Knight Area
“Nine Paths”
The Lasers Edge
Producer: Neil Kernon
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Nine Paths” is the 4^th release from the Dutch band Knight Area. The album was produced by well known producer Neil Kernon (Cannibal Corpse, Queensryche). Knights Area is a 5 member group lead by Mark Smit on vocals, Gerben Klazinga- keyboards, Pieter van Hoorn- drums, Gijs Koopman on bass and Taurus pedals and Mark Vermeule on guitars. Together the band creates a interesting blend of progressive rock.

“Nine Paths” is a blistering assault on the musical senses as the album covers a variety of sounds that all may not be heard without multiple listenings. The album was one part Dream Theater and one part Europe. Mark Smit has a very melodic sounding voice that lends itself very well alongside the key work Gerben Klazinga on tracks such as “The River”.While songs like “Pride and Joy” feature the fantastic bass and guitar grooves of Gijs Koopman and Mark Vermeule. Though the album is a progressive rock album there was a very jazz/easy listening element to the album which I thought was an interesting approach.

Though “Nine Paths” might not be heavy enough for some progressive rock fans it is a fairly easy listen for those just venturing into the genre. Each track on the album was very rich and showcased each members proficiency at their instruments

Track Listing:

1.)    Ever Since You Killed Me
2.)    Summerland
3.)    Please Come Home
4.)    Clueless
5.)    The River
6.)    Pride and Joy
7.)    The Balance
8.)    Wakerun
9.)    Angel’s Call

Anubis Gate
“Anubis Gate”
Nightmare Records
Producers: Kim Olesen and Jacob Hansen
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

“Anubis Gate” produced by band members Kim Olesen and Jacob Hansen is Anubis Gate’s 3^rd full length album and is the follow up to the bands 2009 release titled “The Detached”. This is the bands first release on Nightmare Records and the album features a blend of synth infused progressive metal similar to that of King Crimson or Savatage.

When I have the chance to listen to a new band for the first time I try to be as open and non-judgmental as possible. I really do applaud every musician that has the courage to get out there and make music. Anubis Gate’s self titled album did provide me with one or two high points. The guitars on the album all have a very good recorded tone and despite being in my opinion over layered they still stood out on their own. As a whole I was not a fan of the album but as I always say these are my opinions and mine only. If you are a fan of Anubis Gate and have been waiting since 2009 for this album I am sure it will fill all your Anubis Gate needs. The album to me just felt dated and lacked drive.

I found it very hard to connect with the album or a find a sense of unity amongst the tracks. The instrumentation was nothing out of the ordinary and at times was too over produced and layered. The vocals I felt had a touch to much echo making the album sound like I was listening to it in a cave or echo chamber.

Track Listing:

1.)    Hold Back Tomorrow

2.)    The Re-Formation Show

3.)    Facing Dawn

4.)    World in a Dome

5.)    Desiderio Omnibus

6.)    Oh My Precious Life

7.)    Golden Days

8.)    Telltale Eyes

9.)    River

10.)  Circumstanced

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Arch/Matheos
“Sympathetic Resonance”
Metal Blade
Producer: Neil Kernon
Tracks: 6

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Sympathetic Resonance” is the first combined effort of current Fates Warning member Jim Matheos and former member John Arch. The two along with Joey Vera on bass, Bobby Jarzombek- drums and additional vocalist Frank Aresti make up what is known as Arch/Matheos. The band is a full on classic progressive metal band and “Sympathetic Resonance” does everything in its power to prove that.

Right off the bat I will say that progressive rock/metal is not really my first choice when it come to listening to music however “Sympathetic Resonance” has done a good job at opening my eyes. The song “Stained Glass Sky” has guitar tone for days while songs like “Midnight Serenade” feature a more melodic landscape leading into the full on face melting power of “Any Given Day (Strangers Like Me)” which does a great job showing the bands tightness as a whole. This track was probably my favorite off the album as well

Even though “Sympathetic Resonance” only features 6 songs. Arch/Matheos left nothing on the table and packed ever song on this album with pure metal progression. Definitely give this album a listen as it has a little something for everyone.

Track Listing:
1.)    Neurotically Wired
2.)    Midnight Serenade
3.)    Stained Glass
4.)    On the Fence
5.)    Any Given Day (Strangers Like Me)
6.)    Incense and Myrrh

Girl on Fire
“Revenge EP”
Hollywood Waste
Producer: WiL Francis
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Girl on Fire are a 4 piece Alt/Rock band hailing from the Seattle, WA area. The band consisting of Austin Held- Vocal, Mick McMahan- Guitar, Josh Mouser- Bass and Harry MacDonald- Drums bring a fresh new approach to the Alt/Rock scene with the release of the bands debut EP titled “Revenge”. “Revenge” is a blend of rock infused punk which is very reminiscent of early Linkin Park albums.

Though not really familiar with Girl on Fire prior to my listening of the “Revenge EP” I was pleasantly surprised and became a fan instantly. Tracks such as “Revenge” and “Tragic Ending” have a perfect blend of rock meets pop punk. Every song on the “Revenge EP” seemed to have a hook that instantly made your head bob along to the beat. Austin Held’s vocals are a breath of fresh air and compliment the songs perfectly.

Girl on Fire’s “Revenge EP” is pure listening goodness! My only complaint was that I wanted to hear more songs! With such a catchy and melodic approach I can’t wait to hear what Girl on Fire has in store next for its listeners.

Track Listing:
1.)    Revenge
2.)    Tragic Ending
3.)    Medicate
4.)    Secret Lies
5.)    Close Your Eyes

The Great Commission
“Heavy Worship”
ANGR/Century Media
Producer: Andrew P. Glover
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The Great Commission is a 6 piece band based out of Riverside, California. The band is made up of Justin- Vocals, Angela- Rhythm Guitar/Vocals, Robby- Lead Guitar, Victor- Guitar, Solomon- bass and Alonso on drums. The band labels themselves as a heavy worship band that blends the musical styles of hardcore, screamo and punk with Christian themed lyrical content. “Heavy Worship” is the band 3 release and is the follow up album to the bands 2009 Strike First release titled “And Every Knee Shall Bow”.

“Heavy Worship” is relentless in its approach both lyrically and musically. In my opinion the band does a great job blending scream vocals and pop punk sing along choruses which in turn make the album extremely fun to listen to. The 3 guitar attack provides a variety of heavy breakdowns which will surely conjure up the most fierce circle pits. The albums opening track “Don’t Go To Church, Be The Church” lays the foundation for later tracks such as “When It Rains It Pours” and “Draw The Line”. Even though the bands Christian themed messages may be too much for some listeners they do not over shadow the fact that “Heavy Worship” is a great album. and worth picking up no matter your thoughts or beliefs are!

The Great Commission’s “Heavy Worship” is a brutal onslaught of down tuned guitars and thick thunderous bass and drums which combined with Justin and Angela’s spot on vocals make for a really exciting album. No matter what your thoughts or beliefs are do yourself a favor and get this album!

Track Listing:
1.) Don’t Go To Church, Be The Church
2.) The Walking Dead
3.) When It Rains It Pours
4.) Draw The Line
5.) Preaching To The Choir
6.) Weight Of The World
7.) The Prodigal Son
8.) Road To Damascus
9.) The Juggernaut
10.) Reap What You Sow
11.) Came To My Rescue (Be Lifted…)

Warm Ghost
“Narrows”
Partisan Records
Producer: Abe Seiferth
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Warm Ghost are a two piece Brooklyn, NY group made up of Oliver Chapoy and Paul Duncan. Together the two fuse the sounds of Experimental Pop and something they call Psychedelic John Hughes. “Narrows” is the duo first release which is being released via Partisan Records on September 27th.

“Narrows” is an interesting blend of stylistic synth blends and slow droning vocals which are then combined together making up the 9 tracks found on Warm Ghost’s debut release. At times the group has somewhat of a Modest Mouse sound however it is a little less accesable to the casual listener. The band describes their sound as Psychedelic John Hughes and rightfully so. Tracks like “I Will Return” and “Inside Out” almost sound as though they came right out of one of Hughes movies however with a few updated touches. I was a fan of the track “Myths on Rotting Ships”. With such an interesting I was instantly drawn to it. The song is full of some really cool and interesting sound layers which makes it enjoyable to listen to.

Warm Ghost’s debut release “Narrows” may not be something you can listen to all the time or if you are a casual experimental music listen as it might be a little too much. However for those seasoned listeners and fans of the genre you may enjoy this release.

Track Listing:
1.) G.T.W.S.
2.) I Will Return
3.) Once One
4.) Myths on Rotting Ships
5.) Ply7
6.) Inside and Out
7.) Mariana
8.) Splay of Road
9.) An Absolute Light

Halcyon Way
“Indoctrination”
Nightmare Records
Producer: Lasse Lammert
Tracks: 8

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Indoctrination” is the newest release from one of Atlanta, Georgia’s premier metal bands Halcyon Way. “Indoctrination” is the follow up to the bands 2010 release titled “Building Towers”. The new album features 7 news tracks from the band as well a cover version of “Stand Up” a song which was featured in the film “Rockstar” starring Mark Wahlberg. The album also features a remixed version of the bands song “The System” which was remixed by Karbon Black. “Indoctrination” is slated for release on October 27th via Nightmare Records.

I am always interested in listening to the newest releases by bands that are handled by Freeman Promotions. John Freeman has a roster of metal bands that never ceases to amaze me and Halcyon Way is one of those bands. “Indoctrination” is an awesome blend of classic and new school metal. Indoctrination’s” opening track “On Black Wings” is a stunning example of the bands blend of classic and new metal tones. At times the band can come off a little campy however once Kris Malteniek’s brutal vocals kick in all that campiness is erased. The track “Revolution is Now” was another track that stuck out as a favorite of mine as I am a big fan of the heavy choruses and melodic verses.

If you are fan of bands like Queensryche and Dream Theater pick up Halcyon Way’s newest release “Indoctrination” and expand you progressive metal collection a bit further as this album is a real stand out in the genre.

Track Listing:
1.) On Black Wings
2.) Our Finest Hour
3.) IndoctriNation
4.) Revolution Is Now
5.) The Wages of War
6.) Stand Up
7.) The Age of Betrayal
8.) The System (Karbon Black RMX)

Elephant Mountain
“The Last Days of Planet Earth”
Producer: Brian Azzoto, Jeff Moleski
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“The Last Days of Planet Earth” is the first release by the Syracuse NY, based band Elephant Mountain. The band consisting of Joe Altier – Vocals, Brian “Slider” Azzoto – Guitars, Lewk Detor – Drums, John Hanus – Guitars, Dave Hoyt – Bass and Lou Segreti – B3 Organ. Elephant Mountain is the newest band to feature former Century Media artist Brand New Sin members Joe Altier and Brian “Slider “Azzoto.

Being a huge fan of Brand New Sin I was really excited to hear that Joe and Slider were back together in a new band Elephant Mountain. Since receiving this news I have been waiting to hear what kind of tunes they would come up with but, mainly how were the new songs going to compare to their previous Brand New Sin songs/albums. Well first off “The Last Days of Planet Earth” was well worth the wait! Songs like the albums opener “North of Nowhere” and “I’m Done” are spot on.  “The Last Days of Planet Earth” is one of those albums you can throw in your player and just listen to it over and over and not get bored.

Elephant Mountain’s “The Last Days of Planet Earth” is a great blend of Lynyrd Skynyrd meets Led Zeppelin infused tunes. “The Last Days of Planet Earth” really has something for everyone be it straight forward rock tunes to scaled back soulful ballads. Hands down “The Last Days of Planet Earth” is a great album!

Track Listing:
1.)    North of Nowhere
2.)    No Other
3.)    Pray
4.)    Out of my Head
5.)    Heaven’s Bleed
6.)    Words With Friends
7.)    Missin’ You
8.)    I’m Done
9.)    The Last Days of Planet Earth

Anthrax
“Worship Music”
Megaforce
Producer: Anthrax, Jay Ruston
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5

“Worship Music” produced by Anthrax, Scrap 60 and Jay Ruston is the legendary thrash/metal bands 10^th studio album. “Worship Music” is the first release of new music by the band since their 2003 release “We’ve Come For You All”. “Worship Music” is also the first album to feature singer Joey Belladonna since Anthrax’s 1990 release of “Persistence of Time”.

When I read that Joey Belladonna had been tapped to sing vocals on the new Anthrax album my inner thrash fan about exploded out of my chest! I like many other Anthrax fans have been waiting 20 years for Joey’s next album with the band and now its hear. “Worship Music’s” first single “Fight ‘Em Til You Can’t” kicks the album right off and is packed full of both classic and more modern Anthrax sounds. Joey Belladonnas voice is like an ageless wonder and in my opinion has never sounded better. Tracks like “The Devil You Know”, “I’m Alive” and “The Constant” were instant favorites of mine. However all 11 tracks included on “Worship Music” had great arrangements that I felt really showcased each member of the bands talent.

Anthrax’s “Worship Music” is classic Anthrax. For those hardcore Anthrax fans that have been waiting for a new album featuring Joey Belladonna your wait is over. Joey’s vocals are dead on reminiscent of the classic Anthrax albums we all grew up listening to. As a whole the band is extremely tight making “Worship Music” a great album to mosh and head bang to!

Track Listing:
1.) Worship (Intro)
2.) Fight ‘Em Til You Can’t
3.) The Devil You Know
4.) Earth on Hell
5.) Crawl
6.) I’m Alive
7.) In the End
8.) Revolution Screams
9.) The Giant
10.) The Constant
11.) Judas Priest

Entertainment One
Producer: Steve Ross/Jamey Jasta
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

From start to finish Jamey Jasta’s second solo album simply titles “Jasta” is a sonic assault on your senses. “Jasta” grabs you with its opening track “Walk That Path Alone” and doesn’t let go until the last note of “Death Bestowed” rings out. This album in my opinion truly shows Jamey’s pure vocal talent. The album is full of signature Jasta gravel vocals but it also showcases Jasta’s range as a singer. Tracks such as “Nothing They Say” and “Something You Should Know” are prime examples as they both show that Jamey can do much more than just scream or growl.

The thing I liked most about the album besides the guest vocal appearances by people such as Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society) and D. Randall Blythe (Lamb of God) was that Jamey reached out to his fans in an effort to fund the album. Prior to the album’s release fans could purchase items through Jamey’s web store and in return their name would appear in the albums linear notes. The second I heard this I jumped and board and I have to say it was really cool to get the album and see my name along with the other fans that helped with the album listed in the special thank you section.

Jamey Jasta really brings it with his new “Jasta” album. The only negative I could find was that even though the album features 12 tracks it only clocks in at around 35 minutes. Though this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as the album definitely gets its point across your average listener may shy away from the release for a more quantity over quality approach.

Track Listing:
1.) Walk That Path Alone
2.) Mourn the Illusion
3.) Nothing They Say
4.) Screams from the Sanctuary
5.) Say Anthem of the Freedom Fighter
6.) Something You Should Know (Featuring Phil Labonte)
7.) Set You Adrift
8.) Enslaved, Dead or Depraved (Featuring D. Randall Blythe)
9.) With a Resounding Voice (Featuring Tim Lambesis)
10.) The Fearless Must Endure (Featuring Zakk Wylde)
11.) Heart of a Warrior (Featuring Mike Vallely)
12.) Death Bestowed (Featuring Mark Morton)

Kittie
“I’ve Failed You”
Entertainment One
Producer: Siegfried Meier
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5

“I’ve Failed You” is Canadian based Kittie’s 6th full length studio album.The all female band enlisted producer Siegfried Meier and his Beach Road Studios located in Goderich, Ontario to record the album which features 11 new tracks . The album’s first single “We Are The Lamb” features Morgan Lander’s signature scratchy growling vocals combined with sister Mercedes’s rhythmic double bass drum patterns, the thunderous bass lines of Ivy Vujic and a flashy guitar solo provided by lead guitarist Tara McLeod for a single that is nothing but in your face metal.

Being a fan of Kittie since 2001, I was really looking forward to hearing what the girls had recorded for the new album “I’ve Failed You”. Needless to say upon my first listen the album blew me away just with its sheer energy and straight forward drive. Tracks such as “What I have Done”, “Never Come Home” and “Time Never Heals” real showcase what the band is capable of musically. While the track “Empires (Part 1)” break new ground for the band.

“I’ve Failed You” is a must have for Kittie and metal fans alike! This album has everything you could ever ask for in a metal album and then some!

Track Listing:
1.) I’ve Failed You
2.) We Are The Lamb
3.) Whisper of Death
4.) What Have I Done
5.) Empires (Part 1)
6.) Empires (Part 2)
7.) Come Undone
8.) Already Dead
9.) Never Come Home
10.) Ugly
11.) Time Never Heals

Record Label: John B. deHaas
Music & Lyrics: John B. deHaas
Recorded and Mixed by Brandon Knechtel at The Jamnasium, Clermont, Florida.
D Squared and Listy Lils Music Company Present
Total Length: 29:55

Album Score: 3 out of 5 stars

John Carpenter created one of the best horror films in history in 1978 and it has been used as the basis and inspiration for many projects. The latest is a musical parody stage production called, “Halloween: The Musical”. The project was recorded in fall 2010 and features its Orlando, FL cast and musicians. The man behind this creative idea is John B. deHaas. I have to say that this project is definitely ambitious as it takes one of the horror genres most important films and turning it into a musical. The idea of it works…for the most part.

In the first and second track, I have to give it to John, the lyrics are creative and the music is fun. The next three songs, “Walkin’ and Talkin’/Totally”, “Standin’ and Talkin'” and “Cruisin’ and Talkin'” are also decent but get a little bit repetitive. I liked them but I do not think I will be replaying them as favorites. I really enjoyed the song “Evil Eyes” sang by John Graham as Dr. Sam Loomis. “Don’t Get Dressed” was really catchy and fun song. Even though I was just listening and not watching I felt that it conveyed the action really well and was funny. My least favorite song was “The Confession” such Shawn Walsh as Michael Myers.

Overall the CD is fun in the beginning but loses it ideal about half way through…and the album is less than 30 minutes.  It is probably a hoot to watch the group to perform it live.  Overall, you got to give it up to John B. deHaas for taking a very serious and respected film and turning it into a witty musical comedy.  Worth a listen for sure if you are a genre fan.

Track List:
1. Trick or Treat
2. Why’d It Happen in Haddonfield?
3. Walkin’ and Talkin’/Totally
4. Standin’ and Talkin’
5. Cruisin’ and Talkin’
6. Evil Eye
7. Ben Tramer
8. The Bogeyman
9. Don’t Get Dressed
10. Michael’s Revenge
11. The Confession
12. Trick of Treat Finale
13. Michael Myers’ (Megamix)

A Pale Horse Named Death
“And Hell Will Follow Me”
SPV/Steamhammer
Producer: Sal Abruscasto/Matt Brown
Tracks: 13
Run time: 53 minutes and 37 seconds

Our Score: 3 out of 5

“And Hell Will Follow Me” is the debut release from Life of Agony drummer/ Type O Negative Co-Founder Sal Abruscasto’s new band A Pale Horse named Death. “And Hell Will Follow Me” showcases the many talents of Sal Abruscasto as he is the sole musician featured on the album. Abruscasto with the help of Matt Brown also produced the record which definatley blends all of Sal’s previous bands sounds into one doom filled ensemble.

“And Hell Will Follow Me” might be a little sluggish for your typical metal head. However for those Type O Negative fans out there looking for a similar sound look no further as “And Hell Will Follow” has that signature eerie sound the band was known for. Sludge rock mixed with a side of doom and a touch of techno samples will give fans of both Life of Agony and Type O Negative something to fill their ears with. Tracks such as “Serial Killer and “When The Crows Descend Upon You” were real stand outs for more as they had more of a hard rocking straight forward feel to them which when played live will surely conjure up a superior circle pit.

“And Hell Will Follow Me” showcases a very dark and gloomy sound that fans of both Abruscasto’s previous bands will surely enjoy.

Track Listing:
1.)    And Hell Will Follow Me
2.)    As Black As My Heart
3.)    To Die In Your Arms
4.)    Heroin Train
5.)    Devil In The Closet
6.)    Cracks In The Walls
7.)  Bad Dream
8.)    Bath In My Blood (Schizophrenia In Me)
9.)    Pill Head
10.)  Meet The Wolf
11.)  Serial Killer
12.)  When Crows Descend Upon You
13.)  Die Alone

ANVIL
Juggernaut of Justice
The End Records
Producer: Bob Marlette
Tracks: 12
Run Time: 43 min 35 seconds

Our Score: 4 out of 5

“Juggernaut of Justice” is  Canadian metal band Anvil’s 14^th studio album and is the follow up to the bands 2008 release “This is Thirteen” which was documented in the band acclaimed film “Anvil: The Story of Anvil”. “Juggernaut of Justice” was produced by Bob Marlette (Alice Cooper, Slayer) and recorded at Dave Grohl’s 606 Studios in Los Angeles.

“Juggernaut of Justice” is a much more streamlined and accessible album than the bands previous release.  With most tracks clocking in at around 4 minutes the album is very straight forward and in your face from start to finish. Even with the new streamlined approach the album is classic Anvil all the way. Each member of the band in my opinion is at the top of their game and “Juggernaut of Justice” proves that. Tracks such as “New Orleans Voodoo”, “Fukeneh”, and “Conspiracy” do a great job of blending the classic Anvil sound with Marlette’s clean production style. The real high light of the album which singer and guitarist Steve “Lips” Kudlow discussed in a recent interview with moviemikes.com is the track “Swing Thing”. This track breaks new ground by combining swing jazz and classic heavy metal.

“Juggernaut of Justice” has something for both new and old school Anvil followers. Even if you aren’t a dedicated Metal Pounder do yourself a favor and pick up this album!

Track Listing:
1.)    Juggernaut of Justice
2.)    When All Hell Breaks Loose
3.)    New Orleans Voodoo
4.)    On Fire
5.)    Fukeneh!
6.)    Turn it Up
7.)    The Ride
8.)    Not Afraid
9.)    Conspiracy
10.)  Running
11.)  Paranormal
12.)  Swing Thing

To read Steve “Lips” Kudlows interview with moviemikes.com go to http://moviemikes.com/2011/01/interview-with-anvils-steve-“lips”-kudlow/

Degradead
“A World Destroyer”
Metalville Records
Producer: Degradead/Jonas Kjellgren
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 5 out of 5

“A World Destroyer” is the 3^rd album by Stockhom, Sweden’s Degradead and is the follow up to the bands 2008 release “Out of Body Experience”. Degradead is made up of Mikael Swhlin- Vocals, Anders Nystrom- Guitar, David Szucs- Guitar, Michel Barzen- Bass and Kenneth Helgesson- Drums continues their use of death metal instrumentation blended with catchy melodic vocals that grab the listener from the very first note.

“A World Destroyer” from beginning to end is a relentless assault on your ears. From chugging guitars to bombastic bass lines mixed with catchy hook driven break downs Degradead have produced a really tight and slick record. From the albums face melting opening track “Human Nature” to the eerie acoustic intro of “Part of the System” “A World Destroyer” has everything a metal record should have!

Get to the nearest computer or record store if one still exists in your town and get this album!

Track Listing:
1.)    Human Nature
2.)    A Taste of Destiny
3.)    A False Hope
4.)    The Final Judgement
5.)    Broken
6.)    Part of the System
7.)    No One Prevail
8.)    Cold Blood
9.)    Near the End
10.)  Kept in the Dark

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