REVIEW: ACCEPT, Objection Overruled (1993)

 

ACCEPT, Objection Overruled (1993)

RCA

Eπανένωση!..

Πολύ καλό για να μην είναι αληθινό το άλμπουμ αυτό. Τα 3/4 των κλασικών Accept παρόντα σαν τετράδα. Dirkschneider, Baltes, Hoffman, Kauffman με ίσως έναν δεύτερο στις κιθάρες να βοηθήσει τον Hoffman να χρειάζονταν. Ας πούμε ότι είναι ένα δυνατό παρόν τότε στα χλιαρά '90s. Το ομονυμο που ξεκινά δίνει τον τόνο. I Don't Wanna Be Like You, Protectors Of Terror, Slaves To Metal ακολουθούν και συναρπάζουν.  Bulletproof, Sick Dirty And Mean και η μπαλάντα με τον σπανιολικο τίτλο Amamos La Vida και το ορχηστρικό Just By My Own να συγκαταλέγονται στις καλύτερες στιγμές. Δυστυχώς η συνέχεια με τα επόμενα άλμπουμ του επανενωμενου σχήματος ως το 1996, να μη δικαιώνουν τη χαρά των φίλων τους .....

English Text:

Reunion!

It almost feels too good to be true, this album. With three-quarters of the classic Accept lineup reunited as a quartet—Dirkschneider, Baltes, Hoffman, and Kauffman, possibly joined by a second guitarist to complement Hoffman—it's a powerhouse presence, especially amidst the lukewarm '90s. Setting the tone is the eponymous track, leading into the captivating "I Don't Wanna Be Like You," "Protectors Of Terror," and "Slaves To Metal." Tracks like "Bulletproof," "Sick Dirty And Mean," along with the ballad boasting the rare Spanish title "Amamos La Vida," and the instrumental "Just By My Own," stand out as some of the album's finest moments. However, the subsequent albums from the reunited lineup, extending until 1996, unfortunately fail to match the excitement of their fans....

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

New single by Silvertonguedevil

 

American Thrash Metal band Silvertonguedevil released their new single "Death Eaters" from their upcoming EP "Conquest of the Inferno," featuring guest vocals from Texacutioner DeLaMuerte of SERPENT PRIEST. Formed in 2005 in Dallas, Texas, Silvertonguedevil has released three full-length albums and two EPs under their own label "All Devils Music." The band consists of Craig Meinhart (vocals), John Tapia (guitars), Brandon Chandler (bass), and Josh Leicht (drums).

Captain Hawk: Ghosts of the Sea - A Metal Opera by Elina Englezou and Bob Katsionis

 

Four years after their collaborative release "Goditha - The Rock Opera," the Athens-based duo returns with a new epic venture titled "Captain Hawk: Ghosts of the Sea." Elina Englezou pens and Bob Katsionis orchestrates, mixes, and produces this cinematic power metal opus. The album promises a thrilling journey with pirate-themed metal riffs, soaring guitar solos, cinematic arrangements, and robust choruses. Featuring a stellar cast of Greece's finest metal vocalists and accompanied by a dynamic four-voice choir, the album delivers a captivating experience. Producer Bob Katsionis admires Englezou's relentless dedication to her craft, highlighting her singular creative vision in composing, orchestrating, and producing the entire project. "Captain Hawk" offers a power metal escapade that blends fantasy and adventure, available for streaming, digital download, and physical editions.

REVIEW: PRIMORDIAL, The Gathering Wilderness (2005)

 

PRIMORDIAL, The Gathering Wilderness (2005)

Metal Blade Records

Απόκοσμα όμορφο.

Οι Ιρλανδοί στην πέμπτη προσπάθεια τους, και πλέον σε καθαρό Blackened Doom Metal χρώμα, είναι πλέον στα καλύτερα τους. Αυτό το άλμπουμ το πήρα είδηση χάρη στο βίντεο για το The Coffin Ships κομμάτι. Έχοντας κατά νου ότι τα πρώτα δύο τους άλμπουμ είναι αμιγώς Black Metal, εδώ με τα τόσα folk και doom στοιχεία, γίνεται το breakthrough τους. Το ομώνυμο κομμάτι του cd αγγίζει τα δέκα λεπτά, Golden Spiral, Tragedy's Birth και Cities Carved in Stone είναι στιγμές που μένουν.

English Text:

Ethereal Beauty Unveiled.

In their fifth endeavor, the Irish musicians, now steeped in the raw essence of Blackened Doom Metal, have reached their pinnacle. It was through the captivating video for 'The Coffin Ships' that I stumbled upon this album. Departing from their earlier pure Black Metal roots, here they seamlessly blend folk and doom elements, marking a significant breakthrough in their musical journey. The eponymous track of the album unfolds over ten mesmerizing minutes, while 'Golden Spiral,' 'Tragedy's Birth,' and 'Cities Carved in Stone' etch unforgettable moments into the listener's soul.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: EXHORDER - Defectum Omnium

 

EXHORDER - Defectum Omnium

Nuclear Blast Records

Homepage

This release has its highs and lows. While it features some noteworthy peaks, they aren't quite sufficient to warrant an "A" rating. There are plenty of Pantera-esque riffs throughout, seemingly utilizing the same tuning as Dimebag (likely drop D). However, Pat O'Brien delivers commendable solos and rhythms. While lacking standout moments, there's still enough quality to merit a "B" rating. Although I'm not extensively familiar with this band, their 2019 release collectively earned a score of "91%," sparking my interest in exploring more of their catalog. Despite my reservations about this particular release, primarily due to its inability to fully captivate me, the music itself doesn't quite achieve the level of excellence I expected.

The vocals range from aggressive yelling to cleaner tones, complementing the music effectively. Pat handles guitar duties on most tracks, possibly with some guest appearances. Certain songs incorporate vocal effects like reverb or echo.

Beyond the Pantera influences, the album as a whole is a commendable effort. Pat's journey, including his departure from Cannibal Corpse due to legal and addiction issues, and subsequent return, adds a layer of intrigue. While his involvement with Exhorder last year suggests a continued commitment to music, his dedication to this band's distinct metal style is admirable. They possess a collection of riffs that leave an impression.

The album's energy, coupled with the synergy between guitars and vocals, keeps the momentum going. Overall, I found this album enjoyable and a testament to the band's talent. While their discography isn't extensive, they've carved out a niche, and one can only hope they'll continue to evolve and endure in the metal scene.

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi

Begravd: Melodic Death Metal Single Release and Band Update

 

Swedish Melodic Death Metal band Begravd, known for their powerful sound, recently dropped their latest single, "Lullaby of Obliteration." The track, recorded, mixed, and mastered at "Studio Death House" by Fredrik Joakimsson, showcases the band's signature intensity. Formed in 2020 in Lund, Sweden, by Kristoffer Schultz (Guitars) and Fredrik Joakimsson (Bass), Begravd gained momentum with the addition of Adonis Fredrik (Vocals). Currently on the lookout for a drummer and a second guitarist, once their lineup is complete, they are poised to dominate live stages with their electrifying performances.

Inhuman Rampage's New Single 'Brotherhood' Signals the Arrival of 'Savage'

 

Luxembourgian modern death metal band Inhuman Rampage has unleashed their latest single "Brotherhood" from their upcoming album "Savage". Recorded at "Kohlekeller Studios" by Kai Stahlenberg, the band, formed in 2011, consists of Patrick Wagener (Vocals), Pierrot Brotons and Jonas Lippert (Guitars), and Malte Janik Jöris (Drums). Following their debut EP "Pathfinder" in 2014, they toured Europe with "All Misery" and released their debut album "Funeral March" in 2019, which led to performances in South America and Europe. "Brotherhood" serves as a prelude to their forthcoming album, promising a relentless fusion of brutality and melody that defines their sound.

REVIEW: ASKA - Knight Strike

 

ASKA - Knight Strike

Vanadium Records

Homepage

The ASKA band holds a cherished position in my musical journey, for they were the inaugural group to extend their trust to my then-nascent webzine, BEHIND THE VEIL, by sharing their material for review. It was a time when we were but fledglings in the vast landscape of the heavy metal scene. Notably, the material they entrusted us with was none other than their magnificent and, to me, seminal album entitled "Avenger."

Since those formative years, ASKA has traversed musical realms, unveiling subsequent works, the latest being the 2013 release, "Fire Eater." Now, 11 years on, ASKA resurfaces with their latest opus, aptly titled "Knight Strike." Perhaps, the delay can be attributed to George Call, the band's vocalist and guitarist, who, in the intervening period, lent his talents to outfits such as OMEN, BANSHEE, and CLOVEN HOOF.

Upon delving into their latest offering, one is immediately struck by ASKA's steadfast commitment to their distinctive heavy/power metal sound, despite the passage of time. Their sonic lineage undoubtedly traces back to legends like IRON MAIDEN and JUDAS PRIEST, yet when pondering domestic comparisons, echoes of LIZZY BORDEN reverberate within my mind. These references serve not only to delineate their sonic identity but also to underscore the unmistakable imprint ASKA has left on the metal landscape.

Of particular note is the track "Soul Stealer," where ASKA deftly interlaces hard rock elements, evoking influences reminiscent of AC/DC and BULLET. It is a composition that resonates deeply, standing as a testament to the band's artistic versatility and innovative spirit.

In essence, with "Knight Strike," ASKA not only meets but exceeds expectations, offering a tour de force of U.S. heavy/power metal replete with vigor, melody, and fervor. George Call's vocals, a sublime fusion of Coverdale's grit, Defeis's range, and Lizzy Borden's theatricality, further elevate the sonic tapestry, infusing it with depth and resonance. This album is a masterful amalgamation of diverse sounds and emotions, inviting listeners on a captivating sonic journey.

So, here's to immersing oneself in the sonic tapestry woven by ASKA, where each listen unveils new layers of intricacy and emotion, reaffirming their status as stalwarts of the metal realm.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

 

Billy Morrison's 'Crack Cocaine' Sets Stage for 'The Morrison Project'

 

Billy Morrison, the accomplished British guitarist and songwriter, is gearing up for the release of his new album, "The Morrison Project." Featuring 12 electrifying tracks and guest appearances from music legends like Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, and Steve Stevens, this album is highly anticipated in the rock music scene.

The excitement builds with the release of the second single, "Crack Cocaine," on March 21, 2024. Featuring Osbourne's iconic vocals and co-written by Morrison and Stevens, the song delivers a powerful message with its raw energy and intense lyrics. The accompanying music video, starring Paris Jackson alongside the musicians, adds another layer of allure to the narrative.

As fans eagerly await the album's release on April 19, 2024, "Crack Cocaine" serves as a tantalizing preview of the musical brilliance to come. With its captivating rhythms, blistering guitar solos, and unforgettable vocals, Billy Morrison proves once again his prowess in the realm of rock music. Stay tuned for more from "The Morrison Project," a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and creativity in the industry.

REVIEW: SLAYER, Repentless (2015)

 

SLAYER, Repentless (2015)

Nuclear Blast Records

Κύκνειο άσμα από την κόλαση.

Επειδή το No Remorse, το είχαν χρησιμοποιήσει οι Motorhead και οι Metallica, χρειάζεται ένα άλλο ουσιαστικό για να περιγράψει το αμετανόητος!

Αυτό είναι κύκνειο άσμα των Slayer. Μετά τη παγκόσμια περιοδεία που πέρασε κι απ' το ΟΑΚΑ, ο Thrash ογκόλιθος αυτός μπήκε στον πάγο, θέλω να πιστεύω όχι για πάντα!

Οι Araya, King, Bostaph και ο αντικαταστάτης του αναντικατάστατου Hanemann (RIP) ο δανεικός απ' τους Exodus Holt στο ύστατο χαίρε στον κόσμο του "Σφαγέα". Ένα άλμπουμ που συνεχίζει την καλή πορεία μετά το World Painted Blood. Σίγουρα συνθετικά και στιχουργικά ο Hamemann μας λείπει. Καλώς ή κακώς είχε γράψει την πλειονότητα των αγαπημένων κομματιών τους ως το 2013 που πήγε να δει από κοντά αν υπάρχει κάτι "νότια του παραδείσου". Και δεν είναι ότι τη συντριπτική πλειονότητα την έχει γράψει ο King, είναι ότι όσο καλά και να είναι τα κομμάτια εδώ (όντως είναι) το γυαλί είχε κομματιάσει. Καλή προσπάθεια βέβαια, δεν λέει κανείς κάτι....

English Text:

Swan Song from the Abyss.

Given that "No Remorse" has been utilized by both Motorhead and Metallica, we require an alternative noun to encapsulate the unyielding!

This is Slayer's swan song. Following the global tour that graced OAKA, this titan of thrash has been put on ice, though hopefully not indefinitely!

Araya, King, Bostaph, and the surrogate for the irreplaceable Hanneman (RIP), borrowed from Exodus Holt, bid their final salutations to the realm of "The Butcher". An album that maintains the band's momentum after "World Painted Blood". Undoubtedly, we feel the absence of Hanneman in terms of composition and lyricism. It's not solely King who has penned the overwhelming majority of tracks; rather, despite the quality showcased here (and indeed, it's evident), the fabric has been fractured. A commendable effort, certainly, but no one can refute...

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

LIVE REPORT: DIVINER & SIRIUS @ 8BALL CLUB THESSALONIKI (9/3/2024)

 

On the evening of March 9, 2024, the renowned Eightball club in Thessaloniki played host to a monumental event in the Greek heavy metal scene. DIVINER, a band with a storied history and a devoted following, took to the stage for the first time in four years, presenting their latest album, "AVATON." Joining them as special guests were the esteemed SIRIUS, promising an electrifying night of metal mastery.

As the curtains rose, SIRIUS kicked off the proceedings with their signature blend of heavy/power metal, tinged with epic undertones. Drawing inspiration from genre titans like MANOWAR, they delivered a performance that was both technically proficient and emotionally charged. From tracks off their EP "Wings Of Fire" to the captivating selections from their new album, SIRIUS captivated the audience with their impassioned delivery, culminating in a thrilling rendition of SLAYER's "Dead Skin Mask," featuring the vocal talents of Thomas Trampouras from FLAMES.

Following SIRIUS's dynamic set, DIVINER took center stage, exuding a commanding presence honed over years of dominating the Greek metal circuit. With a repertoire spanning their entire career, DIVINER treated fans to a journey through their musical evolution, with a focus on their latest release. Their performance was characterized by intense energy, tight musicianship, and a palpable connection with the audience, reaffirming their status as heavy metal stalwarts.

The ambiance within Eightball was electric, with fans eagerly absorbing every riff, every drumbeat, and every soaring vocal line. Beyond mere entertainment, the concert served as a celebration of the enduring spirit of heavy metal and its profound impact on both artists and fans alike. Against the backdrop of Eightball's intimate yet vibrant setting, DIVINER and SIRIUS forged a bond with their audience, uniting them in a shared love for the genre.

As the final notes echoed into the night, the legacy of the concert endured, leaving an indelible mark on Thessaloniki's metal community. It was a testament to the power of live music to transcend barriers, forge connections, and ignite the soul. For those in attendance, the concert was not just an event—it was an experience that would be cherished and remembered for years to come, a testament to the timeless allure of heavy metal music and its ability to inspire and unite.

Κείμενο: Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

Φωτογραφίες: Θεόφιλος Μπαχτσεβανίδης

REVIEW: ΜΙΛΤΙΑΔΗΣ ΧΑΛΚΙΔΗΣ - Κρίσεις κόρες και υιοί

 

ΜΙΛΤΙΑΔΗΣ ΧΑΛΚΙΔΗΣ - Κρίσεις κόρες και υιοί

Independent

Homepage

If there's one silver lining to the authoritarian measures imposed on the Western world in the name of combating the "pandemic," it's the awakening of certain artists. They've witnessed the repercussions of this supposed "salvation" on us, humanity, and the direction it's taking. Miltiadis Chalkidis, known primarily from the band MARATHON, exemplifies this awakening.

In a bold move, he's chosen to release an album under his own name. His decision speaks volumes; the lyrics of his work resonate with such personal depth. Agreement with the creator is beside the point; what truly matters, and what deserves commendation, is having an artist unafraid to voice their beliefs, regardless of political correctness. While an artist may not single-handedly save the world, they can provoke meaningful and creative thought processes.

Within his work, humor intertwines with melancholy. Take, for instance, the poignant track «Γράμμα από το αγέννητο παιδί μου» ("Letter from my unborn child")—it's impossible to remain indifferent.

Musically, Miltos' style is both familiar and distinctive, blending classic rock riffs with melodies reminiscent of Greek traditional music. And yet, amidst these familiar elements, hints of blues and jazz emerge, adding depth and complexity.

This album stands as Miltos' most comprehensive and mature offering to date—a testament worth experiencing firsthand.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

BLACK LIGHT DISCIPLINE UNLEASHES NEW SINGLE “RUSSIAN ROULETTE”

 

Black Light Discipline (BLD) breaks through the silence with their latest release, "Russian Roulette," a bold cover of Rihanna's 2009 hit infused with their signature intensity. Frontman Toni Valha shares the genesis of the project, highlighting its evolution into a full release driven by the band's passion. Featuring the growling vocals of BRHG's Jaredi Koukonen, the rendition promises an adrenaline-fueled journey through sound and emotion, available across major streaming platforms. BLD's history of reimagining hits, like Alan Walker's "Faded," and their extensive catalogue of original music, exemplify their commitment to pushing musical boundaries. With three albums, 13 singles, and four official music videos to their name, BLD continues to captivate audiences with their catchy melodies and captivating visuals. Currently working on new material, the band remains dedicated to their musical experimentation.

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS Announces New Album, PIRATES II – ARMADA, out July 5, 2024

 

The symphonic metal band VISIONS OF ATLANTIS is gearing up to release their latest studio album, "PIRATES II – ARMADA," on July 5, 2024, through Napalm Records. This album follows their successful previous release, "Pirates" (2022), and promises to be their heaviest adventure yet. With "Armada," the first single and title track released today alongside an official music video, the band demonstrates a new level of metal intensity. Led by pirate queen Clèmentine Delauney and brave captain Michele Guaitoli, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS is poised to claim the crown of symphonic metal with this second chapter in their pirate saga. The track "Armada" showcases the band's driving energy and rich sound, immersing listeners in the exciting universe of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS.

HELL IN THE SKIES • Classic Heavy Metal • New Single & Lyric Video "Fields Of Betrayal"!

 

Experience the electrifying world of HELL IN THE SKIES' upcoming EP "II" with its captivating opener "Fields Of Betrayal," blending old-school Heavy Metal with Swamp Metal mastery. Scheduled for release on May 15, 2024, this EP offers a journey into the depths of human emotion, exploring themes of betrayal with a mystical aura. Embrace the band's visionary creations, which seamlessly fuse Heavy Metal, Stoner, and Doom into a grandiose mix of contrasting elements. With six powerful compositions, "II" promises a truly authentic and unforgettable musical experience, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery through the evocative sounds of HELL IN THE SKIES.

AEPHANEMER & special guests PRIMAL ROOTS @ HolyWood stage – Δεύτερα 25 Μαρτίου

 

Στις 25 Μαρτίου 2024, το HolyWood Stage στην Αθήνα θα φιλοξενήσει μια συναυλία με δύο metal συγκροτήματα που αξίζει να δείτε: τους Aephanemer από την Τουλούζη της Γαλλίας και τους Primal Roots από την Αθήνα.

Aephanemer:

Melodic death metal συγκρότημα με μοναδικό ήχο που συνδυάζει death metal, κλασική συμφωνία και σλαβική παραδοσιακή μουσική.

Έχουν κυκλοφορήσει 3 άλμπουμ, με το "A Dream of Wilderness" να είναι το πιο πρόσφατο.

Γνωστοί για τις εντυπωσιακές ζωντανές εμφανίσεις τους, έχοντας παίξει σε φεστιβάλ όπως το Wacken Open Air.

Σίγουρα θα σας ενθουσιάσουν με την ενέργεια και το πάθος τους για τη μουσική.

Primal Roots:

Metal συγκρότημα που παίζει κλασικό heavy metal με progressive, thrash, doom και nu στοιχεία.

Το ντεμπούτο άλμπουμ τους, "Stand Up", έλαβε θερμή υποδοχή από το κοινό και τους κριτικούς.

Πιστεύουν στη δύναμη της μουσικής να εμπνέει, να παρακινεί και να διδάσκει.

Ετοιμαστείτε για ένα δυναμικό και γεμάτο ενέργεια live show.

Είτε είστε φανατικός του metal, είτε απλά θέλετε να ζήσετε μια αξέχαστη μουσική εμπειρία, η συναυλία στις 25 Μαρτίου είναι για εσάς!

Προμηθευτείτε τα εισιτήριά σας:

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Μην το χάσετε!

Full House Brew Crew announce the release of their new album “Rise of the Underdogs”

 

Formed in 2009, Full House Brew Crew has crafted a distinctive sound blending heavy, groove, and metalcore influences. Renowned for their dynamic live shows, the band has earned a formidable presence in the metal community, captivating audiences with their powerful and melodious compositions. Their 2018 album "Me Against You" marked a turning point, attracting new followers, and by 2020, "Bare Knuckle" further solidified their standing. On May 10th, 2024, Full House Brew Crew is set to release their third album with ROAR, titled "Rise of the Underdogs." Promising to be their heaviest effort yet, the album showcases their signature low-tuning, infectious choruses, and relentless groove. "Rise of the Underdogs" will be available in Digipack CD and digital streaming/download formats, reaffirming the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing their unique musical identity.

TRACK LIST:

Fake

When Violence Meets the Art

Flaws of Guilt

Bleed

Voice of Doubt

Nightmare

Rise of the Underdogs

Downfall

Leaving Home