REVIEWS MAY 2025
«April | Index | June»NURAGHE: An Elephant Was Swinging On A Cobweb
Too Loud Records - CD, DigitalNURAGHE is a skate punk band from Barcelona, Spain formed in late 2016. They have previously released some EPs and 1 album. They mix the speed and attitude of skate punk with the passion and precision of melodic hardcore. The result is a catchy and melodic punk rock, yet energetic, that sounds pretty kind. Why they are doing a cover of "Hallelujah" is a big mystery to me. And they are hardly the first band to do that. But why are a punk band doing a cover of the song? I really don't get it! It's a weak pop song. But as they also have a song called "Jesus Christ", I start to wonder if they are Christian? And that last track, what was that good for? They try to be funny I guess, but they are not. It's not even a real song, but just some shit to make it an album instead of a EP I guess - Totally useless!
But otherwise not such a bad album, although I have heard better.
music.tooloudrecords.com/anelephantwasswingingonacobweb | facebook.com/nuragheband
NECROFLAGELO: Liturgia do Apocalipse
Studios13 - Digital AlbumThis Portugese metal band deliver 9 tracks in their own language. It's a mix of black, death and thrash metal, and this is their debut album, where they explores the downfall of humanity through sound, myth, and death. It's fast and nasty, and sounds mainly like black metal to me, so I would guess that it's fans of that who will like this most of all. Good stuff anyway, but sometimes not much more than that. Mainly good though, so you should give them a try.
Another short review, but I don't really know what else I should say..
studios13.bandcamp.com/album/liturgia-do-apocalipse
CROMLECH: Of Owls And Eels
Darkness Shall Rise Productions on June 6 - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalI actually have a demo cassette with a band called CROMLECH, that I got in the 90s. But they played death metal and came from Sweden, and this is a German black metal band with the same name. But there's actually something like 15-20 metal bands around the world called CROMLECH, so it's hardly the most unique name of a band.
This CROMLECH was formed in 1994 already by the only member, Impurus. Much of the material for the first album was written back then, but for different reasons it wasn't properly recorded and released until 2023. Now the second album is here, and they say that fans of bands like NAGELFAR, LUNAR AURORA, DIES ATER and The RUINS OF BEVERAST should listen to this album. It's black metal without paying attention to genre conventions, you could say. It's unpredictable and ambitious, as well as both brutal and melancholic. He manage to weave various elements together like it was the most natural thing to do. This is not a ordinary black metal album, but something more unique.
darknessshallrise.de | facebook.com/cromlechxciv
AXEBLADE: Axeblade
Witches Brew - CD, DigitalThis is an Italian heavy metal band, and what we have here is their debut album. Their music is built on sharp riffs and driving bass lines, and these 9 tracks move between fast-paced anthems and darker, mid-tempo moments. It sounds very old school, like something from the late 70s/early 80s sometime. Yeah, I think you got a pretty good picture of what they can sound like. So let's just say that this album is great, and you should really check it out.
I hate when I can't come up with more to say, but what can I do? Let the music do the talking as AEROSMITH sang.
facebook.com/axeblade.official | facebook.com/witchesbrewthrashes
FUZZRIDERS: I Like It
Electric Valley Records on June 6 - LP, DigitalFUZZRIDERS took shape in Sardinia, Italy in 2017. They released a self-titled EP in 2020, and now they will release their full-length debut. The music that they play is stoner/fuzz rock. It's loud and unruly with lots of heavy riffing, exactly as you can expect. "This is an album that doesn't ask for permission, it rather kicks the door in and crashes through your consciousness without warning, leaving you rattled but craving more", as the info says. Not impossible.. It's a very good album that they have made anyway, so if you like it loud and heavy, then you should really check this out.
facebook.com/FUZZRIDERS | linktr.ee/electricvalley
Second Class Kids Magazine #8
Second Class Kids Records - Magazine
In this issue we get interviews with Bonni Pontén (ASTA KASK, COSA NOSTRA, BONNI & BASTARDERNA), Per Granberg (CHARTA 77, Birdnest Records, KRYMPLINGS) and SMÅJÄVLAFÖTTER. There's also an survey about the future of the physical newspaper with 6 humans in different ages, record and fanzine reviews, and last but not least an article about the Swedish hardcore scene. All written in Swedish.
It's mainly well written as usual and knowledgeable people. The most interesting interview was the one with Bonni, where he tells us anecdotes about his old bands, and also his new band, BONNI & BASTARDERNA. I really like this magazine (but then it's the only magazine that I read nowadays).
As usual you get this magazine for free when you order something from the label. But you can also buy just the magazine if you want to.
secondclasskids.com
MYSTIC CIRCLE: Kriegsgötter MMXXV
ROAR on June 6 - CD, LP, DigitalThis was a bit of a strange album, but after a few listenings I got used to it.
"Kriegsgötter MMXXV" is an extended new edition of the 5-track EP "Kriegsgötter II" (2000), now with 8 tracks, featuring cover versions of classics from bands such as BATHORY, CELTIC FROST, POSSESSED and ACHERON, and the completely re-recorded cover of IRON MAIDEN's "Afraid To Shoot Strangers". We can also find a re-recording of the old demo track "Die Götter der Urväter", which is one of the band's rare tracks in German. 2 of the songs features guest vocals from Sarah Jezebel Deva (CRADLE OF FILTH).
A o.k. album, but soon forgotten. Best song is "Death Metal".
facebook.com/MysticCircleOfficial | shopeu.reigningphoenixmusic.com
AVALANCHE: Land Down Under
Avalanche - Digital EPAVALANCHE is a hard rock n roll band from Sydney, and this EP is a tribute and a love letter to the Australian rock scene, performed by people who grew up with these songs.
They kick of with "Down Under" by MEN AT WORK, which is said to be "unoffical anthem" of Australia. The original version is more of a reggae song. But this version is more punky and energetic rock n roll. Not bad at all.
The next song is "Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again", originally done by The ANGELS. I'm not sure if I have heard this song before, so I can't compare it with the original version, but it's rocking anyway and is another good song.
After that we get a long live version of AC/DC's "Let There Be Rock". It's pretty true to the original version, and last for as long as 7:25 minutes. Now the original version is pretty long too, so if you want to do it the true way and live as well, then it has to be that long I guess. They are doing another good job anyway.
And the last song here is "Nice Girls Don't Play Rock N Roll", originally called "Nice Boys Don't Play Rock N Roll" and done by ROSE TATTOO. Another song that is true to the original version and very good.
Well, you should really check this out if you like energetic rock.
youtu.be/r0oatLdczGs | avalanchebandrock.com
MOB RULES: Future Loom
ROAR - Digital SingleThis summer, Northern German power metal collective MOB RULES returns with their eagerly awaited new studio offering, entitled "Rise Of The Ruler", that is slated for a release on August 22 via ROAR. "Future Loom" is the latest single from the album, and it's a fast yet melodic song in the same spirit as 80s HELLOWEEN. It sounds really good to me, and I think that fans of traditional power metal will like this a lot. So give it a try.
MOB RULES released their latest studio album, "Beast Reborn", in 2018. It was followed by the live album "Beast Over Europe" in 2019, and the anniversary compilation "Celebration Days - 30 Years Of Mob Rules" in 2024.
mobrules.rpm.link/futureloomPR | mobrules.rpm.link/rotralbumPR | facebook.com/mobrulesband | roar-records.de
LORD VIGO: Walk The Shadows
High Roller Records on May 30 - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalThis is the 6th full-length album from this German epic doom metal band. This time there's no concept, as there was on their 2 last albums. This is not the kind of band that want to repeat themselves, and on this album we can find elements of epic metal, gothic rock and post-punk, with traces of bands like SISTER OF MERCY, FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM, and even The CURE. The roots are in classic metal, but it seems like they have left their own comfort zone here. And that could easily be commercial suicide for a band. On the other hand, we are talking about a underground band here, so..
Now I don't think that I have heard this band before, so I can't compare this with their previous works. But to me this sounds more like gothic rock and post-punk than doom metal. There's actually no elements of doom at all here. So it would not surprise me if some fans will be very dissapointed when they hear this album. But those people don't really know what they are missing, because this is actually not so bad at all (says a man who happens to like goth and post-punk too). It's dark and atmospheric just like doom can be, yet something totally different.
hrrecords.de | lordvigo.bandcamp.com
LEATHERMAN: Turn You On
This Charming Man Records in the end of May - LPLEATHERMAN is a glam rock/power pop band from Australia, with members from bands like CLOWNS and CABLE TIES. "Turn You On" is their debut album, and it's like a trip back to the 1970s/80s, with happy and catchy songs, as well as twin guitars. It's also raw and energetic, and seems to be done with the right attitude. I really like this album. And if you&##9;re into glam rock, then you should really give this a try. I'm pretty sure that you won't be dissapointed (you might even thank me?).
Well, this will be a short review, because I simply don't have anything else to say, and I have learnt that you should shut up then.
youtu.be/ynxH0bv_2Cc?feature=shared | thischarmingmanrecords.de/produkt/leatherman....
LAZY QUEEN: Mixtape: Lost, Never To Be Seen Again Vol. 1
Icons Creating Evil Art on May 30 - Digital EPLAZY QUEEN play a noisey indie rock with punk attitude. It's raw and loud, frenetic and emotional. "The Oslo-based outfit effortlessly blends harmonic and discordant elements together with an instinctive ear for melody into a playful, innovative and vibrant sound, which affixes both context and contrast to lyrics that often explore life's more maladjusted corners", says the info.
These 5 tracks are re-recordings of some of their older material, which have never seen the light of day before. The band was formed in New York a few years ago by the Colombian/Norwegian Henrik García Søberg, but they are nowadays based in Oslo, Norway. They have previously released 4 EPs.
Their music has been described as punk-infused electro-pop, so it's not just noisey and loud all the time, but can be melodic as well. It sounds good anyway, so you should give them a try.
LAZY QUEEN plan to release an album in 2026.
lazyqueenband.com | icea.se
WE ARE RESOLUTE: Full Armor
Roxx Records on May 30 - CD"Full Armor" is the 4th full-length album from this Christian band. The group features Dale Thompson (BRIDE) on vocals, and this time also Tracy Ferrie (BOSTON, STRYPER). We also have John Mokma on drums and guitars, as well as Bryan Carman as the main songwriter, lead guitarist and contributing vocals. There's also guest vocals from Brian Rainsberger.
They call this a rock band, but to me it sounds more like hard rock and heavy metal actually. It's mainly in the classic school and not so polished, but rather a pretty raw recording. It almost sounds like it could be something forgotten from the 1980s. They might not have the strongest material, but it's not bad anyway.
youtube.com/watch?v=WfvemOneZws | roxxrecords.com
THEN COMES THE NIGHT: Metal World
Metalapolis Records on May 30 - CDGerman heavy metal band THEN COMES THE NIGHT were founded in 2019. Their debut album, "Chapter 1", was self-released in 2022. It was followed by "Start The Change" in the end of 2023. The songs on this new album, "Metal World", are said to be more catchy than their predecessors. But at the same time it's also said to be darker and heavier than before. Most of all it's familiar heavy and power metal that we get here, and inspiration seems to come from many different bands, but mainly those with a classic 80s sound.
I don't really know if I had a bad day when I heard this album the first time, because then I thought it sounded like a bad copy of MANOWAR. But after listening a few times, this is actually not a bad copy of other bands, but a pretty good copy that can stand on its own. But o.k., there are better bands. On the other hand there's also lots of worse bands, and then you prefer this of course.
metalapolis.eu | thencomesthenight.de
The GALILEO 7: Everything Is Everything Else
Busy Bee - LPThe GALILEO 7 features Allan Crockford, a former bass player of British garage rockers The PRISONERS, who paved the ground in the 80s for the British baggy scene and 90s Britpop. This band on the other hand combine the flash and power of freakbeat with the harmonies of baroque psych, power pop, and a dash of swirling psychedelia, they say.
On this album they have picked their best songs and made a compilation with 12 tracks. It's very catchy and melodic with a 60s sound, but I get a feeling that the 7" I reviewed a while ago was a little better than this. Not that it's bad, but it's on the other hand nothing special either. So if this really is the best they got, then there's not as much hope as I thought there would be when it comes to this band. Maybe they should stick to the shorter format instead? Because 12 songs of this is actually a little too much at once. On the other hand, you can always listen to just a few songs, and then a few more later (but that's not how I use to do it).
busybeesweden.com
Gabrielle de Val: I Am The Hammer
Pride & Joy Music on June 27 - CD, DigitalGabrielle de Val began to rock with her first band in Madrid, Spain, and won several important contests. In 2011 her band The VAL released their first album, "Back". In 2022 an album created by Bruce Mee (editor of Fireworks Magazine) and Khalil Turk (Escape Music), "The Garden" by CIRCLE OF FRIENDS, was released, in which the vocalist performed an original song written by Mikael Rosengren titled "When He's Gone", which was highly praised by the specialised press. In this work, she coincided with several of the artists who would later participate in her first solo album, "Kiss In A Dragon Night".
The music that we get here is AOR/melodic rock, and for some reason we get as much as 14 tracks (which I still think is a little too much). But she have lots of good songs on this album, so the number of songs is just a very small problem in this case. You should absolutely give her a chance if you're into melodic stuff, and there's not much else to say.
youtu.be/0bliXoRIgLU | bfan.link/i-am-the-hammer | gabrielledevalofficial.com | prideandjoy.de
ESCHATON: Techtalitarian
Transcending Obscurity Records on May 30 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalESCHATON is a technical death metal band with members from OBSCURA, NECROPHAGIST, INANIMATE EXISTENCE, APOGEAN, RETROMORPHOSIS etc. After 6 years, they now return with a new album and a new lineup (as far as I can understand).
If you have to avoid stress, then I would not recomend you to listen to this band. It's fast and intense, technical and almost chaotic sometimes. This is topped with harsh and brutal vocals, blast beats and guitar solos. In 1 song there's even a piano and a choir. This is totally insane! Yet they seems to have total control, and they also seems to do it with lots of enthusiasm.
This is said to be a wet dream for fans of this genre. So if you're a fan of technical death metal, then you should give these guys a try.
youtu.be/gV9x59W1wEs?si=APkEV3OTcgo_AcuB | eschaton-label.bandcamp.com/album/techtalitarian | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
CAREGAH: Osmium
ROAR on May 30 - CD, LP, DigitalSwedish sludge/groove metallers CAREGAH presents their debut album, "Osmium", which was previously self-released in 2023. This new version also includes their debut EP "Forsaken" as a bonus if you buy the CD.
This is said to be something for fans of bands like PANTERA, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, TESTAMENT and SEPULTURA. They blend groove, doom, and sludge metal into heavy and powerful compositions. It's not just a lot of riff-chewing, as there's also a sense of song building. They simply manage to keep the songs alive, which makes it more interesting to listen to. Yes, this is good stuff.
facebook.com/caregah | reigningphoenixmusic.com/all-artists/roar-artists
FURNACE: Eternally Enthroned
Obelisk Polaris Productions on May 30 - CD, DigitalSwedish melodic death metal outfit FURNACE return with their 6th full-length album.
The band was formed in 2019 by Rogga Johansson (PAGANIZER, DEMIURG, The GROTESQUERY etc etc) and Peter Svensson (ASSASSIN'S BLADE, VOID MOON) from a shared obsession with horror-laced concept albums. And "Eternally Enthroned" pushes their narrative approach further with a high fantasy storyline centered around a character named Thornblade. After a failed assassination attempt on the Tyrant King, Thornblade is sent on a grim pilgrimage to seek out the Goddess of Death and ask her to spare the King. In addition to the record, fans can look forward to "Eternally Enthroned - The Game", a limited edition board game based on the album's storyline. Designed for 2–4 players, the game will be available exclusively through Obelisk Polaris.
FURNACE blend the gloom of classic PARADISE LOST with the ambition of EDGE OF SANITY. I would like to throw in some AMON AMARTH to that, and then you should have a pretty good idea of what this sounds like. It's a damn good album anyway, without any weak moments. Fans of good old death metal should absolutely check this out.
youtu.be/gyU_gkA1ZNM | furnacesweden.bandcamp.com
STEALTH: Metal Force
Witches Brew on May 28 - CDSTEALTH is a speed/heavy metal trio from Italy, and this is their full-length debut. Their sound is rooted in the 1980s, and packed with dirty riffs, punk-edged rhythm and an unapologetically retro vibe. It's in other words a classic sound, but with a raw punk attitude as an extra spice. It's underground, straightforward and loud. I like the old school punk sound and the energy that they have. The songs might not be any excellent masterpieces, but they are absolutely not bad anyway.
Doing a raw cover of the AC/DC classic "Dog Eat Dog" was not such a good idea though.
youtube.com/watch?v=S5Nl2xKvHTY | facebook.com/STEALTHheavy | witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com
MAESTRICK: Espresso Della Vita · Lunare
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalMAESTRICK is a Brazilian progressive metal band. 13 years ago, they began what would become "Espresso Della Vita", a project that would tell the story of a 1-day train journey as a metaphor for our journey in life. It was divided into 2 albums: "Solare" (daytime) and "Lunare" (nighttime).
This album sounds like a progressive rock/metal musical to me. It's epic, cinematic and over-ambitious with elements of all kinds of stuff. Most songs are of normal length, while a few are from 9 to as long as 18 minutes. It's said to be their most ambitious, grandiose work and the ultimate representation of their vision as artists to date, and it really sounds like it is just that. With a malicious, dark, heavy and sarcastic approach, MAESTRICK deliver adult themes like addictions, racial prejudice, abuse, the holocaust and much more.
The group have been active since 2006, and bring in elements of rock and progressive heavy metal, Brazilian regional music, world music and classical music to their sound. This could be something for fans of both progressive rock and metal, but also fans of movie soundtracks.
ffm.to/maestricklunare | facebook.com/maestrick | frontiers.it
PUTERAEON: Mountains Of Madness
Emanzipation Productions on May 30 - LP, CD, Digital
Swedish death metallers PUTERAEON returns with another masterpiece.
They begin with a really heavy piece, but after that it goes much faster. It's death metal in the old school and no bullshit that we get here, and I really like what I hear. This is how it's supposed to be done if you want to impress me.
The band has since their formation in 2008 consistently refined its sound, pushing further into Lovecraftian horror with each release. This new album, which is their fifth full-length, is a natural progression from 2020's "The Cthulhian Pulse", both musically and thematically. And if you liked that album, then you must check out this new album.
PUTERAEON features members from TAETRE, RECLUSION and NOMINON. The album was mixed and mastered by the legendary Dan Swanö.
Check out my interview with the band if you have not done that already.
bit.ly/put-trgt | puteraeon.com | emanzipation.dk
Tinna Boman: Chokehold
Tinna Boman on May 21 - Digital SingleTinna Boman from Swedish punk rock band RAGATA goes solo, and this is her debut. It's said to be a declaration of love for the band that has inspired her most, GREEN DAY. But to me it sounds more like a cross between grunge/alternative rock and the pop punk from the 2000s. It's melodic and energetic punk rock with a sing-along chorus. And after listening to this song a few times, it's absolutely not bad at all. The chorus is probably the strongest part, but the verse is good too. Yes, you should really check this out if you like alternative stuff and pop punk.
DIVNI SAN: Ready To Fight
Wormholedeath Records - Digital SingleNow I'm a little confused here.. They write about a new single titled "The Power Of Your Soul", but the song that is available for download seems to be called "Ready To Fight". Anyway.. They will release an album, "Dreamlike Tales", digitally soon, and I would guess that this song is also from that album.
DIVNI SAN deliver some kind of modern/alternative thrash metal. They are said to blend METALLICA's melody, MEGADETH's thrash, and OPETH's atmosphere, then they give it a Belgian modern twist and doesn't sound like any of it. A o.k. song, but not much else as it doesn't have any hit potential. It's in other words not really an anthem that they have made here.
orcd.co/dreamliketales | instagram.com/divnisan | wormholedeath.com
INSULT: Reside Infernus
Metal On Metal Records? on May 23 - CD, LPThis UK metal band features former members of thrash legends ONSLAUGHT, and this is their debut album. They take inspiration from classic bands like MOTÖRHEAD, SLAYER and IRON MAIDEN.
INSULT hailing from Bristol, and were initially established in the mid-1980s. For the past 2 years, the band have been carefully crafting their debut album, and now we will get the chance to hear the result of what they have done. With these 8 tracks they deliver power, razor sharp riffs and pounding drumming. It's aggressive yet melodic metal music that we get here, and it's not bad at all. It sounds like heavy/thrash metal from the 80s. And if that sounds like something for you, then you should really give this a chance.
youtube.com/watch?v=DlrCAm6vBS4 | insultofficial.com
bez|kres: bez|kres
Pagan Records on May 23 - AlbumPost-punk use to be good, but it's not always good. And this record wasn't as interesting as I thought it would be. It's almost a bit boring actually. I guess that they just don't have any songs that catch my interest. It's dark and melancholy, but they don't have the drive and energy that many post-punk bands that I like have.
1 reason why this Polish band is not so good could be that they mix their post-punk with elements of cold wave and darkwave. I don't even know what cold wave and darkwave really is, but it's obviously not for me.
This is their debut album, and all songs are in Polish.
open.spotify.com/track/4YdJRW9YR....
SWEET: Platinum Rare 1
Metalville Records on May 23 - 2CD, 2LPMany albums with SWEET nowadays. And there will be more..
This time they have opened the archives, and we get a collection with rare recordings (demos, alternative mixes, outtakes, rough mixes, instrumental versions or somebody else on vocals). All these songs was recorded by the original 4 members, and comes from the private collection of guitarist Andy Scott, and were personally selected by him. Many of these songs have never before been heard on a regular SWEET album.
There's many good songs here, no doubt about that. But this is obviously just for the real die hard fans, and not something that you begin with if you have not heard these legends before. I mean, you must be a real nerd if you enjoy listening to those instrumental takes for example or "la, la, la" instead of any lyrics.
You will get as much as 25 songs on this collection.
metalville-shop.com | thesweet.com
DERAPS: Viva Rock N' Roll
Metalville Records on May 23 - CD, LP, DigitalThis sounds a little like a early VAN HALEN with a young Jon Bon Jovi (BON JOVI) on vocals. But he can sound a little like a young David Lee Roth (VAN HALEN) as well. And in 1 song he's doing his best to sound like Axl Rose (GUNS N' ROSES). He simply use the voice that he think works best for the song I guess.
What we get is classic hard rock with a party vibe, done with enthusiasm and passion. There's vocal harmonies and catchy songs with good choruses. They mix different styles, so it's hardly the same song over and over again, but rather a good variety. Not many bands sounds like this nowadays, but these guys have really succeeded to catch the right vibe and the right sound, and out comes 1 brilliant song after the other.
This is the second album from this young Canadian duo. DERAPS features Jacob Deraps on lead vocals, guitar and bass (who was born in Quebec, Canada) and Josh Gallagher on drums and background vocals (who was born in Perth, Australia).
metalville-shop.com
BENT BY SORROW: Sakura
Brutal Records on May 23 - CD, DigitalThe one who wrote the press info must have been drunk, high or just very tired. Because sometimes it looks like the band name would be the title and then the title is suddenly the name of the band. Confusing..
Anyway, whatever the name of this band might be, this is their debut album. They are based in Athens, Greece and play a hard and heavy kind of modern metal, and the vocals is both harsh screaming and clean. It's said to be dark and groove metal, so I guess that's what this is. They are said to blend influences of DEFTONES, SOILWORK and DISTURBED, if that gives you an idea of what they sound like?
Well, this is probably something for those of you who like modern metal, and not so much for those who like the old school.
They have previously released a 6-track EP, "Highlights:Dementia", in 2020.
orcd.co/brut89669 | facebook.com/BentBySorrow | brutalrecords.com
UNDECAYED: In Death's Image
Lethal Scissor Records on May 21 - CD, DigitalUNDECAYED is a Swedish death metal band, and this is their debut album. But the band was actually formed in August 2008 already by some veterans who had played in several bands throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. All they have released before is a demo in January 2011. Over the years, family matters, work commitments, health issues, the loss of 2 rehearsal spaces, and lineup changes all contributed to periods of forced inactivity and delays. And that's the reason why it has taken so long before this album finally was finished and ready for release.
Despite their origins, the band seems to prefer the American 90s style before the Swedish HM2-driven sound. But there is some European influences too. It sounds good anyway and you can really hear that these guys are veterans. So this is absolutely worth a try if you like old school death metal.
This is most likely the first album ever to have the word "death" in every song title. And just to take it even further, in 1 song the word for "death" is sung in 19 different languages. Funny guys, but at the same time really true.
youtu.be/rFhPuHNL1yk?si=tJMbVhFhw2m3zFFm | undecayedband.bandcamp.com | lethalscissor.com
PETROLBREATH: Roadkill
Inverse Records - Digital SingleThis Finnish power trio is said to deliver a energetic piece of metallic rock n roll. The band formed in 2019, and take influnces from 1980s hard rock and heavy metal, and especially the sound of MOTÖRHEAD. Their previous releases includes the single "Lucifer's Wings" (2021) and the EP "Spread Your Wings And Die" (2024). And that EP was really good.
PETROLBREATH recently recorded new material in a fully analog format, and "Roadkill" is the first track to be released from these sessions. It's a pretty fast and energetic hard rock n roll song with that MOTÖRHEAD drive that I like. A very good song. So if you want some action, then you should definitely check this out.
push.fm/fl/petrolbreath-roadkill | facebook.com/Petrolbreathband | inverse.fi
LOKALTEATERN
Concert at Hemgården in Borås, Sweden on May 16, 2025LOKALTEATERN is a local cover band who is playing mainly songs by NATIONALTEATERN (aka NATIONALTEATERNS ROCKORKESTER), but they also played some other Swedish rock songs this night. The members comes from a band called The JUMPING TREES.
Well, I don't have much to say, but they did a pretty good job anyway and played many songs that I like. It was fun. A little weird that they took a break and played 2 sets.
facebook.com/LokalteaternBandet
NAUGRIM: Desolation
Naugrim - Double Digital SingleNAUGRIM is a melodic death metal band from Sydney, Australia. They combine the razor-edged riffs of AT THE GATES, the emotional intensity of IN FLAMES, and the punch of early AS I LAY DYING and PARKWAY DRIVE. It's equal parts melancholy and fury, relentless yet melodic.
We get 2 tracks here, "Desolation" and "Bitter End". Both songs sounds good. The vocals is really brutal for being melodic death metal, but that's probably the only unique with this band, because the music is exactly what you can expect. But as I said, good stuff.
linktr.ee/Naugrim | youtu.be/zPagbqgOlpA
KICKSTARTER RITUAL: Rock N Roll
Cheat Records - Digital SingleKICKSTARTER RITUAL is an Italian acid/garage rock band formed in 2014. They have so far released 3 EPs and 1 full-length album. This single is a taste of an upcoming album, set for release this summer. It sounds like something from the 60s/early 70s sometime, so it have a true retro sound that I really like. And the song is not so bad either, so this is a band that you should check out if you like really old music.
youtube.com/watch?v=ono6E1-L7_s | cheatrecords.bandcamp.com | instagram.com/kickstarter_ritual
DEVIL IN THE NAME: Black Stone
Case Studio - CD, DigitalDEVIL IN THE NAME is a occult doom rock band from Poland, and this is their second album. They formed in August 2013, and are described as a dark journey through occult rock, stoner/doom metal and hard rock. Psychedelic lyrics are mixed with different genres and climates.
No, this album doesn't give me that much. It's more or less just a weird experience. Sometimes it's o.k. doom metal, but unfortunately they have to destroy it with atmospheric, psychadelic and instrumental adventures as well, and those moments are not so good. If they would concentrate on just doom instead, then it should be more interesting. But as it is now, no thanks.
youtu.be/PSdgho2CMUw | shop.case-studio.pl/devil-in-the-name.... | facebook.com/devilinthename
DESOLATOR: Spirit Of Speed
Desolator - CD, DigitalFrom Southampton, UK comes the speed/thrash band DESOLATOR. They formed in 2010, and their previous releases include 1 album, a EP and a live cassette.
This is fast and loud, and very old school without any modern ingredients. This can easily break your neck as you will bang your head like a maniac. It's in other words very good stuff that we have here, so you should really check out this band if you like good old speed/thrash metal from the 1980s.
Short, but I don't really know what else I should say about this..
desolatoruk.bandcamp.com/album/spirit-of-speed
BLACK SATELLITE: Downfall
Black Satellite - Digital SingleBLACK SATELLITE hailing from New York City. They have a sound that's dark, edgy, and distinctly their own, fusing industrial and metal influences. The band recently concluded writing and recording their sophomore record, "Aftermath" (no release date yet), and are currently on tour with Marilyn Manson in USA.
This is hard and heavy, yet melodic. It sounds modern without being something stupid and silly. In other words not so bad.
lnk.to/zXQ8r6 | blacksatellite.com
ALL FOR JOLLY: Oh My
All For Jolly - Digital SingleALL FOR JOLLY is a British folk punk band, formed in 2019, and they have now released their self-titled debut album. And I guess that "Oh My" is one of the songs on that album.
Unfortuantely this is a slow and a little boring song. I want more action and more energy. So I guess that this wasn't the best choice for a single. But after listening a few times, it's not totally useless anyway.
Not much else to say..
youtube.com/watch?v=5IAL15E9SvY | allforjolly.com
ONSLAUGHT: Origins Of Aggression
Reigning Phoenix Music on May 23 - 2CD, 2LP, DigitalThis collection kicks ass!
ONSLAUGHT are one of the pioneers of UK thrash metal, and they have released 7 studio albums and 2 live albums so far. The band was originally formed in 1982, and their 3 first albums are seen as thrash classics.
This year they celebrate the 40th anniversary of their debut album, "Power From Hell". And they do it by delivering a fat collection with re-recordings of old songs and a bunch of covers. The re-recordings are songs from 1982-1989, and among the covers are songs originally done by acts like DEAD KENNEDYS, The EXPLOITED, DISCHARGE, MOTÖRHEAD, JUDAS PRIEST, BLACK SABBATH and more. And they deliver these songs like it would still be the 80s, and like if they still would have been a young and hungry band. Even the covers get a thrash twist, and are all done the ONSLAUGHT way.
This is in other words damn good neck-breaking thrash metal of the best kind. So in other words a must-have for every fan of the genre.
To celebrate even more, the band will be touring a lot this year.
youtube.com/watch?v=TChq5mvr6CU | onslaught.rpm.link/originsPR | powerfromhell.com/site/live | reigningphoenixmusic.com
MANDY MANALA: Mandy Manala
Octopus Rising on May 23 - LP, Digital
MANDY MANALA is a 5-piece, female-fronted heavy rock band from Vaasa, Finland. They formed in 2021, and features members who have been active in the local scene for over 2 decades, coming from groups such as ELD, LORDS OF CHERNOBYL, ROCK FUEL, and MotörCünt. In the summer of 2024 they sent out a cassette without any contact information or any links, and I was among the lucky ones who got a copy. But it was of course very confusing, as the band didn't seems to exist. There was nothing about them on the internet.
After about half a year or something like that it was announced that they got signed and will release their debut album, and then they became active online as well. So finally everybody could listen to them (well, the singles at least).
Their sound is rooted in stoner rock you could say, or heavy rock at least, but this group draws from an impressively wide range of influences, including such different acts as GHOST, ABBA, FLEETWOOD MAC, The HELLACOPTERS, METALLICA, BLACK SABBATH, BATHORY and DARKTHRONE. The result is a sound that is heavy and vital, yet melodic and very accessible. It sounds old school, without being dated. Simply hard rock that most fans of the old and heavy sound should like a lot.
These people are hardly any newcomers. The musicians are very good, and on top of that they have a excellent vocalist in Christa Nedergård.
And if you have not checked out my interview with them, do it now!
facebook.com/MandyManala | argonautarecords.com/shop
PARKWAY DRIVE: Sacred
Epitaph Records - Digital SinglePARKWAY DRIVE return with a new single, "Sacred", which is their first release since the 2022 album "Darker Still". Vocalist Winston McCall describes the song as "An anthemic wrecking ball of positive energy". It showcases the band's drive and strength, and why they are so much better than many other modern metal bands. It's hard and heavy, but also catchy somehow, and with a big chorus made to sing-along to.
The Australian group is currently gearing up for their 20-year anniversary, starting with a sold-out symphonic show at the iconic Sydney Opera House in June. From there, they will co-headline the "Summer of Loud 2025" tour across the U.S., before they go on a EU/UK tour in September.
youtu.be/8v4oxxvs8iY | epitaph.com
NEVERTEL: Criminal
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleThis trio hailing from Tampa, Florida, and are mixing nu-metal, hip-hop, and alt-rock. Their debut album, "Start Again", will be released on September 12, and "Criminal" is the lead single.
This sounds like a mix of modern pop and modern rock, and I didn't like it at all the first times. But now that I have heard this song like 3 times or something, I can admit that it's a very catchy track with a chorus that people who like this kind of music probably will love. So maybe it wasn't so bad after all?
youtu.be/F4GLLrzpOsU | epitaph.com
MOLOSSER CRUDE: War Horse
Evil Ear on May 15 - Digital SingleYet another single with this Swedish duo. And this time it's a picture of the battlefield, seen through the eyes of the most innocent victim of human violence. It's dark and heavy, hardly a fast rock song, and it last for 6:42 minutes. Another song that I don't think fits as a single.
I'm almost a little dissapointed after hearing a few singles now, as I begin to think that the new album, where all these songs comes from, might not be as exiting as I was hoping for. Their previous stuff was actually better, which is a little weird.
How should I describe the sound of this song then? Well, some kind of heavy stoner/doom with a blues twist maybe?
The debut album was supposed to be released this month, but have been delayed "due to interesting circumstances", according to the label. More about that later they say..
evilear.com
GaiaBeta: Gate Of GaiaBeta
Pitch Black Records on May 16 - CD, DigitalThis band was formed in 2017 in the city of Feira de Santana, Brazil. They play heavy metal of the epic kind, and this is their debut album, which is filled with a blend of power, melody and dramatic storytelling. We can find explosive and adrenaline infused moments and more dark and fragile parts, as well as melodic metal. It's in other words an album filled with variety.
They have obviously grown up with the classic acts, and it's not impossible that fans of a band like IRON MAIDEN will like what they hear. But they do it very good and have created a really good album. So there's not much to complain about here, and you should really give this album a try. And especially if you like the traditional 80s sound.
pitchblackrecords.com | gaiabeta.com.br
DEAD CHASM: Spectral Tyranny
Transcending Obscurity Records on May 16 - 10" EP, MCD, Cassette, DigitalDEAD CHASM is an Italian death/doom metal trio, and "Spectral Tyranny" is a 3-track EP. I don't know much about this band, so let's talk about the music instead.
It begins really heavy, but soon it's full speed ahead, and hardly any doom. It sounds more like a mix of death metal and crust punk actually. Not bad at all.
The title track comes next, and this song begins fast and becomes a really heavy doom metal song after that, but with death vocals. Then they speed it up again after a while. A o.k. song.
And the last track here is another song that begins heavy before they start to play really fast. More or less like the 2 previous songs then. A good song anyway.
Well, this EP is definitely worth checking out. No doubt about that.
youtu.be/G7aieKIAf24?si=kKB1ls8htr4uguF4 | deadchasm-label.bandcamp.com/album/spectral-tyranny | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
NO RAZA: Tyrona
Noble Demon on May 16 - Digital AlbumDeath metallers NO RAZA formed in Colombia in 1997, but are nowadys based in Florida. It's 5 years since their last album, "Transcending Material Sins", was released. But now they are back for another attack. And attack they do. After all it's death metal and not pop music that we talk about here.
This sounds old school, but with a modern production. The vocals is brutal and fits perfect for this kind of music. They don't always play that fast, although there's fast parts too. Sometimes I would say that there's a pinch of technical and progressive elements as well, so it's not always the most straight death metal that we get here. They are definitely good at what they are doing. No doubt about that.
They end the album with a cover of BATHORY's "Ring Of Gold".
noraza.net | linktr.ee/nobledemon
KATEGORY V: Awaken A New Age Of Chaos
High Roller Records (Europe) on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalKATEGORY V formed in Salt Lake City, Utah in early 1999. They play progressive power metal and they have already released a few albums through the years. It seems like they have been working on this new album for 4 years.
What you can expect to hear here is a mix of riff-heavy songs and a few more melodic numbers. It's also said to be their darkest and angriest album. They have been compared with bands like FATES WARNING, QUEENSRŸCHE, HADES, SANCTUARY and LETHAL, if that gives you a hint of what they could sound like. It sounds really good to me anyway, and there's lots of good songs here to discover.
hrrecords.de | facebook.com/KatagoryV
ANTROPOMORPHIA: Devoid Of Light
Testimony Records on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalANTROPOMORPHIA were originally born in Tilburg in 1990, so they are obviously veterans. They released a demo and a EP in the early 90s. But their first full-length album didn't come out until 1998. And they have continued to deliver an album now and then through the years. Now it's 6 years since these Dutch death metallers released their last album. And "Devoid Of Light" is said to be their most brutal and dark record so far.
With this album they want to show the world that they are still hungry and willing to push the limits of both their own band and the death metal scene to new frontiers. But that doesn't mean that it sounds totally unfamiliar. I would say that it's old school but with their own twist. It sounds really good anyway, so you should not be afraid of giving this a chance.
lnk.spkr.media/antropomorphia-devoidoflight | testimonyrecords.bandcamp.com | facebook.com/AntropomorphiA
Allie Riot: Gimme Some Head
Allie Riot - Digital SingleIt turns out that the last single I reviewed with Allie Riot, a cover of "Cherry Bomb" by The RUNAWAYS, was released in October last year. But this single is pretty new (released on May 6). And it's a song originally done by GG Allin. GG was a crazy dirt punk and a controversial man. He was as best in the beginning, where this song comes from. And this version is not much different from the original version, possibly more raw, so it's damn good of course and a must to check out.
"This is for the outcasts, the unfiltered, the ones who live loud and don't give a F*CK!", says Riot. And continues: "GG Allin was raw, real, and dangerous - and that's exactly the energy I'm channeling". Yes, raw it is, real it is, punk it is.
youtu.be/vZXhlIW_Myk?si=FSOuSkD8YQ4MXnQf | allieriotmusic.com
MEZZROW: Ritual
ROAR - Digital SingleSwedish thrash metallers MEZZROW have recorded a cover of the GHOST song "Ritual". And now you think that it would be more obvious to do a cover of a classic thrash band instead, but MEZZROW think that's too predictable and choose this song instead.
"Ritual" is a classic from the first album with GHOST, which is an album that I really like (although I have not heard it in a long time). MEZZROW gives the song a touch of thrashy heaviness, but they succeed to keep it catchy, and the chorus is just as strong as the original version. So this is good stuff and not much to talk about.
This band released their first demo tapes in the late 80s, and their first album, "Then Came The Killing", was released in 1990. In 2021 they were back again with a new lineup, and a new album, "Summon Thy Demons", was released in 2023. They have now signed with ROAR, and are currently busy writing new material for their next album.
mezzrow.rpm.link/ritualPR | mezzrow.black | roar-records.de
THÖ ROTLÖS: Long Live Rock N Roll
Thö Rotlös - Digital SingleNo, this is not a cover of the RAINBOW classic with the same title, but a original song by a Finnish hard rock trio. They formed in 2020 and are influenced by legends like AC/DC and WHITESNAKE, as well as AIRBOURNE they say. But that doesn't mean that they sounds like those bands. It's old school hard rock anyway, there's no doubt about that. And this song is pretty good, so if you like good old hard rock, then this could be worth a try.
thorotlosofficial.com
ART NATION: The Ascendance
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
Swedish melodic hard rockers ART NATION have been around for some years now, and released their debut album, "Revolution", 10 years ago. The latest album, "The Ascendance", is said to deliver a huge, anthemic, more modern melodic oriented album. Yet it's also powerful and energetic. They go in a more modern and heavy direction this time, but without losing their typical sound. So in the end it sounds like a damn good melodic hard rock album. I can really recomend you to check this out if you like that. And there's actually not much else to add there..
ffm.to/artnationascendance | facebook.com/artnationswe | frontiers.it
HAREM SCAREM: Chasing Euphoria
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - LP, CD, DigitalCanadian melodic hard rockers HAREM SCAREM have returned with a new album, which is the first new album in 5 years from these veterans.
This group formed in 1987 and got succeesful in Canada, but they were also a succees in Japan. They kept on releasing albums regularly during the 90s, until they decided to change their name and music style to RUBBER between 1999 to 2001. In 2002 the band came back to melodic hard rock with the album "Weight Of The World", which was their first proper release on the European market, thanks to their newly signed deal with Italian label Frontiers Music. They continued to release new albums until 2008, when they decided to take a break from recording.
In December 2012, it was announced that a reunited HAREM SCAREM would headline the 10th Firefest festival in Nottingham, UK in October 2013, to perform the "Mood Swings" album in its entirety. And after that the band was back again, and have released some more albums now and then.
"Chasing Euphoria" is said to bring back the band's classic sound. And I guess it doesn't really come as a surprise that this sounds very 80s. They have created an album that sounds just as good as any other band in this genre, so this could be worth a try. If they could have had a song or 2 that was extra good, then it would have been even better though. Because as it is now, they only have one equally strong material to come up with.
ffm.to/hschasingeuphoria | facebook.com/harem.scarem.band | frontiers.it
Laurenne/Louhimo: Falling Through Stars
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, DigitalAs you might know, this is a collaboration between Finnish vocalists Noora Louhimo (BATTLE BEAST) and Netta Laurenne (SMACKBOUND). "Falling Through Stars" is their second album. They say that this album is a journey through both the past and future of metal, from the 70s and 80s to today. Listeners can expect to hear a mix of heavy metal and hard rock tracks that explores the variety of the genre, while maintaining a straightforward, easy-to-enjoy appeal.
And if that sounds exiting to you, then this could absoultely be worth listening to, because it's a really good album that they have made. Powerful hard rock and heavy metal is mixed with melodic vocals. They have a nice mix of songs here, and there's simply not that much to complain about. That would possibly be the fact that there's as much as 3 slow songs here, which all sounds a little too much like pop to me. But otherwise it's good.
ffm.to/laurennelouhimofts | facebook.com/laurennelouhimo | frontiers.it
SICK N' BEAUTIFUL: Horror Vacui
BLKIIBLK - CD, DigitalBLKIIBLK is a newly launched heavy music imprint of Frontiers Label Group (aka Frontiers Music Srl), and SICK N' BEAUTIFUL is an Italian metal band formed in 2014. "Horror Vacui" is the band's 4th album, and the title is derived from an ancient Latin expression meaning "fear of emptiness", which is said to perfectly represent this new cycle for the band. The music and lyrics delve even deeper into themes of horror, dystopian sci-fi, and the supernatural, a concept that took shape during tours in UK and Europe with Wednesday 13 and CRADLE OF FILTH in 2023 and 2024.
The music on this album is raw and heavy, but also melodic and powerful. They blend hard rock with modern metal infused with industrial and punk overtones. The choruses seems to be made to sing-along to, and the verses can easily make you bang your head. They have in other words succeeded to make a modern metal album that is really good, and that I actually like. Small things like that really impress.
ffm.to/sicknbeautifulhv | sicknbeautiful.com
Russ Ballard: Songs From The Warehouse / The Hits Rewired
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2CD, 2LP, DigitalWe get as much as 26 tracks here. The first disc contains new songs, while disc 2 features new recordings of songs that Russ have penned or performed during the years. And this man have a long career..
Russ Ballard is one of the most renowned songwriters in pop and rock music. His music career started when he was only 14 years old when he wrote a tune, which was recorded by The SHADOWS, appearing on their album "The Sound Of The Shadows" in 1964. During the 70s and 80s, his songs ruled the airwaves and the list of hits is pretty much endless. Numerous records/artists were also produced by him. But he was also a member of ARGENT in the early 70s, and started a solo career in 1974. 10 studio albums has been released through the years.
A career like that sounds impressive of course, but what do we really get here? Too many boring songs actually. I guess I can count the songs I like on 1 hand. This wasn't funny at all to listen to. And when you have written songs like "Since You've Been Gone" and "I Surrender" (both recorded by RAINBOW), then you should be able to do better than this. Another favorite he has written is "I Know There's Something Going On" (recorded by Anne-Frid Lyngstad from ABBA). But that was a long time ago of course, and he seems to have lost the magic touch.
I guess we can describe the music here as some kind of melodic rock and pop.
ffm.to/russballardsftw | russballardmusic.com | frontiers.it
ROCK-OUT: Let's Call It Rock 'N' Roll
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalThese Swizz rockers has released their third album. With a no-frills attitude, loud riffs, and a passion for rock music, they brings authentic, gritty rock back to the stage. With power and energy they deliver rock in its purest form.
ROCK-OUT formed in 2012, and released their first album, "Loud, Hard And Dirty", in 2018. And that title is a pretty good description of this band, because they are really rocking. But they have some more melodic songs as well. I would guess that this could be of interest for fans of bands like KROKUS and AC/DC. Good hard rock n roll as I call it.
ffm.to/rockout_rnr | rockoutband.ch | frontiers.it
BABY AND THE NOBODIES: Ready Or Not
F-Bomb Records on May 30The opening track, "Bombs Away", reminds me a little of "Cherry Bomb" by The RUNAWAYS, while "Whe'd You Have To Go?" reminds a lot of "Teenage Kicks" by The UNDERTONES, but done as a slow pop song from the 50s/60s. Although they label this as glam punk, I would say that it's a wild mix of power pop and punk rock as well. Sometimes there's more action, and sometimes they slow down.
The band hailing from the Pacific Northwest, but say that they sound like they could have come from the So-Cal punk scene in the late 80s/early 90s. "Ready Or Not" is their third release, and it sounds really good. You should really check this out if you like punk rock and glam punk.
Unfortunately I don't know what formats it will be available in..
babyandthenobodies.com
SUBLIME CADAVERIC DECOMPOSITION: The Macabre Voodoo Messiah Of Masochism And Fetishism
Selfmadegod Records - CDWas that title really long enough?
This is actually totally useless. And yet somebody wanted to release a record with them? Weird.. But if you like it fast and extreme without much brain, and doesn't really care too much about good music and politically correct lyrics, then I guess this could be worth a try for you. But if you think you're intelligent, then you should not listen to this at all.
SUBLIME CADAVERIC DECOMPOSITION is a French death metal/goregrind band from Paris, formed in 1996. This is their 6th album, which is filled with what they call Satanic Porno Gore lyrics. Their music is mainly inspired by the early wave of the death grind movement of the 80s and early 90s. Except for 6 albums, they have also released some split records with different bands.
facebook.com/scdmusic | selfmadegod.com
WRETCHED PATH: Sea Of Death
Meara Music - CD, DigitalFinnish death metallers WRETCHED PATH was formed in 2020 by seasoned musicians from renowned bands like PESTIGORE, BORN OF THORUS, TUKKANUOTTA, and WARMEN. The band was born out of a desire to return to their death metal roots. After the release of their debut album, "Heavy Lies The Crown" (2022), the band took some time off to craft an album that's faster, darker, and more intense than ever before. "Sea Of Death" is the result of that, and it sounds just like it should if you want to satisfy me. In other words old school and not so modern. They also have that good balance between fast and heavy parts that I like, so it's never too much of anything. This is an album that I recomend for all fans of death metal.
wretchedpath.com
SANDNESS: Vertigo
Rockshots Records on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalSANDNESS is a trio with members from Italy and Germany. They have more than 15 years of experience, and blend hard rock with power pop and classic metal influences. "Vertigo" is their fifth studio album, where they combine the melodic with raw rock n roll energy, and balances between modern and vintage rock. But you can also expect to hear arena rock, a bluesy groove or AOR influences.
But to make it easier for ourselves, let's just call it melodic hard rock. Because that's what it mainly sounds like to me anyway, although they rock a little bit more once in a while as well. And this album is absolutely not bad at all. Catchy and melodic without being weak and stupid. And they don't repeat themselves, but have different ideas for each song. You should really check them out.
rockshots.eu | sandnessofficial.com
Paul Di'Anno: In Memory Of
Metalville Records on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalOn May 17, 1958 singer Paul Di'Anno was born. He's most famous for fronting IRON MAIDEN for a few years in the late 70s/early 80s. Unfortunately he suddenly passed away on October 21, 2024 after many years of health problems. I was lucky to see him live twice before his health problems, and it was really good.
This compilation is a tribute to Paul, and includes songs that was recorded during his time on German record label Metalville Records. 2 of the tracks are exclusive for this release, and have never been released in physical format before - "Je Suis Charlie" is a track from his ARCHITECTS OF CHAOZ phase, which was only released digitally at the time, and "Killers" is a live version from the Wacken Open Air 2015.
We get both solo tracks and songs by ARCHITECTS OF CHAOZ (a band Paul was singing with for a short while). Some stuff is better than others, but it's mainly a good material that we have here, with just a few weaker moments. So if you like more than just the IRON MAIDEN years, then you should really check this out.
Mr. Di'Anno was always a person who, despite his own health problems, was concerned about the well-being of others and took a corresponding interest in their fate. And to honour this in the spirit of the unforgotten artist, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every CD and LP will go to the charitable organisation Metality e.V.
metalville-shop.com | pauldianno.co.uk | metality.org
WALTARI: Nations' Neurosis
Metalville Records on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalThis is a band with too many different sides, and 15 tracks is way too much anyway, so they could easily have thrown away all those hip hop and pop tracks, because that really sucks. They should concentrate on rock and metal instead, because when they do that, then it sounds better. This is in other words an album with both good and bad stuff, but unfortunately nothing is excellent, and those bad tracks really destroys it.
Now this Finnish band have never been the kind of band who follow any rules. They have always gone their own way, and do exactly what they want to. So old fans probably won't be dissapointed by this crazy mixture of different musical styles.
metalville-shop.com
JAR: In Truth We Trust (reissue)
Pride & Joy Musix Classixx - CDJAR was a melodic rock group from Sweden. "In Truth We Trust" was originally released on cassette in 1993. The band featured vocalist Ray Alex and the 2 musicians Anders Olsson and Tosh Ason. The whole thing was recorded and mixed in their own studio. Unfortunately, Ray Alex passed away in 2019.
The music that this trio created was classic 80s AOR without any surprises. But those of you who like that will have a good time when you listen to this, because it's really good stuff that we get here. Although it's very good, they have the same little problem as many other bands, there's no song that is extra good and that could have been a hit. On the other hand, this feels a little like a demo recording with good sound quality. So it's not impossible that it could have been even better if they had got the chance to record it in a good studio with a good producer. But then we also have the fact that this was recorded in 1993, which was probably not such a hot year for AOR.
This is Volume 17 in the Classixx series, and just as all previous volumes this CD is limited to 500 copies and only available via shop.prideandjoy.de
youtu.be/VmOIZzTdj0Y?si=z5fz7Jzq3IIXfZm5
Allie Riot: Cherry Bomb
Allie Riot - Digital Single"Cherry Bomb" is a classic originally recorded by The RUNAWAYS in the 70s. Allie Riot gives it the right punk treatment it was made for. This is raw and dirty, wild and just great. In other words a excellent version of this old song. You have to check it out.
What can I tell you about Allie Riot then? Well, not much actually as I could not find that much information about her. But she says: "I want my performances and music to inspire people to do everything they want without giving a FUCK!".
distrokid.com/hyperfollow/allieriot/cherry-bomb | allieriotmusic.com
HEXENHAUS: A Tribute To Insanity (reissue) / The Edge Of Eternity (reissue) / Awakening (reissue)
ROAR on May 16 - CD, LP, DigitalThe story about this band begins up in Boden in northern Sweden, and a band called MANINNYA BLADE, which was formed in the middle of the 1980s. This speed metal band caught the attention of the young guitarist Mickael Vikström, which is nowadays better known as Mike Wead (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND), and he soon became a member. The band soon moved down to Stockholm and became much heavier, so they decided to change the name of the band to HEXENHAUS. The name is German for witch's house, and is a reference to the Malefizhaus in Bamberg, Germany - A frightful place where hundreds of suspected witches were tortured and executed during the early 17th century.
It's said that they draw inspiration from legends like METALLICA, SLAYER and MERCYFUL FATE. A demo was recorded in 1988, and they got signed. The first album was "A Tribute To Insanity" (1988), which was followed by "The Edge Of Eternity" (1990), and "Awakening" (1991). All 3 will now be re-released on both CD and LP, as well as digital.
To me it sounds like HEXENHAUS played a very complex and progressive kind of speed/thrash metal. So I would not say that it's the classic Bay Area style or the German style that we get here. It sounds more like VOIVOD instead, but they mention German technical thrash band MEKONG DELTA as a big influence, as well as MEGADETH and EXODUS. It's not so fast and aggressive anyway, but lots of heavy riffing, and sometimes you could just as well call it progressive metal instead of thrash.
The band got good reviews, but didn't really know how to promote themselves. So after 3 albums, and a different lineup on each of them, the band split up in 1992. But it seems like they made a 4th album, called "Dejavoodoo", in 1997 (which is said to be a completely different story though).
roar-records.de
BLOODSTAIN: Lies Bleeding Through
Threeman Recordings - Digital SingleBLOODSTAIN is a metal band from Sweden. With this 6-minute beast they deliver razor-sharp riffs, ferocious vocals, and relentless rhythm, which captures their raw energy. The track marks the first taste of their upcoming debut album, due out later this year. And this sounds pretty promising, so give it a try.
How should I describe their sound better than just metal then? Well, to me it sounds like thrash metal actually, although it's not the old school or any modern stuff. But I'm pretty sure that fans of thrash will like this anyway.
"Lies Bleeding Through" was produced by Alex Hellid (ENTOMBED), co-produced by Stefan Norgren (SORCERER, SEVENTH WONDER), and mixed/mastered by Ronnie Björnström (MESHUGGAH, BLOOD RED THRONE, PAGANIZER).
orcd.co/lies-bleeding-through | bloodstain.se | threeman.se
STONE FIST: Stone Fist
Go Down Records on May 9 - Digital EPThis self-titled debut EP delivers 6 tracks brimming with fuzz-laden guitars, pounding rhythms, and hypnotic grooves. This should be of interest for listeners of desert rock, doom-flavored anthems, and the primal energy of 90s alternative music. Or simply stoner rock, which they blend with psychedelic atmospheres and the gritty energy of grunge. This EP is full of riffs and melodies, but is also raw and powerful. They deliver their songs with lots of energy, and although the English pronunciation is not always perfect, these songs are absolutely not bad at all. I think you should give them a try.
This power trio was formed in 2022, and I think they are from Italy.
bfan.link/stone-fist | facebook.com/bandStonefist
STATEMENT: Sinister Thing
Mighty Music on May 9 - LP, CD, DigitalOn this fifth album, Danish hard rock/heavy metal band STATEMENT goes on a darker and heavier musical journey, while also staying true to their signature melodic sound. They are simply taking it to the next level of their evolution. It's fresh and powerful, and I think I like this more than their last album actually, because this album is free from softer and weaker moments. It's harder and heavier, and therefor more of the things that I like.
This is a modern hard rock/heavy metal album that is actually worth a try, which is quit unique for coming from me, who usually prefer the old sound.
statementband.com | mightymusic.dk
SKAPHOS: Cult Of Uzura
Transcending Obscurity Records on May 9 - LP, CD, Cassette, DigitalOn this third album, French band SKAPHOS blend fast and brutal death and black metal with melodic and atmospheric elements. They change tempo, but the rawness is always there, which makes this is a very powerful album. I have heard both better and worse, but I would say that they are very good at what they are doing. So if you like it extreme, then I suggest that you give this a try, becuase I'm pretty sure that you will like what you hear.
youtu.be/PHm0WenekQM?si=q1YG279QRQa7n3eM | skaphos-label.bandcamp.com/album/cult-of-uzura | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
ROXXCALIBUR: NWOBHM From The Vaults
Limb Music on May 9 - CD, DigitalAfter 10 years, ROXXCALIBUR are back with their 4th album. These guys have made it their mission to find lost New Wave Of British Heavy Metal pearls, and give them a second chance in modern times. And this time they wanted to dig even deeper than ever before to find those forgotten pearls. Most of the songs was just released on a 7" vinyl or regional compilation records.
The result do sound authentically, much thanks to no modern elements or any artificial retro sound. And most of these songs are absolutely not any cheap b-sides, but actually pretty strong songs that could have been more well-known if they just had got the chance. Now that didn't happen, but thanks to this band you can finally discover these songs.
This is simply a must-have for fans of obscure heavy metal bands from the late 70s and early 80s. And if you want to know more about these songs, the album includes a booklet with liner notes illuminating the heritage of every single song.
facebook.com/Roxxcalibur | limb-music.com
PRIMAL: Iron Age
NoLifeTilMetal Records/Roxx Productions - MCD, Digital EPPRIMAL was formed by vocalist Alberto Zamarbide (V8, LOGOS), and brings together an lineup of seasoned metal veterans like Jorge Iacobellis (HIRAX) on drums, Cesar Cerregatti (STEEL VENGEANCE) on guitar, and Glenn Rogers (HIRAX, HERETIC, DELIVERANCE) on guitar. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2016.
On this EP they give us 7 tracks of classic heavy metal and Latin American intensity. It's heavy and powerful, but yet energetic. Most songs are in English, but a couple of them are in Spanish. The last track, "Cautivos Del Sistema" features Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne, QUIET RIOT) on bass. Pretty good stuff, but not much to talk about.
There will be a release party on June 7 at Leonardo's Night Club in Los Angeles. After that PRIMAL will embark on their second Latin American tour in Winter 2025 , with U.S. dates also confirmed for later this year.
youtu.be/JqJMcdtzTkU?si=AdmCfdakHFpc6gCH | primalmetal.com | nolifetilmetal.com
POWER SURGE: Shadows Warning
FHM Records - CD, LP, DigitalPOWER SURGE is a pretty new melodic heavy metal band (formed in June 2024) with members from both London and Zagreb. Main inspiration is the classic bands from the late 1980s, "when bands took classic metal origins to the next step", as the band says. After a couple of singles they have now released their debut album.
To me it sounds like this band is somewhere on the border between hard rock and heavy metal. It's melodic yet powerful, and it really sounds like something that could have been released in the late 80s, but with a modern production. I don't think they are not using any synth guitars though, which was popular at the time.
This is a good band. No doubt about that. I can really recomend you to check them out.
youtu.be/b1Yf4da65rU | facebook.com/powersurgeheavymetal | fhmrecords.bigcartel.com
TRIBUNAL: In Penitence And Ruin
20 Buck Spin - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalCanadian doom metallers TRIBUNAL released their debut album, "The Weight Of Remembrance", in 2023. Now they return with their second album.
Something that makes their soundscape stand out is the use of cello. The vocals is shared between female clean singing and male harsh growl and other noises. Songs like "A Wound Unhealing", "The Sword Of The Slain" and "The Penitent" have parts that I really like (like a beginning or a chorus for example), but the only whole song that I really like is the last track, "Between The Sea And Stars". I would not say that what they do is bad though, because they seems to be very good at what they are doing.
20buckspin.com | facebook.com/TribunalDoom
Thomas Carlsen's TRANSMISSION: Thunderbird
RFL Music Entertainment - Digital SingleThis is a heavy metal band from Norway, and they will release their sophomore album, "Clockwork Sky", on June 6. This single is a taste of what you can expect to hear on that album.
The "band" is actually a solo thing with Thomas Carlsen on all instruments. For the vocals he recruited 4 different vocalists - Sebastian Palma (BLIZZARD HUNTER), Atli Guðlaugsson (POWER PALADIN), Arnaud Ménard (ECCLESIA), and Mike Livas (SILENT WINTER).
"Thunderbird" is a power metal song in the old tradition, and it sounds really good and professional. So if you're into that, then you should really check out this song. And there's actually not much else to say about that..
linktr.ee/transmissionmetal | transmissionmetal.bandcamp.com/album/clockwork-sky
DEATH REAPERS: The Hermit
Death Reapers - Digital SingleDEATH REAPERS is a melodic death metal band from Poland, and they will release their debut album, "Thirst For Chaos", on June 13. The band was founded in 2019, and are currently based in Poznań. They have previously released a couple of EPs, and are said to represent a fresh take on melodic death metal.
The latest single, "The Hermit", is said to reveal a different side of the band. "This melancholic, introspective composition slows things down, letting haunting melodies take over and pulling the listener into a dark, reflective world", says the press release. It tells the story of a lost soul, a man struggling with his inner demons, cut off from the world, trapped in his own mind.
Well, this sounds good, so I have nothing to complain about. This could be a band worth checking out.
youtu.be/1wFgM9Ezz6c | deathreapers.com/dr/en
DARKNESS ABLAZE: Ghost Path
Darkstorm Records - Digital SingleWhy you decide to release an acoustic and instrumental version of a song as a single, when you usually play melodic death metal, is a mystery to me. It's like the song has lost its heart and soul, because this wasn't funny to listen to. It sounds like a atmospheric intro that last for way too long. And as you might know, I'm not such a big fan of long and useless intros. So why should I like this then?
The original version of this song can be found on their latest album, "It All Shall Burn". Listen to that instead.
facebook.com/darknessablaze | metalapolis.eu/darkstorm-records
CRUCIBLE: Deathdealer
From The Vaults on May 2 - Digital SingleDanish speed metallers CRUCIBLE deliver a blistering new single. It's a ferocious assault of riffs and high-pitched fury that sets the tone for what's to come. This is simply speed metal the way it was always meant to be: fast, loud, and unapologetically intense. But it's also a very good song, that all fans of heavy metal should enjoy. So do something good and check out this song at once.
"Deathdealer" is a introduction to the band's upcoming full-length release, set to be announced soon.
bfan.link/deathdealer
FORMER VIRGINS: Baby Starlight
Toxic Records - Digital SingleFORMER VIRGINS is an Italian hard rock band from Bergamo, formed in 2016. The band's name doesn't mean they just lost their virginity, but is referred to the fact that each member was previously playing with other bands, and are not any newcomers. They are inspired by the 80s hard and glam rock scene, and the first single, "Lizzies Crue", was released in 2023. Their latest single, "Baby Starlight", is a tribute to the American TV series "The Boys", and more precisely to the female power of the superhero Annie January.
Well, this is rocking and it sounds like something from the 80s of course. Not such a bad song if you ask me, but I don't have much else to say.
Now they also included their previous single, "Lizzies Crue", and that song is almost better. So check out both songs.
facebook.com/formervirgins
HÄ/DA: (Almost) 20 Minutes Of Love
Inverse Records - Digital EPThis is a AC/DC-inspired duo from Finland, led by Juho "Hässi" Hämäläinen and Antti "DeeAa" Heikkinen. All the songs on this 5-track EP were composed, written, recorded and mixed within just a couple of weeks in December 2024. In the lyrics the women are hot, cars are fast, and the men chock full of testosterone. Which is not supposed to be taken too seriously, as it's just humour. The songs are rocking and are very catchy. Not bad at all. This is worth checking out.
push.fm/fl/hada-20minutesofloves | instagram.com/hadabandofficial | inverse.fi
PROPAGANDHI: Cat Guy
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleWhy they release a song like this as a single is a mystery to me. It's not bad, but it's not as straight and simple as a typical single song should be according to me. The beginning is heavier, but after a couple of minutes it goes faster, yet it's melodic. Then they slow down again for a while. Well, it might take a few listenings before you can enjoy this song.
PROPAGANDHI hailing from Manitoba, Canada. They are veterans in the punk rock scene, and released their first record in 1993. A new album, "At Peace", will be released on May 2. That will be their first new album in 8 years.
youtu.be/Y4LUHJmPRHE | propagandhi.com | epitaph.com
Royale Lynn: Greed
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleNashville-based artist Royale Lynn will release her debut album, "Black Magic", on June 27. This is the lead single.
She blend alternative rock and nu metal from the 2000s with modern pop, and it's not good as there's way too much pop in her music for my taste. It's in other words very melodic, but once in a while there's some heavy guitars.
I have heard a few singles with Lynn now, and every time it',s the same. So I'm ready to give up now..
youtu.be/MQWG-etLkJk | epitaph.com «April | Index | June»
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