Dispose of Your Optimism: An Interview With Ever Forthright's Billy Anderson

Keeping the interview momentum going, this is probably one of the funniest interviews I've done to date.  Say hello to Ever Forthright from NYC!  OK, well to be honest I found out about these guys because of Chris Baretto.  Since being a fan of Periphery and Chris' previous work in the group, I was curious as to what band he was involved in now.  Enter EFR.  These guys are truly masters of a craft.  What the craft is...I have no idea. haha

Just kidding.  First track experience was the "All Eyes on Earth Promo" video (see later in the article) and since then I was hooked, as usual.  The band brought with them a fresh sound to what now seems a very watered down genre, filled with seven and eight strings, 320bpm, cocaine.....sorry, am I straying off here?  Anyways, get the bio below to grasp the who, what, where, when, how and if you're lucky...why?



"Ever Forthright is a progressive metal band from one of the most musically diverse places in the world, New York City. Artfully fusing modern jazz, progressive metal, hip-hop, electronica, and other styles of music into an auditory landscape is one of the reasons why Ever Forthright are quickly becoming known as true architects of modern music.  Most of the members have attended and/or graduated from some of the top jazz performance schools in the world. A wide range of musicians/groups fuel this bands sound, such as Meshuggah, Kneebody, Cynic, Deftones, Wayne Krantz, Suicide Silence, Jill Scott, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and many others. No filler, no rehashed riffs, just pure, original music.

Shortly after their debut release, Ever Forthright gained a solid, ever-growing fanbase and were instantly known as masters of their genre. Fans instantly recognized their natural ability to blend a wide range of styles and concoct an amazing display of technical genius that set them apart from all others.

Ever Forthright is currently endorsed by Warwick basses, Invictus Guitars UK, and Toontrack."


(Photo courtesy of Anthony Tafuro and EFR)

Ever Forthright consists of:

Chris Barretto - Vocals / Sax | Nick Llerandi - Guitar | Billy Anderson - Guitar / Production | Jon Llerandi - Bass | Jerad Lippi - Drums | Kevin Theodore - Keys

Now since these guys seem to be very approachable (who isn't when you're from NYC haha), I decided to give em a buzz and see if we could do a small Q&A.  Turns out the Q&A got a lil bigger, but very informative.  Billy Anderson was kind enough to sit down and hash out these questions for this interview...

Billy, much thanks to you and EFR for doing up this interview for AFGM.  Since you guys seem to be a fresh face, let's start with how you guys all get together to form EFR?

Well it all started one day in 2008 when our friend said that Dragonforce was really amazing and mind blowing.  Nick went ahead and wrote a song (An alias perspective) to prove that it was actually really easy to do.  The song turned out really well so we decided to go ahead and turn it into a project.  We ended up recording a whole album in my studio and later released it as our '08 demo.  As the years went on we found the right members; Nick knew Jerad and Kevin from college, and Jon was nicks brother.  In 2010 we were looking for a singer, but we had no luck so we posted a Craigslist ad looking for the right guy. Chris's friend, Brandon, found it and told Chris about us. That's when Chris contacted us via MySpace and asked if he could record over a few songs.  So that's how it all started.

Why do you feel that New York City is one of the most musically diverse cities in the world?

NYC has such an extremely mixed culture and that leads to great new things.  Whether it be hot dogs, shawarma , hot dogs with shawarma, pandas eating hotdog shawarma sandwiches on a Sunday afternoon in lounge chairs, smelly kittens, time machines, or just some good old Mexican space judo classes staring Hugh Jackman as your trainer (personal favorite). The same goes for music, many cultures mixing and creating a wide variety of new sounds. There's lots of people in NYC too, so it's very competitive; you have to be original to be heard!

OK, so what's the deal with the Julliard credentials? haha

Well, let's take a look at the education section on my facebook page so we can get a better understanding of my education.  It seems I went to graduate school at Julliard at the ripe old age of 1 year old.  I majored in Marine Astrophysics, tits, and acting.  Then in 1996, I graduated again from Julliard (not graduate school this time) with a doctors in Musical Arts, More Plucking (whatever that is), and a degree in Jazz Piano (move over Kevin Theodore!)

Then again in 2009, I graduated from graduate school again with a degree in Astrology, Ballet and Acting. Boy am I talented!  I'd have to say that my extreme amount of knowledge that I have somehow managed to gather from this school has contributed close to nothing the music I write today.  Except if it's Piano (but I never do that)... by now you may have realized I never went to Julliard.

Besides the obvious (aka metal, hip-hop, electronica), are there any other genres do you try to incorporate into EFR?

We try to incorporate absolutely anything as long as it sounds good. We all listen to some different genres so we're sure to come up with many different sounds.



You guys state influences ranging from Cynic to Meshuggah to Deftones.  Any specific reasons why these guys stuck out as major influences?

Cynic because we share a similar sounding  harmonies and melodic elements, Deftones because we love their heavy groovyness!

Do you guys find yourselves to be on quite the musical pedestel when being refered to as "masters of their genre"?

We try to not let that stuff get to our heads, but we definitely appreciate that people feel that way though!  It's always great to hear people who are enthusiastic about our music thought, it totally keeps us going!  Although.... it seems to really get to Omar's (our merch guy) head.  He feels pretty bad ass.  The only thing that gets to his head more than that is when you call him Papi, or Big Daddy Omar.... just kidding, we love Omar.  He's the best!

So what about "production" do you take care of?  Basically, other than guitar, what other duties do you perform for the band.

I recorded and mixed the full length.  I also deal with programming our gigantic live rig, making every "technical" thing we do work, web related stuff, print related stuff. it's an incredible amount of work.



How'd you guys come around to landing a deal with Myriad Records as your label?

We offered the owner, Jamie, $3 and an iced mocha latte if he'd sign us.  He gladly accepted...

Actually he knew Chris for a while and he had sent us a proposal when our CD was almost finished. After looking over all our deals/options, we had decided Myriad was the best to go with.

Where is the recording sessions being done at?

We recorded the full length in my room, and in Nick's room, haha.  Hopefully we'll be doing our next full length at something like Audio Hammer Studios or Sundown studios, as I've been a big fan of their work.

Ever Forthright's full length debut was released on December 13th, 2011 via Myriad Records



1. All Eyes on the Earth
2. Latency and Tendencies
3. The Little Albert Experiment
4. Lost in Our Escape
5. Screen Scenarios
6. Spineless
7. Reflections
8. The Counter Shift
9. Infinitely Inward
10. City Limits
11. Dispose of Your Optimism
12. Clockwork



What equipment are you using lately for you guitar rig?

We've been using Axe-Fx Ultra for guitars and line 6 POD HD500 for bass. We also have this awesome thing called the Seelake AudioStation that we've been using (mainly for live use) that controls all of our patch changes, vocal effects, keyboard vst's, kick triggers, and in ear mixes. It can also be used as a DAW so we can record new ideas on tour.

You guys looking forward to hitting up north of the border with Intervals?

Yes, Intervals is awesome. We're all definitely on the same wavelength when it comes to music. It's definitely going to be great.  A band called Mandroid Echostar will also be with, and they're absolutely awesome.

Have any of you guys ever played in Canada before?

Nope.  Hope we don't get attacked by bears and moose.

***

What's a goal that you guys are setting for yourselves that you have not attained yet?

Well, I guess just touring Europe. But we might be getting to that in early 2013.

Any words of encouragement for aspiring musicians/bands out there making their way in the music world?

Try hard, make the band your life and it'll pay off.

What's the next move for EFR?

Next move it to tour tour tour tour. and when thats over, do another cd.  We just shot a music video, so I guess promoting that and getting it out is another move.


(Photo courtesy of Anthony Tafuro and EFR)

Give us a musician (and/or band) you'd want featured on a EFR track?

Paul Masvidal from Cynic!

If you got yourselves pick of the litter, can you name off a band or two you'd love to tour with?

Katy Perry, Lights.... wait that'll never happen haha.  I'm going to say Corelia, Meshuggah, Cynic.

Thanks again Billy for doing the interview, always a pleasure and see you in Toronto!

No prooooooooooob! Thanks for the lovely time, see you soon.  I like turtles!

***

So, I hope by now you've gotten a fair amount of info on these guys.  Without a doubt, you'll want to go check them out when they hit up Ontario.  If you're in the Toronto area, then I'll see you in the pits. Members of EFR will also be doing lessons while on tour.  Check em out at their BANDHAPPY link.

Cheers and don't forget to check out their official links, as well as the tour dates.:

- www.everforthright.com

- www.facebook.com/EverForthright

- www.myspace.com/everforthright

- www.youtube.com/everforthright

- www.last.fm/music/Ever+Forthright

- www.twitter.com/everforthright

- www.soundclick.com/everforthright

Gary Clark Jr. Doesn't Owe You A Thing

Alright everyone, I know you've seen me post about this guy before.  I was introduced to his music from a fellow co-worker of mine a year or so ago, just before he was set to drop his debut EP "Bright Lights".  Gary Clark Jr. has now become a staple of my weekly jams, and has resonated with my family and friends now.  

Compared to some of the bands I listen to a regular basis, I can tell you now that this stuff is groovy, mellow and far from any head banging you are used to seeing on here.

(Photo courtesy of GCJ Facebook)

Gary Clark Jr. is now an established name across Canada, the US, and gaining exposure overseas.  He made a great impact at Eric Clapton's Crossroads festival a few years ago and has garnished 600,000+ views already (plus the 350,000+ for the video below)!  Not too shabby for a live cut of a song from a debut artist.  

(Photo courtesy of GCJ Facebook)

“I love B.B. King, T-Bone Walker and Hendrix, but no one else can do it like them.  I love to show my respect and tip my hat to those guys, but I was born in 1984.

I grew up with synthesizers and weird, spacey music—hip-hop, R&B, modern rock—that I heard on the radio. That’s influenced the way I play music. It’s natural for me to go with what I feel. If I didn’t let that other stuff out and stuck to a certain format, I would feel like I was missing out on something. I’m just enjoying my ride and being who I am.” -Gary Clark Jr.

Check out one of those videos below:

Now that I have your attention, you'll be happy to know that Gary has announced his plans to release his first   LP, which will be titled "Blak and Blue" and looking for an October 23rd, 2012 release via Warner Bros Records.

"Gary Clark Jr. will release his long-anticipated full-length debut album for Warner Bros. Records on October 23rd. The album, for which the title and track-listing will be announced soon, was produced by Gary Clark Jr. and Mike Elizondo, who is known for his work with Mastodon, Fiona Apple, Dr. Dre, and many others." -garyclarkjr.com

1. Ain’t Messin ‘Round

2. When My Train Pulls In

3. Blak and Blu

4. Bright Lights

5. Travis County

6. The Life

7. Glitter Ain’t Gold (Jumpin’ For Nothin’)

8. Numb

9. Please Come Home

10. Things Are Changin’

11. Third Stone From The Sun/If You Love Me Like You Say

12. You Saved Me

13. Next Door Neighbor Blues

Many music websites and magazines have given this guy high praise in hopes that he could become a music game changer and set a precedent as a major influence and role in the music world.

"Owing as much to Kurt Cobain and the Ramones as Buddy Guy and John Lee Hooker, indebted to hip-hop and psychedelia, his shape-shifting calling card EP is grounded in tradition while standing on the brink of change." -Rolling Stone

"Gary Clark Jr. cuts through a stunning blend of rock and soul. Clark can sing some sweet R&B, but at heart, he's a blistering blues-rock guitarist who's about to blow up big" -NPR

(Photo courtesy of GCJ Facebook)

Think they are raising the bar a little high?  It must seem that way.  And yes, people will always try and put musicians on a roster they may not be able to compete with.  From what I have heard, seen and read about this guy, I think that will be far from the equation.  I look forward to seeing more of Mr. Clark Jr. throughout North America for years to come.

“I’ve been called musically schizophrenic, and some people think that’s a cool thing. I’d like to focus on the blues/soul/rock and roll thing for a while. My live shows have been going more in that direction. I’ll probably branch out into other things later on when there’s a time and place for them, but right now I want to stay focused.” -Gary Clark Jr.

(Photo courtesy of GCJ Facebook)

As mentioned before, Gary released an EP titled "Bright Lights" on August 9th, 2011 via Warner Bros Records.  The EP came with some great success and some great reviews.  I personally got this for a sibling of mine for a present and I'm pretty sure that I have to get a new copy due to extreme amount of continuous play (haha).  It was a decent price for the album and the songs are catchy enough to make you ask "OK, seriously?  Only 4 tracks?  When's the LP coming out?!"

1. Bright Lights

2. Don't Owe You A Thang

3. Things Are Changin' (solo acoustic live)

4. When My Train Pulls In (solo acoustic live

"The EP's title track does, indeed, stomp and stammer across the blues-rock landscape like some bastard child of Hendrix and SRV, a heavy rhythmic soundtrack used as a backdrop on top of which Clark embroiders his textured, brilliant, and blustery fretwork. Clark's vocals are enchanting, mesmerizing in the same maddening way that R.L. Burnside used to affect listeners, while his guitarplay is riffish, imaginative, and simply sonically devastating. There are no tentative steps or youthful naiveté here, Clark a ten-year veteran of the competitive Texas blues scene that has held his own on the Antone's stage in Austin.

From the perspective of blues guitar, there's a lot going on in Clark's performance on 'Bright Lights,' from high-flying, scorched-earth blues-rock solos that tear the roof off the sucker to more nuanced, tone-heavy and melodic leads. Above the din Clark keeps singing 'you're going to know my name,' and it comes across as more of a statement of fact than a hollow boast. As a song, "Bright Lights" is an impressive introduction, and one that sets the table for even more considerable fare." -About.com

***

"An Austin, Texas staple who has been garnering rave reviews for his live shows and blues-tastic playing Gary Clark Jr. is primed to explode onto the national and world scene in 2012.  This 4 song EP showcases what Clark specializes in, straight up roadhouse blues.  Ep's need to be special to receive 4 stars out of 5, but each song contained here is a joy and worthy of 1 star on it's own.  The title track and most complete effort tackles New York City's "Bright Lights" and how they can change a person come sun up.  A fantastic lyrical tale over full on strutting guitar that chugs and dirties up the groove every way it can.  Popping drums propel everything forward hooking the listener in the first time through; you will know Gary Clark's name by the end of the song." -Rock The Body Electric

So keep you eyes peeled for a track listing and more information regarding the upcoming release.  As a bonus, you can see from the initial part of the video that multi-talented artist Alicia Keys has taken a shining to GCJ, and even did a few tracks together:

For more info on GCJ and his endeavors, you can check him on any of the following official links:

- www.garyclarkjr.com
- www.twitter.com/GaryClarkJr
- www.facebook.com/GaryClarkJr
- www.youtube.com/user/garyclarkjr
- www.last.fm/music/Gary+Clark+Jr.
- www.myspace.com/garyclarkjr

Mohawked Robot

Sorry for the profanity, but you got to be shitting me!  Check out this video of a 4 armed robot playing along to the track "Blitzkrieg Bop" by The Ramones.

Other sites have commented on the amount of work going into this robot, only to play a basic tune from The Ramones.  I'm sure since this was a success, you are going to see many more complicated songs being tackled.  Portnoy, Haake and others should take note ;-)



Will try and get more info on this if I can find it.  Stay tuned!

Random Music Quotes: Joel

"I think music in itself is healing.  It's an explosive expression of humanity.  It's something we are all touched by.  No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music." -Billy Joel

Things I Miss: Awaken Demons

OK, so these guys haven't really gone anywhere, but since their exposure in North America is not as strong as it was when signed to Trustkill Records, its something I still miss hearing about over here on the other side of the Atlantic.  So Cesena, Italy has been holding out on a gem from their region, AWAKEN DEMONS.  The four piece (currently with a roster of 3) made a great debut in North America with the release of their LP "The Mirror", brought them some well deserved attention and was rated quite high on most people's reviews.

Now that they have parted ways with the defunct Trustkill Records (now renamed Bullet Tooth), the guys are on the market once again looking for a new contract/label to release their new material on.  I am glad to see these guys sticking it out in Europe, as where most of their fan base (logically) lies.  The vocals are harsh enough for the hardcore kids, but at the same time, distinct enough to hear what is being said, alongside some heavy laid beats and some great riffs!


(Photo courtesy of AD Facebook)

Awaken Demons have a fun ethic to band life, whether its on the road, hanging around with fans or in the studio. But there is no doubt: Awaken Demons also work hard, play hard and make songs for what they believe in. Within the last four years the Band from Cesena/Italy released two full-length albums (From Heaven To Hell / Demons Run Amok 2008 and The Mirror / Trustkill 2009) and a Split 12” with their friends in Pay No Respect (UK). And don’t forget about their popular video for Here Comes The Hot 2-Stepper which reached 130.000 views on the bands YouTube-channel.

Their new full-length self titled record features ten most passionate, heavy and outstanding tracks of relentless metal hardcore rhythms mixed and mastered by Zack Ohren at Castle Ultimate USA (All Shall Perish, As Blood Runs Black, The Ghost Inside). Expect Awaken Demons probably particular production combined with fast, metallic and heavy hardcore songs. The result is something new in the career of this band.

(Photo courtesy of AD Facebook)

AD is:

Luca Zattoni -Vocals | Nicola Lelli - Bass | Andrea Bassetti - Guitar | ??? - Drums

With the strong support of MAD-Tourbooking, Europes largest agency in the scene, Awaken Demons played countless shows and toured all across Europe / UK / USA / Japan with bands like A Day to Remember, Deez Nuts or The Ghost Inside.

Come witness Awaken Demons in full force shredding the live stage and embarking in what they do best.



It was only recently that they parted ways with their drummer Raffaele and continued to press on during their 2012 touring schedule:

"Just to make it clear, last Thursday before leaving for the Baltic sea fest, we parted from our drummer, that's why we cancelled the shows, sorry for the inconvenient. Now we are looking for a replacement. We'll be back on the road for the skate fest! See you soon!!" -Awaken Demons



The last album released from Awaken Demons was the one I was mentioning earlier in this article, 09's "The Mirror".  Released on August 25th, 2009, it was a great North American debut for AD and really put them on the maps as an upcoming European act for the metal industry to watch out for.

1. Coming To An End
2. Drawn To Death's Door (feat. Karl Buechner)
3. Path Of Lies
4. Abandon The Darkness (feat. Vincent Bennet)
5. World Collapses
6. Fight To Overcome
7. Real
8. Victim Of Your Game
9. A Dead Man Called Traitor
10. The Mirror

"Cesena, Italy metalcore band, Awaken Demons, have always ridden under the metal and hardcore scenes' radars. As such, not many people were aware when they released their studio album The Mirror in 2009 via Trustkill Records. The album consists of 10 gruesome, true metalcore tracks which have the band switching between breakdowns and thrashy riffs, over which the group shouts.

One niche element I enjoy about the band is how they take their hardcore influence and add group chants to their songs. Speaking of vocals, one may notice Karl Buechner of Earth Crisis and Vincent Bennet of The Acacia Strain lend their voices to the album (check track listing below to see who cameos on which song).

Overall Awaken Demons have created an energetic offering which sadly didn't get the recognition it should have. The Mirror is a REAL metalcore album which I recommend any hardcore or metal fans to check out." -Pure Grain Audio


(Photo courtesy of Maximilien Baumgartner)

"The closing of 'Abandon The Darkness' shows the song’s strongest moment with both AWAKEN DEMONS vocalist Luca Zattoni and Vincent Bennett of The Acacia Strain screaming 'I am your worst fucking nightmare!'  Moving along, 'Real' is another big banger, and bursts out like a fresh and healthy Hatebreed.  The vocal authority of Luca [Zattoni] is gigantic, and the band continues to attack the track with dedication.  As straight forward as 'Real' is, this one is as hard as brass knuckles to the face, for real.  Closing on the title track, 'The Mirror', the band gives some outstanding melody, and this one right here is the jam!  Possibly a new musical direction, but shows another side of the band.

The Mirror is a great CD for the moshers, and these crazy Italians have a great hardcore attitude in their sound, giving the extra push.  Are they Trustkill’s next Throwdown?  The band definitely has potential, and I’m excited to see what they come up with next." -SMN News

***

And if some of these videos/songs have won you over, you can check out more info about these guys and order their albums at any of the official links below:

FACEBOOK:
www.facebook.com/AwakenDemons

TWITTER:
www.twitter.com/awakendemons

OFFICIAL SITE:
www.awakendemons.com

YOUTUBE:
www.youtube.com/awakendemonsofficial

BAND'S STORE:
www.awakendemons.storenvy.com

BANDCAMP (album orders):
www.awakendemons.bandcamp.com

Stone Sour: House of Gold & Bones

OK, so who here has already checked out some of the new material from Stone Sour?  I know this has been all over the music news for some time now, so I think it about time to give my readers a lil taste of what is to come.  Stone Sour (featuring members of Slipknot and Soulfy) have announced their plans to release "House of Gold & Bones Part 1" on October 23rd, 2012 via long time label Roadrunner Records.

1. Gone Sovereign
2. Absolute Zero
3. A Rumor of Skin 
4. The Travellers Part 1
5. Tired    
6. RU486
7. My Name Is Allen
8. Taciturn
9. Influence of a Drowsy God
10. The Travellers Part 2
11. Last of the Real



In short, both parts combined will "tell the story of a young man faced with the choice of staying an adolescent or becoming an adult."  This will also mark the first album from SS that doesn't feature bassist Shawn Economacki, who left the band in early 2012.

So what about a preview?

Well, as luck would have it, I've been sitting on this article long enough to have audio/visual to show for it.  Corey Taylor  and the rest of the guys release some preview material for the first two tracks "Gone Sovereign" and "Absolute Zero", where Taylor gave a small explanation on the description of these tracks and the concept albums:

"These are the first two songs on the 'House of Gold and Bones pt. 1'. Being the first part of a set of concept albums, "Gone Sovereign" is essentially the overture and "Absolute Zero" is the Hero's anthem. It is the best way to introduce you to this new world. For more background, you'll have to wait for the full albums." -Corey Taylor


So far, the two opening tracks have come back with some positive reviews.  Most notably, a review from Artist Direct gave more of a breakdown of the album, noting the vocals, drumming, structure and lyrical content.  I am sold thus far, are you?

"Stone Sour incinerate all expectations with "Gone Sovereign/Absolute Zero", the first salvo from House of Gold and Bones Part. 1.

Beginning with one mean riff from premier guitar duo James Root and Josh Rand, frontman Corey Taylor eerily assures, 'No one's laughing now'. As the distortion echoes, tension mounts, and the song snaps into a heavy thrash break with Taylor screaming sharply.

Roy Mayorga's drums gallop vigorously alongside Rachel Bolan's distinct bass bludgeoning. Everything culminates on a bruising growl from Taylor with fiery leads surrounding it like entwining twin snakes. It's the band's heaviest and most hypnotic fare yet, and it's an introduction to the year's most infectious and important hard rock effort.

Suddenly, everything slips into a pristine chant from Taylor for 'Absolute Zero'. It's an invigorating roller coaster with the powder leg line, 'I'm not the devil, but I won't be your hero." Of course, there's some more impressive fretboard scorching as well.

Clocking in over 7 minutes, this is a statement from Stone Sour. They're not holding back. They're not backing down. They're not fucking around. They're here to change rock 'n' roll, and they're going to do it.

Are you ready to watch it go up in flames along with them?" -Artist Direct



Like Taylor stated earlier, for previews of the entire album, you're just going to have to wait...like AFGM :-( So far, I was impressed with the debut LP and "Come What(ever) May".  Audio Secrecy didn't really do much for me (maybe I should listen again though) but I find that Stone Sour really made a great effort on the latest LP and will see them getting on bigger and better tours/festivals as a result.

"Well, really, it all started last year. In October, I went over to his [Corey's] house and he played me a couple of songs he had written on or had put together, and he explained the whole concept or story of doing this concept record. And I immediately was excited, because I felt like from a musical standpoint it would allow us to do whatever we wanted. Not that we haven't done that in the past, but I really felt like it could really open some doors musically. And how we write as a band is, all of us contribute from the music side of things, and he's always written the lyrics. So the biggest thing for me was, I wanted us to be a lot more aggressive than "Audio Secrecy". Can we go in that direction? And he was, like, "Yeah, let's do it all." And that was when I really started giving him the stuff I had written on, later on in the year, like December. I flew down to Jacksonville, and Jim [Root] just jams, that's how he writes, so it's usually me that'll sit down and go through all the stuff he records, 'cause he's very much an improv player. And I started pulling a couple of ideas from that, and Roy [Mayorga, drums] started submitting stuff, and we got together in January in Des Moines and just started putting everything together." -Josh Rand

Want to catch Stone Sour on tour right now?  So far, they have a whack of shows in various places across the globe.  From native US soil, to Japan, Chile and a fair amount of Europe being covered, I'm sure the North American tour will be hot on its trail!



Oct 27 – TOKYO – Super Arena (Loud Park)
Oct 28 – OSAKA – Big Cat (Loud Park Extra)
Oct 29 – NAGOYA – Diamond Hall

Nov 10 – SANTIAGO, CHILE - Las Vizcachas
Nov 25th – PARIS, FR– Bataclan
Nov 26th – MILAN, IT – Alcatraz (with special guests Papa Roach)
Nov 29th – LUDWIGSBURG, DE – Arena (with special guests Papa Roach)
Nov 30th – VIENNA, AU – Gasometer (with special guests Papa Roach)

2nd Dec – MUNICH, DE – Zenith (with special guests Papa Roach)
3rd Dec – OFFENBACH, DE – Stadthalle (with special guests Papa Roach)
4th Dec – BERLIN, DE – Huxleys (with special guests Papa Roach)
6th Dec – OBERHAUSEN, DE – Turbinenhalle (with special guests Papa Roach)
7th Dec – AMSTERDAM, NE – Melkweg (with special guests Papa Roach)
8th Dec – TORHOUT, BE – De Mast (with special guests Papa Roach)
10th Dec – LONDON, UK – O2 Brixton Academy (with special guests Papa Roach)
13th Dec – MANCHESTER, UK – Apollo
14th Dec – WOLVERHAMPTON, UK – Civic Hall
15th Dec – BOURNEMOUTH, UK – O2 Academy
17th Dec – COPENHAGEN, DK – Vega
18th Dec – OSLO, NO – Rockefeller
19th Dec – STOCKHOLM, SE – Annexet

Feb 23, 2013 – BRISBANE, AUS (Soundwave)
Feb 24 – SYDNEY, AUS  (Soundwave)
March 1 – MELBOURNE, AUS  (Soundwave)
March 2 – ADELAIDE, AUS  (Soundwave)
March 4 – PERTH, AUS (Soundwave)



So another thing that adds a lil more sensation that the average album.  Much like Rush when they announced the novelization of their album "Clockwork Angels", Corey Taylor and the rest of the guys from Stone Sour have made plans to release a comic book series as well to co-inside with the HoG&B albums.

The company doing the dirty work is Dark Horse Comics (who have done other works such as Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Star Wars, Conan The Barbarian, etc).  The debut edition is looking to see an April 17th, 2013 release.  Taylor (who is an avid fan of comics) decided to shed some light into his excitement for the project:

“I’ve been a die-hard fan of comics, on every level, my entire life.  This has been a dream of mine for years now, and this project was tailor made for a comic, no pun intended. I couldn’t have picked a better company than Dark Horse to make this a reality. I have loved several of their titles for many years, going back to ’92. If we can get this crazy world out of my head and onto the canvas, it’ll be the best thing I’ve ever attempted. And with Dark Horse, I have every confidence that’s exactly what we’ll do.” -Taylor

I'm very impressed with the marketing behind this LP release.  In this day and age, you really got to offer people a lil more bang for their buck.  Even though the album itself will rock, a lot of bands will be pumping out album after album, so it's nice to do something like this and stand out from the crowd.  Plus, it seems lately that Taylor has been just go, go, go with material.  So all the power to him!

As you know, I update these articles whenever I can so stay tuned for more details!  For now, check SS at any of the following official links:

- www.stonesour.com
- www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_Sour
- www.myspace.com/stonesour
- www.last.fm/music/Stone+Sour
- www.facebook.com/stonesour
- www.twitter.com/WeAreStoneSour
- www.youtube.com/user/StonESouR

Music Releases For August 28th, 2012

Hey everyone,

So your weekly CD release day has come.  I tends to be a good day for those enthusiasts, like myself, who are always on the lookout for a new CD that just makes you go "wow".  A few of these albums I have had the chance to preview of the last week or two (I Am War, Obey The Brave, The Chariot, etc), and a few I have wanted to check out as well.  

I have to note two decent Canadian albums dropping today.  Between the always popular Alanis Morissette and the debut album from Obey The Brave, I strongly urge you readers to pick up a copy of either album, as they support Canadian music.  Not only to show some love to the artists north of the border, but also because they're just all around great albums.  

Also on the roster are a few notable other genres, such as the A&M Records 50th Anniversary release, Robert Cray's 20th LP "Nothin But Love" and newcomer Sean Rowe and his newest LP "The Salesman And The Shark".  Anyways, make your way down to your local record shop today or an online retailer to grab any of the following notable albums:

"It’s a tag-team approach that feeds off itself. Beginning with the assertively titled ‘Don’t Worship Assholes’, I Am War allows the listener in. Things get intense with ‘The Poisoning’. The drums give way to the album’s true highlight. It takes away the fluff and focuses on tenacity rather than technicality. 

Perhaps, ‘Outlive You All’ is guilty of staying in the same range. There are a few passages that blend into one another. However, this isn’t Meshuggah. Listeners press play realising that this is an ‘up front’-type of musical creation.

All songs are short and sharp with none of the twelve clocking in at over two-and-a-half minutes. ‘Chipped Shoulders and Heart Attacks’ hits its marks, while ‘Nihilistic Motivation’ is another fast moment towards the tail end. Worth a look-in." -Kill Your Stereo

"Havoc and Bright Lights (August 27, 2012) 3 Stephen Thomas Erlewine Rebounding from the breakup record of 2008's Flavors of Entanglement, Alanis Morissette is in a sunny mood on Havoc and Bright Lights, her first album in four years and first she's released since leaving her longtime home at Maverick Records. A new home suggests it's time for a rebirth and Havoc and Bright Lights certainly fits the bill, Morissette exuding a quiet bliss as a happy newlywed and mother, a sensibility that's tempered somewhat by Alanis also embracing her role as an elder statesman, hectoring all those young folk eager to become a 'tattooed sexy dancing monkey' so they can become a 'Celebrity.' Such mild condescension doesn't surface all that often, probably because Morissette is in an unusually benevolent mood, settling into her happiness without raising a single doubt or misgiving. Naturally, it follows that her music also feels quite comfortable. Working once again with producer Guy Sigsworth -- he helmed Flavors -- along with his new partner Joe Chiccarelli, Morissette flips Flavors inside out, winding up with a wide-open, cheerful set of adult pop, the kind where the sound matters more than the song. And that's not quite fair to Alanis, for as content as she is, she's still exploring the depths of her satisfaction, working out its pitfalls and plateaus. If the music shortchanges this struggle, presenting it as nothing more than a foregone conclusion, at least Havoc and Bright Lights is as soothing as a Sunday afternoon nap or a warm bath: it's music for when you know you're right where you want to be." -All Music

"The year was 1962 and the location was a garage in Hollywood. Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss started A&M Records, kicking off their new label with the hit single The Lonely Bull by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass.

Before long, their label was a major force in the industry, one that is being celebrated on the new three-CD set A&M 50: The Anniversary Collection.

The roster that the two men built was multi-genre, from the Mexican sounds of the Tijuana Brass and the Baja Marimba Band to the pop of the Carpenters and Sergio Mendes to the rock of Procol Harum, Supertramp and the Police to the R&B of Janet Jackson and the Brothers Johnson to the jazz of Chuck Mangione and Quincy Jones." -Music News

"Much like MTB's previous offerings the last track on the album provides an intense audible journey. Cold Company, feels like the song that has been waiting to punch you in your face after listening to 9 good but not great tracks. Musically it has everything a MTB fan would want all packaged into a 5 minute closing track. Maybe the best part of the song is that it makes the listener feel like there is something worth waiting for on their next album. 

Minus the Bear is one of those bands I just can't put my finger on. The talent is there, they have their own sound and have blueprints to making incredible music with their first 3 LP's, yet they make songs catering to adolescent love. In the search to produce another Pahucca Sunrise (i.e. Listing) MTB has lost the edge that made them a must-hear band. It's true that Minus the Bear should be a household name on par with Modest Mouse or Death Cab, it's just too bad that they haven't put anything out on that level since Planet of Ice in 2007. 

It seems that the electronic feel is here to stay with Minus the Bear and we may never have another POI. That in itself may make every album forthcoming a disappointment. However, Infinity Overhead is still a very good album and in the fairness of an objective review shouldn't be compared to the bands previous efforts in grading it. That is why I give it a 3.5-Great. It is a great album with lots to be appreciated on it, new fans could start at this album and work backward in their catalog, and boy would they be in for a treat..." -Sputnik Music

"Whilst listening to this album I seem to be painting pictures in my head and imagining myself in other worldly landscapes. Judging by the superb and perfectly fitting album artwork it feels like the band had this in mind when making Moments.  Seriously, listen to this album in the dark through headphones and just see where it takes you.  The last two tracks ‘Moments pt1′ and ‘Moments pt2′ are a delightful journey that combined clock in at around 23 minutes and what a great way to spend 23 minutes!

Like I always pick up on with this new breed of technical metal, the pace does seem to stay around the same zone but as I mentioned in my recent review of (Stealing Axions’ peers) Monuments’ debut album Gnosis , when the quality is this high you really don’t mind.

Get on board with this band now and be the one that shows them to your friends, because the thanks will be endless." -Daily Dischord

"Halfway through the album, we come to a track titled 'Grim'. 'Grim' is a 30-second interlude that sounds like it belongs on a hip-hop/rap album. It is pointless and it most certainly doesn't belong on a metalcore album, but again, it's only 30 seconds long so this is a minor flaw. The bigger gripe that I have with this album is the fact that there is not a whole lot of variety.

Young Blood gets back on the right track after 'Grim' with a handful of great songs before the album comes to a close with the strongest track, 'Burning Bridges'. It contains melody, heavy breakdowns, and surprising-but effective-clean vocals. The clean vocals heard in the chorus are very similar to the cleans that are heard throughout Your Memorial's new album, Redirect.

Individually, the songs on Young Blood are spectacular. They're heavy, fairly melodic, really fun to listen to, and bound to wreak havoc at a show. The album as a whole, however, becomes a little bit stale. If there was a wide range of sounds, Obey The Brave's new release may have been a serious contender for album of the year." -Megusta Reviews

"Perhaps cursed by their reluctance to fit into predetermined metal subgenres, it has taken Katatonia two decades to receive the recognition they deserve. Diehard fans will recognise Dead End Kings as the latest in a series of beautifully conceived and subtly inventive exercises in atmospheric heaviness. But there is a sharpness to the songwriting in evidence on the Swedes' ninth full-length recording that promises a bridging of the gap between metal and modern prog. As with obvious peers such as Opeth and Anathema, Katatonia seldom take the obvious melodic route. Instead, songs such as the gently menacing The One You Are Looking for Is Not Here and the film-noir throb of Leech mask singer Jonas Renske's low-key hooks behind intricate arrangements and a shimmering haze of eerie ambience. The band's metal credentials remain undeniable, however, as the strident riffs that underpin show-starter The Parting and the restless physicality of the closing Dead Letters noisily demonstrate." -The Guardian

"Rowe's new album, 'The Salesman and the Shark', was recorded at the historic Vox studio in Los Angeles. Recording in L.A. and performing in New York are odd fits for Rowe, who says he prefers the rhythms of nature and the outdoors.

'It's a bit of a paradox for me. I do enjoy aspects of the city: I love the arts, I love people. That's about where it stops,' Rowe says. "There's an energy in the city that doesn't sit right with me.

'I have spent an extended period of time in nature — the longest was about 24 days,' he adds. 'I slept in a shelter that I built. I was hunting, I was trapping primitively and I was consuming a lot of wild plants. And that was a tremendous lesson — in humility, bit also in nature connection.'" -NPR

"The slow minor blues 'I’m Done Crying' is a self affirmation that it’s time to pick himself up and get on with his life because in spite of losing everything he still has his dignity ‘cause he’s still a man. 'Great Big Old House' continues dealing with the theme of loss through the repossession of a home and the resulting emptiness of the home that use to be filled with a loving family. Which is a subject that many can probably connect with currently.

The album suddenly winds down with 'Sadder Days' which is a lyrical slow blues in which Robert combines his soulful voice with an emotionally restrained solo.

Cray’s ability to blend the blues with rock and other rhythm’s has always been one of the skills that has allowed him to expose another generation of the fans to blues. Do in no small part to the contribution of Kevin Shirley and phenomenal skills that someone who has been playing and singing the blues for 30 years, Nothin But Love will garner Robert another Grammy nomination and most likely a win. It will also be a hard contender for the blues album of the year." -Blues Rock Review

"One Wing also delights in its unrestrained weirdness. 'First,' for instance, starts off as a surging hardcore piece, but cracks apart and, with some cowboy guitar and a brassy blast of trumpet, suddenly becomes the pulse-quickening soundtrack to a classic western. The song titles themselves form a small poem. Each title is a single word from the two lines 'Forget not your first love. Speak in tongues and cheek.'

With samples like snatches of dialogue or the whir of a dentist's drill, sudden changes in mood and rhythm, and a dense layering of sound and techniques, The Chariot take real delight in bombarding the listener with as much complexity and violence as possible.

One Wing is not an easy record, but its density and challenge holds riches. For the first time, they have released a record worthy of their live performance and demonstrated that they are not content to rest on their reputations, but continue to push and innovate." -About.com

The Sorrow: Misery Escape

Alright folks, my favourite Austrian four piece is back with a new album on the way!  Please welcome back Austria's The Sorrow.  Now into their fourth LP, it seems these guys have collected a great fan base and seem to be working with a good formula, now being carried over to the latest release.  I found out about these guys while trolling through some European music sites, around the time when they were finishing up with 09's Origin of the Storm and set to release the 2010 self titled album.  All the albums have a pretty consistent feel to them, while at the same time hearing their progression in songwriting and vocal ranges.

(Photo courtesy of The Sorrow Facebook)

The Sorrow is:

Mätze - Vox, Guitar | Andi - Guitar | Tobi - Bass | Dominik - Drums

The Sorrow have announced plans to release their new LP "Misery Escape", which will see an October 26th, 2012 (November 6th, 2012 in US/Canada) release via newly inked label Napalm Records.

1. Retracing Memories

2. The Escape

3. Burial Bridge

4. My Oblivion

5. A Reason

6. Buried In The Deep

7. A Thin Red Line

8. Perspectives

9. Lost Chapters

10. Dead Home

11. Follow The Lights

With a track listing now avilable, and the release of their music video "Burial Bridge" (not to mention the release of their first single/lyric video "Perspectives"), North America is now eagerly waiting November 6th:

We managed to find a little bit of information from an recent interview they conducted with Free Thinker blog.  

NOTE: *Original interview conducted in German, this is loosely translated to English:

(Photo courtesy of The Sorrow Facebook)

FT: When and where the album was written - you were surely very diligent way? 

TS: "The songs we have written ago last year in the fall. About 2 months, we have met nearly every day in the practice room and put together what has thus accumulated in the last year of ideas! This actually works quite well and has always proved us too. We do this mainly on the computer, because it's just faster. This makes the process a lot easier for us."

(Photo courtesy of The Sorrow Facebook)

FT: How did the recording process made? Were there for you experiencing any problems?

TS: "Yes there were some problems, the recordings have indeed taken over months! We have worked a lot in the studio with our producer Sky van Hoff on the songs, and some of them very much rewritten and tested. Sky really has a golden touch in terms of the songwriting, and he had a lot of one wahnsinns job! Mätze this time went through hell, got even Einne vocal cord inflammation and had 10 weeks singing lock. In between, we had to stop the shooting, because we had to work in order to even have to eat something on the table. It has everything protracted but now we are really happy and satisfied with it."

You can read the full interview here.

For now, all the European fans can catch them on tour:

And as of January 13th, The Sorrow released a new live-ish music video for their track "Perspectives":

***

In case you're not really sure who these guys are or what they have put out so far, check out some official links below (as well as their previous release and some audio/visual):

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thesorrowofficial
Myspace: www.myspace.com/thesorrowmetal
Official Site: www.thesorrow.net

The self titled album "The Sorrow" was released on Octobr 29th, 2010:

1. Afflictions

2. Crossing Jordan

3. The Weight of the World

4. Suffering Quotes

5. Heart of a Lion

6. Farewells

7. You Are My Nemesis

8. Paragon In Charity

9. Draped In Misery

10. Grief Machine

11. Engraved In Our Hearts

12. Facing the End

13. Reach for the Skies

"Production value is as crisp and clean as ever, helping the breakdowns and pummeling riffs maintain their colossal impact. A minor aspect that plays such a dominant part in preserving the band’s trademark sound from start to finish. The Pummeling blast beats from the pedals Dominik Immler ensure the groovy riffs still pack a ferocious punch throughout. This skilled group of musicians never seem to overuse the breakdown, as is a common flaw with many bands in the genre today, and never resort to unnecessarily comprising songs with said breakdowns that serve no other purpose than to fill up the minutes. Tracks like 'Grief Machine' and 'Crossing Jordan' show the band’s song writing abilities are as powerful as ever as they coalesce skillful breakdowns and drum patterns effortlessly and ferociously into riffs, passages, as well as the choruses. While they may be the same rudiments we've heard before, one cannot deny that the flair which The Sorrow so fluently exhibit is anything short of magnificent.

With their third album, The Sorrow have delivered thirteen quality songs containing all the classic trademarks we’ve come to know and love. Crushing, groove infused metalcore delivered with the type of confidence and exuberance their peers can only dream of achieving. However, the question regarding the direction of their future sound and releases remains; is this a good old fashion case of if it ain’t broke don’t fix it? Or is this solid outfit destined to grow stale and repetitive in the near future? While every listener will derive their own opinions on such questions upon listening to this self-titled outing, the answer lies within the hands and hearts of four young Austrians who clearly have no shortage of musical ideas or the burgeoning ability required to execute them. While it may require more time to grow than previous records, The Sorrow can be proud to put their name to such a brilliantly constructed album." -Sputnik Music