HARD ROCK INFO

REVIEWS SEPTEMBER 2024

SINISTRO: Vértice

Alma Mater Records on Oct. 4 - 2LP, CD, Digital
From the Portugese underground comes this doom metal band, who have chosen to sing in their own language. Their self-titled debut was instrumental though, and it was released in 2012. But in 2013 they decided that some vocals would be a good idea. After 5 years of rebuilding the band and lineup changes, they are now back again with a new album, titled "Vértice".
SINISTRO have their own sound. The music is pretty soft and laidback, with female clean vocals. I guess atmospheric is the right word that I'm looking for. These 6 songs are pretty long, from 7:11 to 10:23 minutes. But somehow they manage to get it all right without it being too hard to listen to, which is still quite impressive. On the other hand, I've had days when I haven't liked this at all. So I guess you have to be in the right mood or something like that.
facebook.com/sinistroband | almamaterrecords.com

TRANSPORT LEAGUE: We Are Satan's People

Black Lodge Records on Oct. 4 - CD, LP, Digital
After 3 years, Swedish heavy-weight groove metal veterans TRANSPORT LEAGUE are back with a new album.
"We Are Satan's People" is their 11th studio album, and it sounds just as explosive as it use to, and just like it should. But I was actually not so impressed the first times I heard this album. But after a few more listenings, it was suddenly just as good as they use to be. So if you want some bone-crushing metal, then I can really recomend you to give this album a try. Because you should not be dissapointed.
TRANSPORT LEAGUE has existed for 30 years now, even though they have not always been active during those years.
orcd.co/we-are-satans-people | facebook.com/transportleague | blacklodge.se

MOTHER OF MILLIONS: Magna Mater

ViciSolum Productions on Oct. 4 - CD, LP, Digital
MOTHER OF MILLIONS is a progressive metal band hailing from Greece. This new album has a significantly heavier approach than its predecessors, but without losing the emotional nerve, which has become synonymous with the band. So you can be prepeared for an emotional roller-coaster. But they also say that it's their most intense album so far, both conceptually and musically.
The band formed in 2008, and their music combines elements of progressive metal, alternative rock and post-rock. It's both heavy and melodic, with intricate instrumentation and dynamic song structures. Their lyrical content often explores deep and existential themes, such as human nature, identity, and the search for meaning in a complex and chaotic world.
The music is characterized by its complex arrangements and atmospheric soundscapes, with layers of guitars, keyboards, and intricate drum patterns. It sounds massive and cinematic at the same time. I'm pretty sure that fans of progressive metal will like this a lot.
"Magna Mater" is their 4th full-length album. It will be followed by a European tour in October/November.
motherofmillionsband.com

D-A-D: Speed Of Darkness

AFM Records on Oct. 4 - 2LP, CD, Ear Book, Digital
DAD at Liseberg

These Danish veterans celebrate their 40-year anniversary this year, and this is their 13th album. That must make them one of the oldest rock bands in Denmark who are still around. And this new album is really good. But with as much as 14 tracks, it might be a little too much of the good stuff. But then they had as much as 40 songs to pick the best stuff from, so maybe we should be glad that they didn't include even more.
Many bands get a little lazy when they have been around for a long time and might not have the same passion anymore. But D-A-D show no signs of being tired, because there's no lack of energy here. Uptempo hard rockers are mixed with softer, laidback rock songs. Power and finesse at the same time you could say.
With that said, it seems like they have been a little weaker during the last years, because this is said to be their strongest collection of songs in many years. I'm ready to believe them.
d-a-d.dk | shop.afm-records.de

RUFF MAJIK: Moth Eater

Sound Of Liberation Records on Oct. 4 - LP, CD
With titles like "What A Time To Be A Knife" and "Baby's First Guillotine", South African band RUFF MAJIK deliver some heavy stoner rock. It's sludgy, with distorted riffs and a dark imagery. But I would also say that it's a colourful sound. Because even if it's heavy, they also have that important energy which makes it catchy and good.
The band was born in 2012, and they have previously released 3 albums and a number of EPs. These 10 tracks are absolutely worth listening to, because this is a good album.
ruffmajik.com | shop.soundofliberation.com

RYLOS: Prisoner Of Thoughts

Inverse Records - Digital Single
Finnish hard rock band RYLOS has released a new single, which is a story about how a person can become a prisoner of his own thoughts, which prevents him from believing in himself. "Prisoner of Thoughts" is the first single from the upcoming fifth album, "Signs of Life", which will be released in March 2025.
This song is both melodic and powerful. The only modern here is the production, otherwise it's mainly the good old sound. A good song, no doubt about that.
RYLOS has been making music regularly for 10 years now, and has released 4 albums, 7 singles and the video game "Space Adventure". They started to work on the new album 2 years ago already, but due to constant lineup changes the making of the album was delayed.
push.fm/fl/rylos-prisoner-of-thoughts | rylosplanet.fi | inverse.fi

POST DEATH SOUNDTRACK: Veil Lifter

Post Death Soundtrack - Digital Album
This is a heavy music project created by Steve Moore and Jon Ireson. "Veil Lifter" is their 4th full-length, where we get a wild mix of doom, grunge, hardcore and thrash. They have in other words left the orchestrated industrial soundscapes of their third album, "It Will Come Out of Nowhere", for an unruly organic live sound. This is almost progressive metal actually, so it's not impossible that fans of that could like this album, even if this isn't exactly that. Hm.. Hard to explain what this band really sounds like. But it sounds pretty good anyway, so maybe you should give them a try?
postdeathsoundtrack.bandcamp.com/album/veil-lifter

KEISER: Likfunn

Non Serviam Records - Digital EP
When it comes to Norwegian black metal, I expect more than this. These 2 songs pass without any deeper impression whatsoever. And it's not any short songs, as they are 8:48 and 8:24 minutes.
The title track is a legendary macabre Norwegian poem that they have made into a metal track. A little epic and heavy. It takes over 2 minutes before they speed it up, and almost 2 and a half minutes before there's any vocals.
The second track, "Final Dissolve", is said to be a more normal KEISER song. It's more straight and fast, even though it has its atmospheric moments too. And this song is actually a little better than the title track, now that I have listened a little deeper to it. The only problem for me is that it's a little too long.
KEISER formed in 2015 and has released 1 EP and 2 albums before this EP.
non-serviam-records.bandcamp.com/album/likfunn | non-serviam-records.com

ECLIPSE: All I Want

Frontiers Music S.r.l. - Digital Single
This song sounds exactly like ECLIPSE use to and how I want them to sound. In other words a really good melodic hard rock song from their new album, "Megalomanium II", which is out now. That album is filled to the brim with large choruses and beautiful melodies, which this song is a good proof of. So if you like this, then I can really recomend you to check out the whole album (more about the album later).
youtu.be/9UO6MaPDh5Q

ÇÖKÜŞ: An Hour Of Lies

Qumran Records - CD, Digital
It seems like this band have been lurking around in the Chicago metal scene for 10 years, but this is their debut album. And the reason why it has taken that long could be that the members are spread around USA. But shortly before the pandemic they finally met in Chicago once in a while to write and record. Among their influences are BLACK SABBATH, JUDAS PRIEST, TROUBLE, DIO, SOUNDGARDEN, ALICE IN CHAINS and KYUSS. So mainly heavy stuff.
What we talk about here is doom metal for fans of legends like PENTAGRAM, SAINT VITUS, The OBSESSED, CATHEDRAL, TROUBLE, COUNT RAVEN etc. And it sure ain't bad at all, so you should really check this out if you like those bands.
linktr.ee/cokus | qumranrecords.com

CULT OF ALCAEUS: Iron Rebellion

Cult Of Alcaeus - Digital Single
CULT OF ALCAEUS is a powerful modern death/thrash metal band. This track channels a raw energy and is very groovy (or however I should describe it?). It sounds pretty good, even though I don't feel that it's a future classic. It's a little hard to describe the sound of this song, so you should listen for yourself instead of reading my crap.
The single is out now on the band's website, Bandcamp and Souncloud. It will be available on all streaming services on October 1.
cultofalcaeus.com

STRYPER: When We Were Kings

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
These veterans might not have anything new to come up with, but it's still good at least. This new album is more melodic than their latest albums have been. So instead of powerful heavy metal, I would say that we get hard rock this time. But o.k., some of the songs can go as heavy metal, so let's say that it's a mixture of both then. Worth checking out anyway. No doubt about that.
"When We Were Kings" is these American's 12th studio album. Today's lineup of the band includes the 3 original members Michael Sweet, Robert Sweet and Oz Fox, along with bassist Perry Richardson. They are currently celebrating their 40th anniversary with a North American tour that will last until November.
youtube.com/watch?v=CAO-o9bOUyg | ffm.to/stryperwhenwewerekings | linktr.ee/Stryper

The NAIL: The Nail

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, Digital
The NAIL is a new musical alliance featuring Indian vocalist Girish Pradhan (Girish & The CHRONICLES, The END MACHINE) together with Efe and Reis Ali Eroglu (26 and 17 years old respectively), and their father, Cenk Eroglu (WINGER, CROSSING RUBICON), as producer. And what they have created is a hard rock and heavy metal album with a good balance between heavy and melodic songs, mainly influenced by the bands from the 80s. And they have many good songs among these 11 tracks, so it would not surprise me if there will be some talk about this band. In other words something that you should give a try.
The interesting thing now is if there will be another album in the future?
youtu.be/hRZIQY6V_iw | ffm.to/thenail | facebook.com/thenailband

FIND ME: Nightbound

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Digital Album
This is the fifth studio album from this Trans-Atlantic AOR alliance, which fetaures singer Robbie LaBlanc (BLANC FACES, T3NORS) and Swedish musician, songwriter and producer Daniel Flores (ISSA, The MURDER OF MY SWEET, SEVENTH WONDER). 3 of the songs here was written by Jim Peterik (SURVIVOR).
What you can expect to hear is a very classic kind of melodic rock/AOR. So they are not doing anything new and unique here. But they are doing what they do very good, so I don't think anybody who like this kind of music will be dissapointed when they hear this album. In other words, definitely worth checking out and not much else to say.
youtu.be/tTtY-u6iNYY | ffm.to/findme_nightbound | facebook.com/FindMeBandOfficial

RÅTTORNA and CITY SAINTS

Concert at Grill & Gryta in Borås, Sweden on Sept. 27, 2024
I have a bad fucking hangover that refuse to fuck off, so this will be even shorter than usual.
CITY SAINTS told Borås to fuck off to begin with. But towards the second half they seemed to love us. Punk rock with a big dose of rock n roll and street punk. Really good, but they played for a little too long.

RÅTTORNA was also really good. A local band that was first active in the 80s. Not much else to say today.. Too much beer last night..
Rattorna

FELDSPAR: Old City New Ruins

Time To Kill Records on Sept. 30 - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
FELDSPAR is a pretty new band, formed in late 2023. This album takes its title from the city where the band is based - Rome, Italy - "It depicts the contemporary ruins of the capital, yet it's merely a pretext to expose the complexities of everyday life common to Western societies and their major cities, foremost among them", as the press release says. It tells the story of collective strength.
FELDSPAR gives us a varied material, and not just the typical hardcore, but a more melodic kind of hardcore with more punk rock than metal, as well as some elements of noise rock and indie/alternative rock. But don't worry, the anger and frustration is still there. They mention bands like COMEBACK KID, TURNSTILE, TRAPPED UNDER ICE, as well as the Norwegian acts KVELERTAK and TURBONEGRO as influences. But then they also name NIRVANA, MOTÖRHEAD, GORILLA BISCUITS, SLAYER and everything in-between. And that makes this a unique hardcore album. But are you brave enough to give it a try?
youtu.be/NPnfUhnO8aU | timetokillrecords.com/collections/feldspar | feldspar.it

BOOGEYMAN: Rotten Leaves

We Are Horror Records on Sept. 27 - CD, Digital
BOOGEYMAN is an American horror punk rock band from Arizona. "Rotten Leaves" continues the dark, eerie tale introduced on their self-titled debut album. A story about Ezekiel, a man blind from birth whose world has always been shrouded in darkness.
The up-tempo songs are those that I like best here, as they reminds me of MISFITS. Those softer/laidback songs was just o.k. the first times I listened, but have grown since then and become really good too. As an album it's absolutely worth a try, and especially if you are a fan of catchy and melodic horror punk. Then this is almost a must-have.
youtu.be/LUEPoW9wf0M | boogeyman6.bandcamp.com | wearehorrorrecords.co.uk

HELLDRIFTER: Dark Descent

Blood Blast Distribution on Sept. 27 - Lyric video / Oct. 26 - 7" vinyl, Digital Single
HELLDRIFTER is a death metal band from Stuttgart, Germany. Their debut album, "Lord Of Damnation", was released in 2021. And now they return with a new single, which will be released as a lyric video on September 27 and as a vinyl single and digital on October 26.
The music is brutal yet melodic, in the same tradition as legends like CARCASS, DEATH and AT THE GATES. They have a raw and powerful sound without being fast. Could be worth a try.
bfan.link/dark-descent | helldrifter.bandcamp.com

23 TILL: ...Men från Peking hörs det inget

Beat Butchers - LP / Digital on Oct. 25
Swedish rock/punk rock veterans 23 TILL are back with a new album, which is a collection of digital singles released between 2021-2024 and some new tracks. The songs are just as catchy and melodic as they use to be, and it's not bad at all. I think the old fans will be happy to hear this album, and hopefully they can get some new fans too. The odd bird here is the cover of the old Swedish schlager classic "Det Börjar Verka Kärlek Banne Mig". They do a up-tempo version, which gives it some more power.
This is hardly a band for the hardest punks. But those who like it more catchy and melodic will probably like this. And it's not impossible that some fans of rock in Swedish could enjoy this album too.
beatbutchers.se | facebook.com/23TillOfficiella

ZAR: From Welcome...To Goodbye (re-issue)

Metalapolis Records on Sept. 27 - CD
In 1993 German band ZAR released their third album, "From Welcome...To Goodbye". It's said to be their masterpiece and their most commercial record, but also the band's most mature album. The original CD has been out of print for nearly 25 years now, so Metalapolis Records decided that it was time for a re-release, which also features 2 bonus tracks (a cover and a instrumental song).
Well, if you're a fan of more catchy and melodic hard rock/heavy metal from the 80s, then this is really something for you. Because this should almost be a must-have for people who like that. I'm not joking, as the songs actually are that strong and good. So do yourself a favor and discover this masterpiece now!
The group's original singer was John Lawton (URIAH HEEP, LUCIFER'S FRIEND), but he left during the recordings of their second album. On this third album he came back to sing on 1 song, "Eagle's Flight". And guitarist Tommy Clauss made his vocal debut for ZAR on the Jimi Hendrix cover, "Angel". The other members on this album was Thommy Bloch on vocals, Jerry Schäfer on keyboards, Wolf Urban on bass, and Marcel Asch on drums.
ZAR has released 3 more albums after "From Welcome...To Goodbye". The last one was released in 2016.
metalapolis.eu | facebook.com/zargermany

Steve Howe: Guitarscape

HoweSound on Sept. 27 - CD, LP, Digital
Steve Howe have played guitar with YES and ASIA. On this new solo album, he play acoustic, electric, steel and bass guitars along with keyboards, and is joined by his son Dylan on drums. I would not call this a rock album, because there's no action at all. Just some laidback guitar music, in lack of a better description. But I guess that this could be o.k. if you want some soft lullabies of the alternative kind. The songs are not that long, but there's as much as 14 of them, so it feels like it last for an eternity as the whole album is instrumental. But even if this didn't please me, I hope he had lots of fun recording this album.
lnk.to/hkKdov

SPLIT CHAIN: (Re)-Extract feat. Softcult

Epitaph Records - Digital Single
So what is "nu-gaze" then? Because that's what they call this British band's music. It seems to be a mix of shoegaze and nu metal of the late 90s and early 2000s. The band is pretty new, as they formed last year. But backed by a handful of self-released tracks, they have succeeded to reach 10 million streams to date. So Epitaph saw a chance to get a quick million and signed them.
This song is described as darkly melodic with melancholic verses and a hypnotic hook, and I guess I can agree on that. It sounds both 90s and modern somehow. Pretty o.k. to my surprise, but not much else. That's just my opinion though, and they obviously have plenty of fans who like them already.
youtu.be/thD8et8hAv0

PSYCHLONA: Warped Vision

Magnetic Eye Records on Sept. 27 - CD, LP
PSYCHLONA blend KYUSS and FU MANCHU with HAWKWIND and PINK FLOYD. Heavy riffing is mixed with chilled vibes. Yet it's catchy and energetic, and not slow and boring at all.
This band hailing from Bradford in West Yorkshire, northern England. "Warped Vision" is their 4th album.
PSYCHLONA will be touring in Europe, together with GREENLEAF and SLOMOSA, in October. Sounds like a perfect combination, because this band is definitely in the same league as them, and play a very similar style of music. It's simply a good album that they have made, and heavy rockers of all kinds should give them a try.
facebook.com/psychlona | en.merhq.net

SERIOUS BLACK: Rise Of Akhenaton

AFM Records on Sept. 27 - Box Set, LP, CD, Digital
Melodic power metal band SERIOUS BLACK have been around for 10 years, and "Rise Of Akhenaton" is their 6th full-length album. It's said that they have went back to their roots on this album, but at the same time it's also more diversified than ever. They have changed from progressive to more catchy arrangements, so it's simply more straight and classic power metal that we get here.
And it's without a doubt a very successful recipe, as there's plenty of great songs on this album. I actually don't think there's 1 single bad song here. So you should of course give this a try as soon as possible.
serious-black.com | shop.afm-records.de

SAHG: More Of Nothing

Drakkar Entertainment - Digital Single
Witty title.
"More Of Nothing" is taken off the recording sessions of their latest studio album, "Born Demon", which was released in October 2022 via Drakkar Entertainment. And this Norwegian true heavy metal trio deliver as usual. Which means that this is a very good song in the old tradition, with equal parts of doom and heavy metal. You check it out, and that's it!
SAHG enetered the metal scene in 2006, and has since then delivered 6 albums. They began as a doom metal band, but has during the years become more of a heavy metal band instead, even if the doom is still there too.
youtu.be/JO8gFP2SWpc?si=oDKyje7zyJfHJmiM | sahgband.com | drakkar.de

KANT: Paranoia Pilgrimage

Sound Of Liberation Records on Sept. 27 - LP, CD, Digital
"Paranoia Pilgrimage" is the second album by this heavy psychedelic rock act, from Aschaffenburg, Germany. And this is said to be a departure from their previous sound, but they remian true to their 70s inspired approach to making music anyway, with inspiration from legends like BLACK SABBATH as well as WITCHCRAFT and HORISONT. It's said to be darker, heavier and a more sinister tone than on the debut, "When The Strangers Come To Town".
Now I can't remember if I have heard the debut, but I like this kind of music and the old sound, so I think that they have created a great album here. You should really check this out if you like rock and hard rock from the late 60s and early 70s.
kant-music.de | soundofliberation.com

JADED HEART: Intuition

Massacre Records on Sept. 27 - Digital EP
Belgian melodic metal act JADED HEART gives us a 4 track EP, where we can find 1 brand new song, 2 covers and 1 live track.
The new song is really powerful and damn good. But their cover of EUROPE's "Dance The Night Away" is hardly less powerful and just as good. After that they are brave enough to do a cover of "Square Hammer" by GHOST, which I guess could have been a catastrophe, but this version is absoultely not bad. And as the last track we get a live version of "Live Is A Killer", which was recorded at a show in Hamburg in November 2022. It's another really good song.
This is an extremely strong EP, and you should really check it out.
JADED HEART released their first, self-titled, record 30 years ago.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | jadedheart.de

GRAVA: The Great White Nothing

Aesthetic Death/Vinyltroll Records/Evil Noise Recordings on Sept. 27 - LP, CD, Digital
GRAVA is a Faroese/Danish trio based in Copenhagen, Denmark, started in 2020. They released their debut album, "Weight Of A God", in 2022. The music that these guys play is a crushingly heavy and atmospheric kind of sludge metal. And yes, this is a really heavy journey. Their riffs and pulsating bass are mixed with doomsday drums, and the vocals is raw and filthy. But even if it's really heavy, it's also aggressive, and sometimes dark.
Could absolutely be something for those who like it heavy.
linktr.ee/grava_danois

GLORIOUS BANKROBBERS: Rock'n'Roll Church

Bollmora Rekords on Sept. 27 - CD, LP, Digital
Both The HELLACOPTERS and BACKYARD BABIES should watch out, because here comes a new album with GLORIOUS BANKROBBERS, which is full of adrenaline and sweat.
This Swedish band formed in Stockholm back in 1983, and released their first album in 1984, which was produced by Kee Marcello (EASY ACTION, EUROPE). But they broke up soon after it was released as their manager sold all the promotion records to second hand stores to get money for beer. A few years later they joined forces again, and released the album "Dynamite Sex Dose" in 1989. The title track got played at heavy rotation on MTV's "Headbangers Ball", and the future looked bright for the band, who even tried their luck in the States. But then the singer left the band to join Norwegian rock legends BACKSTREET GIRLS, so the rest of the members reformed as MENTAL HIPPIE BLOOD with a new singer, and released 2 albums.
In 2007 the band reunited, and released "The Glorious Sound of Rock'n'Roll". Unfortunately, drummer "Oden" tragically died in 2012, and the band was put on ice again until 2023, when they released "Back On The Road", which was a damn good album.
And this new album is also damn good. We get a lovely mix of action rock and sleaze rock, and the songs are really rocking. Not a weak song on the whole album and lots of potential singles. What else can you ask for? This band should be more famous than I think they are. So take the chance and discover how great they are right now.
facebook.com/offisialhomepage

Champlin, Williams, Friestedt: CWF III

Black Lodge Records on Sept. 27 - LP, CD, Digital
O.k., these 3 gentlemen are hardly creating something new and unique here, but are rather a mix of their past. It sounds exactly like something from the 70s or 80s, and unfortunately the variation is not the biggest here. It sounds like I have heard it all before. But if classic AOR is what you want, then there's no doubt that you will like this a lot. Because these veterans obviously know what they are doing, and gives you exactly what you want. I would have prefered less ballads though.
Who might these gentlemen be then you might ask now? Well, we have TOTO singer Joseph Williams, and Bill Champlin, a former singer of CHICAGO, as well as Swedish guitarist/producer Peter Friestedt. On top of that, this album also features CHICAGO vocalist Jason Scheff, drummer John JR Robinson (Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones), Randy Goodrum (TOTO, CHICAGO), Tamara Champlin and Michael Ruff.
orcd.co/cwf-brighter-day | orcd.co/cwf-lll | blacklodge.se/artists/champlin-williams-friestedt

EPIC DOWN: Days Of Oblivion

Argonauta Records on Sept. 27
EPIC DOWN is a German doom/sludge duo from Leipzig, and this is their debut album. They have previously released 2 digital EPs. Their influences are primal doom, drone and stoner. Their sound is mainly characterized by solid down-tempo grooves and rolling walls of guitars, complemented by slightly melancholic vocals that reminds me of STILLBORN. And it's not impossible that fans of a band like that could like this, even if this is not exactly the same thing.
Let's just say that if you want something happy, then this is not something for you. But if you like it dark and heavy, then this could be your thing.
How you are going to find this album is a mystery though, because I can't find it anyway, nor on the band's Bandcamp page or the label's website or shop. So I don't know what formats this will be released in. Weird.. But maybe you have better luck?
epicdown.bandcamp.com | argonautarecords.com

RETCHED: The Overlord Messiah (re-issue)

Sliptrick Records on Sept. 24 - MCD, Digital EP
Logan Makiah and Doug Jackson were the back bone and masterminds of U.S. thrashers RETCHED, and wrote the entirity of this EP. Unfortunately, soon after they started playing shows, the band started having issues with the management, as they were not doing the release justice as far as getting it heard and promoting the EP as it should have been. So the band soon fell apart. But a other member of the band, David DerMinasian, had the last copy of the cassette in existence, and he would take it out every 5 or 10 years to play it for a few times and then put it away, carefully wrapping it up in a bandana and wishing they had the chance to release it.
After some time, David chose to come back to the metal scene and play again. He built a studio to start working on his sound, and that's when he learned how you can release music yourself. It took 7 years to find Logan and Doug, but after that they got an offer from Sliptrick Records, who wanted to release their songs.
This was recorded back in 1988, and sounds like a demo recording from that time. But that has its own charm of course, and it's absolutely not a bad sound. It's also a little cool to discover and hear a forgotten recording from that era. And these 6 songs are absolutely not bad at all.
RETCHED didn't always play the fastest thrash metal, but even if it's heavy it's not slow and tired.
retched-metal.com | sliptrickrecords.com

PLAYHOUSE: Black Clouds

RFL Music Entertainment - Digital Single
This is a band from Montreal, and their music is described as power rock. It seems like they have been around for 37 years already, and that will be celebrated with a new album, "Broken And The Damned", where this single comes from, which also happens to be the opening track. The album will be released on November 8.
"Black Clouds" is said to have a heavier edge, but still has the catchy rock groove that has been a staple of PLAYHOUSE for almost 4 decades. It sounds good anyway, so it could be worth a try.
To say that PLAYHOUSE have been active all these years is wrong though. They formed in 1987 and released 2 EPs before they decided to go seperate ways in the 1990s. In 2016 they reunited and have been active since then at least. Their first full-length album, "The Rock 'n' Roll Circus", was released in 2018. It was followed by their second album, "Dancing at Funerals", in 2022.
rockwithplayhouse.com

LAMBRINI GIRLS: Company Culture

City Slang - Digital Single
UK punks LAMBRINI GIRLS are angry. No matter what you do, you get no appreciation for it. Instead, they just pat you on the head and smile. With this song they fight back against that shit, and they sure doesn't laugh. This is a big middle-finger to all stupid ass holes who see you as a big joke.
Now it also happens to be a pretty good song musically, so this is absolutely worth checking out if you want some anger in your punk rock.
LAMBRINI GIRLS will play some shows during October, November and December. In February/March 2025 they go on a European tour, and in April they will be touring in the UK and Ireland.
youtu.be/-kz_CrB0Vf0

The DARKNESS: The Longest Kiss

Cooking Vinyl - Digital Single
"The Longest Kiss" is the first single from the upcoming album "Dreams On Toast", which will be released in March 2025. That will be their eight studio album. And this is an alert pop song in the 70s tradition that makes me think of QUEEN, yet it's a glam rock song. A very catchy thing that makes you happy. Not bad at all for being almost pop, but at least it's not any modern crap, but the good old stuff instead.
TheDarkness.lnk.to/tlkPR | the-darkness.tmstor.es

AVATARIUM: Between You, God, The Devil And The Dead

AFM Records - Digital Single
Why a ballad? That's not what I wanted to hear. This was actually very tragic.
This is the title track of a new album, that will be released on January 24, 2025. And even though I don't like this song, there's still a chance that there's much better songs than this on that album, like the first single, "Long Black Waves", which was much better. So I recomend you to check out that song instead (unless you like ballads).
"Between You, God, The Devil And The Dead" will be the 6th album from these Swedish doom/hard rockers.
avatarium.bfan.link/between-you-god-the-devil-and-the-dead-SINGLE | avatarium.bfan.link/between-you-god-the-devil-and-the-dead | linktr.ee/avatariumofficial | shop.afm-records.de

ANGUISH FORCE: Brother Kills His Brother

Wanikiya Records - Digital Single / 7" Single (out soon)
ANGUISH FORCE is an Italian heavy metal band, and they will release a new album (their 10th) in about a month.
"Brother Kills His Brother" is about the war in Ukraine, and is said to stand out for its overwhelming energy and driving riffs, topped with a catchy chorus combined with a solid musical structure. To make it easier for ourselves, we simply state that they stay true to their heavy metal roots. This is a song in the good old tradition, with a catchy chorus and powerful riffs. Not bad at all.
anguishforce.com

SCREAM FOR METAL: We Are Screamers

Metalapolis Records - Digital Single
Scream For Metal is Germany's No. 1 Heavy Metal Live Talk and Video Rock Show, but they needed their own anthem. So singer and guitarist Selin Schönbeck (THEN COMES THE NIGHT) and SFM host and guitarist Michael Vetter (BLACK & DAMNED, PARHELYON) decided to do something about that, and teamed up with the show's 2 other hosts, Hellfire-Franky on bass and Eagle Andrash on drums.
And a heavy metal anthem is exactly what this is, with all the typical ingredients. It's powerful and strong, and most fans of the genre will probably like this a lot. And there's really not that much else to say.
screamformetal.spread.link/we-are-screamers | facebook.com/ScreamForMetal

SHADOWS OF STEEL: Twilight II

Metallic Blue Records - CD, Digital
SHADOWS OF STEEL was formed in Genoa, Italy in October 1996. They released 2 demos, 2 full-length albums and a double mini-CD (?) before they went on hiatus in 2002, only to come back again in 2011. The band have had lots of lineup changes through the years, but keep on fighting. This album was originally released digitally in February 2022, and on CD in April 2024 with 4 bonus tracks. They are currently working on new material.
"Twilight II" gives us 12 heavy/power metal anthems in the good old tradition, that I think most fans of classic metal will like. There's really nothing to complain about here. Just listen to something like "Angel Witch" for example - Excellent song!
You simply check this out, and that's it.
facebook.com/shadowsofsteel

STEEL INFERNO: The Blitz

From The Vaults - Digital Single
"The Blitz" is the first single from speed metallers STEEL INFERNO's new studio album, "Rush Of Power", which will be released later this year. And if they have more songs like this, then that new album will be excellent.
This is a pretty fast song in the good old tradition. So if you like speed metal from the 80s, then you should really check this out. No doubt about that.
STEEL INFERNO formed in 2012, and has since then released 3 full-length albums.
bfan.link/the-blitz | steelinferno.dk

VARNAGEL: Opium För Folket

Beat Butchers - LP, CD, Digital
If you miss the sound of Swedish trallpunk in the 90s, then this album is exactly what you need, because it sounds more or less exactly like something from that era. And it's a sound that I like, so I hardly complain. But isn't it a little too much same same? It all sounds good though, so why complain about that?
"Opium För Folket" is VARNAGEL's fifth album, which also happens to be one of their most political albums. But on the other hand, they have always been political since they formed back in 1999. Their first run last until 2008. In 2021 they were back again, and released the album "I Vargars Land" in 2022.
The songs are pretty short, just 2-3 minutes. So it's a pretty straight melodic punk rock without any crap. The album also features guest vocals from their friend Anna Pour Mozaffar and TRALLSKRUV singer Pråper.
varnagel.net | beatbutchers.se

PAGANIZER: Forest Of Shub Niggurath

Xtreem Music - MCD, Digital EP
So a new MCD (or EP, whatever you want to call it) has been released with Swedish death metallers PAGANIZER on Xtreem Music, and then a new full-length album, "Flesh Requiem", will be released in November via Transcending Obscurity. Confusing with different record labels, but the music is really good stuff, so why complain?
These guys kick the shit out of most other old school death metal bands, so that this is a must-have is pretty obvious of course. The thing that impress me most is probably that they still can deliver such good songs and with such energy after all these years. This will definitely keep you warm until the new album comes out. And the new album will keep you warm for the rest of the year, because I can already tell you that the full-length is just as good as this shorter record.
There's talk about another full-length in 2025, which would be on Xtreem Music if I get it right? Confusing.. I will try to make an interview with the band to straighten things out.
youtube.com/watch?v=hWM5FQM53KQ | facebook.com/paganizersweden | xtreemmusic.com

The PEAWEES: One Ride

Wild Honey Records/Folc Records/Spaghetty Town Records - LP, CD, Digital
Italian veterans The PEAWEES have made a great album, where they gives us 11 tracks of catchy and melodic punk rock, which sounds perfect for a summer party. There's also some garage rock and good old rock n roll here, so it's not impossible that both punks and action rockers as well as some old rock n roll fans will like this. So anybody with taste for good rock music should give these guys a try.
To mention something that is extra good is just stupid in this case. So let's just say that nothing is really bad here.
This band has existed for almost 30 years (born in 1995), and it's 6 years since the last album, "Moving Target", was released. During that time they have been busy with life and lineup changes. "One Ride" is their 7th studio album.
youtube.com/watch?v=rDJ7q2vUP7A | thepeawees.bandcamp.com

The OKMONIKS: Afterparty Fever!!!

Slovenly Recordings - Out now Digital, LP on Sept. 27
Yes! This is how I want garage rock to sound like. Uptempo and so energetic that it makes you want to party. This band really rocks! The songs are pretty short though, so unfortunately the party is over before you have drank a half beer (but you can always play it again, and you probably will). But yes, there's a slower song as well, so that you get a chance to catch the breath before the final attack. But that song is good too.
The OKMONIKS is a female fronted band from San Francisco. They formed in Tucson in 2000, but are based in the Bay Area since 2009. Their influences are early punk and old garage rock. The music is raw and energetic with much organ. They have previously released a string of self-released EPs and 1 LP.
theokmoniks.bandcamp.com/album/afterparty-fever-lp | slovenly.com

MyENEMY: Castaway

MyEnemy - Digital Single
MyENEMY will release a new EP on October 31, and this is the title track. It's angry, hard and heavy, but yet very energetic. Not so bad at all.
The band comes from the New Jersey and New York area, and play a crossover of thrash metal and hardcore with a relentless energy. It's the brainchild of Joey Wilkinson, the former guitarist for Universal Recording artist DROPBOX. He is joined by Matt Caustic (CAUSTIC METHOD) on vocals, Donny Weissinger (HATE GRENADE) on second guitar, and Scott O'Ferrall (PISTON DRIVEN) on drums. Joey's former PISTON DRIVEN bandmate AJ steps in on bass.
This band is absolutely not playing old school crossover, but a more modern kind of thrash according to me. It sounds o.k. anyway. So if you want something hard, then try this.
youtu.be/T_5B0hJZQLQ | linktr.ee/myenemy1

The THE: Ensoulment

earMUSIC - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
It seems like this band have been silent for almost 25 years. But now they return with a new album. And this was something different for me. It sounds like some kind of alternative rock band from the 80s. This album is said to contain echoes of the band's multifaceted past, but is at the same time here and now. Sometimes it's soft and emotional, but still rock and not pop. Once in a while they succeed to be almost bluesy. It's without a doubt a diverse album anyway.
The THE was formed by Matt Johnson in 1979. They have never been afraid of doing whatever they want, so it can be rock, pop, blues, folk or soul. Anything goes. They have not been too busy when it comes to producing albums though, as they have just released 5 studio albums before "Ensoulment".
I would guess that people who like laidback alternative music and/or singer/songwriter could like something like this.
youtu.be/irmURXnkt54 | thethe.lnk.to/Ensoulment

MC5: Heavy Lifting (feat. Tom Morello)

earMUSIC - Digital Single
"Heavy Lifting" is the title track from an upcoming album with Detroit rock legends MC5, which will be released on October 18. The song features Tom Morello (RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE) and his signature riffs, which is backed up by gritty lead vocals from Brad Brooks. And this song is rocking. It's like some kind of hybrid between the old times and modern times. That's the best description I can give you.
"Heavy Lifting" will be MC5's first new album in 53 years. And as all original members are gone, it will be their final album.
youtu.be/D8qkLpc08es

GATES OF EDEN: Passage To Babylon

Nero Corvino - CD, Digital
GATES OF EDEN is a project by Sicilian multi-instrumentalist Tregor Russo (DIONISYAN, SORTILEGIUM, LEPER DIVINE, ERIAMINELL) founded in the mid-2000s. They recorded an album in late 2006 and became a live band in 2007. With some new members they have now recorded a second album, "Passage To Baylon".
The music that this band play is progressive rock/metal strongly influenced by Middle-Eastern folk music, and with elements of atmospheric sounds. Unfortunatley there's too much of those MIddle-Eastern influences here, which I don't like. And another problem for me is that whiny vocals, which sounds more or less the same all the way through the album. In fact, even the music should be varied more as well, because this gets damn boring to listen to after a while.
No, this wasn't exiting at all.
facebook.com/NeroCorvinoLabel | gatesofedenita.bandcamp.com

NEPTUNE: End Of Time

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 20 - CD
Why they begin the album with a half boring mid-tempo song instead of a uptempo song is a mystery to me. They might actually lose some potential listeners because of that little mistake. But otherwise there's no reason to complain, as the rest of the material is really good stuff.
NEPTUNE hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, and have their roots in the 80s. They recorded a EP back in 1986, which wasn't released until 2018 along with some early demo recordings. They have since then released 1 album, "Northern Steel" (2020) and 1 EP, "The Rebirth" (2022).
What we get here is a melodic kind of heavy metal, or simply melodic metal as they call it. Their sound have both old and new influences, but I would say that it's mainly a pretty timeless sound. And if you like that, then I can really recomend you to check out this album.
facebook.com/NeptuneBandOfficial | prideandjoy.de

HYDRA: ReHydration

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 20 - CD
Swedish AOR group HYDRA return with their second album, "ReHydration". This band have members from acts like FIRST SIGNAL, FIND ME and SEVENTH WONDER, to name a few.
HYDRA are hardly here to change the melodic rock, as their influences are pretty obvious. But they are doing this very good, so there's really no reason to complain at all. This is absolutely a band that you should check out if you like classic AOR, and there's actually not much else to add there.
facebook.com/henrikhydra | prideandjoy.de

HEARTWIND: III

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 20 - CD
HEARTWIND is a Swedish melodic hard rock/AOR group. And as usual this album features numerous guests, like Matti Alfonzetti, Rick Altzi (GATHERING OF KINGS), Jakob Samuel (The POODLES), Thomas Vikström (THERION, CANDLEMASS), Nalle Påhlsson (TREAT), Andreas Novak (HOUSE OF SHAKIRA), Fredrik Folkare (UNLEASHED), Robert van der Zwan (REMEDY), and Matt Marinelli (BOREALIS), to name a few of them all.
The band was formed in Stockholm in 2017, and are influenced by classic 80s bands like JOURNEY, WHITESNAKE and EUROPE for example. In early 2024 HEARTWIND reached 1 million streams on Spotify.
Well, let's just say that if you like the melodic sound of the 80s, then you have something really sweet to look forward to. Because this album is just as good as any of the top albums from that era. So it would of course be a shame if you would miss such a masterpiece as this is. But now that I have told you how great this is, I'm pretty sure that you will check them out immediately.
facebook.com/Heartwindtheband | prideandjoy.de

DANGER ZONE: Shut Up!

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 20 - CD
The history of this Italian band goes all the way back to the early 80s. After releasing several demos and undergoing numerous lineup changes, they debuted with their EP, "Victim Of Time", in 1984. They also recorded a full-length album in 1989, but for some reason it wasn't released until 2011. 3 more albums has been released since then, and now it's time for another album, "Shut Up!".
On this album they decided to go back to a sound reminiscent of the golden era of American melodic hard rock, characterized by catchy choruses, loud guitars, pounding drums and dreamy keyboards, as they describe it. And even if the production is modern, the sound is old, exactly as they intended. They have lots of good songs here in the old 80s tradition, so if you like that, then I would really recomend you to give this a chance.
youtu.be/QRDLPgvPE0E | prideandjoy.de | dangerzoneweb.com

THORIUM: The Bastard

Emanzipation Productions on Sept. 20 - CD, LP, Digital
Danish death metallers THORIUM formed back in 1997, and "The Bastard" is their 6th album. Band leader MHA wrote the songs with Rogga Johansson (PAGANIZER etc etc) and Thomas Olsson (BLACKSACAPE), who also play guitar and drums on the album. And it's a quick and raw album that we get here, where they captures the vibe of the Scandinavian 90s, but with a fresh sound. I really like what I hear here! And so should you, because I think you have to search hard to find a better death album than this that is released in 2024.
Jonas Lindblood (PUTERAEON, ex-TEATRE) is doing a guest solo on 2 of the songs.
bit.ly/thr-tbst | emanzipation.dk | facebook.com/thoriumdeathmetal

THOSE LEFT STANDING: Almere City Hardcore

Those Left Standing - CD, Digital
Dutch hardcore band THOSE LEFT STANDING released a EP, "Nothing"s Good About Today", in 2022. That is now followed by their full-length debut, "Almere City Hardcore", where they deliver 12 tracks. This band blend in both metal and punk in their songs, and the result sounds old school, even though they have their own twist somehow.
This album is nothing unique, but is full of frustration and heavy guitars, just as you can expect. But as it sounds like it should, it sounds really good, so I would guess that most fans of good old hardcore will like this. I like what I hear anyway.
linktr.ee/those_left_standing_achc

TYPHONIAN: The Gate Of The Veiled Beyond

Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 20 - LP, CD, Digital
German death metal band TYPHONIAN have their roots in the 90s sound, but are trying to take it forward with progressive and atmospheric elements, as well as some black metal laced with classic Swedish/Finnish melodies. They are compared with a band like EDGE OF SANITY. But to be honest with you, that's not a band that I have heard that much with, so what do I know about that? It sounds o.k. though, more or less like melodic death metal actually, so no problem there anyway. But sure, they have their own ideas about how to do it, so this is absolutely not a copy of any other band. I would not say that it's totally unique either though.
Hm.. Worth listening to anyway..
typhoniandm.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com

ExpiatoriA: Shadows - Live

Diamonds Prod. - Cassette, Digital
Italian doom metal band ExpiatoriA released their debut album, "Shadows", in 2022. On March 16, 2024 they performed the whole album at a hometown show in Genoa. That concert has now been released on a cassette, but also digital. And as a bonus they have also included a new track, a CANDLEMASS cover.
The singer in this band oscillates between sounding completely horribly bad and sometimes still quite decent. I guess it's supposed to be theatrical, but it actually just sounds stupid as he's not exactly any Messiah Marcolin (ex-CANDLEMASS). The music is absolutely not bad though. The songs are often pretty long and epic, and seems to be full of passion and lust. So if you like that, then I guess this could be worth a try.
As I'm a little late with this review (sorry for that), the cassette might be sold out already, as it was just made in 111 copies (and it was released 10 days ago).
ExpiatoriA are currently busy writing new songs as well as getting ready to play a handful of selected gigs in Italy.
linktr.ee/expiatoria

MY DARKEST RED: The House On The Hill

Sneakout Records/Burning Minds Music Group - Digital Single
This is the third single from Italian dark n roll band MY DARKEST RED's debut album, "Midnight Supremacy", which will be released on September 27. It's a catchy and energetic little thing with a good chorus. This is a good anthem for all of you who like dark rock, goth rock and similar.
I don't really know what else I should say, so I stop here and let you listen.
youtu.be/bAQzYWwxttw | facebook.com/mydarkestred | burningmindsgroup.com/sneakout

Martin Rubashov: Mires

Despotz Records - Digital Single
Martin Rubashov (NOLAVÆR) is a Swedish rock/folk artist. On his new album, where this single comes from, he delves deep into the essence of water, exploring its duality as both a life-giving force and a harbinger of destruction. The soundtrack to that is pretty soft music, more or less acoustic rock you could say. Not really my thing to be honest with you, but after a couple of listenings it sounds o.k. anyway. Probably because it's a little darker than this kind of music use to be.
The new album is called "Origins Of Water" and will be released on November 22.
despotz.se | martinrubashov.bandcamp.com

The LINDA LINDAS: No Obligation

Epitaph Records - Digital Single
You could almost think that they actually have been reading my complaints about their previous singles, because this is the most punk song I have heard with them. Finally some hope when it comes to the new album, with the same title as this song. It's raw and energetic, almost angry. Much better than the soft stuff that they have released during the last months.
Now it's not like they really care what me or you think about them. As the band says: "Eloisé wrote this ripper because we won't adhere to what anyone else thinks we should sound like or who they think we are. We don't make music out of obligation - we make music out of love".
The album will be released on October 11, and it will be their second full-length album.
youtu.be/hlEhXfh14Pc

The HOSTAGE SITUATION: The Last Leg

The Hostage Situation - Digital Single
The HOSTAGE SITUATION is a hardcore band from Phoenix, AZ, USA. They were initially active from 2006 to 2010, and re-emerged in 2017 to host annual reunion shows. Their latest single, "The Last Leg", was released on August 28. And the sound of this band is described as a visceral blend of chaotic Southern hardcore, mathcore and metalcore, drawing comparisons to the likes of EVERY TIME I DIE, MAYLENE AND THE SONS OF DISASTER and PANTERA. On this song they are also said to combine that with a modern edge. So I guess it's not totally wrong to simply call this modern hardcore/metal? They want to show us all that they are back, and that they are ready to reclaim their place in the hardcore scene.
youtu.be/bQR_s0gd6gw | linktr.ee/thehostagesituation

GLORIOUS BANKROBBERS: Demolition Boy

Bollmora Rekords - Digital Single
Swedish action/sleaze rockers GLORIOUS BANKROBBERS will soon release a new album, "Rock'n'Roll Church" (out on Sept. 27), and this song is a taste of what you can expect to hear. So in other words an energetic party anthem that will make you wild. It's one of the fastest songs from the album, but is very representative I would say. So if you like this as much as I do, then you really have to get the new album. But check out this song to begin with.
This must by the way be the only band who can combine sleaze rock with action rock and get a perfect result. Fans from both sides should like this band.
youtu.be/s5zcKKHXQ7A?si=DpY1EAqZO8c6ExT4 | facebook.com/offisialhomepage

TRANSPORT LEAGUE: Primate Apeshit

Black Lodge Records - Digital Single
Now I'm going to tell you a secret.. There's lots of great songs on the upcoming new album, "We Are Satan's People" (out on Oct. 4), but this is not one of them according to me. It's not bad, but rather a little different from the rest, almost industrial actually, very heavy and groovy anyway. I guess you could say that it's delivered with a raw power. It includes both their classic groove metal sound and a modern twist.
youtu.be/NwUjhEcACvA | orcd.co/we-are-satans-people | facebook.com/transportleague | blacklodge.se

THUNDERMOTHER: So Close

AFM Records - Digital Single
Filippa Thundermother

It's 2 years since Swedish all-female hard rock n roll band THUNDERMOTHER released their last album, "Black & Gold". But on February 7, 2025 they will release a new album, "Dirty & Divine". This new single, "So Close", is a taste of what you can expect to hear on that album. So we talk about hard and energetic rock n roll of the best kind. And who can say no to that? Exactly!
The new album will be the first with the 2 new members Linnea Vikström Egg (vocals) and Joan Massing (drums). But it's also a welcome back for bassist Majsan Lindberg. The band is (as always) led by guitarist and founding member Filippa Nässil.
thundermother.bfan.link/so-close | thundermother.bfan.link/dirty-divine | thundermother.com

SWAGGERMOUTH: Turnin' On A Dime

Curtain Call Records - Digital Single
SWAGGERMOUTH's sound has been dubbed "Controlled Chaos" by legendary drummer Chris Slade (AC/DC), who co-wrote and performed on many of the tracks on their debut release, "Never Shut Up" (Rock Avenue Records USA). They are said to blend heavy rock n roll with slammin' pop, and are led by the couple Jason Ebs (Peter Criss and Ace Frehley) and Janea Chadwick Ebs (Joe Cocker and producer David Foster). The live band also features drummer Billy Kesner, bassist Joseph Nile and keyboard player Borgi.
This song is not so chaotic though, but more like a catchy rock song. It sounds really good, and the strongest part is the chorus. Absolutely worth a try if you ask me (which you do as you read this).
youtu.be/LMw3Z1wLe5Y?si=qs-Q67NgXmAxyp_4 | swaggermouth.com

DECIMATOR: Blackened Skies

Wormholedeath Records - Digital Single
This is a heavy/thrash metal band from Sydney, Australia. And the latest single, "Blackened Skies", offers a glimpse of what's to come from their upcoming album, "'Til The Enemies Are Gone", set for release on October 4. It was recorded in 1 day, and is built on tracks composed by a lineup that only performed live once, injecting a raw and unpredictable energy into their sound. They combine the ferocious grooves of modern metal with the blistering riffs of classic thrash.
The result is pretty good, but maybe not something excellent. But it doesn't always have to be excellent to be good, and this is simply good enough.
youtube.com/watch?v=wBqTDZ7MCKw | decimator1.bandcamp.com | wormholedeath.com

CUTLASS: Quest For Treasure

Cutlass - Digital Single
CUTLASS is a pirate heavy metal band from London, UK, formerly known as PIRATES OF METAL. The new name reflects the harder, sharper edge in their music, as they fuse their thrash influences to their classic metal roots. "Quest For Treasure" is the second single from the upcoming album "Walk The Plank", which will be released on September 19. They say that it's a blend of their influences, like IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, METALLICA, HELLOWEEN and RUNNING WILD - All in 1 song.
Unfortunately this is not one of their best songs. I don't really know what it is, but somehow it's just a good song and not much else. They have made much stronger songs than this, which their EP "Cuts From The Deep" (then as PIRATES OF METAL) is a good proof of. But hopefully the rest of the songs on the new album are much better, otherwise I will be very dissapointed.
linktr.ee/cutlassheavymetal

SWEET: Full Circle

Metalville Records on Sept. 20 - CD, LP, Fan Box, Digital
I think I can count the good songs that I have heard with this legendary band on just 1 hand. But those songs are on the other hand really good. Now they are going to release a new album, which will be their last they say. And that might be as well, because it sounds like they have tried to make a pop album actually. But I guess I can be kind enough to call it melodic rock from the 80s at least. Everything is not hopeless here though. A couple of songs are more energetic and alive, like the opening track, "Circus", and "Destination Hannover". And those songs are actually not so bad. But even if the rest of the songs are very melodic, some of them are at least o.k., and they grow the more I listen to this. I guess what disturbs me is that it doesn't sound like I expected it to. This is simply not SWEET to me.
As you probably already know, this British band has been around for more than 6 decades (!), and have over the years sold more than 55 million records around the world. Among my favourite songs with them are old hits like "Ballroom Blitz", "Set Me Free" and "Fox On The Run". The only original member left in today's version of the band is Andy Scott (guitar/vocals). The other guys are Paul Manzi (lead vocals), Lee Small (bass/vocals), Tom Cory (guitar, keys, vocals) and Adam Booth (drums, percussion).
metalville.de | thesweet.com

ERADICATOR: The Paradox

Metalville Records on Sept. 20 - CD, LP
This is the 6th album from these German thrashers, who celebrate their 20th anniversary this year.
These 4 gentlemen have made a great record. So why they decided to open the album with a weaker song, "Beyond The Shadow's Void", is a mystery according to me. The first seconds are very important in these digital times, so you must show them what you got immediately. And then it's not so good to begin with something different from the rest or a useless intro.
But othwerwise there's lots of songs to pump your fist in the sky and headbang to, as well as some violent attacks for the mosh pit. But we also get the band's first half-ballad on this album, and it's actually not as bad as it might sound.
ERADICATOR play a pretty traditional kind of thrash metal, with the usual influences from both the American and German scene. And they do it damn good. So this is a band that you have to check out.
metalville.de | eradicator.de

DOG EAT DOG: Walk With Me (re-issue)

Metalville Records on Sept. 20 - CD, LP, Digital
DOG EAT DOG are known for their blend of rock, punk and funk, and experienced a period of intense creativity in the early 2000s. After several successful albums, the band decided to create an album that would reflect their musical development and experiences of the last few years on tour. The result became "Walk With Me", which was originally released in 2006 by Nuclear Blast. This album was only available for a short time, due to internal problems at Nuclear Blast and unexpected legal complications, which meant that the album had to be withdrawn from the market after a short time. These unfortunate circumstances meant that many fans were unable to purchase the album, making it a coveted collector's item.
Now Metalville Records will finally re-release the album, so that every fan of the band (old and new) can get the chance to get it and hear it.
I had not heard this album before, but it seems like they were aiming at making the perfect party album for the summer. That's what it sounds like to me anyway. And it's a wild mix of different styles here.. There's much rap/hip hop rock, but also some really catchy and energetic American high school rock (in lack of a better description), and once in a while there',s elements of dub and funk, as well as some punk. It all sounds very American.
This is fun to listen to as the songs are great. So if you want a diverse party album, then I would recomend you to give this a try.
DOG EAT DOG released a new studio album, "Free Radicals", in October last year.
metalville.de | dogeatdogofficial.com

BLUTGOTT: Dracul Drakorgoth

Massacre Records on Sept. 20 - 3CD, 3LP Box Set (2 of the albums are also available as separte LPs)
In 20 years, singer and guitarist Thomas Gurrath has created an entire band universe with over 30 CDs spread across more than 17 albums from Debauchery, Blood God and Balgeroth (blood Gods or bands?). He has now united them under the name BLUTGOTT. It's a diverse album with as much as 30 tracks. And when we talk genres, it's somewhere between JUDAS PRIEST, AC/DC, RAMMSTEIN and BOLT THROWER, they say. It's much blood and the lyrics are both in German and English. For some reason we get the exact same 10 songs 3 times. I'm not really sure what that is good for. But it seems like Debauchery is supposed to be monster metal, and Blood God hard rock and heavy metal, while Balgeroth is German metal.
It's a lot of music to listen to anyway, that's for sure. But it could be worth a try as there's some good stuff here. There might not be anything extra good, but on the other hand there's nothing really bad either.
blutgott.com | metalville-shop.com

WAKE THE NATIONS: Heartageddon

Inverse Records on Sept. 13 - CD, Digital
Well, these Finnish guys seems to do everything right when it comes to melodic rock/AOR with a sound of the 80s. So if that's something that you like, then you should really give this band a try, because they have lots of great songs on this album. And there's actually not much else to say, as you probably know the sound already, and then you also know if this is something for you or not.
It seems like the members of this band comes from the grunge band VILLA SUCKA and the melodic rock/AOR band HUMAN TEMPLE. When the last band took a break in 2012, one of the members decided to start recording a solo album. But things got more and more ambitious, and it soon became a band called WAKE THE NATIONS. The debut album, "Sign Of Heart", was released in January 2015. Their second album, "Heartrock", came out in 2019. And now their third album, "Heartageddon", is ready to be released.
inverse-records.myshopify.com/products/wake.... | wakethenations.com

Tommy Stewart's DYERWULF: Fyrewulf One

Black Doomba Records on Sept. 13 - Vinyl EP, Digital EP
This is a doom metal duo from Atlanta, Georgia, featuring drummer Dennis Reid and bassist/vocalist Tommy Stewart (HALLOWS EVE, Black Doomba Records, producer). They did their first show in 2016, and has previously released several singles, a EP and 2 full-length albums.
This release marks the first part of a 2-EP concept project, with "Fyrewulf Two" set to follow in 2025, culminating in a full album released in separate parts.
To me it sounds like these 4 songs would have been recorded live in the rehearsal room, which gives them a extra raw and dirty sound, almost a little primitive. And this band's kind of doom is not like the one you are used to, as they seems to have their own sound. It might not be the best I have heard, but it's not bad anyway, except for that instrumental song, which was not so interesting.
youtu.be/hcrqVi1gpq8 | linktr.ee/tommystewartsdyerwulf

LEPROSY: Reborn In Yourself

Sangue Frio Produções - Digital Album
LEPROSY return with a new album, where they presents 3 decades of dedication to death metal, and captures the intensity, technique and passion that has definied them since they formed in Goiânia/GO, Brazil in 1989. They were active until 1995, and have established themselves as one of the leading death metal bands in Brazil. After a career marked by challenges and achievements, the band returned in 2019 with its original lineup.
They are not the fastest band in this genre, but not extremely heavy either. Instead it's actually catchy, but without losing the power that makes their music hard. The album is full of great songs, so I really like what I hear and can just recomend you to check this out.
li.sten.to/LEPROSY | sanguefrioproducoes.com

TIMELESS FAIRYTALE: A Story To Tell

ViciSolum Productions on Sept. 13 - CD, LP, Digital
TIMELESS FAIRYTALE is a new international band with members from Denmark, Sweden and Italy, who have played with bands like ROYAL HUNT, EVIL MASQUERADE, FOREVER STILL, STAMINA etc. The music that they play is a combination of neo-classical/power metal, symphonic metal and classic rock from the 80s and 90s. So we talk about a melodic kind of heavy metal with bombastic arrangements and a modern touch. And this sounds really good to me - No doubt about that. I think of the great stuff that Yngwie Malmsteen did in the 80s, but with some extra cream and more modern. It seems to be done with passion, and to name any favourites just seems stupid, as the whole album is fantastic.
This is the kind of band that people in the metal scene should be talking about, and they could definitely deserve some more attention.
facebook.com/timelessfairytale

SWEET PAIN: Sweet Pain (re-issue)

20th Century Music - CD
New York glam hard rockers SWEET PAIN released this self-titled debut album in 1984 via Combat Records. And they were a pure product of their time. Some young guys who liked to party and had a punk attitude. And an interesting thing is that this album was actually released before POISON and FASTER PUSSYCAT had released their first albums. Yet, they didn't really succeed like those bands did. Another interesting thing is that their song "Shoot For Thrills" later was recorded by L.A. GUNS for their debut album. They also recorded a cover of the Elton John classic "Saturday Night's (Alright For Fighting)", but it was not included on the album. That song is included on this CD though, as well as some live tracks and some interviews (weird thing to include, but I guess the hardcore nerds need something special too).
The party lasted for a few years before the group went seperate ways in life. But with this album we get a chance to relive some of the party. They might not have been any better or worse at playing and singing than any other glam band from the same time, but they had some good songs anyway, so this could be worth a try.
20thcentury-music.com

Rhett Forrester & Rob Robbins: The Complete Dr. Dirty Sessions 1992-1993

BraveWords Records - Digital Album
This is a collection of songs celebrating a little known chapter of the musical journey of late American rock vocalist Rhett Forrester (RIOT, THRASHER), who was living in Canada in the early 90s. There he sang in a band called DR. DIRTY between 1992-1993. And the songs that we get here were written by Scot Gaines and Rob Robbins before Forrester joined to complete the then new band. Unfortunately Rhett was killed in January 1994.
Forrester's biggest vocal influences was Paul Rodgers (FREE, BAD COMPANY, The FIRM, QUEEN + Paul Rodgers) and Steven Tyler (AEROSMITH). He had a dynamic range and a powerful voice. The music that this band played is best described as melodic hard rock, which had a foot in the 80s. But I would also say that there's a bluesy touch, so the other foot was in the 70s. Good old hard rock anyway, which I guess wasn't the most popular genre among the kids in the early 90s.
We get as much as 16 tracks here. But then some of them are previously unreleased tracks and alternative takes of some of the songs (they call it work tapes). It sounds really good anyway, so you should absolutely check this out.
youtu.be/Sfm-Vl8do5o | smarturl.it/RhettForrester | facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070445974714 | bravewordsrecords.com

REWIND: I'm In Rewind

Eönian Records - CD, Digital
REWIND hailing from San Diego, California, and is the brainchild of the 2 best friends guitarist and producer Mick Perez (JONES STREET, WARRIOR) and vocalist Andrew J. Kenesie (FREUDIAN SHIP). The sound of this band is a mix of hard rock, metal and alternative rock, splashed with occult rock and grunge. This gives them a powerful and heavy sound, that sounds like something from the 90s. So I would sound that it's mainly alternative rock/metal that I hear here. But even though it's heavy, it's actually pretty energetic as well.
It sounds good, but why they had to include as much as 17 tracks here is a very good question, because that's a little too much. And especially when the variation is not always the greatest.
2 of all these tracks are covers by MÖTLEY CRÜE and QUEENSRŸCHE.
youtu.be/1fMjkAzN9-g?si=wiyC6mIERUoj0W5W | eonianrecords.com

VICTORY: Circle Of Life

AFM Records on Sept 13 - CD, LP, Digital
Herman Frank

For having been around since the 80s, it's an energetic hard rock album that these Germans have made this time. If this doesn't make you want to shake loose and/or bang your head, then I don't know what's wrong with you. Because I actually get a feeling that they sounds stronger than ever on this album. Everything has been taken up a level, but without losing their identity. The title of the opening track, "Tonight We Rock", couldn't be more true.
This is the kind of album that both old school and new hard rockers should enjoy. It has a powerful sound, and there's not 1 single bad song.
victory.bfan.link/circle-of-life | victory-band.com | shop.afm-records.de

SLOMOSA: Tundra Rock

Stickman Records/MNRK Heavy on Sept. 13 - LP, CD, Digital
Well, if you're from Bergen in Norway, you can't really call your heavy music desert rock, as there is no desert. So why not call it tundra rock instead?
This is SLOMOSA's second album, and their sound is described as a "hybrid of revved-up stoner rock riffage, grungy hooks, and a concentrated punk wallop". Which means influences like KYUSS, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, SLEEP, NIRVANA, ALICE IN CHAINS and SOUNDGARDEN. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2020, and it has been streamed over 10 million times.
"Tundra Rock" is said to be a natural continuation of what they did on the debut. It's heavy and riff-based with melodic vocals, and there's also some psychedelic parts here and there. This is absolutely not bad at all, as they have plenty of good songs on this record. So if you like smoky desert rock, then you should absoultely give this band a try.
The band are going on their first U.S. tour as support for ALKALINE TRIO in September, which is followed by a European tour with the great GREENLEAF in October.
stickman-records.com | slomosamusic.com

MORDKAUL: Feed The Machine

Massacre Records on Sept. 13 - CD, LP, Digital
MORDKAUL is a Belgian death metal monster. While their debut album, "Dress Code: Blood" (2021), was heavily inspired by the legendary Swedish death metal bands from the 90s, this new album goes 1 step further, with wider influences of iconic 90s death acts like MORBID ANGEL and DEATH for example. It's said to hit even harder, and that it aims to elevate the band to new heights.
Well, one thing is for sure though, it's one hell of a great album that they have made. No doubt about that! So if you have any interest in death metal, then you should really listen to this album.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | mordkaul.com

FLOTSAM & JETSAM: I Am The Weapon

AFM Records on Sept. 13 - LP, CD, Digital
Even though they might not be the biggest band on the planet, some always seems to be there year after year without giving up. Respect for that. For almost 40 years, this thrash metal act from Phoenix, Arizona has released new albums on a regular basis and toured successfully around the globe. So they have earned their status as legends without a doubt.
"I Am The Weapon" is their 15th studio album, and it continues where the last album, "Blood In The Water" (2021), left us. But it's also said that it goes 1 step further in terms of musical skills and compositions. And that's absolutely possible, because they have succeeded to make another great album without any weak moments. So this is something that they can be really proud of.
flotsamandjetsam.bfan.link/i-am-the-weapon | flotstildeath.com | shop.afm-records.de

HORSE OF TROJA: Harder & Heavier

Sliptrick Records on Sept. 10 - MCD, Digital EP
This Swedish group take inspiration from classic 80s hard rock, yet they have a fresh sound on these 4 tracks. This is not any young boys who wasn't even born in the 80s, but a band that was actually active then. Now they have reformed with 3 original members and 2 new additions. It sounds both melodic and powerful, and this is very good stuff, so it could be worth a try if you like that.
But now it happens to be like that again, that I don't really know what else I should say about this. So just let the music do the rest of the talking instead.
youtu.be/5pB5yhK1b9c?si=oLRpklYzQm7AWzmJ | horseoftroja.com | sliptrickrecords.com

STONEMAN: NEU !

Massacre Records on Sept. 6 - CD, LP, Box Set, Digital
This is the first album in over 6 years from these Swizz dark rockers, who celebrate their 20th anniversary this year. Now the lyrics are in a language that I don't speak (German), but as far as I can understand it seems to be a provocative and dark humor we are dealing with. The music sounds very German, with both softer, melodic and some harsh parts. Sometimes it's more majestic, and often with a big chorus.
I can't mention any favourites, but it's a pretty diverse material with many good songs.
lnk.to/massacrerecords | stonemanmusic.ch

SOLITARY: Embrace The Darkness

Twisted Into Form on Sept. 6 - LP, CD
30 years into their career, it's said that UK thrashers SOLITARY have reached new heights. They begin with a heavier song, which might not be so funny to listen to. But the songs after that are delivered with an incredible energy, riff by riff, and there's no pause to catch the breath. It sounds very old school and good, and should be of interest for fans of legends like SLAYER and TESTAMENT etc.
Yes, this is a really powerful album that they has created. Pure dynamite!
The LP features "Divided And Demented" as a bonus track, while the CD have a cover of The EXPLOITED's "Beat The Bastards" as bonus track.
solitary.org.uk

OFFICIUM TRISTE: Hortus Venenum

Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 6 - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
OFFICIUM TRISTE is a Dutch doom/death metal band, and this is their 7th album. This is heavy and atmospheric stuff. But thanks to the harsh voice, it's hardly any soft lullabies that we get. Some songs are a little longer - 7:19 to 10:20 minutes, while others are shorter - 4:33 to 5:22 minutes. And as you probably can figure out for yourself, this is a wild mix of emotions.
It seems like OFFICIUM TRISTE is seen as legends in the doom/death metal genre, and they actually celebrate their 30-year anniversary this year. And I would say that you really can hear that they are experienced musicians, and not any beginners who has just recorded their first album.
A wild guess is that fans of legends like MY DYING BRIDE and PARADISE LOST could like this.
officiumtristedoom.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com

The RIPTIDE RATS: Reef Rumblin'

The Riptide Rats - Digital Single
The new single with this Swedish instrumental trio is a true surf rocker in good old style, with the right energy and reverb. It would have fit perfect in a Quentin Tarantino movie, and then it should not be so hard to figure out that this is great stuff. As usual it's a pretty short song (just like this review), just about 2 minutes, but that's actually enough in this case.
Absolutely worth checking out, if you didn't get that, and not much else to add.
youtu.be/3FgUCmYNcJ8?si=efUrPDhkhLO4O9M1 | facebook.com/theriptiderats

KJELLS BÄNK: The Miserable Youth Of Our Time

GrönPeppar Records/Sockiplast Records - LP, Digital
The young Swedes KJELLS BÄNK released a MCD in January 2023, and now they have just released their first full-length album. Their record label says that it's garage punk rock, but to me most of these songs sounds like some kind of indie rock or something similar. In their better moments it sounds almost like action rock. I could possibly call this power pop or alternative punk rock, as it's catchy and melodic songs that they presents here. And it sounds pretty good, but not much else as they don't seems to have that much that is extra good here according to my opinion. That would possibly be "Have You Heard" then, which should become a hit among indie people.
gronpepparrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-miserable-youth-of-our-time

WOLFHEART: Draconian Darkness

Reigning Phoenix Music on Sept. 6 - CD, LP, Digital
Alright boys and girls, time for some icy melodic death metal from Finland then.
WOLFHEART formed in 2012 as a solo project by guitarist/vocalist Tuomas Saukkonen. The project rapidly evolved into a full touring band by 2014, and has released 6 full-length albums before "Draconian Darkness".
It's said that they are taking it to new levels with this new album, even though their trademark sound is still there as well. Now I know nothing about that, as I don't think I have heard this band before (not that I can remember anyway). But one thing that I know is that it sounds just like melodic death metal should, and it sounds extremely good. They have all the right ingredients, with a perfect mix of the melodic and the brutal. So this is an album that I think you really should check out.
WOLFHEART are going on a European tour together with DARK TRANQUILLITY, MOONSPELL and HIRAES between October 31 to November 30.
wolfheartmetal.com

GOD DETHRONED: The Judas Paradox

Reigning Phoenix Music on Sept. 6 - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
Dutch extreme metal veterans GOD DETHRONED formed back in 1990. After a demo, they released their debut album, "The Christhunt", in 1992. But due to problems with the other members and the record company, founder Henri Sattler (guitar/vocals) decided to dissolve the band, only to reform it with a new lineup. The band went on hiatus in 2012, but came back again in 2014.
Their new album, "The Judas Paradox", delves deep into the catacombs of religion, drawing inspiration from mythology from all over the world. You can expect themes such as the story of Judas, the secrets of the Vatican, powerful demons, the symbolism behind tarot cards, and the nature of good and evil. The music is dark and heavy, but not slow and boring. They have made a varied album where they weave together influences from several sub-genres of metal, but mostly the more extreme kinds. I guess it's not wrong to call this blackened death metal, but with extra filling.
Well, I have absolutely heard a lot worse than this in my life, so I think it could be worth checking out.
goddethroned.com | shopeu.reigningphoenixmusic.com

BLACK SITES: The Promised Land?

Black Sites on Sept. 6 - CD, LP, Digital
This is a trio based in Chicago, and they play a mix of old school metal and 80s thrash with progressive and melodic elements. To me it mainly sounds like melodic progressive metal, so that's what I call this band's music.
"The Promised Land?" is their 4th album, and the first to feature Brandon White (REPENTANCE) on drums. Tom Draper (SPIRIT ADRIFT) and Matt Johnsen (PHARAOH) are doing guest solos.
There's a strength and diversity in these songs, which makes it ambitious and complex, but without being too complicated and stupid. Because most of all it sounds like a good metal album. You should give these guys a try.
blacksites.bandcamp.com/album/the-promised-land

PARALYDIUM: Universe Calls

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, Digital
PARALYDIUM is a progressive metal band from Sweden. And on this album they gives us longer tracks and broader arrangements they say. It's a very diverse experience, with powerful riffs, melodic landscapes, cinematic atmospheres and hypnotic grooves. It has all the typical ingredients that you can expect from an album like this, and they do it very good. So I'm pretty sure that both fans of progressive rock and progressive metal will like this album.
This band released their first EP, "The Paralydium Project", in October 2015. After that it took a few years before their debut album, "Worlds Beyond", came out in June 2020. So "Universe Calls" is their second album.
ffm.to/paralydiumuc | paralydium.com

Jon Anderson & The BAND GEEKS: True

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, 2LP, Digital
Jon Anderson is a former member of YES, and this debut album with Jon Anderson & The BAND GEEKS is said to be the YES album the fans have been waiting for since he left the band in 2008. And it actually sounds a little like some old progressive rock album from the 70s. So those of you who like that should be happy to hear this. It's melodic and not a too complicated album, so even if you don't usually listen to progressive rock, but like melodic rock for example, you could probably enjoy this anyway.
2 of the songs here are of the longer kind. One is 16 and a half minutes, and the other nearly 10 minutes long. This gives us an album that last for almost an hour.
youtube.com/watch?v=-yNutgZWo5g | ffm.to/jonandersontrue | jonanderson.com | richiecastellano.com/bandgeek

Mike Tramp: Songs Of White Lion Vol. II

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
The first volume of this WHITE LION tribute was great, but compared to that this volume is pretty lame. There's too much soft rock, which reminds of his solo stuff more than WHITE LION. But there's at least a few songs that is rocking here, like "El Salvador", "Don't Give Up" and "All You Need Is Rock'n'Roll" for example, which are songs that I like.
WHITE LION existed between 1983-1992, and Mike Tramp was the singer. They released 4 full-length albums. After that Mike formed FREAK OF NATURE, which released 3 full-length albums before disbanding in 1996. Since 1998 he has been a solo artist, with a break between 2004-2008 when he toured and recorded under the name Mike Tramp's WHITE LION, and eventually under the name WHITE LION.
ffm.to/miketrampwhitelionii | miketrampofficial.com

Michael Schenker: Only You Can Rock Me

earMUSIC - Digital Single
The latest single from the upcoming album, "My Years With UFO" (out on September 20), features Joey Tempest (EUROPE) on vocals and Roger Glover (DEEP PURPLE) on bass, as well as Derek Sherinian (BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, SONS OF APOLLO, DREAM THEATER) on keyboards and Brian Tichy (The DEAD DAISIES, VELVET REVOLVER, FOREIGNER, LYNCH MOB, WHITESNAKE) on drums. They have made a really hot version of this UFO classic, so there's really not that much to say about it. You simply check this out, and that's it.
"My Years With UFO" is a tribute to the golden years of British hard rockers UFO, which Michael played with from 1972 to 1978. "Only You Can Rock Me" is the third single from the album.
youtu.be/tjGsmCRA3qg | facebook.com/MichaelSchenkerRocks

MALLEVS: The Hammer

Floga Records on Sept. 6 - LP, CD, Digital
MALLEVS is a heavy metal band from Chrysoupolis, Kavala, Greece. "The Hammer" is their debut album. The members have played or are still playing with other bands, so they are hardly any new musicians, which you can hear on this album.
This sounds like an album from the 80s, so you won't find any modern elements here. I would also say that the vocals is pretty melodic, but without being powerless. And that's the way I like it, so I think they have made a really good album, even though theres a few weaker moments here as well.
linktr.ee/mallevsmetallvm | flogarecords.com

Dan Dark: Dark Avenger

Metalworld on Sept. 6 - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
Vocalist Dan Dark left Swedish heavy metal band TORCH in 2022, and this is his debut album as a solo artist. He is joined by his friends Snowy Shaw (KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, DREAM EVIL, THERION etc etc) and Dave Talon (KINGS OF THE SUN, ROLLERBALL, POOR LITTLE THINGS, The MARLBORO MEN).
TORCH is a really good heavy metal band, so after listening to this I almost got a little dissapointed that the songs were not stronger. It's not bad at all, but that extra little thing that makes the album fantastic is missing here. Among the few better songs here are the third single, "Seventeen And High", which sounds so familiar that I almost think it could be a cover (I'm not sure though). But on the other hand, this album gets stronger for each time I listen, so perhaps you should not give up after just 1 listening, because now I really like this.
youtu.be/YugQ5LFG9ps | facebook.com/DanDarkRock | facebook.com/metalworld

INFRARED: Manifestation

Infrared on Sept. 6 - Digital Album
INFRARED is a thrash band from Ottawa, Canada. And this is not a new band (the current lineup have been together for 10 years), which you can hear on this album. It's tight and well-played, and the energy is high. Mainly a pretty classic sound, which makes it easy to like. Yes, this is something that should make most fans of good old thrash metal bang their heads.
That such a great band like this is not signed to a record label, and that the album is just released digitally, is a mystery to me. But maybe they want it that way to get total control? But now that I have told you how fantastic they are, you should check them out as soon as possible.
youtube.com/watch?v=N5RWKQXfc_0 | infraredmetal.bandcamp.com

A FOREST MIGHTY BLACK: The Hedonist

Go Down Records on Sept. 6 - LP, Digital
What we have here is a stoner rock/grunge band from Italy, formed in 2013. They also blend in some electric hard blues and psychedelic segments to create their sound. And on this sophomore album they "experiments with new sounds, while remaining consistent with its origins", while the lyrics deeply reflect themes exploring human nature, current society and feelings.
This band gives us a heavy and riffy adventure, but it's not slow and lazy. The vocals is clean, and the songs are not bad at all. Their sound reminds me of the 90s, but just like with the bands from that era, I can also hear some elements of the 70s.
bfan.link/the-hedonist | facebook.com/aforestmb | godownrecords.com

Erik Lazaroff & HÖKARNA: Öppen Ridå

Laz Records on Sept. 6 - LP, Digital
This band hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, and play rock rooted in the late 60s/early 70s. All lyrics are in Swedish.
Their debut album, "Under Hökens Vingar", was released in 2019. And now their second album is here, which gives us more of that old rock that we got on the first album. With just 2-3 chords they succeed to make catchy and fantastic songs, that I think most fans of good rock could like a lot. No matter if it's AC/DC or ROLLING STONES that you like, or even a Swedish artist like Pugh Rogefeldt, you should like this.
Together with STRÖM, this could actually be one of the most interesting rock bands singing in Swedish.
The album was recorded and produced by Jörgen "Jugglo" Wall (Thåström, The HELLACOPTERS, Stefan Sundström etc).
linktr.ee/eriklazaroffochhokarna

BLITZKRIEG: Blitzkrieg

Mighty Music on Sept. 6 - CD, LP, Digital
NWOBHM legends BLITZKRIEG was formed in Leicester, UK in late 1980. Their debut album, "A Time Of Changes", came out in 1985. The band might not have been active all the time, but now they are back with a new album anyway. And it's a vital and powerful material that they have here. No doubt about that. The sound is heavy and the songs are really strong. I think this is something that people really will like.
What else I should say is a very good question though..
bit.ly/blz-tgt | blitzkriegband.com

BEAUTIFUL LOSER: Stars 4 A Nite

Diamonds Prod on Sept. 2
This Italian band was formed in 2020, and this is their debut album. They are inspired by American bands like BON JOVI, GUNS N' ROSES and VAN HALEN, but they don't really sound like those legends. It's some kind of melodic 80s hard rock anyway. There might not be anything extra good here, but on the other hand there's nothing really bad either, so it's a pretty good album that they have made.
This kind of stuff might be popular nowadays, but yet I think that many people will miss this album, as there's so many other bands who does the same thing. But now that I have told you about this album, you should give it a try. And if you like what you hear, tell all your friends about them.
youtu.be/hDF0vaxhAJc?si=8oxi5P6df9AVRz2Z | facebook.com/groups/1453763105538868 | diamondsprod.bandcamp.com

Fast Eddie Clarke: Make My Day - The Rock 'n' Roll Story Of Fast Eddie Clarke

BMG on Sept. 6 - 4CD/Book Box Set, Digital
This collection celebrates the late guitarist Fast Eddie Clarke (born Edward Allan Clarke - 1950-2018), who played with bands like MOTÖRHEAD, FASTWAY and UFO among others. This is a career retrospective, which also includes a 320-page book written by veteran rock journalist Kris Needs with Clarke's widow Mariko Fujiwara.
That this will be an interesting adventure is pretty clear already from the beginning, as it begins with a psychedelic heavy rocker that last for 8 and a half minutes. But there's also some pure rockers in the good old school. On the first disc we get songs from his early years with bands like CONTINUOUS PERFORMANCE and MUGGERS. Pretty good stuff, but nothing special to be honest.
On disc 2 it's all in on his years with MOTÖRHEAD, where Eddie played guitar between 1976-1982. And it's not just the classics, but also demo recordings for the "Bomber" album. We also get the chance to hear Eddie singing on 3 songs here: "Step Down", "Emergency" and "Stone Dead Forever". This is without a doubt the most explosive disc in this box, and it all sounds very good.
Disc 3 is pretty explosive too. Here we have recordings from his years with FASTWAY, which he formed together with UFO bassist Pete Way after he had left MOTÖRHEAD in 1982. But there's also 2 recordings from a demo with Pete Way. Really good sftuff here too, and nice to hear the song "All Fired Up" again, which I have not heard since the 80s. That song deserve more attention, and should be a classic. But there's of course more candy to discover here.
And the last disc here gives us a taste of his solo career. The first songs are collaborations with MOTÖRHEAD as far as I can hear, but with Eddie on vocals on 1 of the songs. Some songs here reminds me of a more energetic Ace Frehley (KISS), while other songs are pure blues numbers. I like the MOTÖRHEAD songs and the hard rock songs best here, but the blues rockers are not so bad either.
Well, this box is definitely worth checking out and a must-have for fans of Fast Eddie Clarke - No doubt about that.
motorhead.lnk.to/fasteddiemakemyday | facebook.com/fasteddieclarke10

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