AFGM: May 2013

Friday, May 31, 2013

Music News and New Music For May 31st, 2013

So of course, when running your own blog solo it can be tough to keep up with the s**tload of stuff that comes across our ears over a weekend! Some good, some bad, some not even worth mentioning. I guess that's how I use AFGM in general. These articles that I go through everyday from various sites (Blabbermouth,. Bravewords, CBC, National Post, AV Club, Music News, MissInfo, Billboard, Rolling Stone, etc.) and sort of "filter" some of the nonsense news such as the latest fashion design, who's got beef with who and who ISN'T doing music...still.

These articles brought forth are for a few different reasons:

1. It is relevant music information that pertains to you as a reader, no matter the level of intent or the genre.

2. They are relevant to the music I would be currently listening to or a genre I have put some attention and focus on.

3. I am somewhat patriotic about my Canadian music, so that always comes as a first for me. I enjoy music from all parts of the world respectively, but I still have to promote local if I can. Canadian music rocks!

4. Because it's humourous and we can ALWAYS use a good laugh. Rarely will it be at someone's expense...but then again I am just the guy talking about it. They're the ones causing the comments.

So in closing, I trust you all will not read EVERY single article posted here. But I hope you find something of use here and keep the conversation going by forwarding it onto someone else. Click on each article heading for redirection to the full article. Cheers!

See who's playing NXNE Yonge-Dundas Square:

Social Distorition, The National, Billy Talent, Big Boi and much more!

Velvet Underground Settle Dispute Over Andy Warhol Album Image:

"The settlement was revealed in federal court papers made public in New York on Wednesday, but the exact terms were not disclosed."

This 12-Year-Old Boy Will Make You Want To Quit Guitar:

Matt Glaser Wins American String Teachers Association Award:

"Although I certainly do not deserve this, I am very happy to accept it metonymically on behalf of this incredible community of American folk and jazz string players who are my heroes and friends." -Glaser

AEROSMITH's 'Rock For The Rising Sun' DVD, Blu-Ray: More Details Revealed:

1. Draw The Line
2. Love In An Elevator
3. Livin' On The Edge
4. Hangman Jury
5. No More No More
6. Mama Kin
7. Monkey On My Back
8. Toys In The Attic
9. Sweet Emotion
10. Boogie Man
11. Rats In The Cellar
12. Movin' Out
13. Last Child
14. S.O.S. (Too Bad)
15. Walk This Way
16. Train Kept A Rollin' (credits)

Barenaked Ladies mark 25 years with Grinning Streak:

“To me it had a great resonance, because a grin — it has confidence without being cocky or over-confident. A grin has an intellectual swagger to it. It does acknowledge that we’ve gone through a lot of pain and struggles throughout our career and the album has a lot of hope involved, so I think that goes into the title and the songs." - Robertson

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals Board 'Devil's Train':

"I'm a big movie geek, so when we were invited to contribute to the project, I got really into it and started researching the original Lone Ranger radio broadcasts from the 1930s. I found 'Devil's Train' on an old Roy Acuff record, taught it to the guys and we recorded it live on the air for a show called Daytrotter. No fancy studio tricks . . . that's the recording you get right here and that's the way Tonto would want it." -Potter

BON JOVI - Because We Can - The Tour Announces Fall 2013 North American Dates Launching October 2nd:

July
12 - Chicago, IL - Soldier Field
14 - Cleveland, OH - FirstEnergy Stadium
18 - Detroit, MI - Ford Field
20 - Foxboro, MA - Gillette Stadium
22 - Saratoga Springs, NY - SPAC
23 - Darien Center, NY - Darien Lake PAC
25 - E Rutherford, NJ - MetLife Stadium
27 - E Rutherford, NJ - MetLife Stadium

October
2 - Vancouver, BC - Rogers Arena
5 - Tacoma, WA - Tacoma Dome
6 - Spokane, WA - Spokane Arena
8 - Fresno, CA - Save Mart Center
9 - Anaheim, CA - Honda Center
11 - Los Angeles, CA - STAPLES Center
12 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
15 - San Antonio, TX - AT&T Center
16 - Dallas, TX - American Airlines Center
25 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena

November
1 - Toronto, ON - Air Canada Centre
8 - Montreal, QC - Bell Centre

Megadeth Channel Bluegrass in 'The Blackest Crow':

In Flames Premiere “Ropes” Music Video:

"The video was made entirely by In Flames fans worldwide. The video is edited by Erik Engstrand."

The Faceless’ New Covers Album To Tackle Nine Inch Nails, Soundgarden, Megadeth & More:

“I actually do have some stuff done for that, but I’ve been just writing lots of music for lots of different things right now, and I’m going to kind of sort out what is what when I have enough material for something. There’s new Faceless stuff in the works, amongst other things there’s a Faceless cover album being worked on right now and that’s the things that’s the farthest along right now. I have three songs tracked for it so far. Hoping to get that out maybe early next year, maybe January or February. We’ll see, maybe sooner. We got Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails, Killing Joke, Soundgarden, At The Gates, Megadeth.” -Keene

DEW-SCENTED Stream New Track Off Upcoming Anthology:

BLACK SABBATH - Tony Iommi Donates Guitar Strings For Charity:

"All profits made from the sale of Tony's guitar strings will go to the Nordoff-Robbins charity."

Album Review: Shining - One One One:

"Shining isn’t recreating what the music industry has been replenishing for the last 10 years. Shining isn’t sticking to any set of rules or values. Shining is creating their own musical sigil without any regard to what people may or may not think. Bravely released by these “Blackjazz Rebels,” the world can now experience One One One for themselves. For anyone with an eclectic taste in music, or a naturally curious ear for the new, then check out this new album released officially today on vinyl in North America and Europe, but has been digitally released on April 23rd 2013."

Battlecross Tribute riff to Jeff Hanneman on “Force Fed Lies”:

MINISTRY To Release 'Enjoy The Quiet - Live At Wacken 2012' DVD In August:

"Enjoy The Quiet - Live At Wacken 2012" track listing:

Wacken 2012

1. Ghouldiggers
2. No "W"
3. Rio Grande Blood
4. LiesLiesLies
5. 99 Percenters
6. Life Is Good
7. Waiting
8. Relapse
9. New World Order (N.W.O.)
10. Just One Fix
11. Thieves

Bonus Disc: Wacken 2006

1. Fear Is Big Business
2. Señor Peligro
3. No "W"
4. Rio Grande Blood
5. The Great Satan
6. Waiting
7. LiesLiesLies
8. Worthless
9. Wrong
10. New World Order (N.W.O.)
11. Just One Fix
12. Thieves
13. Khyber Pass
14. Psalm 69

"Not only is this DVD a great recording of Mikey at his absolute best performance, in his element, having the time of his life, it's one of the last live official videos of the band ever. If you didn't see the tour, you'll want to catch what you missed. And if you were there, well, you saw a piece of history and the DVD will make a great souvenir — or a great drink coaster." -Jourgensen

TARJA TURUNEN: Official Lyric Video For New Song 'Never Enough':

10 Great Metal Performances from the '90s on American Television:

Black Sabbath, Motorhead, Slipknot, Alice In Chains, and many more!

Drummer Paul Bostaph Returns to Slayer:

"Paul's a great drummer and a good friend, and we're very happy that he's decided to rejoin the band. We're still pretty numb from the loss of Jeff, but we don't want to disappoint our European fans, and we need to begin moving forward...having Paul back in the band makes that a whole lot easier." -Tom Araya

FIREWIND - Apotheosis: Live 2012 Trailer Released:

International Day Of SLAYER Becomes Yearly Holiday:

The International Day of Slayer website exhorts users to:

* Listen to Slayer at full blast in your car.
* Listen to Slayer at full blast in your home.
* Listen to Slayer at full blast at your place of employment.
* Listen to Slayer at full blast in any public place you prefer.

DO NOT use headphones! The objective of this day is for everyone within earshot to understand that it is the National Day of Slayer. National holidays in America aren't just about celebrating; they're about forcing it upon non-participants.

Crossfaith To Release New Album ‘Apocalyze’ In August!:

We're stoked to announce that we're going to release world debut full length album called 'APOCALYZE' in August!

Track Listing //

1. Prelude
2. We Are The Future
3. Hounds Of The Apocalypse
4. Eclipse
5. The Evolution
6. Scarlett
7. Gala Hala (Burn Down The Floor)
8. Countdown To Hell
9. Deathwish
10. Counting Stars
11. Burning White
12. Only The Wise Can Control Our Eyes

Release Date //

JAPAN - August, 7th
UK - August 19th
EURO - August 19th
US - August 20th
CANADA - August 20th
AUS - August 19rd

Full information for pre-order and world tour will be out soon!

Album Review: TESSERACT Altered State:

"Altered State is a supreme demonstration of serious musicians putting out serious work. This is definitely not an album to pick up when you just want to rock out around your room in your underwear. If I may continue to throw out more douchey comparisons, Altered State is more like an experience. You can’t just listen to one movement, or even one song; you really just need to hear the whole thing. And I think TesseracT probably feels the same way, since Altered State in its entirety has been posted on YouTube for several days now before the official release. Go check it out if you’re unsure about it; you really have nothing to lose but tons to gain if you end up enjoying it."

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE To Make Donation To Oklahoma Tornado Victims:

"Oklahoma thank you all so much for coming out and showing love! We sincerely hope everyone had fun and were able to put the stresses of this past week aside for a few hours. We hope our donations help out and bring aid to the victims of the Tornado. Great first show, take care Oklahoma!"

Like Moths To Flames To Release New Album “An Eye For An Eye” In July:

1 – You’ll Burn
2 – A Feast For Crows
3 – The Common Misconception
4 – I Solemnly Swear
5 – Deathmarks
6 – The Blackout
7 – In Dreams
8 – Into The Ground (feat. Shane Told of Silverstein)
9 – Serpent Herders
10 – Nothing But Blood
11 – Lord Of Bones (feat. Ahren Stringer of The Amity Affliction)
12 – My Own Personal Hell

“After almost two years, we are very excited to release our new record, An Eye For An Eye. We've had time to learn about the band and ultimately figure out the direction that we'd like to go musically. I think the record shows a lot of growth and progression as we went outside of our norm to try some different things for a few songs. We couldn't be happier with the way the record turned out and can't wait to share it with all of you.” -Chris Roetter

BLACK WATER RISING - Pissed And Driven Album Artwork, Tracklisting Revealed; Release Date Confirmed:

"We are really psyched to get this new album out to our fans. They've been waiting a while for the follow-up to our debut and I don't think they'll be disappointed. The title says it all and it's reflected in the energy and aggression of the cover art and music. We're ready to take this to the next level!" -Mike Meselsohn

Thursday, May 30, 2013

We Came As Romans - Tracing Back Roots

Man, if you thought life moves too fast you should try keeping up to speed in the music world. It seems only yesterday I was discussing the release of Michigan's We Came As Romans when they released their sophomore album "Understanding What We've Grown To Be". A great album and met with mostly positive reviews, I was sure that they have started their own lil trend here. Sure there a lot of bands that do the scream/sing mash-up during their songs, but these guys just seemed to have a fine balance that made it a little easier to enjoy then most of what's out there.

AFGM - WCAR: Understanding What They Have Grown To Be

So I was home visiting my family over the weekend and decided to throw it on 89X radio. A radio station that played the who's who of music while growing up in southwestern Ontario. Stopping mid conversation I turn up the dial to hear "Hope" by WCAR. So now these guys are getting radio play?! If any readers here know 89x Radio like I do, it's not one for cranking out metal hits that often. They generally stick to the tried, tested and true rock n roll. So it caught me by surprise. On the other hand, I was ecstatic to hear some metal on a daily rock station. Could we see more? I sure hope so!

So that track I mentioned? Well "Hope" was the first music video and single for the upcoming album "Tracing Back Roots". The album has been set for a July 23rd, 2013 release via Equal Vision Records. Let's check out that music video:

WCAR is comprised of:

Not a bad start to the album. I agree one could argue it 'sounds like everything else out there' but for those who have been following WCAR from the beginning (or at least for some time), you can definitely see the progression being followed here. Lyricist/guitarist Joshua Moore shed some light on same...

“Though we’ve grown as individuals, musicians, and as a band over the years, we have never changed the meaning behind what our band is, and if anything, on this record we found greater meaning and purpose in the message we are trying to send to listeners. I think our fans will really understand and see that once they hear the album.” -Joshua Moore

(Artwork & design by Paul Romano)

1. Tracing Back Roots
2. Fade Away
3. I Survive (feat. Aaron Gillespie)
4. Ghosts
5. Present, Future, And Past
6. Never Let Me Go
7. Hope
8. Tell Me Now
9. A Moment
10. I Am Free
11. Through The Darkest Dark And Brightest Bright

*Note: Paul Romano has worked on the previous two albums from WCAR. So you can start to see some of the similarities between the graphics.

The album was produced, engineered, mixed & mastered by John Feldmann. Feldman has worked with many notable artists in the past including Black Veil Brides, Papa Roach, The Used, Saosin, Atreyu, Goldfinger, Reel Big Fish and more! Both Feldman and WCAR were very happy to be working together on their latest endeavour:

“It was a true joy to be included in Tracing Back Roots. We Came As Romans push the boundaries of what modern alternative music should be, while staying authentic to their roots. One of the few new bands to keep true to their vision while developing as artists.” -John Feldmann

WCAR went on to say...

“It was honestly a dream come true for the band to be working with John Feldmann, with him being so well-respected and having produced some of our favorite CDs growing up. He brought this amazing new perspective to our group and really pushed me to step outside the box as a writer. I truly believe that this next record is all of the best elements of what we have done so far in music, combined with where we want to go and the music we want to play going forward.” -Joshua Moore

So that's the ins and outs of the new album. I'm sure more info and songs will be released as we push closer to the release date. Be sure to catch WCAR as they tour across North America for the 2013 edition of Vans Warped Tour.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Music News and New Music For May 29th, 2013

Paul McCartney Leaves Guitar Pick at Elvis Presley's Grave:

"Paul was the one Beatle who only saw Presley once, irrespective of Lennon saying he never saw Presley live, contrary to George, who freely admitted seeing him at NY's MSG, and Ringo having said seeing Presley sing live at least twice in Las Vegas. The reason for Paul's placing the guitar pick in his grave is simple. On August 26, 1965, as they visited his home in Bel Air, Paul noticed Presley's initial disappointment with the fact that neither he, nor any of the Beatles, let alone any one in their entourages was able come up with a single guitar pick, once they decided to jam. Everyone looked at their pockets, and wallets, and not a single pick could be found. So, Paul and Elvis went to the kitchen and produced some three or four "picks" out of plastic carboard, then returned to the living room and started their jam. That's why he placed the personalized guitar pick on his grave. Brilliant" -Jaime B. Urroz (Rolling Stone comment)

Concert Review: The genre may have collapsed under Fall Out Boy, but they’re still standing strong:

"By the end, the venue was a sticky, sweaty mess. It was in the encore that Fall Out Boy pushed the agenda that will keep them afloat through the next phase of their career. The song Save Rock N Roll featured a massive slideshow of musical legends scrolling on video boards behind the band, and with the refrain of “Oh no, we won’t go, ‘cause we don’t know when to quit,” the symbolism was obvious. Fall Out Boy consider themselves successors to rock ‘n’ roll’s great lineage, and while that’s something of an overstatement, the feeling here is they’re talented enough to endure, even if the laptop is a more powerful tool than the six-string."

Live Photos: Fall Out Boy @ Sound Academy | May 24, 2013:

(Photos courtesy of Matt Klopot)

BLACK STAR RIDERS streaming entire new album "All Hell Breaks Loose":

Hanson Launches 'Mmmhops' Beer:

"The tragedy hits close to home, especially since this community was among the first places our band performed together, including schools which were lost in the storm. We are hopeful that the proceeds we can galvanize will play a lasting role in the recovery efforts." -Taylor Hanson

Listen to Queens of the Stone Age's '. . . Like Clockwork':

SHINEDOWN - Video Of 'Miracle', 'Bully' From The Live Room:

Tommy Lee says goodbye to rollercoaster drums:

"Tonight the 360 drum rollercoaster will roll it's final time! ‪#upsidedownlife ‪#historybooks"

Signed METALLICA Bass Headed To Museum In Jakarta Governor Conflict Of Interest Case:

“If it is to be auctioned, the guitar will be submitted to Finance Ministry, and Mr. Jokowi could have it back again. Or, we could place it in a museum. It seems that we are almost agreed with the second option, to place the guitar in museum, a place where everyone can learn everything." -Jokowi

3 INCHES OF BLOOD - "Fans Almost Demand Personal Access To You":

"In this day and age with the internet and all that, you’re already that accessible if you’re on top of your social media which I like to feel like we are. The fans almost demand that personal access to you anyway. It’s not like we’re playing arenas or stadiums. We can’t really hide away from the fans but it’s not like we really want to. It’s boring sitting backstage all day. You kind of want to get out there and explore the town you’re in if you can, or walk around the venue and see what’s going on when you’re not playing. Most of this tour I’ve been selling our merch so I’m there all night. If people notice that I’m out there, we’ll just chat." -Cam Pipes

ZAKK WYLDE - Lick Of The Week Video #6 Posted:

VOLBEAT, H.I.M., ALL THAT REMAINS, AIRBOURNE - More Dates Announced For Monster Energy's Rock Allegiance Tour:

August
23 - St. Paul, MN - The Myth
24 - Twin Lakes, WI - Shadow Hill Ranch Festival
25 - Cincinnati, OH - US Bank Arena
28 - Sterling Heights, MI - Freedom Hill
29 - Bloomington, IL - US Cellular Coliseum
31 - Tulsa, OK - Convention Center

September
3 - Salt Lake City, UT - Maverick Centre
4 - Las Vegas, NV - The Joint at the Hard Rock
8 - Abbotsford, BC - Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Center
9 - Calgary, AB - Big 4 Building
10 - Edmonton, AB - Rexall Place
15 - Sacramento, CA - Aftershock Music Festival
18 - Grand Prairie, TX - Verizon Theatre @ Grand Prairie
19 - Houston, TX - Bayou Music Center
22 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle
26 - Philadelphia, PA - Skyline Stagge @ The Mann
27 - Lowell, MS - Tsongas Arena
28 - Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Waterfront

SLIPKNOT Drummer Talks About New Project:

"I've done the bulk of the work in the studio but now I've got Jed [Simon, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD] and Kris [Norris, DARKEST HOUR] to play lead guitar on everything. Chris [Vrenna, NINE INCH NAILS] is doing the keyboards and synths and all that stuff and I have an unknown guy on vocals. His name's Henry [Derek Bonner of BLOOD PROMISE] and he's super talented and a great vocalist. I didn't want someone from a known band singing in this band, because then it just becomes some supergroup thing and that's not what this is." -Jordison

TRIVIUM: New Album Title Revealed?:

"Then I had to turn off my dictaphone so he could play us the title track from Trivium’s forthcoming sixth album, Vengeance Falls."

Live Video Released For Chevelle’s “Hats Off To The Bull”:

SHINEDOWN, PAPA ROACH, SKILLET, IN THIS MOMENT, WE AS HUMAN Confirmed For Carnival Of Madness Summer Tour:

"I can hardly wait for the Carnival Of Madness. Shinedown is one of the best bands in the business and we’re excited to share the stage with them and great performers like Papa Roach, In This Moment, and We As Human. Also, it’ll be our first tour playing songs from our new album, Rise, so Skillet will be doing our best to bring the pain every night!" -John Cooper (Skillet)

Black Veil Brides Post Lyric Video For New Song “Revelation”:

Kobra & The Lotus vs. Amaranthe?

Since both bands have recently announced a tour together, I thought it'd be fun to get a small rivalry going. Kobra & The Lotus' [self titled] Kobra & The Lotus OR Amaranthe's The Nexus? Which album would YOU choose?

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

100,000

I posted this the other day on my Facebook page, but I would just like to take a moment and thank every single person who has visited AFGM since it's inception. 21.5 months later and 100,000 visits isn't too bad of a goal, especially when you are basically running everything solo. So for everyone person who visited, commented, reviewed, shared, interviewed with AFGM, I humbly thank you.

I would also like to take a moment and specifically thank Craig McCourt. My fellow rocker in arms, Craig has given multiple reviews, articles and interviews via AFGM. Some of the highest viewed articles came from him. A tip of the cap for all your work Craig!

So where is the 100,000 visits coming from? Well, I figured to give you a screen shot of where YOU the readers are checking out AFGM.

So whether at home, work or on your mobile devices, you can do the site a heap of favour by forwarding it to a friend, co-worker or family member. The more people engage in the site, the better it becomes/evolves. Cheers to the first 100,000 and another cheers to the next.

Music Releases For May 28th, 2013

Well......

I apologize in advance to anyone who doesn't necessarily cater to the heavy music, but that seems to be the going trend for this week's releases. Sifting through Amazon, All Music, PRP, and basically any other release sites I get my hands on to find a string of rock/metal albums. Sure enough to keep you occupied for the week and who knows...you might just become a fans of the heavy stuff if you're not already. I mean there are a few exceptions such as John Fogerty or Skinny Puppy, but for the most part we are going heavy this week!

A few of these albums I have been eager beaver to wait for. Alice In Chains, Dark Tranquillity, TesseracT, Shining, and Skinny Puppy all add up to a wonderful week of "Communiting Capriccios" and some great gym music. (Probably going to have to release another one of those soon as well.)

Moving forward, here are AFGM's latest and greatest releases for the week. Be sure to drop by your local record shop and say hi to your dedicated front line workers of the industry giving you great tunes for little wages. That also goes for you online buyers and streamers. Music doesn't have to cost and arm and a leg, but singers won't have those limbs to play unless you buy. Cheers!

(John Fogerty - Wrote A Song For Everyone)

Fogerty, who turns 68 on Tuesday, recruited an array of younger artists to help resurrect some of his biggest hits, and the results rock. Highlights include a thunderous performance of "Fortunate Son" featuring the Foo Fighters and Fogerty sound-alike Dave Grohl; the 1997 obscurity "Hot Rod Heart," with Brad Paisley revving up his guitar; and a rollicking "Proud Mary," reclaimed from marching band songbooks everywhere by Jennifer Hudson, Allen Toussaint and the Rebirth Brass Band. -Ottawa Citizen

(Alice In Chains - The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here)

AFGM: Alice In Chains - Hollow/The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here

While Alice in Chains definitely does “dark” well, songs like ‘Low Ceiling’ and ‘Breath on a Window’ offer a catchier, faster-paced alternative and deliver the perfect change of pace needed mid-album. The disc also features such late record standouts as the more acoustic-guitar based and melody-filled ‘Scalpel,’ the metal-infused ‘Phantom Limb’ and the stellar mid-tempo closer ‘Choke.’

All in all, ‘The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here’ gives longtime Alice in Chains fans the harmonies, darkness and skilled instrumentation they’ve come to love on a disc that holds its own among the band’s classic albums. -Loudwire

(Black Star Riders - All Hell Breaks Loose)

From the very first spin of All Hell Breaks Loose, all those trademark elements are there, and the tunes are catchy enough to provide those instantly memorable moments. Tasty hard rockers "Valley of the Stones", "Bound For Glory", "Kingdom of the Lost", "Hey Judas", and the killer title cut all feature those patented riffs, harmony twin guitar leads, groove laden rhythms, and Warwick's emotional, ballsy vocals. "Someday Salvation" however doesn't really work, kind of a schmaltzy, ballady tune that Lynott could always pull off but this collective struggles to, and "Blues Ain't so Bad", while a decent enough Trower-ish blues rocker, kind of sounds out of place here. Otherwise, most of All Hell Breaks Loose is damn solid, and a hell of a lot better than I expected.

Longtime Thin Lizzy fans will no doubt eat this up, and while some no doubt will see this as a glorified tribute band (and maybe that's kind of what it is), there's no denying what a great homage this is to a legendary band. Well done by Mr. Gorham and Co.. -Sea of Tranquility

(Anvil - Hope In Hell)

The three-piece—with recent addition bassist Sal Italiano—have a helluva lot of people in their corner as the feel-good story of being committed to metal complete with all the highs ‘n’ lows resonates. But that’s not why Hope In Hell is so good. All the planets are aligned. Anvil have nothing to lose and a whole lot to gain. And man, the material truly shines on album number 15.

Hope In Hell walks the walk and talks the talk. Nobody in heavy metal sounds like Anvil. Period. -Bravewords

(TesseracT - Altered State)

AFGM: TesseracT - Altered State

With Ashe's golden pipes you know exactly what you're going to get... Ashe's golden pipes. This is an exclusively clean vocal effort. Objectively, this may let some down. But DAMN Ashe can sing. And speak of the devil, sometimes he even sounds like Daniel Tompkins. Kind of uncanny really. I personally dig what he's brought to the band and look forward to seeing him grow as a musical artist as well as a performer in due time.

For the most part, this record is damn near flawless. It blends together high level talent from all members, musical maturity, a good helping of groove, intelligence, and sheer complexity into a monster of a record that it guaranteed to grow the more you listen to it. Not bad TesseracT, not bad. -The Circle Pit

(Shining - One One One)

"The schizophrenia starts here; the most interesting part of One One One also weakens the assault and creates a disjointed feel, which can be unnerving, even uncomfortable at times. Undoubtedly one of the most interesting releases this year will come down to if you like EDM or not. The electronic carnival of the Shining leaves you stunned and questioning what exactly happened in its short thirty five minute attack." - Metal Injection

(Dew-Scented - Insurgent)

Insurgent is a strange and uneven album by it's very nature, but there are some great moments in these 76-minutes and 19 tracks. Definitely for established fans of Dew-Scented, Insurgent gives a more varied and vibrant vision of what the band are capable of than most of their recent work. -About.com

(Skinny Puppy - Weapon)

It's probably the most accessible of SP's output but at the same time it's a Skinny Puppy album so a lot of people won't get it.

Overall, if you are a Skinny Puppy fan, this album is definitely worth picking up. If you're a fan of darker electronic music or industrial, I think this might be the new gateway drug into the band as it has both new elements and older ones and not only that, it's a really solid album. -Alan Cross

(Dark Tranquillity - Construct)

AFGM: Dark Tranquillity - Construct

Also unlike Dark Tranquillity albums of old, Construct legitimately feels like one monolithic, continuous piece of music–not just a collection of related and similar songs in album form. Making use of the varied and indulgent songwriting from song to song, Construct is near-perfectly sequenced (about as perfectly as you’ll find in 2013, anyway). Just when you’re approaching the end of the album, it’s apparent that you’re in the closing stage, “Photon Dreams” playing a perfect closing role.

If Dark Tranquillity’s intention was to find the perfect balance between staying true to the sound they helped mold while inching ever-closer to totally uncharted territory for the band, they’ve exceeded with flying colors. It’s rare that a band totally nails it on that front, but who else than Dark Tranquillity to be the prime example of how to do it right? -Under The Gun

(Judas Priest - Epitaph CD/DVD)

With a catalog as large and impressive as Priest’s it must have been a grueling task picking which songs made the set and which did not. Every fan would likely replace a song or two here and there with something they’d have preferred, or better yet simply added a few more since it was the final performance. Still, in all, it was an inspired setlist from a band that saved the best for last.

“Epitaph” is a must own DVD for any metal fan, and especially for the Judas Priest faithful. The prescient Metal Gods remain a bastion of what true heavy metal was, is, and shall remain: United! “Epitaph” is a monument to Judas Priest’s legacy, and an instruction manual on heavy metal music. “Breaking the what?” -Examiner

Random Music Quotes: Carlyle

If you look deep enough you will see music; the heart of nature being everywhere music. -Thomas Carlyle

Monday, May 27, 2013

Music News and New Music for May 27th, 2013

Sigur Ros Rock 'Kveikur' on 'Leno':

Concert Review: TSO speaks a little too softly with Brahms’s A German Requiem:

"People who have heard the TSO lately will not be surprised to learn that the instrumental component was fine, from the darkly subtle trombones to the soothing (and late-arriving) violins. Even the harp arpeggio of the final chord was nicely articulated. Yet the totality was too understated to do justice to the words or Brahms’s powerful treatment of them."

Muse Will Play at 'World War Z' Premiere:

"It made the movie feel and sound really cool. After we layered in the music, we reached out to their management in the U.S. and the U.K. to see how we could reach beyond the movie. We wanted (the relationship) to be bigger than that." -Randy Spendlove (president of Paramount Pictures' movie music division)

Dallas Green balances darkness and light:

"I was able to finish the verses and the song I guess, as a whole and really see where that song was going, early last year when I was on tour… after a tumultuous period in my life, I recognize that it’s the truth." -Green

30 Seconds To Mars perform "Up In The Air" on Conan (05/22/13):

WOLFMOTHER Frontman To Release Solo Debut:

"It's a good pressure because it asks that question: is it any good? Do you like this music, do you like the film clips, the artwork. What's it about? I've put my heart and soul into it, and I believe in it." -Andrew Stockdale

Paul McCartney Supports Pussy Riot in Letters to Russian Authorities:

"My personal belief is that further incarceration for Maria will be harmful for her and the situation as a whole, which, of course, is being watched by people all over the world." -McCartney

John Fogerty not against Creedence reunion:

"I think it's a possibility in the future. It's not something I'm actively seeking, but I'm not totally against the idea either. It just seems like I always hear that's not going to happen."

Deadmau5 Previews New Songs:

"Suite 03", "Monophobia", and "Killthemau5" are new featured tracks.

DEEP PURPLE Perform 'All The Time In The World' On German Television:

'DIMEBAG' DARRELL ABBOTT Wax Sculpture Unveiled:

'Heavy Metal Movies' Book Coming Soon:

“Heavy Metal Movies is the head banging-est, ear bleeding-est tribute to the world’s two finest inventions: heavy metal and the movies!” —John Fasano (Zombie Nightmare, Black Roses, Rock ‘N Roll Nightmare)

Dates And Lineup Officially Revealed For 2013 ‘Scream The Prayer Tour’:

Impending Doom | Gideon | Wolves At The Gate | Fit For A King | The Great Commission | The Seeking | Everyone Dies In Utah | The Overseer | Those Who Fear | Silent Planet

Dates can be found over at: www.facebook.com/ScreamThePrayer

Taproot Add More Dates To “Gift” Tour:

06/21 Toledo, OH – Mainstreet
06/22 Jackson, MI – Rockapalooza
06/23 Newport, KY – The Thompson House
06/24 Pittsburgh, PA – Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh
06/26 Stanhope, NJ – Stanhope House
06/28 Hartford, CT – The Webster Underground
06/29 Baltimore, MD – TBA
06/30 Amityville, NY – Revolution Bar & Music Hall
07/02 New York, NY – The Studio At Webster Hall
07/04 Hampton, NH – Wally’s Pub
07/05 West Greenwich, RI – TBA
07/06 Bristol, CT – TBA
07/10 St. Joseph, MI – TBA
07/13 Ann Arbor, MI – TBA

BUTCHER BABIES - New Album Street Date Confirmed:

"Working with Josh Wilbur was an incredible experience because he helped us explore ourselves as musicians and further develop the unique sound that is the Butcher Babies," says the band of their recording experience. "Being a debut album, this has been in the works since we were young, and we are so proud to have created a collaboration of all our personal influences into one complete sound."

Bruce Dickinson to join charity bike ride to Download:

"Yes, maybe it's the first time the headliner has shown up on a bike, but I do use my bike to get around in London when l get the chance and have turned up at the BBC on a bike before, although the Commissioners were a bit surprised as they are too used to seeing limos! These are great causes, I am only sorry that due to our tour schedule l can't do more of the ride, and hope our fans will support our efforts. I look forward to a day off after the ride seeing some great bands before we go into full Maiden action on the Saturday, with every intention of giving the fans a memorable show. Download and Metal fans are the best there are, so everyone expects something very special."

DEAD BY APRIL: Lyric Video For First Single Featuring New Singer:

Friday, May 24, 2013

Music News and New Music for May 24th, 2013

Review: Me First and the Gimme Gimmes @ Phoenix Concert Theatre | May 17:

"After warming up the two previous bands, the Gimme Gimmes were able to get heads rolling and fists flying despite their lack of bassist Fat Mike (replaced with Eric Melvin from the same band). Unfortunately I ate too many burritos and nachos from Sneaky Dees and wasn’t able to get in the crowd for more than 3 seconds to mosh or else I would have suffered from projectile vomit. Yet, despite even that circumstance, I was able to thoroughly forget about my stomach pains and have my head groove for the night. If any of you reading this ever gets the chance, I highly recommend going to see Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, they’ll surely bring bout a good time."

Ghost (aka Ghost BC) did an amazing cover of Depeche Mode's "Waiting For The Night":

Beatles lyrics donated to British Library:

"Visitors from all over the world are thrilled to see such legendary lyrics in their very earliest draft form." -Roly Keating

Blake Shelton, Toby Keith boost benefits for Oklahoma:

"My son-in-law went right in, turned his truck over getting there, gets electrocuted climbing in the school. The EMT guys pull him out of there and tend to him, and then he goes right back in and helps with search and rescue. Everybody's like that." -Keith

45% Fewer Professional Working Musicians Since 2002:

REM's Mike Mills says 'no reunion':

"We said we're done and we're done. If we honestly thought there was a chance of a reunion tour, we might have said so at the time."

Rolling Stones to rock with Mississauga choir:

“There was silence at first, then loud screaming, cheering, disbelief, some of them fell on the floor. I understand some of them had trouble convincing their parents it was true.” -Bob Anderson (choir director)

John Fogerty Rolls Down 'Mystic Highway' on 'Letterman':

Jared Leto on Thirty Seconds to Mars' 'Personal' New Album and Ignoring Critics:

"There are always going to be people that are judgmental that are going to say, 'Well, he was an actor first, so he doesn't have the right to be a musician,' or, 'I know him as this, so therefore I will never accept him as that.' I can't change those people. I can only be myself. And I can only keep making art. I can only do the best that I can. I am not going to spend my life trying to silence the critics. I'm going to do what I'm passionate about and follow my dreams."

10 Artists Who Switched Genres:

Katy Perry, Michael Bolton, Beastie Boys, and many more!

Metallica Through the Never - Official Teaser Trailer:

Why Daft Punk Wear Helmets:

"Back in the Nineties, the duo placed black bags on their heads during promotional appearances and bought creepy Halloween masks to wear at photo shoots. The robot helmets, designed by French artist friends, originally featured campy brown wigs – curly for Bangalter, flowing for de Homem-Christo. En route to the 2001 magazine shoot where they first unveiled the helmets, though, Daft Punk yanked off the hair, deciding the robots looked better bald." -Bangalter

Audio Preview of Alice In Chains' “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here”:

Alice In Chains In Concert 2013: A Looking-In View:

"The hardest part is done — Alice In Chains is back and awesome. But now they must again ascend the dreaded Mt. Sophomore Album, draw on a source of relatable theme and tone, and riff nastily and originally."

Boysetsfire Premiere “Let It Go” Music Video:

LAMB OF GOD Members Discuss Safety At Shows:

"Since I've been growing up, it's been a common practice — stage diving and stuff like that. And we just see more and more people getting hurt doing that kind of thing, and whether it's the band, the security, the barricades, the venue… whatever it is… there's so many random pieces to the puzzle that could end up with loss of life, which is what we had; it happened to us. So it's not that we wanna change the show — we can't just stop people from stage diving for the rest of eternity; it's not what we're trying to do. But I think that when you come into a show, you need to know that you need to be responsible for your own actions and you need to think about what you're doing." -Chris Adler

DEVICE, ‘VILIFY’ (PHILIP STEIR REMIX):

Chino Says DEFTONES Lost Record Eros Not Coming Out Anytime Soon:

“We’re actually not entertaining anything. I get asked about that all the time. And I’ve been giving the same answer for like… ever since people have been asking me about it, I’ve been saying that ‘probably someday.’ The only thing I said differently the other day that I could think that I said was ‘sooner than never.’

I mean you know now there is some sort of closure with what happened with Chi. That was obviously… Him and his state that he was in and you know, in general, it wouldn’t feel right to try to even think about going back to that record and trying to release it at that time… You know, with the hope that he would still wake up.

I don’t know, so we never really looked back at it then. But with his passing recently I mentioned that I did listen to some of the music. It was a very emotional experience because it took me back to that time when we were recording those songs, and those were pretty much the last days that I got talk with him and have a conversation with him, so… And when listening to it I thought to myself it might be cool for people to hear this sooner than never. Will it happen soon? I don’t know, probably not.”

THE DEFILED - Sleeper (OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO):

New album "Daggers" coming Summer 2013.

MISERY SIGNALS Announce New Album And Tour Dates:

Announcing the new album, "Absent Light", released 7/23!

Sir Christopher Lee Is Releasing A Metal Album On His 91st Birthday:

"The first Charlemagne album is metal, of course, but what I sang was more symphonic. Now on the second one, The Omens of Death, it is 100% heavy metal. I've done my bits and pieces, and they are heavy metal. I'm not screaming or anything like that, but it is definitely heavy metal." -Lee

Dreamshade - The Gift of Life

OK, so Dreamshade has been on my radar ever since I had the (stumbled upon) opportunity to listen to their 2011 album "What Silence Hides". Switzerland doesn't tend to be my first and foremost place for metal, but with the introduction of digital exposure, bands have been easier than ever to listen to and connect with. So a very solid album posed me to listen to the prequel "To The Edge of Reality" which was equally entertaining both lyrically and musically.

So here we are now in the present, as Dreamshade has released it's latest LP "The Gift of Life" on January 25th, 2013 (January 29th in North America). The album was released via Spinefarm Records, who have been their home label since 2010. The album was produced by Jacob Hansen, who had nothing but good things to say about working with Dreamshade.

"This bunch of merry men totally floored me! Pushing the envelope with what you can do in very melodic, yet very heavy music, makes this metal of the future!" - Jacob Hansen (Hansen Studios, Denmark)

1. Photographs

2. Your Voice

3. The Gift of Life

4. Sandcastles

5. Consumed Future

6. Our Flame

7. Late Confessions

8. Sincere

9. Elisabeth

10. Wants & Needs

Artwork was created (once again) by Colin Marks, who has done work with Dreamshade in past albums. I personally found it to be a great concept after you get the opportunity to read about the album theme, which you can read later in the article.

"This is the 2nd time I've collaborated with Dreamshade on their artwork and again it's been a pleasure from start to finish. The band came up with a great concept and it was a lot of fun bringing this to life, and nice to work on a metal layout with much more colour and optimism than is often the case.

From what I've heard so far of The Gift Of Life it sounds like an incredible record. It's a layout which I'm personally very proud of." - Colin Marks (Rain Song Design, UK)

Why has it all changed?

What have we lost? What have we gained?

Nothing of this will ever remain

Only a bunch of child's memories

So what about the songs and theme behind the album? What have you to say to that Dreamshade?

"The songs' lyrics are mainly about common life situations: questions, torments, thoughts, goals, facts and reality.. we are not giving life lessons to anyone, on the contrary, some lyrics are about our mistakes. We often tell about what we learned from life no matter if it is right or wrong. The main message is to realize life is the most precious thing we got. And we got it for free.. The gift of life"

(Directed & edited by Andrea Todaro)

Don't wait up for me my dear

'cause I'm not coming home tonight

I know you will have fear

OK, so we got a good idea of the ambition these guys from Lugano have set forth. Much like other groups I've covered in the past, most of their fan base lies in Europe and tour accordingly. Here's hoping they make their stint on a good North American tour and get some exposure. Nothing like a wee bit of melodic metal to round out a tour bill. Their albums are available through multiple media outlets, so if you hear what you like...then you know the drill!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Chimaira - Crown of Phantoms

So Mark Hunter and the guys from Chimaira have been one of those bands that unleash their albums with great publicity. Resurrection, The Infection and The Age of Hell all were met with decent commercial success and that can be attributed to Mark Hunter's constant presence on Facebook, Twitter and basically all social media associated with Chimaira. Makes sense though since I have covered the benefits of social media in the past. Bands who interact with their fans get the glory. If you feel you're too good to chat with your fans then you've already lost. Even as a small time blogger here, Hunter has shown me some appreciation on Chimaira's Twitter account and given me shout outs and retweets, like so:

So I got all excited when Chimaira launched (Dec. 29th, 2012) their first teaser video for new material in the works...

Then the second one (on Feb. 26th, 2013)...

Then we saw something I haven't seen the Chimaira group do before; they campaigned for crowd funding on the new album. This marked the first time that the band has sought out fans to show their stuff and help contribute to the new album directly, with some great perks of course along with the donations. Here's what the band had to comment on for the funding of their album...

"Some of you may be aware that our album 'Crown of Phantoms' will be hitting stores July 30 via eOne Music. Some of you may also know that there was once a time when listening to an album was more of an EXPERIENCE and less of an in-one-ear-out-the-other backing track to our daily lives. Combine that old school album enjoyment with some forward thinking ideas and we're coming right out of the gates with the ability to experience this album like none other. For those of you that care to dig deeper into the elements that come together when creating a record, we will let you in on a journey you won't soon forget."

1 – The Machine
2 – No Mercy
3 – All That’s Left Is Blood
4 – I Despise
5 – Plastic Wonderland
6 – The Transmigration
7 – Crown Of Phantoms
8 – Spineless
9 – Kings Of The Shadow World
10 – Wrapped In Violence
11 – Love Soaked Death

The Special Fan Edition is Available Exclusively through our IndieGoGo Campaign. You'll be helping to fund & will receive the following:

*2 narrative music videos that tie into the album's deepest themes
*A uniquely stylized documentary surrounding the album's creation
*7 additional audio tracks exclusive to the Fan Edition
*Various behind-the-scenes videos
*Expanded version of Dr. Z w/ fan determined ending
*Full-length album commentary that features dialogue from all band members as they listen to the album from start to finish
*Graphic art storyboards created specifically for the music videos that will be included exclusively in Fan Edition booklet
*Original artwork & packaging exclusive to the Fan Edition

So you got that all folks? JULY 30TH, 2013 will be the official release date for their 7th full length album "Crown of Phantoms" via eOne Music. And here we are today with the release of the first single from the album. Much like a newborn baby, please welcome "All That's Left Is Blood":

Hopefully that was enough info to keep you entertained. There will be more info on the way as we come closer to the release date. Keep checking back for new updates!

Chimaira are currently wrapping up "The Don't Pray For Us" tour alongside Asking Alexandria, Motionless In White, Whitechapel, and I Killed The Prom Queen. More dates on the way!