Jay Postones 2.0

As you can tell from the image above, the very talented Jay Postones from UK's progressive group TesseracT has posted his drum cam play through of their single "Eden 2.0", which you can check out below.



As mentioned above, TesseracT will release an EP on May 22nd, 2012 featuring their new vocalist Elliot Coleman and will feature some older material revisited and some acoustic inspired renditions of famous tracks.  You can pre-order the EP and bundle packages here.



Track listing:
1. Perfection
2. April
3. Origin
4. Dream Brother
5. Eden 2.0

iTunes bonus tracks:
1. Perfection (instrumental)
2. April (instrumental)
3. Origin (instrumental)
4. Dream Brother (instrumental)
5. Eden 2.0 (instrumental)


(Perspective EP Trailer)


(Eden 2.0)

Anyone Seasick For Some Mayhem?

If so, you best be staying away from the boat rockin time we have learned about.  Check out the details for the Mayhem Festival Cruise 2012, which takes place December 7-10 (Miami to Bahamas and back to Miami)

And new updated info (as of August 8th, 2012):


"Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control we have been forced to cancel the Mayhem Festival Cruise. If you purchased a cruise package, you will be automatically refunded to the credit card you used to purchase. If you used a prepaid card or gift card to purchase the cruise, please contact Rose Tours for your refund (215-663-8800). If you used a credit or debit card, you will see the credit within the next 2 to 3 weeks.

We are also offering anyone who purchased a cruise ticket a lifetime complimentary pass to the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival Summer Tour.  You will still receive your cruise refund in addition to the lifetime pass to the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival Tour.  This pass is valid on any tour date beginning in 2013. Details on getting these lifetime passes will be announced shortly on mayhemcruise.com." -Rockstar Mayhem

***

The maiden voyage of the most crushing cruise on Earth sets sail on Friday, December 7, 2012 from the Port of Miami, FL and travels to the Bahamas, returning to the mainland on Monday, December 10th aboard the Carnival Imagination.

Tickets go on Sale THIS THURSDAY, May 3rd, 2012 at 12 NOON (EST) on MayhemCruise.com with packages starting at $699 and payment plans available. Get them before they’re “lost at sea”!

Hosted by Jose Mangin of Sirius XM Liquid Metal, fans will experience a blistering 90-minute set from each one of these killer heavy metal bands: LAMB OF GOD, MACHINE HEAD, ANTHRAX, HATEBREED, SUICIDE SILENCE, and KINGDOM OF SORROW—as well as additional showcase sets from Century Media, Metal Blade Records, Roadrunner Records and Sumerian Records artists including GOJIRA, PERIPHERY, BORN OF OSIRIS, BATTLECROSS, OTHERWISE, GIRL ON FIRE, ANTI MORTEM, and GYSPYHAWK. Mayhem veterans JDevil (Jonathan Davis of KORN) and DJ Starscream (Sid of SLIPKNOT) will also perform full DJ sets each night!  There’s more to this voyage than heavy metal impaling your eardrums!

Come hang with Clown (of SLIPKNOT) as he curates his own art show on the cruise, as well as hosts to FANGORIA'S VIDEO NASTIES FILM FESTIVAL. 

“FANGORIA is thrilled to be working with the Mayhem Cruise! The mix of heavy metal music and horror films should provide for an epic adventure on the high seas!” - Bekah McKendry, Fangoria Entertainment
 Laugh along with ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL’s comedian BIG JAY OAKERSON and THE LEGIONS OF SKANK featuring LUIS J. GOMEZ and DAVE SMITH, who are set to perform two raunchy and raucous stand-up shows each night!

Enjoy daily artist panels with stories from the road and music industry tips! Speakers include ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL co-creators John Reese and Kevin Lyman, amongst other musical icons.  Check out the Neo-Burlesque dance troupe IRON FIST VELVET GLOVE CARNAL REVIEW. See the diverse and sexy dancers in an edgy underground setting.

Other entertainment on board will include:
- Beachers Madhouse
- A full casino featuring a three-night poker tournament with artists and fans side by side
- Meet & Greets, signings, and photo-ops throughout the ship

There Will Be Blood: An Interview With Shaun Glass

Shaun Glass is starting to become a house hold name in the metal industry.  From his time in Broken Hope and SoiL,  Shaun has come back now with a vengeance in his new project Dirge Within.  Coming off their second album (There Will Be Blood, out on April 10th, 2012), these guys hit the right chord with this album and coming back with great reviews.  I'm sure you'll be seeing much more of Mr. Glass and the rest of Dirge Within.  I was fortunate enough to get in contact with Shaun for a quick Q&A session in between touring and other music endeavours:

Shaun, first off, thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions for AFGM this morning.  What are you up to today?

Actually, I am heading into the studio to help out a local band with their new singer on a demo.  The band is called DIVIDE and a new up and comer from the Illinois area.



What roots of music did you grow up on that made you want to start playing guitar?

I grew up on the real roots like KISS, UFO, MOTORHEAD as I was never much of a classic rock guy as a kid but was more into harder stuff.

At what age did you realize you wanted to do music as a profession?

I think I was around 15 when i was really focused on learning my chops and focused on music.

Your Noisecreep article was interesting and to be honest, haven't heard of of most of them (save Sacrifice).  I take it these were some of the bands you grew up on?

Thanks and yes I loved underground metal as a kid and still do haha but it's a shame that the industry tries to decide who will be known or not.  Yes, I loved all 5 bands I mentioned in the NOISECREEP article.

What roles do you take over for in Dirge Within other than guitars?  Help with P&R?  Tour scheduling?  Recording or production?  You did the mixing and mastering on the new album with Ari Mihalopoulos right?

I do alot of the day to day stuff.  A lot of it aint all too fun but hey someone has to do it or it won't get done but I do ask the other guy's to help with things as well.  Yes, ARI and I were a team on the mix of the new album, I feel we made quite a fresh modern sounding metal album and pushed it as far as it could go without losing sight of the real songs.



How was working with Ari?

He is amazing.  He had some great ideas on a few songs that Jerms and he focused the most on (ie: Memories & Without You).  I think ARI is a name that will get more known sooner than later and his band DESTROPHY is killer.

Was there any difference in writing between Force Fed Lies and TWBB?  Can you take us through and average session for creating a song?

I think we just didn't set any rules.  We just wrote and whatever was good and we all liked we went with.  Some stuff is heavyier and some songs are way more melodic but that is what makes this album fresh as I know it gets old to have 10 songs all sound the same with 300 breakdowns, that aint our trip at all we write SONGS.

There is some killer artwork on your Facebook and other various websites.  Who does the artwork?

We use a bunch of artists for merch album a few are Raf and Tom Hane both did alot of the newer work.

How is working with Rocket Science Ventures/Sony Red?  How did this record deal come about?

I knew of the label from Nonpoint and saw the diverse roster of how they do things.  THOM & KEVIN both seemed into the idea of doing this new album with us and it went forward, they have a solid staff of people and get what it takes to push music in 2012 as it ain't easy these days to get cds in stores when hardly any stores sell them.  The key is internet awareness.

I was listening to an interview you had All Knowing Force in regards to touring and support versus headlining.  Will you guys be selective of who you support and tour with?  Do you think there is a maximum amount of touring time before you feel its time to head back to the studio?

We will be on a cool tour July-Aug titled Shockwave and it will be around 9 killer bands a mini fest style tour package.  Yes, we have passed on a few tours that we felt just were not right for us.  Tour smart as some bands these days tour just to tour and that is not the smart way to do this.



Going from one style of metal in Broken Hope and transitioning to SoiL, was Dirge Within kind of your middle ground for writing?  Your influences from both projects seemed to carry over for a perfect blend of melody, breakdowns and screams.

I guess so but when I left Soil I knew I really wanted to play stuff a tad more musical and grow as a player.  I think DW shows way more sides of my playing and writing than any of my former bands.  Too be honest I think both Dirge Within CD's are my fave pieces of work hands down.

Gotta ask an early DW question.  How was working with Edsel Dope for FFL?  Did you work with him much, even if it was only vocal production?

He was ok and no we do not speak much these days as he really changed after working with him.  I just felt he maybe was not the right guy for this band and too be honest I think some people maybe didn't give our debut a chance due to his name on it as a lot may have labelled us NU METAL or maybe sounding like Dope which is as far from reality as possible.  I do think he had some cool ideas with Jerms on our debut but that is all he did on the album was work with Jerms on vocals.  The music and song's were not even recorded @ his studio on that album.

(@ Jeremy Genske) A fair amount of compliments have been going towards not only the writing style and production, but also the vocals and this new dynamic range.  Did anything change between albums?  Vocal training, new creative angle?
I really just wanted to push myself to expand my vocal range for this new album.  To go out of my comfort zone.  We had discussed taking some of the newer songs in a different direction, and I knew that a lot of that was on me, vocally.  So to prepare I took a "break" from the heavy stuff for a while and listened to the artists that inspire the cleaner side of vocal ability.  A lot of classic rock, oldies and modern rock bands.  Threw in some Sinatra, Prince and Johnny Cash in there as well.  Just to test my range, see what I could do.  I just sang a long to it all.  Found out what didn't work and what did.  Learned how to push notes, curve em a bit and push them.  I guess you can say I did my own vocal training haha!  Then when Ari came into the picture he helped me hone what I'd been learning and helped me find better notes to use in the songs.  

To me as an artist, if you're not constantly trying to push yourself to improve your craft and go against the grain to try new things.  Go out of your comfort zone.  Then you truly aren't an artist.  To say you've acheived every skill you can with your craft, is bullshit. 

Was is it you like about Ltd's and EMG's?  And what are you using for your setup nowadays?

I love ESP guitars as they are made for what we do and Emg pickups too me are the best for warm crunch and tight tone also we are using the new EVH 5150 3 amps which are beyond sick for a fresh metal tone!



Any pregame rituals before a show?  A shot?  Special tunes to listen to?  Workout?

We kind of get in a fight vibe once our intro goes on,  it's kill or be killed on stage and we like to bring the Metal Hammer live 100%.

Have you ever been at a show/played a show where your music and sound was vastly different from the other bands on the bill?  If so, What was the crowd reaction and how easy did you feel playing on that stage versus stages shared with similar genre bands?

Not really we did do a show with Korn once and it was amazing but we could tell it was a new batch of people hearing us which is important as well.  We like diversity.

Whether in session work or in a band, what words of wisdom can you give to inspiring musicians/bands?

Focus 100% and never let a day go buy w/o doing some for your art/band etc.  Fight til death ha!



Favourite city/venue you played in thus far and why?

Hmmmn, Canada is amazing for metal but I would say west coast as I have a lot of friends out there and the metal scene is solid.

And now for some fun, random questions that every musician likes to answer:

If you could have a single guest member on an upcoming album, who would it be and why?

James Hetfield do some vocals on a DW album.

If you had one band/musician you would be honored to share the stage with, who and why?

Metallica as they did help real metal come to the forefront.  Master of Puppets broke them wide out and killed a lot of the lame 80's hair metal that was awful.

Covers are always fun to do when your jammin out in the studio or spur of the moment live, any songs in particular you like to play and have fun with or is it all original material?

We do the Entombed song Wolverine Blues and it is a B-side on the new CD.  Killer track!

Favourite band/album of 2012 so far (non biased haha)? 

DEMON HUNTER.  They are so good.


(Confession)

You can check out Shaun' latest project, Dirge Within via their website, Facebook, Myspace or Youtube.  Their bio reads as follows:

Forming in 2007 by Shaun Glass and vocalist Jeremy “Jerms” Genske, Dirge Within immediately began their domination of the competitive heavy music scene, making a name for themselves through extensive touring, earning rave reviews from the press and public alike, while hitting the road with metal luminaries like Trivium, Fear Factory, Static X, Devildriver, Whitechapel, Gwar, Kittie, 36 Crazyfists, and Nonpoint, and appearing on the Chicago stop of the 2009 MAYHEM tour.

Following up their acclaimed debut Force Fed Lies, which drew rave reviews in the pages of Revolver, AP, Rocksound and Metal Hammer (UK), and features the singles “Forever The Martyr”, and “Confession”, which became staples on Sirius XM and various hard music radio outlets, and even made their way as playable tracks for the popular video game Rock Band. Dirge issued a three song EP titled Absolution, in August, giving fans a taste of what’s to come from their forthcoming sophomore release.


In stores April 10 via THC/Rocket Science/RED, There Will Be Blood showcases what fans of Dirge Within are already familiar with; powerful grooves, strong hooks and punishing guitar riffs, with an evolved songwriting and technical prowess far beyond its predecessor .

Says vocalist Genske, “The songs are heavier, smarter, and more melodic in parts. Some are even a little slower! There were no rules when we were writing.. at all. No holds barred. Whatever came out, came out. And I think it's gonna make a really good, well-rounded Metal album."


Produced by the band, with Destrophy frontman Ari Mihalopoulos, Blood delivers as promised, with standout tracks like “Memories”, “As We Prey”, “Vultures”, and “There Will Be Blood”, building on the rock solid foundation Dirge has already laid. With the recent addition of drummer Frankie Harchut and guitarist Chuck Wepfer, Blood is set to pick up where their debut left off, as a pummeling slab of melodic, modern Metal. 

Dirge will hit the road in Spring to support Blood, and the first single “Memories” has already started to work its way onto Hard Rock playlists throughout the country. 

“I’ve seen these guys live and they kill! The new tracks I’ve heard are awesome and will not disappoint!!! HELLYEAH!!” - Vinnie Paul (Hellyeah, Pantera)

Dirge Within currently is:

Jeremy "Jerms" Genske - Vocals | Shaun Glass - Guitar | Frankie Harchut - Drums | Chuck Wepfer - Guitar | Jeff Paulick - Bass

Track listing and preview of the album are listed below:

1. Bloodletting
2. For My Enemies
3. As We Prey
4. Memories
5. Absolution
6. Without You
7. There Will Be Blood
8. A.L.F.
9. Vultures
10. Murder...Savior
11. Apathy



You can purchase their albums at the following links:

There Will be Blood (2012) (Amazon) | Force Fed Lies (2009) (Amazon)

And now for the newest addition of the article!  As of July 10th, 2012, Dirge Within dropped their newest music video "Memories":

Get What You Give

The Ghost Inside have toured the s**t out of Returners and with good reason.  That album serious kicked my ass!  Now if that wern't enough, the five piece L.A. group has announced the release of their latest endeavour, "Get What You Give".  The 11 track LP is coming highly anticipated in the metal industry and the buzz has already 500+ shares (as well as almost 2000 likes) within a four hour span of posting their trailer on their Facebook page.

Now as a nice lil bonus, you can head to Alternative Press' website for a full album stream of the new album "Get What You Give"!

"Get What You Give is nothing short of the band’s most dynamic and explosive material thus far, an album that embraces the authenticity, dedication, perseverance and the most literal adherence to the core values behind the band’s craft.  Formed in 2007, the quintet’s two prior releases - the breakthrough album Returners (2010) and their first full-length, Fury and the Fallen Ones (2008) - laid down the promise and potential that has now been fully delivered with their Epitaph Records debut.

Tracks like 'Dark Horse', 'Engine 45' and 'Outlive' are anthems that are built for crowd participation in the live environment, where The Ghost Inside takes pride in giving all of themselves over to the crowd.  Lyrically, the songs tackle a wide variety of topics, from addiction, to self-sacrifice."

“Our new album is musically, lyrically and vocally our best album to date.  After spending two years on the road following the release of our last album (Returners), we’ve developed a true sound for our band.  We really pushed ourselves to the limits to create something we can honestly be proud of and to prove that in life, you’re always going to Get What You Give.” - Jonathan Vigil (vocals)

1. This Is What I Know About Sacrifice

2. Outlive

3. Engine 45

4. Slipping Away

5. The Great Unknown

6. Dark Horse

7. White Light

8. Thirty Three

9. Face Value

10. Deceiver

11. Test The Limits

The first single has already got me air drumming while I'm typing this out.  Check out (below) the brand new music video (as of July 23rd, 2012) for the track "Outlive":

The album is due out on June 19th, 2012 via Epitaph Records.  You can pre-order a copy of the album (along with merch packages) here.



And since you made it all the way down to the bottom of this article, you got the treat which is their new music video titled "Engine 45".  Yeah I'm sure you could have easily searched it on YouTube, but isn't it nicer when everything is compiled for you? ;-)

Re-LIVE-ing The Scars

OK, so I know a few of my hardcore readers are going to hate on me for posting about about Soil, but once again, that's the beauty of a blog ;-)

I'v been cranking these guys ever since I heard "Halo" hit the airwaves back in '01.  Now I know they have gone through some lineup changes, including the departure and return of Ryan McCombs (ex-Drowning Pool), but as a loyal hard rock/nu-metal fan, I continued to follow them through their trials and tribulations such as True Self & Picture Perfect (I have my reservations about these albums).

Now with Mr. McCombs making his comeback with the group and also the addition of Jon Wysocki (ex-Staind), the four piece group are set to release their first ever live DVD, entitled "Re-LIVE-ing The Scars".  The DVD is set to be released on May 8th, 2012 via Bieler Bros.  If you wanna see what's in store for the DVD, check out the snippets below of "Breaking Me Down" and "Halo":





The 2 disc DVD was recorded at The Electric Ballroom, London, UK on October 14th, 2011.  An audio CD will also be included to rock out to in your car/at work/etc.



"Re-LIVE-Ing The Scars" track listing:

01. Breaking Me Down
02. Need To Feel
03. My Own
04. Redefine
05. Cross My Heart
06. Inside
07. The One
08. Wide Open
09. Black 7
10. Unreal
11. Halo
12. Pride

You can pre-order a copy here.  Now time to cross fingers in hopes of some Canadian dates for touring :-\

And since I mentioned it before, "I will stone you, stone you.  Wrap my arms around you.  I will stone you, stone you.  My little HALO!":



Side note.  My all time favourite tunes from Soil comes from their album "Redefine".  Click here to listen.

Storm The Sorrow

Too sexy of a video to pass up!  Netherlands' Epica have released the first music video from their latest album "Requiem For The Indifferent".  The single chosen for the video was none other than "Storm The Sorrow".  You can check out the clip below:



For more information about the album and band, check out my previous blog post about Epica. (Click link to follow)

Be sure to catch Epica on tour this fall with Alestorm, Insomnium, System Divide and Destiny Potato:

10/23 – Howard Theater – Washington, D.C.
10/25 – Trocadero – Philadelphia, Pa.
10/26 – Irving Plaza – New York, M.Y.
10/27 – Palladium – Worcester, Mass.
10/29 – Imperial – Quebec City, Quebec
10/30 – Metropolis – Montreal, Quebec
10/31 – Opera House – Toronto, Ontario
11/2 – Peabody’s – Cleveland, Ohio
11/3 – Altar Bar – Pittsburgh, Pa.
11/4 – Mojoe’s – Joliet, Ill.
11/5 – Station 4 – St. Paul, Minn.
11/7 – Bluebird Theater – Denver, Colo.
11/8 – Complex – Salt Lake City, Utah
11/10 – Rickshaw Theater – Vancouver, British Columbia
11/11 – El Corazon – Seattle, Wash.

Music Releases For April 24, 2012

April showers bring... well... awesome CDs! haha

Tuesday just got very interesting with the release of these new goodies.  If you get the chance this week, pop over to your local record store or visit an online site to pick up a few of these albums.  I have already had the pleasure of cranking a few of these albums on preview (Cancer Bats, Love & Death, Anathema, War of Ages & Skyharbor) over the weekend and DAMN there is some tough competition for top dog for a Tuesday...

(*Greatest Hits) 

(*Single) 

(*EP) 

(Jack White - Blunderbuss) 

(The Dandy Warhols - This Machine) 

(Uneven Structure - Februus) 

Things I Miss: A Dozen Furies

Ever have one of those days where you think to yourself "what haven't I heard in awhile?"  Today while making some general conversation with fellow music enthusiasts when we got on the subject of good acts that have now parted ways. 

My choice for a gloomy Monday in Toronto is... A DOZEN FURIES!  This five piece group from Dallas, TX wowed fans that flocked to 2004's Battle of Ozzfest (a promotion for Ozzfest '04).  The toss up cam between ADF, Manntis and Cynder.


(Awake & Lifeless @ Ozzfest '05)

ADF was chosen after a tour of the three bands took place and getting themselves signed to Sanctuary Records.  I was fortunate enough to catch them when they started touring away from Ozzfest (July 22nd, 2005 with In Flames, Arch Enemy and Trivium) in London, ON @ The Drink Nightclub.

("The Cycle")

On September 13, 2005, ADF released their only full length album, entitled "A Concept From Fire".  Personally, I thought the album had great energy, riffs and structure.  Their live performance was very high energy, getting everyone on the floor involved (I remember the bassist, Keith, hanging from dance cage during their song "The Cycle" in London).  The guys were also very approachable as well, no shunning away from cameras, questions and/or autographs.  I guess when you are a new band and have to make a name for yourself you get watch you can.  Either way, it was a great album from a great band.

1. The Gift

2. Awake and Lifeless

3. The Everlasting Grudge

4. Push Away

5. A Concept from Fire

6. An Idea and Some Rope

7. The Cycle

8. Into Another Life

9. Lost in a Fantasy

10. Nightmare of a Martyr

11. 138

12. The Ill Will

A Dozen Furies was:

Bucky Garrett – Vocals | Marc Serrano - Guitar | Joey Turner - Guitar | Keith Reber - Bass | Mike Miller - Drums

("Lost In A Fantasy")

Unfortunately, all good things must (I guess) come to an end.  ADF disbanded in 2006 to work on new projects and other endeavors.  It has been rumored that the guys are currently writing new material, but nothing has been confirmed.  So for now, I will just have to keep spinning my 'Concept From Fire' CD and crossing fingers these guys come out with some new material.

If you're interested in purchasing the album, click here to visit Amazon and pick up a copy.

The Sumerianos - Season 2

So can anyone else tell me how to better spend a Friday (IV:XX) night than to have some drinks, let loose and thrash around a bit at Sneaky Dees with UPON A BURNING BODY, I THE BREATHER & BETRAYING THE MARTYRS!

The doors for the show open at 5pm (17:00).  You can pick up the $15 tickets here at Ticketweb or at Rotate This.  Here's the link of the venue in case you have any additional questions or info.

I'm sure I'll see some of you regardless at this show, but for those that aren't aware of the bands or are undecided of what to do tonight, check out the video(s) below to give you a bit of an idea of what to expect (and their latest album release info):

"Hailing from San Antonio, Texas, the five piece metal/hardcore hybrid juggernaut has been turning heads in the underground DIY circuit for years now. Paying their dues as a hardworking independent band have definitely paid off. They were hand-picked to be the special guests for all of Texas on the Thrash and Burn 2009 Tour w/ DevilDriver, Emmure, Despised Icon & Veil of Maya and now 2010 has the band poised to explode.

With a clear vision for their identity and an immeasurable level of determination, Upon a Burning Body are now touring full time throughout North America spreading their message of dedication, self-belief and relentless competitive greatness. Sumerian founder Ash Avildsen commented 'Upon a Burning Body frontman Danny Leal has one of the most distinguishable and decipherable voices I have heard in years. With the perfect soundtrack of riffs and beats backing him and an explosive live show, there is no question what the very near future will hold for this band.'

Carrying an infectious theme to their new record, the band is drawing in listeners all over the world through the use of creative lyrics portraying the characters of Al Pacino played in timeless films such as The Devil’s Advocate, Donnie Brasco, The Godfather and more. Their debut album, “The World is Ours” is slated to hit stores everywhere in March 2010. The band kicks off the new decade on tour alongside their label mates ABACABB. Shortly after that, the band is rumored to be special guests on select dates with Bleeding Through and Born of Osiris. Welcome to the family." -UABB Facebook



Upon a Burning Body - Once Upon A Time In Mexico

Upon a Burning Body - Intermission

1. Game Over
2. Sin City
3. Once Upon A Time In Mexico
4. Texas Blood Money
5. El Mariachi
6. Desperado
7. Mimic
8. Predators
9. From Dusk Till Dawn
10. Planet Terror
11. The Island Of Lost Dreams

Purchase RED.WHITE.GREEN online here.

***

"I The Breather is a new[er] group bringing their fresh and fuel-injected metalcore to audiences everywhere. Hailing from the Baltimore and Hagerstown, Maryland areas, I The Breather, perform and deliver original music that’s edgy, energetic, and engaging.

Five talented musicians are the essence of the group brought together by mutual friends from other bands. Morgan Wright on drums, formerly toured as fill-in drummer for Oh, Sleeper of Solid State Records, also Sleeper’s Awake. Justin Huffman on guitar, also recorded with Sleeper’s Awake on the Uprising Records. On bass, is Armand Vincent, on guitar Jered Youngbar, formerly of the recording group Aneirin. And on vocals is Shawn Spann, who was the lead vocal for the group Erison." -last.fm

I, The Breather - Forgiven



1. False Prophet
2. The Beginning
3. Bruised & Broken
4. Mentalist
5. Meaning
6. Lunar
7. Knights & Pawns
8. Judgement
9. Rephaim
10. 04.12.11

Click here to purchase Truth & Purpose via Amazon.

***

"BETRAYING THE MARTYRS is a 6 piece Metal/Hardcore band from Paris, France with a new and refreshing attitude to modern metal that is certain to take the music scene by storm. The original line up, established in December 2008 consisted of a group of open minded individuals, who’s only goal was to write punishing tracks, deliver an astounding live performance, and portray a good image with a new message of positive thinking and good morals. Their first track was recorded in February 2009 in Paris by famous metal producer Stéphane Buriez.

It is important for them to use the music they love to raise awareness on positive messages for the people out there. They are looking to help people through their songs with words and idealisms that may help people figure out who they are and what they believe in, whether it be Christianity, a new way of life, or just to help people find happiness and a good way in life for themselves.

Wherever possible BTM will be supporting positive organizations and associations throughout their concerts, and can’t wait to meet open minded people that will discuss music, idealisms and beliefs with them." -BTM Facebook

Betraying The Martyrs - Tapestry of Me



1. Ad Astra
2. Martyrs
3. Man Made Disaster
4. Because of You
5. Tapestry of Me
6. Liberate Me Ex Inferis
7. Leave it All Behind
8. Life is Precious
9. Love Lost
10. Azalée
11. When You're Alone

Click here to purchase Breathe In New Life via Amazon.

Q&A with Anu Beginning

If you're new and notable, AFGM wants to talk about you.  These guys are no exception to the formula.  Anu Beginning has been on the scene since 2008 and are full steam ahead with their music and touring.  I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with these guys over a month ago (River Rock, Chatham-Kent, ON) and they rocked the joint!  Guitarist/vocalist Aaron Barry was kind enough to sit down and hash out a few questions together.

First off Aaron, thank you very much for taking the time to sit down and answer some of these interrogation questions (haha).  Lets start with some basics.  Who are you guys?  Where are you from and who is in the band?

We are a group of five guys who, over the past 4 or so years have been making music. The band is Matt Saunders on lead vocals, PJ Kellestine on guitar, Brandon Morphy on bass, Aaron Webb on drums, and my self, Aaron on guitar and vocals. We began the band way back in 2008 in a little garage in Charring Cross, just outside of Chatham, and we have since located to to the big city...and by big city I mean London.

I find that in order to find out what you (as a band) are about, we need to look at some roots.  Where are you influences coming from (band and/or musician)?

As far as roots, it honestly is different for each guy... like drastically different, but I honestly think you can hear some of everyone influences in the music. There is this huge punk rock vibe from Webb (we actually have super similar taste as far as that goes), as well as a big love for breakdowns. Brandon is into a lot of the Rise Records bands, the synthy tech metal stuff, Matt listens to a lot of Underoath, more of the southern metal kind of stuff....and also Fallout Boy hahaha. PJ and I grew up outside of London, so we were both really influenced by a lot of local London bands, like The Soap Opera Coma, Shotgun Rules and Capeside, he also listens to a lot more of the technical fast melodic metal. I am a huge pop-punk fan, like MxPx, Blink182, I love 80's like WHAM and Yes, but as far as vocally I get compared to Coheed and Cambria a lot, and you can definitely hear that influence. But basically we roll all that up and try to make mold it together.

Whats ANU been up to as of late?

It's almost more like what HAVEN'T we been up to? In the last 4ish months we wrote and recorded a new EP (which will be out very soon), shot a music video, and started playing shows again. We took a lot of time off to get our things together and in order, and now we are super excited to begin releasing things!

I see some photos from a music video scene.  Whats going on there?  Any details to give such as release date, where was it filmed, who's doing the production, etc?

Exactly what it looks like! I ruined my Christian heritage by filming a music video on Easter Sunday and not going to church! Hahaha. Over our entire ''career'' we've been so lucky with people helping us out, and allowing us to do expensive things for free or little cost because they believed in our band. For the last 6 months or so we've been shopping around for someone to do a video with us. It's obviously not cheap, there is a lot of pre and post production to do and it's kind of gruelling, so by nature it costs a good chunk of money. We, being in a band, and like most bands, have no money. So, by some amazing stroke of luck, we were approached by a student at Fanshawe College in London, taking film, who wanted to do a video for us. We agreed, and, that as they say, is that. We will be releasing it soon, and are super excited, it looks unbelievable. These guys were so awesome to us, and so fun, and they have talent beyond what I can imagine. Check them out: www.youtube.com/ThePitApeture.



Have you ever been at a show/played a show where your music and sound was vastly different from the other bands on the bill?  If so, What was the crowd reaction and how easy did you feel playing on that stage versus stages shared with similar genre bands? 

It happens a lot actually, because we don't really fit on metal shows, because we are to poppy, and we don't fit on poppy shows because we are too metal. For example of the spectrum, we've played with Faber Drive, Stereos, The Johnstones.....Dead and Divine, Protest the Hero, Baptized in Blood. We never really ''fit'' and any shows. We usually just do what we do, and if the people who are to ''brootal'' hate us because we're poppy, then that's how it's going to be. We just usually try to win people over by looking like idiots on stage. We're pretty comfortable on either end of the spectrum though. I love heavy shows, and I love poppy shows.

Where do you guys see yourselves in five years?  Any big aspirations?  Any mega festivals you would love to be a part of?

That's a tough question. In one form or another making music for sure. With this band...who's to say, a lot can happen in 5 years. I can guarantee we'll all be doing something musical. As far as big aspirations....I'd just like to take this band as far as we can go. I've never really been someone who aspired to get a record contract, which is, I'm sure, what a lot of folks say. I figure if it happens, it happens, but I'm not going to give up if it doesn't.
As far as festivals, I've always wanted to play Warped Tour Canada. I think most bands doing the kind of stuff we do aspire to that. 


(Photo courtesy of Zoe Germain, 2012)

If you had to summarize Anu Beginning in one or two words, what would you convey to onlookers or aspiring fans?

That's a really good question. Maybe ''Standing Firm'', we've always prided ourselves in doing what we believe in, no matter what people tell you to do, or say about you. We know who we are and what we stand for.

Odd question but I ask this of every band.  Since there is an onslaught of bands and styles out there where some musical styles will mesh and/or clash with each other.  What seperates your music and style to any other act out there.  Basically, what do you offer to fans that no one else can bring?

We play heavy music with pop sections. It's been done, we aren't innovators. What we do offer is a fun live show...and by fun, I mean we are ridiculous. I think when it comes to offer something different it comes to us as people. We are the real deal, we are genuine dudes. We're not gonna go hide in our van, load in late, be pre-madonna's. We know, if it wasn't for fans, we'd be doing this for nothing. We've always said we don't have fans, we just have friends. everyone who we've talked to at shows, any bands we've played with, people we've met, we're friends with. I may not remember your name next time we come through your city, but I will remember your face.....and likely hug you. That's just who we are.



(Photo courtesy of Zoe Germain, 2012)

Best city/venue you have played thus far and why?

Tough question. We've been given the opportunity to play a lot of festivals with amazing bands all over. Always a good time. As far as single show goes though....I don't know, I can honestly say anytime we've shared the stage with amazing bands, who are good friends with us, like The Jettison Commitment, Searching for Satellites, Assassinate the Following, Oceanborne....the list goes on...always a good time....but as far as venue goes, we've played some wild churches....one had a ball pit and slides! The Music Hall in London is sweet.... we've played some punk rock bars that have super cool vibes. City wise....hmm...I love playing my hometown of London for sure.

For fans to follow up on your guys, can you give us some media links?

Website: www.anubeginningisaband.tmblr.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AnuBeginning519

Twitter: www.twitter.com/AnuBeginning519

YouTube: www.youtube.come/AnuBeginningRock

Booking/Management: anubeginningisaband@gmail.com

And now for some fun, random questions that every musician likes to answer!

If you could have a single guest member on an upcoming album, who would it be and why?

Wow.... the obvious answer for me would be Claudio from Coheed and Cambria, although my hometown roots would make me chose James McLeod (from Searching For Satellites) who used to be in this amazing London band called The Soap Opera Coma, who opened my eyes to music when I was in my early years, or Casey Baker who was the singer for Sleeper Set Sail, a wicked wicked band from St Catherines. Or Lemmy. Thought I'd just throw that in the mix. 

If you had one band who you would be honored to share the stage with, who and why?

So many bands. We've gotten the opportunity to play with a ton of bands I've looked up to over the years. But as far as bands we havent' played with.....Coheed...obviously, Alexisonfire.....man.... there was a band called Shotgun Rules from London, who are long broken up, but they were one of the big reasons why I wanted to be in a band, and my goal was just to open for them.... they were broken up by the time this band became serious, but if they ever got back together, for sure, I pick Shotgun Rules.  I changed my answers. At The Drive In. Hands down. Sorry every other band ever. Or Glassjaw.... dang it, so many!

(Photo courtesy of Zoe Germain, 2012)

Covers are always fun to do when your jammin out in the studio, any songs in particular you guys like to play and have fun with or is it all original material? 

If you know me, you know I'm really not good enough to play other people's songs on guitar, so we rarely play covers. We did record a cover of ''Peanut Butter Jelly Time'', that for whatever reason, was one of the biggest things that helped us begin gaining a fan base..... we also used to play ''Teenage Dirtbag'' by Wheatus, which I still love to jam. But other than that, it's pretty much all business.  

Favourite band/album of 2012 so far?

Every Time I Die: Ex Lives. So good. A bunch of our friends are putting out new tunes this year that are so good, and I'm sure will become my favourites of 2012: Hello Amora, The Jettison Commitment, Foxfight, Baptized in Blood, The Lakeside Is For Killers and so many more!

***

Once again, I want to thank Aaron and all the guys from Anu Beginning for taking the time to answer these questions.  Be on the lookout for these guys as they are constantly touring around Ontario and may be at a venue near you very soon.

UPDATE:  Anu Beginning has released their music video they have been previously working on.  Nonetheless, check out "Good Heavens": 



Cheers!

What the F**k Is Up Coachella!?

So this has been the buzz of the week thus far.  This amazing rendition of Tupac Shakur as a hologram emerged during the Snoop Dogg/Dr. Dre performance at the 2012 Coachella Festival.  

The star studded lineup included Dr. Dre, Snoop, Eminem and 50 Cent.  And if that wasn't enough, check out the performance from Tupac's hologram:


"It was Dre's vision to bring [Tupac] back to life.  It was his idea from the very beginning and we worked with him and his camp to utilize the technology to make it come to life." Speaking of the potential for this technology, Smith explained that "you can take people that haven't done concerts before or perform music they haven't sung and digitally re-create it." -Nick Smith (President of AV Concepts)

Rumors have now begun to circulate on the net as to a regular tour with this said hologram.  Rolling Stone has been following the upcoming plans of Dre and Snoop for this elaborate show:

"At the moment, Dre and Snoop are weighing the possibility of touring stadiums as a package tour featuring other stars, such as Eminem and 50 Cent, or staging an arena tour with just the two of them as headliners along with the virtual Tupac."

Music Releases For April 17th, 2012

A wide variety of releases for a wide variety of readers.  Happy Tuesday morning to everyone.  So in case you haven't had the chance to skim through the local record store or online yet, check (below) for all the notable releases hitting shelves today:

Thousand Foot Krutch - The End Is Where We Begin

Battles -Dross Glop

Jason Mraz - Love Is A Four Letter Word