MIDAEV has recently released new singles

 

The United Arab Emirates Gothic Rock project MIDAEV has recently released its debut singles, "Prometheus" and "Anybody Else." These meticulously crafted singles were recorded at "SoundPort Studios" and expertly mixed/mastered by Dmitry Smirnov. Infused with deep philosophical and psychological subtexts, the works explore acute themes, representing a new chapter in the artist's creative journey.

Established in 2023 as a solo project by Ruslan Midaev, formerly known as the leader of the "M.O.N.E." band in the underground scene, MIDAEV emerged after his previous band went on hiatus.

REVIEW: VARVAR (Варваръ) - The Bestial Abyss Will Kill You

 

VARVAR (Варваръ) - The Bestial Abyss Will Kill You

Stormspell Records

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The heavy metal landscape, in many ways, remains a vast, uncharted realm. With a willingness to explore, one can uncover hidden gems — bands whose exceptional work failed to garner the recognition it deserved. Fortunately, in today's era, record labels are offering a second chance to these overlooked releases through reissues.

Enter VARVAR (Варваръ) from Russia, a prime example of this phenomenon. Established in 1986, the band left its mark with a live album, three demos, and two full-length releases between 1988 and 2002. The focus here is on their 1994 debut, a musical treasure that, interestingly, shares its name with another Russian band formed in 2005.

VARVAR's sonic territory is classic heavy metal with subtle U.S. power metal undertones, and their lyrics draw inspiration from the Christian faith. However, don't mistake them for a Russian STRYPER. Beyond a shared devotion to Christianity, VARVAR takes a distinct path. Their sound is rugged, less refined, echoing the spirit of American heavy metal bands like MANILLA ROAD, LIEGE LORD, AXEMASTER, etc. The gritty vocals, reminiscent of Chris Boltendahl and Udo, contribute to this raw energy. The production, deliberately unpolished yet clear, adds a cult dimension.

In essence, this 1990s release carries the unmistakable aura of the '80s underground metal scene. Whether the newer generation embraces it fully remains uncertain. Yet, for those seeking unadulterated metal, VARVAR (Варваръ) offers a gratifying auditory journey into the essence of the genre.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

George Gakis releases new video for the song “Nightmare Dreamer”!

 

The track is taken from the new album “Parallel Dimensions” that was released on May 26, 2023 as Digipack CD and digital streaming/download format.

MAGIC CHICKEN FUDGETOE just dropped their latest single

 

The Australian Stoner/Sludge Metal band, Magic Chicken Fudgetoe, has unleashed their latest single, "Yahweh." This release was meticulously recorded, mixed, and mastered by Ryan Pearce at "Savage Studios."

REVIEW: SILVERBONES - Brethren Of The Coast

 

SILVERBONES - Brethren Of The Coast

Stormspell Records

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Πειρατικό μέταλ, αυτός ο γνωστός.

Οι Ιταλοί είναι σίγουρο ότι συνεπαρμένοι από τις μελωδίες των πρωτοπόρων του είδους Running Wild, πατάνε στα χνάρια τους στην άμμο κάποιου χαμένου νησιού ψάχνοντας κι αυτοί το μαύρο μπαούλο. Η σκηνή του ευρωπαϊκού Power Metal έχει να δείξει ήδη αντίστοιχα σχήματα π.χ. οι Blazon Stone, που να είναι "υποκατάστατα" αφιερωμένα στη λατρεία του υποείδους.

Εδώ λοιπόν έχουμε το νεότερο δείγμα της δουλειάς τους. Ναι, με το καλημέρα σας η εισαγωγή του Winds Of Reprisal κάνει γνώριμη την ατμόσφαιρα και το ομώνυμο τραγούδι σε βάζει αμέσως στο τι θα ακολουθήσει. Να τονιστεί ότι τα φωνητικά είναι στη γραμμή της ιταλικής σκηνής (λογικό) των Athena, Labirynth, Rhasoody, πιο Fabio Lione δηλαδή παρά στο τευτονικό στυλ του Rolf Kasparek. Η παραγωγή δε μπορεί παρά να είναι άριστη. Από κει και πέρα Dead Men Tell No Tales (όχι καμία σχέση με το ομότιτλο των Motorhead), Die For The Crown, Granite Heart, Headless Rider, Invincible Armada, Raise The Black (προφανώς σημαία με το λευκό κρανίο και τα σταυρωτά σπαθιά!!!) και The Battle of Texel μιλώντας για τη ναυμαχία μεταξύ Βρετανών και Ολλανδών το 1673,  να συμπληρώνουν το σύνολο ενός πολύ καλού άλμπουμ που δεν έχει τίποτα να ζηλέψει από κλασικά του είδους και που ακούγεται πολύ ευχάριστα.

English Text:

 

Pirate metal, a saga in the making.

The Italians, drawing inspiration from the trailblazing melodies of bands like Running Wild, confidently follow in their footsteps, traversing the sands of a forgotten isle in pursuit of their own elusive treasure chest. The European Power Metal scene has witnessed kindred spirits before, exemplified by acts like Blazon Stone, wholly dedicated to venerating this subgenre.

Enter their latest opus. Right from the enthralling introduction of "Winds Of Reprisal," the listener is enveloped in a captivating atmosphere, and the eponymous track thrusts them headlong into the sonic odyssey that unfolds. Vocals echo the finesse of the Italian scene—think Athena, Labyrinth, Rhapsody—with a touch more Fabio Lione than the Teutonic stylings of Rolf Kasparek. The production, unequivocally, attains a zenith of excellence.

Continuing the journey, "Dead Men Tell No Tales" (no homage to Motorhead's classic), "Die For The Crown," "Granite Heart," "Headless Rider," "Invincible Armada," "Raise The Black" (imagine a flag bearing a white skull and crossed swords!), and "The Battle of Texel," recounting the 1673 naval clash between the British and the Dutch, collectively crystallize this album's brilliance. It not only holds its own among genre classics but ensures an immersive and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: MARQUIS DE SADE - Chapter II

 

MARQUIS DE SADE - Chapter II

Golden Core Records

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Marquis de Sade, originally renowned for an 18th-century French writer's unconventional pursuits, now lends its name to a band of British musicians. Within the circles of NWOBHM enthusiasts, this band commands admiration. Despite not flooding the scene with an abundance of tracks, their musical output stands out for its rare combination of quality and elusiveness.

While they tag this release as the second chapter, it essentially marks their debut - a remarkable feat 42 years after their inaugural demo in 1981. These gentlemen have elevated their craft, proving the timeless adage that quality surpasses punctuality.

In an age of incessant releases, Marquis de Sade distinguishes itself by emphasizing quality over quantity.

Their latest album is a masterpiece, effortlessly blending progressive elements and diverse influences. It not only captivates from the opening note to the final crescendo but also astounds with its seamless fusion of genres, all while preserving its classic heavy metal essence.

Diving into the compositions, the opening track, "Belvedere," radiates a carefree hard rock spirit. "Now I Lay Me Down" echoes hints of Running Wild's "Port Royal" and the rebellious vigor of Saxon. "Fortress of Solitude" evokes emotional depth reminiscent of Savatage (at least, in my interpretation). Notable is "The Moon's Glow," a captivating piece melding classic heavy metal with a pronounced 70s keyboard (Hammond) flair and sporadic forays into black metal vocals.

The musical journey could extend indefinitely, but the primary goal is to offer a glimpse, encouraging you to immerse yourself and draw your conclusions. Therefore, I conclude here.

Summarizing this presentation, Marquis de Sade's ability to maintain their unwavering NWOBHM character across decades and seamlessly adapt it to the contemporary era is commendable. The musicians' passion for this distinctive sound resonates magically, a testament to the wealth of experience accumulated. In essence, their latest release is not just substantial and high-quality but an exquisite masterpiece that captures your heart from the initial listen. Each subsequent play unveils new intricacies within the compositions. For NWOBHM enthusiasts, this album undeniably merits a distinguished spot in your collection.

Παραστατίδης Νικόλαος

IGNITION release Lyric Video for the song "A New Dawn"

 

IGNITION says about it: "We are particularly proud of 'A New Dawn' as it is the first power ballad to make it onto an IGNITION album and at the same time forms the epic climax of the third part of the Viking saga that began on the first album 'Guided By The Waves'! Lyrically, it's about the incessant battle against all outside opposition and realising that you can never rest and must stay focused to achieve your goals. In a figurative sense, this song also symbolises our motto as a band to ignore all genre conventions and 'gatekeepers' who constantly want to tell you what 'true Metal' should be like. We prefer to consistently go our own way. The whole thing is wrapped up in the story of the Viking brothers, who avenge their murdered father and take to the field against the opportunistic aristocratic enemies - always knowing that every battle will end with 'A New Dawn' and that it is up to them or us how it ultimately turns out."