REVIEW: BLIND GUARDIAN, Beyond The Red Mirror (2015)

 

BLIND GUARDIAN, Beyond The Red Mirror (2015)

Nuclear Blast Records

Ο μύθος συνεχίζεται. Μάλλον, καθώς εδώ έχουμε τη συνέχεια του 'Imaginations From The Other Side', είκοσι χρόνια μετά. Όπως κάθε σοβαρή συνέχεια, απέχει μακράν από το πρώτο μέρος της. Η μουσική των 'τυφλών φυλάκων' από το 2002 και έπειτα, με κάποιες εξαιρέσεις, χάνει σε μεταλλική ποιότητα. Αυτή εδώ είναι μια εξαίρεση λοιπόν, τουλάχιστον σε επίπεδο προσπάθειας και συνθέσεων. Η μαγεία πάντως έχει πάει περίπατο από το 'Nightfall' του 1998. ΟΚ, λοιπόν, αυτό το CD και με το παραπάνω για τα δικά τους στάνταρτς! Η συμφωνική συνέχεια καραδοκεί και πλέον κάθε ελπίδα εγκαταλείφθηκε, ή όχι;

English Text:

The saga persists.

Indeed, here we find the continuation of 'Imaginations From The Other Side', twenty years on. However, like any worthy sequel, it diverges significantly from its predecessor. The music of the 'blind guardians' since 2002, with a few exceptions, seems to have lost some of its metallic essence. Yet, this album stands out as an exception, at least in terms of effort and composition. Nevertheless, the enchantment that once captivated listeners since 'Nightfall' in 1998 seems to have waned. Nonetheless, this CD undoubtedly meets their high standards. As for the eagerly anticipated symphonic continuation, has all hope truly been forsaken, or is there still a glimmer left?

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: SUFFOCATION - Hymns From The Apocrypha

 

SUFFOCATION - Hymns From The Apocrypha

Nuclear Blast Records

Homepage

This album possesses elements that render it quite epic, though it unquestionably lacks the catchiness of their earlier work. The intensity remains prevalent, albeit the technical execution, particularly in the leads, is somewhat sloppy. Throughout, the intensity remains high, even during the slower tempos, where they deliver a brutal performance.

Both the vocals and the music maintain a distinctly underground vibe throughout this release. I would rate it a solid "B". I appreciate what I'm hearing; they certainly haven't compromised their style, which is commendable. In this regard, they've elevated themselves into the realm of bands like Dying Fetus, showcasing impressive technicality, double bass kicks, and wicked guitar work. I find this album to be a compelling release, deserving more than a low "C" rating. I'm inclined to order a physical copy to show support for the band, given their influential 30+ year career in death metal.

It would be inaccurate to claim that they're deviating from their roots on this album; it's undeniably a return to their signature style. This album embodies in-your-face brutality, catchy guitar riffs, brutal vocals, and solid production quality. Overall, I'm quite fond of this release.

I had to purchase it; it would be foolish not to, especially considering its potential inclusion in my list of top releases for 2023. Suffocation excels from every angle on this album, delivering vocals that harmonize seamlessly with the music. While the leads are well-executed, they don't overshadow the music itself; instead, they enhance the overall experience, making your speakers resonate with their powerful sound.

For those craving the classic Suffocation sound, this album is a must-listen. It's a testament to their unwavering intensity. Don't hesitate; get it today!

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi

REVIEW: SCORPIONS, Crazy Wolrd (1990)

 

SCORPIONS, Crazy Wolrd (1990)

Mercury

Θέλετε σίγουρα να διαβάσετε παρακάτω;

ΟΚ δική σας η ευθύνη και με καθαρά πολιτικά κριτήρια, αυτό είναι το δεύτερο σκαλί (κεφαλόσκαλο) όχι απλά στη πτώση αλλά στην εν γένει ξευτίλα των σκορπιών που βέβαια μπορεί να ξεκίνησε το '88 με τη ροζ τσιχλοφουσκα (Savage Amusement) εδώ πλέον σφυράει ολοταχώς για Αμέρικα! Ρε παιδιά που πήγε όχι το πνεύμα του Virgin Killer ή του Taken By Force , έστω του Animal Magnetism ή του Blackout και Love At First Sting; Γιατί ακούμε τους Scorps να παίζουν σαν τους Ratt ή Poison σε αρκετά κομμάτια εδώ μέσα; Πολλά ερωτήματα μαζί κι η μπαλάντα Wind Of Change που τόσο πρόστυχα έπαιξε με την πτώση του ανατολικου μπλόκ, λες και αυτό ήταν το πρόβλημα (spoiler alert: Σήμερα ο Klaus είναι άρρηκτα συνδεδεμένος με το νατοϊκό συλλογισμό ψάχνοντας πάλι τον δήθεν "κακό" εχθρό ανατολικά της πάλαι ποτέ Ουκρανίας, τέρμα γλοιώδης) ενώ η "καλή δύση" πλέον όλοι ξέρουμε 33 χρόνια μετά που μας οδήγησε! Καλές στιγμές; Κανά δυο- τρεις το πολύ. Don't Believe Her, To Be With You In Heaven, Lust Or Love, Hit Between The Eyes άντε κι η δεύτερη μπαλάντα το Send Me An Angel. Πούλησε τρελά μόνο σε κόσμο που νόμιζε ότι αυτό ήταν το πρώτο τους άλμπουμ. Κι αυτός ο κόσμος είναι πολύς κι άσχετος με τη Rock μουσική και ψυχή. 4/10 και πάμε παρακάτω.

English Text:

Do you truly wish to proceed?

Very well, the responsibility lies solely with you, and through purely political lenses, this marks the second stage (rung) not merely in decline but in the overall downfall of the Scorpions. Though it may have commenced in '88 with the saccharine pop of 'Savage Amusement,' now it resonates fervently for America! My friends, where has the essence of 'Virgin Killer' or 'Taken By Force' gone, or even 'Animal Magnetism' or 'Blackout' and 'Love At First Sting'? Why do we find the Scorpions echoing the likes of Ratt or Poison in several tracks herein? Numerous queries arise, accompanied by the ballad 'Wind Of Change,' which shamelessly toyed with the collapse of the Eastern bloc, as if that were the core issue (spoiler alert: Today, Klaus is intimately tied to NATO ideology, once again hunting for the supposed "evil" adversary east of what was once Ukraine, utterly repulsive), while the "virtuous West" we all know where it led us 33 years later! Memorable instances? Perhaps two or three at best. 'Don't Believe Her,' 'To Be With You In Heaven,' 'Lust Or Love,' 'Hit Between The Eyes,' and perhaps the second ballad, 'Send Me An Angel.' It sold astronomically well only to an audience who believed this to be their inaugural album. And that audience is vast and unfamiliar with the realm of rock music and its spirit. 4/10, and onwards we go.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

"DAEMONIAC: 'False Prophecies' from 'Visions of the Nightside'"

 

Italian Death Metallers DAEMONIAC have unveiled a lyric video for their track "False Prophecies," serving as the second sneak peek from their upcoming third album, "Visions of the Nightside," slated for release on March 12th via Xtreem Music in CD and digital formats.

Founded in late 2013 by Max (ex-HORRID founding member) and later joined by Matt (ex-HORRID drummer), DAEMONIAC made their mark with the debut EP "Lords of Immolation" in 2015, followed by their first full-length album, "Spawn of the Fallen," in 2017, both under the banner of Xtreem Music. Despite several lineup changes, including the notable addition of Patrik from Gorement on second guitar for their latest album, the band has remained steadfast in their dedication to their craft.

"Visions of the Nightside," recorded at Sunlight Studios and completed in 2023, promises to deliver the same brutal onslaught fans have come to expect from DAEMONIAC, with tracks like "The Deamon Beast," "Into Damnation," and "War in Heaven" among the offerings on the album's tracklist. With their unwavering commitment to their signature sound, DAEMONIAC continues to carve their path in the realm of Death Metal.

Silvertonguedevil's New video: 'Royalty'!

 

American Thrash Metal band Silvertonguedevil just dropped their new video "Royalty" from their upcoming EP "Conquest of the Inferno." Directed by Metal Dave Gonzalez and edited by Craig Meinhart, this headbanging anthem features a killer solo by Mike Wilson from CHEMICAUST. Shot in Denton TX in January 2024, this video packs a punch.

Formed in 2005 in Dallas, Texas, Silvertonguedevil consists of Craig Meinhart (vocals), John Tapia (guitars), Brandon Chandler (bass), and Josh Leicht (drums). With three albums and two EPs under their belt on their label “All Devils Music,” these guys are the real deal in the metal scene.

WADE BLACK’S ASTRONOMICA release their new video for third single “Sirens”!

 

The track is taken from the band’s upcoming album "The Awakening" that will be released on March 8, 2024 as Digipack CD, Curacao Transparent Vinyl limited to 300 copies worldwide and digital streaming/download format.

The band comments on the song: "Sirens is dedicated to a very good friend of ours, Tony Reyes.  He was a beautiful soul that was unfortunately taken away too soon. The loss of life is such a tragic thing we all go through, especially when it is close to you. This song will be felt whole heartedly by those who have had to personally experience such a tragedy. This song is devoted to all that have been lost but never forgotten."

BLACK SONIC PEARLS: Debut Album & Global Tour

 

International Alternative/Modern Rock band BLACK SONIC PEARLS, comprising Alex Blacksonic (Guitar), Arseniy Borodin (Vocals), Sergey Polyanskiy (Guitar), and Mikhael Kiriyushchenko (Drums), recently unveiled their debut album «Sonixomnia», recorded at "Brauersound Studios" and helmed by Grammy-winning American producer Michael H. Brauer. Drawing inspiration from the '90s Seattle Grunge scene to the Alternative Metal of the 00s and beyond, the band's journey has been marked by electrifying performances at major metal festivals like "Masters Of Rock," "Rock Castle," "Metalheads Meeting," and "Dubai Metal Fest," alongside icons such as "Judas Priest," "Scorpions," and "Pantera." Set to embark on the Asian leg of "The River Is Rising" tour with "SLASH" in March 2024, BLACK SONIC PEARLS continues to carve their path in the global rock landscape.

REVIEW: PRIMAL FEAR, Jaws Of Death (1999)

 

PRIMAL FEAR, Jaws Of Death (1999)

Nuclear Blast Records

Ρε φίλε, ποιο "Screaming for Vengeance" μου θύμισε;

Ο Ralph Scheepers, με μια φωνή που ανταγωνίζεται άξια τον Rob Halford των Judas Priest (και πραγματικά, κακώς δεν τον επέλεξαν το 1995 για να αναλάβει τη θέση του, αλλά αυτό είναι θέμα για μια άλλη συζήτηση), και έχοντας μια εντυπωσιακή παρουσία στα πρώτα τρία άλμπουμ των Gamma Ray, συνεργάστηκε με τον Matt Sinner (των εξίσου επιτυχημένων Sinner) στο μπάσο. Το 1997 μας παρουσίασαν το εξαιρετικό ντεμπούτο τους με τίτλο "Primal Fear" και μετά από δύο χρόνια έφτασε το "Jaws of Death". Ωχ, τι έγραψα; Έννοούσα το "Screaming for Vengeance", αλλά με ένα ρομποτικό αετό στο εξώφυλλο - τα μπέρδεψα! "Final Embrace" και "Church of Blood", αυτά τα αξέχαστα κομμάτια από τους Γερμανούς Priest, βγαλμένα από τα σαγόνια του θανάτου!!

Eglish Text:

Hey buddy, did that album remind me of "Screaming for Vengeance"?

Ralph Scheepers, with a voice that stands shoulder to shoulder with Judas Priest's Rob Halford (honestly, they really should've chosen him back in '95, but let's save that debate for another time), and having made a significant impact on Gamma Ray's first three albums, joined forces with Matt Sinner (of the equally successful Sinner) on bass. In 1997, they blew us away with their outstanding debut, "Primal Fear," followed by "Jaws of Death" two years later. Whoops, my bad! I meant to say "Screaming for Vengeance," but with a robotic eagle on the cover—I got them mixed up! "Final Embrace" and "Church of Blood," those unforgettable tunes straight out of the German Priest playbook, ripped from the jaws of death!

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

HAMMER KING Unleashes 'The Devil Will I Do' - A Mighty Anthem of Resistance

 

HAMMER KING, a prominent German heavy metal/power metal band, has released a new single titled "The Devil Will I Do" along with an official music video. The song is a preview of their upcoming studio album, "König und Kaiser," scheduled to be released on March 22, 2024, through Napalm Records. "König und Kaiser" continues the band's thematic homage to the mighty Hammer King. Led by ex-Ross The Boss vocalist Titan Fox, HAMMER KING delivers another energetic headbanger with "The Devil Will I Do," adding to the anticipation for their forthcoming album. The single also features guest appearances, including The Tribune of labelmates WARKINGS. HAMMER KING plans to embark on a European tour alongside WARKINGS in March and April 2024. "The Devil Will I Do" pays tribute to Monty Python's 'Holy Grail,' particularly the 'Swamp Castle' scene, and the music video presents an atmospheric depiction, transforming a medieval castle into a realm of shadows. The band describes the song as an anthem of liberty and resistance, asserting, "Whatever they demand me to be, the Devil will I do!"

REVIEW: INSOMNIUM - Anno 1696

 

INSOMNIUM - Anno 1696

Century Media

Homepage

The release is good overall, but I have some reservations about the vocals, not so much the music. Instead of giving it a 100% rating, I deducted some points because I didn't care for the vocals on this album. They usually serve as a barometer for my assessment of the band. While the intensity is present, enjoying most of it seems to be an acquired taste for me. The screaming is tolerable, but it's slowly growing on me, I suppose. In retrospect, I believe the music is the driving force behind this album. The band showcases their intensity, drawing from influences such as At The Gates and other bands within the melodic death arena.

The recording quality is solid, with no significant complaints, and the more I listen to the vocals, the more I appreciate them in small increments. The vocals and guitars serve as a segue into what is ultimately a solid release. Thus, I find myself acknowledging the album's merits.

The mixing is also well-done, and it's worth noting that they've signed with a major label (Century Media), which has significantly boosted their fame and will likely contribute to the band's success in this genre. While they may not reach the level of quality seen in Arch Enemy's older work, it's important to consider that Arch Enemy has been established in the metal world since 1996. These guys, however, hail from Finland, not Sweden. Nevertheless, they have received positive ratings for this album, and rightfully so. The music truly shines and takes precedence. They also remind me somewhat of Children of Bodom, particularly in the vein of "Hatecrew Death Roll."

I particularly enjoy the melodic guitar and find the lead work to be quite decent. Overall, this album has grown on me from an initial rating of B or C to an A. The experimentation is evident, and the moods conveyed through the guitars are captivatingly wicked. They don't conform entirely to the in-your-face melodic death style; rather, they experiment with various sounds that suit the mood, especially for those heavily invested in melodic death, like myself. This album is undoubtedly one of the top releases of 2023.

If you have the opportunity to listen to a song or two, I highly recommend it to see if the band aligns with your tastes.

So, melodic death enthusiasts or lovers of extreme metal, be sure to check them out!

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi

REVIEW: ANGRA, Angels Cry (1993)

 

ANGRA, Angels Cry (1993)

Rising Sun Productions

Οι Βραζιλιάνοι HELLOWEEN.

Αυτή η μπαντάρα, με τον εκλιπόντα πλέον Andre Matos στο μικρόφωνο, ντεμπουτάρισε με αυτό το power/prog metal διαμαντάκι. Ένα άλμπουμ με αδιαπραγμάτευτη αξία αλλά και σημασία μέχρι και τριάντα χρόνια μετά! Τα Carry On, Angels Cry, Time, Streets Of Tomorrow, Evil Warning, καθώς και η διασκευή στο Wuthering Heights της Kate Bush προσθέτουν ποικιλία στον δίσκο. Αξέχαστες εποχές για τους πέντε τότε πιτσιρικάδες μαθητές από το μουσικό λύκειο Santa Marcelina!

English Text:

The Brazilian powerhouse HELLOWEEN.

This band, led by the late Andre Matos on vocals, burst onto the scene with their power-packed and progressive metal masterpiece. An album of timeless value and enduring significance, resonating even after three decades! Tracks like Carry On, Angels Cry, Time, Streets Of Tomorrow, Evil Warning, and their captivating rendition of Kate Bush's Wuthering Heights inject a rich variety into the album. These were unforgettable times for the five youthful musicians, then students at Santa Marcelina music school!

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

POWERWOLF Finish Recording New Studio Album, Set to be Released in 2024!

 

POWERWOLF, Germany's leading metal band, has completed recording their highly awaited new studio album, following their successful 2021 release, Call Of The Wild. Anticipation is high for its release later in 2024. Alongside this, they're gearing up for their inaugural full North American tour and their largest European tour yet, Wolfsnächte 2024, promising grand arena shows with top-notch production. Tickets are selling rapidly, with a new French show in Nantes announced to supplement their nearly sold-out Paris performance. The band has confirmed the completion of recording and teases an exceptional album, hinting at upcoming mixing and mastering stages. Fans are urged to stay tuned for what promises to be a legendary release.

Zombie Metal Chronicles: SMERDEAD's New EP

 

Hailing from Siberia, Russia, the Zombie Metal pioneers SMERDEAD have unleashed their latest sonic assault with the release of their EP titled "About Life, Death, and War." Recorded at WattaStudio and meticulously mixed/mastered by Alexander Dorohin and Denis Shurakov at WhiteBoxStudio, the EP promises a visceral journey through the realms of the undead. Since their formation in 2018, Smerdead, comprising Kozlodyor on vocals, Smerd on guitars, Khrych on bass, and Dorf on drums, has been carving their niche in the metal scene with their unique brand of music, aptly dubbed "Zombie Metal." With this latest offering, Smerdead continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, cementing their status as one of the most innovative acts in the genre.

Return of AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE: Quad Brutal Album Release

 

AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE, led by Tim Lambesis of As I Lay Dying, is releasing their first album in a decade, "Quad Brutal," on February 23. The album promises ten tracks of intense thrash metal, embodying their signature speed and aggression. "Judgment Day," the fourth and final single from the album, features Ricky Hoover of Ov Sulfur, delivering relentless vocals over a breakneck track with a memorable chorus. Lambesis describes the accompanying video as a commitment to keep pushing forward and having fun until the inevitable end, emphasizing the importance of community in the album's creation.

MEDUSA’S WRATH – "Heaven’s Gates" Single + Official Lyric Video from Album "Pavor Exitium Mors"

 

MEDUSA'S WRATH started a beautiful journey in 2019, moving to the rhythms of Classic Heavy Metal. The band was founded many years before by Petros and Christina, who were both guitarists at the time. They released an EP titled "Lifeless Void" in 2021, containing 5 tracks.

After some changes in the band members, the basic lineup is as follows: Petros Kalivas on guitar, Christina Paftinou on bass, Dimitris Ntosis on guitar, Theodore Dimitriadis on drums, and George Chrysanthidis on vocals. They have performed at various venues in Athens such as Black Box, Remedy, Lazy, and Temple.

At the moment, their first full-length album titled "Pavor Exitium Mors" has just been released!!!

The album includes the single "Heaven's Gates."

George Loukissas: 'MYTHOS' Album + 'MEDUSA' Video

 

George Loukissas began playing guitar in 1998 while studying in England. From 2012, he focused on heavy metal and released various works, with his first albums and singles coming out in 2017 and 2018 respectively. In the meantime, he collaborated with the video game company "Crian soft" for the soundtrack of a game. In 2020, he released a successful first concept album. On 24/2/24, his latest album titled "MYTHOS" will be released, for which two videos have already been prepared. The first of these, "MEDUSA", is from his upcoming album.

REVIEW: OZZY OSBOURNE, Diary Of A Madman (1981)

 

OZZY OSBOURNE, Diary Of A Madman (1981)

Epic, Legacy, Sony Music

Δεν τον γουστάρω καθόλου!

Σαν άνθρωπο, βέβαια, σαν μορφή και εικόνα, στο δεύτερο προσωπικό του άλμπουμ δίνει ρέστα, πρέπει να παραδεχτώ. Προσπαθεί (άδοξα) να φτάσει το ύψος του "Heaven and Hell" των πρώην συνοδοιπόρων του, με τη βοήθεια, δυστυχώς, για δεύτερη και τελευταία φορά, του αδικοχαμένου Randy Rhoads στην κιθάρα. Βασικά, από όλα τα προσωπικά του, πιο πολύ μου αρέσει το "The Ultimate Sin" του 1986, αλλά σήμερα κάτι κλασικό από τις αρχές... "Over the Mountain", "You Can't Kill", "Rock And Roll", "S.A.T.O.", "Flying High Again", "Little Dolls", "Believer" κάνουν το δεύτερο άλμπουμ του Double-O να αξίζει τα λεφτά του.

English Text:

I don't like him at all!

However, as a person, in terms of his appearance and image, he truly shines on his second solo album, I must admit. He strives (albeit unsuccessfully) to reach the heights of "Heaven and Hell" by his former bandmates, unfortunately for the second and final time, with the help of the unfairly departed Randy Rhoads on guitar. Overall, while I appreciate his solo work, "The Ultimate Sin" from 1986 stands out to me the most. But even today, something classic from the early days... "Over the Mountain", "You Can't Kill", "Rock And Roll", "S.A.T.O.", "Flying High Again", "Little Dolls", "Believer" all make his second Double-O album worth every penny.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: PIRATE HYMN – Explorer

 

PIRATE HYMN – Explorer

Independent

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PIRATE HYMN's album 'Explorer' embarks listeners on a thrilling voyage through seas of melodic metal infused with the spirit of Running Wild. With a thematic focus on pirate lore and lifestyles, the band crafts an immersive experience that sails through roaring guitar riffs and folk metal passages. Tasos Lazaris, also known for his vocal prowess in Fortress Under Siege, adds a distinctive flair to the album, infusing it with personality and depth.

Standout tracks like 'Captain's Diary (intro)' kick off the journey with a killer riff that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. 'Dance of Death' and 'Hoist the Sails' keep the momentum going with their infectious energy and captivating melodies. 'Drunken Whale' introduces an intriguing element with its original violin passages, adding a unique texture to the album. The epic 'Storm Wind Riders' serves as a grand finale, transporting listeners through a tempest of sound and emotion.

Throughout 'Explorer,' Pirate Hymn pays homage to their influences in a beautiful and respectful manner, capturing the essence of Running Wild's legacy while adding their own creative twists. The album is a testament to the band's dedication to their craft and their ability to weave intricate narratives through their music. For fans of pirate-themed metal and those seeking an exhilarating musical journey, 'Explorer' is a must-listen.

For those eager to embark on this musical voyage, the album is available for free on Bandcamp, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in Pirate Hymn's world of adventure and intrigue. So hoist the sails, set course for uncharted waters, and prepare to be swept away by the captivating melodies and tales of the high seas. 'Explorer' promises an unforgettable experience for all who dare to embark on this musical odyssey.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης