REVIEWS JANUARY 2025
«December 2024 | Index | February»MIDLIFE CRISIS: 45 Turns 33
Wild Kingdom Records on Feb. 7 - CD, LP, Digital
This is what you more or less could call a Swedish punk rock supergroup, with members from bands like The HELLACOPTERS, MARYSLIM, BACKYARD BABIES, CRIMSON SHADOWS, Michael Monroe, The MAGGOTS, STRINDBERGS, BIZEX-B etc. MIDLIFE CRISIS released 4 7" EPs between 2004-2018, featuring covers of various old punk rock songs. And now they have collected everything on this album.
We get 14 tracks here, and it sounds really good. They are not just doing covers of the typical classics, but mainly aim at obscure and less known compositions, which makes it a little extra interesting. I had heard some of the songs before, while others was new to my ears.
If you like punk rock from the late 70s and early 80s, then you should really check out this album.
And everybodys question now is if there will be more from this band? Or is this a bit of an ending perhaps?
orcd.co/midlife-crisis-album | wildkingdom.se/artists/midlifecrisis
SARKASM: Carnival Of Atrocities
Xtreem Music on Feb. 4 - CD, LP, CassetteCanadian death/thrash pioneers SARKASM released 4 demos in the early 90s. In 2019 they were back again, and released their first full-length album, "As Empires Decay", in 2023. Now it's time for their second album, "Carnival Of Atrocities". And just as you might have figured out, it's old school death metal that you're going to get here, possibly with a updated sound and production though. It sounds just like it should, so this is good stuff.
SARKASM are not extremely brutal, but hardly what you could call a nice band either. I guess you could say that this is more SLAYER than pure death metal, even if there's a little bit of both. And the music is more powerful than fast.
facebook.com/sarkasmqc | xtreemmusic.com
NOIRSUAIRE: By The Screams Of Porphyric Seraphs
Noirsuaire - Cassette, DigitalI reviewed a 5-track EP with this French black metallers in November last year, and it was good stuff. The same month they entered the studio again to record the 2 tracks that we get on this latest EP, and it was released the same month.
It's still raw and intense, as well as very old school. But I would also say that it's a little melancholic sometimes. You will probably think of the old Norwegian bands when you listen to NOIRSUAIRE, because this is something similar to that. So if that sounds good to you, then listen to this.
facebook.com/noirsuaire
BOTTLEBELT: Toxic Brew
Bottlebelt - Digital EPManchester thrashers BOTTLEBELT released their first single last year, and here's the debut EP. Most songs seems to be about drinking, which is topped with an archetype thrash anti-hero mixed with some toxic gunk and radiation. It's said to please both fans of the old school and of the new school, so there's a little bit of both here.
To me this sounds pretty good, even if they might not be the most interesting band that I have heard. The music is really good, so no problem there. But the vocals is a little too wild sometimes, and they don't have any future classics among these 4 tracks.
But if drunk thrash sounds like something interesting, then I suggest that you give these guys a try.
bottlebelt.bandcamp.com/album/toxic-brew
REXORIA: Mesmerize
Black Lodge - Digital SingleSwedish melodic metal band REXORIA is back with a new single. And this sounds very catchy and melodic, like an old hard rock anthem from the 80s, but in a fresh costume. Yes, they succeed to combine the old with the new in a very good way, and I really like it. You should really check this out, and that',s all I have to say about it.
REXORIA are on a short European tour in Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands between January 27 to February 2 (sorry for the late information about that).
youtu.be/a2V9uwUHa-Q | blacklodge.se | facebook.com/rexoriamusic
LUPONERO: Everything/Nothing
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital SingleLUPONERO is an alternative hard rock trio from Finland, that seamlessly blends classic rock influences with punk sensibilty. It sounds modern, and this is a energetic song with an explosive solo. Pretty o.k. for being a modern band, but I don't really know what else I should write about this.
A self-titled debut album will be released on March 21.
instagram.com/luponeromusic_official | icea.se
H.E.A.T: Disaster
earMUSIC - Digital SingleSwedish hard rockers H.E.A.T will release a new album, "Welcome To The Future", on April 25, and "Disaster" is the first single from the album.
After hearing this little anthem I can promise you that it sounds just like it should. It's melodic and powerful at the same time as it's heavy and dynamic as well. This song sounds very promising for the new album, and you should absolutely check it out if you like good old hard rock.
H.E-A.T are currently in the UK, and will be on tour in Scandinavia in February and South America in May.
youtu.be/3CokWIQBK-M | heatsweden.com
DHARMA GUNS: The Vipers
Rockhopper Music - Digital SingleThis is a pretty soft song, which is inspired by Twin Peaks, and therfor also a little darker. In other words not much action for being a action rock band, but it's actually not so bad because of that. You might have to give it a few chances though before you like it.
"The Vipers" is taken from this Scandinavian band's debut album, "Ex-Generation Superstars", which I reviewed in November last year. That was a good and varied experience.
youtube.com/watch?v=6OVYPh4hZ9I | facebook.com/dharmaguns.official
BLENDED BREW: Roll The Dice
Mighty Music on Jan. 31 - Digital Single10 years ago, Danish rock band BLENDED BREW released their debut album, "Hand Patrones". A decade later they now return to their roots, and will soon unveil a collection of songs that never made it to the public. These songs, which were written for the debut album, were then discarded in the process, but they held a special spark that the band could never quite put down.
The first single from that album is "Roll The Dice", which is said to sum up their sound perfectly. And that sound is a mix of hard rock, rock n roll and blues rock. It's catchy and they have a modern sound even though it's old rock from the 70s and 80s that seems to be the roots for this band. A pretty good song that you should check out.
bfan.link/roll-the-dice-4
MOLOSSER CRUDE: Slave To The Voices
Evil Ear on Jan. 31 - Digital SingleSwedish power duo MOLOSSER CRUDE kick off the new year with a new single. A grunge-smelling stoner blues track that is the first out of a string of singles leading up to an album in late Spring.
This song is as long as 7:40 minutes, and is a heavy and bluesy stoner rocker. It's raw and almost psychedelic, and it sounds a little like something from the late 60s/early 70s, but with a modern sound. A pretty cool song, but maybe a few minutes too long. You should give it a try.
The next single comes in February.
evilear.com
FORSAKEN HILL: The Fortress Of Solitude
Forsaken Hill on Jan. 31 - CD, DigitalSinger/guitarist/songwriter Tristan Harders (TERRA ATLANTICA, TWILIGHT THEATRE) is the man behind this project, where he explores new musical dimensions.
This is a melodic death metal project, who has existed since 2007. It started as a band, but has turned into a solo project. "The Fortress Of Solitude" is the 4th album, which is said to be a change of style, with more gutteral vocals and a H-tuning guitars-oriented tone. It's also more epic and big choirs, so I hear elements of symphonic metal and sometimes even progressive tendencies.
It sounds good anyway, so I think you should really give this a try.
facebook.com/forsakenhill
DEAD POLLYS: Smallest Man Alive
Too Loud Records/WormHoleDeath Records - Digital SingleSwedish punk rockers DEAD POLLYS formed in 2011, so they have been around for a while now. "Smallest Man Alive" is a song from their 2019 album "Strummerland". But with its political message, it still remains as relevant as ever, so why not give it another try?
I have not really figured out if this is the original version or a re-recording of the song, but I guess it won't sound so different anyway? Well, it's a good song, so that doesn't really matter then. You should give it a try.
The next release from DEAD POLLYS will be their first live album, "Better Off Alive!", which will be released on March 14. A first taste, in form of "Do You Think You're Punk", will be released on February 7.
youtu.be/mRdGuFnya-U?si=2xSJURKNmxvbA9QC | facebook.com/deadpollys
PASTORATET: Högexplosiv
Second Class Kids Records - LP, CD / Digital on Jan. 31
PASTORATET are vetarans in the Swedish punk scene. On this album they blend their punk rock with everything from trallpunk and hard rock to hardcore. Now all those ingredients might not appear in every song, but it's actually an interesting mixture, and absolutely not bad at all. Most songs are really catchy and melodic, but there',s also some harder parts as well as fast parts too. So it's simply a varied material.
12 songs in 33:36 minutes is what we get, and most of these songs are worth listening to. If this doesn't make you want to pogo and/or party, then you're probably too old and/or lazy.
secondclasskids.com
BJÖRNARNA: Spela Snabbare
Second Class Kids Records - LP, CD / Digital on Jan. 31This is a pure trallpunk band (mainly fast and very melodic punk rock in Swedish), so there's not exactly any surprises here, but rather a pretty safe album. They have succedeed to vary the material more than I thought they would though, so it's luckily not just the same thing all the way as I was afraid of. But they could have varied it a little more, as more or less all songs are built on the same idea and have the same melodic and clean vocals. It's like they play trallpunk, but have a singer that sounds like he's in a pop band. I guess I prefer more power in the voice when it comes to trallpunk.
But if you're a big fan of this Swedish thing called trallpunk, then you should not listen too much to a veteran like me, but just check this out. I'm pretty sure that you will like what you hear, because even if I complain a little they are not bad, and many other people seems to like them very much.
secondclasskids.com
JUGGERNAUT: 32
GrönPeppar Records - Digital EPThis is a new hardcore trio from Sweden, and this is their first recording - A 5-track EP that sounds like it was recorded in their rehearsal room. They have not exactly picked a unique name of the band, as there's at least 9 metal bands who have or have had the name JUGGERNAUT.
Well, you can really hear that this is their first recording, but it gives it more charm somehow. I think of the rehearsal recordings that I sometimes got in the 90s. They have a hard and raw sound anyway, so I can just imagine what they would sound like if they entered a real studio. That would probably give the songs some extra power. But with that said, this is absolutely not bad anyway.
Listen: gronpepparrecords.bandcamp.com/album/32
WARWOLF: The Final Battle
Metalapolis Records on Jan. 31 - CD"The Final Battle" is the third album from the German heavy metal band WARWOLF, where we get the usual mix of IRON MAIDEN and Teutonic metal. But this time it's said to be more raw and more honest. The band has matured over time like fine wine and gained more and more of its own identity. Yet it's a very familiar sound that we get here, so there's no need to be scared. Because if you like traditional heavy metal, then you will like this album. Without a doubt.
WARWOLF has simply made another great album, and it was produced, mixed and mastered by GRAVE DIGGER singer Chris Boltendahl.
metalapolis.eu | facebook.com/WARWOLFofficial
SABER: Steel Breaker
ROAR - Digital SingleL.A. "New Wave Of Traditional Heavy Metal" act SABER gives us a new single, taken from their second album, titled "Lost In Flames", which will be released on February 7. And on the same date, their debut album, "Without Warning", will be re-released as well.
This is simply true heavy metal in the good old tradition, no doubt about that. And it sounds very promising. It's said to be one of the fast songs on the new album, and different from anything the band have done. It sounds really good anyway, so you should absolutely check it out.
saber.rpm.link/steelpr | saber.rpm.link/lostinflamespr | saber.rpm.link/woutwarning | facebook.com/SaberHeavyMetal | roar-records.de
KILMARA: Journey To The Sun
ROAR on Jan. 31 - LP, CD, DigitalThere have been some lineup changes since last time for this Spanish melodic power metal band. New members are Eric Killer on drums and guitarist, producer and composer Carles Salse. Conceptually this new album is set in the Arcade halls of the late 80s, where first loves, unbreakable friendships, rivalries, defeats and victory celebrations took place. Guitar duels and great melodies goes hand in hand with retrowave synth bases to get the right 80s sound. At the same time they are said to sound more current, more powerful and heavier than ever. On vocals we can find Swedish singer Daniel Heiman (LOST HORIZON), in this band called Dani Ponce (if I get it right?).
To me this sounds like if you would have mixed melodic rock with power metal. The vocals is melodic, while the music is fast and powerful enough to be power metal. Some songs are more like melodic hard rock though. Well, it sounds really good anyway, so it obviously works. Great songs all the way, so if you like melodic power metal, then this is something that you really have to try.
The only question mark is that 8-bit version of the title track.
facebook.com/kilmaraofficial | reigningphoenixmusic.com/all-artists/roar-artists
DANEFAE: Trøst
Danefae on Jan. 31 - LP, DigitalThis band is constantly oscillating between good and bad moments. Sometimes it's just too soft and sweet for me, almost like a mix of pop and modern folk music. And other times they are rocking some more with progressive rock and metal. Overall, the result is not very successful in my opinion. But that's just my opinion of course, and I'm sure that lots of other people will like this.
DANEFAE is a Danish band, singing in Danish. It began as a solo project for Anne Olesen (vocals/piano) in 2017, but soon became a band. Their debut album, "Tro", came out in 2022, and "Trøst" is their second album.
I would guess that this could be something for people who see music as a piece of art.
facebook.com/danefaemusic
The TRAVOLTAS: Too Much Ain't Enough
FTI Records - Digital SingleIt was many years since I heard this Dutch punk rock band last time. I remember that I got a few records from Stardumb Records with The TRAVOLTAS something like 20-25 years ago. As far as I know it was some kind of kind pop punk with BEACH BOYS and RAMONES as the biggest inspiration (they even made a whole album with acoustic BEACH BOYS covers if I'm not wrong).
This new song is something different though. They have succeeded to develop their sound anyway, because this is not how I remember them. I would not say that it's bad though, I like this song. It has the vibe of a 80s action movie soundtrack and is very catchy. You should really give these guys a try.
The band has been active since the mid-90s. Their discography includes several singles, EPs and full-length albums.
travoltas.bandcamp.com/track/too-much-aint-enough
SPLIT CHAIN: I'm Not Dying To Be Here
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleWhat this Bristol band is playing is called nu-gaze, which means that it's a mixture of shoegaze and nu metal. And I still haven't figured out what the hell shoegaze is, but I guess it',s not something for me anyway. To me this sounds like softer nu metal, but also like something painful (I guess it's supposed to be emotional though). Maybe not a smash hit, just o.k. and soon forgotten (for me anyway).
SPLIT CHAIN formed in 2023, so they are still a pretty new band. They has released a few singles so far, and seems to be popular among the kids, as they have as much as 15 million streams so far.
youtu.be/b0NmeWq2nF0 | epitaph.com
GREER: Had Enough
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleWhen they call the song "Had Enough", then I expect more anger and frustration. But this is a melodic indie rock song on the border to pop instead, so I guess you can imagine the dissapointment. I wait and wait for the song to explode, but no.
This song was formerly known as "Charburger" and is the second single released following "audio_77" (?). It was originally inspired by The EAGLES' "Chug All Night", if that says something to you? It's described as a fun pop song about pets, and if I had read that before I decided to give it a try, then I would probably not have given it a try.
But if you want something catchy and melodic, why not give this a chance? After all it's just 2 and a half minutes short.
youtu.be/AT4eZ-XVjRI | epitaph.com
BANG BANG FIRECRACKER: Keep Pushin' It
Bang Bang Firecracker on Jan. 29 - CD Single, DigitalThe first single from British hard rockers BANG BANG FIRECRACKER this year is a straight up-tempo rocker with a punk nerve. With 2025 marking the 10-year anniversary of Lemmy's passing, the band were compelled to craft a fitting tribute to their hero. And it's a energetic and hot tribute that we get here. I like it, and I think you should give it a try,
This is the third single to be released from a Septology of works conceptualised as "Seven Deadly Singles". bangbangfirecracker.com/music
SHRIEKING DEMONS: The Festering Dwellers
Transcending Obscurity Records on Jan. 31 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalThis is the full-length debut from this Italian death metal band, which features members of ASSUMPTION, BOTTOMLESS etc. They play a filthy, dark and doomy kind of death metal that is said to fit fans of AUTOPSY, CIANIDE, DWELLING BELOW, DEATH and similar acts.
Even though this is said to be dark and doomy, I would say that this is mainly in the classic tradition and not so heavy, even if there's some doomy parts here and there. This will probably make you think of the happy 90s. So if that's what you prefer, then this could be worth a try of course, because it's not bad at all.
youtu.be/u0WhfVm6AD4?si=sRpwIUebvVd98WDC | shriekingdemons-label.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
MACERATION: Serpent Devourment
Emanzipation Productions on Jan. 31 - LP, CD, DigitalMACERATION deliver the follow up to their come back album, "It Never Ends..." (released in Nov. 2022). And what you can expect is 10 brand new tracks of speed, brutality and heaviness, but also melody, catchy riffs and choruses that characterize this Danish band. We talk about old school death metal here.
On their album from 1992, "A Serenade Of Agony", and the come back album, Dan Swanö (EDGE OF SANITY, BLOODBATH etc) was the singer. This time he was producer and the man behind the mix. On vocals we can find the band's regular singer Jan Bergmann Jepsen, who deliver deep and brutal vocals.
Well, this band is doing everything right, and this is a really good album.
emanzipation.dk | facebook.com/maceration
LORDI: Retropolis
Reigning Phoenix Music - Digital SingleFinnish hard rock/heavy metal band LORDI will release their new album "Limited Deadition" on March 21. This is the second single from that album. It's a softer thing, but absolutely not a ballad. Rather catchy and melodic. It also have a touch of the 80s, like the whole new album. So if you like that sound and want something softer and more melodic, then this is worth checking out while you wait for the album.
youtu.be/v5MtvtWVUA4 | lordi.rpm.link/limiteddeaditionWE | lordi.fi | reigningphoenixmusic.com
The KNIGHT SHADES: Why (Baby Why)
Rogue Records - 7" Single, DigitalThis is a New York-based garage rock band, who blend high-energy rhythms with elements of R&B and old-school rock n roll. They are more raw and vibrant, more cool and rock a little bit more, and also have that retro sound that I like. Yes, this is really good stuff, so I wouldn't have said no to more than just 2 songs. But that's better than nothing of course.
The KNIGHT SHADES released their first single, "Up, Down, In, Way-OUT", digitally in October 2023. This is their first vinyl release.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
The SOUND REASONS: Today's Another Day
Rogue Records - 7" EP, DigitalLos Angeles garage rockers The SOUND REASONS released 1 EP (2013) and a LP (2018) on Groovie Records. Now they return with another EP on French label Rogue Records, which gives us 4 songs with a classic 60s sound. You won't find anything modern in this band's music, but that's fine as I really like that good old sound. And if you also like that old sound, then you should really check this out at once.
The last song, "Why, Baby, Why", is a cover by the Japanes band The BEVAERS, who released it in 1967.
roguerecords.bandcamp.com
WITHERING SURFACE: The Misery I Keep
Mighty Music on Jan. 24 - Digital Single"The Misery I Keep" is a straight melodic death metal song with an aggressive edge and a chorus with a solid hook. This song was composed and recorded especially for the Japanese version of the latest album, "Exit Plan", and it sounds like a really good song to me. This is something that you should not miss if you're into melodic death metal. And if you like it, then check out the album as well.
From February to April 2025 WITHERING SURFACE will be co-headlining the Metalized tour in Denmark with 8 shows across Denmark alongside PANZERCHRIST and TROLD. And later this year the band will play other festivals, including the Lion's Metalfest in Lyon, France.
bfan.link/the-misery-i-keep
ON FIRE: Bite The Blade
Witches Brew Records - CD, DigitalON FIRE is a new power/speed metal band featuring Jo Steel (ICE WAR, DEVIL CROSS), Cara McCutchen (MORTILLERY, NAITAKA), Jeff, and Alex Rossi (KONQUEST). "Bite The Blade" is their debut album, where they combines raw intensity with melodic finesse, delivering soaring vocals, shredding neo-classical guitar leads, thunderous double kicks, and aggressive yet intricate riffing.
We have many great heavy metal anthems among these 8 tracks that you can scream-along to. I would guess that this is a perfect album when you want to get the party started. It's an intense experience, and it sounds old school. I really like this! And so should you. Because if you don't check this out, then there must be something wrong with you.
youtu.be/y90jIDWubUY?si=PFlaZ0ZBduS8p8W5 | witchesbrew.eu
FIRST IN LINE: Connect The Dots
Lövely Records on Jan. 24 - LP, DigitalSwedish hardcore band FIRST IN LINE (aka F.I.L) celebrate their 30th anniversary with a new album, which is filled with as much as 19 tracks. But then most of them are pretty short.
The story began already in 1988 though, when they formed PREHISTORIC. That band split up in 1993 and became FIRST IN LINE in 1994. After a few records in various formats, they took a break in 2000, which last until 2008.
These guys deliver a raw and energetic kind of hardcore, but with a singer who doesn't scream that much (or not as loud as most other hardcore singers anyway). This is something similar to what the early hardcore bands in America sounded like, and faster than the typical 90s sound with lots of metal and heavy riffs. It's simply more action here and more 80s. I like it.
freighttrain.se/products/first-in-line-connect-the-dots-lp.... | firstinline-fil.bandcamp.com
RATS OF GOMORRAH: Infectious Vermin
Testimony Records on Jan. 31 - CD, LP, DigitalGerman duo RATS OF GOMORRAH deliver their debut album, "Infectious Vermin", which is said to be the result of the frustration with the metal scene and its reluctance to any changes. But they have not abandoned all clichés of an average death metal album because of that. It seems like they went into heavy and speed metal territory, but kept vocal pitching varied, and they also spiced it with crust-infused riffs and catchy choruses.
The result is an album full of a varied material. These guys are really good at what they are doing here, and the songs are absolutely not bad at all. I think you should give them a try.
RATS OF GOMORRAH formed in 2023, but the 2 members - guitarist and vocalist Daniel Stelling, and Moritz Paulsen on drums - already have over a decade of experience from DIVIDE. But as they wanted to expand the sound with more influences, they decided to change the name of the band.
lnk.spkr.media/rats-of-gomorrah-vermin | facebook.com/testimonyrecords | facebook.com/ratsofgomorrah
ICE WAR: Feel The Steel
Hooked On Metal Records on Jan. 24 - CD, LPThis is the 7th full-length album from this Canadian heavy metal band. They play the classic stuff, and they do it really good. But they don't just play it, they actually succeed to catch the sound of the old times. And if I should mention a best track here that you should try first, then I would say "Memories", which is excellent. But after that you can more or less give any of these 9 tracks a chance, because everything is good here. So no, there's actually nothing to complain about when it comes to this band's music.
facebook.com/icewarmetal | hookedonmetalshop.com
SACRIFICE: Volume Six
High Roller Records on Jan. 24 - CD, LP, CassetteSACRIFICE hailing from Scarborough, Canada, and formed in 1984, heavily inspired by local acts like ANVIL, EXCITER and RAZOR. Their debut album, "Torment In Fire", was released in 1986, and followed by their second album, "Forward To Termination", less than 12 months later in 1987. 3 more studio albums followed - in 1990, 1993 and 2009.
Since 2016 they have been working on this new album, "Volume Six", which was finally recorded between September 2023 and May 2024. All 4 original members are still in the band, which is pretty unique.
What does it sound like then? Well, this is actually more like thrash metal rather than speed metal. But it sounds really good. They have a old school 80s sound that I like, but yet with a modern production. We get both faster and heavier pieces here.
I don't really know what else I should say, but this is something that you really should check out anyway.
hrrecords.de | facebook.com/sacrificecanada
FILTHY CHRISTIANS: Nailed, And More...
Vic Records - CDIn the 90s a friend of mine had the LP "Mean" by this Swedish grindcore/hardcore/death metal band, and I still have a copy of it on a cassette. And I can't say that I have been listening to it that much after the 90s.
FILTHY CHRISTIANS formed in 1986. After 3 demos they released a split 7" EP with G-ANX (a great band from Sweden) in 1988. It was followed by their full-length debut, "Mean", in 1990. After that the band progressed towards death metal and recorded their final 5-track demo in 1992.
Now I'm not really sure what this compilation actually contains, because most of the 25 tracks I got are supposed to be bonus tracks - their final live gig and rehearsal (unreleased ep). Confusing.. And a small problem with compilations like this is that some songs appear more than once in different versions. And that might be interesting the first time you listen, but not the third time. So this is probably just something for the most die hard fans who like live and rehearsal recordings.
FILTHY CHRISTIANS are to me a o.k. band, but not much else. It was nice to hear them again though. And if you want something fast and brutal, then you should give this compilation a try.
vicrecords.com
BLOODCUM: The Clothes Hanger Chronicles - Complete Discography 1986-2014
Vic Records - CDBLOODCUM was a speed/thrash metal/crossover band from Los Angeles, who existed in the mid-80s and reunited for a while in 2014. The band featured Tom Araya's (SLAYER) younger brother John on guitars and bass.
This compilation features their entire discography, which gives you a total of 33 tracks. Among these tracks are some rare recordings, so this is of course a gold mine for any fan of the band. But even if you have not heard this band before, you should check this out, because it sounds really good. It goes fast and it's not so technical. So a pretty straight kind of speed and thrash metal with a pinch of crossover.
A minor problem could possibly be that there isn't a huge amount of variation and that some songs appear twice. But as I said, just a minor problem (unless you just have to listen to all tracks at once then). The only question mark here is "Untitled (Testing The Doorknob)", which I guess is supposed to be funny, but it's not.
vicrecords.com
SPEEDICA: Shadows Of Tomorrow
Vic Records - CD (LP in early 2025)SPEEDICA emerged as a thrash/speed metal band out of the ruins of heavy metal band ANGER in 1986. Their fast and melodic metal gave them the nickname "The Dutch FLOTSAM AND JETSAM".
What we have here is a compilation that contains the demos "Shadows of Tomorrow" (1989) and "Voyage into the Fifth Dimension" (1990), along with 3 live tracks. It sounds really good, so you should really give this album a chance, because I'm very sure that you will like it. And especially if you like the good old sound from the 80s.
These guys were obviously pretty good musicians, and seemed to know how to make songs and not just lots of riffs and no melody. There's both shorter songs (3:41-5 minutes) as well as some longer tracks (6-8:51 minutes).
The band recently reformed, so it could be interesting to hear if they still can make such good songs as this.
vicrecords.com
L.S.N.: Aftermath
Vic Records - CDL.S.N. is short for Loud Senseless Noise. This U.S. thrash/speed metal band started as VERMIN in 1982, and in 1985 some of the members continued with L.S.N., while some (Jon Cyrriis and Geo Robb) formed AGENT STEEL in 1984.
Anyway, on this compilation we can find 2 demos (1 with VERMIN and 1 with L.S.N.) as well as a live rehearsal recording from March 1986. And it sounds like this was a really good band, because I like what I hear. They were good at what they were doing, without being too good, and on top of that they had some good songs as well. It's also a pretty good sound quality on both demo and rehearsal recordings for being something from the 80s. They were not the most aggressive band, but hardly nice and soft because of that.
This is a must to check out if you want some good old thrash/speed metal from the past.
vicrecords.com
CHAINFIGHT: Chainfight
Inhuman Assault Productions - MCD, Digital EPCHAINFIGHT hailing from Bangkok, Thailand and formed in 2023. This is their debut EP, which gives us 6 tracks. And these guys are determined to revive the powerful and gritty sound of early 2000s hardcore, with a modern edge and heavy metal undertones. They deliver the songs with a raw energy and heavy aggression, just like the Americans and the Swedes use to do. So they are obviously doing everything right here, and there's actually nothing to complain about.
If you like hardcore, then you check this out. O.k.?
youtu.be/gMIRX9U62bg?si=wc4pxZ9lMpsm1D9d | inhumanassault.com | facebook.com/InhumanAssaultProductions
DISRUPTED: Stinking Death
Trust No One Recordings on Jan. 24 - LP, DigitalSwedish death metallers DISRUPTED continues to showcase their signature HM-2-infused style, paying homage to the classic sound of the genre with gut-ripping riffs and skull-crushing heaviness.
The band was formed in 2012, and their first EP, "Heavy Death", was released in 2014, and followed by their first full-length album, "Morbid Death", in 2015. Then it took a few years before "Pure Death" was released in 2020.
With the addition of former KATATONIA drummer Daniel Liljekvist, they now return with their third full-length album, "Stinking Death". And it's actually very easy - If you like old school Scandinavian death metal, then you have to listen to this album. Because this is exactly what you like. So they have in other words created another masterpiece.
But just to make sure that it won't be too much of the same old school stuff, they break off with a really heavy song, "Funeral Vomit", which is 6 minutes long. Otherwise nothing remarkable.
disrupted.bandcamp.com/album/stinking-death | facebook.com/tnorec
VOIDFALLEN: The Rituals Of Resilience
Noble Demon on Jan. 24 - CD, DigitalOriginally conceived as a 2-man project in 2019 by guitarists Tommi Kangaskortet and Henri Vuorenmaa, VOIDFALLEN has evolved into a full band. Their debut album, "The Atlas of Spiritual Apocalypse", was released in 2021.
This Finnish band play melodic death metal. They blend aggression and melody, and at the same time it's heavy and powerful as well. But I would say that the first track, "Threads Of Blood", is a more melancholy song compared to the rest, who are more melodic death metal as I know it, even if they have their own twist as well.
Some songs here are better than others, but in general a o.k. album anyway.
facebook.com/voidfallenofficial | linktr.ee/nobledemon
VOID BORN: In Throes Of Rage
Void Born - Digital Mini AlbumIrish band VOID BORN was formed by seasoned musicians rooted in the scene since the late 1980s. The band came to life during 2020 and blend death metal with crust punk and doom metal.
VOID BORN crafts a dystopian soundscape where survival is a brutal and endless battle. So there's not much hope, only war and despair. Luckily it sounds more hopeful. I would say that it's more crust than death, but fans from both sides will probably like this band. It's often catchy and heavy at the same time, and actually pretty easy to like. But all songs might not be so funny to listen to. I guess that I prefer the faster songs here.
These 7 songs are not extremely long, just 2:33 to 2:51 minutes, so it's not such a long album (therfor I call it a mini album).
voidbornmetal.bandcamp.com/album/in-throes-of-rage
TRIA PRIMA: Three Primes of Alchemy
Lunatic Prod - Digital EPTRIA PRIMA hailing from Ukraine and call their music alchemical death metal. The band was founded as late as in September last year, so it's a pretty fresh band that we have here. But the members have some experience from various other projects, so they are not completely new musicians. Which you can hear when you listen to these 4 songs (3 original and a ASPHYX cover).
They blend their death metal with elements of doom and dungeon zynth, and the main concept and theme for the band is alchemy and its different forms. It's mainly full speed ahead like ASPHYX and similar bands, but they also blend in what I would call symphonic elements, which makes it more epic like EX DEO for example. I like what I hear anyway, so I can only recomend you to give them a try.
The band is currently working on a new full-length album, which they plan to release in the second half of 2025.
youtube.com/watch?v=aVkFTkfIIpE | triaprimaua.bandcamp.com
The SLIME: Crabwalk To Oblivion
The Slime on Jan. 24 - EP (formats unknown)Toronto-based The SLIME have a heavy, raw and explosive sound. They blend hardcore, thrash and punk with a touch of both the old and the new school. And it's most of all the hardcore intensity that we get a dose of here, even though those other ingredients are there too. 11 tracks in 15:48 minutes and no room for any crap. Lots of good stuff here to discover.
When it comes to the lyrics, they seems to blend pop culture references with deeper societal critiques. But they also inject moments of humor and self-awareness into the mix.
The band formed in 2019, and has previously released a few EPs.
facebook.com/theslimehardcore
SKÜLL: Epistle 1
King2Music Records - Digital AlbumThis seems to be a solo project led by Swedish musician Lars Jahnson. He gets some help from people like Ian Haugland (EUROPE), Ryan Roxie (Alice Cooper) and Janne Schaffer (ABBA, ELECTRIC BANANA BAND), as well as some friends from the 80s. The music is not made to be something unique, but seems to be a pure tribute to his influences: WHITESNAKE, DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH, VAN HALEN, NIRVANA, ALICE IN CHAINS, DEF LEPPARD, SAXON, ACCEPT, MOTÖRHEAD and many, many more. So we talk about hard rock here.
It sounds a little like a demo recording, but with good quality at least. It's a varied material, but most of these 10 songs are melodic. And even though he's inspired by 80s and 90s bands, it sounds modern somehow. He have many good songs here, so it could be worth a try.
king2music.com
SHINING: The Helsinki Tapes
TST/Odium Rex - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalThis was much better than the last record I got with this band, which was "Feberdrömmar (Del Ett)", released in late November 2024. That album was completely useless.
They say that the story behind "The Helsinki Tapes" is legendary. Frontman Niklas Kvarforth has often spoken of the month he spent in an apartment in Finland's capital Helsinki with Christian Larsson and Yusaf Parvez (DHG), where the 3 band members engaged in a whirlwind of writing, experimentation, and what can only be described as "unspecified damage". These infamous demo tapes, long a point of discussion among fans, have remained largely shrouded in mystery....until now.
This release offers a glimpse into a raw and experimental phase, where they blend hard and harsh parts with soft and melodic parts. But it also offers an audial snapshot of how an obscure black metal band from Sweden transformed into something far more dangerous and unpredictable than anyone could have anticipated.
3 of the songs are in Swedish and the other 3 in English.
shininghatesyou.bandcamp.com/album/the-helsinki-tapes | thesinisterinitiative.com
APOCALYPSE ORCHESTRA: Saint Yersinia
Despotz Records - Digital SingleThis is the third single from the upcoming album "A Plague Upon Thee", which will be released on February 14. And they continue to blend medieval melodies with the crushing power of doom metal, creating an epic and atmospheric soundscape. It's heavy, but also melancholy, and the song last for as long as 8:40 minutes. Luckily there's no dead moments here, so it's actually a pretty good song.
APOCALYPSE ORCHESTRA is a Swedish band formed in Gävle in 2013. Their debut album, "The End Is Nigh", was released in 2017.
found.ee/SaintYersinia | facebook.com/apocalypseorchestra | despotz.se
AVATARIUM: Between You, God, The Devil And The Dead
AFM Records on Jan. 24 - LP, CD, DigitalThis is the 6th studio album from this Swedish doom/hard rock band. AVATARIUM was originally formed in 2013 by CANDLEMASS legend Leif Edling, but he has since then left the band, and they are nowadays led by vocalist Jennie-Ann Smith and guitarist Marcus Jidell.
The music is still melancholy and melodic with a dark atmosphere, but also very heavy. They have as usual developed their sound a little since the last album, so it's absolutely not the exact same thing over again. It's darker and heavier than the last album, "Death, Where Is Your Sting?" (2022), yet musically rich and adventurous. As always, the lyrics deal with existential questions (life, death and its meaning).
Well, AVATARIUM has succeeded to make another great album, and there's not much else to say about that.
avatarium.se | afm-records.de
WARBRINGER: A Better World
Napalm Records - Digital SingleHere's another band that I have not heard in a while, probably a couple of years or so (not so easy to remember everything). Anyway, this is the first taste of a new album, "Wrath And Ruin", which will be released on March 14.
American thrash band WARBRINGER have already been around for 20 years, and they deliver a tight composition that have 1 foot in the old school and 1 in the new. There's also a speed metal vibe over this fast and intense piece. I really like what hear, so the new album could be interesting.
youtu.be/KAZE-Y8-1b0?si=vQZGy8ng4T0dFcqL | napalmrecords.com/warbringer | facebook.com/Warbringermusic
TRISHULA: Becoming The Enemy
Pride & Joy Music on Jan. 24 - CD British guitarist and songwriter Neil Fraser has previously worked/recorded with the likes of TEN, RAGE OF ANGELS/Ged Rylands (TYKETTO), and Tony Mills (TNT, SHY). TRISHULA started out as Neil's solo project back in 2015. Fraser had previously worked with Welsh vocalist Jason Morgan in the band RAGE OF ANGELS, so Jason was Neil's first choice for lead vocal duties when it came to assembling the band members for TRISHULA. It took another 4 years of song writing before the debut album, "Scared To Breathe", was released in 2019. During the recordings the group were joined by Neil's long-time friend and MAGNUM keyboard player Rick Benton and bass player Dan Clark from The REBECCA DOWNES BAND. A second album, "Time Waits For No Man", was released in 2020. It was at this point that Neil Ogden (DEMON) became their new drummer. And then a third album, "We All Fall Down", was released in 2022.They have now signed with Pride & Joy Music, who will release the band's 4th album, "Becoming The Enemy", which should be of interest for fans of melodic rock and hard rock. They have a modern sound and many good songs among these 10 tracks, so I like what I hear. And I think that you will like this too, so give them a chance.
youtu.be/nYQuWxnaurk | facebook.com/neilfraserguitarist | prideandjoy.de
Mikael Erlandsson: The Second 1
Pride & Joy Music on Jan. 24 - CDAUTUMN'S CHILD singer Mikael Erlandsson (ex-SECRET SERVICE, LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM) goes solo. But this is not his first solo album. He has had a solo career on the side since he released "The 1" in 1994. "The Second 1" is his 6th solo album (if I get it right?).
When it comes to the music, it's the same old melodic rock and AOR that we use to get from Mikael. So fans of his previous works should not be dissapointed when they hear this. Yet he has succeeded to make a varied material, where most of the songs are in the 70s or 80s tradition or sounds almost like a updated version of The BEATLES. But a song like "Circus" is rocking a little more. And in "Flamenco In The Snow" there's Mexican/latino elements.
AUTUMN'S CHILD is not over, but will return with a new release in 2026.
youtu.be/7W4sLBpv0so | facebook.com/mikael.erlandsson1 | prideandjoy.de
ALIEN: If Love Is War
Pride & Joy Music - Digital SingleSwedish melodic rock band ALIEN return with a new single, taken from the album "When Yesterday Comes Around", which will be released on March 21.
The band was formed in 1986, and released their self-titled debut album in 1988, which included their most popular song "Only One Woman" (a cover). Since then the band has released several more albums, but has not always been active.
This new song sounds more or less like I remember them from the 80s, but with a modern sound then. And it sounds really good and promising for the new album. Absolutely worth listening to if you're into more melodic stuff.
ALIEN wil play at Sweden Rock Festival this summer, and will also embark on a South American tour in the fall.
youtu.be/ULVdrPpvrc4 | facebook.com/Alien.Sweden | prideandjoy.de
FLESHBORE: Painted Paradise
Transcending Obscurity Records on Jan. 24 - LP, CD, DigitalFLESHBORE is a technical death metal band from the States. Their music is multi-faced and fast. It's packed to the brim with riffs, and they deliver them with a inhuman intensity. It's really violent, but also progressive. But there's also parts that stand out from the cascade of riffs, when they slow down so that you can catch the breath before the next attack.
What we have here is very skilled guys, and they actually have a structure. So even if this is very brutal stuff, they never go over the line and become chaos (but they are close once in a while). That makes it more listenable than many other bands in this genre. It's not something that I would like to listen to on a daily basis, but when you're in the mood for something brutal, then this should fit perfect.
youtube.com/watch?v=aRejge3mEqY | fleshboreband.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD: When It's Over
Mighty Music - Digital Single"When It's Over" has all the ingredients that Swedish band CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD are known for: a memorable chorus, 80s saxophone vibe, a breakdown, a guitar solo, and lots of keyboards. In other words everything that a fan of AOR/melodic rock should like.
With new vocalist Fredrik Vahldren they are getting ready to release a new album, and this is the first taste. A very catchy and melodic thing in the 80s tradition, yet with a modern sound production. Absolutely not bad at all, and very promising for the new album.
captainblackbeard.net
ALFAVRAK: Kass Kontroll
Alfavrak on Jan. 23 - Digital AlbumThis band play good old rock with the roots in AC/DC and ROLLING STONES. But as they sing in Swedish, it's rather Swedish bands like STRÖM and Erik Lazaroff & HÖKARNA we shall compare them with. They might not have as strong songs as the mentioned bands, but ALFAVRAK are absolutely not bad at all, and are at least very close to being as good as them. So I think they would work perfect as support act for those bands without being asked to go home by the audience.
That this album is released digitally only is a shame. It should of course be released on vinyl. But maybe in the future?
linktr.ee/Alfavrak
RETADOR: Earëndel
Xtreem Music on Jan. 21 - CD, LP, DigitalRETADOR is a Spanish thrash metal outfit from Málaga, and "Earëndel" is their second full-length album, which promises to bring even more of the raw energy and intricate musicianship that defined their debut. The band brings a relentless thrash metal sound with powerful riffs and aggressive vocals in Spanish. This is simply thrash metal just the way it should be - fast and aggressive without any bullshit. It's tight and controlled, so they really seems to know what they are doing.
If you don't check this out, then you must be really stupid.
youtu.be/zYTDmrmlliE | facebook.com/retador.thrashmetal | xtreemmusic.com
Thomas Carlsen's TRANSMISSION: Midnight Queen
RFL Entertainment - Digital SingleThomas Carlsen's TRANSMISSION is a Norwegian melodic power metal solo project. This new single was released on New Year's Eve, and is the first piece of new music in nearly 1 and a half year. The song is a writing collaboration between Thomas Carlsen and his dad, Pål. It's a up-tempo rocker that takes you back to 1989, but with a modern twist. On vocals we can find Peruvian singer Sebastian Palma, who performed 2 tracks on Carlsen's latest full-length, "A Brave Horizon" (2023).
This is a catchy and nostalgic song, and it sounds more like hard rock than power metal to me. Very good anyway, so I would not say no to some more songs in the future. And a new album is in its final mixing and mastering stage and slated for a 2025 release.
facebook.com/transmissionmetal | rflrecords.com
RIGORIOUS: Kingdom Unfold
Metalapolis Records on Jan. 17 - CDRIGORIOUS is said to be one of the most promising and interesting young German power metal bands. This band play a more modern form of power metal, with synthesizer and orchestral elements. Which is something that they have done since 2021. They released their first EP in 2022, which was followed by their full-length debut album in 2023.
Just like last time, this new album was produced, mixed and mastered by GRAVE DIGGER singer Chris Boltendahl. And we can find a great variety among these 12 tracks, from ballads to pounding rockers. But most of all it's melodic, yet heavy and catchy. And the vocals is also worth to mention here, which ranges from clean to rough and spans 3 octaves. But just if that wasn't interesting enough, they have also succeeded to make some really good songs here. So this is of course something that you should give a try.
When the album is released, they will be going on the GRAVE DIGGER 45th Anniversary Tour with VICTORY, followed by a tour with SERIOUS BLACK in March.
metalapolis.eu | facebook.com/rigoriousofficial
CEREBRAL HEMORRHAGE: Exempting Reality (re-issue)
Comatose Music on Jan. 17 - CDThere's lots of forgotten treasures in the underground that never really got the chance. And this U.S. death metal band is one of those bands. Their album "Exempting Reality" was originally released in 2001, and is the only album that this New York trio released. Most people have probably never heard about this band or album before (I had not anyway). But now they get a new chance, as Comatose Music has decided to re-release the album.
CEREBRAL HEMORRHAGE "blended brutality with imagination, haunting atmosphere with musical adventure, crushing heaviness with a breathtaking willingness to explore and push boundaries", as the press release says. And that's a correct description of course. But most of all it's fast and brutal, even if there's some really heavy parts too. It sounds like something from the 90s. So if you like those bands, then this is absolutely worth a try, because it's not bad at all.
instagram.com/cerebralhemorrhageband | comatosemusic.com
INFESTED ANGEL: Threnodies To Eternal Despair
Art Gates Records on Jan. 17 - CDINFESTED ANGEL are a blastbeat-driven death metal duo originating from Birmingham, England, formed in 2019. They has previously released 2 EPs - "Nourish Me, Satan" (2020) and "Submit To Death" (2022) - and as you might have figured out, "Threnodies To Eternal Despair" is their full-length debut.
The soundscape that these guys create is a wall of sound coupled with inhuman guttural vocals and ethereal wails. It's powerful and sometimes really intense. But there's also room for melodic elements here and there, as well as some heavier parts. So I would say that this is a varied album, and it sounds really good to my ears. You should really check this out.
artgatesrecords.com/artists/infested-angel
HIERARCHIES: Hierarchies
Transcending Obscurity Records on Jan. 17 - LP, CD, DigitalThis is the debut album from HIERARCHIES, which features members of ACAUSAL INTRUSION and DWELLING BELOW. It's a more twisted kind of technical/dissonant death metal that we get here. Hardly any easy listening music as the tunes change every few seconds. So I can understand if some people will think that this is out of control. But I would rather think that they know exactly what they are doing, even if it might sound chaotic and crazy. It's dark and frightening on a psychological level.
You must really be into technical and twisted death metal if you're going to listen to this.
youtu.be/20nR1YC9SPc?si=tLQh-CNN2rhaiaKa | hierarchiesdm.bandcamp.com | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
HAZZERD: The 3rd Dimension
M-Theory Audio on Jan. 17 - LP, CD, CassetteHAZZERD was formed by 2 Calgary teens, who were inspired by the early work of thrash legends such as OVERKILL, METALLICA and ANTHRAX. After solidifying their lineup with the addition of 2 more members, they recorded their full-length debut album, "Misleading Evil", which was released in 2017. In 2020 it was time for their second album, "Delirium", which is one of the best and consistent sellers at M-Theory Audio, and it even received a nod from MEGADETH frontman Dave Mustaine, who championed the group as a promising thrash hopeful, alongside POWER TRIP.
Now their third album will be released, and what we get is what you can expect - Old school thrash metal. The songs are really good and just as strong as anything from the 80s. And there's not just aggression and speed, but also some room for melodies. So I can just recomend you to check this out, becuse you should not be dissapointed.
youtu.be/G4NLms-LY2M?si=a8rlM47k4HgN172q | hazzerdthrash.bandcamp.com | m-theoryaudio.com
AFTER LAPSE: Pathway
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalSpanish progressive metal band AFTER LAPSE was initially formed in 2018 by some people who had all previously played together in the band DELYRIÜM. After a few member changes in the early years, the band settled into their current lineup in 2021, and in 2022 they got signed by Frontiers Music, who released their debut album, "Face The Storm".
AFTER LAPSE's musical influences vary from progressive metal acts like DREAM THEATER, Devin Townsend, PAIN OF SALVATION and HAKEN, to power metal bands like KAMELOT and ANGRA. But most of all this sounds like a typical progressive metal album. And it's actually not so bad at all, as I have learnt to like this genre during the last years. You should absolutely check this out if you're into this kind of stuff.
ffm.to/afterlapsepathways | facebook.com/AfterLapseOfficial
THUNDERMOTHER: Bright Eyes
AFM Records - Digital Single
THUNDERMOTHER continue to kick ass on this latest single. It might not be as great as the previous singles, but it sure ain't bad and it gets better the more you listen to it. A typical THUNDERMOTHER song with their sound and vibe all over it. This might not be their most intense song, but if you like high energy hard rock n roll, then this is something that you should listen to.
"Bright Eyes" is taken from the upcoming album "Dirty & Divine", which will be released on February 7 through AFM Records. The release will be followed by lots of touring.
thundermother.bfan.link/bright-eyes | thundermother.bfan.link/dirty-divine | thundermother.com
TROLD: Mod Den Endeløse Skov
Mighty Music on Jan. 10 - Digital SingleThis is the first single from their upcoming sophomore album. And these Danish folk metallers have made something that I guess we can call a ballad, or rather a power ballad. Which is a new side of the band. But for being a power ballad, it's actually not so slow, but pretty catchy actually. So it's not as odd as it might sound, but a pretty o.k. folk metal song.
I don't really know what else I should say, but if you like folk metal, then this could be worth a try.
bfan.link/mod-den-endelose-skov | facebook.com/troldband
TUMENGGUNG: Back On The Streets
Jawbreaker Records on Jan. 17 - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalIt's not that often that I get something from Indonesia for review, but this heavy metal band comes from Indonesia. "Back On The Streets" is their second album, and it's described as a time machine back to the early to mid-80s. Think of the classic acts from that era, and then you know what this band sounds like. This album is in other words filled with headbanging riffs, sing-along choruses, melodic song structures and anthems. It sounds familiar, yet they add their own touch and doesn't become a complete copy.
TUMENGGUNG began as a quartet in 2007, but has since then become a power trio instead. They has previously released a EP in 2014 and an album in 2020.
This album has lots of really good songs, so are you going to stay in this sick world or take a ride back in time?
jawbreaker.se | facebook.com/tumenggung.official
GRAVE DIGGER: Bone Collector
ROAR on Jan. 17 - LP, CD, DigitalGerman heavy metal institution GRAVE DIGGER have been around since 1980. That's 45 years! And with this album they have found their way back to the roots you could say. This is their first album without keyboard passages. It's raw and powerful 80s heavy metal, that makes me think of giants like JUDAS PRIEST, ACCEPT and possibly IRON MAIDEN when they were as best (in the 80s).
You can always ask yourself where the new energy comes from. But does it really matter? This is a great album, and that matters a lot. This is simply an album that every fan of true heavy metal have to check out, and there's not much else to add about that.
gravedigger.rpm.link/bonecollectorWE | grave-digger.de | reigningphoenixmusic.com/all-artists/roar-artists
GASMIASMA: At War With Punk
783label on Jan. 17 - LP, CD, Cassette / Out now DigitalThis New Orleans band features active or past members of bands like EYEHATEGOD, CROWBAR, HELLGASM, HELLKONTROLL, GOATWHORE, SAINT VITUS and DOWN. I'm not sure if the band is still active or not, but they began their career with a EP and then a live recording for radio. These recordings was previously just released in a limited edition in the States, so not too many have heard them before. But now that's about to change, as both recordings are available on this album.
What you're going to get here is a noisey and chaotic kind of hardcore/punk. It's fast and raw. The songs are short, so these 17 tracks are over in less than half an hour. But it sounds really good while it last, so this is definitely worth checking out if you like good old hardcore/punk and crust punk from the 90s. Well, it's more or less a must to check out then.
Poffen from Swedish hardcore/punk legends TOTALITÄR is doing some guest vocals on 1 of the songs.
linktr.ee/783_label | push.fm/fl/gasmiasma
DEATHCONTROL: The Endless Echo Of His Own Litany
Selfmadegod Records - CD, LP, CassetteDEATHCONTROL is a grindcore duo from Spain. Both have long experience of extreme music. And when they met again after many years and formed this new band, they were both very clear about their vision to make direct, aggressive music, with hardly any post-production, as natural and authentic as possible. The songs that was made were highly influenced by classic bands such as TERRORIZER, BRUTAL TRUTH, D.R.I., The ACCÜSED etc. But there was also interludes of pure sick noise.
Now we can listen to the result, and it's actually not so bad for being grindcore. It's just some of those interludes between every song that I don't like, but those are very short so that's hardly such a big problem. This could actually be worth listening to if you like it fast and extreme.
We get 11 tracks, and they are between 17 seconds to 3:27 minutes. So it's a fast and short album you could say.
thedeathcontrol.bandcamp.com | selfmadegod.com
LAMBRINI GIRLS: Who Let The Dogs Out
City Slang - LP, CD, DigitalBrighton duo LAMBRINI GIRLS release their debut album. They have been building up a reputation for themselves during the last years by playing live everywhere they can. They also released a EP, "You're Welcome", in 2023.
It's an uncompromising album that addresses societal problems such as sexism, sexual harassment, homo/transphobia and police brutality. The vocals sometimes sounds more like someone being scolded than singing. Punk rock by some young and angry people who are really tired of today's society. But there's also a pinch of humour as well.
They have been compared with bands like BIKINI KILL and HUGGY BEAR, but they have their own British sound. Which is a raw sound mixed with anger, energy and charisma. The material is varied, with many different kinds of songs. And they burn off these 11 tracks in less than half an hour.
lambrinigirlsband.co.uk
LOWMIST: Custodians Of Pain
Khaoszophy - CDLOWMIST is a solo project created by Netzja (guitarist of black metallers DANTALION) in 2019. With this project he intends to explore more melancholic and melodic passages through a music in which the harmonies of the the guitars take on a greater role. Naemoth (also a member of DANTALION, EMPTY, DEIMLER, ENDEMIC) help him on drums.
LOWMIST released its first album, "Supreme Nature", via Darkwoods in 2020, and now the second album, "Custodians Of Pain", is here.
What we get here is atmospheric black metal. It might no go fast, but it's still raw and brutal thanks to the vocals, while the music is mainly laidback and dark. So it's more or less like black metal should be, but more slow and heavy than you might be used to. It happens that it goes a little faster once in a while though.
lowmist.bandcamp.com | khaoszophy.com
W.A.S.P.: The 7 Savage
Madfish Music on Jan. 17 - 7CD Box SetThis collection was previously released as a LP Box Set in 2023. But due to a huge demand for a CD edition, it will now also be available in that format as well in January 2025.
It's like the press release says "the ultimate tribute to a legendary band". Spanning W.A.S.P.'s influential Capitol Years, this 7-CD set includes their first 5 groundbreaking studio albums: "W.A.S.P." (1984), "The Last Command" (1985), "Inside the Electric Circus" (1986), "The Headless Children" (1989) and "The Crimson Idol" (1992). Fans will also find a CD full of rare demos, B-sides and live tracks, as well as the "Live... In The Raw" (1987) CD. This box also includes a meticulously crafted 60-page hardback book with exclusive photographs, new liner notes from Amit Sharma (Kerrang!, Planet Rock) and exclusive commentary from frontman Blackie Lawless himself.
Now I didn't get more than 12 tracks, but I have heard the studio albums before, so I know that this is really good stuff and something that you really should get if you're a hardcore fan and rich enough. It could have been interesting to hear the whole record with rare demos, B-sides and live tracks though. Beacuse just like many other bands, W.A.S.P. used to have exclusive tracks on the B-side of their singles. And it was often a cover of some other band, like ROLLING STONES or MOUNTAIN for example.
Led by frontman Blackie Lawless, W.A.S.P. has been kicking ass for 4 decades now. The only original member left is Blackie.
waspmadfish.lnk.to/7_Savage_CD | waspnation.com | madfishmusic.com
SORCERESS OF SIN: Ennea
Wormholedeath Records - CD (mid-January), Digital (out now)SORCERESS OF SIN formed in 2020 and are from the UK. "Ennea" is their second album.
This band is delving deep into the heart of Greek mythology, channelling the power and passion of the Olympian gods. It's a fusion of epic storytelling and heavy/power metal, where gods and mortals collide in a symphony of sound. It's an ambitious album with lots of strenght, as the songs are good and absolutely worth listening to. Many different influences, but most of all it's heavy and power metal in the classic tradition with extra everything. So this could be worth a try if you like that.
instagram.com/sorceressofsin2020 | wormholedeath.com
MEZMERIZER: Whispers Of Leviathan
Downfall Records - CD, DigitalMEZMERIZER formed in 2009 as a creative outlet for metal musicians from Odense, Denmark. The band features members from HATESPHERE, ARTILLERY and TERRORPY for example. It started as a side project, but have now grown into a beast on its own. And after years of musical evolution, they have now released their debut album.
This band blend the intensity of black metal with melodic harmonies, but there's so much more influences than that here. So the best way to describe this band's music is to call it progressive/experimental metal. Because this is really a different experience, and hardly a straight metal album that you can sing-along to (but you can still bang your head if you want to). It's actually hard to describe what they really sounds like, because there's so many different elements. But there's at least 2 main ingredients here, and that's aggression and melody. Good stuff anyway, so maybe you should give them a try?
youtu.be/2_fUgvOPz9A?si=N7AEv0aKEm5Was9p | downfallrecords.bandcamp.com
BLUE ÖYSTER CULT: 50th Anniversary Live - Third Night
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 3LP, Blu-ray, CD/DVD, Digital"50th Anniversary Live - Third Night" is the final installment of the live albums celebrating the band's 50th Anniversary. The performance includes the band's third album, "Secret Treaties", performed back-to-back, as well as a mix of favorites, deep cuts and classic hits. It was all recorded in September 2022 at Sony Hall in NYC.
Well, what can I say that has not already been said? Another really good album for the die hard fans. It sounds like BLUE ÖYSTER CULT are still a pretty good live band after an eternity of existence, because this is rocking.
22 tracks and probably around 2 hours or more of music.
ffm.to/boc50ththirdnight | blueoystercult.com
CRIMSON STORM: Livin' On The Bad Side
Fighter Records on Jan. 14 - CD, LP, DigitalThis band has a singer that reminds of a young and hungry Bruce Dickinson (IRON MAIDEN, ex-SAMSON). And the music is of course heavy metal. A very energetic kind of heavy metal with lots of energy. Not as fast and loud as MOTÖRHEAD, but let's say uptempo at least. To raise your fist in the air and start to pump like a maniac is fully normal when you listen to this band. In fact, not to do that would be more insane. In other words very headbanging friendly.
This is the debut album from this Spanish band, where they mix heavy, power and speed metal from the 80s. The band was originally formed in 2009 in Sardinia, Italy. The name of the band is inspired by RIOT's song "Sign of the Crimson Storm". Following several lineup changes, a first EP, "Motor City Maniac", was released in 2014. It was followed by a 7" EP, "Speed Hammerin' Metal", in 2015. And later that year band leader/guitarist/main songwriter Lögan Heads moved to Barcelona and reformed the band there. In 2019 another EP, "Outrageous", was released.
"Livin' On The Bad Side" features new tracks alongside reworked versions of earlier singles.
youtu.be/9C_Kq-MUaN8 | facebook.com/CrimsonStormOfficial | facebook.com/fighter.records
EX DEO: Year Of The Four Emperors
Reigning Phoenix Music on Jan. 10 - MCD, DigitalLong time since I heard this band last time. But as far as I can remember it was really good.
EX DEO was formed in 2008 and is led by KATAKLYSM frontman Maurizio Iacono, and they are all into ancient Rome. Now they will release a new 4-track EP, which will be their first on Reigning Phoenix Music. This time they take the listeners into the chaos and bloodlust of one of Rome's most tumultuous periods: AD 69. It covers the relentless ambition, treachery and warfare that defined the reigns of Galba, Otho, Vitellius and Vespasian. Each track tells a story of power's corruptive allure and the brutal cost of empire, culminating in the rise of the Flavian dynasty.
And the soundtrack to that story is best described as symphonic death metal. It's all very ambitious when it comes to this band, but there's no lack of heaviness and brutality because of that. They balance it all very well, and the songs are really good.
The band is currently on tour in Europe, and will continue the tour in North America in February.
facebook.com/exdeo | reigningphoenixmusic.com
ICE SUCKERS: The Second Coming
Wanikiya Records - Digital Album, CassetteHard rockers ICE SUCKERS features Mr. Jack (boss of Wanikiya Records) on vocals, Steve Volta (PERPETUAL FIRE, Pino Scotto) on bass and guitar, Ivan D'Alia (EVENFALL) on guitar, and Luca Bonardi on drums. But it's said that the band was born from the vision of guitarist LGD (ANGUISH FORCE). And I don't know much else about this group, but I would guess that this is their second album anyway.
It sounds 80s and melodic, but they seems to have some modern elements as well, but not too much of that. "You Are Like My Cat" might be a funny and weird title, but with that song they almost have something that could be a hit song. The other songs here are also really good, so you should really check this out if you like melodic hard rock.
facebook.com/people/ICE-SUCKERS/....
ILLUSION FORCE: Halfana
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalILLUSION FORCE is a Japanese power metal band. After touring and recording in Japan for the last 5 years, they have now released their first worldwide album (they have previously released 2 albums in Japan). Among their influences are the usual stuff, like HELLOWEEN, DRAGONFORCE and similar bands, which might sound like they are not here to reinvent the genre. But read on..
It sounds good, but there's as much as 13 tracks on this album, which makes it last for more than an hour. And the first song here, "Kaleidoscopic", is not power metal according to me, but sounds more like melodic rock/AOR instead, which is a little confusing. The rest is power metal though. It goes fast and is melodic and majestic, as well as very professional (what else could you expect from a Japanese band?). They might not sound exactly like their heroes, but this sounds really good anyway. No doubt about that.
ffm.to/illusionforcehalfana | illusion-force.com
NECROMANIAC: Sciomancy, Malediction & Rites Abominale
Invictus Productions on Jan. 13 - CD, Digital (LP later)This band have been lurking in the London, UK underground for 13 years, and was formed by Swedish, Spanish, Greek and Polish musicians. Now it's time for their full-length debut, which is a macabre experience that will send cold shivers down your spine. It has a dark and occult atmosphere. But then it's black metal that we talk about here, and those ingredients comes natural then.
They are not the fastest band in this genre, even though there's some faster moments too here and there, but more heavy and evil, or however I should describe it? Guests on this record are A.A. Nemtheanga (PRIMORDIAL), Nameless Void (NEGATIVE PLANE and a figure credited as A Corpse Without Soul.
NECROMANIAC has previously released a demo in 2015 and a EP in 2018.
invictusproductions.net | facebook.com/necromaniacUK
The CRYPT: Rock Kommander
Metal Department/Wildcore Games - MCD, MLP, DigitalThis mini album is an international collaboration between different rock and metal artists. It was originally the brainchild of Leif Edling (CANDLEMASS etc), who wanted to discover some gothic and occult metal. It seems like he's not a part of the band on this release though. Dee Snider (TWISTED SISTER) is probably the most famous person here, but he's just singing on 1 song. Lead singer is Pepper, and the other members are Danne McKenzie on drums, Rigor Mortimer on bass, Dave McKenzie on guitar and Floke on keyboards.
It seems like this EP features 3 brand new tracks plus a re-worked version of "I Love The Darkness" from 2019. But there's 5 tracks here, so I'm a little confused..
The music channels the vibes of 70s bands like COVEN, BLACK SABBATH and BLUE ÖYSTER CULT, with dark atmospheres, catchy melodies and thunderous riffs. Yet it doesn't really sounds like something old (probably because they are using modern technology). I guess we can put them in the doom metal/hard rock category as they reminds me of Swedish band AVATARIUM (another band that Leif Edling formed and left), even though it's not exactly the same. They have some good songs here anyway, so this is worth checking out.
store.rockkommander.com | intothecrypt.com
SLAUGHTERSUN: Black Marrow
Slaughtersun on Jan. 10 - MCD, Digital EPSLAUGHTERSUN formed in 2023, and unites seasoned musicians to create a sound that's both brutal and strikingly innovative. This is heavy, but uptempo at the same time. This EP is a journey through dark soundscapes and visceral storytelling, refined by a group that is unafraid to push boundaries in an already intense genre.
This EP consist of their first 4 singles, but remixed and remastered. The music is death metal with a touch of the old legends and a pinch of their own touch, which makes it sound up to date and fresh.
If you like it raw and heavy, then this could be something for you, even if you might not use to listen to death metal. I would actually guess that fans of sludge could like this too.
slaughtersunnj.com
OUTBURST: Written In Blood
Violent Creek Records - Digital SingleIsn't (or wasn't) there a Swedish hardcore band called OUTBURST as well? Anyway, these guys play thrash/speed metal and are from Flensburg. Their full-length debut, "Devouring The Masses", will be released on March 7. And I guess that this is a taste of what we will get from that album?
It sounds old school and just like it should, and this song is not so bad at all. So if they have more songs like this on the upcoming album, then it can be interesting to hear that record. And I don't have much else to say..
youtu.be/EWTC4yUDYcI | facebook.com/outburstmetal
VÁLVERA: Reckoning Has Begun
Brutal Records - Digital SingleBrazilian thrash metal band VÁLVERA formed in 2010. They has since then released 3 albums and become one of Brazil's most promising metal bands (according to my sources). The band blend thrash metal with elements of several sub-genres. So European media calls their style "neo thrash metal".
With a relentless energy they crush everything in their way. This is stone hard and heavy, but it doesn't have much melody, so it's not that catchy. And that's the big problem here, because it's not so funny to listen to then. But that's just my opinion of course.
Now this might not be totally useless though, but it took something like 5-6 listenings, so we still have a problem.
facebook.com/bandavalvera | linktr.ee/brutalrecords.official
TAK MATSUMOTO GROUP: TMG II
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, DigitalAfter a 20-year hiatus, TMG returns with original members Tak Matsumoto (guitarist and member of the Japanese rock superstars B'Z), Jack Blades (NIGHT RANGER) and Eric Martin (Mr. BIG). The project was launced in 2004, and they released 1 album, "TMG I", and toured in Japan. Unfortunately, life pulled them in different directions and nothing more happened. Since then the fans have been waiting for a second album, and now it's finally here.
The new album also features drummer Matt Sorum (GUNS N' ROSES, VELVET REVOLVER, The CULT), and on 1 song they are joined by BABYMETAL. The music is a blend of the American and the Japanese sound, which gives us a good mixture of rock and hard rock. It's catchy and melodic, and performed by professional artists. In other words a very high quality on the material.
"Eternal Flames" should be a hit! But that will probably not happen..
ffm.to/takmatsumotogrouptmgii | takmatsumotogroup.com
STORACE: Live And Let Live + Bonus LIve Album
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2CD, DigitalIt wasn't that long ago that the latest studio album, "Crossfire", was released. But soon after that, this double album was released as well. It's a re-release of the first album, "Live And Let Live", in a special edition with a live album as a extra bonus. This gives us as much as 22 tracks.
As you probably know already, STORACE is led by Swizz singer Marc Storace from KROKUS. When this album was recorded in 2021, KROKUS had stopped to exist because of Covid-19, and no one really knew what would happen. So instead of just wasting time doing nothing, Marc decided to record a solo album. I think it was released on a other label, because I did not get it for review then. And the first times I heard this album, I thought it wasn't as strong as the latest album. But now that I have heard it some more, it's actually not so bad at all. It has some good songs, and it's mainly hard rock in the old tradition.
The songs on the live album was recorded in Switzerland during the last 3 years. Except for STORACE songs, we also get some KROKUS songs that they never played live. There's even a song from Marc's late 70s London band EAZY MONEY. A good live album without a doubt. It seems like the material get some extra energy when they play live, which I like.
youtu.be/eq0-fHQaowg | ffm.to/storaceliveandletlive | storace.ch
Powell-Payne: Voilà
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalThis is a melodic rock/AOR band from Welsh, formed in 2022 by Mark "Penfold" Powell (ex-drummer of PSYCHO KISS) and Adam Payne (former vocalist of AIRRACE). They are joined by Aydan Watkins (guitar) and Alex Anderson (bass). And even though they are a pretty new band, their sound is the old stuff, with a tip of the hat to the 80s. So don't expect anything different and unique here, because we simply get exactly what you can expect.
But with that said, they are doing this just as good as any other band that is doing the same thing. Good song after good song. So this is of course worth checking out if you like melodic stuff.
It's not impossible that a song like "Questions" could have been a hit if it had been released in the late 80s or early 90s.
youtu.be/nFZ9o3WK1gE | ffm.to/powellpaynevoila | facebook.com/PowellPayneProject
ELECTRIC TEMPLE: High Voltage Salvation
Eonian Records - CDELECTRIC TEMPLE was formed in 2024 by guitarist Tony Childs (ex-SHANGHAI), and features Andrew Freeman (LAST IN LINE, LYNCH MOB, OFFSPRING) on vocals, Mike Duda (W.A.S.P.) on bass, and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, KIX, Mr. BIG) on drums. Their combined experiences gives us flavours of modern rock and post grunge, but most of all classic 70s/80s hard rock and heavy metal like BLACK SABBATH, DIO, IRON MAIDEN and JUDAS PRIEST, but with a modern touch. And it's an interesting mixture, and actually not so bad at all.
The energy is high in the opening track, "Death Wish". They should have had a few more songs like that. The rest of the songs are not bad though, so this is worth a try for fans of hard rock, because that's what I mainly think this sounds like.
youtu.be/jph1_8DV4v8?si=L8_XuNITUbKLdemU | smarturl.it/ElectricTemple | eonianrecords.com | linktr.ee/ETband
DYING MEN: High Hopes & Low Tunes
Witches Brew - CD, DigitalGerman doom trio DYING MEN sure doesn't sound like they are dying. They released this debut album in the end of November, and combine classic influences from pioneers like BLACK SABBATH, PENTAGRAM, TROUBLE and SAINT VITUS with a raw, modern edge. It's heavy of course, but it can also be atmospheric. I would also like to say that it's pretty catchy and melodic for being doom, and not as dark as many other bands are in this genre.
8 really good tracks is what we get here, and you should really check this out, because albums like this isn't released every week.
dyingmen.bandcamp.com | witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com
DECREPID: Suffered Existence (re-issue)
Brutal Records - Digital AlbumThis is the debut album from these Wisconsin death metallers, and it seems like it was originally released in 1994.
For some reason they waste time on both a useless intro and a outro, so we just get 8 real songs. And those songs are heavy and powerful, but hardly slow becuase of that. It sounds very 90s (of course), so fans of that should give these guys a try, because it's not that bad. I have heard more interesting bands in this genre though, but also many that are much more useless. I guess they end up somewhere above the middle on my scale.
There seems to be another death metal band called DECREPID, but they are from London, UK. They formed in 2005 and are still active. The DECREPID we talk about here, from USA, are not active anymore, and this album is all they released (as far as I know).
brutalrecords.bandcamp.com/album/suffered-existence | linktr.ee/brutalrecords.official
BRAZEN ABBOT: Eye Of The Storm (re-issue) / Bad Religion (re-issue)
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, Digital / CD, DigitalBRAZEN ABBOT was originally conceived as a studio project by Bulgarian guitarist, producer and songwriter Nikolo Kotzev. The band has since performed live on several occasions, particularly in the early 2000s. A unique feature for BRAZEN ABBOT is its use of multiple singers on each album. Göran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen etc etc) and Joe Lynn Turner (ex-RAINBOW, Yngwie Malmsteen, DEEP PURPLE etc) have contributed with vocals on most of their records. Initially, Kotzev planned to work with a single vocalist, Göran Edman, but due to contractual restrictions, he could only record 2 songs for the debut album. Glenn Hughes (ex-DEEP PURPLE, TRAPEZE etc) was then lined up to sing the remaining tracks, but similar issues limited him to 3 songs. To complete the album, Thomas Vikström (TALK OF THE TOWN and later on THERION) was brought in, and Kotzev was so satisfied with the outcome that he decided to continue the multi-singer approach for future albums. However, during live performances, Joe Lynn Turner usually handled all lead vocals. Among the former members of the band are 3 members of EUROPE: Mic Michaeli, John Levén and Ian Haugland.
"Eye Of The Storm" is the second album, which was originally released in 1996. "Bad Religion" was released in 1997, and is the band's third album.
The sound of BRAZEN ABBOT is classic hard rock influenced by legends like RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE, Yngwie Malmsteen, WHITESNAKE and EUROPE. Which you really can hear. I think most of all of RAINBOW after the late Ronnie James Dio had left the band and they became more commercial. But you can of course hear those other influences too. One thing is for sure, fans of melodic hard rock should really check out these 2 albums, because this is really good stuff.
ffm.to/babadreligion | ffm.to/baeyeofthestorm | brazenabbot.nostramusic.com
MOON WIZARD: Sirens
Hammerheart Records on Jan. 10 - CD, LP, DigitalIn search of the almighty riff, some longtime friends formed the band MOON WIZARD to deliver a blend of heavy and powerful doom and stoner metal. A self-titled album was released in 2018 as a trio. In 2020 they recruited Sami Wolf on vocals, and now they bring their sound to another dimension with this new album.
The music is heavy, while I would say that the female vocals is melodic. This gives the songs a perfect flow and the right atmosphere. So yes, MOON WIZARD have really succeed to make a great album, and you should absolutely check it out.
It would surprise me if people would not start talking about this band in the underground scene. Because this band have all the right ingredients to step up to the next level.
moonwizard.lnk.to/sirens | hammerheart.com «December 2024 | Index | February»
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