REVIEWS SEPTEMBER 2024
«August | Index | October»NEPTUNE: End Of Time
Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 20 - CDWhy 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 - CDSwedish 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 - CDHEARTWIND 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 - CDThe 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, DigitalDanish 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, DigitalDutch 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, DigitalGerman 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, DigitalItalian 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 SingleThis 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 SingleMartin 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 SingleYou 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 SingleThe 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 SingleSwedish 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 SingleNow 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
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 SingleSWAGGERMOUTH'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 SingleThis 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 SingleCUTLASS 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, DigitalI 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, LPThis 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, DigitalDOG 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, DigitalWell, 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 EPThis 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 AlbumLEPROSY 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, DigitalTIMELESS 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 - CDNew 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 AlbumThis 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, DigitalREWIND 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
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, DigitalWell, 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, DigitalMORDKAUL 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, DigitalEven 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 EPThis 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, DigitalThis 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, CD30 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, DigitalOFFICIUM 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 SingleThe 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, DigitalThe 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, DigitalAlright 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, DigitalDutch 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, DigitalThis 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, DigitalPARALYDIUM 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, DigitalJon 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, DigitalThe 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 SingleThe 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, DigitalMALLEVS 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 there s a few weaker moments here as well.
linktr.ee/mallevsmetallvm | flogarecords.com
Dan Dark: Dark Avenger
Metalworld on Sept. 6 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalVocalist 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 AlbumINFRARED 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, DigitalWhat 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, DigitalThis 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, DigitalNWOBHM 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. 2This 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, DigitalThis 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 «August | Index | October»
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