CD & DVD REVIEWS 2008

CD & DVD REVIEWS 2008

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UPCOMING CD REVIEWS: ALLTHENIKO, DARKWATER, SOULTAKERS, TOMORROW'S EVE, MORTAL SIN, SEASONS OF THE WOLF, SHADOW'S FAR, SAINT DEAMON, INSECTICIDE, DEFORMEATHING, WITCHKING, ATROCITY, ANGEL OF EDEN, MACBETH, LEGACY OF EVIL, PARADOX, DELIVERANCE, SUPERCHRIST, HATRED, MÖRGBL, SEAN MALONE, CEMATHEA, TITANIC, ULTIMATUM, JUICO DE DIOS, DREAMSCAPE, STAAL, MAJESTIC DOWNFALL, VINTERRIKET, SKOGYR, FLOODSTAIN, HEAVY LORD, CELTIC LEGACY, AUSPEX, SLAVE ZERO, CARACH ANGREN, CIRCLE 2 CIRCLE, HEADHUNTER, STOMP66, EMINENCE, FOR SCORPI, MOURNERS LAMENT, ASSAILANT, DEBAUCHERY, UNINVITED GUEST, FIRES OF BABYLON, HER WHISPER, SAVAGE CROW, PALACE, PRESENCE OF MIND, TO RESIST FATALITY, PHARAOH, GUN BARREL, EDENBRIDGE, MANILLA ROAD, BERSERKER, TARCHON FIST, SKANNERS, SHANNON, WHITECROSS, X-SINNER, STONE LAKE, CIRCULAR LOGIK, S.I.N., DISTURBING FORESIGHTS, LOST LEGION, DANTESCO, BATTLEROAR, BLACK KNIGHT (2 X), AGUYNGUERRAN, BATTALION, DEDICTED, ZERO HOUR, UNLEASHED, EVILE, BIOMECHANICAL, REVIOLENCE, MICHAEL BORMANN, KIP WINGER, KISKE, GLENN HUGHES, MILLION, BAIL, DUSTSUCKER, TYR, HOLLENTHON, TAO MENIZOO, EMATHEA, THORAX, SUIDRAKA (2DVD), MOONSPELL, ANTARES PREDATOR, SOILENT GREEN, CROSS X, CORPUS MORTALE, OVERDRIVE, MATTSON, EMIR HOT, ALBERTO RIGONI, MARCO SFOGLI, GEORGE BELLAS, ETC., ETC.

Archive: CD, DVD & DEMO REVIEWS 2005 & OLDER
Archive: CD, DVD & DEMO REVIEWS 2006
Archive: CD, DVD & DEMO REVIEWS 2007


MAY

ABSTRACT RAPTURE - Democadencia (CD) Luxembourg May 2008 Kay Vloeberghs
Style: Thrash Metal Running time: 55:07 (Tracks: 11)
Abstract Rapture is one of the finest bands Luxembourg has to offer from the metal-scene. Winning the Wacken Metal Battle of 2007 for Luxembourg especially got them recognized. But it all started in 2001 when they started writing a lot of songs and playing all over Luxembourg, which resulted in gaining a lot of fans. Critics where very positive of the band and two years later they recorded their first demo called "Asphyxiation". They recorded this demo in their rehearsal room (a cellar) so the sound wasn't that good. But the CD still sold very well and this gave them the opportunity to play a lot more gigs. After a few line-up changes it seems that they now have a perfect band, their full-length album "Democadencia" is just a proof of that. The album contains both heavy as very melodic songs that get stuck in you head. Their lyrics are great, they seem a bit provocative but still they are worth it. The album was released at the end of March and I suggest to certainly give it a try, you will not be disappointed!
Visit their website: http://www.abstractrapture.com
Recordlabel: http://www.maddening-media.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/abstractrapture

80/100
ANCARA – Beyond The Dark (CD) Finland May 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Melodic Metal Running time: 44:03 (Tracks: 10)
This Finnish band started out quite some time ago, to reach the current line up in 2003. In 2006, they recorded their debut album called "The Dawn" as an independent release which reached the Finnish charts. Follow-up was an EP ("The World") with an orchestra. Metal Heaven picked up the band and signed them to ultimately release their new album, recorded in Helsinki, and one of the people helping out with this job was Nightwish-guitarist Emppu Vuorinen.
Having mentioned his name, one can easily expect a world-class album (as if anything an accomplished musician touches results in a mega-selling album), unfortunately, it doesn't. Not with this album anyway. It has already hit the Finnish album charts but I doubt there will be another chart where we can find this album. The songmaterial is uninspiring, sometimes even boring. They have put their best song first ("Circles") but what comes afterwards is mediocre to say the least. Unless you're a sucker for Finnish metal, listening first is a must. Two videos were added as a bonus.
Visit their website: http://www.ancarasite.com
Recordlabel: http://www.metalheaven.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/ancara

55/100
AREA51 – Daemonicus (CD) Japan May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic Metal Running time: 58:46 (Tracks: 10)
Area51 is a Japanese melodic metal band, founded by guitarist and mastermind Yoichiro Ishino, which released their first album "Ankh" in 2006. Now they have released their second album "Daemonicus". Besides a short intro and another short instrumental song, the new album is filled with 8 Finnish influenced melodic/power metal songs. Bands which come to mind are Stratovarius, Nigthwish, Sonata Arctica and Thunderstone. The band has got a female vocalist which has a opera-sounding style, and the songs are topped off by great keyboard and guitar solo's by Takeshi Ochi and Yoichiro Ishino. In the last track, "Lord Knows", Rob Rock joins as a guest singer. This track is a 16 and a half minute masterpiece, with Rob and Kate (female vocals of Area51) singing a beautiful duet together at times, and against each other at other times.
Visit their website: http://www.area-51.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/area51web

78/100
ARMORY – Dawn of Enlightenment (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Power Metal Running time: 69:42 (Tracks: 12)
Armory hails from Tonwsend, Massachusetts. "Dawn of Enlightenment" was originally recorded and released in 2004. The band was not happy with the whole set of promotion, sound and overall packaging and decided to re-record the entire album with much better production values and great artwork. This is not something you come across every day. Very few bands learn from their own mistakes and Armory must be credited for that.
On the musical department, although Armory originates from the States, the band's music is pure European sounding power metal as taught by masters of the genre such as Gamma Ray, Helloween and Running Wild. To be honest, they sound much much better than most of the European bands that serve this particular heavy metal branch. The vocals are truly great; very melodic and fitting with a Dickinson touch. The guitar duo has studied Iron Maiden and Helloween all the way. I wish the drumming was more inspired though. This typical eurodrumming is very boring. Armory doesn't play original music but if you are into Europower, skip all these clone-clowns and go for the real stuff.
Visit their website: http://www.faithinsteel.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/armorymetal

80/100
ASIA - Phoenix (CD) USA May 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: AOR Running time: 64:52 (Tracks: 12)
It is quite an accomplishment when a band gets back to their line-up roots; 2006 was the year of the Asia reforming in their original line-up with Steve Howe, John Wetton, Carl Palmer and Geoff Downes. Wetton and Downes also released a few nice albums as "Icon" last year, but glueing Asia back together again was lika dream come true. A band that has made so much legendary music is bound to regain their audience quite easily. Although it can be confusing to see this Asia and Asia featuring John Payne both in todays musical world….
Let me start by saying that the production of this album, combined with the versatily of the songmaterial will surprise you all. OK, sometimes the album is pure easy listening but with quite a pleasant production; the sound is amazing. Opening rocker "Never Again" could well be a hit single; so can "Alibis", which starts like Yes in the old days but soon turns into a poppy tune with lots of harmonies and smooth orchestration, maybe the keys a little over the top. This album concludes with the autobiographical "An Extraordinary Life", which was inspired by the triple-bypass surgery on John Wetton back in 2007. All beautiful melodies; the rockers amongst you will not find anything on this album, the symphonic rock lovers will. The phoenix has risen.
Visit their website: http://www.originalasia.com
Recordlabel: http://www.frontiers.it
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/originalasia

85/100
AYIN ALEPH – Ayin Aleph (CD) France May 2008 Kees Schijven
Style: Baroque Metal Running time: 1:19:43 (Tracks: 19)
Born in Moscow, Ayin Aleph begins her piano studies at the age of four. After several years, she was noticed by the famous composer of this time Dimitri Kabalevski as one of the most promising virtuoso of her generation. At the age of eight, she plays her own music pieces in concert at the "Composers Union" in Moscow. She studied music all her youth in Moscow. At the age of fifteen she enters the conservatory of Moscow where she kept on studying piano. During this period, she writes a lot of poetry that seemed surprisingly mature in the topics. In 1990, she leaves Russia in order to enlarge her horizons and settles herself in Paris in 1992. In the nineties she also played in several movies, to develop a movie career, but this didn't work out the way she wanted to. At the beginning of 2000 she teamed up with several French engineers and musicians on her first compositions with electronic music arrangements. Although she didn't have an album out, she decided to shoot some videos for her songs 'Valpurgis Night' and 'Butterfly' because for Ayin, the expression of her art through images is as necessary as writing music. Ayin has a very particular strange voice, a bit of a mix of Nina Hagen, Lena Lovich and Kate Bush. You either love it, or hate it I guess, very theatrical, she plays lots of different characters, sometimes almost whispering, and then some screaming yells, and everything in between. She is the author, composer, arranger as well as singer on this album, she also recorded all the piano and harpsichord parts. It was a long proces creating and recording the album, which took more than a year, with different musicians from bands like Misanthrope, Kill To This and No One Is Innocent, to name a few. The mix of the album was realised by Daniel Bergstrand (In Flames, Meshuggah) and was done at Studio B of Davout in Paris. After the album was completed she continues to shoot videos of the following tracks of the album 'My Bloody Marriage','Hamlet' and 'I Miss You' which can be viewed at her website, and are actually very entertaining and enjoyable, but where the music is concerned, you better give it a listen for yourself cause it's very strange, and her voice isn't always a pleasure to listen to, can sometimes even be annoying and irritating. Musically there are some nice songstructures and few heavy riffs here and there, but to call it metal would be an overstatement.
Visit their website: http://www.ayinaleph.com
Recordlabel: http://www.audioland.fr
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/ayinaleph

65/100
BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA – Axis of Evil (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Progressive Metal Running time: 56:37 (Tracks: 13)
This is the fourth release from Babylon Mystery Orchestra. This is actually a one man project. Sidney Allen Johnson handles everything. The first thing I did was reading the press release and the booklet. There is no doubt this is a very nice work as far as the artistic department is concerned. The things I read kind of prepared me for something magnificent and daring. Instead I came across something completely strange. I totally respect every artist's vision but I cannot understand what Mr. Johnson wanted to achieve with this particular release. I agree that this is a very daring concept lyrically since the religious maters and the clash of the Christian and Islamic world are very demanding subjects. But Mr. Johnson chose a rather strange way to present it musically. First of all the vocals are horrible. They sound more like growls. The music was weird too. It sounded like progressive rock meets metal and gothic but after the fourth song I got really tired of this mixture. I advise you to visit the Babylon Mystery Orchestra myspace page and listen for yourselves in case I am awfully wrong. But I know I'm not.
Visit their website: http://www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/babylonmysteryorchestra

51/100
BLOOD THIRSTY DEMONS – Mortal Remains (CD) Italy May 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Heavy Metal Running time: 45:04 (Tracks: 9)
Italy and metal are not my favourite combination. Back in the days there was Mortuary Drape whom "Into the Drape" was a good album. Opera 9 I liked a bit and not to forget Necrodeath and Bulldozer. For the rest it is only power metal, not my cup of tea. Blood Thirsty Demons was an unknown horde for me. A quick look at metal archives showed that the band already released 3 full length albums a few ep's and a live album. After a beautiful creepy intro 'Mortal Remains' bursted out of my speakers. This is total Mercyful Fate (first era) worship. The guitar sound is dated and the song titles like "Welcome to my Funeral" and "Time to Die" don't do much better. Besides this the vocalist tries to sing with a clear voice in the semi-ballad "Day by Day"; Boy oh boy it sounds awful. No, Blood Thirsty Demons doesn't do it for me. There's nothing wrong with retro metal. For example listen to Nifelheim or Bestial Mockery. They keep the old flame burning. Full of sadness I must say that Italy failed, again.
Recordlabel: http://www.mygraveyardproductions.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/bloodthirstydemons

49/100
DOKKEN – Lightning Strikes Again (CD) USA May 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Melodic Hard Rock Running time: 51:38 (Tracks: 12)
"Lightning Strikes Again" is the tenth studio album of DOKKEN, who's current line-up is now Don Dokken (vocals), Jon Levin (guitar), Barry Sparks (bass) and still with Mick Brown on the drums. Dokken always stands for high quality Melodic Hard Rock. I still listen regularly to Dokken's classic albums "Breaking The Chains" (fantastic debut album from 1983), "Under Lock And Key" (1985, with the song "Lightnin' Strikes Again") and "Back For The Attack" (1987). Singer Don Dokken has a very recognizable voice. After original guitar player George Lynch left Dokken, Lynch was replaced by Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake). Then when Beach left he was replaced by John Norum (Europe). And when Norum left Dokken to join a reunited Europe in 2004 he was replaced by recent guitarist Jon Levin. And believe me Levin's sound is extremely close to Lynch's. While listening to this album "Lightning Strikes Again", it seems like time has standing still. It's just like I'm back in the eighties again, because Dokken is going back to the roots of its sound of their heydays on this album. This CD is produced by Don Dokken himself and sounds fantastic. The album has some great rock songs like openings track "Standing On The Outside", "This Fire", "Heart Of Stone", "Give Me A Reason", "Point Of No Return" and "Judgment Day" as also some ballads like "How I Miss Your Smile" and "I Remember". My conclusion is that "Lightning Strikes Again" is a good album. If you like the above mentioned classic Dokken albums, you definitely will like this new CD too.
Visit their website: http://www.dokken.net
Recordlabel: http://www.frontiers.it
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/dokken

86/100
DOMINICI – 03 A Trilogy - Part 3 (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Progressive Metal Running time: 56:37 (Tracks: 8)
Charlie Dominici was the vocalist on the first Dream Theater album "When Dream And Day Unite" in 1989. After that phenomenal release, we never heard much of him. Until he released the first part of his Trilogy in 2005. That was a purely acoustic album. It was continued in 2006 with the electric Part 2. And now he has released the final part of his Trilogy. Musically, it's obviously different from Part 1, because that was acoustic and only performed by Charlie. Parts 2 and 3 are similar to eachother musically in that they are both prog metal with a full band. Part 3 is the grand finale, both lyrically and musically. Part 3 is filled with heavy prog rock/metal songs, with a variety of vocals, sometimes emotional, sometimes aggressive. Dominici's compositions range from ultra-tough riff monsters through atmospheric soundscapes to quiet, almost intimate moments. Hopefully Charlie will release more of this kind of albums in the future!
Visit their website: http://www.dominici.com
Recordlabel: http://www.insideout.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/charliedominicimusic

81/100
EZURATE – Infernal Dominatio (CD)
EZURATE – Blasphemous Hierarchy (CD) 		U.S.A. May 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Black Metal Running time: 31:56 (Track 7) & 60:14 (Tracks: 14)
Well, what we got here are two releases from Ezurate. The first one is called "Infernal Dominatio" and is a re-release of their demo from 2000. After six years Ezurate found it necessary to re-record this cd because the old recordings didn't capture and present the songs as they were meant to be received. So with a different line up (Azentrius of Nachtmystium was a member before 2000!) these songs are now justified. I haven't heard the old versions of the songs so it is impossible for me to compare the two. Based on this new version one can hear that Ezurate' influences are those from the Scandinavian scene of the mid nineties. Think of Dark Funeral (with the Hail Satan lyrics from Secrets of the Black Arts), Marduk, Sacramentum etc. Americans have a beautiful name for this kind of black metal. They call it: Norsecore. Fast paced Scandinavian sounding black metal like the above mentioned bands. Only thing different here is the use of guitar solos. I must say that the songs on this album are not bad at all. I actually liked what I heard on this cd. Especially the (acoustic) guitar parts which give the music somewhat of a "classical" touch.
So my expectations were high for "Blasphemous Hierarchy" the latest Ezurate cd that I also received in the mail. One thing for sure Ezurate's style hasn't changed a thing. Still that typical fast paced black metal but what happened with the drums. At first a thought I was listening to a drummachine but later on I heard that this sound is created while using triggers. This makes the drums sounds faster than the guitars which is really annoying if you ask me. While they used the same producer for the "Infernal Dominatio"and for this one (Chris Djuricic, Studio One) I find it rather strange that he approached a different drumsound for both releases. The overall feeling is very chaotic while this album lasts more than an hour! Way too much for this kind of black metal. This album left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
Visit their website: http://www.angelfire.com/band/ezurate
Recordlabel: http://www.rottingcorpserecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/ezurate

78/100
50/100
FATAL SMILE – World Domination (CD) Sweden May 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Sleaze Metal Running time: 42:08 (Tracks: 10)
When I saw the picture of Swedish band FATAL SMILE (they come from Stockholm) on this promo CD, I immediately had to think of MÖTLEY CRÜE. I was very curious about this album, so I put it in my CD-player. Well I liked what I heard, but these four guys definitely don't sound like the Crüe. This band remind me much more to a band like SKID ROW. Anyway, Fatal Smile was formed in 1995 and they already have released two albums so far ("Beyond Reality" (2002) and "Neo Natural Speaks" (2006)). The current line-up is Blade (vocals), Y (guitars, backing vocals and the only original member), Alx (bass & backing vocals) and Zteff (drums & backing vocals). This third album "World Domination" features 12 songs and is produced by guitarist Y and mixed by the famous Michael Wagener. Well, call it sleaze metal what they play. Fatal Smile is not a world shocking new band, but they got the looks anyhow and songs like "S.O.B.", "Primed & Ready", "Straight To Hell" and "Stranger" are just great metal songs with a great groove. "World Domination" is just a fine metal album.
Visit their website: http://www.fatalsmile.com
Recordlabel: http://www.locomotiverecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/fatalsmile1

85/100
FOREVER SLAVE – Tales for Bad Girls (CD) Spain May 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Gothic Metal Running time: 48:06 (Tracks: 12)
To be honest, I haven't heard a band from Spain since Baron Rojo which is over 20 years ago. Now this gothic metal band, who supported a large tour with Firewind and Kamelot, have finalised their 5th release since the year 2000 when singer Lady Angellyca and bassplayer Sergio founded Forever Slave in the city of Valencia. Three years have elapsed since their last album "Alice's Inferno" which has not convinced the big audience. Must be exciting for the band to now have an album out since they are on the waves of international performances.
Productionwise, I have little complaints. Musically, the album sounds very OK. Not super original, but let's say the music is in the "popular street of Lacuna Coil". Singer Lady Angellyca has improved her singing and also her English has improved. The musicians sound skilled enough to lift the band to a level that is higher than average. Being a fan of Epica and Within Temptation, I can recommend the gothic fans to have a listen and maybe get pleasantly surprised. The only negative aspect I can find are the songtitles which sound like those of a punkband….. but don't let that bother you. Female fronted bands nowadays almost always have a gorgeous singer, and Forever Slave is lucky to have their Lady. Sorry boys…she's taken..
Visit their website: http://www.foreverslave.com
Recordlabel: http://www.wackenrecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/foreverslavemusic

80/100
FREEVIL - Freevil Burning (CD) Sweden May 2008 Corinne van den Brand
Style:Thrash / Death / Heavy Metal Running time: 44:14 (Tracks: 10)
This is the first cd of these Swedish guys.I never heard of them and was completely surprised when I put it in my cd player.(where else would I put it!) My first thought was:`what the hell did Mario send me this time!!`Yech!! But when I continued listening I started to like It. It`s not bad at all. Okay, the vocals are a bit hysterical and the music isn`t the most technical you ever heard but the combination with the eerie synth melodies works. It`s weird and sometimes it`s sounds like a freaky carnivale but it doesn`t bother me at all. The band members are Tomas Andersson on guitars (ex-Denata,ex-Skullcrusher), Mique Flesh on vocals (ex-Séance, ex-Satanic Slaughter) and Roger Blomberg ( ex-Denata). At times it reminds me a bit of King Diamond.The mix could have been a bit heavier but it`s a good cd.
Visit their website: http://www.freevil.se
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/freevil

79/100
HATE SQUAD - Degüello Wartunes (CD) Germany May 2008 Kay Vloeberghs
Style: H8core / Metal Running time: 47:26 (Tracks: 11)
Hate Squad is a legend. They are one of the first bands that mixed thrash and death metal with hardcore and with that mix set a whole new style. This new style brought smashing hits as "Not My God" which was covered by none other than Heaven Shall Burn. They gained respect and a whole bunch of fans by playing on all mayor European festivals. Those fans include a lot of German most respected bands as Maroon, Narsizz, Maintain and of course Heaven Shall Burn. Marcus Bischoff (HSB) is a one of the guest vocals in the album by the way! With already a full discography they are back just in time for their 15 year anniversary. Degüello Wartunes brings you back to the "Not My God" and "I.Q. Zero" period. Each song on the album is a mosh anthem which will take you to the dance floor till you drop dead. This is definitely one of the strongest albums of the band. They have walked a long road from the time they were voted as best newcomer before Korn till now. But you can tell this band stays true to their roots. Never surrender…. Die fighting!
Visit their website: http://www.hatesquad.com
Recordlabel: http://www.dockyard1.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/hatesquad

85/100
INCRAVE – Dead End (CD) Sweden May 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Melodic Metal Running time: 48:06 (Tracks: 12)
There once was a band called Evergrace that started out in 2001. Their selftitled debut album was released in 2006, and in 2007 the band was renamed to Incrave. The band went into the studio to record their second album. BUT: this is a re-recording of their original debutalbum when still named Evergrace !! No bonuspoints there, guys !
Incrave sounds a little like Dream Evil, but far less convincing. The production has a lot of high tones and too little bass and that does not add to the pleasure of listening. Who also is not contributing to my listening pleasure is singer Johan Falk; he gets on my nerves. Unless you are impressed by what you hear on their MySpace page, go and get it, Otherwise you may best leave this disc alone. The songs are OK, but with a better production, new songs and another singer it could have reached to a 70.
Visit their website: http://www.incrave.se
Recordlabel: http://www.ulterium-records.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/incrave

50/100
JOE HASSELVANDER – Lady Killer / Roadkill (CD) USA May 2008 Marco van Empel
Style: Doom / Hardrock / Heavy Metal Running time: 79:09 (Tracks: 16)
Joe Hasselvander needs no introduction in the world of traditional metal. A busy man behind Doom Metal legends Pentagram and Deathrow, drummer of British thrash/nwobhm icons Raven, as well as touring drummer for Doom masters Cathedral. This cd is featuring two hard -to- find solo lp's plus two unreleased bonus songs from Pentagram/Death Row/Devil Child. Strangely enough the press in those days (mid 80's) was not very positive about the lp's Lady Killer and Roadkill and described Lady Killer even as one of the worst releases ever. But in Europe it became a real cult classic and was re-released four times. All the songs has got many elements of drama and tragedy; music by heart and soul. Roadkill sounds like a mix between the heaviness of Pentagram and mid 80's glam metal like Lizzy Borden, Wasp and Malice. The raw early 80's amateuristic production and the powerful voice of Joe Hasselvander himself, keeps me headbanging for more than 70 minutes long. These two records has got the spirit not many bands have today: real metal music and a must for all traditional headbangers in the world. Rare killer material from 1979 -1986. Check it out !
Recordlabel: http://www.myspace.com/rocksaviour
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/joehasselvander

85/100
JULIAN'S LULLABY – I Can Hear You Thinking… (CD) Greece May 2007 Kees Schijven
Style: Gothic / Folk Metal Running time: 26:33 (Tracks: 6)
Julian's Lullaby was formed in 2004 and is an independent metal/folk male/female fronted band based in Greece. They blend different flavours ranging from hard and metal to folk and acoustic. Started by Elias Sagittarius Negrin (guitars & compositions) who has almost 16 years of experience in the underground scene as a composer & guitar player in various acts since 1991 like Disharmony and Decadence. He was joined late 2005 by Antonios Chaniotis (lead vocals & violin) who contributed a lot to Julian's Lullaby metal/folk identity. In September 2006 old band mate Efrosyne Papamichalopoulou (lead & backing vocals) joins in, with this line up, and some guests, this promo cd is made. The music of the songs on this album is very colourful, from powerful, almost eighties sound on 'Kiss Me Not Tonight', to sweet and acoustic. With a variety on instruments used, like violin and piano, makes this album a fresh sounding versatile debut! It actually sounds quite original to me, and especially the sweet voice of Efrosyne is a pleasure to the ears. The songs are well composed, and I can really say I like this album, although maybe the production could have been a bit better, but nevertheless a great debut. Listen to songs like earlier mentioned 'Kiss Me Not Tonight' or 'Queen in your Dream' and convince yourself!
Visit their website: http://www.julian-lullaby.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/julianslullaby

82/100
KAMELOT – Ghost Opera / The Second Coming (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Power Metal Running time: 57:53 (Tracks: 14)
Kamelot have come a long way since the 1995 debut album "Eternity". Through numerous albums and line up chages, the band has become one of the most popular ones in the melodic power metal genre. This particular release is actually the re-release of the band's most recent album "Ghost Opera" along with a live cd recorded in Belgrade and some bonus cuts. I will be reviewing the live cd.
I am what you can call an "old" Kamelot fan. I simply worship the first two albums. I think these two recordings include some of the finest American power metal ever recorded. I followed their career even after Mark Vanderbilt's departure but I always thought they were getting mellower and somehow more commercial and European oriented. I was right. Kamelot became a successful brand name but the new material never excited me as much as "Eternity" and "Dominion" did. The "Live from Belgrade" cd presents the band in top shape, delivering songs from the "Black Halo" and "Ghost Opera" albums. I cannot tell if this cd was tempered in studio but the band's performance is way too good. I mean the guys sound flawless! This is a release for fans only and I will not grade it according to my taste in music but on the band's performance and overall sound.
Visit their website: http://www.kamelot.com
Recordlabel: http://www.spv.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/kamelot

88/100
LEVERAGE – Blind Fire (CD) Finland May 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Melodic Metal Running time: 61:40 (Tracks: 10)
Leverage came out of the blue in 2006 with the debut album "Tides". The Finnish sextet caused quite a stir in the melodic metal circles and quickly gained a contract with highly acclaimed Italian label Frontiers.
This second effort presents the band as a tighter and more confident group of musicians. The music of the band is Rainbow inspired metal similar to Cornerstone and Brazen Abbot with a sound crystal clear. Vocalist Pekka Heino (Brother Firetribe) is a real surprise with his melodic and powerful voice. Clearly one of the best Finnish voices at the moment; a mix between Joe Lynn Turner and Danny Vaughn. Leverage is also fortunate enough to have in its ranks two excellent guitarists who have managed to produce a heavy but very melodic sound. Just listen to "Hellhorn" and you'll get the picture. What we are dealing with here is a very enjoyable melodic metal album full of quality both in terms of musicianship and compositions. I highly recommend it.
Visit their website: http://www.leverageband.com
Recordlabel: http://www.frontiers.it
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/leverageband

89/100
MADE OF HATE – Bullet In Your Head (CD) Poland May 2008 Kees Schijven
Style: Power / Thrash Metal Running time: 39:17 (Tracks: 9)
These guys have been around for a couple of years now, and although started their career at a very young age, they already played the biggest polish festivals, and received some very positive feedback. They are very committet to the band, and worked real hard, no time to loose, no wasting of any recources, just keep on working and watch the band grow, that has been the attitude of this group for years! Due to the musicians likes in terms of music style, there has been a decision made to stick to the classic four-men band basing on powerful and an expressive kind of heavy metal and Made of Hate was a fact. This is their debut album, and this one really shows their skills, really aggressive and melodic heavy metal! These songs burst from heavy guitar riffing, powerful drums, angry vocals and twisted solos. It's almost unbelievable that this album is recorded in just seven days, and came out the way it did, powerful sound, with plenty of melody and a heavy production! Just listen to opener title track 'Bullet in your Head' , 'On The Edge' or 'Hidden' all in all a very convincing debut, with some superb guitar work on it, and with they attitude these guys have, they have the ability to become big, mark my words, we'll be hearing a lot more of them in the future if they keep it up!
Visit their website: http://www.madeofhate.net
Recordlabel: http://www.afm-records.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/madeofhateofficial

82/100
MANIFEST - Hedonism (CD) Norway May 2008 Corinne van den Brand
Style: Death Metal Running time: 42:21 (Tracks: 9)
This is Manifest`s second album and it`s a decent played album but it`s not that original and I heard it all before. It`s sounds great and the vocals are brutal and it`s all played how it is supposed to be played and that`s the problem I think. They did a lot of gigs and you can hear they have a lot of experience but they don`t add anything extra to the hundreds of bands like them.
Visit their website: http://www.manifestmetal.com
Recordlabel: http://www.myspace.com/morningstarrec
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/manifestnorway

75/100
MASS EXTINCTION – Creations Undoing (MCD) Ireland May 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Thrash / Speed Metal Running time: 15:43 (Tracks: 4)
Another band that can be categorised in the new wave of thrash metal (NWOTM) as we now it. Together with well known bands as Municipal Waste, Evolve and Warbringer they're trying to bring back the feeling of the good old days. Mass Extinction are from Ireland and their 2007 demo was chosen as the best thrash metal demo by Metal Metropolis. The 4 songs on this little ep definitely shows some opportunities . The band plays thrash in the vein of Vio-lence (the last song is cover by this band). Especially the guitarparts sound like this great band from the famous Bay Area. This is some tight played thrash metal and if Mass Extinction's lucky they will get their piece of the action. Allright there is little or none originality here but hey, that's not important for this style of thrash. This is music you want to hear live while drinkin' some pints with your friends.
Visit their website: http://www.mass-extinction.com
Recordlabel: http://www.undergroundmovement.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/massextinctionmetal

75/100
MCM – 1900 Hard Times (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Instrumental Running time: 56:50 (Tracks: 12)
MCM stands for Alex Masi, Randy Coven and John Macaluso. This is a coalition formed by these critically acclaimed musicians. Each one of them has a huge work to present either through his personal work or his participation in numerous bands and recordings. This album was recorded at different shows from the trio's live shows throughout the USA and Central America.
I have to be honest. This is a record made for musicians, not for simple fans. The trio walks on jazz, fusion and progressive paths with almost 80% of the music being improvisations. The playing is simply awesome but personally I don't listen to a record just because the participants are fantastic musicians. I am more into complete compositions and that kind of music is not my style. All guitarists, bass players and drummers out there might be quite interested though.
Visit their website: http://www.alexmasi.net
Recordlabel: http://www.lionmusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thealexmasiallaudiopage

60/100
NOBODIES – Oh Yes, There Will Be Blood (CD) Sweden May 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Hard Rock Running time: 37:01 (Tracks: 9)
"Oh Yes, There Will Be Blood" is the debut album of Swedish band NOBODIES. The band was formed in 2000 and exists of Ben Venom (vocals), Jack The Rip-Off (guitar), Bender Midiman (guitar), Johnny Gas (bass) and Nilz (drums). In 2003 Nobodies already had released a DVD "Live In Drangedal" with 17 covers (from AC/DC, Joan Jett, The Ramones, Twisted Sister, Bryan Adams etc.), so that proves that they started as a cover band in 2000. Well, on this debut album you will find 9 self penned songs. These five guys play old school Hard Rock and remind me very much to Swiss rockers KROKUS and AC/DC. Also singer Ben Venom sounds very much like Marc Storace (Krokus). So, it isn't very original but all those songs sounds so damn good. I like all songs very much, but my favorites are opener "Ride", "Swedish Girls", "Batcave", "Decibel Nightmare" and "Nice Rack". When the last track "Thirty Dirty Machines" is finished, you get after a few minutes of silence a "hidden" bonus track, which is a cover of THE RAMONES classic "Blitzkrieg Bop" (which is just a nice version). I like this band very much and I'm looking forward to their second album. Anyway, this album will visit my CD-player very often I guess. Great work guys! With a song "Batcave" they just have to come over to Tilburg and play in the Batcave of 013.
Visit their website: http://www.nobodies.net

90/100
PALACE TERRACE – Flying Through Infinity (CD) U.S.A. May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Neo-classical Progressive Rock Running time: 59:26 (Tracks: 10)
Palace Terrace is a brand-new project from guitar virtuoso George Bellas (ex-Ring Of Fire), featuring tenor vocalist Jonathan R. Marshall. They shared similar visions as how the project should sound, and began writing material together that can be best described as an original mix of neo-classical and progressive rock. The songs on "Flying Through Infinity" have an theatrical edge with melodic vocal lines and great orchestrations, topped off by excellent neo-classical guitar and keyboard solo's by George Bellas. It's certainly not an easy abum to listen to because it's a bit too complex sometimes and it's a bit too focussed on the vocal performance instead of the musicans performances.
Visit their website: http://www.palaceterrace.com
Recordlabel: http://www.lionmusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/palaceterrace

77/100
POWER QUEST– Master Of Illusion (CD) U.K. May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic / Power Metal Running time: 50:00 (Tracks: 10)
Power Quest was formed in 2001 by keyboardist Steve Williams (ex-Dragonforce). After completing the line-up, the first album "Wings Of Forever" was released in 2002. Later followed by "Neverworld" in 2003 and "Magic Never Dies" in 2005. For the release of their fourth studio album, "Master Of Illusion" they signed a deal with Austrian label Napalm Records. It's once again a decent and varied album, with a sound in between 80's hard rock and 90's power metal. They also added several progressive and symphonic rock/metal elements. Not all the songs are played full speed ahead as they did before. Now they have a very catchy, melodic sound with catchy choruses, double bass attacks, sweeping melodies, a high pitched vocalist and a very good guitarist (both Italians).
Visit their website: http://www.power-quest.co.uk
Recordlabel: http://www.napalmrecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/powerquest

80/100
POWERWORLD – Powerworld (CD) Germany May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic Metal Running time: 54:16 (Tracks: 12)
Powerworld was formed by bass player Ilker Ersin (ex-Moon'Doc, ex-Freedom Call). The idea to form a band of his own came at the end of 2005, but developed rapidly when he left Freedom Call. He completed Powerworld's line-up with keyboarder Nils Neumann, Jürgen Lucas (At Vance) on drums, Barish Kepic (Jaded Heart) on guitars and Chitral Somapala (Firewind, Civilization One) on vocals. Chitral was soon replaced by the young but very talented vocalist Steffen Brunner, who reminds me a lot of Lance King (ex-Balance Of Power, Pyramaze, …). Powerworld plays an interesting mix of melodic metal, melodic hardrock and progressive rock/metal. They play in the vein of bands such as Freedom Call, Metalium, Civilization One, Elegy, Vicious Rumors, Balance Of Power and Queensrÿche. The have recorded very diverse, catchy tunes with powerful riffs and interesting arrangements. A very good newcomer for the melodic metal genre!
Visit their website: http://www.powerworld.org
Recordlabel: http://www.metalheaven.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/powerworld

83/100
SKINDRED – Roots Rock Riot (CD) UK May 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Metal Running time: 45:09 (Tracks: 12)
SKINDRED is a four piece band from England and I saw them recently in 013, Tilburg (on April 21st) when they were the support act of Gypsy Punkers GOGOL BORDELLO. Skindred played a fantastic and energetic set. Benji Webbe (formerly from DUB WAR) is a great singer and a fantastic front man. He really knows how to play with the audience and I think they have won a lot of new fans that evening in Tilburg. So, I also bought their second album "Roots Rock Riot" (their debut album "Babylon" is from 2002) that evening. Skindred plays a mix of metal, rock and reggae and they're using some sound samples too. Mix bands like P.O.D., Bad Brains, F.R.E.U.D., Ill Niño etc. together and you will have Skindred. This second CD has twelve great (and catchy) songs and is fantastic produced by Matt Squire (Panic! At The Disco, Hit The Lights etc.). Some of my favorite songs of this album are "Trouble" (the new single), "Cause Ah Riot", "Roots Rock Riot", "Ratrace", "Spit Out The Poison" and "Choices And Decisions". Awesome album of a great band with a big future. Go see them live when they come back, 'cause this is a fantastic live band. Hopefully the next album won't take too long.
Visit their website: http://www.skindred.com
Recordlabel: http://www.bielerbros.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/skindred

90/100
STORMWARRIOR – Heading Northe (CD) Germany May 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic Speed Metal Running time: 45:22 (Tracks: 11)
This German Speed/Teutonic metal band already exist since 10 years. Their first albums "Stormwarrior" and "Northern Rage" were released in 2002 and 2003 through Remedy Records. Their new one "Heading Northe" is released through Dockyard 1. They are still playing a style combining true/speed/power metal with the concept of Nordic mythology. Their new album was recorded in their own "Thunderball Studios" and mixed by Piet Sielck (Savage Circus, Iron Savior) and the final mastering was done by Tommy Hansen (Helloween, HammerFall, Pretty Maids, …). "Heading Norhte" is clearly influenced by especially Gamma Ray, but also by Iron Savior, early Helloween, Iron Maiden, Running Wild, Manowar and Blind Guardian. Here and there also a few Viking metal influences can be heard. Most of the songs are played full speed ahead, although there are also a few mid-tempo songs like "The Revenge Of Asa Lande" and "Into The Battle". In general, "Heading Northe" is a good fast tempo songs album with catchy sing along choruses, pushing drum and bass attacks, excellent guitar solo's and a good vocalist who sounds a lot like Kai Hansen.
Visit their website: http://www.stormwarrior.de
Recordlabel: http://www.dockyard1.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/stormwarriorofficial

80/100
TARANIS – Taranis (CD) Belgium May 2007 Kees Schijven
Style: Black / Death Metal Running time: 41:07 (Tracks: 9)
This is a new band, at least to me, from West-Flanders and they bring you real oldschool black/death metal with some thrash influences. Actually this is great stuff, all music and lyrics done by Bjorn, who also played and recorded all guitars and vocals, while drums were played by "Hennix den Barbaar". Great songs about war, honour and glory, if you want to know with what bands to compare, I can name Bathory, Sodom maybe even Dimmu Borgir, but still with their own style. Songs like 'Night in Carpathia', 'Teutonic Invasion', or 'Father of Storms' all classics! Also the cover is a piece of art on it's own, real nice drawings of the middle ages! Superb self titled debut, from this new band, also new album is on it's way, so watch out for it. This album is also recently released on vinyl by Iron Pegasus! By the way, a few new songs can already be heared on their my space site.
Recordlabel: http://www.iron-pegasus.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/taranisvl

85/100
TEMPESTT – Bring 'em on (CD) Brasil May 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Metal Running time: 58:53 (Tracks: 11)
Sao Paolo was the birthground of Brazilian rockers Tempestt somewhere in the nineties. At that time, the band started out as a coverband. Brazil was still not mapped in international band calendars at the time so local bands had lots of opportunities to grow big in their country. Until Billy Sheehan came into their lives and as a result of their combined tour, they were booked as support band for Jeff Scott Soto in Brazil, after which they started to write their own material.
Knowing that this band was influenced by Kansas, Journey, Queen, Bon Jovi and Dream Theater you can expect a mixture of elements in their own songs. Precisely that is what happened while listening to their album. It was a puzzle to determine which song was influenced by which band, which means that the songs do not have their own character yet, not a typical Tempestt label. Although I must admit that the Brazilians have written some nice melodies, but somehow the melodies are not the leading factor but their role gets disturbed by pieces of metal. I fail to see the musical connection between these elements and I for one think that is a big necessity. Closing the album is a Journey-cover ("Don't stop believing") which they had better left untouched. In this particular song it gets very obvious that these guys have to stick to their own material which still has some growing up to do.
Visit their website: http://www.tempestt.com.br
Recordlabel: http://www.metalheaven.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/tempesttbrasil

60/100
THE HOUNDS OF HASSELVANDER – The Hounds Of Hasselvander (CD) USA May 2008 Marco van Empel
Style: Doom / Hardrock / Stoner Running time: 51:46 (Tracks: 8)
Multi-instrumental and a metal journeyman, Joe is wellknown for working with bands such as Raven, Pentagram, Black Manta and many others over the years. Now he's got a new band were he plays the bass, guitar and does the vocals. The complete mix of classic bands such as Trouble, Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath is not that bad, but I prefer his old material. This new stuff is a bit boring and it really all sounds the same. The Hounds Of Hasselvander is nothing more or less than a stoner/doom album from just a mid level. Check it out by yourself.
Recordlabel: http://www.myspace.com/rocksaviour
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thehoundsofhasselvander

65/100

APRIL

ANDRE MATOS – Time to be Free (CD) Brazil April 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Power Metal Running time: 64:15 (Tracks: 11)
Andre Matos is without a doubt the most famous Brazilian heavy metal singer. He has come a long way since his adolescent days with Viper, Angra, Virgo, Shaman and now his first solo attempt. In this ambitious effort he receives help from long time friends such as ex Angra companion Luis Mariutti and associates such as Sasha Paeth and Roy Z who handle the production.
"Time to be Free" could be nothing else than melodic power metal with high production values. It's what Andre knows best, a sound he has been serving for almost 20 years. The album is a mix of Angra, Helloween and Gamma Ray. The songs are very interesting but I think that most of them could have been a bit shorter. I would also prefer more songs in the vein of "How Long". Andre's performance is great. I think he delivers his most mature work to date. His voice is quite different than in the Angra days and in my opinion much more interesting. All the fans of Andre Matos and europower in general should own this record.
Visit their website: http://www.andrematos.net
Recordlabel: http://www.spv.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/andrematossolo

80/100
ANMOD – Mostrosity Per Defectum (CD) Brazil April 2008 Corinne van den Brand
Style: Death / Grindcore Running time: 32:10 (Tracks: 12)
Anmod was formed in 2005 with 3 former members of Fornication. They changed there style a little bit. They added a lot of grindcore with death metal influences and Anmod was born.They make very straight forward grindcore with no variation at all. If you like to listen to 12 very similar songs,all fast with a singer who sounds like a long burp , this is a cd for you. But I don't like it at all, it's to boring. Sorry!!
Visit their website: http://www.anmod.com.br
Recordlabel: http://www.deitydownrecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/anmod

60/100
BEATALLICA – Sgt. Hetfield's Motorbreath Pub Band (CD) USA April 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Metal Tribute / Parody Running time: 47:03 (Tracks: 13)
The name of the band and the title of this album speaks for itself. BEATALLICA plays a mix of METALLICA and THE BEATLES. But can we speak about a Tribute band here or are they just a parody to both bands? Anyway, Beatallica exists of Jaymz Lennfield (vocals, rhythm guitar), Grg Hammetson (lead guitar), Kliff McBurtney (bass) and Ringo Larz (drums). They already have released two EP's earlier with 7 and 8 tracks. On "Stg. Hetfield's Motorbreath Pub Band", which was released in October 2007, you can hear thirteen tracks of Metallica songs mixed with songs of The Beatles. To mention a few tracks of this album: "Blackened The U.S.S.R" ("Blackened" & "Back In The U.S.S.R."), "Sandman" ("Enter Sandman" & "Taxman"), "Leper Madonna" ("Leper Messiah" & "Lady Madonna"), "Helvester Of Skelter" ("Harvester Of Sorrow" & "Helter Skelter") and "…And Justice For All My Loving" ("… And Justice For All" & All My Loving"). All songs have completely new written lyrics with references to songs of Metallica and other bands/artists like Motörhead, Dokken, Madonna, Diamond Head, Kip Winger etc. And the vocal lines of all these songs are from the original Beatles songs. Of course Jaymz sings the same way like James Hetfield does. The production of this album is good. It's just a great album of classic Metallica songs mixed with classics of John, Paul, George and Ringo, a.k.a. The Fab Four a.k.a. The Beatles. Anyway it's a nice album to listen to once in a while.
Visit their website: http://www.beatallica.org
Recordlabel: http://www.oglio.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/beatallica

79/100
BLACK MASQUERADE – Holy And Bright (CD) Japan April 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic (Power) Metal Running time: 48:28 (Tracks: 10)
"Holy And Bright" is the second album from this Japanese metal band. I received it, just like their first album "Spread Your Wings", from their nice foreign manager, Baek Hee-Eun. Since their first album, there have been some line-up changes, but guitarist Yoshihiro Nitta (ex-Steel Emblem) is still the most important member of Black Masquerade. He is even talented as other Japanese neo-classical playing guitarists like Norifumi Shima, Katsu Ohta and Kelly Simonz! Their songs are mostly played in mid-tempo, call it a mix of melodic (power) metal and neo-classical metal, I the vein of Concerto Moon, Double Dealer and Ark Storm. There are also a few faster songs, a ballad and a short instrumental track. Songwriter and guitarist Yoshihiro has once again managed to write interesting songs which are performed by excellent skilled musicians and a good vocalist!
Visit their website: http://www.blackmasquerade.com

81/100
BOOMERANG – Sounds of Sirens (CD) Germany April 2008 Marco van Empel
Style: Heavy Power Metal Running time: 42:10 (Tracks: 10)
Boomerang was formed in 1996 out of members from the thrash band Arcus. Thomas Fahrnbach, Axel Johann and Stefan Zobel started the band. After Arcus was disbanded, Axel said to Thomas let’s bring true heavy metal back just like a boomerang….and so Boomerang was born. After taking turns at bass and drums for a couple of years, Boomerang had formed their definite line up in 1998 with Andreas Reichard on drums and from 2001 with Stefan Groetzinger on bass. Stefan Groetzinger had to leave the band in 2005. The new bassplayer is Daniel Schäfer. The demo "Real Unreal" was published in 1999 and was extremely positively critized by the fans of hard melodic music, which lead to national and international interest for Boomerang. The band did some great live shows with bands such as Tankard, Sabaton, Emerald and Wizard. Boomerang started to be a real cool live band. Boomerang plays heavy power metal with reference to bands like Blind Guardian and Iron Maiden. Good melody lines with some cool breaks and a clear production. My favourite song on the album is the openings track 'One Night To Remember' ….it's got that real heavy metal vibe and is cool stuff for die hard concrete biters. This band got some great riffs and vocalist Axel Johann is also doing a great job on the new record. Boomerang is far from a bad band, but will be never my personal favourite in heavy metal in general….for me it’s all not there yet. Check it out by yourself, metalheads
Visit their website: http://www.boomerang-metal.de
Recordlabel: http://www.puresteel-records.com
 MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/boomerangmetal

70/100
CARLOS LICHMAN – Firestorm (CD) Brazil April 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Instrumental Shred Metal Running time: 31:48 (Tracks: 9)
Guitar virtuoso Carlos Lichman was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He began his musical education as a classically trained guitarist. In 2001, he recorded the "Wake Up The Dragons" EP with the heavy metal band Neverland. However, he decided to start a solo career and recorded his first instrumental single in 2003, in 2005 followed by an EP. In 2006 he released the live dvd "Celebrando Mozart", playing compositions of Mozart. He also appeared on two compilation cd's. He recorded his first "real" album "Firestorm" with some other Brazilian musicians, but he invited also some wellknown guitarists to play some guest solo's (Kiko Loureiro, Pablo Soler, Francesco Fareri and Jim Horne). On "Firestorm" are some ultrafast shred metal songs with complicated changes and impressive melodic solo parts like "Speed Rules", "Shred Dogs" and "Key To The Shred City" (which is played in honour of MacAlpine and Friedman"), but there are also a few calmer rock/fusion tracks like "Just Rock It", "Intense Guitar Playing" and "Beyond The Universe". These songs are influenced by a guitarist such as Michael Lee Firkins. There's also a short classical piece, called "Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie". So this album is a good mix of instrumental shred metal in the vein of Rusty Cooley, Michael Angelo Batio and some more rock influenced songs influenced by Michael Lee Firkins and Steve Morse.
Visit their website: http://www.carloslichman.com

79/100
CIRCUS MAXIMUS – Isolate (CD) Norway April 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Progressive Metal Running time: 54:39 (Tracks: 9)
2007 marked the year when A.O.R. and Hard Rock oriented label Frontiers decided to embrace a bit heavier sounds releasing albums by progressive sounding bands like Seven Tears and in our case "Isolate". Norwegian band Circus Maximus had already debuted through Frontiers with the 2005 album "The 1st Chapter" but with a more hard rocking or mellower sound. "Isolate" is much heavier and with a direct progressive approach. I was really amazed by this record. All songs have that catchy feeling but without being cheesy. Instead you have these massive guitars along with sophisticated drumming, great keyboards and brilliant vocals. This is progressive metal the way I like it. No meaningless parts which exist only to make a song awfully long and boring. Along prog songs you will find some real hard rockers like "Arrival of Love" with great melodic choruses. Just the type of tune that can brighten your day. Trust me on this and grab this album.
Visit their website: http://www.circusmaximussite.com
Recordlabel: http://www.frontiers.it
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/officialcm

88/100
DARKEST SEED – The Seed Is Rising (MCD) Brazil April 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Hardrock / Heavy Metal Running time: 15:00 (Tracks: 3)
Darkest Seed are a bunch of Brazilian youngsters making a lot of noise. So much is clear after I listened to the first two tracks on this EP. Even the website does not have a bio so I have nothing to go on, other than the fact that I found out, this EP is released as a teaser for a complete album, to be released sometime this year. The third track made me sad; covering a song by Queen is asking for the verdict "blasphemy" and eventually, that is what I think. "The Show Must Go On" in a metal style, with adapted melody lines sounds AWFUL. And if a band has a vocalist who does not come close to the big Freddy M., the band should leave this alone. They chose not to, so they're not afraid for anything or anybody. Well…check it out yourself because this demo is available for download (see website).
Visit their website: http://www.darkestseed.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/darkestseed

50/100
ETHS - Teratologie(CD) France April 2008 Kay Vloeberghs
Style: Metal / Metalcore Running time: 1:08:54 (Tracks: 15)
It's not a surprise that France can deliver great metal bands, think of Gojira for example. Eths is just another one for the list. Although they already exist from 1996 it was in 1999 that they started using the current band name and got noticed. Or maybe it's because of singer Candice Clot... She has an incredible voice, think of a French mix between Arch Enemy and Walls of Jericho. I love it! Brutal, defiant and alternating that's how you can describe this album. Surely a band that you have to keep an eye on. Actually the best description is of a sick horror movie that you want to see over and over again. They already played a lot of shows in Europe in the years they exist but I hope there will be more. If you did not know any of the albums the band made before this is certainly a must have in your collection to get to know them.
Visit their website: http://www.eths.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/eths

90/100
HAIEETA - Mvemjsun(d) (CD) Ireland April 2008 Kay Vloeberghs
Style: Heavy Metal / Stoner Rock Running time: 38:36 (Tracks: 6)
Haieeta is a gang 5 friends with the same mindset. Since they started out in 2004 they have been playing gigs extensively throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland, they have played with bands such as Orange Goblin, End of level Boss, Volt, Coldwar and Suns of Thunder. They also did a showcase gig for a Radio Station (Phantom FM) in October 2007. The first demo (Ballistic) was recorded in 2006 and contained 5 tracks. A year later Haieeta went back in the studio, the recording took 3 days and the result was this EP "MVEMJSUN(D)", yes some may call the album name stupid but the title does not represent the music at all! Haieeta brings out a powerful sound that will bring you in a comatosed state. Later this year a split on Vinyl with Bad Boat will come out through the legendary punk label Good Vibrations/Belfast.
Visit their website: http://www.bebo.com/haieeta
Recordlabel: http://www.realizerecords.com
 MySpace: http:/www.myspace.com/haieeta

85/100
HEATHENIC NOIZE ARCHITECT - Already a Legend (CD) Australia April 2008 Kay Vloeberghs
Style: Mathcore / Hardcore / Metal Running time: 32:18 (Tracks: 12)
HNA is described as furious, unique and intense. And I have to agree on this one! Heathenic Noize Architect is bound to be the next big thing after bands like Cave In or Converge, if they keep it up "Already a legend" brings 12 songs filled with the fury of hardcore and the intensive metal with on top a voice that brings a perfect balance between the singing and the screams. As a fan of the "older" powerviolence bands and the "new" mathcore bands. HNA is a mix of Charles Bronson and The Dillinger Escape Plan! Since their start in 2004 they produced 2 great albums. And I hope they will have tour plans really soon!
Recordlabel: http://www.deformeathing.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/heatenicnoizarchitect

90/100
HEIDEVOLK – Walhalla Wacht (CD) The Netherlands April 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Folk / Viking Metal Running time: 41:33 (Tracks: 10)
Heidevolk has really made a good impression with "De strijdlust is geboren" three years ago. So good that Napalm Records signed the band. Can you imagine? Within a few weeks people in America are singing the lyrics from "Hulde aan de kastelein". Hilarious but also fantastic because its all about history. And history is always interesting. Especially the history of Gelderland the province Heidevolk based their lyrics on. And I can't give them no wrong. If bands in Finland can be successful singing in their home town language why couldn't Heidevolk become as big as those bands by using Dutch lyrics. Personally I think Dutch is a very good language for heavy metal. I still remember hearing the first black metal song in Dutch Countess' "Bloed in de Sneeuw" (killer song).
"De strijdlust is geboren" already was a great album but with "Walhalla Wacht" Heidevolk is on the throne of Folk/Viking Metal with more rigid playing and a better production Heidevolk is ready to conquer. Because of the use of a violin sometimes even the name of Skyclad comes in mind. Originators of mixing folk with metal. Besides that Heidevolk strong point is lots variation, using black metal riffs and screams, blast beats but on the other hand also folk songs sung with a mighty clear voice Heidevolk will surely please every fan of this music. Go see them live where they are even better than on cd. Heidevolk: music with high fermentation since 2002.
Visit their website: http://www.heidevolk.com
Recordlabel: http://www.napalmrecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/officialheidevolk

83/100
HOT BUTTERED ANAL – Please Kill Me (CD) USA April 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Metal / Hardcore / Punk Running time: 30:00 (Tracks: 15)
HOT BUTTERED ANAL is a trio existing of Bob Cocks (guitar, vocals), Ziggy Drynuts (bass) and Chris Cornhole (drums). The band was formed in 2005 and "Please Kill Me" is their first album which was released in April of 2007. They have recorded 15 songs for this album. HBA plays a mixture of Metal, Hardcore and Punk. And I tell you, when I listened several times to "Please Kill Me", with a few songs I had to think a little bit of bands like Mucky Pup, Ludichrist, M.O.D. etcetera. But HBA cannot even come close to these mentioned bands. There's just too much crap on this album, like "Suck My Balls", "You're Dead", "Drunk Punk", "Skrewdriver Love" and the two acoustic songs "Magnum" and "Heads In The Garden". Their lyrics range from extremely violent to completely absurd and everything in-between. And there's also a lot of twisted humour. But I don't take these guys very seriously, they're just pathetic. Anyway, the few songs which I like on this album are "Daddy's Banana Boat", "Freedom For The Lobsters", "See Spot Run", "True Love" and "Flaming Robots". As you can understand "Please Kill Me" is not an album which I would recommend to buy. By the way, of course there's no label who would release this crap. That's why HBA have released this CD themselves.
Visit their website: http://www.hotbutteredanal.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/hotbutteredanal

58/100
HOUSE OF LORDS – Come To My Kingdom (CD) USA April 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Hardrock Running time: 57:33 (Tracks: 14)
When House Of Lords began a promising career, I hoped that they would stay popular and release many albums; I really dug songs like "Pleasure Palace" and "Love don't lie". Unfortunately, like many other bands, House Of Lords did not survive the hectic rock stage, but they returned strongly with "World Upside Down" and a strong live album after that. Based upon good old fashioned symphonic hardrock, the band regained recognition for the excellent music they made over the years.
The new album that lies in front of me is a strong, modern album with smooth production and a tight sounding band. James' voice still has a good deal of the power it used to have, and I must say that the songwriting surprised me positively. Outstanding material, above average, with some nice riffs and pounding beats. The opening track is a short bombastic interlude to the real thing that starts with the titletrack, pounding heavily on my ears. The band also provides us with radio-ready rocksongs like "I don't want to wait all night" and the ballad "Another day from heaven", that is also –in an acoustic version- closing the 14 track cd. People who have appreciated this band before, and people who love good melodic rock, should have a listen. I for one was pleasantly surprised !
Visit their website: http://www.jameschristianmusic.com
Recordlabel: http://www.frontiers.it
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jameschristianhouseoflords

90/100
ILLDISPOSED – The Prestige (CD) Denmark April 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Death Metal Running time: 40:27 (Tracks: 12)
Yes, there is stil something rotten in the state of Denmark! Illdisposed are back with a new album on a new recordlabel. After 2 albums (which both entered the Danish album charts) they were dropped by Roadrunner. But with AFM they found a new label. Gone are the clean vocal parts, the synths and the samples. Death metal nineties style is what you get. Illdisposed playes a very tied form of death metal with groovy rhythms. Most parts are mid tempo with kick ass double bass and sometimes if the song asks for it the accelerator entirely gets kicked in. Every now and than we hear a melodic guitar riff between the hard hitting riffs which makes it an alternating cd and a very pleasant listen for me. The mixing is done by Frederik Nordstrom and is very powerful. Lyrics deal with such issues as sexual submission and religious fanatics but also with relationships. Glad to see and hear that the band still hasn't lost its sense of humour with songtitles as: "Ich bin verloren in Berlin" & "Don't be astonished by the fact that your cd player will tell you that this cd contains 89 songs though you only hear 12". Typical Illdisposed humour. If you have money for one Death metal album this month, go and buy this one. You won't be disappointed!
Visit their website: http://www.illdisposed.dk
Recordlabel: http://www.afm-records.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/illdisposed

84/100
KING'S CALL – No Alibi (CD) Germany April 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Melodic Rock Running time: 47:19 (Tracks: 10)
King's Call is a new classic hardrock band of band founder, guitarist and vocalist Alex Garoufalidis, who played in the past with his former band Eagle Springs. Also in the past, Alex spent some time in L.A. and worked with wellknown musicians such as Graham Bonnet, Chuck Wright and Cherie Currie. But he always wanted to create his own band again. So he recruted other musicians with who he recorded "No Alibi". "No Alibi" is a classic melodic rock album, influenced by bands such as Thin Lizzy, Led Zeppelin, Gary Moore and Magnum. But…it's not as good as the mentioned bands. The songs aren't that bad, Alex is a good guitarist, but as a vocalist he's certainly not good enough. Unfortunately for King's Call there're a lot of better bands in the melodic rock genre.
Visit their website: http://www.artistworxx.de
Recordlabel: http://www.musicbuymail.eu
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/artistservice

68/100
KREATOR – At the Pulse of Capitulation – Live in East Berlin 1990 (DVD & CD) Germany April 2008 Mario van Dooren
Style: Thrash Metal Running time: 2:05:00 (DVD) & 1:10:34 (CD)
This is some real good stuff from Kreator; the best European thrashband ever if you ask me! I'm not gonna bore you with the biography of this great band because people who are not familiar with this band are probably also under the impression that Metallica plays metal these days, hahahahaha. These old recordings where only available on VHS years ago and are now finally re-released and remixed on DVD. The live recordings where made a few months after the fall of the Berlin wall in 1990. Around that time Kreator only had released great albums full of classic songs so it was a good decision from the band to re-release this stuff on DVD finally. Also added is the Kreator "Horror Movie; Hallucinative Comas" which was recorded for the "Coma of Souls" album in 1991. As an extra bonus they also added the live recordings as a live-CD to this Digipack. A documentary is also added but has not really an extra value.
This is a very nice DVD especially because Kreator was one of my favourite bands during that days. Only little complain I have are the black & white recorded parts of the movie because they are jumping on my TV screen; probably they didn't use steady-shot during these recordings...a bit irritating. For all die-hard Kreator fans: run to your local CD store and buy this great documentary of German Thrash!! This is a real "Awakening of the Gods"......
Visit their website: http://www.kreator-terrorzone.de
Recordlabel: http://www.spv.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/officialkreator

85/100
LIMBONIC ART - Legacy of Evil (CD) Norway April 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Symphonic Black Metal Running time: 59:06 (Tracks: 10)
AAARRRGGGGHHHH!!!! They are back, the masters of symphonic black metal. After leaving the scene in 2002 with the superb album "Ultimate death worship" Limbonic Art's return is a fact with this new cd "Legacy of evil" After 2003 Morfeus and Daemon each walked their own path with on one side Dimension F3H the space/industrial project of Morfeus and on the other hand Sarcoma inc. Deamon' s black/thrash project. Both bands released some good material but oh boy what was I psyched to hear on the the 06-06-'06 the band got back together.
So what can we say about this comeback album? Has Limbonic Art changed? The answer is no! People who are not familiar with Limbonic Art, the band plays a style of intense symphonic black metal with drumcomputer. Don't let the fact that they use a drumcomputer scare you of. It suits the music perfectly. The only difference I can hear on this album is the lesser use of samples. Sure they are still there, for instance listen to the beginning of "Twilight Omen" or the howling wolves in the fantastic song "Lycanthropic Tales" but not as much than on their previous albums. No problem if you ask me because there is so much more to enjoy. The blasting fury, the agressive guitar riffs and the lyrics still concerning the subject nightmares. Besides that Limbonic Art really knows how to give their sound a really majestic sound with minimal touches. For example listen to the toms in "Nebulous Dawn". Something only Emperor and Limbonic Art are capable of. The album is released on Nocturnal art productions, Sammoth 's (guitarist Emperor, Zyklon) label. I don't think Sammoth had to think twice to sign them again ( Limbonic Art were his first signing). So after hearing the album several times we can say that this is a fantastic comeback!
Recordlabel: http://www.nocturnalart.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/limbonicart

89/100
MAGNUM – Wings of Heaven Live (2CD) England April 2008 Kostas Kounadinis
Style: Hard Rock Running time: 51:58 / 58:45 (Tracks: 9 / 10)
There are some cases where any introductions are completely useless. Mega bands such as Magnum have a brilliant career to speak for themselves. One of England's best Hard Rock bands (and personal favourite) presents another live album. "Wings of Heaven Live" comes as a celebration for the 20 years since the release of "Wings of Heaven"; the most successful Magnum album to date. The first cd features old and new tracks and the second one is "Wings of Heaven" delivered live in its entirety. All the Magnum magic is present. Catley's supreme voice, Stanway's heavenly melodies and Clarkin's divine guitar. Recorded during the November 2007 U.K. tour, the album captures the essence of a typical Magnum concert with the sound being fantastic. Another classic!
Visit their website: http://www.magnumonline.co.uk
Recordlabel: http://www.spv.de
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/magnumuk

90/100
MAIN LINE RIDERS – Shot In The Dark (CD) USA April 2008 Mr. Globetrotter
Style: Hardrock Running time: 30:07 (Tracks: 10)
The bio states that if you like a mix of 80s hardrock, Ramones-like punk and sleaze rock, this is what you have to listen to. So I did. The title of the album, of course, immediately reminded me of the famous Ozzy album, but after listening to the album, Ozzy was way out of sight. This Texas-based band boasts upon the return of rock 'n roll, making music in the style of AC-DC, Skid Row, Guns 'n Roses and Hanoi Rocks. That statement promises a lot.
Unfortunately, I don't quite agree on the influences. Well…partly, that is. I hear a lot of Ramones and Skid Row but that's about it. Add a little Motley Crue to it and there's your style mix. This is by far NOT a rejuvenation of classic hardrock, this is a party band that plays some dirty sleazy rock with a modern touch. I have nothing against that, in fact, when played in a bar during a beer session I would probably quite enjoy it. But listening closely makes me feel more and more that Main Line Riders will just be that party rock 'n roll band instead of becoming real rockstars. Maybe that is not what they set out to do, and quite frankly, if they would, it wouldn't happen…
Visit their website: http://www.mainlineriders.com
Recordlabel: http://www.retroactiverecords.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/mainlineriders

67/100
MIDNATTSOL - Nordlyss (CD) Germany/Norway April 2008 Dennis van Dommelen
Style: Nordic Folk Metal Running time: 50:02 (Tracks: 10)
Singer Carmen Elise Espenaes and guitarist Chris Hector (AHAB) founded Midnattsol in 2002. Together they share the same interest in Nordic mythology and thought it was a good idea to do something with this interest by creating music that expresses this feeling. Other like-minded individuals were shortly found in guitarist Danial Droste (also of the godly funeral doom band AHAB) bassist Birgit Ollbruner and drummer Chris Murzinsky (known from R.I.P.). Keyboardist Daniel Fisher completed the sextet. After months of hard work the debut album "Where twilight Dwells" saw the light of day in 2005. The band toured on the sides of In Extremo and played some festivals.
So lets talk about the new album now. Produced in different studios. Vocals done at the Mastermind studios while the instruments where done with Markus Stock (Empyrium, Vision Bleak) at the Klangschmiede E studios. Metal producer no. 1 of the moment Tue Madsen did the mix and at the Finvoxx studios took care of the mastering. Different places will not always guarantee a good result. But with this album I have nothing to complain. Sound is very powerful and clear. The band not wishes to be categorised as a symphonic metal band but prefers their style as "Nordic folk metal". Indeed you must do something to attract attention between all these female bands wandering round in today's metal scene. Sure there are some "folk" influences but it's not enough to really outshine. To me it still sounds as a Nightwish clone during their Oceanborn/Wishmaster albums cast in a different packaging. The voice of Carmen also sounds a little monotone to me. I would like to hear more variation in the future. The bonus track (which is not on my promo) is sung by Daniel Droste from the above mentioned band. Curious to hear how that sounds. Because of an overcrowded scene Midnattsol is nothing more than an average band. I hoped for more because of assistance by the guitarists of AHAB but unfortunately.
Visit their website: http://www.midnattsol.com
Recordlabel: http://www.napalmrecords.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/midnattsolfolk

59/100
MOOI WARK – Bok 'M D'r Op (CD) The Netherlands April 2008 Ad van Osch
Style: Rock Running time: 45:31 (Tracks: 12)
MOOI WARK is a Dutch band who was formed way back in 1992. Since then they have released seven CD's so far and they have had several line-up changes, but since a few years the line-up is existing of Bert Koops (guitar, lead vocals), Arnold Kuik (guitar), William Bossong (bass) and Dennis Hendriks (drums). The band is singing in Dutch dialect and they belong in the category of Dutch bands like Normaal, Bertus Staigerpaip, WC Experience, BZB, Jovink En De Voederbietels etc. Well for Mooi Wark, just think of a mix between STATUS QUO, AC/DC (musically) and NORMAAL (vocals, lyrically). I already had their albums "Zo Plat As Wat" (1996), "Gang Op De Ket" (2001), "Only Rock N Roll" (2003), "Smeer" (2004) and "Gewoon Idioot" (2006), so when this new and 8th album "Bok 'M D'r Op" was released I bought it immediately. This album is, also like "Gewoon Idioot", produced by former Vandenberg bassist Dick Kemper and it sounds fantastic. "Bok 'M D'r Op" features 12 tracks and has again some real party rockers like "In De Blote Kont" and "Schijt Aan Regels" and "Kom Op Maok Een Vuust" is a cover of SLADE's "Cum On Feel The Noise". The second track of the album "Altied Blieven Plakken" reminds me very much to bands like DROPKICK MURPHYS, SOCIAL DISTORTION, DE HEIDEROOSJES etc. My favorite songs of "Bok 'M D'r Op" are "Bier Van De Tap", "Altied Blieven Plakken", "Bok 'M D'r Op", "In De Blote Kont", "Kakkers (Opnieuw Gesmeerd)" (which is a re-recording, the original version is on the album "Zo Plat As Wat"), "Schijt Aan Regels", "Thuus" and "Achter De Tent". Well, rockers are well known as great drinkers, so I would say….let's drink some beers and have a party.
Visit their website: http://www.mooiwark.nl
Recordlabel: http://www.cdhal.nl

87/100
MYRATH – Hope (CD) Tunisia April 2008 Ronny Elst
Style: Progressive Metal Running time: 52:01 (Tracks: 8)
Myrath, a progressive metal band from Tunisia, was formed in early 2001 by guitarist Malek Ben Arbia, who was just 13 years old at the time. For the first two years they played only cover songs. With a new line-up they got into progressive metal and for almost two years they played exclusively cover songs of Symphony X. Later they started to write their own songs and in 2005 they released their self produced album "Double Face". And now they have released their first official label through Brennus Music record label from France. "Hope" was recorded, mixed and produced by Kevin Codfert (Adagio keyboardist). Kevin has met the band in 2006 when Myrath opened for Adagio and Robert Plant at the third edition of the Mediterranean guitar festival. And what a debut release it is! Myrath is still a lot influenced by Symphony X, Adagio and Rising force, but they add some oriental influences to their sound. Myrath plays great progressive metal, mixed with some oriental influences, heavy-quite aggressive guitar riffs, great guitar/keyboard solo's and a powerful singing vocalist!
Visit their website: http://www.myrath.com
Recordlabel: http://www.brennus-music.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/myrathband

91/100
POWERFUL - Welcome To The Slaughterhouse (CD) Italy April 2008 Sammy De Maere
Style: Heavy Metal