REVIEWS JUNE 2024
«May | Index | July»NEPTUNE: Metal Hearts
Pride & Joy Music - Digital SingleSwedish melodic metal band NEPTUNE has signed with German based label Pride & Joy Music, and the band's second album, "End Of Time", will be released on September 20. "Metal Hearts" is the first taste of the new album.
NEPTUNE existed in the 80s already, but all they released back then was some demo tapes. 30 years later, in 2018, those recordings were finally released on the album "Land Of Northern". That album woke up the passion, and an album with brand new songs, "Northern Steel", was released in 2020 (a good album as far as I can remember).
Influences comes from classic heavy metal bands from the 70s and 80s, but they seems to have added some modern influences, at least on this song. Because this sounds like some kind of mixture of the old and the new, or however I should describe it? People who like melodic metal will probably like it anyway. But I think I need to hear at least 1 more song before I can say if this is good or not. Because this is not the kind of song that gets stuck in your head at once.
youtu.be/-F1D9ThMkSo | facebook.com/NeptuneBandOfficial
The LA COWBOYS: Endless Summer (re-issue)
Pride & Joy Music Classixx - CDGermany based label Pride & Joy Music Classixx re-releases the sought after Westcoast rocker "Endless Summer" by The LA COWBOYS as Vol. 10 in its Classixx series. This version is identical to the AOR Heaven Classixx version released in 2010 and limited to 300 copies only.
Now it seems like this album was actually just released in Japan when it came out on March 31 in 1993, and it didn't get much promotion. So if you have not heard about it before, that could be the reason. Some people succeeded to hear about them though. And when AOR Heaven re-released it in 1998, all 1000 copies sold out pretty quick. But it seems like it was released once again in 2010, and that release is probably sold out too.
Some songs here are absolutely good. But then we also have these songs that are way too sugar sweet for me. But I guess that if you like something like CHICAGO when they became a pop band in the 80s, then you could like those songs too.
Due to a high amount of pre-orders, this album could be sold out already. But there's always a chance that there might be a few copies left if you want something soft and melodic.
shop.prideandjoy.de
DarWin: Five Steps On The Sun
Phantom Recordings - CD, LPDarWin is a progressive rock/metal group. But it's also the name of the founder and leader of this band. He has previously released 2 albums, and "Five Steps On The Sun" has once again been co-produced by DarWin drummer Simon Phillips (Jeff Beck, TOTO, PROTOCOL). The album also includes keyboardist Derek Sherinian (DREAM THEATER, SONS OF APOLLO), guitarist Greg Howe (Michael Jackson, PROTOCOL), and Indian bassist Mohini Dey (Steve Vai, Zakir Hussain), to name a few of the other people.
I would actually like to describe this as melodic progressive hard rock with elements of metal. That's what it sounds like to me anyway (but everyone's hearing is different). It sounds pretty good anyway, and it's not too complicated but pretty straight songs. I would guess that both fans of melodic rock and progressive rock could like this, as well as a few hard rockers too. Worth a try anyway.
youtu.be/EkD_VfuPNHA?si=98I9hQZi5AqkCFKp
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD: Sonic Forces (re-issue)
Pride & Joy Music Classixx - CDEven though this album was released in 2020, it seems like it has been sold out for a while. But now Pride & Joy Music has re-released it with 2 bonus tracks. Just in 300 copies though, so act fast if you want it.
Swedish band CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD made their live debut in Stockholm on October 31, 2009, and released their self-titled debut album in May 2011. For a full discography, go to their website.
Most of the songs on this album are of top quality, just as I wrote in 2020 when I reviewed this album. But when I listen to it now, I think a song like "Emptiness" is much weaker. And a instrumental synthwave remix of the opening track, ",Headlights", what was that good for? Otherwise not much to complain about. Fans of melodic rock from the 80s will probably love this album, as it sounds like most other bands in this genre.
shop.prideandjoy.de | captainblackbeard.net
ICY STEEL: The Wait, The Choice And The Bravery
Wanikiya Records - Digital Album, CDICY STEEL is an Italian heavy metal band, founded in 2005. The idea is to blend classic, epic heavy metal with elements of Celtic and Pagan music, as well as acoustic music. A self-titled debut album was released by Pure Steel Records in 2007, and a few more records has been released on different labels and with various line-ups since then.
"The Wait, The Choice And The Bravery" is their 6th album, where we get 9 songs. And this is a pure heavy metal album. As far as I can hear there's not any Celtic, Pagan or acoustic elements here (or maybe I'm so used to it that I don't notice it anymore?). I really like what I hear, because this record is full of really strong songs. It's powerful and melodic at the same time. This band should be more famous than I think they are. So give them a chance and spread the word about them.
facebook.com/wanikiyarecord
HELL RIDERS: Rising Phoenix
Wanikiya Records - Digital Album, CDThis is an Italian/Swizz heavy metal band, formed in 2017, who released their debut album, "First Race", on November 1, 2019 through Vulcano Records. After many line-up changes, original member Davide Girardi is joined by new members Bobo Critelli on drums, Ryo on bass, Alessio Zanchin and Francesco Arioli on lead guitars. And for their second album they have signed with Wanikiya Records.
When I look back at my review of the debut, it seems like I liked it. I also wrote something about a 70s production and compared them with JUDAS PRIEST during that era.
This second album seems to be more into the 80s instead, and the influences this time are completely different. I'm not really sure what I should compare them with this time though, but they have at least succeeded to make another good album. It will not be a future classic, but if you like good old heavy metal that might not sound so professional and clean, then this album could be something for you.
facebook.com/wanikiyarecord | facebook.com/hellridersheavymetalband
AVALANCHE: Armed To The Teeth
Avalanche - Digital SingleIf you like Australian hard rock, then you should also like this band from Sydney. And I guess I don't have to write more than that, because you probably know the sound just by reading that description. So yes, it's some ROSE TATTOO here, and some good old AC/DC there. I guess we could even throw in some AIRBOURNE as well. In other words a damn good party anthem that will kick your ass.
The band is working on heading to the UK and Europe next year for their debut album. Exiting news!
avalanchebandrock.com
HAND ON HEART: Space
Hand On Heart - Digital AlbumItalian band HAND ON HEART was formed in 2017 by experienced members, and some of them have been playing since the 80s.
What you can expect from this album is a very kind and melodic kind of "hard" rock with its roots in the 80s. Some of the songs are good, but unfortunately there's too many that are a little too soft and sugar sweet for my taste. So instead of a top album, we get a pretty o.k. album instead. Not really what I expected, as I wanted more stuff like "Agony" for example, which is more uptempo and a really good song.
facebook.com/handonheartitaly
RÖTUAL: Wörms
Rötual - MCD, Digital EPThis is the first EP with this new death/doom band. They formed in 2023 and are from Canada.
What we get here is their first single, "Worms", alongside 2 alternate versions of songs to be found on an upcoming full-length album, to be released later in 2024. The main ingredients are "mid-pace riffs, a 90s death-doom feel, death metal vocals, and enough hooks to cut the meat off a corpse." It's heavy of course, but yet too extreme for those who want melodic stuff. I would also say that it sounds raw somehow.
I guess it sounds o.k., but it's not much else than that. "Worms" and "Ultime Voyage" are the strongest songs. "Mycélium (version Française)" is much weaker.
youtu.be/xkAKllEyoC0?si=FNUQoBJvyftnwQZ0 | rotualdeathdoom.bandcamp.com/album/w-rms
RETSU: Retsu
783punx - CD, Cassette / Self-released - LP, DigitalRETSU is a new band formed by British guitarist Scoot (DOOM, EXTINCTION OF MANKIND, HELLKRUSHER, ALEHAMMER etc). And what he and the other members has created is a furious and raging hardcore/punk album in the classic style. If you miss a band like ANTI CIMEX, then this might be the cure. But there',s also lots of DISCHARGE and some of those DIS bands from the 90s (DISFEAR, DISSOBER, DISCHANGE etc etc). So this is simply true d-beat hardcore/punk in the good old school. And it sounds really good, so you should absolutely check them out.
RETSU will play some shows in the UK this summer and later this year. Sounds like something that you should not miss if you happens to be where they will play.
linktr.ee/783label | push.fm/fl/retsu | 783punx.com
RAINSWEPT: No Threats Allowed
Time To Kill Records on July 1 - CD, DigitalFrom Rome, Italy comes RAINSWEPT, and they play hardcore. This is their first full-length album, where they blend different styles, like NYHC and 90s metal HC for example. We get fast riffs, two-step parts, and breakdowns. In other words everything that you can expect from a good old hardcore album.
The band started in 2022 as a duo, and within 6 months they had a complete line-up and recorded their first demo.
Well, this is heavy and powerful stuff, with that classic aggressive hardcore vocals, gang choirs and all. And they are doing this very good, so they could be worth a try.
youtu.be/Tly32C6mfBc?si=9xDqtOG6T2xPB7bd | rainswept137.bandcamp.com | timetokillrecords.com
Issa: Another World
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, DigitalNorwegian AOR queen Isabell Øversveen, aka Issa, deliver another album full of melodic rock from the 80s with pop melodies. And as usual she give all that she got, and this lady can really sing. On top of that, the songs seems to be a little extra good this time, because this album is really great. This could actually be the most interesting AOR album that has been released this month. That's how much I like this.
Even if I label this as AOR and melodic rock, there's actually a few melodic hard rock songs as well. Fans of 80s acts like BON JOVI, Richard Marx and HEART should not be dissapointed when they listen to this.
"Another World" is album number 8 from Issa. So if you like this as much as I do, then there's more to discover.
youtu.be/3f8tQR9TIbM | orcd.co/issaanotherworld
SPEKTRA: Our Time Is Now
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital SingleMelodic rock band SPEKTRA released a new single, "Our Time Is Now", a few weeks ago (I'm a busy man), ahead of the release of their second album, "Hypnotized", due on July 12.
"Their sound resonates with the influences of rock masters like JOURNEY, FOREIGNER, and WINGER, delivering a symphony of stadium rock melodies and high-energy hard rock vibes", says the short press release. This song is however probably best described as a power ballad. It sounds like a thousand other bands in this genre, which is nothing unusual, but it's a pretty good song anyway.
youtu.be/Im89kpzK17I?si=KCpITmqQc_BTGdob | ffm.to/spektrahypnotized
Michael Schenker feat Erik Grönwall & Slash: Mother Mary
earMUSIC - Digital SingleGerman guitar legend Michael Schenker are going to release the new album "My Years With UFO" on September 20, to celebrate the 50th anniversary with today's rock elite. The first single, "Mother Mary", features both Erik Grönwall (ex-SKID ROW, H.E.A.T) and Slash (GUNS N' ROSES).
Michael began his career in SCORPIONS as a teenager, but left them to join British hard rockers UFO at the age of 17, where he played between 1972-1978. After that he have had a successful career with his own band MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP (aka MSG).
I have heard most of the classics with UFO, but "Mother Mary" is not one of the songs that I remember that I have heard. And that makes it a little harder for me to be enthusiastic over this song, because it sure doesn't sound like a classic to me, even if it's a good rock song. But on the other hand, to release one of the more well-known songs as a first single would have been too obvious of course, as we have already heard those songs a hundred times (at least). And this song seems to grow and get better for each time I listen, so it's absolutely worth checking out anyway.
schenker.lnk.to/MYWUID | facebook.com/MichaelSchenkerRocks
COSMIC JAGUAR: El Era De Jaguar
Soman Records - CD, DigitalCOSMIC JAGUAR might sound like the name of a space rock band or something like that. But this Ukrainian band play a progressive and technical kind of thrash metal. Or avant-garde/technical thrash as it says on their Facebook page. They simply don't make it easy for themselves, but want every song to be a challenge. And it's a bit of a challenge to listen to as well. Not too bad though. Well-oiled musicians for sure, no doubt about it. So this could of course be worth a try if you like more technical thrash.
Among the special guests on this album are people who play or have played with SADIST, MORGOTH, VENDETTA etc.
youtu.be/uI4-I7JiraY?si=4quysYLR1kT2c8pT | cosmicjaguar.bandcamp.com
Avi Rosenfeld: Attack
Avi Rosenfeld - Digital AlbumAvi has released so many albums now that they all start to sound the same more or less. And I think I said something similar about the last album too. It's still good classic hard rock/heavy metal with the roots in the 70s and 80s, but there's nothing extra good or any anthems that can be classics in the future. Which is a liitle sad as I think the love and the passion is absolutely there.
With that said, I think that if you have not heard this man's music before, and happens to like classic hard rock and heavy metal from the 70s and 80s (and especially URIAH HEEP and DEEP PURPLE), then you should give this album a try anyway, no matter what I think about it.
As usual a lot of people is involved here. Avi play guitar and is also responsible for music and lyrics, while Stefano Stex Sbrignadello is singing. The other songs have different musicians, but some of them play on more than 1 song.
avirosenfeld.bandcamp.com/album/attack
MILLENNIAL REIGN: World On Fire
Ulterium Records - LP, CD, DigitalWhat we have here is a melodic power metal band from the States. Since the last album, "The Great Divide", Travis Wills (CRIMSON GLORY, INFIDEL RISING) stepped down as fill in vocalist for the band. The group found their new full time vocalist in Tiffany Galchutt, a female vocalist with an impressive range and tons of experience from performing with bands around the Dallas, TX area. Pedro Cortes also stepped in as the band's new drummer alongside current members Neil Bertrand (bass) and Dave Harvey (guitars and band founder).
And what you can expect to hear on this album is powerful vocals and a good musicianship, as well as epic symphonic elements and memorable melodies. It simply has all the ingedients that you can ask for from a power metal album. So if that sounds interesting, then you should really check this out, because it's a really strong material that they have here.
MILLENNIAL REIGN released their first, self-titled, album in 2012. "World On Fire" is their 4th album. They have also released a EP in 2021.
youtube.com/watch?v=FZMoM74Fvgk | millennialreign.com | ulterium-records.com
SLUGCRUST: Discharge(d)
Terminus Hate City on June 28 - 7" EP, DigitalSLUGCRUST hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, and gives us 5 short and fast songs of noisey grindcore/crust punk. Among their influences are legends like NAPALM DEATH and DISCHARGE. This is raw and unfiltered aggression without any excuses, and very intense. Yet it's actually not so bad to listen to.
The band has previously released 2 EPs, 1 single, 1 full-length album and a split record. Their lyrics are about things like politics, ecological activism, depravity, immorality and emotional degeneracy. So if you don't give a shit, then you might not be their right audience.
terminushatecity.com | slugcrust.bandcamp.com/album/discharge-d
The VANRAYS: Hey! Alright Now
Bonerattle Records - Digital EPThis is something different from what you use to read about here, because this band add lots of good old Motown soul to their garage sound. And then I talk about a sound from the 60s, and not any modern crap. Very catchy and easy to like, other times more soulful and emotional. I prefer the catchy stuff as there's more action in those songs, but those other songs are not bad either.
The VANRAYS have a big sound, with hooks, melodies and a big brass section. Yet I see this as rock and not any pop. Influences comes from stuff like SPENCER DAVIS GROUP, DETROIT COBRAS, Curtis Harding and the Daptone Records roster. Fans of good old R&B, as well as garage music, should give this band a chance.
My favourite here must be the first track, which is the title track.
youtu.be/KEZCH-xdHac | thevanrays.com
ANVIL: World Of Fools
AFM Records - Digital Single
Here's another single from ANVIL's 20th studio album, "One And Only", which will be released on June 28. This song is a little heavier than the previous singles, but still very ANVIL I would say, and not extremely heavy. So in other words another really good song from a great album and not much else to add. Check it out!
My review of the album is already up, so if you want to know more about that click here.
anvil.bfan.link/world-of-fools | anvil.bfan.link/one-and-only | facebook.com/anvilmetal | shop.afm-records.de
RAT BOY: One In A Million
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleFrom Essex in the UK comes RAT BOY, and their latest single, "One In A Million", features guest vocals from emo rapper Lil Aaron. It's described as "a laidback ska groove which feels like a space-age version of The SPECIALS if they had been a band of Gen Zs raised in the Essex heartlands surrounded by wheeler-dealers, dodgy geezers, and blokes who wash their Ford Mondeos religiously every Sunday morning". It sounds very British and is a good song. No doubt about that. So this is worth checking out if you like British ska.
epitaph.com
ALTAR OF OBLIVION: In The Cesspit Of Divine Decay
From The Vaults on June 28 - LP, DigitalDanish band ALTAR OF OBLIVION gives us a lesson in epic doom/heavy metal. "In The Cesspit Of Divine Decay" is their 4th full-length album, where they gives us everything that is good with doom and heavy metal. It's powerful and heavy, with clean melodic vocals and no growl or harsh vocals. In other words exactly how I want it. This is simply an album that you have to check out, because it's great.
"In The Cesspit Of Divine Decay" is a concept album based on the diary of guitarist Martin Meyer Sparvath's maternal great-grandfather Jesper Wilhem Meyer, who reluctantly fought for the German Empire during The Great War (1914-1918). An interesting detail is that preperations for this album began in 2005 already, and that it was supposed to be their debut album. This means that this album contains some of the band's first ever creations.
bit.ly/aoo-tgt | altarofoblivion.dk | fromthevaults.dk
BIG SUN: Rite De Passage
Mighty Music on June 28 - Digital AlbumScandinavian trio BIG SUN is said to be a heavy rock band, but this debut album is actually not so heavy, but rather a wild mixture of different styles and high ambitions. 1 song is for example more like some kind of funky disco rock. In some songs the singer takes really high notes. Other songs sounds more like melodic rock or hard rock. And then we also have a song where they seems to mix industrial metal with theatrical arena rock or something like that. So if you want a musical adventure where every song is different, then this could be worth a try. Because even if they are a very progressive band, all songs are catchy and melodic, and the songs are actually brilliant. So fans of rock and hard rock should really give this a try.
The members seems to prefer to be anonymous, but after listening to this album I would guess that they are hardly new at making music. It will be very interesting to hear what they will do next time.
bfan.link/rite-de-passage | facebook.com/bigsundk | mightymusic.dk
STILLBORN: Netherworlds
Black Lodge Records on June 28 - CD, 2LP, DigitalSwedish band STILLBORN's follow up to "Nocturnals" is a even darker album, that pays homage to their cult classic "Necrospirituals". It's crushingly heavy and no room for hope. Same depressing voice all the way through the whole album more or less, but I would not say that it's bad because of that.
I guess that gothic doom metal is the best way to describe this. 10 songs is what we get this time, and even though it doesn't seems to be easy to vary the material, most of these songs sounds good.
If you want something catchy and happy, look for something else.
youtu.be/hbhuMXrQni4 | blacklodge.se/artists/stillborn
ANVIL: One And Only
AFM Records on June 28 - LP, CD, DigitalTheir last album was really good, but this seems to be a pretty safe band that doesn't change their concept too much. Even if it's really good this time too, it's like you know what's going to happen and what it's going to sound like after just a few songs, as every song seems to be cast in the same mold. The variation is hardly the greatest. But the passion and the playfulness is still there after more than 40 years, which makes this a vital album. So the lack of new and interesting ideas is hardly a major problem, since they still manage to make really good songs.
Canadian trio ANVIL play a pretty straightforward heavy metal without any modern elements, and "One And Only" is their 20th studio album.
facebook.com/anvilmetal | shop.afm-records.de
ILLDISPOSED: In Chambers Of Sonic Disgust
Massacre Records on June 28 - CD, LP, DigitalDanish death metallers ILLDISPOSED gives us their first new music since 2019. A lot has happened since then, like that Covid pandemic for example, and guitarist Rasmus Henriksen was diagnosed with brain cancer. He has now left the band to focus on the treatment, and is replaced by former guitarist Ken Holst.
ILLDISPOSED released their first record in 1993, so they are veterans. This new album is full of anger and frustration, but is also said to be their most ambitious and creative album. It's a very heavy kind of death metal that we get here, but just above mid-tempo I would say, and hardly less brutal because of that. It sounds good and is absolutely worth a try.
The Danish death metal scene seems to be alive and well, and there's many more good bands to check out if you want to.
massacre-records.com
MAVERICK: Silver Tongue
Metalapolis Records on June 21 - CD, LP, DigitalFrom Belfast, Northern Ireland comes this hard rock band, who was founded in 2012. "Silver Tongue" is their fifth album. And these guys have no reason to be sad, as they have made a really good album. This should without a doubt please every fan of good old hard rock. That's how good it is. There's actually nothing to complain about here.
Yes, it's much 80s in this band's sound. The music is both catchy and melodic, but the production is modern.
If you get the CD, you also get a bonus track, which is a cover of the STEELHEART classic "We All Die Young", most well-known from the movie Rock Star.
metalapolis.eu | maverickofficial.co.uk
GREENLEAF: The Head & The Habit
Magnetic Eye Records on June 21 - CD, LP
That we have such a cool and heavy band like this here in Sweden is an honor (in lack of a better word). They have in other words made a really good and strong album, that you really should check out. It's heavy and powerful, but not without the swing that is so important. This is actually catchy and vital, and I like that they use clean vocals instead of a harsh voice or growl.
GREENLEAF have become an important band in the European stoner and heavy rock scene. And it's not impossible that this album will take them to the next level, and make them important in the rest of the world as well (they are probably not completely unknown outside of Europe though, as they have been to Australia for example).
lnk.spkr.media/greenleaf-head-habit | facebook.com/greenleafrocks
CONSTRUCT OF LETHE: A Kindness Dealt In Venom
Transcending Obscurity Records on June 21 - CD, Cassette, DigitalThese death metallers have made a concept album, which was written as a single 44-minutes song. For practical reasons it has been broken into 12 tracks here. And it seems to be a very personal and autobiographical concept about suicidal depression. We get a wide range of emotions and influences from other genres, like industrial, black and doom metal as well as ambient etc. This is dark and heavy, but also brutal, as well as atmospheric I suppose. They are simply making their own kind of noise, which you probably have to hear to understand.
constructoflethedm.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
BRUNSTEN: Ethyl
Forbidden Place Records on June 21 - CD, DigitalDanish trio BRUNSTEN plays music inspired by the post-hardcore and noise rock scenes of the 80s and 90s, but have found their own sound. They describe it as loud and hard, as well as simple and complex at the same time. Their debut album, "1500", was released in 2018. While that album was more in the straightforward noise rock tradition, "Ethyl" features more experimentation and advanced songwriting, they say.
This sounds alternative and experimental, and not like something that I usually listen to. Not the most "normal" music, and I can't really say if this is good or bad as it's mainly just weird to me.
brunsten.bandcamp.com | linktr.ee/forbiddenplacerecords
NEONFLY: Master Tapes - 10 Years Live At Masters Of Rock
Noble Demon on June 19 - Digital EPUK alternative metal band NEONFLY has played at the Masters Of Rock festival 4 times (2012, 2013, 2015 and 2022). And they celebrate it with this live EP, where we get 1 song from 2013, 2 from 2015 and 2 from 2022. The band has won the hearts of the Czech fans, and the festival has become special for the band.
They have a catchy and melodic sound, but without losing the metal power. It's also modern. And this could easily have been bad, but these guys seems to know how to make good songs, so I actually like what I hear. It sounds like it was sweaty and energetic performances. You should give these guys a try.
facebook.com/NeonflyUK | nobledemon.com
ANGUISH FORCE: Pool Of Sins
Wanikiya Records - Digital SingleANGUISH FORCE is a heavy metal band, and this single is described as "an intense and dark sonic journey". It's also said to be "a significant step forward" for the band. To me it sounds like a young, unpolished and raw band. It's not sloppy, but not elite level either. But still, they've managed to make a pretty decent song, you might say. It's rocking and have a catchy chorus.
"Pool Of Sins" is a taste of an upcoming album.
facebook.com/wanikiyarecord
The BELOW feat. Aaron Sutcliffe: Immutable Decay EP
Accelerating Blue Fish - Digital EPI can't really remember what I expected to hear, but it sure wasn't this alternative and experimental soup anyway.
The BELOW is a Swedish band, which is said to play industrial post-punk. And maybe they do. This is dark and almost unpleasant to listen to, and not just because of its haunting and eerie atmosphere. I actually question if some of these 5 tracks even should be called music? But that's of course a question which is open for discussion in small groups of 3. So let's just say that this wasn't really my thing.
This EP features vocalist Aaron Sutcliffe (aka Yo-Haan of S.P.O.C.K.). They have previously joined forces on a couple of singles, so this collaboration isn't anything new for them.
youtu.be/pvFdSREXzvQ?si=T18qm3AAQfQYOrpO | playgroundmusic.org/thebelowimmutable
The RIPTIDE RATS: Rat Stomp!
The Riptide Rats - Digital SingleSwedish surf rock trio The RIPTIDE RATS deliver the second single from their "Shed Sessions" series. It was recorded in guitarist Gustav's backyard, and this time they went for some raw rock n roll vibes, influenced by legends like Link Wray and Eddie Angel.
Well, this sounds cool, and even though it's instrumental it's a really good song that they have made. It succeeds to be catchy and energetic. You should really check it out, and there's not much else to say..
youtu.be/7TKOC6a8NcI?si=jVMi-gwTRj8tZXUT | facebook.com/theriptiderats
SKID ROW: Slave To The Grind (Live In London)
earMUSIC - Digital SingleIt seems like SKID ROW has never released a live album before. But that will change on September 20, when "Live In London" will be released both as a live album and concert film. It was recorded at 02 Forum Kentish Town in London, UK on October 24, 2022. And they opened the show with the old classic "Slave To The Grind", which has been released as the first taste of the live album.
It was probably a hot night, because this sounds sweaty and intense. Swedish singer Erik Grönwall deliver with all his power, and the other guys are on fire too. This live release can be really interesting. No doubt about that. But check out this song while you wait for that.
Erik Grönwall has left the band, and SKID ROW is now looking for a new singer. They did a few shows with Lzzy Hale (HALESTORM) on vocals, but she will not be their new singer.
skidrow.lnk.to/SlavePR | skidrow.com
WILD CHARGE: Stardust Crusaders
Wild Charge - Digital SingleFrom Los Angeles, California comes this heavy metal band, and this is their second single, which is taken from their upcoming debut album that will be released this summer. The story of the band goes all the way back to 2011 though, when some kids started the band as a school project. But after graduating in 2013, 1 of them decided to continue the project with some new guys. The line-up changes continued for as long as 10 years before they finally found the last piece of the puzzle. But after that they could finally concentrate on making music and play shows across southern California.
WILD CHARGE takes influences from several musical genres, but the main inspiration comes from IRON MAIDEN, THIN LIZZY, LOUDNESS, MOTÖRHEAD, RUSH, JUDAS PRIEST, T-SQUARE, CACOPHONY, CASIOPEA, DURAN DURAN, RACER X, CHICAGO, MEGADETH and TRIUMP. They have their own sound, even though it sounds familiar too. This is a good heavy metal song anyway, so maybe you should give these guys a try?
facebook.com/wildchargemetal
MC5: Boys Who Play With Matches
earMUSIC - Digital SingleMC5 was a rock band from Detroit, who existed in the joint between the 60s and 70s. Their music was a fusion of garage rock, blues, soul, free jazz, and proto-punk. They have not released a new album in 53 years, but on October 18 a brand new MC5 album, "Heavy Lifting", will be released. "Boys Who Play With Matches" is the first single from the album.
Led by founding member Wayne Kramer and recorded with iconic producer Bob Ezrin (Lou Reed, Alice Cooper, KISS), the album features original MC5 drummer Dennis "Machine Gun" Thompson on 2 tracks along with special guests including Slash (GUNS N' ROSES), Tom Morello (RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE), William DuVall (ALICE IN CHAINS), Vernon Reid (LIVING COLOUR), Don Was, and Tim McIlrath (RISE AGAINST).
Well, this is a catchy rock n roll song in the old school, and not bad at all. It might not be as great as their previous material (but who would expect that?), but it',s interesting enough to make you think that the new album will be o.k. at least, maybe even good.
MC5 will be inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame on October 19, where they will receive the "Musical Excellence Award". Unfortunately all original members are dead now.
youtu.be/wl3NMXG_shI
END OF DAYZ: Searching For A Way Out
Creator-Destructor Records/Code Of Conduct - 12" EP, DigitalThis is the debut EP from this Washington-based hardcore quintet. They have previously released 2 demos.
We get 5 tracks where they let loose all their frustration. And what could be more perfect than hardcore then? They are definitely not doing anything new and unique here, so we talk about classic hardcore here and nothing else (and I don't think I have to describe the sound any deeper than that). But they are really good, so this EP is absolutely worth a try if you like that.
The vinyl also includes the 2 demos, which you also can find on the band's Bandcamp page.
endofdayznw.bandcamp.com | creator-destructor.com | codeofconductworldwide.bigcartel.com
FEARMONGER: Horrific Forms
Fearmonger - Digital AlbumFEARMONGER is a Finnish death metal trio from Helsinki, and this is their second album. They has also released a EP in 2020.
Their sound is a combination of the classic 90s HM-2 chainsaw sound and modern death metal, with hints of grindcore and deathcore. Sometimes it's really heavy, and sometimes more violent and brutal. It might not be a future death metal classic, as it's a pretty brutal experience. But I guess it's o.k. anyway. And I don't really know what else I should say about this.
youtube.com/watch?v=Zi6nchf0yhk | fearmongerhki.bandcamp.com
PERFECT SKY: Hunting Demons
WTF Records - MCD, DigitalFounded in 1999, PERFECT SKY emerged from the ashes of Vienna-style hardcore band PROUD OF IGNORANCE. The original line-up recorded some demo songs before splitting up in 2003. Those demo songs was later released in 2021, after the reformation of PERFECT SKY in 2018 with a new line-up. Some more records has been released since then.
This new EP features 7 tracks of neck-breaking hardcore mixed with elements of metal. 5 of the songs are new, and 1 is a re-recording of "Angry Youth" from their debut album, and there's also a cover of "Crucified" by IRON CROSS as a bonus track.
When it comes to the lyrics, they demonstrates their defiant demeanor, rejecting lies and injustice, fighting for equality, and raising voice against racial abuse. They also criticize materialism and fight with inner demons.
This is really good hardcore, with the typical ingredients - heavy guitars and harsh vocals. You should really check out this record.
youtube.com/watch?v=f-mM-vALhyo | wtfrecords.eu | facebook.com/PerfectSky2.0
SYKOFANT: Sykofant
Sykofant - LP, DigitalOne of the new stars on the Norwegian prog rock scene are SYKOFANT, who released their debut album a few weeks ago. This band also blend in influences of pop, jazz, funk, surf, and fusion, but it's mainly a pretty traditional progressive rock sound that we get here with jazzy drums, as well as heavy and funky bass among the ingredients.
This is not the wildest band, but mainly pretty laidback actually (not all the time though). Some songs are of normal length, 4 and a half to 5 minutes, while others are very long, between 10 and a half up to 14:20 minutes. They are luckily a o.k. band though, so I guess that they get away with those long songs anyway. So if you like progressive rock, then I guess that this should be of interest for you.
sykofant.com
The CHUCK NORRIS EXPERIMENT: 20
Ghost Highway Recordings/Savage Magic Records on June 27 - LP, Cassette, DigitalSwedish band The CHUCK NORRIS EXPERIMENT has been rocking hard for 20 years now, which they celebrate with a new album called "20". And if you happens to like a mixture of action rock and heavy hard rock, then this band is definitely something that you should check out. Because I can hear much TURBONEGRO and The HELLACOPTERS in this band's music, which is always cool. It's in other words adrenaline and sweat, the energy is high and they simply kicks ass.
The list of releases by this band is very long. So if you like this album, then there's lots of more stuff to check out (it can be hard to find physical copies of the old stuff though).
chucknorrisexperiment.com | ghosthighwayshop.com | savagemagicrecords.com
DEEP PURPLE: Pictures Of You
earMUSIC - Digital SingleThe latest single from these legends is somehow softer, not uptempo anyway, but yet pretty classic DEEP PURPLE, so it's not bad anyway. I have probably said it before, but this band is far away from done yet. I think the new album can be interesting to hear.
"Pictures Of You" is the second single from the upcoming album, "=1", which will be released on July 19. The single will also be released on CD and 12" vinyl on June 28, featuring 4 songs.
If you like classic DEEP PURPLE, then you give this a try. And there's not much else to say..
youtu.be/G8w638t_MtU | deeppurple.com
BÖDEL: Bilan Faller
DISTAT Records on June 14 - Digital SingleThis might be one of the most interesting bands right now when it comes to Swedish crust punk. And it's not just this song, which is damn good, that makes them interesting, as the members comes from acts like The CROWN, DENY, VÄNSTERNÄVEN, PASTORATET, The LIPTONES, ANTABUS, SUB ALERT and MÄHÄLIUM (some have played in more than 1 of these bands).
BÖDEL is a pretty new band, which rehearsed for the first time in February this year, and 3 songs were made then. They filmed it and posted it on Facebook, and BOOM! Concert bookers and record labels from all over the world wanted to book them and release records with them. So in March they entered the studio to record 10 tracks for various releases.
&quoyt;Bilan Faller" is their first single, and a 7" vinyl will be released in USA by Atrocious Disarray in the fall.
Their motto is quite simple, it shall go fast. And it does. They are hardly here to reinvent the hardcore/punk genre. This crust attack is short, 2:13 minutes, and without any technical crap. Just simply bang on. If you don't like this, then I don't really know what's wrong with you.
facebook.com/DistatRecords
NO WAYNE: Sjöhagsvägen EP
No Wayne? on June 14 - Digital EPSwedish band NO WAYNE gives us a catchy and energetic kind of rock, with elements of blues and soul. They take and give from the long history of rock n roll, and are hardly doing anything new. But with the help of good songs, they get away with it without a problem. Because as long as you have a good material, there's no need to be unique. So if you like rock, then give this group a try. It's just that simple.
This 4-track EP was produced by Chips Kiesbye from SATOR and mastered by Henryk Lipp, both well-known figures in the Swedish rock scene.
nowayne.bandcamp.com
Dorian Sorriaux: Children Of The Moon
The Sign Records on June 14 - LP, CD, DigitalDorian Sorriaux used to play guitar in BLUES PILLS, but left the band in 2018 to focus on a solo career, and that's a totally different story than the bluesy retro rock that BLUES PILLS play. I don't like this soft and nice singer/songwriter stuff. There's no action at all on the whole album. Same sad thing all the way. Just listening to this makes me depressed, and that's not good.
The music is described as singer/songwriter and psychedelic folk music inspired by artists from the 60s and 70s, such as Neil Young, Nick Drake, and Van Morrison. If you want something soft and laidback, then I guess that this could be your thing.
doriansorriaux.com | thesignrecords.com
UNHOLY REDEEMER: A Fever To Dethrone All Kings
Sphere of Apparition Records/Extremely Rotten Productions - MCD, Cassette, DigitalUNHOLY REDEEMER is an Australian/Danish dark death metal collaboration featuring past and present members of NOCTURNAL GRAVES, ENCABULOS, PERDITION'S MIRE, DESTRÖYER 666 and CERKLOTH. And what we have here is a 3-track demo EP. It seems like these songs was made already in the late 90s and early 2000s, but they have now been brought back to life so that we all can get the chance to hear them.
They begin with the title track, which is really heavy for a couple of minutes before they suddenly put the pedal to the metal. The next track is almost mid-tempo instead. So I would say that they mix those 3 - heavy, fast and mid-tempo. The songs are good, even though they might not have anything special to come up with. But if you like different kinds of death metal, then you could at least give these guys a try.
unholyredeemer.bandcamp.com | sphereofapparitionrecords.com
TORPEDOHEAD: Razorblade Love
Bug Valley Records - Digital SingleTORPEDOHEAD is a German power trio, formed in 2008. They has released 3 albums and a couple of EPs so far, and their next album, "Nothing To Declare", will be released in October.
This song is probably best described as street rock n roll with a bubblegum chorus. But I guess you could just as well call it action rock or hard rock with punk attitude. One thing is for sure though, it kicks ass. They succeed to be catchy and melodic, but at the same time they are powerful and have a street attitude. You should really check this out.
That new album could be really interesting to hear, that's for sure.
bugvalleyrecords.com | torpedohead.de
BLACK PAISLEY: Hush Hush
Black Paisley AB - Digital SingleSwedish melodic rock band BLACK PAISLEY surprise us with a new single. And since last time we heard anything from them, they has recruited Magnus Ulfstedt (ECLIPSE) as their new drummer and recorded their fifth album. So I guess this is a first taste of the new album. It sounds really good anyway, and is definitely worth checking out.
During the summer BLACK PAISLEY got a string of gigs lined up across Sweden (co-headline with UK band VEGA) and some international advetures too. They were also supposed to play at Topfest in June together with bands like SCORPIONS and AVANTASIA, but I have heard that Topfest is cancelled.
youtube.com/watch?v=2n5hPmXXIJY
ALHUZZRED: Haunting The Devil
Alhuzzred - Digital SingleALHUZZRED is a occult rock and classic heavy metal duo from Singapore. The band is led by Rip Alhuzzred on vocals and Tok Yathraa, who composes the music. They have previously collaborated in the black/thrash metal band The IRONFIST, but here they explores darker themes.
"Haunting The Devil" is a taste of an upcoming full-length album. And I guess that this could be something for fans of bands like BLACK SABBATH, COVEN, PENTAGRAM, BLACK WIDOW and The DEVIL'S BLOOD. It's in other words more or less doom metal that we get here, and it sounds really good and promising for the future. You should really check them out.
alhuzzred.bandcamp.com
GOLGOTHA: Spreading The Wings Of Hope
Ardua Music on June 14 - CD, CassetteFrom sunny Spain comes GOLGOTHA, who play doom metal with elements of death metal. The band is led by guitarist Vincent J. Paya. María J. Lladó is the lead singer, but once in a while there's also some growl or harsh vocals from Andrew Spinosa, who also play bass. We also find Tomeu Crespi on drums, and Dan Garcia on guitar.
The music is mainly dark and melancholy, but far away from hopeless. The riffs are heavy, but there's also melodies. It's soulful and emotional without being weak and fragile.
I liked their last album, "Mors Diligentis" (2022), and this album is absolutely not bad either. You should really check them out.
This is said to fit fans of bands like HALLATAR, NOVEMBERS DOOM, DRACONIAN and SATURNUS.
facebook.com/GolgothaOfficialBand | arduamusic.com
The EROTICS: Destined To Damnation
The Erotics on June 14 - CD, DigitalUnpolished rock is what we get from this band from Albany, New York. I would say that it's some kind of raw hard rock n roll with a touch of both heavy metal and some punk attitude. They have been around for some years now, and released some stuff before this album. And you could say that you get exactly what you can expect. But there is actually some surprises this time, as they're using instruments like pedal steel and mandolin on 1 track, and a warped toy piano on another. We also get lead vocals from drummer Johnny Riott for the very first time on 1 of the tracks. But overall I'd say it's just as good as they use to be. So this is definitely something that you should give a try if you want your rock dirty and with street attitude.
They end the album with a cover of the DEAD KENNEDYS classic "Too Drunk To Fuck".
theerotics1.bandcamp.com
IN FOR THE KILL: Branded To Kill
Spiritual Beast - CD, DigitalIN FOR THE KILL is a Japanese extreme metal/hardcore band, formed in 2013. Their self-titled debut album was first released in Asia in October 2017, and re-released in Europe in October 2019. After a brief hiatus due to the pandemic, they have now returned with their second album, "Branded To Kill", which is a brutal fusion of metallic and heavy guitar riffs, aggressive vocals, and intense rhythms. It's said to fit fans of legends like PANTERA, HATEBREED, MADBALL and SICK OF IT ALL.
It often goes fast (not all the time), and is absolutely listenable. It would not surprise me if both hardcore kids and crust punks could like this. But I think fans of thrash metal should try this as well.
youtube.com/watch?v=2ezLsCahSmI | spiritual-beast.com | iftkjp.com
FLOTSAM & JETSAM: Primal
AFM Records - Digital SingleFLOTSAM & JETSAM deliver another great song from their upcoming album, "I Am The Weapon", which will be released on September 13. This is something that you really should check out if you like thrash metal. I'm pretty sure that the new album will be great, especially if they have more songs of this caliber to offer (which is not impossible).
"I Am The Weapon" will be the band's 15th full-length album.
flotsamandjetsam.bfan.link/primal | flotsamandjetsam.bfan.link/i-am-the-weapon | flotstildeath.com | shop.afm-records.de
DRUIDESS: Hermits & Mandrakes
Druidess - Digital EPDRUIDESS is a 4-piece heavy psych/stoner band from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, Formed in 2022. They combines BLACK SABBATH styled riffs with powerful female vocals and driving keyboard textures. "Hermits & Mandrakes" is their debut EP, which was released in March. And these 5 songs (and an intro) sounds beautiful to my ears. It's both heavy and melodic at the same time, but without losing power. You just have to check them out.
Writing for the debut full-length album has already begun, with an expected release date of Summer 2025. So there you have something to look forward to. But you should of course listen to their EP first.
linktr.ee/druidessuk
SUPERMODEL TAXIDERMY: At What Cost
Punishment 18 Records - CD, DigitalThis Canadian band combines thrash metal and hardcore/punk, so it's what they use to call crossover. They has previously released a EP, "A Whorer Story", in 2022.
On their first full-length, they deliver track after track that fits perfect for the mosh pit. Fans of a band like D.R.I. should be happy to hear this, because there's not anything new here, but the classic crossover sound. It sounds good to me anyway, so I don't complain. But there's actually not much else to say either. Worth checking out anyway.
wp.me/pciNW-lcS
ATLANTIS DRIVE: Atlantis Drive
Pride & Joy Music on June 14 - CDWhat we have here is a melodic hard rock album with a big dose of the 80s sound, but yet with a modern production. So nothing new there at all. But as so many other bands who are doing the same thing, they get away with it by delivering one good song after the other. So in other words no need to complain. Just enjoy the music and be happy as long as it last.
ATLANTIS DRIVE is a international band based in Germany, and features Markus Pfeffer (BARNABAS SKY, LAZARUS DREAM) on guitar and Mark Boals (RING OF FIRE, SHINING BLACK, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen) on vocals. This is their debut album, which also features keyboardist Jorris Guilbaud (DEVOID, HEART LINE) and drummer Markus Kullmann (Glenn Hughes, SINNER, VOODOO CIRCLE).
The music on this album is sometimes so melodic that I would almost like to call it melodic rock instead of melodic hard rock. But on the other hand, genre doesn't really matter as long as it's good. The music is both catchy and bombastic. People who like the sound of the 80s should really give these gentlemen a try.
youtu.be/gnguafaNCdA | facebook.com/atlantisdrivemusic | prideandjoy.de
Tommy Denander: Cut In Ice
Pride & Joy Music Classixx - CD"Cut In Ice" was Swedish hard rock band ATC's first and only album, and it was released in April 1984. The guitarist from that band was Tommy Denander, who became a studio musician, song writer and producer, who has worked on more than 3000 albums and big movies. He has received more than 100 gold albums, and has worked with artists like Alice Cooper, HOLLYWOOD VAMPIRES, DEEP PURPLE, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, Michael Jackson, Ricky Martin, Jeff Beck, Anastacia, Ricky Martin, Richard Marx, Peter Cetera, Steve Perry, and many, many more.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of ATC's debut album, Tommy has re-recorded the whole album together with American singer Rob Blake and drummer Neil Anami. Now I have not heard the original album, so I can't compare. But as far as I can understand, they have tried to keep the old school hard rock from 1984. It sounds good anyway, no doubt about that. This is something that you should check out if you like classic melodic hard rock from the 80s
The album is available as a limited edition of 500 CDs via shop.prideandjoy.de and wholesale via Pride & Joy Music.
NIGHTHAWK: Generation Now
Pride & Joy Music - Digital SingleSwedish hard rockers NIGHTHAWK has released the first single from their upcoming album, "Vampire Blues", which will be released on August 30. This single was actually released a couple of weeks ago, but I'm a busy man (it's better with too much to review than too little anyway). A really good song, and very catchy. You should absolutely check it out.
"Vampire Blues" will be the group's third album, and it will feature people like Linnea Vikström (THUNDERMOTHER) on vocals, Robban Eriksson (The HELLACOPTERS) and Peter Hermansson (220 VOLT) on drums, Nalle Påhlsson (TREAT) on bass, and Richard Hamilton (HOUSTON) on keyboards. Project leader is still bass player Robert Majd (METALITE, CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD). Something to look forward to..
youtu.be/UDEbQSr4ON0
NEPAL DEATH: With Her (Kali The Mother)
Nepal Death - Digital SingleLocal (Borås, Sweden) act NEPAL DEATH serves another psychedelic pill that will take you on a journey. They have definitely made better songs than this, that's for sure. And for some reason it last for almost 8 minutes. I feel a little dissapointed actually, as this song is more psychedelic than rock.
"Kali the Mother" is a poem written by Hindu monk Swami Vivekananda in Kashmir 1898. Based on this text NEPAL DEATH has crafted a ritualistic odyssey that delves into the depths of Kali's essence. The song features layers of psychedelic guitars, drum grooves, enchanting flute melodies, and majestic choirs. Among the guest artists this time, we can find Pontus Torstensson (EXORCIST GBG, TENTAKEL), Lisa Isaksson (SECOND ORACLE, ME AND MY KITES), and Marian Klein (BONE MAN, PERKÚN).
People who are into psychedelic rock from the early 70s should check out this band. But I would recomend one of their previous singles to begin with.
youtu.be/nN9NsCzhAFI | nepaldeath.com
CHILD OF PANOPTES: Un Petit Morceau De Buvard
Rogue Records - 7" Single, DigitalThis is a collaboration between several French musicians, and their music is influenced by late 60s UK freakbeat, U.S. garage rock and psychedelia. They have previously released a single in 2021 and a LP in 2023.
The first song is in French, but the other 3 are in English. The sound is very 60s and not the wildest, but more like some kind of pop/rock. It sounds good though, so there's no reason to complain. Good stuff that you should check out if you like the good old sound.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
The CRYSTAL TEARDROP: Running Out Of Time
Rogue Records - 7" Single, DigitalThe CRYSTAL TEARDROP gives us 1 song in English and 1 in French. The music is catchy garage rock/power pop with a pinch of psychedelia, like it sounded back in the 60s. So if you like that, then you should really give this band a try. No doubt about that.
This is a pretty new band from Stoke On Trent in England, who formed in early 2023, so there's not much to say about them yet. This is their second single anyway.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
THERMALITY: Stranger
Black Lodge Records - Digital SingleTHERMALITY is a Swedish melodic death metal band, formed in 2020. Their debut album, "Before I Get To Rest", was released in 2023, and a EP, "Tales From The North", was released in June 2023. Now they are getting ready to release their second full-length, "The Final Hours", which will be available on August 16. And that's where this song comes in, which is a first taste of the new album.
THERMALITY's influences are deeply rooted in the golden era of melodic death metal, and bands like IN FLAMES, CHILDREN OF BODOM, AMON AMARTH and ARCH ENEMY. But they also add some modern influences to their sound. It sounds good anyway, so that new album can be interesting to hear. But while you wait for that, you can always check out this song.
youtu.be/bw_oiYGipTs?si=9-bLE76cL97Zshxg
VICTORY: Count On Me
AFM Records - Digital Single
German hard rock veterans VICTORY has revealed that they will release a brand new studio album, entitled "Circle Of Life", on September 13. And what we have here is the first single from the album, which they describe as a party anthem. And it sure kicks ass. It's very catchy and very promising for the new album. Check out.
victory.bfan.link/count-on-me | victory.bfan.link/circle-of-life | victory-band.com
KRIGSSTIGEN: Samling I Särklass
Kamel Records on June 8 - LP, out now digitalSwedish punk band KRIGSSTIGEN was formed in early 2023, but has already released a EP, "Vi Kan Bättre" (review here). And now it's time for their full-length debut, where we get both "old" and new songs. The music is a mix of melodic trallpunk guitars, 2-beat drums and catchy vocal melodies, yet angry. Oppressors of women, politicians and idiots in general all get the boot.
This album is great. All songs are good here. But then I have already heard most of them before. If you have any interest in Swedish punk, then you should really check this out. And I guess there's not much else to add there.
The album was recorded by the Swedish trallpunk legend Mart Hällgren (DE LYCKLIGA KOMPISARNA, TOTAL EGON etc etc etc).
linktr.ee/krigsstigen | tidenstempo.com
WyndRider: Revival
Electric Valley Records on June 7 - LP, Digital (CD self-released)This is another one of all these heavy bands that we seems to have thousands of today. Some are good, and some are bad. And even if WyndRider doesn t have anything unique to present, they are definitely among the better bands.
"Revival" is this Tennessee band's second long player, where we get a mix of stoner rock and doom metal. Most of these 7 tracks are good, so you should really check this out if you like it heavy. The songs are around 5 to 7 minutes, so it's no super long adventures that we get here, but a pretty normal length.
WyndRider formed in 2022, and released their debut album independently in March 2023.
lnkfi.re/wyndrider_motorcyclewitches | electricvalleyrecords.com | gloryordeathrecords.com | wyndrider.bandcamp.com
WITHERING SURFACE: Exit Plan
Mighty Music on June 7 - LP, CD, DigitalOn this album Danish melodic death metallers WITHERING SURFACE show us all how it&39;s supposed to be done. So they are hardly doing anything wrong. Yes, this is something that they can be proud of. This album has all the right ingredients, like the brutality and the melodies, as well as a good mix of fast and heavy parts. On top of that they also succeed to make great songs out of those ingredients.
"Exit Plan" is the band's 6th studio album. And it's said that both songwriting and lyrical concept appear stronger than ever on this album. I'm ready to believe them.
bit.ly/ws-tgt | .facebook.com/witheringsurface | mightymusic.dk
SWELLING REPULSION: Fatally Misguided
Transcending Obscurity Records on June 7 - CD, DigitalThis trio is making their own kind of death metal, where they blend various styles of the genre. It's technical, progressive, and even psychedelic and dissonant sometimes. So get ready for an interesting journey in brutality if you want to check this out. Because I would say that it's mainly really hard and heavy, but far away from slow and tired. And it happens that they suddenly play a little faster as well, as there's lots of things going on in this band's music.
But if you prefer the classic old school death metal, then this might not be your thing.
swellingrepulsiondm.bandcamp.com/album/fatally-misguided | tometal.com
SILVER HORSES: Electric Omega
Bad Reputation on June 7 - CDSILVER HORSES was born as an Italian/English hard rock band in 2011, when Italian guitarist Gianluca Galli met English singer Tony Martin (ex-BLACK SABBATH). "Electric Omega" is their third album, but this time with Italian singer Jacopo Meille (TYGERS OF PAN TANG). Both Gianluca and Jacopo was in a band called MANTRA many years ago, and this album is a sum of new songs and remakes of a few songs by MANTRA.
It's a bluesy and heavy kind of hard rock that we get, that will remind you of the sound of the 70s. It sounds good, no doubt about that. The songs vibrate, and it's a quite varied material that we get, and everybody is doing a good job. Nevertheless, there is no song that stands out, and could become a modern classic. But it could still be worth a try for fans of classic hard rock.
EQUUS: Equus
Pride & Joy Music Classixx - CDWhat we have here is a band with a typical 80s sound and production. But then it was actually recorded at that time. Some songs reminds me of The POLICE actually, while others are melodic rock. Very catchy and melodic anyway, and with songs that are easy to like.
EQUUS was formed back in 1980 by 4 high school friends from London, Ontario in Canada. They produced a EP in 1985 and 2 singles in 1986, but I would guess that not too many outside of their hometown have heard them. They have since then done several reunion shows in 1992 and 2011.
On this self-titled album we get the EP and 1 of the singles, as well as a re-recording of "Power Life" and 2 previously unreleased tracks. Most of these songs sounds very good, so fans of melodic rock, AOR and similar should check this out, because I guess that's the correct genre for this band.
This release is limited to 500 CD copies only, and only available via shop.prideandjoy.de and direct wholesale.
NIGHTMARE: Encrypted
AFM Records on June 7 - CD, DigitalFrench heavy metal band NIGHTMARE was founded back in 1979 already. Their debut album, "Waiting For The Twilight", was released in the golden year 1984, and followed by "Power Of The Universe" in 1985. After a hiatus, the band returned with a new EP, "Astral Deliverance", in 1999. Since then they have released a few more records and changed to a female singer instead of a male.
"Encrypted" is the band's 12th studio album, where they continue to take their music to the next level. They say that it's their most ambitious and varied album to date. And after listening to this I'm ready to believe them. For being such an old band, it sounds very fresh and modern.
NIGHTMARE combine classic power metal with symphonic elements and even some extreme metal, like melodic death metal for example. The music is both melodic and powerful, while the vocals is both clean and brutal. Sometimes it can be more like melodic metal, and then there can be a death metal part. The power metal and symphonic metal is definitely there too.
This album have no bad songs, but just great stuff all the way, and I think it can please many different kinds of metal fans.
nightmare-metal.com | shop.afm-records.de
FACTORY OF ART: Back To Life
Factory Music on June 7 - CD, 2LP, DigitalGerman band FACTORY OF ART was formed in Leipzig in 1990 as an instrumental art-rock band. They released a few records, and it seems like they were pretty popular in Germany. But in 2006 they went seperate ways. In 2019 they reformed with a new line-up, and this is the first album with the new band.
What this band wants to give us is a fresh and modern sound, which they do by mixing progressive, power and classic heavy metal. The songs might not have any hit potential, but how often do progressive metal songs have that? It sounds good anyway, and the material is very varied of course, so there's not much to complain about. Just enjoy the ride.
youtu.be/WGaOOyoKBeU?si=ioxf4-2YCIeYhDVX | music-hub.bio/factoryofart | factory-of-art.band
HOLYCIDE: Towards Idiocracy
Xtreem Music on June 6 - CD, LP, Cassette, Digital"Towards Idiocracy" is the third full-length album from these Spanish thrashers. And this album is fully fed with great thrash metal anthems, mainly in the good old school. This might actually be their best release to date, as the quality of the songs is very high here. It's aggressive and mean, just like it should be. This band should be more popular than they are, as they are just as good as any of the more well-known bands was in their early days.
Except for 3 full-lengths, HOLYCIDE has also released a couple of EPs. All worth checking out.
youtu.be/L-_boDlnEhA | facebook.com/holycide | xtreemmusic.com
GOM JABBAR: Obsidian Black Carrion
Darkwoods on June 5 - MCD, Digital EPI'm not such a big fan of instrumental music, but in this case it would probably have been better without a singer. Because I can't call that thunderstorm vocals. It actually sounds like the thunder god himself. Wide vocal range, what is that? Same thunder sound all the time. But if you think that sounds cool, then go ahead and try this. But there's actually lots of really good music that you can listen to instead of this crap.
GOM JABBAR is the solo project of Scottish musician Joseph E. Kelly from death metallers PENNY COFFIN. The music is primal and primitive death/doom metal taken to the farthest extreme with absolutely abrasive and distorted production, layered with noise, industrial sounds, featuring hypnotic atmospheric passages loaded with spectral samples and vocal lines that push the boundaries of extremity, depraved and utterly corrupted.
darkwoods.eu | gomjabbardeath.bandcamp.com
DEATHWISH: The Fourth Horseman
Beer City Records on June 7 - LP, CDDEATHWISH is a thrashy hardcore/punk band from northern Wisconsin, USA. Since their formation in 2014, they have been blending their own drink of metal, hardcore and rock n roll punk - Think of a more ferocious MOTÖRHEAD. It's raw, dirty and full of adrenaline. Not bad at all. I like what I hear. This should fit perfect for both crust punks and MOTÖRHEAD bangers. And it's not impossible that some fans of a band like ZEKE could like this as well.
facebook.com/deathwish666motorcharged | store.beercity.com
DEAFCON5: Exit To Insight
Fastball Music on June 7 - CD, DigitalWell, this German band will probably lose lots of listeners just because of the first track, "Prologue", which is just a lot of talking for 3 and a half minutes. Not exactly what I want to listen to anyway. I want music!
But I don't really know if their music is so much better. Some kind of ambitious progressive hard rock, with songs that are up to 7 minutes or more (not all though). But I guess that it completely depends on what day you have, because it's not completely worthless anyway. Some of these songs can be o.k. at least.
"Exit To Insight" seems to be a concept album with a philosophical background, and it's the Hamburg band's 4th full-length album. The story is inspired by a Science Fiction novel.
For some reason the album also end with talk. But then it's just for 2 minutes. Between the intro and outro (as we can call that talking) we get a true progressive rock soup with all kinds of spices, like some metal for example. It's epic and adventurous, just as you can expect it to be.
youtube.com/watch?v=PKnj6TbI3pY | linktr.ee/deafcon5 | fastball-music.com
BRAZEN TONGUE: Of Crackling Embers & Sorrows Drowned
(Label unknown) on June 7 - Formats unknown, but Digital at leastThe members of this new metal band hailing from Chicago, IL, USA and Gothenburg, Sweden. On this debut album they bring together a diverse array of influences to forge a unique sound within the metal genre. The sound is deeply rooted in the foundations of classic metal, thrash, black metal and death metal, drawing inspiration from giants like METALLICA, KREATOR, KING DIAMOND, EMPEROR, IMMORTAL, DISSECTION, DEICIDE and MORBID ANGEL. Their music strives to balance aggression with melody, embodying the essence of their diverse influences while forging a distinct path. And with that they succeed. But is it really so unique?
Well, unique or not, this is a good album anyway. I would almost like to call this progressive metal actually, as it's not the most straight playing that we have here. But I think that melodic death metal is what it sounds like most of all, even if there's many other ingredients as well. Obviously not so easy to describe, but worth a try.
And now you probably want to know who the members are? The band was formed by Scott Skopec (USA) and Ethan Gifford (Sweden). On this album they also get help from the session musicians Frank Lato (USA) and Kevin Paradis (France).
youtu.be/icHdBUpjMSU?si=qKBYGN_Fxiz9LlXZ | linktr.ee/brazentongue
BLYND: Unbeliever
Pitch Black Records on June 7 - CD, DigitalAfter 9 years, Cypriot thrash/death metal veterans BLYND return with their 4th full-length album.
This album promises to deliver an onslaught of blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and thought-provoking lyricism that fans have come to expect from the band. Musically it has an overall dark atmosphere, with both slow and fast-paced songs, some progressive passages, epic choruses and outros. Lyrically, the album deals with a variety of issues that have plagued (and still plague) humanity - from war themes to Orwellian mass surveillance, propaganda, rewriting history and the suppression of free speech. They say that even if they explore new territories, they stay true to their roots as well.
After a lazy opening track, it seems like they got their energy drink, and there's suddenly more action. I would say that most of the songs here are good. It's just that first track that is really boring. But that's just my opinion of course.. They have a varied material, and they are obviously very good at what they are doing, there's no doubt about that anyway.
Interesting with some opera vocals (soprano) in the last track. That was unexpected to me anyway.
youtu.be/proAbTFUY1s | pitchblackrecords.com
AGAINST I: Destruction Lullaby
Twisted Flesh Recordings/Advoxya Records - Digital EPSwedish band AGAINST I deliver blackened melodic death metal with hints of industrial metal. And as you probably can figure out for yourself, this is aggressive and angry music, but with atmospheric elements as well, which gives the songs some extra darkness. And even though it's a EP, we get 7 tracks here.
AGAINST I was founded in 2022 by singer Fredrik Keith Croona (CYNICAL EXISTENCE, ex-MENSCHDEFEKT). He is joined by Mathias Back on guitars and Anders Ström on drums. Their debut album, "Carnival Of Excess", was released in 2023 by Advoxya Records. It was followed by the EP "Perfect Smile" in 2024. So they have not been lazy.
They might not have anything that's extra good here, but it's not bad anyway. This could be worth a try.
facebook.com/againstIband
AD PATRES: Unbreathable
Non Serviam Records on June 7 - CD, LP, DigitalFrench death metallers AD PATRES deliver their third album.
This band released their first promo EP in 2010, which was followed by their first album, "Scorn Aesthetics", in 2012. The band is known for blending brutal aggression with melodic elements, and that's exactly what they are doing here, even if there seems to be more of the brutal then the melodic. That makes this a very hard album. But death metal is hardly supposed to be nice and friendly.
AD PATRES might not be doing anything unique here, but they are doing it good at least.
non-serviam-records.com | facebook.com/adpatres «May | Index | July»
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