REVIEW: BRIMSTONE - Carving A Crimson Career

 

BRIMSTONE - Carving A Crimson Career

Nuclear Blast Records

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The late 90s heralded a renaissance in the metal scene, with numerous bands releasing albums that revived and reimagined the classic 80s metal spirit. Amidst this resurgence stands a singular, ambitious debut: Brimstone's "Carving A Crimson Career," unleashed upon the world in 1999.

This album is a masterful alchemy, blending the grandiosity of traditional heavy and power metal compositions with the raw ferocity of melodic death metal vocals. The result is a soundscape that is at once familiar and exhilaratingly novel. The primary influence is unmistakably RUNNING WILD, with additional echoes of HELLOWEEN and IRON MAIDEN coursing through its veins. For those who listen closely, there are also the spectral hints of KING DIAMOND’s theatricality and the haunting ambiance of MERCYFUL FATE, adding depth and a touch of the arcane to the listening experience.

"Carving A Crimson Career" is not merely a title; it is a declaration of intent, a bold foray into the annals of metal history. Across its eight meticulously crafted tracks, Brimstone conjures songs that defy the ravages of time, maintaining their vitality and allure even decades later. This album has long been a cherished artifact in my collection, a testament to its enduring quality and the band's unparalleled artistry.

One might ponder why Brimstone, with such a formidable debut, did not ascend to greater heights in the metal pantheon. It is a question that lingers, especially considering the album's undeniable strength. Nevertheless, the eight songs etched into this record have carved a niche in the chronicles of metal, aging like the finest of wines, revealing new subtleties and depths with each successive listen.

A word of caution: do not let the whimsical dragon artwork on the back cover and booklet of the CD mislead you. Initially, it may seem incongruous, even juvenile, but over time, it becomes an endearing emblem, evoking the fantastical elements of Terry Gilliam’s film "Jabberwocky."

In summation, Brimstone's "Carving A Crimson Career" is a gem from the late 90s metal epoch that demands recognition and reverence. Its innovative synthesis of genres, anchored by a solid foundation in traditional metal influences, renders it a must-listen for any true aficionado of the genre. With this album, Brimstone not only carved out a crimson career but also etched an indelible mark upon the hearts of metal enthusiasts everywhere.

Nick Parastatidis

REVIEW: SEPTIC FLESH, A Fallen Temple (1998)

 

SEPTIC FLESH, A Fallen Temple (1998)

Holy Records

Στο απόγειο της πρώτης εποχής.

Στο τέταρτο άλμπουμ τους οι ατμοσφαιρικές στιγμές τους έχουν μεν πολλαπλασιαστεί, αλλά το συγκρότημα δεν παύει να είναι ο ορισμός του Symphonic Death Metal. Μια μπάντα που αποτελεί ένα απ' τα ισχυρά χαρτιά της ελληνικής σκηνής στον ακραίο ήχο ως και το παρόν εικοσιέξι χρόνια μετά. Εδώ τα αδέρφια Σπύρος και Χρήστος Αντωνίου  (μπάσο - φωνή και κιθάρα, δεύτερα φωνητικά αντίστοιχα), τον Σωτήρη Β. σε δεύτερη κιθάρα και πλήκτρα, τον ντράμερ τους Κώστα και τη σοπράνο Ναταλία Ρασούλη (κόρη του γνωστού Έλληνα στιχουργού Μανώλη Ρασούλη) μας δίνουν ένα πολύ καλό δείγμα της μουσικής τους. Προφανώς το The Eldest Cosmonaut που ήταν το κλασικό βίντεο κλιπ απ' το άλμπουμ, και στις δύο εκδοχές που υπάρχει στο δίσκο (με καθαρά φωνητικά από τον Χρήστο και με growl φωνή απ' τον Σωτήρη το δεύτερο) είναι ο "κράχτης" εδώ μέσα. Το Marble Smiling Face ακολουθεί όπως και τα Temple of the Lost Race, Setting of the Two Suns, Erebus που είναι κι ο κύριος κορμός των συνθέσεων του άλμπουμ. Η επανέκδοση της Season of Mist περιλαμβάνει στα επιπλέον κομμάτια, τη διασκευή στο The  Last Time των Paradise Lost και τη single παραλλαγή του The Eldest Cosmonaut.

English Text:

At the peak of their early era, on their fourth album, their atmospheric moments have indeed multiplied, but the band remains the definition of Symphonic Death Metal. A band that has been a strong asset of the Greek extreme metal scene and continues to be so twenty-six years later. Here, the brothers Spiros and Christos Antoniou (bass/vocals and guitar/backing vocals, respectively), with Sotiris V. on second guitar and keyboards, their drummer Kostas, and the soprano Natalia Rassouli (daughter of the well-known Greek lyricist Manolis Rassoulis), present us with a very good sample of their music. Obviously, "The Eldest Cosmonaut," which was the classic music video from the album, and exists in two versions on the record (with clean vocals by Christos and growl vocals by Sotiris in the second), is the highlight here. "Marble Smiling Face" follows, along with "Temple of the Lost Race," "Setting of the Two Suns," and "Erebus," which form the main body of the album's compositions. The reissue by Season of Mist includes additional tracks, featuring a cover of Paradise Lost's "The Last Time" and the single version of "The Eldest Cosmonaut."

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

NEW lyric video from SHADOWS OF STEEL

 

Attention metalheads! Shadows of Steel are excited to release the official video for "Symphony," a new track from the album "Twilight II." Originally launched in 2022 by Underground Symphony Records, the album has been re-released in 2024 by Metallic Blue Records with additional new material.

Here are the band members who bring this powerful music to life:

- Wild Steel - Vocals

- Roby Bruccoleri - Vocals

- Vic Mazzoni - Guitars

- Andrew Spane - Guitars

- Fabio Zunino - Bass

- P.J. Abba - Keyboards

- Carlos Cantatore - Drums

This release is dedicated to the memory of Vic Mazzoni (July 26, 1973 – May 14, 2016). His music continues to inspire us all.

Shadows of Steel proudly presents this video, featuring:

- Illustrations by Gianclaudio Pontecchiani (Logan Singer)

- Video editing by Nicla Cucini

 

® & © 2024 Shadows of Steel - All rights reserved. Released under exclusive license to Metallic Blue Records.

 

Turn up the volume and enjoy the metal symphony!

SENSE OF NOISE release their new single "Now That Everything's Gone"

 

The Mexican band Sense of Noise has released their new single "Now That Everything's Gone," continuing to establish their Modern Latin Metal sound. This track, part of their upcoming second album, marks a new era for the band by incorporating Latin influences. "Now That Everything's Gone" is a slower song featuring strong riffs, outstanding melodies, and singable choruses. The song was recorded at Off Axis Studio and mixed and mastered by Erik Monsonís Azpiroz. A music video accompanying the release emphasizes the song's message about the value of individual voices and their impact.

Sense of Noise, formed during the pandemic in 2020, initially played Melodic Death Metal and released their well-received debut album in 2021. They have collaborated with notable musicians from bands like Morbid Angel and Soilwork. Their lyrics explore themes of life, death, social injustice, hate speech, and mental disorders, incorporating cultural elements from Mexico.

The band made their live debut in 2022 with a sold-out show in Mexico City and have continued performing, including opening for bands like Finntroll and Machine Head. They are finishing their second album, gradually releasing singles, and planning their return to the stage in 2024.

Current band members are:

- Jerome Chanona - Growls

- Bart Chanona - Drums & Percussions

- Alonso Cuadros - Guitars

- Diego Caná - Guitars

- Mao Rubio - Bass & Clean Vocals

- Nib Sen - Keys

GRAVE DIGGER release new single and video for "Hell Is My Purgatory (Hellfire 2024)"!

 

Since the release of the "SYMBOL OF ETERNITY" album in 2022, the song "HELL IS MY PURGATORY" has been part of Grave Digger's live setlist. Following Axel Ritt's departure in 2023, the band re-recorded the song with their new guitarist, Tobias Kersting. This new version, featuring a powerful and more metal sound along with a brand-new guitar solo, showcases one of Germany's top guitarists. The revamped track hints at what to expect from the upcoming Grave Digger album. "Hell Is My Purgatory (Hellfire 2024)" is now available on all popular download and streaming platforms.

POWERWOLF Releases Music Video For “We Don’t Wanna Be No Saints”

 

POWERWOLF's new cinematic video, set in the same monastery where "The Name of the Rose" was filmed, blends striking church visuals with a sinful, sacral atmosphere. This high-quality production enhances the release of "Wake Up The Wicked" and indulges in a taste for sin.

Matthew Greywolf discusses the new album "Wake Up The Wicked" and the single “We Don't Wanna Be No Saints,” highlighting the band's focus on perfecting their trademarks. The album maintains their orchestral presence while emphasizing heaviness and incorporating new elements, such as a children's choir, to create a fresh and immersive listening experience.

PAGANIZER sign with Xtreem Music

 

Veteran Swedish death metal band PAGANIZER has signed a deal with Xtreem Music to release a new EP titled "Forest of Shub Niggurath" on September 10th, 2024. This EP will serve as a prelude to a new album set for release in 2025. The band has revealed the cover artwork, track list, and a first single for the EP, which will be available in both CD and digital formats.

Formed from the remnants of Rogga Johansson's first band, Terminal Grip, PAGANIZER recorded their first demo in 1998 and their debut album a year later. Over 26 years, they have established themselves as a prolific and steadfast force in the Swedish death metal scene, with a discography including 12 full-length albums, 9 EPs, 13 split EPs, 14 compilations, and 2 live albums.

"Forest of Shub Niggurath" marks their return to Xtreem Music, where they previously released albums in 2003 and 2004. The tracklist for the new EP includes:

1. The Outer Gods

2. Forest of Shub Niggurath

3. Malediction Burns

4. R'Lyeh Ascends

5. A Foul Creature

6. Gasmask Obsession Redux

The EP will be released on CD and digital formats.

REVIEW: HADES, Damnation (2001)

 

HADES, Damnation (2001)

Metal Blade Records

Δείγμα της εποχής του.

Οι Αμερικάνοι Speed / Thrash Metalers με το ελληνικό όνομα του Άδη έχουν να δείξουν έργο στη metal σκηνή με αυτό  εδώ το έκτο πλήρες δίσκο ως τότε. Το γεγονός ότι υπάρχουν απ'τις αρχές της δεκαετίας του '80 με διάφορες συνθέσεις μουσικών αλλά και ξεκίνημα το κλασικό Heavy Metal τότε, τους κατατάσσει στα πιο "τεμπέλικα" underground συγκροτήματα όλων των εποχών. Εντάξει, το σχόλιο αυτό χάριν αστεϊσμού, έχουν παρά πολλά demos γραμμένα ως το 1987 που βγήκε το πρώτο τους άλμπουμ με τον πολύ εύστοχο τίτλο Resisting Success. Eδώ, στο με επίσης εύστοχο τίτλο λογοπαίγνιο "καταραμένο έθνος" άλμπουμ τους παίζουν ένα ενδιαφέρον μείγμα μεταξύ Speed, Heavy και Thrash που εκείνη την περίοδο το λέγανε κάποιοι ευφάνταστοι στα μουσικά έντυπα retro Thrash. Όπως και να το λένε το CD είναι ένα δείγμα των αρχών του 21ου αιώνα πατώντας μουσικά σε πάνω από δύο βάρκες αλλά χωρίς να το κατατάσσω στο περίεργα crossover μουσικά σχήματα που ανθούσαν τότε, αφού συνθετικά είναι Metal 100%. Τώρα πως έχει ένα τόσο προκλητικο , αντισυστημικό με φουλ αντιαμερικανισμό εξώφυλλο, κι ειδικά το 2001 χρονιά που είχανε δίδυμους πύργους και τον μικρό Bush σαν πρόεδρο στη Βαβυλώνα/χωνευτήρι (κατά Blackie Lawless των W.A.S.P.) είναι απορίας άξιο! Πρέπει να είχαν πολύ μεγάλα μπαλάκια οι πέντε τύποι του συγκροτήματος. Στα δώδεκα κομμάτια του τα εννιά είναι άξια να του δώσουν παρα πολύ καλή βαθμολογία στη συνείδηση μου, Blaost, Out The Window, Dannation, Absorbed, Force Quit,  Biocaust, Momentary Clarity,  California Song, Bad Vibrations αποτυπώνουν μια χαρά  τη πολιτικοκοινωνική χαοτική κατάσταση της εποχής που γράφτηκαν.

English Text:

A Sample of Its Time

The American Speed/Thrash Metal band with the Greek name Hades has made a mark on the metal scene with this sixth full-length album. Having been around since the early '80s with various lineups and starting off with classic Heavy Metal, they are considered one of the more "lethargic" underground bands of all time. Of course, this comment is made in jest, as they have released many demos until 1987, when their first album, aptly titled *Resisting Success*, was released.

Here, with another cleverly titled album, *DamNation*, they play an interesting mix of Speed, Heavy, and Thrash metal. During that period, some imaginative music journalists labeled it as retro Thrash. Regardless of the label, this CD exemplifies early 21st-century metal, straddling more than one genre without falling into the peculiar crossover styles that were flourishing then. Compositionally, it's 100% metal.

The fact that this album, released in 2001—the year of the Twin Towers and President Bush in what Blackie Lawless of W.A.S.P. called the Babylon/melting pot—has such a provocative, anti-establishment, and fully anti-American cover is remarkable! The five members of the band must have had a lot of guts. Out of the twelve tracks, nine stand out significantly in my opinion: "Blaost," "Out The Window," "Dannation," "Absorbed," "Force Quit," "Biocaust," "Momentary Clarity," "California Song," and "Bad Vibrations." These songs effectively capture the chaotic socio-political climate of the time they were written.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

SOCIAL SCREAM - "Life Remains" (Dedicated to Firefighters)

 

Firefighters are always present and ready to act! They rescue and save all living beings in cold, heat, rain, drought, snow, and fire!

This instrumental piece is dedicated to these remarkable individuals who risk their lives so that each of us may continue living.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Life Remains!

BAD MARILYN Drops New Single and Video "Perfect Moment"

 

BAD MARILYN has released a new music video for their song "Perfect Moment," produced by Dennis Ward. Singer Andrea describes it as a great song for headbanging and singing on stage, featuring powerful riffs, a melodic vocal line, and impressive keyboard and guitar integration. The song conveys the message of taking action without waiting for the perfect moment, emphasizing its relevance in today's fast-paced society.

REVIEW: SACRED REICH, The American Way (1990)

 

SACRED REICH, The American Way (1990)

Metal Blade Records

Σε εποχές που η σκληρή μουσική λιμνάζει.

Οι τυπάδες από την Αριζόνα, με το πολύ έντονα πολιτικοποιημένο στιχουργικό περιεχόμενο, στη δεύτερη πλήρη προσπάθεια τους  μουσικά κατατάσσονται στο κλασσικό, αμερικάνικο Thrash Metal της εποχής. Από τους σκεπτόμενους της σκηνής, πάντα αμφισβητίες του οικοδομήματος του ψεύτικου "αμερικανικού ονείρου" στιχουργικά παραμένουν κι εδώ τουλάχιστον ενδιαφέροντες αν όχι τρομερά ευφυείς. Στα αφτιά μου έχουν λίγο παραπάνω "Punk" ύφος, αλλά όπως έγραφε και  γνωστός συντάκτης του γνωστού μουσικού έντυπου στη χώρα μας, η Thrash Metal έβαζε το Punk απ' το παράθυρο! Αν θα ήθελε κανείς να αποδώσει το ύφος του άλμπουμ,  σκεφτείτε πως ήταν οι Anthrax στα πρώτα δύο τους κι ειδικά στο άλμπουμ Fistful of Metal, με προσθήκη από κοινωνικό σχολιασμό αλά Dave Mustaine (Megadeth της καλής εποχής) στο μουσικό σώμα των Suicidal  Tendencies (έτεροι μεγάλοι σκεπτόμενοι της εποχής). Ένα κλασικό αλλά κι αγαπημένο άλμπουμ που προσωπικά το θεωρώ σαν το αρτιότερο τους. Στα οκτώ κομμάτια του CD, τα Love...Hate, The American Way, The Way it is, Crimes Against Humanity, State of Emergency, Who's to Blame είναι αυτά που μένουν για πάντα.

English Text:

In times when heavy music stagnates, the guys from Arizona, with their highly political lyrics, in their second full effort, musically fall into the classic American Thrash Metal of the era. They are among the thinkers of the scene, always questioning the structure of the fake "American dream," and lyrically, they remain at least interesting, if not incredibly intelligent. To my ears, they have a slightly more "Punk" style, but as a well-known writer for a famous music magazine in our country once wrote, Thrash Metal brought Punk in through the window! If one wanted to describe the album's style, think of how Anthrax sounded in their first two albums, especially "Fistful of Metal," with added social commentary like Dave Mustaine (Megadeth in their prime) in the musical framework of Suicidal Tendencies (other great thinkers of the era). A classic yet beloved album that I personally consider their most complete. Among the eight tracks on the CD, "Love...Hate," "The American Way," "The Way It Is," "Crimes Against Humanity," "State of Emergency," and "Who's to Blame" are the ones that remain unforgettable.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

MOTHER MISERY Releases New Single and Video "Next Generation"

 

As the song title "Next Generation" suggests, the song - a real Rock anthem that immediately gets under your skin - is about everyone’s responsibility for today’s children and the hopes of the planet’s youth. So the main message is LOVE, PASSION, RESPECT & EVEN MORE L-O-V-E 🖤 !

ΜΙΛΤΙΑΔΗΣ Χ Α Λ Κ Ι Δ Η Σ new music video

 

We're thrilled to unveil the brand-new official music video for the song: "Anthropotis".

This captivating track is from the album: *"Miltiadis Chalkidis Kriseis Kores kai Ioi"

Dive into the mesmerizing visuals and profound melodies that await you.

SENSES - New Album 'Out of Line' Releases on July 27

 

The album "Out of Line" is an exploration of emotional and personal struggle, the search for liberation, and rebirth through intense experiences and relationships.

With seven tracks touching on themes such as love, loneliness, tension, and dependence, the album invites listeners on a journey of self-awareness and discovery.

Lou Kelly release new album

 

Lou Kelly, an American Avant Garde Death Metal musician, has released his new album titled "Never Was." Kelly recorded, mixed, and mastered the album in his home studio. Known for creating distracting background music, Kelly has been an underground figure in Northern California. His music spans various genres, including punk, classical, mathcore, and jazz, yet it consistently features his maniacal crooning voice, a crass sound, and a clear aversion to boredom.

EREB ALTOR presents their new single “Skogsrået”!

 

EREB ALTOR proudly presents their new single “Skogsrået”! This song is inspired and influenced by old Swedish folk music in the melodies. Lyrically, it delves into the old myth and legend of “Skogsrået” or “Skogsfrun.” This female creature from folklore reigns over nature, particularly the forests. While she sometimes tricks people into getting lost, she is not an evil being; Skogsrået can also aid those in need.

"Forsaken: TYSTNADEN's Powerful Commentary on War and Human Suffering"

 

TYSTNADEN's new single and video, "Forsaken," delve into the harrowing realities of war and the pervasive suffering it causes. The band emphasizes the need for awareness among those living comfortable lives. The song highlights how brutality and pain have become disturbingly normalized, causing those affected to fade into obscurity. The music video features a character named Anna, who, through the eyes of purity, perceives the full extent of hate and suffering depicted as an animated cubist painting. While the adults and less pure remain oblivious, Anna momentarily sees them as part of the brutality. Ultimately, everything returns to normal, underscoring how even the purest among us become desensitized and forsaken.

WASTEFALL reveal their new single "Aeternum"

 

The progressive metal band Wastefall is proud to announce the release of their new single, "Aeternum." This dynamic track explores the essence and significance of unity in humanity. With deep lyrics and rich musical composition, the song emphasizes the timeless power derived from the concept of Unity.

"We wanted to create a song that highlights the enduring importance of unity," said Domenik Papaemmanouil, Wastefall's vocalist and composer. "'Aeternum' is our way of reminding everyone that together, we can overcome any challenge."

The single features Wastefall's signature blend of intense instruments and emotional vocals, creating an anthem that is both inspiring and memorable.

"We believe that unity is the cornerstone of humanity's strength. With 'Aeternum,' we aim to inspire and remind everyone that, together, we are invincible." – Domenik Papaemmanouil

REVIEW: RISK - Hell's Animals

 

RISK - Hell's Animals

Steamhammer

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"Hell's Animals" released in 1989, marks a pivotal point for Risk, transitioning from their previous identity as Faithfull Breath. This shift brought a new sound, a mix of speed and thrash metal with heavy metal undertones. The album kicks off with "Monkey Business," an energetic opener that sets the tone. "Dead or Alive" and "Sicilian Showdown" keep the intensity high, while "Megalomania" stands out with its catchy riff and dynamic structure.

"The Secret of Our Destiny" is a standout track, inspired by Stephen King's “The Dark Tower” series. Its technical and progressive elements highlight the band's versatility. "Torture and Pain" brings a darker, more atmospheric vibe, showcasing Risk's ability to create varied sonic landscapes within the thrash metal framework. However, the album's crowning achievement is "Russian Nights," a track that exemplifies their skill in blending melody with aggression.

Notable musicians like Thilo Hermann, who later joined Running Wild and Grave Digger, and Roman "Romme" Keymer of Angel Dust and Crows, contribute to the album's elevated sound.

Despite the high quality of their music, Risk faced the challenge of emerging from Germany during a period when the spotlight was on American thrash bands like Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax. This geographical disadvantage limited their exposure, yet "Hell's Animals" remains a testament to their capabilities and a hidden gem for fans of the genre.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

SHARPSHOOTER release debut maxi-single

 

Australian Speed Metal band SHARPSHOOTER released their debut maxi-single, "Pissing on the Ashes." The release was recorded and mixed by Max Duncan and mastered by Owen Gillett at "OG Mastering." Formed in 2022 in Adelaide, Australia, SharpShooter consists of Jessica Stephanie (Bass, Vocals), Max Duncan (Drums), and Kieran Provis (Guitars). Their music style blends influences from Judas Priest’s “Exciter,” Motorhead, and thrash elements reminiscent of Slayer.

THE NEW ROSES Announce New Album, Attracted To Danger, out October 4 2024

 

German 80s-inspired stadium rock band THE NEW ROSES are set to release their new album, *Attracted To Danger*, on October 4, 2024, via Napalm Records. Known for captivating a broad audience, their previous album, *Sweet Poison* (2022), reached #13 on the German charts, while *Nothing But Wild* (2019) entered the top 10. Renowned for their energetic live shows, they have performed at the KISS Kruise, supported KISS in Germany, and shared stages with Aerosmith, Foreigner, and Scorpions. The band, now reunited with guitarist Norman Bites, has released the opening track "When You Fall In Love" with an official music video. The song, featuring timeless melodies and catchy hooks, promises to capture listeners' hearts.