Anyone who follows Metal Odyssey knows that I like to keep up on the birthdays of legendary Rock Stars. Why? Well, it is a great excuse to write about these dudes and give my opinion on their music. So, without further delay – Metal Odyssey gives out a LOUD Happy Birthday to Peter Frampton!! Frampton turned a cool rockin’ 59 on April 22, 2009. My favorite Peter Frampton album is definitely “Frampton Comes Alive.” Released in 1976, this live album for me, captures the Rock & Roll spirit, talent and energy that Peter Frampton has been exhibiting, going on four decades. “Do You Feel Like I Do” and “Baby I Love Your Way” are true Frampton classics, the live recordings only bring them more to life, in my opinion. I always liked his album “Where I Should Be” – the single “I Can’t Stand It No More” I still find very catchy. Is Peter Frampton Hard Rock? To me, no, if you are going by todays Rock music standards. It was probably easier to categorize Peter Frampton as Hard Rock in the 1970s, maybe. As I see it, Peter Frampton is a Rock legend in his own right, I have always been keen on his brand of Rock & Roll. Plus, for me, the music of Peter Frampton always reminds me of the Summer, being at an outdoor party or just hanging out at the beach. I really cannot figure out why this is, I do recall many outdoor parties in the past, where Frampton was being cranked up loud though. (Maybe that is the reason). All in all, Peter Frampton and his music has been cool for me over the years, I wish Peter Frampton all the best as he continues to tour and write music. Thank you for all the great tunes over the years Peter Frampton!
Archive for the Hard Rock Category
W.A.S.P. “The Last Command” is a Heavy Metal classic!
Posted in 1980's heavy metal music, Album Review, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal guitarists, Heavy Metal Reviews, heavy metal vocalists, Metal, Metal Reviews, Music, rock music, W.A.S.P. with tags Album Review, Blackie Lawless, chris holmes, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal music, mountain rock band, Music, Reviews, the last command w.a.s.p. album, W.A.S.P. on April 24, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
“W.A.S.P. “The Last Command” is a Heavy Metal album that has enormous energy, loaded with heavy riffs and guitar leads. I am a W.A.S.P. fan, I by no means want to sound bias, yet this is a classic example of just how sensational, fun and at times provocative the Heavy Metal music and lyrics of W.A.S.P. truly are/were. Released in November of 1985, it is my opinion that “The Last Command” provides more Heavy Metal music muscle than many bands of this genre and time period. The bonus tracks are key, (these bonus tracks are found on the reissue version), there are 7 in all, with W.A.S.P. doing a heavy duty cover of the infamous Mountain song “Mississippi Queen”. Blackie Lawless on lead vocals and bass is the epitome of Heavy Metal then and now, his vocals are a focal point for me, extremely riveting. The 5 live bonus tracks are infused with an electrifying energy of all things Heavy about this band, these songs are quality live recordings. After you listen to the 3 opening songs, the captivating Heavy Metal of W.A.S.P. will have you wishing you owned “The Last Command” for the last 20 plus years! I have never known of or listened to a W.A.S.P. album that I never liked. “The Last Command” kicks the Metal into high gear and should always be played LOUD for maximum enjoyment. I highly recommend “The Last Command” to all W.A.S.P. fans, Heavy Metal and Metal fans and any fan of quality Heavy music from the decade of the ’80’s.
W.A.S.P. on “The Last Command” – Blackie Lawless on lead vocals and bass, Randy Piper on lead, rhythm guitars & background vocals, Chris Holmes on lead & rhythm guitars and Steve Riley on drums & background vocals. The liner notes are outstanding, with 12 pages of complete lyrics, extended artwork, nearly a dozen full color photos of W.A.S.P. and written history behind the making of “The Last Command” and a history of W.A.S.P. as a band.”
Seether – acoustic or heavy, this band is a gem!
Posted in acoustic rock album, acoustic rock concert, Album Review, concerts, Guitar, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Heavy Metal Reviews, heavy metal vocalists, Metal, metal concerts, Metal Reviews, Music, Rock, rock music, rock music vocals, seether acoustic rock album, seether rock band, Vocals with tags acoustic rock, Album Review, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Rock, rock music, seether, seether acoustic concert, seether one cold night, seether rock band, shaun morgan on April 23, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
When I first purchased Seether “One Cold Night”, I knew I was going to hear a live, acoustic concert. What I did not expect, was how incredible the songs from Seether’s past albums would sound acoustically. As the subtitle of this CD states – “An Intimate Acoustic Performance”, “Feb 22 2006” – the entire musical atmosphere does definitely come across as mellow and intimate. That is what playing acoustically does, the once Heavy Metal or Hard Rock songs become more personal to the listener/audience with even deeper meaning, in my Metal opinion. Shaun Morgan to me, is brilliant as a vocalist and guitarist. He can sing the acoustic versions of his songs, making me believe that this could very well be the only versions. When I listen to the acoustic versions of “Gasoline”, “Diseased” and “Immortality”, It makes me listen more to the lyrics and song structure.
The copy of this CD I purchased came as a duel CD/DVD. The DVD is the actual Seether acoustic concert from February 22, 2006. The DVD also includes the music video for the song – “The Gift”. It is a cool concert no matter how you slice it, from the sound quality to the camera angles. A bonus feature at the end of the concert DVD has Seether sitting on stage being interviewed after the show, ( some local Philadelphia dj does the interview and conducts it well). Shaun Morgan answers every question without an ounce of attitude – his demeanor and the way he carries himself during this interview dictates what a class act he really is. The Seether lineup for this concert CD: Shaun Morgan on lead vocals & guitar, Pat Callahan on guitar, Dale Stewart on bass and John Humphrey on drums. I cannot force anyone to like the music that I do, I can only recommend and say take a listen. However, with Seether “One Cold Night”, I really recommend to all fans of quality Rock, Hard Rock and Metal music.
Happy Birthday Craig Frost – keyboardist, Grand Funk Railroad
Posted in 1970's hard rock, 1970's Rock, american rock band, grand funk railroad rock band, Hard Rock, Music, Rock, rock celebrity birthdays, rock keyboard musicians, rock music with tags 1970's hard rock music, 1970's rock music, classic hard rock, classic rock, craig frost, craig frost keyboard musician, grand funk railroad, Music, Rock, rock keyboards, rock music on April 22, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
I really enjoy paying homage to the greats of Rock & Roll music. Especially when the musician is a member of a band that I can never, ever, tire from. Happy Birthday Craig Frost! Craig is the keyboard extraordinaire for Grand Funk Railroad, a true – blue collar, American Rock Band. Craig turned a super cool 61 on April 20th.
Man, whoever is into Classic Rock and/or Classic Hard Rock, simply cannot deny that “We’re An American Band” is seriously one heck of a kick tune, that has stood the test of time. For me, this song characterizes Grand Funk Railroad, for me it is their signature song. “The Loco – Motion” is another favorite Grand Funk Railroad tune of mine, the louder I play this bands music – the better it is. I always fall victim to the feel good mode when I crank up Grand Funk Railroad’s Rock & Roll. In my Metal opinion, Craig Frost exemplifies what quality musicianship on the keyboard is supposed to sound like, throughout his successful career. Thank you Craig Frost for the great music over the years!
Happy Birthday Alan Price! – The Animals keyboardist
Posted in 1960's rock music, 1970's Rock, brand new sin, classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, psychedelic rock music, Rock, rock keyboard musicians, rock music, rock music vocals, Vocals with tags 1960's rock music, alan price keyboard musician, brand new sin, eric burdon, eric burdon rock vocalist, Hard Rock, Music, rock and roll celebrity birthday, rock keyboards, the animals, the animals rock band on April 21, 2009 by Metal OdysseyMetal Odyssey sends out a very LOUD Happy Birthday to Alan Price, the original keyboard and organ player for The Animals! Alan turned a real cool 67 on April 19th. I cannot ever grow tired of listening to the keyboard majesty that Alan Price bestowed through the music of The Animals. To me, the keyboards are borderline haunting on “The House of The Rising Sun” – quite honestly, besides Eric Burdon on vocals, the keyboard playing of Alan Price made this song a timeless, early Classic Rock masterpiece. This song always seems to be a favorite for many bands to cover – Brand New Sin does what I consider the coolest cover of this tune, which is found on their album “Tequila”, released in 2006.
“We Gotta Get Out of this Place” is yet another totally incredible song that The Animals gave to Rock music. Again, Alan Price is unmistakably brilliant on this song playing keyboard. I find it so amazing that these tunes were created in the mid 1960’s and still have a contagious Rock groove illuminating from them! The 1960’s and 1970’s Rock-Hard Rock eras were profound with establishing the importance of the keyboard and organ, as solid and true Rock music instruments. The Animals were an authentic British Rock band that stakes a mighty claim in the well established roots of Hard Rock and arguably Heavy Metal as well. Alan Price with his keyboard playing, gave The Animals an important element to their overall signature sound. Thank you Alan Price for the ever lasting music you created!
Kip Winger – “From The Moon To The Sun” shines bright
Posted in 1980's heavy metal music, Album Review, Alice cooper, classical music, concerts, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal guitarists, Heavy Metal Reviews, heavy metal vocalists, joe walsh, Led Zeppelin, Metal, metal concerts, Metal Reviews, Music, Rock, rock music, symphony music, the beatles, Vocals with tags Alice cooper, cinderella metal band, classical music, easy listening music, electric light orchestra, george harrison, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, joe walsh, kip winger, Led Zeppelin, Music, peter gabriel, Rock, rock music, the beatles, the bullet boys, winger, winger rock band on April 18, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Yes, Kip Winger is still creating music. Only you will not hear the Winger of the 1980’s on “From The Moon To The Sun” – this is Kip Winger accentuating his diverse affection for all music. Really, this is not an album to pass over if you are an open minded Hard Rock or Metal fan. With so many musicians in Hard Rock and Metal experimenting musically these days, it does not come as a huge surprise to listen to a softer, more mature (musically), Kip Winger. I hear Kip Wingers influences throughout “From The Moon To The Sun.” Kip Winger gives special thanks, in the liner notes, to his musical heroes, they are: Honegger, Ravel, Debussy, Bach, Brahms, Shostakovich, Stravinsky, Kurek, Vaughan Williams, Adams, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Peter Gabriel and Joe Walsh. Seeing the list of Kip’s musical heroes definitely solidifies my saying this album is truly musically diverse. Quite honestly, there are some dudes on this heroes list that I have absolutely no clue as to who they are. I am innocent, for I am a Metalhead after all. (I am not used to too many mellow musicians, especially Classical musicians, however, I am a work in progress).
Now, I actually bought this CD without hearing a single song first. You betcha. Why did I do such a thing you may be asking? First, I always liked Winger and the catchy/sometimes near sappy, Hair Metal music that Winger really was. Secondly, I saw Winger live, with Cinderella and The Bullet Boys. It was at the Springfield Civic Center, in good ol’ Springfield Massachusetts, back in the late 80’s. Winger rocked the house that evening in Springfield, Kip Winger was cool, flashy, yet he was in position to be as flamboyant as he wanted to be back then, he had every darn right. Thirdly, Kip Winger once was a member of Alice Cooper’s band, making two albums with the legendary Alice Cooper. For this Metal fanatic, I think those 3 reasons are good enough for embarking on my purchasing this Kip Winger solo CD.
I definitely hear The Beatles, I especially hear the influence of George Harrison (guitar licks), on the tracks – “Where Will You Go” and “What We Are.” Let me just say that these are definitely my two favorites on this album. “Every Story Told” has an Electric Light Orchestra sound, especially at the beginning with the synthesizer sounds. “Nothing” has an almost Native American and Middle East vibe sound and feel, (I cannot decide which it really sounds like), the vocals at the beginning of this tune explains my comparisons better. “Nothing” is definitely the heaviest of the songs found on this album, it is very catchy and very cool with Kip Wingers vocals stealing the show on this one. “Ghosts” is a Classical/Symphonic masterpiece of a musical work. Yes, an instrumental is found on this Kip Winger solo album and it is Classical and Symphonic. Need not worry, the music on “Ghosts” is not sadness saturated, what I mean is – it is not sad sounding or fast forward worthy. This is obviously, music that means a lot to Kip Winger, I do not mind at all if a Classical/Symphonic tune appears on this CD, for heaven sake, the music of “Ghosts” is not going to bite me.
I have to honestly say that I really dig this Kip Winger solo album. “From The Moon To The Sun” is as complete and honest of a diverse Rock musical effort as you will ever find or hear. Overall, the vocals of Kip Winger are superb, he convinced me that he can change harmony without flaws and be truly dynamic with his range on these songs. The only song on this album that I need to have grow on me is “Pages And Pages,” for some silly reason or another I think this song eventually will. I recommend Kip Winger and his brilliant release “From The Moon To The Sun” to all Rock fans and especially Winger fans who just need to own all things music from Kip. I will say this again, Hard Rock fans and Metal fans who want to chill it down once in awhile, here is your opportunity – what better way to mellow out than to listen to a guy like Kip Winger,
who has without doubt, carved out his place in Heavy Metal history.
Paranormal reality television and scary Metal music mirror one another
Posted in Alice cooper, Black Metal, Danzig, Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Gene Simmons, ghost hunters, gothic metal, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal vocalists, horror metal, Iced Earth, king diamond, Metal, Misfits, Motorhead, Music, paranormal television shows, Power Metal, Punk rock, rob zombie, Rock, rock music, Slipknot, speed metal, Thrash Metal, Vocals, W.A.S.P. with tags Alice cooper, Black Metal, cannibal corpse, Death Metal, ghost hunters, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, horror movies, Iced Earth, jon schaffer, king diamond, kiss, lordie, matthew barlow, mikkey dee, Misfits, Motorhead, Music, paranormal television programs, Power Metal, progressive rock, Punk rock, rob zombie, Slipknot, speed metal, Thrash Metal on April 17, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
It is an obvious Metal music marriage, the paranormal being put to lyrics in Metal songs. Any King Diamond album supports this statement, that is for certain. Horror and the paranormal rules the Metal world’s lyrics with it’s mystery, shock, and imagery. This to me, is one of the great attributes to Metal music, the paranormal and horror has given personality and life to throngs of Metal bands as: Alice Cooper, Misfits, Kiss (with makeup), Lordi, Rob Zombie, Slipknot, Danzig, W.A.S.P., Cannibal Corpse and of course, King Diamond again. The list could go on and on, regarding which Metal bands represent the horror and paranormal subjects best.
I highly recommend taking a listen to Iced Earth – “The Horror Show”, this is an album dedicated to just the legendary horror movie monsters: Dracula, The Wolfman, Frankenstein and The Phantom of the Opera are covered just fine by Matt Barlow’s vocals and the writing and musical genius of Jon Schaffer. I also highly recommend the horror concept album, that for me is now a true Metal classic – “Abigail” from King Diamond, released in 1987. In my opinion, “Abigail” was/is a triumphant representation of Black Metal, even though the music includes heavy duty Speed Metal throughout. This King Diamond lineup on “Abigail” also bestows the talented Mikkey Dee on drums, who has been a mainstay with Motorhead, since 1992.
When I listen to my favorite Metal bands playing tunes about the macabre, horror and the paranormal, I cannot help reflecting on my favorite paranormal television shows. The material that King Diamond covers, for example, mirrors what many of the paranormal shows offer. My favorite scary & spooky television shows are: “Ghost Hunters”, “Penn State Paranormal”, “Most Haunted”, “UFO Hunters” and “Monster Quest”, all delving into the mysteriously unknown, paranormal, the dark side and real life monsters. Any Metal band can get hordes of information and subject matter for their music, just by watching this scary paranormal reality television.
Now, do I believe in all of this paranormal subject matter that these shows discuss/cover? Do I believe in real life monsters like Bigfoot, Moth Man and UFO aliens? Let’s just say, I get entertained and spooked out like anyone else, I really like the unknown aspect of these topics. I am also never going to be one of those, who back when Christopher Columbus sailed the seven seas, thought our planet Earth was square. It is an absolute fact, that new species of any of our known living organisms, (plants, fish, animals, insects), are being discovered on a daily basis. There are many, many, mysteries and dark questions out there that still have to be answered, for me it is great fun delving into these scary topics through Metal music and paranormal reality television. My feeling is that, paranormal reality television and Metal music just seem to go together, both never cease to thrill and entertain me.
April 28, 2009 is Heaven & Hell Day for the world of Heavy Metal!
Posted in 1980's heavy metal music, Black Sabbath, dio, Hard Rock, heaven and hell heavy metal band, Heavy Metal, heavy metal guitarists, heavy metal vocalists, Metal, Music, rainbow heavy metal band, Rock, rock music, ronnie james dio, Vocals with tags 1980's heavy metal, Album Review, Black Sabbath, dio, geezer butler, Hard Rock, heaven & hell, heaven and hell, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, Metal, metal music, rainbow rock band, ronnie james dio, tony iommi, vinny appice on April 16, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Mark your Metal calendar – April 28, 2009 – the NEW studio album release from HEAVEN & HELL shall be unleashed to the world of Heavy Metal!! “The Devil You Know” is coming, what a glorious time to be a Metal fan!! I cannot, without doubt, wait for this new Metal material from this prolific, historic, important, musically talented beyond my wildest praise – band. (phew). Can you tell I really, really like Heaven & Hell? I actually find myself referring to them as Black Sabbath more often than not, for that is who they really are. Despite what we Metal fans cannot control in regards to the legalities of – Metal band name rights, Heaven & Hell is one surefire-cool name for this group. Aw, heck, they could call themselves anything they want and I still will be blown away by their Metal tunes, both past and present stuff!
Really, in my honest Metal opinion, how can anyone not agree that this Black Sabbath/Heaven & Hell lineup released 5 insanely great albums? “Heaven and Hell”, “Mob Rules”, “Live Evil”, “Dehumanizer” and Black Sabbath “The Dio Years” (greatest hits – with 3 new studio tracks) make up the catalog of albums from these super Metal veterans. The combination of Ronnie James Dio on vocals, with Tony Iommi on lead guitar, Geezer Butler on bass guitar and Vinny Appice on drums created what I feel is the ultimate Heavy Metal formula for success. I felt that way since “Heaven and Hell” was released in 1980. Back then, I was in a state of Heavy Metal euphoria! Here was this scenario: the superb frontman of Rainbow is going to join forces with the remaining 3 members of Black Sabbath! Whoa! That was my initial reaction back in 1979/1980, of hearing the news about the new Black Sabbath lineup and that is my reaction now – hearing the solid and factual news that the brand new studio album from Heaven & Hell is coming out on April 28th!
I really feel the 3 new tracks from Heaven & Hell on “The Dio Years” greatest hits album are Metal worthy and showed that this band still has everything it takes to make quality Metal music. I read about the rumors and hints that maybe a brand new studio album would be released by Heaven & Hell, well, the wait and anxiousness are finally over!! All I can say it this: if you are already a Black Sabbath, Dio and/or Heaven & Hell fan, then you know and can relate as to why I am so incredibly excited. In the event you are unfamiliar with Black Sabbath fronted by Dio and Heaven & Hell, please do yourself the biggest Metal favor – get your hands on this bands material and find out what you have been missing since 1980! Plus, I always live by the motto: quality is far better than quantity – I appreciate the 5 albums that Black Sabbath with Dio have created, their Metal music has been with me for 3 decades now. Album #6 from Heaven & Hell is going to be one terrific milestone for this band and all of their fans worldwide! This new Heaven & Hell album is proof that – Great Metal things happen to those true Metal fans who wait!!
A few Heavy Metal facts to get you through the day
Posted in 1970's hard rock, Black Sabbath, Extreme, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Motorhead, Music, Over Kill, Rock, rock music, ronnie james dio, Thrash Metal, van halen, Vocals with tags Black Sabbath, d.d. verni, dio, Grammy Awards, Heavy Metal, metal music, Motorhead, Music, Over Kill, ronnie james dio, Thrash Metal, van halen on April 15, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Metal, Heavy Metal is so gooooooood. That is why I like to know facts about my favorite Metal heros and bands – Metal trivia/Heavy Metal history. Here are some facts that you may find interesting, informative or just plain boring. In any regard, you found them here!
* Ronnie James Dio – his real name is – Ronald Padavona
* D.D. Verni – the incredible bass player for Over Kill – his real name is – Carlo Verni
* Motorhead – yes, this legendary Metal band has won a Grammy for Best Metal Performance, in 2005.
* Black Sabbath originated from Birmingham, England – forming their historical Metal band in 1968.
* It is sometimes easy to forget this – Gary Cherone (lead vocalist from Extreme) – was in fact, a one time lead vocalist for Van Halen. The Van Halen album with Gary Cherone on vocals is titled – “Van Halen III.”
I guess these are enough Metal facts for now. I will routinely post a few more of these Metal tidbits.
Bad Company – revisiting the debut album from 1974
Posted in 1970's hard rock, 1970's Rock, Album Review, Bad Company, Guitar, Hard Rock, Music, paul rodgers rock vocalist, Rock, rock music, Vocals with tags 1970's hard rock music, 1970's rock music, Album Review, Bad Company, boz burrell, classic rock, Hard Rock, king crimson, mick ralphs, mott the hoople, paul rodgers, Reviews, Rock, rock band free, simon kirke, swan song records on April 14, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Over this past weekend, I stumbled upon the opportunity to purchase (real cheap) the debut release from Bad Company, aptly titled – “Bad Company.” This first Bad Company album I had many years ago, (on cassette tape) and I actually still have it. (I always treated my cassettes like gold, for they used to cost just as much as actual vinyl). Well, this copy of Bad Company I purchased is the CD, a used copy for a meager 4 dollars and 1 penny, total. (That is less money I spend on an average trip to Dunkin’ Donuts).
The jewel case, liner notes and actual CD itself is nothing more than a mint copy of this Bad Company album. Upon exiting the establishment where I found this CD, I felt I made my weekend find and I did! I do not know if it is just me but the Hard Rock tunes on the freshman release from Bad Company are unreal good and sound as though they could have been recorded and released this very year. I mean, let’s face it, there are way too many Hard Rock and Metal bands out there today that are releasing unmoving blah. To revisit an infamous debut album from a legendary band like Bad Company, today, is a solid breath of Hard Rock air! Sure, this was once a #1 chart topping Hard Rock album back in 1974, yet who cares? Who cares if these songs were at one time FM radio hits! The tunes on this Bad Company album are incredible!
My favorite tune off of “Bad Company” is “Rock Steady.” (Hey, everybody has to have a favorite track off of an album they like, you know?) “Can’t Get Enough”, “Ready For Love”, “Movin On” and of course, the fabulous track notoriously titled “Bad Company” are tunes that are extremely hard to measure up against today, if you are a brand new Hard Rock band putting out your first album. Let’s not forget, though, that Bad Company was/is a supergroup from the early 1970’s too. These guys did have the talent and musical genius already bred inside them. Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke were from the incredible Free, Mick Ralphs was from the hard working and fantastic Mott the Hoople and Boz Burrell was from the outstanding King Crimson. (enough said there when it comes to the tried and true Rock roots, of the original Bad Company lineup!) This album should be required listening, at least weekly, by talent agents from today’s current record companies! This is how Hard Rock is supposed to sound like! Oh, yes, I almost forgot to mention: In my most humble of Hard Rock and Metal opinion, the debut album from Bad Company – is not dated! Due to this album’s greatness, I am now going to dig up and/or find Paul Rodgers and his later bands – The Firm and The Law! Yeah! You simply cannot refuse or deny, a good ol’ journey down Hard Rock memory lane, and all the lanes are open! I am quite pleased that I reintroduced myself to one of the greatest Hard Rock albums ever released, by one of the finest Hard Rock bands that ever existed – Bad Company!
Tobias Sammet & Edguy – Power Metal you cannot pass up!!
Posted in Album Review, Century Media, Edguy, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Heavy Metal Reviews, Metal, Metal Reviews, Music, Power Metal, Rock, rock music, symphonic metal with tags Album Review, dio, Edguy, Heavy Metal, helloween, melodic metal music, Metal, metal music, Power Metal, power metal review, tobias sammet, yngwie malmsteen on April 13, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
I look around and listen to a healthy dose of all Metal music, naturally. Power Metal has always been a staple for me, with DIO, Helloween, GammaRay, Blind Guardian, Yngwie Malsmsteen and so many others leading the way. I by no means take anything away from any other Power Metal band out there when I say that Edguy, led by Tobias Sammet, is at the top of my Power Metal play list. If I say it once, I will say it a million Metal times, Tobias Sammet is one amazing song writer and Power Metal vocalist. The brand new album from Edguy, “Tinnitus Sanctus” is for me, superb. This new release from Edguy, (January, 2009), is more edgier, dark and philosophical than their past albums have been. I sincerely recommend every studio album, live album and EP that Edguy has ever released, they are that incredible to my Metal ears.
A quality starting point for new Edguy fans would be another new release titled – “The Singles”. The songs on “The Singles” are not new, yet this compilation album is, released in early 2009. This album consists of the songs from the Edguy EP’s – “King of Fools”, “Superheroes” and “Lavatory Love Machine”. To sum up Edguy, their Power Metal is a brand of super pumped up – get psyched tunes, they are extremely melodic and extraordinarily catchy. Throw in the fact that Edguy is a group of high powered, quality musicians, complimented by Tobias Sammet’s powerful vocal brilliance and you have one of the very best of Power Metal bands on the planet today! I cannot deny the comparison of Tobias Sammet to that of the legendary Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, the vocals are just that similar in my Metal opinion. (granted, there will always and forever be just one Bruce Dickinson).
I get the sense that, if this was the 1980’s, Edguy’s Power Metal would be all over the FM dial! It is a Metal shame that North American mainstream FM radio does not catch on to the unbelievable European Power Metal that is currently blitzing the continents today. Regardless, FM mainstream radio plays little current Metal as it is, only the Classic Metal from days gone by gets air time nowadays. (that is a good thing, at least some veteran Metal is heard on FM). My main goal with this article, of course, is to promote Edguy to the world, fuel some interest with new Edguy fans and HIGHLY RECOMMEND EDGUY to the entire Rock, Hard Rock and Metal communities!
The current Edguy lineup – Tobias Sammet on vocals, Dirk Sauer on rhythm guitar, Jens Ludwig on lead guitar, Tobias Exxel on bass guitar and Felix Bohnke on drums.
Women of Hard Rock & Metal – Janis Joplin
Posted in 1970's Rock, Guitar, Hard Rock, janis joplin, psychedelic rock music, Rock, rock music, Vocals with tags 1960's rock music, 1970's rock music, big brother & the holding company, female rock vocalist, female rock vocals, Hard Rock, janis joplin, Music, Psychedelic Rock, psychedelic rock music, Rock, rock music on April 12, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
The voice of Janis Joplin, in my opinion, has never, ever, bean duplicated, nor has any female Rock vocalist even come light years close. The raspy, sand papered and bluesy vocals of Janis Joplin has always sounded magical to me. The raw emotion that Janis Joplin exhibited vocally will always come through to me as honest and true. Janis Joplin was an all encompassing Rock legend – singer, songwriter and guitarist.
I never like to look back at any Rock music legend and wonder what could have been, if tragedy did not strike. Like so many Rock stars and in some cases, icons, that have passed before their time, I accept the gift of music that these musicians left behind, for the world to enjoy forever. Janis Joplin has left us with her songs and her gifted voice. How wonderful it is, to be able to reach for Janis Joplin at any time and listen away to one of the most powerful voices in all of Rock music history! I cannot tell you how many times I will listen to Janis Joplin, smack dab in the middle of listening to Metal bands like Helloween and Kiss! In doing this, it reminds me that there still is an unparalleled female Rock voice that I can turn to and enjoy. Janis Joplin’s voice and music will set me straight, reminding me of real Rock roots, where Hard Rock was born from.
“Me and Bobby McGee” is a song I kick back to while enjoying the story telling approach of Hard Rock, as only Janis Joplin can deliver. “Mercedes Benz” is easily as relevant a song today as it was in the early 1970’s. “Piece of My Heart”, for me, is as groundbreaking of a Hard Rock song as there ever could be. Musically, the formula for the foundation of Hard Rock was in place – it was Janis Joplin that took this song to another Rock stratosphere with her thrilling and bluesy vocals. From her musical beginnings with Big Brother & the Holding Company to her solo career, Janis Joplin was all along – carving out a path for future female Rock vocalists and female Rock musicians. Janis Joplin was a star of Psychedelic Rock, yet she forever is a star in the Rock and Hard Rock genres as well. Janis Joplin’s accomplishments and place in Rock music history can never be measured, her legacy can only be revered.
Janis Lyn Joplin – January 19, 1943 – October 4, 1970
Saturday, April 11, 2009, is National Heavy Metal Day!
Posted in Black Metal, Extreme Metal, gothic metal, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, Power Metal, symphonic metal, Thrash Metal with tags Black Metal, Death Metal, Extreme Metal, gothic metal, Hair Metal, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal music, Music, Power Metal, progressive metal, speed metal, symphonic metal, Thrash Metal on April 11, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Metal Odyssey has taken upon itself to proclaim: Saturday, April 11, is National Heavy Metal Day! Therefore, you may take these helpful tips/advice and put them into action, (if you like) and spread and/or share the great music of Heavy Metal to those around you.
* Listen to any or all Metal genres today!
* Play any or all Metal music LOUD today!
* Wear your favorite Metal t-shirt with pride today!
* Listen to any or all Metal genres with someone you love today!
* Buy or trade some Metal music today!
* Buy that special someone or your favorite buddy a Metal music gift! (give the gift of Metal)
* Share a Metal album/CD with someone!
* Share your Metal music knowledge with someone today!
* Read a decent mainstream or underground Metal magazine today, (not a Metal mag written by babies).
* If you are lucky enough, go to a Metal concert/club gig today!
* Watch a cool Metal movie today – “Trick or Treat”, any John Carpenter film or any Metal concert film will suffice.
* Surf the net for all of your favorite Metal bands and Metal news!
* Find an outdoor flea market for Metal music stuff – here’s a tip – buy low!
* Organize your Metal album/CD collection!
* Hang up a Metal poster of your favorite band(s) with pride!
Come to think of it, it seems like every day is a National Heavy Metal Day for me! It might feel that way to some of you out there too. Regardless, it just sounds and feels so cool, a National Heavy Metal Day, doesn’t it? Remember – BE TRUE TO METAL AND METAL WILL BE TRUE TO YOU.
Electric Light Orchestra – Progressive Rock icon
Posted in 1970's Rock, Album Review, Amon Amarth, electric light orchestra, Hard Rock, Music, progressive rock, Rock with tags 1970's rock music, dream theater, electric light orchestra, elo, jeff lynne, Music, progressive metal, progressive rock, Rock, rock music, the traveling wilburys, tom petty on April 11, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
If I could pin point the exact age I was, when I first listened to the Electric Light Orchestra, I would be somewhere around 10 years old – the vintage 1970’s. I have been inhaling the music of ELO for my entire life, safe to say. It does not matter what Metal genre I am currently obsessed with, ELO always gets playing time on my turntable and/or CD players. The Electric Light Orchestra, in my opinion, is one of the original leaders of Progressive Rock. What exactly is it about ELO that gravitates me to their music? Since I can remember, even as a young kid, I always got the biggest kick out of any music that was louder, faster and heavier than what was being played on AM radio. (that is correct, I wrote – AM radio).
Is/was ELO faster, louder and heavier than AM radio music of the ’70’s? Some of ELO’s greatest songs are legendary AM radio hits. However, as with any Rock band out there, it always comes down to the deeper album cuts that separates the legendary bands from the plain average bands. There are dozens and probably more, of ELO songs that for me, are far better than the hits you would/currently here on FM radio. What I heard from ELO, all those years ago and still here today, is the bold and rich clarity of combining Traditional and Classical music with up tempo Rock and Roll. I cannot say enough in regards to the intellectual approach to musicianship ELO has stood for. Jeff Lynne, well, he is a musical genius, a musician, vocalist and song writer who has influenced quite a few prominent names in Rock. It is obvious and factual the influence Jeff Lynne has had on the career of Tom Petty. The Traveling Wilburys only solidifies my opinion of just how creative and influential Jeff Lynne was/is. Could any influential credit be given to ELO, for the evolution of the fabulous Finnish cello Metal band – Apocalyptica? This past year of 2008 has had Apocalyptica appear on the new Amon Amarth album – “Twighlight of the Thundergod,” so I am not alone in the world of Metal with my affection towards the cool sounds of cello’s or string arrangements! I do not know for fact, yet every time I listen to the great Dream Theater, I cannot help but here musical arrangements that are reflective of ELO. At times it is a choral arrangement, other times a guitar lead that blends in with tones from a keyboard or organ. I feel pretty confident in comparing Dream Theater to ELO, both bands are musically progressive and are not bashful about experimentation to create sounds and effects. For me, the true musical difference between Dream Theater and ELO is that Dream Theater packs the Metal muscle and overall Metal power brilliance.
The musical totality of ELO far reaches beyond the AM and later FM radio hits that made them so recognizable. ELO took string arrangements and horns to an entirely different level, not just combining these musical instruments with Rock and Roll, but doing so in a a manner in which was powerful, emotional and more often than not, just plain cool. The ELO album “Eldorado” distinguishes the pure emotional feel and sound that only became enhanced two fold from the use of Classical musical arrangements. The ELO album “A New World Record” eclipses any straight forward Rock album of the 1970’s, again through unconventional musical arrangements and structure, in turn creating the cool songs from ELO. I am not ashamed to admit that ELO is an all time favorite Rock band for me. Certainly, Metal and all of it’s genres are my true music love, still it is an exhilarating Rock music, listening experience for me any and every time I tune into ELO. After all of these years of enjoying music, ELO never fails to keep me grounded, while amazing my ears along the way.
5 Heavy Metal events that could never possibly take place
Posted in Black Metal, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Iron Maiden, Metal, Music, Rock, Slipknot, W.A.S.P. with tags Black Metal, Blackie Lawless, dee snider, Heavy Metal, Iron Maiden, job for a cowboy, jon rice, Music, Slipknot, W.A.S.P. on April 10, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Here I go again, making up hysterical situations that could never, ever happen. Oh, by the way, these situations are all Heavy Metal related. So, sit back, turn up some Iron Maiden, read along and enjoy.
1. “Larry King Live” will have as special guests, Job For A Cowboy. Larry King will ask Jon Rice if he is a “big fan of John Wayne movies or what young fella”? “Tell the folks at home, are you”?
2. Al Gore will write a biography titled: “An American Hero – Dee Snider”
3. NBC’s “The Today Show” will dedicate one full week to Black Metal for their famous – “Summer Concert Series”.
4. MSNBC will ask Blackie Lawless to join their political analyst team.
5. Al Roker from NBC’s incredibly informative? “The Today Show”, will be introducing Slipknot onstage for the remainder of their “All Hope Is Gone Tour”
Women of Hard Rock & Metal – Cristina Scabbia of Lacuna Coil
Posted in Century Media, gothic metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, lacuna coil, Metal, metal music from Italy, Music, Rock, symphonic metal, Vocals with tags andrea ferro, cristina scabbia, female vocalist, gothic metal, Heavy Metal, lacuna coil, Metal, metal music, Music, symphonic metal, Vocals on April 10, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Gosh, is the mainstream Rock radio world missing out or what. Try listening to any desensitized FM radio station these days, try as you may, you will never hear who I feel is Hard Rock and Metal’s most underrated female vocalist today – Cristina Scabbia of Lacuna Coil. Symphonic, Gothic and at the end of the day, Lacuna Coil is still – Metal. Cristina Scabbia has proven to me, that you can have a beautiful female voice and still sing Metal music. I find Metal brilliance in Lacuna Coil for many reasons, (Cristina Scabbia’s vocals being #1), including the total musicianship and co-vocalist Andrea Ferro. Lacuna Coil means empty spiral, there is nothing that I find empty about any of the music created by Lacuna Coil.
I find Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro to compliment each other extremely well, vocally. Cristina’s vocals can lead you down many paths, from gentle solitude to dark and gothic to emphatic emotion. Then, Andrea will come in and either maintain the mood or sweep it off the table. These two vocalists do work vice versa as well, Andrea can be hitting the emotional anger on high and Cristina lends a symphonic vocal interlude that seamlessly blends into the song. There is no question that Lacuna Coil has their world following, deservedly so. There have been and continue to be many great articles written about Lacuna Coil in mainstream Rock and Metal magazines. Lacuna Coil and Cristina Scabbia are justifiably popular, I just feel that this band should be on the FM dial as often as Nickelback.
If you are already a fan of Lacuna Coil, you are then familiar with the bounty of integrity and musicianship they bestow. In the event you are new or unfamiliar with Lacuna Coil, I suggest a great starting ground would be their EP’s: “Lacuna Coil” and “Halflife.” In my opinion, every album from Lacuna Coil is worthy of Metal praise. The union of so many musical styles with two featured lead vocalists, providing incredible dual harmonies is quite tough to pull off. Lacuna Coil has been succeeding with this unique Metal style since 1997, Cristina Scabbia is the vocal centerpiece that is easy to embrace.
10 Heavy Metal happenings that will never happen.
Posted in Black Metal, Death Metal, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Iced Earth, Metal, Power Metal, Rock with tags arch enemy, cannibal corpse, david lee roth, Death Metal, dee snider, Grammy Awards, Heavy Metal, Iced Earth, king diamond, metal music, motley crue, Motorhead, Music, Power Metal, Thrash Metal on April 9, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Every once in awhile, well, I tend to be slightly comedic. What better way to get away from the white useless noise of MSNBC than to have some comic relief that incorporates Heavy Metal? Here are some Heavy Metal happenings that will never, ever, happen in a million Metal years:
#1. A live Cannibal Corpse concert held in Salt Lake City, Utah, will be aired on PBS this fall.
#2. The Grammy Awards of 2010, will recognize Motorhead with a lifetime achievement award.
#3. The American Music Awards will have Iced Earth perform live, on their stage, for their 2010 airing.
#4. Al Gore will finally admit to Dee Snider that Heavy Metal will not corrupt our youth.
#5. Oprah Winfrey will have King Diamond on her show, delving into the mystique of horror lyrics in Metal.
#6. Dan Rather will travel with Motley Crue this Summer, documenting and narrating for film – “Crue Fest 2009”.
#7. Keith Olberman of MSNBC fame will become the new host for MTV’s “Headbangers Ball” beginning this fall.
#8. Chris Matthews of MSNBC fame will finally accept the role to play “Aunt Bea” in the new television remake of “The Andy Griffith Show.” David Lee Roth will accept the opportunity to redo the famous show opening whistling song.
#9. North American concert promoters will announce that Power Metal festivals will be abundant and year long events in all 50 states!
#10. Dr. Phil will have Arch Enemy perform on his show. Dr. Phil will then admit to his tongue tied audience that Death Metal is “good, clean, mental therapy.”
Yes! Happy Birthday to Steve Howe!
Posted in Guitar, Hard Rock, Music, Rock with tags asia rock band, gtr rock band, Music, progressive rock, steve howe, yes, yes progressive rock band, yes rock band on April 8, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
Metal Odyssey sends out a very loud Happy Birthday to Steve Howe of the incredible Progressive Rock band – Yes. (62 years young on April 8, 2009). Steve Howe has defined Progressive Rock guitar through the legendary music of Yes. Steve Howe created his own signature sound, blending his guitar playing through a myriad of Rock sounds and instruments that helped define the Progressive Rock genre. The two other famous Rock bands Steve Howe played in are Asia and GTR. At last count, there have been 19 solo albums released by Steve Howe. In my opinion, Steve Howe is as important of a guitar player to the history of modern day Rock music as any other. Thank you for all the memorable music you have given the world Steve Howe!
Papa Roach “Metamorphosis” – leave your stress behind!
Posted in Album Review, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Heavy Metal Reviews, Metal, Metal Reviews, Music, Rock, Vocals with tags Album Review, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, jacoby shaddix, metamorphosis album, Music, papa roach, Reviews on April 7, 2009 by Metal Odyssey
What Papa Roach has created with “Metamorphosis” is a Hard Rock meets Heavy Metal good time. My favorite tune, (like many fans I’m sure), is “Lifeline”. An inspirational hard rocking song that is a can’t miss if you are looking for an uplifting moment in Metal. This song pretty much says it all, about the emotions and tribulations that many people are going through in our society at this moment. “Days of War” is a cool and heavy intro – the perfect start for any Heavy Metal album, a strong prelude to get your adrenaline cooking. “Change or Die” is the lead song, very heavy with strong & aggressive vocals and a pumped up tempo. Every song on “Metamorphosis” is a winner for me, a straight up – melodic ride. This album is an essential listen for leaving your troubles behind you, just move forward with Papa Roach!
Papa Roach the band and “Metamorphosis” the album is not dated! The musical totality of this album is as sincere as it is catchy. Bands do progress, try different styles musically and Papa Roach has proven to me, that they are one of the very finest at broadening the heavy scope, making Hard Rock and Heavy Metal diversity very, very, cool and appreciable. “Metamorphosis” is a must listen for all Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal fans alike, Papa Roach has made this possible by bridging the gap.
Papa Roach is: Jacoby Shaddix on vocals, Jerry Horton on guitars and backing vocals, Tobin Esperance on bass guitars, programming and backing vocals and Tony Palermo on drums, percussion and backing vocals.
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