Thank goodness it's Tuesday! Many of these albums I am sure you have all been waiting for. Not that I care for them too much but I have been approached numerous times regarding the new Arcade Fire album. While the band and their music does not necessarily catch my attention (or I fail to see/hear what everyone else does) but it's noteworthy and will no doubt be a mega hit on the Billboard charts.
Some of the favourite artists are releasing albums today as well. Seether has finally put in enough time to warrant their first greatest hits album, which spans the 11 years they have been together making music and touring countless times around the globe. If you can believe me when I say that Seether had one of the most violent bunch of guys and gals in their moshpit than almost any other show I've been to. And we're talking about me catching Slayer, Metallica, Zombie, Lamb of God, Killswitch, etc. and STILL the Seether crowd was not one to be messed with. I'm sure that's all changed now over the years but in the early days...look out! haha
10 Years is another one on my radar that I am excited to listen to, especially since it's their first acoustic album! Other notable albums that I will be eager to throw on my music player will be Dead Letter Circus, Winds of Plague, Kill Devil Hill, Lindsey Stirling, Vildjharta, and Sirens & Skeletons. Most of which fall on the heavier side of the scale (in the grand scheme of music) but would you expect anything different from AFGM?!
Another note I wanted to make was in regard to Bad Religion's "Christmas Songs". While looking through this week's released I noticed a fair amount of holiday themed music coming out. While that's all fine and dandy, if I wanted to hear the same rendition of Frosty The Snowman, then I'd bust out some classic Burl Ives. Now what I will give BR credit for is the fact they made those songs into their own, similar to Twisted Sister, August Burns Red, etc. Keep the legacy of the songs going but do them in a way that breaks away from the rest of the group!
Anyways, that's enough babbling for me today. I'm going to head down to my
local record shop in the next few minutes and grab a couple of these. If you don't have a record store near you, then by all means grab it from and
online retailer, or some
other legal source. As long as you are helping out the music industry and supporting the artists. Cheers!
(Arcade Fire - Reflektor)
Maybe that’s the defining trait of Reflektor: improbability. Here’s a band that got famous by being massively earnest—remember those Funeral sing-alongs, the band wandering the crowd in farm-guy clothes, finding a beautiful sense of community with its audience?—that has followed its muse to a place that jettisons a lot of what made people love it. But listen closely enough to Reflektor—and give it the patience that clearly went into its recording—and that old Arcade Fire burns. It’s just a different kind of flame. -
AV Club
(Seether - 2002-2013)
The metaphor on the cover could not have been a mistake. The approval of this image as cover art clearly implies that the guys in Seether are in on the joke; they know that what they’re doing isn’t anything but a fat turd on the front lawn of classic grunge and if that’s the case, then they’re probably one of the most lucrative pranks on mainstream rock seen in decades. But if it was a joke, that still doesn’t remove the fact of how completely stale and husked Seether’s music is. With over a decade of experience in the music world, Seether have done nothing to change, nothing to evolve and nothing to remember. The redistribution of already terrible singles and a huge missed opportunity to do something unexpected in the second disc combine to make a “greatest hits” album with nothing on its bones. If you needed a reminder to dislike Seether today, Seether 2002-2013 (prank or not) is the way to go. -
Sputnik Music
OR
If you are now or have ever been a Seether fan, “Seether: 2002-2013″ is a must-have for your collection! On disc 1, you get all 14 hits which you know and love so much but on disc 2, you get rarities and demos. What more could you ask for in one collection? Pick up your copy today and discover a love you may have never thought you could have for this incredibly resilient band! Look out for some more new material from them within the next year, as well! -
New Transcendence
(The Songs of Tony Sly - A Tribute)
The circumstances surrounding The Songs of Tony Sly: A Tribute are nothing if not wholly unique. While its purpose is completely noble — proceeds from the compilation will benefit Sly’s wife and two young daughters, Kiera and Fiona — tribute albums have rightfully earned a reputation as well-intentioned, but ultimately uninspired collections of half-assed covers, often curated by small labels desperate for name recognition. This decidedly isn't that, but the separation, at least from a critical standpoint, can be difficult.
The Songs of Tony Sly: A Tribute is a triumph, not to mention a surprisingly comprehensive collection and worthy interpretation of Sly’s legacy. It’s sometimes fun, often somber, but never not respectful or entertaining. -
Punk News
(Russian Circles - Memorial)
Russian Circles, named for a practice drill used in hockey, have matured over time, though the casual observer can’t even notice it. Their last album, Empros, and 2009’s Geneva saw the band in more nervous and speed metal-like motif, whereas Memorial takes a much more measured approach. The move makes Memorial that much more despairing, swirling it its own hopeless abandon. But most of all, I’m struck by how everything sounds so big on Memorial. Even the softer moments reach up to galaxy heights, and the loud ones eclipse all other influences from the busy world. If you just want to forget about everything for thirty-eight minutes, Russian Circles should do the trick. -
In Your Speakers
(Bad Religion - Christmas Songs)
Upon seeing a Bad Religion album titled Christmas Songs, the instinctive reaction would be to assume the band was releasing an album meant to skewer the holiday and the evil corporations that profit from its commercialization. Instead, the album is exactly what it appears to be, with the legendary punk band delivering high energy yet faithful renditions of Christmas classics like "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Little Drummer Boy," and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." Rather than subverting culture, the band goes one step further, subverting the expectations of listeners by performing the songs without irony. Most surprising, however, is how well these songs work with Bad Religion's driving and melodic style and Greg Graffin's distinctive voice, showing that these songs' ability to endure for so long might have more to do with their solid songwriting than with the machinations of any church or corporate entity. -
All Music
(Lindsey Stirling - Lindsey Stirling)
The eponymous debut album from YouTube sensation and America's Got Talent quarterfinalist Lindsey Stirling -- the colorful and uncommonly spirited classical, hip-hop, rock, country, modern dance, and Legend of Zelda/Elder Scrolls-loving violinist -- features ten original tracks that dutifully reflect all of those aforementioned styles and influences with moxie to spare. Propelled by the engaging electronic and dubstep-infused single "Crystallize," which yielded 11 million views in less than two months when it was released in its video form in early 2012, Stirling's debut carves out a unique new niche in the classical crossover genre. -
All Music
(Linkin Park - Recharged)
The clutter of tracks and jumble of warped effects can also be contributed by the various guest remixers who feature throughout the record. With the overuse of robot-like electronic effects, a lingering mood of dreariness encapsulates the record and sucks the emotion and character out of the original song leaving just a mass of heavy fuzz and distortion.
Sucked from any traces of originality, Recharged personifies what happens when a band loses their artistic flare and adapts their musical sound to stay relevant to what kids listen to nowadays. From a band that was hard-hitting and gutsy in the early days to a band that has now gotten lost in a swarm of fresh talent, Linkin Park need to come up with new ideas, and fast. -
Audio Addict
(Kill Devil Hill - Revolution Rise)
Effortlessly channelling the late Layne Staley, his heartfelt performance on songs like “Leave It All Behind” and “Life Goes On” is truly inspiring. Like the great Alice in Chains, they have mastered the art of writing emotionally charged vocal harmonies that flow in lock-step with guitar melodies that are at once brooding and bustling with attitude.
Their keen sense of melody and ability to churn out riffs that straddle the divide between rock and metal ensure that this remains an engaging listen throughout, and when listening to the streamlined punchiness of tracks like “Endless Static” and “Stealing Days” I couldn’t help but feel that Megadeth’s most recent efforts should’ve sounded like this. It’s Countdown to Youthanasia, if you know what I mean. Hell, barring a few tracks (i.e. “Why” & “Stained Glass Sadness”) this album is practically flawless.
Expertly played, pristinely produced, catchy (but not tacky) and richly textured, Revolution Rise is a monster of an album! -
About.com
(Protest The Hero - Volition)
AFGM: Protest The Hero Streaming ENTIRE "Volition" Album!
The guest vocals from folk singer Jadea Kelly on several tracks are also a nice addition to the album. She’s an honorary band member at this point, also appearing on their 2005 debut ‘Kezia’ and 2011‘s ‘Scurrilous.’
Guitarists Tim Millar and Luke Hoskin do just fine on their own, but the appearance of Ron Jarzombek (Blotted Science) on ‘Drumhead Trial’ takes it to an even higher level. He’s one of the best guitarists in the business.
Throughout the album Protest the Hero seamlessly blend quirky progressive sections with more traditional styles. The tempos and textures shift constantly, but it’s not jarring. There are radio friendly songs like “Mist” alongside more intense tracks such as ‘A Life Embossed’ and ‘Without Prejudice.’
From beginning to end, ‘Volition’ is a wild ride that’s grounded in excellent musicianship and innovative songwriting. It’s very eclectic, sometimes pushing the limits and often hitting the sweet spot. -
Loudwire
(Winds of Plague - Resistance)
Between those two songs, rest of the album runs as expected from WOP with their rugged guitars, guttural vocals and furious drums creating a high speed journey through Resistance that almost exclusively seems to appeal to deathcore fans. This is not to say that the curious few couldn’t find something to enjoy about this record, but the composition and pace would make it difficult for the untrained ear to keep up. The symphonic deathcore outfit has created an album that fans will love, some critics will likely hate and leave the unexposed either deathly curious or annoyed. With a band like WOP it’s difficult to put a finger on what’s good or bad, because their stylistic elements are subject to interpretation. They exist in a league of their own and you either love them or hate them. As for Resistance, overall it fits confidently into the deathcore world; however, there are some stylized elements and exemplary songs that stir up enough intrigue to keep it interesting. Which side of the conversation are you on? Love or hate? -
Examiner
(Death Angel - The Dream Calls For Blood)
The Dream Calls for Blood is a good, modern-day thrash outing with enough nods to the past to please old timers like me. They back away from the mistakes made on their last album and show they can still pen ”go for the throat” thrash. It won’t blow most people away and the whole scene is played out, but maybe, just maybe, this is good enough to knock a bit of that albatross off their shoulders and give them something to build on next time. Keep reaching for that mighty debut, boys. Keep reaching! -
Angry Metal Guy
(Sirens & Skeletons - Skeletons)
What I like best about this album is the metal influence. While I do enjoy post hardcore or indie bands most of the time, it’s nice to break away from that and have something a little bit heavier, but not something super heavy.
This is an awesome album. Instead of just making a longer version of Wasteland, they took the best elements of that EP and crafted a fresh sound for fans. Sirens And Sailors successfully managed to craft a melodic, high energy metalcore album that’s enjoyable ’til the very last note. -
Under The Gun
(Dead Letter Circus - The Catalyst Fire)
Dead Letter Circus are certainly more accessible than most prog bands. They are proggy, but have a certain level of alternative influence that makes them "cool", if you will. These guys, besides being absolutely hilarious and also brilliant at their live shows, have a way of making soaring music that is simultaneously complicated, catchy, and charismatic. Yes, the band usually focuses on shorter song structures, some alternative arrangements, proggy instrumentals and vocals, and an aerial atmosphere. As it were, then, DLC is an excellent band to introduce new people to progressive music, as I feel the elements of their music are easily dissected and easy on the ears.
So, pay more attention to the Australia scene. I can name almost a dozen upcoming progressive Aussie bands that are brilliant. They are unique and varied, and Dead Letter Circus is certainly at the forefront of the scene with their kinetic live shows and hypnotic music. Keep your ears peeled. -
Prog Archives
(Warbringer - IV: Empires Collpase)
There are many moments where the band seems to be sliding off the tracks into the fiery chasm of death metal territory, but they manage to skirt the line just enough to still "sound like thrash". And while there is nothing wrong with this in principle, you sometimes wish they would go more in a different direction and just let the growls and blast beats fly. But then you hear a song like "Iron City" and you think…yea never mind, just keep doing more of this.
It's true that at times the band still sounds like a derivative of their 1980's heroes, especially Slayer and Kreator. And there are a couple songs here that feel like needless filler, like the less-than-remarkable "Dying Light". But there are enough strong moments to make you either not notice or not care enough to hold it against them. -
Metal Injection
(Kataklysm - Waiting For The End To Come)
If nothing else has been learnt from Kataklysm’s 22 years and ten studio albums to date, apart from the fact that they’re really good when they’re in the mood, it’s that they’re not adverse to the odd stylistic change or experiment. It seems appropriate therefore that Waiting For The End To Come sounds a little like a split album. Montreal’s finest (sorry, Cryptopsy) clearly have a lot of different ideas about what could make a good death metal album and this time, they’re using all of them at once.
WFTETC will probably split opinions simply because of the number of different things Kataklysm have tried to do. That shouldn’t detract from the songs themselves though. Yes, there are some weaker tracks, but they are overwhelmed by some very impressive numbers indeed. Embrace the bipolar nature of this release and it verges on greatness. -
Thrash Hits
(Sepultura - The Mediator Between Head and Hands Must Be The Heart)
"The Mediator Between Head and Hand Must Be the Heart", is adventurous, but not quite in the same manner as "Dante XXI", "A-Lex" and of course, "Roots" long before them. The Portuguese rapping trailing throughout the funky calypso of "De Lamo Ao Caos" is a ballsy maneuver and it delivers a pretty killer payoff, at-that. It's admirable for Ross Robinson to want to push his clients to a higher level of craft, particularly when they find themselves in the unnecessary position of having to justify themselves with every single release that's come out since 1998's "Against". While it's evident at this point Andreas Kisser, designated leader and creative spearhead of the band, has no intention of inviting overtures of a Cavelera reunion, there's no practical reason to judge SEPULTURA with that looming specter over their heads. Andreas, Paulo, Jr. and Derrick have done justice to this band over the past fifteen years and "The Mediator Between Head and Hand Must Be the Heart" should prove to be their moment of redemption, even in the eyes of SEPULTURA's naysayers. -
Blabbermouth
EPs:
(10 Years - Live & Unplugged at the Tennessee Theatre)
*No reviews as of yet.
(Vildjharta - Thousands of Evils)
The EP is 8 tracks long and clocks in at just under 25 minutes in length — packed with shorter tracks, but made up for in a sense of flow and completeness. This demonstrates something that the band picked up on with their last record. Yes, while there are some great long songs on their LP such as ‘All These Feelings’, some of the songs on the record tend to drag on at times, not necessarily overstaying their welcome, but wearing out their memorability. The EP changes that, with each song being just long enough to grab your attention — to get stuck in your head. Then, it moves on to the next song, and so on. If the band decided to make their next record with twice as many songs around the same length as these, it would be more than okay. The brevity of these songs keeps you coming back for more, instead of scrubbing to your favorite moment four minutes in. -
Heavy Blog Is Heavy
DVD/Blu-Ray:
(Devin Townsend - The Retinal Circus)
The Retinal Circus is a phenomenal experience, which means it earns its place alongside just about everything else he has done. The setlist is expansive and varied, as it does a wonderful job of encompassing his entire discography (although the absence of the aforementioned four albums is a bit of a letdown). Outside of the music, the ridiculous banter and storyline make it an involving trip even as a purely auditory journey. I’ve often held that Devin Townsend is this generation’s Frank Zappa, as both figures pushed boundaries with their idiosyncratic, genre-defying fusion of humor, theatrics, and unbelievably intricate compositions. The Retinal Circus is another fine example of this connection, and it’s a must own release for fans. -
Pop Matters
(Metalocalypse - A Klok Opera)
Maybe that was an optical illusion generated by the hallucinatory fevers that Metalocalypse can stir up in a viewer’s skull. The Doom Star Requiem, a one-shot, hour-long rock-opera special that some fans once speculated might be the series finale, comes riding in on a wave of anticipatory excitement: What a great way to get the ball rolling again, after the fans have been left hanging for so long! The excitement is quickly dispelled when it becomes clear that the characters can scarcely bear to shake the cobwebs out of their heads and get the blood circulating. The bandmates’ first reaction to Toki and Abigail’s abduction is to try to forget their troubles by partying harder than ever, in an overextended number that includes a lyric that rhymes “Slurpees” with “herpes”. When they do address the situation, it’s in a song about how they can’t be expected to be heroes, because they’re Everyman figures—but also about how they can’t be expected to act selflessly, because they’re so awesome. -
AV Club
(Testament - Dark Roots of Thrash)
If we ever needed any further evidence of how thrash lifers Testament completely rule, look no further than this two-disc live album (how often can you say that?), which draws heavily upon their recent releases. And it does rule — hard. With a fun, energetic, raw production sound, the band's enthusiasm shines through loud and clear, and while it's always excellent to hear a few old classics, and here they sound as good as ever, what comes out of this declaration is that the new material is just as memorable, just as thrashing and heavier than ever. Check out songs like the amazing "Native Blood," delivered in an off-the-rails fashion, the blast beats that sounded a bit awkward on the album sitting just right in this context. Dark Roots of Thrash is a shining example of a band that are, surprisingly, at the top of their game late in their career, playing the songs they want to and delivering them with pure thrash metal glory. It's rare to love a live album this much, but such is the power of Testament. -
Exclaim
