REVIEWS NOVEMBER 2024
«October | Index | December»ATHENA XIX: Everflow Part I: Frames Of Humanity
Reigning Phoenix Music on Dec. 6 - 2LP, CD, DigitalATHENA XIX was founded over 30 years ago by frontman Fabio Lione (ANGRA, ex-RHAPSODY OF FIRE). They now return with the first chapter of a concept album, and the sound is said to be more modern, sharp and unpredictable than ever. Blending electronic influences with jazz interludes and reigniting their passion for technical thrash metal, the band's music is enriched by visual elements inspired by cinematic storytelling. The album combines the prog/thrash intensity of recent SYMPHONY X, the romantic undertones of EVERGREY, and the epic grandeur of KAMELOT.
It's in other words a very ambitious album that we have here, and the music is probably best described as progressive power metal, even though there's many other ingredients here as well. These Italians have definitely found their own sound anyway, but it doesn't sound so bad at all, so you should really give them a try.
I would guess that this could be of interest for many different fans of metal.
facebook.com/Athena.Band.Italy | reigningphoenixmusic.com
FORGED IN BLACK: Forged In Black Remastered MMXXIV (re-issue)
Fighter Records on Dec. 3 - CD, DigitalThis album was originally released 15 years ago, and is British heavy metal band FORGED IN BLACK's debut album. They celebrate the anniversary by re-releasing a remastered version of the album.
The band formed as MERCILESS FALL in 2009, a moniker that was soon abandoned. In 2013 they recorded this record, and they have come a long way since then. This new version of the album is expanded with the addition of 2 early EP title tracks, "The Tide" and "The Exodus", from 2013 and 2014 respectively. This gives us 13 tracks.
What we get the chance to hear is a pretty powerful heavy metal in the classic league, but not without losing the melodies. Think of something like JUDAS PRIEST in the 80s for example, and mix that with something like QUEENSRŸCHE from the same era, and you might get an idea of what this could sound like. In other words really good stuff that you just have to check out. Because for being a debut, this is a really strong material and very professionally done.
forgedinblack.com | fighter-records.com
LIONVILLE: Supernatural
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital AlbumLIONVILLE gives us a very melodic kind of AOR, with emotional vocals and choruses made for a classic from the 80s. In other words nothing new for the genre, but just as good as any other melodic rock band. Yes, they have many strong songs on this album, so fans of good old AOR should not be dissapointed when they listen to this. And listen to this you should.
This is an Italian band. And this marks a new chapter for them, as this new album features a new lead singer, Alexander Strandell (ART NATION), from Sweden (who is also a producer and songwriter). Songwriter, singer and guitarist Stefano Lionetti started the band with his brother Alessandro in 2010. They recorded 5 albums with lead singer Lars Säfsund (WORK OF ART). Stefano calls the new album "a bridge between the past and the future of LIONVILLE".
ffm.to/lionvillesupernatural | facebook.com/LIONVILLEofficial
CULT OF ALCAEUS: The Odyssey Of The Soul
Cult Of Alcaeus - Digital Single"The Odyssey Of The Soul" explores the depths of the human mind, drawing strength and understanding from our own journeys. The soundtrack to that is a mix of powerful rhythms and chaos. We talk about thrash/death metal here, and the song is said to reflect the unpredictable twists and turns in human souls, with changes in rhythm and intensity. It's a pretty heavy song that last for 6:26 minutes, and thanks to those changes in rhythm and intensity it's almost progressive.
Just as last time, they has released this single via their official website, BandCamp and SoundCloud to begin with. Other streaming services will follow on December 1.
cultofalcaeus.com
DARK EMBRACE: Land Of Witches
Massacre Records on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, DigitalThis is a dark heavy metal band from Spain, and "Land Of Witches" is said to be the highest step forward in DARK EMBRACE's career. It was invoked using the powerful magick of the black arts. Among the dark arts used in the album are demon invocations by different kinds of chants, high noises by creepy distortions, low frequences by dead heartbeats and Pagan rhythms from hellish beating skins. I don't really know what to think when I read things like that.
Even if it's dark, the energy in the first song is so high that it almost sounds like power metal. There's a few more uptempo moments, but most of the material is probably best described as a mix of heavy metal and dark metal. But they also blend in elements of many other sub-genres of metal to make it even more interesting to listen to. They have simply found their own sound.
This might not be of interest for those of you who just prefer the traditional kind of heavy metal. But fans of dark metal and those of you who can go beyond the classic sound will get an interesting ride.
This group released their first record in 2006. After that the fans had to wait until 2017 for a new record. And then a few more years before the next was released in 2023.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | darkembrace.net
SIGHT OF EMPTINESS: Soul Ascension
King2Music - Digital SingleCosta Rica's No. 1 metal band (according to Spotify) return with another single. They will celebrate their 20th anniversary next year, and also plan to release their fifth album in early 2025.
The music that these guys are playing is a hard-hitting kind of death metal, yet I would actually say that this song is on the border to melodic death metal. They might not be doing anything special, but it sounds good anyway, and sometimes that's enough. So you should give these guys a try, because it's not impossible that you will like what you hear.
king2music.com | sightofemptiness.com
SLEARS: The Chaos Within
Metalapolis Records on Nov. 29 - CDEven if this band have been rocking for almost 2 deacdes, this is just their third album. But then their debut album wasn't released until 2014. They continue with the same recipe, which is a modern combination of heaviness, big melodies and a light progressive touch. A modern hard rock that doesn't give me that much to listen to, even though I have heard a lot worse than this. Because these guys mix their more melodic songs with more powerful songs as well, and most of the material is not as soft and silly as some other bands in this genre. So there's some hope here at least.
But with that said, I can't say that I like all songs here, but a few at least.
metalapolis.eu | facebook.com/Slearsband
VÖLVA: Desires Profane
Grind To Death Records - CD / Fiadh Productions - LPFrom Malmö in southern Sweden comes this satanic feminist black metal band. And they attack with a hateful rage against female oppression and Christian values. "Desires Profane" is the full-length debut album from this female trio. And it's not a nice experience. It goes fast and is really raw and aggressive, spiced with a bad punk attitude.
They say that this is something for fans of DARKTHRONE, URGEHAL, WOLFBASTARD and TAAKE. So if you like those bands, then I guess this could be worth a try. It might not be the best that I have heard, but it's far away from the worst. So I guess they are o.k. anyway.
facebook.com/volvabm | grindtodeathrecords.com | facebook.com/fiadhproductions
The WATCHER: Out Of The Dark
Cruz Del Sur Music on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, DigitalThis is the first full-length album from The WATCHER, which is a doom-tinged heavy metal outfit from Massachusetts. It seems like they formed in 2016, but didn't release anything until 2021, the EP "Your Turn To Die". That's already 4 years ago, so they don't work fast. But then these songs was recorded about a year ago. I guess they concentrate on high quality instead of stressing out half-good songs.
This American trio unifies classic heavy metal with the darkness of doom metal, and the result is something really good that you have to check out. We get 8 powerful and melodic tracks, and there's really nothing to complain about here. But I don't have much else to write either.
cruzdelsurmusic.com | instagram.com/the.watcher.heavy.metal
VIOLENT DEFINITION: Progressive Obsoletion
I Hate Records/Bestial Invasion Records - CD, LP, DigitalVIOLENT DEFINITION is a thrash metal band from Athens, Greece. It's 6 years since their album, "Life Sentence", was released, and with this new album they are said to taking it to another level. Sound-wise it's the late 80s with aggression, attitude and technical skill, razorsharp and precise. I would think that fans of a band like SLAYER or KREATOR could like this a lot, because it's something similar to that.
They have made a damn good album, and you should really check it out. Not much else to add there..
ihate.se | facebook.com/people/Bestial-Invasion-Records/.... | facebook.com/ViolentDefinition
ROTPIT: Long Live The Rot
War Anthem Records on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, Digital"Long Live The Rot" is the second full-length album from this German/Swedish old school death metal trio. It's said to be more sick, more filthy and more ambitious.
With this album they introduce new drummer Erik Barthold (LEFT HAND SOLUTION, The KRISTET UTSEENDE). It's said that he did such a good job that he took the songs to the next level. The other members are Jonny Pettersson (MASSACRE, WOMBBATH, BERZERKER LEGION) on bass, guitars and fx, and Ralf Hauber (REVEL IN FLESH, HEADS FOR THE DEAD, FETID ZOMBIE, JUST BEFORE DAWN) on vocals. And when it comes to the vocals, they say that Ralf deliver his most brutal sounding contribution to the scene so far. And yes, his growl is deep and brutal, so they are not lying.
These guys gives us 10 tracks in 35 and a half minutes, which is just about enough. It sounds like something from the early 90s. So fans of that era should be very happy to hear this, because this is really good stuff.
war-anthem.de | facebook.com/Rotpit666
DEMON BITCH: Master Of The Games
Gates Of Hell Records on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, DigitalFrom Detroit, Michigan comes DEMON BITCH. It seems to be 8 years since their last album, but now they're back. And what they deliver this time is obscure underground U.S. power metal and classic heavy metal, with influences from both the 70s and more extreme genres. They seems to be very good musicians, and the singer seems to sing as if his life were at stake, with many high notes. He's really going all in with a lot of passion. You could almost say that it's a little theatrical actually. He never sings clean though, which I guess can be a small problem for some people.
This is good stuff. No doubt about that.
gatesofhellrecords.com | demonbitch.bandcamp.com
SPARZANZA: The Blinding Absence Of A Light
Despotz Records - Digital Single
Following the single "Twitch of the Death Nerve", Swedish metal band SPARZANZA delivers another heavy tune, "The Blinding Absence Of A Light". But it's not just heavy, but also powerful and melodic. On top of that we have the chorus, which is really good. This is typical ingredients for SPARZANZA, and something that gives them their own special sound. And it's a sound that I like, and this song is no exception from that rule. So in other words, definitely worth checking out if you like metal with a modern twist.
found.ee/TheBlindingAbsenceOfALight | facebook.com/sparzanza | despotz.se
v/a: R#xmas Vol. 2
Metalville Records on Nov. 29 - CDThis year's Christmas compilation from German label Metalville Records is a wild mix of original songs and covers of the classic Christmas songs that we have heard a thousand times already. It's also a wild mix of different artists and genres here, but mainly some kind of rock music anyway. Among the artists are DORO, DRUNKEN SWALLOWS, Liv Kristine, LIONHEART, Lee Aaron, Seraina Telli, SWEET, The QUILL, VLAD IN TEARS etc. Some songs are previously unreleased, and there's as much as 15 tracks to get you in the right mood for Christmas.
The question is if this actually will get you in the right mood? Because even though there's some good songs here and there, it',s not so strong as a whole album because of those weaker tracks. I would not say that anything is useless, but I have much better Christmas albums in my collection.
Some songs worth listening to are DORO's "Rock 'N' Roll Christmas Party" and Lee Aaron's "Almost Christmas". I must also say that Seraina Telli is doing a pretty good version of "All I Want For Christmas Is You", even better than Mariah Carey. So it's obviously the women that deliver the best presents here. But o.k., some of the boys are doing a pretty good job too. And then I talk about The OHIO CITY SINGERS and The QUILL for example.
metalville.de
SWEET: Isolation Boulevard
Metalville Records on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, DigitalGlam rock legends SWEET released a new album a couple of months ago, and that wasn't really how I wanted SWEET to sound like. This album on the other hand is more how I remember them. But that's because it's old classics that they has re-recorded.
In 2019 SWEET was touring like never before, but then came a global pandemic in 2020 and destroyed all plans. Then they came up with the idea that the current lineup - Andy Scott, Lee Small, Paul Manzi and Bruce Bisland - should re-record 12 old classics. And yes, the result is this album, called "Isolation Boulevard".
Well, there's not that much to say about this collection of songs, as you have probably heard most of them before. But if you want to know what the old classics sounds like today, then this could be of interest of course, because it's a very good album. No doubt about that.
metalville.de | thesweet.com
STEEL INFERNO: Rush Of Power
From The Vaults on Nov. 29 - CD, LP, DigitalDanish speed metal band STEEL INFERNO is back with a new album. And this should be something for all of you who like true speed metal from the 80s. We get speed and adrenaline, the energy is really high. The singer is not screaming all the time, and thanks for that, as it can be a little too much of the high notes. This is simply a very good band, which has made another great album that you should check out. Not a bad song on the whole album.
Since the band's formation in 2012, the quintet has released 3 studio albums before "Rush Of Power".
bit.ly/si-bndc | steelinferno.dk | fromthevaults.dk
THY LEGION: Grand Cosmic Funeral
Art Gates Records on Nov. 29 - CDTHY LEGION is a blackened death metal band from the island of Malta, formed in 2004. They are 6 members as they have 2 vocalists.
"We aimed to craft a melancholic album, providing a spiritual journey while retaining an extreme sound", they say about their new album, "Grand Cosmic Funeral". They continue to deliver their signature sound, which is a blend of dark, cold harmonies, immersing the listener in an unforgiving soundscape. It sounds both brutal and melodic actually, and they blend fast and heavy parts. This is definitely a force to be reckoned with, that's for sure.
In other words an album worth checking out if you like it extreme.
artgatesrecords.com/artists/thy-legion
SALEM UK: Outer Limits
Rude Awakening Records on Nov. 29 - CDThe new album with NWOBHM veterans SALEM UK is inspired by Hull Fair, which takes place in the band's home town. It's the biggest travelling fair in Europe, officially launched in 1279. It's a historical event where visitors can find any kind of ride. Each track title of "Outer Limits" has a carnival element and many are named after one of the rides, bringing the carnival theme to the whole album.
The band was first active as SALEM during the NWOBHM era, and released 3 demos and a single in the early 80s. They re-formed in 2009 and released 2 EPs and 3 albums. The first album as SALEM UK was released in 2019, and "Outer Limits" is the second. Original members Simon Saxby (vocals) and Adrian Jenkinson (bass) are now joined by Jonny Hirons (guitar) and Dan Ellis (drums).
Well, this is a great melodic hard rock/heavy metal album. And even if the music is timeless, the sound is pretty modern and really good. There's really nothing to complain about here, but not that much else to say either, other than that you really should give this album a chance.
youtu.be/beQOR23ubVA | rudeawakening-records.blogspot.com | salem.me.uk
RITUAL FOG: But Merely Flesh
Transcending Obscurity Records on Nov. 29 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalSometimes you just want some classic thrashy old school death metal to bang your head to. And then RITUAL FOG is a good choice. Because it doesn't always have to be so complicated. And even if it's old school, I would not say that they are a copy of a thousand other bands that want to sound like they were from the early 90s. No, this is somehow more complex, or however I should describe their sound? Well, fuck that by the way, because this is really good stuff and you listen. Simple as that my friend.
youtu.be/zSB7N6050RY?si=sRu0sTT4ggEruZ81 | ritualfogdm.bandcamp.com/album/but-merely-flesh | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
THUNDERMOTHER: Dead Or Alive
AFM Records - Digital Single
I think of Danish hard rocking veterans D-A-D when I hear this new single. It's a little softer and more melodic than what we are used to get from THUNDERMOTHER, but it sure ain't bad. It also have a big and catchy chorus, just like a hit should have. It will probably not be a hit though, but that doesn't really matter to me as it's still a good song.
"Dead Or Alive" is taken from the upcoming album "Dirty & Divine", which will be released on February 7, 2025. Something to look forward to..
Guitarist Filippa Nässil has been steering the ship THUNDERMOTHER with different crew for 15 years now. The latest lineup features Linnea Vikström Egg on vocals, Joan Massing on drums and Majsan Lindberg on bass. "Dirty & Divine" will be the 6th studio album.
thundermother.bfan.link/dead-or-alive | thundermother.bfan.link/dirty-divine | thundermother.com
GRAVE DIGGER: Killing Is My Pleasure
ROAR - Digital Single"Killing Is My Pleasure" is taken from the upcoming album "Bone Collector", which will be released on January 17. It will be their 23rd studio album. But then these German heavy metal veterans will celebrate their 45-year anniversary in 2025.
The lyrics to this song are inspired by the infamous mafia contract killer Richard Kuklinski, who was believed to have committed over 200 murders before his death in 2006. Musically it's just pure heavy metal without any surprises, like it has always been and should be. Powerful and heavy with a strong chorus. Check out!
gravedigger.rpm.link/killing | gravedigger.rpm.link/bonecollector | grave-digger.de | roar-records.de
HEATHEN HEARTS: All My Friends Are Dead
Heathen Hearts - Digital SingleThese guys are doing a cover of a TURBONEGRO song. It's a high energy punk version with noisey vocals. It might not be as excellent as the original version, but it sure ain't bad anyway. You should really check it out, and there's actually not much else to say about that.
HEATHEN HEARTS is a Finnish band, and they started as a group to play a TURBONEGRO set at a local Turbojugend birthday party (Turbojugend is TURBONEGRO's fan club). But when the well-known pandemic hit the planet everything changed, and a new band was born. They has always had TURBONEGRO as a major influence and played "All My Friends Are Dead" at every show since the beginning. So recording this song felt like a natural step. And especially as they have recently entered the studio to work on their first full-length album.
youtu.be/yOwSuSvFyqo | instagram.com/heathenheartshc
SOULSKINNER: Gloryfied By The Light
Xtreem Music on Nov. 26 - CD, DigitalThis Greek band has its roots in a band called TERRA TENEBRAE, which formed in 1997. In 2000 they changed the name to SOULSKINNER, and "Gloryfied By The Light" is their 6th studio album. They play epic and melodic death metal, and their sound is characterized by brutal riffing, melodic depth, and an epic atmosphere. It's an intense blend of heaviness and melody you could say.
This is absolutely a good album that they have made, and I would guess that both old and modern death metallers could like this, as I think it sounds more like something from the early 2000s than something from the 1990s. Or more AMON AMARTH than early ENTOMBED you could also say.
youtu.be/rqVlv3blwN8?si=jKw23r9T7H8Ejx1_ | facebook.com/Soulskinnerband
SHINING: Feberdrömmar (Del Ett)
The Sinister Initiative on Nov. 25 - LP, CD, CassetteThis must be the most useless crap I have been listening to in a while. It's supposed to be black metal, but to me this is just anxiety, chaos and a hellish noise. This is not music, but more like the soundtrack to a really horrible nightmare. It's actually claustrophobic and painful somehow, which is probably the whole idea. But then we are dealing with a man who has been in and out of psychiatric wards a number of times in his life. So it's not that strange that it sounds like it does then. I hope he's better now anyway.
It seems like the idea to re-release the "8 ½" compilation, originally released by Dark Essence Records 11 years ago, has become a 2-part thing instead as there was so much more material added. And this is the first chapter, which includes both old and new material. The second chapter is currently in post-production, and is scheduled for release in Summer 2025.
The lineup on "Feberdrömmar (Del Ett)" features well-known names in the metal scene: Maniac (SKITLIV), Pehr Sjöldhammar (ALFAHANNE), Attila Csihar (MAYHEM), Famine (PESTE NOIRE), and Gaahl (TRELLDOM).
thesinisterinitiative.com | shininglegions.com
BAKELIT: Asleep Or Insane
FOSFOR Creation - AlbumBAKELIT is a new progressive art rock project from Sweden, founded by Carl Westholm (CARPTREE, CANDLEMASS, AVATARIUM, HOLLINGSHEAD, JUPITER SOCIETY etc). With him are collaborators and friends from earlier projects. The music have 1 foot in progressive rock and 1 in electronic art rock, which gives this band their own sound.
This sounds like a pretty typical progressive rock album to me. Which is a genre that I have learnt to like, but I didn't like it something like 20 years ago. But just like with all genres and sub-genres, there's both good and bad stuff. And just to make it more difficult, as progressive bands like to do, there's sometimes a band that you don't really know if you like or not. It's like they're stuck somewhere in-between. Yes, I think BAKELIT is one of those bands, because the first time I heard this album, it was hard to tell if this is good or bad. The second time I could hear some potential though. And like I said earlier, with that electronic twist they have found their own sound in the progressive jungle. But now I'm hardly an expert when it comes to this genre, so what do I really know? I guess it could be worth a try anyway.
bakelitband.se
TAILOR'S WAVE: Ajna
Tailor's Wave/Wanikiya Record - CD, DigitalTAILOR's WAVE is an Italian metal band born in November 2020. They blend thrash and heavy metal, and "Ajna" is their third album, where the lyrics deal with subjects like industry, politics, medicine, church and society in general. At the same time it seems like they don't want to be too negative, but want to spread some hope so that we can improve ourselves. They have a modern sound, but not extremely modern as there's some old ingredients as well. The music is heavy and powerful, and this is not bad at all. And even though they might not always have the most interesting ideas, it could still be worth a try for the good moments (which are many).
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076186967894
SPUN OUT: Dream Noise
Shuga Records - LP, DigitalO.k., this wasn't my thing at all. Some kind of sleepy indie rock/pop without any soul or energy. A very boring album actually. If this band would succeed and get a big hit, then I would be very surprised, becuase this band has no hit potential at all. And the album title "Dream Noise" is very misleading, because they don't exactly make much noise. "Dream Music" would have been a more correct title.
This might work for loser who listen to U2 and RADIOHEAD, but I have no feelings for this.
The funny thing is that they say that this band play psych rock and melancholic psych-pop. Hardly! Anyway, "Dream Noise" is their second album.
youtu.be/7RmEXZqPwsU?si=zhq7OmbIg1aN72rU | spunoutband.bandcamp.com/album/dream-noise
The WOGGLES: Anyway The Wind
Rogue Records - 7" Single, DigitalThe WOGGLES hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, and this is their 23rd 7" on French label Rogue Records. These 2 tracks features the late Flesh Hammer, a.k.a. Jeff Walls, on guitar. These tunes were recorded during the Rock and Roll Backlash sessions in 2005, and was also co-produced together with Jeff Walls. And just as that wasn't enough from him, he has also composed the A-side, "Anyway The Wind", and co-written the B-side, "Slippin' Out", with The Professor Mighty Manfred.
"Anyway The Wind" is a slower song, yet uptempo somehow, with a touch of The KINKS and The YARDBIRDS. So let's just call it 60s pop/rock. A really good song anyway. No doubt about that.
"Slippin' Out" is more like a funky soul rock song instead, but the 60s sound is still there. This is also a really good song, so this means that you just have to check this out.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
The EMBROOKS: Terry And Julie
Rogue Records - 7" Single, DigitalThe EMBROOKS is called a "freakbeat trio". The first side is a original song, which is described as a "12-string guitar-filled stomper with the group's trademark block vocal harmonies". On the other side we find a tribute to Jeff Beck, a cover of "Heart Full Of Soul" by The YARDBIRDS.
As usual when it's something from Rogue Records, it sounds like something from the 60s. Like something that actually could have been recorded at that time. And as usual it's really good too.
The first track is more uptempo, while the second song is more soulful without being slow.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
Ian Blurton's FUTURE NOW: Crimes Of The City
Pajama Party Records/Northern Haze - LP, Cassette, DigitalIan Blurton's FUTURE NOW play timeless hard rock with influences from DANZIG to CHEAP TRICK via BUDGIE to BLUE ÖYSTER CULT. It's a classic sound, yet fresh and not just retro. They have also succeeded to find a sound of their own, so it's not a copy of any other band that we get here.
With this album they were aiming more at a live sound than a polished studio product. It's just 4 people playing riff-based rock and no tricks or effects. So it's a pretty straight album, and no unnecessary excursions. They stick to approximately 3-4 minutes per song and 10 tracks. Most of the songs are pretty catchy and melodic, and they have many good songs here.
facebook.com/ianblurton.futurenow
DISLOCATOR: Just Existing
Dislocator - Digital AlbumDISLOCATOR has existed since 2006. "Just Existing" is the third album from these UK prog thrashers. Topics ranging from the destruction of the natural world, wage slavery, capitalist greed, mental health, social media and institutionalised corruption. It sounds technical, but not extremely advanced. It's mainly old school, but not just that.
It's a little hard to describe this band's sound in a good way, but it's a very familiar sound anyway, and it mainly sounds good. Unfortunately they don't have anything extra good though. The material is simply not strong enough for as much as 13 songs (but then the last track is supposed to be a bonus track, even though it's just released digital). They should have done a EP instead.
facebook.com/wearedislocator
DGM: Endless
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2LP, CD, DigitalDGM is a progressive metal band from Italy. "Endless" is their 12th studio album, and their first real concept album. It's also said to be the first DGM album that includes many more dynamic and acoustic moments. We get what they call many more reflective moments, which they mix with classic progressive rock from the 70s as well as Italian progressive rock. They have also included different instruments such as violins, flutes and sax here and there.
It's an adventureous album that they has created, and it sounds very ambitious and professional. But that's of course nothing unusual when it comes to progressive bands. It's also melodic, yet metal. The songs are just as good as any other band in this genre, so there's nothing to complain about. And I would guess that fans of progressive metal and rock will like this a lot.
ffm.to/dgmendless | facebook.com/dgmprog
CLUSTERFUX: Defy
Beer City Records - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalFrom Denver's underground scene comes the crossover band CLUSTERFUX. They formed back in 1995, and has since then blended the raw energy of 1980s crossover punk with a fierce modern edge. It's in other words a hard-hitting mixture of thrash metal and hardcore/punk, which makes it worth checking out for both sides.
Most of these 14 tracks are pretty short songs, approximately 1-3 minutes, and most of them are really good stuff. Most songs are energatic and intense, but they also slow down once in a while.
clusterfux.bandcamp.com | beercityrecords.bandcamp.com
Avi Rosenfeld/Juan Bach: Bz Dz Purple Snake
Avi Rosenfeld - Digital AlbumThe music might be the same old thing as Avi always deliver, but as usual he has found another singer anyway. And this guy, Juan Bach, is just as powerful and good as any of the previous singers that Avi has worked with, and he has a wide range as well. The music is as always inspired by legends like AC/DC, DEEP PURPLE, RAINBOW, WHITESNAKE, IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST etc. And we don't really get anything new here, as it still sounds as usual more or less. You simply know what you're going to get when it comes to Avi Rosenfeld, which is high quality compositions in the classic tradition of hard rock and heavy metal. And I think these songs might be a little better than what we has got on his latest albums, so this is worth checking out.
avirosenfeld.bandcamp.com/album/bz-dz-purple-snake
SÖLID WAZTE: Even Gods Fall
Inverse Records - Digital SingleThis Finnish band formed in 2010 as SOLID WASTE. After a long break they now return as SÖLID WAZTE with a tribute to the almighty Lemmy Kilmister (MOTÖRHEAD, HAWKWIND). The song is also a hat tip to the classic lineup of MOTÖRHEAD. A keen ear can even find small nuances typical to "Fast" Eddie Clarke and Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor.
This song will of course remind you of the sound of MOTÖRHEAD, but it's yet not exactly like them. A catchy hard rock n roll song anyway, with a chorus that you can sing along to. Very good and worth checking out.
push.fm/fl/solid-wazte-gods | facebook.com/solidwasteband | inverse.fi
DRAUGRHEIM: Blood And Steel
Draugrheim - Digital SingleThese melodic death metal vikings hailing from East Anglia, UK. Their music should be of interest for fans of bands like AMON AMARTH, ENSLAVED and AKILLA. It's absolutely not bad at all to be compared with those bands, and they has succeeded to make a really good song as well. This is something that you really should check out. And I don't really know what else I should say.
The band will release their debut album in 2025.
youtu.be/ZKlnztvmwdI?si=eu3x2v1lx17mLZDF | facebook.com/Draugrheim
The DISCARDED: Going Down To The Beach
The Discarded - Digital SingleThe DISCARDED has delivered a new single, and it's a surf punk rocker that reminds me of RAMONES, but there's also lots of rock n roll. A little like The BEACH BOYS meets RAMONES you could say. It's very catchy and damn good. This is definitely a very promising band, and you should really check them out if you like catchy and melodic punk rock in the old tradition.
This song is taken from their upcoming 6th full-length album "The Green Door", which I look forward to hear. It will be released on November 25.
It might not be summer (at least not here in Sweden), but this is a true summer anthem.
youtu.be/3nWUWlReS24 | thediscarded.ca
DETEST: F.Y.M.M.F.
Emanzipation Productions - Digital SingleDanish death metallers DETEST returns with a renewed lineup and new energy. What they deliver is a brutal and vicious little song, which is taken from their upcoming album, "A World Drowning In Detest", which will be released on December 6. It may sound just like it should, but is it really that good? I am honestly not really sure what I should think about this song, so I have no answer to that question. I guess the song has grown for each time though, which is always something.
DETEST seems to be here to crush, because this is heavy. And if you think that sounds exoiting, then I guess that this could be something for you.
bfan.link/f-y-m-m-f | facebook.com/DetestDK | emanzipation.dk
CORNERS OF SANCTUARY: Christmas Fairytale
SODEH Records - Digital SingleU.S. heavy metal band CORNERS OF SANCTUARY continue with their tradition to deliver a Christmas song every year. And it's not a cover of some traditional song that we have already heard a million times, but an original song (every time). This single marks the band's 12th holiday release, and it's taken from the EP "A Naughty & Nice Merry Metal Xmas XI", which is available on Spotify via SODEH Records. This song might sound pretty much like their other songs, but it seems to be a little more catchy somehow, and it's absolutely not bad at all. Could be worth a try then..
In addition to their holiday release, CORNERS OF SANCTUARY has been hard at work in the studio on their upcoming EP, "Forever Metal", set for release on February 9, 2025. They're also planning re-releases of their first 2 albums, "Breakout" (2012) and "Harlequin" (2013). These new editions will feature re-recordings with the current lineup, and "Harlequin" will come with a comic book based on its original concept storyline.
open.spotify.com/track/2D.... | cornersofsanctuary.com
APOCALYPSE ORCHESTRA: Glass And Sun
Despotz Records - Digital SingleSwedish doom metal band APOCALYPSE ORCHESTRA has released the second single from their upcoming album "A Plague Upon Thee", which will be released in 2025. As usual they blend in medieval melodies and instruments, which create an epic and atmospheric soundscape. At the same time it's also really heavy. The vocals is clean and melodic.
This is not the hardest metal. I guess you could say that it's laidback, but without being too soft and weak. A pretty good song anyway, even though it last for 8 minutes.
found.ee/JofN2Glassandsun | facebook.com/apocalypseorchestra | despotz.se
KINGCROWN: Nova Atlantis
Rockshots Records on Nov. 22 - CD, DigitalKINGCROWN is a French power metal band formed in 2018. They released their debut album, "A Perfect World", in 2019, which was followed by "Wake Up Call", in 2022. Influences are taken from giants like IRON MAIDEN, GAMMA RAY, SYMPHONY X, MASTERPLAN and HELLOWEEN.
Their music is powerful and melodic with catchy choruses. So it's more or less what you can expect from a band like this. But they are very good at what they are doing, and have a really strong material here. Yes, this is a great album that you should not miss if you're into power metal, because they are actually just as good as any of the more well-known acts.
linktr.ee/kingcrown_off
LAST TEMPTATION: Heart Starter
Metalville Records on Nov. 22 - CD, LPThis is the third album from LAST TEMPTATION. The band was founded by guitarist Peter Scheithauer (KILLING MACHINE, BELLADONNA, TEMPLE OF BRUTALITY), and after 2 albums they have a new lineup, with Fabio Alessandrini (ANNIHILATOR) on drums and Franz OA Wise (HELLBATS) on bass. Singer is Loup Malevil (SABOTAGE).
They also seems to have a new direction for the music, as they are aiming at American hard rock from the 70s and 80s on this album. But their classic sound is also said to be there. To me this sounds mainly like catchy and melodic hard rock. But yes, it also sounds very old school.
This is a great album, and you should really check it out if you like the description above. Play this at a party and everybody will love you. And for the pop fans who grew up in the 70s/80s there's a sweaty cover of "Born To Be Alive" (not sure who did that song).
metalville.de
MYSTERY MOON: Shine
Pride & Joy Music on Nov. 22 - CDMYSTERY MOON is a German/Swedish melodic hard rock band, with guitarist and songwriter Markus Pfeffer (LAZARUS DREAM, ATLANTIS DRIVE, BARNABAS SKY) and singer Rob Lundgren (MENTALIST). Markus actually just wanted to record 1 song with Rob for his all-star project BARNABAS SKY. But after meeting in real life, it was soon clear that 1 song would not be enough. It had to be a whole album, and a new band was born.
The material is pretty much what you can expect from a band in this genre. But they have some surprises too, like the use of flute melodies in a couple of songs. It's also said that Mr. Pfeffer's edgy guitar riffs are heavier than ever. It's anyhow a varied album with lots of good songs, so this is something that every fan of melodic hard rock should give a try.
outu.be/0vHjdS9Xemo | facebook.com/mysterymoonofficial | prideandjoy.de
NO FAVORS: The Eleventh Hour
Pride & Joy Music on Nov. 22 - CDNO FAVORS hailing from Stoke-on-Trent in England, close to the cradle of heavy metal in Birmingham. This band play classic hard rock though, and was formed back in the 1980s. The only original member that seems to be left is rhythm guitarist Carl Ogden, which is joined by the new members Dani J Rankin (lead vocals and keyboards), Dan Ogden (lead guitar), Pete Challinor (bass and backing vocals) and Tom Bevan (drums).
Well, this really kicks ass! Just listen to something like the opening track, "The Monkeys Are In Charge At The Zoo", for example. They deliver many of these 10 songs with high energy and raw vocals, but can also be more emotional (in lack of a better description) sometimes, especially towards the second half. And this reminds me a little of W.A.S.P. actually, but less metal, so maybe more like Swedish band SORM (if you have heard them, otherwise you should give them a try). Simply damn good hard rock that you just have to check out. Because this is a great album.
youtu.be/CCeF1wjTzcw | facebook.com/nofavorsstoke | prideandjoy.de
DEVIL'S CIGARETTE: I Wanna Be On TV
Wild Kingdom Records on Nov. 22 - LP, CD, DigitalAmong the influences for Swedish teenage rockers DEVIL'S CIGARETTE are icons like The STOOGES, MC5 and The BEATLES, as well as Swedish bands like The HIVES, The SOUNDTRACK OF OUR LIVES and The HELLACOPTERS. This debut album was recorded at the legendary Sunlight Studios, and produced and mixed by Tomas Skogsberg (The HELLACOPTERS, BACKYARD BABIES, ENTOMBED etc etc etc).
They deliver their songs with raw energy and a rebellious attitude. This is a high octane party album that should make both young and old shake loose. I would describe their sound as punky action rock, and this album is so great that you just have to check it out.
Who would think that a bunch of snotty teenagers would deliver such a great rock album as this in 2024? I guess there's still some hope when it comes to the youth of today.
wildkingdom.se/artists/devilscigarette | instagram.com/devils_cigarette_band
DIE FOR MY SINS: Scream
ViciSolum Productions on Nov. 22 - CD. LP, DigitalThis is the debut album from this Italian heavy metal band, which is led by the Calluori brothers Fabio (guitar, bass, keys) and Nicolas (drums). As a session vocalist on this album they have Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-GAMMA RAY etc), but 1 song is sung by Ian Parry (ELEGY, ROCK IMPORIUM, CONSORTIUM PROJECT etc). There's also some lead guitars from Luca Sellitto (TIMELESS FAIRYTALE, ex-STAMINA), and some solos from Carmelo Claps (HEIMDALL).
This is not the first band for the brothers. They have many years of experience from bands like HEIMDALL (6 albums) and FROM DEPTHS. So even if this is the debut album with DIE FOR MY SINS, it's an experienced band.
Their sound is characterized by a mix of powerful riffs, catchy melodies and symphonic passages. And with Ralf on vocals, they get some extra power, because that man can really sing. It's mainly a pretty traditional sound, and they have really succeeded to make a great heavy metal album, where all 9 tracks are good. So this is of course something that you have to check out if you like that.
soundpollution.net/label/vicisolum-productions | facebook.com/dieformysins
ERUDICA: Masters Of Chaos
Erudica - Digital SingleERUDICA is a melodic death metal band from Brazil, led by vocalist Caroline Ferreira and multi-instrumentalist Patrik Correa. This is their third single, and also the title track from their upcoming debut EP, which is expected in December via Kvlt und Kaos Productions. It's described as a powerful and intense anthem, with hard-hitting riffs and a bold production, where they blend death, symphonic and thrash metal. I can agree that it's very powerful and hard-hitting, but not that intense, rather hard and heavy instead. And I can honestly not hear any symphonic elements here at all.
Fans of something like ARCH ENEMY for example should enjoy this band.
onerpm.link/212134012426 | facebook.com/Erudicaofficial
FATAL VISION: Three Times Lucky
Art of Melody Music/Burning Minds Music Group on Nov. 22 - CD, DigitalMelodic rock band FATAL VISION was born in Ottawa, Canada during the late 1980s. They were influenced by icons like ASIA, BAD ENGLISH, SURVIVOR and VAN HALEN. As far as I can understand, no album was released during that time. But after a 30-year hiatus they returned in 2021, and has released 2 albums since then, simply titled "Once" and "Twice".
This is the third album, and they say that it promises to deliver everything fans have come to love about the band: soaring vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and massive, hook-filled choruses. Among the guest musicians on this album are people like Paul Laine (DANGER DANGER, The DEFIANTS), Harry Hess (HAREM SCAREM), Jeff Scott Soto (JOURNEY, TALISMAN, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen etc), Mark LaFrance (MÖTLEY CRÜE, LOVERBOY), Alessandro Del Vecchio (HARDLINE, EDGE OF FOREVER, VANDEN PLAS), Michael Shotton (VON GROOVE), and JK Northrup (KING KOBRA) on backing vocals. Additionally, Joel Hoekstra (WHITESNAKE, NIGHT RANGER) delivers an electrifying guitar solo on the track "Girl In My Dreams".
They are good and have a varied material, but 15 tracks is a little too much on 1 album. I don't know how many times I have said it before, but 10 tracks is enough. When are people going to understand that?
Their previous albums has not always impressed me, as there were both good and less interesting songs. And even if this album might be a little stronger, they still have a few weaker moments here and there. So they could easily have thrown away a few of all these songs according to me. And even if the material is varied, many songs reminds me a little too much of their earlier material, and as usual there's too many slow songs.
burningmindsgroup.com/shop/156 | fatalvisionmusic.com
GREENLAND WHALEFISHERS: War - 11 Battlefields
Patchwork Records Production/Punkebjartes Punkeplater on Nov. 22 - LP, DigitalWhat we have here is a Norwegian band who sounds more or less exactly like The POGUES and FLOGGING MOLLY. They have no own ideas, but do what they do very good anyway. I have heard much more interesting bands in this genre, called Celtic punk, but I think this could still be worth a try if you like that genre.
That's what I thought the first time I heard this. But already during my second listening I changed my mind. Sure, they sounds a lot like their idols, but they actually have some of their own ideas as well. This album has grown for each time I have heard it, and now I think it's really good.
GREENLAND WHALEFISHERS is a small army with as much as 8 members. They have been around for 30 years now.
ffm.to/war11battlefields | punkebjarte.no | greenlandwhalefishers.com
KÄFTSMÄLL: 3
AMTY Records on Nov. 22 - MCDKÄFTSMÄLL is a punk band from Stockholm, Sweden. They play punk and punk rock in the old Swedish tradition with a pinch of rock n roll. We get 6 songs in 10:24 minutes, so this is over very fast.
I think I like the 2 first songs best, as they are much faster and angry, but yet catchy as well. After that they become more melodic and more rock n roll, but it still sounds good, so there's no need to cry.
Well, this is a pretty good punk record, so why not give it a try if you like Swedish punk?
facebook.com/barflugan | amty.se
WEITE: Oase
Stickman Records on Nov. 22 - 2LP, CD, DigitalBerlin-based WEITE gives us a bunch of long instrumental psych/kraut rock adventures. It's sometimes soft and melancholy, and sometimes more like progressive rock. This atmospheric journey draws inspiration from 70s psychedelic rock, Canterbury scene prog, kraut rock, early electronica, post rock and Americana. So it's many different sounscapes that comes together here.
"Oase" is their second album, and it last for almost an hour. The band features members of ELDER, DELVING, LAWNS and HIGH FIGHTER.
If you want something softer without vocals..
stickman-records.com
TYGERS OF PAN TANG: Animal Instinct (re-issue)
Mighty Music on Nov. 22 - LP, CD, Digital"Animal Instinct" was originally released in 2008. Robb Weir, TYGERS OF PAN TANG founder and keeper of the flame, was at a cross roads at the time. He had tried to keep the band alive with different lineups, and now he had to find a new vocalist, which was hard. But at last he found Jack Meille, and they soon started to work on this album. But it seems like they were never happy with the sleeve, and they also felt that the sound required a new mix. A bonus track, "Don't Say Rock'n'Roll Is Gonna Die", was also added to this new version.
Well, this sounds just as good as any of their latest albums. So it's in other words hard rock and melodic heavy metal of a very high qulaity that we get here. There's really nothing to complain about here as all songs are good, but not that much else to say either. You simply check this out and that's it.
bit.ly/topt-bndc | tygersofpantang.com | mightymusic.dk
REPUKED: Club Squirting Blood
Soulseller Records on Nov. 22 - CD, LP, DigitalREPUKED is a Swedish death metal band, and this is their 4th album. It was mixed by Nico Elgstrand (ENTOMBED AD, MURDER SQUAD etc). 11 rotten tracks is what we get here, and the singer seems to do his best to sound as disgusting as possible, with lots of "puke sounds" in lack of a better description. It goes fast, but there is heavier moments too. They really deliver as the songs are very good and mainly in the classic old school.
A band that could be worth a try, and not much else to say about that.
soulsellerrecords.com | facebook.com/Repuked
DISARRAY: Religious Disease
Jawbreaker Records - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalDISARRAY belong to the new wave of thrash metal from Sweden, and blend in punk as well as technical elements, just like in the golden days (the 80s). They formed in 2022 in Stockholm, and released a mini album, "Evil Is Reborn", in 2023. Now they go all in on the full-length format instead. And on this album they are trying to revive the aggressive, angry and mean style from the 1980s. The result is something that goes pretty fast. It's a raw recording without any modern influences, and I really like what I hear as it sometimes makes me think of a young and hungry METALLICA. The variation might not be enormous, but you should really give these guys a try.
jawbreaker.se | instagram.com/disarraybandofficial
NOIRSUAIRE: Black Flame Of Unholy Tradition
Khaoszophy Productions - MCD/Rabauw Productions - CassetteThis is true old school black metal. You could think that they would come from Norway, but this duo is from France.
"Black Flame Of Unholy Tradition" is a 5-track EP, which was written and recorded during the summer of 2024. But as the first track is a useless intro, we just get 4 songs. But those songs sounds just like it should, so there's nothing to complain about when it comes to this band's music. It's mainly fast, raw and intense without any atmospheric elements. If you prefer the old and raw black metal sound, then you should really check this out.
NOIRSUAIRE plan to release their full-length debut in the end of 2024, so it should be out soon. Warm up with this while you wait.
facebook.com/noirsuaire
DHARMA GUNS: Ex-Generation Superstars
Rockhopper Music - LP, DigitalDHARMA GUNS hailing from Helsinki, Finland. They blend action rock, proto-punk and glam rock to a wild rock n roll cocktail. This is their debut album, where they deliver 10 energetic tracks. It's a varied material and not just full speed ahead. Fact is that there isn't that many fast songs here, but more like uptempo songs instead. We also get a few heavier numbers and a couple that is more melodic as well. So it's a fine mix of rock that we get here.
This sounds really good, and is absolutely worth a try for those of you who like action rock, garage rock, proto-punk and early punk rock.
facebook.com/dharmaguns.official
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. 29 - 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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