Northwind Wolves - Mountain's and Darkness Album Review

Northwind Wolves - Mountains and Darkness (2019)

Current Members:

Lennis:Bass, Vocals (backing)

Brett: Drums, Vocals (backing)

Astaroth:Guitars, Vocals (backing)

Noor: Lead Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards

Mountains and Darkness is the second full length release by Northwind Wolves and will be available from Black Lion Records

First Impressions:

Cold and bleak with just the right amount of chaos.

Going into this review I really didn't know much about this band, in fact it was lead vocalist Noor who came to me on facebook with the album. Now I will admit, I am a big fan of this chilly and pretty gothic form of black metal, much more than the "recorded on a tape deck, at the bottom of a trash can, down the street from where the band is actually playing" type of black metal. But this band kinda went under my radar, I wasn't sure if I would go into it and be amazed or disappointed. The symphonic style of black metal really can go both ways, at its best it can be haunting and aggressive, and at its worse it can be pretentious and bloated (cradle of filth and dimmu borgir have been both). Now that that is clarified, will this be the epic or the witless? Will this take its place along side of one of my favorites in the genre or will it reach amazing heights of mediocrity? Let's dig in track by track and find out...Let's Do This!!!

1. Before Dawns First Light.  5:05

Atmosphere a plenty in this one, kinda harkens back to early Cradle of Filth...but with a better vocal sound. The tightness of this one is unmistakable, it's crisp and powerful. The construction of this first track is masterful and moody, it really takes you on a journey into what this album is all about.

2. Lord of Winter and Death. 4:25

Another one that has its gothic influences on its sleeves, and that isn't a bad thing. This is a track that shows a viciousness in those influences that justify what black metal can truly be. This isn't that "Trve Kvlt" lo-fi noise that everyone equates with the genre. This track really sets a mood and runs with it...the musicianship is tight and relentless. Excellent.

3. Death of the Lost World.  4:11

Another innocent sounding yet short intro that slams into a trip into the bowels of hell itself. This is another relentless track that threatens to tear you up internally if you aren't paying attention. The layers in this one are so fluid that it makes it sound even grander than it is. The vocals sound like shagrath from dimmu borgir grabbed a bag of cough drops and learned how to growl correctly...it's simply awesome.

4. Unholy Forest of Wolves Part I. 4:06

Part 1 of a 2 part track, these are shaky songs at time due to the fact of consistency between the parts. This one starts strong, but I will have to say this is where the album starts to get a bit repetitious. There are replays of musical concepts in this one that are echoed from the previous tracks, not sure if that is intentional but with this music style that sometimes becomes a pitfall that is unavoidable at times. Aside from that it is still a competently performed track and still enjoyable.

5. Pale Winter Storm Lightning. 3:38

Short mood setter then a dive into a mid tempo chanting area, this song reeks of something that should have been on cradle of filth's midian album. It is tight and fluid like the rest of the tracks, a mark of consistency for the band which I do enjoy. The themes and mood set here is a bit different, it comes off as more of a sadistic taunt than a to the bone grind. Then all at once, it's done.

6. Ludmilla the Witch. 4:49

Well, this is a bit different. It kinda gears up its instrumentation before the keys come in. The phrasing of the vocals comes off as a chanted bit of dark poetry in a weird way. Someone has been listening to Tom Warrior's lyrical styles...it works here. In the context of this track the switching back and forth lends a bit of schizophrenic glee to the story this is trying to convey. Nice.

7. Mountains and Darkness. 2:51

The title track, usually the perceived best track on many albums...does this one fit that? Well, it is grandiose for such a short track, and lyrically it doesn't mess around with needless pretense. It blasts away with ferocity and sadistic glee in its aural assault...so does it fit that classic tradition? For what it does, yes it does.

8. A Knight Called Death. 3:28

A bit more drama infused than all the predecessors on this album, it's a nice change of pace. Not a speed freak of a track, not a skull crusher, but a nicely themed and paced set piece track. Heavy and powerful but not overbearing, a track you can actually hear everything going on and it really moves the listener. However its only flaw is that it's too short, a couple extra minutes to really push the narrative and increase the drama would push this one into epic status.

9. Unholy Forest of Wolves Part II. 2:57

Part 2 of the 2 part track, this is where the consistency issues show in most others who do this kind of thing. However this does sound like the conclusion to a great story, kinda conveys the triumphant feel an Amon Amarth track gives. So consistency isn't an issue here, obviously these guys thought this one out a bit. Good mood, good musicianship, good lyrics, good track...it didn't disappoint.

10. Curse of Ages. 2:54

Well this is one way to close out an album...chaos. This has to be the most frantic song on the album structurally. But even in its chaos there is a beauty to it...I can't put my finger on it. All I can do is chalk it up to good musicianship and above average song writing...and just as it gets to a crescendo...it ends...no cool down, it leaves the listener confined it the chaos it provided to deal with their own emotions....brilliant.

Conclusion:

Well, after getting my head together after all that and seeing my therapist I can safely say that this is a very competent and polished album with really tight musicianship and good mood setting. As a fan of the genre I really couldn't be happier honestly, it's not perfect but for a second outing for this band it's a really positive step forward from their first release(which I sampled on YouTube for this review as a comparison). I like the layers and the slight experimentation this band tried on this one, I only wish they would have ventured a little further and tried a few more things, and some of the tracks are a bit too short, which lessens their impact a bit. But all in all, this is a good album with a lot going for it. I would put this on my playlist with Dragonlord (one of my favorites in the genre) any day. I look forward to seeing where this band goes in the future and I recommend it for fans of this genre and even for those who are interested in the genre and haven't committed to it.

Score: 4.5/5

https://www.reverbnation.com/northwindwolves

Betsy - Betsy Album Review

Betsy - Betsy (1988)

Members:

Betsy 'Bitch' Weiss - lead vocals

David Carruth - guitar

Mark Anthony Webb - bass

Robby Settles - drums

Betsy is a studio album by Betsy Weiss and members of L.A. heavy metal band Bitch, released in 1988 on Metal Blade Records. Although the album was recorded by the same group as the previous two heavier, and S&M-themed, heavy metal albums, the band released this third album under the artist name Betsy, the name of Betsy Weiss aka "Betsy Bitch", their lead singer, and with a softer and more commercial sound. After the album the band reverted to the heavier sound and the name Bitch.

First Impressions:

Softer, more melodic, and more commercial. But still brilliantly "Bitch" like.

Firstly, for those of you who may not know who the band is, here is an overview for you. Bitch was formed in December 1980, and played their first show in May 1981 alongside Dante Fox (later to become Great White). Shortly after the band was formed, guitarist David Carruth met Brian Slagel, future CEO of Metal Blade Records, and the two became friends. Slagel was working on a compilation album to tie into a heavy metal fanzine he had started called The New Heavy Metal Revue, and offered to place Bitch on the compilation if they would submit a demo to him. This project would become the landmark compilation Metal Massacre (1982), which would become famous for launching the career of Metallica and for being the first album ever released by Metal Blade Records. Bitch's contribution to Metal Massacre was a demo version of "Live for the Whip", which would be rerecorded for their debut EP Damnation Alley.

I was 17 when this album hit and I was already a fan of their much more aggressive work under the name "Bitch", so the name change and style shift did take me a bit by surprise back then but I bought it anyway because to me regardless of the changes it's still at its core a "Bitch" album.Now then, many stories flow around this album to this very day, was it a conscious decision to go commercial? Was it label pressure? Was it religious groups or parents groups that forced the change? Honestly, I personally don't really care. What we got was an album that showcased a side of an already great band, a side with great writing chops and solid musicianship....but....is it as good as the 2 albums that came before it? Well, lets dig into this one track by track and find out. Let's do this.

1. You Want It You Got It 3:25

From track one you are introduced to a smoother presentation. The feeling this track conveys a very early Pat Benatar vibe, and that is never a bad thing. The guitar solo in it is top notch and simple for the time and Betsy's voice is tight and strong....a great opener for this album.

2. You'll Never Get Out (Of This Love Alive) 3:18

This was the first single from the album and one of my favorites from this album. Great musicianship and great production for 1988 on this one. It fits in very well for the time, which was the peak of the hair metal scene back in the day...great lyrics and a very competent presentation...and the video was cool too. If this song doesn't get you moving in some way, you are probably dead.

3. Devil Made You Do It 4:00

This bass intro always sounded like an iron maiden cast off to me, but its attached to an up tempo rocker. Although there is a bit of a Krokus feel to the main riff on this one. This is a much more polished song that would work on a previous album if you left some rougher edges...but on this album it gives it some validity and power. Not a bad track and worth the 4 minute investment.

4. Rock N' Roll Musician 4:13

This track has a feeling of mid budget direct to video action movie soundtrack...its a great little rocker that is a fun listen. Still a tightly produced track, but it shares a tonal quality of some of the christian metal bands of the day like Creed(german band) and messiah prophet...that echo tone gives that feeling, but I liked that, and this band does it better.

5. Cold Shot To The Heart 3:45

Nice marching rhythm, powerful vocals, soldiering riff....yep this is an 80's trope that doesn't get old. I really dig this track for all those things, and more. It's just a good little rocker with a strength to it...a put up or shut up type of song that really never really gets tired and old.

6. Flesh And Blood 2:50

Nice riff in this one...it is taylor made for radio. The melody this track holds really keeps the song feeling urgent yet catchy. This is another favorite of mine from this one with good reason, this type of track has always been my bread and butter, and make me feel a bit empowered when I hear them.

7. Turn You Inside Out 3:44

A softer start on this one, another 80's trope into a mid tempo chorus. The power ballad formula that some bands adhered to, even the heavier bands of the day used this one. This is a well done one, and the guitar solo serves this one so well. This track isn't flashy but it's as solid as steel. Great song in its own right.

8. What Am I Gonna Do With You 4:36

A slightly W.A.S.P.ish intro (a hellion feel), and maintains that feel through out, again that isn't a bad thing in my book, it was part of the scene back then and it just feels right. The heart of this song is the passion Betsy conveys lyrically...so much feeling and power. Kinda gives me goose bumps...one of the better songs on this album and that is saying something.

9. Stand Up For Rock 3:43

The obligatory rock anthem, big and boisterous, larger than life chant chorus...this is a good companion piece for Warlock's "Fight for rock" in my opinion. I love tracks like this, they just pump me up for this music. Makes me glad I'm a fan of this genre of music.

10. Sunset Strut 4:28

Well it's time for the slightly sleazy sounding song, another staple of 80's hair metal bands in the day. This one is a bit odd yet it's also rather appealing at the same time. This is a track that is better for its uneven feeling, kinda captures the discordant yet fun feeling of the LA sunset strip glam scene then...kinda makes me want those days back. But for all of that the real star on this one is Betsy's top notch vocals, they tie the whole thing together in one tight little package.

11. Get Out 2:55

A chugging rocker, a hard rocker, a good rocker. Not much really can be said about this one...it's a tight little track that fits into this album and fills a need for the package. This one is another one that could be rougher and fit on one of the previous albums as well. But it's here and it caps the album off nicely.

Conclusion:

Like I said earlier, this album was a surprise for me back in the day but over the years I warmed up to it even more. It really wears its LA heritage on its sleeve, all the nods to the scene and the tropes that were so common back then are in full effect and done very well here. With this album the band showed it was more than some gritty S&M themed band that crudely played their instruments and yelled in the microphones, they showed they were competent and talented musicians, and Betsy proved she had far more to give vocally than growls, screams, and barks...she had (and still has) range and power. Because I am a fan, this may be a bit biased as a review but I can't undersell this album when compared to the ones before it. In retrospect the band Bitch should have been much bigger than they were back in the day, but even now Betsy herself is still powering on with the band and doing it well. Now all I want is 2 duets from her and I could die happy...Betsy and Doro, and of course Betsy and Alice Cooper. Until then I'll just keep spinning the classics and recommend you do the same. This is a showcase album that I recommend highly, if you like 80's metal then this needs to be in your collection, if you are not sure about that era, this is a good album to start with.

Score: 5/5

Sammy Hagar & The Circle - Space Between Album Review

Sammy Hagar and The Circle - Space Between(2019)

Members:

Michael Anthony – bass guitar, backing vocals

Jason Bonham – drums, percussion, backing vocals

Sammy Hagar – lead vocals

Vic Johnson – guitar, backing vocals

Space Between is the debut studio album by

English-American rock supergroup The Circle. Released May 10, 2019 on BMG. The album was produced by Jaimeson Durr, vocalist Sammy Hagar, and guitarist Vic Johnson, and debuted at No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 chart, making it Hagar's highest charting album to date.

First Impressions:

A good hard rock album with a signature Sammy flair.

It's no secret that Sammy Hagar has been a staple in a lot of peoples record collections over the past several decades, his being in several big name bands is part of that. From Montrose to Van Halen to Chickenfoot to his solo oriented projects, everything Sammy touches is almost certain to be quality....but how does this supergroup fare? It has the pedigree to be grade A, but is it? Well let's just hold the pretense and stop the chattering and dig into this album, as usual track by track...let's do this.

1."Devil Came to Philly" 2:35

A good way to start an album, not pretentious and loaded with that classic Sammy Hagar feel...got no complaints at all with this one...that leads into....

2."Full Circle Jam (Chump Change)" 3:38

A nice dirty blues rock song in the vein of George Thorogood. Great swagger and cool lyrics, everyone shines on this one, not much more can be said.

3."Can't Hang" 3:56

A southern rock type of track, this is a bit formula in it's presentation but still has its charms, those charms come in the form of Michael Anthony and his trademark background vocals in the chorus. This one is still a great song even with its formula feel.

4."Wide Open Space"3:46

A lot of acoustic guitar on this album, this ballad is no exception. Sonically it harkens back to some of the 80's best hair metal ballads. Well written and executed very well. There is nothing not to like here, it's something Sammy does well, and this is just another goo one from him.

5."Free Man"4:20

Ohhh boy, a nasty riff and heavy drums. A mid tempo beast that is so satisfying from the get go. This will get your fist pumping and your teeth grinding. The simplicity of this one makes it a great listen and an even better sing along...it's just so nasty sounding.

6."Bottom Line" 2:43

A free spirited song with some fun organ hits in it. A pure party song in feel and it will drag you back to your past at times while maintaining a relevant feel even in its classic style. A fun song and a great energy builder...perfect place for this song to be on an album like this.

7."No Worries" 3:27

Another bluesy type of song, and its a good one too. Great feel, great lyrics, great execution by all members in this group. I have nothing bad to say about this one at all. It's a treat to listen to.

8."Trust Fund Baby" 4:15

A rocker...and a good one too. Great feel on this. A blues rocker, well performed with Mike's trademark backing vocals, Jason's solid drumming, and Sammy and Vic serving their guitar parts very well and loose. This is what you come to expect from Sammy and it doesn't disappoint.

9."Affirmation" 3:20

This is a great song, culling from so many sound types. A pulsing bass with effects fresh from an early van halen or ZZ top album, a bit of organ in the background, great mid tempo track with Sammy's great trademark voice, love this one.

10."Hey Hey (Without Greed)"2:51

Wrapping this album up is an acoustic sing along, simple outro style style track with no real bells and whistles. A classic way to close an album.

Conclusion:

This album is not a huge leap in Sammy's already stellar discography but it is another solid inclusion. As supergroups go, it's not overstated and nobody gets all the spotlight, this is more a cooperative project by 4 very talented musicians and it is obvious they had no intention to be a big deal. This is a well made album with a lot of playing it safe, but doing it well. I have no real issues with this album It's what I have come to expect from Sammy and I have not been disappointed yet by him. This is a good album and I recommend it for fans of his for sure, but if you are looking for flash and innovation, this may not be for you.

Score: 4.5/5

KISS - Destroyer Album Review

KISS - Destroyer (1976)

Members:

Paul Stanley – vocals, rhythm guitar

Gene Simmons – vocals, bass

Ace Frehley – lead guitar, vocals

Peter Criss – drums, vocals

Destroyer is the fourth studio album by American rock band Kiss, released on March 15, 1976 by Casablanca Records in the US. It was the third successive Kiss album to reach the top 40 in the US, as well as the first to chart in Germany and New Zealand. The album was certified gold by the RIAA on April 22, 1976, and platinum on November 11 of the same year, the first Kiss album to achieve platinum. The album marked a departure from the raw sound of the band's first three albums.

First Impressions:

As a 7 year old...awesome. As a 48 year old...classic.

WARNING!!!

This review will be very much a fan boy thing...it will be honest but biased since I am a HUGE fan of the band...with that said....

1977 February, my mom, my dad, and myself set out for the mall in my dad's 1970 dodge charger. He slapped in the tape that was in is 8-track that just so happened to be KISS DESTROYER (he admittedly owned it for 2 songs, and was pretty indifferent about the band). During the 20 minute drive my ears were baptised by this great album that was nothing more than background noise to them but was a serious life changing experience for me. When we finally reached the mall I got out of the car on my dad's side still crudely singing the lyrics to the songs I heard...my dad giggled and said to my mom "looks like we have a KISS fan on our hands honey" as he continued giggling...a few months later that KISS was my very first concert as well...my dad was so very right, I was and still am a passionate fan of this band. Now enough storytime, let's dig into this thing track by track and see what I think now...let's do this.

1."Detroit Rock City" 5:17

The classic scenario intro, much conjecture tends to swirl around who the reporter is, I believe it's Gene but I could be wrong...however, a classic riff and then Paul's classic voice kicks in...the best front man ever in my opinion, energy and attitude in spades. The bass just walks around with it's own attitude too. Now I know there were various musicians on this whole album but you can't deny this track has power and still holds up.

2."King of the Night Time World" 3:19

Another great intro guitar riff that leads off from the climax of the previous track. Cool lyrics and more great musicianship on this one, this track just flows with personality and the pure spirit of rock. You can't say anything bad about this one...well I can't anyway.

3."God of Thunder" 4:13

A concert classic that rarely came off the set list. This song started at a much higher tempo and was sung by paul, the demo wound up first on the box set...but after a tempo change and some new lyrics became the theme of the demon himself. It's a power hungry song that just fits the character Gene has been evolving for 40+ years...he owns this one, and I love it.

4."Great Expectations" 4:24

A slower tempo track and the second one sung by Gene. The lyrics are trite and suggestive but still fun. This is one of the weaker tracks on this album and it reeks of what would be in Gene's 1978 solo album, but as trite as it is, it still has its charm. Not my favorite but still not too bad.

5."Flaming Youth" 2:59

A mid tempo rocker sung by Paul, I'm a bit more on the fence with this one too. Its got a great pace in the verses and a good feel but when it goes to the chorus, it feels out of place. Not a bad track by any stretch but it's a bit strange too.

6."Sweet Pain" 3:20

The song that had to be recorded with a guest guitarist. Dick Wagner was called in for this one since ace was too busy being drunk to record his solo twice. The song is a nice tempo and the lyrics are typical for 70's rock. It's a decent track but it is a bit discordant as to how it fits on this record sonically.

7."Shout It Out Loud" 2:49

The track that made me a fan, this is far and away my favorite on this album. It's obviously a group effort and it has everything that any rock fan to this day loves. This is a classic concert staple and watching Ace play that trademark solo live as a 6 year old made me want to play the guitar, which I do play.

8."Beth"2:45

The 'b' side of their first single "Detroit Rock City", this song started its life as a track Peter brought with him from a previous band called Chelsea. The track's original name was "Beck" and was from what I heard, about the guitarists girlfriend. It's an interesting demo if you ever get to hear it. This reimagining was definitely a producers project with all the orchestration and arranging. Can't deny how big a hit it was back then and how many people today know it. It's a great track in its own right, as ambitious as it sounds. I will admit, I do enjoy this one.

9."Do You Love Me"3:33

Another favorite of mine on this album. A straight ahead rock song with a ton of swagger and good musicianship. The hooks in this song are infectious and are just unforgettable. I can't deny this one at all, it's a prime example of this band back in the 70's and that is a good thing.

10."Rock and Roll Party" (Instrumental)1:25

A short, pointless track. It serves as a hidden closer and not much else.

Conclusions:

I wanted the best, I got the best...for the time. The band would go on to make better and worse albums in the coming decades but you can't discount the standing this one has as an all time classic. It made me a fan, and even if it isn't my favorite album of this band, I can't underplay its importance to my life and the lives of other fans. KISS has become an institution and a way of life for millions of fans world wide and the band itself worked and sacrificed for every one of those fans. I have had the honor of meeting every member this band has ever had at least once and It was a joy...but to the original 4 members, I thanked them for this album and all they did to make it. This album isn't perfect, but what it does, it does well.

Score: 4.5/5

W.A.S.P. The Last Command Review

W.A.S.P. -The Last Command (1985)

Members:

Blackie Lawless – lead vocals, bass

Chris Holmes – lead and rhythm guitar

Randy Piper – lead and rhythm guitars, backing vocals

Steve Riley – drums, Backing vocals

The Last Command is the second album by heavy metal band W.A.S.P., released in November 9, 1985 on Capitol records. The album was produced by Spencer Proffer, who was perhaps best known for producing the six-time platinum selling album "Metal Health" by Quiet Riot in 1983. The Last Command is the first W.A.S.P. album to feature the work of drummer Steve Riley. The album reached No. 47 on the Billboard 200 album chart in early 1986 and sold over one million copies, their first album to do so. It was also the last album to feature founding member Randy Piper on guitar.

First Impressions:

A sophomore release that sounds like a much later release should.

This was the 2nd W.A.S.P. album I ever got but the first one I heard back as a young metalhead. To say this album blew me away would be a drastic understatement to be sure. The song that I first heard from it was the single "Wild Child" which was on a compilation album I got from the local K Mart, by the time it was over, I knew I found something special to fill a musical niche in my life, W.A.S.P. would become my go-to band for many years and take their place along side of my all time favorite band KISS. This band then was a definition of raw potential and rebellion to my 16 year old self and they spoke to my very soul, empowering me in ways I never knew a band could. This album, although not my first from the band has remained my steadfast favorite album from them to this day. From the lyrical content, to the bombastic and sense assaulting musicianship, to the not overly polished (yet at times it's a bit over polished) but very competent production, this album is a watershed moment for metal as a whole back in 1985. Now enough with the banter and nostalgia, let's crack this beast open track by track and see what crawls out. This will be a review of the 1997 remaster so there are some extra tracks that will be explored here....Let's Do This.

Track List:

1."Wild Child" 5:12

A classic intro riff from the one that started my fans journey. The feel of this one is simply mesmerizing in every conceivable way. The lyrics are very memorable and the layered production is awesome...the layers this song has is very deep, textures are everywhere and it just sends you on a journey to the wastelands. This is one of the bands hallmark songs and it has aged very well.

2."Ballcrusher" 3:27

A dirty riff starts this one, a riff that grabs you by the balls and doesn't let you go until it's over. This has been a staple of my playlists for quite some time, it's such an infectious track. Great solos, solid drumming, and Blackie's trademark gritty vocals just flow so great...awesome song which leads directly into...

3."Fistful of Diamonds"4:13

A song that would have been at home on the first album, it carries over that raw feeling that was a staple of the first album. Not my favorite track on this album, but with great solos and lyrics about amassing wealth, it's not all bad. I do like some of the more subtle flourishes this song has woven into it...makes it more fun to listen to.

4."Jack Action" 4:16

Another dirty riff only this band can do well. A track about vengeance that goes from a freight train riff to a more melodic chorus riff, somehow it works though. The bottom end layer on this one is a cool thing and the lyrics are those you would love to hear said in a hollywood action film. I have zero complaints about this one.

5."Widowmaker" 5:17

A haunting power ballad at its core and feels like an outcast from a western in many ways yet with a modern sensibility for 1985 metal. I've always loved this track since I first heard it, plus it was the first song from this band that I covered in my own band in 1989. A great piece of music that was executed very well. Such a cool song even today.

6."Blind in Texas" 4:21

Another trademark song from these guys. What more can be said about this one, it's tight, gritty, and fun. A great song to get a party to the next level of outrageous...a true metal classic.

7."Cries in the Night" 3:41

This song started its life as a song called "Mr. Cool" and was first recorded under a project called Circus Circus with a different bass player. Here's why I bring that up, the song got better lyrics here but had a much fuller feel on the demo. Simple proof that the quality of the musicians on a song really affect the song as a whole. Blackie is a guitar player playing bass and it shows when you have a version to compare to. This one is much thinner sounding because of that. Maybe they should have kept this band's original bass player Rik Fox for a bit longer at least (His demos with the band sounded better as well, look them up on YouTube). Not a bad song but when compared to the demo, it does come up a bit short.

8."The Last Command" 4:10

The title track has a liberation feel yo it, it's even a bit anthemic for a hard rock song. This one as a whole can be a bit of an earworm as well, its hooks are infectious that way. I really dig this on quite a bit and find myself singing it at the most random times, even if I haven't listened to it in quite a while. Great track from a great band.

9."Running Wild in the Streets" 3:30

The 80's angst track, the youthful middle finger to the establishment song. Great lyrics "a heavy dose of mean" is one of my favorites in this one, great mid tempo riffing and loose yet melodic solos, tight drumming that isn't busy, great vocals....good track over all and a fun listen.

10."Sex Drive" 3:12

Well it's that type of track that was a staple of this band for quite a long time in one way or another. Yep, it's a go out and fuck everything song...a thing most teenagers can relate to for sure. It's a fun track with its tongue planted firmly in cheek (who's cheek is up for debate). A good playful closer to the original album.

1997 Digital Re-master bonus tracks

11."Mississippi Queen (Mountain Cover)" 3:21

A well done cover of a classic Mountain song. A bit of that W.A.S.P. venom mixed in makes this cover feel a bit fresher but it does stick to the template to the original song which isn't a bad thing.

12."Savage" 3:32

A 'b' side track that means it was recorded for the album but didn't make the final cut. However it is still a great track and honestly it would fit well on the album proper, it just needs a bit more production polish to get rid of the rough edges...it even has a feel in the solo section of things that would show up on the "Headless Children" album.

Tracks 13 - 17 were culled from the concert that spawned the "Live at the Lyceum" home video. These are great samples from that show and they have a raw feel that this band was known for early on in their live shows. Worth the price of the remaster but not essential if you have ever owned the original video they were taken from.

13."On Your Knees" (Live at the Lyceum Ballroom, October 1984) 4:38

14."Hellion" (Live at the Lyceum Ballroom, October 1984) 4:45

15."Sleeping (In the Fire)"(Live at the Lyceum Ballroom, October 1984) 5:44

16."Animal (Fuck Like a Beast)"(Live at the Lyceum Ballroom, October 1984) 4:37

17."I Wanna Be Somebody"(Live at the Lyceum Ballroom, October 1984) 5:54

Conclusion:

Like the first impression, this is an album that feels like a much later release. Maybe a bit too polished for this band at the time but that polish made it age much better than a lot of their later albums in my opinion. This album was the second release of theirs that I bought, as I mentioned earlier, and it has remained a favorite since I first got it. It's not without its issues but those issues are outweighed by the quality of the music all around. This is a classic 80's metal album that any headbanger worth his salt should own or at least give a chance to. There are better albums from this period of music but there are a lot more worse ones...give it a try, you won't regret it.

Score: 4.5/5

Anvil - Pounding the Pavement Review

Anvil - Pounding the Pavement (2018)

Current Members:

Steve "Lips" Kudlow – lead vocals, guitars (1978–present)

Robb "Robbo" Reiner – drums (1978–present)

Chris Robertson – bass, backing vocals (2014–present)

Pounding the Pavement is the seventeenth studio album by this severely underrated Canadian heavy metal band. It was released on January 19, 2018, through Steamhammer.

First Impressions:

Classic Anvil from top to bottom.

Now I will admit this review will be a bit biased since I have been a fan since the album "Strength of Steel". Now I have always said this is a band that has been forced to exist under the radar by most legitimate metal and hard rock media, only acknowledged when there was no other choice but to. This band has had a steady stream of progressively better albums over the years, now I understand the criticism these guys get about their often cringe worthy lyrics but anyone who sees just that misses the whole point of Anvil as a band. This band isn't about serious political statements and social policy dick waving, this is a band all about good riffs, solid rhythms, and having fun...if the lyrics get a bit serious, it's done in a fun way that doesn't diminish the song as a whole. It's music only Anvil can make and only people that really get it can truly enjoy as a whole. The other thing this band has had is a lot of members over the years, but at it's core has always been Lips and Robbo pushing this machine along through every obstacle and circumstance, as was shown by their documentary film "Anvil: The Story of Anvil". Well enough of the banter let's dig into this album track by track and see where it goes.

1."Bitch in the Box"4:29

The album opens with this ode to shitty gps directions. A solid riff carries this great track, a riff that really makes your energy rise and the backing vocals by newer bassist chris robertson really complement the already great pipes of lips. Robbo sustains a tight rhythm that holds this whole thing solid as steel. The humor is not overdone but it provides a familiar feeling we all have experienced.

2."Ego"2:57

Another great and quicker riff than the last track. A track that comments on those who's self love is bigger than their maturity level. More solid guitar work by lips, the bass lines are tight and flow well robbo's tight and very accurate drumming. Great song all around.

3."Doing What I Want"3:17

The ubiquitous vibrator use starts this one, then another classic Anvil style metal riff takes off. A song about not compromising yourself, the music in its own way conveys that with out the lyrics...the lyrics just bring it home. Excellent musicianship on this on makes it an energetic and empowering joy to listen to.

4."Smash Your Face"4:20

A mastodonic plodding riff starts this one and starts the over all steamhammer feel of this song. This song would be at home on a Manowar album in a lot of ways, simple powerful guitar and drums and the wandering bass lines just give it a war song kinda vibe, a backing track for an army of sweaty vikings...or old school headbangers.

5."Pounding the Pavement"3:05

This one is very much a throwback track to earlier anvil. An instrumental with a lot of heart and flow and not a lot of guitar wankery that fills a lot of instrumental tracks these days. It's simple and tasty, it doesn't feel busy at all, and I like it a lot for that.

6."Rock That Shit"3:21

Anyone for heavy metal Chuck Berry? This is such a great traditional riff filled track...plus it mentions going to the hop so we get to travel to the 50's too. This is just a fun song with fun lyrics, an Anvil hallmark from way back in the day. The lyrics may be a bit trite but they work for the type of song it is and it loses no points for that at all. I love this track for its fun and simple feel.

7."Let It Go"3:00

A riff that could have been from the late 80's flows through this one. However if this album has a filler, this is it. Now that's not a bad thing, most Anvil filler is still better than a lot of other bands singles. This one just falls a bit flat in comparison to the rest of the tracks on this album. Not bad, just not the best.

8."Nanook of the North"5:57

This is just what the metal world needed, a song about eskimos. Now this is another fun track with a great feel and very well thought out and executed even better. More solid Anvil fun with great musicianship and an interesting story placed through the lyrics. I really like the vibe on this one, and the guitar solo lips gives you on this one is very fitting and one of his best. A very fitting track for this album.

9."Black Smoke"3:26

Another classic Anvil style song, speedy riff and tight drumming intact. This one has that "Smokin Green" kinda feel, definitely not a bad thing at all. This is what Anvil is classically known for, they were an early practitioner of the speed metal style after all. I like hearing this type of track from them...they are always so tight musically and that makes me happy.

10."World of Tomorrow"4:37

I'm getting a Black Sabbath vibe from this one, this is a droning doomy riff song. Hard to put into words how I feel about this one, it's a great take on that type of genre and in so many ways it does it better than bands like Cathedral and Electric Wizard...in fact it is on par with Master of Reality era Sabbath. It's a great song that is executed with style and dignity.

11."Warming Up"3:03

Well this is definitely a swinging tune for sure. A showcase to Robbo and his Swing Jazz drumming style, feels like a continuation musically of Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher"....I found myself snapping along with this one. Just pure fun all over again from this band...I just love it.

12."Don't Tell Me" (bonus track)3:51

Another pure Anvil style track, the stuff they do so well as it is. I can't say anything about this one that I haven't said about all the previous tracks on this great album. It's tight, solid, and a great listen all around. Not much can be said. It's Anvil being Anvil and that is always a good thing.

Conclusion:

This is but the latest in a string of progressively better albums this band has been churning out since the beginning. I can't say it anymore clearly than that...this is what Anvil is and what they always have been. Great musicianship, varied styles, fun songs all around. Pounding the Pavement is simply the pinnacle of this band until their next album releases, and when this band does call it a career It's safe to say that they will exit on top...I just hope it's not any time soon.

Score: 5/5

Gloryhammer - Legends from Beyond the Galactic Terrorvortex Review

Gloryhammer - Legends from Beyond the Galactic Terrorvortex (2019)

Members:

Christopher Bowes (Zargothrax) – keyboards, backing vocals (2010–current)

Paul Templing (Ser Proletius) – guitars, backing vocals (2010–current)

Ben Turk (Ralathor) – drums (2010–current)

James Cartwright (Hootsman) – bass, backing vocals (2010–current)

Thomas Winkler (Angus McFife XIII) – lead vocals (2011–current)

Legends from Beyond the Galactic Terrorvortex is the third studio album by Anglo-Swiss symphonic power metal band Gloryhammer. It was released on 31 May 2019.

First impression:

A nice trip through a fantastic yet quirky world.

Going into this album I will have to admit one big thing, I wasn't very familiar with this band and their lore so this album kinda lost me early on, but it didn't take long to catch up on what was going on here. As this is the 3rd album from this project I did find myself kinda curious about their previous releases and I do plan on checking them out in the near future.  Now then, this is a prime example of the European style power metal genre, grandiose and larger than life with all the typical tropes associated with it. The orchestrations, the sword and sorcery subjects, soaring vocals, and guitar wankery are all here...with a Sci-Fi twist thrown in for good measure. Now let's dig into this album and see where it takes us.

Tracks:

1."Into the Terrorvortex of Kor-Virliath"1:18

An intro track with a bit of narration, choral work, and symphonic elements that sound like something cut from a star wars movie...this leads into....

2."The Siege of Dunkeld (In Hoots We Trust)"4:46

A by the number power metal song that doesn't take many chances but has a great chorus that worms itself into your brain so much that you will start asking what is this hoots thing. More narration by the mythos bad guy happens and more choral work mid way through the track. In ways this sets up a power metal play that you are invited to create in your own head. Not a bad tune, but nothing extraordinary either.

3."Masters of the Galaxy"4:25

Ahh, a galloping guitar riff....shades of Maiden. Another song with an earworm chorus that you will find yourself humming when you least expect it. This one has a mid era Kamelot meets Sabaton feel to it, that isn't a bad thing to be sure. The ever present narration shows up here too, but it serves it's intended purpose and isn't distracting at all. All in all this is a good tune that I have no serious complaints about.

4."The Land of Unicorns"4:25

What can I say about this one except, horns and another mind corrupting chorus. The horns on this thing are front and center through the whole song adding a grandeur to the track that I guess unicorns deserve. All in all it's not a bad track, it's just a typical power metal song with a ever present horn section. This is not bad, but it isn't anything earth-shattering either.

5."Power of the Laser Dragon Fire"5:06

A track that feels like the child of Rhapsody Ov Fire and Dragonforce, not much else that can be said here. It's an OK power metal song with yet another memorable chorus, and a larger than life feel, and more narration as well. Even the guitar solos are paint by numbers here, they are serviceable but are lacking in comparison to others on this album.

6."Legendary Enchanted Jetpack"4:18

More horns plus a galloping guitar riff on a song about flying through a kingdom on a jetpack, yep hoots and goblins make an appearance as well, the solos serve this tune, but the overall story point here is so over the top it actually kinda pulls you out of the story as a whole. This is probably my least favorite on this one.

7."Gloryhammer"5:00

Now this is what I am talking about. This song just sweats power and epic ness, although the line about a "laser powered goblin smasher" made me chuckle in how cheesy that is. This is what power metal is about and I really enjoy this one for it's power and anthemic feel. The song feels like they put a ton of work in it and it just makes you want to throw a fist in the air while it's on. Goblin smasher aside.

8."Hootsforce"3:50

A folksy sounding song, but a song with a great momentum and yet another earworm for a chorus. This is another stand-out track for me and I can listen to it in a loop if I had to and I would not get tired of it. It's a playful song with a great sense about it. But I really have to look into their lore a bit, this hoots thing is confounding me.

9."Battle for Eternity"3:52

The typical mid-range conservative power metal song that exists on every bands album in this genre. A inquisitive track that asks a bunch of "have you..." questions. The solos on this track are a mixed bag but they serve the song and the over all feeling the album is trying to convey. These tracks are usually the filler in any power metal album, and this one is no different.

10."The Fires of Ancient Cosmic Destiny"

I. "Dundaxian Overture"

II. "The Battle of Cowdenbeath"

III. "Return of the Astral Demigod of Unst"

IV. "The Knife of Evil"

V. "Transmission"

12:30

The epic multi-part song, only real problem here, the parts are really not very distinct in this one. Unlike say Manowar's "Achilles" song which made all 8 parts sound distinct yet cohesive, this one doesn't do that really, it's all just variations on a riff and it flows as if it is just one song with a couple narrative interludes. Honestly, this one is not as well developed as it could be, it really falls flat to me and even though there are good elements in it, they are not emphasised like they could have been.

Conclusion:

This isn't a bad album by any stretch, however it's nothing exceedingly special either. It does what it does and not much more, which given the subject matter and the lore they have to build on is a bit of a crime. This could have been a much bigger album contextually and musically if it took more chances, given the talent these guys to exhibit there is no reason they couldn't have. This is a play it safe type of album and it really shows in the long run. I'm curious about their previous releases and I intend to check them out, I just hope I'm not even more let down by this one when I compare them. Anyway, this is as I stated is an average power metal album that took very few chances to go beyond the typical formula. Not a bad album, but not great either. If you like this genre then you will probably get into this one, if you don't like it then this won't change your mind.

Score: 3.5/5

Dragonforce - Extreme Power Metal Review

Dragonforce - Extreme Power Metal (2019)

Members:

Marc Hudson – lead vocals (2011–present)

Herman Li – guitar, backing vocals (1999–present)

Sam Totman – guitar, backing vocals (1999–present)

Gee Anzalone – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2014–present)

Frédéric Leclercq – bass, backing vocals (2006–2019)

Extreme Power Metal is the upcoming eighth studio album by British power metal band DragonForce. It is scheduled to be released on 27 September 2019. It will be the band's last studio album to feature longtime bassist Frédéric Leclercq.

Released by:

earMUSIC, Metal Blade, JVC Victor

First impressions:

Typical Dragonforce fare with some interesting twists, but lacking something. Let me start by saying this, I know this album leaked, and leaked bad from what I have read...however the copy I used for this review came from a reputable media source who I have done reviews for in the past but who is not affiliated with this site in any way. Now with that said let's dig into this album proper.

Dragonforce is a band known for excessive speed and even more excessive guitar wankery, over the top solos and really cliche euro power metal lyrics...well all in all this album is no different but for this band is no different is a good thing. The vocals, guitar work, and even the rhythm section is as tight as you can get, but the question is how do the songs stack up on their own? Well let's dig in and see, this is how I feel about them, your interpretation may be different:

1."Highway to Oblivion"6:48

The first single from this album pays homage to all cheesy anthemic metal songs from the past. The over all presentation is tight and sharp as a razor like practically every other Dragonforce song. This is a status quo Dragonforce tune, and that isn't a bad thing either.

2."Cosmic Power of the Infinite Shred Machine"6:36

This track starts with a very Queen like intro, before going into a more kitchy story driven song. The guitar work from Li & Totman is more tasteful and slightly less wanky than usual, this song would be right at home on any other European power metal album. The mid track interlude is a treat which elevates into a great keyboard/synth section, which of course transitions into the guitar solo sections. A great tune, and one of my favorites on this album.

3."The Last Dragonborn"6:12

A folky intro goes into a track that goes into manowar territory from time to time. A good mid tempo track with a Folk approach throughout, competent and yet cliche musicianship is on display here, this one will make you feel a bit on the powered up side once it crawls under your skin. The overall presentation is very well done and is a pleasant change from all the usual Dragonforce chaos that this band is known for.

4."Heart Demolition" 5:39

Single number 2 from this album is what you expect. It has a feeling of an 80's throwback metal tune with its lyrical content spinning around "breaking chains", being a "victim of love", and being "fooled again". This song is an energetic yet campy romp. A great song with good energy....the video is even more campy than the song.

5."Troopers of the Stars" 5:03

Not much can be said about this one except this is a typical Dragonforce song with a couple of flourishes in the mid section, one being a piano piece that adds a bit of texture to the song before all the flashy guitar work takes over. All in all though it's what we have come to expext from this band, not a bad thing though.

6."Razorblade Meltdown" 4:45

More piano plus a cello starts this one off before launching into the guitar driven stuff these guys do best, unfortunately this is probably the most formula track on this album which tends to drag it down. It really has a good feel but the lack of innovation on this one is what holds this one back, if Dragonforce writes filler, this track is it. Not bad but still a 'meh' track.

7."Strangers" 4:29

Well, this makes up for the last one, it is a well layered song with a lot going on, it has a bit more of that kitchy 80's feel from time to time. This track isn't a wall to wall guitar wank fest, the fills and riffs are tasteful and help build this song up from the beginning to the end, even the solos are a bit subdued for Li and Totman. A good track and another song I really like on this album.

8."In a Skyforged Dream" 4:45

And we are back to the speed tracks, this song starts abruptly and sounds like a re-imagining of the Babymetal song "Road to Resistance",which makes some sense since the guitar duo played on that one too. This song gains its own identity quickly though and is surging with energy and excellent musicianship all around.

9."Remembrance Day" 5:10

Oh boy, bagpipes for an intro, yep this song has a Scottish feeling, as anthemic as you can get, you could almost see this tune becoming a national anthem for a long forgotten country. It has a great feel, great power and a very tight sound. Very tastefully done I can see myself spinning this one frequently, even with its vague Manowar feel.

10."My Heart Will Go On" (Celine Dion cover) 3:23

Starts with Genesis or NES type midi sounds before ramping up this well known slow and boring ballad into overdrive. It's funny how good this song is when it's played faster, it actually sounds hopeful and upbeat. I hate the Celine Dion original song with a passion, but these guys transformed it into a palatable song that I can enjoy, wonder how she feels about this one?

Conclusion:

Another strong album from these guys, it has a tendency to become repetitive and it can get easy to get lost in the songs that sound like everything else they have done. It's the little flourishes in the songs like "Strangers" and "Remembrance Day" that makes this album a bit stronger than their usual stuff. All in all a competant album which could be seen among their better works. I enjoyed listening to it, however with all the great albums that have been released this year, this one just can't compete in the long run and will unfortunately not last on most people's playlists. Only the truly diehard fan will keep playing this, for months at a time. Which in a way is a shame, it is a strong album, but just not strong enough for most music fans.

I like Dragonforce, I have since the release of "Inhuman Rampage", the albums before that one and since have been a rollercoaster of joy and moderate disappointment from album to album, this one fares better than others in my opinion but it isn't the monolithic album this band is capable of but has yet to make it.

Score: 4/5