Metal Odyssey &gt; Heavy Metal Music Blog

LONG LIVE DARKTRIBE.

Stone.

Some Metal and Rock ‘N Roll Thoughts – Sunday, May 20th, 2012

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news with tags Black Sabbath, hard rock news, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, rock and roll, rock music news, saxon on May 20, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

As this weekend embarks on its second half, the yearning for 36 hour days never seems to wane for me. I always feel like I’m catching up on stuff; from yard work, paperwork and paying bills to new Metal album releases. I’m forever guilty of ignoring that golden rule: Don’t sweat the little things. Still, at the beginning and end of every 24 hour day, I am still grateful to be alive!

To anyone who has been kind enough to take the moment from their busy day and visit Metal Odyssey, here are a few Metal and Rock ‘N Roll thoughts that I want to share:

SAXON – This tuesday (May 22nd), in North America, the 2 CD/1 DVD set titled Heavy Metal Thunder – Live – Eagles Over Wacken gets released. I’ll be putting this Saxon release on my Metal want list, there’s no doubt. The price isn’t cheap, then again, there are 2 CD’s and a DVD involved here. Who knows, maybe I’ll find this cool Saxon set sometime in 2017… at an open-air flea market… for 3 dollars.

BLACK SABBATH – As the family feud continues to unfold in the Black Sabbath camp, the latest news is so immature that it’s beyond shocking. Apparently, as its been reported everywhere: vintage and/or recent band photos of Black Sabbath have been placed on the official Black Sabbath website… with Bill Ward cropped out of them! Metal be thy name!

* UPDATE – I guess it’s now being reported, as of mid-day on May 20th, that Bill Ward requested to have his image cropped out of any Black Sabbath group photos, which are shown on the Black Sabbath official website. Whatever. Who cares at this point. This is why I usually don’t write about any band’s soap opera moments. From here on in, I won’t cover any more related news regarding this Black Sabbath story. That’s it. I’m a fan who is fed up. Life is too damn short for me to worry about this nonsense.

Maybe Black Sabbath should just change their band name altogether now? Without Bill Ward, it’s no longer the original Black Sabbath. To assist the Black Sabbath camp in moving forward, here are several sincere and free band name suggestions from Stone:

1. – The Ozzy Trio

2. – Sharon Calls The Shots

3. – Sharon Knows Best

4. – The Osbourne Way

5. – Ozzy & His Band

6. – No Contract For You!

7. – Bill Who?

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Is it just me or are the following two album covers kinda similar? Same artist? I don’t know. Same idea? Looks like it. Both layouts are basically identical too. Weird how this sometimes happens. I’ll also add that the Running Wild album cover has a chunk of Voivod influence with the artwork.

Honestly, I’m not that impressed with either of the album cover art below. This is what I used to see being done in my high school graphic arts class… back in 1983. I used to sit through many critiques in art class while in college, so believe me, I know how proud artists can be about their work. I was always proud of my art, regardless the degree of difficulty. However, these two album covers below were not that difficult to create.

Death By Stereo – Black Sheep Of The American Dream

Running Wild – Shadowmaker

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Okay! That’s it! My Metal and Rock ‘N Roll Thoughts for Sunday, May 20th, have come to a close. I really hope you’ve enjoyed your visit to Metal Odyssey and will come again… and again. Leave a comment! The more comments that are made, the less likelihood that my boss will crop me out of his photographs! Make the most of your day today and watch out for parking lot speed bumps.

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METAL BE THY NAME.

LONG LIVE METAL & ROCK ‘N ROLL.

Stone.

http://www.witchcrafthome.com

WITCHCRAFT – Sign With Nuclear Blast! Currently Recording New Album

Posted in doom metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags doom metal, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, nuclear blast records, witchcraft on May 19, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Nuclear Blast feels honoured to welcome Swedish Doom Metal kings WITCHCRAFT to the family!

After a 5 year hiatus, the band is currently recording the follow-up to 2007’s “The Alchemist” together with renowned producer Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios (KREATOR, OPETH, AMON AMARTH, PARADISE LOST, KATATONIA…).

The albums working title is set to “Legend” and will feature the bands new guitarists and drummer for the first time:

Simon Solomon – guitars
Tom Jondelius – guitars
Oscar Johansson – drums

Furthermore, band leader Magnus Pelander will from now on focus on his unique vocals without playing guitar anymore.

Commented Pelander: “There’s magic going on in the studio and we can hardly wait to eventually give something back to our loyal fans! We know you guys have been waiting for this!”

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(Source: Nuclear Blast News)

* For more info on WITCHCRAFT, click on the link below!

LONG LIVE WITCHCRAFT.

Stone.

ZONARIA – Swedish Death Metal Pack Signs With Listenable Records

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags arrival of the red sun, Death Metal, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, swedish death metal, zonaria on May 19, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo credit – Emil Nyström)

Listenable Records is proud to announce the addition of ZONARIA to their roster. After releasing several eps, 2 full length albums and having toured Europe with the likes of SATYRICON, PAIN, MARDUK, NILE, and VADER among others, Swedish death commanders ZONARIA have recorded an eleven-track monster entitled Arrival of the Red Sun with Jonas Kjellgren at Abyss Studios.

The album is scheduled to be released by Listenable on July 23rd in Europe and on August 14th in North America. Arrival of the Red Sun is the band’s most defined and accomplished album so far, get ready for a thick sounding dose of militant rhythms, smashing heavy riffing and stomping drums.

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Track Listing for Arrival of the Red Sun is as follows:

1) Arrival Of The Red Sun

2) Silent Holocaust

3) Gunpoint Salvation

4) Liberation Zero

5) The Blood That Must Be Paid

6) Desert Storms

7) A Lullaby To Those Still Alive

8) Full Spectrum Dominance

9) My Vengeance Remains

10) Face My Justice

11) CC Cowboys (bonus track Limited edition CD only)

ZONARIA’s most recent official video, for the song “At War With The Inferior” from their 2009 release The Cancer Empire [Century Media Records] is below!

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(Source: ClawHammer PR)

* For more info on ZONARIA, click on the link below!

LISTENABLE RECORDS

LONG LIVE ZONARIA.

Stone.

http://www.testamentlegions.com

TESTAMENT – Reveal “Dark Roots of Earth” Album Details!

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags chuck billy, dark roots of earth, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, testament, Thrash Metal on May 19, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Bay Area Thrash titans, TESTAMENT, have revealed the cover art and details for their upcoming Dark Roots of Earth release! Artwork was painted by Eliran Kantor who has worked with such bands as SODOM, ATHEIST and SIGH. Dark Roots of Earth was produced, mixed and mastered once again by the world-renowned Andy Sneap (ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE, ACCEPT, EXODUS).

Special bonus tracks were recorded, mixed and mastered by Juan Urteaga (CATTLE DECAPITATION, HEATHEN, VILE, SADUS) at his Trident Studios. The highly anticipated follow-up to their 2008 release The Formation of Damnation will be released on July 27, 2012 (Europe) via Nuclear Blast Records.

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Dark Roots of Earth – Jewel Case CD Track Listing:

01. Rise Up

02. Native Blood

03. Dark Roots Of Earth

04. True American Hate

05. A Day In The Death

06. Cold Embrace

07. Man Kills Mankind

08. Throne Of Thorns

09. Last Stand For Independence

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Dark Roots of Earth – CD/DVD Track Listing:

01. Rise Up

02. Native Blood

03. Dark Roots Of Earth

04. True American Hate

05. A Day In The Death

06. Cold Embrace

07. Man Kills Mankind

08. Throne Of Thorns

09. Last Stand For Independence

Bonus:

10. Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)

11. Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)

12. Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)

13. Throne Of Thornes (extended version)

+ Bonus DVD

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Dark Roots of Earth – Vinyl Track Listing:

Side A:

01. Rise Up

02. Native Blood

03. Dark Roots Of Earth

Side B:

04. True American Hate

05. A Day In The Death

06. Cold Embrace

Side C:

07. Man Kills Mankind

08. Throne Of Thorns

09. Last Stand For Independence

Side D (Bonus):

10 Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)

11 Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)

12 Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)

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(Source: Nuclear Blast News)

* For more info on TESTAMENT, click on the links below!

http://www.facebook.com/testamentlegions

http://www.youtube.com/testamentofficial

http://www.nuclearblast.de/de/label/musi…

LONG LIVE TESTAMENT.

Stone.

http://www.metalblade.com/sixfeetunder

Some Metal and Rock ‘N Roll Thoughts – Saturday, May 19th, 2012

Posted in disco, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags carly simon, donna summer, Hard Rock, heavy metal news, marilyn manson, rock music news, you're so vain on May 19, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Another week in the Metal books and still those (robotic-like) political talking heads continue to invade my late night television viewing; as I try to find cool documentaries on Bigfoot, UFO’s, ghost hunting and swamp dudes that aren’t afraid of nothing. As you can see, not all reality television is repulsive to me; especially when I’m informed by intellectual thinkers wearing L.L. Bean shirts as to when and where the next apocalypse will take place. I just hope I have my family by my side when this all comes down, along with my Motörhead, Orange Goblin and Six Feet Under CD’s.

The new Marilyn Manson album, Born Villain, was released on May 1st. I just bought it this past Thursday at Target. Yes, Target. Metal be thy name! The same super retailer who doesn’t carry squat when it comes to Metal or anti-Pop; then all of a sudden they’re selling Marilyn Manson’s new CD! Marilyn Manson’s (bonus track) cover of Carly Simon’s 1972 monster hit, You’re So Vain, is on this digipak copy I bought too. I don’t know if it’s a Target exclusive or not; quite frankly it gets confusing after a while when it comes to exclusives and bonus tracks.

Carly Simon – No Secrets (1972 -Elektra)

I alway’s found Carly Simon’s voice to be quite alluring. As a young lad, I used to get super huge ostrich bumps on my face and arms, every time You’re So Vain came on the radio. I’ve always taken a liking to this song. Go figure. Now, when I hear Marilyn Manson sing You’re So Vain, I’m just plain scared straight. Marilyn’s Industrial Metal meets horror style to You’re So Vain is an unreal listen. I actually like it better than Faster Pussycat’s cover of this same song. Trust me… Marilyn Manson made You’re So Vain into his very creepy own.

Side Note: Apparently, this cover of You’re So Vain features Johnny Depp too. I guess the dude does backing vocals. Whatever. Makes no difference to me. Next time I hope Marilyn Manson calls me to do backing vocals on one of his songs.

I cannot believe the music world has lost both Whitney Houston and Donna Summer in the same year. If someone was to have told me this would happen, I would’ve told them to take a long hike through a patch of thistle. Unfortunately, both these legendary voices of song are no longer alive and that’s sad to me.

Donna Summer passed away on May 17th, at the young age of 63. I express condolences to the family, friends and fans of Donna Summer. While growing up in the late 70’s and early 80’s, I couldn’t avoid being exposed to the Disco and Pop songs of Donna Summer. I can’t erase my past and I wouldn’t want to if I tried. My (late) sister had many of Donna Summer’s 45’s.

My favorite Donna Summer song is definitely McArthur Park. If my memory serves me right, this was my sister’s favorite as well. Just about every wedding I’ve ever been to, (with a hired DJ), Last Dance is played. Heck, my wedding had Last Dance as the “last song” as well. As Lenny Wolf of Kingdom Come would say: “It is what it is.”

Alright, those are some Metal and Rock ‘N Roll thoughts for Saturday, May 19th, 2012. Believe me, I have hundreds of other Rockin’ thoughts to share and I could go on all day and night; I just don’t want to tie you up any longer. I realize you have other stuff to do. It’s cool.

METAL BE THY NAME.

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LONG LIVE METAL & ROCK ‘N ROLL.

Rest In Peace, Donna Summer.

Stone.

16 Comments »

SIX FEET UNDER – “UNDEAD” Album Streaming In Its Entirety, Courtesy Of Decibel Magazine!

Posted in Death Metal, death metal bands, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags chris barnes, Death Metal, death metal albums, heavy metal news, six feet under, undead album, undead streaming on May 18, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Let Decibel Magazine hurl your weekend into a sonic maelstrom of brutality with a full stream of Undead, the forthcoming new studio offering from Death Metal monarchs SIX FEET UNDER. Scheduled for North American release on May 22, 2012 through Metal Blade Records, Undead was produced by Mark Lewis (Deicide, Devildriver) and mixed by Jason Suecof (Whitechapel, Job For A Cowboy) at Audio Hammer Studios in Sanford, Florida.

The record features an updated lineup of Barnes alongside guitarist Rob Arnold (ex- Chimaira), longtime guitarist Steve Swanson (ex-Massacre), bassist Jeff Hughell (ex-Brain Drill, ex-Vile), and drummer Kevin Talley (Dying Fetus, Misery Index, Chimaira) and has already begun raising the ears of fans and critics alike.

In an early reviews of the record, Blistering.com commends the band for giving “meat-and-potatoes death metal a nice kick in the behind,” PitRiff.com champions Undead for being “powerful, musical and yet distinctly death metal,” while PureGrainAudio opines: “…one of the world’s biggest death metal acts is still a commanding force of sonic destruction.” Adds Metal Assault in a 9/10 rating: “if you’re into throat-grabbing riffs and groove-oriented extreme music…Undead is right up your alley.”

Stream Undead in its relentless entirety at THIS LOCATION.

In related news, Metal Blade TV recently aired an exclusive interview with Barnes as conducted by label CEO Brian Slagel. If you missed it, you still have a chance to check it out HERE.

Following the release of Undead, SIX FEET UNDER will flatten the masses on a near three-week run of live ceremonies this June. The 18 Nights Of Blood Tour will begin in Atlanta, Georgia on June 8. Support will be provided by Dying Fetus and Revocation.

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* For complete tour dates and more info on The 18 Nights Of Blood Tour, click the large link below!

SIX FEET UNDER – Announce 18 Nights Of Blood Tour 2012; Dying Fetus and Revocation to Support

* Wanna read my review for UNDEAD? It’s just a click away with that huge link below!

SIX FEET UNDER “UNDEAD” – A Merciless Sonic Experience Of Death Metal

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(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on SIX FEET UNDER, click the links below!

http://www.sfu420.com

http://www.facebook.com/sixfeetunder

LONG LIVE SIX FEET UNDER.

Stone.

NACHTGESCHREI – Announces Martin LeMar As New Vocalist

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, martin lemar, nachtgeschrei, rock music news on May 18, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

“After a long search, the decision was made quickly: we rehearsed and did test recordings with a lot of great singers, but one guy just blew us away… Martin LeMar will be the new voice of Nachtgeschrei!

And what a voice – Martin, who already provided the vocals for Tommorow’s Eve and Progressive Metal legend Mekong Delta, just convinced us with his voice and personality. We are absolutely sure that he is the right guy to kick off once again with. You can see brand new pictures of us with Martin on our website!

We are confident that the best is yet to come: currently, we are working on new songs, planning the first shows and have a little surprise for you up our sleeves – so stay tuned on www.nachtgeschrei.de

But before we present you new material, let’s join us for a little retrospective: Massacre Records looks back on six years of Nachtgeschrei with a virtual “best of” compilation album. We have selected 13 favourite tracks from our previous releases, that offer a cross-section of our three studio albums. Whoever wants to have all the favourites of band and fans at one swoop, should mark May 18th, 2012.

Then “Eine Erste Kerbe”, the digital Nachtgeschrei-Best-Of will be available for a special offer at iTunes, Amazon, Musicload and other digital music stores.”

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(Source: Massacre Records)

* For more info on Nachtgeschrei, click on the links below!

www.nachtgeschrei.de

Long Live Nachtgeschrei.

Stone.

http://bit.ly/RoyalThunderStore

SWEET “New York Connection” – Cover Song Album Transcends and Celebrates The Classics Of Rock

Posted in album reviews, classic rock, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news with tags andy scott, classic rock, cover song albums, Hard Rock, new york connection, rock music news, sweet, the sweet on May 18, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

SWEET – When I first learned of this cover song album, I realized there really is no better Rock ‘N Roll band in the land than Sweet, that could celebrate such revered Classic Rock songs. Then again, I believe Def Leppard could pull it off too. Regardless, this is Sweet in 2012 and the legendary Andy Scott (founding member, guitarist, vocalist) has once again proven that his bands legacy is stronger than ever; through the Hard Rockin’ cover song album New York Connection.

Without question, I fell head over heels for the cover of New York Groove. I truthfully played this song upon my first introduction to it, let’s say, twenty times in a row? The soaring vocals! The steady upbeat vibes and total good-times feel of New York Groove came at me in Rockin’ waves! Then, once I listened to all eleven songs on New York Connection, those amazing Rockin’ and good-times vibes never subsided!

Ring the Metal Odyssey bell and tell all the nations, that Sweet has signed, sealed and delivered Rock ‘N Roll jubilation!

After all these years, the sound of Sweet still comes packaged with full-throttle relevance. Andy Scott and his band did a fabulous job at keeping the original Rock essence and stylings of these eleven classics intact; while truly making these said classics their own. With drummer Bruce Bisland singing lead vocals on Blitzkrieg Bop, Sweet kept the Punk in every beat of this song! The one song Andy Scott sings lead vocals on is The Velvet Underground’s Sweet Jane. Excellent stuff. Metal be thy name does Sweet elevate Sweet Jane to an unreal Hard Rockin’ level of pure joy.

Keyboardist Tony O’Hora sings lead vocals on Because The Night and he righteously nails it. Bassist Pete Lincoln sings lead vocals on the rest of the songs and he is a Rockin’ treat to listen to. Pete’s vocals maintain that spirit of vintage Sweet. On Broadway has never been given a Hard Rockin’ shine like the one you’ll hear on this album. With all I’ve stated about the vocals; throw in the signature tones of Andy Scott’s guitar, with each musicians contribution to the songs and this covers album illuminates my eardrums into Classic Rock overdrive!

Like their legendary peers of Mott The Hoople, Badfinger and Uriah Heep, (to name only a few), Sweet is a band that justifiably originated Hard Rock outside the iconic Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Doors, The Who and The Animals. My point being; the legacy of Sweet continues onward in 2012 and the Rock historical importance of this band goes far beyond what any misinformed “Rock historians” at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame may think. This is a band whose legacy, influence and image helped pave the way for many bands that dominated on Sunset Strip back in the 80’s; I’m not bashful about reminding my Metal brethren of that.

The grand thing is Rock ‘N Roll history can never be erased and New York Connection is 100% proof of that. Sweet (both past and present) is a quasar in Rock ‘N Roll history. This band should be celebrated by Rock fans across all genres in 2012. I highly recommend you celebrate Rock ‘N Roll history with Sweet, by buying and playing LOUD this exceptional cover song album they’ve created and call New York Connection.

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SWEET New York Connection – Track Listing:

New York Groove

Gold On The Ceiling

All Moving Faster

New York Connection

Shape Of Things

You Spin Me Round

Because The Night

Sweet Jane

Blitzkrieg Bop

On Broadway

Join Together

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* For more info on SWEET, click on the link below!

http://www.thesweet.com

LONG LIVE SWEET.

Stone.

3 Comments »

ROYAL THUNDER’S “Blue” Streaming Now; “Whispering World” Live Footage From INDIEATL

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags cvi album, Hard Rock, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, rock music news, royal thunder on May 17, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

ALBUM TRAILER UP NOW ON RELAPSE YOUTUBE PAGE

May 17, 2012, Philadelphia – As Royal Thunder prepare for next week’s arrival of CVI (May 22, Relapse Records), Noisecreep is sharing “Blue” from the 10-track album Revolver Magazine described as: “a thick rock hurricane that spins soaring melodies and searing heaviness in almost every direction.” The link to listen is: http://www.noisecreep.com/2012/05/15/royal-thunder-cvi/.

The band recently recorded an in-studio performance of “Whispering World,” another track from the forthcoming release, for indieATL, which can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0r2d5xPFOo&feature=youtu.be. IndieATL is a video partner to Georgia State University’s radio station, WRAS 88.5.

Relapse has also created a trailer for CVI with clips from each of the 10 songs on the album: http://youtu.be/4C9e_QV0UEg.

For All Royal Thunder Tour Dates, click the large link below:

ROYAL THUNDER – Confirm U.S. Tour, NPR Feature And “Parsonz Curse” MP3 Available Now

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(Source: Speakeasy PR & Marketing)

* For more info on ROYAL THUNDER, click on the links below:

www.facebook.com/royalthundermusic

LONG LIVE ROYAL THUNDER.

Stone.

ATKINS / MAY PROJECT “Serpents Kiss” – A Dynamic Metal Duo; Results In A Galvanizing Heavy Metal Album

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags al atkins, atkins / may project, atkins/may project, heavy metal albums 2011, heavy metal news, Metal, paul may, serpents kiss album on May 17, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

ATKINS / MAY PROJECT – Original Judas Priest vocalist Al Atkins and Christian guitarist Paul May joined Metal forces to form Atkins / May Project. A formidable Metal duo they are! Being a former founding member of Judas Priest and firmly staying in the Metal loop over the years, (5 solo albums & autobiography), Al Atkins has proven he has cemented his rightful place in Heavy Metal history; while convincingly staying true to Metal. Serpents Kiss is as true as it gets here, my Metal brethren.

Al Atkins sings with sandpapered tones; these tones resonate a Metal toughness and blue-collar legitimacy to this man’s career. Al doesn’t sing over-the-top on Serpents Kiss, instead, he allows the music to be the driving force; while his tones set the table for a Traditional Metal ride. Al’s vocals are the muscle behind this album’s Metal.

Paul May is the finesse behind this album’s Metal. He is the main credited songwriter for Serpents Kiss, while being co-writer for Dream Maker, Signz and Judge. As both a songwriter and guitarist, Paul May is a five-star talent, to my ears. I liken Paul’s guitar tones to fall somewhere between these two legendary axe men: Phil Campbell of Motörhead and Ted Nugent. Don’t get me wrong, this guitarist plays with an exemplary feel and is as original as they come. Paul has a fabulous resume as a guitarist and he excels with delectable riffs, leads and solos; his melodies and rhythms are flat-out contagious.

(Photo Courtesy of Paul May)

Serpents Kiss has drawn me in and there’s not a boring moment to be heard. From start to finish, this album should satisfy any Traditional or Contemporary Metal hunger you may have. With a Metal atmosphere that is, for the most part, irresistibly retrospective, the consistency of quality never subsides on these ten songs.

Paul May does a grand job at combining the Metal feel of yesterday, with what Metal feels like today. One cover song is on Serpents Kiss: Cold Gin. This KISS/Ace Frehley classic is given its rightful respect by both Al and Paul. This cover of Cold Gin is heavier than the original and quite frankly is a Metal wallop.

My favorite song from Serpents Kiss? Honestly, that’s a tough question. This album is that good. The album opener The Shallowing sets the Metal tone from the onset; one that warned me Serpents Kiss had the potential to soar; and soar this album does! Betta Than Twisted is fortified with psyche-out Metal grooves; certainly a song that I cannot get enough of. The closing track, Theatre Of Fools, is an epic listen and one that thunder stamps an exclamation point on a grand Metal album.

If my Metal opinion was to ever count, I would strongly suggest to Al Atkins and Paul May to keep this Atkins / May Project moving forward! Songs such as these on Serpents Kiss are what Metal is all about: loud, proud, muscular and memorable. I’m very impressed. Atkins / May Project nailed it with a Metal war hammer, with Serpents Kiss.

* Atkins / May Project – Serpents Kiss was released back on November 15th, 2011, via gonzo Multimedia.

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SERPENTS KISS – Track Listing:

The Shallowing

Traitors Hand

Dream Maker

Can You Hear Me

Signz

Fight

Judge

Betta Than Twisted

Cold Gin

Theatre Of Fools

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* For more info on Al Atkins & Paul May, click on links below!

ATKINS / MAY PROJECT

http://www.alatkins.com

LONG LIVE AL ATKINS.

LONG LIVE PAUL MAY.

Stone.

1 Comment »

GRASPOP METAL MEETING 2012 – An Amazing Lineup Of Metal Bands!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal festivals, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags graspop metal meeting 2012, heavy metal festivals, heavy metal news, Motorhead, rock music news, Slayer on May 16, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Graspop Metal Meeting – After taking a look at the band lineup for this Metal festival, I am blown away! I wish this festival was in the U.S. and in my Metal reach. Whoa and Metal be thy name.

This very, very, very, very cool Metal festival will be held in Dessel (Belgium) from June 22nd to June 24th, 2012.

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* For more info on GRASPOP METAL MEETING, click link below!

http://www.graspop.be

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

http://www.69chambers.com

69 CHAMBERS – Recording Of “Anhedonia” Official Music Video… Is Stone’s Metal Pick Of The Day!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news, rock music videos with tags 69 chambers, anhedonia music video, Hard Rock, heavy metal news, rock music news, torque album on May 16, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

69 Chambers – Anhedonia is yet another grand song from the new (sophomore) album by 69 Chambers which is titled: Torque. Nina’s vocals I find irresistible, coupled with 69 Chambers modern and hard-edged sound. If you’re looking to buy a new Heavy Music album this week, I strongly suggest picking up Torque.

This band is not following trends, instead they are creating some refreshingly Heavy Rock that should garner them widespread appeal across many Rock genres. Take a look and listen to Anhedonia below and let the music of 69 Chambers take control! (Hey… that rhymed).

* Torque was released on April 27th, 2012, via Massacre Records.

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69 CHAMBERS:

Nina Vetterli-Treml – bass & vocals

Tommy Vetterli – guitar

Diego Rapacchietti – drums

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(Source: Massacre Records)

* For more info on 69 CHAMBERS, click on the links below!

http://www.twitter.com/69chambers

http://www.soundcloud.com/69-chambers

LONG LIVE 69 CHAMBERS.

Stone.

http://www.twitter.com/lacuna_coil

LACUNA COIL “Dark Adrenaline” – 9 Quick & Easy Reasons Why You Should Buy This Album

Posted in gothic metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags cristina scabbia, dark adrenaline, gothic metal, heavy metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, lacuna coil, Metal on May 16, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

LACUNA COIL – Back on January 24th, the sixth studio album, Dark Adrenaline, from Italy’s Lacuna Coil was released, via Century Media. This album was also released two days before my birthday, therefore, I did buy it that week as a gift to myself. I’ve enjoyed Dark Adrenaline a great Metal deal; below are 9 Quick & Easy Reasons as to why you should buy this new Lacuna Coil release for yourself. Or… buy it for a friend. A cool friend.

Quick & Easy Reason #1 – This album lyrically is dark, like its title states. The mood is dark. The vibes are dark. LACUNA COIL is at their best when they are… DARK. Plus, dark is… Metal.

Quick & Easy Reason #2 – Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro are once again, as complete a singing duo as there has ever been, in the history of Rock. Period. What would you rather listen to? Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand singing You Don’t Bring Me Flowers? That song would have been cool if not for Streisand, by the way.

Quick & Easy Reason #3 – Back to Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro: Their trading off vocal harmonies and their occasional aggression makes for the straw that stirs this Lacuna Coil drink.

Quick & Easy Reason #4 – Totality of musicianship. Hey, look! Quality musicianship! I couldn’t expect anything less from this band.

Quick & Easy Reason #5 – For an accessibly heavy album, Dark Adrenaline has shown the Metal world, that once again, Lacuna Coil can be both a mainstream and back alley darling of a Metal band; appealing to a cross-section of Heavy Rock genres. Yes, Lacuna Coil is a Metal band with subtle and not so subtle Gothic stylings; they surely can’t be taking Air Supply out on tour with them anytime soon.

Quick & Easy Reason #6 – Dark Adrenaline flows with its melodic ride of hard and heavy songs. It’s a flow that comes across so natural, that once this album ends, it’s practically a let-down that there was no warning it would end. Lacuna Coil didn’t have to go over the edge with being any heavier… if they did, then some weirdo would write they were trying to copy KITTIE. Or… something like that. KITTIE Rocks my brains out and I’m grateful for it, by the way.

Quick & Easy Reason #7 – Lacuna Coil’s cover of Losing My Religion from the legendary R.E.M., for all Metal intents and purposes… steals the whole dark show. Really. Lacuna Coil took this 1991 Alternative Rock classic and made it their Metal own in 2012. I honestly love this cover version so much, the original won’t have the same impact on me that it once did. A double dose of Metal be thy name.

Quick & Easy Reason #8 – My Spirit. Lacuna Coil wrote and dedicated this song for the late and great Peter Steele. Partially sung in Italian, this song is emotionally moving and simply superb. A rightfully selective way to finish off Dark Adrenaline, it is.

Quick & Easy Reason #9 – Sample if you will, then buy Dark Adrenaline. After you listen to this new Lacuna Coil album from beginning to end, you can come back here and thank Stone for recommending it. If you don’t like this album, well… then, there’s always an Air Supply Greatest Hits for sale somewhere for you.

LACUNA COIL:

Cristina Scabbia – Vocals

Andrea Ferro – Vocals

Marco “Maki” Coti-Zelati – Bass

Cristiano “Pizza” Migliore – Guitars

Marco ‘Maus’ Biazzi – Guitars

Cristiano ‘CriZ’ Mozzati – Drums

__________________________________

Dark Adrenaline – Track Listing:

Trip The Darkness

Against You

Kill The Light

Give Me Something More

Upsidedown

End Of Time

I Don’t Believe In Tomorrow

Intoxicated

The Army Inside

Losing My Religion

Fire

My Spirit

_______________________________________________________

* For more info on LACUNA COIL, click on the links below!

http://www.lacunacoil.it

LONG LIVE LACUNA COIL.

Stone.

1 Comment »

VISE MASSACRE – Debut LP Obtainable Via Band’s Online Store; Tour Dates Announced

Posted in hardcore, hardcore metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags expendable humans, hardcore, hardcore metal, heavy metal news, Metal, vise massacre on May 15, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

After many harrowing months of delays, disruptions, natural disasters and narrowly thwarted assassination attempts, the bastards in VISE MASSACRE are proud to finally be unleashing their self-financed debut LP through their new online store.

Having recently received the wax attack of their Expendable Humans full-length from the pressing plant, VISE MASSACRE redesigned their website with a gnarly new online store heavily supplied with tons of fresh new threads and urban battle gear in addition to both the vinyl and digital versions of the new album. Support D.I.Y. Metal/Hardcore and stock up RIGHT HERE.

With the LP now in-hand, VISE MASSACRE will comb the lands for live opportunities throughout the tri-state and beyond with more heavy tour action in the planning stages for later in the Summer. Several shows have been confirmed and more are being locked down now, including an Earsplit PR showcase at Lit Lounge in NYC on June 18th…

Expendable Humans is streaming in its beastly, nihilistic entirety via METAL UNDERGROUND.

VISE MASSACRE Confirmed Live Savagery:

5/26/2012 Tommy’s Tavern – Brooklyn, NY w/ Parakeets, Respect, All The Heathers Are Dying

6/18/2012 Lit Lounge – New York, NY @ Earsplit PR throwdown

7/07/2012 Elks Lodge – Glen Cove, NY

7/15/2012 Saint Vitus – Brooklyn, NY

_______________________________________________________

(Source: Earsplit PR)

http://www.visemassacre.com

http://facebook.com/ViseMassacre

http://twitter.com/visemassacre

LONG LIVE VICE MASSACRE.

Stone.

http://www.lovemightkill.com

LOVE.MIGHT.KILL – Studio Update For Forthcoming Album: “2 Big 2 Fail”

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, melodic metal, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags 2 big 2 fail, heavy metal news, love.might.kill, massacre records, melodic metal, rock music news on May 15, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

LOVE.MIGHT.KILL are currently working on their second album.

The album’s once again produced by Michael Ehré, while Markus Teske is responsible for the mix and the mastering in his Bazement-Studios.

The band has already announced the title of the record: “2 Big 2 Fail”.

Besides the title track, the album will feature song titles like “XTC”, “Burn The Night” and “The One”.

“2 Big 2 Fail” is set to be released in autumn 2012 via Massacre Records.

________________________________________________________

(Source: Massacre Records)

* For more info on LOVE.MIGHT.KILL, click on the links below!

LONG LIVE LOVE.MIGHT.KILL

Stone.

Wanna See My TRIUMPH “Stages” Double Live Album I Bought? It’s Really Cool…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, live rock albums, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags classic rock, Hard Rock, heavy metal news, live rock albums, rik emmett, stages double live album, stages live album, triumph on May 15, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

TRIUMPH Stages – Double Live Album (Front Cover)

TRIUMPH – Digging through bins of used vinyl gives me an adrenaline rush like no other. I love it. This past Friday (May 11th) I went to an antiques mall and headed straight to the used records. The dealer that stocks these used records is a nice guy and from my experience talking to him, he knows about the history of Rock ‘N Roll. Everything from Buddy Holly to Iron Maiden picture discs are for sale from this dealer and his inventory is enormous. Hundreds of 45’s, cassettes, CD’s and even some 8-tracks are also available here.

As I stared gleefully at a Samantha Fox picture disc, from the corner of my eye I saw a bin of albums that gave me that special vibe. No, I didn’t buy the Samantha Fox picture disc; I probably would have if it was a buck or two. Alright, back to that bin of special vibes. There was (just about) every album from Krokus in it; only the condition of the albums were nasty. Heavy Metal albums aren’t that abundant from this dealer and it’s probably due to the steady foot traffic of other collectors that I’ve seen there… all looking for the heavy stuff.

TRIUMPH Stages – (Gatefold)

As I pulled this Triumph album from this magic bin of vinyl, I actually began to mutter aloud: Triumph! Stages! Double Vinyl! As I admired the excellent condition of the album jacket, I opened up the gatefold and knew I was holding a gem. The wear on this album jacket is normal and the original gloss is still, for the most part, ever-present. Both albums have played just fine and that’s the icing on the Metal cake for me! This Triumph double live album cost me $6 (U.S.) and I was more than happy to pay it.

TRIUMPH Stages was released back in 1985, on MCA Records. This album definitely belongs in my collection, especially on vinyl. From Classic Rock to Heavy Metal fans, Triumph has a widespread appeal with their fantastic catalog of albums. Stages makes for a great start to new Triumph fans, lending as both a live and greatest hits album. This album ROCKS like there is no tomorrow and I couldn’t be more honest than that.

TRIUMPH Stages – (Back Cover)

At the top of this back cover, in red lettering reads: “Recorded in various cities on the Allied Forces, Never Surrender and Thunder Seven Tours, 1981 to 1985.”

As a surprise bonus to this purchase; the original Triumph Stages merchandise sheet was inside one of the record sleeves! This sheet is in impeccable condition and makes for a Rockin’ conversation item.

_______________________________

TRIUMPH:

Rik Emmett – guitars & vocals

Mike Levine – bass & keyboards

Gil Moore – drums & vocals

_______________________________

TRIUMPH STAGES – Track Listing:

(All songs are live, except where noted)

Side One:

When The Lights Go Down

Never Surrender

Allied Forces

Hold On

Side Two:

Magic Power

Rock And Roll Machine

Lay It On The Line

Side Three:

A World Of Fantasy

Druh Mer Selbo

Midsummer’s Daydream

Spellbound/Follow Your Heart

Side Four:

Fight The Good Fight

Mind Games – (Studio Track)

Empty Inside – (Studio Track)

_________________________________

TRIUMPH SHOULD BE INDUCTED INTO THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME. METAL BE THY NAME.

LONG LIVE TRIUMPH.

Stone.

15 Comments »

BARONESS – Share “Take My Bones Away” Via Facebook; First Round Of European Tour Dates Announced

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags baroness, baroness tour dates 2012, heavy metal news, rock music news, yellow & green album on May 14, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Photo Credit: Jimmy Hubbard

May 14, 2012, Philadelphia – Baroness are giving fans an early listen to music from the eagerly anticipated new album, Yellow & Green (July 17, Relapse Records) with new song, “Take My Bones Away,” posted today on the band’s website (www.baronessmusic.com), YouTube (http://youtu.be/PZKPpeuHvJk) and Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/YourBaroness/app_178091127385) pages.

“Take My Bones Away” will be available via iTunes on May 15. Pre-orders for Yellow & Green are currently available via http://bit.ly/BaronessYellowGreen.

Baroness, who are currently on a North American tour with Meshuggah, have also announced their first round of European tour dates in support of Yellow & Green which includes stops at the Roskilde and Oya Festivals.

_______________________________

Baroness Tour Dates:

w/Meshuggah through May 23

May 15 Chicago, IL House of Blues

May 16 Detroit, MI St. Andrew’s Hall

May 17 Toronto, ON Sound Academy

May 18 Philadelphia, PA Theatre of Living Arts

May 19 Worcester, MA Palladium

May 20 Montreal, QC Olympia de Montreal

May 22 Silver Spring, MD The Fillmore

May 23 New York, NY Terminal 5

July 01 Helsinki, Finland Tuska Open Air

July 03 Gothenburg, Sweden Sticky Fingers *

July 04 Stockholm, Sweden Debasser Slussen *

July 60 Roskilde, Denmark Roskilde Festival

July 15 Dour, Belgium Dour Festival

July 25 Wiesbaden, Germany Raucherkammer *

July 28 Florence, Italy Viper Theatre *

July 30 Milan, Italy Civic Arena

August 1 Vienna, Austria Chelsea

August 4 Katowice, Poland Off Festival

August 5 Berlin, Germany Magnet *

August 6 Hamburg, Germany Logo *

August 9 Oslo, Norway Oya Festival

August 17 – 19 Luedinghausen, Germany Area4

August 18 Leipzig, Germany Highfield Festival

September 6 Raleigh, NC Hopscotch Music Festival

* indicates headlining show. More dates to come.

____________________________________________________

(Source: Speakeasy PR & Marketing)

* For more info on BARONESS, click on the links below!

www.baronessmusic.com

www.relapse.com

LONG LIVE BARONESS.

Stone.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Steven-Tucker/153640528038846

WARFATHER – Ex-Morbid Angel Member Steve Tucker Forms New Death Metal Unit; Signs To Greyhaze Records

Posted in Death Metal, death metal bands, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags Death Metal, death metal albums 2012, heavy metal news, Metal, steve tucker, warfather on May 14, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Greyhaze Records is proud to announce the formation and signing of brand new Death Metal act WARFATHER, a devastating new unit conceived by ex-Morbid Angel gladiator Steve Tucker!

In a statement on what Metal fans are to expect from WARFATHER, Tucker stated: “This is my new band; it will be my main focus…. it is my kind of Death Metal.” Having been known for his vocal and bass skills in all of his previous acts, while still holding down vocal duties here, Tucker has moved on to guitar with this project. “I have always played the guitar and I think now is the time for me to make the move. I think doing solos and extra guitar parts will allow me to express myself in a whole new way!”

Also on guitars is Armatura, formerly of Cincinnati-based Death Metal band Dominion. Recruited to the drum kit is Deimos, a Death Metal veteran currently playing in the band Temple and also having played with bands such as Severe Torture. The bass is dispatched by Nick McMaster (Krallice, Nader Sadek, Castevet). Additional guitar contributions will be tracked by friends of WARFATHER, which include many notable Death Metal stalwarts; full details will be announced shortly.

WARFATHER are currently in the final stages of tracking the yet-to-be-titled album, with mixing to take place immediately after. Tucker himself is producing the entire release, as he did for the 2011-released Nader Sadek album In the Flesh, which Tucker also performed on. The artwork is in the final stages as well, and will be unveiled shortly, along with the details on the album, which is being slated for release this Fall. Upon its’ release, WARFATHER will take their battle to the highways of the planet on tour in support of the album.

After starting out as vocalist/bassist for Death/Thrash act Ceremony, Steve Tucker moved on to handle bass and vocals on Morbid Angel’s infamous Formulas Fatal to the Flesh, Gateways to Annihilation and Heretic LPs. In 2009 Tucker was recruited to take part in the Nader Sadek album In the Flesh for release through then brand new label Greyhaze Records and licensed to Season of Mist Records. The project also featured Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy), Rune Eriksen (Mayhem, Ava Inferi) and more. During this time Tucker struck up a great relationship with Greyhaze Records, and together they decided to bring the reality of WARFATHER to fruition.

______________________________________________________

(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on WARFATHER, click on the links below!

http://www.greyhazerecords.com

http://www.facebook.com/greyhazerecords

LONG LIVE STEVE TUCKER.

LONG LIVE WARFATHER.

Stone.