REVIEWS DECEMBER 2024
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WINGS OF STEEL: Live In France
RFL Music Entertainment - CD, LP, Digital
In the wake of their first full-length album, "Gates of Twilight", in 2023, WINGS OF STEEL embarked on their first European tour in the spring of 2024. The tour consisted of 11 shows across 3 countries; France, Germany and Belgium. Without the band's prior knowledge, the second headline show in France, at Le Splendid in Lille, was recorded, and thus "Live In France" was born.
The album features 8 tracks, taken from their 2 first studio releases. And this album demonstrates what they are capable of when it comes to playing live. It gives us the hunger and the energy of a young band. If you like high notes more or less all the time, then this could be a band for you. The singer reminds me of a young Michael Kiske (HELLOWEEN). They are very good at what they are doing, so this is a good introduction to the band.
WINGS OF STEEL formed in 2019, and is a hard rock/heavy metal band rooted in the 70s and 80s. Their first, self-titled, EP was released in 2022, and followed by the mentioned full-length album in 2023.
wingsofsteelband.com
WICKED LEATHER: Night Hunter/Echoes Of The Storm
Jawbreaker Records - Digital Singles
This sounds Japanese somehow. Especially the vocals, which sounds like a Japanese trying to sound like an American. But WICKED LEATHER are from Barcelona, Spain. They are a pretty new band, as they formed in late 2023. And this is their debut release, a double single, where they show us all what they got to offer.
This is yet another band who play the traditional kind of heavy metal, with a typical 80s sound. They have the hunger and the attitude of a young band, and deliver their songs with a raw power.
It could be interesting to hear some more with this band, because they show that they really have potential. This is in other words worth a try.
youtube.com/watch?v=MCCHdv8nWFk |
lnkfi.re/wickedleather_echoesofthestorm |
facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559789458511 |
jawbreaker.se
UNDER ASSAULT: Deadly Experiments
Witches Brew - CD, Digital
UNDER ASSAULT is a thrash band from Paraguay. They formed in 2011, and "Deadly Experiments" is their second album. It's described as "a high-octane journey through the classic thrash metal canon, refracted through a punk ethos that gives it a restless urgency". It's tight and aggressive, just like it should be, and it sounds really good to me.
This is the kind of band that should fit like a gloove for both thrashers and fans of hardcore/punk. The songs are mainly short, around 1-3 minutes, so there's no progressive adventures or any unnecessary stuff here.
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041167135428 |
witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com
MOONDARK: The Abysmal Womb
Pulverised Records - CD, LP
MOONDARK is a Swedish doom/death metal band, and even though they have been around since 1993, this is their first full-length album. It's compared with bands like CREMATORY and CROWBAR, as well as CATHEDRAL's debut album. It's dark and heavy stuff, but I would not say that it's hopeless. They might not offer the most varied material here, and there's nothing extra good. But at the same time there's nothing extra bad either, so why complain? If you like it heavy, then you will get a good album.
MOON DARK features members from INTERMENT, OCTOBER TIDE and DELLAMORTE.
pulverised.net |
facebook.com/moondark666
RYLOS: Point Cut
Inverse Records - Digital Single
Finnish hard rockers RYLOS return with a doom metal flavored thing. It's the third single from their upcoming album, "Signs Of Life", which will see the light in February. It will be their fifth album.
"Point Cut" is a dark and heavy track, portraying the harsh realities of working life, while inspiring listeners to keep striving towards their dreams. A really good song that you really should check out if you like good old heavy hard rock and doom metal.
youtu.be/RR3GJNgZQm0 |
rylosplanet.fi |
inverse.fi
SIDEWALK MAFIA: Soulcrushers
Sliptrick Records - CD, Digital
From Helsinki, Finland comes SIDEWALK MAFIA, and this is their second full-length album. With this album they say that they have found their sound, as they were still drifting a bit on their debut. You can also find a wider musical expression, both when it comes to sound and genre.
This is a blackened gothic/doom metal trio. The sound is oppressive with low tuned guitars, but also melodic and at the same time atmospheric with a wall of sound type production. It sounds like heavy and hard metal to me, and I don't really know what I should compare them with or how I should describe their sound. Because even though there aren't any really complicated songs we're dealing with here, you could probably say that it's a bit difficult to access music anyway. It's hardly any sweat singing either, but a raw and dirty voice, which fits for the noisey music that they play.
youtube.com/watch?v=V85GhAudwis |
orcd.co/soulcrushers |
instagram.com/sidewalkmafia |
sliptrickrecords.com
ROTTEN SOUND: Murderworks (re-issue)
Time To Kill Records on Jan. 3, 2025 - CD, LP, Cassette, Digital
This wasn't as noisey, chaotic and intense as I thought it would be. It's hardly a nice Sunday walk in the park though, as it's grindcore that we get from this Finnish band. The sound is hard as steel and very powerful. They deliver as much as 14 tracks here. But as most of them are very short, from 11 seconds to 2 minutes, it's not a problem for a change. A few songs are a little longer though, around 3-5 minutes.
"Murderworks" was originally released in 2002, and is ROTTEN SOUND's third full-length album. It's seen as a milestone in their career and in the grindcore genre because of its ferocity and uncompromising sound, setting a high standard in extreme music.
ROTTEN SOUND blend relentless speed, brutal precision and raw aggression. Yet it actually sounds like music, and it's good too. Not many can succeed with that.
youtu.be/3cDxuhnZFzc?si=qjpDzgYzt2J3a8UJ |
rottensound.com |
timetokillrecords.com
Second Class Kids Magazine #7
Second Class Kids Records - Magazine in Swedish

This Swedish punk fanzine/magazine has already come to number 7. Not many underground magazines survive that long, but I'm happy that they continue to work with it. And as usual it's interesting and good in most cases. You can read about Swedish acts like Ulke (STREBERS, DIA PSALMA), PASTORATET, KRIGSSTIGEN and ANAL KALLSUP (extra points for that name, haha). We can also find lists with the most important Swedish punk albums through the years, reviews of records, the punk scene in 1994 vs 2024 with KRYMPLINGS, and a report from Punkbåten 2024.
This is a very simple but good magazine, that you will get for free if you order something from their shop. But you can also buy just the magazine if you want to do that.
New albums from Second Class Kids Records with BJÖRNARNA and PASTORATET should be available next week. New albums with FRUKTANSVÄRLD and Vera Norea is scheduled for the spring.
secondclasskids.com
JJ Pinestone: Break The Chain
Pinestone Music Records - Digital Album
JJ Pinestone hailing from Finland, and has been an active musician since 2014. He has played with a thrash metal band called TAKALAITON. But when he now goes solo, JJ takes us on a nostalgic ride back to the 80s. Inspiration comes from legends like GUNS N' ROSES, MÖTLEY CRÜE, POISON and RATT. So hard rock with street attitude you could say.
We just get 7 tracks here, and all of them are around 3-4 minutes, so it's a short album. But what we get is not bad at all, as he have some really good songs here that he can be really proud of. In other words absolutely worth checking out.
instagram.com/jjpinestoneofficial
CORNERS OF SANCTUARY: Paranoid
SODEH Records - Digital Single
The video for this song was released a while ago, and it's taken from the holiday compilation "A Naughty & Nice Merry Metal Xmas XI". Yes, it's a cover of the BLACK SABBATH classic "Paranoid", which has nothing to do with Christmas. They perform it with their own unique sound and a raw energy, and it works really good.
Worth checking out, and not much else to say..
youtu.be/kCqusEsZ_iU |
cornersofsanctuary.com |
sodeh.ca
VEIL OF THE SERPENT: Gallery Of Sin
Veil Of The Serpent - CD, Digital
VEIL OF THE SERPENT is a heavy metal band with members from Germany and USA. "Gallery Of Sin" is their full-length debut, but it's also a concept album with as much as 14 tracks and more than 70 minutes of music. Crazy in these digital times, but metal fans still listen to whole albums (as far as I know), so it will probably work.
This is a very ambitious album and more of an experience than just an album, both musically and lyrical. The dark story about corruption and greed goes hand in hand with their adventurous metal. This is definitely not any amateurs, but very skilled musicians. And I would actually like to call this progressive metal rather than just heavy metal, because this is hardly the traditional stuff that we all know and love so much. And they also blend in elements of other metal genres. It's a wild mix of long and short stories, from 1 and a half minutes to 10:50 minutes.
They are doing a really good job here, and the songs are not bad at all. Give them a try.
veiloftheserpent.com
OXIDIZE: Extremist
King2Music Records - Digital Single
Swedish melodic metal band OXIDIZE began their journey in the spring of 2017. The members had previous experience from bands like ARCTIC VOID, WINGS OF DESTINY, CRYSTAL EYES and HARDCORE SUPERSTAR, to mention a few of the bands they have played with. "Extremist" is taken from an upcoming album, that will be released in 2025.
This is a really good song. No doubt about that. But how do I describe it? It sounds like a mix of CANDLEMASS and EVRGREY, if that combination is possible? Well, it seems to be possible in this case anyway. Definitely worth listening to!
king2music.com
NEMESIS: Governed With Fear
Nemesis - Digital Single
Houston thrashers NEMESIS released a new single, "Governed With Fear", in the end of November. It's the second single from their upcoming sophomore album. Their sound pays homage to the thrash legends, while also pushing the boundaries of the genre. It's energetic and explosive, as well as a very skilled performance. In other words, just like it should be when it comes to thrash metal. So this is absolutely worth a try.
youtu.be/oyoO_PSToIA |
nemesisriffs.com
LORDI: Syntax Terror
Reigning Phoenix Music - Digital Single
Finnish hard rock and metal band LORDI will release their 19th studio album, "Limited Deadition", on March 21, 2025. "Syntax Terror" is one of the songs from the album. It's a 80s heavy metal style song with a touch of JUDAS PRIEST, MANOWAR and Udo Dirkschneider (U.D.O., ex-ACCEPT). So in other words really good stuff, and absolutely worth a try.
The new album will be supported by a global tour, which begins in Finland in late March.
LORDI was founded in 1992, and achieved their international breakthrough after winning the Eurovision Song Contest with their hit song "Hard Rock Hallelujah" in 2006.
youtu.be/YUDX4L-Inco
LITTLE VILLAINS: Christmas Tide
Spira Records - Digital Single
LITTLE VILLAINS is a transatlantic rock band, who are known for their loud, hard and heavy sound. But this is something completely different. We get an acoustic and lighter side of the band. It sounds more like folk rock actually, and almost a little Irish. I guess it's o.k., but not much else.
LITTLE VILLAINS formed in 2005 with former MOTÖRHEAD drummer Phil "Philty Animal" Taylor among the members. Since Phil's passing in 2015, the band has continued to honor his legacy, releasing a string of albums. They plan to release their next album, "Simpler Times", in 2025. A European tour is slated for April 2025.
youtu.be/-lYadE6zvO8?si=ttCAvIbPV93UFJ39 |
facebook.com/littlevillains
Francesco Marras: Cyber Lust
Hell Tour Productions - Digital Single
Sardinian guitarist Francesco Marras (TYGERS OF PAN TANG, SCREAMING SHADOWS) return with another solo single. It's inspired by great hard rock albums such as LED ZEPPELIN's "Physical Graffiti" and WHITESNAKE's "Slip Of The Tongue", and the theme is pornography addiction. He invited his bandmate Iacopo Meille (TYGERS OF PAN TANG) on guest vocals, and the hammond parts were recorded by keyboardist Marco Cossu.
Francesco's previous singles has been good (as far as I can remember), and this little song is not so bad either. A hard rocker in good old style, that I think most fans of the genre could like. So check out.
youtu.be/-WyV-wn70F4?si=4qTMHiVb8DWHQwg8 |
francescomarras.com
ENEMY INSIDE: Don't Call Me An Angel
Reigning Phoenix Music - Digital Single
The verse sounds like pop with sugar sweet vocals and all, while the chorus is modern metal with heavy riffs. So I call this pop metal then. And as you might have figured out, they have a modern sound. A sound that I'm not really a fan of, so I don't really know what else I should say about this.
ENEMY INSIDE will release their third album, "Venom" on February 28.
youtu.be/coA7d5-UzRs
The DISCARDED: The Green Door
The Discarded - Digital Album
This is the 6th full-length studio album from this Canadian garage rockers. The band features veteran rocker JP Wasson on guitar and vocals, alongside his sons, Caden Jax Wasson on drums and Jared Dean Wasson on bass. They were recently joined by Ben Keestra on guitar. Their music is rooted in punk rock and a youthful energy, and it sounds old. Think of a mixture of garage rock, punk rock and rock n roll, and a sound from the late 60s/early 70s.
Most of these 10 songs are really good, so this is worth checking out if you like energetic rock. A track that is a little boring here is the slower song "I'm Not Very Helpful". And there is a couple more that are less interesting.
ffm.to/917f87707cb84a909cebbf0cc69ad1be |
thediscarded.ca
The DARKNESS: I Hate Myself
Cooking Vinyl - Digital Single
"I Hate Myself" is the second track to be taken from the forthcoming 8th studio album, "Dreams On Toast", which is out on March 28. This song is probably best described as a catchy punk rock/glam rock anthem. Think of what could have happen at a New Year's Eve party with members from STATUS QUO, SLADE, CHEAP TRICK and MOTÖRHEAD starting to jam. But at the same time it's exactly the kind of song that you can expect from this band. So in other words another brilliant anthem that should be a hit song.
youtu.be/v4I7WBWSs2I |
thedarknesslive.com
The CHUCK NORRIS EXPERIMENT: Deadshot (Radio Edit)
The Chuck Norris Experiment - Digital Single
"Deadshot" is taken from their latest album, "20", which is out now. And if you want high octane hard rocking, then I can really recomend you to check out that album. But you can of course try this energetic song first. I can almost ensure that you will be thirsty for more, because this band is really on fire. And there's not much else to say about that..
This single was also released as a 5" vinyl in a super limited edition. I think it's sold out as this song was released a few weeks ago (I have been more busy than usual lately).
chucknorrisexperiment.bandcamp.com/track/deadshot....
CARESSING MISERY: Lost And Serene
The Circle Music - CD
CARESSING MISERY was formed in 2021 when Julian Aust (The SHALLOW GRAVES) and Zac Campbell (The WANING MOON, The KENTUCKY VAMPIRES) discovered a shared passion for late 90s goth rock/metal. Even though they lived on different continents (1 in Germany and 1 in USA), they began to collaborate on the 8 tracks that has now become their debut album. They blend deep, charismatic vocals with haunting melodies and a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of bands like The 69 EYES and PARADISE LOST.
"Lost and Serene" is a sonic journey through themes of sadness, hope, light and shadow, relationships, love, and a profound connection to nature. They have the ability to evoke a range of emotions through their music. We go through atmospheric soundscapes to the beauty of darkness. And they do all this with style. They have the right vibe and the songs, so this is absolutely worth listening to in the dark.
The album also features guest vocals from Hendrik Müller (HALPHAS, TIMOR ET TREMOR) and Marìangela Demurtas (ARDOURS, ex-TRISTANIA).
thecirclemusic.gr
BLAZEMTH: Gehenna
Negra Nit on Dec. 23 - CD, LP, Digital
BLAZEMTH belong to the first wave of Spanish black metal bands and are still going strong, with no intention to give up. They play a more primitive and raw kind of black metal, which is best described as a hell of a noise and almost chaotic at times. But it's a controlled chaos and noise. There's actually melodies and elements of thrash as well, so this is actually listenable and good.
If you're tired of all the silly Christmas songs that they seems to play everywhere, play this on highest volume and you will forget that shit at once. In other words a perfect vent to let out all the pain.
Except for English, we can also hear Serbian and Norwegian on this album.
BIND TORTURE KILL: Sauvagerie
??
This is a chaotic hardcore/punk trio from Lyon, France, formed in 2010. They create a relentless wall of sound. It's vicious, unforgiving and visceral. They scream out their anger in French, and this is their third full-length album. These 9 tracks are darker, heavier and more chaotic, and could be described as a crushing blend of chaotic hardcore, crust, powerviolence, death metal and sludge. It's violent and aggressive stuff, with down-tuned riffs, relentless blast beats, and feral screams.
I guess you have a pretty good picture of their sound by now, but I must also say that they actually have a varied sound for being a cahotic hardcore/punk band. This makes it more interesting to listen to than a band that sounds more or less the same all the way.
Unfortunately it's like this again that I don't know which formats it's released in. Fact is that I don't even know when it's supposed to be released and on what label. How hard can it be to give the right information? And they didn't send any link to the band either. I don't get that!
ANTECHAOS: Dystopies
Antechaos - LP, CD, Digital
ANTECHAOS is a modern French hard rock band who is singing in French, and are writing in French as well, so I don't know much about them as I don't understand that language. It sounds like they are very good at what they are doing anyway, because both musicians and the songs are really good. The material is very varied and almost progressive, while the vocals is mainly clean and melodic. But even if the songs are good, 13 tracks is a little too much.
I have been listening a few times now, but I just don't know what else I should write. You should give them a try though.
youtu.be/8lrI0ME33co?si=glI2Kf40oRSCgdi0 |
antechaos.bandcamp.com/album/dystopies
LILLA KROGEN BAND at Lilla Krogen in Borås, Sweden on Dec. 21, 2024
Concert
It was just a week since I saw this local band last time. But that was a damn good gig, so why not see them again when they play their annual Christmas show at the bar that they named the band after? This was also a very good performance, but unfortunately too many people in the way for a short man like me, so it wasn't easy to take photos or see that much of the band. And the photos I got are hardly the best I have taken in my life.
They played 2 sets, and well there's not much else to say..
VINODIUM: ¿En Qué Mundo Vivimos?
Art Gates Records on Dec. 20 - CD
This is a Spanish thrash metal band singing in Spanish. They also add elements of hardcore and social criticism. Among the themes are subjects such as manipulation, pollution and social collapse.
VINODIUM formed in 2005, so it's hardly a new band. It's hard and heavy, but can also be fast and direct. This is a powerful and energetic album where they seems to blend the old sound with modern technology. They are very good at what they are doing, and it sounds o.k. to me, but they have nothing that's extra good here. It could still be worth a try though.
artgatesrecords.com/artists/vinodium
v/a - 6 Christmas Singles
Rottweiler Records/Broken Curfew Records - Digital Singles
Over the course of the festive period Rottweiler Records will be unleashing 6 celebratory singles from 6 of the heaviest, most diverse bands around, including 3 brand new additions to the Rottweiler roster. Some of them are co-released with Broken Curfew Records.
First out was MANGLED CARPENTER on November 29 with "I Saw Three Ships". A title that might not sound so metal. But they has transformed this Christmas carol into a pummelling display of huge riffs and deadly drumming. So it's very metal and crushingly heavy.
On December 6 PULPIT VOMIT released "Jingle, Jingle, Jingle", which is an extreme death/grind outfit. But this doesn't sound so extreme actually. It's more heavy than fast, yet brutal, or however I should describe this?
The latest single (so far) was delivered by EXONERATION last Friday, December 13. They blend deathcore, metalcore and modern metal into an explosive cocktail, and they deliver a combination of 2 songs, "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/Mary Did You Know". Another heavy and brutal band, but with a melodic chorus.
The FINAL WITNESS will then release a single on December 20. They are also doing a cover of the traditional song "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen", but with the addition of "(Freedom From Satan)" in the title. Progressive death metal is what they play, and the beginning of the song sure doesn't sound like that old song at all. But after a while they find the right song, and we get a metal adventure you could say.
On Christmas Eve (December 24) IGNITE THE GODS will give us their version of "Mary Did You Know". It's aggressive and symphonic at the same time, and honestly not so good. But on the other hand, none of these singles are that good.
Finally, on Christmas Day (December 25), the last single will be released. Long standing Mid-West metal band I AM THE PENDRAGON deliver an emotive, progressive, heavy and melodic treat, with "Holy Mystery - Revised Edition" Another wild metal ride.
Not many hits here. Actually zero to be honest. But if you like heavy extreme metal, then this might be fun for you.
facebook.com/mangledcarpenter |
facebook.com/pulpitvomit |
facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563351883433 |
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069928882065 |
facebook.com/IgniteTheGods |
facebook.com/iatpendragon |
rottweilerrecords.bandcamp.com |
brokencurfewrecords.bandcamp.com
SPIDERS: What's Your Game (Miss Insane)
Wild Kingdom Records - Digital Single

This really sounds like something from the 70s. Like a mix of glam rock and power pop. Like if David Bowie during the Ziggy Stardust period would have teamed up with BLONDIE, and then suddenly bump into SLADE and CHEAP TRICK. A really catchy anthem with big hit potential and much energy. It sounds like it clould be a cover actually, but the press info says nothing about that and I have not heard it before, so I guess it's an original song after all, which impress me even more then.
This is the second single from the upcoming album, "Sharp Objects", which will be released on February 14. An album that can be extremely interesting to hear.
youtu.be/6yoZPQXXUhE |
wildkingdom.se |
facebook.com/wearespiders
S.O.R.M.: Scream
Noble Demon - Digital Single
Swedish hard rockers S.O.R.M. has released a new single. This track marks the first release with new guitarist Patrik Sandström, and showcases the band's eclectic blend of hard rock, heavy metal and classic rock. It's a really good song that reminds me of something from the 80s, but yet with a modern sound. A perfect choice for a single and something that you really should check out.
The band formed in 2017, and has released a EP in 2020 and an album in 2023. The album featured guest appearances from guitarists Doug Blair (W.A.S.P.) and Nick Petrino (Dee Snider).
music.nobledemon.com/scream |
music.nobledemon.com/skin |
sormsweden.com |
linktr.ee/nobledemon
MYRHOLT: Blandede Meninger Og Aforismer
Archivist Records on Dec. 20
MYRHOLT is a Norwegian black metal band. "Blandede Meninger Og Aforismer" and its ambient sibling "Blandede Meninger Og Ambiens" was created on classical guitar during the winter of 2020/2021. The ambient version was recorded in early 2021, while the metal version (this album) was sporadically recorded between August 2022 and April 2023. These albums are dedicated to the destruction of modern society, according to the band.
Well, they are hardly among the fast and extreme black metal bands, but seems to be stuck in a heavier mid-tempo, which makes this less interesting. I guess they try to be atmospheric as well, but that doesn't work for me. The most useless track here is "Ritual", which is a soft and instrumental keyboard piece. The rest might not be that useless, but I want more action than this band gives me.
All songs except "Ritual" have long titles and are in Norwegian. The songs are between 5 to 8 and a half minutes.
youtu.be/nNMUwuTKDE4?si=1AwwIBtD35scjvJq |
olealexandermyrholt.com |
archivist-records.com
MORE THAN JOHN: Go Anywhere
Threeman Recordings/OIIIIO - Digital Single
Swedish singer/songwriter MORE THAN JOHN released a cover of an old Celtic folk song a while ago, which was his first single. Now we get his first original song, which is even weaker. Soft and useless without any direction or goal. Sorry, but I don't understand the beauty of listening to silent stuff like this, so I'm the completely wrong audience. But if you think that acoustic singer/songwriter sounds like something interesting, then I won't stop you from giving this a try.
MORE THAN JOHN is a solo project with John Engdahl. His debut album will be released on Record Store Day, which is on April 19, 2025.
morethanjohn.com
REVOLTING: Night Of The Horrid
Xtreem Music on Dec. 17 - CD, Digital
Yet another old school death metal band from Sweden with the legendary Rogga Johansson (PAGANIZER etc etc). This trio formed in 2007, and "Night Of The Horrid" is their 9th album. Today's lineup is Rogga on vocals/guitars, Grotesque Tobias on bass, and Mutated Martin on drums.
No, they are really not doing anything unique here at all that has not been done a million times before, but yet it's extremely good and a must to check out. It's actually catchy and rotten at the same time, but also straightforward and melodic, which is just the way it should be according to me. I'm very sure that fans of old school death metal will love this album.
youtu.be/YtLaH0qrqPU |
facebook.com/revoltingdeathmetal |
xtreemmusic.com
TRAGIC FORMS: Civil War
Tragic Forms - Digital Single
TRAGIC FORMS are brave enough to do a cover of "Civil War" by GUNS N' ROSES. They give the song a modern edge, while keeping the timeless sound of the song as well. I would say that it's pretty true to the original version, so if you like that then this could of course be worth a listen, because they are doing a good job. There's nothing to complain about, but not much else to say either.
All I know about TRAGIC FORMS is that it's a duo from the States, with Garrett Brooks on guitars and vocals, and Taylor Ball on drums.
linktr.ee/tragicforms
SIRIUS: Unbound The Scream
Wormholedeath Records - Digital Single
SIRIUS might not have any new ideas for the heavy/power metal genre, but they do it really good anyway. And what else can you ask for? After a majestic beginning, we get a heavy and powerful song, which makes me think of stuff like PRIMAL FEAR and JUDAS PRIEST for example. And if you like that, then I think you really should check this out.
With this new single this Greek band welcomes George Koursoumis as their new rhythm guitarist. "Unbound The Scream" is the opening track from the album "A Quest For Life", and the song also features guest vocals from Tim "Ripper" Owens (KK'S PRIEST, ex-JUDAS PRIEST, Yngwie Malmsteen, ICED EARTH).
youtu.be/G0dBv9aICIM?si=VO2U5fNaA5TqtceO |
auralwebstore.com/AQuestForLife |
linktr.ee/siriustheband |
wormholedeath.com
KONKHRA: Sad Plight Of Lucifer
Hammerheart Records - CD, LP
KONKHRA formed in 1989, and was part of the extreme metal upstart in Scandinavia. They released a couple of demos in the early 90s before their debut album was released in 1993. They has released several records since then, and there has also been a few changes in the lineup through the years.
What we get from their latest album is classic Scandinavian death metal they say, but not exactly as the Swedish bands. To me it sounds heavier somehow, and more like the American bands. At least in the beginning. But there's also songs that are a little faster as well, and those are possibly more Scandinavian. So there's a good variety here, and mainly a good album. This could be worth a try.
konkhra.lnk.to/sadplightoflucifer |
hammerheart.com
ENTOMOPHTHORA: Instinctual Disease
Soulseller Records - CD, LP, Digital
Norwegian death metallers ENTOMOPHTHORA formed in 2022 during a conversation about zombie flies. Now their debut album is here. And this is really fast death metal, even if they can be really heavy too once in a while.
The 2 members Roger Isaksen (vocals, bass, guitar) and Tom Wahl (guitar) are both veterans in the Norwegian metal scene, and has a past in bands like VECORDIOUS, NEXORUM, MAELSTRÖM, EXELOUME, BETHZAIDA, KILLING FOR COMPANY and KEEP OF KALESSIN. In this band they combine Tom's old-school death metal approach and Roger's more modern extreme metal background.
This is pretty o.k., but I have heard better. But also a lot worse of course. I would guess that this can fit those of you who like it more extreme and violent.
soulsellerrecords.com
DENIGRATE: To The Goddess Unknown
Inverse Records - CD, Digital
This is the 4th full-length album from Finnish doom metal band DENIGRATE. A low number as the band was founded back in 1996. But then their first album wasn't released until 2003. And as the press info says: "The quantity of albums released is really not the thing in this band".
Their goal has always been to be dark, melancholy, tormented and observative. With that they succeed, because that sums up this new album pretty good. Hard and harsh moments are mixed with melodic parts plus some elements of other sub-genres of metal. But most of all it's heavy of course. They seems to know how to make good songs, because this is not bad at all. I would recomend you to give these guys a chance, so check out this album at once.
facebook.com/denigrateCamp |
inverse.fi
ICE EXILED: Reset The Sky
Inverse Records - Digital Album
ICE EXILED is a melodic metal band from Finland, and this is their debut album. But the story began in 2016 under the name ARCHARES, who did several gigs in the Helsinki region and released a couple of songs. During the pandemic they retreated to craft new material and strengthen their identity, eventually rebranding as ICE EXILED with a new lineup in early 2024.
Their sound is heavy, but melodies play a crucial role, and they combine clean vocals and growl. Sometimes this is almost progressive actually, so it's an interesting album to listen to. The material is really strong as well, so it could be worth listening to.
facebook.com/IceExiled |
inverse.fi
ASTERISE: Tale Of A Wandering Soul
Inverse Records - CD, Digital
ASTERISE is a international power metal band, featruring Sozos Michael (GLORYHAMMER), Arnaud Menard (Marius Danielsen's LEGEND OF VALLEY DOOM, ALKEMYST), Noah Edward Simmons (SEVEN THORNS, MEMORIES OF OLD, QUESTBOUND), and Tristan Harders (TERRA ATLANTICA), to name just a few of all the people who are involved in this album, which is their second.
This "online power metal opera project" began in 2018 when Bartlomiej Mezynski and Dionysis Maniatakos wanted to create something fresh and innovative, while also paying homage to classic bands like STRATOVARIUS and AVANTASIA. And then you might have figured out on what level this band is.
Yes, it's an ambitious album with many epic moments and a diverse material. They use many different vocalists and musicians, and the songs are really strong. So if you like epic power metal, then this is definitely worth a try.
inverse-records.myshopify.com/products/asterise.... |
facebook.com/asteriseband |
inverse.fi
ANGUISH FORCE: Ten Reasons To Die
Wanikiya Records - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
Italian defenders of true heavy metal, ANGUISH FORCE, return with their 10th album, where they deliver a energetic blend of heavy, speed and thrash metal. It's said that they stay true to their traditional sound, while continuing to evolve. And the result is a damn good album with 10 powerful songs. No signs of any weakness here. Simply good stuff that most fans of the genre should enjoy.
Not much else to add there..
facebook.com/wanikiyarecord
LILLA KROGEN BAND and PIPISTRELLA at Grill & Gryta in Borås, Sweden on Dec. 13, 2024
Concert
This event sold out in just a few weeks, but then this little pub can only take 150 people, so the place was packed. Something that became pretty obvious when the first band, PIPISTRELLA, started to play. There was so much people that I could hardly see the band, so I could not take any photos of them, which sucks. Their punk rock was pretty good though, so they are worth checking out. I would like to hear them again some day, and I don't have much else to say.
When LILLA KROGEN BAND started to play, it was at least possible for me to get closer to the stage, which gave me a much better experience than the first band. They play something that I would like to call troubadour rock, even if they are a whole band. Think singer/songwriter but more rock, if that gives you a better idea. They are damn good anyway, and many of their lyrics are about Borås and sung in Swedish. They have just released their second album, which I have not heard yet, but they played a few songs from it anyway. They did a really good show and will play at the bar/restaurant the band is named after, Lilla Krogen, next Saturday, December 21. Maybe I go and see them again? Not sure yet..
INJECTOR: Endless Scorn
Art Gates Records on Dec. 13 - CD
INJECTOR was founded in Cartagena, Spain in 2012. They blend the most aggressive thrash metal with the most classic elements of heavy metal. And this time they has created a powerful album with a classic thrash sound, where they balance between fast and melodic parts. They are never too aggressive or too melodic, which is an art in itself.
These 10 songs are of really high quality, and show us that they are much more than just another old school thrash band. At the same time, fans of that will probably like this anyway as they have a timeless sound that always works, and on top of that really good songs.
artgatesrecords.com/artists/injector
MAGIC KINGDOM: Blaze Of Rage
Massacre Records/(some other label in Asia) on Dec. 13 - CD, 2LP, Digital
This is a symphonic power metal band from Belgium, and this is their first concept album. They has previously released 5 albums.
As this is symphonic, it's obviously epic as well, but there's also more aggressive parts with blast beats, while thrash and heavy metal is combined with melodic and progressive elements. This is simply an album full of surprises, but then it took them 4 years to finish it.
It sounds like it was worth all the work though, because this is a pretty good album which is full of highlights. Sometimes it',s pretty straight power metal, sometimes more or less progressive metal, other times more symphonic. And once in a while we get a little bit of all. This is a metal adventure that you would not want to miss.
lnk.to/massacrerecords |
facebook.com/MAGICKINGDOMofficial
MISANTHROPY: The Ever-Crushing Weight Of Stagnance
Transcending Obscurity Records on Dec. 13 - CD, Digital
This is very technical and sometimes chaotic, but also very fast. Very exhausting to listen to. So if you have to avoid stress, then avoid this album, because this can probably even cause a healthy person mental problems. This is what I want to call "get on your nerves music". Because it can easily cause a headache, or even worse, give you a nervous breakdown. But I hope they had lots of fun when they created these songs anyway, and hopefully they are well and not at the madhouse.
MISANTHROPY is an American death metal band, which is both technical and progressive. And even though this might not really be my thing, I must say that they are very skilled musicians anyway. Playing like they do at such high speed is not something that anybody can do. And most of these songs are not exactly short either, as they are around 6-7 minutes. Just 1 song is shorter than that.
youtu.be/9_54H7n4nPA?si=3cXNzBH2UXmvJn1T |
misanthropydm.bandcamp.com |
transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
REVIVER: Carnival Of Chaos
No Dust Records on Dec. 13 - CD
REVIVER is a Dutch heavy metal band formed in 1997. They have so far released 2 albums, in 2005 and 2022. Now they are getting ready to release their third album, "Carnival Of Chaos", which is themed around the mysterious Knights Templar. And with this record they presents the new members Michel Zandbergen (ex-PICTURE, PROJECT MASQUERADE, MONTANY) on vocals and Leon Noë on drums.
Their own description of the sound is "powerful high screams combined with guitar battles, stainless steel riffs, striking drums and steady bass playing". It's a sound similar to CRIMSON GLORY, AGENT STEEL and JUDAS PRIEST, yet not exactly like them. So let's just call it powerful heavy metal in the the good old tradition.
It sounds really good to me anyway, so I can't do anything else but recomend you to check this out.
reviverofficial.com |
nodustrecords.com
WARHOG: The Dystopian Chronicles Vol. 2
Warhog - Digital EP
WARHOG is a progressive metal band hailing from Dallas, Texas, formed in early 2020. They create heavy music with aggressive riffs and melodic storytelling. Influences comes from IRON MAIDEN, BLACK SABBATH, PANTERA and MASTODON. Their goal has never been about sticking to a single metal subgenre, instead they want to pull everyone into their world. That means that they don't sound like any of the mentioned bands, but like WARHOG.
4 songs is what we get here. The first track, "Elogy", is more melodic, while the next song, "Artificial Echoes", is more heavy, yet catchy. The third number is titled "Kill Or Die Trying", and is probably best described as a mixture of the 2 previous tracks. The last track is "Lost Colony", which is 9 and a half minutes long and a bit slower than the other songs.
This is absolutely worth a try.
warhogband.com
VIOLENTOR: Burn In Metal
Folter Records on Dec. 13 - CD
VIOLENTOR play a primitive, raw and dirty kind of speed/thrash metal that reminds me of early black metal. Very old school and intense, but so cool. They might not be the guys who vary their material too much, but with charm and high octane energy they still get away with it. Absolutely worth a try!
This is an Italian band, who celebrate their 20-year anniversary. "Burn In Metal" is their 6th full-length album. They are a raw power trio in the same tradition as MOTÖRHEAD and VENOM, but even faster and dirtier, and more UH!. It's a wild mix of thrash and speed metal, as well as some old punk.
The big question mark is the acoustic folk song "Cicci", which sounds like it's performed by an old man who has nothing to do with metal. What the hell is that song doing here?
facebook.com/VIOLENTOR666 |
facebook.com/FolterRecordsGermany
VIOLET: Mysteria
Yellow Muffin Records on Dec. 13 - LP, CD
About 2 years after their debut album, "Illusions", German band VIOLET returns with their second album. And they are said to be more mature and even more confident than on its predecessor. Not impossible..
This sounds like a forgotten pop album from the 80s. But at that time they could still do songs in that genre. So even though I think it sounds like pop, it's actually really good. I would guess that they want to call this AOR though rather than pop. It's very melodic anyway, but also catchy and sometimes even hit friendly. Think of a mix of STARSHIP, HEART, TOTO and ROXETTE for example, and you might get an idea about this band's sound.
Lots of good songs here and absolutely worth listening to. No doubt about that.
metalapolis.eu |
violetband.de
HELLOWEEN: Live At Budokan
Reigning Phoenix Music on Dec. 13 - 2CD, 3LP, Blu-ray, DVD, Digital
I don't really get why they decided to begin with a song that's almost 13 minutes long? That's sick! But after that comes a favorite of mine, "Eagle Fly Free", which is one of their best songs according to me. And it's the early material up until the 2 "Keeper Of The Seven Keys" albums that I have heard before and really like. So it was a little interesting to hear stuff that I had never heard before among the classics that I like. Some of them were good, some of them were not so good in the beginning, but has grown a little now. But the highlights for me is of course when they play those really old songs, like a long medly of the earliest songs with guitarist Kai Hansen on vocals for example. Some other great songs that they play here are "Futureworld", "How Many Tears" and "I Want Out" for example.
This was filmed and recorded at the legendary Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, Japan, where they celebrated the grand finale of the band's 2022-2023 world tour, which spanned over 30 countries across 3 continents. HELLOWEEN is the first German band to record a live album at Nippon Budokan.
It sounds like they did a great show and this is absolutely worth checking out. Simple as that!
youtu.be/RwQVCIWocB4?si=zY4d55U2vdMQKp5z |
helloween.org |
reigningphoenixmusic.com
HOSTILIA: All The Blood Spilt EP - The Top Floor Live Sessions
Gruesome Records on Dec. 13 - MLP, MCD, Digital EP

HOSTILIA is a young and hungry thrash metal band from Gothenburg, Sweden. And on this EP we can find 3 tracks recorded live in the studio and 2 bonus tracks (a remixed version of "Let Off Some Steam" (vinyl and CD) and a cover of IRON MAIDEN's "Wrathchild").
The idea to let the band record some songs live in the studio was a test to see if they actually were as good in the studio as they were live. And after listening to this it's pretty obvious that they actually are just as good in both environments. They deliver their songs with lots of energy, and it's very raw and old school, but also very tight. This is a band that could go really far, because this is really good stuff.
HOSTILIA formed in the fall of 2021 and are currently in the studio to record their debut album. That's something to look forward to!
youtu.be/WPF-JkVUt0w |
gruesomerecords.bandcamp.com/album/all....
KAPTAIN KAIZEN: Für 3 Minuten 11
This Charming Man Records - LP, Digital
"Für 3 Minuten 11" is the third full-length album from this German punk rock group. As an homage to the average length of a pop song, the title symbolizes the question of the why of one's own creativity, the art of switching off in these times and the unforgettable pleasure of a fleeting moment. The 10 tracks on the record examine various topics, mostly in a critical examination of current social developments.
I like the uptempo songs best, like "Kleiekotzer" and "Täubcheshöhle" for example. The other songs doesn't really have the same energy, so they are just o.k. according to me. But as an album it's good stuff.
I'm not really sure what I should compare this with though. I don't know if German punk rock says anything to you, but that's what it sounds like to me anyway. Much because they actually sing in German.
youtu.be/wPI-sDbGO3E?si=Hd3ZTwbUsfK5Vqj0 |
thischarmingmanrecords.bandcamp.com
METAL RIÖT: Birth Of Terror
Wormholedeath Records - Digital Album
METAL RIÖT was formed in Akaa, Finland in 2015, and are nowadays based in Tampere. They play traditional heavy metal with punk influences. But there's also some speed and thrash metal. "Birth Of Terror" is their debut album.
The songs dive into a myriad of themes, from horror to real-life reflections, and each track is a journey into the band's psyche. Due to lineup changes it was a real challenge to record this album. But they menaged to get the job done, and the result is a damn good album in the good old tradition.
This is absolutely worth checking out.
youtu.be/BzRT0_fA3mM?si=v6IHTia5aKkHadI2 |
facebook.com/metalriotband |
wormholedeath.com
SILENT WINTER: Utopia
No Remorse Records - CD, LP
SILENT WINTER is a melodic heavy/power metal band formed in Volos, Greece in 1995. After a few demos they disbanded in 1999, and it took 19 years before they were back again in 2018 with the EP "The War Is Here". Their first full-length album, "The Circles Of Hell", was released in 2019, and their second album, "Empire Of Sins", in 2021.
Influences comes from renowned acts such as STRATOVARIUS, HELLOWEEN and GAMMA RAY, and they hardly hide it. So no, they are hardly here to reinvent the genre, but rather to salute it. And that they do extremely good. This album is full of great songs with a very familiar sound. Yes, you should absolutely check this out if you're into classic heavy/power metal.
youtu.be/D6dGWKWpCwY |
noremorse.gr |
facebook.com/silentwinter.gr
TOTAL HATE: Forthcoming Age Of The Reaper
War Anthem Records - CD, LP, Cassette, Digital
TOTAL HATE was founded in 2000 by vocalist and guitarist Adrastos and drummer Tondhron as a side project besides their main band SEEDS OF HATE. Since then Scandinavian black metal of the 1990s has been their main source of inspiration. A demo tape was recorded and released in 2002 via Flaming Hate Productions. They has since then released 5 full-length albums, a EP and a split 7" vinyl.
What we get from these Germans is old school black metal in the Norwegian way. It's brutal, uncompromising and full of misanthropy. So in case you wonder, yes they live up to the name of the band. It's noisey and almost chaotic, but I like what I hear. This is a perfect soundtrack for the dark season that we have here up in the north right now, but also a perfect way to get your anger out about the world of today, stupid people and whatever might disturb you.
war-anthem.de |
facebook.com/totalhate666
WINGS OF STEEL: Gates Of Twilight (Live)
RFL Music Entertainment - Digital Single
WINGS OF STEEL released their first full-length album, "Gates Of Twilight", in 2023, and then went on their first European tour in the spring of 2024. Without the band's prior knowledge, the second headline show in France at Le Splendid in Lille was recorded, and have now become the live album "Live in France", which will be released on Friday, December 13. And it's the live album that this song comes from.
WINGS OF STEEL is a hard rock/heavy metal band formed in 2019. The music is rooted in the old school, so the sound of the 70s and 80s. A self-titled EP was released in 2022.
It sounds just like it should, so this is a good song. Heavy riffs and high vocals are some of the ingredients here. My only question is why they included a guitar solo when it's a single? And I'm not talking about the solo in the song here, but a solo after the song. Seems stupid to me. But as I said, a good song anyway.
youtube.com/shorts/DHiob8d0kvs?si=vz2gm73IjJd2QXiO |
wingsofsteelband.com
VAN ZANT: Always Look Up
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
VAN ZANT is like a band who are supposed to play melodic rock, but sounds almost like American country rock instead. What they really play is supposed to be Southern rock though. But it's a very kind and melodic kind of Southern rock then, and I would prefer some more action and power, because this sounds so weak that I start to think that they have lost their balls (but maybe they are just shit old?). And that the duo focus on Christian lyrics and music is probably a big part of that too.
This is VAN ZANT's first new album in almost 2 decades. The band is nowadays led by the Van Zant brothers Donnie (.38 SPECIAL) and Johnny (LYNYRD SKYNYRD).
ffm.to/vanzantalwayslookup
SUNSTORM: Restless Fight
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital Album
AOR/melodic rock quintet SUNSTORM is a project created, overseen, and directed by Serafino Perugino (President of Frontiers Music Srl), and it was originally designed to showcase a musical style similar to singer Joe Lynn Turner's melodic rock/AOR roots. Since 2021 the band features vocalist Ronnie Romero (LORDS OF BLACK, Ritchie Blackmore's RAINBOW, MSG, The FERRYMEN, ELEGANT WEAPONS). "Restless Fight" is the third album, where he is joined by guitarist Aldo Lonobile (Geoff Tate's SWEET OBLIVION, ARCHON ANGEL, RING OF FIRE), Andrea Arcangeli (DGM) on bass, drummer Alfonso Mocerino (ex-TEMPERANCE, VIRTUAL SIMMETRY), and Antonio Agate on keyboards.
With this album they wanted to keep the AOR roots from the early albums, but with a special attention to the 80s way to arrange the guitars and keys in order to reach more powerful vibrations. So what we really get is rather a mix of AOR and melodic hard rock. And it really sounds like something that could have been released in the 80s. This is a great album that you really should check out. Simple as that.
ffm.to/sunstormrestlessfight |
facebook.com/SunstormMusic
STORACE: Crossfire
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
Maltese born Swizz singer Marc Storace is of course most well-known for being the frontman of KROKUS. But he started his musical journey back in 1970, with the progressive band TEA, with whom he released 5 LPs before he joined KROKUS in 1979. In the beginning of 2021 Marc started to work on his solo career, and at the end of the year the first STORACE album was released. Now the second album, "Crossfire", is here.
The songs on this album were written together with guitarist Tommy Henriksen (Alice Cooper) and drummer Pat Aeby (KROKUS, GOTUS). Tommy also produced the album, which has a big rock sound, just like in the 70s and 80s. The music is timeless hard rock, mainly in the same tradition as KROKUS, so fans of them should of course give this a try.
Marc is hardly a young man anymore, so I would say that this album is surprisingly vital. He still have lots of power in his voice, and deliver like he always has. On top of that we also get some really good songs, so this is really worth a chance.
And this is not the last we will hear from STORACE this year, as I saw something about a live release already next week (Dec. 13). Interesting. And KROKUS is not over yet as they will do some festival shows next year.
ffm.to/storacecrossfire |
storace.ch
STARCHASER: Into The Great Unknown
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital Album
This is the second album from Swedish melodic metal band STARCHASER. The band features guitarist Kenneth Jonsson (ex-TAD MOROSE), vocalist Ulrich Carlsson (SHAGGY, ex-M.ILL.ION), bassist Örjan Josefsson (CIBOLA JUNCTION), drummer Johan Kulberg (WOLF, THERION, HAMMERFALL) and keyboardist Kay Backlund (LION'S SHARE, Nils Patrik Johansson, IMPERA).
These gentlemen sure doesn't dissapoint, but deliver a very strong album that is full of great moments. Good song after good song and nothing to complain about as everybody is doing a really god job. That's the way it always should be.
What else I should say is good question though..
ffm.to/starchasergreatunknown |
facebook.com/Starchaserband
SEVENTH CRYSTAL: Entity
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, 2LP, Digital
Swedish melodic hard rockers SEVENTH CRYSTAL released their third album a month ago (Nov. 8). And with this record they take everything up a few levels with a concept album about today's technology. They expand their sound by exploring different genres, like progressive rock or heavier elements. But you can expect anything from soft rock to heavy metal when it comes to this Gothenburg band. Their sound is characterised by bombastic productions, catchy hooks, and dramatic and emotional melodies.
All that sounds like perfect ingredients for a great album. And if you like melodic hard rock from Sweden, then this is something that you really should check out. Because they have actually made a fantastic album that they can be really proud of.
ffm.to/seventhcrystalentity |
facebook.com/seventhcrystalband
LUMINARE CHRISTMAS!: Mistletoe Madness
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
This is a wild mix of very kind and melodic songs, instrumental songs and traditional Christmas songs. And I don't really get what all those instrumental songs have to do on a Christmas album? I mean, it's actually more than half of these songs that are instrumental. Can't they write lyrics or what? Weird album.. And what do they mean with "You Look Like Christmas"? What a strange title. Does the person look like a Christmas tree then or what do you mean?
This project is led by former MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER keyboardist John Blasucci, who is also a longtime musical director for Dennis DeYoung of STYX. The sound of LUMINARE CHRISTMAS! is described as a blend of MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER's holiday classic vibes, the high energy rock of TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, and the cinematic atmosphere of Hans Zimmer. I'm not sure if that gives you any idea of what they actually sounds like, but to make it easy we can call it symphonic Christmas rock.
They will be doing some shows in the States during December.
ffm.to/lcmistletoemadness |
luminaremusic.com
IMPELLITTERI: War Machine
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
These heavy metal veterans has sold over 2 million records worldwide and has shared the stage with the big boys. With this new longplayer they are said to deliver one of their best albums to date. What you can expect is a wild mix of bone-crushing riffs, hyper-technical solos and anthemic choruses. A powerful and melodic kind of heavy metal that reminds me a little of Yngwie Malmsteen in the 80s. But I also think of DIO from the same era. And I could mention more acts than that, but I guess you have figured out that it's good old heavy metal that we talk about here.
IMPELLITTERI might not have as strong songs as those artists once had, but they are definitely not far away, because this is a really good album and you have to check it out.
The band is from Los Angeles, and was formed by guitarist Chris Impellitteri in 1987 together with singer Rob Rock and bassist James Amelio Pulli. New drummer is Paul Bostaph (SLAYER).
ffm.to/impellitteriwarmachine |
impellitteri.net
EXIT STAGE LEFT at Grill & Gryta in Borås, Sweden on Dec. 6, 2024
Concert
It seems like this evening wasn't like it use to be at this little bar. Usually the first band doesn't begin to play until 22 or something like that. But when I arrived I was told that they had already played an early set, and now it was time for a music quizz before they play another set. The music quizz had some really hard questions, as it was all about progressive rock. Who knows anything about that? Ha, ha.
EXIT STAGE LEFT is a progressive rock band from Borås, Sweden. They are very inspired by 70s bands like RUSH etc., but have their own ideas as well. I saw them a year ago, and they were really good, both music and live show. This time they might have done an even better show. As the stage wasn't much higher than a beer glass (a pint), and the audience stood a bit from it in a half circle, they walked down there once in a while to play closer to us.
These guys obviously burn for the music, and have lots of fun while on stage. They said that they were working on their second album already last year, and it seems like they are still working on it as they played a brand new song that will be on that album. They also played some songs from their first album and some more songs that will be on the next album.
If you like old progressive rock, then you should really check out this band.
For some weird reason I just got 3 photos, and none of them was of the singer/guitarist. I thought I took more than that, but 3 was all I could find the next day.
LAMBRINI GIRLS: Love
City Slang - Digital Single
These British punk rock chicks seems to spit out singles now. So here's another one..
This is another song from their upcoming debut album, "Who Let The Dogs Out", which will be released on January 10. On that album they are "ripping through a laundry list of social ills, and is a raw distillation of LAMBRINI GIRLS' anger, energy, and charisma". They simply tells us what they think is wrong with today's society, just as the punks always have done.
It sounds very British as usual, but they also show us that they have their own sound, so I would not say that this is yet another punk rock band in the old school. No, this is something else, even though the roots are there too. Good stuff anyway.
ARCHITECTS: Whiplash
Epitaph Records - Digital Single
ARCHITECTS will release a new album, "The Sky, The Earth & All Between", on February 28. "Whiplash" is the third single from the album, which doesn't reveal anything new to me, even though it's said to mark a new beginning for the band. Maybe I'm completely out and cycling in the slush, but for some reason I think of a band like REFUSED when I hear this, but mixed with those nu metal and metalcore bands from the 2000s up until today. And for being that kind of thing, this is (to my surprise) not so bad at all.
The new album will be their 11th.
youtu.be/c67cjKK_08M
HOLLINGSHEAD: Trail
FOSFOR Creation on Dec. 6 - Digital Album
After the release of "Stay Dead" in 2020, things went quiet for Swedish prog/doom band HOLLINGSHEAD. But now they are back with a new album. And since last time they have recruited a new singer, Tony Naima. The other members play or has played with bands like BAKELIT, AVATARIUM, EVERGREY, MELDRUM, ABSTRAKT ALGEBRA, SIDEBURN etc.
The first time I heard this, it wasn't really my thing. I'm not really sure what it could be.. Maybe it just was the wrong day for this kind of music for me? But a heavier song like "She" was suddenly much better anyway.
The second time I heard this album was a sunny winter day, and a Saturday as well. Then it was suddenly more interesting. Now it was more like progressive rock and metal use to sound like, but with that twist of doom metal then, which is a interesting detail that makes this band stand out from the rest (because honestly, there's no lack of prog bands nowadays).
This is something that you should check out.
hollingsheadband.se
ÖLDÖDS: Ölen Ska Ner
Grind To Death Records on Dec. 6 - EP
Now I have an interesting question for you: Does humour belong in death metal? Because this band have an interesting concept: Death metal songs in Swedish about drinking beer. Original and a fun idea, but I expected it to be more party catchy then it actually is. So what we get is a pretty fat and heavy kind of death metal, which is o.k. too. This is absolutely not bad anyway. After a few listenings I would actually say that it's really good and not just funny lyrics. But I guess those lyrics, and that they are in Swedish, can scare away some people. Well, that's their loss then.
ÖLDÖDS was formed in 2007, so it's hardly a new band. Yet I don't think I have heard them before though. But it seems like they have become a cult band in the underground scene anyway. Their first full-length album was released 10 years ago, and I guess they have been too busy drinking beer since then, because there seems to be no new music until this year.
It seems to be impossible to pre-order this record though, because I can't find it. So I don't have a clue what formats it will be released in (very irritating).
oldods.bandcamp.com |
grindtodeathrecords.com
CARBON BLACK: Principium 2.0
Carbon Black on Dec. 6 - Digital EP
Australian metal act CARBON BLACK celebrate their 10-year anniversary with this EP, which features tracks from their 2014 debut EP, "Principium", re-recorded, remixed and reimagined. The result is 5 tracks of groove-laden, yet melodic heavy metal. It's heavy and melodic, and it sounds a little like nu metal or metalcore to me. They have in other words a pretty modern sound, but also very good songs, so don't be afraid of giving them a try.
They will also release this on a CD in a very limited edition. It will be available in the new year.
carbon-black.bandcamp.com/album/principium-20
Seraina Telli: Black 'n' White Sessions
Metalville Records on Dec. 6 - 2CD
30 tracks! And all acoustic! My only question is, how were you thinking young lady? That's way too much at once for most people. But now it happens to be that we actually get "just" 15 songs, but twice. Not so sure about that idea..
But with that said, I have to admit that I'm really surprised that so many of all these songs are good. So it could actually be worth to listen to them all (but maybe not at once). At least the first 15 tracks, which is with just Seraina on vocals. The only question mark is the cover of ",My Way" by Frank Sinatra. And it's hardly a Sid Vicious version that we get here. But that just shows us how diverse Seraina can be. And she actually sing "I like every kind of music" in 1 song.
The second half features the same songs, but as duets. A Britta screaming in the background to "Addicted To Color" and a rapper in "Left Behind" is more irritating than good. But "Wish You Well" with Chris Boltendahl (GRAVE DIGGER) and "Song For The Girls" with Lee Aaron works much better for me. So you can easily say that there's both better and worse versions on this disc. But most of the songs are not so bad anyway.
I have probably said it before, but Seraina have a very powerful and diverse voice, and she knows how to use it. And just because I call this acoustic, it doesn't mean that it's just Seraina and an acoustic guitar. No, some songs are with piano for example, while others have strings. So it's a varied album.
metalville.de
MYSTERY BLUE: Night Demon
Massacre Records on Dec. 6 - CD, Digital
French heavy metal band MYSTERY BLUE gives us a mix of powerful and melodic parts. There's a passion and a hunger. Their sound is in the old school, mainly in the same tradition as 80s JUDAS PRIEST, ACCEPT and IRON MAIDEN. They have many really good songs here, but 13 is a few too many at once. Otherwise not much to complain about. Just listen and enjoy.
Except for 12 original songs, we also get a cover of the ACCEPT classic "Restless And Wild", which they are doing a o.k. version of.
This band released 3 albums back in the 80s, and returned in 2003. So if you like this, then there's some more to discover.
lnk.to/massacrerecords |
mysteryblue.com
PILLAR OF LIGHT: Caldera
Transcending Obscurity Records on Dec. 6 - 2LP, CD, Digital
PILLAR OF LIGHT is a sludge/doom band, and this is their debut album. It's heavy and melancholy with pain and sorrow. But yet they seems to try to find some light and hope, even though everything is hopeless. After all they play music and get their feelings out that way. And music can be a good medicine.
This might be a good cure for the band members, but if it will have the same effect on you is a good question. I would still guess that there's a chance that this could help a little at least. But then you have to like heavier music of course, because otherwise it might actually make it worse for you.
But enough fluff now.. As I said in the beginning, this band blend darkness and light. Raw emotions are mixed with underlying melodies. The vocals is intense and desperate. But most of all it's crushingly heavy. So if you like something like that, then perhaps you should give this a try.
youtu.be/A5lDWuRVpnE?si=u39Hc-1rvp3VEzFn |
pillaroflight.bandcamp.com/album/caldera |
transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
PANZERCHRIST: Maleficium Part I
Emanzipation Productions on Dec. 6 - LP, CD, Digital
Last year Danish death metallers PANZERCHRIST was back after a decade with the album "Last Of A Kind", which was really good. What they has created this time is a fast and intense death metal album, that almost sounds like black metal sometimes. It's dark and brutal, but yet damn good and not without melodies. And with new drummer Ove Lungskov (ROTTEN OCEAN) you can expect fast blast beats and thunderous double kicks. But even if it goes fast, it's also really heavy, and there's some atmospheric parts as well. Simply varied brutality you could say.
I really like this album, and I would guess that this could work for both death metallers and black metallers.
bit.ly/pzc-bnd |
emanzipation.dk |
facebook.com/panzerchristofficial
DETEST: A World Drowning In Detest
Emanzipation Productions on Dec. 6 - LP, CD, Digital
"A World Drowning In Detest" is described as "a relentless assault that pushes the boundaries of death metal". It's also said that it marks a new era for this Danish band. With the addition of 2 new members - Jesper Mathiesen return on drums and new guitarist is Anders L. Nissen - they have found a new love for what they do. It's crushingly heavy and brutal with a raw aggression. But there's also space for blistering solos and technical precision.
I didn't really know what to think about the single "F.Y.M.M.F.", but most of the other tracks on this album are actually not so bad. It's hardly like I have found a new favorite band, but it doesn't suck anyway.
bit.ly/dtst-bnd |
emanzipation.dk |
facebook.com/DetestDK
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