CD Review: Yes “In The Present- Live From Lyon”

Yes
“In The Present- Live From Lyon”
Frontiers Records
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“In The Present-Live From Lyon” is the latest live release from the classic rock group Yes. The album was recorded during the bands performance in Lyon, France on December 1st, 2009. The album is being released on Frontier Records as a 2 CD/DVD combo as well as a 3 LP set featuring a limited edition gatefold sleeve.

Yes are no strangers to the live album concept as this is the bands 5th live release since their inception in 1968. “In The Present- Live From Lyon” is packed full of classic Yes tunes from all era’s of the bands career. Tracks such as “I’ve Seen All Good People”, “Roundabout” and “Owner of a Lonely Heart” are featured on this 2 CD or 3 LP release. Vinyl purists should take note that the 3 LP versions do not include the 55 min. DVD which accompanies the 2 CD version of the album. However the vinyl release does feature a limited edition gatefold sleeve.

I found the recordings contained on “In The Present- Live From Lyon” to be missing some of their drive. Each of the 14 tracks sounded very thin and lacked bass and definition. Historically Live albums are just as they say…Live which can account for diminished sound qualities. However in today’s day world live recording technology allows almost as much flexibility as a studio setting. I think a lot more could have been done to increase the bands over all sound. It really is just a shame that such great playing is over shadowed by poor sound quality. That aside diehard yes fans will still want to add this release to their collections.

Track Listing: Disc 1
1.)    Siberian Kathru
2.)    I’ve Seen All Good People
3.)    Tempus Fugit
4.)    Onward
5.)    Astral Traveller
6.)    And You And I
7.)    Corkscrew (acoustic solo)

Track Listing: Disc 2
1.)    Owner of a Lonely Heart
2.)    Southside of the Sky
3.)    Machine Messiah
4.)    Heart of the Sunrise
5.)    Roundabout
6.)    Starship Trooper

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, live, lyon, present, review

CD Review: RiotGod “Invisible Empire”

RiotGod
“Invisible Empire”
Metalville Records
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Invisible Empire” is the 2nd studio album release by the Red Bank, NJ based band RiotGod. The bands line up consists of Garret Sweeney- guitar, Mark Sunshine- vocals and Monster Magnet members Bob Pantella- drums and Jim Baglino- bass. “Invisible Empire” is being released via Metalville Records and is the follow up release to the bands self titled album “RiotGod”

Being a fan of Monster Magnet back in my college days I was curious to hear what the rhythm section of the band had going on as of late. Though a touch different than what I was expecting “Invisible Empire” still was a fairly enjoyable listen. Vocalist Mark Sunshine has a Robert Plant type sound to his voice that gives these 12 tracks a modern Led Zeppelin sound. The track “Loosely Bound” was a personal favorite of mine as I really enjoyed the guitar playing and overall feel of the song. The 12 tracks contained on “Invisible Empire” may not have enough of the Monster Magnet sound for hardcore fans of the band however, those willing to explore something different will find a solid rock album.

Track Listing:
1.)    Breed
2.)    Fool
3.)    Crossfade
4.)    Slow Death
5.)    Firebrand
6.)    Gas Station Roses
7.)    Tomorrow’s Today
8.)    Saving It Up
9.)    Loosely Bound
10.)  Lost
11.)  Hallow Mirror
12.)  Rebirth

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CD Review: Astral Doors “Jerusalem”

Astral Doors
“Jerusalem”
Locomotive Music
Producers: Daniel Bergstrand
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Jerusalem” produced by Daniel Bergstrand is the 6th and latest  full length studio album from the metal group Astral Doors. “Jerusalem” is the follow up to the bands 2010 release titled “Requiem of Time”. The album is being released via Locomotive Music.

Fans of classic metal will definitely want to take a listen to “Jerusalem”. The album is packed full of straight forward metal riffs and vocals that are very reminiscent of the late, great Ronnie James Dio. The album features 11 new studio tracks that from the very start of the album captivated me as a listener. Tracks such as “Children of Rock N’ Roll”, “Lost Crucifix” and the acoustic tinged “The Day After Yesterday” I felt really showcased what the Astral Doors has to offer. The overall mix of the album I thought sounded great as it really complimented the playing of the band.

Heavy metal purists may be quick to accuse the band of merely copying what has previously been done however “Jerusalem” is much more than that. This album is an updated take on the classic metal albums fans of the genre grew up on. Yes the sound of the band may be a bit dated in terms of the new metal material being released these days but that doesn’t stop this album from being a solid all around metal album.

Track Listing:
1.)    Seventh Crusade
2.)    With A Stranger’s Eye
3.)    Child of Rock N’ Roll
4.)    Pearl Harbor
5.)    Lost Crucifix
6.)    Babylon Rise
7.)    Suicide Rime
8.)    The Battle of Jacob’s Ford
9.)    Operation Freedom
10.)  The Day After Yesterday
11.)  Jerusalem

 

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CD Review: Me Vs Myself “Where I Am…Where I Want to Be” EP

Me Vs Myself
“Where I Am…Where I Want to Be” EP
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Where I Am…Where I Want to Be” EP is the second release from the band Me Vs Myself. The Seattle band consists of members from the bands On The Last Day, Aiden and Forgive Durden? Together the quartet brings forth a sound that is full of fun lyrics and riffs

This EP features a catchy grouping of songs that are really enjoyable to listen to. It was a nice change to hear something this upbeat and fresh. The track “Now and Then” features a really great chorus that is super catchy and will in no time have you singing along. Tracks like “The Right Time” and “Carefully” feature nice laid back arrangements.

Being a relative stranger to Me Vs Myself prior to listening to the EP, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However after listening to the 5 tracks contained on “Where I Am…Where I Want to Be”, I quickly became a fan and can’t wait to hear what else the band has in store.

Track Listing:
1.)    Before I Wake
2.)    Perfectly Wrong
3.)    Now And Then
4.)    The Right Time
5.)    Carefully

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: amwhere, cd, ep, review

CD Review: The Last Vegas “Other Side EP”

The Last Vegas
“Other Side EP”
Eleven Seven Music
Producer: Johnny K
Tracks: 3

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5stars

“Other Side EP” is the latest release from the band The Last Vegas. Based out of Chicago, IL the band blends a variety of rock sounds both new and old. The EP was produced by Grammy Nominated producer Jonny K who has worked with acts such as Disturbed, 3 Doors Down and, Staind. The EP is being released through Eleven Seven Music and features 3 new tracks available for free through the bands website.

Though the EP only features 3 songs each of those songs are packed with rock and roll goodness. If these 3 tracks are any indication of what’s to come with the bands full length release then we are all going to be in for a treat. The tracks reminded me of old school Gun’s N’ Roses but with a modern spin. “Other Side” was a personal favorite of mine as the track is a great all around rock tune that has a really great groove.

For free you really can’t go wrong downloading this EP. A lot of bands these days are releasing tracks for free and a lot of times there’s a reason they do so. Each of the 3 tracks contained on “The Other Side” are great representations of what the band has to offer.

Track Listing:
1.) Evil Eyes
2.) It Ain’t Easy
3.) Other Side

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CD Review: Slash “Made in Stoke 24/7/11”

Slash
“Made in Stoke 24/7/11”
Number of Discs: 2
Running time: 160 mins
Label: Eagle Records

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Slash is one of the greatest guitarist in the industry. This 2011 live release was recorded at the Victoria Hall in Stoke On Trent on July 24th. A cool fact about this show, is that it marks Slash’s return to his childhood home. Now obviously you know that Slash is know best for his guitar work but on this record the vocals were handled by Myles Kennedy of Alter Bridge. Let me tell you Myles totally rocks on vocals and nails some really great Guns N’ Roses tracks. Since this tour was to promote Slash’s debut album, the setlist featured tracks from that album, but also from his band work with Snakepit, Velvet Revolver and of course classic songs that he co-wrote for Guns N’ Roses.

I gotta tell you listening to the guitar work on this album is really loud but also focused and clear. I found myself busting out the air guitar throughout listening. Fans of Velvet Revolver, keep an eye out for “Slither”. Fans of Guns N’ Roses, keep an eye out of “Civil War” (in which Myles Kennedy nails), “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Paradise City” (which also closes the show). Slash rips the hell out of that guitar and Myles Kennedy impresses with his amazing vocal work.  Also notable that the set includes a jam packed two disc set with a decent insert included as well.  Whether you are fan of Slash’s solo work or no, I actually think it rocks pretty hard, this album is worth checking out.

Disc: 1
1. Been There Lately
2. Night Train
3. Ghost
4. Mean Bone
5. Back From Cali
6. Rocket Queen
7. Civil War
8. Nothing To Say
9. Starlight
10. Promise

Disc: 2
1. Doctor Alibi
2. Speed Parade
3. Watch This
4. Beggars & Hangers On
5. Patience
6. Godfather Solo
7. Sweet Child O’ Mine
8. Slither
9. By The Sword
10. Mr Brownstone
11. Paradise City

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CD Review: NIHM “Trade Of Chains”

NIHM
“Trade Of Chains”
Turkey Vulture Records
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Trade Of Chains” from the heavy metal group NIHM. The North Carolina based band has been together since 1997 and is a the three piece metal trio that combines a variety of vocal styling’s ranging from full on screaming to scattered rants combined with ferocious instrumentation. “Trade Of Chains” features 10 new tracks that are being released via Jason Z.’s Turkey Vulture Records.

I was definitely interested in checking out the newest album by NIHM. After finding out they are originally from Buffalo, NY an area close to my home I was even a little more intrigued. What I found on this recording was an at times manic flow that really amped up the intensity of each song contained on “Trade Of Chains”. I really enjoyed the spontaneity of each track however I was more a fan on songs like “A.F.R” and “Don’t Go Outside” which featured more traditional arrangements.

“Trade Of Chains” is not a bad album as the group has a sound that is different from a lot of other bands in this genre. At times it felt as though the vocals where a bit rushed which in my opinion seemed to rush the song. This could have been done on purpose as it does give the bands an overall different feel that I am sure some listeners will enjoy.

Track Listing:
1.)    Anon
2.)    Ties
3.)    Holecloser
4.)    A.F.R.
5.)    An Unkind
6.)    Don’t Go Outside
7.)    Ape
8.)    In Your Debt
9.)    My Sweet Oblivion
10.)   Put You Down

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CD Review: On Edge “Waiting For Daylight”

On Edge
“Waiting For Daylight”
Turkey Vulture Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Formed in Yakima, Washington in 1998 the band On Edge is a blending of many different musical styles. From straight up rock and roll to full-blown heavy metal On Edge does it all! The bands first release titled “Waiting For Daylight” features 11 original tracks by the 5 member band. The album is being released via Jason Z.’s Turkey Vulture Records which is based out of Rockford Illinois.

I found the tracks contained on “Waiting For Daylight” to be very enjoyable to listen to. Each of the 11 tracks featured on the album had some really great grooves which pulled you in and made you want more. When an album has the power to pull the listener in the artists have done their job. “Waiting For Daylight” is one of those albums and them some! Tracks like “American Idol”, “Breaking” and, “Complicated” which features a very melodic arrangement that further showcases the bands diversity. Owner/Producer Jason Z. really found himself another great act to add to his already impressive lineup at Turkey Vulture Records.

If you have the chance to pick up On Edge’s debut album “Waiting For Light” definitely do it. You won’t be disappointed

Track Listing:
1.)    Stars
2.)    Transmit The Dead
3.)    American idol
4.)    Wasted Life
5.)    Breaking
6.)    Complicated
7.)    Hurt By You
8.)    Mutant Gooch
9.)    Ojos
10.)  Simple Things
11.)  Oompah

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CD Review: Dyer “Rage…Fury…Alcohol”

Dyer
“Rage…Fury…Alcohol”
Turkey Vulture Records
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 3 out of 5

“Rage…Fury…Alcohol” is the first release from the Southern California heavy metal band Dyer. The 4 piece band made up of Carlos Velarde- guitars, Ivan Gonzalez- vocals, Sergio Lopez- Bass and Ryan Nazarian- Drums bring a no nonsense approach to their playing of intense heavy metal. The album features 9 tracks and is being released via Turkey Vulture Records.

If you are looking for straight forward no frills heavy metal then this is the album for you. Each track contained on the album is a stripped down metal master piece. Vocalist Ivan Gonzalez does a great job pushing his performances almost to the breaking point which surely just adds to the bands performance. Tracks such as “Against The Grain” and the melodic “My Last Rights” were personal highlights. From a production stand point the album seems to have a minimalist approach which I feel contributed the albums raw feel.

“Rage…Fury…Alcohol” is exactly as the title says. If you are a fan of bands such as Machine Head or Fear Factory definitely give the new album by Dyer a listen.

Track Listing:
1.) Rage…Fury…Alcohol
2.) Hallow Ground
3.) Against The Grain
4.) Black Plague
5.) Left For Dead
6.) My Last Rights
7.) Revenant Mind
8.) The Bridge Burner
9.) The Fall

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CD Review: A Break In The Strom “Metonia”

A Break In The Strom
“Metonia”
Turkey Vulture Records
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Metonia” is the debut release from the Merrill, WI based metal core band A Break In The Storm. The album features 10 original tracks and is being released via Turkey Vulture Records. After listening through the entire album I had to sit back and really take it all in. Each song contained on the album is bursting at the seams with metal core goodness. Everything you could ever ask for from cookie monster vocals, to melodic harmonies, blazing guitar work, and solid drumming “Metonia” has it.

The overall mixing of the album I thought was done very well. Even with the intense nature of the music nothing was lost and each of the instruments could be heard very clearly. I was most impressed with the tracks “Beneath The Surface”, “Reflections” and “Roam This World” as all three had a great grooves while featuring a variety of transitions which made the tracks even more entertaining as they had an element of surprise to them. If you haven’t done so already give A Break In The Storm’s newest release “Metonia” a listen. You won’t be disappointed!

Track Listing:
1.) Beneath The Surface
2.) My Last Goodbye
3.) Passenger
4.) Reflections
5.) Roam This World
6.) Temptations
7.) The Showdown
8.) In Pain and Peace
9.) Warnings Only Go So Far
10.) Wolves

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CD Review: The Devil Wears Prada “Dead Throne”

The Devil Wears Prada
“Dead Throne”
Ferret Records
Producer: Adam Dutkiewicz
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Dead Throne” is the follow up release to The Devil Wears Prada 2009 album “With Roots Above and Branches Below”. “Dead Throne” features 13 new tracks by the 6 piece metal-core band and was produced by Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz. “Dead Throne” is being released via Ferret Records.

After listening to “Dead Throne” the first time through I immediately hit repeat and listened through the entire album a second time. “Dead Throne” has so much to listen to that I needed to play the album again just to take it all in. Each track on “Dead Throne” features a wide array of instrumentation which ranges from break neck shredding to groove filled break downs. Songs like “Mammoth”, “Vengeance”, and the album’s first single “Born to Lose” are shining examples of what the band is capable of. From a production stand point Adam Dutkiewicz did a great job giving the tracks an extremely heavy and full sound making each tack contained on “Dead throne” worthy of cranking from your car while driving in a residential neighborhood.

The Devil Wears Prada’s “Dead Throne” was an interesting listen as you never knew what you were going to hear next. I found the album to be quite versatile and more than just your typical metal-core album. Fans of the bands 2009 release will be more than happy listening to The Devil Wears Prada’s latest release “Dead Throne”.

Track Listing:
•    Dead Throne
•    Untidaled
•    Mammoth
•    Vengeance
•    R.I.T.
•    My Questions
•    Kansas
•    Born To Lose
•    Forever Decay
•     Chicago
•     Constance
•     Pretenders
•     Holdfast

 

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CD Review: Mobile Deathcamp “Clear and Present Anger”

Mobile Deathcamp
“Clear and Present Anger”
Turkey Vulture Records
Producer: Jason Z.
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Clear and Present Anger” is the second release from the Toledo, Ohio based metal group Mobile Deathcamp. The trio consists of former Gwar/Green Jelly member Todd Evans on guitar/vocals, bassist Boe Skadeland and drummer Dave Martin. “Clear and Present Anger” features 10 all new original tracks produced by Jason Z. and is being released via Turkey Vulture Records

The album picks up right where Mobile Deathcamp’s previous release “Black Swamp Rising” left off. “Clear and Present Anger” is classic speed metal with a modern twist. Tracks such as “Emerald” and “Earth Metal” are relentless in their approach as each track contained on “Clear and Present Anger” is filled to the brim with intensity. Casual listeners might not connect right away with this album however long time metal fans and supporters of Todd Evan’s previous bands will appreciate this album.

“Clear and Present Anger” is a solid album that showcases Mobile Deathcamp’s growth as a band. Each members performance is tight and in sync with the direction of each song. Fans of the bands previous release will surely want to pick up a copy of “Clear and Present Anger”.

Track Listing:
•    Sesquac
•    Point Taken
•    Field General
•    Cover Judge
•    Emerald*
•    Warheit
•    Uhyusti
•    Earth metal
•    Vicious Smile
•     Vocable Assemblage

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CD Review: Black Label Society “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” EP

Black Label Society
“Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” EP
eOne Music
Tracks: 3

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

“Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” is the Newest EP by the Zakk Wylde fronted group Black Label Society. The EP consists of 3 classic Christmas songs performed by Zakk and his band. The album is being released via eOne Music and available today via iTunes.

I found this CD to be somewhat of a letdown. The tracks feature minimal performances of 3 Christmas Classics by Zakk Wylde and company. I really struggled to find something that stood out and was different. I am a huge Zakk Wylde fan and have quite a collection of his material however the only thing that was somewhat interesting about this EP was the ridiculously long title.

Black Label Society’s “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” is nothing that hasn’t been done before. However for those BLS chapter members looking for something to listen to during the holiday season the 3 tracks contained on “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” should help get you in the Christmas mood.

Track Listing:
•    I’ll Be Home For Christmas
•    Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
•    It’s A Wonderful World

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CD Review: Steel Panther “Balls Out”

Steel Panther
“Balls Out”
Universal Republic
Producer: Jay Ruston
Tracks: 14

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Balls Out” is the second release by the Los Angeles based band Steel Panther. “Balls Out” features 14 all new tracks by the spandex clad band that were produced by Jay Ruston. The album is being released via Universal Republic and is the follow up to Steel Panthers 2009 release “Feel The Steel”.

“Balls Out” seems to lack the catchiness of the bands first release “Feel The Steel”. It’s as though the band went more for a shock approach with their lyrics rather than concentrating on making a good album as a whole. “Balls Out” is still good and packed full classic 80’s inspired riffs that will make you want to tease your hair to epic proportions. Tracks like “Tomorrow Night” and “Critter” were the highlights for me while tracks like “It Won’t Suck Itself” featuring Chad Kroeger of Nickelback and the album’s first single “17 Girls In A Row” are definitely worth mentioning.

Though “Balls Out” doesn’t measure up to the bands previous release its still a fun and upbeat album that you can sing along to. Steel Panther fans new and old should be able to find something of “Balls Out” that they will enjoy.

Track Listing:
•    In The Future
•    Supersonic Sex Machine
•    Just Like Tiger Woods
•    17 Girls In A Row
•    If You Really Really Love Me
•    It Won’t Suck Itself
•    Tomorrow Night
•    Why Can’t You Trust me
•    That’s What Girls Are For
•     Gold Digging Whore
•     I Like Drugs
•     Critter
•     Let Me Cum In
•     Weenie Ride

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: balls, cd, panther, review, steel

CD Review: Dreams Will Fade “Before The Dawn”

Dreams Will Fade
“Before The Dawn”
Turkey Vulture Records
Producer: Jason Z.
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Before The Dawn” is the debut album from the 5 member Wisconsin based band Dreams Will Fade. The album feature 10 original hard rock tracks produced by Jason Z. “Before The Dawn” is being released via Turkey Vulture records.

“Before The Dawn” was a fairly decent listen as the album had several high lights. I felt the band did a good job of blending melodic vocal lines with heavy riff driven instrumentation. Tracks such as “Before The Dawn”, “Watch You Fall” and “Whatever” were personal highlights and in my opinion and featured some great arrangements and performances. I would have liked the overall mix of the album to be a little more up front and in your face however each track still sounded good.

Dreams Will Fade’s “Before The Dawn” as a whole is a good album. I could have done with a little less screaming as I don’t think it’s the bands strong suit. If you are a fan of bands like Killswitch Engage, Breaking Benjamin and Pierce The Veil then you will definitely want to check out Dreams Will Fade’s debut album.

Track Listing:
• Against a Wall
• Before The Dawn
• Hard To See
• Last Time
• Losing It
• On The Edge
• Pressure
• Swallow
• Watch You Fall
• Whatever

 

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, dawn, dreams, fade, review
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