Band: Bal Sagoth
Album: The Chthonic Chronicles (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.bal-sagoth.co.uk
Rating: 8.5/10
"The Chthonic Chronicles" is the UK Black Metallers' sixth album, the first in five years since 2001's "Atlantis Ascendant" and is rumored to be their last.
Bal Sagoth has always been one of those bands people either hates, or think are the greatest thing since sliced bread. The Robert E. Howard/H.P. Lovecraft inspiration is ever present as the band continues previous storylines (which began on previous albums) in songs such as "The Obsidian Crown Unbound" and "Unfettering the Hoary Sentinels of Karnak". The album is supposedly the climax of the Bal Sagoth hexalogy, and features stories such as the siege of Gul-Kothoth, the Catacombs of Ur prequel, the great sub-aquatic voyage to the Abyssal Plain, and the all important reprise of Hatheg-Kla. Obviously these tales won't be familiar to most, but it really is an intriguing listen. For those unfamiliar with Bal Sagoth, I would say that they are reminiscent of later day Emperor, especially on "Prometheus..." and at times, a more interesting Cradle of Filth. They do however, add their own touch and very original ideas.
During the songs, there is a spoken word narrative over the top which gives is a very eerie sound. The orchestral arrangements and keyboards play a heavy role on the album, which unfortunately pushes the guitars back in the mix a little too much. The whole album is massive, totally over the top (in a good way!) but most of all is very unusual and fascinating.
Band: Bang Tango
Album: Ready To Go (Mascot Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.bangtango.com
Rating: 8/10
Although they've been around since the late 80's, I've yet to experience these L.A. hard rockers.
Apparently, they have shifted near a million albums and endured notoriety with the single "Somewhere Like You" which received MTV airplay on the Headbangers Ball, not bad eh? but what are Bang Tango 2004 like? Well, the only original member left is Joe Leste (vocals), the rest of the band is comprised of current Beautiful Creatures alumni Alex Grossi (lead guitar), Anthony Focx (guitar) and Matt Star (drums), Curtis Roach (bass) completes the lineup.
I have no idea how this compares to previous stuff, but if your after a solid, catchy hard rock album "Ready To Go" is well worth your cash.
Band: Barbatos
Album: Rocking Metal Motherfucker (From Beyond Productions)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.displeasedrecords.com/bandpages/barbatos.php
Rating: 4/10
Barbatos is no other than Abigail main man Yasuyuki's eighties raw NWOBHM punk rock metal side project.
Sounding like a cross between Motorhead, Venom and Bathory, the music is not the best I've heard and is rather simple. As for the vocals well, lets just say a slightly more restrained style may have made this a little more bearable. "RMM" is a raw, primitive recording with a constant sexual fixation that gets boring quickly, if you want to see how its done properly go and read the "Eatmyfuk" review.
Fans of raw punk may find this interesting, for others though, be warned, make sure you listen to listen to it before you go and blow your hard earned cash on it. A few interesting riffs and songs, but it's the vocals that let it down, they are far too monotonous for my liking.
Band: Barcode
Album: Showdown (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.barcodehardcore.dk
Rating: 8/10
Denmark's Barcode are clearly not interested in following any trends or fashions.
After being around for about 10 years now, "Showdown" is the bands fourth studio album and first on new label Nuclear Blast. Whilst on the subject of Nuclear Blast, I was glad to hear Barcode after a string of dodgy releases. Think Sick of it All meets Agnostic Front, then you'll get a pretty good idea of what Barcode are all about.
There may not be much in terms of ground breaking ideas, but if its Hardcore your after, you'll definitely find it on here. It's fast, hard, heavy and there's plenty of chugging riffs, the usual gang style vocals with absolutely no mellow parts whatsoever. Here's to more bands like Barcode!
Band: Battalion of Flies
Album: Blue Lips, Cold Kisses (Copro Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.battalionofflies.com
Rating: 8/10
The UK's BoF receive a pleasant welcome from me for not going the way of the way of the awful Post Hardcore/Emo, whatever you want to call it, crap that seems to be popular with bands in the UK at the moment.
Battalion of Flies are by no means the most original band in the world, but for those into the grunge/rock era of bands like Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and Stone Temple Pilots, this will bring you back to the good old days. They are a very familiar sounding band, a few of the riffs and vocal melodies will be recognizable from the mentioned bands, but that doesn't really put a dampener on things
I will give a thumbs up to Battalion of Flies, even though they could do with adding a few of their own ideas and touches to their songs hopefully on their next album. As I've said, if you like grunge, and especially the bands mentioned above, go for this one.
Band: Battered
Album: Battered Demo
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.battered-uk.com/
Rating: 6.5/10
This two track demo, gets better the more I hear it. I have to admit at first I wasn't sure about this. The first, self titled track is very much old school thrash (slayer, megadeth) containing a mixture of solos and alot of melody. I have to mention how original front man Bob Dixon's voice is. The first track is good, but no where near as good as the Sabbathism of the second track, and in my opinion his voice is well suited to this track, just like Ozzy & Black Sabbath. You have to hear this!
Ok, I might of gave it 6.5, but if I reviewed this again next week, it might be 7 and so on! So watch this space, this review will probably change!
A good solid release, which is growing on me the more I hear it. You'll either love it or hate it, but you HAVE to hear it. Not the most technical or flashy release but its what the metal world needs right now, something excellent & original, a term you don't hear often with music nowadays! but these guys have it! Keep it up! I think you might be hearing more of these guys!
Band: Battlelore
Album: Third Age of the Sun (Napalm Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.battlelore.net
Rating: 8/10
Oh wow. They all dress up like characters from Lord of The Rings and every song is about the Tolkein universe. I Interviewed them once and they are all about the show, a totally theatrical performance from Finland.
Musically I've never been too big on them, although this is by far their best record and I can't really knock the playing ability. They are pretty hook-laden and revolving around ABACAB arrangements. This is very much along the lines of modern Lacuna Coil meets Tristiana meets Beseech meets Sirenia. Well, it is Napalm Records you know? This style seems to be the common thread through and through. A lot of pretty female vox, some Swedish DM growling, decent keyboard action. A little Cradle of Filth and Siebenbuergen influence. Sometimes they bust out the folky Opeth moments and the music is generally mid-paced throughout.
Worth checking out if this is your bag. Download "Gwaith-I-Mirdain" if interested. If you dig it, by all means proceed. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Beaten Back to Pure
Album: Last Refuge of the Sons of Bitches (Retribute Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.beatenbacktopure.com
Rating: 9/10
BBTP are one of those bands that you hear of, but never really hear.
I didn’t really know what to expect when I put it on and, within the first few seconds, it hit me like a brick to the face. Their Doomy, sludgy, heavy as fuck riffs, thunderous bass lines with vocals that will guarantee a sore throat are enough to drive the neighbors insane.
Their Eyehategod, Sabbath, Crowbar style really has got me hooked. With the added 12-string acoustic passages and use of clean vocals make it a bit more interesting.
I'm very pleased that I have finally managed to hear BBTP. Rawk On! ROOOOAAAAAAR!
Band: Beecher
Album: Beecher (Earache)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.beecher-online.com
Rating: 9/10
Damn, these kids out there blister these days with this tech/metalcore explosion.
A lot of people out there hate it I'm sure, but I cannot deny talent. Are Beecher part of the "Nuthugger Mafia?" Can't tell, but damn are they good. Some singing Atreyu backdrops (not too often and not too overpowering), but it's mainly raw Fear Before The March Of The Flames, Dillinger Escape Plan, Paria, Zao and Converge here.
This band leaves everyone's head spinning live I'm sure. The energy here is unbelievable. The production is killer. From the UK of all places. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Behemoth
Album: Slaves Shall Serve (Century Media)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.behemoth.pl
Rating: 8.5/10
Here's a crusher of a collectors item that will be a must-own for diehard Behemoth fans. Featuring a foil-embossed digipak presentation that's complete with full color interior panels, this is a disc that looks badass as hell and sounds even better.
Back in '92, the Polish group emerged with a raw style firmly rooted in black metal, but over the course of seven full length albums their sound has evolved into a hybrid of black and death metal, with the band's 2004 release "Demigod" being their most pulverizing manifestation of undiluted aural evil yet. Behemoth has pretty much turned into the Morbid Angel of the new millennium, utilizing familiar occult concepts in tandem with uber-brutal death metal riffing to create a torrential storm of diabolical sonic warfare. Limited to five thousand copies, the EP is highlighted by a wicked version of "Until You Call On The Dark" by Danzig. From the response that Behemoth generated on last fall's "Blackest Of The Black" tour, it's safe to say that many Danzig followers are receptive to the Polish illumes' music so this most excellent cover track makes a lot of sense. Another nod goes to The Nephilim, the post-Fields Of The Nephilim project of Carl McCoy, as the Polish war machine takes on an excellent rendition of "Penetration". Fans also will enjoy "Entering The Pylon Ov Light", a maze of squealing licks, relentlessly pounding drums and deep, hellish growls. A tastefully melodic solo overtop a blasting pattern leads into a militant, black march of death as Behemoth once again prove why they are one of the predominant, elite acts in extreme metal today. In there current moment, there is perhaps no band around that manages to sound so fucking evil and so fucking heavy yet retains an identity of their own. Two live performances, "Demigod" and "Slaves Shall Serve", are culled from last year’s Sweden Rock Festival and each offering does the original justice and underlines the group’s ability to completely kill in a live setting. A bit more low-end would have been nice during these mixes, but of course it has to sound "live", thus the slightly trebled production. The guitars sound a bit more like old Slayer live as opposed to the group's studio tone and the result is distinctly harsher sounding on the live version of "Slaves". Nergal incites the crowd with forceful chanting here, building into a blistering crescendo. The EP also includes a video of the title track as a CD enhancement and for those that may have heard this group, but not had the opportunity to see them live or catch any video clips, an awakening is due.
Behemoth is a very visual band and this clip does much to give you an impression of what black musical assassination is like as a full package. The evil eye-candy rounds out this whole release, giving the fans a little bit of everything as the group prepares their next hellish audio manifesto. It is well recommended that you rush to buy this one, as it won't be long before these are all snatched up. Generally, between album EP's such as this are pure filler and not generally intriguing, however every move this band makes simply fucking slays. Review by Erin Fox
Band: Behemoth
Album: Demigod (Regain Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.behemoth.pl
Rating: 9/10
Well, my hat goes of to Regain Records. They have been releasing some great albums as of late from some very big acts, and album number seven from the cult Polish act is no exception.
Nearly all the black metal influence from their early days have disappeared and what we're left with is some of the finest death metal I've heard in a while. Skillful musicianship, technical and highly interesting songs, amazing drum work, plenty of tempo changes, basically everything good death metal should be like. In fact, if you were to send me a list of all the good aspects of death metal, you would find them all it on "Demigod". They've got quite an eventful and varied path behind them, from their raw black metal beginnings up until the present day, but this is probably their best work to date.
Death Metal fans should not miss out on this, especially if bands like Morbid Angel and Nile are your thing. "Demigod" is better than most of the releases by the so called big Death Metal acts that have surfaced for the past few years.
Band: Belonging, The
Album: Dreaming Darkness (Demo)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.thebelonging.co.uk
Rating: 8/10
"Dreaming Darkness" is the second demo by the UK's The Belonging.
The production work is not the best I've heard, but putting that to one side, The Belonging play some interesting riff-laden blackened death metal. I've been trying to find some comparisons, but have been unable to think of any, which is a good thing as many young bands are heavily influenced by bands and end up sounding like complete rip-offs, that is simply not the case with The Belonging.
Another interesting thing the band have two vocalists, but they never sing together, there is the more traditional black metal style vocals by Richard and the almost Jeff Walker/Carcass style vocals by Paul. Both of them are great but I would really like to hear a dual-vocal song as I think it would really sound great. I only have good things to say about The Belonging, they clearly have there heads screwed on and know what they want to achieve.
Band: Belphegor
Album: Goatreich – Fleshcult (Napalm Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.belphegor.at
Rating: 9/10
It happens. I go through spurts, burn myself out bleeding some poor, hapless musical genre dry and then leech onto another, returning to my victims for chance encounters.
Anyway, I hadn’t been digging on any of my death metal in the past months and then a few weeks back I got to see Behemoth, Suffocation, Black Dahlia Murder and Cattle Decapitation in Detroit. Fucking woke my ass right back up like a zinger and the next day I flipped on the new Belphegor disc Goatriech Fleshcult. Right moment, right time. This is such a badass album. Seriously, I first heard of this band when Jerry Battle over at World War 3 was working their campaign. I got this fucked up looking promo with this naked chick cut up and covered in blood with this insane looking goat skull over her melon. One of the best black metal covers ever, easily. Anyway, it wasn’t anything that special. It was raw, had some decent keyboard textures, but didn’t stand out at all. Next I heard was this Lucifer Incestus disc where Satan was banging the shit out of these demon nuns. That disc was a killer advancement from the goathead days. But now we have Goatreich, and the nunfuckery can piss right off.
Anyway, point is this is solid, no frills, no bullshit, no female vocals, no foofy production values, no keyboards. Just pure, hyperviolent blackened death metal that crushes every damn thing in its path. You like Behemoth? Séance? Anaal Nathrakh? Decapitated? Dying Fetus? This is Austrian beast worshipping of the highest order. Occultist mania, swarming rats, technological Satan. Fucking get it now. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Benighted
Album: Insane Cephalic Production (Adipocere Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.staybrutal.com
Rating: 8/10
Adipocere are a label that never fails to please, and Benighted are another band that proves that claim.
Benighted was born in 1998, from the gathering of musicians from the bands Darkness Fire, Osgiliath and Dishumanized. "ICP" is the bands third studio release, and is a breath of fresh air in the death metal scene, take the speed and aggression of Brutal Truth, add the melody of "Necroticism/Heartwork" era Carcass and add a few elements of Grind for good measure, then we have something close resembling Benighted.
"ICP" is an album they stays interesting throughout. The production work is top notch, staying clean and crisp, the vocals have a lot of variety in them, ranging from deep grunts to high pitched "squeals". The guitar work remains technical and complex throughout and the lightning fast drum-work is also very impressive. If your looking for an accomplished DM album, "ICP" just might be the one your looking for.
Band: Beowulf
Album: The Re-Releases (I Scream Records)
Year: 2006
Website: http://beowulfbwf.homestead.com/index.html
Rating: 9/10
A lesson in old school crossover if there ever was one, this double reissue taking us all the way back to 1986, a time when more extreme forms of heavy metal were merely gaining their legs.
Beowulf broke out of Venice with an OTT sound influenced by the likes of Motorhead and for that matter, Motorhead's influence — alcohol. Gathering upbeat intense rhythms in the vein of Uncle Lemmy, Venom and the more closely related Suicidal Tendencies (this initial album was, of course, originally issued on Suicidal Records), Beowulf musters up the perfect musical backdrop for a punk-as-fuck roadhouse, wailing guitars, grunted lyrics and all. Some comparisons may be drawn to bands like Angelwitch and Diamond Head as well, drawing a parallel to the style Metallica was brandishing around the same time. "Beowulf" actually has a very similar feeling to "No Life 'Til Leather" in many moments, but its obvious that the Cali-based bashers were much less concerned with melody. Vocally, Dale Henderson often relays a mixture of Lemmy and Glenn Danzig (The Misfits era). It's a pattern that becomes more apparent on the group’s second record, "Lost My Head". By this point the band sound a touch tighter, but they’re no less abrasive and determined. The record has a driving quality that also carried over to bands like Excel, but no other group in the prominent Venice scene achieved such rawness while maintaining a focused integrity. For those that had experienced these two great records the first time around, this re-release should prove to be sufficient reason to pick up an oversized flannel a Dogtown skateboard and a can of silver spray paint, but more importantly, this release will provide an immense amount of perspective for those that were not around to hear it in 1986.
Easily one of the most influential and coolest bands to rise from the golden shores of California during that time period, Beowulf literally made history with the 25 cuts that grace this crucial offering. Grab a six-pack and crank this one up. Either you'll relive some great memories or you’ll be making some brand new ones. Review by Erin Fox
Band: Bereaved, The
Album: Darkened Silhouette (Black Lotus)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.beseech.net
Rating: 7.5/10
Good time Swedish thrash + old school death influences.
Like Haunted vs. At The Gates vs. early In Flames. No keyboards, no bullshit. Just straight forward, driving thrash with plenty of blastbeats. Clone of a clone but still respectable enough to take notice.
Sound wise it gets closer to "Reign In Blood" than most these guys ever do. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Berserk
Album: Rites of Supremacy (Oaken Shield)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.berserkhorde.com
Rating: 8/10
Formed back in 1998 under the moniker of Abaddon, Spain's Berserk (the name was changed a few months after the bands formation) didn't release their first demo until December 1999. "Return of the Ancient Laws" consisted of four songs composed in honor to their culture and roots. 6 months after the demo was released, vocalist Gog was dismissed and was replaced by Nazak and they recorded their debut album "From the Celtiberian Woods" that summer, also on Oaken Shield.
Berserk play mid-slow paced black metal, heavy in melody without relying to much on the use of keyboards or poor production values. Lyrically they deal with the fight against Christianity, being based upon the predominant cultures in Celtiberia, before the invaders arrival. Musically their take on black metal is very atmospheric and vocalist Nazak has a more midrange growl rather than the usual BM shriek.
Even though the 7 tracks are pretty long, they are consistent and never get repetitive or monotonous. Well worth checking out!
Band: Berzerker, The
Album: World of Lies (Earache)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.theberzerker.com
Rating: 8/10
For the unfamiliar, The Berzerker are an Industrial Death Metal band from Melbourne, Australia. Specializing in Speed, Intensity and aggression.
This is the third album by these crazy Aussies, of yet again, if your face, crazy, hyper Industrial Death/Grind. The Berzerker are a band you're either going to love or hate, I personally can't make up my mind about them. Maybe it's just the sheer intensity of the album, or the distorted/computerized sounding bass drums, which, although they say its done by a human drummer, I find it pretty hard to believe it's not a drum machine.
"World of Lies" also see's the band remove the crazy monster heads/masks for the first time, I also believe they will be for their upcoming tour too. Compared to their previous album Dissimulate, I think that this is far superior. More Death Metal sounding, the riffs are more interesting and although it took a little time to grow on me, it doesn't get boring like Dissimulate did. Their best work to date.
Band: Beseech
Album: Drama (Napalm Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.beseech.net
Rating: 7/10
Every cliche possible of the modern goth rock arena is examined here with expert production and a strong technical edge.
However, I am a product of the 90’s with an eternal sweet tooth for Type O Negative influenced fluff reflecting that era when flicks like "The Craft" and "Interview With The Vampire" were top notch pleasures. So naturally I enjoyed it and it hit that oh-so-special spot. A ton of hook laden three and a half minute "abacab" jams take place with epic qualities abounding. The third tier Christina Scabbia staple, the Peter Steele bass lines, the drudging gloominess of pre-Columbine Manson and a host of other staples of their genre on the European side of the fence.
Decent, but listen to it before you buy it. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Beseech
Album: Souls Highway (Napalm Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.beseech.net
Rating: 9.5/10
Souls Highway is 10 tracks of beautiful, meaningful songs of melodic doom. Much of this has to do with vocal team of Lotta Hoglin and Erik Molarin. They form a team that enriches each track, you will be hard pushed to find a duet that sound as good as these two anywhere.
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Beseech's music is a journey through different kinds of emotions and styles of music, it's easily described as melancholic gothic rock/metal. Lyrically Souls Highway is very personal album that deals with real life experiences, which you can read more about in our interview.
Snap up this record as soon as you can. If you are into Katatonia and later day Paradise Lost, then you are going to love this. Actually, even if you're not into those bands you'll love this. In fact you should love this no matter what bands you listen to. Classic!!! |
Finally, I have to mention the cover of Abba's Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, has to be one of the greatest covers of all time. Get this NOW. Go on what are you waiting for!
Band: Betrayer
Album: Rusted Icons
Year: 2001
Website: http://www.betrayer.ca
Rating: 9/10
If you're missing that great metal from the 80's, look no further than betrayer.
Spawning inside Canada for over 5 years, betrayer have carved themselves a large and loyal fan base. I swear, if I didn't know that betrayer are a young band I'd think they were from the 1983 era. If I were to classify Betrayer, I'd probably label them as Iron Maiden meets the 80's thrash metal movement, their thrash metal riffs, octave vocals and those awesome guitar solos really take you back to the 80's. Another great thing about betrayer is that they aren't one of those band's with the one good song, every single song on this record will rip you a new one and they are also one of the few bands that play thrash metal the way it was played at it's apex, no death metal for Betrayer. Personally, I loved Descendants of Death, Wretched Ways, Tribulation - what am I saying? I loved the whole record! As far as the lyrics go, they are amazing, they're not one of those bands with the "Fuck the world", "Lets kill some fetuses", "Satan is god" attitudes, they're simply honest lyrics about stuff they feel they must write about.
If you're into Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Iced Earth, then I encourage you to check out Betrayer. By the way, Betrayer covered an awesome live version of Megadeth's "Holy Wars" which you can download off their website! By Cesar Rosales
Band: Between The Buried And Me
Album: Alaska (Victory Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://betweentheburiedandme.com
Rating: 9.5/10
Wow, I was not expecting this. Yeah, I always thought they were good -- really good at that but I was not expecting that they'd get this good. Easily, one of the most diverse and well constructed tech albums ever.
Tech, as brilliant and spastic as it is, often has the problem (at least in my opinion) of losing its fundamental crunch when going so far over the ledge that it loses any real cohesion. On Alaska, BTBAM present this massive balancing act by making their compositions a bit more solid with hooks and killer riffs so there is some definite core. They also incorporate elements such as old school In Flames worship, some crazy black metal and doomy stuff. Then you get the weird Psyopus-like interludes of instrumental flashiness whether it be some gypsy scenario, an evil carnival or the "Spanish Caravan". The thrash is out of hand -- the grind, the death, the melodic. The only way to rebel in this day and age, since everything has been done, is to simply do a bit of everything. And boy does this band accomplish that.
Probably the best album Victory has ever released. Ryan Bartek
Band: Beyon-d-Lusion
Album: First Step to the Source (Adipocere Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.beyon-d-lusion.com
Rating: 8/10
What a small world it is, Beyon-D-Lusion is the side project of Mehdi Khadouj (Furia) and Alexandra Bernard, who co-incidentally performed vocals on the last Furia record.
Even though his is only an 4-track MCD and it just flies by, Beyon-D-Lusion have definitely made an impression on me. Not what I initially expected, but it's left me pleasantly surprised. Fans of Lacuna Coil and The Gathering are going to appreciate this the most, Gothic tinged Metal, with some majestic keyboard work and amazing vocals work. Helping out with Mehdi on guitars and the amazing Alexandra on vocals are session musicians Nicolas Courrier on bass, drummer Sebastien Rambaud and Celine Robergeot on violin.
I can see Beyon-D-Lusion fitting in well with metal fans, but I also can see it getting radio play. I'll have to wait for the full-length to fully make up my mind, but from what I've heard, I'm impressed.
Band: Big Baby Satan
Album: Big Baby Satan (BBS Music)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.bigbabysatan.com
Rating: 7.5/10
New York-based BIG BABY SATAN, consisting of ex-REDSHIFT singer Kerry Merkle, ex-SORROW/WEHATEJULIA drummer Mike Hymson and ex-MR. MURRAY/WEHATEJULIA guitarists Larry Forman have completed work on their self-titled, nine-song debut CD. The bands sound can be described as a mix of COC, LIFE OF AGONY and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY.
OK, it will take something great to beat the likes of the bands just mentioned, but you can tell BBS are influenced just enough without sounding like they are trying to sound like them.
Most of the 9 tracks on here are well played pieces of heavy, riff-orientated rock, but you can’t help feeling that a few are maybe a bit slow, don’t flow as well or simply doesn’t mingle with the other tracks.
There is no denying that BBS are a good band, this alone should find the band a label. The track "Commercial" is already making waves on the Internet at such sites as SoundClick, GarageBand & Underground Musicians Railroad, where they were the second most requested artist for the month of February. Go check them out at the site above!
Band: Biomechanical
Album: The Empires of the Worlds (Earache)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.biomechanical.co.uk
Rating: 8.5/10
Now this is more my speed. Strapping Young Lad vs. "Painkiller" era Judas Priest.
Ok, some of the keyboards are just ridiculous, but the pitch perfect power metal screeches are out of hand. When I hear these riffs I visualize Dimebag Darrel jabbing his tongue out and ripping it on that confederate flag guitar. These guys are all over the place yet stay in their Burton C. Bell influenced computerized Matrix hell world. But then the Primal Fear aspect cuts in, and you wonder where the soaring eagles are.
Fuck it, I'm digging it. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Black Label Society
Album: Hangover Music Vol. VI (Spitfire Records)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 20.04.04)
Website: http://www.blacklabelsociety.net
Rating: 9.5/10
Zakk Wylde, the man who needs no introduction returns with follow up to last years "The Blessed Hellride", one of the highlights of 2003.
"Hangover Music Vol. VI" is mostly acoustic and piano-based, much like Zakk's 1996 solo album "Book Of Shadows", so don't expect another "Blessed Hellride" or "1919 Eternal". The name of this album is definitely spot on, it was made for when you are hungover and don't feel like anything too heavy. The album is not totally acoustic though, you still get a bit of beefy guitar work and trademark solo's, but on a whole, the album is a much more mellow affair and contains some amazing songs, some of which are his best to date.
There are plenty of highlight's on here, from the first single "House of Doom" through the touching tribute to Layne Staley, "Layne" and the cover of Procol Harum's "Whiter Shade of Pale" to the amazing "Steppin' Stone". I can think of nothing better to "Chill Out" with a few beers to than "Hangover Music Vol. VI". Just like "The Blessed Hellride" did in 2003, this is going to be a highlight of 2004, the man cannot put a foot wrong whatever he does.
Band: Black Label Society
Album: The Blessed Hellride (Spitfire Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.blacklabelsociety.net
Rating: 10/10
To put it simply, this is the strongest BLS album and Zakk Wylde’s best vocal performance to date. I am looking forward to seeing them hopefully later this year at the UK leg of the Ozzfest.
Since I got this, I have been playing this everywhere; at work, on the bus to work, in bed, I mean everywhere and it is still as great as ever, I would even go as far as calling it a masterpiece and the sticker on the front of the case, "Featuring legendary guitarist Zakk Wylde" is fully justified.
Every track on this album is unbelievable, from the powerful "Stoned and Drunk" through the haunting "Stillborn" to the more mellower ballad of "Blackened Water". Coming back to the first single from the album "Stillborn", the background vocals are none other than the mighty Ozzy Osbourne. The chorus is truly haunting with both of them singing very similar, it’s hard to describe without you hearing it.
Words simply cannot do this album justice, you NEED to get this and find out for yourself just how great this album is. One of the most devastating and most explosive albums ever, OK, it might not be as heavy as some of BLS' earlier work, but this is easily their best. Anyway, I’m off to replay the album AGAIN!
Band: Black League, The
Album: Man's Ruin Revisited (Ranch Records)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 12.01.04)
Website: http://www.the-blackleague.com
Rating: 9/10
"Play Loud or Don't Fucking Play at All" was the first this I saw when I received this, so very excitedly I did exactly that! cranked up the volume and sat back.
For some this is going to put a huge smile on your face, for other's this is music you love to hear, but hate to admit it. Take some classic Moorhead, some vintage Lynyrd Skynyrd and throw in a bit of old Danzig for good measure and then you are a little closer to describing The Black League. There is also hints of Doom and Stoner all rounded off by a great "rough" vocal performance by Ex-Sentenced front man Tanelli Jarva.
Riff after Riff of heavy, dirty rock and with song titles like "Cold Women and Warm Beer" you know it's going to be good. I've seen a few negative reviews of this and previous albums, and I'd like to know what the hell they were listening to? This brings rock music back to where it should be!
Band: Black Nasa
Album: Deuce (Meteor City)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.blacknasa.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Black Nasa are lead by bassist/front man Chris Kosnik who is best known for his work with jam kings The Atomic Bitchwax.
The best way to describe Black Nasa would be a Stoner version of Foo Fighters, with catchy hooks, laid back keyboards, slide guitar and a definite 70's rock influence, especially Pink Floyd. Although there isn't anything you won't have heard before, if you like it groovy, and are into bands like Fu Manchu, then "Deuce" would be a good album for you to pick up.
Even though "Deuce" is a decent, spaced out, laid back listen, it's not one your going to want to play over and over again.
Band: Black Steel
Album: Destructor (SteelHeart Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.blacksteel.com.au
Rating: 9.25/10
With elements of Priest, Maiden & Manowar, Australia’s Black Steel have taken me by total surprise. The riffs, the power, the musicianship!
This, their debut showcases a continuation of their EP, featuring melodic/classic metal with dual guitar harmonies and sing-a-long choruses with modern cutting-edge metal production.
Listening to this, it sound like Black Steel are a multi-million album selling band with several albums under their belt, It’s hard to believe this is a debut album. With tours opening for such bands as Deep Purple, Pungent Stench and Judas Priest, and band members touring with the likes of Pantera, Slayer, Halford, Anthrax and Sepultura, the time is now for the world to take notice of the talent of Black Steel.
When I listen to bands like this it makes me wonder how some of the rubbish I hear on TV and Radio ever got noticed when there are bands like this!
Band: Bleed the Sky
Album: Paradigm in Entropy (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.bleedthesky.com
Rating: 3/10
Bleed the Sky the latest Modern Metal/Metalcore offering from Nuclear Blast.
They combine acts such as Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall and Chimaira with a touch of Melodic Death. The trouble is, they try a little too hard in recreating their idols, and forget to throw in any originality. The heavier parts aren't that bad, its just when they slow things down to the melodic stuff it just gets boring. The vocals also fail to hit the mark, they combine irritating screeches, with a more growled death type and a wimpy clean style. If you're heavily into the Modern Metal/Metalcore scene, you may find something on here that I have yet to discover, but I would highly recommend listening to it before buying it.
It has one or two moments, but then again, there are so many bands doing this sort of thing that do it with so much more conviction. It's hard to justify spending your cash on this.
Band: Bleed the Sky
Album: Paradigm in Entropy (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.bleedthesky.com
Rating: 6.5/10
I'd give this a better rating if it wasn't so "Johnny come lately"
Now that every kid in America is all about bands like Lamb of God and Chimaira, Bleed The Sky doesn't really make much of a dent. They open well but as the album unfolds it doesn't step out of the mold or lay any new territory on the table. But maybe that's not the point. However, my point is I hate it when bands play it safe. And Bleed The Sky sound like a clone of a clone with lots of melodic vocals ala Soilwork. The riffs are ok, the double bass is nonstop, lots of groove everywhere.
Maybe I'm being too hard. Maybe I am the jaded fuck I always hated at age 16, Or maybe Bleed The Sky should stop following the leader, shoot the bastard in the head and go all Lord of the Flies apeshit. Oh well, at least it's not Otep. Ha ha. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Blessing the Hogs
Album: The Twelve Gauge Solution (Goodfellow Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.blessingthehogs.com
Rating: 8.5/10
Now that generic and straight forward hard/metalcore has taken over every high school in America, the entire metal scene has visibly been changed.
The stage has been set and now the music is evolving into this post-whatever the fuck range. Blessing The Hogs are a few steps out of the loop and culminate many influences instead of becoming a dead on Bleeding Through or Lamb of God clone. BTH are definitely in that arena, but tack in a little Ingurgitating Oblivion or At Most Fear. The production and design are killer.
The songs are spastic and all over the place. Fans of The Esoteric, Unearth and (a less tech) Paria will be more than pleased. Contact 18rabbit@blessingthehogs.com Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Blind Guardian
Album: A Twist in the Myth (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.blind-guardian.com
Rating: 8/10
Although I really like Hansi Kursch and his work with Demons & Wizards in particular, I've never really been a big fan of Blind Guardian.
If I'm honest, after hearing the first single "Fly", I didn't really have much hope or expectation with what was to follow. The album however, starts off with the very D&W sounding "This Will Never End" and onto by far the best track on the album "Otherland" with its catchy bridge and truly majestic chorus.
The album gets off to a blistering start with Celtic and Medieval sounding, multi layered passages, but unfortunately it drops off towards the end as it simply cannot match the first half of the album in terms of quality. With its Folkish atmosphere's, massive orchestral work and fantasy related subjects, "A Twist in the Myth" takes over from where "A Night at the Opera" left us four or so years ago, so if you liked that one, then you wont be at all disappointed with "A Twist in the Myth".
Band: Blodsrit
Album: Ocularis Infernum (Oaken Shield)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.blodsrit.com
Rating: 8/10
With Oaken Shield on the back of the case, I knew I was in for something black and it was going to be good, check out some previous releases from Oaken Shield. What I got was just that, early 90's style black metal with influences from the likes of Darkthrone, Marduk and Carpathian Forest.
This is my first experience of Blodsrit, and from what I have heard on this album, they are a band destined for good things. OK, it might not be original but its one you should look out for as you can never have too many black metal albums in your collection, especially if there like this.
Hailing from Sweden, Blodsrit were formed back in the early 90's and you can tell that from listening to it, raw, simple and harsh. To round it all up, "Ocularis Infernum" is not the most original black metal album, nor is it the greatest, but if your looking for a good, solid and raw black metal album, then pick up this or indeed any of the Blodsrit catalogue.
Band: Bloodbath
Album: Nightmares Made Flesh (Century Media)
Year: 2004
Website: http://bloodbath.biz
Rating: 10/10
Well, after the amazing "Resurrection Through Carnage" a couple of years ago, an album I still rank very highly, I was keen to see whether they could carry this on or whether the band would just disappear without trace.
As soon as "Nightmares Made Flesh" was announced I was pleased but like many, I was a little less excited about the major lineup changes. Dan Swano has now stepped down from behind the kit and moved to guitar, and in comes replacement Martin "Axe" Axenrot of Witchery and Satanic Slaughter Slaughter. The thing that bothered me the most was the announcement of Peter Tagtgren as Mikael Akerfeldt successor. Fortunately, Tagtgren does a great job, he adds much more variety to proceedings. It's been a long, long time since I've heard Tagtgren perform guttural rantings this brutal, which sound impressive combined with his usual screams.
Musically, it doesn't sound as raw as "RTC", it is far more complex and has a cleaner edge to it (non of that chainsaw sounding rhythm work anymore!), and the introduction of the impressive Axenrot behind the kit really adds another dimension to the band. Well, as much as I hate to admit I was wrong, now I really do think that the line-up change was for the better. They show much more creativeness and freshness, "Nightmares Made Flesh" really shows a band that has evolved for the better, more melody, more leads, Old School Swedish Death Metal has never sounded so good!
Band: Blood Drenched
Album: Stabbed All Over Demo
Year: 2002
Website: http://welcome.to/blood-drenched
Rating: 6/10
From what I can make out Blood Drenched to have some potential, but this demo doesn’t really flatter them.
Although Autopsy are not mentioned on their site, Blood Drenched play classic Autopsy style Gore with hints of old school Death Metal.
The sound is not so good and there are a few mistakes that will iron their selves out with experience. The "Stabbed All Over Demo" was recorded in around 6 Hrs and produced by someone in a punk band who doesn’t really know what the Death Metal style should sound like, and the guitarist was stoned.
They started the band in 1999 (aged 14-15) so they have time on their side. It will be hard work, but what I have heard, although not brilliant, Blood Drenched has what it takes to get somewhere.
Band: Blood Freak
Album: Sleaze Merchants (Razorback Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.razorbackrecords.com/blood.htm
Rating: 8/10
Unreleased since ’88, Blood Freak is an old school grindgore romp showcasing the primitive origins of a genre that went on to transmutate into the sounds of Mortician, Frightmare and Gut, among others.
Sound samples a plenty, aqua-zombie vocal effects, bestial howls, huge riffs, stabbing percussion and badass solos all abound. "Sleaze Merchants" also has my vote for best gore cover of 2003 – you get Flyboy, the Fulci nail-eye, the Holocaust pole chick… This is necessary apocalypse by all standards.
"Sleaze Merchants" comes highly recommended. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Bloodline, The
Album: Where Lost Souls Dwell (Mascot Records)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.thebloodline.org
Rating: 7.5/10
The Bloodline plays a style of music appropriate for the "Beauty in Darkness" compilations. Consisting of two band members, Roman Schoensee and Kemi Vita, the group alternates between non-guttural Death Metal vocals (like fellow countrymen, Gorefest) and haunting female vocals.
The duo have recruited the talents of several session musicians to provide the soundtrack to this gothic metal romance. A thick guitar sound is used more for atmospheric and transitional purposes than flowing rhythms, usually ushering in Kemi's enchanting choral lines. Sounds of the night, foreboding narrations, and various keyboard instruments like bells and violin all work together to create a aura of mysticism and despondency. This atmosphere is further accented through hypnotic repetitive lyrical lines like "for the blood is the life" on "At the Waters of Lethe". Much of the band's style recalls Portugal's heavy weight Goth metallers, Moonspell. No where on "Where Lost Souls Dwell" is this statement more noticeable than the track "Opium Hearts" which recalls Moonspell's "Opium". The said track’s vocals and keyboards shimmer and fade like an Opium user's vision after partaking in a hearty pipe.
If you relish the sounds of the night, wear black leather, have more than one piercing anywhere other than your ears, and have every purchased a "Beauty in Darkness" compilation, "Where Lost Souls Dwell" should be added to collection of dark culture. Review by Darren Cowan
Band: Blood Spit Nights
Album: Complete (Hardcore Holocaust)
Year: 2004
Website: ?
Rating: 7/10
Ultra-hardcore thrash punk from Portland.
Four raw as fuck vinyls plopped onto one full length cd. These guys are loaded with bullet belts, leather vests and studs galore. Shit, they even have attack dogs. This band doesn’t piss around at all. They are fast and killer like Impaled Nazarene yet noise punk like the Hillside Stranglers. Talk about a combination. On top of it all the vocalist tears out these crazy evil pitches.
Very cool shit if you’re looking for crusty, no frills hardcore. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Bloodrose
Album: Into Oblivion (Retribute Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.bloodrose.net
Rating: 8.75/10
Bloodrose play very tight, precise melodic black metal, which could only come from Scandinavia (Finland to be precise)
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The music combines symphonic, melodic keyboards with very cold black metal and barked vocals which never seems to get boring or repetitive. Another good thing is the keyboards don’t completely overpower the rest of the music, which can create a sort of "wimpy" effect.
Get into Bloodrose now before they come well known because I have a feeling we will be seeing the name Bloodrose around a bit this year. They'll be hard pressed to better themselves on future albums. Overall, a good album that any band would be proud of, and, as this is their official debut, I can’t wait to hear what they have in stall next! |
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Band: Blut Aus Nord
Album: The Work Which Transforms God (Candlelight Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.blutausnord.fr.st
Rating: 9.5/10
Ah yes, the corpse painted French. It isn’t too often that one hits a communiqué with that particular scene over here on U.S. shores but Blut Aus Nord has emerged from the woodwork with a vengeance.
Hands down this is by far one of the most vicious, uninviting, cold and hellish products of transcendental blackened noise venom EVER recorded. And no, I’m not some fucking Cradle of Filth kid stumbling onto the real deal by accident. "The Work Which Transforms God" is the type of masterpiece that would easily push a troubled mind into a messy homicide/suicide. Fuck, the endless possibilities and psychological repercussions this beast presents. Ever heard the creepy, unsettling Aphex Twin ambient works? Jack up the evil notch on that one thousand fold and mesh it with a combination of Burzum, Xasthur, Akercocke, Anaal Nathrakh and Leviathan with a twist of Old’s classic "Lo Flux Tube" recording. Shit, Dr. Satan’s got it all wrong – lock ten thousand schizophrenics in an isolated dungeon for two years of force fed LSD experiments and blast this bastard at full volume the entire time and you’ll procreate a race of superhuman cannibals eager to run amuck like that chaotic scene from the "Benway" chapter of "Naked Lunch". Fuck man, you’ll own the planet. Seriously, who needs quasi-Al Qaeda factions when Blut Aus Nord is available? It’s the beginning of a suicide bomber cult brainwashed through evil noise to submit to the wills of Lucifer incarnate.
Yes kids, limitless death, destruction and permanent psychosis courtesy of our good friends over at Candlelight . And who says all the French are capable of are eating cheese and sharpening ice skates? "All hail Blut Aus Nord, the new kings of experimental black metal"!!! Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Body Count
Album: Murder 4 Hire (Escapi Music)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.bodycount.com
Rating: 7/10
Pioneer Rap/Metallers Body Count make an admirable return with album number four, despite numerous tragedies which saw the death of three of their original members.
Never far from controversy, they’ve continued in their ways with a War/Political theme, and even though they sound a little tired, "Murder 4 Hire" is by no means a bad album. One of the problems I had listening to the album is that the vocals are very prominent in the mix and sometimes completely overshadow the music, and in particular the lead work of Ernie-C.
Despite the anger and outspoken nature, there’s also an aura of emotion that surrounds the album. It’ll be interesting to see if Body Count carries on and where they’ll go from here.
Band: Borknagar
Album: Epic (Century Media)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.borknagar.com
Rating: 9/10
I think the title of this album sums it all up, and it is definitely just that!
How many of you have heard the name Borknagar being thrown about and either never gave them a second thought, or just haven't had the chance to check them out? I bet there is a good few of you out there! Well, the band's latest offering, "Epic" is one of those albums that you must have in your collection at any cost. The main man behind the band is the incredible mastermind Oystein G. Brun, and, ever since their debut, the band have progressed and evolved around him.
"Epic" is an extremely complex, aggressive yet melodic avant-garde black metal, with atmospheric keyboard layers and both traditional black and clean vocals courtesy of one Andreas Hedlund (aka Vintersorg). It will take a few listens for the album to unfold, and for you to fully appreciate "Epic", but think of a blend of bands like Opeth, Emperor, Mayhem and Naglfar, but with a more Folky, Epic touch. Definitely one of the leaders in Metal!
Band: Bowlscraper
Album: 3 Song Sampler
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.bowlscraper.com
Rating: 8.5/10
Bowlscraper are exactly what I've been looking for! This CD contains 3 tracks from their forthcoming album "Red Hair Revolution", and if the album is going to be anything like this I must have that album at any cost.
Revered as Heavy Metal innovators of the Marijuana Militia, I'd say Bowlscraper are a cross between Pantera and C.O.C with the best bits of Hardcore, Metal and Rock thrown in, it's fast, it's heavy, it's raw and it's exciting. No rapping, hip hop beats, or wimpy riffs here, this is pure Heavy F*****G Metal the way it should be.
I don't know what the actual release date is of the forthcoming album, but I know it's going to be very good. Watch this space!
Band: Breaking Pangaea
Album: Phoenix (Equal Vision Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.breakingpangaea.com
Rating: 6/10
BP are an Indie/Emo-Core band from Philadelphia in 2000. Lead by singer/guitarist Fred Mascherino and drummer Will Noon, they immediately composed and recorded an EP entitled "Take Apart the Words". It was met with wide acceptance and, after constant touring, they were picked up by Undecided Records. They soon released there debut album "Cannon to a Whisper", also gaining good reviews. It was heralded for it's display of intense dynamics, dramatic crescendos and skilled harmonies.
Despite all the interest I've read about Breaking Pangaea, I'm afraid they don't really excite me. The CD's plays from start to finish well and there were a few moments on this EP that did get me going, but despite the good start, in the end you're left trying to remembering what you've just been listening to.
As I said before, they get off to a good start, but things start to slip. Not terrible, but you will find yourself repeating song after song. They fit in well with this new wave of emo/rock bands I've been hearing so much about.
Band: Breakpoint
Album: None to Sell (Perennial Quest Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.multimania.com/breakpoint
Rating: 8.75/10
France's Breakpoint formed around 1994, the first incarnation of the band, Seb (g & v), Mathieu (g), Stef (d) and Romain (b) gave a score of gigs and recorded two fairly successful demos. Then, at the beginning of 1998, Romain left the band and was replaced by Tom. They also brought in a new vocalist, Pierrot; Seb contented himself with just playing guitar.
Since 1998, Breakpoint have been playing heavy riff-orientated thrash metal of the highest quality. While they maintain there own style, you can hear hints of Overkill, Metallica and Anthrax creating a devastatingly outstanding album. "None to Sell" is cram packed with technical and heavy riffs with a solid mid-tempo rhythmic section.
Overall, a complete heavy metal album that should be part of any heavy metal collection!
Band: Breed 77
Single: Alive (Albert Productions)
Year: 2006 (Released: 12.06.06)
Website: http://www.breed77.net
Rating: 7.5/10
Fresh from a series of exclusive sold out live album playback shows and Fear Factory support tour, Breed 77 are ready to unleash the first single to be taken from their Ron Saint-Germain (Tool, Sound Garden, Creed) produced album "In my blood (En mi sangre)".
The last time I heard these guys was on the poor "La Ultima Hora" single back in 2003. I wasn't expecting much, but this is a million times better than that, I'd almost go as far as saying that "Alive" us a pleasant listen. They still remind me a little of System of a Down, but I could actually sit through and listen to this, and replay it. They've got their Latino tinged rock spot on this time around, and if this single is anything to go by, "In my blood (En mi sangre)" should be a decent album.
The other two tracks along with "Alive" are "Apathy" and "Steal a Moment" and from what I've seen, those two tracks aren't on the album. "Apathy" is similar in style to "Alive", heavy and groovy and the final track, "Steal a Moment" is a slower song, starts with intricate, Latino/Flamenco kind of style and builds into a yet again, heavier and groovier song. Totally different band to when I heard them last, will be interesting to hear the album.
Band: Breed 77
Single: La Ultima Hora (Albert Productions)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.breed77.net
Rating: 4/10
Following outstanding responses to the video "La Ultima Hora" on Sky TV's Scuzz Channel, Kerrang's favorite London based Gibraltan rock band are set to release a full commercial EP version of this recent limited edition single.
On paper, "Their innovative marrying of rock and Spanish musical influences" really sounded interesting, unfortunately the opener "La Ultima Hora" sounded like every other Nu-Metal track I've heard, they also sounded like the annoying System of a Down, it's safe to say I wasn't impressed. Next, "The Hole" did interest me a little more with it's great intricate acoustic passages, it's a song that I could listen to again. and finally the Spanish version of "Final Prayer" well, started very "Flamenco" style and then just deteriorated into noise and twangy annoyingness.
One thing though is the vocalist has a great voice, very versatile. It's not enough to save this from being boring!
Band: Brides of Destruction
Album: Here Come the Brides (Sanctury Records)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 09.03.04)
Website: http://www.bridesofdestruction.com
Rating: 9/10
From out of nowhere, Brides of Destruction featuring Nikki Six (Motley Crue), Tracii Guns (LA Guns), Scot Coogan and London LeGrande.
If you like Hard Rock in general and especially bands like Motley Crue and LA Guns, this should be the next album you buy. Recalling such class acts as Motley Crue, LA Guns, Guns N' Roses, "Here Come the Brides " is a trip down memory lane for many yet it has many modern touches to interest people who are maybe to young to remember the bands mentioned.
With tracks like "Shut the Fuck Up", "I Don't Care", "I Got a Gun" and "Natural Born Killers", "Here Come The Brides" is a collection of great rock tracks. It's sleazy and it's played the way it's meant to be. Sixx has called them a band of underdogs, back them and I think your going to be pleasantly surprised.
Band: Bronx Casket Co., The
Album: Hellectric (Regain Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.bronxcasketco.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Wow, I've never come across these guys before, but The BCC boasts a pretty impressive line-up of musicians.
Originally formed in 1998 by Overkill co-founder and bassist DD Verni, BCC also consists of long-time Overkill drummer Tim Mallare, guitarist Jack Frost (Seven Witches), keyboardist Charlie Calv and ex-Misfits front man Myke Hideous/SpY on vocals. They play a Doomy Gothic Metal, similar in style to Type O Negative, Him (albeit a less "foofy", heavier version) and the Murderdolls. It's the usual Gothic stuff, with heavy "chugging" riffs and keyboards that lay nicely in the shadows, which really brings the album that much needed little "something extra". Vocalist Myke Hideous is definitely one of the highlights on the album; his voice suits the music to perfection.
Their epic 9-minute "gothic" reworking of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Freebird" should be a disaster, but actually it's far from it, it's pure genius. They've taken a classic song and made it their own. Although "Hellectric" is decent enough, it's not really my cup of tea. This will go down well with fans of the more commercial gothic stuff.
Band: Brown, Ana
Album: Demo (Demo)
Year: 2003
Website: http://planeta.terra.com.br/arte/anabrown
Rating: 5/10
Not the usual stuff you hear from Brazil, so it makes a change.
Ana Brown is a solo female artist influenced by bands like Def Leppard, Queensryche and The Cult and all-in-all manages to create a decent effort. Musically, it's mainly easily listening rock with some intricate work with some heavier parts ridden with solo's. The production is not the best, but it's adequate and the vocals, although not bad, don't really suit the music or do it justice in anyway. Ana Brown is a much better guitarist (both lead and rhythm are great!) than singer and I would be really interested to see what they sounded like with a different vocalist.
Ana Brown is basically a rock musician who plays from the heart and wants to be sincere to herself and audience. Great to see a musician who's not influenced or pressured into doing stuff that's popular at the time. She knows what she likes and channels it in her music. Would need to hear a few more songs to get a better idea!
Band: Bullet
Album: Heading for the Top (Black Lodge)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.bullet.nu
Rating: 10/10
It's funny, the other day I was having a conversation regarding an 80's Heavy Metal compilation I had on, you know, the usual ones with Accept and Priest on. The discussion was about how we never hear bands like this anymore, well new ones at least. That was before I heard Bullet!
Think Priest, think Saxon, think Accept, think AC/DC, hell, think Spinal Tap and everything about classic Rock/Heavy Metal and then you know what to expect with "Heading to the Top". With songs like "Midnight Riders (Riding Free)", "Turn it up Loud", "Leather Love" and "Speeding in the Night", the leather clad/motorbike cover and the quality riffs/dual guitar, everything about them is just so old school. Definitely one for the older generation. Every song stands out and there is absolutely nothing that I don't like on here whatsoever, so I can't justify not giving it a 10.
Throw down you Nu-Metal, Emo, Screamo and whatever-core albums are popular at the moment and go grab "Heading for the Top" and listen to a real, decent slab of Heavy Metal. One of the most memorable albums I have heard in a while!
Band: By Night
Album: Burn the Flags (Lifeforce Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.bynightonline.com
Rating: 8/10
This is some pretty tech driven stuff. Kind of like Meshuggah and A Life Once Lost but fused with the metalcore edge of someone like Heaven Shall Burn.
These guys come from Southern Sweden and it shows. Shit, my question is where are all the shitty Swedish metal bands? Anyway, this drummer is out of hand. A lot of choppy blasts and constant double bass drive this thing over the top. There are also a lot of thrashy moments that remind me of HateSphere or Carnal Forge. Lots of eerie chords are employed, plenty of dissonance sporadically thrown in.
But when it all comes down, this show is all about the drummer at it's core. Good shit, very impressive. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Byfist
Album: Adrenaline (Saba Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.byfist.com
Rating: 9/10
If your into Nu-Metal, read no further. This is four tracks of traditional heavy metal with tight, speed/power metal of the highest quality straight from the 80’s.
No down-tuned guitars, rappy vocals or tracks ridden with samples, this is definitely "Un-Cool" for fans of the so-called fans of metal today. Again I urge you to stop reading, there is nothing for you here.
For the rest of us, it is great to hear new purveyors of real metal. Those of you into Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax, Priest and Jag Panzer, will no doubt be pleased by hearing this by a band who is very technical and talented. The excellent King Diamond style vocals also create something special.
I will be waiting patiently for their next full-length effort!
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