REVIEW: TANK, Filth Hounds Of Hell

 

TANK, Filth Hounds Of Hell (1982)

Kamaflage Records

Σαν μοτοσυκλέτα εκατοντάδων κυβικών.

Ο παραγωγός του δίσκου αυτού ήταν ο Fast Eddie Clark (RIP), ο κιθαρίστας από τους μεγάλους Motörhead. Δεν ξέρω αν αυτός ήταν ο καταλυτικός παράγοντας που κάνει το ντεμπούτο των τριών Άγγλων τόσο κοντά στον ήχο αυτού του άλλου τεράστιου τριπλού του σκληρού και βρώμικου Heavy Rock! Ο Algy Ward σε μπάσο και φωνή, κι οι αδερφοί Brabbs, ο Peter με κιθάρα και ο Mark στα τύμπανα, σε έναν κατακλυσμό MWOBHM ύμνων όπως τα Shellshock, Struck by Lightning, Run Like Hell, Blood Guts and Beer, Turn Your Head Around, Heavy Artillery, Filth Hounds of Hell, He Fell in Love (With a Stormtrooper), που μας θυμίζουν ξανά και ξανά ότι αυτές οι εποχές πέρασαν για πάντα, αλλά παραμένουν στο μεταλλικό Πάνθεον.

Πάντα μπερδεύω το εξώφυλλο αυτού του δίσκου στο μυαλό μου με το αντίστοιχο των Αμερικανών και ηχητικά είναι πολύ κοντά στους Tank των The Rods, που βγήκε την ίδια χρονιά με το επίσης θεϊκό Wild Dogs... Τα τρία σκυλιά και στα δύο εξώφυλλα, γάρ.

English:

Like a 1000cc motorcycle.

The producer of this album was Fast Eddie Clark (RIP), the legendary guitarist from Motörhead. I don't know if he was the decisive factor that made the debut of the three Brits sound so close to the tone of that other huge trio of hard and dirty Heavy Rock! Algy Ward on bass and vocals, and the Brabbs brothers — Peter on guitar and Mark on drums — in a deluge of NWOBHM anthems like Shellshock, Struck by Lightning, Run Like Hell, Blood Guts and Beer, Turn Your Head Around, Heavy Artillery, Filth Hounds of Hell, He Fell in Love (With a Stormtrooper), reminding us again and again that those eras are gone forever, but remain in the metallic Pantheon. 

I always confuse this album's cover in my mind with the American one, and sonically, it’s very close to The Rods' Tank, which came out the same year as the also divine Wild Dogs... The three dogs on both covers, indeed.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

REVIEW: SONIC PROPHECY - A Divine Act of War

 

SONIC PROPHECY - A Divine Act of War

Independent

Sonic Prophecy is a relatively new band originating from Utah, USA, presenting their debut album titled A Divine Act of War. The band previously released an EP in 2009, simply titled 2009 EP, which was well-received and showcased their ability to craft energetic power metal with a distinctive style.

This latest work marks a notable stylistic shift from their earlier sound. The band has transitioned from a straightforward power metal approach to a more symphonic power metal style, emphasizing orchestral and symphonic elements within their compositions. The album demonstrates a competent integration of these elements, showcasing the band's musical growth and production capabilities. Notably, the album's sound quality surpasses that of their earlier EP, and it includes a 16-page full-color booklet, a feature that is somewhat uncommon for independently released material.

The album maintains a cohesive flow, and certain guitar riffs and motifs that characterized their initial work are still present, providing some continuity for fans of their earlier style. Among the tracks, “Call of Battle” and “Canticle” stand out as highlights due to their impactful arrangements and engaging melodies.

While the album’s emphasis on symphonic elements may appeal most to fans of symphonic metal, it is worth noting that the band executes this style with proficiency. However, personal preferences regarding symphonic metal may influence individual reception. For listeners who appreciate well-played symphonic or melodic metal, this release offers a solid example of the genre, with competent musicianship and attention to production.

In summary, Sonic Prophecy emerges as a promising new band capable of adapting and executing different metal styles effectively. Their dedication to their craft is evident, and whether one prefers their original power metal or their current symphonic direction, their musicianship is commendable. Fans of symphonic metal are likely to find this album a worthwhile addition to their collection.

Ioannis  Kaskamanidis

Heavy/Power Metallers Tidal Dreams Release New Single “We've Risen Again”

 

Born in Athens, Greece, Tidal Dreams has released their latest single, “We've Risen Again.” Known for embodying the spirit of classic heavy metal, the band combines powerful riffs, soaring vocals, and epic atmospheres with a modern edge. Their music reflects traditional metal’s passion and grandeur, infused with melodic and emotional depth.

Following three full-length albums and a previous single, Tidal Dreams continues to make their mark in the international metal scene with their dynamic performances and unwavering dedication.

TÅKEVANDRER Releases New Single “Autumn Nostalgia”

 

The rising band TÅKEVANDRER has unveiled their new single, “Autumn Nostalgia.” The song calls upon wandering souls of the dark forests, emerging from the misty Austrian mountains in fall 2025. Their lyrics delve into profane, hidden, and mystical paths of lunar existence, capturing a haunting and atmospheric mood perfect for introspective listeners.

Valiant Sentinel Debuts “War In Heaven” Single

 

Theogonia Records announces the release of “War In Heaven,” the new single by Valiant Sentinel from their upcoming album Neverealm, out January 16th, 2026. The epic power metal track previews the band’s sophomore record, which immerses listeners in a fantasy world of battles and kingdoms.

Featuring vocals by Veandok, guitar by Dimitris Skodras, bass by Panos Manikas, and drums by Frederik Ehmke (Blind Guardian), Neverealm also includes guest appearances by Zak Stevens and Laura Guldemond. The album promises to be a defining release of 2026 for fans of melodic, powerful metal.

Gus Drax Releases “Sentio Ergo Sum” Single and Video

 

Theogonia Records has unveiled “Sentio Ergo Sum,” the first single from Gus Drax’s upcoming album Theories of Imperfection, out April 3, 2026. The track features intense guitar work, orchestral elements, and cinematic flair, with a dynamic music video filmed in Athens.

Known for his work with Sunburst and Suicidal Angels, Drax’s new solo album promises a powerful instrumental journey. The release marks a major highlight for 2026 progressive metal.

AS THE SUN FALLS Announce New Album

 

Finnish band AS THE SUN FALLS will release their next album, Songs From The Veil, in 2026 via Theogonia Records. Inspired by Finnish mythology, the album explores legends, nature, and personal loss, blending atmospheric and melodic death metal. More details will be revealed soon.