REVIEWS SEPTEMBER 2023
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Ai Preti Records on Oct. 1 - CD, Digital
This is the fifth album from these psych rockers. And it's a live album recorded at the Osteria Ai Preti in Verona, Italy on April 20, 2023. With this release they also celebrate their 10th anniversary as a band (they were formerly known as SLAP GURU by the way).
They play songs from all their previous albums, but slightly rearranged. And this is a musical journey that goes back to the sound of the 70s. I sometimes think of Jimi Hendrix for example, even though this is not the exact same thing. So it's mainly good stuff and not too adventureous. You should really give them a try if you like old psych rock.
slapguruband.bandcamp.com
HOLYCIDE: Bazookiller
Xtreem Music - MCD, Digital EP
HOLYCIDE is a Spanish thrash metal band, with Dave Rotten (AVULSED etc) on vocals and Vicente J. PayÁ (UNBOUNDED TERROR, GOLGOTHA etc) on guitar and bass. It started as a project in 2004, and after many line-up changes and years, they finally became a full band and released a first EP, "Toxic Mutation", in 2015. It was followed by their first full-length album, "Annihilate... Then Ask!", in 2017. A second album, "Fist To Face", was released in 2020.
This 4-track EP is an uncompromising thrash attack. They deliver 3 original songs and a D.R.I. cover. This is a more aggressive and intense kind of thrash metal, but pretty old school anyway. Not bad at all, so it could be worth a try.
HOLYCIDE plan to release their third album in mid-2024.
shop.xtreemmusic.com | holycide.com
BODYGUERRA: Invictus
Fastball Music - CD
This is a powerful rock band from Germany, who deliver a varied material on this album. Sometimes it's straight rock, other times more uptempo, and there's also a bluesy/groovy song, and even a acapella number (odd idea). But I guess most of it can go as rock, and sometimes maybe hard rock. Let's just call it power rock. There seems to be many different influences anyway, and from all kinds of genres and eras.
I can't hear any really bad songs on this album, so it can be worth a try. And I don't have much else to add there.
CORRODED: The More Things Change
Despotz Records - Digital Single
Swedish metal band CORRODED have been around for a few years now, and released 5 albums so far. During the pandemic they recorded their 6th album, "Plague", which will be released in the fall.
"The More Things Change" is the second taste of the new album. It's heavy and groovy, with a melodic chorus and a modern production. It might not be a hit or an anthem that we get here, but it's o.k. anyway, much thanks to the chorus.
despotz.se | facebook.com/corrodedsweden
Louise Lemón: Shattered Heart
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single
Another single with Swedish dark pop/death gospel artist Louise Lemón. And it's heartache and pain as usual. But also soft and emotional as usual. Yes, everything is more or else as usual with this song. So if you're a fan of this woman or artists like Chelsea Wolfe, Emma Ruth Rundle and A.A. Williams, then you should feel safe when you hear this new single.
This is the second taste of a new album, which will be released in the beginning of 2024.
youtu.be/_g0K2Pk7iMo?si=G1Z-MBOFun_N38pQ | icea.se | louiselemonmusic.com
RANNA'S KIN WAGON: New Dawn
Ranna's Kin Wagon - Digital Single
So, suddenly they are RANNA'S KIN WAGON instead of just KIN WAGON? Don't ask me why. It seems like they have a new line-up though, so it's probably because of that (or maybe he wants to show us all who's the boss in the band, haha). Same music anyway.
This is a Brazilian band, led by Lean Van Ranna (vocals), and they play good old hard rock. This song is described as a power ballad though. It's their 7th single, and I guess it's o.k., but they have done better songs. This is a little too soft. Fans of 80s hard rock will probably like this though.
The new line-up plan to release 3 more singles, and then their debut album will be released in the first half of 2024.
youtube.com/watch?v=nzHurus1MUc
RED COUNTY JAIL: Gotta Be Loved Again
Bug Valley Records - Digital Single
RED COUNTY JAIL will release their debut album, "Up In Arms", on October 27. "Gotta Be Loved Agagin" is a taste of what to expect from that album.
This is a young German band, playing what the label call modern retro rock. Which sounds funny to me. Because, if it' modern, then it's obviously not retro, and the other way around. But anyway..
Fact is that it's actually a mixture of old and new here. It sounds good, but not much else. I soon forget this song. So it leaves no deeper impression on me.
bugvalleyrecords.com | redcountyjail.de
The EROTICS: Death X Dynamite
The Erotics on Sept. 29 - CD Single, Digital Double Single
New York rockers The EROTICS return with 2 new tracks in time for Halloween. It's raw and dirty, and there's a pinch of both metal and punk in their music.
I have reviewed this band before, and as far as I can remember liked what I have heard. These 2 tracks are also really good. So if you think that some cool rock from the streets of New York could be something for you, then you just have to check this out.
theerotics1.bandcamp.com/track/she-loves-her-dynamite
WARWOLF: The Apocalyptic Waltz
Metalapolis Records on Sept. 29 - CD, LP/CD
Their last album, "Necropolis" (2022), sounded a lot like IRON MAIDEN in the mid-80s. But this time it doesn't sound as much as them, even though you can still hear that they're influenced by IRON MAIDEN. I would say that they have added some more influences and their own identity this time. Still extremely good though.
WARWOLF emerged from the Cologne, Germany based band WOLFEN. "The Apocalyptic Waltz" is their second album, where the sound is more modern than the debut. Fans of traditional German heavy metal and NWOBHM will like this though, because the classic sound is still the main ingredient here.
facebook.com/WARWOLFofficial | metalapolis.eu
TERRA BUILDER: Solar Temple
Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 29 - CD, Digital
TERRA BUILDER is a German death/grind band, even though there's also influences of black metal and sludge. It all has a dark post-apocalyptic vibe, while it's also really extreme. But if you're looking for the worst you can get, then this might not be something for you. Because it's not so brutal that you can call it noise. No, this is still music. So even I can listen to it and think that it's pretty o.k. after all.
terrabuilderband.bandcamp.com | tometal.com
SACRED DAWN: Dismal Swamp
Qumran Records/No Dust Records on Sept. 29 - LP, Digital
This is a progressive heavy metal band from Chicago, and "Dismal Swamp" is their first full-length album in over 10 years.
SACRED DAWN was born in 2005, and released their debut album, "Gears of the Machine (A New Beginning)", in 2006. There have been a few line-up changes through the years, which has slowed the band down now and then. And in 2012, frontman/lead guitarist Lothar Keller formed the doom band The SKULL with Eric Wagner and Ron Holzner from TROUBLE, and SCARED DAWN went on hiatus.
Several years later the band was reactivated, and started to work on some new material. The EP "Contradiction" was released in 2019.
Well, they have made a great album. No doubt about that. It's very professional, and very American. They blend the progressive with heavy metal very well, and sometimes I can even hear some doom metal. This is a band that needs to get much more attention!
sacreddawn.net
DICTATOR SHIP: Electric Jihad
The Sign Records on Sept. 29 - LP, Digital
I think of something like MC5 when I hear this band. It's not exactly like them (not all the time anyway), but something similar at least. So garage rock from the streets, you could say. It's described as "energetic and raw rock'n'roll with exquisite multi-layered vocal harmonies and melodies inspired by 60's soul and doo-wop" in the press info. And that's a perfect description of this band's sound. I like this a lot! And if you're into old garage rock from Detroit (like MC5 for example), then you should really give these guys a try. Fans of action rock, like The HELLACOPTERS, will definitely like this too.
"Electric Jihad" is the second album from these Swedes, and it was produced by Stefan Brändström (GATUPLAN, MÄRVEL, SIDE EFFECTS, SATAN TAKES A HOLIDAY, The HOLY GHOST).
dictator-ship.bandcamp.com/album/electric-jihad | thesignrecords.com
DIAMOND DOGS: About The Hardest Nut To Crack
Wild Kingdom on Sept. 29 - CD, LP, Digital
We don't get a double sandwich like last time, but a regular album instead. And this time they recorded all 12 tracks live in 8 days.
Maybe that title wasn't such a bad idea? Because the first times I heard this album I got a feeling that they have done much better. Not really sure why I got that feel though, because DIAMOND DOGS deliver the same rock n roll and glam party that they have done on all their latest releases. And this is absolutely not bad at all. This is really good. I guess it just took a few listenings to figure that out (I had to crack the nut).
So, if you like their previous records, then this is a must. And if you have not heard them before, but really like good old rock n roll and glam rock, then this is a must too.
Now it would be nice to finally see this band live. But is that going to happen? They never seems to play near me, and concert tickets are not exactly cheap nowadays.
facebook.com/everylittlecrack | wildkingdom.se
Martin Simson's DESTROYER OF DEATH: Eternal Reign
JONO Music (Sweden)/Martin Simson Music (USA) on Sept. 29 - CD, Digital
"Eternal Reign" is the debut album from Martin Simson's DESTROYER OF DEATH, which is an American melodic metal project led by bassist Martin Simson. Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI) is singing on most of the songs, but Jørn Lande (JORN, MASTERPLAN) is singing too. Among the other musicians are CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, JERUSALEM etc) on lead, rhythm and acoustic guitars, keyboards, background vocals, and Anders Köllerfors (ALL FOR THE KING) on drums. Rex Carroll (WHITECROSS) is doing a guitar solo on "Rapture", and Anders Johansson (TUNGSTEN, HAMMERFALL, Yngwie Malmsteen etc) play drums on "Master of All".
Well, this is without a doubt a great album that they have made. So let's hope that this is not just another one off thing, but a project that will continue for a few years and release more fantastic music.
The songs are mainly classic melodic heavy metal of the timeless kind. So this is something that most of us should like.
youtu.be/e5tfY_V3bRw | orcd.co/eternal-reign | facebook.com/DestroyerOfDeath
Clarence B Thunborg: Reflections
Melodic Passion Records on Sept. 29 - CD, Digital
Clarence B Thunborg has been a bass player and singer in various bands since the late 1970s, but is now focusing on a solo career based out of his home in California. But with a past in the Stockholm region, it also means some commuting to Sweden, where "Reflections" was recorded with members from AUDIOVISION, VENI DOMINE and GRAND STAND.
The music that we get here is some kind of American singer/songwriter rock with influences from the 70s and 80s. Think of artists like Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams, Rick Springfield and Peter Gabriel for example. Melancholy and melodic rock music for soft and lonely days at home, and hardly a party album. But if you think that's what you need, then this might make you happy.
melodicpassion.com | clarencebthunborg.com
Second Class Kids Magazine #5
Second Class Kids Records - Magazine in Swedish
This is for some reason the only fanzine/magazine I get for review. Would be nice to get some more..
In the fifth number we can read interviews with Nere På Noll (podcast), Kapten Grå, NO FUN AT ALL and VARNAGEL. But we can also read about fanzines, hardcore and some reviews.
The interview I liked best this time is the one with Nere På Noll. But the interview with VARNAGEL was also interesting to read, and I really liked the quotes from reviews that people have written and the band's comments - Very funny! I complained about Rille last time, but he did a really good job with this interview. I also like the report about the Swedish hardcore scene and to read about fanzines (I did one myself in the 90s, Taskigt Drag). Most of the material is interesting in one way or another though, so this is absolutely worth reading.
And if you're doing a fanzine (in Swedish or English) that you think would fit in here, then please send it to me for review. I miss those old fanzines..
secondclasskids.com
Kapten Grå: Den Lille Kemisten
Second Class Kids Records on Sept. 28 - LP, CD
This might be something for those of you who are looking for alternative lullabies. LASTKAJ 14 member Kapten Grå (Markus Johansson) is doing a singer/songwriter thing here. It's soft and laidback, often just an acoustic guitar and vocals (not always though). It might not be total crap, but I have heard better in this genre. I need a little more action once in a while to not get totally bored. And as you might have figured out already, there's not much action on this album. So no, this wasn't my kind of album..
secondclasskids.com
ANTI-LAM FRONT: Verdenslansering
Second Class Kids Records on Sept. 28 - LP, CD
You could say that this is somewhere between Swedish trallpunk and American skate punk. It's often fast and melodic, but unfortunately it's not explosive enough, and not enough variety either. And when they slow down the tempo in some of the songs, then it gets really boring.
No, these Norwegians have made much better songs than this through the years, even though it's not totally hopeless. The really interesting moments are way too few though.
secondclasskids.com | antilamfront.bandcamp.com
SLAVERIET: Ett Småskaligt Krig
Second Class Kids Records on Sept. 28 - LP, CD
Swedish band SLAVERIET play a fast but yet melodic kind of punk rock. It's straight and simple. Somehow it sounds more raw and intense than I remember. But I like what I hear. This is a really good album that should work for both old and new punks.
SLAVERIET features former members of FROST and ASTA KASK. Fans of those 2 bands should be interested in this, even though it's not the exact same thing. They have been around for a few years now and released a few records. A good band that you really should check out.
secondclasskids.com | facebook.com/Slaveriet
The REFRESHMENTS: The Light Of Love
Wild Kingdom - Digital Single
I expected some good old rock n roll. But instead I get something that sounds almost like rocksteady or ska. It's a more Swedish version of it though, and played by an old rock n roll band. Not bad though. I like it. "It's a footstompin', fingersnappin' song that will light up any party", as they say in the info.
This is the second single from the upcoming album, "A Stiff One".
therefreshments.se
REDSPHERE: Immortalized
Malmorta Records - CD, Digital
REDSPHERE is a French death metal band, formed in 2015. They blend a variety of influences to get their own sound, but they do it without being too different. You can still hear that it's death metal, but a little updated you could say. The theme on this new album is centered around George Orwell's classic book "1984".
Well, I think they're doing a good job here. It's full speed ahead or heavy, technical and aggressive - The kind of ingredients that you can expect from a death metal album nowadays. So if you want something different from the old school stuff, but yet not too weird, then give this band a try.
redsphere.bandcamp.com | malmortarecords.com
LESKENTUSKA: Nälkäkurki
Leskentuska - Digital EP
LESKENTUSKA is a Finnish band, formed in 2018. This is their second EP, which was released in November last year. Their music is a combination of black metal, punk rock and strong choruses inspired by the long tradition of Finnish melodic metal. We get 3 tracks here.
It's not just fast and raw, but they slow down once in a while as well. They might not be doing anything unique here, but it sure ain't bad anyway. Maybe you should give them a try, because I don't have anything else to say.
leskentuska.bandcamp.com
DAMNATION'S HAMMER: Into The Silent Nebula
Massacre Records - CD, LP, Digital
"Into The Silent Nebula" is the third album from this British heavy/doom metal band. It's said to be more adventurous than their previous albums, and it actually reminds me a little of VOIVOD, even though DAMNATION'S HAMMER go their own way and do something different. I would say that they have their own unique sound. There's lots of heavy riffing anyway, but also what I would call progressive elements. So you have an interesting metal adventure to look forward to if you decide to give this album a try. I'm not so sure if I want to call this heavy or doom metal though. Rather heavy adventurous metal instead.
The album also features guest apperances from Aaron Stainthorpe (MY DYING BRIDE), Sakis Tolis (ROTTING CHRIST) and Fenriz (DARKTHRONE).
damnationshammer.co.uk
ARKADO: You Make Me Feel
Pride & Joy Music - Digital Single
Swedish melodic rock band ARKADO has released a new single, "You Make Me Feel". The song is taken from an upcoming, yet untitled, album that will be released in early 2024.
This is a softer piece, which is really melodic. It's not a ballad though. And as ususal in this genre, it sounds like something from the 80s. This might not be a hit song, but it's o.k. at least.
I think I need to hear some more before I decide if this is a good band or not.
arkado.lnk.to/youmakemefeel | facebook.com/Arkadoofficial
SAPREMIA: Subconscious Existence (re-issue)
Awakening Records - CD
New Jersey-based death metal act SAPREMIA formed in 1990, and released 2 demos in the early 90s - "Subconscious Rot" and "Existence of Torture". Those 10 tracks were remastered in 2006, and released independently by the band as a compilation, under the name "Subconscious Existence".
Now this compilation has been re-released by Awakening Records. And this is something for those of you who collect obscure old school death metal. It seems like there were thousands of these bands back in the 90s, and SAPREMIA were not better or worse than any other band at the time. Which means that this is worth checking out even if you're not a collector of old bands.
It is perhaps not the biggest variation. But on the other hand, it's not that unusual when it comes to death metal.
awakeningrecordscn.bigcartel.com
CORROSIVE: I'm Bleeding (re-issue)
Awakening Records - CD
Missouri-based CORROSIVE was founded in early 1991, and they played death/thrash metal. After a few failed demo attempts, they released their debut album, "I'm Bleeding", in 1994. Now this album has been re-released after almost 30 years. And what you can expect is 36 minutes of a aggressive and uncompromising material.
Even though it's supposed to be an album, it sounds like a raw demo recording to me. But I guess that has it's own charm somehow. It's simply a product of its own time. But if that's what you're looking for, then you should give this a try. I have heard better though.
awakeningrecordscn.bigcartel.com
BLACKBIRD ANGELS: Solsorte
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, Digital
BLACKBIRD ANGELS was founded by guitarist Tracii Guns (L.A. GUNS) and bassist/vocalist Todd Kerns (Slash, TOQUE, HEROES AND MONSTERS), and this is their debut album. Adam Hamilton (L.A. GUNS, producer) play drums. For live performances, Johnny Martin will play bass and Sam Bam Koltun will play guitar.
What we get is what sounds like an old hard/rock n roll album from the 70s. In other words a classic sound. The songs are fantastic, so there's really nothing to complain about when it comes to this record. I really hope that this is not just a one-off thing, and that they can make more albums that are this great.
orcd.co/solsorte | frontiers.it | facebook.com/traciiguns
VEGA: Battlelines
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, 2LP, Digital
British hard rock band VEGA formed in 2009, and this is their 8th studio album.
This is a band who blend classic influences with more modern elements. Yet it sounds pretty timeless. This album is full of really good songs, that I think fans of hard rock in general will like a lot. Not one single weak moment, which is really strong. They also succeed to vary the material, so it's not like they repeat themselves and become predictable. In other words, definitely worth checking out.
orcd.co/battlelines | frontiers.it | vegaofficial.co.uk
DIO: The Studio Albums: 1996-2004
BMG on Sept. 22 - CD Box Set, LP Box Set
The 4 first albums with DIO was really good. Those are the classic albums. After that I have not heard that much with the band. So these 4 last studio albums that they did was something new to my ears.
The first time I heard "Angry Machines" (1996) it was unfortunately a pretty hopeless album. Nothing wrong with Ronnie James Dio's voice, but the songs were just not good enough. It was actually a very boring album. I guess they wanted to sound modern or something, and the music is heavier than usual (the second track is surprisingly fast though). But I have to admit that the second time it was at least not totally hopeless. A couple of songs was o.k. at least, which is always something.
"Magica" (2000) might not be as bad as "Angry Machines", but it still doesn't really live up to the high quality that I expect from Mr. Dio. It's at least a good try though, so there's hope. It's not like I can hear any classic anthems though. The LP version features a bonus 7" of the studio track "Electra", if that can be of interest?
"Killing The Dragon" (2002) is much better than the 2 previous albums. The material is much stronger here, and it sounds more like I expect DIO to sound like. I would say that they was back on the right track again. This is an album that fans of the 80s records should check out, even though it's not exactly the same thing. Best album in this box according to me.
"Master Of The Moon" (2004) begins with the only song that I have heard from these albums, "One More For The Road" (it was on a compilation CD I got with a magazine). Another good album, but maybe not in the same class as "Killing The Dragon". Still worth a try for the 80s fans though. This became the last studio album with DIO, as band leader Ronnie James Dio went to HEAVEN AND HELL (aka BLACK SABBATH), who made 1 studio album. Unfortunately he passed away in May 2010. Really sad as he probably had much more to give.
This box set might not be something for those of us who prefer the classic albums from the 80s, but rather the die hard collectors who must have everything with king Dio. But the interesting news is that BMG will make the whole DIO catalogue available again.
ronniejamesdio.com
EXISTENZ: Death & Glory
Heptown Records - Digital EP
Swedish 80s punk band EXISTENZ reunited a few years ago, and here's 2 brand new songs from the band - "Death & Glory" and "Reality Or Fiction". It's hard and fast, but still punk and not really hardcore (even though they're on the border). Steve Campbell (The EXPLOITED) is playing guitar on "Death & Glory", and both songs sounds really good. This is absolutely worth listening to if you like stuff like GBH and The EXPLOITED for example.
EXISTENZ was formed in Helsingborg in 1981. They released at least 1 12" EP, "Let's Get Drunk Before It's Too Late". They reunited in 2016 with the same line-up as in 1984, and has released some more stuff since then.
facebook.com/existenzpunk | hepcat.se/sv/existenz
DIAMONDS AND GUNS: Making Cash For Heartless Crooks
Diamonds And Guns - Digital EP
DIAMONDS AND GUNS is a punk rock band from Stockholm, Sweden, which was formed by 4 friends in late 2019. This new EP was produced and recorded by themselves, while the legendary Tomas Skogsberg (The HELLACOPTERS, ENTOMBED, BACKYARD BABIES etc etc) mixed the EP. It's said to be a bit happier in tone than the previous releases. More nostalgia and party.
Well, these 4 songs sounds good to me. It's some kind of old school punk rock, and I almost want to call this glam punk actually. I'm not sure if anybody else would agree on that though. It's melodic but yet raw anyway, with beer friendly choruses. You should give them a try. Maybe with a drink in your hand?
facebook.com/diamondsandgunsband
DEATH LENS: Vacant
Epitaph Records - Digital Single
L.A. punk rockers DEATH LENS have just signed to Epitaph Records, and this is the band's first release on the legendary label. They have previously released 3 full-length albums and a split EP with The FRIGHTS.
Their sound is modern, and not the old school punk rock that I like so much. But this is a good song anyway, so I look forward to hear some more in the future.
Not much else to add right now..
youtu.be/69Y8562HlrA | epitaph.com
REACH: Mama Mama
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single
After a successful European tour with H.E.A.T, Swedish rock trio REACH are back with a new single, which is the first taste of their next album. This song has 3 keywords: energy, melody and party. This is a damn good song, and you should really check it out, no matter if you like rock, hard rock or melodic rock.
And there's not much else to say..
youtu.be/N8oERknXGGc?si=ovsqMily-wPjW9hy | icea.se
SHADOWPLAY: Pain
Shadowplay SWE - Digital Single
This is the second single from this Stockholm, Sweden based band, who started 3 years ago as a covers band, playing songs by SISTERS OF MERCY, The CURE, SIOUXSIE & The BANSHEES, KILLING JOKE, JOY DIVISON, COCTEAU TWINS etc. So in other words what they call post punk then. The trio soon started to sneak in some of their own songs, and have now began to release them.
This track is a more laidback song, which sounds a little like synth pop to me. But it's not bad. It's dark and melancholy, yet melodic and nice somehow. Give it a try.
belugarecords.com
SPRINTS: Up And Comer
City Slang - Digital Single
This Irish punk rock band will release their debut album, "Letter To Self", on January 5, 2024. And that could be interesting to hear, as this is another song that reminds me a little of Australia's AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS. SPRINTS have their own identity though, and I like their attitude in this song. Cool stuff that you really should check out.
The album will be followed by a huge tour in Europe, UK and Ireland in the first half of 2024.
youtu.be/RAVgqbsw5NE | facebook.com/sprintsmusic
TRASHCAN DANCE: Lil' Dreamer
Trashcan Dance - Digital Single
TRASHCAN DANCE release another single from their upcoming album, "Killing Moon". I guess we can call this something like goth rock with a punkish street attitude. The song features a guest apperance from Niki Rock (ex-BARBE-Q-BARBIES). This is absolutely not bad at all, and I like the attitude that this song have, which is mixed with some female, melodic vocals in the chorus.
The song is just 1:45 minutes. Short but sweet (like this review).
push.fm/fl/thrashcandance-lildreamer | facebook.com/trashcandanceband
DESECRESY: Deserted Realms
Xtreem Music on Sept. 26 - CD, LP, Cassette, Digital
DESECRESY's kind of death metal is best described as a heavy noise terror. This is really dark and heavy, almost on the border to doom/death metal. So there's not much light here. And the guttural growl adds an extra layer of brutality to it all. But even though it's heavy, it can also be intense once in a while.
This is a 1-man band led by the Finnish multi-instrumentalist Tommi Grönqvist. "Deserted Realms" is his 8th album, and this is hardly something for everyone. But if you want it dark, heavy and brutal, then this might be your thing.
youtu.be/nc8wSZWv86o | b.link/Desecresy | xtreemmusic.com
IMPERIUM: When Kings Meet
Imperium on Sept. 23 - MCD, Digital EP
"When Kings Meet" is a 6-track heavy/thrash metal attack from the UK. It's powerful and heavy. Old school but with a modern sound. Absolutely not bad at all. This is worth listening to.
The 2 last tracks were recorded at Bloodstock Open Air in 2022, and they have a really bad sound quality. But if you put the volume to the max, then I guess it won't be a problem.
IMPERIUM has previously released a self titled EP about a year ago.
imperiummetal.com
The MOBILE HOMES: Tristesse
Wild Kingdom on Sept. 22 - CD, LP, Digital
Even though this is not a typical band for a site called Hard Rock Info, it's dark enough to be of interest for people who like dark rock and other darker music. And fact is that I really like this band's music, even though they play synth pop. So I don't care what you think anyway, haha.
The MOBILE HOMES is a band from Sweden, formed back in 1984 already. "Tristesse" is their 8th album. Their music is melancholy and atmospheric. Pretty soft stuff for a hard rocker. And you won't hear any guitars here. It's just synths and vocals (even the drums are played by a synth). But as I said earlier, it's good stuff, so I like this album.
youtube.com/watch?v=8_EpBANyFEU | wildkingdom.se
ROCKETT LOVE: Galactic Circus
Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 22 - CD
ROCKETT LOVE is a hard rock band from Sweden, formed in 2015. They have now signed to Proud & Joy Music for their new album, "Galactic Circus".
So what can I say about this album then? They seems to do everything right here, so they are obviously good at what they are doing. This is simply a very good melodic hard rock album, and you should really give it a try. And I don't have much else to add there..
youtu.be/h3Go3XkEkhM | prideandjoy.de
RISING WINGS: Reach
Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 22 - CD, LP, Digital
RISING WINGS was founded in 2006 by Florian "Flo" Bauer as a melodic rock 1-man band. Flo has been playing in various rock formations for years, such as the AOR band YOURINGA and the hard rock cover band SAVIORS CRY. A self titled 3-track EP was released in 2006, which was followed by a 5-track EP, "Higher", in 2008. Since then several singles has been released. But now it's time for the first full-length album from the band, where Flo sing and play guitars, bass and keyboards. Drums is played by Franz Raßhofer (Joe Leila), Falco Münch (RELOAD), Markus Herzinger (2nd EAST) and Bobby Santiago (BLOODWORK).
This sounds like an old melodic hard rock album from the 80s actually, which is nothing unusual nowadays though. The songs are of a very high quality, and hardly something that you piss out in a few minutes. This is really an album that I recomend you to check out if you like melodic hard rock.
youtu.be/SzIlvyMFkY8 | risingwings.de | prideandjoy.de
DOMINO DRIVE: Smoke And Mirrors
Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 22 - CD
The first steps for this Swedish melodic rock band was taken back in 2014, when singer and keyboardist Sebastian Okupski (ex-LOCH VOSTOK, ex-MAYADOME) and drummer Alvaro Svanerö (IMPERIAL DOMAIN) began working on some early material Sebastian had written. Philip Borg (IMPERIAL DOMAIN) later joined the band on guitars. Then bass player and lyricist Jonas Söder (SARCASM) heard some early recordings of the band in 2017, and immediately contacted Sebastian to tell him that if the band ever become active, he wanted to be a part of it. But due to other musical commitments it took a while before that happened. In 2019 they were finally ready though, and in the summer of 2022 multi-instrumentalist Jonas Tyskhagen (WINDING ROAD) joined the band as both new vocalist and guitarist (Philip Borg had left the band).
Now the debut album is here, which features guest appearances by JJ Marsh (Glenn Hughes, HUGHES TURNER PROJECT), Fredrik Folkare (UNLEASHED) and Tina Gunnarson (HEXED). Everybody is doing a really good job here, and this should be of interest for fans of melodic rock as well as melodic hard rock. Simply a great album without any weak moments. So hopefully they won't be too busy to make another album within a year or 2. But whenever they get the time, it will hopefully be just as great as this album.
prideandjoy.de
BONFIRE: MMXXIII (Re-recorded)
AFM Records on Sept. 22 - LP, CD
German 80s hard rockers BONFIRE has been so ambitious that they have re-recorded not just 1 but 3 of their early albums. Don't ask me why. I mean, what was wrong with the original albums? But it seems like they got this idea that they wanted to re-record these albums with their latest line-up and today's technology, to make it sound like a metal album from the 80s. Well, this is not really metal, but melodic hard rock, like it always have been according to me.
"Don't Touch The Light" (1986) is their first album. A true 80s hard rock album. Heavy but melodic, and not bad at all. I can't really remember if I have heard this album before though. But for some reason "S.D.I." (the best song here) sounds very familiar somehow. Which is a little weird as I can't remember any of the other songs here.
Their second album is "Fireworks" (1987), which is an album that I actually still remember a few songs from - "Never Mind" and "Sleeping All Alone" for example. So therfor it must be my favorite of these 3 albums. Very good melodic hard rock, and lots of really strong songs. This is the album I would recomend you to check out first if you're intrested in this band and have not heard them before.
I have a copy of "Point Blank" (1989) on an old cassette. But as I have not heard it in an eternity, I can't remember any of these songs. Which feels a little weird actually. It's still good hard rock that they're playing, so nothing to complain about anyway.
As I have not heard these albums in a long time, it's impossible for me to tell how different these re-recordings are from the original recordings. But hopefully they had a lot of fun while recording it anyway.
As far as I can understand, each album will be released as 1 album, and not as a box set with all 3 albums (which could have been a good idea for those who want all albums and are rich).
bonfire.de | shop.afm-records.de
SKULL & CROSSBONES: Sungazer
Massacre Records - CD, LP, Digital
SKULL & CROSSBONES is a traditional heavy metal band from Germany, with 4 former members of STORMWITCH in the line-up: Volker Schmietow, Tobi Kipp, Jürgen "Wanschi" Wannenwetsch and Marc Opppold. With singer Tobi Hübner, they continue where they they left off.
This album have a really strong material, without a doubt. But the musicians and the vocalist is also very good. It's powerful and melodic at the same time, and they have a pretty classic sound. No fan of good old heavy metal should be dissapointed when they hear this. You should really check this out.
skullandcrossbones.de
The HOLY GHOST: Ignore Alien Orders
Lövely Records on Sept. 22 - LP, Digital
The HOLY GHOST comes from Sweden, and this is their third album. They are inspired by the American underground scene of the 80/90s, with bands like HÜSKER DÜ, DINOSAUR JR, RITES OF SPRING, The REPLACEMENTS etc.
Here we have another band that sounds like a indie rock band from the 90s. And the problem with these bands is that they all seems to sound the same to me. It's not bad, but it doesn't give me that much either. The music is melodic and energetic, but not catchy enough to be interesting to me.
But it might just be my taste. So if you like this kind of music, then you should not listen to me.
It seems like this band was formed by former members of ASHRAM and TRAPDOOR FUCKING EXIT in 2011. The 2 latest members are Uffe Cederlund on guitar (ENTOMBED, DISFEAR, HAYSTACK) and Niklas Korssell on drums (NEW ROSE, WOODLANDS, EYE MAKE THE HORIZON).
theholyghost1.bandcamp.com
FREYA: Fight As One
Upstate Records on Sept. 22 - LP, CD
A band name like FREYA might sound more power metal than hardcore. But hardcore/metal is what this band is playing.
FREYA hailing from Syracuse, NY, and was formed in 2001 by 3 members of EARTH CRISIS. It's now 20 years since their first release, "As the Last Light Drains" (Victory Records, 2003). So to make this album extra special, they invited 3 hardcore singers: Freddie Cricien (MADBALL), Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED) and Scott Vogel (TERROR), who scream on 1 song each.
The music is heavy and aggressive, just like it should be. They are hardly one of the faster bands in the genre, so I would guess that fans of something like EARTH CRISIS and similar bands could like this a lot. It's absolutely not bad anyway.
facebook.com/freyahardcore | upstaterecordsny.com
FERAL/CRAWL: Made As Those Who Are No Longer...
Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 22 - MCD, Digital
If you like Swedish HM-2 death metal, then this is a split EP in your taste.
Both FERAL and CRAWL comes from Sweden, and they have now teamed up for a split with 2 songs each. I don't think that I have to describe the sound for you, as you probably know already what this sounds like. It's just as good as any other of the good old classic bands, so this is simply a must for every fan of old school death metal.
..and there's not much else to add there.
tometal.com | facebook.com/feralswe | facebook.com/crawlswe
HET PANDORA ENSEMBLE: III (re-issue)
Modulus - 2LP
If you feel like some instrumental progressive jamming sounds like something interesting, then this could be something for you. Because the first time you hear this, you will probably think that most of the material sounds like it's improvised (which it probably is). I think of chaos jazz when I hear this, but played by people who has probably taken too much drugs.
But after listening some more, you should soon find out that everything here isn't improvised jazz jamming. In some cases there's actually some kind of structure, and at least an idea for a song. But yes, I still think of improvised chaos jazz when I hear this.
Originally released privately in 1978 and long sought after by collectors, "III" is the one and only album by this Dutch dual guitar-driven progressive rock quartet. The band was formed in 1973 to build a bridge between the 60s creativity and the punk outburst of the late 70s. They were inspired by the music of George Crumb, the impressionist compositions of Ravel and the European folklore pieces of Bartok, as well as KING CRIMSON and MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA.
This double vinyl features a full album of extensive unreleased bonus material from a concert taped on September 30, 1978 in Aloha, Beverwiik, The Netherlands. Also included as bonus are sketches of new pieces that give an idea of the second album, which was never recorded.
lasercd.com/cd/iii-2lp-vinyl
H.E.A.T: Extra Force
earMUSIC - LP, Digital
Last year original singer Kenny Leckremo returned to the band. "Extra Force" features tracks that were previously sung by Erik Grönwall (now in SKID ROW), but now with Kenny on vocals. There's also 2 brand new tracks, as well as some live tracks recorded in 2022.
This is a really hot party for those who like hard rock from the 80s, as there's lots of great songs here. In other words an excellent album without 1 single weak song, and therefor a must to have. Simple as that, and not much else to add..
But if I should mention any favorites here, then it would be the 2 new songs, "Freedom" and "Will You Be". The live tracks "Back To The Rythm", "Nationwide" and "Living On The Run" is also extra good.
heatsweden.com | ear-music.net
ECLIPSE: Megalomanium
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, LP, Digital
This is actually the 10th studio album from these Swedish melodic hard rockers. It might not sound as great as when I first discovered them many years ago, but it sure ain't a bad album. Those who expect any surprises will be dissapointed though, because this sounds exactly like they use to. Which is good enough for me.
So what you can expect here is energetic melodic hard rock with a party vibe, and a really strong material. This is simply an album that you have to check out.
orcd.co/megalomanium | frontiers.it | eclipsemania.com
ESCAPE THE HIVE: This Is Gonna Sting
Weapon Records/Vanity Music Group on Sept. 15
ESCAPE THE HIVE hailing from Phoenix, AZ and blend 70s pomp rock with 80s arena rock, then they also add some modern recording techniques to get their own kind of melodic hard rock. Yet it sounds timeless and classic somehow, and they have many good songs here. As a matter of fact, I don't think there's 1 single bad song on the whole record. This album is absolutely worth a try if you like classic hard rock.
Except for their own original songs, we also get a cover of "Something" by The BEATLES.
ROOTS OF THE OLD OAK: The Devil And His Wicked Ways
Hammerheart Records on Sept. 15 - CD, LP
UK band ROOTS OF THE OLD OAK play dark pagan death/doom metal. It's hardly something for those who want happy melodies and something to sing-along too. But those who like it dark and heavy, they will probably find this very interesting.
This band is good at what they are doing, and I guess it's not so bad. But for some reason I just don't know what else I should say about this album. So my advice is that you listen for yourself if you're interested in hearing what they sounds like.
rotoo.lnk.to/thedevilandhiswickedways | hammerheart.com
THORN: Evergloom
Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 15 - CD, Digital
THORN is an underground death metal band from the States, and this is their third album. It's said to be their most mature and immersive one yet. They play really heavy, and blend in atmospheric parts, even though some songs are more in the old school. It's mainly brutal and angry.
I don't really know who I should compare them with, but if you like it heavy and brutal, then you could always give them a try. But if you're looking for happy melodies, then this is not your thing.
thorndm.bandcamp.com/album/evergloom | tometal.com
MORTAL FACTOR: Where To From Here?
Darkstorm Records on Sept. 15 - CD
Swizz metal band MORTAL FACTOR started as a 5-man thrash metal band in April 2003, but have since then transformed to a more groovy metal trio instead. But there's still some thrash in their music, so this is not a pure groove metal band, but rather groovy thrash metal you could say. And they are absolutely not bad at what they are doing. It's hard and heavy stuff, very macho.
I would guess that fans of a band like TRANSPORT LEAGUE could like this, but also fans of PANTERA of course.
darkstorm-records.eu | mortalfactor.com
MÄBE: Sjömanskyrkan
TwoFaced Productions - Digital Single
This is the second single from the upcoming album, "Kom Evighet, Kom Ögonblick", which will be available on October 6.
The new single sounds more like I'm used to than the last single did. In other words a soft singer/songwriter rock song. Not too soft though, but maybe more epic. Absolutely not bad. This is probably too soft for the hardest rockers though. But those of you who are more open-minded when it comes to music should give this a try.
youtu.be/6CheUEwNuho?si=4g1kw8sIg0z4k7D4 | mabe.nu
STREETLIGHT: Ignition
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, Digital
This is a AOR/melodic rock band from Sweden, who began its journey in 2021. And just like so many other bands, they are inspired by legends like JOURNEY, TOTO and KANSAS, but also DEF LEPPARD. It's just as you can imagine melodic, but also guitar driven. So nothing new here, but not bad because of that. They are simply doing everything right, so no fan of this genre should be dissapointed when they hear this album.
Not much else to add..
frontiers.it | streetlighttheband.com
SARAYASIGN: The Lion's Road
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, Digital
Swedish melodic hard rockers SARAYASIGN formed in 2020, and released their debut album, "Throne Of Gold", in May 2022. Now they have signed to Italian label Frontiers Music Srl, and released their second album.
This concept based band blend the guitar driven roots of the 70s with the cinematic experience of the 21st Century. They focus on melody and a good story. The material we have here is very strong, and something that I think every fan of melodic hard rock and metal will like. So if you have not heard them before, give them a chance. I'm pretty sure that you won't be dissapointed.
frontiers.it | sarayasign.com
Neal Morse: The Dreamer - Joseph: Part One
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, Digital, 2LP (on Sept. 15)
Always very ambitious and very progressive. This time he have turned the story of Joseph into a progressive rock adventure. Among the vocalists are Ted Leonard (SPOCK'S BEARD, PATTERN SEEKING ANIMALS), Matt Smith (THEOCRACY) and Jake Livgren (PROTO-KAW, KANSAS), who sing the roles of Joseph's brothers as they grow dark with jealousy and throw him in the pit. And among the musicians we can find people like Steve Morse (DEEP PURPLE, DIXIE DREGS) and Eric Gillette (NMB), among others.
Just like Neal's "Jesus Christ The Exorcist" rock opera, this album have all the ingredients that you can expect from a progressive rock opera adventure. Sometimes it's epic or a little odd, sometimes it's rocking or is more soft and melodic etc. etc. Many different voices (male and female) and different moods.
And yes, this is just part 1. Part 2 will be released in 2024. So if you like this album, then you have something to look forward to.
frontiers.it | nealmorse.com
HELL IN THE CLUB: F.U.B.A.R.
Frontiers Music Srl - CD, Digital
HELL IN THE CLUB is an Italian hard rock/heavy metal band, featuring members of ELVENKING and SECRET SPHERE. This is their 6th album. Which I would describe as a party album for fans of bands like HARDCORE SUPERSTAR, SKID ROW, CRAZY LIXX and CRASHDÏET. In other words a pretty classic hard rock and sleaze rock sound with a pinch of heavy metal. And who can say no to that? Of course you can't. So check this out at once, because this album will make you want to dance the night away.
Best song: "The Kid".
frontiers.it | hellintheclub.com
ELECTRIC BOYS: Grand Explosivos
Mighty Music on Sept. 15 - CD, LP, Digital
That Swedish hard rockers ELECTRIC BOYS and funk goes hand in hand is nothing new. After all, their first album was titled "Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride". But this album must be the most funky that they have done in many years. That doesn't mean that it's only funky hard rock though. No, they also show us many other sides this time. "I've Got A Feeling" is for example more melodic, while a song like "Domestic Blues" is a harder rock song, with a beginning that reminds me of "TV Eye" by The STOOGES. And then we have "The Great Believer", which is a cool rock song.
I would say that this album is a mix of funky hard rock and classic rock. It has more of a party vibe than their last album, "Ups!de Down", had, which makes this album much better according to me. Fans of the 2 first albums could find a lot of joy in listening to this album.
bit.ly/eboys-shop | electricboys.com | mightymusic.dk
DANKO JONES: Electric Sounds
AFM Records on Sept. 15 - CD, LP
DANKO JONES are more or less veterans now. They formed in Toronto in 1996, and they were very popular here in Sweden in the late 90s/early 2000s. As they were signed to a Swedish record label (Bad Taste Records), they toured here a lot. But they have probably been almost everywhere since then, and released 10 albums.
Their music is mainly energetic rock, but they also blend in some blues, power pop and good old 70s hard rock. And because of that mixture, they have all kinds of fans - from old rockers to hard rockers and metal fans, and it wouldn't surprise me if some punk rockers like them too. Yet they're almost as safe as something like MOTÖRHEAD or AC/DC, as there's not many surprises in their sound.
Now I have not heard a whole new album with this Canadian hard rocking trio in a few years, but they might actually have made their best album in many years. Not that it sounds much different than before, but I guess they just succeeded to make stronger songs this time. Just listen to the opening with "Guess Who's Back" and "Good Time". If you're not sold after that, then this is probably not a band for you.
dankojones.com | afm-records.de
VANSIND: Grib Til Våben
Mighty Music on Sept. 8 - Digital Single
This is the first single from Danish folk metallers VANSIND's debut album, which will be released later this year. It's melodic, dark and heavy, with harsh vocals. And they even have bagpipes. But otherwise it sounds like folk metal use to sound. And I have heard worse than this in my life, because this is actually not so bad at all.
VANSIND was formed in the summer of 2019. Their first single, "Valborgsnat", was released in 2020, and was followed by a EP, "MXIII", in 2021 and 2 more singles in 2022.
bfan.link/grib-til-vaben
DOMKRAFT: Sonic Moons
Magnetic Eye Records on Sept. 8 - CD, LP, Cassette, Digital
Here's another band in the heavy-weight league. And then I talk about the music, and nothing else.
DOMKRAFT is a Swedish fuzz/psych/doom trio, and this is their 4th studio album. The music is not just heavy though, but can also be powerful and explosive. There can also be a psychedelic part once in a while. People who like it heavy will probably love this band. And they are actually not so bad at all, so it could be worth a try.
The opening track is 9 minutes long, and the last track is 9:43. The songs between those 2 tracks are from 4 to 7 and a half minutes. Just in case you think that's interesting to know (but the truth is that I don't have anything else interesting to write).
en.merhq.net | domkraft.bandcamp.com/album/sonic-moons
BONAFIDE: Hero To Zero
Black Lodge Records - Digital Single
On October 27 the new album, "Are You Listening?", with Swedish hard rockers BONAFIDE will be released. And "Hero To Zero" is the first single from the album. It's a hard rock song that should be of interest for fans of something like AC/DC for example. Riff rock of the best kind. A must to check out.
And if you know Swedish, read my interview with singer/guitarist Pontus Snibb here.
youtu.be/pK2sjMQrWtI | blacklodge.se | bonafiderocks.se
MANNEQUIN PUSSY: I Got Heaven
Epitaph Records - Digital Single
MANNEQUIN PUSSY hailing from Philadelphia, and they play punk rock. I had not heard them before, so I didn't really know what to expect. But this song was a nice surprise, as they reminds me of the Australian band AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS, which is a band that I really like. It's 3 minutes of all kinds of emotions - Sometimes aggressive, sometimes melodic. I look forward to hear some more with this band. And it's said that there will be more soon..
youtu.be/EvgYIXc4JDA | epitaph.com
RAVEN BANNER: Rise Up Clan
Raven Banner - CD, Digital
RAVEN BANNER comes from southern Sweden, and formed in 2021. The band features veterans in the scene.
This is something for fans of a band like AMON AMARTH, because RAVEN BANNER have a similar sound, and also sing about Vikings and blood thirsty gods. And now RAVEN BANNER happens to be just as good as AMON AMARTH, so you won't be dissapointed when you hear this masterpiece.
"Rise Up Clan" was produced by Alexander Backlund (SOEN, IN MOURNING, OCTOBER TIDE) at Fascination Street Studios, and world-renowned producer Jens Bogren (OPETH, SEPULTURA, KREATOR) took care of mixing and mastering. This gives the album a extra good sound.
distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ravenbanner/rise-up-clan | ravenbanner.se
PROGRAMMED: Ctrl-Altr-Delete
Programmed - Digital Album
PROGRAMMED is a death/thrash solo project from Sacramento, California. It's the brainchild of seasoned musician Daniel Mills, and this is the debut album.
After a melodic and instrumental intro (that last for 3 and a half minutes), Mr. Mills deliver a death/thrash attack. He seems to be a pretty good musician, and this is not so bad. But I get a feeling that this could have been even better with a real band, and a more fat sound. Could still be worth a try though.
linktr.ee/programmed_band
SPILLAGE: Phase Four
QUMRAN Records (North America)/NO DUST Records (Europe) on Sept. 8 - CD
"Phase Four" is the 4th album from this Chicago band, who formed in 2013. Their music is described as 70s classic tinted heavy riff rock/metal. But on this album they have brought in more varied influences from all of the band's members. So it's a more extensive range of musical tastes this time.
In the end we can call it hard rock/doom metal though. That's what I hear here anyway. And it sounds really good to me. I think a lot of people who like good old hard rock and doom metal could like this band, so you should really give them a chance.
youtu.be/K2n9sQ43SmE | spillage-online.com | qumranrecords.com | nodustrecords.com
JADED TRUTH: Bitter
Jaded Truth on Sept. 8 - Digital EP
If you thought that grunge was dead, then you better think again. Even though the genre is not as poular as it was 30 years ago, there's still a few bands who play the music.
And one of these bands are JADED TRUTH from Canada, which gives us 6 tracks on this digital EP. It's not just grunge that we get though, as there's also some metal, punk and stoner rock in their brew.
This trio sounds familiar, but at the same time they also do their own thing. So this is not just a copy of the past. People into alternative rock and grunge will probably like this though, because it's pretty good stuff that they have here. So give them a try.
jadedtruth.bandcamp.com/album/bitter-ep
FIREWIND: Still Raging - 20th Anniversary Show
AFM Records - Blu-ray/2CD
Greek power metal band FIREWIND celebrate their 20th anniversary with this new live release. There have been a few line-up changes through the years, but band leader and guitarist Gus G (ex-Ozzy Osbourne, ARCH ENEMY, DREAM EVIL, NIGHTRAGE) has always been there. He has always succeeded to find really good vocalists, and the latest is Herbie Langhans (AVANTASIA, RADIANT, SEVENTH AVENUE), who is doing a damn good job. The other band members are Petros Christo on bass, and Jo Nunez on drums.
The show on this Blu-ray/2CD package was recorded at Principal Club Theater in Thessaloniki, Greece in 2022. They burned off 20 tracks for an audience that was just as on fire as the band. It's powerful and melodic, but they also have really good songs. In other words a great live release that you really should check out.
I thought the time for a drum solo was over though, but obviously not..
firewind.gr | shop.afm-records.de
STREET FIGHTER: Second Hand Hero
From The Vaults on Sept. 8 - Digital Album
STREET FIGHTER wants to take us back to 1986, but with the production of today. The heavy metal project is led by producer and multi-instrumentalist Marco Angioni (MERIDIAN, WITHERING SURFACE), who play most of the instruments. On vocals we have Stefan Jensen (EXELERATE) and Sofia Schmidt (ETHEREAL KINGDOMS). And then there's also a long guest list with vocalists and musicians from bands like DIAMOND HEAD, ELECTRIC GUITARS, MERIDIAN, ARTILLERY, WITHERING SURFACE etc.
This band play a melodic kind of heavy metal. There's lots of great songs here. Just listen to something like "Queen Of The Night" for example. That song should be a classic! And there's more songs that should be classics here. Why such a great album as this is just released digitally is a big mystery. Because if you want to go back to 1986, then this should be released on both LP and cassette. But maybe later?
facebook.com/Street.Fighter.DK | fromthevaults.dk
ALLAMEDAH: Alma
UPRISING! Records on Sept. 8 - Digital EP
Portugese band ALLAMEDAH release a 3-track EP. They are said to be the new generation of progressive/alternative metal, and have been active since 2016. This is their debut EP though. The group's sound is a blend of modern metal and a fusion with other musical genres, such as fado and rap. They sing mainly in Portuguese and English, with the occasional use of Hebrew.
With that information you might think that this is a band in its own league. But fact is that these 3 songs are pretty similar to each other. It's melodic, and sometimes on the border to pop, even though the last track, "The Great Unknown", is a little harder and heavier. So I guess that fans of melodic metal could like this band.
orcd.co/alla-alma | soundcloud.com/allamedah_official | uprisingrecords.de
AOR: Bewitched In L.A.
Perris Records on Sept. 8 - CD
Frédéric Slama has since 2000 released as much as 22 albums with AOR. And the name of this band is not just a name, but exactly what they actually play. You could also add melodic rock and West Coast rock to the description (but all those labels are more or less the same to me). I guess it's not such a big surprise that this sounds like something from the 80s. Fans of genre legends like JOURNEY, TOTO, FOREGINER etc. should enjoy this album. It's really good stuff anyway. No doubt about that.
Along with Frédéric Slama, we also find musicians like Paul Sabu (John Waite, SILENT RAGE, ONLY CHILD, LITTLE AMERICA, Lee Aaron, Kidd Glove) and Tommy Denander (Alice Cooper, Steve Walsh, Paul Stanley).
youtu.be/ehIZ6nZaSmk | slama101.fr | perrisrecords.com
NASTY: Heartbreak Criminals
Century Media Records on Sept. 8 - LP/CD, CD
This is the 9th studio album from this Belgian/German hardcore outfit. They have been around since 2004, but the hunger is still there. Which they really prove with this new album.
"Heartbreak Criminals" is filled with the typical hardcore ingredients: heavy guitars and hard vocals, as well as some gang choirs here and there. There is a few short melodic moments here and there too, but no fan of the genre should be dissapointed when they hear this album.
centurymedia.com
MUSTANG: Beyond Raging Thunder
Fighter Records on Sept. 7 - CD, Digital
MUSTANG hailing from India, and formed in 2015. This is their debut album, where they deliver traditional heavy and speed metal with a raw energy, just like it still was the 80s. Except for their own original songs, we also get a cover of JUDAS PRIEST's "Ram It Down".
They have succeeded to create a varied material, and can really play this kind of metal. So if you're tired of all modern metal and want some good old stuff instead, then this might be what you're looking for.
youtu.be/vhUPmusTLv4 | facebook.com/mustangindia666 | fighter-records.com
SOPHIE'S THREAT: Phase One
Sophie's Threat - MCD, Digital EP
This is the debut EP from this Brazilian melodic death/thrash metal band. SOPHIE'S THREAT was founded in 2021, and has since then released a few singles. Since the last single they have lost both singer Malu Sales and guitarist Rodrigo Godoy. The band is now a quartet, with new singer Felicia Andrade.
4 brutal tracks is what we get here, but actually just 3 songs as 1 is included both as a studio and live recording. We don't get anything new here though, as it's simply 3 out of their 4 singles that we get. Maybe they should have included that first single as well, instead of 2 versions of "Poison"? Good stuff anyway, and actually not so melodic for being called melodic death/thrash metal. You should give them a try if you have not heard them yet.
The band is now working on their first full-length album, which they plan to release in the first half of 2024.
onerpm.link/497077372103 | facebook.com/sophiesthreat
TERMINALIST: The Crisis As Condition
Indisciplinarian on Sept. 8 - LP, CD, Cassette, Digital
TERMINALIST is a Danish/American hyper thrash metal band, and this is their second album. Rooted in 1980s technical thrash metal, they update the socio-political criticism known from the genre's heyday in the late 80s and early 90s. But don't be surprised if you also hear some progressive and black metal elements here.
This is hard and heavy, but also dynamic and ambitious as well. In other words not just fast and intense. And they have succeeded to make a good album, so I think you should give this a try.
bit.ly/467coEN | terminalist.bandcamp.com | indisciplinarian.com
DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY: No Weather, No Cry, The Desert Don't Lie
Diplomatic Immunity on Sept. 6 - LP, Digital
After some singles and a EP, Danish alternative rock n roll band DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY are ready to release their full-length debut. The music is both melodic and energetic, with elements of both punk and grunge. Not always at the same time though. All songs are melodic, but not always so energetic.
This trio have made a pretty good rock n roll album. It might not be something for the hardest rockers or those who are into good old 50s rock n roll. Because this is something more mdoern and a little alternative. A wild guess is that people who miss the Swedish band The SOUNDTRACK OF OUR LIVES could like this, even though this is not the exact same thing as them.
bit.ly/3XkoAOh | diplomaticimmunityofficial.bandcamp.com
DANTALION: Fatum
Non Serviam Records on Sept. 8 - CD, LP, Digital
Spanish black metallers DANTALION are back with a new album, their 9th. Most of the time it's hard, fast and intense, just as black metal is supposed to be. But once in a while it's heavy and anxious instead, which gives the album some much-needed variety. Because there's a risk that it would have been too much for me with just the fast and intense all the way.
DANTALION is an experienced band, and they are doing a good job here. This is just as good as any album from some more famous band in this genre. So you should really give them a chance.
non-serviam-records.com | dantalion.bandcamp.com
BIO-CANCER: Revengeance
Hammerheart Records on Sept. 8 - CD, LP
BIO-CANCER is an extreme thrash metal band from Athens, Greece, formed in 2010. Their debut album was released in 2012, and their second album in 2015. And after many years it's time for their third full-length.
Even though this is a brutal album, there's also melodies. They also seems to be very professional musicians. And even though the singer scream like he would be insane, this is actually not so bad at all. They have found their own unique thrash metal sound, which sometimes sounds more like death metal.
I would guess that many different fans of extreme metal could like this, so give it a try.
biocancer.lnk.to/revengeance | hammerheart.com
STARMEN: Starmenized
Melodic Passion Records on Sept. 8 - CD, Digital
Yes, STARMEN are back! They were very active in the beginning, and released 2 albums in 2020 and 1 in 2021. But then came a pandemic.. Now they are finally ready to release their 4th album though. And they continue where they left. So in other words melodic hard rock with a touch of the 70s and 80s. And it sounds just as good as usual, so I'm satisfied anyway.
This is the kind of album that every fan of good old hard rock should check out. So do that! And don't let their painted faces scare you away, because these are no clowns.
melodicpassion.com | starmen.se
HELMET: Holiday
earMUSIC - Digital Single
American alternative rock band HELMET will return with a new album, "Left", on November 10. "Holiday" is the lead single, and it's out now.
This song is loaded with heavy riffs, but yet atmospheric and soft for a while as well, before it becomes a little harder. Pretty melodic. They seems to be in their own league somehow, but I would guess that fans of alternative rock from the 90s could like this.
The band will be touring in the States in September and October. In November and December they take the tour to Europe. Go to their website for dates..
youtu.be/5reWlMKCOlo | helmetmusic.com
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