DJ Dougg Pound
Pound It
Running Time: 37 minutes
Tracks: 27
Produced by: Doug Lussenhop

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

When we recently interviewed Doug Lussenhop aka DJ Dougg Pound, he said that he told us that he tried doing both stand up and playing in bands but wasn’t good enough at either one. He said he enjoyed most doing a combination of both. That combination makes up this really a fun and entertaining CD. It reminds contains a great mix of of comedy and music. It will leave you repeating the lyrics immediately after your first listen for sure.

I had the privilege of seeing DJ Dougg Pound perform live in NYC during a Tim and Eric show years ago and he easily stole the show. He was fun and entertaining and luckily some of the tracks he played or available on this record like the great track “Who? (Remix)”.  If you like Tim and Eric-type of humor and music, this is a must purchase.

“Pound It” is a high energy song and a great start to the album. Though my favorite track is easily “Numb My Gummies”, it is very funny and has stuck with me for days after my first listen. Normally when skits and music are mashed together, I find myself skipping the dialogue to get to the music…though not with this one. The question is asked “Do you want to hear the remix” at the end of each skit and the remix is basically a coked-up techno remix of the skit, mixed with music and pop-culture. The collaboration of the two work really well and links each track together almost seamlessly.

The album was score at 4.5 out of 5 stars, only due to the fact that I was left wanting more. I wish the album could have been double the length.  The tracks are produced very well and sound very sharp. I look forward to future albums from DJ Dougg Pound and I have a feeling this album is going to spend many years on my iPhone’s playlist.

Track List:
1. Pound It
2. Knock Knock
3. Who? (Remix)
4. Digital Cameras
5. Digital Cameras (Remix)
6. Party Next Week
7. I’m the Best Dancer
8. Ya
9. Ya Who? (Remix)
10. Pussy Car
11. Long Cummmings
12. Inspiration Point
13. Ghini Genie
14. Gimme Lamborghini
15. Any more Questions?
16. Numb my Gummies
17. Roid Rage
18. Do you believe in having some ‘roids?
19. Someone to talk to
20. npr.org (remix)
21. Kinda picky
22. Reubenesque (Remix)
23. End of CD
24. Hidden Track
25. Secret track (Remix)
26. Unlisted song
27. Nooooooo

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Ken Jordan is one half of the musical team know as The Crystal Method. The group recently appeared in the documentary film “Re:Generation” and is currently working on a new EP. Media Mikes had a chance to talk with Ken recently about the groups products.

Adam Lawton: How did you first get involved with being in “Re:Generation”?
Ken Jordan: Sometime after the Coachella Festival last year we started talking about the idea. We like to jump on any opportunity that shows what we do and helps get our music out to people who might not normally discover it. The chance to be in what looked to be a really good film was very appealing to us. We were comfortable with doing the collaboration as R&B, Funk and Soul has always been a major influence to us. We were very excited to work in those genres. Working with Martha Reeves was really exciting for us.

AL: Was it hard working with the camera around all the time?
KJ: You get your little microphone attached to you and after awhile you forget about it. They were as un-intrusive as they could be. Eventually we got comfortable with them. We weren’t acting or anything so we just focused on making a good song.

AL: Did you find working on the different material changed your writing style at all?
KJ: It was different working with Martha in that way. We had originally thought we needed to deliver the song with completed lyrics and Martha would sing those. However she was not interested in doing that. We were sort of late to deliver the lyrics as we wanted to travel around Detroit and let the lyrics take on a shape of their own. We sprung them on her at the last minute which caused a little bit of conflict. Really all she wanted to do was protect Detroit and didn’t want to sing anything she wasn’t comfortable with. Over all it was a really easy process working with her. I think if we had to do it again we would work out all the lyrics ahead of time with Martha. I do think though that the way things worked out was for the best.

AL: What did you enjoy most about working on the project?
KJ: The whole experience of getting to know Detroit was great. Some of the things we saw during that time we will never forget. When they were tearing down the Ford Theater some of the crew got chunks of the black facade and we all signed each others chunk. We all have a nice souvenir from that. Getting to know Detroit through Martha’s eyes is something we will always keep with us.

AL: Can you tell us about your upcoming EP release?
KJ: The new EP is going to be titled “Sling the Decks” and it should be out this spring. We currently have one tracked titled and are working on the others. We also are working on a single that incorporates elements from a rock super group. That project is still in the early stages but it will be out this year as well.

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Lola Blanc is a singer, songwriter, actress and model. Lola has appeared in videos for many bands such as Interpol and Lifehouse. Media Mikes had a chance to talk with Lola recently about some of her past work as well as what she has planned for 2012.

Adam Lawton: What was it that made you want to pursue the music side of the entertainment business?
Lola Blanc: I have been writing since I can remember but when I was 9 I was really into the group Hanson. We had this closet growing up that my brother would use as a chemistry lab. I would go in there and listen to music by myself. I listened to the Hanson song “Thinking of You” and it made me cry. That was the first song to ever move me in such an emotional way. Hanson combined with the Spice Girls really changed my life and made me want to do music for the rest of my life.

AL: What has it been like working with people such as Brian Lee and David Gamson?
LB: Initially it was a little intimidating. I was thrown into this world with people who had done all these big things. It was however very exciting and overtime I felt like I was an equal as I was able to contribute creatively. It was truly a great experience.

AL: What is your favorite part working on music videos?
LB: It’s fun to play dress and play a character in someone else’s world. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other artists and see how the whole experience goes down. It has prepared me for working on my own music videos which is something that I am really looking forward to doing.

AL: Can you tell us about your work on “Repo: The Genetic Opera”?
LB: I was friends with someone who worked for Yoshiki and they needed people for some background vocals. I went in one night and did some yelling into a microphone which was a lot of fun. I eventually ended up working for Yoshiki as an assistant later on.

AL: What was it like working for Yoshiki?
LB: It’s interesting. Girls cry and scream when they are around him. They will actually bow down at his feet which I thought was kind of bizarre. It was fun and Yoshiki was really great. I was one of many assistants that he has and things are very hectic around there.

AL: What upcoming plans do you have for 2012?
LB: My main focus right now is getting prepared to shoot music videos. I am really excited as it’s a culmination of all the things I do. The videos are really a way for me to express myself on all levels. I get to show my fashion, personality and music all together. This is probably going to be the most fun I have had in my career. I also have plans to play some shows which I will get do the same thing and showcase all my talents.

The 2012 Grammys were held on Sunday, February 12^th 2012 at the Staple center in Los Angeles California. Though the night may have been overshadowed by the death of Whitney Houston the show continued on. Performances by Bruce Springsteen, the reformed Beach Boys, The Foo Fighters, and a touching rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” performed by Jennifer Hudson were definite highlights of the night. A heavily religious themed performance by Niky Minaj left people either scratching their heads or highly disturbed. LL Cool J did an ok job as the host for the event however his segues were kept very brief. Chris Brown made several appearances over the course of the evening as he has seemed to have earned his way back into the good graces of the music community. The big winners of the night were Adele who brought home 5 Grammy’s including one for Record of the Year and Album of the Year. The Foo Fighters also took home 5 Grammy’s which included Best Rock performance and Best Rock Album. Other noted winners were Bon Iver who beat out the likes of Skrillex and The Band Perry for Best new Artist while Lady Antebellum took home the award for Best Country Album beating out the likes of Jason Aldean and country staple George Strait. As with any awards show there will be high points and low points. Sadly I think the 2012 Grammy’s had more lows than highs but to end on a positive there are some really big releases slated for this year that will hopefully catch the attention of the right people.

2012 Grammy Award Winners

Record of the Year- “Rolling In the Deep” – Adele

Album of the Year- “21” – Adele

Song of the Year- “Rolling in the Deep” – Adele Adkins & Paul Epworth, songwriters (Adele)

Best New Artist- Bon Iver

Best Pop Solo Performance- “Someone Like You” – Adele

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance- “Body And Soul” – Tony Bennett & Amy Winehouse

Best Pop Instrumental Album- “The Road From Memphis” – Booker T. Jones

Best Pop Vocal Album- “21” – Adele

Best Dance Recording- “Scary Monsters And Nice Sprites” – Skrillex

Best Dance/Electronica Album- “Scary Monsters And Nice Sprites” – Skrillex

Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album- “Duets II” – Tony Bennett & Various Artists

Best Rock Performance- “Walk” – Foo Fighters

Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance- “White Limo” – Foo Fighters

Best Rock Song- “Walk” – Foo Fighters, songwriters (Foo Fighters)

Best Rock Album- “Wasting Light” – Foo Fighters

Best Alternative Music Album- “Bon Iver” – Bon Iver

Best R&B Performance- “Is This Love” – Corinne Bailey Rae

Best Traditional R&B Performance- “Fool For You” – Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona

Best R&B Song- “Fool For You” – Cee Lo Green & Jack Splash, songwriters (Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona)

Best R&B Album- “F.A.M.E.” – Chris Brown

Best Rap Performance- “Otis” – Jay-Z & Kanye West

Best Rap/Sung Collaboration- “All Of The Lights” – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie

Best Rap Song- “All Of The Lights” – Jeff Bhasker, Malik Jones, Warren Trotter & Kanye West, songwriters (Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie)

Best Rap Album- “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” – Kanye West

Best Country Solo Performance- “Mean” – Taylor Swift

Best Country Duo/Group Performance- “Barton Hollow” – The Civil Wars

Best Country Song- “Mean” – Taylor Swift, songwriter (Taylor Swift)

Best Country Album- “Own The Night” – Lady Antebellum

Best New Age Album- “What’s It All About” – Pat Metheny “Instrumental Oasis, Vol. 6” – Zamora

Best Improvised Jazz Solo- “500 Miles High” – Chick Corea, soloist

Best Jazz Vocal Album- “The Mosaic Project” – Terry Lyne Carrington & Various Artists

Best Jazz Instrumental Album- “Forever” – Corea, Clarke & White

Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album- “The Good Feeling” – Christian McBride Big Band

Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance- “Jesus” – Le’Andria Johnson

Best Gospel Song- “Hello Fear” – Kirk Franklin, songwriter (Kirk Franklin)

Best Contemporary Christian Music Song- “Blessings” – Laura Story, songwriter (Laura Story)

Best Gospel Album- “Hello Fear” – Kirk Franklin

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album- “And If Our God Is For Us…” – Chris Tomlin

Best Latin Pop, Rock or Urban Album- “Drama Y Luz” – Maná

Best Regional Mexican or Tejano Album- “Bicentenario” – Pepe Aguilar

Best Banda or Norteño Album- “Los Tigres Del Norte And Friends” – Los Tigres Del Norte

Best Tropical Latin Album- “The Last Mambo” – Cachao

Best Americana Album- “Ramble At The Ryman” – Levon Helm

Best Bluegrass Album- “Paper Airplane” – Alison Krauss & Union Station

Best Blues Album- “Revelator” – Tedeschi Trucks Band

Best Folk Album- “Barton Hollow” – The Civil Wars

Best Regional Roots Music Album- “Rebirth Of New Orleans” – Rebirth Brass Band

Best Reggae Album- “Revelation Pt 1: The Root Of Life” – Stephen Marley

Best World Music Album- “Tassili” – Tinariwen

Best Children’s Album- “All About Bullies… Big And Small” – (Various Artists) James Cravero, Gloria Domina, Kevin Mackie, Steve Pullara & Patrick Robinson, producers

Best Spoken Word Album- “If You Ask Me (And Of Course You Won’t)” – Betty White

Best Comedy Album- “Hilarious” – Louis C.K.

Best Musical Theater Album- “The Book Of Mormon” – Josh Gad & Andrew Rannells, principal soloists; Anne Garefino, Robert Lopez, Stephen Oremus, Trey Parker, Scott Rudin & Matt Stone, producers; Robert Lopez, Trey Parker & Matt Stone, composers/lyricists (Original Broadway Cast)

Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media– “Boardwalk Empire: Volume 1” – (Various Artists)

Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media- “The King’s Speech” – Alexandre Desplat, composer

Best Song Written For Visual Media- “I See The Light” (From “Tangled”) – Alan Menken & Glenn Slater, songwriters (Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi)

Best Instrumental Composition- “Life In Eleven” – Béla Fleck & Howard Levy, composers (Béla Fleck & The Flecktones)

Best Instrumental Arrangement- “Rhapsody In Blue” – Gordon Goodwin, arranger (Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band

Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist (s)- “Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)” – Jorge Calandrelli, arranger (Tony Bennett & Queen Latifah)

Best Recording Packaging- “The Promise: The Darkness On The Edge Of Town Story” – Dave Bett & Michelle Holme, art directors (Bruce Springsteen) “25th Anniversary Music Box” – Matt Taylor & Ellen Wakayama, art directors (Danny Elfman & Tim Burton)

Best Album Notes- “Hear Me Howling!: Blues, Ballads & Beyond As Recorded By The San Francisco Bay By Chris Strachwitz In The 1960s” – Adam Machado, album notes writer (Various Artists)

Best Historical Album- “Band On The Run (Paul McCartney Archive Collection – Deluxe Edition)” – Paul McCartney, compilation producer; Sam Okell & Steve Rooke, mastering engineers (Paul McCartney & Wings)

Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical- “Paper Airplane” – Mike Shipley, engineer; Brad Blackwood, mastering engineer (Alison Krauss & Union Station)

Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical- Paul Epworth – “Call It What You Want” (Foster The People) (T); “I Would Do Anything For You” (Foster The People) (T); “I’ll Be Waiting” (Adele) (T); “Life On The Nickel” (Foster The People) (T); “No One’s Gonna Love You” (Cee-Lo Green) (S); “Rolling In The Deep” (Adele)(T)

Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical- “Cinema” (Skrillex Remix) – Sonny Moore, remixer (Benny Benassi)

Best Surround Sound Album- “Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs (Super Deluxe Edition)” – Elliot Scheiner, surround mix engineer; Bob Ludwig, surround mastering engineer; Bill Levenson & Elliot Scheiner, surround producers (Derek & The Dominos)

Best Engineered Album, Classical- “Aldridge: Elmer Gantry” – Byeong-Joon Hwang & John Newton, engineers; Jesse Lewis, mastering engineer (William Boggs, Keith Phares, Patricia Risley, Vale Rideout, Frank Kelley, Heather Buck, Florentine Opera Chorus & Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra)

Producer Of The Year, Classical- Judith Sherman – “Adams: Son Of Chamber Symphony; String Quartet” (John Adams, St. Lawrence String Quartet & International Contemporary Ensemble); “Capricho Latino” (Rachel Barton Pine); “85th Birthday Celebration” (Claude Frank); “Insects & Paper Airplanes – Chamber Music Of Lawrence Dillon” (Daedalus Quartet & Benjamin Hochman); “Midnight Frolic – The Broadway Theater Music Of Louis A.

Best Orchestral Performance- “Brahms: Symphony No. 4” – Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Los Angeles Philharmonic)

Best Opera Recording- “Adams: Doctor Atomic” – Alan Gilbert, conductor; Meredith Arwady, Sasha Cooke, Richard Paul Fink, Gerald Finley, Thomas Glenn & Eric Owens; Jay David Saks, producer (Metropolitan Opera Orchestra; Metropolitan Opera Chorus)

Best Choral Performance-“Light & Gold” – Eric Whitacre, conductor (Christopher Glynn & Hila Plitmann; The King’s Singers, Laudibus, Pavão Quartet & The Eric Whitacre Singers)

Best Small Ensemble Performance- “Mackey: Lonely Motel – Music From Slide” – Rinde Eckert & Steven Mackey; Eighth Blackbird

Best Classical Instrumental Solo- “Schwantner: Concerto For Percussion & Orchestra” – Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor; Christopher Lamb (Nashville Symphony); Track from:

Best Classical Vocal Solo- “Diva Divo” – Joyce DiDonato (Kazushi Ono; Orchestre De L’Opéra National De Lyon; Choeur De L’Opéra National De Lyon)

Best Contemporary Classical Composition- “Aldridge, Robert: Elmer Gantry” – Robert Aldridge & Herschel Garfein “Crumb, George: The Ghosts Of Alhambra” – George Crumb; Track from:

Best Short Form Music Video- “Rolling In The Deep” – Adele; Sam Brown, video director; Hannah Chandler, video producer

Best Long Form Music Video- “Foo Fighters: Back And Forth” – Foo Fighters; James Moll, video director; James Moll & Nigel Sinclair, video producers

“Out of the Darkness”
A Sound of Thunder
Nightmare Records
Producer: Kevin “131” Gutierrez
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Out of the Darkness” is the latest release from the heavy metal group A Sound of Thunder. The Washington DC based band consists of Nina Osegueda- Vocals, Josh Schwartz- Guitar, Chris Haren- Drums and, Jesse Keen- Bass. The album is being released via Nightmare Records and features 10 brand new tracks produced by Kevin “131” Gutierrez (Shinedown).

The songs contained on A Sound of Thunders latest full length release could be described as a blend of 70’ and 80’s metal but with a modern twist. Vocalist Nina Osegueda takes an approach to singing that could rival the likes of Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford as she effortlessly belts out note after note. Tracks such as “Murderous Horde” showcase not only Osegueda but the entire band as a whole. A personal favorite of mine was “Out of the Darkness” with its double bass, screeching falsetto entrance is a track that just grabs you from the very start. From a production stand point the album seemed very streamlined which I think only adds to its appeal. Though the length of some of the songs may be too much for a casual listener fans of both new and classic metal will surely want to check out this album.

Track Listing:
1.) The Day I Die
2.) The Nightwitch
3.) Kill That Bitch
4.) Murderous Horde
5.) A Sound of Thunder
6.) Out of the Darkness
7.) Calat Alhambra
8.) Flight Until the End
9.) This Too Shall Pass
10.) Discovery

“Reborn In Defiance Tour”
Biohazard, Sworn Enemy, Ghost Ship, Caustic Method, Jonestown
Date: Wednesday, February 8th 2012
Venue: Station 58, Syracuse, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Biohazard brought their brand of NY hardcore to Station 58 in Syracuse, NY on Wed. Feb. 8th and even though the turn out for the show was somewhat small and, Biohazard guitarist Bobby Hambel was suffering from pneumonia the Brooklyn born band still put on a great show for all those in attendance.

Jonestown hailing from Watertown, NY kicked off the show as fans slowly made their way through the intimate venues door. A small number of people posed no problem for the band as they put on performance as though the venue was filled to capacity. Fan favorite Caustic Method took the stage in the form of a 3 piece due in part to still training a new guitar player. You wouldn’t have known the band was playing a man down as they blasted through a 30 minute set which had people banging their heads and pumping their fists. Syracuse’s own Ghost Ship followed and performed a solid straight edge filled set reminiscent of early spirit 90’s era Earth Crisis shows.

Veteran hardcore group Sworn Enemy was on next and after a brief stage change proceeded to kick the night/crowd into a giant circle pit of fury. Performing a variety of songs from the bands 17 year career did a great job of priming the crowd for what was to come. As soon as their last song was done the crowd pushed forward in preparation for the nights headlining act to take the stage.

Biohazard helmed by energetic vocalist/guitarist Billy Graziadei hit the stage at 10pm and for one sweat filled hour packed enough punch in their set to knock out the likes of UFC champion Anderson Silva. Despite guitarist Bobby Hambel suffering from a severe case of pneumonia he played as nothing was wrong and only paused for a brief second to throw up behind his amp once or twice. The set list featured a variety of classic songs and a few songs of the band’s latest album titled “Reborn in Defiance”. Even though the bands line up was not fully the original due to former bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld leaving the band last year Scott Roberts did a great job filling the void. On February 8th, Biohazard proved to Syracuse, NY that they are still the raining kings on NYC hardcore.

Biohazard Set List:
1. Urban Discipline
2. What Makes Us Tick
3. Chamber Spins Three
4. Reborn
5. Black and White and Red All Over
6. Retribution
7. Down For Life
8. Come Alive
9. Vengeance is Mine
10. Shades of Grey
11. Love Denied
12. Howard Beach
13. Punishment
14. Hold My Own

Tyrone Wells
“Where We Meet”
Position Music
Producer: Bill Lefler, Thomas Doeve
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Where We Meet” is the 5th full length album from singer/songwriter Tyrone Wells. This album is the first release from Wells since his departure from Universal Republic. Produced by Bill Lafler and Thomas Doeve the album features 11 brand new tracks which are being released via Position Music.

The latest release from Tyrone Wells features 11 feel good arrangements that have the power to turn a bad day into a good one. “Where We Meet” features a straight forward production approach which allows the musicianship and vocal abilities of Wells to shine. The opening number titled “Freedom” provides a calming mood which instantly sets the tone for the later tracks on the album. I personally enjoyed the song “I Can’t Save You Now” which blended Well’s voice and guitar playing with a steady back beat of drums and piano. If you’re feeling down and need a pick me up or just want to listen to a feel food album Tyrone Well’s latest release “Where We Meet” will do the trick. For those wishing to check out Well’s live he will be kicking off a 38 date U.S. tour on March 20th in Provo, Utah.

Track Listing:
1.) Freedom
2.) You’re The One
3.) I Can’t Save You Now
4.) Satellite
5.) The Most
6.) Head Over Heels
7.) Run Away With Me
8.) Where We Meet
9.) Don’t Be Afraid
10.) You Still Love Me
11.) A Way Out

Voodoo Terror Tribe
“Stands to Reason” EP
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Stands to Reason” is the latest release from the band Voodoo Terror Tribe. The band consisting of Gil PZ- Vocals, Emir Erkal- Guitars, Primer- Bass and T-Bone- Drums play a unique blend of industrial tinged metal filled with catchy lyrical content and thunderous guitar tones. The EP which is being released independently by the band and features 3 new original tracks, a remixed version of the bands song “Never Died Before” and a synth filled cover of the Journey song “Separate Ways”.

Though the album doesn’t have label backing it should not be discredited in any way. Each of the five tracks featured on “Stand to Reason” feature lush arrangements filled to the brim with pure unadulterated power. It should be noted that while recording the EP the band took a great risk venturing into new musical territory while reinventing their sound as a whole. I think this EP is a great testament to the bands new sound and I really can’t wait to hear what is in store next for the Garden State band.

For those interested in checking out the band and its new EP you can go to the bands website www.voodooterrortribe.com. There you can find out more about the band and be able to name your price when downloading songs off the new EP.

Track Listing:
1.) Masquerade
2.) Stands to Reason
3.) Twenty12
4.) Separate Ways
5.) Never Died Before (Re-Mix)

Opera Diabolicus
“+1614”
Metalville Records
Producer: Andy LaRocque
Tracks: 8

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“+1614” is the first release from the doom metal group Opera Diabolicus. The idea for such a group came out of a chance meeting between composer David Grimoire and Lyricist Adrian de Crow. Together with the help of Snowy Shaw (King Diamond), Mats Leven (Yngwie Malmsteen), and Niklas Isfeldt (Dream Evil) the group has combined elements of theater and heavy metal into what makes up the 8 tracks contained on “+1614”. The album is being released via Metalville Records and was produced by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond).

If every theater production featured music like what is featured on “+1614” I would stop going to concerts and only attend stage productions. David Grimoire and the rest of the musicians featured on this recording really nailed it. The album played as though you were actually watching a stage production which was taken over by guitar wielding maniacs. The track “Mythos Lamia” featured non-stop face melting guitar solos while the song “Forbidden” was packed full of pounding bass and drums.

Opera Diabolicus’s album “+1614” is very unique and could probably be considered group breaking in its approach. I would also like to commend producer Andy LaRocque for his ability to capture all the various elements of each song. His production of the 8 tracks on this album in a way transported you into the middle of a chaotic landscape set to a an extremely technical pieces of music. Even if you are not a fan of concept or themed albums, do yourself a favor a give this album a listen. There is a lot that can be taken from this album both musically and from a production stand point.

Track Listing:
1.) Overture
2.) The Gates
3.) Blood Countess Bathory
4.) The 13th Guest
5.) In Memoriam
6.) Mythos Lamia
7.) Forbidden
8.) Stone by Stone

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Hemina
“Synthetic”
Hemina
Nightmare Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Synthetic” is the latest release from the Australian progressive/metal band Hemina. The album is being released via Nightmare records and features 11 brand new tracks mixed by Tommy Hansen (Helloween). Packed with a variety of tones and sonic landscapes the latest album by Hemina is what I would describe as Devin Townsend meets Evanescence.

Most of the 11 songs contained on “Synthetic” feature very lengthy arrangements that I found hard to focus on as the tracks dragged on past the 4 minute mark. Though the album was not as heavy and guitar dominant as I would have liked there were one or two tracks worth mentioning. “Even in Heaven” is a straight forward rocker with melodic vocal passages and a ripping instrumental accompaniment. While the albums closing track “Haunting Me” has a really cool fell and vibe to it.

The production/mixing on the album I thought was very well done and helped enhance the performance of each musician. Though I personally would have preferred the songs to be a bit shorter If you are a fan of bands like Yes, Dream Theater and Ayreon then you will surely want to check out the latest release from the band Hemina.

Track Listing:
1.) This Hour of Ours
2.) To Conceive a Plan
3.) The Boy is Dead
4.) For All Wrong Reasons
5.) And Now to Find a Friend
6.) With What I See
7.) Hunting Is For Women
8.) Even in Heaven
9.) Conduit to the Sky
10.) Haunting Me!
11.) Divine

Imminent Sonic Destruction
“Recurring Themes”
Producer: Roy Z
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Recurring Themes” is the latest release from the Detroit based progressive/metal band Imminent Sonic Destruction. The bands line up consists of Tony Piccoli – Lead Vocals/ Guitars, Pat DeLeon Drums/Percussion, Scott Thompson – Guitars/Vocals, Pete Hopersberger – Keyboards/Vocals and Bryan Paxton – Bass/Vocals. Together they are independently releasing their new album which features 9 original tracks produced by Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickinson).

Prior to listening to the new album from Imminent Sonic Destruction I was a little worried that I would be spending the next hour or so trying to digest another progressive rock album. An album without label backing worried me even further. Despite my preconceived notions I forged ahead and was greatly surprised by the power and diversity found on “Recurring Themes”. Vocalist Tony Piccoli does a great job blending melodic harmonies and guttural growling over the top of some really great instrumentation. Tracks like “Breaking Through” and “Here, It’s Over” really showcase the band as a collective crushing unit. Though there are a couple tracks that run past the 10 minute mark the arrangements of those songs are put together in a way that keep the listener on track.

The band along with producer Roy.Z did a good job at making a really solid album that I feel will stand out above a lot of others in the progressive/rock, metal genre. If you are a fan of bands like Strapping Young Lad and Meshuggah you surely want to check out the latest release from the Motor City’s Imminent Sonic Destruction

Track Listing:
1.) Driving Home
2.) Monster
3.) With Death, The Story Ends
4.) Breaking Through
5.) Temple
6.) Here, It’s Over
7.) Sick
8.) The Remembering
9.) Raven

Adrenaline Mob
“Omerta”
Elm City Music
Producer: Adrenaline Mob
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Omerta” is the first full length album from the hard rock super group Adrenaline Mob. The album is the follow up to the group’s well received self titled EP which was released in August of 2011. “Omerta” is being released by the newly formed Elm City Music and features 11 tracks produced by Adrenaline Mob and mixed by Jay Ruston.

Those not familiar with Adrenaline Mob need to take notice! The groups line up consists of Russell Allen- vocals, Mike Orlando- guitar, Mike Portnoy- drums and the newest member of the group Disturbed bassist John Moyer. “Omerta” runs the gambit of pure metal goodness. Tracks like “Undaunted” which features a great sing along choruses while the in your face attack of “Hit The Wall” will having you instantly banging your head. Each member of the band seems to have put everything they have into their performance leaving nothing on the table. A guest vocal performance by Lzzy Hale of Halestorm puts the icing on the cake with the bands spectacular rendition of the Duran Duran song “Come Undone”.

Those familiar with the members of Adrenaline Mob’s previous works will surely want to check out “Omerta”. The album has a little bit of everything and is complimented by a great mix courtesy of Jay Ruston. The album is scheduled for release in mid March of 2012 so definitely be on the lookout for it.

Track Listing:
1.) Undaunted
2.) Psychosane
3.) Indifferent
4.) All On The Line
5.) Hit the Wall
6.) Feelin’ Me
7.) Come Undone
8.) Believe Me
9.) Down To The Floor
10.) Angel Sky
11.) Freight Train

“Children of Bodom’s 15th Anniversary Tour”
Children of Bodom, Eluveite, Revocation and Threat Signal
Date: Monday, January 30th 2012
Venue: Water St. Music Hall, Rochester, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

January 30th ad the Water Street Music Hall in Rochester, NY played host to the third show of a 36 date tour which is celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Finnish heavy metal group Children of Bodom. Along with Children of Bodom the nights line up featured special guests Eluveite, Revocation and Threat Signal.

Ontario, Canada’s Threat Signal kicked off the show playing a blend of harmony infused metal that did a great job priming the audience. Though their set was brief the band seemed to put everything they had into their performance. Revocation would take the stage next and treated the crowd to what could be described as Mid-Evil Metal. Front man Dave Davidson did a great job of setting the story for each epic song prior to its performance. This only seemed to draw the crowd more into the band’s blend of progressive, mystically tinged music.

The 8 piece Celtic-metal group known as Eluveite would be up next and despite every inch of the stage being filled with band members and instruments Eluveite stole the show. Lead vocalist Chrigel Glanzmann had the crowd in the palm of his hand during the bands 40 min. set. Chrigel and the rest of the band filled the venue with a variety of unique sound normally not heard in the metal genre. The band performed a number of tracks off their 2010 release “Everything Remains (As It Never Was)” album as well as a few new songs off the upcoming “Helvetios” album. After an impressive 40 min. performance the band left the stage to repeated chants of “one more song”.

Children of Bodom closed out the night treating the fans with songs that spanned their 15 year career. Front man Alexi Laiho put on a blinding display of guitar playing only further confirming why he is often considered one of the top metal guitarists of the day. Through most of the set I found Alexi’s vocals hard to hear over the deafening roar of guitar and drums. This could have been attributed to the tour being only on its third show and still having some bugs needing to be worked out or, the band is really just the loud. Over all the bands performance was ok. Personally I would have liked to have heard one or two covers tracks off the bands “Blooddrunk” album.

If you have never seen Children of Bodom before I highly recommend making out to one of the shows on this tour. I recommend getting their early as the entire tour package is really solid. Also you definitely won’t want to miss Eluveite.

Children of Bodom Set List:
1. Shovel Knockout
2. Are You Dead Yet?
3. Not My Funeral
4. Kissing the Shadows
5. Living Dead Beat
6. Round Trip to Hell and Back
7. COB/Deadnight Warrior/Hate Me!
8. SixPounder
9. BloodDrunk
10. Angels Don’t Kill
11. In Your Face
12. HCDR
13. Bodom After Midnight
14. Bodom Beach Terror
15. Downfall

Artist: Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band
Date: February 4th, 2012
Venue: Amway Center- Orlando, FL
Tour: Welcome to Fin Land

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have been a fan of Jimmy Buffett for at least the past 15 years or so but I am embarrassed to say that I have never attended a live concert. Now if you are Buffett fan or a Parrothead as they are called you know that it is the only way to party and listen to his music. Let me tell you one thing, FL knows how to party. It was quite an experience and I have to say Jimmy Buffett and his band, The Coral Reefers, really know how to put on a performance. There was so much energy in the Amway Center,  it was extremely infectious.

You know you are going to have a great time that before the concert even begins within the audience there is probably around 50 beach balls flying in every single direction. When Jimmy and the band takes the stand you just couldn’t help but shoot up out of your seat and scream! For someone like Jimmy Buffett that has been touring since 1976, you would think that this was his first time out. He sang his songs, barefoot, and did not stop smiling and grinning the entire time. You can just tell when someone is enjoying themselves and it definitely translates into the audience’s participation as well.

About 30 minutes into the 2+ hour concert, my wife turned and looked at me and said “what songs is he going to sing for an encore, he is playing all the good ones now”. It just a small reflection of how the night was going to pan out. The set list was absolutely fantastic, totaling 24 songs and 3 in the encore.  He kicked it off with all of my favorites songs and didn’t let up for one single second. It was just song after song and hit after hit. After years of listening to the concerts live on SiriusXM Margaritaville, I am very happy that I finally got the chance to experience the wonder that is Jimmy Buffett.  I think there might be only one small problem…I might be hooked. Until next time Mr. Buffett…

1. The Wino and I Know
2. License to Chill
3. It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere
4. Pencil Thin Mustache
5. Come Monday
6. Life Is Just a Tire Swing
7. Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes
8. Grapefruit—Juicy Fruit
9. Bama Breeze
10. Volcano
11. Cheeseburger in Paradise
12. One Particular Harbour
13. Creola
14. Floridays
15. Why Don’t We Get Drunk
16. Margaritaville
17. Son of a Son of a Sailor
18. School Boy Heart
19. Last Mango in Paris
20. Knee Deep
21. Woman Goin’ Crazy on Caroline Street
22. A Pirate Looks at Forty
23. Back Where I Come From (Mac McAnally cover)
24. Southern Cross (Crosby, Stills & Nash cover)

25. Fins
26. Brown Eyed Girl (Van Morrison cover)
27. Tin Cup Chalice

JOHNNY CASH’S 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SET TO KICK OFF FEBRUARY 26 WITH GROUND-BREAKING ON THE RESTORATION OF HIS DYESS, ARKANSAS BOYHOOD HOME

Archive Recordings from Sun and Columbia Years, Johnny Cash Museum and Much More Planned for 2012 to Pay Tribute to The Man in Black

LOS ANGELES, CA – (Tuesday, February 7, 2012) — America’s much-treasured icon Johnny Cash, who would have turned 80 years old on February 26, will be the focus of a series of tributes and celebrations in 2012, starting with the official ground-breaking of the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home Project in Dyess, AR. ‘A number of family members including Cash’s children Rosanne, John Carter, Cindy and Kathy Cash Tittle, plus at least seven of his grandchildren, will be on hand for the launch event scheduled to take place February 26, 2:00PM at the Dyess Community Center, followed by a birthday tribute.

Said Rosanne Cash, “February 26th, 2012 marks the 80th anniversary of my father’s birth. On that day, the extended Cash family will gather at his boyhood home in Dyess, Arkansas, to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home project: an undertaking long in the planning, and a great honor and thrill for our family. This entire year we celebrate not just his roots and history, but the breadth and depth of his artistic legacy, his spirit and authenticity, and the love and rhythm he brought to all our lives which continues to inspire millions of people around the globe.”

The Johnny Cash Boyhood Home Project will be a permanent tribute to Cash’s early life and that of his family’s, as well as reflect an historical slice of American life during the 1930’s Great Depression. Arkansas State University is spearheading the restoration of not only the house that Cash grew up in and its various outbuildings, but has taken under its wing several other Dyess historic buildings in an effort to preserve the town’s rich heritage. ASU’s end-goals include the establishment of a Johnny Cash museum, a space for educational workshops, classes, and demonstrations, the creation of tourism-related jobs in the town, and providing scholarships to ASU for deserving students from the Dyess area.

ASU’s Dr. Ruth Hawkins, who initiated Arkansas’s Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and other Arkansas heritage sites, is overseeing the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home Project. “We are working very hard to achieve authenticity in this restoration,” said Dr. Hawkins. “Based on photos and the recollections of family members, the house will be furnished as it was during the 1930s and 1940s when the Cash family lived there. We’ve gone so far as to take core paint samples from the house and send them for lab analysis to ensure that we have the correct colors.

Fundraising for the project began last August with the first annual Johnny Cash Music Festival held on the ASU Jonesboro campus. The concert featured performances by John Carter Cash, Rosanne Cash, George Jones, Kris Kristofferson, and many others, all of whom donated their time. The Cash family is committed to hosting the Festival yearly, and has earmarked all proceeds for the Dyess restoration project.

Johnny Cash, known as “J.R.,” grew up in Dyess Colony, an agricultural resettlement community in Arkansas that was part of the “New Deal,” the government’s economic program that provided relief to desperately poor families. In 1935, the Cash’s were one of 500 original families who received a brand new Colony house, 20 to 40 acres of land, a mule and seed for farming (less than 40 houses remain). Life in the Dyess Colony served as a tremendous influence on the young J.R., with the back-breaking work he did in the cotton fields, and the music he sang in church and heard on the radio providing the inspiration for many of the songs he would later write, such as “Five Feet High and Rising” and “Pickin’ Time.”

Also set for this year-long birthday celebration is the opening of the new Johnny Cash Museum in downtown Nashville. On display will be many items from the legendary House of Cash that closed in 1999, as well as additional memorabilia endowed by the Cash family. Details will be announced shortly. Also in celebration of Cash’s 80th birthday, Columbia/Legacy will release a series of archive titles beginning with Bootleg IV: The Soul of Truth slated for April 3. More information will be announced shortly. In addition, three documentaries on Johnny Cash’s life are in various stages of development.

Separate from spearheading their father’s 80th birthday celebrations, John Carter and Rosanne Cash are each busy with their own projects. Rosanne, whose book “Composed: A Memoir,” was released in hardcove.

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