BLOODBOUND Sign With Napalm Records

 

After over 20 years in the Swedish power metal scene, BLOODBOUND has signed a worldwide contract with Napalm Records, aiming to elevate their sound and reach more fans. Since forming in 2004, the band has released ten studio albums and gained a dedicated following with their blend of melodic and heavy power metal. They are currently working on new material to continue delivering their electrifying sound. BLOODBOUND expressed their excitement about the partnership, believing it will help them achieve new heights, while Napalm's Sebastian Münch praised the band's impressive energy and creativity.

SharpShooter released new single

 

Australian Speed Metal band SharpShooter has released their new single "Hellbound Sinner." The track was recorded and mixed by Max Duncan and mastered by Owen Gillett at OG Mastering. Formed in 2022 in Adelaide, the band consists of Jessica Stephanie (bass, vocals), Max Duncan (drums), and Kieran Provis (guitars). They aim to create a Speed Metal sound that blends influences from Judas Priest, Motörhead, and thrash metal icons like Slayer.

ALESTORM Announce Eighth Studio Album

 

Hoist the sails and prepare for chaos—ALESTORM is back with their new album, “The Thunderfist Chronicles”, releasing June 20, 2025, via Napalm Records! The Scottish party pirates present their eighth album, featuring eight wild anthems filled with heavy riffs and outrageous lyrics.

Following the success of “Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum”, which reached #5 on the US Hard Music charts, the band continues their reign in metal. This album promises to be a loud and legendary experience.

Christopher Bowes shares that the album includes complex riffs, a cover of a Nekrogoblikon song, and features guest vocals from Patty Gurdy and Sir Russel Allen, along with the longest track he's ever written at over 17 minutes. Grab your rum—ALESTORM is ready to rock!

The Thunderfist Chronicles track listing:

1. Hyperion Omniriff

2. Killed to Death by Piracy

3. Banana

4. Frozen Piss 2

5. The Storm

6. Mountains of the Deep

7. Goblins Ahoy!

8. Mega-Supreme Treasure of the Eternal Thunderfist

VULVARINE Unveils New Single “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain”

 

Austrian hard rock band VULVARINE is set to unleash their new single "The Drugs, the Love and the Pain," from their upcoming album "Fast Lane", out March 28, 2025 via Napalm Records. The track combines punk attitude, hard rock grit, and heavy metal intensity, showcasing soaring melodies and powerful riffs that reflect the chaos and resilience of life. VULVARINE will also join the second leg of Thundermother’s Dirty & Divine tour across Europe. The song explores the emotional roller coaster of euphoria and chaos, ultimately conveying a message of hope and the transience of feelings.

VERITAS to Release 'Silent Script' on March 21, 2025

 

Wormholedeath proudly announces the release of Veritas' new album "Silent Script" on March 21, 2025, available worldwide as a physical CD through the Aural Music Webstore.

The hard rock/metal prowess of Veritas has teamed up with Wormholedeath for the epic reissue of their acclaimed album "Silent Script," which features 12 tracks of intense, heavy, and progressive metal mastery.

REVIEW: BATHORY, Twilight Of The Gods

 

BATHORY, Twilight Of The Gods (1991)

Black Mark Production

Τέλος για τη δεύτερη τριλογία.

Οι έξι ως εδώ δίσκοι που έδωσε το σουηδικό αυτό σχήμα αποτελούν δύο ξεχωριστές μουσικές και στιχουργικές τριλογίες με τα τρία πρώτα το ομώνυμο Bathory, The Return..., Under the Sign of the Black Mark να είναι η επιτομή του Thrash ως Black Metal και τα επόμενα Blood Fire Death, ειδικά το Hammerheart και τέλος αυτό να είναι ένα νορδικο "saga" Epic/Viking Metal. Φτάνοντας στο "Λυκόφως των Θεών" οι επιρροές πλέον είναι σχεδόν καθόλου οι Venom αλλά εντελώς οι Manowar, όσον αφορά το στήσιμο της μουσικής και των στίχων. Ο Thomas "Quorthon" Forsberg, ψυχή και σώμα του ονόματος Bathory με τα καθαρά εντελώς ήδη απ' το 1990 αλλά κάπως άτεχνα φωνητικά του μας μεταφέρει πάλι στα μυθικά, παγωμένα και αφιλόξενα ιστορικά μέρη της πατρίδας του μέσα από μελωδίες (με πολύ καλή παραγωγή σε σχέση με τα αρχικά άλμπουμ απ' τον πατέρα του όπως αποδείχθηκε τον The Boss) και ατμόσφαιρες μαγικές και πάλι σε mid tempo ρυθμούς, ίσως ένα bit πιο γρήγορα και με περισσότερο μουσικό όγκο απ' το προηγούμενο Hammerheart. Τα εφέ όπως ο ήχος του ανέμου χρησιμοποιούνται "μετ' επιτάσεως" σαν εισαγωγή σε αρκετά απ' τα κομμάτια του άλμπουμ, μεταφέροντας τον ακροατή στα παγωμένα βουνά της Σκανδιναβίας και οι τίτλοι που μέχρι κι σήμερα παραμένουν αγαπημένοι εδώ είναι το τεράστιο Prologue -Twilight of the Gods-Epilogue-Through Blood by Thunder-Blood and Iron, Under the Runes, To Enter your Mountain, Bond of Blood,  Hammerheart (το κόλλημα να υπάρχει τίτλος προηγουμένου δίσκου σαν τραγούδι σε επόμενη κυκλοφορία που ξεκίνησαν οι Led Zeppelin και που το είδαμε  στους Manowar, κάνει κι εδω εμφάνιση) ουσιαστικά δηλαδή όλο το άλμπουμ. Η συνέχεια για τον μυστικοπαθή Quorthon θα έρθει μετά από ένα χρονικό διάστημα, αλλά τα πρώτα έξι άλμπουμ, είναι αυτά που έμειναν στο συλλογικό ασυνείδητο της metal κοινότητας για πάντα.

English:

The end of the second trilogy. 

The six albums released by this Swedish band so far form two distinct musical and lyrical trilogies. The first three—“Bathory”, “The Return…”, and “Under the Sign of the Black Mark”—represent the epitome of Thrash as Black Metal, while the next ones, “Blood Fire Death”, especially “Hammerheart”, and finally this one, present a Nordic "saga" Epic/Viking Metal. By the time we reach “Twilight of the Gods”, the influences have shifted almost completely from Venom to Manowar, both in terms of musical structure and lyrics. Thomas "Quorthon" Forsberg, the soul and heart of Bathory, with his distinctive, yet somewhat raw vocals since 1990, once again takes us to the mythical, cold, and unwelcoming historical lands of his homeland through melodies (with significantly better production compared to the earlier albums, thanks to his father, as it turns out—the Boss) and magical atmospheres, still maintaining mid-tempo rhythms, though a bit faster and with a heavier musical presence than “Hammerheart”.

Sound effects, like the sound of wind, are used "with emphasis" as intros to several tracks on the album, transporting the listener to the frozen mountains of Scandinavia. The titles, which are still beloved to this day, include the massive “Prologue - Twilight of the Gods – Epilogue”, “Through Blood by Thunder”, “Blood and Iron”, “Under the Runes”, “To Enter Your Mountain”, “Bond of Blood”, and “Hammerheart” (the recurring theme of including the previous album’s title as a song in the next release, a tradition started by Led Zeppelin and later seen in Manowar, makes an appearance here as well)—basically, the whole album. Quorthon’s mysterious journey would continue after a while, but the first six albums are the ones that have permanently etched themselves in the collective unconscious of the metal community.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

REVIEW: WYVERN - Lords of Winter

 

WYVERN - Lords of Winter

Jolly Roger Records

I first discovered the Italian power metal band WYVERN (there are others with the same name in Italy and other countries) through the compilation "Back to the Ancient Rage," which was offered by a heavy metal magazine back in 2002. The band's history began in 1985, and they remain active today, although their last release under this name was in 2010. That album, "Lords of Winter," will be the focus of this article.

Unlike other bands that made a comeback in the 2000s, WYVERN managed to retain almost all of the same musicians from their debut album released two decades earlier in 1990, titled "The Red Flame of Pain." Perhaps that's why their 2010 album does not differ musically from their debut. On "Lords of Winter," we find Fausto Tinello on bass, Fabrizio Bernardi on drums, Fabio Bonaccorsi on vocals, and Simone Ferrari on guitars and keyboards, who is the new addition to the band's lineup.

The band's musical style can be described as European power metal, with elements of speed metal and symphonic influences. They place a strong emphasis on melody, which harmoniously coexists with the band's dynamic moments. Clearly, there are influences from HELLOWEEN, but the band also seems to expand their sound in the vein of their compatriots SKYLARK, while also incorporating some references to the American metal scene.

The release is enjoyable and features standout moments, such as the tracks "Lord of Winter," "Her Majesty Rage," "Ice Guardian," and "Out in the Rain." The vocals are satisfactory but not particularly impressive. This may partly be due to the nuances of English pronunciation, which can often challenge Italian singers. Additionally, while the production is clear, it could benefit from more dynamic intensity.

Overall, we have a respectable release that has its moments, but it may not be something that will become a defining point in your listening experience.

Nick Parastatidis

REVIEW: STRATOVARIUS, Intermission

 

STRATOVARIUS, Intermission (2001)

Nuclear Blast Records

Ένα μίνι άλμπουμ...με 15 κομμάτια!

Η ιστορία γνωστή: Κάθε μπάντα που σέβεται τον εαυτό τής κυκλοφορεί στην Ιαπωνία τα άλμπουμ της με τη γνωστή ταινία Obi αλλά κυρίως με επιπλέον κομμάτια απ' τον υπόλοιπο κόσμο. Εδώ οι τρεις φιλανδοι με τον Γερμανό ντράμερ και την Σουηδό πληκτρά, μας δίνουν αρκετά κρυμμένα στούντιο κομμάτια απ' τις ειδικές κυκλοφορίες τους που δεν υπήρχαν στις ευρωπαϊκές εκδόσεις των άλμπουμ τους. Will my Soul Ever Rest in Peace?, Falling into Fantasy, το σπιντάντο The Curtains are Falling, Requiem, It's A Mystery, Why Are We Here?, Keep the Flame είναι το υλικό αυτό που Ε, δεν διεκδικεί και δάφνες πρωτοτυπίας! Καλώς ή κακώς ο μέρες δόξας για αυτό το όνομα συνυφασμένο με το ευρωπαϊκό Power Metal, είχαν ήδη αρχίσει να δύουν. Τα επόμενα δύο άλμπουμ τους Elements part I & II θα σηματοδοτήσουν το οριστικό τέλος.... έμπνευσης αφού οτιδήποτε μετά δε θα πλησιάζει και πολύ σε αυτό που ξέραμε ως Stratovarius! Από εκεί και πέρα, μερικά ζωντανά ηχογραφημένα,  b-sides από singles σαν το Hunting High and Low ή την επανεκτέλεση του Cold Winter Nights κρίνονται συμπαθητικά. Το υπόλοιπο υλικό όμως παρουσιάζει πιο πολύ ενδιαφέρον αφού περιέχει και διασκευές σε κλασικό rock και  metal υλικό σαν το Kill the King τραγουδισμένο απ' τον  κιθαρίστα Timo Tolki, αλλά  και το ζωντανά ηχογραφημένο I Surrender απ' τους Rainbow ή το Bloodstone από Judas Priest.

English:

A mini-album... with 15 tracks!

The story is well-known: Every self-respecting band releases their albums in Japan with the iconic Obi strip and, most importantly, with additional tracks that don't appear on the European versions. Here, the three Finnish members, along with their German drummer and Swedish keyboardist, present us with a treasure trove of hidden studio tracks from their special editions that never made it to the European releases. Tracks like "Will My Soul Ever Rest in Peace?", "Falling into Fantasy," the upbeat "The Curtains are Falling," "Requiem," "It's A Mystery," "Why Are We Here?", and "Keep the Flame" may not exactly be groundbreaking material. Unfortunately or not, the glory days for this name, synonymous with European Power Metal, were already fading. Their next two albums, "Elements Part I & II," would signal the definitive end of their creative spark, as nothing that followed would come close to what we once knew as Stratovarius!

Beyond that, some live recordings and b-sides from singles like "Hunting High and Low" or the re-recording of "Cold Winter Nights" are quite pleasant. However, the more intriguing content includes covers of classic rock and metal songs, such as "Kill the King," sung by guitarist Timo Tolkki, and the live rendition of "I Surrender" by Rainbow, along with "Bloodstone" by Judas Priest.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

REVIEW: OMEN, Escape To Nowhere

 

OMEN, Escape To Nowhere (1988)

Metal Blade Records

Παρακαλείται οποίος πήρε τα δόντια της Ύδρας να τα επιστρέψει.

Μετά τρία καταιγιστικά άλμπουμ οι Omen είχαν μπεί στη μεγάλη κατηγορία του U.S. Heavy & Epic Power Metal. Ο J.D. Kimball αφήνει τη θέση του τραγουδιστή και το σχήμα βρίσκει αντικαταστάτη στον νεαρό τότε Coburn Pharr . Όπως βλέπετε απ'το εξώφυλλο, τα πράγματα δεν έχουν πλέον μεγάλη σχέση με το πρόσφατο παρελθόν. Το λογότυπο τους πήγε στην πάνω γωνία του κάδρου, το μοντέλο για εσώρουχα και μαγιό δεμένο στο πέτρινο (ή μήπως μεταλλικό) εσωτερικό  κάποιου ναού των Ίνκας δεν έχει τη γοητεία της ένδοξης κόμπρας που φιγουράριζε στα πρώτα άλμπουμ, βέβαια η γοητεία της είναι διαφορετική! Με άλλα λόγια, οι Omen στο τελευταίο άλμπουμ τους για τη δεκαετία του '80 αλλά και για δέκα περίπου χρόνια, πάνε αλλού. Που αλλού; Στο κλασικό, σκοτεινό αμερικανικό Power Metal σε ένα στυλ κοντά στους Metal Church (η τραχιά φωνή του Pharr βοηθάει σ' αυτό!), Sanctuary αλλά σίγουρα πολύ μακριά απ'αυτό που είχαν οι ως τότε οπαδοί τους σαν ηχητική εικόνα, οι συμβουλές του Paul O' Neil παραγωγού και συνεργάτη των Savatage για μια πιο εμπορική στροφή έγιναν πράξη. Οι διθυραμβικές επικές και μυθικές αναφορές δεν υπάρχουν στους στίχους πλέον. Τώρα αν με ρωτήσετε τη γνώμη μου, ναι δε με χαλάει αυτό, ίσα ίσα αν και προτιμώ τους επικούς Omen, η συγκεκριμένη απόδοση τους στα κομμάτια του δίσκου αυτού στη συντριπτική πλειονότητα είναι μια χαρά. Λίγο η αρχή με το πιάνο στο εναρκτήριο It's Not Easy με κάνει να αναρωτιέμαι, η διασκευή στο Radar Love των Golden Earring ξενίζει από εκεί και πέρα όμως το γλέντι ξεκινά: Escape to Nowhere, Cry for the Morning, Thorn in your Flesh, Poisoned (με την παλιά αίγλη να φαίνεται έντονα σε αυτό), King of the Hill, No Way Out είναι κομμάτια μεν διαφορετικά, αλλά όχι εκτός των Metal φορμών.

English:

Anyone who took the Hydra's teeth is kindly requested to return them.

After three explosive albums, Omen had risen to the elite tier of U.S. Heavy and Epic Power Metal. J.D. Kimball stepped down from his role as lead vocalist, and the band found a replacement in the then-young Coburn Pharr. As you can see from the album cover, things have taken a different direction compared to their recent past. Their logo has moved to the upper corner of the frame, and the model posing in underwear and swimwear against the stone (or perhaps metallic) backdrop of some Incan temple lacks the allure of the glorious cobra that adorned their early albums—though its appeal is certainly of a different nature! In other words, with their final album of the '80s, and for approximately a decade thereafter, Omen is heading in a new direction. Where exactly? Towards classic, darker American Power Metal, in a style reminiscent of Metal Church (thanks in part to Pharr's gritty vocals!), and Sanctuary, but certainly far removed from the sound their fans had previously associated with them. The producer Paul O'Neill, who collaborated with Savatage, encouraged a more commercial shift, and this became evident. The grand, epic, and mythical references that once populated their lyrics are no longer present.

Now, if you ask me for my opinion, I don’t mind this change at all. While I do prefer the epic Omen, their current approach on this album is quite satisfactory. The piano intro of the opening track, 'It’s Not Easy,' makes me curious, and the cover of 'Radar Love' by Golden Earring feels a bit out of place. However, from that point on, the party truly begins: tracks like 'Escape to Nowhere,' 'Cry for the Morning,' 'Thorn in Your Flesh,' 'Poisoned' (which strongly radiates their old glory), 'King of the Hill,' and 'No Way Out' offer a different flavor, but still remain well within the Metal framework.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

RIOT and PRETTY MAIDS: Parallel Lives

 

In the vibrant world of heavy metal and hard rock, few names carry as much weight as Riot and Pretty Maids. With roots in different corners of the globe—Riot from the hustle and bustle of New York City and Pretty Maids from the picturesque landscapes of Denmark—these bands have each carved out significant places in the realm of music. They share a commitment to powerful melodies, energetic performances, and compelling themes that resonate with fans of all ages.

Deep Roots in Heavy Metal

Riot: Power Metal Pioneers: Founded in 1975, Riot is often hailed as one of the trailblazers of American power metal—a genre characterized by fast tempos, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar riffs. Their 1988 album "Thundersteel" is often regarded as a landmark in the genre, offering a rollercoaster of emotions packed into catchy hooks and powerful rhythms. Riot’s music is not just about heavy guitars; it’s about uplifting messages and a sense of unity, inviting listeners to headbang and sing along in unison.

Pretty Maids: Masters of Melodic Metal: On the other side of the Atlantic, Pretty Maids took shape in 1981, rising from Denmark’s flourishing heavy metal scene. Their breakout album "Future World" (1987) is a testament to their ability to blend hard-hitting rock with infectious melodies. With songs that you can scream along to or lose yourself in, Pretty Maids manages to evoke feelings ranging from empowerment to introspection, all wrapped in a captivating sound that draws you in.

Longevity and Evolution in the Music Industry

Both Riot and Pretty Maids have stood the test of time in an industry notorious for its ups and downs. After decades of creating and performing, they've continued to grow, evolving their sound while staying true to their roots. Lineup changes are commonplace in the music world, and both bands have weathered their fair share. Riot experienced many changes over the years, notably after the tragic passing of guitarist Mark Reale in 2012. However, their music and spirit live on, passionately embraced by fans who keep their legacy alive.

Pretty Maids has also navigated member shifts but has remained strong, with founding members Ronnie Atkins and Ken Hammer at the helm. Their commitment to writing and touring keeps the fire of their music burning bright, even in a changing world.

Themes and Lyrical Depth

What truly sets both Riot and Pretty Maids apart is their ability to tackle meaningful themes. Their lyrics often delve into weighty topics like politics, human oppression, and personal struggles, making their songs relatable on many levels. Riot’s anthems typically deliver messages of resilience and hope, while Pretty Maids often explores the intricacies of relationships and self-reflection, allowing fans to see pieces of their own lives in the music.

 

Electric Live Performances

Both Riot and Pretty Maids aren’t just phenomenal in the studio—they also know how to create a rock ‘n’ roll experience that fans won’t forget. Their electrifying live performances are a celebration of heavy metal, featuring hard-hitting riffs, soaring vocals, and an undeniable connection with the audience. Whether they are playing at massive festivals or intimate venues, their high-energy shows create an atmosphere that's hard to replicate, leaving fans buzzing long after the last note fades away.

A Legacy of Influence

Despite not always being in the mainstream spotlight, both Riot and Pretty Maids have left a lasting impression on the music industry. They’ve inspired countless artists across the heavy metal and hard rock spectrum, with new musicians often citing both bands as pivotal influences in their own journeys.

Fans of both bands have kept the flame alive, creating a devoted following that spans generations. Pretty Maids, in particular, has developed a cult following, especially in Europe, where their classic albums are cherished. Similarly, Riot’s "Thundersteel" remains a powerful anthem for loyal fans, ensuring the band's music will never fade into obscurity.

Interesting Facts and Anecdotes

Riot's Early Influence: Riot’s innovative contributions can be felt even today. They played a significant role in shaping the sound of American power metal, influencing a wave of bands that followed their lead.

 

Ronnie Atkins’ Resilience: In recent years, Pretty Maids’ frontman Ronnie Atkins has faced substantial personal challenges, including a battle with cancer. His determination to continue performing and creating music shines as a beacon of resilience, inspiring fans who share in his journey through both the dark times and the triumphs.

Conclusion

Riot and Pretty Maids may have their roots in different places and sounds, but their shared love for music, passion for performance, and commitment to powerful storytelling unite them as icons in the heavy metal world. Their enduring legacy is a testament to the impact of rock music, demonstrating how it can forge connections, inspire change, and uplift the human spirit. As they continue to influence new generations and bring their energetic shows to audiences around the globe, Riot and Pretty Maids remind us that the heart of heavy metal beats on—loud, proud, and full of life. Whether through the thunderous riffs of Riot or the melodic charm of Pretty Maids, their music will continue to resonate and leave an indelible mark on the lives of fans everywhere.

Nick Parastatidis

SHEREIGN released new album

 

Finnish melodic alternative metal band Shereign has released their new album, “Black Halo”, recorded at Noise Floor Studios and mixed/mastered by Mikko Herranen. Featuring Sara Strömmer (vocals), Joonas Pulkkinen and Timo Pönni (guitars), Jani Rissanen (bass), and Jope Salminen (drums), Shereign combines heavy riffs and soaring vocals, inspired by bands like Children of Bodom and Halestorm. With over 500,000 Spotify streams, they have a growing fanbase and have shared the stage with acts such as Turmion Kätilöt and Infected Rain, establishing themselves as a prominent force in the metal scene.

KATLA Releases Second Single “Dead Lover”

 

Doom metal giants KATLA delve into heartache and resilience with their new single, "Dead Lover," the second track from their debut album, *Scandinavian Pain*, scheduled for release on March 21, 2025, via Napalm Records.

With years of refining their colossal sound, KATLA delivers an unyielding mix of raw emotion and gritty riffs, marking their evolution from performing at Copenhell Festival to becoming a standout in Denmark’s heavy music scene.

"Dead Lover" pulsates with energy and powerful imagery, encouraging listeners to confront their struggles. Reflecting on the track's creation, the band states: “It came together in a day, perfectly aligning with our no-nonsense approach. The lyrics emerged as Rasmus processed dark thoughts, aiming to offer an uplifting message about overcoming challenges.”

SACRED STEEL premiere "The Watcher Infernal" video single

 

In anticipation of their forthcoming studio album, "Ritual Supremacy," the legendary heavy metal band SACRED STEEL has unveiled a compelling lyric video for their latest single, "The Watcher Infernal." Vocalist Gerrit P. Mutz shares insights on the new release, stating: “The striking lyric video speaks for itself. The lyrics are presented from the viewpoint of Lucifer, often depicted as the scapegoat for all the evil in the world. He’s tired of being the sole target of blame and instead directs that finger at humanity. Frankly, I think he makes a valid point! Musically, this track differs from the title track we've already introduced. It's more in line with a Black Sabbath vibe—less aggressive but perhaps a bit more frustrated, haha.”

CURSE OF CAIN - premiere music video for new single "Candy Cain Murder"

 

Sweden-based metal collective Curse of Cain has garnered attention this year with their latest single, "Feel The Pain." This track serves as the first glimpse into their highly anticipated sophomore studio album, which will follow their critically acclaimed debut released in 2023. The band has now unveiled a new song titled "Candy Cain Murder," offering another preview of their yet untitled upcoming project, scheduled for release in autumn 2025 via ROAR.

According to the band, "This song was our first glimpse into the world we were creating." They expressed that playing it live before recording added an element of raw energy and spontaneity, making the experience feel "wild and untamed—like we were channeling something bigger than ourselves." With their unique sound and dynamic performances, Curse of Cain continues to expand the boundaries of the metal genre, keeping fans eager for their next release.

KA'APER released new single

 

Cyprus-based Melodic Death Metal band Ka'aper has released their new single, "The Darkest of Times," from their upcoming debut album. Formed in April 2024, Ka'aper blends crushing riffs and atmospheric arrangements with influences from ancient Egyptian mythology. The band features Evgeny Pcheliakov (vocals), Timur Glushan (guitar), Igor Kurzin (bass), and Alexey Boychuk (drums), creating deep, evocative soundscapes. Their debut album is set for release in 2025, inviting fans to scream, feel, and confront their fears through their powerful music.

NEW EP "Divide and Konquer" by BREAKdowN!

 

Born in the streets of São Paulo, Brazil, BreaKdowN later moved to Ireland and is now based in Germany. Formed in 1998, they quickly became a fixture in the diverse local music scene, spanning punk to tech death.

Their journey began with a demo titled "Disgrace" and a live cassette called "Live After Thrash," which caught the attention of Unsilent Records, leading to their first full-length album, "Time To Kill," in 2007. This eight-track album garnered global underground acclaim, establishing BreaKdowN as a prominent name in the scene.

Their latest EP, "Divide and Konquer," showcases uncompromising extreme metal infused with melody, drawing influences from DEATH, SEPULTURA, KREATOR, and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. After years of silence, they collaborated with Andy Classen at Stage One Studio to deliver four high-energy tracks that cater to fans of Death, Thrash, and Heavy Metal.

Rock Hard magazine praised them, stating, “Equally impressive as the cover and title is the trio's sound… with the power of old-school metal, incredible melodic passages, and well-crafted solos.” BreaKdowN continues to push boundaries, reaffirming their place in the metal world.

REVIEW: STRATOVARIUS, Elysium

 

STRATOVARIUS, Elysium  (2011)

earMUSIC

Στον αέναο αγώνα για κάτι ίδιο.

Η ιστορία τους για μένα σταματάει το 2003. Το ομώνυμο άλμπουμ τους μετά πραγματικά με απογοήτευσε όπως και εκατομμύρια φίλων τους. Στη συνέχεια ο κιθαρίστας και βασικός συνθέτης απ' το 1985 Timo Tolki και παλιότερο μέλος τους (αλλά όχι ιδρυτικό) χαμένος σε ένα ποτάμι ουσιών, ποτού και άσχημων περιστατικών (πλακώθηκαν στις μάπες για να μη τα ωραιοποιούμε) απολύεται/φεύγει και μετά το απαραίτητο δικαστικό χάος, χάνει και τα δικαιώματα στο συγκρότημα. Ήδη εκτός  νυμφώνος ήταν κι ο κλασικός μπασίστας τους ως τότε Jari Kainulainen. Οι εναπομείναντες Timo Kotipelto φωνή, Jens Johansson πλήκτρα, Jorg Michael ντραμς βρίσκουν τους νέους μουσικούς Matias Kupiainen, κιθάρα και τον μπασίστα Lauri Porra και το 2009 βγάζουν το Polaris ένα συμπαθητικό άλμπουμ στο ήδη  γνωστό στυλ τους του νεοκλασικού Εuro-Power Metal. Η συνέχεια δόθηκε με αυτό εδώ απ' την ίδια σύνθεση. Ενώ θα έπρεπε να αναφέρουμε ότι ο αέρας ανανέωσης είναι κάτι παρηγορο εντούτοις, κάτι έχει κι αυτό (και το Polaris) που δε με κάνουν προσωπικά να στρέφομαι σε αυτή τη πιο πρόσφατη εποχή των Strato. Ίσως να παραμένω ένας κολλημένος στις δύο πρώτες εποχές τους όταν και τους έμαθα από το Dreamscape ως το Destiny.

English:

In the eternal struggle for something constant.

Their story for me stops in 2003. Their self-titled album after that truly disappointed me, as well as millions of their fans. Following that, the guitarist and main songwriter since 1985, Timo Tolkki, who was an earlier member (but not a founding one), became lost in a river of substances, alcohol, and unfortunate incidents (to put it mildly, they got into fights), was dismissed/left, and after the necessary legal chaos, also lost his rights to the band. By then, their long-time bassist, Jari Kainulainen, was already out of the picture. The remaining members—Timo Kotipelto (vocals), Jens Johansson (keyboards), and Jorg Michael (drums)—found new musicians, Matias Kupiainen (guitar) and bassist Lauri Porra, and in 2009 released “Polaris”, a pleasant album within their already established style of neoclassical Euro-Power Metal. This album continues the trend set by the same lineup. While it should be noted that there's a refreshing air of renewal, I still find something in this newer era (as well as in “Polaris”) that doesn't personally pull me into it. Perhaps I remain stuck in their first two eras, when I discovered them, from “Dreamscape” to “Destiny”.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!