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ACHERON - Decade Infernus 1988-1998 (2 CD) (2004)
(USA)
ACHERON formed back in 1988 after founder Vincent Crowley left the band NOCTURNUS. Creating his own demonic entity to make the world witness the new age of Satan. Acheron released several albums throughout their career, which have all become underground classics. The band broke up for a short time but refounded recently. They just recorded their first new album since 1998 ("Rebirth: Metamorphosing into Godhood"). Because Acheron's past releases where always hard to find, the band and Black Lotus Records decided to release a "best-off" album which contains 32 remastered tracks on 2 CD's. This double CD is limited to 3000 copies and i'm one of the lucky bastards to receive it for a review! This is a very rare, great release containing the whole history of the band through music and text. |
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AFTER ALL - The Vermin Breed (CD) (June 2005)
(Belgium)
After All from Belgium already released their debut album in 1995 and this album is the bands 8th release. After All's sound is rooted in the old school metal tradition with a clear tendency towards the heavier side of thrashmetal. For the recordings of this 5th full-length album the band teamed up with "cult" producer Harris Johns who produced a lot of cult albums in the past with bands like: VoiVod, Helloween, Kreator, etc. |
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AFTER DEATH - Reviving the Gods (CDemo) (2004)
(USA)
'Before Christ - After Death' is an old songtitle of the first Nocturnus album "The Key". Well, that's the right answer!! AFTER DEATH is the "new" band of former Nocturnus drummer/singer Mike Browning!. This CDemo contains 4 songs which do have some Nocturnus influences but to be honest; the songs on this demo sound much much weirder! Maybe it's because of the dominating keyboard sound. The keyboards mostly sound like a church organ. But i have to admit that Mike & Co did it again; this stuff is very original but i doubt if the Nocturnus fans will love this kind of music. For myself: after several listening sessions i loved the new stuff!!
The only complain on this demo is the moderate production which is done by Jon Oliva (Savatage). Maybe he was stoned again during the producing/mixing of this album, hahaha. Next time guys (and girl), you have to go to the MorrisSound studios!!
Nevertheless, i was very surprised by this band and i'm very glad Mike Browning didn't loose his roots!! |
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AGANKAST - Scotlands Finest (CDemo) (October 2005)
(Scotland)
Agankast is a band from Scotland that was formed only a few years ago by ex-Atomkraft guitarist Rob Matthew Redhead. To be honest; i never liked the standard metal of Atomkraft. The more is was surprised by this CDemo of Agankast! The band plays a kind of NWOBHM but then with some aggresive elements in their songs. I was thinking of a mix between bands like: Motorhead, Venom, Kreator and Wargasm. The songs on this demo nevertheless have a fresh and modern touch! Don't excpect any nu-metal/hardcore influences; this is very solid metal on a pretty high level. No technical bullshit; just full speed ahead metal! This kind of metal would have had a lot of succes in the eighties! That's probably the main reason i like this band. Good CD! |
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AGANKAST - Dance of the Dead (CD) (October 2005)
(Scotland)
For a history of this band, take a look at the CDemo review above. This is the bands first full length album which is self financed. The band still plays a mix of NWOBHM and thrashmetal in an original way. The songs on this full length album sound even heavier and extremer then their demo stuff, probably because of the rawer voice and production. Some of the new songs sound even like deathmetal songs to me because of this. Personally i prefer their demo stuff above this well produced album. After all it is very strange that this band has not signed any recorddeal yet because they deserve it and nowadays there are lots of worse bands that do have a recordlabel!! So recordlabels & thrashmetalfans; check out this band!! Dont expect anything like Atomkraft; this is much better!! |
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AGENT STEEL - Earth Under Lucifer ( Mini-CD) (2004)
(USA) Agent Steel has always, and still is, been one of my alltime fav. bands. Also the new line-up with Bruce Hall kicks ass! But to be honest; i was a bit disappointed when i first heard their new album "Order of the Illuminati". During the "Bonded over Europe tour" i spoke to Bruce about it and het asked me if that was the reason i didnt review the album on my website? I had to laugh and said: No, i only do reviews of CD's & Demo's i get for free.....and i wasn't lying!! I would love to review all of my CD's but then i have to quit my job!! So after a while Bruce came back and offered me the new Mini-CD of Agent Steel. I didn't even mean it as a hint!! Well, here's my review: I'm glad they took one of the best songs from their last album as a "single". As a bonus there are three live-songs on this EP; Mad Locust Rising, Unstoppable Force, Agents of Steel (my alltime fav. song). This is a very good choice because everyone who was still sceptic about Bruce Hall now will shut their mouth!! This guy is singing like a siren too!! So buy this EP a.s.a.p!!! Visit their website at: http://www.agentsteelonline.com/ |
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AIRGED L'AMH - The Silver Arm (CD) (December 2004)
(Greece)
Airged L'amh is a band from Athens, Greece. Airged L'amh is a Gaelic word which means in plain English: "The Silver Arm". In 1996 the band already recorded their first demo called "A Vertigo Edda Arise". After 1998 there were several changes in the line-up because some of the members had to serve their duty in the army. In 2002 the band signed with 'Metal Reunion Records' and the first demo was re-released containing 2 new songs with the new line-up of the band. At the end of 2003 the band enters the studio to record "The Silver Arm". The album is a concept story based on an ancient Celtic legend. This album earned the band a contract with 'Black Lotus Records'. The music sounds pretty unique mostly because their singer (Steve Venardo) has a strange, but original, voice. To compare this album therefore with any other band is very difficult. The band plays a mix of heavy power & epic metal with some folk elements. I also hear a lot of 80's metal back in their songs. Just listen to this album and judge for yourself if you like it, personally i really enjoyed it and i hope to see the band alive sometime during one of the great (German) festivals! After Innerwish another good band from Greece!! |
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ALTERED AEON - Dispiritism (CD) (March 2005)
(Sweden )
Altered Aeon was formed in 2001 when drummer Henrik Ohlsson (Theory in Practice, Mutant) presented a bunch of songs to Kjell Andersson (vocals, Azotic Reign). The name of the band was Thrawn in these days. Due to working with their traditional bands it took quite some time before they had developed the sound they wanted for Thrawn. In 2002 guitarplayer Nicklas Rehn was added to the line-up and the band started rehearsing a lot for their first recording "Light Creates Shadows". For this recording they had some help from Per Nilsson (guitar) and it was recorded by Jonas Kjellgren (Carnal Forge). The line-up was completed when Per Nilsson joined the band as a full member and Ander Hedlund (bass) joined the band too. The band later inked a 3-record deal with Black Lotus Records. During the recording of this album they decided to change the bandname into Altered Aeon. |
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ANAND - Joy 4 Ever (CD) (2004)
(The Netherlands)
Lion Music surprised me this time with several good/great technicals bands!! Anand is on of them. This guy was born in Surinam (South America) and moved to The Netherlands at the age of 5 (offcourse with his parents!). He calls his biggest influence Joe Satriani and that is noticeable! Anand recorded his first solo album (A man's mind) after winning the price of "Best guitarplayer of Holland" 96-97. This new CD is totally instrumental but isn't boring at all. He already did some supportacts for Tony MacAlpine and now he's putting a band together to promote his music. When you have the opportunity to visit one of his shows, just grab it!! You'll be surprised! Anand is already confirmed for this years Headway prog-festival (see LINKS) in Amstelveen, The Netherlands (3 & 4 april). |
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ANGEL - Don't wanna run (mini CD) (September 2005)
(Norway)
Angel is a new band/project of ex-Trail of Tears (and now in Imperia) singer Helena Michaelsen.
This EP contains 4 songs that don't remind me to her Trail of Tears period. All the songs are acoustic and don't have the typical gothic touch you should expect from Helena. |
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ANNIHILATOR - Schizo Deluxe (CD) (November 2005)
(Canada)
It has been just over 16 years since the release of the critically-acclaimed, debut masterpiece, "Alice In Hell". 20 tours, 10 studio cds, 2 live cds, a few compilations and "Best Of's" and some million+ in sales later, Canada's Annihilator is set to unleash their latest album: "Schizo Deluxe". |
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A PERFEKT MURDER - Strength through Vengeance (CD) (November 2005)
(Canada)
"Strength Through Vengeance.", is A Perfect Murder's second album. The band plays a mix of classic thrash metal, southern sludge and hardcore; a steely testament to it's purifying power. |
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ARTENSION - Future World (CD) (June 2005)
(USA)
It was sometime in '92/'93, when Vitalij Kuprij, who was studying classical music in Switzerland at that time, met Roger Staffelbach, a Swiss guitarist who was also studying at the Jazz School in Lucerne.
They soon founded their band "Atlantis Rising", which played several instrumental gigs in Switzerland. After having recorded some demos, they got in touch with Mike Varney of Shrapnel Records, who showed great interest in the band but suggested to add some vocal lines to their songs. |
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ARTILLERY HELL - CDemo (August 2005)
(USA)
Artillery Hell was formed in the summer of 2000 by Robert Anderson and Mike Knittel. First under the name 'Dreadnaught'. In the beginning the band played only covers. After several line-up changes the band began writing their own material and they where heavily inspired by bands such as; Morbid Angel, Slayer and later Cradle of Filth. |
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ATLANTIDA - Promo EP (CD) (2004)
(Brasil)
This progressive metal band from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil was formed in 1994 under the name "ATLANTIS". In the beginning they used to play heavy/thrashmetal, but after some line-up changes they switched their musical concept to a more progressive style. Bands like Dream Theater, Symphony X and even the older Queensryche are their main influences. I also hear some jazz-parts back in their songs. They will soon release a full lenght CD called " Painted Realities" and i'm very curious for that one because the songs on this Promo EP already sound very good!!! The future for these guys is looking great if you ask my opninion!! |
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ATTACKER - Promo 2005 (CD) (January 2005)
(USA)
Attacker is an US band that plays 80's thrash/speedmetal just like they did already years ago. Last year they already released their " Soul Taker" album ( see Archive Reviews) and that one was GREAT!!! Well, a few months ago i met Mike Sabatini again and he gave me this 3-song ('I am Sin', 'The Unknown', 'Brain Shake') promo CD with some rough mixes of new songs from their forthcoming album "The Unknown". On October 17th, the band entered the recording studio to begin work on this next album. The album will contain 8 new tracks. The project will emanate from world renowned TRAX EAST RECORDING Studios in New Jersey. Artwork for the new Attacker album will be illustrated by Jowita Kaminska. Ms. Kaminska is an established artist from Poland and has designed album covers for DECEASED, EXODUS and many others. |
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ATTACKER - Soul Taker (CD) (2004)
(USA)
Last week i had the honour to see this US "cult" trashband at the Keep it True festival in Germany. From the original (debut album) line-up there are three members left; Bob Mitchel (Vocals), Pat Marinelli (Guitars) & Mike Sabatini (Drums). Well, after all these years they still have their own style! Together with Halloween (US) & Wizard (Germany) they where the winning bands of the KIT festival!! |
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AT VANCE - Chained (CD) (May 2005)
(Germany)
At Vance is a German band that was formed in 1998 by guitarplayer/mastermind Olaf Lenk. This guy is a very virtuos guitarplayer who has recorded many solo/projects and has been a member of metalbands like ´Velvet Viper´ and ´Center´. With At Vance, Olaf proves himself to be a creative and artistic bandleader. The band already did several tours with bands like: Rhapsody, Angeldust & Kamelot. I've seen this band live once and to be honest: i wasnt impressed at all! Well, after several line-up changes the band finally found a superb singer, Mats Leven, also known from his work with Yngwie Malmsteen. Mats sounds like a mix of Jorn Lande & David Coverdale. Wwwoowww, this is an incredible singer!! The total sound of At Vance is sounding much more grown-up than their earlier stuff. Later the band also replaced the bassplayer for John ABC Smith (ex-Gallow's Pole) and their drummer for Mark Cross (ex-Helloween, ex- Metalium). At Vance plays heavy metal in the vein of bands like (old) Pretty Maids and Masterplan. I really enjoyed listening to this album and i can advice everyone to listen to this album at least!! Good album!! |
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AT WAR WITH SELF - Torn between Dimensions (CD) (November 2005)
(USA)
At War With Self is the brainchild of guitarist / multi-instrumentalist Glenn Snelwar. " Torn Between Dimensions" , the band's debut recording features Glenn Snelwar on guitar, mandolin, and keyboards; Michael Manring on fretless bass and e-bow; and (Fates Warning's) Mark Zonder on drums and percussion. Zonder's solidly tasty drumming firmly anchors the trio along with the melodically propulsive bass work of Manring, all wonderfully adorned by Snelwar's fierce playing. |
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BALATONIZER - Occlused in Ottusity (CD) (June 2005)
(Italy)
Balatonizer is a grindcore/deathmetalband from Palermo, Italy and was formed in 1997. In the beginning the band played pure grindcore but during the years, they also mixed it with a lot of deathmetal elements. This is the bands first full length album and it contains 32(!) songs and 1 videoclip (for the song 'Muscular Prevarication'). The band name bands like; Cannibal Corpse, Brutal Truth, Napalm Death, Vomitory, etc, as their main influences. This album contains a mix of grindcore/deathmetal that does not sound original but is performed very well. This is not really my kind of music and does also not belong to my target group but for the variation it is always funny to review this kind of bands. The band doesnt have any songtexts (like Obituary on their debut 'Slowly we Rot") but " the only semblance of message that we want to transmit is totally expressed in the wonderfull comic artwork, drawned by drummer Marco" according to their biography. Well, i have to admit; The artwork is faboulous!! Compliments! This album has a running time of nearly 30 minutes (not bad for 32 songs…).
If you're into grindcore with the already mentioned deathmetal parts, just check this band out. |
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BATTLE RAM - Idem (CDemo) (June 2005)
(Italy) Italian True-Metalband Battle Ram started playing together at the end of the summer 2001 as
a coverband; in the beginning it was just for the fun of playing their favourite songs: mainingly U.S. Metal, NWOBHM and cult epic stuff, then they started writing their own material. In March 2003 they released their first demo cd. The self titled 5 tracks demo contains 4 Battle Ram songs and a Cirith Ungol's "Join The Legion" coversong. Battle Ram are writing new material for their first album at the moment. I already saw the band during their live performance at the Keep It True Warm-Up show in Germany (april 2004) and the band did impress me that time. The 4 songs on this Cdemo sound original and the band is blessed with some very good musicians. Only disadvantage is the Cirith Ungol cover because singer Daniele hasn't the throat & range for this song. This song can only be performed by Tim Baker himself..... |
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BEEHLER - CDemo (2004)
(Canada)
BEEHLER, former drummer/singer Dan Beehler of the legendary EXCITER is back!!!!!
Together with his old Exciter bandmate Alan Johnson (bassguitar) and two new guitar players: Sean Brophy & Scott Walsh.
This demo is bringing back old memories. The new songs could have been on "Heavy Metal Maniac", Violence & Force" or even "Kill after Kill". Dan Beehler isn't screaming the way he did in his early days, but his drumsound is still fabulous!! |
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BEFORE SILENCE - The screaming wolves (CDemo) (October 2005)
(Belgium)
Before Silence is a Belgium band that was formed in 2003 and the band name bands like; Evergrey, Symphony X, Stratovarius and Dream Theater as their main influences. This in the bands first demo and when i was looking at the nice lay-out and infosheet of the band i was already expecting a lot from these guys. Well, to be honest, i was a little bit disappointed because of 2 points; the moderate vocals & production. Musically it all sounds okay and the band do remind me to (especially) Evergrey. Personally i think that the band has the quality to become more wellknown but there is still a long way to go for them!! So my advice; take your time in writing new songs before going back to the studio and please rent a good producer so everything will sound more grown up. People that are into the bands i mentioned above should at least check out this band! |
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BEFORE THE DAWN - 4:17 am (CD) (2004)
(Finland)
BTD was founded in the heat of the summer of 1999. Originally it started as a solo project of Tuomas. BTD is a band from Finland that plays dark melodic metal. To compare this band with another band is very difficult because the music sounds original. Sometimes i hear some (old) Paradise Lost/Tiamat influences in their music.This 3rd album sounds very well because of the great production!! The vocals are sometimes very "rough" but they also sound sometimes very "poppy". Normally i'm not into this kind of metal but i have to admit that i enjoyed listening to this album!! Great production & good musicians!! Fav. songs: "Heaven", "Dreamer" & "The Black". |
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BELLAS, GEORGE - Venomous Fingers (CD) (2004)
(USA)
George Bellas is the name of an excellent guitarplayer that already recorded his first solo album (Turn of the Millennium) way back in 1996 on Shrapnel Records (Mike Varney). Shortly after signing to Shrapnel Records, George also joined UFO that was called MOGGWAY that days because of un-resolvable reasons/problems. George also recorded albums with: John West, Audiodrome, Ring of Fire, Magellan and lots more..... |
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BESTIAL DEVASTATION - Sores, Blood & Pus (CD) (December 2004)
(Italy)
I've never been to much into grindcore and after listening to this CRAP i even begin to hate it!! |
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BEYOND TWILIGHT - Section X (CD) (March 2005)
(Denmark/Sweden/USA)
Beyond Twilight was already formed in the early nineties under the name 'Twilight'. The band started as a project of keyboardplayer Finn Zierler and he released several albums under the name Twilight. Well, that is all history now as Finn from 1999 and forward put all his energy in this amazing band 'Beyond Twilight"!! Their debut album "Devils Hall of Fame" was already a classic album and is still visiting my CD-player regularly these days!! On the first album Jorn Lande (Ark, Masterplan, Millennium, etc) was singing. Everybody who knows me knows that i'm a very big Jorn Lande fan, so i was very curious about this album with substitute singer Kelly Sundown Carpenter (Outworld). Well, i can tell you that Kelly is doing his job great!! I'm not gonna say that he is better than Jorn Lande, to me they are equal!! They both fit perfect to the Beyond Twilight type of metal. The album was recorded at the end of 2004 and mixed by Finn Zierler & Tommy Hansen (Pretty Maids, Helloween). People who like/love the first Beyond Twilight album can buy this album blind!!! The only thing I miss is an European tour!!! |
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BIOMECHANICAL - Eight Moons (CD) (2004)
(UK)
I discovered this band a few months ago during the Headway Prog festival (Amstelveen, The Netherlands). I was blown away by their stage performance!! Such an energy!! So i was very glad to receive their debut album! Despite of the moderate production, this album is superb!!!! Great songs that remind me sometimes to 80's bands like Hades or Vicious Rumors but with more progressive breaks in their songs. Unbelievable that this band is from the UK because nowadays "real" metal nearly died out overthere. Singer John K sounds like a cross between; Halford, Tate, LaBrie, Anselmo, and he is also the vocalist of BALANCE OF POWER these days! The songs contain some modern influences (sometimes) but these are not inconvenient. |
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BIOMECHANICAL- The Empires of the World (June 2005)
(UK)
Yes!! Finally the new Biomechanical CD!! I was so f*ckin curious about this album after their great debut (see Archive Reviews) album!! This UK metalband signed to Earache records last year and this is their first album for this label. I was already blown away by the live energy during their Headway festival appearance in 2004 and their debutalbum "Eight Moons" but this new one beats everything!! Woowwww!! Singer John K. (ex-Balance of Power) is one of the best European singers these days; he has an enormous wide vocal range; high screaming vocals but also very agressive screams!! I agree by the bands words: " Biomechanical; a new British metalband that tread the perfect line between modern/extreme metal and classic heavy metal to devastating effect". "Biomechanical's lethal new style combines Judas Priest-style, twin guitar shredding with Pantera-esque stomp taking metal to dizzying new hights of complexity and brutality in the process". |
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BLU INFINITO - The Futility Songs (Maxi CD) (March 2005)
(Italy)
The project Blu Infinito was born on February/March 2003 from the meeting between Davide Ciscì ( voice, guitar, keyboard and bass - in recording- )- and Giammarco Vacca (drums), but a true activity begins only on May of the same year. First target of the band was the recording of a demo, using the compound pieces from Davide during ' past activity with his precedent band.
After 4 months searching for members, Davide decided to keep up the band as a duo, with the help of some session musicians. So the band continued and finished the composition of 4 songs, and on December began the recording sessions of "The Futility Songs", ep with 3 tracks (about 20 mins of music) recorded between December 2003 and January 2004. |
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BOLTTHROWER - Those Once Loyal (CD) (November 2005)
(UK)
BOLT THROWER were formed at a punk gig in a Coventry pub in 1986, following a conversation between friends guitarist Barry Thomson and bassist Gavin Ward. Inspired at that time by bands such as Sacrilege, Discharge, Candlemass & Slayer, they decided to form a band that was heavy, aggressive, but more importantly, original. They were soon joined by Alan West, a friend of Baz's, who took the role of vocalist/lyricist . When it came to finding a drummer, Andy Whale was suggested by a mutual friend, and when he met up with the rest of the band to try out, he found he had similar music tastes, and joined immediately. |
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BOOMERANG - Weave World (CD) (2003)
(Germany)
Boomerang is 5 piece band from Frankenthal, Germany. This is the bands first "real" longplayer after their 1999 demo " The real unreal". The cover/booklet of the CD looks very good with great artwork of Dominic Harman. The first song, "Mourning Sun", starts fast and agressive. It strikes me that the musicians are all doing well in the vein of bands like Blind Guardian, Iron Savior and even Gamma Ray. The only complain is the quality of their singer Axel Johann. He's not bad at all but he has a strange accent that a lot of german singers have. There's a lot of variety on this album, so if you like the bands i mentioned above you can buy this album blindly!!! |
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BULLDOZER BREED - Promo 2005 (CDemo) (December 2005)
(The Netherlands)
Bulldozer Breed was founded in 2004 in Deurne, The Netherlands. This is the bands first (4 track) demo.
The members of the band all have a lot of experience because they already played in bands like Elegy, RatCom, Imitallica & Chronic Noise. The band subscibes their music as "loud, mean, fast & dirty".
The production of this CD is very good for a demo. Musically it all sounds nice and to me it sounds like a mix of bands as; Sonic Violence, Kreator & Wargasm but all with an industrial touch. Not really my kind of metal but i can appreciate this band! If you like the bands i mentioned above; you should check them out live; they are worth a visit!
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BUZZKILLER - Hateful Intentions (CD) (2004)
(USA) Never heard of this band?? Well, that will change very soon! Buzzkiller is a project of ARCHETYPE singer Greg Wagner. If you expect something in the vein of Archetype then you're totally wrong. Greg put this project together with Craig Schwartz (guitar) and Mike Harris (Drums). I had to listen to this CD for a several times before i liked it, but are that normally not the best albums? All kind of technical highlights are put in the songs with the incredible voice of Greg Wagner as a special. To me, Greg is one of the best singers at this moment in Metal music. Thats probably also one of the reasons that he was asked to join the Judas Priest coverband (British Steel) when "Ripper" Owens stepped out to join the original Judas Priest. To compare this band with another band is impossible. They play a very unique style of music that you should listen to! Favorite songs on the CD are: Evil Conception, Murder & Hells Road. You can order the album directly by sending 15 $ (Incl. postage & handling) to: Mr. Greg Wagner, 312 East High Rear, Apt. # 8, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. |
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BUZZKILLER- II (CD) (2004)
(USA)
I just add CD reviews to my website for about 1 year at this moment. Funny, here's already the second Buzzkiller CD, a project of ex-Archetype singer & workaholic Greg Wagner. A workaholic?? Yes, a real one!! After his unrespectful departure (see Guestbook) from Archetype he has not sit down for a moment!! When Greg sended me this album he also added some CD-R's from his other bands/projects: Concussion, Public Outcry and Digital Nerve. Beside these projects he is also the singer of US Cultband BREAKER!! |
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BYFIST - Adrenalin (CD) (2003)
(USA)
BYFIST
is a band formed by a few Ex- REVEREND members. The line-up: Vikk Real (Vox), Davey Lee (Lead guitar), Jess Vara (Drums), Notch Vara (Guitar) and Rey Gone (Bass). This EP contains four songs that are is the same vein as the older Reverend stuff. The production and engineering of this EP are done by David Wayne (Ex- Metal Church) and Joe Floyd (Warrior). Nevertheless its all good traditional (speed/heavy) metal but far from original. I've heard it all before….. Fav. Song: Eternal Damnation |
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CAFFERY, CHRIS - Faces (CD) (2004)
(USA)
Chris Caffery? Yes, the worcaholic that gave his contributions to lots of bands and projects such as: CIRCLE II CIRCLE, DOCTER BUTCHER, TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA and not to forget SAVATAGE! He joined Savatage already at the age of 19. Accompanied by a serie of ups & downs, leaving Savatage twice, he finally got together with the band permanently in 1995. |
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CEREMONY OF OPPOSITES - The Fear Within (CDemo) (December 2005)
(The Netherlands)
In the late summer of 2003 Pascal, As and Marcel decided to start a band. At first the plan was to make "Gothic Metal", though soon it turned out this wasn't wat they all wanted. After many changes within the band they came to the way it is now. At the end of 2004 they decided to ask their drummer to leave the band, because of differences in style, and because they thought it didn't work out the way things went. In may 2005 they found a new drummer, Sander, which resulted in the fact that the band is finally complete again. |
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COENEN, MARCEL - Guitartalk (CD) (2004)
(The Netherlands)
Marcel Coenen IS the best guitarplayer in the Netherlands. Marcel started to play guitar at the age of 11. In 1998 he already won the "best rock guitarplayer" contest in the Netherlands! After playing in several bands like SPEEDICA (later FORM) and LEMUR VOICE, he nowadays plays in the best dutch progrock band SUN CAGED. This CD is fully instrumental and reminds me to guitargods like: Tony MacAlpine, Paul Gilbert & Marty Friedman. One of the highlights of this CD is the guitarversion of the "Dutch National Anthem". This song he also used when he won the guitarplayer contest in 1998. |
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CONFESSOR - Unraveled (CD) (November 2005)
(USA)
"CONFESSOR made its mark on the underground metal scene in the late 80's by combining some of the genre's essential elements in a way that no band had attempted yet, and that few, if any have successfully blended since. Once dubbed "the world's most obstinately technical metal band", CONFESSOR never failed to bewilder their fans with ability to follow huge gut-wrenching guitar harmonies and wailing vocals with intricately woven riffs that could not be assigned time signatures. The band stood alone on an island it had created in a sea of redundant, cookie cutter metal bands until putting their instruments down in 1994" according their biography. Better way to subscribe their music is difficult just like the music of Confessor self. |
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CONQUEST OF STEEL - Idem (CD) (May 2005)
(United Kingdom)
Conquest of Steel?? I've seen this band lately at a local pub in Tilburg, The Netherlands where they played one of their overseas gigs during a small tour (together with Scavenger from Ireland). After contacting the band they sended me their latest release. Conquest of Steel plays traditional heavy metal (True Metal) with lots of NWOBHM influences! After listening to this album i have to admit that i'm a bit disappointed about it. On stage the band looked quite professional but on the album it all sounds very moderate. Also the production of the album sounds very cheap and i think the band could have done it much much better!!! Pitty, because they proved to be a good band ON stage. So guys, next time you've to spend more time on the songs and rent a good recording studio!! Just listen to the tracks on their website and order the CD if you like it. Conclusion: ON stage this band rocks but on vinyl/CD it could have all sound more professional! So if you get the chance to see them alive; just check it out!! |
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CONTRADICTION - The voice of hatred (CD) (September 2005)
(Germany)
This German band from Wuppertal was formed around 1989. After several demo's the band released their debut album "All we hate" in 1996. Later they had some label- and line-up changes and finally the band signed with Armageddon Music.
This CD contains 11 songs with a direct sound somewhere between thrashmetal and metalcore. The album is produced very well and the songs have a lot of variety. The music sounds like a mix of bands like Pantera, Pro Pain and sometimes even Madball. If you're into this kind of metal/core you want be disappointed with this band/album!!
The bands own description sounds: "Grooving, sweat breaking, brachial brutality but at the same time sometimes melancholic German metal". I agree with this!!! Check them out! |
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CROSSBOW - Priestkiller (7") (2003)
(Sweden)
Crossbow is a band from Southern Sweden and was formed in 2001 by members of Autopsy Torment , Pagan Rites, etc.
They are labelmates of the Czech band Puls and also released these songs on 7" vinyl. |
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CRUSTACEAN - Insaniac (CD) (2004)
(The Netherlands)
The second album of this dutch trashmetal band sounds much more grown-up than there debut album "Burden of our suffering". The songs are heavier, completer and blessed with a good production. The artwork is also great (made by their former guitarplayer Richard Schouten). In my opinion they have even developed an own style. On the debut album they did sound like Slayer (not strange if you know that most of the bandmembers are also in a Slayer- Coverband). Keep up this great work guys!
It would be important to support a great headliner in the future so the audience will know who Crustacean are! I dont have any fav. songs, they are all very good and full speed! |
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CRYONIC TEMPLE - Blood, Guts & Glory (CD) (2004)
(Sweden)
The Swedish powermetal band Cryonic Temple deliver a very good album with their second longplayer, "Blood, Guts & Glory". All the songs on this CD are composed very well. If you like bands in the vein of Helloween and Manowar with a singer who reminds me of Klaus Meine (Scorpions) or even Steve Grimmet (Grim Reaper) than you have to listen to this album immediately! The album is produced very well and the songs are all fast but do not sound like the other, so you'll stay hooked. To me this the best album Limb Music Productions released during the last months. |
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CRYSTAL EMPIRE - Lord of Illusions (CD) (October 2005)
(Italy)
The story of Crystal Empire began in the year 2000, when a talented guitar player named Mat Devecchi joined forces with a newborn but promising band called Nemesi. After a year spent playing coversongs in numerous live gigs, the band embraced the idea of writing original songs in order to prepare a demo tape. Soon Mat and Emanuele, the experienced keyboardwizard of the band, started laying down riffs and melodies, and after some months of hard work the two found themselves with five long and complex tunes of progressive powermetal, that were later enriched with some crushing drum patterns created by the band's drummer Matteo Avanzo.The songs were ready, but some serious line up problems led the band to postpone the recording of their debut demo cd.
After several line-up changes the band started recording the CD at Mat's Ivory Gate Studios, entering then the Rock Hattle Studios with producer Albino Barbero in order to put the final touches on the product. After two weeks of blood, sweat and tears, the band finally could hold in their hands the result of years of sacrifices: "Lord ofI llusions" had become reality. |
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DAN LORENZO - Nice Being Alone (CD) (March 2005)
(USA)
Dan Lorenzo was (and still is) the guitarplayer for the legendary Hades from New Jersey, USA! Together with Alan Tecchio (one of my alltime fav. singers) he formed Non Fiction after Hades was disbanded. Well, Non Fiction was the first band i was thinking of when i was listening to this second solo album of Dan Lorenzo. Songs like 'My Level' and 'Nothing" could have been on any Non Fiction album. The only big difference is that the vocals on this CD are done by several singers but none by Alan Tecchio!! The best song on this album is 'Too Fast for Hate' with guestvocals from Bobby "Blitz" Elsworth (Overkill). Dan uses a lot of guestmusician on this album and has composed several very good songs but also some very weak songs. Personally i prefer his Hades/Non Fiction stuff. Still i'm looking out to see this guy alive once again with this band because after all he IS a very good musician!! |
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D.A.R.K. - Dumbass Roadkill (CD) (January 2005)
(Sweden)
D.A.R.K. is a band from Sweden that did me send this 2-song CD. Difficult to review a band like D.A.R.K. by only 2 songs but i'll try to give my opinion about it; The band started in 2003 and wanted to play a mix of Hiphop, Hardrock, Techno and Blues. They have some hit-potential but to be honest; it's not my kind of music!!! It's not bad at all and i think the band has the possibility to become "famous". The 2 songs remind me sometimes to the Anthrax during their Indian finery & 'NOT' bullshit. To compare the band with any other band is very difficult because i normally don't listen to this kind of music. If you're interested, you can always visit their website and download some of their songs. |
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DARKEST HOUR - Undoing Ruin (CD) (November 2005)
(USA)
The band formed in Washington DC in 1998, playing hardcore shows and releasing two split 7" records and a CD EP before dropping The Mark of the Judas in 2000 and receiving great notice from the underground press. Victory Records quickly signed Darkest Hour in the wake of the excitement. Their first album for the label, "So Sedated, So Secure" came out in 2001 to critical raves. In 2003, Hidden Hands of a Sadist Nation kicked their profile up decidedly. |
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DARKNESS ETERNAL - Satanchrist (CD) (2004)
(Canada)
Darkness Eternal is a one-man project by a Canadian guy called: George Velaetis. He's playing all the instruments by himself and also takes care of the vocals (read: grunts). But this is not all; even the production & mixing is done by himself (with the help of Stew Kirkwood). Well, after listening to the album, I can tell you that producing is not his speciality........It's not sounding bad but it reminds me to a lot of older deathmetal demo's I own. To my opinion, it's not necessary these days to have such bad productions! The music nevertheless is sounding nice eventhough it's not original at all. I hear some influences from the older Possessed, Brutal Truth and even some Six Feet Under. A lot of die-hard black/deathmetal fans will worship this kind of music/bands but to me it sounds to standard. |
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DARK NOVA - Sivilla (CD) (May 2005)
(Greece)
This band was already formed way back in 1987 under the name 'Dark Devils'. In 1991 they already recorded their debut album "The Dark Rhapsodies" and this one was released on Molon Lave Records. The incapability of this label to support the album efficiently and release it on CD deprived the band of a firther recognition. The band had several line-up changes during all these years. In 1999 they released their second album "1999..a step beyond....." and this one was released by Seven Records. Finally the band signed with Black Lotus Records and this is their first album on this label. The band plays heavy-power metal and they are not doing this bad at all!! But what else can you expect when a band exist for nearly 18 years?? Singer Michael Choulakis has a nice, clean voice which reminds me sometimes to Messiah Marcolin (Candlemass). Dark Nova also has 2 women in their ranks; Kiki Lara on bass and Mary Tassouli on keyboards. The band is completed with Elias Koskoris (guitar) and Nick Adams on drums. The production of this album is moderate and i think that it had sounded much better with a cleaner, more powerfull production. Pitty about that but still its a good album for people who like pure Heavy Metal with sometimes a few prog-elements. |
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DAVID NEIL CLINE BAND - Demo 2003 (CDemo) (2003)
(USA)
David Neil Cline is an US singer/guitarplayer that already released several albums. To me, it was my first acquaintance with this multi talented musician. David did send me his latest promo (CDemo) together with 2 of his full length albums (Thorough Scrutiny, Malefic Influence). Because the promo is his latest release, i will only review this one. David is a very good guitarplayer and a reasonable singer too. The music is a mix of some older rock music with some (later) metal influences. To compare this music with other bands is very difficult; i hear some NWOBHM influences but also some later US rockband melodies back in his songs. Think about bands like; Tygers of Pan Tang, Santers and even some Deep Purple (maybe because of the keyboard parts). This is music for people that are at least 35 years or older (just like me, haha). Conclusion: Good music, not sensational, but all performed very well. It also pleased me that the demo stuff is much heavier than his earlier music. If you're curious about his music: |
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DAVID VALDES - Paradise Lost (CD) (December 2005)
(Spain)
David Valdes was born in the city of Malaga (Spain) and later moved to Tarragona. At the age of 13, David was able to discover what serious its passion, that was to play the guitar. David obtains his first amplifying and electrical guitar to the 14 years, at that time the music that attracted him was death metal and thrash, mounting its first band of death metal called WITCH. In the following years David discovers the magic of Yngwie Malmsteen, Marty Friedman & Jason Becker and its influences of J.S.Bach, Mozart, Beethoven and Chopin. That made him change his style radically, next and putting each time but in this guitarristic style, discovers two essential videos of education for its race like guitarist which they were Vinnie Moore and Paul Gilbert, being become fond of thus to the style shred. His first disc "Paradise Lost" consists 11 songs composed with its own means and resources. With a computer he was able to incorporate all the other nonexistent instruments: drums, bass, keyboards, etc..
This fully instrumental CD suits me very well. The comparison with guitargods like Vinnie Moore & Marty Friedman is good audible. David Valdes has delivered a very good solo album that will be loved by every fan of guitar shredding!! This is again, after Porty's solo album, a great instrumental album from out of Spain! Pitty David did send me a copy of the CD with only 6 songs out of 11!! So if you're into guitar-terror in the vein of Vinnie Moore, Yngwie Malmsteen, Joey Tafolla, Martry Friedman & Jason Becker; you should check out this guy!
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DECEIVER - Idem (MCD) (2004)
(Sweden)
DECEIVER was formed in January 2004 by Ex-Maze of Torment / Xenofanes members. The main goal of the band is to play music in the vein of their heroes: Motorhead, Mercyful Fate, Judas Priest, Venom, etc. Deceiver is NOT a rip-off band but they do (offcourse) have lots of influences. The band describe their music as "Thrashing Heavy Metal". The CD is produced in May this year with Tommy Tagtgren as producer. |
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DECEIVER - Riding with the Reaper (CD) (October 2005)
(Sweden)
I already reviewed this bands mini CD a while ago and i liked their 80's influenced thrashmetal. Well this is the bands first full length album and it is, again, produced by Tommy Tagtren.
This CD is a logical follow up to their debut CD and musically its on the same level. I still hear a lot of Celtic Frost, Motorhead, Venom, Destruction, Kreator and other 80's elements back in their songs while i hoped to hear some more original, own created, songs on this new album. |
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DECREPIT BIRTH - ......And time begins (CD) (2004)
(USA)
Decrepit Birth is influenced by the typical 90's US deathmetal bands. Not that strange if you know that they have ex-Hate Eternal / ex-Dying Fetus members in their ranks. This is the bands first full length album and it's blasting from the beginning till the end!! So don't expect any ballads! If you're into bands like Morbid Angel, Hate Eternal, Vader or also their labelmates Spawn of Possession, you should order this extreme deathmetal album immediately! Hope to see these guys on tour soon!! |
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DE MAN MET DE SNOR - Ontwaakt (CDemo) (December 2005)
(The Netherlands)
De Man met de Snor (translated in English; The Man with the Moustache) exist since 1999 and they play a mix of industrial, electro & darkwave. Their songs are all in the Dutch language which sounds very original for this kind of music. Personally i dont like industrial music at all so its impossible for me to give this demo a honest review. They name bands like NIN, Rammstein & Laibach as their main influences. To me it sounds crap! Not my kind of stuff but if you're still interested,
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DESTRUCTION - Inventor of evil (CD) (September 2005)
(Germany)
What to tell about Destruction?? This band is one of the best (European) thrashmetal bands for years now and I've been following this band for a long time! Together with Kreator and Sodom they are the founders of a superb thrash sound that is recognizable for a lot of thrashbands worldwide!
Singer Schmier still has his typical little screams/yells and the band still hates to play any ballad. A few years ago (1999) the band released the album "All hell breaks loose" after a silence of many years and they showed again that they still belong to the top of the European thrash scene!
Following trends was never important to Destruction. Personally I was not really impressed by their "The Antichrist" album a few years ago but this new album kicks your butt again!! Very important is the input of drummer Marc who joined the band at their latest record "Metal Discharge". This guy is a real asset to the band! The album has a fresh and new sound and features classic thrashsongs which are produced and mixed by Peter Tagtren (Hypocrisy). Beware for this new album; it will blow you away!!! Superb!!! |
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DIGGETH - One more yesterday (CDemo) (December 2005)
(The Netherlands)
February 2003, The international successful metal band Wicked Mystic disbands after 10 years of recording and touring, leaving a legacy of 3 critically acclaimed but nowadays hard to find albums .
In the second half of 2003 Harald te Grotenhuis (former WM) meets Benjamin Kip, drummer, at the time 19 years old and just on its way of recovering from a psychical illness. He persuades Harald to jam with him.
January 2004, Benjamin & Harald rehearse and jam on a weekly basis and they create a style of blues, metal and southern rock.
March 2004, the band, now named Diggeth enter the stage after recruiting ex-Wicked Mystic bass player Alco Emaus. They decide to act as a trio from now on. The music of Diggeth is not comparible with Wicked Mystic at all.
The lay-out & production of this CDemo are both great but personally i'm not excited about their musical direction. If you like the music-mix I named above, than check out this band. If you like bands like Black Label Society, you'll probably like this band. Sorry guys but this is not devoted to me…….
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DIGITAL NERVE - Digital Nerve (CDemo) (2004)
(USA)
Greg Wagner......when you read my reviews regular, you will already know this name. Greg (ex-ARCHETYPE, BUZZKILLER, BREAKER) is a real workaholic and i'm glad with that because he's a great musician!! Digital Nerve is also one of his bands/projects and to be honest; it's one of his best bands!! I prefer the Buzzkiller stuff but this sounds great too! It's more agressive and to me it's incredible that this band still has no recordlabel. Great songs with lost of breaks, heavy guitar riffs and rough & screaming vocals! These days every band thinks they are progressive....well this band is! Every progrock fan should have this stuff! Greg is working on his own website but till that's finished you can always contact him at this adress: Mr. Greg Wagner, 312 East High Rear, Apt. # 8, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, USA. |
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DISSECTION - Maha Kali (CD) (January 2005)
(Sweden)
"The Rebirth of Dissection" is printed on the front cover of this 2-track CD. After years of absence (the singer has been in jail for several years) the band indeed "rebirths" with this CD. I'm not acquainted with their earlier stuff, i only know that the band has a high status in the Blackmetal scene. |
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DISTRAUGHT - Behind the Veil (CD) (August 2005)
(Brasil)
This band already send me 2 albums earlier, about 3 or 4 years ago in a time that i was not even doing any reviews! I liked both albums but they where not blessed with a good production. Well, this album sounds a lot better but still has a moderate production. Pitty, because the Thrash/Deathmetal of this band sounds very good and professional! |
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DIVISION - Trinity (CD) (December 2004)
(USA)
Divison is a progressive metalband from Annandale VA, USA and exist since 1993 (first under the name: Visionary).
Well to be right away: this labum is GREAT!! This is metal the way it should be played; great compositions, lots of breaks, great musicians & a good production!! To compare their music is very difficult because they sound very original (and thats difficult nowadays!). Bands they sometimes remind me off: (old) Iced Earth and Control Denied (The band name Chuck Shuldiner as one of their biggest inspirations). The band has a great ritme-section with drummer EJ Ripple & bassplayer Dan Plunkett (Ron Kralik has officially been announced to replace Dan as the new bassist for Division because Dan is suffering from a medical condition that has made it very painful and nearly impossible for him to play bass.) and owns 2 great guitarplayers; Mike Blevins & Matt Crooks. Singer Nick Kelly has a powerfull but raw voice that fits good to the music. The album only contains good/great songs. So if you're into real US-progmetal, you should buy this album!! I love it!! Division is currently in the studio working on the follow up to "Trinity". The working title of the album is "Articles of Faith" and it will have 14 tracks. The album should be out early in 2005. |
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DOGPOUND - The Hellbum (CD) (2004)
(Sweden)
When i first looked at the booklet of this CD i was expecting some hardcore/crossover band. After listening to the album i was totally surprised by the music style of this band! Progressive rock/metal that sounds very commercial from time to time. The band was founded already in 1999 when 3 classmates stick their ideas together. This is their first release for Lion Music and i hope it will not be their last! I really enjoyed listening to this album; good musicians, great songs & a superb production! To compare this band with another band is very difficult but if you' re into rockmusic with "poppy" influences than you should listen to this album!! |
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DOL AMMAD - Star Tales (CD) (May 2005)
(Greece)
Dol Ammad is the brainchild of composer-keyboardplayer Thanasis Lightbridge who formed this band way back in 2000. This band already released 2 demos in 2001 & 2002 which both got great reviews!! At the end of 2003, beginning of 2004, the band arranged & produced this debutalbum for Black Lotus Records with the inclusion of drummer Alex Holzwarth (Sieges Even, Rhapsody). The drum recordings took place in Germany and the rest of the recordings, mixing and mastering took place in Thanasis personal studio in Greece. The vocal parts on this album are done by a 12-piece classical choir consisting of members of one of Greece's best youth choirs. The band describes the music as 'Electronic Art Metal'. The album features 12 tracks of operatic & progressive fanatasy metal. To compare this band with any other is very difficult because of their unique style. The music is sounding very original but i doubt if there are enough fans of this kind of ´Metal`. If you´re looking for something new, refreshing, just listen to this album and judge it by yourself.......... |
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DRAGONIA - Resurrection (Mini-CD) (August 2005)
(Italy)
Dragonia already exist since 1995 but then under another bandname 'Evil Zone'. After a short time the band disbanded and everyone tried to carrie out his own career. Later, in 2002, the band reformed with a different line-up and decided to change the bandname into 'Dragonia'.
After, again, several line-up changes, the bandleader Massimo Menichetti (sounds like the Italian version of Meniketti; Y&T???) decided to take the leadvocals also to himself, together with playing guitar. |
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DRAGONLORD - Black Wings of Destiny (CD) (November 2005)
(USA)
Born from the mind of the founding Testament guitarist Eric Peterson in 2001, DRAGONLORD's debut ("Rapture") already drew astounding praise from all corners and demonstrated Peterson's deep commitment to exploring his darker musical passions.
This newest album proves to be even sharper and more fully-realized version of DRAGONLORD; sonically deeper and with greater nuanced detail than ever before. A contributing factor may be that Peterson gave more space to his co-conspirators now that the band has taken full flight. Drummer Jon Allen and guitarist Steve Smyth (Nevermore, Testament) have returned, and Peterson has recruited Derek Ramirez (who performed with Testament on the Demonic record) to properly fill the bass position (following the departure of legendary journeyman Steve DiGiorgio). Also present once again is keyboardist Lyle Livingston. |
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DRONE 24-7 - Blooddrugssexmoney (CD) (2004)
(Germany)
Drone 24-7 is a German band that asked me to review their album. Why?? I really don't know because when they had looked at my Metal interest they could have noticed that i'm not interested in this kind of "Metal"!!! To me this is totally crap!! I'm not interested in this kind of 'Marilyn Manson' ripp-of music!! |
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DUNGEON - One Step Beyond (CD) (April 2005)
(Australia)
Dungeon is an Australian band that was formed already in 1989 by vocalist "Lord" Tim Grose. The band name bands like; Helloween, Dokken, Slayer, Judas Priest & Soilwork as their main influences. They already released several albums and did some tours in Australia & Japan. This is the bands 5th album (they also have 1 DVD) and their second on Limb Music Productions. With this album and their deal with LMP, the band tries to conquer Europe. I'm curious if they wil make it overhere in Europe? The music is very nice and the musicians are all excellent but to me it all sounds not that original and i think the band will not jump out of the mass of releases of bands overhere. Their music will be popular in a country like Germany where they adore powermetal with Helloween influences. So i think they should make Germany their main goal. Conclusion: Nice album, good musicians, good production & very nice lay-out but to my opninion not original enough to make it overhere in Europe. |
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EARTH - Star Condemn'd (CD) (2004)
(Australia)
EARTH is an Australian band that was formed back in 1998 and they had only one goal: Create Swedisch sounding deathmetal! The band already recorded this album in 1999 but due to economical problems with the label, the album hasnt been released....until now!! |
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EDDIE OJEDA - Axes 2 Axes (CD) (November 2005)
(USA)
Eddie Ojeda is best known for all the years he has spent as the lead guitarist for Twisted Sister.
This is Eddie Ojeda´s first solo album. On this album Eddie uses a lot of special guests: Ronny James Dio, Dee Snider, Joe Lynn Turner, Rudy Sarzo, Chris MacCarvill, Joe Franco, Terry Ilous!! An all-star metal team! |
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ELDRITCH - Portrait of the Abyss within (CD) (December 2004)
(Italy)
Eldritch is an Italian band that was formed in 1991. The band played that days music in the vein of bands like Queensryche & Fates Warning with some thrash elements. The band already signed to Limb Music Productions in 1993. Their debut album "Seeds of Rage" (1995) was already 'Record of the Month' in the German "Heavy oder Wass?" magazine. In 1998 Eldritch already released their 3th album which has influences from bands like Coroner & Annihilator. As far as i know, this is the bands 5th album and it can be described as music where the balance between agressive & progressive parts is mixed perfect!! There are also some songs that have a high sing-a-long level but these are not irritating at all. The musicians are all doing their job great and they have wrote some incredible prog-songs!! If you're into progmetal with sometimes 'catchy' parts , you should listen to this album. Another great band from Italy!!! |
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ELWING - War (CD) (September 2005)
(Greece)
In 2000 this band was formed under the name 'Merlin'. After a few line-up changes they also changed their bandname into 'Elwing'. The band already released their debutalbum "Immortal Stories" in 2001 and this one got lots of good reviews worldwide. This is the bands second album but their first on Black Lotus Records.
Elwing plays epic/powermetal with a lot of agressive riffing, melodic solos, choir vocals and they managed to write a damn good album!! |
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EMINENCE - Humanology (CD) (2004)
(Brasil)
Woowwww, this is brutal!! I was surprised after the intro-music ended!! These guys know how to play DEATH metal!! Brasil is a supplier for good thrash/deathmetal bands for years already and i receive regular some good stuff from overthere. |
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ETERNAL NEMESIS - Eternal nemesis (CD) (October 2005)
(USA)
The development of Eternal Nemesis began in Spring of 2004 in the city of Riverside, California with lead guitarist and founder of Eternal Nemesis, Vic Herbilla. Vic wanted to recruit 4 new musicians to spread heavy metal to the masses, starting with promising guitarist John Knowles.
Al "Mayhem" Mendez, a veteran of the metal scene (Mad Whip Thunder, The Dark Angel Reunion, Dreams of Damnation, Pagan War Machine, Scarred) was introduced into the band by a touch of fate, one night during a show by none other than the metal mastermind himself, Ronnie James Dio. Eternal Nemesis was closely coming to completion. Bassist Joe Harris, a former band member of Vic, came into the band shortly after Al Mayhem decided to join. Joe and Vic were band mates in a local cover band. Eternal Nemesis was in need of a bass player with the chops and the attack to match its arsenal, and decided to call on Joe to fulfill the bassist position. The final piece to complete Eternal Nemesis was still at hand. Eternal Nemesis did not want to settle for any type of vocalist. They had an ideal picture of what they wanted to be beneficially suitable for the music and style, and when vocalist Evan Richards made his way into the picture, Eternal Nemesis could not think of finding someone else more suitable for the job. The band was now completed. |
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ETERNAL REIGN - Forbidden Path (CD) (June 2005)
(Germany)
Eternal Reign already exist since 1997 under the name ' Perfect Crime'. After releasing 2 demos the band released their first CD "Crimes of Passion" in 2002. Shortly before the release the band was forced for legal reasons to change their bandname into ' Eternal Reign'. Last year the band played at the Headbangers Open Air festival and i had the luck to see them overthere. On stage the band already impressed me a lot so i was very curious of their new album! Well, they didnt disappoint met at all! 'Forbidden Path' fulfilled my expactations.
The band plays melodic powermetal with a touch of the US-style and also some progressive elements. Last song on this album is a coversong (' ten seconds in' ) from US-cultmetalband Breaker.
If you like US bands like: Riot, Jag Panzer, you should check out this band!! GREAT album!!! |
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ETERNITY BLACK - CDemo (May 2005)
(USA)
Eternity Black is a band from Houston, Texas, USA that was formed only a few years ago. The band has 3 ex-Helstar members (Larry Baragan, Rob Trevino, Russell Deleon) in their ranks but dont expect anything like that!! The music of Eternity Black is sounding very agressive and also very modern and makes me think of bands like Pantera and/or MachineHead. This is because singer Ryan McKnight has a very raw, energetic throat which suits good to the music. It all is sounding very professional and i think this band has lots of potential to become a wellknown metalband. Personally its not really my kind of Metal but i have to admit that they are doing their jobs great!! It want take long before this band gets signed by a good label!! Just check out their website and listen to their music |
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EUROFORCE - Euroforce (CD) (September 2005)
(Greece)
EUROFORCE is the cooperation of 2 music masterminds. Vocalist Jiotis Parcharidis (Human Fortress, HydroToxin) and Greek guitar wizard Theodore Ziras (Solo Artist, Ice Divine, Guardian Angel). EUROFORCE rhythm section consists of two top players in Athens, Spyros Kasabakalis (Drums) and John Kostis (Bass).
The band was formed in 2003 and after 2 years of exhausting rehearsals and pre-production their debut self-titled CD is ready to give a new breath to the Progressive Neoclassical Genre. |
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EXCALION - Primal exhale (CD) (September 2005)
(Finland)
Excalion was formed in December 2000 in central Finland by keyboardplayer Jarmo Myllyvirta. This guy wrote some melodic powermetal songs and began looking for bandmembers to realize his ideas. |
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FLESH MADE SIN - Dawn of the Stillborn (CD) (May 2005)
(The Netherlands)
Flesh Made Sin is a band from my hometown Tilburg and exist since 1999. I already reviewed their mini-album a while ago and i was very positive about that one! The band plays fantastic thrash/deathmetal in the vein of bands like: Infernal Majesty, Kreator and Slayer. Singer Twan van Geel reminds me a lot to Mille from Kreator (in his early days) and also to Schmier from Destruction. After this you can conclude that it all is not sounding very original but who gives a f*ck?? Not me!! The CD only contains fast songs but isn't boring at all because there is still a lot of variety between the compositions. The album is produced very well and has a very nice lay-ouut. FMS has everything to become a big act and i hope they will go on in this musical direction!! Great album!!! |
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FLESH MADE SIN - Masterwork in Blood (CD) (2004)
(The Netherlands)
FLESH MADE SIN was formed during the summer of 1999 by guitarist Bjorn and guitarist/vocalist Twan. Soon bass player Marc (Stip) and drummer Marco were added to the line-up and a complete band was born. |
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FORCE OF EVIL - Black Empire (CD) (April 2005)
(Denmark)
Force of Evil is a 5-piece Heavy Metal band formed by legendary twin guitars of Mercyful Fate: Michael Denner and Hank Shermann. They have joined forces with: Hal Patino, Bjarne T. Holm, and Martin Steene.
All known for their performance with King Diamond, Mercyful Fate and Ironfire.
The bands style of music is classic metal topped with sinister and screaming vocals. |
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FORETOLD - Idem (CDemo) (March 2005)
(The Netherlands)
Foretold is a band from Tilburg, The Netherlands. Foretold was founded in 1999 by Kim Sloothaak (drums), Harrie van Erp (guitars) and Mathijs Ansems (bass). They went through several name changes before settling as In Gods Hell at first. After several line-up changes, early 2004 the line-up was finally completed as they found a vocalist in William Nijhof. After some disscussion they decided to change the band name into Foretold. |