Before presenting the band’s new EP, let me give you a
brief introduction to FUZZING NATION. The band was formed in December 2022 by
Stavros Giannakos (bass), Terry Moros (drums), and Aggelos Ioannidis
(guitar/vocals). These musicians bring with them a wealth of experience and a
notable presence in the Greek metal scene. For instance, Aggelos and Stavros
are also members of the well-known Greek doom metal band SORROWS PATH, while
Terry was previously the drummer for bands like CRYSTAL CLEAR and
INNERWISH.
With their new and second EP, "Into The Desert",
FUZZING NATION have put their collective experience to excellent use. Combining
seasoned craftsmanship with raw enthusiasm has always been a winning formula,
and it’s evident here as well.
This EP is a love letter to BLACK SABBATH, the band
that laid the foundation for heavy metal and stoner rock. Every note exudes
FUZZING NATION's deep admiration for their iconic sound. So, what can you
expect? Stoner rock—or heavy rock, if you prefer—infused with early doom metal
elements. The band expertly crafts groovy riffs, blending them with melody to
deliver a gritty, heavy rock record brimming with badass rock 'n' roll
energy.
I’ll admit, this isn’t my go-to genre. But these guys
have managed to create four tracks that I genuinely enjoyed. This is the kind
of music that’s best experienced loud, surrounded by friends, and with a beer
in hand.
No need to say it, but I will anyway: you should
definitely check them out!
Οι
Thrash Metalers με καταγωγή την Κορινθία, στο πέμπτο και πιο ώριμο άλμπουμ τους
δε χάνουν καθόλου απ'αυτό που μας είχαν συνηθίσει. Καταρχάς να μπω στο θέμα
εξωφύλλο, ο σχεδιαστής τους πρέπει να αγαπάει πολύ τον Repka (Death, Sanctuary,
Megadeth κ.α. εξώφυλλα συγκροτημάτων) κι αυτό προσθέτει με τη πρώτη ματιά στο
κατά τα άλλα πολύ ενθαρρυντικό μουσικό περιεχόμενο του δίσκου. Μετά, οι Exarsis
έχουν κατηγορηθεί από πλείστους τηλε-ευαγγελιστές των Tube για διάφορους
λόγους. Ο γνωστός κύριος από Ιερουσαλήμ (αποφεύγω να γράψω ονόματα
καταλαβαίνετε σε ποιό άτομο αναφέρομαι) τους βάφτισε αντισημίτες για το
εξώφυλλο του New War Order άλμπουμ τους. Άλλοι φωστήρες και διαφωτιστές της
κακιάς ώρας τους έχουν πει αναρχικούς, κομμουνιστές, αντιαμερικανούς κ.α.
επίθετα κατά καιρούς. Λοιπόν μίλησα για εκτός της μουσικής τους τόσες γραμμές
για να τονίσω το στιχουργικό περιεχόμενο και αυτού το CD των τεσσάρων παιδιών
στη παρούσα σύνθεση (Νίκος Τραγάκης φωνή & κιθάρα , Χρήστος Τσιτσής
κιθάρα,Παναγιώτης Μελέτης ντραμς,
Χρήστος Π. μπάσο) που ήταν και παραμένει πιστό αυτό που μας δίδαξαν Thrash
μεγαθήρια σαν τους Kreator, Sodom, Tnkard, Testament, Sacred Reich, Nuclear
Assault, Suicidal Tendencies, Over Kill, Vendetta και τόσα άλλα αγαπημένα
σχήματα. Ο αντοκομφορμισμός και ο ενεργός ακτιβισμός συμβαδίζει με τη μουσική
τους και αυτό για μένα είναι ένα τεράστιο θετικό πρόσημο. Η κριτική στη
λογοκρισία του πολιτικά ορθού όπως το προπαγανδίζει το κυρίαρχο σύστημα κιη υποκρισία στηλιτεύονται από κομμάτια σαν τα
Another Betrayal, The Truth is No Defence, Aiming the Eye (το απόλυτο κατηγορώ
στα τηλε σκουπίδια), The Drag..., One Last Word, New War Order (το γνωστό τρυκ
"βάζω τίτλο από άλλο δίσκο σαν τραγούδι σε άλλον" σε εφαρμογή).
English
Text:
Anti-Conformism to the Core
The thrash metal band from Corinth, in their fifth and
most mature album, does not lose any of the essence that we have come to expect
from them. Firstly, let me address the album cover: their designer must really
love Repka (known for working on covers for bands like Death, Sanctuary,
Megadeth, and others), and that adds a lot at first glance to the otherwise
very encouraging musical content of the record.
Moreover, Exarsis has been criticized by numerous
YouTube pundits for various reasons. A well-known individual from Jerusalem
(I’ll refrain from naming names; you understand who I’m referring to) labeled
them anti-Semitic due to the cover of their album "New War Order."
Other so-called intellectuals and self-proclaimed enlighteners have called them
anarchists, communists, anti-Americans, and so on, at various times.
I’ve discussed these issues related to their music to
emphasize the lyrical content of this CD by the four members of the current
lineup (Nikos Tragakis on vocals & guitar, Christos Tsitsis on guitar,
Panagiotis Meletis on drums, and Christos P. on bass), who remain loyal to what
we learned from thrash giants like Kreator, Sodom, Tankard, Testament, Sacred
Reich, Nuclear Assault, Suicidal Tendencies, Overkill, Vendetta, and many other
beloved bands. Anti-conformism and active activism are intertwined with their
music, which is a huge positive aspect for me.
The critique of censorship of political correctness,
as propagated by the dominant system, and the hypocrisy of it are called out in
tracks like "Another Betrayal," "The Truth is No Defence,"
"Aiming the Eye" (the ultimate indictment against trash TV),
"The Drag...," "One Last Word," and "New War Order"
(with the well-known trick of using a title from another album as a song on a
different one applied here).
German symphonic metal band XANDRIA is set to release
their new EP "Universal Tales" on November 22, 2024, via Napalm
Records. They have unveiled the Celtic-inspired track "200 Years"
with a cinematic music video.
The track embraces their Celtic roots and draws
inspiration from the book and TV series Outlander, featuring violinist Ally
Storch. This release follows their successful 2023 album "The Wonders
Still Awaiting." The band's lineup includes the talented vocalist Ambre
Vourvahis. The single "200 Years" is available on all streaming
platforms.
FUZZING NATION was formed in late 2022 by three
individuals from the Greek Metal scene: Angel Ioannidis (vocals and guitar),
Stavros Giannakos (bass), and Terry Moros (ex-drummer of bands like Crystal
Clear and InnerWish). Angel and Stavros are also active members of Doomsters
Sorrows Path. All three have extensive experience in studio albums and live
shows in Greece and abroad.
They have released two EPs: "Fuzzing Nation"
in 2023 and "Into The Desert" in 2024. The latter includes the single
"Free Spirit".
The song "Rorschach Test" addresses panic
attacks, portraying the intense and blurred sensations that lead to profound
fear. It explores the causes and consequences of these attacks, illustrating
the transition from internal uncertainty to the feeling of the world collapsing
around the individual. The disappointment stemming from the lies and broken
promises of society amplifies distrust, which ultimately overpowers reason. The
metaphor of the Rorschach Test symbolizes the terrifying world one may uncover
while exploring the truth behind oneself and their experiences.
DEATHROLL is a Japanese black metal band formed in
Iwaki, Fukushima, in 2012 as a solo project by vocalist and musician Kazu.
Their music leaves a lasting impression, immersing listeners in a unique
journey through darkness and madness. DEATHROLL's sound evokes strong emotions,
capable of breaking hearts while simultaneously capturing the essence of
absolute darkness. The band has released seven full-length albums and two
digital singles. They performed live in Shinjuku, Japan, on
October 19, 2024.
On November 16, 2024, 8BALL venue hosted a spectacular
event that resonated deeply with rock enthusiasts: the BLACK N' MORE tribute to
the legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. Led by the talented Anastasio
Farini, this live show was a heartfelt homage to a musician whose influence
spans across generations, particularly through his groundbreaking work with
Deep Purple and Rainbow.
From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear
that this was not just a concert but a genuine celebration of Blackmore's
enduring legacy. The lineup was impressive, featuring:
- Teo Savage on vocals, whose powerful delivery and
emotional range brought the essence of Blackmore’s artistry to life.
- Nestor C on drums, whose tight and vibrant rhythms
drove the energy of the performance.
- Vasiliss Papantoniou on bass, whose grooves created
an infectious foundation for the music.
- Xristos Avramoglou on keys, seamlessly blending rich
textures that complemented the vocals and guitar.
The audience was treated to a setlist filled with
classics that highlighted Blackmore's innovative guitar work, and every song
stirred a sense of nostalgia and excitement. The chemistry between the
musicians was palpable, and they executed each song with both precision and
passion.
Adding to the evening's allure were several notable
figures from the Greek rock and metal scene, including virtuoso guitarist Ángelos Perlepes** and renowned vocalist Vassilis Papadopoulos from KONAΝ. Their presence not only enriched the atmosphere but
also underscored the profound influence Blackmore has had on musicians in the
region. Other special guests included members of local power metal bands and
seasoned guitarists, all of whom contributed to a vibrant musical tapestry.
The ambiance within the venue was electric, as fans of
all ages came together, united by their love for Blackmore's music. The
performance was a rollercoaster of emotions—delivering adrenaline-pumping
anthems alongside haunting ballads that tugged at the heartstrings. It was a
night filled with both exuberance and a bittersweet sense of nostalgia,
celebrating the powerful legacy of a true rock icon.
In conclusion, the BLACK N' MORE tribute was a
resounding success, showcasing the skill and passion of its performers while
honoring the spirit of Ritchie Blackmore. This concert was not just a
performance but a heartfelt remembrance that resonated with attendees, leaving
them with lasting memories of an evening dedicated to rock 'n' roll's finest.
As the last notes faded, it was clear that the spirit of Blackmore would
continue to live on in the hearts of those who attended. Bravo to Anastasio
Farini and the entire crew for a truly unforgettable night!
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