A Sound Of Thunder
“Lesser Key Of Solomon”
Number of Discs: 1
Release Date: September 9, 2014
Tracks: 10
Running Time: 61 minutes
Label: Mad Neptune Records

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I came across the heavy metal band A Sound of Thunder with their third album “Time’s Arrow”. From the moment, I started that album, I knew I was in love. Due to that, I was eagerly awaiting the release of their next album. Luckily, “The Lesser Key of Solomon” is easily their best work to date, though I have to admit, I wasn’t sold from the first listen. What I enjoyed about this album though and why I now love it, is how it grew on it. The more and more I listened this album, I felt like I was being slowly put under a spell. I listened to it for hours on end and it just gets better and better. I honestly thought it couldn’t get any better than “Time’s Arrow” and the band has once again proven me wrong. No question, my favorite album of the year to date!

“The Lesser Key Of Solomon” is not just a typical metal album though it can be summed up simply as a powerhouse. The tracks are catchy and extremely well-done. You can tell that these guys really love what they do because you can feel the blood and sweet ooze out of each track.  Leader singer Nina Osegueda really takes her talent to the next level with this new album. She is simply outstanding. The tracks are definitely some wicked heavy metal but I love that they are also mixed with a touch of power metal, classic rock, and progressive rock & metal as well. So you will find plenty of variety from the start to finish here. When you think you have figured out this album though, it turns a 180 and goes in a whole new direction and I really like that cause it keeps your ears at attention!

Compared to their last album, “Time’s Arrow”, this is definitely much more darker and most definitely heavier. I love the supernatural theme that is built around these tracks as well. Easily some of my favorite tracks are “Udoroth”, “Master of Pain” and “Elijah”. They are all very different and yet have this similar feeling to them like these could easily become instant classics.  I am not joking! Watch the video below for “Udoroth” and honestly tell me that you aren’t rocking out! Even though there are only ten tracks, this album adds up to a solid hour of music. The best way to listen to this I found is is definitely on repeat. I find that “The Lesser Key Of Solomon” really helps to move along a slow work day for sure. For if you are having a lagging day, kick this one and watch time fly!

If you are a member bands fan base known as the “Legion of Thunder” or just finding them for the first time, I recommend you kicking back and spread the word on this amazing piece of art. Also be sure to catch the band on the road this fall and support them since the fans are the reason why this album was completed. If it wasn’t for fans, I am sure the road to release would have been must more difficult for the band, thanks to a successful campaign on Kickstarter. I also just got word from Nina and guitarist Josh Schwartz  that the band is already in the studio working on new music for their next album. Yes! you heard right their next album! These guys are non-stop and I honestly can’t get enough. So keep rocking guys and I will look forward to catching a show this fall!

Track List:
Nexus Of Realities
Udoroth
Fortune Teller
The Boy Who Could Fly
Elijah
Master Of Pain
Blood From The Mummy’s Tomb
Black Secrets
One Empty Grave
House Of Bones

Shaman’s Harvest
“Smokin’ Hearts & Broken Guns”
Mascot Records
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Shaman’s Harvest the 4 piece southern tinged hard rock band who’s independent debut release “Shine” spawned the successful single “Dragonfly” are back with a brand new album titled “Smokin’ Hearts & Broken Guns”. The album features 10 brand new tracks along with an extended acoustic version of the hit song “Dragon Fly” and a rousing rendition of the Michael Jackson song “Dirty Diana” which only adds to albums overall appeal.

To be honest I was pretty much in the dark when I first put “Smokin’ Hearts & Broken Guns” into my player. However by the end of track 1 I was hooked! From start to finish each track has the potential to become a hit. The bands catchy lyrics and rhythms will have you singing along and bobbing your head almost instantly especially on tracks like “Dangerous” and “Ten Million Voices” while tracks like “Blood in the Water” and “Country As Fuck” showcase the bands southern rock twist and diversity.

Due to the sheer power and in your face performance of each track you would have never guessed that just prior to the recording of the album lead vocalist Nathan Hunt was diagnosed with throat cancer. Despite the grim diagnosis Hunt and company fire on all cylinders making “Smokin’ Hearts & Broken Guns” a must have!

Track Listing:
Dangerous
Here it Comes
Ten Million Voices
Blood In The Water
The End of Me
Country As Fuck
Hero
Dirty Diana
In The End
In Chains
Silent Voice
 Dragon Fly (Extended Unplugged Version)

Heavy metal band A Sound of Thunder will release its fourth full-length album“The Lesser Key of Solomon” on September 9th worldwide on Mad Neptune Records.  The album was produced by RIAA multi-platinum-awarded producer Kevin ‘131’ Gutierrez (While Heaven Wept, Raven, Shinedown).  The heavy riff-laden songs are complex yet instantly catchy, featuring razor-sharp musicianship and the lung-busting performances of powerhouse classically-trained vocalist Nina Osegueda.

“If your erection lasts longer than four hours, you probably listened to our new album.  Also, you’re welcome” jokes Osegueda. “On a serious note, this album is our best work to date.  The songwriting and performances from the band are on another level.  The album was a joy to make and that comes through in the final recording.”

Hot off the 2013 release of “Time’s Arrow”, their best-selling and best reviewed release to date, A Sound of Thunder was brimming with confidence and eager to get back into the recording studio.  With too many musical ideas for just one album, the band selected only its darkest and most atmospheric material for “The Lesser Key of Solomon”.  The result is an ominous collection of songs united by supernatural themes.  The album represents the fulfillment of a promise to A Sound of Thunder’s fans, known as the “Legion of Thunder”, who funded the album via the Kickstarter crowd-funding platform in the autumn of 2013, raising over $23,000.

“The Lesser Key of Solomon”, running time 61 minutes, features 10 of A Sound of Thunder’s most intense yet nuanced songs, exploring territory which is simultaneously heavier and more atmospheric than ever before. The steel-armored wail of prodigal vocalist Nina Osegueda (called by some “the lovechild of Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson”) tops off deft performances by a band that knows how to deliver the goods. From the demonic fire of “Udoroth”, to the crushing Dio-esque “Master of Pain”, to the sweeping scope and dark theatricality of “Elijah”, A Sound of Thunder delivers a timeless album full of metal classics.
“The Lesser Key Of Solomon” available as a digital download, compact disc, and limited deluxe vinyl-book format.

Tracklisting includes:
Nexus Of Realities, Udoroth, Fortune Teller, The Boy Who Could Fly, Elijah, Master Of Pain, Blood From The Mummy’s Tomb, Black Secrets, One Empty Grave, House Of Bones 

Weblinks:
Album pre-order: http://asoundofthunder.bigcartel.com/category/the-lesser-key-of-solomon
 Website: http://www.asoundofthunderband.com
 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/asoundofthunder
 Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/asoundofthunder
 BandCamp: http://asot.bandcamp.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/asotband
Management/Booking: [email protected]

A Sound Of Thunder:
Nina Osegueda- vocals
Josh Schwartz- guitars/ keyboards
Jesse Keen- guitars/ keyboards
Chris Haren- drums/ percussion

“Space Invader”
Ace Frehley
eOne
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Original Kiss guitarist and recent Rock and Roll Hall Fame inductee Ace Frehley is back with a brand new full length studio album appropriately titled “Space Invader”. The album is being released via eOne Entertainment and features 11 brand new tracks along with Frehley’s beefed up rendition of the Steve Miller Band classic “The Joker”.

Over the past few years Ace has seemed to have gone through a period of career revitalization. First was the release of “Anomaly” in 2009, which was Frehley’s first solo release in over 20 years. Shortly after that was the release of his first autobiography titled “No Regrets” and of course we all know about the controversy surrounding Kiss’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This brings us to Frehley’s newest musical offering “Space Invader”. The album takes a much grittier approach than Ace’s previous release yet is still classic Space Ace all the way.

Tracks such as “Space Invader” dominate your speakers with groovy rhythms and snappy vocal passages that are reminiscent of Frehley’s early solo works. As the album progresses Ace continues to prove that even at the age of 63 he is still more than capable of bringing rock and roll to the masses. The track “Change” was probably my most favorite off the album as it features a really big sound complimented by one of the better solos I found on the record. Another notable track worth checking out was Ace’s rendition of the Steve Miller Band song “The Joker”.

Even though I have heard countless covers of this song Frehley’s interpretation was fresh and fun making it a great summertime song to throw on at your next cook out. Both Kiss and Non-Kiss fans will want to check out this release as it’s a fun listen that has a little something for everyone.

Track Listing:
1.) Space Invader
2.) Gimme a Feelin
3.) I Wanna Hold You
4.) Change
5.) Toys
6.) Immortal Pleasures
7.) Inside the Vortex
8.) What Every Girl Wants
9.) Past the Milky Way
10.) Reckless
11.) The Joker
12.) Starship

“Redeemer of Souls”
Judas Priest
Epic Records
Producer: Mike Exeter/ Glenn Tipton
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

The Metal God and company are back with 17th studio titled “Redeemer of Souls. The album is the follow up release to the bands 2008 release titled “Nostradamus”. 13 all new tracks make up recorded and is the first studio release to feature Richie Faulkner on guitar. Though the band initially stated it would be retiring after their 2011 Epitaph world tour the band sounds better than ever and “Redeemer of Souls” is a testament to that.

When I saw Judas Priest in 2011 as part of their Epitaph farewell tour I was a bit skeptical that it would in fact really be the last time. With the release of “Redeemer of Souls” and the announcement of the groups subsequent tour this fall my prior suspicions were confirmed. From start to finish the album is a perfect blend of modern and classic Priest elements. The albums opening track “Dragonaught” is a rocking number that spews heavy metal goodness out your speakers while tracks likes “Redeemer of Souls” and “March of the Damned” take a more groove oriented approach perfect for head banging and fist pumping. The album wraps up with the track “Battle Cry” which features Halfords signature soaring vocal prowess before giving away to the song “Beginning of the End” a haunting outro showcasing the bands versatility.

All the material written on “Redeemer of Souls” was done by Halford, Glen Tipton and new comer Faulkner. You can certainly sense a freshness to the material which was certainly missing on the last couple Priest albums. My only hope is that this new found inspiration will continue as it would be a shame to stop now. Priest fans both new and old will definitely want to add this to their collections. For those not so familiar with the band get this album and then go back and experience the group’s massive back catalog. You definitely won’t be disappointed!

Track Listing:
1.) Dragonaught
2.) Redeemer of Souls
3.) Halls of Valhalla
4.) Swords of Damocles
5.) March of the Damned
6.) Down in Flames
7.) Hell & Back
8.) Cold Blooded
9.) Metalizer
10.) Crossfire
11.) Secrets of the Dead
12.) Battle Cry
13.) Beginning of the End

Related Content

• CD/DVD Review “Ministry: Last Tangle in Paris Live 2012”
• CD Review: Dog Fashion Disco “Sweet Nothings”
• CD Review “Snowpiercer” Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
• CD Review: Powerman 5000 “Builders of the Future”
• CD Review: Mastodon “Once More ‘Round the Sun”

“Ministry: Last Tangle in Paris Live 2012”
Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Director: Zach Passero
Producer: Angelina Lukacin Jourgensen
Studio: UDR Music/ 13th Planet Records
DVD Run Time: 105 minutes
CD Tracks: 18

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

“Ministry: Last Tangle in Paris Live 2012” was recorded primarily at the Vic Theatre in Chicago, IL during the bands 2012 “DeFiBriLa Tour“. The disc’s feature a variety of live performances, in-studio, rehearsal and backstage footage, and one-on-one interviews with the “godfather of industrial metal”, Al Jourgensen. Produced by Angelina Lukacin Jourgensen and Directed by Zach Passero “Last Tangle in Paris” is being released via UDR Music/ 13th Planet Records on a number of formats including 2 CD/DVD Digi Packs, BluRay, 2-CD Amaray, 2 X vinyl Gatefold, digital audio/video and standard CD.

Announced as the “last live Ministry release” “Ministry: Last Tangle in Paris Live 2012” fires on all of its industrial fueled cylinders. Candid behind the scenes footage blends with flawless live performances giving the viewer/listener a package they can really sink their teeth into. After the death of longtime Ministry guitarist Mike Saccia in December of 2012 founder and lead vocalist Al Jourgensen disbanded the group in 2013 following the release of their 13th studio album titled “From beer to Eternity”. This package marks Saccia’s last run with the band and stands as a fitting tribute to his musical legacy. Everything from the explosive “Ghouldiggers” to “Psalm 69”, New World Order (NWO) to “Just One Fix” is featured on the DVD portion of this film.

When you get in to the audio portion of the release which is spread over 2 discs you are thrown further into the realm of Ministry as it features a retrospective of live tracks dating back to 2006 including live versions of “Rio Grande Blood”, Let’s GO and “So What” among many other Ministry staples.
The only thing I found to be missing from this release is the always entertaining “Jesus Built My Hotrod” however hardcore Ministry fans probably already have several live versions of this popular track tucked away in their closets next to their studded black leather boots. With the absence of that track aside you really couldn’t ask for a better release to go out on. The audio tracks on all three discs leap out of the speakers while the visual elements of the DVD keep your attention even after multiple viewings making “Ministry: Last Tangle in Paris Live 2012”a must have!

DVD Track Listing:
1.) Ghouldiggers
2.) No “W”
3.) Senor Peligro
4.) LiesLiesLies
5.) 99%ers
6.) Life Is Good
7.) Relapse
8.) The Last Sucker
9.) Psalm 69
10.) New World Order
11.) Just One Fix
12.) Thieves

Disc 1 Track Listing:
1.) Ghouldiggers
2.) No W
3.) Senor Peligro
4.) Rio Grande Blood
5.) LiesLieslies
6.) 99 Percenters
7.) Life Is Good
8.) Relapse
9.) The Last Sucker

Disc 2 Track Listing:
10.) Psalm 69
11.) New World Order (NWO)
12.) Just One Fix
13.) Thieves
14.) Khyber Pass
15.) Fear Is Big Business
16.) Let’s Go
17.) Watch Yourself
18.) So What

Dog Fashion Disco
“Sweet Nothings”
Rotten Records
Produced By: Steve Wright and Drew Lamond
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Squeaking out of a rustic phonograph is Dog Fashion Disco’s opening track “Greta”. The slow big band, piano driven, number calms my nerves. Back in 2006 I thought one of my favorite bands was all but gone, never to release another beautiful sounding creature from the deep. They went out on a high note with “Adultery” and I along with many of their loyal fans believe they went out on the highest possible note. When they announced their glorious return, my excitement was quelled by the worry that they wouldn’t be able to match their magnum opus. Luckily I was wrong.

“War Party” crushes my remaining concerns as it roars out of the gate with furious anti-war/government punk lyrics and Slayer riffs. If you want to know what this band is good at, this is the song, a clear definition of circus metal. The merry-go-round tunes injected into the song project a gleeful mood to the enraged lyrics about the American war machine. “Scarlet Fever” doesn’t let up off the gas as if the band has spent the past eight years with harbored ill wills that need to be unleashed before diving into upbeat music blends with lyric’s straight from a lunatic’s dream.

Everything is not a relentless metal barrage; the title track takes on a psychedelic journey through funk, R&B and electronic blended jazz. “Tastes So Sweet” sounds like an Elton John-esque chorus wrapped around a hard rock band’s lost soul wandering through a nightmarish purgatory in the hopes of once again finding love. If that’s wasn’t enough, “Doctor’s Orders” feels like a band straight out of “Soul Train” with an apocalyptic prophecy to tell. Despite a heavy reliance on jazz throughout, the band manages to march through the musical breed’s storied history like an evil New Orleans Mardi Gras parade lightly tapping into ska and swing.

Some songs definitely have a musical theme sticking to a madman’s formula, but others seem to descend into genre chaos. “We Aren’t the World” takes listeners on a misanthropic carnival ride with no direction other than forward through a progressively bleak future focusing on overpopulation and ignorance. “Pale Horse” isn’t afraid of switching from hypnotic metal blasts to saxophones cries to epic chords straight out of a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert to a trailing guitar lick under a mourning classical piano to…ah hell, you get the point.

The album seems to be incorporating an army of horns with a marching band of varying keyboard tones ranging from harmonious organs to reverberating xylophone keys. Todd Smith once again provides the fist-pumping choruses and catchy lyrics written like a demonic children’s book. The guitars are fast and merciless while the drumming keeps up the frantic pace. The album transitions to soulful breakdowns quite well hinting that the time off may have reinforced a goal towards quality disorder.

The members of Dog Fashion Disco have once again combined a collection of personal music tastes and warped ideas to create a fluid album that skips delightfully through every psychosis in the medical book. It’s rekindled my love for music with no rules or boundaries. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but for some, this music clicks on all the right cylinders. “Sweet Nothings” is an ominous trip through aggression, despair, love and loss, but with another album on the horizon, the future looks bright for Dog Fashion Disco.

Track List:
1. Greta
2. War Party
3. Scarlet Fever
4. Tastes So Sweet
5. Doctor’s Orders
6. Envy the Vultures
7. Approach the Recede
8. Down the Rabbit Hole
9. We Aren’t the World
10. Struck By Lightning
11. Sweet Nothings
12. Pale Horse
13. End of the Road
14. Hidden Track (A long and big “Thank You” to every Indiegogo supporter)

“Weird Al” Yankovic
“Mandatory Fun”
RCA
Produced By: “Weird Al” Yankovic
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Mandatory Fun” not only marks Weird Al’s 14th music album, but it also marks 35 years since his first single, “My Bologna”. I’m not even 35 years old, yet I owe so much to my current nerdom to the polka comedy master. Ever since that memorable day for me when I first heard Weird Al through the car speakers, and even since his take on “My Sharona”, Weird Al has remained a goofy class act when it comes to his art and “Mandatory Fun” solidifies that fact. In this ADHD Internet age, he remains topical and funny.

Weird Al’s finger on the pulse of pop culture must be way better than mine since I immediately consulted Wikipedia on the first track. I had no idea who Iggy Azalea is, but luckily Weird Al did on the opening track, “Handy”. It isn’t the most fertile ground for comedy, a home repair man rapping his various skills, but his injection of other popular music lines and aged cultural references shows his sharp mind is still a walking encyclopedia of television, movies, and music in the U.S.

While “Handy” is a fantastic take on “Fancy”, the best parody on this album is “Word Crimes”, a play on Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines”. It’s not only a perfect example of Weird Al’s brilliant wordplay, but feels like a funky “Schoolhouse Rock” song that could teach children a thing or two about the difference between who and whom, and other common grammatical headaches. Only Weird Al could take the much criticized “Blurred Lines” and create a song poking fun at the continual deterioration of writing skills.

While Weird Al may be well more known for parodies, he finds more success on this album with his musical style parodies, particularly a Pixie-esque song called “First World Problems”. It’s a perfect lampoon of spoiled rich people and possibly the first song he’s meshed with an Internet meme. He also stays true to his roots by consistently remaining silly throughout “My Own Eyes”, which beautifully captures the Foo Fighters style. Take out the vocals and you’d probably mistake it for another catchy rock anthem by Dave Grohl and gang. He finds success on other tracks encapsulating Crosby, Stills and Nash as well as Cat Stevens.

In an age where Youtube parodies are rattled off almost immediately after an artist’s work starts charting the Billboards, some may question the relevancy of Weird Al. But most viral videos come off as structurally weak or intentionally sinister while Weird Al seems to embrace the culture he’s satirizing. He also creates a completely unique and original feel despite imitating the footing of other musicians. He’s had a knack for targeting that sweet spot when a song begins to develop a disdain in the general population after it’s been left on repeat at every top 40 radio station in America. That’s flawlessly seen in “Tacky”, a riff on “Happy”.

Genuine artistry is seen throughout Weird Al’s latest album and it’s amazing that he’s further planted his humorous seeds into our culture. The title, “Mandatory Fun”, is a self-fulfilling prophecy once you’ve given the album a listen. While some may question his relevancy, I simply look at the explosion of coverage around his album and see that he’s become further ingrained into nearly every indie, nerd and mainstream facet of music. Question his growing legacy all you want, but his latest work has the lasting impact that “Eat It” and “Amish Paradise” have.

Track List:

1.”Handy” – “Fancy” by Iggy Azalea featuring Charli XCX
2.”Lame Claim to Fame” – Style parody of Southern Culture on the Skids
3.”Foil” – “Royals” by Lorde
4.”Sports Song” – Style parody of college football fight songs
5.”Word Crimes” – “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell Williams
6.”My Own Eyes” – Style parody of Foo Fighters
7.”NOW That’s What I Call Polka!”
– “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus
– “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People
– “Best Song Ever” by One Direction
– “Gangnam Style” by Psy
– “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
– “Scream & Shout” by will.i.am featuring Britney Spears
– “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra
– “Timber” by Pitbull featuring Kesha
– “Sexy And I Know It” by LMFAO
– “Thrift Shop” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis featuring Wanz
– “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk featuring Pharrell Williams
8.”Mission Statement” – Style parody of Crosby, Stills & Nash
9.”Inactive” – “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons
10.”First World Problems” – Style parody of Pixies
11.”Tacky” – “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
12. “Jackson Park Express” – Style parody of Cat Stevens

Snowpiercer
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Composer:Marco Beltrami
Varese Sarabande Records
Tracks: 20
Running Time: 56 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Releasing on July 22nd is Marco Beltrami’s score to the fantastic Joon-Ho Bong film, Snowpiercer. Snowpiercer is the name of the post-apocalyptic train which shelters all remaining life on Earth in a dystopian society arranged from the haves in the front of the train and the haves-nots in the back of the train. Chris Evans’s Curtis leads a rebellion from the back to the front and Beltrami’s score excellently compliments his struggle.

Most of the tracks feature heavy metallic percussive beats that emulate the chugging along of the train as well as the battles along the way. Most notably in the “Blackout Fight” track. Fitting for one of the most exciting sequences of the film. Similarly “Steam Car” manages to maintain this train soundscape while also layering in the steamy atmosphere.

Frequently Beltrami lets up on the action to make way for eerie, sparse piano and orchestral work to accent the more decadent cars of Snowpiercer as in “Sushi”. He also manages to work in the thumping club music of the “Seoul Train”–so different visually in the film–into the forward motion of the rest of the score.

I will admit I enjoyed the action score much more in the context of driving the film, but the haunting piano work it kicks off with and spread throughout is more than enough to recommend giving this a listen on its own. Also, much to my amusement the final track also throws in the charmingly terrifying propaganda anthem from the classroom car (Sample: What happens if the engines stops? We all freeze and DIE!).

Track Listing:
1. This is the End
2. Stomp
3. Preparation
4. Requesting An Upgrade
5. Take the Engine
6. Axe Gang
7. Axe Schlomo
8. Blackout Fight
9. Water Supply
10. Go Ahead
11. Sushi
12. The Seven
13. We Go Forward
14. Steam Car
15. Seoul Train
16. Snow Melt
17. Take My Place
18. Yona Lights
19. This is the Beginning
20. Yona’s Theme

“Builders of the Future”
Powerman 5000
T-Boy Records/UMe
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Powerman 5000 are back with their first collection of new material in nearly five years. “Builders of the Future” features 10 brand new tracks reminiscent of the groups groundbreaking 1999 release “Tonight the Stars Revolt”. The new album is being released via T-Boy Records and is available in both standard and deluxe versions with the deluxe version featuring two additional tracks.

A lot can happen when a band takes extended time off between releasing new material. In the case of Powerman 5000 the group appears to have gone back to their beginnings as their new album “Builders of the Future” has a very late 90’s nu-metal sound. Though the sound of the album definitely feels a bit dated it’s not so far out in that it feels out of place. Spider One and the band combine both new and old PM5K sounds on standout tracks such as “We Want It All” and “Live It Up Before You’re Dead” and even venture into acoustic territory with the track “I Want to Kill You” which is an eerie little track the sticks with you long after initially hearing it.

Though I found a number of songs to be a bit repetitive and the production tended to be a little overdone there was not enough negatives to classify this as a “bad” album however, it is lacking quite a bit in order to be considered a “great” album. Long time PM5K fans will certainly be happy to hear this album as it is a very familiar sound however newer fans to the group may not fully appreciate the album without first going back and listening to the bands earlier releases.

Track Listing:
1.) Invade, Destroy, Repeat
2.) We Want It All
3.) How to Be a Human
4.) You’re Gonna Love It, If You Like It or Not
5.) Builders of the Future
6.) I Want to Kill You
7.) Modem World
8.) Live It Up Before You’re Dead
9.) I Can’t Fucking Hear You
10.) Evil World

“Give ‘Em Hell”
Sebastian Bach
Frontiers Records
Produced by: Bob Marlette
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Former Skidrow front man Sebastian Bach is back with a brand new solo album titled “Give ‘Em Hell”. This is Bach’s 5th release as a solo artist and is the follow up to his 2011 release “Kicking and Screaming”. The album is being released via Frontier records and was produced by Bob Marlette (Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie). “Give ‘Em Hell” features 12 brand new tracks along with special guest appearances by John 5, Steve Stevens and Duff McKagan.

Though the album showcases Sebastian’s expansive and impressive vocal range “Give ‘Em Hell” was a bit much. Mid-way through my listen and it was very clear that I had already had enough of Bach’s falsetto like screams. Don’t get me wrong I love Sebastian’s voice but tracks like “Push Away” and “Taking Back Tomorrow” prove you certainly can have too much of a good thing. Bach’s backing band consisting of Devin Bronson on guitar, Bobby Jarzombek on drums and former Guns ‘n Roses/Velvet Revolver bassist Duff McKagan lay down some extremely heavy and intricate passages that I found to be more interesting than the lyrical portions of the songs. Tracks such as “Dominator” and “Gun to a Knife Fight” are perfect examples of the bands capabilities and tightness as a unit.

“Give ‘Em Hell” is a fairly straight forward rock record that blends Bach’s soaring vocals with overdriven guitars and thunderous bass and drums. Though I found the album sounding a bit dated in several spots I feel producer Bob Marlette did a good job capturing the essence of each song. Long time Bas fans will certainly want this for their collections however newer listeners maybe a bit put off by some of the tracks.

Track Listing:
1. Hell Inside My Head
2. Harmony
3. All My Friends are Dead
4. Temptation
5. Push Away
6. Dominator
7. Had Enough
8. Gun to a Knife Fight
9. Rock n’ Roll is a Vicious Game
10. Taking Back Tomorrow
11. Disengaged
12. Forget You

Mastodon
“Once More ‘Round the Sun”
BMD Fox Records
Produced By: Nick Raskulinecz
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Don’t let the opening seconds of “Tread Lightly” fool you. While the acoustic guitar may lull you into a state of peace, the heavy guitar licks that Mastodon have meticulously churned out for over a decade lurk around the corner; ready to pound and enchant. “Once More ‘Round the Sun” pushes Mastodon farther from their murky sludge metal roots, but progresses once again into a more experimental sound that showcases their ability to mold, but remain durable to their changing appetites.

Lately Mastodon has created an accessible, mainstream appeal while continuously maintaining that heavy metal template they implemented back in 2002. “Once More ‘Round the Sun” is their most melodic release to date and solidifies the fact that Mastodon is still successful when sailing into uncharted territories because they never stray too deep. While remaining diverse, they’re still nestled into their own sub-genre they’ve seemingly created in a myriad of metal categories by blending thrash, doom and a stray pinch of alternative.

On their sixth studio album, they appear to be perfecting their guitar structuring and resurrecting more of their haunting hooks on solos. The drumming continues to be unpredictably manic and catchy, while the vocals have traveled into cleaner territories and set up camp. Straying away from the growls has big one of the biggest complaints over the years by fans, but this path has led to a more popular tone that’s more approachable to audiences. Mastodon has enlisted Nick Raskulinecz as producer to help craft a hard rock sound that slyly pays homage to some of the early 90’s rockers that were birthed during the post-grunge era. “Once More ‘Round the Sun” is commercially acceptable without forsaking any of the originality Mastodon has long cherished.

The track “Motherload” encompasses this album’s direction while “Chimes at Midnight” steps back into the ferocious sound that Mastodon has riled up crowds across the world with. Their hunger for experimentation is heard most in “Aunt Lisa”, a trippy song that fluidly changes tempo and cheerfully climaxes on a gleeful pep rally chant by the Coathangers. Every song has an epic flair built up by simplistic yet powerful choruses and juicy riffs that induce head bobbing. Mastodon is still a relentless beast that craves inventiveness with every evolution.

I’ve told people this Mastodon’s “Crack the Skye”: They are no longer a band for metal masses, but instead a treat that should be enjoyed by everyone who’s ever loved music; a possible gateway drug for someone looking to dip their feet into metal music. Mastodon’s expanding sound prevents them from being mundane, but it’s slowly filling a worrisome thought bubble in my head. I have to ask myself after another successful outing, when will Mastodon finally peak and release a bloated mess that’s unbecoming of their usual, beautifully woven metal masterpieces? If “Once More ‘Round the Sun” is any indication, it’s not anytime soon and it may never happen.

Track Listing:

1. Tread Lightly
2. The Motherload
3. High Road
4. Once More ‘Round the Sun
5. Chimes at Midnight
6. Asleep in the Deep
7. Feast Your Eyes
8. Aunt Lisa
9. Ember City
10.Halloween
11. Diamond in the Witch House

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Release Date: Jun 9, 2014 / Apr 7, 2014
Approximate Running Time: 5 / 6 Hours
Number of CDs: 5
Content Rating: Ages 13+

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Do you love comic books? Do you love audio books? Have you always wanted to hear your comics acted out like “a movie in your mind”? Well Graphic Audio now has your prayers answered. This year they have already released two fantastic comic books arcs for Marvel in audio book format. They have full casts, cinematic music and sound effects. While you are listening to these you literally can visualize the comic and you feel like you are right in the middle of the action. The most recent Marvel comic they released was the story of “Iron Man: Extremis”. This is a great choice for the character of Iron Man. The other earlier this year was “The Ultimates: Against All Enemies”, which is a very epic series for Marvel. Graphic Audio has tons of other great products as well and I hope that they will be doing much more Marvel and DC comics in the near future. Might I suggest the recent “Original Sin” series next?!

Here is the cast for “Iron Man: Extremis”: Richard Rohan, Richard Cutting, Sherry Berg, Andy Brownstein, Maboud Ebrahimzadeh, Kimberly Gilbert, Michael John Casey, Scott Graham, Nora Achrati, Jacob Yeh, Steve Wannall, David Harris, Christopher Graybill, Evan Casey, Drew Kopas, Gabriela Fernandez-Coffey, Sasha Olinick, Nanette Savard, Rex Anderson, Rebecca Sheir, Matthew Schleigh, Tim Pabon and James Lewis

“Iron Man: Extremis” Official Premise: Advanced technology has given Iron Man life, but now that same future tech threatens to become Stark’s death. A dangerous terrorist has ingested a new techno-organic virus, transforming him into a superhuman killing machine. Now immensely powerful, but driven mad by the virus’ effects, the terrorist is seemingly unstoppable. To halt this madman’s psychotic rampage, Iron Man must face this dangerous new virus head-on…in a life-or-death battle that will forever alter Stark’s calculated balance between man and machine. Experience Warren Ellis and Adi Granov’s blockbuster re-imagining of the armored Avenger like never before in this new adaptation!

Here is the cast for “The Ultimates: Against All Enemies”: Richard Rohan, James Keegan, Richard Cutting, Jefferson Russell, Eric Messner, Laura C. Harris, Danny Gavigan, Christopher Scheeren, Andy Brownstein, Bradley Smith, Steve Wannall, Nanette Savard, Diedra Starnes, Rex Anderson, Andy Clemence, Joe Brack, Jonathon Church, Rebecca Sheir, Daniel Sonntag, Joel David Santner, Eric Singdahlsen, Jonathan Watkins, Matthew Keenan, David Harris and Thomas Keegan

“The Ultimates: Against All Enemies” Official Premise: Stark Industries has developed a technology to detect the alien Chitauri using on-the-spot DNA screening. The American defence department intends to make the technology widely available, but someone in the government puts a stop to it. Captain America sees the government’s suppression of the Stark technology as evidence that the people making such decisions are themselves compromised. Using as his model Franklin D. Roosevelt’s executive orders during World War II, he begins to gather power to himself and those Ultimates and government officials sympathetic to his authoritarian approach so that power can be concentrated in the hands of those capable of taking quick and decisive action. Hank Pym, who desperately wants back on the Ultimates team, has been feverishly working with his ants in the hopes of finding something that will help defeat the Chitauri. When his ants attack one of his research assistants, who turns out to be a Chitauri, Captain America resolves his differences with Pym and the new team begins work on what they call Operation High Hopes.

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“Godzilla”
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Composer: Alexandre Desplat
Release Date: May 13, 2014
Tracks 20
Label: WaterTower Music

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

To walk in the footsteps of the giant monster Godzilla, you are going to have to wear some big shoes. Luckily, composer Alexandre Desplat does a great job of filling those big shoes and delivers one of the best scores of year. He is quite familiar with epic score as he handled the last two “Harry Potter” films, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1 & 2”. There is something about this score that has me locked in that after listening to for two days now I can’t get enough of it. When you think of an epic action film, you might think about this loud and in your face score but Desplat doesn’t do just that. He delivers some very beautiful music here that is soft and then he also brings the big action feel that is weaved in so well. “Godzilla” is easily one of my most anticipated films of the year and this score just makes me more and more excited to see it.

If you aren’t familiar with the new director Gareth Edwards, that is because he has only directed one film prior to this called “Monsters” in 2010. That film also had one of my favorite scores not just of the year but of all time. He introduced me to one the also first time film composer is Jon Hopkins and now I am a huge fan of his work as well. What I am getting at is that Edwards knows good music and he really picked a winner here teaming up with Desplat. Even though I mentioned this score is quite in parts, there was about a hundred musicians involved with this score and you can really feel the excitement that is generated from their performances on each track. When it comes to the busy summer season, I had a feeling that this score will be number one on my phone for months to come. Just a note, and this doesn’t mean to look down now, be warned that the track listings contain bit of spoilers for the film itself, so I would refrain from checking them out and just enjoy the tunes at least until you have seen the film!

Track Listing:
1. Godzilla!
2. Inside the Mines
3. The Power Plant
4. To Q Zone
5. Back to Janjira
6. Muto Hatch
7. In the Jungle
8. The Wave
9. Airport Attack
10. Missing Spore
11. Vegas Aftermath
12. Ford Rescued
13. Following Godzilla
14. Golden Gate Chaos
15. Let Them Fight
16. Entering the Nest
17. Two Against One
18. Last Shot
19. Godzilla’s Victory
20. Back to the Ocean

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“Dconstructed”
Various Artists
Release Date: April 22, 2014
Number of Discs: 1
Label: Disney

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When I read that Walt Disney Records was going to release a comprehensive compilation of classic and current music from it’s longstanding Disney catalog remixed by today’s hottest DJs/producers from across the globe, I thought this was going to be a real trip. Afer a few listens though, I am really not feeling it. The 14-track collection features remixed version of multiple Academy Award-winning film songs including “The Lion King” and “Frozen” and Daft Punk’s “TRON: Legacy”. In the 14 tracks, I love maybe 4 and the rest I can easily do with out. I have a 2 year old daughter and after seeing this advertised I thought she would love to dance around to this but after showing her, she easily walked right out of the room and I wasn’t far behind.

Electronic Dance Music superstars Avicii, Armin Van Buuren and Kaskade are a few of the talented musicians that have put their spin on these timeless favorites. There is definitely a lot of range in these albums ranging from the new “Monsters University”, “The Incredibles”, and “The Muppets” to a more obsure Hawaiiaanette album featuring Annette Funicello.  Classics like  “Toy Story”, “Sleeping Beauty”, “Dumbo” and music inspired by the original Mickey Mouse cartoons pop up as well and even the theme song from the Disneyland Park’s Main Street Electrical Parade.

Easily a few of my favorite tracks are “Let it Go” with Armin van Buuren’s remix, I can easily listening to this track on loop for hours. “Partysaurus Overflow” from the “Toy Story” short “Partysaurus Rex” is also amazing from BT. “Fall” from “Tron: Legacy” also gets a pretty snazzy Japanese Popstars remix. After that nothing really jumped out at me that I would really want to listen to again. Especially tracks like “The Muppet Show Theme” with the remix by Shy Kidx, which is downright creepy. I am normally a fan of EDM but these to me besides the ones I mentioned really don’t seem to represent their songs well and are left flat.

Track Listing:
1. Circle of Life ((From “The Lion King”) [Mat Zo Remix]) Carmen Twillie
2. Derezzed ((From “Tron: Legacy”) [Avicii “So Amazing Mix”] [Feat.Negin]) Daft Punk
3. Let It Go ((From “Frozen”) [Armin van Buuren Remix]) Idina Menzel
4. Roar ((From “Monsters University”) [Yogi Remix]) Axwell
5. Partysaurus Overflow ((Inspired by “Partysaurus Rex”)) BT
6. Unkle Reconstruction ((Inspired By “The Incredibles”)) Michael Giacchino
7. Fall ((From “Tron: Legacy”) [Japanese Popstars Remix]) Daft Punk 3:55
8. The Muppet Show Theme ((From “The Muppets”) [Shy Kidx Remix]) The Muppets
9. Hey Pluto! ((Inspired by original Mickey Mouse cartoons) StoneBridge
10. Once Upon a Dream ((From “Sleeping Beauty”) [Trion Remix]) Bill Shirley
11. Main Street Electrical Parade ((Shinichi Osawa Extended Mix)) Shinichi Osawa
12. You’ve Got a Friend in Me ((From “Toy Story”) [Alfred Montejano Hyper Remix]) Randy Newman
13. Baby Mine ((From “Dumbo”) [Kaskade House Version]) Kaskade
14. Pineapple Princess ((From “Hawaiiannette”) [Kinsey Moore Remix]) Annette Funicello