REVIEW: HELLOWEEN, Chameleon (1993)

 

HELLOWEEN, Chameleon (1993)

EMI

Δε μπορεί, λάθος θα έγινε!

Θα τύπωσαν το λογότυπο με τη κολοκύθα σε εξώφυλλο δίσκου από WHITE LION, RATT, POISON, DEF LEPPARD, BON JOVI ή MOTLEY CRUE... Αλλά όχι τελικά. Αυτό το cd, στην expanded edition των αρχών του 2000, απλώς έχει τα b' sides των πολλών singles από την αρχική κυκλοφορία στο δεύτερο δισκάκι. Ως εκεί καλά. Ο "χαμελεοντας" σαν άλμπουμ πάντως είναι η ζωντανή απόδειξη ότι τα σφάλματα δεν είναι ανθρώπινα τελικά. Έχοντας βρει το ορίτζιναλ διπλό βινύλιο στη Καλαμάτα στις διακοπές μου το 1996 σε πολύ καλή τιμή για διπλό LP  και καινούργιο παρακαλώ (το ξερα ότι είναι πιθανή φόλα από το αφιέρωμα του Metal Hammer το ίδιο καλοκαίρι στα χειρότερα άλμπουμ όλων των εποχών) και ξέροντας ότι η κομματαρα Giants είναι σε αυτό, επένδυσα. Έχει και κανα-δυο άλλα που αξίζουν π.χ. το Crazy Cat ή το εναρκτήριο First Time και τέλος. Όλα τα υπόλοιπα είναι απλώς  από μπαλλαντοειδη ως ακουστικά, κανένα ίχνος όχι Power Metal, καλά καλά ούτε καν Rock!

English Text:

"It's unbelievable, a mistake must have occurred!

They were supposed to feature the logo with a pumpkin on the cover of a record by WHITE LION, RATT, POISON, DEF LEPPARD, BON JOVI, or MOTLEY CRUE... But in the end, it never happened. This CD, part of the early 2000s expanded edition, simply contains the B-sides from the original release on its second disc. That part is clear. However, the "chameleon" album serves as undeniable proof that errors aren't exclusive to humans. Back in 1996, during my vacation in Kalamata, I chanced upon the original double vinyl at a remarkably reasonable price, brand new, no less. I suspected it might have been a leftover from Metal Hammer's feature on the worst albums of all time that same summer. However, knowing that the standout track "Giants" was part of it, I made the investment. There are a few other noteworthy tracks, like "Crazy Cat" and the opening piece "First Time," but that's about it. Everything else on the album ranges from ballad-like tunes to acoustic melodies, with no trace of Power Metal, not even Rock!"

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: MEGADETH - So Far, So Good...So What! (1988)

 

MEGADETH - So Far, So Good...So What! (1988)

Capitol Records

Νέα εμφάνιση αλλά μέχρι εκεί!

Ο Dave Mustaine κράτησε τον Junior (David Elefson) στο μπάσο και πήρε Chuck Behler και Jeff Young σε 2η κιθάρα και ντραμς απολύοντας Gar Samuelson, Chris Poland μετά τα δύο πρώτα άλμπουμ στους Megadeth. Έχουμε εδώ ενα βελτιωμένο Killing Is My Business... Αλλά με τίποτα, ούτε ένα καν μέτριο Peace Sells...! Η παραγωγή δεν βοηθάει όπως και στο ντεμπούτο κι ίσως χαντακωνει το άλμπουμ. Μπορεί η διασκευή στο Anarchy In The U.K. των Sex Pistols να σέρνει τον χορό αλλά το υπόλοιπο σύνολο δεν λέει δυστυχώς πολύ. Mary Jane, Set The World Afire, In My Darkest Hour (για τον θάνατο του φίλου του Cliff Burton των Metallica) και Hook In Mouth έχουν άνισο έργο να επιδείξουν. Ευτυχώς, η επόμενη αλλαγή του lineup θα οδηγήσει στο Rust In Peace.

English Text:

A fresh look, but with limitations!

Dave Mustaine kept David Elefson on bass and brought in Chuck Behler and Jeff Young on second guitar and drums, replacing Gar Samuelson and Chris Poland after Megadeth's first two albums. This results in an improved 'Killing Is My Business,' but falls short of 'Peace Sells...!' The production doesn't help, and the Sex Pistols' 'Anarchy In The U.K.' cover stands out, but the rest of the album disappoints. Tracks like Mary Jane, Set The World Afire, In My Darkest Hour (dedicated to Cliff Burton of Metallica), and Hook In Mouth show uneven quality. Fortunately, the next lineup change leads to 'Rust In Peace.'"

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

FORGOTTEN Unveils Their New EP "Whispers Of Existence"

 

Forgotten is an emerging force in the realm of black metal, beckoning listeners to explore the depths of night through their musical creations. Their inaugural foray into recorded music is marked by the announcement of the EP "Whispers Of Existence." This release serves as the foundational opus for Forgotten..., a black metal entity destined to submerge audiences in the realms of existential introspection. "Whispers Of Existence" stands as an eerie testament to the band's unwavering quest for atmospheric obscurity, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the enigmatic recesses of the human psyche.

With each composition, "Whispers Of Existence" weaves a tapestry of melancholic melodies, intricate guitar craftsmanship, thunderous rhythms, and haunting vocals. From ethereal whispers to cathartic crescendos, each moment resonates with a profound sense of self-examination and despair, captivating listeners within its otherworldly embrace.

This inaugural release encapsulates the band's exploration of the fragile nature of existence, delving deep into themes of isolation, introspection, and the inherent struggles of the human condition. Through its dense atmosphere and introspective lyricism, "Whispers Of Existence" serves as a vessel for catharsis and deep introspection, beckoning listeners to confront the profound depths of their own existence.

Prepare to embark on an auditory journey that transcends the mundane and reveals the mysteries hidden within. "Whispers Of Existence" serves as a testament to Forgotten...'s commitment to atmospheric black metal, forging a connection between darkness and the essence of existence, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of existence.

In a recent development, Forgotten has inked a deal with the esteemed British Extreme Metal label, UKEM Records. The label issued the following statement: "UKEM Records is thrilled to welcome Greek Black Metal outfit 'Forgotten' to our artist roster! We are set to unleash the band's debut EP, 'Whispers of Existence,' on CD by the end of 2023. Additionally, a cassette release is in the works, to be handled by a foreign label, and further details will follow for all cassette enthusiasts!"

REVIEW: THE COLOR OF RAIN (TCOR) - Oceans Above

 

THE COLOR OF RAIN (TCOR) - Oceans Above

Void Wanderer Productions (VWP)

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The truth is, as a devoted fan of traditional metal and the classic forms it upholds, I had never delved into the realm of "post-black metal," a term claimed by THE COLOR OF RAIN (TCOR) in their music. However, life has a way of teaching you things, and with the release of their latest album "Oceans Above" slated for November 7, 2023, I decided to explore this genre.

Amnesia Pills + Loose Ties + High Hills Live at ΙΛΙΟΝ plus – Friday, October 13th

 

On Friday, October 13th, three dynamic bands from the local music scene - Amnesia Pills, Loose Ties, and High Hills - extend a warm invitation to ilion+ for a night brimming with music and electric energy.

Admission: €10

WILD STEEL - Come Along (Official Video)

 

The new video for 'COME ALONG' by Wild Steel is out today, taken from the album 'Age Of Steel' available on all digital platforms and in digipack CD format.

UNBEHAGEN Unleashes New Single

 

The Austrian Black Metal outfit, UNBEHAGEN, has recently dropped their latest single, titled "Charisma." This release was meticulously crafted, from recording to mixing and mastering, all overseen by the talented Scrupus in the renowned "Scrupus Studios."

UNBEHAGEN, which was born in 2019 as a one-man project led by Scrupus, bears a name that translates to "discomfort." This moniker aptly mirrors the melancholic and unbridled essence evoked when contemplating the world of Black Metal.

REVIEW: KREATOR, ENDLESS PAIN (1985)

 

KREATOR, ENDLESS PAIN (1985)

Noise Records

Πρωτόλειο Black Metal από τους Γερμανούς θεούς του thrash...

Το πρώτο τους άλμπουμ και περιέργως το πρώτο LP τους που είχα αγοράσει παλιά όταν ήμουν βινυλιακιας. Δεν μπορώ να είμαι αξιοκρατικος. Το αγαπώ περισσότερο από το θεωρητικά, πιο καλό Pleasure To Kill που ήρθε μετά. Η τριάδα εδώ αλλά και στο επόμενο, Petrozza, Fioretti, Rail δίνει εσωψυχα. Το θεωρώ σαν το δικό τους Show No Mercy, αφού δικαίως είναι οι Ευρωπαίοι Slayer! Νομίζω ότι έχει καλύτερο ήχο από τον πιο διάσημο διάδοχο του και συν τοις άλλοις, έχει και πιο groovy αν επιτρέπεται η έννοια, κομμάτια: Endless Pain, Total Death, Tormentor, Flag Of Hate δεν γράφονται συχνά.

Storm Of The Beast, Cry War και Bonebreaker ακολουθούν.

English text:

"Groundbreaking Black Metal from the German thrash legends...

Their debut album, and oddly enough, the first LP I ever acquired when I was a vinyl enthusiast. I can't help but be biased. I cherish it even more than the theoretically superior "Pleasure To Kill" that came afterwards. The trio here, as well as in their next release, Petrozza, Fioretti, and Rail, send shivers down the spine. I view it as their equivalent of "Show No Mercy," rightfully earning them the title of the European Slayer! In my opinion, it boasts a superior sound compared to its more renowned successor, and, in addition, features more groove in its tracks: "Endless Pain," "Total Death," "Tormentor," "Flag Of Hate" – these are seldom equaled. "Storm Of The Beast," "Cry War," and "Bonebreaker" swiftly follow suit."

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: LIZZY BORDEN, Visual Lies (1987)

 

LIZZY BORDEN, Visual Lies (1987)

Metal Blade Records

Επίκαιρο σαν τίτλος.

Η μπάντα αυτή ξεπερνάει τα στενά όρια του cult. Ο χαρακτήρας του Lizzy, με το ματωμένο τσεκούρι επί σκηνής μαζί με το μικρόφωνο βέβαια είναι η επιτομή του cult! Στο τρίτο τους άλμπουμ συνέχιζαν το σερί των μεταλλικών επιτυχιών. Η επιρροή από Alice Cooper κάτι παραπάνω από εμφανής, αλλά μουσικά εμπίπτουν στο U.S. Heavy Metal της ευρύτερης σκηνής του L.A. αλλά αν θέλετε μια άμεση σύγκριση όσον αφορά τη μουσική τους, αυτή ως κι αυτό το cd είναι κοντά στους πατριώτες τους W.A.S.P.  σαν στυλ και βέβαια σαν προκλητικότητα όσον αφορά τη στιχουργική! Το Visual Lies λοιπόν περιέχει κλασικά κομμάτια σαν τα Me Against the World, Outcast, Den of Thieves, Visual Lies, Eyes of a Stranger, Lord of the Flies, Visions.

English text:

Relevant as a title.

This band transcends the confines of mere cult status. Lizzy's character, brandishing a bloodied axe on stage alongside a microphone, is the quintessence of cult culture. In their third album, they sustained their streak of metallic triumphs. The influence of Alice Cooper is unmistakable, yet their musical identity aligns with the broad spectrum of U.S. Heavy Metal, particularly within the L.A. scene. For a direct musical comparison, their sound, as exemplified on this CD, resonates closely with their compatriots, W.A.S.P., in terms of style and, naturally, lyrical audacity. Hence, 'Visual Lies' boasts timeless tracks like 'Me Against the World,' 'Outcast,' 'Den of Thieves,' 'Visual Lies,' 'Eyes of a Stranger,' 'Lord of the Flies,' and 'Visions.'"

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: OLD MAN'S CHILD - In Defiance of Existence

 

OLD MAN'S CHILD - In Defiance of Existence

Century Media Records

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An Enduring Triumph, Two Decades Later Galder, the visionary behind this one-man band, continues to shine brightly, even twenty years after its inception. Following the impressive 'Revelation 666...', this release serves as a worthy successor. The guitars deliver powerful, solid sounds that give birth to admirable compositions. Galder's consistency in churning out exceptional releases remains unwavering, with each instrument and vocal harmonizing flawlessly.

DARK SHAMAN Unleashes Debut EP

 

Italian Stoner/Doom Metal sensation, DARK SHAMAN, has just dropped their highly anticipated debut EP, "Evil Ceremony." This impressive release was meticulously crafted, recorded, and mixed by the talented Valerio Zappulla at "MK Studios" and is being distributed by the esteemed "Stoners Dealer Records."

Hailing from the picturesque island of Sicily, Italy, DARK SHAMAN was formed by the triumvirate of Seby Carrubba (Guitars, Vocals), Dario Carrubba (Bass), and Alberto Mirabella (Drums). Their shared vision was to channel the essence of iconic acts like Black Sabbath, Electric Wizard, Mephistofeles, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, and more into their music.

In a spectacular showcase of their musical prowess, DARK SHAMAN unveiled their debut live studio album in February 2023, aptly titled "Live from the Grave." This album expertly melds original compositions with classic Rock covers by The Doors and Creedence Clearwater Revival, all underscored by their signature Stoner Doom sound.

Adding to the excitement, Dark Shaman is gearing up for a thrilling live tour in 2024, with planned performances across Canada, Brazil, and Mexico.

REVIEW: HELLEVAERDER/DUINDWALER/SCHAVOT/ASGRAUW - Verloren Vertellingen

 

HELLEVAERDER/DUINDWALER/SCHAVOT/ASGRAUW - Verloren Vertellingen

Zwaertgevegt Records

Hellevaerder

Duindwaler

Schavotblackmetal

Asgrauw

I'm not an expert in extreme metal, especially black metal, but I understand that it's common for bands in this genre to release split albums. In this case, you're discussing a split release on vinyl set for October 13, 2023, with limited quantities (97 copies on black vinyl and 100 copies on grey vinyl), featuring four Dutch bands: HELLEVAERDER, DUINDWALER, SCHAVOT, and ASGRAUW.

PYRAMID has just released their latest lyric video, "Instill."

 

This exciting drop comes on the heels of their fifth album, "Rage" Revisited, which has already spawned a slew of mesmerizing music videos, including hits like "Dungeons And Dragons," "Magic," "Control," "Tyranny," "Rage," "Beast," "Empty Roads," and "Greed." Lance Sawyer and his talented crew are taking a nostalgic trip down memory lane with the second lyric video from their 2020 album, "Amnesty."

A mere few weeks back, they gifted fans with the lyric video for "Of All Time," and now, they're generously presenting the enthralling lyric video for "Instill." This new "Instill" video is a powerhouse, guaranteed to ignite inspiration and motivation for you to unleash your best self.

Once more, Renzo Favaro from Fughu lends his remarkable voice to craft unforgettable musical moments.

REVIEW: MANOWAR, HELL ON STAGE LIVE (1999)

 

MANOWAR, HELL ON STAGE LIVE (1999)

Nuclear Blast Records

Διορθώνει τη ζημιά;

Τη ζημιά του ακριβώς προηγούμενου ζωντανού άλμπουμ τους Live Hell On Wheels (1997) που ξέρουμε καλά ότι πέραν της μέτριας επιλογής κομματιών, έπασχε κι από overdubs στο στούντιο. Εδώ, δύο χρόνια μετά ένα ακόμη διπλό χορταστικό cd των πατέρων του επικού μέταλ ήχου με βάρος στη χρυσή εποχή 1982-1987 κατά τα 3/4 και στην εποχή 1988-1996 κατά το τελευταίο μέρος. Καλώς ή κακώς τα ζωντανά ηχογραφημένα άλμπουμ είναι συλλογές. Κάποιοι δεν τα βάζουν μαζί με τη στούντιο δισκογραφία των καλλιτεχνών, ενώ άλλοι τα ονομάζουν "αρπαχτες" (αν είναι αρπαχτη τίτλοι σαν τα Live Evil, Live After Death, The Eagle Has Landed Live, No Sleep 'Till Hammersmith, Priest...Live, Bursting Out, Kiss Alive II , The Song Remains The Same, Made In Japan, Alive In Athens, High Live, Rainbow On Stage, Tokyo Tapes κι άλλα εκατοντάδες μυθικά ζωντανά άλμπουμ μη με βάζετε να πω!), εδώ οι Αμερικάνοι δίνουν στον κόσμο αυτό που θέλει: Μερικά απ' τα κλασικά τους κομμάτια  με έμφαση τα πρώτα τους άλμπουμ.

English Text:

Does it rectify the prior misstep?

Live Hell On Wheels (1997) was a glaring misstep in the band's discography. It suffered not only from subpar song choices but also from excessive studio overdubs. Fast forward two years, and we're presented with another double CD from the iconic pioneers of epic metal. This time, they've chosen to focus on their glory days, allocating roughly three-quarters of the album to the golden era of 1982-1987, with the remainder covering the period of 1988-1996.

Live albums often straddle the line between cherished collections and mere cash grabs. While some debate whether they should be considered part of an artist's studio discography, the Americans have chosen to give fans what they desire most: a selection of their classic tracks, with a strong emphasis on their early releases.

Live Evil, Live After Death, The Eagle Has Landed Live, No Sleep 'Till Hammersmith, Priest...Live, Bursting Out, Kiss Alive II, The Song Remains The Same, Made In Japan, Alive In Athens, High Live, Rainbow On Stage, Tokyo Tapes, and countless other legendary live albums are etched in rock history. But let's not dwell on semantics—this release is all about delivering an ample dose of timeless classics.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: RUNNING WILD, BLACK HAND INN (1994)

 

RUNNING WILD, BLACK HAND INN (1994)

Noise Records

Απίστευτη απόδοση.

Για νιοστή φορά ταξίδι με τον Privateer στο χάνι του μαύρου χεριού.

Για μένα το peek της δισκογραφίας των Γερμανών πειρατών. Ίσως λίγο φορτωμένο σαν το Pile Of Skulls άλμπουμ που προηγήθηκε, αλλά σίγουρα πιο καλό συνολικά. Ένα θεματικό σχεδόν άλμπουμ με την ιστορία του πειρατή John που καταδικάστηκε στη πυρά απ' την Ιερά εξέταση σαν μάγος, κάπου στη Καραϊβική κι επέστρεψε για να στοιχειώνει το χάνι που είχε πάνω από το μπαρ, το μόνο που επέμεινε απ' αυτόν το καμένο χέρι του μετά την αποτέφρωση του. Το αγαπημένο μού Dragonmen είναι εδώ μαζί με τόσους άλλους ύμνους τους σαν τα Black Hand Hill, The Privateer, Soulless, Mr. Deadhead, The Phantom of The Black Hand Hill και το δεκαπεντάλεπτο έπος Genesis (The Making And Fall of Man), γραμμένο με βάση τη θεωρία των αρχαίων αστροναυτών και τα γραπτά του Zacharia Sichin.

English Text:

Incredible performance.

Once again, I embarked on a journey with the Privateer to the inn of the Black Hand. This experience, for me, represents the pinnacle of the German pirates' discography. It may bear a slight resemblance to the preceding album, "Pile Of Skulls," in terms of heaviness, but it undoubtedly surpasses it in overall quality.

This album is a thematic masterpiece, weaving the gripping tale of the pirate John. Condemned to the stake by the Holy Inquisition as a sorcerer somewhere in the Caribbean, John returned to haunt the inn that once hosted a bar above it. This inn was the only thing that remained of him after his fiery execution – his charred hand.

Among the standout tracks, you'll find my personal favorite, "Dragonmen," along with a host of other anthems such as "Black Hand Hill," "The Privateer," "Soulless," "Mr. Deadhead," and "The Phantom of The Black Hand Hill." Additionally, there's the epic, sprawling fifteen-minute opus, "Genesis (The Making And Fall of Man)," which was crafted based on the theories of ancient astronauts and the writings of Zacharia Sitchin.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

Catch The ΑΦΑΝΕΙΑ, along with AttaXic[BG] and Remnant, live at Eightball on October 14th!

"Get ready for a night of electrifying music as The ΑΦΑΝΕΙΑ take the stage with AttaXic[BG] and Remnant at Eightball on October 14th!

The ΑΦΑΝΕΙΑ are riding high on their recent achievements, including the release of their debut full-length album and an eye-catching music video for their hit track, "Συνάντησέ Με Στο Σκοτάδι" (Meet Me in the Dark). They're kicking off a series of thrilling live performances to showcase their work, and they've already got their next release in the works.

At their first live show of the season, they'll be armed with freshly pressed vinyl copies of their album, and their new bassist is already in the mix. Expect a mind-bending, fuzz-filled experience that will reverberate through every corner of the Eightball venue.

Adding to the excitement, we have special guests all the way from Bulgaria – the underground turbo metallers, AttaXic. This marks their debut performance on Greek soil, and they've rightfully earned their place in the Bulgarian metal scene, with numerous appearances at festivals both at home and across the Balkan region.

Completing this explosive lineup, we have the fierce thrashers from Thessaloniki, Remnant, ready to deliver their high-energy performance.

Secure your tickets now at Heliotropio (Platia Navarinou 14) and Old Fashion (Melenikou 5), both proud sponsors of this concert, as well as at Nephilim Metal Store (Patriarch Ioakim 17). Don't miss out on this epic musical journey!"

Event link

REVIEW: USURPER - Cryptobeast

 

USURPER - Cryptobeast

Earache Records

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This release is truly remarkable! It marks my first encounter with this band, and I owe the discovery to a friend's recommendation. It might just stand as one of their most outstanding releases to date. It beautifully merges the worlds of black and thrash metal, resulting in a distinct and captivating fusion. The vocals are truly impressive, showcasing the band's skillful musicianship.

POWERHILL has just released their latest single, "I Can Wait for You."

POWERHILL, the Swiss Heavy Metal/Hard Rock sensation, has unleashed their latest single, "I Can Wait for You." Recorded and mixed at Switzerland's "Stairway Studio," the release was masterfully polished by George Nerantzis, an accomplished Sound Engineer and Music Producer from Greece.

The brainchild of Swiss guitarist Cep, Powerhill seamlessly fuses two seemingly disparate passions: Heavy Metal and cows. This fusion birthed a genre they proudly dub "Farm Metal." Picture head-banging peasants delivering a potent mix of classic Hard Rock, Hair Metal, and Sleaze Rock.

Their journey started with the debut single, "New Dimension," which found its place on the prestigious "Heavy Metal Nation III" compilation in 2006. Powerhill's unforgettable live performances quickly captivated audiences in a country steeped in hard rock and metal history, boasting legendary acts like Gotthard, Krokus, and Killer.

Although their momentum was momentarily halted by a forced hiatus, the band resurfaced in 2018 with renewed vigor. The ensemble now includes Veronica Torre on Drums and Vocals, Dan Eeloh on Keyboard, and Uncle Beast on Bass. This reformation resulted in the release of their debut EP, "Bunnies & Eggs," as well as a string of captivating singles.