Monday, January 22, 2018

Full Album Stream: Conquer Divide - Conquer Divide

The "Full Album Streams" section of this blog not only gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to act as a hub to explore), but also a chance for you all to explore new artists, new genres, and new albums before deciding to purchase them (also from links on AFGM's site).

Full album streams seem to be a fad that a lot of internet savvy people are jumping on.  It can be in the form of a Soundcloud widget, a YouTube playlist, or even a single YouTube video.  This often gives record labels a chance to promote new artists and for people to subscribe to their social media pages.  So hopefully this provides you access to some new music, bands, and/or artists.  Cheers!

PS - Feel free to send us an email if you have any albums you think you should be on this list or a new one coming out we missed.  We're always listening!

(Artwork by AFGM.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

Hailing from three countries (UK, USA, and Serbia), this six-piece all female group rose to the ranks in 2015 with the release of their debut self-titled album, which put them on various supporting tours across the US.  Although the debut was not released until 2015, the group has maintained consistency since 2005, when the initial ladies (Kristen Woutersz and Suzie Reagan) started creating their original tracks.  This caught the attention of producer Joey Sturgis, who also produced their debut album.

After a few changes, the lineup has consistently been:


Kiarely "Kia" Castillo - Vocals | Janel Duarte - Vocals | Kristen Woutersz - Guitar

Isabel "Izzy" Johnson - Guitar | Tamara Tadic - Drums

Conquer Divide's debut self-titled album was released on July 24th, 2015 via Artery Recordings.  As mentioned before, it was produced by Joey Sturgis, who has also worked with bands such as We Came As Romans, Asking Alexandria, The Devil Wears Prada, and more.

(Album artwork is courtesy of Conquer Divide and Artery Recordings)

1. Sink Your Teeth Into This (feat. Denis Stoff)*
2. Self Destruct
3. Eyes Wide Shut*
4. Nightmares
5. Lost
6. What's Left Inside*
7. At War
8. Despicable You
9. Heavy Lies the Crown*
10. Broken

(* = AFGM Recommendations)

Lyrically and musically this album is full of things to love. If you enjoy fast-paced metal with killer female vocalists (such as Kittie) you will definitely find this enjoyable. What’s more is that these gals bring these songs to life in a way you wouldn’t imagine live! Such charisma and energy… go catch them at a show. More importantly, Conquer Divide, is out now on Artery Recordings and you should get out there and pick it up! -New Transcendence



The songs that comprise Conquer Divide are solid musical works, however the beautiful vocal pairings (“Heavy Lies The Crown”) alongside melodic choruses and heavy leads (“Despicable You”)just feel dated. The technical skill and production quality make Conquer Divide a truly fine record, but a record without any remarkable innovation. Now that Conquer Divide have their feet planted in the music scene, though, they may have more room to branch out and create something spectacular next time around. - New Noise Magazine