REVIEWS NOVEMBER 2024
«October | Index | December»ALKYMIST: UnnDerr
Indisciplinarian on Nov. 15 - LP, Digital"UnnDerr" is the third album from this Danish progressive doom metal band. They released a EP and a self-titled debut album in 2018, which was followed by another album in 2020. After that they built their own studio in their rehearsal room, and started to work on their third album, which they have been working on for 3 years now. And in February 2024 they also had to get a new drummer: Per Silkjær (SON OF CAIN, FOSSILS, DOUBLE SPACE, BRUNSTEN).
This is dark and heavy, and the vocals is harsh. The material on this album is said to be more muscular and groovy. The title track is 10 minutes long, and the last track is 8 and a half minutes. The rest of the songs are of more normal length. It sounds good anyway. So if you like it heavy, then maybe you should give this a try.
bit.ly/4eeA4dT | alkymist.bandcamp.com | indisciplinarian.com
DEAF LINGO: Cheesy
Lövely Records on Nov. 15 - Digital EP"Cheesy" is a 3-track EP with an Italian alternative rock band. But we don't talk about the alternative rock (aka grunge) from the 90s, but a mix of melodic punk, lo-fi garage, and bittersweet indie. You could say that they blend rock riffs with pop melodies and add some punk attitude. The result sounds like American teenage pop punk from the late 90s/early 2000s or possibly power pop. This band seems to have some charm or something (maybe more soul?), so I like these songs. It's catchy and happy somehow.
DEAF LINGO started as a solo project, but evolved into a full band to play live. A self-produced EP, "Split Pee", was released in 2015, and was followed by their first album, "Bug", in 2017. In 2022 their second album, "Lingonberry", was released.
facebook.com/deaflingo | lovelyrecords.bandcamp.com
TROLLWAR: Tales From The Frozen Wastes
Trollwar on Nov. 15 - Digital EPTROLLWAR is a symphonic melo-death band from Quebec City, Canada. This new EP is the 6th studio record from the band, and features guest appearances from Veli-Matti Kananen (KALMAH) and Mattias Sippola (ATAVISTIA). This is recomended for fans of WINTERSUN, ENSIFERUM, AMON AMARTH, KALMAH and EQUILIBRIUM, which might give you an idea about what they might sound like.
This seems to be their first new release in 6 years. During that time they have been working hard on refining their sound, which is now aimed more at a melodic and symphonic dimension. On top of that, they added more progressive elements as well.
The first track is a majestic and cinematic intro, but after that they show us all how they think it's supposed to be done. The symphonic elements makes it more epic, but there is brutally as well, as the vocals is harsh and the music hard and heavy, which they mix with melodic melodies.
These 5 tracks are absolutely not bad at all, so if you like any of the bands mentioned above, then I think you should really give these guys a try.
youtube.com/watch?v=TGKXUH9F-3Q | distrokid.com/hyperfollow/trollwar/tales-from.... | trollwar.bandcamp.com
VEILBURNER: The Duality Of Decapitation And Wisdom
Transcending Obscurity Records on Nov.15 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalWhat we have here is another one of these crazy experimental extreme metal bands. This is raw and powerful, yet not too wild and extreme, so it's actually listenable (even if it took a couple of songs for me). I think you should give them a try.
VEILBURNER hailing from the States, and their music is described as dissonant/avant-garde black/death metal. This is their 7th album, and all 7 tracks here are 7 minutes, which is a little odd. How is it even possible? Funny though.. 7 obviously has an important meaning here anyway, just like it have had throughout history. Thematically, the character(s) at the center of the VEILBURNER universe continue a journey into the abyss that began on their previous album, "VLBRNR".
veilburnerband.bandcamp.com/album/the-duality.... | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
VOODOO CIRCLE: Hail To The King
AFM Records on Nov. 15 - 2LP, CDThis sounds like WHITESNAKE. And the singer even succeed to sound almost like a young David Coverdale. But I guess that we can also add legends like DEEP PURPLE, RAINBOW and LED ZEPPELIN to describe this band's sound. So we talk about high quality classic hard rock here, and hardly any cheap crap. These 12 tracks are all really good, so fans of hard rock from the 70s and 80s just have to check this out, and that's it!
2 of the tracks on this album were penned by former RAINBOW keyboardist Tony Carey.
voodoocircle.de | shop.afm-records.de
EMPIRES OF EDEN: Guardians Of Time
Massacre Records on Nov. 15 - CD, LP, DigitalEMPIRES OF EDEN is a heavy metal collaboration between international musicians and vocalists, led by Stu Marshall. Among all the vocalists we can find names such as Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI), Sean Peck (DEATH DEALER), Jonas Heidgert (DRAGONLAND), David Readman (PINK CREAM 69), Jeff Martin (ex-RACER X) etc. On bass we have John Gallagher (RAVEN) and Mike LePond (SYMPHONY X). Just to name a few of all the people who were involved in this album (there's also some guitarists and a drummer as well, but you can't name them all as that would be boring). Stu himself take care of guitars, bass, drums and orchestral arrangements, and has also mixed and produced the record.
This is not a new project though. The first album, "Songs Of War And Vengeance", was released in 2009. And the latest, "Architect Of Hope", was released in 2015.
"Guardians Of Time" is not limited to just pure heavy metal, but cross the borders to power metal, AOR and thrash metal as well. It',s creative and lots of talent in one place. It's mainly very powerful and a really strong material, so you should of course give this a try if you like high quality heavy metal.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | stumarshall.com | facebook.com/empiresofeden
GOTHMINISTER: Tonight
AFM Records - Digital EPNorway's GOTHMINISTER released a new 4-track EP in time for Halloween, which consist of songs from their latest album, "Battle Of The Underworlds", plus the previously unreleased, original version of their Eurovision pre-contest hit "We Come Alive". But also a final music video for "Tonight", taken off the colossal Pandemonium saga.
This band play modern gothic industrial metal, with danceable EDM parts and a pinch of retro charm. It's dark and heavy, but yet catchy and melodic as well, and I really like this band's music. This EP is damn good! Simple as that.
youtu.be/0ZeLpBSqjQk?si=QXIaYvfD0RrtayXU | gothminister.bfan.link/tonight | gothminister.com | afm-records.de
GREY ATTACK: Back To Greysland
Metalapolis Records on Nov. 15 - CD, DigitalGerman heavy metal band GREY ATTACK formed in 2013, and with this new album (which is their 4th) they wanted to go back to their roots, more towards the sound of their live shows, which are always right in your face and always sound a little dirtier than the studio version.
I think it's a pretty melodic kind of heavy metal that we get here, but with a modern production then. And it's not bad at all. But it seems like I have to wait a long time for something that is extra good here, because I can't hear that many songs that could be called an anthem. It soon gets a little too laidback, so I almost get a little bored after a few songs. And that's not good of course. But then, after 5 songs, comes "I Love Rock n Roll" (not the Joan Jett song), which is more uptempo and alive - Finally! There's a few more good tracks here, but there should have been more according to me.
metalapolis.eu | greyattack.de
GAUNTLET RULE: After The Kill
Fighter Records on Nov. 12 - CD, DigitalGAUNTLET RULE is a heavy metal band from Sweden, founded in 2019 by guitarist Rogga Johansson (PAGANIZER, MASSACRE etc etc) and bassist Peter Svensson (ASSASSIN'S BLADE, VOID MOON). The band is completed with Teddy Möller (LOCH VOSTOK) on vocals, Kjetil Lynghaug on lead guitar, and Marcus Rosenkvist on drums. Their first album, "The Plague Court", came out in 2022, and now it's time for their second album, "After The Kill".
Just like with their debut, they stay true to the classic sound, while they at the same time go their own way. Yet most of the material sounds very familiar, and also very good. This is simply a really strong album that most fans of true heavy metal should enjoy. I would actually go as far as saying that this is just as good as the classic 80s albums with IRON MAIDEN. Beat that if you can!
The album features guest vocals by Jacques Bélanger (ASSASSIN'S BLADE, ex-EXCITER) and Federica De Boni (WHITE SKULL) on 1 track each.
youtube.com/watch?v=TnUsC_FRWYg | facebook.com/GauntletRule | facebook.com/fighter.records
HIMILTUNGL: Djupt Under
Himiltungl - Digital AlbumSwedish duo HIMILTUNGL combines harsh riffs, powerful melodies and unnerving lyrics, sung entirely in their native Swedish. It's a mix of heavy metal, progressive metal and traditional Northern folk music. The songs are infused with traditional instruments such as accordion, banjo, ocarina and mandolin. It's mainly melancholic, but also heavy and melodic. The vocals is both clean and harsh.
I don't know if you get an idea of what this could sound like, but they seems to have succeeded to catch their own sound, where many different influences come together. And when it comes to the lyrics, inspiration seems to come from the deep lakes and dark forests of the north.
himiltungl.com
MORE THAN JOHN: Wild Mountain Thyme
Threeman Recordings - Digital SingleThis is definitely not rocking! Some old Scottish/Irish folk song done without any soul or energy at all. It's probably a good song, but not this version. I want a more raw voice or a female singer instead of a male. Maybe some more instruments as well, because all we get here is 1 man and his acoustic guitar. So it's a very naked version you could say. It's also very soft and slow.
This is the debut single from Swedish singer/songwriter John Engdahl. The song was produced by Alex Hellid of ENTOMBED, with co-production, recording, and mixing by Linn Fijal. An album will be released on April 19, 2025.
morethanjohn.com | threeman.se
ZTEREOTYPERNA/AKTA DIG!!: Något För Ingen
DöFisk Skivor - MCDDöFisk Skivor is a new D.I.Y punk label from Örebro, Sweden, and this is their first release - A split EP with the local bands ZTEREOTYPERNA and AKTA DIG!!. Both bands play a simple kind of punk and sing in Swedish. We get both original material and covers, as well as studio recordings and live recordings.
A odd thing is that the songs are mixed, and not first ZTEREOTYPERNA's songs and then AKTA DIG!!, which is the most common arrangement when it comes to split releases. It can be a little hard to tell which band is which when they mix like that, but it sounds pretty good anyway, even though none of them have anything extra for the punk scene. But if you are satisfied with good old and straight punk, then this could absolutley be worth a try.
dofisk.se | instagram.com/ztereotyperna_ | instagram.com/aktadig.band
TRAPEZE: Lost Tapes Vol. 2
Metalville Records on Nov. 15 - CD, LPWhen English rock band TRAPEZE called it a day, they left behind them a series of now classic albums. The members joined more famous acts, like DEEP PURPLE, WHITESNAKE, JUDAS PRIEST and URIAH HEEP. The story of TRAPEZE was not entirely over yet though. There were still lots of songs recorded on the side of album releases, which was never released. And that's where this "Lost Tapes" series comes in - Collections of those previously unreleased songs.
Vol. 1 was really good. But the first time I heard this second volume, it was like leftovers with less potential. After hearing this album some more, I can say that I was wrong, because it's actually not so bad this time either. So this is worth checking out if you're an old fan, or if you just happens to like hard funky rock. But TRAPEZE is much more than just that, which you will hear when you listen to this collection of songs. 1 track could be described as something close to country rock, while another is progressive AOR, just to give you an idea.
"Lost Tapes Vol. 2" features "Live Fast, Die Laughing", the last song ever recorded by founding member, band leader and guitarist/vocalist Mel Galley before his passing in 2008.
metalville.de
TOXAEMIA: Rejected Souls Of Kerberus
Emanzipation Productions on Nov. 15 - CD, LP, DigitalThis is the second studio album from this Swedish death metallers, and it was mixed and mastered by the legendary Dan Swanö (BLOODBATH, EDGE OF SANITY etc). 2 of the songs are old demo tracks that they have given new life, and for the first time they have also recorded a cover, a DISMEMBER song.
TOXAEMIA play old school death metal, but yet they have chosen a more modern sound this time. It's still heavy and brutal though, so don't worry too much about that. I really like what I hear, and it's not impossible that you will like this too.
bit.ly/tx-kerb | facebook.com/ToxaemiaSweden | emanzipation.dk
SOUND DELIVERY: Sound Delivery
Square Shaped Records on Nov. 15 - CD, Cassette, DigitalSOUND DELIVERY is a hard rock band from Sweden, and this is the debut album from this trio. Everything was recorded live in 3 days. It sounds like something from the 70s, which is a sound that I like, even though these guys doesn't really have the same production as they had back then. But the songs are absoultely not bad anyway. Now they might not have anything extra good here, but it could still be worth checking out if you prefer old hard rock before modern.
youtu.be/hXsZo3qChTQ?si=bnZwN7OLhzZzCf-_ | facebook.com/sounddeliveryofficial
SODOM: Tapping The Vein (Deluxe Expanded Edition)
Noise/BMG on Nov. 15 - 3LP/2CD, 2LP, 3CD, DigitalThis album was originally released 32 years ago and is German thrash legends SODOM's 6th album. It seems like the original LP is very expensive nowadays, so the fans have been waiting for a re-release for a long time. And now it's finally going to happen.
The album has been remastered, but we also get a completely remixed version done by Andy Brings with some additional alternative takes of 3 album tracks. And just if that wasn't enough, there's also 3 live recordings: Tokyo 1992, Düsseldorf 1992 and Cologne 1992 (Chris Witchhunter's last show with SODOM) in the super deluxe edition.
SODOM are a thrash band, but the first track, "Body Parts", sounds more like speed/death metal actually. Other tracks can be seen as death metal, while some are thrash metal, and at least 1 sounds like punk. So this is seen as one of, if not the most, brutal album with SODOM. But the funny thing is that no one in the band actually listened to death metal at the time. They were just young and still hungry, and delivered a raw album without much thought behind it. Luckily they succeed to make an album that the fans nowadays see as a classic in the band's discography. So maybe they did something right when they didn't think too much, but just delivered what they got and what they wanted to.
"Tapping The Vein" was the last album with original drummer Chris Witchhunter.
And what can I say about the live recodings then? Well, let's just say that they are all good, so all 3 are worth checking out.
sodomband.lnk.to/TTVWE | sodomized.info | noiserecords.tmstor.es
ARIES DESCENDANT: From The Ashes Of Deceit
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital AlbumThis is a collaboration between the 2 studio musicians Jonah Weingarten (PYRAMAZE, CATALYST CRIME) and Nicklas Sonne (DEFECTO, EVIL MASQUERADE, THEORY, Hank Shermann, ONE MACHINE, WASTED etc). "From The Ashes Of Deceit" is their debut album.
This duo seamlessly fuses the evocative allure of film music with the raw power of heavy metal, and create something extraordinary with symphonic arrangements and adorned with grand yet gritty vocal melodies. I guess we can describe this as symphonic metal, and it sounds pretty good actually. It's epic and ambitious like an adventure film.
ffm.to/ariesdescendantdeceit | facebook.com/ariesdescendant
CASANDRA'S CROSSING: Garden Of Earthly Delights
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - LP, CD, DigitalThis is a new musical alliance between guitar legend George Lynch (DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB etc) and singer Casandra Carson (PARALANDRA). They has created a modern hard rock album that showcases Lynch's trademark riffage and Casandra's talent as a singer. The riffs are heavy and the vocals very powerful. The songs are of a very high quality here, and there's many strong choruses as well. Yes, this is a very strong album without anything to complain about. Listen and be impressed!
ffm.to/casandrascrossingearthlydelights | facebook.com/LynchMobBand | facebook.com/OfficialCasandraCarson
FATE: Reconnect 'N Ignite
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital AlbumDanish hard rockers FATE was originally formed in late 1984 by Hank Shermann following his departure from MERCYFUL FATE. The band got signed to Danish EMI, and released their self-titled debut album in 1985. Hank left in 1988, but the others fought on. The band split up in the early 90s.
In 2006 FATE was back with a new album, "V"., after getting together to perform at the prestigious Deep Impact Festival in Germany in 2005. And they has released a couple of more albums since then.
This new album is a really strong collection of songs in the old school, but yet with a freash sound. The material is varied, sometimes heavier and sometimes melodic, and sometimes both. This is definietly worth checking out for most fans of hard rock.
ffm.to/fatereconnectnignite | facebook.com/Fatetheband
PENTACLE: Archic Undead Fury (re-issue)
Vic Records - MCDPENTACLE is one of the oldest, and still active, Dutch death metal bands. The band was formed by bassist/vocalist Wannes Gubbels (ex-ASPHYX, SOULBURN) in 1989. This 2-track EP was recorded in 2004, and has now been re-released.
They play a pretty traditional kind of death metal without any modern influences, and these 2 songs are pretty good stuff. It's energetic and raw, evil and aggressive. Well, you probably already know what death metal sounds like, so I don't really know what else I should say. Check this out!
vicrecords.com | facebook.com/Pentacle-86420806112
FURBOWL: Those Shredded Dreams (re-issue)
Vic Records - CDI think I might have heard a show with this band on Swedish National Radio's "P3 Live" in the 90s, but I don't think I recorded it (as I used to do), because I have no memory of hearing them again after that (my memory isn't always the best though).
Anyway.. FURBOWL was a death metal band from Sweden formed in 1991 by members from CARNAGE and HEARSE. After a few demos, they recorded this debut album, and it was produced by Michael Amott (CARNAGE, CARCASS, ARCH ENEMY). The singer in this band was Johan Liiva, who was asked to join ARCH ENEMY a few years later.
On this re-release we get as much as 11 bonus tracks, which was recorded before and after this album.
FURBOWL had their own unique sound, and maybe that's why they never have become one of the legendary bands that everybody talk about? I guess you could say that they was the first death n roll bands, but they are far away from as catchy as ENTOMBED for example, so it's not really the same as them. When I listen it's not so bad. But it's like nothing gets stuck. It just pass through my brain without any deeper impression. So I don't really know how to describe this band's sound for you. I guess it could be worth a try though if you like death metal from the 90s.
vicrecords.com
ETERNAL DIRGE: Khaos Magick (re-issue)
Vic Records - CD, LPGerman death metal band ETERNAL DIRGE formed in 1986, and released 2 demos and 2 full-length albums. "Khaos Magick" is the second album, released in 1996.
They played an early American style of death metal blended with Teutonic thrash, different to any other European death metal band at the time. They were a genuine band with their own sound, featuring dark keyboard sounds and repetitive riffs. This might not be a favorite to me, but it's absolutely not useless anyway. It's just between good and o.k., and not much else. But you might like it better though.
vicrecords.com
ASPHYXIA: Exit; Reality (re-issue)
Vic Records - CD, LPASPHYXIA was a thrash metal band from Verviers, Liège, Belgium formed in 1987. They released 3 demos and 1 full-length album, and it was the first band that Christian Olde Wolbers (VIO-LENCE, ex-FEAR FACTORY) played in.
What we have here is the album then. Nowadays you have to pay over 200 Euros for a original copy of it on eBay. But now you don't have to pay that much enymore, as Dutch label Vic Records has re-released it. And my opinion is that it could actually be worth a try, because this is absolutely not bad at all. Fans of the old school thrash should like this a lot, because that's what it sounds like to me. And isn't there a pinch of hardcore as well? Possibly.. Good stuff anyway.
vicrecords.com
MYSTYC BLADE: Don't Forget To Live
Wormholedeath Records - Digital Single"Don't Forget To Live" is a song taken from MYSTYC BLADE's album "The Master Is Inside". And the music on that album is described as a rich fusion of intense riffs, haunting melodies, powerful solos, and a cinematic atmosphere. The creative force behind this band is the self-taught musician Cristophe Danjon.
And what can I say about this song then? Well, it's a pretty good heavy metal song in the traditional league. Yet they have their own sound somehow. I don't really know how to describe it better than that, but this could absolutely be worth a try anyway.
youtu.be/0UBw1hrHRRk?si=3I-_oYzkFCAAHk5o | linktr.ee/Mystyc_Blade | wormholedeath.com
STREET FIGHTER: Feel The Fire
From The Vaults - Digital SingleSTREET FIGHTER is a duo with producer Marco Angioni (MERIDIAN, WITHERING SURFACE) and John Sharling (KUKO de KOBRA). They aim at a 1986-sounding heavy metal, and this song is a celebration of the Winter Solstice.
It's a more melodic kind of heavy metal that we get here, but it sounds really good. And they have succeeded to sound very similar to something from the 80s. So if you like more melodic stuff, then I really think you should give this a chance.
bfan.link/feel-the-fire-2
BÖDEL: Guidance Patrol
DiSTAT Records on Nov. 8 - Digital SingleWell, Swedish crust punks BÖDEL doesn't dissapoint, but deliver what they should and kicks ass as usual. A must to check out if you like it fast, raw and old school. And there's not much else to add about that.
This song has previously been available on the Swedish compilation Ursäkta Röran Vol. 7, which is also worth checking out if you're interested in the Swedish punk scene of today.
BÖDEL features members from veterans like The CROWN, DENY, VÄnSTERNÄVEN, PASTORATET, The LIPTONES, SUB ALERT etc. Their debut EP, "Välkommen Till Avrättningen", was released digitally in August, and will be released on 7" vinyl as well. And if you like this song, then you will love that EP.
hypeddit.com/distat12 | instagram.com/bodel_hardcorepunk | facebook.com/DistatRecords | gronpepparrecords.bandcamp.com/album/urs-kta-r-ran-vol-7
OSUKARU: House Of Mirrors (re-issue) / Starbound (re-issue) / Transition (re-issue)
Pride & Music Classix - CDsOSUKARU is a melodic hard rock group from Sweden. After 2 EPs they released their debut album, "Salvation", in the spring of 2012. But these 3 re-releases begin with the third album, "Transition", which was originally released in 2015. This was the time when it became a real band and not just a project around leader and guitarist Oz Hawe Petersson (formerly known as Oz Osukaru). While the first records had its roots in classic stadium rock and AOR, you could now hear hints of a heavier spark. It was still melodic, but a little harder than before.
And they continued with that sound on the albums "House Of Mirrors" (2018) and "Starbound" (2021). So there's no need to talk about each album here, as they have a very similar sound. I think that I like "Transition" a little extra though, as it has many extra strong songs and more female vocals that fits perfect for this band's music. But the other albums also have many strong songs. And if you like melodic rock/hard rock and AOR, then you should really check out these albums.
All 3 albums includes bonus tracks and are limited to 300 copies each.
A new, yet untitled, album by OSUKARU will be released in the first half of 2025 via Pride & Joy Music. Good news!
shop.prideandjoy.de
AVATARIUM: I See You Better In The Dark
AFM Records - Digital SingleJanuary 24, 2025 will see Swedish doom and hard rockers AVATARIUM release their much-awaited new studio offering, "Between You, God, the Devil and The Dead", through AFM Records. It will be the band's 6th album.
After the release of the 2 previous singles - "Long Black Waves" and the title track - they now gives us the hard-hitting, anthemic single "I See You Better In The Dark", which the guitarist Marcus Jidell describes as a classic DIO/BLACK SABBATH uptempo rocker with some 60s pop flavour. And this might actually be the best song that I have heard so far from the upcoming album, even if the first single was very good too. If you like hard rock and don't check this out, then you must be really stupid. So be wise and listen to the song right now.
avatarium.bfan.link/i-see-you-better-in-the-dark | avatarium.bfan.link/between-you-god-the-devil-and-the-dead | linktr.ee/avatariumofficial | shop.afm-records.de/avatarium
CONAN AND THE MALIS: Son Of A Bitch
SODEH Records - Digital Single"Son Of A Bitch" is taken from this band's debut album, "Going For A Walk", and it's a fast-paced punky anthem that captures the band's gritty attitude toward poorly trained dogs, they say.
Yes, this is really rocking, and it sounds really good too. So if you want action, then this is what you need.
music.youtube.com/watch?v=swQn0EdPo9U | facebook.com/people/Patri-Grief/pfbid037WSoad.... | sodeh.ca
DeadFire: Enemy
DeadFire - Digital SingleDeadFire hailing from Aberdeen, Scotland, and this is the first single release of 2024 from this hard rock band.
"'Enemy' is a balls to the wall, heavy rock track that is written in the perspective of a soldier thrust into a war that they don't want to be in. Used as a pawn to fight for a higher powers purpose", they say about this track. It's pretty hard and heavy, but not extremely hard or heavy. Powerful might be a better word.
It sounds o.k. anyway, so there's nothing to complain about. Give it a try.
youtu.be/75WnOHyqF6M?si=EtSZoFq_ZrtFD7kl | linktr.ee/deadfire4.0
SAGOSTUND: Du Ska Inte Vara Ledsen
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital SingleFrom Umeå in northern Sweden comes a band who mix progg, jazz and child music for adults. Among the influences are the 70s, Swedish progg music (often political and pretty kind rock) and TV shows for children from that era. And it really sounds like something from a other time. It's kind and sweet, not that much action, but yet not so bad at all. So if you like music from the 70s, then you should really check this out.
youtu.be/qWDSNQSB9xc?si=tlvErmpxyCVE1vsA | facebook.com/sagostundband | icea.se
SIGHT OF EMPTINESS: Mandates Of Hate
King2Music Records - Digital SingleSIGHT OF EMPTINESS are said to be Costa Rica's No.1 metal band. You can say whatever you want about that, but a new album, "Above The Noise", will be released in February 2025 anyway, and this is a taste of that record, which will be their fifth studio album. The album was produced and mixed by Thomas Plec Johansson (OPETH, MAYHEM, SOILWORK etc).
The band has been around since 2005, so yes, they will be celebrating their 20th anniversay next year.
These guys gives us a direct and straight death metal attack, and I guess it works somehow, because it's not bad anyway. I have heard better, but also a lot worse. So it's simply worth a try.
king2music.com | sightofemptiness.com
SLEEP THEORY: Paralyzed
Epitaph Records - Digital Single"'Paralyzed' is a record that speaks about the inner battles we face, and attempting to overcome those obstacles while trying to move on and seek inner peace", says the band about this track, and continues: "This is the heaviest track SLEEP THEORY has released, and the intensity of this record is there to help convey the magnitude of how these struggles feel internally."
Well, to me it sounds like metalcore/nu metal with both hard and melodic parts. And it sounds like lots of other stuff in this genre. But it's a o.k. song anyway, which is always something. I find it hard to believe that I will ever listen to this song again though.
youtu.be/KXK3zww_k6U | epitaph.com
TAK MATSUMOTO GROUP: Eternal Flames (feat. BABYMETAL)
Frontiers Music S.r.l - Digital SingleItalian label Frontiers Music S.r.l has signed TAK MATSUMOTO GROUP, a supergroup led by guitarist Tak Matsumoto. Their new album, "TMG II", is available digitally now, with a physical CD release scheduled for December 6. This single is a taste of what you can expect to hear on that album, and it features a guest appearance from Japanese pop/metal girls BABYMETAL, which gives us a fusion of hard rock and oriental influences topped with elements of pop and dance music.
That might sound like a catastrophe, but fact is that this is a really good melodic hard rock song. It also has a catchy energy that makes it perfect as a single. So you should absolutely check this out.
The band formed in 2004, and released their debut album, "TMG I", the same year. It seems like it was a big succees in Japan, but since then it has been quiet until now. Except for Tak, the band also consist of Jack Blades (NIGHT RANGER) and Eric Martin (Mr. BIG).
youtu.be/lN1WmeVd22Y?si=HVoUXk70Q_WJXM-8 | takmatsumotogroup.com
ULTRANOTHING: Nears
This Charming Man Records - 10" EPThis is a D.I.Y. post-punk/noise rock band from Luxembourg, formed in 2023. After more than a year of creating material and tireless rehearsals, in July 2024 they recorded their debut EP, "Nears", which is out now.
What we get is 4 pretty energetic songs, and it sounds just like I think it should, so I have nothing to complain about as all 4 tracks are good. But unfortunately I just don't really know what else I should say about this. Give them a try anyway.
youtube.com/watch?v=ZnRsq5AWec0 | fm.cargo-records.de/ultranothing-st
VISITOR: Apophis
Visitor - Digital SingleVISITOR is a metal band from Manchester, England. This new single delves into a chilling scenario where the asteroid isn't just a cosmic threat, but an alien spacecraft awakened by our interference. It serves as a stark reminder that our cosmic ambitions might ultimately lead to our downfall. Yes, this is a high speed, alien-themed, heavy/thrash metal band, with a sound ranging from guttural growls to soaring melodies, blast beats to beat downs, taking traditional metal influences and mixing with contemporary and progressive twists. With power, energy, melody and emotion these 4 men deliver a ambitious thrash song with symphonic elements. Familiar and different at the same time.
youtu.be/wf8J6QtcM2k?si=KPPT5zneYALK1Nmd | visitormetal.com
(0): Knæk.Mørke.Mod.Lys
Audible Records on Nov. 8 - LP, DigitalThis Danish alternative metal band have been gone for 4 years, but are now back with their second full-length album.
The idea behind (0) is to break the boundaries between black, progressive, drone, and post-metal. The lyrics are in Danish, and the vocals is growl. It's a raw and intense experience that you won't forget in the first place. But it can also be very dark and melancholy, sometimes almost depressive actually. So this is hardly an album for everyone, but those who like this kind of stuff will probably see it as a masterpiece.
I can't really say that I'm one of them. I like the more intense parts here, but are not such a big fan of the melancholy parts.
0bandofficial.com | audiblemusic.dk
TAME THE ABYSS: They Live Again!
Plastic Fang Records on Nov. 8 - Digital AlbumThis south German rock band is said to "combine a 50s B-movie horror self-irony with an instantly captivating 60s band attitude, a powerful 70s rock sound, and a striking 80s neon look into their distinctive signature style". They has existed for 4 years, and previously released 2 EPs. Now it's time for their full-length debut.
This trio doesn't want to limit themselves to just 1 genre, but combines various rock styles, like hard rock, classic rock, alternative rock, progressive rock and stoner rock. And that might sound wild, but fact is that most of these songs are classic rock according to me. Most of these songs are absolutely not bad, and they are very good at what they are doing, yet the extra good songs are few here. But a couple of songs worth to mention are "This Is The Love" and "Man Is Wolf To Man", as well as a couple of more energetic tracks, like "Lunar Love" for example.
tametheabyss.ffm.to/theyliveagain | tame-the-abyss.de
PARAGON: Metalation
Massacre Records on Nov. 8 - CD, LP, DigitalNow this is how true old school heavy metal is supposed to sound like according to me. Fans of bands like JUDAS PRIEST and PRIMAL FEAR should be very happy when they hear this.
This album was one of the most difficult albums to make, according to PARAGON'S bassist Jan Bünning, as the band almost broke up in the time between the release of the band's previous album, "Controlled Demolition", and this new album, "Metalation". And they actually lost a couple of members, who decided to leave the band, and the idea to do 1 last album and some farewell shows was even there. But new members was found - Martin and Jason Wöbcke (son and father, guitar and drums) - and they wanted to continue with the band.
This time they decided that it would not make sense to repeat themselves, and that it must sound a little more melodic and versatile, just like in their old days. At the same time it's very energetic and powerful as well. The kind of stuff that most fans of classic heavy metal should like. You should really give this band a chance, because I'm pretty sure that you won't regret it.
This German band released their first record in 1994, so they are obviously veterans now.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | paragon-metal.com
FURIOUS DESCENT: Judgement Day
Brutal Records on Nov. 8 - MCD, Digital EPThis Finnish groove/thrash metal band formed in 2022. They have had their lineup changes, but will now release their debut EP, "Judgement Day", in November. And a second EP is already ready for release in 2025.
I guess their sound is best described as crushing and intense. It sounds old school, and that's always good of course (according to me anyway). Yes, it's powerful, and the songs are of high quality, so you should give this band a try. And there',s not much else to add there..
linktr.ee/brutalrecords.official
TUNGSTEN: The Grand Inferno
Reigning Phoenix Music on Nov. 8 - LP, CD, Digital
Yes, we can really talk about variety here.. "Lullaby" sounds like a song for children, but mixed with modern metal. "Vantablack" sounds like a mix of electronic and industrial metal, with a catchy and melodic chorus. Some songs are more epic and/or melodic, while others are more like usual metal. One thing is for sure, you should not get bored in this company.
Swedish group TUNGSTEN is said to be a symphonic metal band, but this 4th album is obviously so much more than that. They have simply created their own colorful musical landscape, where classic power metal goes hand in hand with modern electronic and industrial influences. This album is full of catchy melodies, anthemic sing-along choruses and varied vocals. On top of that they also have damn good songs, so you should really give them a try.
This orchestra was formed by former HAMMERFALL and Yngwie Malmsteen drummer Anders Johansson (who has also played with MANOWAR) and his 2 sons Niklas (guitars) and Karl (bass(keyboards) in 2016. They were completed by vocalist Mike Andersson.
tungstenofficial.net | reigningphoenixmusic.com
SEVEN KINGDOMS: The Square
Reigning Phoenix Music on Nov. 8 - MCD, 12" EP, DigitalAmerican power metal band SEVEN KINGDOMS has signed with Reigning Phoenix Music, and this is the first release on the new label. It also seems to be a first taste of what they're aiming at for the next album, which they plan to release in late 2025. And in addition to the EP release, SEVEN KINGDOMS will embark on an extensive touring schedule. The band will kick off with a North American headlining tour in November and December, joined by STRIKER, LUTHARO and OSYRON for select dates. Following that, they will support power metal legends UNLEASH THE ARCHERS on a European tour in February and March 2025.
We get 5 songs here, and they all sounds excellent. This is how a modern power metal band is supposed to sound like according to my opinion. Yet it's not too modern, but also lots of good old elements that we all like. You have to check this out!
"Kyrie" is probably the song with the highest hit potential here. It sounds like a pop song from the 90s actually, but yet it's really good.
SEVEN KINGDOMS hailing from Deland in Florida, and formed in 2007. After solidifying their lineup in 2009, the band signed with Nightmare Records. Their big break came in 2010, when they were handpicked by BLIND GUARDIAN to support them on their North American tour, which introduced SEVEN KINGDOMS to a wider audience. They has released a few albums and EPs through the years, and it seems like they have become more and more popular in the metal scene.
sevenkingdomsofficial.com | reigningphoenixmusic.com
DISTANT PAST: Solaris
Art Gates Records on Nov. 8 - CDThe new album with Swizz heavy metal band DISTANT PAST is inspired by the novel "Solaris" by Stanislaw Lem and the film adaptation by Andrei Tarkowski. They gives us a very traditional sound, with no traces of modern sounds or synthesizers. So what you can expect is pure guitars, fast pounding drums, machine gun bass and high-pitched vocals - just like in the glory days.
The band was founded by bassist Andriano in 2002 as a studio project, but became a live band when Jvo (EMERALD) joined him in 2014.
They have made a really good album, that should make people of the 80s bands happy. So there really is nothing modern or unique about this band's music. But this is absolutely worth checking out anyway.
artgatesrecords.com/artists/distant-past
NURCRY: Renacer
Art Gates Records on Nov. 8 - CD, DigitalNURCRY was born from the head of a Spanish 16-year old boy named Angel Gutíerrez in the 80s, when he discovered rock music. But it wasn't until 2021 that he finally decided to make that dream come true and started to compose some songs. The result became "Alma Libre", which was released in September 2022. After that he and his band just continued, and both a EP and a second album was released in 2023.
NURCRY play heavy metal and sing in Spanish. It's powerful and melodic, and they seems to be very good at what they are doing. On top of that they have songs of a really high quality, that most fans of good old heavy metal should like. This is hardly a demo band that has just began to learn how to play, but a band that can compete with their heros. Impressive!
artgatesrecords.com/artists/nurcry
DIRTBAG REPUBLIC: Bad Decisions
Sioux Records - LP / Dirtbag Records - CD"Bad Decisions" is the 4th studio album from the hard rocking band DIRTBAG REPUBLIC. The album was recorded over the course of 3 years, and features 11 tracks. They has been compared to artists like BACKYARD BABIES, HANOI ROCKS, Michael Monroe and AEROSMITH, and that's a good description of this band's sound. Some kind of hard rock n roll with a touch of action rock you could say. They are really rocking, and it's powerful, raw and dirty. Lots of excellent songs here, so I really like what I hear. You should really check out this band. No doubt about that.
linktr.ee/dirtbagrepublic
DAWNRIDER: Five Signs Of Malice
Firecum Records on Nov. 4 - LPThey start with a track that is almost 9 minutes long. And there's 2 more tracks here that are that long. The other songs are a little shorter though. It's heavy and riff-based, but also much keyboard and sometimes long instrumental parts. They blend psychedelic grooves with heavy metal riffing to create their sound, and it sounds both old and timeless at the same time (if that is even possible?).
DAWNRIDER formed 20 years ago, and "Five Signs Of Malice" is this Portugese doom metal band's fifth full-length album. And this is absolutely not bad at all. It's said to fit fans of legends like PENTAGRAM, SAINT VITUS and CATHEDRAL. But I would guess that most fans of heavy music could like this record.
youtu.be/1QGhBXRtS8c?si=_PGbDYWAYOviH1P4 | instagram.com/dawnrider_doom
SPITFIRE: Trinity
Witches Brew - LP, CD, DigitalSPITFIRE hailing from Karlsruhe in Germany, and formed in 2014. They play old school speed/thrash metal with influences from classic acts like OVERKILL, MOTÖRHEAD, EXCITER and early METALLICA. They simply take the best parts and throw in some elements of NWOBHM as well. And it sounds just as you can expect, like some classic album from the 80s. So this is very good stuff and absolutely worth checking out as soon as possible. They deliver with the right power and aggression. It's never too raw or extreme, but enough of everything. And I don't really know what else I should say..
spitfire.band | witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com
RADIOACTIVE: Reset
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital AlbumRADIOACTIVE is a AOR project led by Swedish guitarist/songwriter/producer Tommy Denander. He now return with the 6th album.
It seems like this project has been active now and then for many years, and always with a sensational cast of musicians. This time he is joined by vocalists like Jeff Paris (Y&T, CINDERELLA), Robin McAuley (MSG, ex-SURVIVOR), Joey Vana (MECCA), Jim Jidhed (ALIEN) and the new talent Harris "Dio" Zindani. Denander himself plays guitar, bass and keyboards, while legendary producer Mutt Lange (DEF LEPPARD, Bryan Adams, AC/DC, FOREIGNER etc.) appears on background vocals and co-writing 2 originals. Other special guests include Tony Levin (KING CRIMSON, Peter Gabriel) and Keith Scott (Bryan Adams guitarist).
This album is said to be a return to the sound of his first records, a more classic AOR sound. We talk about legendary artists like Bryan Adams, TOTO and 80s DEF LEPPARD here. Very melodic stuff, but of very high quality as everybody is doing their best here. You might not get anything unique, but the songs are just as good as anything from the 80s, so you just have to check it out anyway.
I don't think it will take too long before you can read about some other band or project with Tommy Denander here, as he is and have been involved with lots of projects. And the interesting thing is that most of the stuff I have heard have been of really high quality. So as soon as you see that he has been involved in something, then you can be pretty sure that it's good.
youtu.be/Bn5gCHYuT1o | ffm.to/radioactivereset | facebook.com/tommydenanderradioactive
HOUSE OF LORDS: Full Tilt Overdrive
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2LP, CD, Digital"Full Tilt Overdrive" is the 12th studio album from this hard rock band. And as far as I can understand nothing has changed. Instead they continue with their winning formula, and deliver the same kind of songs that they always have. Yet it's also said to be one of the strongest albums with the band.
HOUSE OF LORDS released their self-titled debut album in 1989. They released another album, "Sahara", before they disbanded in 1991. But already in 1992 they were back again with a new lineup, but that didn't last. In 2000 the original lineup reunited, and since then all but James has left the band and been replaced by other guys.
James is nowadays joined by guitarist Jimi Bell, keyboardist/songwriter Mark Mangold (TOUCH, Michael Bolton, DRIVE, SHE SAID), and Swedish drummer Johan Koleberg (LION'S SHARE, IGNITION, THERION). So this is the same lineup as on the last album, "Saints And Sinners".
The music on this album is really good, as they have a really strong material. It's a melodic kind of hard rock that we get here, and it sounds like something from the 80s. But at the same time I would say that it's a timeless.sound that they have succeeded to create. It's absolutley worth checking out anyway. No doubt about that.
youtu.be/fQMEBqCkO6Q | ffm.to/holfulltiltoverdrive | facebook.com/HouseOfLordsB
FANS OF THE DARK: Video
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital Album"Video" is the third album with Swedish melodic rock band FANS OF THE DARK. The concept of this album, and particular the single "Let's Go Rent A Video", is about growing up in the 80s and 90s. You actually had to go to a video store to rent a film, and could not just go to a website and stream it like nowadays. That was a completely different time, almost like a other life. And this album is a salute to that era.
And with that concept comes a kind of music that is similar to what they did during that era, which in this case is melodic rock/AOR. And yes, it actually sounds like something that could have been made during the 80s, but with today's technology then. They have lots of fantastic songs here, so this should sell a lot. But in these digital times it seems like you have to stream it a lot instead (but you can always download it as well).
youtu.be/yBeyPKQNJnY | ffm.to/fansofthedarkvideo | facebook.com/p/Fans-of-the-Dark-100068644011239
CLEANBREAK: We Are The Fire
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalThis is a collaboration between singer James Durbin (ex-QUIET RIOT) and guitarist Mike Flyntz (RIOT V). Their debut album, "Coming Home", was released in 2022, and now their second album is here, where they are joined by Alessandro Del Vecchio (EDGE OF FOREVER, HARDLINE, VANDEN PLAS) on bass, keyboards and backing vocals, while Nicholas Papapicco (Robin McAuley, Toby Hitchcock) completes the lineup on drums.
CLEANBREAK play a heavy yet melodic kind of heavy metal in the American tradition. And this my friend sounds really good as it's free from modern influences. But not only because of that of course. They are also very good at what they are doing, and have succeeded to make some really strong songs. So this is defintely something that you should give a try.
youtube.com/watch?v=PWYv9hmJSw4 | ffm.to/cleanbreakwearethefire | facebook.com/CleanbreakMetal «October | Index | December»
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