 single, "Rock'n'Roll Ain't Never Gonna Leave Us". So, between those few numbers I was already quite familiar with Metal Mirror's straight-forward, no-frills hard rock/heavy metal approach. This was a band that was more AC/DC (lead vocalist Cameron Vegas being a fan and all) then Angel Witch and more barroom/biker "muscle metal" then one that would go all wild and crazy with Iron Maiden/Judas Priest guitar solos. Or so I thought. While this 15-track collection does reaffirm the idea that this was working man's rock judging by numbers like the 7:45 (!) "Knives And Dives", the 7:20(!) "Getting Higher" and the 7:08(!) "Commit No Nuisance" there was more to the picture then meets the eye! On "III" there are a few numbers here that push the envelope into more of an "epic" metal territory, but that has more to do with the length of these numbers and the style of playing of guitarists Paul Butterworth (who, come to find out, was into the likes of Judas Priest and Led Zeppelin) and the late great Chris Haggerty (who worshiped the one and only Michael Schenker!) then the actual style of said music. But really, length issues aside, the music of Metal Mirror (which was formed in Middlesex in 1979) the style here is plain, old-fashioned heavy metal. And (judging by some of the comments made by vocalist Cameron Vegas that happen to appear in the promo material) that was what the band was all about. They wanted nothing more then to just play heavy metal and, while short-lived (the band only played about 30 live shows and had sadly broken up by 1982), they did achieve that feat! For N.W.O.B.H.M. collectors this one seems like another no-brainer, but it does have to be said that not every track here is a winner. Will that keep me from trying to buy a copy for myself? Likely not. Even if not every track of this 15-cut collection is drop-dead killer there is enough strong material here to give the overall impression that Metal Mirror could have made a better run at it had they been able to. With the news that the band (or at least lead vocalist Cameron Vegas and original Metal Mirror drummer Gary Hitchens) are once again active and preparing new music for later on in 2014 it will be interesting to see what unfolds next for this bunch. For now though I do suggest snagging a copy of "III" and for those who may be interested here is the official track listing:

1	Lady
2	Wild Cat Strike
3	Knives and Dives
4	Tiger of the Street
5	Midnight Eyes
6	Crazy
7	Mean Liar
8	Montana Violation
9	Hard Life
10	Getting Higher
11	Crazy (alternate version)
12	One Night
13	Commit No Nuisance
14	Rock'n'Roll Ain't Never Gonna Leave Us
15	English Booze

N.W.O.B.H.M. WEDNESDAY: DIAMOND LIL

Female-fronted Diamond Lil, who should not be confused with the UK hard rock group of the same name, was formed back in 1975 (when I was still but a toddler). Whether or not their heavy rock sound made them forerunners to the N.W.O.B.H.M. movement remains a topic of debate for some. For me the answer is a simple yes as the band's heavy rock rumblings, though in no way "British Heavy Metal", is simply a stones throw away from the likes Satanic Rites, Rock Goddess, She or Girlschool. OK, maybe it wasn't exactly a stones throw away (as those bands above are decidedly more metal then Diamond Lil), but the music they put out then pointed towards bigger and better things to come. Based in Braintree, Essex, and originally a cover's band (Wishbone Ash and Thin Lizzy were just two of their cover choices when they were just beginning and it's more in the vein as to what Diamond Lil was potentially aiming for with their original compositions) the group was made up of Lorna Oakley (vocals), Harry Spooner (lead guitar), Alan Letch (bass guitar) and Marcus Foakes (drums). The band soon made the switch over to original material and ended up being quite the draw in the various pubs and clubs they frequently played at. Live gigs saw them playing with all sorts of bands from the punk rock and new wave scene and they managed countless shows in places like Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, East and Central London. While the group did lay down a total of 11 tracks (between the years 1976-1978) the compilation album at hand was never released "officially". That said, a limited number of copies did turn up as a promotional tool along the way and it is known that there was an original pressings of the 7" single "Patron Of Hell". Released in a simple format/simple package (with only a plain sleeve), "Patron Of Hell" is arguably the group's best cut. It would be put back in rotation (aka re-released) thanks to Malc Macmillan (writer of the excellent reference guide "NWOBHM Encyclopedia") but again it was/is a limited run. Oh, it should also be noted that the "Patron Of Hell" single features (the re-release at least) a somewhat blonde woman that is staring into the mirror without a care in the world. OK, actually this limited-edition re-release features a rather topless woman on the front so it's not for the kiddies I'd argue. Regardless that single and much more is packed into the 2013 self-titled CD that was just released by High Roller Records. What's nice about the CD is that it comes packed with a short bio of the band, lyrics, old pictures of the band, pictures of old fliers, etc. It also features a killer re-master job by Patrick W. Engel. Now fans can hear the whole package worth of material that this guitar-driven rock band put out in a way in which everything sounds remarkably fresh. The 11 tracks on the compilation are all solid heavy rock straight down the line. One of the cool things about this band/CD is that the material we're talking about is so well-written and executed as to appeal to a wide-range of listeners. As I slid this album into my car stereo one day, with knowing first hand that this band had such a heavy lot of talent, I found myself with two teenagers (my kids naturally) that were digging what Diamond Lil was laying down. Diamond Lil's sound is rather multi-generational given that it's got a nice homegrown rock and roll vibe about it. The guitar playing of Harry Spooner is  very distinctive and Lorna Oakley's vocals come off as real and honest. The band had been playing these songs night after night all along so when they hit the studio it was all good. It all ends up meaning that you get quality rock that is completely original. If I had to make a judgement on thier set-list I'd probably have ended up calling this band a more forward thinking "Blonde meets AC/DC" only this act comes with a near perfect garage rock attitude! It's simply a collection piece by a 4-piece band that, once upon a time, believed that instead of love, or maybe in spite off, "rock is all you need".

Robespierre-Die You Heathen, Die!

Skol Records
2013


No matter how much you think you know the NWOBHM scene there is always some new band to be discovered. Such is the case with Robespierre who, in June and December of 1983, recorded 2 demos that, although popular in and around Liverpool back in the day (especially in the local pubs according to the accompanying booklet!), never made the impact that they should have or rightly deserved. To be fair they did make the rounds amongst tape traders (or at least the one demo from June of 1983 did). Constructed early on as more of a studio project/experiment, albeit one with loads of talent to spare, this underground  gem of a "band" featured David Cooke (guitars and vocals) and Gordon Logan (drums and backing vocals). At the time David Cooke was inspired by the emerging NWOBHM scene that was unfolding all around him as well as the more extreme bands coming out of the USA during that time period. Meanwhile Gordon Logan brought a love of punk rock to the project that would end up paying dividends in the long-run. Up front it must be noted that this collection of demos, as assembled by Skol Records, sounds incredible. Having never heard the original source material, or at least for the June 1983 demo as the December 1983 demo remained hidden in the vaults until now, I'm going to give equal credit to the pair of Cooke and Logan (for their original work in the studio) and to Bart Gaberial (head of Skol Records) who handled the executive production of this 2013 re-release. When you add in the beautiful booklet (with a bio, lyrics, pictures and track by track information) this is a must-have for NWOBHM fans. Speaking of which, it might be helpful to spell out just what this pair is rocking on about right? Well, admittedly I was pulled in by the promise of metal born of Hell, Cloven Hoof and Raven. That's fair enough. When my copy actually arrived, thanks to the fine folks at HR Records (link below), those 3 groups did come to mind while listening to this re-release, but so did other NWOBHM bands. While I won't go track by track for space reasons I will divulge that opener "Backs To The Wall", in addition to having some of that spitfire punk mentality previously mentioned, sported a sound that was bred from the likes of Venom, Raven, Grim Reaper and Motörhead! Very nice right? While they might not all have the same immediate impact that the opener had, especially as it seems as if they book-ended the best two tracks for this compilation (to be fair though the first 4 tracks come from demo number 1 while the last 5 tracks come from demo number 2 so it's not exactly like they cherry-picked the running order that much) at least it ends on a high note with the great, and somewhat epic, "Battle Of The Ninth Thermidor". Mixed in between these two highlights are some rem gems (the title cut and "Robespierre") and sweet rockers ("I Am A Cannibal" and "Medusa") so this re-release still makes for an essential purchase for NWOBHM purists. It should also be noted that when you step back and consider when these cuts were originally put to tape it's then that the reality sets in. For their time period (1983) Robespierre were quite the heavy bunch which, again per the bio notes, was actually their agenda all along. With "Die You Heathen, Die!" it's easy, especially in hindsight, to see that all the pieces were there for these two to make it big. As is too often the case with bands from this time period though they slipped through the cracks. This collection ends up then as a fitting tribute to another pair of unsung heroes who should have found success in a time when the public was craving new and exciting hard rock, heavy metal and thrash. While it didn't happen it's at least possible to now show our support to these cult acts that helped paved the way for today's hard and heavy, mean and nasty and most definitely over-the-top metal bands!


http://www.hrrshop.de/ROBESPIERRE-Die-You-Heathen-Die-CD_1

Satan-Life Sentence

Listenable Records
2013

When I first heard that a new Satan album was on it's way in 2013 I felt like a kid waiting for Christmas to finally arrive! As "Siege Mentality" (a teaser single that was released ahead of this album) had left me longing for more this new disc I knew that this "Life Sentence" was going to be good. I just didn't think (or even dare to dream) that it would be this good! When it did finally show up in my mail-box (thanks to some friends/tape traders from over in Europe) it blew away all my preconceived notions. If you're younger though you might be asking what's so special about Satan? Well, ask any N.W.O.B.H.M. fan to name some of their favorite artists of said genre and chances are pretty good that Satan would be mentioned. In fact, "Court in the Act" (Satan's 1983 album) is considered to be one finest album's to come out of that time period! What's more it's especially easy to see/hear the correlation between Satan's sound on their debut album and what would end up being called Bay Area thrash. Band's like Metallica and Megadeth owe a huge debt to Satan as their early proto-thrash sound would go on to be one of the defining influences of America's thrash scene. While the group did release a slew of other recordings (incl. the sophomore follow-up LP "Suspended Sentence")  nothing has ever compared to that first album. Blame it on line-up changes or lack of a clear focus, but, whatever the case, while their debut-album was sensational the follow-ups were only solid. On Satan's "Life Sentence" we're treated to the same line-up that was in place for "Court in the Act" and, without blowing too much smoke up in the air, the results speak for themselves. With "Life Sentence" I have another album to add to my best of list for 2013 and, if I so desired to do such an article at the end of this year, I have an album worthy of the "come-back album of the year" award! That says a lot as there has already been a slew of killer albums released by veteran acts of the eighties. Of the ten cuts there's hardly a dud to be found as Brian Ross (who sang on "Court In The Act") and company play with the same killer instinct that made "Court in the Act" such a masterpiece to begin with! In a way "Life Sentence" picks up where "Court in the Act" left off and, as you listen to these 10 cuts in all their glory, you can't help but take notice that this is how heavy metal/thrash metal sound always sound. As it borders on thrash "Life Sentence" would be an easy sell to both young and old metalheads alike. The music is a million times more impressive then what passes for power metal/thrash these days as these gentlemen know exactly how to craft heavy, memorable metal. "Life Sentence" is metal done right and whether you're a fan of old or someone just starting to get interested Satan & the whole movement this is a must-own. This one is simply killer folks.

Night Demon-Night Demon E.P.

CD version to be released on Shadow Kingdom Records
7" vinyl version to be released on Reinig Records
Cassette version to be released on 7th Pact Records (Germany)
2013

This was the last of 3 demo/self-release EPs that I scooped up from my friend's over at the Rare and Obscure Metal Archives ( http://strappadometalblog.blogspot.com/  ) and it's a dozy! This 3-piece act hails from Ventura, CA and, with bassist/vocalist Jarvis Leatherby leading the pack, play true metal that perfectly blends traditional heavy metal and the spirit of the N.W.O.B.H.M. movement! Formed in 2011, and joined by the pair of guitarist Brent Woodward (Sumerian Axe, The Fucking Wrath, Sutratma) and drummer John Crerar (The Fucking Wrath, Stop Breathing, The Missing 23rd) this vocalist/bassist makes cuts like "The Chalice" and "Ritual" sound like long lost gems of classic heavy metal. From what I've read online this is actually Leatherby's first band which makes his strong vocal performance all the better. Of the 3 acts I've covered from Strappado's site this week by far Night Demon has the best sound going for them. "Night Demon" and "Ancient Evil", this EP's other two tracks, showcase the legit skills of three three musicians and it's hardly a surprise to see them getting signed to a label like Shadow Kingdom Records for a proper CD release. While all four tracks are really impressive (you'd almost swear this band was another lost gem of the eighties!) my favorites were "The Chalice" and "Ritual". These 2 cuts are really good. As far as pinpointing a sound for these 3 I actually find myself at a loss. Sure, it's a fairly even mixture of N.W.O.B.H.M. and classic/traditional, but beyond that Night Demon offer a sweet sound that is catchy and original. Frankly it's just cool heavy metal all around and I myself will be looking to pick up one hard copy or another down the line. Find out more below.

  http://www.facebook.com/nightdemonband

Surgeon-Chemical Reign

Self-Release
2013

As I clicked on "Chemical Reign", the sophomore release from Philadelphia’s Surgeon, I caught a glimpse of the band's description as a "bold new name to the progressive metal genre". Whoever came up with that gem had to have been high. Sorry, but progressive metal? Not quite. If anything Philadelphia’s Surgeon has managed to combine a little of this (thrash) and a little of that (doom) along with heaping handfuls of street metal, alternative metal, industrial rock, crunchy hard rock, punk and the glory of the N.W.O.B.H.M. movement. It's hardly fair to call this 3-piece band "progressive metal" then when they sound more like a weird cross between British metal (Iron Maiden, Witchfinder General), Therapy? ("Screamager" anyone?), a more punk oriented version of Metallica, Danzig, Urge Overkill, Mind Funk, Queens Of The Stone Age and any number of post-grunge/modern metal bands. Or, if you will, they sound like a garage metal band with a huge collection of vinyl featuring everything from Black Sabbath to M.D.C. That's not to say they're punk per say, but it's obvious that Surgeon march to the beat of their own drummer and, in this case, that's Ruston Grosse (ex-Rumpelstiltskin Grinder, ex-Woe, Master tour drummer). Lead by vocalist/bassist Sean Bolton, whose voice has a truly unique and almost sinister edge to it, the band is rounded out by the talented guitar playing of Lydia Giordano.Speaking of Lydia Giordano her guitar playing is sharp and her lead work echos everyone from Tony Iommi to Kirk Hammett. Meanwhile Sean's bass playing adds a serious heaviness to this heavy metal band. The reality is these three musicians perform like a well-oiled machine so there's obviously a lot of chemistry between Surgeon's members. As I wrap this review up I must say that I'm dreadfully sorry if my description leaves some of you wondering exactly what I'm getting at with this 3-piece group of hard and heavy rockers. Even as I listen to the album a second time through while I type this up, hearing everyone from later period C.O.C. to Black Sabbath to Nazareth, I can't quite put my finger on their truly unique sound. All I can say is that if you're looking for some new hard, heavy and slightly "alternative" (in a good way!) metal then be sure to track down a copy of this album.

https://www.facebook.com/Surgeonmusic 

Still "single" Saturday "singles"

A slew of new singles have found there way into my inbox as of late as well as news about new singles. Rather then review them one at a time I should I'd just throw everything out there and give you my brief opinion on them. As for the title? Well, I used it once before and it's a bad pun even if the sentiment still rings true.



U.D.O.-"Metal Machine": This is the new single off of "Steelhammer" due on May 21st. It should be showing up on radio shortly. If the rest of the album is as good as this new single then 2013 should be a very good year for metal fans!

Satan-"Siege Mentality" Single: This is off of "Life Sentence" due April 29th in the UK and May 21st in the US. If you think I'm excited about this new album you have no idea! Satan are nwobhm legends and "Siege Mentality" is simply sinister and sweet. Of all of the new singles this is hands down my favorite and the album that I am most looking forward to hearing in 2013!

Airbourne-"Live It Up": "Black Dog Barking!", which will be Airbourne's third studio album, is due out on May 21st as well. More AC/DC love out of these lads. It is what it is. Not bad, but it sounds an awfully lot like "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)"....or at least the opening does.

Mind Assassin-"Mind of Caesar": This is the first single from this New York, NY heavy metal band that features Bob Mitchell of Sleepy Hollow fame on lead vocals. While there is no label information yet fans should expect some cool heavy metal/power metal if this new single is any indication. With Bob sounding as excellent and epic as ever this should be another good LP to look forward to!

Black Star Riders-"Bound For Glory": Boy, am I ever glad these guys didn't decide to release new music under the Thin Lizzy name. That would have been so wrong! "Bound For Glory" is the first single for the forthcoming album, "All Hell Breaks Loose", and features rock that wouldn't be too far out of place next to Thin Lizzy and the sort. With Ricky Warick on lead vocals the band looks to take what Thin Lizzy started and build upon it (or something like that). While it's a bit too formula for my tastes it is a solid enough rock number and I wish these guys the best.

So, there you have it. These are some of the singles that have shown up and, over the next week or two tops, I should expect that more will show up. At least that's the latest rumblings.

Salem (UK): X-Rated (Limited Edition EP) "Brofest 2013"

Self-Release/Independent
2013

Thanksgiving has either come really early for me or way to late. It just depends on how you look at it. Why, you may find yourself asking, are we talking about Thanksgiving in late March? Well, while I can't divulge all of the news and/or rumors that have found their way into my daily thoughts, as of late more and more cult eighties acts/N.W.O.B.H.M. acts have either released new music or are in the process of releasing new material. For me that's something to be VERY THANKFUL for! Or rather, this new music is something to keep this long winter (and it's every looming seasonal depression) we are having in check. All of that brings us to Salem. If you're already familiar with the band then you will know that they what I'm talking about when I say that they have always had the perfect blend of hard rock/traditional heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M.  If you're not familiar with the band then be sure to click on the link below where I have an interview with them as well as some reviews of their material. Beneath that you'll find all the other links you need to know when it comes to Salem and this new free digital EP. Yes, this new 4-track EP is free for the taking and, if you're   like me in anyway (in that you love great heavy metal), then just stop what you're doing and download this EP. Don't ask any questions. Just do it. You won't regret it. With "When Love's In Your Heart" setting the stage in true heavy metal fashion, followed by the ever so cool title cut, the band tears through 4 tracks of sensational hard rock/heavy metal. Lead singer Simon Saxby sounds better then ever. Truly, a track like "Ask The Lonely", showcases his youthful voice and shows that Salem still has what it takes to be a leading force in the field of British metal. The EP concludes with a re-recording of a song from 1982, "Reach To Eternity", and, if anything is wrong at all with this limited edition EP, you find yourself craving more! Paul Macnamara and Mark Allison offer up killer lead guitar solos to compliment Simon's youthful energy as Ade Jenkinson (bass) and Paul Mendham (drums) keep things solid in true rock steady fashion. Throughout this EP the band pulls out all the stops to give the listener four tracks of epic heavy metal that is both melodic and menacing. My only question to Salem now is this-when will we see another full-length album?

Interview with Salem:
http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Salem-%22In+The+Beginning...%22

All the other links you need to know!

www.SalemBand.co.uk

 

www.reverbnation.com/SalemUK

www.facebook.com/SalemBand

N.W.O.B.H.M. WEDNESDAY: INTERVIEW WITH DIAMON HEAD'S KARL WILCOX

Recently I had the privilege of interviewing Diamond Head drummer Karl Wilcox. Our regular readers will no doubt recall that I am a huge (and I mean HUGE!) fan of N.W.O.B.H.M. with Diamond Head being a particular favorite of mine. So, please know that when I say this was a privilege for me it REALLY was. I've been listening to this band for well over 20 years now and I've just recently started showing my own teenage son how great their music is. With the news of a US tour in the works I sat down with Karl to talk about the band and his own life.

Andy-First things first I just want to thank you Karl for taking time to answer a few questions for me today. I'd imagine that things are pretty busy these days for Diamond Head right?

Karl-No worries Andrew. Yes it's getting a little manic.

I have to sort out flights, hotels, van hire, Merch. Backline etc.  More importantly the work visa and tax ID's have to be sorted before I can book anything.

Andy-How are things coming along as far as Diamond Head's tour of the US?

Karl-Great. There's been a great response to us announcing the tour. The US was great for us in 2002 and our first ever tour in 2011.

Andy-When was the last time Diamond Head played in America?

Karl-2011. Sean and Brian Jammed with Metallica at their 30th anniversary bash

Andy-If I'm not mistaken (and please feel free to correct me if I am) you joined Diamond Head back in 1992. Can you tell me how that came about?

Karl-1990-91 but close enough I had worked with Brian on his 'Radio Moscow' project 85-87,  then with Sean on the 'Notorious'  project with Robin George 88- 89.

When they decided to get DH back together I was offered the gig. I am the first musician/member to join the band who was a fan an actual fan of the band

Andy-You were involved with the NWOBHM scene before you joined Diamond Head. Two bands that are often mentioned are Requiem and Chase. I know Requiem released a single. Was that your first studio experience?

Karl-We had done some demos prior to that single in a local studio in Walsall.  It was a great experience. In the mountains of Wales with a former member of 'Hawkwind' We had a massive band revolt on the night of going. 

Andy-How did you learn to play the drums Karl?

                                                               Karl Wilcox live and lethal!

Karl-My dad had a big band / dance band in the UK and used to watch him play. He never wanted me to be a drummer so I ended up playing the trumpet for 10 years before finally taking up the drums. The drummer in the county big band was leaving and the drum chair fell vacant.

He was a great player.. I took over and it was a disaster. So I took all the music home and practiced like a Mother came up with my own solos until I owned that drum chair.

Then I got into the Devils Music :-) 

Andy-I've always thought that you had your own unique style of playing. Who were some of your influences as you were just getting started?

Karl- My main influence when starting out where Buddy Rich and My old Man. He was more of a groove player..

As I got into the Devils music then I became aware of John Bonham, Ian Paice. Keith Moon, Terry Bozzio , Neil Peart.Phil Rudd

There really are too many very good players from that era before the drum machines took over.

I could go back to the 60's and list influence. But the main influence from them all was " I want to do that for a living"

Andy-This is a similar question Karl. Has any young drummer told you that they were inspired to pick up their first pair of sticks because of you? In Diamond Head you've been able to make your mark and you've become an important aspect to the band's sound. I'd be shocked if there wasn't more then a few young drummers out there that listed you as a influence!

Karl-Thanks Andrew. Brian's step son Dan who has his own band lists me as one of his top 3 influences. The other two are John Bonham and Lars.

If I can influence any drummer to leave the show and go right home and practice immediately as the guys who inspired me then I've opened the door for that Kat to develop. Whether they like what I have done or not.

I been blessed to work as a musician/entertainer

Andy-As I briefly touched on with the last question your contribution to Diamond Head's sound is well regarded. You've spent a large part of your career with the band in fact. How does it feel to be able to look back and say that you were involved with one of the true icons of the NWOBHM scene?

Karl-I was the first member who was an actual fan of the band and used to watch them play and say I should be up there with them.

And here I am. I give the utmost respect for the parts played by Duncan and I just embellish it what I can. Groove is very important to me and the band. 

Sometimes you have to pinch yourself. But I have know Brian for 30 years now and it's been a great journey. 

We did a show in Montreal with Kiss at a festival. 'Detroit Rock City' was the first album I purchased and I'm standing back stage with my niece and nephew looking on gobsmaked  talking with Paul & Gene. 

Keep believing 

Andy-This shouldn't surprise you guys, but I have firsthand knowledge that teenage metal bands (with even preteen members!) are playing covers of some Diamond Head classics. That says a lot about the lasting impact that Diamond Head has had on heavy metal. When the band is playing live It must be something to be able to look out in crowd and see several generations of fans right?

Karl-There's old folks and young folks in the audience and there singing the songs at me and I'm singing them back at them. It's great. DH has a great catalog of songs both with Sean and with Nick. Obviously the classics are the main course for the show.

Although we have done support shows and had the headlining road crew ask "why are you playing Metallica songs?" The look on their face was priceless..

Andy-Besides headlining a tour of the US this April, which is a big deal for Diamond Head fans like me, are there any other big plans for the band in 2013?

Karl-We we quiet last year due to myself needing an emergency blood transfusion during our summer European tour. We had to cancel two shows the I was back on the Tubs thumping away. We had planned on hitting the US late last year..

This year hopefully sees the band doing two US tours, an East Coast run in April and a West Cost run in October.

Also we play a Belgium festival and will putting a European tour around that.

We hope to make a DVD of this tour so you all got to come to the show and record with us. If you don't like what you did at the show come to another show and re-record with us, we'll love to see you again.

Andy-Thanks again Karl for checking in. As we wrap up this quick interview is there anything you want to say to Diamond Head fans? I'll give you the last word.

Get your street teams together and get folks who have never heard or seen us to the shows. DH fans have been a long standing crew and have supported us through everything. 

See you all soon 

Thanks.

Holy Grail-Ride The Void

Nuclear Blast
2013

In days of old I usually left Holy Grail for Metal Mark to cover. Whether it was the band's name (I liked their original name Sorcerer better) or their album's cover art so far (I hated the album art to the EP "Seasons Bleedings" and the single "Dark Passenger") I just wouldn't give this band a chance. What changed then? Well, first of all Metal Mark is covering all things sci-fi, horror and fantasy (at least film and TV wise) these days so he is a little busy. Speaking of which, if you haven't check out his other site then you are missing out! Drop what you are doing and pay him a visit. Of course you should finish reading this review first (LOL), but here's the link: http://scifihorrorfantasy.wordpress.com/   so go stop by and say hi to Metal Mark. Getting back to this album though and the second reason why I decided that I had to give it a shoot. Reviews. Yes, other reviews of this album. The latest issue of Metal Hammer has a lot of good things to say about this release it seemed and the more I dug about online the more I read some reviews of this album which were overwhelmingly positive. The final thing that did it for me was when I went back and decided to re-read Mark's review of the "Dark Passenger" single. He has this to say about the single "They dip into NWOBHM territory following the likes of Maiden and Diamond Head and combine with some heavier riffage." In a nutshell I trust Metal Mark's words so I decided to tackle this album for myself. If you don't know already this band was formed in 2008 by several former White Wizzard members. The story goes that just as White Wizzard was breaking out ("High Speed GTO" was as much a hit with the metal community as it was loathed by the metal community) they were breaking apart. Bassist Jon Leon dismissed the other 3 members of the band and decided to carry on White Wizzard with new members. The 3 former members meanwhile went on to form Holy Grail. To of those guys still remain in the Holy Grail line-up. Vocalist James-Paul Luna (who also played alongside Jon Leon in the band Jet Fuel) and drummer Tyler Meahl have proved that there is life beyond White Wizzard. Guitarist Alex Lee (formerly of Bonded By Blood), guitarist/vocalist Eli Santana and bass player Blake Mount fill out the line-up. Alex Lee is new to the band and shares lead guitar duties with Eli Santana. Those leads are what make "Ride The Void" such a good album. It's been three years between releases and the reality is "Ride The Void" is only the band's second full-length release. I can't say if 2010's "Crisis In Utopia" was any good or not as I've never heard it, but here at least the band plays to their strengths while backed by a superb production. Speaking of which, this was produced by Matt Hyde (Slayer, Children of Bodom), mixed by Mark Lewis (All That Remains, Trivium) with mastering done by Alan Douches (Baroness, Firewind, Mastodon). The three of them have helped Holy Grail achieve that perfect sound. Back to what makes this album tick (or rather shred!) and it has to be noted just how good the two guitarists are together. Like I said those leads are nothing short of sweet! They are definitely from the Iron Maiden twin-guitar school of thought while this young band also seems to nod their head (or thrash their heads!) in appreciation towards the likes of Dio and Judas Priest. If you think this is just more retro-metal worship though (like their previous band White Wizzard) it's far from it. These guys come to the party ready to thrash!  If anything I find Holy Grail's new album to be better then anything White Wizzard every put out! You could call this thrash inspired by classic metal and N.W.O.B.H.M. if you like. Maybe that description might be meet with some skepticism. I'd understand that. Any band that was formed by ex-White Wizzard members (who are then said to be inspired equally by Iron Maiden and Metallica) that is described as classic heavy metal meets classic thrash would make me pause to question such a claim. While certainly not as classic as either (or at least Iron Maiden and early Metallica) these guys are on their way to be one monster of a band. With two great lead guitarists and a rhythm section that is simply crushing you have a winner right there. But then you go and add this excellent lead vocalist who knows how to hit all the right notes. What does that add up to? Right there is enough for me to say there is no telling how far Holy Grail could go. These guys have broke away from the retro-this or retro-that crowd and instead have forged their own identity from the ground up. "Ride The Void" is the sound of a band that gets it. And this is just the band's  sophomore album! How scary is that?

Forgotten Gems: Wild Pussy-Mechanarchy

Metallion
1989

If I ever win the lottery (or the Mega Millions to be exact) one of the first things I would do would be to form my own record label with the sole intent of re-issuing albums like this. Or in Wild Pussy's case I would be re-releasing their lone EP. Hailing from the United Kingdom (Cardiff to be exact) this five piece band was formed in 1986. That would have made them too late for the N.W.O.B.H.M. scene that had taken over  Great Britain. Why does that matter? Had they formed a few years earlier they could have easily rode out the wave thanks to their raw Raven/Avenger meets Motörhead (by way of early Metallica) sound and their ability to write damn fine metal tunes. While I'm not sold on the band's name (I'm sure it went down like gangbusters with the ladies) the four tracks on this EP are nothing short of killer. Opening with a number like "Ready To Strike" is always a good sign that you are in for a heavy metal treat. "Ready To Strike" is raw thrash/speed metal along the lines of Raven. That is if Raven was a five-piece band intent on punching you in the face with pure eighties metal! It features a catchy chorus and insane lead guitar work. "Hatred" is the sound of Motörhead as interpreted by an early eighties thrash band. "The Vigil" is early Megadeth with almost punk-like vocals. "Evil Speak" is probably my favorite cut of the four as it's pure eighties power/speed metal with a gritty edge. While the band did release a a 3-track demo in 1987 (the ever so original titled "Demo 1987"!) this seems to be all she wrote as far as the actual band is concerned. The Metal Archives mentions a 11-song demo that was released in 1991 under the name Religion. That demo seems as if it was essentially Wild Pussy minus one of their guitarists (Rob Webber) and it even featured a remake of "Hatred". However no link is provided so what it sounded like is left to my imagination. As for this actually EP though I've provided a link below so you can hear it for yourself. This one goes for insane prices on Ebay (close to $300 for a vinyl copy this album?) so obviously my personal copy is on CD. I picked it up on Ebay and it's part of the "Forgotten Metal" series of compilations put out by Revenge Of True Metal. Wild Pussy appears on Vol. 18 of the series (1993) along with the self-titled 1984 EP from Sweden's Parasite (itself a killer gem of a heavy metal EP which I hope to cover down the road!) and the N.W.O.B.H.M. album "Widow". While that 1983 album is credited as "Widow" by Widow in reality the band was called Ritual. That is beside the point though. I only make mention of this CD comp. as it's your best chance to hear/own this EP. Even the CD isn't really that cheap (it usually goes for over $20 on Ebay) as it's an import. Anyway, the Metal Archives also says that some time after Wild Pussy's called it a day vocalist Jon Blood (Tony ?) and guitarist Red Skies (Lyndon Price) formed the industrial metal/rock band Damaged Gods. As for where they are now? Lyndon Price reportedly runs Red Rock studios in South Wales, but otherwise who knows about the rest? It's a shame that this EP (which again is insanely killer) goes for such a huge amount. I'd love to see this one re-released/re-issued with that 1987 demo (and even the 1991 Religion demo) added on. It will never happen as it's just a pipe dream of mine. Still, if you see either the vinyl or split CD at a reasonable price don't even hesitate. Just pull the trigger, scoop it up and enjoy this forgotten gem of a heavy metal/power/thrash metal release.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8h75a81RK7g

Forgotten Gems: Black Hole-Land Of Mystery

City Records
1985


It's been slightly over a month since my last Forgotten Gem post so, as a way of saying sorry (and hopefully making up for any laziness on my part), today's entry will be something quite "different". Of course in this case different is a very good thing. So, with that said let's all get into Mr. Peabody's WABAC machine because this one takes place a long time ago. Come to think about it, "Land Of Mystery" also sounds as if it takes place in a galaxy far, far away so maybe a quick trip in the TARDIS is in order? Either one of those two options would make sense in a way as this LP is "out there". In all seriousness, Black Hole was/is a real walk on the weirder side of life. Given the band mate's "names" that greet you as you open this album ("the present", "the mysterious future" and "the past") it's obvious that these three (the "real" names being: Luther Gordon-drums, Robert Measles-vocals, bass, synth, organ, pedals and Nicholas Murray-guitar, pedals) were slightly off kilter. Formed in Italy, in 1981, Black Hole would release a pair of demos before issuing this treat in 1985. If 1985 sounds like a long time ago to you then your not alone. It sure does seem as if it has been an eternity since the mid-eighties to me and when I listen to an album like this it seems as if it was a different world to. If you were to do a quick search for Black Hole (or were to ask around) more then likely you'd walk away with the tag "Italian heavy/doom". Technically that would be a correct assessment. The thing is that description only tells part of the story. The real truth behind the album is much more "colorful". "Land Of Mystery" is so much more then just heavy metal/doom metal. While the doom aspect is true this isn't so much a Black Sabbath love-in. It's more of an overall feeling of dread and despair that happens to unfold in a manor similar to doom. Perhaps you could say there is some Candlemass/Witchfinder General to be found but then again how do you describe the elements that sound like they should be straight out of a "horror movie sound-effects" LP? With that as a thought it should be pointed out as well that there are moments when this album cuts close to the NWOBHM scene (the band Pagan Alter comes to mind as does Legend and to a tiny degree the band Hell) and then there are times when the synthesizers and organ parts kick in and things get really interesting! Comparisons have been made to the cult band Death SS (it's easy enough to see that considering the way in which Black Hole comes off) and that is fair enough I guess. Really, Black Hole are just one of those bands that has to be heard to be fully and truly appreciated. While the group did release another album from all accounts it is just this little slab of original metal that is worth tracking down. My personal copy is from Shadow Kingdom Records so it has some lovely demo tracks added to the mix. There hasn't been a day that went by that I don't thank the heaven's that I took a chance and rolled the dice on this Forgotten Gem. I bought it just from the album art and let me just say that the art fits the music perfect! If weird doom metal with NWOBHM styling, horror elements and even some "let's all take acid" progressive rock moments sounds like something you have been waiting your whole life for then you are in luck! It is all that and more....