Band: Machine Head
Album: Through The Ashes of Empires (Roadrunner Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.machinehead1.com
Rating: 5/10
It seems that everywhere you go journalists and fans alike are touting "Through The Ashes of Empires" as a brilliant return to form for Machine Head, in many cases communicating that it's their heaviest album.
Don't believe a single word of it – there is nothing heavy about this record at all. Sure, the production isn't lifeless and digital the way Supercharger was, but it's barely even on par with their lackluster "The Burning Red". Boring palm-muted drop d knuckle-draggers take the stage with crappy phaser effects, unnecessary intros and run of the mill lyrical passages.
No Logan, no Machine Head; it's as simple as that. Mediocrity has never been so uninspired. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Magic Kingdom
Album: Metallic Tragedy (SPV)
Year: 2004
Website: ?
Rating: 8/10
They're called Magic Kingdom and have a fire breathing volcano dragon battling a fire wielding elven sorcerer in a perilous dungeon realm on the cover.
Yes, D&D power metal of the Rhapsody fashion. Super-tech, mega-soaring, unbelievably cheese. Dig these song titles: "Tazira's Magic Rite", "Flying Pyramids" and "Black Magic Castle".
Stratovarius/Sonata Arctica die-hards prepare to shit yourselves. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Magnum
Album: Brand New Morning (Steamhammer/SPV)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 30.08.04)
Website: http://www.magnumonline.co.uk
Rating: 9.5/10
I've never been the biggest fan of Magnum, sure, I think they are a great band and they've released some decent melodic rock albums over the years, but when "Brand New Morning" arrived on our Doorstep, to be honest I didn't give it much attention.
How wrong was I, "Brand New Morning" sounds like a band revitalized and ready to do it all over again like there's no tomorrow. Is it their best album for a while?....Definitely, Their BEST album?.....Quite Possibly!, but everyone of these songs on here stands out and is a joy to listen to. The title track and opener "Brand New Morning" is definitive Magnum, it sums the band up to a tee. I'm not even going to go through the tracks as their is no point and the review will be pages long, but trust me fans of Magnum are going to be amazed, especially after their last disappointing studio album.
They've been around since the mid 70's and have taking me by total surprise with this, their is not one bad point or song thing that comes to mind. From an album that I could have easily passed on, to one that I can't stop listening to, I totally recommend "Brand New Morning" to anyone.
Band: Malevolence
Album: Fuck the Lord (Bleeding Doll Records)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 16.05.03)
Website: http://wakeup.to/malevolence
Rating: 8.5/10
"Fuck the Lord" consists of the bands 1995 and 1999 demos. Malevolence are recording their new album as I write this so this will indeed provide a taster of things to come.
With the spoken movie sample on the first track and the title, "Fuck the Lord" I was expecting some kind of Mortician style grind. Before I heard this I was expecting good things, hearing it I got better. What hit me was their Thrashy/Death style of Grind, the first track will be a live favorite, I even found my self chanting "Jesus hates you, and so do I". The rest of the CD contains four other tracks and the 1995 version of "Fuck the Lord".
You can definitely see how the band has progressed since the 95 demo, they have formed their own style and generally tightened things up more. Don't bother waiting for their new album (hopefully out sometime this year) get in touch with Bleeding Doll and get your hands on a copy of this. Having heard this, I am so looking forward to hearing their next full length effort
Band: Malevolent Creation
Album: Conquering South America (Arctic Music Group)
Year: 2004
Website: http://malevolentcreation.cjb.net
Rating: 8/10
Florida death metal legends Malevolent Creation are back at it with a "Best Of" live album recorded in South America.
The sound quality is excellent, the mixing is pretty tight although the drum is a little hollow. As per usual, the men of Malevolent Creation wipe the floor with the majority of their peers. If you've never heard of this band this is an excellent starting point. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Malevolent Creation
Album: Warkult (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 28.06.04)
Website: http://malevolentcreation.cjb.net
Rating: 9.5/10
I've always thought that Malevolent Creation were always overlooked when it came to the great U.S. Death Metal bands, despite several impressive releases such as "The Fine Art of Murder" and "The Will to Kill" to name but two.
"Warkult" see's the return of long time sticksman Dave Culross with the inhuman Kyle Symons on vocals after his impressive debut with the band, on "Will To Kill". The rest of the band include founding member Phil Fasciana and Rob Barrett on guitars and Gordon Simms on Bass. Malevolent Creation are back on form, if his doesn't get the band the attention they deserve, then I don't know what will.
This is the bands eleventh studio album, and they sound as fresh and aggressive as ever, with songs "Preemptive Strike", "Ravaged by Conflict" and "Shock and Awe" you can instantly tell this is about war and destruction. "Warkult" is a highly technical album, with some impressive heavy rhythms and melodies, Heavy Bass-Lines, aggressive drumming, twin guitar trade off's and guttural vocals which easily makes this one of the best Death Metal albums of 2004 so far.
Band: Manngard
Album: Circling Buzzards (Candlelight USA)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.manngard.net
Rating: 9/10
Flaunting tracks that sound like a tornado hit the Gillette factory, Manngard can be held responsible for filling the stomach of a great many "Circling Buzzards", as their deathly-sharpened attack of math-thrash, death-jazz and black-tech flat out fucking slays.
Blustery yet precise, songs such as "Unattainable Fuck" and the Sodom-on-meth opener "Wreathed In Rot" pack a powerful punch, their gritty, harsh tones may recall classic Slayer, but the style of Manngard is exponentially different. As these Norwegians shift from blasting, spiked-bat riffing to lurching, blissful passages of sonic Armageddon, the listener is plunged into one of the most wickedly inventive representations of varied metal songwriting to be introduced this century. After nearly four years of waiting in the can, tracks such as the immense "Tomb Of God" still have the capability to utterly command the listener's attention, and the artistic direction and overall presence of the record sounds as if it were written and recorded mere months ago. Inspired, fresh perspectives of tried-and-true themes are strewn all through the album. "Into The Quagmire" explores a "Killing Technology", Voivod-type, off-kilter rhythms, placing a modern industrial element into the mix that gives the band the impression of being a modern day version of "Beg To Differ" era Prong. An intense blasting section leading to a call-and-response period of swift scales and blazing solos further defines the depth of the group's songwriting prowess. Start-stop riffing and a torrential thrashing onslaught initiates the insidious sounding "It Was Demons", a track that breaks down into a disjointed breakdown that repeatedly boots the listener in the skull with staccato strikes and voracious, tortured screaming. Being that this record clocks in at thirty minutes, another Slayer comparison is evident.
Much as "Reign In Blood" provided an ass-kicking so swift and severe that one wouldn't know exactly what had hit them, "Circling Buzzards" offers a benchmark-setting, mandatory listen that will be hailed as brilliant by any true fan of extreme metal. Review by Erin Fox
Band: Mannhai
Album: Hellroad Caravan (Dockyard 1)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.mannhai.com
Rating: 8/10
Mannhai is another project for former Amorphis and current Ajattara vocalist, Pasi Koskinen.
This is Mannhai's fourth album, and their first with Koskinen at the helm. He actually joined the band in the middle of their 2005 European Tour, which saw him team up with another Ex-Amorphis member, Oppu Laine. With the album entitled "Hellroad Caravan" and a track called "Fuzzmaster", you get full marks in guessing something along the lines of Stoner Rock. It's a thunderous album, and although there are no real surprises in terms of originality, there is no disappointment whatsoever.
Whilst there are moments reminiscent of Sabbath and Alice In Chains, think along the lines of Kyuss and Fu Manchu, with the "grooviness" of Clutch, and you'll get a pretty good picture of what to expect.
Band: Mapatazi Bob
Album: Size Doesn't Matter Demo
Year: 2003
Website: http://mapatazi-bob.co.uk
Rating: 7/10
Birmingham's Mapatazi Bob wouldn't look out of place on a lineup which included the likes of The Atari's and MxPx.
There's only a couple of tracks an this newly recorded demo, both very catchy, sing-a-long choruses which is all you need to realize that they sound very promising and they could well have something. I've been to see them before and although still young they seem to have a huge stage prescience and a decent following, They've also got a great front man, vocalist Dick McLaughlin has a great punk voice, it goes well with their style.
They've got loads of gigs going for the next few month's, so stop by one of them and check them out. You never know, you may even see them playing bigger venues in the future. Contact the band for info on how to get a copy!
Band: Marduk
Album: Plague Angel (Blood Dawn)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.marduk.nu
Rating: 7.5/10
Admittedly, I'm a pretty big Marduk fan. I got all their albums and I even sport a hoodie.
"Plague Angel" is their latest, an album that has more in common with "Panzer Division" than the rest of their career. This has some new members on it so a lot of the old feeling is lost. Hyper violent BM ensues with an unbelievable BPM rate. Marduk blaze through scales, accent every possible note with double bass and scream bloody hell all the way through. There's a couple of doomy "breather" tracks, but almost exclusively this is a "kill ‘em all, let God sort ‘em out" affair.
A fine edition to the Marduk library, although it doesn't really stick out as one of their best. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Marduk
Album: Plague Angel (Blood Dawn)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.marduk.nu
Rating: 7/10
With the departure of long standing members Legion and B.War, I was interested in hearing what the new look Marduk were all about.
With their departure, in comes Magnus Devo Andersson on bass, a name that should ring a bell for all Marduk fans as he was second guitar player on the first two albums ("Dark Endless" and "Those of the Unlight") and Mortuus handling vocals duties. In all, "Plague Angel" just didn't excite me as much as previous works, its not a particularly bad album but when you look back at albums such as "And the Heavens Shall Burn.....", in comparison it sounds a little dull. The album does however get off to a good start, but as the album goes on you can't help think that you've heard it all before.
Plenty of speed, tempo changes and even melody make an appearance but it's not enough, they've done better than this before. The new guys perform well on the album, vocals wise it's a little more death orientated, but there isn't really any major changes music wise.
Band: Maxmillion
Album: Maxmillion (Retribute Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.maxmillionweb.com
Rating: 6/10
A monstrously thick sound with heavy down-tuned riffs, which, overall isn't a bad way to start with your debut offering.
Maxmillion is the next step for Jason Corley and Bobby Ferry (both ex-16). This see's them joining up with Chris Jones. Comparisons are Eyehategod, apart from them it's difficult to really compare them with anything else.
Maxmillion pull together elements of sludge, noisecore, doom and thrash, there's no doubt that this is original, it just doesn't really do anything for me apart from a couple of tracks. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying this is terrible, it's just something that I wouldn't listen to day after day.
Band: Maze of Torment
Album: Hammers of Mayhem (Black Lodge)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.mazeoftorment.com
Rating: 8.5/10
I've never heard about these Swedish Death/Thrashers up until now.
Reading up about the band, they've had a pretty hard time with delays with releases due to money problems, factory fuck-ups, lack of promotion and label setbacks. None of that however has effected them on this album, absolutely top quality, fast, raw Death/Thrash with some damn catchy riffs, an absolute must for fans of bands like Venom, Kreator and Destruction.
Its pretty straight forward stuff, but it works, and works well. They even round things up with a cover of Venom's "In League with Satan", quality!
Band: Mechanical Chaos
Album: Entropy (Disco Denver)
Year: 2002-2003
Website:
Rating: 8/10
A measure of the diorder in a system specified in statistical mechanics...transformation (Entropy)
The follow up to 2001's "Deaf Nation", "Entropy" is a whole new level for Mechanical Chaos. The production quality has without a doubt risen to professional level, which is a good thing considering their previous releases didn't contain this level of quality. As far as song-writing goes, I can't believe a band can improve so much in such a short time, I'm not saying that their previous cds weren't good, what I'm saying is that "Entropy" is one of the best melodic death metal albums I've heard in quite a while. The lyrics on this albums take a strong look at our society and the present world and the people running it. There's nothing much to it, this is one of the best melodic death metal albums in quite a while
If you liked "Anthems of Rebellion" you definitely have to check this out.
Band: Megadeth
Album: The System Has Failed (Sanctuary Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.megadeth.com
Rating: 10/10
Dave Mustaine's Megadeth come roaring back with their hands down best album ever! Following the dark, brooding and often uninspiring "The World Needs a Hero", this newest record reveals an improved band which fires on all cylinders.
Megadeth 2004 is as a honed blade's edge – sharp, slicing and deadly. Arpeggiated melodic lead passages accent crunching axe work featuring the crisp tone that Dave is well known for. Skin tight polyrhythms augmented by bright hi hats and cymbals courtesy of Vinnie Colaiuta and most importantly - much improved vocals with memorable hooks that will have ‘Dethheads singing along in arenas worldwide. This record has everything Megadeth fans have been waiting for and more and easily replaces "Rust in Peace" as their finest effort! As a long time Megadeth fan who was disappointed with the groups last couple of platters, I simply cannot rave enough about this superlative effort! The first single "Die Dead Enough" harkens back to the band's "Countdown to Extinction" days and features one the best arrangements of Mustaine's storied songwriting career. The crunching gallop of "Tears in a Vial" is at once ominous and technically brilliant. Dave lends a nod to the NWOBHM in the nostalgic "Back in the Day", which is delivered with quicksilver speed and majesty.
Lyrically, we find a return to the political bent that Mustaine is famous for on tracks like "Kick the Chair", "Blackmail the Universe" and the poignant "I Know Jack". Mustaine has really come into his own lyrically; here we find the wittiest and most well written verses which have ever graced a Megadeth release. The masterpiece here is "The Scorpion", featuring some superb lead trade-offs between Mustaine and returning studio member Chris Poland, whose impressive contributions cannot be understated. It is simply awesome to hear him playing in the band again, and the fret burning combination of Mustaine/Poland remains far superior to the shred head noodling of Marty Friedman. From the moment you first see the cover you will know that this is the Megadeth album you have been waiting for…Hell is open for business…and quite apparently, business is good! Review by Star (Contact)
Band: Melting Flesh
Album: Good Addiction Butchery (Dans Crypt Records)
Year: 2004
Website: N/A
Rating: 6.75/10
After a couple of demo tapes, Columbia's Melting Flesh release their debut on the new and impressive Dan's Crypt label.
"Good Addiction Butchery" is a fast flowing, brutal album, but doesn't offer anything that you wont have heard many times before. Although they do have a fairly raw sound, the production work lets them down a bit, its adequate, but it does have that demo quality sound to it. There's plenty of tempo changes throughout, which keeps it more interesting, but after a while, it tends to just become a blur of guitar and drums.
If your fanatical about Death/Grind, you may find something here, otherwise listen before you buy. Its not a bad album, its just with so many bands like this, there are many other options available.
Band: Mental Amputation
Album: Mass Crisis
Year: 2001
Website: http://www.mentalamputation.de
Rating: 10/10
Six tracks of fast, dark, brutal AND melodic Death Metal. Obvious Influences include Deicide & Immolation and towards the end of the album they ( I thought I would never hear myself say this) start to match the greatness of Amorphis.
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The quality of the music is amazing and I am really struggling to find words good enough to say something more about this other than get over to their site now (I've even supplied the link for you) and go and order a copy for only 10 Euros, which is about 9.85 US$ and 6.30 UK Sterling. You will not regret it. |
Band: Mercenary
Album: 11 Dreams (Century Media)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mercenary.dk
Rating: 9/10
Nothing brings me more satisfaction than hearing a total clone beat the piss out of their originating influence.
Mercenary are Century Media's new darlings, hailing from the land of wooden shoes. They are total Soilwork copy cats, but far more lethal and engaging by dropping their own ideas into the mix as well. The vocals are pitch perfect and soaring, the grooves monstrous. It's like they somehow pick pocketed the fire In Flames lost years ago. Fuckin' mega-hit right here.
If you're all about the nu-Swedish melodic thing, prepare to go into violent convulsions. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Mercenary
Album: 11 Dreams (Century Media)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mercenary.dk
Rating: 6.5/10
Am I the only person who have never heard of these Danes?
Every review I've seen has hailed these as the next big thing, and apparently they've released three great albums so far. The next big thing Huh?...I think I must have received the wrong CD in my copy as I really can't see what all the fuss is about. Mercenary aren't a bad listen, it's just that I've heard it all before. They've got a very Gothic sound going that will no doubt please fans of the more modern stuff around. I've also seen it labeled as Melodic Death, well, maybe, but it's debatable (I know I'd rather listen to In Flames any day!).
There's one or two decent riffs and there were one or two tracks that stood out, but the remainder of the album, apart from the flawless drum-work, was a pretty generic, atmospheric gothic tinged metal album. Other than what I just mentioned, there was nothing really that grabbed me. A little repetitive at times, the combination of guttural/screeched/clean vocals suits the album well but it's just a shame that I've heard more superior bands, otherwise this could have been interesting.
Band: Mercury Tide
Album: Why? (Century Media)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 25.08.03)
Website: http://www.mercury-tide.com
Rating: 9/10
Angel Dust front man Dirk Thurisch has taken a very different and personal path with Mercury Tide. Consisting of Dirk on vocals and guitar, his cousin Dennis Riehle on keyboards, Stefan Gemballa (Flowing Tears/Red Aim) on drums and Anders Iwers from goth-metallers Tiamat on bass, the album contains 11 very emotional and atmospheric tracks all written by Dirk himself.
When asked about influences, Dirk explains "They came from completely different angles: Rock, Metal, Grunge, Gothic and even Pop". He goes onto say that the biggest influence lyrically was his life. The songs were mainly written at night, many being based around every-day stories and are written from the heart.
I can't really compare Mercury Tide to anyone else, in fact I don't really want to compare them to anyone. From the first few seconds of the title track to the more mellower "Alone", Dirk's first solo album is an absolute cracker, a highly recommended slab of atmospheric rock not just for Angel Dust followers. This is an album I like to listen to alone with the lights dimmed. Check them out now!
Band: Merrimack
Album: Obsecrations To The Horned (Moribund Cult)
Year: 2004
Website: http://message.rockmetal.art.pl
Rating: 7/10
This is a collection of demos and splits from '93, '98 and '01 by this obscure French black metal act.
Grim, evil, Satan summoning madness ensues with the four-track production of a sloppy Murder Junkies mix. However, that's how I like it. The music is transcendental and militant, somewhere between early Burzum and Satyricon. It's raw, warped (literally, like a bad cassette dub) and fueled by hatred. Total Halloween all the way, gets better with every track.
Unlike many BM bands, Merrimack continually change as the record progresses. For die-hards only. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Mess Age
Album: Self Convicted (Conquer Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://message.rockmetal.art.pl
Rating: 9/10
Polish Mess Age bring us 10 tracks of heavy/melodic death/thrash metal, beginning its activity in March 1998 as the result of a meeting of musicians from two Tri-city projects: Alienator and Age Crisis. The outcome is: Raaf - Vocals, Alex Kopczynski - Lead Guitar, Amber - Rhythm Guitar, Gruby - Bass, Otwieracz – Drums, with additional vocals on "Kill The Falsehood" by Nergal (BEHEMOTH)
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Mess age's very technical approach has seen them perform amongst the likes of Christ Agony, Yattering, Decapitated and the mighty Vader.
If you're into Melodic Death Metal, Thrash or you just want to listen to something a little technical, then you could do worse (alot worse) than pick this up. You pick up a copy of this album for only US $9.99, GB £6.99 direct from Conquer Records via our Store section. |
Band: Meshuggah
Album: Catch Thirtythree (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.meshuggah.net
Rating: 3/10
Well, the experimental Swedes are back with the follow-up to the 1 track, 21 minute long "I".
They go one step better and beat that, with what is basically one 47 minute track that is split into 13 parts. This is definitely one of the most oddest things I have heard, ever! I really don't know what to say about what is going on. Off-Time riffs that get repetitive, as they change ever so slightly and no tempo changes whatsoever (it really does stay the same throughout!). So all-in-all, for anyone to sit through this must have a lot of patience and must be hearing something I am not.
For my first proper listen of Meshuggah, this is not a good start. I really don't know what to think of this, there are people hailing it as some kind of Prog metal masterpiece (have I received the wrong CD?) but 47 minutes of repetition, especially when its as hard to listen to and take in as this is, is not what I want to be hearing. I dunno, maybe I'm just missing something?!? Weird is an understatement!!
Band: Metal Church
Album: The Weight of the World (Steamhammer/SPV)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.metalchurch.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Despite releasing two massive albums in the 80's, their s/t debut in 1984 and the excellent "The Dark" (1986), Metal Church have never fully gained the attention they thoroughly deserve.
I've seen many reviews of this popping up here and their, many of which are very negative, probably being dismissed before it was given a good spin. With original members and co-founders guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof and Drummer Kirk Arrington still there, new members Jay Reynolds (ex- Malice, guitar), session bassist Steve Unger, and new vocalist, Ronny Monroe (think Andi Deris/Kai Hansen), "The Weight of the World" is the best thing they have released for a while now.
With all of the tracks ranging between 4-8 minutes, they know how to pen a decent song. OK, there's nothing original on here and there may not have been many things that instantly hit me, maybe apart from a few of the riffs and chouruses, but after a few listens it grew on me a lot. No keyboards, just a guitar driven 80's style Heavy Metal album that I would recommend listening to. They've been around for about 20 years now and with tracks like "Cradle to the Grave" and "Wings of Tomorrow" that can easily stand the test of time, they still sound as good as ever.
Band: Metharia
Album: s/t Demo
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.metharia.net
Rating: 8.5/10
OK...It might be in Italian, but I haven't wanted to punch the air with glory with this much excitement for a long time.
The first two tracks on this album are classics and contain some of the best work I have heard in ages. The other tracks are good, but are nowhere near the greatness of these two.
| Metharia play a blend of Thrash & Power Metal with progressive influences with huge atmosphere and melodies. They started up their band in 1999 with the purpose to express deep ideals and beliefs and showing a different face of Italian music!!! |  |
Band: Metharia
Album: Promo 2003
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.metharia.net
Rating: 8.75/10
Three new tracks and a complete makeover of "Come Un' Oasi" builds on the unquestionable talent of Italy's Metharia. Gone are the Thrash touches, Metharia now play only progressive/melodic power metal, Iron Maiden style!
In last years review I said the first two tracks of their album were classics, well all tracks on this promo are like that and, with the added samples I hope they maintain this style, which suits them much better.
The powerful vocals of Luca Volani are even better and there are now "Brave New World" comparisons to be made in the melodies. I feel the change in style will make the songs and band more memorable.
Band: Michael Schenker Group
Album: Arachnophobiac (Mascot Records)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 17/06/03)
Website:
Rating: 8.5/10
The name Michael Schenker should need no introduction, he is a true guitar wizard starting out at the age of 15! in his brothers band, Scorpions. Then in 1973 at the age of 18, after developing his trademark style he opted to join UFO. The first UFO album with Schenker on board propelled the band to popularity and after much success Schenker rejoined Scorpions for a second stint. Again, after a short time it was time to move on again, this time he formed his own band the Michael Schenker Group, better known as MSG. After joining groups such as Contraband and MSG2, Schenker then reunited with UFO releasing Japan-Only album called "Walk on Water" and went on tour, not long after he left to reform MSG.
So, after many successful MSG albums, this is there latest offering "Arachnophobiac" with Schenker on Guitars, Chris Logan returning to perform vocal duties and new boys drummer Jeremy Colson (Marty Friedmen/Steve Vai) and bassist Stu Hamm (Joe Satriani/Steve Vai). The last album I bought was 2001's "Be Aware of Scorpions", another great album so I was hoping for much the same stuff.
The good news is "Arachnophobiac" is better. OK, it might not have instant classics like "My Time's Up" or "Fallen the Love", but has a whole its a much stronger album, maybe apart from the title track (about spiders) which is a bit weird. Heavier riffs, more soloing and has a bit "rougher" vocals than on "Be Aware...". Another great addition to the MSG catalogue and CD collection in general. "Arachnophobiac" is an uncompromising, true to form, heavy metal album.
Band: Mictlantecuhtli
Album: Self Titled Demo
Year: 2001
Website: http://www.mictlantecuhtli-tribe.com
Rating: 9/10
Mictlantecuhtli have become one of the most revered acts in the Southern California Metal Scene. They have opened for acts such as Monstrosity, the legendary Immortal, and Mexican Death Metal legends Transmetal, and are to appear on an upcoming Slayer tribute CD.
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This demo consists of two tracks, "My Darkest Empire" & "Shadow of the Morning Star" both metal masterpieces, and, at over 6 minutes each they are more stories, journeys even, than songs.
The vocals are truly fucked up, kind of like a cross between Maniac and Killjoy (both are two of my favourite extreme metal vocalists.) The music is very "Epic", an excellent blend of Black and Traditional Heavy Metal. |
As I said earlier, a very hard CD to review, so I'll leave it up to you to get over to their site and request to buy one of the CD's (you wont be disappointed). The brothers Cuauhtemoc, Cuitlahuac, Colotl, Tlaloc, and Itzcoatl venture into the future with the aspiration to give the world a whole new set of eyes to see through.
Band: Mindgrinder
Album: Riot Detonator (Candlelight Records)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.mindgrinder.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Mindgrinder were a band that I'd heard a few years ago that I remember distinctly for being a little on the generic side but at the same time had elements dispersed where they truly had something going all their own.
These little genre intersplices that gave a weird, character to the dynamics, this untapped potential in all their formulas. Some time later we have Riot Detonator, a record finding Mindgrinder moving into a substantial amount of new directions and really starting to flesh out their vibe. The drummer is more challenging and techincal as is the vast sum of the product. So many different aspects of extreme metal turn up on this. You have at one end an early Meshuggah thrash/prog feel, some dirty downtuned Soilent Green southern rockiness, a ton of Slayer and an emphasis on the direction of what someone like Mastodan is inclined towards. All of this on top of their Swedish death metal roots (would you expect anything else from a Scandinavian metal band?).
I was surprised by the quality. This one will put them on the map. The next will be the perfection of the formula, provided they keep marching forward. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Mindgrinder
Album: Mindtech (Candlelight Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mindgrinder.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Nocturnal Art Productions does it again.
Mindgrinder is like a mix of early Entombed (i.e. Clandestine) and "Human" era Death juxtaposed with the modern day sounds of a less complex Meshuggah. Add in a less cyber sounding Zyklon and a rugged Grave starightforwardness and you have a strong idea of what to go by. "Mindtech" is Mindgrinder feeling itself out, coming in their own yet not fully matured.
Pretty cool, although it's one of those discs that bounces between some really awesome parts and halfass moments. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Ministry
Album: Houses of the Mole (Sanctuary Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.ministrymusic.org
Rating: 9/10
The last time I saw Ministry live Al Jourgensen whipped out his cock and pissed on the face of the kid wearing a Disturbed shirt next to me, It's a full year later and they are back at it, retaining the rowdy scumfuck aura that has since been ingrained on my psyche, golden droplets sprinkling magically about.
Being a product of the mid-90's and a world class "Prozac Nation" expert, I am one to trust in all matters Ministry. So I tell it to you straight - Houses of the Mole is their best since Psalm 69 and one of their greatest records ever. Of course it will be ignored and never truly given it's due by "MIATTTT" and "LORAH" purists, but artistically Ministry accomplishes far more than the oldschool epochs on this record. They are more inventive and far more pissed than ever before. Faster, meaner, stranger, better production, excellent sample work. It's a mix between "FILTHPIG" and "PSALM 69" for the most part with plenty of new influences tossed in. The guitar riffs shred with an aesthetic not far from Impaled Nazarene (Al's been gobbling steroids, no fucking doubt). And how could anyone overlook the Bush administration sound samples? It's about time they wiped the shit stain of "DSOTS" off their reputation once and for all.
The new disc even paralyzes the praise Animositisomina had received, this is THE comeback of the year. Ministry fans get ready to wet yourselves if you haven't done so already. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Misery Index
Album: Retaliate (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 15.09.03)
Website: http://www.misery-index.com
Rating: 8.5/10
Featuring ex-members of Dying Fetus and Pessimist, Misery Index's blend of technical thrash, death and grind truly is first class. I have not heard anything from the band before this, though seeing what bands they were in before, I knew it was going to be good.
The 10 tracks flow well and never get to much to take in in one listen like some albums I've heard recently. MI draw influences from the likes of Disrupt, Napalm Death, Entomed, Bolt Thrower and Terrorizer, fans of extreme metal will no doubt find this album contains everything that's been missing from newer acts lately.
There's nothing more to say really other than how impressed I was with Misery Index, if I were to buy this I wouldn't be at all disappointed.
Band: Mithras
Album: Worlds Beyond the Veil (Candlelight Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mithras.org.uk
Rating: 9/10
Spaced out Sci-Fi death metal technically advanced light years beyond the vast majority of the competition.
Mithras runs wild with an inhumanly fast drum machine BPM rate, landing the material somewhere between Zyklon and Myrkskog and easily going head to head with both. The keyboard ambiance out of hand – think In Search Of sans Nimoy. Weird shit, colossally brutal - a bizarre experiment in the genre that carves a niche all it's own.
Highly recommended – the most original death metal release so far this year. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Mnemic
Album: The Audio Injected Soul (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mnemic.com
Rating: 6/10
Well, last years "Mechanical Spin Phenomena", whilst it wasn't the greatest album I've ever heard, there were signs of an interesting band.
On "The Audio Injected Souls" the bands have opted for a more melodic and less technical approach, which doesn't really match up to their album from last year. I still think they sound like they're trying to be Fear Factory, but this time around there are hints of later day In Flames. Call it Modern Thrash, Nu-Metal or Fusion Future Metal as I've seen it called, Mnemic just don't offer anything I haven't heard before. There are a few interesting points on the album, but things get a little too reparative for my liking and soon becomes boring.
If your into later-day In Flames, Fear Factory, Meshuggah or Strapping Young Lad, then Mnemic might be another band you might like, but for me, I like things a bit more innovative and a bit more exciting.
Band: Mnemic
Album: Mechanical Spin Phenomena (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 28.07.03)
Website: http://www.mnemic.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Its good to see Nuclear Blast widening there boundaries with bands like Mnemic, but I'm still not sure what I think. On hearing this I was instantly reminded of Fear Factory, in fact in parts it does sound like them and also the name Shadow's Fall popped into my head on a few occasions, but there is also touches of originality.
The quintet, hailing from Denmark and have been around for about 5 years now and play very modern metal, a sort of heavy, thrashy nu-metal with the use of keyboards, samples and guitar-synths, the band like to call it "Fusion Future Metal" and also Neurotic Hi-tech hybrid metal.
There is a lot of hype surrounding the band, and I can see them going on to bigger things, especially how poor modern metal is at the moment. I'm not a big fan of Nu-Metal, but there are a few exceptions and Mnemic are one of them so, if your into Nu-Metal or are looking for something modern, then this is the one for you! they could even turnout to be the new Fear Factory.
Band: Mogul
Single: Play Away (Wretched Recordings)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.mogulmusic.co.uk
Rating: 6/10
Not the sort of thing I usually go for, but Mogul sound a very promising band.
This single doesn't really provide anything more than a taster, and contains the tracks "Play Away", "On and On" and "Sleepless". I predict that Mogul will start to get a lot of attention as they are a very radio friendly band and I can easily see then in the charts and on Top of the Pops. The striking video for "Play Away" has already been shot by director Mark Wong and has been previewed on London Live and UK MTV, with presenter Dave Berry citing Mogul as "Future Superstars to Watch", and I probably have to agree with that as they know how to write some catchy and quite original sounding songs.
As I said before, I wouldn't really go for this type of music but fans of Travis, Stereophonics and later day Manics might find something of interest in Mogul.
Band: MOD
Album: The Rebel You Love To Hate (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 02.06.03)
Website: http://www.billymilano.com
Rating: 8/10
Fans of Billy Milano will know what to expect here, not only is this CD offensive, it's totally hilarious and good fun from start to finish. The hard, heavy metal/thrash riffs and songs like "Wigga", which makes light of the white suburban Urban wannabe Gangsta and the current war situation with "Ass-Ghanistan".
This is done in a very tongue in cheek way, and will no doubt offend some sensitive people, to you I say fuck off and buy something else. Other tracks include the Star Trekky "He's Dead Jim", "Rage Against the Mac Machine" and the techno romp of "De Men of Stein" pointing out the obvious neo-fascist statement that techno seems to embrace and glorify.
So, not only is this is funny, it is also a great heavy metal CD and the best MOD release to date. Don't take my word for it though, go and find out for yourself. Look for the "Killith Fair" in your country/town sometime in the fall
Band: Monolithe
Single: Monolithe (Appease Me/Candlelight USA)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.monolithe.free.fr
Rating: 9/10
Floating around the deepest reaches of dead space, consuming all the lifeless anti-matter, honing in on a distant planet in which the opening sequence from "2001: A Space Odyssey" is about to take place.
The Monolithe stands erect, screaming apes attack each other in vicious harmony dedicated to the rugged, primeval force of evolution through the warped imagination of a paranoid schizophrenic. That's about as close as I can come to explaining Monolithe. One massive fifty minute track of kinghell, doom that expands and contracts with the galaxy terrorizing galvanization of a wormhole. Maybe this is all too poetic. This disc is a beast. It's all over the place examining pretty much every sub-genre and style of Doom in it's program. It's so fuckin' good.
If only they dissected it into various stages cause it's tough to sit through the entire program outside of cleaning the house. Marvelous. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Monster Magnet
Album: Spine of God (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.monstermagnet.net
Rating: 8/10
Surrounded by a thick, tracer-filled fog, the almighty Monster Magnet takes the listener on an eloquently burned-out passage to the outermost reaches of our solar system and beyond, presented as being irresistibly noxious and appropriately far-out in the most cosmically sinister fashion imaginable. With the doors of perception thrust open wide on the spiraling, galaxy-spanning opener "Pill Shovel", anti-hippie guru Dave Wyndorf presents the converse to the flower power frame of mind with an evil, starkly contrasting solution to the themes of universal bliss that made the band's inspirational fodder so squarely groovy. When Wyndorf, says "Dig yourself, baby" during the fuzzed-out, lapping flame sequences of "Medicine" it's a perfected example of the satanic drug thing that many probably don't, and never will, understand. Ubiquitous in its phase-morphing themes of New Age LaVey hipness, "Nod Scene" once again takes on a theme of individualist centrism. Flowing with buzzing, vertigo-inducing guitar strumming and a soupy, sliding bass line, this track in particular established the identity of Monster Magnet as one of immeasurably antisocial music, courageously flaunting Wyndorf's hazy vision of libertarian sonic manipulation.
Being that the album was recorded at the appropriately nicknamed Spahn Ranch Studios Wyndorf's Magnet proved, much as Nirvana with their first proper recording, "Bleach", that a highly expressive, acutely dynamic record could be recorded on a shoestring budget. While the resources for "Spine Of God" add up to roughly four times the funds spent recording Cobain's angst-filled entrance to the public eye, it's a considerably paltry sum in comparison to the over-bloated budgets of artists which manufactured music containing a mere shred of credibility when placed up against the visionary creativity of "Spine Of God". Whether the responsibility for the end result of Wyndorf's songcrafting can be attributed to the ingestion of substances or the digestion of human nature, the duality of intricacy and simplicity in both the music as well as the message of Monster Magnet is a truly wonder to behold for the well-attuned listener.
As this historically impacting record has been somewhat difficult to obtain in a pristine condition for several years, this timely re-issue should meet godhead approval from the army coat wearing, bong-toking renegades that first lapped up this mystical phenomenon like the proverbial Moloko Plus-filled mother's milk that it most assuredly was, and is to this very day. A proportionally manipulative, extended demo version of the important highlight "Ozium", exaggerated, hyperspace cover art enhancements and thoughts from the creator himself in the album's liner notes further sweeten the entire soul-selling covenant between Wyndorf and his blurry-visional followers. More importantly, classic Magnet tracks like the decadence-inciting "Sin's A Good Man's Brother" and the driving, anarchical blaze-down "Snake Dance" are waiting silage for the new breed of listeners coming of age in the nuclear millennium. When this album first hit the scene way back in '91, it became an instant sectarian favorite for those in-the-know. Today, "Spine Of God" represents the insemination of the entire stoner rock movement, a mountainous achievement that is not to be disregarded by any cult onlooker. Infinitely more honest and disturbing than Hawkwind and attractively more adversarial than the vastly dull herd populating the late seventies burnout panorama, Wyndorf and his group set a new standard for celestial objectivity and supernatural debauchery that remains unmatched to this day. By far the most decisive and vital moment in the entire career of this authoritatively significant outfit, "Spine Of God" pulled the covers away from the sugar-coated heavy metal music of the late ‘80s, leaving it naked, wasted and unapologetically unashamed. Review by Erin Fox
Band: Monster Magnet
Album: Monolithic Baby (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 16.02.04)
Website: http://www.monstermagnet.net
Rating: 9.5/10
If your into stoner, especially bands like Fu Manchu then Monster Magnet are a band you want to/should have in your collection.
For those who were slightly disappointed by their last album, you'll be pleased to know that this is a return to form. I've never been the biggest Monster Magnet fan but I could easily listen to this day after day. 12 tracks and everyone one of them stand out, the first single "Unbroken..." although it isn't the best song on here, it's a great choice as it's probably the most radio-friendly. Fat grooves, massive bluesy riffs, some great lead breaks, catchy beats and rhythms all rounded off with Wyndorf's great vocal style is what makes "Monolithic Baby!" such a great album.
With their bombastic sound and unique flair, Monster Magnet are simply one of the best rock bands around at the moment and "Monolithic Baby!" proves just that.
Band: Monster Magnet
Single: Unbroken (Hotel Baby) (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 01.03.04)
Website: http://www.monstermagnet.net
Rating: 6/10
We've got Monster Magnet's brand new "Monolithic Baby" album here, so watch out for the review very soon. In the meantime, we've got the first single off that album, "Unbroken (Hotel Baby)".
On it you get the song "Unbroken..", two pretty useless edited and unedited versions and a cover of the Velvet Underground's "Venus In Furs". The last Monster Magnet album, "God Say's No" was received with a Luke-warm reception as many thought it wasn't in the same league as previous albums. Anyway, coming back to the first single, things are looking promising and could see the return to form fans have been looking for, catchy hard rock with a great chorus, I'll let you wait till I review the album until I say whether it's the best song on the album but this has proven to be a great taste of things to come.
I don't see the point of the edit's but the cover of "Venus In Furs" is a great listen. If the rest of the album is anything like this, things are looking good!
Band: Monsterworks
Album: The Precautionary Principle (Casket Music)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.supermetal.net
Rating: 8/10
A likeable mixture of blasting anthems, groove-oriented thumping and futuristically progressive experimentation collides on "The Precautionary Principle", as Monsterworks prove that they are most assuredly some kind of metal monster throughout twelve ferocious cuts that are designed to peel the skin right off your face with sheer might.
In terms of style, Monsterworks delivers a sensation that's similar to Biomechanical for reasons of artistic diversity and method of attack, but it cannot be denied that the nature of Monsterworks' sound is fairly singular in nature. Nothing else on the scene today really comes close to having the same type of sonic sensation, with inventive song crafting and the alternating falsetto/death growl approach of vocalist Jon Blade leading Monsterworks into a torrent of voracious yet appealing sonority. The vicious fortitude of "Game On" is strictly unrelenting, while the seriously blasting "Screwdriver" incorporates rich axe melodies in tandem with a hammering rhythm certain to snap more than a few necks.
A pleasant surprise indeed, "The Precautionary Principle" stands as a markedly intense, enormously creative offering. If you're looking for metal that is not only well played but also remarkably intense, you can't go wrong with this one. Review by Erin Fox
Band: Monstrum Sepsis
Album: Doors & Windows (WTII Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.monstrumsepsis.com
Rating: 7.5/10
Although this album ultimately rests outside the metal spectrum, I thought I might as well key you all in on this instrumental industrial montage.
Monstrum Sepsis is a three man tag team nixing any use of loops and charges headfirst into scattered samples and processors. "Doors & Windows" is totally in the vein of cinematic electro-death soundscapes ala Akira, Tetsuo: The Iron Man and Big Trouble in Little China. It's a very hypnotic display with an Aphex Twin bent. Juxtapose a hearty slab of Sheep On Drugs, Test Dept, Phylr and Pounder and you'll have a decent idea where this lands.
This is a strong genre crossing mixture that features remixes of tracks by Android Lust, Mimetic, Displacer, Haujobb, Torrent Vaccine and I, Parasite. Review by Ryan Bartek
Band: Moonsorrow
Album: Suden Uni (Spikefarm Records)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 05.01.04)
Website: http://www.moonsorrow.cjb.net
Rating: 9.5/10
This is the re-release of the bands debut album which was released back in 2001 on Plasmatica Records. This re-release includes the bonus track "Tulkaapa Aijat!" and a bonus DVD which comes with the final sale edition. This promo copy doesn't come with the DVD, so I can't give you any more info regarding that.
What I can tell you though is "Suden Uni" is a cracking album, their take on a blend of Pagan/Folk/Viking Metal should be heard by all, especially fans of bands like Thryfing and Finntroll. Everyone of these 8 epic tracks is a masterpiece sung entirely in their native tongue, there is so much to listen to and a hell of a lot going on each track without ever becoming over complex. Melodic, Atmospheric yet fairly aggressive with the harsh vocals and heavy riffs, the album is a great listen from start to finish.
I've never had the pleasure of hearing Moonsorrow before, and I'm glad I have. Moonsorrow are one of those rare gems that come along every once in a while.
Band: Moonspell
Album: The Antidote (Century Media)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 29.09.03)
Website: http://www.moonspell.com
Rating: 9/10
For fans of Moonspell who were maybe worried about them loosing their metal roots, then fear not, "The Antidote" see's the return of renowned producer Waldemar Sorychta who once again does a great job on an excellent album.
I've never really been a fan of Moonspell, but after a few dodgy albums, Moonspell have absolutely blasted their critics with what is probably their heaviest albums to date, with influences ranging from the likes of Katatonia, Tiamat and "A Dead Poem" era Rotting Christ to create an album full of aggression, atmosphere and melody. Their are a few annoyances but they are only minor, like vocalist Fernando Ribeiro's occasional what only can be called "whispy" style for example.
Gothic rock/metal has never been so popular at the moment, and Moonspell are sure to see success with "The Antidote", drummer Mike Gaspar has seemingly developed another unmistakable trademark for the Portuguese with his Mediterranean-like dancing rhythm ("From Lowering Skies") and Fernando Ribeiro's vocals pull out all sorts of expressions from the some what annoying whispered fear, to heavy melancholy to brutal belligerence. "The Antidote" represents a mixture of horror and beauty, heaviness and melody. It starts off very brutal and ends somewhat melodic. Buy it and enjoy!
Band: More I See, The
Album: The Wolves are Hungry (Steamhammer/SPV)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.themoreisee.com
Rating: 8.5/10
Well, I can honestly say that The More I See are one of the best British bands I have heard in a long time.
TMIS successfully mix punk, metalcore, alt rock and both modern and old school metal, with influences from such acts as Latter-day Anthrax, Metallica, Alice In Chains, Nickelback and at times In Flames. "The Wolves are Hungry" is a very varied and surprising album, all polished of the great Andy Sneap who handles the production work. There's plenty of both melody and aggressiveness going on, with both slow and pacey numbers throughout the album.
Its almost impossible to try and describe what The More I See are about, because throughout the album we see a band with many faces and styles, which works amazingly well and creates a really interesting album. If your fans of the abovementioned bands, then check them out. Great Debut!
Band: Morgue
Album: The Process to Define the Shape of Self Loathing (Adipocere Records)
Year: 2002
Website: http://www.morgue.bravepages.com
Rating: 6/10
I just could not get into this album. I've listened to it time and time again but I'm afraid it just hasn't "clicked" yet.
Morgue are a Deathcore/Noise band from France. I do not doubt the talent or technicality of morgue, it's just that the noisecore scene isn't really one of my favorite genres. Listening to the whole album in one go maybe a bit too much to take in.
This is fast, hard, heavy and with the screaming vocals and death metal influences, I know that there are people who are going to love this, but its not really for me, maybe not in one go anyway.
Band: Morior Ergo Sum
Album: Inheritors of Avernus (Dans Crypt Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.moriorergosum.tk
Rating: 9/10
An impressive band making their debut on the equally impressive up and coming Dans Crypt label.
"Inheritors of Avernus" still takes me by surprise with every listen, its just so intriguing to listen to. Its mainly black metal, with amazing Classical/Symphonic passages combined with weird and eerie keyboard work throughout, imagine a kind of cross between Black Metal and Power Metal, and you wouldn't be far off the sound of Morior Ergo Sum. It's probably not going to be for everyone's liking, but if your into progressive black metal, I recommend you give this a chance.
It's great to hear a band that isn't afraid of trying new things in a genre that is becoming a little overcrowded with mediocre bands. Little hard for me to fully explain what they're about, but you'll have to trust me and experience the magic for yourself. A great debut from a new and exciting band.
Band: Mork Gryning
Album: Mork Gryning (Black Lodge)
Year: 2005
Website: http://www.mork-gryning.com
Rating: 7.5/10
"Mork Gryning" is not only the bands 5th studio album, it looks like its also going to be their last.
Main man Goth Gorgor surprised everyone when he decided to call it a day back in January 2005 due to lack of motivation to perform extreme metal, so whether this is a proper album, or if it's just a collection of the final songs they did or had lying around, I just don't know. What better way to say goodbye could there be with opener "Ingen Dyrkan"? A classic, pacey black metal number which is definitely the highlight of the album.
The band have returned to the harder sound they demonstrated on their earlier albums, so no synths or any real experimentation as with their previous releases. It's decent enough, but the rest of the album simply cannot match up to the opener. Worth checking if your into the Dissection or Dark Funeral style Swedish Black Metal.
Band: Mors In Tabula
Album: Promo 2004 (Self Released)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.morsintabula.com
Rating: 8/10
Here, Mors In Tabula offer four blackened industrial metal tracks that move further into the electronic realm than most bands of this nature. These four tracks are culled from the band's "Blemish" CD and coupled with some excellent artwork that befits the project perfectly. If you were thinking of a cross between "The Land Of Rape And Honey" era Ministry and a smattering of Dimmu, you'd be close to the mark on this one.
"Bloodpath" combines crisp guitar bursts with hyper electro vocals to form a very original sound. It's as if the band took a hundred cool samples or pieces of songs to make one really cool sounding track. It is rigid in a good way and the production highlights the several effects utilized in the composition. "MK Ultra" offers much of the same fare to a fine result. The music is very cold and mechanical in style, but the various effects and intricate arrangement make it compelling nonetheless.
"Eye Of The Abyss" is a standout track with plenty of special effects and cool tempo changes, accented by ringing bells and haunting noises. The song lapses into a form of dark techno before returning to the grinding metal riffs. "Noctifer" kicks off with a buzzing military cadence and warps into some tripped out cyber black vox that are a great effect. Eerie choirs, spectrum jumping guitars and strange effects combine to make for a hell of a great listen. Review by Star (Contact)
Band: Motive
Album: Worn Down Dream (Self Released)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.motivemetal.com
Rating: 8/10
This is the second album from the heavy thrash outfit Motive. The obvious influence is "South of Heaven" era Slayer, but also incorporate elements of heavy rock. Motive has sold 1700+ CD's, played 180 shows across the US and have shared the stage with the likes of Testament, Suicidal Tendencies, Morbid Angel, Nile, Death Angel, Machine Head and most recently Anthrax, all without the backing of a record label.
As I said before, Motive play heavy thrash, mid paced and very riff orientated. There's nothing on here that you wouldn't of heard before but from start to finish, Motive kick your ass.
Listening to "Worn Down Dream" you instantly know Motive are ready for the big time, their professionalism, great musicianship, good package, and great live experience will interest a label soon enough, mark my words!.
Band: Motorhead
Album: Kiss of Death (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2006
Website: http://www.imotorhead.com
Rating: 8/10
Who would of thought some 30 years and 20 odd albums later, Motorhead would still be alive and kicking.
You won't be surprised to hear that there's no change in direction or groundbreaking moments on Kiss of Death, just the usual dirty, hard rock that we've come to expect over the years. Whereas tracks such as "Trigger", "Sucker" and "One Night Stand" will slot nicely into the current Motorhead live set list, there are also a few on there where they try some new things. "Living in the Past" and "Be my Baby" in particular show a very modern side of Motorhead, with heavy chugging riffs and then there's the hit and miss ballad "God was Never on your Side". I personally like it, but I can imagine that there's going to be people thinking "What the...?"
I don't think it's as good as their last album "Inferno", but hey this is
Motorhead, you know what to expect!
Band: Motorhead
Album: Inferno (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.imotorhead.com
Rating: 10/10
For those of you who have been holding out on buying this one, I can only ask you "WHY"? I can't remember the last time failed to impress, and "Inferno" does much more than that.
The first thing I got when listening to this is it's like "Inferno" takes all the best bits from previous albums over the years and combines them all on here to create one of there best releases for a while now. There was no doubt it was going to be good, Hell, I could have easily just put the mark out of 10, and jus writ THIS IS MOTORHEAD, but it exceeded my expectations with everything on here. It's dirty, fast and noisy, nothing like modern bands that are emerging nowadays and everything you expect from the mighty Motorhead, they are even joined by Steve Vai on a couple of tracks.
I won't bother listing the highlights as, well frankly I can't be bothered to write out the whole track list. I'll finish off with a great quote I saw the other day, "If you like Motorhead, you'll love Inferno, If you don't like Motorhead, you've lived your life incorrectly. Go back and start again".
Band: Motorhead
Album: Live at Brixton Academy (SPV/Steamhammer)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.imotorhead.com
Rating: 9/10
Well, what can I say that hasn't already been said about one of the all-time greats of rock?
It's been a couple of years since I last saw Motorhead and getting this is a great reminder of how great they are live, if you've never seen them I really would make an effort and go. This was recorded live at Brixton Academy back on 22/10/2000 on their 25th anniversary. I know some of you are going to say that this is just a "cash-in" or a "rip off" and I've been told that the twin pack of the DVD "Boneshaker" comes with a bonus audio CD of most of the concert, but I loved this none the less. Anyway, back to this release, the complete show, 23 tracks including previous unreleased live versions of "Orgasmatron", "Iron Fist", "You Better Run", "Overnight Sensation", "Civil War" and "I'm So Bad (Baby I Don't Care)" as well as the usual classics we all know and love.
Apart from this show in it's entirety, there is also a DVD version of this but the whole live show was to long for a DVD
so they had to cut six songs from it. There are also a few guest appearances on
here such as Brian May, Doro Pesch, Whitfield Crane and the first original
Motorhead guitarist Fast Eddie Clark. Call it a cash in if you like but it's a
great live album from one of the greatest rock bands of all time, raw, dirty and
noisy, just the way it should be!
Band: Motus Tenebrae
Album: Beyond (Self-Release)
Year: 2003
Website: N/A
Rating: 7.5/10
I found it a little hard to write anything about Motus Tenebrae as I could not find any info at all about the band.
"Beyond" is a very impressive self-released, 6-track album that showcases some interesting ideas. There's nothing ground breaking mind you, or nor are they that original, but they have there feet firmly planted and put some good ideas down. Whilst they are not exactly like them, imagining bands like Moonspell and Tiamat, is probably the best picture to get in your head when it comes to describing Motus Tenebrae. The songs on here are very slow moving, they take time to build and progress and never sound rushed. The very eerie keyboard layers add greatly to their very gothic sound which creates a very impressive atmosphere throughout.
Just thought I'd mention it before summing this up, but the singer sounds like James Hetfield!. Anyway, "Beyond", nothing groundbreaking but impressive non-the-less.
Band: Mummification
Album: 3 Song Sampler (Brutalized Records)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mummification.tk
Rating: 8/10
Mummification can really kick out some amazing death metal that rips along at a torrid pace. The blood soaked string smashing of guitarist Adam Weber is of note here as well as the truly brutal vocals of Aaron Johnson. With complex, speedy licks that effortlessly move between time signatures led by blistering snare and double kick blasts from drummer Austin Spence, Mummification are set to destroy listeners worldwide with their upcoming gore inspired platter "Runes Of Blood".
The first track here, "Corpse Walker" rips through some Carcass style blasting riffs at an amplified rate of speed. Johnson's sick belches augment the slithering rhythms with a guttural tone with direct emphasis placed on the guts. This song moves along really quick, hits the listener hard and vanishes into the next track, "Chopping Block". Here, Weber has some great licks intermingled amongst the various song parts that further serve to enhance the band's chaotic nature. The doubled over vocals are really demented sounding, done in a classic ‘Evil Dead' style. "Gutter Dentistry" continues the sickness, and actually contains a memorable chorus which is often a rarity when dealing with this type of music. The song breaks down into some wicked, doomy death with a fantastic sweeping solo by Weber that absolutely rips.
Hot off the presses, this sampler serves as a gory taste of what should be one of the most important releases of 2005 in this twisted genre of metal. Review by Star (Contact)
Band: Mutants, The
Album: Voodoo Blues (Ranch Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://run.to/mutants
Rating: 7.5/10
"An exciting blend of 60's fuzz rock, Cuban vibes and Voodoo grooves" didn't really appeal to me on paper, but after hearing it, I do have to admit that "Voodoo Blues" is a damn fine listen.
The Mutants really have something original hear, I can honestly say I have never heard anything like this before, and I like it. It won't be to everyone's liking, but this is an album to chill out to, their weird, upbeat, funky, psychedelic instrumental anthems are hard to describe other that they would be great to throw on at a party and even just to relax to on your own.
One or two of the tracks tend to drag on a little, but on the whole, most of the CD is an interesting and enjoyable listen.
Band: Mutilation
Album: Majestas Leprosus (Ordealis Records)
Year: 2003
Website: Unknown
Rating: 7.5/10
After releasing several demo's/Splits/EP's, 2003 see's a new Mutilation album. The band have received great praises amongst the underground since their formation back in 1992, especially their earlier work.
With influences from early Darkthrone and Mayhem, "Majestas Leprosus", like previous albums, is raw, ultra primitive and fast, but what makes Mutilation quite interesting is their unusual chord structure and melodies. There are a couple of classic black metal tracks on here, but unfortunately there are also a few uninspiring, repetitive songs too.
This album could have been a classic, perhaps it will be amongst faithful Black Metal legions, but I feel there are one to many "fillers". Well worth a listen if your into necro black metal, I'll even say well worth adding it to your collection if you can find it, but there probably won't be anything new to you on here.
Band: Mutilation
Album: Possessed by Reality (Crash Music Inc.)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mutilation.info/
Rating: 8.5/10
Not to be confused with the French Mutilation above, this Polish four-piece play Death Metal, brutal old school death metal in the vein of Bolt Thrower and Benediction.
In fact, the band seem very influenced by Bolt Thrower, were even treated to a great cover of their "Cenotaph" taken from 1991's "Warmaster". Everything you want from a great Death Metal album can be found on here, so I urge you do go and get this one straight away. It's mainly mid-paced, heavy riffing, but they can speed things up and slow things down in an instant, other highlights include the incredibly precise drum work, neither straightforward or overly complex, masses of tempo changes, great production work, and well, the list could go on.
This is my first taster of Mutilation, although they've been around for some 13 years now, and what can I say, they are another band to add to the impressive list of Polish Death Metal bands. If you like Bolt Thrower and Benediction, then there's no doubt at all whether you'll like this.
Band: MVP
Album: The Altar (Mascot Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.angelfire.com/ct/mikevescera/index.html
Rating: 8.5/10
MVP is the solo band of world renowned vocalist Michael Vescera who is revered internationally as one of the greatest vocalists ever in hard rock. He has performed vocal duties for band's like Obsession, Loudness and Yngwie Malmsteen's band.
Vescera's debut album, "Windows" was adorned by rave reviews in Japan's Burrn Magazine and was followed by a promo tour in Japan. During this time he was approached by Helloween's Roland Grapow to provide vocals and co-writer for his new album "Kaleidoscope". After finishing work on both Roland Grapow's solo album, work commenced on his own second album, "Animation", again receiving a positive reception.
Michael Vescera's latest and third album, "The Altar" features quest musicians Metal Mike, Roland Grapow, Rob Johnson, Robert Marcello, Jimi Bell, Barry Sparks, Stet Howland, Jay Mezias, B.J. Zampa, Chris McCarvill, Mats Olausson, Jay Rigney and Joe Stump. Huge vocals and screaming guitar solo's galore, if you are a fan of this style, and in particular bands like Dokken, Riot and Axel Rudi Pell or just enjoy Hard Rock/Heavy Metal in general, you will enjoy this. Sure, there are probably loads of records like this but so what, it is an enjoyable and head banging experience non-the-less. True Heavy Metal Lives On!!!
Band: My Deaf Audio
Album: Got a Friend (Lockjaw Records)
Year: 2003
Website: http://www.mydeafaudio.com
Rating: 8/10
My Deaf Audio could well be one if the UK best kept secrets. My Deaf Audio aren't ground breaking or original, infact there are a lot of bands like this, but MDA are definitely one of the best I have heard. There take on Emo/Post Hardcore really is exceptional.
There may be only four tracks, but you can pick this up for under a fiver, its worth it if you've never heard MDA before. Every track is out standing, the riffs are truly emotional, infact everything on the album is good.
Any enjoyable listen to start to finish, even though it maybe short. Apparently, from what I've read, they are a great live band too, hopefully I will be finding that out next month!
Band: My Dying Bride
Album: Songs of Darkness, Words of Light (Peaceville)
Year: 2004 (Release Date: 16.02.04)
Website: http://www.mydyingbride.org
Rating: 10/10
"Songs Of Darkness, Words Of Light" is the eighth studio album for the band and has been described as a work of epically dark proportions.
I'm a big fan of Doom and Death Doom, but My Dying Bride are a band that I'm not very familiar with, obviously I've heard of them, but beyond that I've never gave them a chance. So, "Songs of Darkness..." is the first time I've sat down and listened to them, and my initial thought was how amazing it was. I got exactly the same feeling when I heard Opeth for the first time. If your attention span isn't that long then you won't find their depressive somber works of art that interesting, and you will probably let them pass by like I did. There seems to be an eerie mist encasing the whole feeling of the recording and one of the things that impressed me was vocalist Aaron's combination of Death Metal grunts and normal, very gloomy sounding clean vocals, I personally think they are an essential part of this dark record.
My Dying Bride are so much more than your usual doom bands, they are one of the best and one of the most interesting Doom Metal acts around. Now I'm off the look up their back catalogue to see what other greats I can find.
Band: My Early Mustang
Album: My Early Mustang (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.myearlymustang.de
Rating: 7/10
My Early Mustang Consists of Liquido founders Wolfgang Schrödl and Tim Eiermann along with Florian "Florry" Kämmerling of Flyswatter and Andreas from Tristesse and play a punky style of Emo.
Whilst their debut album will probably gain them some commercial success, music wise they sound like several other bands I've heard before. Most of the songs on here are decent and catchy, but you can't help feeling you've heard them somewhere before.
If your into all this modern emo/punk, and bands like Lost Prophets, I wouldn't hesitate in recommending My Early Mustang to you.
Band: My Ruin
Album: The Shape of Things to Come (Century Media)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 18.08.03)
Website: http://www.myruin.com
Rating: 1/10
I was a bit surprised when Century Media announced there latest signing to be My Ruin, anyway, this is there first release on CM. "The Shape of Things to Come" EP and honestly if this is the shape of things to come, I can't see them being on the mighty Century Media for very long.
This is offered as a prologue the their upcoming full-length album "The Horror of Beauty". Back to this EP, it contains four new songs, "Made to Measure", "Grotesque", "Unmanageable", "Sex Junkie" a radio edit of "Made to Measure" and a 13 minute MPG.
The music is very repetitive, no hooks, no solo's, no creativity and the vocals, well, are a very monotonous growling, pissed off style with a few spoken words thrown in. I've heard a couple of My Ruin songs before and I'm sure that they didn't sound as bad as this! There is nothing on here remotely interesting, and I can't see why anyone would want this.
Band: My Ruin
Album: The Horror of Beauty (Century Media)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 20.10.03)
Website: http://www.myruin.com
Rating: 7/10
After the dire "The Shape of Things to Come" I wasn't looking forward to hearing this.
"The Horror of Beauty" is the bands third album and I was hoping that it was better than the previous CD I heard. First up was "Stage Fright", this is basically the intro to the album, I really did think that they had sent me a Cathedral album by mistake, slow heavy and doomy, things were looking up. Then it was "Made to Measure", this track was the main reason why I didn't like "The Shape of Things to Come", for some reason I can really see them picking this as their first single, anyway, to my surprise, the rest of the album is quite a descent listen.
The rest of the album is what can only be described as a heavy, modern sounding doom, "riffy" and quite "groovy". The vocals from Tarrie B are still a bit annoying at times, but all in all, I'm impressed. They've greatly improved since the last release. My Ruin are a quite unique band that should interest many people, but especially fans of modern rock/metal.
Band: Mystic Prophecy
Album: Never Ending (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2004
Website: http://www.mysticprophecy.com
Rating: 10/10
Possibly one of the biggest surprises of 2003, Mystic Prophecy are back with the follow-up to the 10/10 rated "Regressus".
It's good to see MP back, especially with the news of guitar virtuoso Gus G. leaving Dream Evil to concentrate more on Firewind, for me, there was a question mark over the band whether things would continue. For the band to put out another quality album like "Regressus" was always going to be tough, so you'll be pleased to know not only have they released one that lives up to the task, they have totally exceeded themselves this time. "Never Ending" is heavier, faster and more powerful, and all-in-all, they've managed to build on something which I never thought was possible.
If the heavier side of Power Metal interests you, Mystic Prophecy are one to check out. If your new to the band, you've got two amazing albums to choose from, so good luck deciding.
Band: Mystic Prophecy
Album: Regressus (Nuclear Blast)
Year: 2003 (Release Date: 16.06.03)
Website: http://www.mysticprophecy.com
Rating: 10/10
12 tracks of top quality power/speed metal that ranks alongside the likes of Iced Earth and Jag Panzer, now THAT should be a good enough reason to go and buy this. Every thing about this album is truly amazing, the tight, razor sharp riffs, the melodies, the sing along choruses without the usual power metal "cheesiness" and the great double-bass-drumming. I haven't been this excited sine Iced Earth's "Something Wicked..." album.
There are absolutely no fillers on this album, just 12 beautifully crafted, tight, perfect tracks. Fortunately, this album more than makes up for any quibbles anybody may had with their debut album "Vengeance". I haven't heard that album, so I can't comment, but from what I have read, it didn't go down well with everybody. This however, if there is anybody who can bad mouth this, then they don't know what real music is.
"Regressus" is an aggressive, powerful yet melodic album that will take pride in any metal collection.
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