CD Review: Steve Hackett “Beyond the Shrouded Horizon”

Steve Hackett
“Beyond the Shrouded Horizon”
Inside Out Music
Producer: Steve Hackett/Roger King
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 3 out of 5

“Beyond the Shrouded Horizon” is the latest release from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Steve Hackett. Hackett a former member of the group Genesis has been releasing solo albums since before his departure from the group in 1977. “Beyond the Shrouded Horizon” will be Steve’s 20th solo studio album. The album is being released by Inside Out Music and features an array of sounds and special guest appearance by peoples such as Chris Squire and Simon Phillips. The album features 13 new tracks and is the follow up release to Hackett’s 2009 release “Out of the Tunnel’s Mouth”.

“Beyond the Shrouded Horizon” is a very detailed album. Hackett’s playing on the 13 tracks contained within the album is very refined and spot on. Though the songs all feature vast arrangements with a variety of instruments I was drawn instantly to the guitars. Tracks like “The Phoenix Flown” and “Catwalk” a very sleazy feeling type song with a great solid groove are just a couple gems found on “Beyond the Shrouded Horizon”. Though the albums tracks may have a little too much going on for casual listeners the album is still a pretty good listen

Track Listing:
1.)    Loch Lomond
2.)    The Phoenix Flown
3.)    Wanderlust
4.)    Til These Eyes
5.)    Prairie Angel
6.)    A Place Called Freedom
7.)    Between the Sunset and the Coconut Palms
8.)    Waking the Life
9.)    Two Faces of Cairo
10.)  Looking for Fantasy
11.)  Summers Breath
12.)  Catwalk
13.) Turn This Island Earth

CD Review: 3 “The Ghost You Gave Me”

3
“The Ghost You Gave Me”
Metal Blade Records
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 2 out of 5

“The Ghost You Gave Me” will be the 6th studio release for the Woodstock, NY band 3. “The Ghost You Gave Me” is a rock infused blend of melodic vocals and stylistic guitar lines that captivate the listener from the very start. 3 formed in 1994 and quickly made their way up the progressive music ranks and in 2008 the band was part of the progressive rock package tour “Progressive Nation” which also featured Opeth, Between the Buried and Me and Dream Theater. “The Ghost You Gave Me” is the bands follow up release to their 2009 album titled “Revisions”.

“The Ghost You Gave Me” I found to be an interesting listen. The album was vocally very melodic and well performed even though I would have prefered a little heavier less dated approach. At times the music seemed weak and the instrumentation was not on the level of some other progressive bands however each member did have specific moments throughout the album where they could shine. A couple highlights off the album consisted of the title track “The Ghost You Gave Me” as well as “Pretty” which featured a catchy sing along type chorus that was enjoyable to listen to.

3’s “The Ghost You Gave Me” didn’t do much to impress me. In looking at the progressive music genre as a whole I think there really needs to be something new to come along and in a sense one up what bands like Dream Theater did starting in the mid 80’s. If bands such as 3 keep putting out dated interpretations instead of new and fresh material the genre progressive will surely slip further into the obscure.

Track Listing:
1.)    Sirenum Scopuli
2.)    React
3.)    Sparrow
4.)    High Times
5.)    Numbers
6.)    On With the Sun
7.)    The Ghost You Gave Me
8.)    Pretty
9.)    Afterglow
10.)  It’s Alive
11.)  Only Child
12.)  The Barrier

 

 

 

CD Review: SS-Kaliert “Subzero”

SS-Kaliert
“Subzero”
People Like You Records/Century Media
Tracks: 13

Our Score:  3.5 out of 5

“Subzero” is the 3rd full length album by German hardcore/punk band SS-Kaliert. “Subzero” is the first release by the band via People Like You Records and the follow up album to the bands 2008 release titled “Addiction” (razorblade Music). “Subzero” features a new SS-Kaliert line up which sees Moritz taking over the bass playing duties for former member Nils who left the band for personal reason in April of 2011.

“Subzero” is tinged with early 80’s punk styling’s and the album has is very straight forward in its approach. With the exception of a few vocal over dubs the album is very stripped down and clean or dirty depending on how you want to look at it. Each track on “Subzero” is in your face and for the old school punkers out there who had long retired their leather jacket and Doc Martens this album may have them thinking about knocking the dust off and coming out of retirement for one more spit filled outing. Songs like “I.H.D.2” and “Unnerwegs” with have your lip snarled up and your fist pumping in the air just like the good old days at CBGB’s. What stuck out most for me about “Subzero” was the fairly impressive guitar work of Benni and A.G. who in a very un-punk way can play pretty well and songs like “Es Es-Kaliert” and “Good News (Ladies & Gentlemen)” are prime examples of those skills.

SS-Kaliert’s “Subzero” is a great representation of old school Oi! punk but with an updated feel. And though the sounds heard on “Subzero” may be reminiscent of the Reagan Years “Subzero” is a very modern punk album!

Track Listing:

1.)    Vorhang Auf
2.)    Es Es-Kaliert
3.)    Subzero
4.)    Burn Down
5.)    Sayonara
6.)    Make Them Crash
7.)    S********
8.)    Der Parasit
9.)    I.H.D.2
10.)  Russian Roulette
11.)  Unnerwegs
12.)  Good News (Ladies & Gentlemen)
13.)  Jetzt Oder Nie!

CD Review: The Tangent “COMM”

The Tangent
“COMM”
Inside Out Music
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5

“COMM” is the latest release by the progressive rock group The Tangent. The album features 5 new tracks and is the follow up release to the bands 2010 release “A Place on the Shelf”. “COMM” is also the 4th album released by the group in 4 years and is the bands 7th album overall. “COMM” is full of extravagant instrumentation complimented by a variety of keyboard sounds provided by band founder Andy Tillison as well us some amazing guitar lines by 22 year old Luke Machin. “COMM” takes the listener on a sonic journey from the very first notes on track one all the way through to the last note of the final song.

The Tangent’s latest release “COMM” is full of quirky over synthesized tracks that really did nothing for me. As a listener I found it very hard to connect with any of the albums 5 tracks. Even with funny titles like “The Wiki Man” and “Tech Support Guy” drawing me in I just couldn’t find anything that appealed to me on this album. “COMM” does feature some very good playing by all the members of the group however I would have rather seen them sacrifice some of that playing for better song structure. If you are a fan of The Tangents previous releases then I am sure that “COMM” will fit right in with your collection but I don’t think the album has a strong enough appeal to draw in new listeners.

Track Listing:

1.)    The Wiki Man

2.)    The Mind’s Eye

3.)    Shoot Them Down

4.)    Tech Support Guy

5.)    Titanic Calls Carpathia

 

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CD Review: Kiros “Outlaws and Prodigals EP”

Kiros
“Outlaws and Prodigals EP”
ANGR/Century Media Records
Tracks: 3

Our Score: 3 out of 5

The “Outlaws and Prodigals EP” features two new tracks from the Canadian based band Kiros. The tracks are a part the bands upcoming release titled “Lay Your Weapons Down”. The full length album is slated for release in 2012 via ANGR Records and will be the bands first release on this label. The two new tracks and b-side acoustic performance will be available exclusively through iTunes while the bands is on the road touring with the Music With a Mission Tour which features bands such as Manafest and Firefight. The EP will be available starting September 27th 2011 via iTunes digital download.

If the “Outlaws and Prodigals EP” is just a taste of Kiros upcoming release then I can’t wait to hear the full length album. Both songs on the EP have a really great sound to them and the instrumentation was very lush and complimented the vocals quite well. The track “Desperation Calls” has a catchy sing along chorus that just gets stuck in your head. My only complaint was that I wish they released a third new song rather than an acoustic interpretation of one of the songs already contained on the EP. If you get a chance definitely take a listen to Kiros “Outlaws and Prodigals EP”.

Track Listing:

1.)    Outlaws and Prodigals

2.)    Desperation Calls

3.)    Outlaw and Prodigals (acoustic)

 

 

CD Review: Knight Area “Nine Paths”

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

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Nine Paths” is the 4th 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

CD Review: Anubis Gate “Anubis Gate”

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 3rd 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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CD Review: Arch/Matheos “Sympathetic Resonance”

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

CD Review: Girl on Fire “Revenge EP”

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

CD Review: The Great Commission “Heavy Worship”

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…)

CD Review: Warm Ghost “Narrows”

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

CD Review: Halcyon Way “Indoctrination”

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)

CD Review: Elephant Mountain “The Last Days of Planet Earth”

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

CD Review: Anthrax “Worship Music”

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 10th 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

CD Review Jasta “Jasta”

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)