Forgotten Gems-Blacklist

Based in Texas (and not to be confused with the countless other bands that adopted this particular moniker), Blacklist was a power/thrash metal band that was active during the nineties. Influenced by death metal, thrash, and the groovy hard & heaviness that is Pantera, Blacklist began life as a high school metal outfit before going on to self-release two underground gems, "Put to Rest" and "From Down Below"* (1996 and 1999 respectively). Released on cassette tape in 1994, "Total Control" was the group's first studio recording and it came out while the members were still in high school! Both "Put to Rest" and "Fire Down Below" were graciously sent to me on CD by drummer Todd Jara. Blacklist was rounded out by bassist/vocalist Bill Hall and guitarist/backing vocalist Micheal Allen. Of the two I actually prefer "Put to Rest". While 1999's "From Down Below" is more technical and complex (which is actually a good thing-musical growth being essential for any metal band, no matter if they are old veterans or new to the game with only a couple of releases to their name), the raw edge of "Put to Rest" is nothing short of infectious! With that being said, both albums are stone cold brutal in their own right. Blacklist was all about the heaviness...broken bodies in the pit merely a side effect. There are moments on "From Down Below" that express a love for "...and Justice for All"-era Metallica and post-1991 Sepultura (IE: beautifully-written melodic moments that give the listener a much needed breather between the thrashers), but overall these three fine gentlemen were trying to keep metal mean & mighty during a time when grunge was trying to exterminate all things hard & heavy. Having lived and breathed the scene back then, bands like Blacklist fought the good fight in a battle that they just couldn't win. Here in 2018 we should continue to shine a bright light on these forgotten heroes. It might be small comfort to the band members themselves, but Blacklist is another one of those underground bands that I would love to see get the grand treatment...if I only had the funds to start up my own label. The fact is there are far too many great bands out there that didn't get the proper recognition that deserved they in the first place. With their sick mixture of thrash metal, power metal, death metal, and (face smashing!) groove, Blacklist had a sound that stands the test of time and is quite marketable. I could easily see these albums being re-released by a label like Divebomb Records. I might just have to send a suggestion their way. In the meantime, Heavy Metal Time Machine will continue it's mission to share underground/hidden albums with all of our readers.




*I'm not sure where the closing sample comes from on this disc, but I am always on the lookout for the future ex-Mrs. Andrew Davis...

Anialator-Rise to Supremacy

Xtreem Music
2018

There is some  background explanation that I obviously have to toss out here first. No, I did not misspell the band name because this is not the long running Canadian thrash band Annihilator, but rather a return of the Corpus Christi based Anialator. This band knocked out a few EPs and demos back in the 80's before some of the members went on to form Sufferance. Anialator reformed in recent years, re-released their old material and now have a brand spanking new EP set to go out in the new year. Okay, let's get at this sucker and see where they are at now. Much like their old material this is very raw which contains both positives and negatives. This is old style thrash with some early death metal vocals leading the soar throated way. I admire the energy, but the first two tracks suffer from low production and quite honestly the style on both is so similar that the two blend together much more than they should. Track three "Rise again" has much personality with  a twisted riff, some pounding drums and good enough variation to the vocals to make it fairly memorable. Track four 'Thick skinned" slows down some, but heaviness level keeps the intensity going. The closer "Black" races ahead with more of a death metal sound than any of the previous tracks. Unfortunately it lacks the tempo changes of the previous two songs. What we have is an uneven but mostly comeback album. Fans of old style thrash might like it, but there's definitely some work to be done.

Electric Vengeance-Homicidal Relapse

Self-Release/Independent
2017

Texas crossover/thrash metal band Electric Vengeance, active since 2007 and comprised of Bran Damage (vocals/guitars), Napaulm (bass/backing vocals), and Trey Lunabomber (drums/backing vocals), make their long-awaited return with album number two. The nine track album is dubbed "Homicidal Relapse" and it serves as the follow-up to 2015's well-received "Manic Possession". Having previously reviewed this wicked/street-legit trio (link) I had a pretty good idea of what I was in store for with "Homicidal Relapse". That being said, Electric Vengeance's sophomore album is most definitely a solid step forward and one or two steps upward. In the two years between albums this Texas metal act has only grown stronger. Any inconsistencies have been tossed to the side and the group has all but perfected their aggressive take on crossover-tinged thrash. Picking right up where the band left off with the must-have "Maniac Possession", "Homicidal Relapse" finds Brain Damage, Napaulm, and Trey Lunabomber diving head first into the glory days of thrash (Anthrax, Exodus, Metallica, Megadeth, and Slayer) while keeping one eye fixed on the likes of C.O.C., Gang Green, S.O.D./M.O.D., Suicidal Tendencies, Murphy's Law, and the Cro-Mags. In addition to several new numbers, "Homicidal Relapse" features material from the group's 2012 EP, "Street Metal Attack". It's actually the EP's title track that opens this fist-bangin' affair up and from that point forward Electric Vengeance's new album is a mosh pit just waiting to happen! You've got flesh-shredding guitar solos, twisted bass lines, and rib-rattling percussion. You have street metal music that is as groovy as it is gnarly. And you have old school-inspired thrash arrangements, simply killer riffs, and more than enough gang vocals to go around. At this point in time these Texas' metal merchants have moved way beyond underground status. With their latest slam-dunk of an LP the three guys in Electric Vengeance have made a strong case for becoming a household name. Fans of both old school thrash and crossover metal would do well to hunt this disc down.

Tricounty Terror-Revenge

Emp Label Group
2017


Tricounty Terror (vocalist Tessa, lead guitarist Kelsey, rhythm guitarist Erica, bassist Cera, and drummer Andi) is a Texas-based group that just dropped "Revenge" last month. By the looks of it this eight-track album serves as the band's studio debut. If that is indeed the case, "Revenge" is a hell of an introduction for these hard & heavy rockin' ladies! On "Revenge" the listener is treated to a (whiskey-soaked) mixture of punk metal and Southern rock/metal. Toss in a nod or two of appreciation to Lemmy and Angus Young and you have one album that is a total blast from start to finish! For the five fierce ladies in Tricounty Terror it's all about being as loud and rowdy as humanly possible. Fast, furious, and real as fuck, "Revenge" also showcases a well-tuned band that isn't afraid to cut through all the bullshit and just ROCK IT! There's nothing phony about these five musicians or the ass kicking sound that they produce. Much like Motörhead before them, Tricounty Terror is the right kind of band to unite the punks and the metalheads.  Available wherever righteous punk rocking metal like this can be found, "Revenge" is a album that you are going to want to play Loud & Proud!!

Interview with Love N War

Based in Texas, Love N War is a high-octane hard & heavy band with one full-length album to it's name at the time of this interview. A four-piece band whose melodic style recalls the glory days of hard rock, Love N War is all at once modern and classic and with a new album in the works this Texas band has nowhere to go but up! Just recently I was able to do a short interview with this rock-infused band and towards that end I would like to thank the members of Love N War for taking time out of their busy schedule to chat with us. Enjoy!

Andy-Thanks for taking the time to talk to us today. If possible would you mind introducing the members of your band and tell our readers what Love N War is all about?

Love N War-Love and War is John Adams – Lead Guitar / Jeff Vandenberghe – Lead Vocals / Ray Soliz – Bass Guitar / Donny Bragg – Drums. We are an all original Melodic/Hard Rock Band, with emphasis on energetic Live Shows! 

Andy-Your style of hard rock has really come into it's own as of late. What do you attest that too? Is it a sense of nostalgia or are today's kids rediscovering this classic sound and then giving it new life?

Love N War-I think today's kids have rediscovered the CLASSIC sound that we all grew up on, they are getting exposed to GREAT guitar solo’s and individual players who have mastered their instruments, it has inspired a resurgence of these players to get their bands back together and Tour again, THANK GOD!!!

Andy-Amen to that! So, you guys hail from the great state of Texas and while I know there have been some great bands to come from there (Helstar, King's X, D.R.I., Dead Horse and Pantera to name just a few!) I don't know what the scene is like there now. How are things these days in the lone star state?

Love N War-The scene is good! There are a lot of great Texas bands that have been around and that are coming out! I expect great things in the future to come from Texas!

Andy-That's great to hear! Now, "Up the Annie" came out quite a few years ago. Was there a reason for the long delay between your debut and your upcoming new album?

Love N War-We recorded the CD and lost our bass player, after finding Ray we wanted to expose the band regionally build up some hype and then release the CD, also ran into a financial snag with printing! After printing we just sat on it for a bit till we were able to find the right promotion to get exposure, the 2nd CD will be released immediately.

Andy-What can fans expect from your 2nd album and when can fans expect it to drop?

Love N War-Expect a high energy Ball Crushing CD, another Melodic Metal one like "Annie" CD to be released this early Fall 2016, check our Facebook page "Love and War" (Texas) for updates, pictures and Video postings of our progress!!

Andy-Have some of the songs been road tested and fan approved?

Love N War-Yes they have, and we are excited about the response!!

Andy- Excellent! Speaking of live material (or if you will playing out loud) who are some of the bands that you've shared the stage with?

Love N War-UFO (3 times) - Queensryche (2 times) - MSG (Michael Schenker Group 3 times) – KROKUS – NIGHT RANGER – Y&T – LOUDNESS (2 times) – Sebastian Bach – WINGER – TOM KEIFER – DANGEROUS TOYZ – BLACK STAR RIDERS – ACE FREHELY

Andy-Wow, that's some list there! Where can our readers find out more about your band?

Love N War-Right now go to our Facebook Page, also find us on "Reverbnation".

Andy-I always let bands have the last say. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Love N War-We are proud to be part of this Metal scene and look forward to hearing from you, message us on Facebook, get yourself a CD! Keep your head up high, Keep the Faith, and LONG LIVE ROCK AND ROLL !!!

Jessikill-Metal Knights

Self-Release/Independent
2016

Released back in late February, "Metal Knights" is the outstanding debut EP from up-and-coming U.S. traditional/power metal act Jessikill. This multi-award winning* 5-piece band (which has shared the stage with everyone from Faster Pussycat to Overkill!) is based in San Antonio, Texas and lead by one-time Hëssler front-woman (and all-around powerhouse vocalist!) Jessica Marie Espinoza. This amazing lead singer is at her all-time best on the aptly-titled "Metal Knights" and as she works her way through a killer (if sadly all too short) set of catchy METAL songs she is joined by a group of well-rounded and equally-skilled musicians. That would be lead guitarist Joey Villalobos, lead guitarist/keyboardist Jyro Alejo, bassist/vocalist Arturo Alvarado, and drummer Alan Cisneros. With all of the members of Jessikill working together as one concrete and complete unit  you end up with a remarkable piece of studio work that will stick around in your head long after it runs it's course! This slick-sounding EP starts off strong thanks to the Iron Maiden-infused "March of the Knight". At a little over a minute this great instrumental drops you right into the heart of the battle and from that point forward it's onward and upward until the closing moments of hard & heavy rocker, "Don't Let Go". As for the other four metallic songs of this well-crafted EP? Well, you really need to hear them all together in order to fully appreciate the magical quality of this killer set of songs. Without spoiling it for anyone I will say this. It's not just Iron Maiden that has influenced this Texas heavy metal band (or for that matter Jessica's old band Hëssler**!). There are actually a lot of influences at play here on "Metal Knights". From hard rock and traditional heavy metal to European-style power metal and even light thrash it's all here on "Metal Knights" and it all blends together to make this six-song EP that much more fun and exciting! All of which means you can't pigeonhole the overall sound of the Jessikill. And that's a really good thing....



*Jessikill was awarded the "Best Metal Band", "Top Local Band of The Year" and "Best Female Performer" at the 2016 SANA Awards. For the past four years in a row the band has also been chosen by the city of San Antonio to headline New Years Eve at the Arneson River Theatre!

**The EP's closing number, "Don't Let Go", sounds a lot like Hëssler.

Rigor Mortis - Welcome to your funeral: Part 1-beginning to 1987

2016
12 Pound productions
MVD

In 1988 I remembered all these ads popping up with long haired skull logo with weapons behind it for some band called Rigor Mortis. Being that it was 1988 thrash was in style and bands playing that style coming out  of everywhere. Major labels were stepping forward, signing acts and hoping to land the next Megadeth or Slayer. I bought that debut from Rigor Mortis based on the cover, the horror themed titles and the fact that I knew it was thrash. It was good and I played it fairly often back then, but I never knew a whole about them other than they were from Texas and the style of music they played. This DVD tells much of their early back story. Eventually members of this band would go on to play in the Ministry, Gwar, Warbeast and other acts. This is the story of how these young musicians came to form this band. Through interviews with the band members, friends, members of other bands and other various people involved with them in their early years we are told the story of how Rigor Mortis came to be. Every band has a story of how they came about but this one is interesting for several reasons. Coming together as a unit was neither a quick or easy process for Rigor Mortis as it took several years and various members came in from different bands in the DFW (Dallas/ Ft. Worth metal scene). Plus although the band knew the kind of metal they wanted to play it did take them some time to get all the people in place that allowed them to do this. There are some early clips mixed in showing the band progressing as well in between the interviews. One of my favorite stories was when the band saw a flier for Megadeth coming to their area in 1986.  They didn't recognize the opening band and thought  that Rigor Mortis should be on this show, so band members went to talk to the owner of the club about this. I won't finish the story because you really need to see the DVD and hear the band tell it. Some times this type of documentary paints the band in a light they want it to. In this case the band members are very honest and that's part of the charm of it. It was bittersweet seeing hearing guitarist Mike Scaccia in interviews as he passed away unexpectedly a few years ago. Phil Anselmo of Pantera fame narrates the documentary. Rigor Mortis/Warbeast singer
Bruce Corbitt produced the film. The film goes up to the band being signed. Since the title says parts one I am assuming a part two is being planned and will cover the album releases. I thought the quality was solid and focused as it came me interested throughout. After finishing the film I did wish there had been more whole songs/live clips. Then I saw under special features there is over half an hour of live footage and rehearsal clips that you watch after the movie gets you psyched to hear more of the band's early material. Fans of the band and old style thrash will definitely want to check this one out.

Broken Teeth-Bulldozer

Texas Metal Underground Records
2015

"Bulldozer" is the latest release from Austin, Texas' hard rock/heavy metal band Broken Teeth. This EP arrives nearly 16 years after the release of Broken Teeth's self-titled (and highly recommended!) debut album and while it might not be the full-length release of originals that long-time fans had hoped for this 7-track recording does pack a shit ton of rough & rugged hard rock into it's short run-time! As per usual the band is lead by former Dangerous Toys & Watchtower front-man Jason McMaster and in addition to this group's well known love of all things AC/DC you'll discover nods of appreciation dished out to likes of ZZ Top, Riot, (early) Mötley Crüe, Judas Priest, and even Motörhead! And speaking of Lemmy and company, "Bulldozer" finds Broken Teeth covering Motörhead's "The Hammer" in grand fashion. Of course Broken Teeth also cover the Aerosmith' song "Lightning Strikes", but for my money "The Hammer" is where it's really at! With these two rock-steady covers joining five original compositions (all of which are really good!) this EP does have a lot to offer. It's definitely been made to order for die-hard fans of the band, but even casual  hard rock and heavy metal listeners should appreciate tracks such as "Raining Fire", "Red River Rising", "The Rough and the Tumble", and "Flamethrower". As a tied-over release, "Bulldozer" hits all the right notes and finds Broken Teeth rocking out like there's no tomorrow. Needless to say it's good to have this band back!

Ignitor-Mix Tape '85

Independent/Self-Release
2013

This short piece is a holdover from yesterday's Free Metal Monday feature as well as a brief news piece about the band's upcoming schedule and their forthcoming album. For those who do not know the name, Ignitor is heavy/power metal band from Texas that is fronted by Jason McMaster (Dangerous Toys and Watchtower). This 2013 release finds the band covering songs from the likes of Anthrax, Venom, Judas Priest and Exciter and it can downloaded fro free by clicking on the link at the bottom of this article. It fit's in nicely with the group's last studio album, 2012's "Year Of The Metal Tiger", and features the following track listing:

1.	Deathrider (Anthrax cover)
2.	Fast as a Shark (Accept cover)
3.	Violence and Force (Exciter cover)
4.	Into the Coven (Mercyful Fate cover)
5.	Witching Hour (Venom cover)
6.	Hell Bent for Leather (Judas Priest cover)
7.	A Lesson in Violence (Exodus cover)
8.	Highway Star (Deep Purple cover)

As far as the new album is concerned it is tentatively scheduled for spring 2016. Even though the band is currently hard at work at Emphatic Audio Recording Studio in Austin, Texas putting everything to tape (ya!) they have managed to secure a spot on the main stage at next year's Ragnarökkr Metal Apocalypse festival in Chicago, Illinois! The event will be held at Reggie's Rock Club on May 6th & 7th so be sure to mark your calendars and get yourself prepared for what will surely be two days of metal madness! For more information on this Texas heavy/power metal band be sure to head here and as promised here is the link for Ignitor's all covers album,"Mix Tape '85"

Free Metal Monday: Over the Top (Various Recordings)

Self-Release/Independent
2015

 
I've got Paul Rote to thank for this band. He aptly described this San Antonio, Texas band as The Godz meet Black Sabbath and as I type this up small piece up I've got "Trailer Park Queen" playing in the background and man alive(!)  I just can't get enough of these stone cold rockers! Why am I only now hearing about this band? And what's more why isn't this band a big hit? This is retro-hard rock/stoner doom rock at it's absolute best! A four-piece band lead by bassist/vocalist Jason Chapman and featuring the mad skills of guitarists Jeff Nettles & Matt Brown and drummer Ryan Gonzales, Over the Top not only offers cool original material for free over at their Bandcamp page, but the group also does a bang-up job covering "Strange Ways" by KISS! Originally appearing on KISS's 1974 album, "Hotter than Hell", "Strange Ways". was written by Ace Frehley and it sounds groovy as F**K in Over the Top's hands! As with Over the Top's original compositions it's free to download and it makes for a nice listen on this Monday morning. Enjoy!

Free Metal Monday: The Buzzkills-"Leftover Pot" Single

Self-Release/Independent
2014

More Free Metal Monday love from Texas? Why not? First we had Dallas-Ft Worth blackened crust rockers Wildspeaker and now we have Fort Worth punk rockers The Buzzkills."Leftover Pot" is the band's latest single and you can download it and the band's full-length album, "Shoot Your Radio" for free by clicking on the band's highlighted name! Even more old-school in it's approach than this band's long list of influences would seem to suggest, "Leftover Pot" reminds me of stripped to the bare minimum Social Distortion as envisioned by a road-tested Less than Jake! And that's a good thing friends....
 

Free Metal Monday: Wildspeaker-Sylvan Demo

Self-Release/Independent
2015

Done up DIY-style, "Sylvan Demo" is a 2-song sampler of sorts featuring the cuts "Power Lines" and "Survey The Wreckage". Both numbers are due to appear on Wildspeaker's upcoming full length album and said album will serve as the follow-up to 2014's "Revenge Of The Hunted" EP.  Based in DFW, Texas, Wildspeaker is fronted by Natalie and rounded out by guitarists Nelson & Zak, bassist Michael and drummer Robert. Featuring the kind of blackened crust/hardcore doom that dreams are made of, "Sylvan Demo" can be download for free by heading here. Meanwhile you can find out more about this band by checking out their Facebook page. Enjoy!

Electric Vengeance-Manic Possession

Self-Release/Independent
2015

With a couple of demos and a 2012 EP called "Street Metal Attack" already to their name, Electric Vengeance now roll out their first full-length album with "Manic Possession". If this Texas-based band's name or this blistering album's artwork isn't enough to fill in the blanks for you then maybe song-titles like "Possessed in the Pit",  "Parasitic Punx!", "Meat Grinder"and "Super Shredder" will? If you're still at a loss as to the name of this game then I'll help you out. This is THRASH  (or more specifically crossover thrash) of the take no prisoner's and take no shit variety with "Manic Possession" primed and ready for your next mosh metal party! Other than the 56 second "Frustrated!" (where bass player Napaulm {sic}takes hold of the mic) the lead vocals "Manic Possession" are handled by guitarist Bran Damage and it's Trey Lunabomber that you'll hear banging the holy f**k out of a drum kit in the background! Songs like "Electric Harry" and "Second Chance" actually recall several bands that this wicked trio has shared the stage with such as D.R.I. and Raven while a song like "Parasitic Punx!"gives you your daily allowance of the essential three S's. That would be S.O.D., Suicidal Tendencies and Slayer! Thrash rockers will love "Graffiti Plea" and the aforementioned "Meat Grinder" almost sounds like "Bonded By Blood"-era Exodus and M.O.D. getting together for a quick jam session. There's probably no need to state the obvious, but I'll do it anyway. In the mid-late eighties album's like "Manic Possession" were all the rage and some would try to tell you that they should stay there. That's not how I see it obviously. Especially seeing as albums like "Animosity", "Speak English Or Die", "Crossover", "M.O.D. For U.S.A.", and "Suicidal Tendencies" sit neatly at the top of my weekly play lists. The truth is the thrash scene would get kind of stale after awhile if all we had was next generation Bay Area and Teutonic thrash. Thank God then we've got bands like Electric Vengeance and their album "Manic Possession" to shake, rattle and thrash things up! Speaking of which, "Manic Possession" can digitally be found on iTunes and Amazon while you can contact the band on Facebook for hard copies. Meanwhile I'll be adding this album to my weekly play list of crossover thrash as well as suggesting it to all my fellow friends who actually lived through the originalmid-late eighties crossover scene!

Pneuma Hagion-Trinity I

Self-Release/Independent
2015

Formed at the start of 2015 by R. (The Howling Void, Hordes of the Morning Star, Intestinal Disgorge, Tethered to a Dying Animal, Serpentine Tunnels, Endless Disease, etc.), Pneuma Hagion is a one man black/death/doom band from Texas. Written, recorded, mixed and mastered by the "band" itself, "Trinity I" is Pneuma Hagion's first demo and it was actually released back on January 28th. For those of you who are keeping count at home that is indeed a remarkable turnaround time as Pneuma Hagion went from it's official formation to finished product in less than a month! To quote the old TV show of the same name, "That's Incredible!". High fives all around! Wait, what was that you said? You say you want more information before you take a huge bite out of this three-track demo? That's fair enough. How about we start from the beginning then? Good? OK. "Trinity I" was actually first sent to me back in mid-February by my good friend and fellow blogger, Metal Mark. Incidentally, Mark received the demo from the mysterious R himself and it came with the heading "Beherit meets Teitanblood". As to the question of why I didn't knock out a review of "Trinity I" back then? Who knows? I have no idea why I do the things I do anyway so who bloody knows why I'm just now getting around to this ghastly beast of blackened death doom. Besides, it's not like it's important to the story at hand. So anyway, I was told by the forwarded e-mail to "Imagine a blend of Beherit's "Drawing Down the Moon" and Teitanblood's "Seven Chalices" mixed with a touch of Coffins". So I did as the email requested and you know what? "Trinity I" is all of that and more. But, it's also none of that but rather a horrific sneak peak into the nightmare world of R. That's an odd response to this demo I realize, but "Trinity I" isn't your typical black/death/doom release. For sure it's plenty sick and twisted and main man R does a good job handling everything from the vocals & instruments to the demo's production. So yeah, "Trinity I" is every-bit the apt descriptions it's been giving. And yet there is something more here that I can't quite put my finger on. Even with it's short length the demo has plenty character and Pneuma Hagion's mixture of all things dark and oppressive produces quite the emotion response from the listener. The demo is atmospheric and most certainty evil in all the right ways. "Trinity I" is creepy and it paints the picture of a man that is being hunted and haunted by something otherworldly and assuredly unholy. It's all these things, but still I feel as if I'm missing a huge piece of the puzzle. Maybe you can find that missing piece for me? Head here
if you dare try!

Secret of Boris-Your Ghost

Cabo Records, LLC
2015

"Your Ghost" is the 12-track debut album from Secret of Boris. This Dallas, Texas-based band is lead by the rock-star/rock-steady voice of Cameron Taylor (a great singer who would also be comfortable fronting either a 90's alternative radio act or some post-metal/nu metal outfit!) and features three guys named Ryan in guitarist Ryan Byrd, bassist Ryan Ragus and drummer Ryan Arthur. Having previously shared the stage with bands like Black Light Burns, Hed(pe), F5, Underoath, Ugly Mustard, Fair To Midland, Anberlin, God Forbid, Boondox, and Hopesfalle this Texas act has a larger-than-life sound that is equal parts (modern) hard rock, radio rock, electronic rock and heavy rock/heavy metal. With catchy melodies, hook-happy guitar solos and what could only be described as an overly addictive sense of rhythm this is another new(ish) rock band poised for greatness! While they list their influences as Porcupine Tree, Mudvayne, A Perfect Circle, Nine Inch Nails and Rammstein you could also toss everyone from Stone Sour to P.O.D. into the mix (with the likes of Therapy?, Pantera and even Monster Magnet not far behind!) and you would be just as close to describing everything that there is to love about their BOLD sound! Secret of Boris is one rock radio hit away from the big time and given the poor state of the modern hard rock scene let us all hope that said hit song happens soon!

Interview with Ven Scott from Dead Earth Politics

Founded in October of 2005, Dead Earth Politics is a Austin, Texas-based heavy metal/groove thrash band with one full-length LP and three EPs to it's name. The group's latest release, "Men Become Gods", is due out on March 14th and it comes with my highest recommendation! With the foresight to see that this band will soon enough be a very big deal I set up an interview with lead vocalist Ven Scott while he was still attainable! I want to thank him for chatting with HMTM and if you haven't had the opportunity yet then be sure to head over to the group's Facebook page when you're done here.

Andy-Let's start this interview off with the simple questions. How did the band start off and where did the name come from?

Ven-We started off as a bunch of idiots who thought we would eliminate stress in our lives through art. Now we are a group of artfully stressed idiots tens years running. As for the name - imagine yourself in a field of seething petunias; writhing about in a fluttering fashion of fickle feasibility. Further finding fashion in a facetious foreground of feral findings. But drunk. 

Andy-I can dig that. Next question then. Who is who in Dead Earth Politics?

Ven-You and your existential questions! I, Ven Scott, am vocals and herding strategist. My brethren at arms are Will Little on bass, Tim Driscoll on guitar, Mason Evans on drums and Aaron Canady on guitar as well. He and Tim cuddle. Its cute but distracting.

Andy-Well, such manly love can only help but strengthen the internal bonds of the band right? Can you give me the lowdown on your three EP plan?

Ven-It all began with "The Queen of Steel". Being as we are broke musicians, as most are, there was no way we could afford a full album in 2014. The problem was that we needed new material out - nothing since "The Weight of Poseidon" in 2010! Aside from a four year silent run we had new members and the sound had evolved. We needed to introduce ourselves again. With these three albums, per year, fans (and haters, I am sure!) will get to listen to the evolution as it happens. "Men Become Gods" is a great example of that - the title track is also the last of our "old guard". We have one or two others that were maybe B-Side worthy but "Men Become Gods" itself is about six years old and the last tune that was not introduced by either Aaron or Tim. Rather, it was introduced to them. The third album - who knows! Not sure of the number of tracks or title yet... but we already have the art! Yep, cart before the horse, baby! We expect to release that monster around the same time next year, but right now I am more than stoked about "Men Become Gods". Taz, our producer and engineer, helped us get this sucker fatter'n hell and almost larger than life. In my opinion, of course. guess I should add that we recognize that three tracks after fours ain't gonna cut it. That is when we resolved to hammer out three EPs in three years. Something to look forward to every cycle without the half-decade wait.

Andy-I recon us fans can wait another year to get new music from Dead Earth Politics. I mean if we have to!

Ven-Not really a question but a concession. As it should be. Yes, you will have to wait! Or give us money to record some new stuff! Pick one! We will take either!

Andy-Well, as a single father of two teenagers I've got to admit to being a little low on funds these days! That being the case and all should I ever strike it rich then it's game on my friend! Anyway, could you talk to us about your latest EP? Things like what lead up to it, the inspiration behind it and what it was like in the studio now that your band is gellin' like magellan?

Ven-"Men Become Gods" is a lot more aggressive than QoS. Not intentionally, but it worked out that way when we determined what tracks worked best together in a four track listing. Interestingly enough, though it is more in-yo-face t is also more melodic with experimentation of harmony. Vocally I also decided to explore a bit more with the aggressive melody than the heavy stuff. The title track is the most vocally percussive where as the dirty vocals take a bit of a back seat. Even the dirty vocals in "Casting Stones" , though prevalent, are more pitched throughout the versus. Not much to relay regarding studio time and never has been. We pre-produce so we can get in and out of the studio ASAP. We can't afford much more than that! All the drama is in the initial songwriting, rearranging, restructuring, shit-canning, and eventual complete bastardization of what we started with. Then there are the tears, the whining and the fit throwing.

Andy-Hmmmm. Whining and fit throwing. Are you sure you're not talking about Metallica? Seriously though, Dead Earth Politics has been described as a cross between Iron Maiden and Lamb of God. While that is a fine description what are some of the bands other influences? What does everyone bring to the table?

Ven-Honestly our influences are all over the spectrum. Maiden definitely. Dio - most definitely. Judas Priest, Lamb of God, Slayer, Metallica, Megadeth, Dream Theater, Seikima II, Kiss. Name it and its likely an influence with one or more of us. The important thing is we don't limit ourselves to heavy metal. Muse, Holdsworth, Bad Company, Genesis (both Phil & Peter).... plenty of embarrassing music fodder that really doesn't embarrass us. So every member brings their ideas. One riff may sound Lamb of God like to one while someone else goes "That sounds like Muse." Then, with that influence in mind, we end up going in a completely different, more kick ass direction than originally intended.


Andy-I've got to admit that it has been awhile since I heard Bad Company mentioned in the same sentence as Slayer! Not that it's a bad thing. Alright, we've got the current EP down and we've talked about what drives Dead Earth Politics so let's talk about your band on the live stage. Who are some of the bands that you've already shared the stage with and if you had your choice to be on a dream bill with any bands or artists who would it be? 

Ven-Man, the fact that Bad Company is generally ignored by the metal community hurts. Really hurts. Anyways, we have been blessed to have been able to share the stage not only with national and international bands but also incredibly talented local artists! I list a few of each in no particular order: Lamb of God, Down, Choke, Southern Front, Critical Assembly, Broken by the Burden, Eyehategod, Headcrusher and will be joining Death Angel, Cavalera Conspiracy and a metric ton others in April for Texas Independence Fest!  As far as dream tours - Iron Maiden for me. I wouldn't be able to play, though, as I would likely be staring at Bruce's bus/room/wizard's tower trying to will him out to talk to me. Of course, I would love to resurrect Dio and tour with him. That will, sadly, have to remain a dream, but I plan on singing back up to him in the after life.


Andy-That's one performance I wouldn't want to miss Ven! To say Dio is missed by the metal community is an understatement. His music is timeless. Back to "Men Become Gods" though. Will you be touring behind the release of your new EP? 

Ven-We'd love to and are working on it. Unfortunate is the life of the aspiring musician who has a mortgage. And is a musician. Always broke and always needing to work.

Andy-Knowing far too many musicians I realize that is sad but true. When playing out live what are some of the essential back-stage items for Dead Earth Politics? I mean besides lots of alcohol! 

Ven-Actually we generally don't touch alcohol before playing. An occasional pre-show beer but to answer that question we would need to start playing shows with a back stage area! Ha!

Andy-LOL! Either or time. Metallica or Megadeth? 

Ven-Megadeth. Anytime. I will always find myself in the eye of the tornado

Andy-Good on you! How about Black Sabbath? With Ozzy or with Dio? 

Ven-DIO SABBATH! COME AT ME BRO!

Andy-OK, AC/DC with Bon Scott or Brian Johnson? 

Ven-Actually I like both Brian and Bon and have little to no desire to fight about that one. Especially since I will likely be tired from fighting over the previous question! 

Andy-I actually agree with you as far as AC/DC goes and your choice of a Dio-lead Black Sabbath? Most definitely! "Heaven and Hell" and "Mob Rules" are both classics in my mind! How about this one though? Genesis with Peter Gabriel on the mic or Phil Collins as the lead singer? 

Ven-Both Genesis eras are good for me but I prefer Phil. I also love his solo work.

Andy-Same here. I love prog-era Genesis as well as the pop rock one. And yet there is just something about Genesis with Phil that gives it that extra edge. And I actually like the solo work of Phil Collins as well. Odd as it might be it does seem as if we share similar tastes in music! Given the choice is there any tribute album that you would like to appear on and if so what song would you choose?

Ven-I would jump on any Maiden or Dio/Heaven & Hell tribute. With much trepidation, mind you, since those are incredibly heavy shoes to fill. I would really have to step up my game. As far as songs; Maiden would be "Moonchild" and Dio/HH would be "Sign of the Southern Cross" or perhaps "Stargazer".

Andy-Those are some sweet cover choices there. You are selling yourself and the band short though as Dead Earth Politics would kill it covering Iron Maiden or Dio! How about a Bad Company cover then?  

Ven-I would totally cover Bad Company tunes if the idea of a metal band covering a Bad Company tune hadn't already been tainted. You know what I mean.


Andy-Sadly I do know. All too well in fact. I would love to hear a real metal tribute to Bad Company that isn't pure cheese (Five Finger Death Punch) or a total crapfeast (Five Finger Death Punch again!). The ground's already been soiled though. But anyway, even if there won't be a full-tilt boogie tour what can fans expect out of Dead Earth Politics in 2015? 

Ven-We have some festivals in our sights an we are celebrating our ten year anniversary later this year! No line ups or dates to announce yet, but that is definitely on the radar! 

Andy-Well now. Congrats on number ten! That rocks! How about beyond that celebration? What should Dead Earth Politics' final legacy be? What's the band's Tombstone going to say? 

Ven-Our tombstone will read "Here lay five guys (sometimes four) that were too bullheaded to quit. Also they were old."

Andy-I like that. I'm going to let you have the last word Ven. Anything you want to share with your fans? Heard any good knock knock jokes lately? Words of wisdom that are sharper than knives? The mic is all yours friend and yours alone!

Ven-The best thing I can lay out is to never get into music, especially metal, for fortune and fame. Do it because you love it. Love it enough to not copy that one band you like so you sound exactly like them. I hate that. For non-jammy fans - please go to your local shows! Skipping out on that ten-person-crowd show all the time to see your national touring act means that you might miss out on something special before it blows up. Chances are that local band is better because they still do it for the love. It ain't a job for 'em yet.  Eat your spinach!

      
 

Dead Earth Politics-Men Become Gods

Self-Release/Independent
2015

Almost one year removed from the band's righteous The Queen of Steel EP, Austin, Texas heavy metal groove thrashers Dead Earth Politics return with this 4-track following, "Men Become Gods", making everything right with the world. Or at least for the time being. There's always tomorrow and new darkness to be had, but for the here and now this one's a real deal banger and it bangs HARD! Mark this date down (March 14th, 2015) as that is the official release date of this praise-worthy EP. The second in a series of three EP's, "Men Become Gods" might normally get down votes for rolling out on my ex wife's B-day, but even that mistimed coincidence cannot stop the thunderous joy that comes from unleashing the beast's beats that constitute these cuts! For those who loved the band's last EP this upcoming EP is more of the same only better! That begins with the vocal styling of frontman Ven Scott and ends with the drumming of Mason Evans. In-between it's all kind of gooey goodness with the addition of new* guitarist Aaron Canady (of Austin, Texas metal band Shrapnel) likely to pay dividends for year's to come. One can't help but appreciate all that this band puts into their music and the professional way in which they present themselves. I'm rooting for Dead Earth Politics and I suggest all of our readers do the same. These guys come across as legit with "Men Become Gods" crushing all expectations and strongly hinting at a band right on cusp of something big (much like their BIG riffs!).You can find this Texas band online here or if you like here while you can hear the group's last EP over here.

*Aaron Canady joined in 2014 and was on the group's last EP as well. Even as good as the chemistry was on that particular EP (between Canady and Dead Earth Politics' guitarist Tim Driscoll) it has improved tenfold with "Men Become Gods" pointing towards serious future success for this five-piece band! Between these two (Canady and Driscoll) riffs fly everywhere, but these also gel seamlessly making the string section of Dead Earth Politics just glorious! With Will Little doing his thing on the bass (and doing it oh so smooth!) this band is (collectively) something to behold! As much as I loved the group's last release this new one is a improvement with the songwriting and overall delivery of Dead Earth Politics bordering on near-perfection! So far 2015 is proving to be real blessing when it comes to heavy metal/thrash with hooks!

Apothica-What Do You Stand For?

I have Alternative Press to thank for introducing me to this band. And when I say "thank" I mean that in the most sincere way humanly possible! For you see folks this female-fronted metalcore band is unreal. Calling Houston home, Apothica has already made a name for themselves and has opened for bands like Kittie, The Agonist and Otep. Although the band went through a complete overall (new name, new sound and new image!) it proved to be for the best as Apothica emerged stronger then ever. Or as guitarist Sean Littlejohn put in in AP: "darker, sexier, more sinister and more alluring"! I cannot vouch for who the band was (sound and style-wise) before the change, but I will say that the "brand new" Apothica is without a shadow of a doubt all of the above (dark, sexy, sinister and above all alluring!) and so much more! And all of that my friends starts with Apothica's outstanding set of vocalists. Yes, I said set. Sure, on paper it is simply lead vocalist Lucy LeNoir (a fabulous singer who incidentally joined the group in December of 2012). Not that there is anything simple about this dynamite front-lady! She certainly steals the show on "What Do You Stand For?" thanks in no small part to here smooth and sensual delivery. But, seeing as this is metalcore that we are talking about there just has to be clean and harsh vocals right? Cue bass guitarist Keenen Martin. Going by the line-up information that is provided on the band's Facebook page (see link below) it's Martin voice that provides the beast to LeNoir's beauty. As lead vocalist Lucy LeNoir (single handily) corners the market on all things sexy and desirable* it's the harsh undertones of bassist Keenen Martin that gives a band like Apothica the perfect one-two punch! Now, musically-speaking this Texas five-piece is first and foremost a metalcore band with one of the primary sources of inspiration being Killswitch Engage. You could also toss In This Moment and All That Remains into that discussion and it would be fine. That said, Apothica does bring other beverage choices to the party. The group ends up listing everyone from Lamb of God and Pantera to Alter Bridge as influences and from the moment "Bulletproof" opens "What Do You Stand For?" there is plenty of discoveries to be made about just who Apothica is right now and where they may be heading. With Alex King (lead guitar) and Justin Roberts (drums) rounding out the line-up and with nowhere to go from here but up Apothica is a band worth keeping an eye out for as well as one that is more then deserving of the buzz that they are generating! You can hear this EP for yourself by heading here: http://www.reverbnation.com/Apothica

https://www.facebook.com/apothicarocks 

*With all apologies there is simply no other way to describe Lucy LeNoir's presence on the mic. This beautiful and strong front-woman has one of the most alluring voices in all of alternative music! 

9/17/14 Update!

After going straight to the source yesterday afternoon it turns out that Lucy LeNoir performed all of the vocals on the EP! I want to apologize for the oversight on my part. Of course this new information only adds to my respect for her as a singer and makes me appreciate Apothica all the more! 

Illustrations-In Vain

Self-Release
2014

Having formed in 2010, San Antonio, Texas act Illustrations first released this one back in the summer of 2013. Featuring 12 tracks of hardcore metal spanning a length of 36:53, with the shortest one, "Die Young", clocking in at just under 2 minutes(!), it is just now seeing a proper launch and for fans of all things hardcore (ie: straight-up hardcore, grindcore and metallic hardcore) this sounds appealing. While not the best piece of (metal leaded) hardcore to come my way this year (whether reviewed or not) it still offers enough gritty moments to band your head to!

http://illustrations.bandcamp.com/album/in-vain 

Dead Earth Politics-The Queen of Steel

Self-Release/Independent
2014

Austin-Texas heavy thrash/groove metal band Dead Earth Politics are offering the three-track EP "The Queen of Steel" as a digital-only, name-your-price download that will come complete with lyrics and liner notes.You can find the download link at their official site below. Active since 2005, with this serving as the band's second EP and third overall release, the band has been compared to the likes of Lamb of God, Iron Maiden and Pantera and really (if we're simply to go by this 13+ minute EP) that's a fairly spot-on description (especially, musically-speaking and all, the Lamb of God and Iron Maiden parts where it's almost like the old Reese's Peanut Butter bit of someone got chocolate in my peanut butter/someone got peanut butter in my chocolate only with someone got Lamb of God in my Iron Maiden and vice versa!!!)! Opener "Redneck Dragonslayer" (Yeah, I know! I love the title as well boys and girls!) starts the party off on the right foot and with a (seemingly) new lead vocalist named Ven Scott doing his best to sound like a raged-out and metal moshing maniac version of Phil Anselmo it's (as those crazy kids these days like to say!) "all good in the hood"! While their are also clean vocals sprinkled throughout this (bad mutha of a) EP it's not quite clear who contributes those so we'll just say that whoever it is that handles that side of the coin does a pretty bang-up job! Actually, kudos all around as this one simply slays! From start to finish, top to bottom it's one all out rage of a recording! So, that begs the question then as to why  I was left feeling sad at the end of it all? Well, that can be summed up fairly easily. I was sad because it's w-a-y too freakin' s-h-o-r-t! That's one thing that drives me bat shit crazy about these little slabs of METAL fraggin' WARFARE! Starting strong and then teasing me by tearing through a mere three tracks just doesn't cut it with me friends! Why is it that all of real rock and shock, flat-out rage feasts are always t-o-o damn short? Dead Earth Politics are the kind of act that need a full, flushed out LP so that it doesn't simply come to a grinding halt just when you're really getting your rage on! Granted, it's a stupid complaint right? It's only a length-issue at the end of the day. Still, I really want to hear a full-length BEAST out of this Austin act now so let's hope that this little teaser is just wetting our appetites for a full-scale invasion of thrash metal groove glory!!!! 


http://deadearthpolitics.com/