"Mike's Reviews, Part 5"
by MikeSOS
Sponsored In Part By
36 Crazyfists Bitterness the Star
Roadrunner Records
36 Crazyfists is a seething new metal band that hails
from a most unlikely place, Alaska. And while we thought that Jewel
was the only musical export from the frigid state, this aggro quartet have
recorded a gem of an album to help you steer clear of that notion.
Imagine the finishing of Deftones, especially in the vocals ("Slit Wrist
Theory"), meshing with the sheer brutality of any self respecting East
Coast hardcore act ("Eightminutesupsidedown," "Chalk White") and you've
got one Molotov cocktail of a band. 36 Crazyfists also use the beauty
of dynamics to their advantage, knowing when to devour your senses with
a thick chorus ("Turn To Ashes") or a chugging riff that emits windmills
and picking up change ("Circle The Drain"). They're not limited to
being balls out though, as they also showcase a lot of texture and grace,
truly proving that they can write a song that can both be crushingly heavy
and hook happy ("An Agreement Called Forever," "Two Minutes From A Year").
Armed with guest spots from Nora's Carl Severson and Skinlab's Steev Esquivel,
these heavy hitters show who their friends are, and with musical comrades
like these, you know that 36 Crazyfists are not only heavy as hell, but
pretty well respected, too. 13 tracks of potent metal that will leave
your jaw on the floor is what 36 Crazyfists delivers. If you're starving
for the next big thing, this may be the band you're looking for.
(www.36crazyfists.com)
Local H Here Comes the Zoo
Palm
Local H, remember them? They had a few hits
in the grunge era, and hey, yea, they're that band with only two guys whose
sound filled arenas. Well, they've returned with a new 10 track disc
that can put them back on the map as being one of the more eclectic and
original outfits once again. With a slew of guest performances (Josh
Homme and Jerry Only amongst others) helping this dynamic duo out, Local
H crank up the rock and really let the listener have it, giving off some
of the most organic stuff out there. From the tongue and cheek lyrics
and stellar groove of "Rock And Roll Professionals" to the driving rhythms
and debaucherous chorus ("give me money, give me blow") of "5th
Ave. Crazy," Local H show that they are here to stay, but more importantly,
here to rock. If you missed out on what was good in the mid '90s
and want to hear a band that understands the gift of rock, check out Local
H's latest. (www.palmpictures.com)
The Rocking Horse Winner Horizon
Equal Vision
The Rocking Horse Winner is one of those esoteric
female fronted rock outfits that sound best in a scene in some WB melodramatic
hour long series. 10 tracks of dreamy vocals and fluffy music that
sounds kind of like rock, but really is more in line with pop ("Miss You")
is what The Rocking Horse Winner's Horizon is chock full of, and
it's not that their style is so unlistenable. It's just too damn
airy and happy, almost like an updated version of The Magic Garden or a
Brady Bunch album. Kudos to the pristine production, though, as it
gives TRHW a mixture of a very 1970s, Carpenters-esque feel with the sounds
of the female pop warbling ("When Songbirds Sing"), as well to the interesting
instrumentation, which gives off a real jazzy tone that suits the lounge
at times ("Tomorrow," "Christmas Day"). If you dig female fronted
pop music, you'd ooze over it, but if you're a little less sensitive than
that, steer clear. (www.equalvision.com)
Battery Final Fury
Soulforce
Battery is a straight edge Washington DC hardcore
outfit whose career is chronicled on this 22 track import disc. Sadly,
it takes an overseas label to bring us the fury and the power of an American
hardcore group, but that's the sad state of American music these days.
Battery's music is solid and hearty, like a good can of soup; it'll fill
you up and leave you satisfied. Good breakdowns, impassioned choruses
and above all, a real deal feel that Battery wasn't cashing in on a sound;
they were merely trying to hold it down and keep it real. 7 years
of hard work with bonus tracks and a CD ROM for your pleasure makes this
disc a good buy for those of you that dig the East Coast straight edge
contingent. (www.soulforce-records.com)
Grace For the Fallen Field Of Blood
Clenched Fist
Grace For the Fallen is one of those metal outfits
whose religious beliefs is a platform for their band's output. On
their eight track disc, their brutal attack is low, deep and bruising ("More
Real Than Ever"), almost with machine gun like consistency. Containing
a death metal growl who barks biblical lines may be a bit unsettling at
first, but their positive message wrapped in a harsh musical package may
just be the salvation some kids need to wake up. Sturdy basslines
help GFTF rise above the rest of the zealous metal troupes ("To Rise Again")
and their disjointed guitars help them measure up to the more well known
underground metallers ("Washing Of Regeneration"). Even though it's
given God's stamp of approval, Grace For The Fallen is as hard and relentless
as any metal band out today, implementing math rock techniques with a flurry
of hardcore goodness for an enjoyable listen, regardless of religious overtones.
(www.clenchedfist.com)
Ampline The Choir
Tiberius
Ampline lets the music do the talking, literally,
as their eight track offering consists of no vocals at all. Instead,
this Kentucky quartet mix the sounds of the garage with an indie rock feel
and a good old dose rock and roll to create a mix of tunes that interlock
genres and collide stylistically ("Drawn And Quartered"), almost like At
The Drive In sans screaming ("Texture Of Regret"). Thanks to the
use of a vibraphone, their already spacious and lush arrangements are given
that extra push ("Typewritten") to be left of center. Ampline also
uses the theory of build up with expertise and precision ("About Being
Quiet"), overpowering the listener not by volume, but by the composition
of building and repetition, a la Tool. If you dig The Cancer Conspiracy,
Ampline is the next logical choice to pick up and adore, as both bands
share a common goal; taking over your senses gradually, not by force, but
by feel. (www.tiberiusrecords.com)
Synthetic 16 Synthetic 16
NYC's emo rockers Synthetic 16 have been making waves
as of late, and with the advent of their latest four song EP, it's no wonder
why. With an accessible sound that sweeps through your soul in tow
("Float"), this seasoned quintet mesh the power of Far with the sensitivities
of The Smiths ("Break The Shape"), which creates an intensely rich and
mature rock sound. And, these guys contain the soul to go deep, too.
By implementing a piano led ballad whose lushness would be welcomed in
an arena rock show as much as it would be in a Broadway musical ("Don't
Tell A Soul"), Synthetic 16's appeal goes across the board. For a
powerfully charged musical experience that rivals Creed without the nonsense,
try Synthetic 16 on for size. (www.synthetic16.com)
98 Mute After the Fall
Epitaph Records
Produced by resident punk madman Fletcher from Pennywise,
98 Mute's 13 track disc has got that good old punk rock feeling all over
it. So much in fact that it even can stand up against the ferocity
of their producer's clan ("True To Yourself"). Total So Cal action,
from the group shouts to the running guitar lines and the damnational lyrics,
whose topics range from the punk scene's demise ("Same Old Song And Dance")
to the self-reliance of the human spirit and the dangers of drugs ("Injection").
While the lyrical content gets a bit preachy at times, the music behind
it remains packed with a punch and able to be moshed to at any given moment
("Ultimate High"). For a lesson in punk rock California style, check
out the latest from 98 Mute. (www.epitaph.com)
The Ritchie Whites Snitches Get Stitches
TKO Records
So, who's this Ritchie White and why does he have
a band named after him? No indication is given, but this quintet's
latest 12 track disc is a barnburning, street punking powder keg of a release,
done up with an attitude straight outta Austin, Texas ("Human Bondage").
These true blues may remind you a little bit of the punk bands of yore
("Pimp Killer"), but make no mistake; their blend of energetic rock and
a slight bit of sleaze is as current and as rocking as any faceless, stylized
punk rock band today. If you dig real bands that do straight ahead,
no pretense rock and roll, The Ritchie Whites are a band you need to check
out. (www.tkorecords.com)
Manowar Warriors Of the World
Metal Blade Records
There's metal and then there's Manowar's style of
metal. Somewhere in between the ridiculous and the sublime and the
patriotic and lowest common denominator lies Manowar, who returns with
sword in hand for another round of power metal. This time around,
the Manowar crew's timing couldn't have been better, for what language
besides true metal speaks volumes in any country, breaking communicative
barriers and helping to heal the world? Thankfully, these iron clad
warriors know this, and pay homage to many things on Warriors Of the
World, from the tragic victims of 9/11 ("The Fight For Freedom"), to
lead vocalist Eric Adam's mom ("Nessum Dorma") to those that have remained
true to the cause across the globe. Hell, take the distortion and
volume out of these songs and they could be ready for a Broadway production.
Maybe that's next for Joey DeMaio and company? Well, hopefully the
bright lights of Broadway are ready for cod pieces and loincloths, but
for now, we'll take them in a club or festival near you. Like Motorhead,
AC/DC and any other A list band whose music has stood the test of time,
Manowar continue to carve their niche in the annals of rock history, proving
that sometimes songs about warriors, Vikings and being metal are cool after
all and after all these years. (www.metalblade.com)
Keep Of Kelessin Agnen
World War III
Ready for another Norwegian metal band? Sure
you are, because down the pike comes Keep Of Kalessin, whose facepaint
and garb is standard fare for the genre. However, behind the evil
imagery lies some pretty damn impressive music. Not your standard
black metal here, folks. Instead of going the unintelligible, garbled
route completely, KOK decided to add some elements of thrash and (gasp)
melodics into their mix. Fear not, headbanger, there's still enough
blast beated madness to put your neck back into traction ("Pain Humanised").
It's just nice to hear it dispersed amongst some old school, Testament-esque
riffs ("Dragonlord"). (www.ww3music.com)
The Strap Ons $4 Whore
The Strap Ons are one of the few bands left from
the Mid Atlantic area whose abrasive punk rock still matters. On
$4
Whore, there are 15 punk rock anthems that harken back to the days
when revolution was in the air and punk was its mouthpiece. Raunchy,
rude and unapologetic, The Strap Ons are a band whose lack of compromise
("Down Girl") and surplus of balls out aggression and pure punk passion
("Kill") are a potent formula for some kick ass music. Do yourself
a favor and seek this CD out to get a nice lesson in what punk rock should
sound like. (www.thestrap-ons.com)
Silver Monkey Boy Pleased to Disturb You
Silver Monkey Boy's music is as left of center as
their name denotes, as this power trio mixes the funk and weirdness of
Primus with a slew of hard rock and metal influences to create a unique,
if not jarring five track disc. Chaotic basslines collide with heavy
rhythms and free flowing guitars that go from jazzy to jaw dropping ("Realize")
in most instances. What really gives these guys their strength is
their unabashed ability to draw from their personal experiences lyrically
("Fuck Fucking Cool") and make an eclectic soundtrack behind it all.
It may take a listen or two to get it, but once you do, you'll see the
intrinsic merit of Silver Monkey Boy. (www.mp3.com/silvermonkeyboy)
Be Loud Be Loud
Be Loud is a predominantly female outfit whose rocking
is enhanced with the use of a violin. Yup, a violin, and if you dig
the down home sounds of country rock a la John Cougar or maybe Melissa
Ethridge, this six song disc is a surefire winner. And don't let
their genre bending fool you; Be Loud has got attitude ("Be Your Bitch")
and can rip out a guitar lick with the best of them. They also have
an uncanny knack for knowing when to be aggressive and when to hit the
people's ears with a candy coated chorus ("Who's Better"), a dynamic that
may get Be Loud the exposure they're looking for. (b-loud@nyc.rr.com)
Douglas Leader God Bless Virgins
Douglas Leader's sunny day rock and roll is a breath
of fresh air in the stale NYC scene, as this genre jumping juggernaut,
complete with an ass shaking horn section ("Euclid Westcott"), rip through
their four song disc with more spirit than a clan of high school cheerleaders.
This high energy sextet mix the upbeat notions of ska with the underbelly
of NYC's long lost punk rock scene ("We Are So Much In Love") to create
a fun, albeit quite short running, record suitable to lighten the atmosphere
anywhere. For a quick shot of musical sunshine, check out the stellar
output of Douglas Leader. (www.douglasleader.com)
Onward Reawaken
Century Media
Onward is an American metal band whose European melodic
style gives them a very epic tone on their latest 10 track release.
So epic, in fact, that it rivals Iced Earth or even Iron Maiden in song
structure and composition ("Night"). Add in a virtuoso guitar player
(Shrapnel alumni Toby Knapp), whose runs and riffs rival Yngwie and all
the other six string heroes, and Onward becomes a potent metal force within
the hard rock galaxy ("Who Saw The Last Star Fall"). Plus, they've
got the good old fist pumping metal choruses working overtime ("Eye Of
The Nightmare"), a surefire method to reel in all of the metalheads that
remember metal as a music form based on nobility and not solely on shock
value. Solid performances and majestic songs, plus an intriguing
cover of the seminal Japanese metal outfit Loudness ("Clockwork Toy") puts
Onward on their way to metal supremacy. (www.centurymedia.com)
Theorem Theorem
Theorem is a NYC based metal act whose latest four
song release is a scorching reminder of what some metal lacks today; balls.
Well, don't worry, all of you pretty boy bands, Theorem has got enough
balls to go around, whether it be in their throaty vocal delivery ("Clean
Break") or in their low end stomp ("Old Balls"). If you like the
heaviness of Black Label Society and the entrancing melodies of Godsmack
("Wims"), Theorem will be one of those CDs that never leave the CD changer.
Just make sure that you reinforce your speakers. (www.theorem.cjb.net)
Gunfighter/Traindodge split EP
Ascetic Recordds
Gunfighter starts off this split EP with some Foo
Fighters-esque fervor, which works well against this quartet's slash and
burn rock and roll style. But then, they get all Radiohead like and
bust out a steroid enhanced sleeper of a song whose dynamics reign over
a seven minute plus span ("Run Angel Run"). If that's not enough
to wet your whistle, out comes the Oklahoma trio Traindodge, whose musical
output starts out sounding like Metallica meets a Star Wars convention
("United Skeletons"). But then, they get all trippy and hallucinate
all over the place in thirds, concluding with a rousing piece of indie
swirl that sounds like At The Drive In covering Rush ("Revenge Of The Cursed").
The Southwest sounds of rock never were sweeter. (www.asceticrecords.com)
Nebula DOS EP's
Meteor City
Nebula's archives are opened for the entire world
to enjoy on DOS EP's, and it's here when we find out a lot about
this endearing stoner rock trio. Maybe we learn too much? No
way, compadre. Matter of fact, if anything, we see some new shades
of these bad boys, like their bluesy influences fleshed out forthright
("Long Day"). We also are privy to some of their hard to find jams
that are now out of print ("Fall Of Icarus"). And, as an added bonus,
we get three new songs that show just how far our cannibus using pals have
come since their initial sojourn back in 1998 ("Rocket"). California
sunshine forever? If Nebula had their way, every day would be a beach
day, so get in the mindset and pick up these rarities and tune in and burn
out, baby! (www.nebulamusic.com)
Rotten Sound Murderworks
Necropolis Records
A blood soaked surgical outfit on the cover can only
mean one thing; be prepared. Preparation is key when indulging in
the insane beats and chaotic riffs that seep from Rotten Sound's latest
release. Trigger happy drums clash with rapid fire guitars and guttural
vocals, all in under 3 minutes or less ("Doom") to create the sounds of
the apocalypse. How's that for brevity? Straight from four guys from
Finland with a murder fetish, Rotten Sound is a cranial overload.
And who said those Finnish aren't a fun bunch? Folks, there's not
one damn bit of fun on this disc, guaranteed. Imagine the brutality
of Nasum crossing over with the early works of Napalm Death ("Lies") and
you can see this isn't an album to throw on at the next family reunion.
Unless it's for the Manson family. (www.necropolisrecords.com)
Precott C 2 song sampler
Hailing from Long Island, NY, Prescott C takes smatterings
of nu metal's warblings with a tinge of post hardcore angst and come up
with some noticeable noise. With a side order of crusty metal in
their weaponry a la Clutch, Prescott C scream their way through many different
styles and in turn, create a hybrid sound that is melodically chaotic and
worth the attention. (www.prescottc.homestead.com/prescottc.html)
Backslap Find Yourself
Camorra
Brooklyn is a citadel for hardcore. Add Backslap's
name to the illustrious list of bands that have come from the beloved borough
of NYC, as they come out of the gate with a 10 track release that melds
the old school hardcore values of Leeway ("Isolate") with some of today's
current sounds. Powerhouse drumming and an endless supply of riffs
is what Backslap pours on here, and if youre ready for the pit, Backslap
has the wherewithal to whip you into frenzy as well ("Strive"). With
a high pitched vocal shrill leading the charge and a ferocious musical
backdrop behind it all, Backslap will have you wind milling and picking
up change in no time ("Effort"). (www.backslap.tv)
Hate Theory Hate Theory
World War III
From the place where the band themselves proclaim
nothing good comes from (Ohio to be precise), Hate Theory kind of disproves
their own theory. This outfit's brand of brutal metal is as abrasive
as sandpaper on your privates, and that's its strong suit. Heavy,
chock full of balls and above all, crushing ("Rage Implant"), Hate Theory
bridge the gap between Pantera's power groove, metalcore's tight breakdowns
and death metal's unearthly growl ("All This Flesh") and in turn, give
the ardent headbanger a soundtrack to amply leave a trail of destruction
behind. Relentless on your senses, Hate Theory's jagged guitars ("So
You Think") and jackhammer rhythms aren't anything groundbreaking by any
means, but the way in which they compose their dropped down grooves is
reason enough to pick up this metal hybrid's latest bonecrusher of an album.
(www.ww3music.com)
Vader Revelations
Metal Blade Records
Vader is quite possibly Poland's premier metal band,
and there's good reason for that, as this quartet shows on their latest
12 track metal opus. These metal veterans once again wheel out the
warhorse and leave no stone unturned when it comes to ripping your face
off with some of the most melodic yet sonic metal this side of Eastern
Europe ("The Nomad"). Its no wonder why this band has been going
since the mid-1980s and shows no sign of letting up. Healthy doses
of Slayer, Obituary and Sepultura are apparent here ("Whisper"), yet Vader
turn it up a notch and can grind out a blast beat with any of the metal
new jacks, too ("Torch Of War"). Intense yet refined, Vader's beauty
lies in the way they manipulate aggression and sound like a well-oiled
machine in the process. For those that have given up hope in the
American metal scene, look to Poland's Vader to cure your ills. (www.metalblade.com)
WASP Dying For the World
Sanctuary Records
Controversial metal legend Blackie Lawless returns
with Dying For the World, which once again puts WASP back into the
spotlight that they richly deserve. Their latest 11 track release
is in the vein of classic WASP outings like The Crimson Idol in
that each song is epic in its own right, complete with strong dynamics
and composition and moving lyrics ("Hallowed Ground"). With much
of the new album based on the 9/11 tragedy, native New Yorker Lawless and
his sense of imminence never sounded so on point ("My Wicked Heart").
Maybe it's Blackie's uncanny sense of self that makes these songs so visceral,
but whatever it may be, the new WASP record is a proper reintroduction
to a band whose legacy never really gets the credit they deserve.
(www.sanctuaryrecordsgroup.com)
Fixer Fixer
NYC's Fixer's brand of alternative rock is definitely
something that could impact radio, as they have got a good grasp on how
to write a hook with conviction ("Hell In Between"). This quartet
has a certain swagger about them that is part STP and part Bon Jovi ("Number
One Song"), a surefire hit amongst the female contingent. But, they
aren't a throwaway pop act by any means, as their brand of accessible hard
rock goes deeper than being merely candy for the ears. There's some
bite in this dog, too, thanks to the tight rhythm section and stellar fretwork,
even though it may be glossed over a bit with slick production. Nonetheless,
Fixer's three songs have got the essentials to be sung by drunken audiences
across the country. (www.fixermusic.com)
Entety Cadaveric Necrogrind
World War 3
Entety's re-release of their early '90s seven song
disc has to make you wonder "what the hell is this?" Pure noise,
my friends, is what this Californian quintet delivers. Gargles that
are passed over as vocals are layed over music that sounds brutal, when
it doesn't sound as if it were recorded in a wind tunnel. When this
first came out, it was probably revolutionary and groundbreaking.
Now, it seems pretty insignificant, actually. For those that remember
that era when grind was new and shocking, this may be something to check
out. (www.ww3music.com)
200 North Watching the World Die
Da Core
200 North is a hardcore band whose continued shifts
in mood and style gives them an edge over straight ahead hardcore bands.
This Maryland by way of Florida five piece have a lot of energy, both exuded
in the brutality of hardcore and in the melodics of punk, and it's this
melding that gives 200 North the ability to stick out among all the other
seething, screaming outfits ("Feltonic Prophecy"). They've been compared
to Ensign and Reach The Sky and their punk leanings and muscular riffs
definitely bare those marks ("Sticks And Stones"). If you're looking
for a band that can successfully give you a good helping of both punk and
hardcore aggression, look no further than 200 North's crossover triumph
("Better Days"). (www.da-core.com)
Atreyu Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses
Victory Records
Atreyu is a Southern California quintet who all but
denies their hometown's musical output of sunny punk. Instead, these
hard hitters opt to crank out melodically tinged heavy music without regret.
With a very strong core of European metal's odd time signatures and jagged
breakdowns propelling the band ("Dilated"), Atreyu's lyrical content, laden
with personal pain and relationships gone awry, are complemented with dual
vocals that not only spew forth venom, but can also tug at the heart strings
with their stoic presence. A very complex animal this Atreyu turns
out to be, as they display the wherewithal to be not only a raging beast,
ready to maim and leave destruction in its wake ("Someone's Standing On
My Chest"), but also the natural ability to soothe themselves and the listener
with a impassioned melodic passage ("Tulips Are Better") before unleashing
the inner demons. A juggernaut of a band, Atreyu personifies today's
lovelorn and the broken spirited in a way that can only be described as
beautifully brutal. (www.victoryrecords.com)
Skinlab Revolting Room
Century Media
San Francisco's Skinlab return with a 10 track disc
that finds the veteran band finally carving their own niche and breaking
out of the shadows of the Bay Area scene. Much more focused this
time around, and seemingly angrier, after a lengthy absence, Steev and
company have found their groove, and damn, it is heavy and scathing ("Slave
The Way"). Imagine the spaciousness of System Of A Down colliding
with the bravado of a Rob Zombie refrain with an old school thrash metal
breakdown thing happening in between it all ("Come Get It"). But
there's more, and Skinlab is so ready to show you. Ready to let you
enter their minds and interpret whatever you'd like, nicely tied together
by spoken word phone call interludes from Skinlab loyalists scattered throughout
the disc. Yea, they still sound like Machine Head sometimes ("Take
As Needed"), but at least they're implementing some new spices in the stew
("Disturbing The Art Of Expression") and are still able to rip it up just
as hard as the big boys that get all the breaks do. For a shot of
metal that's angry, dirty and played the way metal is intended to be, Skinlab
is a choice pick. (www.skinlab1.com)
Sentenced The Cold White Light
Century Media
Home of the cold and dark, by design alone, Finland
undeniably breeds a lot of metal bands. Sentenced is another band
from our Scandinavian brothers, and while they share the same Euro styled
metal influences that bands like Soilwork and In Flames do, it seems as
if these boys had a good amount of Danzig ("Aika Multaa Muisot," Type O
("No One There") and some stoner rock, too in their formative years.
That's a good thing, because coupled with their crushingly heavy backbeats
and uber musical displays ("Excuse Me While I Kill Myself"), they rock,
almost like an '80s band, sans the primping and cheese. Sentenced
is a well balanced metal act whose intertwining of the darkest of both
continents works like a charm. (www.centurymedia.com)
The Lot Six Gwylo
Espo Records
The Lot Six's style is very disjointed and staggered,
as they display on their nine track offering. While they have one
foot firmly planted in the punk hardcore scene that gave us Fulani and
Refused ("This Is Entertainment"), they've got this quirky disposition
that shows shades of Talking Heads and Weeper. Add in some horns
for the hell of it ("Last Flight Of The Spruce Goose"), and you've got
a powder keg of styles meshing together to create one big underground rock
love fest. A virtual smorgasbord of indeed rock, there's something
for everyone in the Lot Six's latest release, and they dare you to find
it. (www.esporecords.com)
Dry Cell Disconnected
Warner Brothers
Dry Cell's debut 12 track release is hot off the
heels of a no metal revolution, as they basically regurgitate Linking Park's
technical prowess with a dash of Papa Roach's attitude, all wrapped with
simple yet clever hooks ("Under The Sun") that are arena friendly and sanitized
for MTV. Not a whole lot of conviction here, but they do sound very
rock star-sequel, almost like a throwback to the hair metal days of yore
("Sorry"). Maybe an image consultation is needed to get these guys
on next year's Ooziest, because their no metal wrapped within their disenchanted
delivery should speak volumes to the mall metal heads across the nation.
(www.drycellmusic.com)
Finch What It Is To Burn
Drive Thru Records
Finch is a California quintet whose energy is
boundless and whose aggressive stance of punk rock is more East Coast oriented
than you'd think. Hell, with the manic drumming at times, they come
off sounding like the bastard child of Grade and Anthrax. And they've
got that bounce that punk bands seem to need these days, but they disguise
it under hardcore screams and some kick ass distortion. And, they
can write hooks ("Letter To You"), a feat that many bands in their genre
cannot claim. Plus, they've got a depth about them thanks to the
harmonized vocals and intricate twin guitar assaults that pervade the 13-track
collection quite nicely. Finch's latest disc is dually hooked happy
and heavy, and with a combo like that, can you lose? (www.drivethrurecords.com)
Swami Glass Eye
What the hell is Swami? Good question.
For starters, it's five guys from NYC whose musical eclecticism probably
got them all together in the first place. Then, add in some rock
influences like Tom Petty, U2 and whatever is hot with the 20 something
crowd these days and out comes Swami, with beefy basslines and trippy guitars
and an evil underbelly that screams rawk and roll ("Chix"). If you're
looking for straight ahead rock and roll, look elsewhere. Swami has
an edge that is soulful yet easily accessible. Go figure it be from
a band named Swami, right? (www.swamimusic.com)
Agoraphobic Nosebleed Frozen Corpse Stuffed
With Dope
Relapse Records
Are you ready for debauchery laced with evil in musical
form? How about a riff infested monster of an album that's sure to
give the neighbor's newborn nightmares? Agoraphobic Nosebleed has
got the goods, and they unleash them unabashedly to you unworthy metal
peons to revel in. Strap yourself in and do a lot of drugs before
you throw this bad boy in the CD changer. Death metal, movie dialogue,
creepy voiceovers, razorblade guitar riffs, and sick lyrics are just some
of the fun things you'll find on this 38 track disc. You may not
get a recognizable song, but there's a ton of disturbing shit on here,
not only in audio, but in the songs title's themselves, which you'll have
to read for yourself to believe. Where creativity and depravity meet,
Agoraphobic Nosebleed are there, drugged up and ready to assault your senses.
(www.relapse.com)
Impostor Syndrome Impostor Syndrome
Impostor Syndrome is a three piece outfit whose no
nonsense approach to alternative rock is accentuated by sturdy female lead
vocals. Whether they be belting out a catchy chorus ("I'm With Stupid")
or remain ominous throughout each verse ("Waiting"), the vocal tracks help
make Impostor Syndrome distinct from the whiny female stereotype that pervades
female fronted rock bands. In fact, with some help from a hard hitting
drummer and a flexible bassist, IS shift from Concrete Blonde to Portishead
to Joni Mitchell seamlessly. How's that for versatility? Check
out this NYC group for a musical ride full of depth and conviction.
(www.impostorsyndrome.net)
Danzig I Luciferi
Spitfire Records
The evil Elvis has returned, looking a bit worse
for wear, and sounding a tad weaker than expected. However, don't
count out Glenn Danzig yet, as he has finally concocted the winning formula
that he's been trying to make fly since Danzig 4. This time
around, the overall album is a lot less technofied and a lot more riffy
("Black Mass," "Kiss The Skull"), which can only be a good thing (especially
if you own Danzig 5). This album's henchmen accompanying Mr.
Danzig are NYC punk stalwarts Howie Pyro on bass and Todd Youth on guitar,
with Joey D. filling up the drum slot, and while the band is a far cry
from the powerhouse outfit of the early '90s, they still manage to raise
a ruckus ("Liberskull," "Naked Witch"). And, what's a Danzig album
without a creepy ballad or two that goes ballistic midstream and showcases
the Gothic rock and metal glory that is Danzig ("Dead Inside," "Without
Light, I Am")? On the seventh installment of this seminal group's
career, Danzig has decisively put the band back on track with a return
to his roots without sacrificing the experimentations he has previously
dabbled in. Thank you, Mr. Danzig. (www.spitfirerecords.com)
Size Deep Size Deep
Long Island rap rockers Size Deep tear up your CD
player with that hip hop groove and hard rock stomp on their four song
release. Yeah, the genre is tired and played, but these guys do it
well and really let the music stand out above the image, believe it or
not. Chunky riffs ("Right Off The Bat") and tub thumping rhythms
supplement DJ scratches and cris crossing MC's that rap, scream and basically
kick it up a notch ("Chauncy's Anthem"). If you like Limp Bizkit
(and hey, who doesn't? (j/k)), or if you're impartial to five white guys
from the suburbs breaking shit up, look up this tight outfit and see what's
poppin' in the hood, yo. (www.sizedeep.com)
Little League Through Our Ears, Through Our
Hearts
Too Damn Hype
Little League picks up the slack of New Found Glory
and Thursday abandoned when they went mainstream with their bouncy punk
rock melodics and anguished emo male lead vocals. This nine track
disc has a ton of energy ("The Promise"), and really makes you wonder how
chaotic this band's live show is. When it comes to the music, Little
League tend to be a bit derivative, falling on the successes of Far, Grade
and Shelter to get their point across, but when they do, it is certainly
precise and heartfelt ("Theresa Drive"). This Philadelphia quintet
is heavy on the guitar assault ("3,6,10") and rate halfway on the vocal
whine meter, a plus for the female punk rock stalker chicks that fall in
love with dirty punk rock boys. In all, Little League have what it
takes to get called up to the majors; the influences, the teenage angst
("Scott Mckeeman"), the look, the ballad ("A Mother's Day") and that new
fangled punk rock sound that all the kids dig these days. (www.chordrecordings.com)
The Generators State of the Nation
TKO Records
Southern California's The Generators want to bring
us back to the mid '70s punk era with their sneering eight tracks of old
school punk, right down to the faux English accented vocals. Fist
pumping, working class anthems ("Fantastic Disaster") is what these guys
specialize in, and they take pride in giving the punk fans that keep it
real something to gnaw on ("Here Comes The Plague") while their scene and
genre gets a mall core makeover. (www.tkorecords.com)
Origin Informis Infinitas Inhumanitas
Relapse Records
No, Dorothy, we're not in Kansas anymore. It
is now renamed Hell, thanks in full to the technical ecstasy that Origin
bring to the dance. There's death metal, and then there's extreme
death metal. Then there's Origin, a true metal monster whose sonic
output rivals few other bands. In fact, these guys are so intense
and perform such breathtaking feats of molten metal that it's hard not
to put them into a category all to themselves. It's dark, heavy and
lightning quick. Above all, Origin's nine tracks of audio devastation
are dangerous and should be handled with the utmost care. If you're
looking for the next big thing in extreme music, look no further.
Origin has arrived. (www.relapse.com)
Killswitch Engage Alive Or Just Breathing
Roadrunner Records
Killswitch Engage have packed a crossover crunch
into their 12 track debut that aims to please all of the hardcore and metal
kids alike. This East Coast quintet take parts of classic metal's
composition, hardcore's never say die attitude and an onslaught out of
today's metal and its proverbial bag of tricks to create a pristine yet
crushing brand of hard music ("Fixation On The Darkness"). The key
to KSE's sonic success lies in their ability to effortlessly switch tempos
and even at times, genres, within the course of one song, showcasing their
love of heavy music and their top notch musicianship at the same time.
Armed with a rapid fire guitar section ("Temple From The Within") which
aimlessly changes from intense acoustic passages to straight ahead aggressive
chugging ("The Element Of One", "My Last Serenade") and anchored by a driving
rhythm section whose precision is flawless, Killswitch Engage have created
a hybrid form of metal that will make you stand up and take notice. Add
in some of the most versatile vocals this side of Euro metal, which change
from harsh screams to pensive melodies ("Without A Name") and you've got
some of the most intricate yet volatile metal to come down the pike in
a very long time on your hands. Is this the future of metal?
Wait and see. (www.roadrunnerrecords.com)
Behind the Sun Broken Hearts and Shattered Bones
Too Damn Hype
Behind The Sun comes out of the box with a plethora
of pent up rage that suddenly transforms to an anthemic, POD-like chorus
and back again into a seething beast. 11 songs in all from this New
Jersey metalcore quartet, and while their meaty parts are standard fare
as far as heavy music goes, against their transitions, which are jaggedly
unexpected yet melodic, it all makes sense. Some folks may turn it
off after the first minute of death metal yowling, but if you stick around
long enough, Behind The Sun will amply produce a blueprint of all the current
sounds of metal in one giant swirl. (www.toodamnhype.com)
Tough Enough 2 soundtrack
Geffen Records
With cross promotional fever in full tilt, the WWE
and MTV once again team up to produce a collection of songs for the mass
consumer. Thankfully, it's a rock based comp for the successful real
life TV saga series Tough Enough, and there's enough here to evoke
testosterone laden boys across the country to drop the People's Elbow on
their hapless foes. Standouts include the always dependable Weezer
("Oh Lisa"), a sneak peek at the highly anticipated Queens of The Stone
Age's new one ("Millionaire"), and the maligned melodies of Rob Zombie
("Feel So Numb") and Staind ("Take It"). But, don't get your hopes
up. Yea, another crappy Limp Bizkit number tops the list of "why
the hell is this on here" and would probably sway you from purchasing this
if you own 2/3s of the artists' CDs already. Buying this CD is a
crapshoot, but if you feel compelled to do so, chalk one up to good old
American pop culture. (www.wwe.com)
Rosemary's Billygoat Evilution
Porterhouse
This has got to be some kind of joke. At least,
it's cheesy enough to be. Think Gwar and dumb down about 10 notches.
You'll get this concoction known as Rosemary's Billygoat, dressed in the
finest fur loincloths and armor this side of Manowar. And the music,
well, let's start by mixing 1/3 cock rock (they're from LA, after all),
1/3 tangible metal, complete with plodding rhythm and hearty lumberjack
shouted choruses ("Control Issues") and 1/3 Spinal Tap. Get a good
enough picture? Add a point for their Pat Benetar cover of "Hell
Is For Children" and why not give them a pat on the back for putting a
little tongue in cheek Satanism into the limelight. Anything else
would be giving Rosemary's Billygoat too much credit. (www.rosemarysbillygoat.com)
The Honor System 100% Synthetic
Double Zero
The Honor System hails from Chicago, Il and their
indie punk, which lies somewhere in between Soul Asylum and Bad Religion,
isn't as harmless as it seems. While the six songs that comprise
100%
Synthetic contain a lot of the typical guitar chug and bassline gymnastics
which accompany many of today's punk rock bands, there's an underbelly
to The Honor System that is way less disposable. Maybe it's their
lyrics, spewed forth with conviction ("Witchhunt"), or maybe it's just
that Midwest angst that Slipknot tapped into dressed up with intelligence
and in skater's clothes. (www.thehonorsystem.net)
Nonpoint Development
MCA Records
Nonpoint has returned with a solid sophomore effort
that places this Floridian four piece in fine company. A lot more
refined than their debut disc allowed, these guys can give thanks to a
grueling touring schedule and the lost art of A&R done right.
And, they have written 12 top shelf hard rock songs in the process that
not only will appease a zombified audience that seek the middle, but also
to those that crave more from their hard rock. Nonpoint is the most
distinct of the nu metal pack, probably because while taking the aggression
Incubus left behind and falling somewhere between the technicalities of
Alien Ant Farm and the emotion of POD, they've established their own voice.
Still retaining slicing metal riffs and the rumbling bottom end that gives
them that undeniable groove ("Circles," "Excessive Reaction"), they've
extenuated their songwriting so far that it cleverly walks the line between
dramatic and dynamic ("Hands," "Any Advice"). Good stuff folks, if
the nu metal is your bag. (www.nonpoint.com)
Earthride Taming of the Demons
Southern Lord
Tougher than a $2 steak, Earthride is as abrasive
as sandpaper on your testicles. Yet, that's this Maryland outfit's
charm, as they bestow seven molasses slow and window shaking volumizing
tracks of doom laden metal. Sabbath meets Lemmy at a Crowbar show
just about says it all for this sludgy bunch, as the tuning is low, the
vocals are growled and the tempos are hypnotically sedative ("Deception").
While the bowel cleansing session may be a bit to take at first, after
a few tokes, you'll understand completely. (www.southernlord.com)
Heat Slick
Heat Slick
California is king of cock rock; make no bones about
it. Add in the glam slam of the late '80s, compile a disc of bands
that fit the bill, or at least were active during its heyday, and there
ya go, you've got the debut compilation from Heat Slick Records.
This 14 track disc contains some old timers teasing their hair again (Pretty
Boy Floyd, Faster Pussycat) for old time's sake, as well as the sleazier
side of the whole scene. Salvation comes from AC/DC's bastard Los
Angeles children Junkyard, whose haggard delivery tells a better story
than any VH-1 special can, and the Tex-Mex styling of The Hangmen.
When you really break it all down, the only difference between punk and
sleaze metal is the delivery, and perhaps the outerwear. With that,
while we may not see a surge in boys playing dress up, there's no doubt
judging by this disc that '80s rock is bubbling underground and is ready
for some of its recaptured glory. You've been warned. (www.heatslick.com)
Bleeding Through Portrait of the Goddess
Indecision Records
Bleeding Through is a brickhouse of a metal sextet
whose instrumentations never get in the way of one another on their 10
track disc. Mix in the growl of Slipknot ("Just Another Pretty Face")
and the choral harmonies of Fear Factory with a Gothic twist, thanks to
the chamber-esque keyboards that complement the Euro metal gallop and crunch,
and you've got this impassioned beast of a band on your hands. So
Cal has never heard anything on the beach quite like this, as Bleeding
Through truly bring the metal, although it is wrapped in an odd shaped
package. Nonetheless, these guys shred when necessary and display
enough standard metal chops to illicit many a horned hand. www.indecisionrecords.com
Radio Junkies Volume 1
Middle of the road rock is what the band Radio Junkies
deliver, and while this Colorado quartet isn't extravagant, they are pretty
damn durable judging by their 10 track release. Four fresh faced
young men playing music that show shades of The Beatles, Matchbox Twenty
and The Goo Goo Dolls ("Crazy For Her") in a pop rock package ready for
consumption in any college age bar or syndicated TV melodrama is the vibe
which these guys emit ("Mother Mary"). They'd sound great in a 40
minute music sweep in between John Mayer and Live, as they strike the Joe
Q Public nerve with the proper amount of twang in the guitar and an all
around top notch production job in tow. www.cdfreedom.com
Coheed and Cambria The Second Stage Turbine
Blade
Equal Vision
Emotionally stirring and dynamic, the emo meets hardcore
sound of Coheed and Cambria is a powerful deity indeed. Their 10
track disc provides catchy melodies and uber personal lyrical content,
almost to a point when you have to wonder how wrecked their childhoods
actually were. Despite their apparent scorned youth, they've channeled
the pain and have come through with a collection of songs whose moods shift
as quick as the chugging guitars switch to a toned down jam ("Devil In
Jersey City"). High pitched vocals a la Geddy Lee lead the band through
the peaks and valleys of indie, punk and hardcore, all spruced up with
a melodic flare that rivals Thursday or Incubus in terms of songwriting
depth ("33"). If bands that wear their heart on their sleeve easily
irritate you, turn away. Otherwise, be sure to check out how Coheed
and Cambria do an exemplary job of bridging the gap between heavy and heartfelt.
www.equalvision.com
Aesma Daeva The Eros Of Frigid Beauty
Root Of All Evil
If Yanni went Goth, we'd probably get Aesma Daeva.
This seven track release contains some pretty orchestral moments and some
stirring acoustic guitars, and when intertwined with a Herbie Hancock like
synth and some tricks that Trent Reznor is known to use every now and then
("The Minstrel Song"), it gets pretty interesting. It's got a real
old school feel, but when we talk about old school, we mean Baroque era
("The Eros Of Frigid Beauty"), not the late 1970s. While Aesma Daeva
isn't going to change the face of nations, the music is composed in that
kind of grandiose way that may suit the soundtrack to Gladiator 2
or some other epic film classic remake. www.rootofallevil.com
Carnivean In Todes Banden
With a name like Carnivean, you're sure not going
to get a bunch of emaciated, greasy haired emo vegetarians. Instead,
you'll get four beefy, long haired men that scream metal. And that's
exactly what this Pennsylvania based quartet deliver on their nine track
disc. Chock full of jack hammered guitars ("Rest In Pieces") and
pummeling rhythms, they successfully merge death metal's distinct brutality
and disturbing imagery ("Shallow Grave") with some surprisingly melodic
passages. Don't fret though, because with vocals that could double
for Cookie Monster and a barrage of dirge like riffs that rip through you
like a laxative ("Dreaming The Dark"), Carnivean still hits the heavy bag
just as hard as any self respecting extreme metal band should ("Evil Be
Thy Name"). www.carnivean.com
XPO80DX This Is XPO8ODX
Besides the strange name, the music that XPO8ODX
plays is way on the fringe, too. This multi instrument playing solo
artist makes great use of delay pedals and keyboard programming, as he
remains a virtual orchestra while telling his wacky tales and left of center
anecdotes via song. Imagine Moby meeting Beck and you may get the
picture of what this Long Island native is aiming for. This 10 track
disc is chock full of musical creativity, with many of the disc's compositions
being extremely daring works, both for the artist and the listener alike.
Bridging the Beatles, ragtime choruses and quirky nerd rock isn't easy
("Valentine"), but XPO8ODX does an ample job of keeping it together.
Keyboard loops intertwine with fuzzed out guitars while the vocals set
the mood for the song. Sometimes it's Johnny Cash singing, sometimes
it's David Byrne, and sometimes the bastard child of both, but regardless
of who's singing, it conveniently fits the music and successfully sets
a tone, whether it be for a song of woe tinged with 70's sunshine rock
capabilities ("Tonality") to an upbeat, pseudo dance song ("TraLaLa").
The production of the disc isn't much to speak of, but that's part of the
charm of This Is XPO8ODX, as the lo-fi quality whisks you away from
corporate rock and puts you into the garage of this guy's mind. If
you're up for an adventure, this is a CD to check out. www.bofosoco.com
Knuckle Sandwich Nice
Resurrection AD
Knuckle Sandwich, a punk band hailing from New Jersey,
has no problem displaying their love for 80's metal or West Coast punk
tendencies. In fact, it's that combination that gives them that added
push that may work to put their 13 track disc in the hands of disenchanted
skaters and Warped Tour groupie kids nationwide. Catchy without being
contrite or trying too hard ("The Comfort Of Security"), this quartet not
only emit the good vibes of California punk, but they also strike the chords
of middle class America with conviction ("Sucker"), bashing America's underbelly
when need be. Although ballads aren't their forte ("Apart"), Knuckle
Sandwich makes up for it with a good idea of how to translate the concerns
of the everyday man into 3 minute nuggets of melodic punk rock energy ("Room
To Breathe," "I Want More"). If you dig Offspring and Social Distortion
with a bit of East Coast balls, check out just how nice these guys can
be when their being blasted out your speakers. www.knucklesandwich.com
King's Evil Deletion Of Humanoise
Crash
King's Evil is a Japanese metal quartet whose At
The Gates meets Judas Priest style speaks volumes, crushes cowards, and
will convince you that Loudness wasn't the only noteworthy Japanese metal
troupe. There's a lot of old school metal in their eight track sonic
brew, and damn, does it illicit some of the most headbangingly good times
we've seen in years ("Core Dead"). The solos are ripped right out
of Slayer's catalog ("Victim Of Hate"), and while the band is all Japanese,
they do a better job of conveying metal's brooding lyrics by keeping the
vocals not only blood curdling, but more intelligible (in terms of metal,
that is) than most American screamers can muster ("Web Of Lies").
This is some serious stuff for the metal folk, as King's Evil combine brutality
and technicality in a pristinely pummeling package ("Punish With Death").
www.crash-inc.com
The Quill Voodoo Caravan
SPV
A bluesy hard rock shuffle is hard to come by in
the year 2002, but Sweden's The Quill pull it off as if they were supporting
Deep Purple's 1972 Machine Head world tour ("Travel Without Moving").
This 11 track fist pumper of an album reaffirms the fact that real rock
and roll hasn't disappeared; instead, it's migrated to the underground
scene in Europe, where ballsy guitar work ("Save Me"), powerhouse drumming
and cohesive rock jams still have a place to call home. Leaning slightly
on the stoner rock side of the fence, The Quill mix the groove of Soundgarden
("Shapes Of Afterlife") with the brightness of Badlands ("Sell No Soul")
and create a swirling, massive rock sound. Play this one on 11, folks;
it needs the volume to be fully appreciated. For a musical ass kicking,
check out The Quill's latest dirty rock boogie. www.spv.de
Chthonic 9th Empyrean
Nightfall
Chthonic is an ethereal metal outfit which hails
from Taiwan and whose lush soundscapes clash with their extreme side to
create some multi-dimensional metal. Their majestic overtones, thanks to
the keyboard overlays, give Chthonic an operatic vibe. But there's a lot
more to this juggernaut than that, as this quintet's intense love for early
black and death metal ("Invasion") mercilessly rips through the beautifully
composed piano and vocal interludes, creating melodic savagery ("Floated
Unconsciously In The Acheron"). For a point of reference, think of this
band as the Cradle Of Filth of the Far East, but whatever you'd like to
think, Chthonic's orchestrated death metal and overall extreme musical
output is something to marvel at. www.chthonic.org
Carrion Sad Times For Salvation
The East Coast outfit known as Carrion has upped
the aggression on their two-song sampler, really letting their anger do
the talking. A wall of sound that mixes the darkness of Tool with the rough
edges of Papa Roach is what makes this band not only dangerously heavy,
but easily acceptable by angry adolescents everywhere. By implementing
a good mixture of keeping the chorus memorable and the music moshable,
Carrion has planted the seed for making a kick ass full-length album. www.carrionone.com
Doro Fight
SPV
The rigors of metal haven't deterred German siren
Doro one bit, as she embarks on her latest solo album in her near two decade
career. This time around, the still stunning Ms. Pesch, completed by a
durable quartet, bang out 12 tracks of rock solid hard music ("Chained,"
"Fight") with a few ballads thrown in for good measure, laying the law
down in the process that girls can rock just as hard as the guys. With
some heavy hitters on board, such as a sludgy duet with Pete Steele ("Descent")
and showcasing a song written by Gene Simmons ("Legends Never Die"), Doro
pulls out all the stops in giving the metal world some honest to goodness
hard rock. On her latest release, Doro proves that she still has the heart
to keep fighting the good fight. www.spv.de
3rd Strike Lost Angel
Hollywood Records
3rd Strike is yet another one of those metal bands
that combine rap and rock ("Hang On"), but there's something more to this
talented quintet than meets the eye or can be dismissed as being encompassed
into a tired genre. Their 12-track disc displays some searing metal riffs
("All Lies") and street-smart lyrics ("No Light") and there's an imminent
energy about this band that is reminiscent of fellow LA metallers System
Of A Down ("Blind My Eyes"). Blurring the edges between urban tensions
and unrelenting metal aggression, 3rd Strike's latest release does have
its dark spots, like the shoddy cover of Black Sabbath's "Paranoid", but
they redeem themselves with a heavy dosage of savvy musical compositions
that put them on the top of the nu metal heap. www.3rdstrike.com
Sick Of It All Live in a Dive No. 3
Fat Wreck Chords
From the good folks at Fat Wreck Chords, NYC's stalwart
hardcore outfit Sick Of It All have returned, with a live offering in tow.
And yes, it truly captures the energy of this veteran group, as they still
to this day manage to wreck the house whenever they perform. Recorded in
San Francisco's The Bottom Of The Hill, the always giving boys from Queens
make sure that their fans are getting the most bang for the buck, as there's
23 songs in here, as well as a Sick Of It All comic book, a must have for
any longtime fan. SOIA are even kind enough to give us a really good assortment
of all of their material, dating back to their inaugural CBGB days up to
their latest works on Fat Wreck Chords. SO why do few bands manage to stick
around
and continue to kick ass? What do they lack? Perseverance and growth, and
Sick Of It All are a prime example of a band that exemplifies these elements,
as they truly prove that they are "Built To Last," thanks to a solid back
catalog, a loyal fan base, and above all, the heart to continue playing
their asses off. www.fatwreck.com
Def Leppard X
Island Records
Def Leppard has returned with a more organic, yet
decisively lighter offering on X, celebrating their 20-year career. Gone
are the days when they were claimed by the tail end of the new wave of
British heavy metal, as they've seemingly traded that in for a shot at
the romantic rock splendor that Matchbox Twenty and other pop rock acts
aim for. There are glimpses of Hysteria here ("Four Letter Word"),
but they are fleeting at best. You can tell a band is struggling with an
identity crisis when outside writing forces are needed to create the sound
that they're trying to achieve. Well, Def Lep, as always, does a stellar
job, but in creating a soft rock album? It hurts to see a band of this
caliber go down the road of Celine Dion, but in true Aerosmith-esque fashion,
the bills still need to be paid somehow. www.defleppard.com
Carpathian Forest Strange Old Brew
World War III
Carpathian Forest is a Norwegian black metal band
that has been revered for years in their native scene, and for good reason.
With their NWOBHM swagger and pure black metal tendencies still intact,
their new 12 track release masterfully mixes the metal sounds of yore with
the shape of some of today's metal shreddings. In turn, they've created
a beast of an album that goes from Motorhead ("The Suicide Song") to Entombed
to and back again ("Mask Of The Slave"), usually during the course of one
song. And yes, for those worried, the boys can still get extreme
and play with Cradle Of Filth, too. Discerning metalheads will be
impressed and for the casual listener, a word to the wise; prepare to get
steamrolled. www.ww3music.com
The Templars Reconquista 1994-1998
GMM
The Templars are one of the most recognizable street
punk bands going today, and they've chronicled why this is the case with
their latest 15-track release. While this collection may wind up
being strictly for long time fans and collectors, it's nice to hear some
under produced, raw sounding music in today's land of Pro Tools and musical
drivel. If you like your Oi as direct as a boot to the head, The
Templar's latest release may contain more than a trip to memory lane for
you. www.thetemplars.com
No Return Machinery
Nuclear Blast
French sextet No Return's latest 12-track endeavor
pounds the listener with relentless thunderclap drumming and mind numbingly
quick guitar runs. Heavy in all of the right places and chock full of metal
intensity, this one goes to 11 with a knack for damning the machine and
bucking the system. For a horned handed good time, check out the powerful
precisioned metal of No Return. www.noreturn-web.com
3D House Of Beef Low Cycle
Lunasound
Swedish sludgemeisters 3D House Of Beef bring it
slow, deep and hard on their latest Alex Newport produced disc. The man
behind Nailbomb and Fudge Tunnel twiddles the knobs for this outfit, and
the result is pretty much what you'd get when you mix a sludge metal guru
with a heavier than hell type of band. Mechanical beats a la Godflesh ("Crawl")
mesh with Crowbar-esque chord structures that will shake you down to your
bowels ("Man Made Of Misery"). Ready for the onslaught of carnage? www.3dhouseofbeef.com
Voodoo Glow Skulls Steady As She Goes
Victory Records
The Latin ska punk of Voodoo Glow Skulls has lasted
13 years and has now landed in the welcoming arms of Victory Records. The
band's latest 12 track endeavor combines the good time feel of ska and
the LA punk metal crunch ("Steady As She Goes") and is probably most appreciated
when skating, tagging up or chilling in someone's backyard barbecue bonanza.
Not to be taken seriously, but not to be taken lightly either, VGS has
carved a niche for themselves in their decade plus career that gives them
name recognition. Thankfully, this sextet, complete with devilish horns
(Nada En La Cabeza), goes beyond living off the name and continues to
churn out their own version of passionate ska punk. www.voodooglowskulls.com
Sinistar Future Shock
Geffen Records
Futuristic cock rock? Well, yea, that's what it seems
like the five guys in Sinisstar are trying to display on their debut 11-track
disc. And just because it's got a new look doesn't make it any more or
less viable than any of their '80s predecessors, as the bland verse chorus
verse, fist pumping rock anthem formula is done ad nauseum here ("Freak
Of Nature"). It's almost like watching Faster Pussycat in Star Trek with
a techno beat layover here and there to make these guys sound current.
If that's too scary for you, then you'll know to avoid this disc like the
plague. www.sinisstar.com
Udo Man and Machine
SPV
Former Accept throat Udo has returned with a self-titled
band and more of the same '80s hard rock swagger that this German mainstayer
is known for. This 11 track collection of basic hard rock isn't going to
knock you off your block, but it's nice to see that the man still has that
classic yowl in him to belt out these metallic opuses ("Private Eye").
Yea, it's a bit dated and hard to take seriously, but doesn't all good
'80s metal fall into that category somewhere? For a welcomed trip down
memory lane, complete with stadium shaking anthems galore ("The Dawn Of
The Gods"), experience deja vu again with Udo. www.udo-online.de
ADZ American Steel
Steel Cage
ADZ is a hard living, hard rocking band whose backgrounds
in the rock scribe world are unprecedented and whose no frills approach
and total lack of image make them look like any average blue collar American.
But, when you put instruments on them and add venom inside of them, the
output of loud guitars and rock and roll rebellion, undoubtedly fueled
by their experiences and inspirations, pummels through the garage wall
and goes right in your face ("Heat"). High-octane rock that combines the
attitude of Electric Frankenstein with the balls of Motorhead is what ADZ
delivers ("Good Head"), and it's a welcomed breath of fresh air to see
a band kick out the jams without the use of a fashion consultant. For some
good old fashioned American rock and roll, check out the loud and proud
rock and stomp of ADZ. www.steelcagerecords.com
Hate Cain's Way
World War 3
Hate comes to us from Poland, and in the same vein
of Vader and many other Eastern European death metal, they play hard, fast
and above all, evil ("...And The Sin Becomes"). Their latest 11 tracks
of blasphemy are chock full of blast beated, speed metal riffed out madness
and it's safe to say that these guys have a penchant for old Slayer ("Sectarian
Murder"), as their slash and burn style more than borrows from them. To
Hate's credit, though, they go a little deeper, both in growl ("Shame Of
The Creator") and in composition ("Through Hate To Eternity") and churn
out some of the genre's premiere death metal in the process. For a shot
of Satan, look below and you're bound to feel the heat and the burn of
this seething metal quartet. www.ww3music.com