Full Album Stream: Heaven Shall Burn - Iconoclast Part I: The Final Resistance

So one of the newest sections I created was "Full Album Streams".  Not only did this gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to acts as a hub to explore), but also a chance for people to explore new artists, new genres, and new albums before deciding to purchase them (also from links on AFGM's site).

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

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

(Artwork by AFGM.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

Formed in 1996, Heaven Shall Burn is a five piece German metal band from Saalfeld.  They combine an aggressive sound with lyrics that show a militant support of anti-racism and fighting social injustice.  "Iconoclast Part I: The Final Resistance" was released in North American on February 5th, 2008 via Century Media Records.

Marcus Bischoff – Vocals | Alexander Dietz – Guitar, synth/piano | Maik Weichert – Guitar

Eric Bischoff – Bass | Matthias Voigt – Drums

1. Awoken
2. Endzeit*
3. Like a Thousand Suns
4. Murderer Of All Murderers
5. Forlorn Skies*
6. A Dying Ember
7. Joel
8. A Quest For Resistance*
9. Black Tears
10. The Bombs Of My Saviours
11. Against All Lies*
12. The Disease
13. Equinox
14. Atonement

(* = AFGM Recommendations)



This 58-minute CD is not designed for metalcore purists; rather, these German agitators combine metalcore with a strong death metal influence and, at times, hints of black metal. But metalcore is the dominant ingredient, and the abrasive screaming vocals of Marcus Bischoff are quite typical of metalcore and hardcore singers. Iconoclast has some selections that are fairly melodic (most notably, "Black Tears" and "Against All Lies"), but more often than not this album takes pride in being caustic, harsh, and flat-out ferocious. One of the things that Iconoclast has going for it is the fact that even though the songs are tied together by the disc's overall concept, individual tracks can still stand alone. So if, for example, one listened to "Murderers of All Murderers" without hearing any of the other material, it wouldn't lose anything. Not all of the tracks are as memorable as "Black Tears" or "Murderers of All Murderers," but for the most part, Iconoclast paints an exciting picture of Heaven Shall Burn's vicious ferocity. -All Music

Music Video Round Up For February 27th, 2015

Going through my playlist at the end of a work week is like the toast to the weekend; especially when you have been gone away on vacation for the past week with no contact with the outside world.  YouTube playlists and subscriptions coming out my ears so sometimes it's rather hard to follow each upload unless doing a round up such as this.  I hope this will make the starting of your weekend energetic, whether you are going into work or escaping from it.

Apologies in advance for those who loathe my video articles but there are just too many great clips out there to ignore.  So if you do not have the bandwidth to watch this video, then too bad!  Hahaha just kidding.

So for the slower connections just load the article, go for a coffee/glass of water, return, play and enjoy!  This will surely be one of my playlists for the end of the work day and hopefully doesn't keep your eyes glued to the screen for too long.  Cheers and happy Friday!

*Please click on the hyperlinks of each video to find out more about the artist and album releases.*


Brightr - We:



"If you knew me in my former bands, then you have an idea of the game afoot. However, it would seem the voices in my head won't let me give up, so another musical adventure begins.   The sweeping fringe is gone, I find myself solo from amicable departures and I have an unmistakable desire to make something that pieces together melody and wrath.   Thanks for joining me for another trip, once again...you are incredibly patient to say the least, and a wonderful human."

Steve Aoki & Moxie Raia - I Love It When You Cry:



"I Love It When You Cry" is the new single from the collaboration of Steve Aoki and Moxie Raia (or Moxoki).  It was released on February 10th, 2015 via Ultra Music.


The Hidden - They're Only People:



"They're Only People" is taken from The Hidden's latest EP "Outsider", which was released on November 18th, 2014.


Scorpions - We Built This House:



"We Built This House" is taken from the Scorpions' latest album "Return To Forever", which was released on February 20th, 2015 via Sony Music Germany.

Satyricon - Die By My Hand (Live at the Opera):

"This is an exclusive preview from the new album, "Live At The Opera", coming in April 2015. Unmastered version that is. Enjoy."


From Ashes to New - Downfall (Audio Only):



“Downfall” is the latest single from From Ashes to New, which will be featured on their upcoming EP "Downfall".  It will be released on March 10th, 2015 via Better Noise Records.

Music Releases For February 24th, 2015

Woop woop!

Another great week of music releases here in North America.  Being that I was a big fan of  the first volume for the SoA soundtrack, I am totally stoked for the next 3 releases (including the 4th volume this week).  Some albums I have already had the pleasure checking out such as Rob Zombie, Red, Of Mice & Men, and All That Remains will easily rock your socks off.  Not to generalize all the releases this week but it seems the albums I heard have REALLY stepped their game up.  Specifically regarding Red and ATR, both bands have produced some of their best work in years.  I highly recommend you all checking out some of them.

So spread zee love!  Hit up a local record store, online retailer, or a trusted digital source to pick up a few of these ones.  I can assure you that you WILL find something good to listen to (pending an open mind).  Cheers!

(The Airborne Toxic Event - Dope Machines)

Whatever the case, the band’s latest release, Dope Machines, takes the group in a fresh direction that attempts to veer away from the looming fate of mediocrity.  TATE’s once-orchestral indie-rock sound has been replaced by a brigade of synths, dance beats and sing-along choruses. The album makes no attempt to pass as something it’s not and instead proudly steps into the world of synth-driven pop. Though at times Dope Machines falls into similar plights as Such Hot Blood, the new release certainly offers something new to fans.  At the least, the album avoids an aimless repetition of the past and manages to stand shamelessly unique among TATE’s discography. -Substream Magazine

(VA - Sons of Anarchy: Volume 4)

*no reviews as of yet

(Big Sean - Dark Sky Paradise)

Dark Sky Paradise, his newest, does not wholly shed his aspirations for a certain level of legitimacy, as the nonsensical but very official-sounding title would implicate. But it is by many lengths his best album, and the first one that gets closest to hitting an elusive sweet spot where his music works as mindless fun while still leaving you just enough to chew on. The best example of this is "I Don’t Fuck With You", the song that kick-started the album and perhaps saved Sean’s career as we know it. Put online in September along with three other tracks, the song is an obvious banger with an instantly catchy hook and some truly great lines—"I just bought a crib, three stories, that bitch a trilogy"—that also leverages his broken engagement with "Glee"’s Naya Rivera in a way that feels authentically inspired. That song is where everything clicks for Big Sean, and the confidence he seems to derive from fully harnessing his powers seeps from its pores. -Pitchfork

(Revolution Saints - Revolution Saints)

“Revolution Saints” is another one of those records being made by veterans that feels like it's stuck in the past. Rather than being a gripe, it's a badge of honor, because “Revolution Saints” reminds me of what rock music was like when it was at its best. “Revolution Saints” will never be remembered the same way as the records these guys have made with their main bands, if only because of when it came out, but it's as enjoyable an hour of music as they could possibly make. Definitely check this out if you like old-school melodic rock. -Bloody Good Horror

(Rob Zombie - Spookshow International Live)

*No reviews as of yet

(All That Remains - The Order of Things)

This album is seen almost as a comeback to fans that have been dictating the way they think the band should sound rather than embracing what is. While they still have roots and influences in metal, the band seemingly is trying to spice up the chemistry of their songs, straying away from the double bass and breakdown norm. By taking guidance from producer Josh Wilbur (Gojira, Hatebreed, Lamb of God), ATR was able to come together to make a record that stands out against their previous in terms of melody. This album adds much more intricate sounds and displays more of the double guitar melodies that ATR fans love. The riffs and solos generated by Oli Herbert (lead guitar) and Mike Martin (rhythm guitar) make the tracks much more enjoyable to listen to while allowing the listener to distinguish between them. -Lithium Magazine

(Red - of Beauty and Rage)

Overall RED has an incredibly complex and put together album. Normally when rock bands add so many orchestral and synth arrangements to the music, the songs become cluttered and too produced. In this instance, RED's overproduction makes the music pop and have the feeling and emotion behind the story. It almost became essential to have that unique sound over the rock as it transitioned from song to song.

Of Beauty and Rage is for sure going to carry a ton of weight for this band as they created a near perfect record filled with all the things fans can come to expect from the band and yet equal parts ingenuity. -BREATHEcast

(The Agonist - Eye of Providence)

The best song by far is "Gates of Horn and Ivory". "My Witness, Your Victim" and "I Endeavor" are two more decent songs, but the majority of the album does not possess anything as unique or intrinsic as these songs do. After several plays only those three songs made a name for themselves. After 10 more spins, it was difficult to pay attention too. It's not that I did not like this album, it has its moments, but it certainly lacks more moments than it has. It's a good variety when it comes to listening to all types of metal, but for seasoned listeners of metal who enjoy the true essence and creativity of metal, there is much to be desired. -Metal Injection



(Torche - Restarter)

Their fourth album, Restarter, answers that question immediately. From the opening chug-along of “Annihilation Affair,” the disc is a pulsating, behemoth of a return to Brooks’ days in Floor – a band who not-coincidentally reunited after Torche’s last album. Restarter sounds exactly like the title suggests – another beginning for the band which Brooks has described as “fun metal,” but also their hardest-hitting album to date. The melodies and hooks remain in spades, but songs like “Minions,” “Undone” and the appropriately titled “Barrier Hammer” would fit neatly alongside Torche’s most visceral sludge anthems. What’s missing, however, is any semblance of air – the album’s 10 tracks are intensely focused with creative flourishes foregone in favor of maximized minimalism. -Diffuser

(Oceans Ate Alaska - Lost Isles)

It can be difficult setting out to try and differentiate yourselves from others, and Oceans Ate Alaska perhaps push things too far in setting their stall in the kitchen-sink side of headfuck music, though they can take credit from the fact that not only are they ploughing their own furrow, but they have the technical chops and ear for melody to make it happen for themselves. Lost Isles is a sensory overload that will make an impression on the ears and minds of those who like their discordance delivered as a staccato premeditated cudgelling, while with tunes like ‘Downsides’ in their arsenal, the band have the breadth to push into more melodic and conventional streams. -Ghost Cult Mag


EPs:

(Pelican - The Cliff)

Though it’s not groundbreaking, The Cliff has some great dynamic range that compliments the performances. However, this release doesn’t have the staying power I crave from a Pelican EP. Even with its short length of 25 minutes, I find myself listening to the opener and then skipping to the closer. Sadly, this doesn’t make it worth the money to buy the vinyl version like I normally do. For those die-hard fans, you’ll find something here you like, but for me, I’ll just stick to my March into the Sea and Ephemeral records. -Angry Metal Guy


Deluxe Edition/Re-issue:

(Taking Back Sunday - Happiness Is: The Complete Recordings)

As top-heavy as the record is with adrenaline-fuelled anthems, arguably the highlights of Happiness Is come when the band take a step back and adopt a more restrained approach. “All the Way” isn't quite a ballad, but it's significantly more mellow than your average Taking Back Sunday number, and it's well-written to boot. “When We Were Younger” and “Nothing At All” are both down-tempo numbers that finish the record off on a delicate vibe, but the crest of this record's many waves is surely “Better Homes and Gardens,” a measured telling of an impending divorce with themes of regret, anger and eventually acceptance. Lyrically it's one of many accomplished offerings here. The band asks the question Happiness Is and answers it with this track as Lazzara screams wildly, “you'll never be happy.” Like the protagonist in the song, the band seems to have realised that throughout the line up changes, the scene moving on, and fans clamouring for the days of their earlier records, they'll never be able to please everybody. Even they themselves had a dislike for 2009's New Again. So Taking Back Sunday has decided the simplest course to take is to embrace the formula with which they are both comfortable and accomplished, hence Happiness Is is jam-packed with upbeat pop-rock anthems and reflective cuts of radio-friendly angst that should appease fans new and old alike. Most of 'em anyway. -411 Mania

(Of Mice & Men - Restoring Force: Full Circle)

The promotional run for Restoring Force featured a lot of talk about Of Mice & Men finding a ‘balance’ in their sound with this release. While I am not entirely sold on that being the case, I will say it is the most engaging record in their discography, and it features a number of fantastic surprises that will only serve to further the group’s career in 2014. If true, Of Mice & Men will be one of the few bands from the recent heavy era in alternative music to find life outside the Warped Tour scene, and in my opinion no one could be more deserving. Through lineup changes and the seemingly endless controversy that surrounds frontman Austin Carlile Of Mice & Men have forged ahead with a drive to succeed that is unmatched by their peers. They’ve channeled their struggles into songs that are as memorable as they are abrasive, and as it stands now they are the heavy band to beat in the new year.

Restoring Force raises the bar for heavy bands in alternative music and marks the beginning of a new chapter for Of Mice & Men. It’s without a doubt the best album of their career, not to mention the first great hard rock release of 2014, and I am hopeful it won’t be their last. -Under The Gun

Things I Miss: Army of Anyone

I felt that with all the recent back and forth news between Scott Weiland and Stone Temple Pilots, this was a perfect time to talk about a project I really did hope for more of, but was cut short.  While Weiland was off on touring the sophomore album of Velvet Revolver ("Libertad"), the remaining members of STP were working on their own projects since STP was on indefinite hiatus since 2003.

From those projects rose a four piece consisting of the DeLeo bothers (Dean & Robert), Richard Patrick of Filter, and Ray Luzier manning the drums.  Not a bad lineup so far right?  This is what it sounded like:



So basically the four guys got together, created an awesome album, and then went back to their respective projects.  DeLeo brothers rejoined Scott in STP, Patrick went back to Filter duties, and Ray (in a surprising move) took over drums for metal group Korn.  The self-titled album was released on November 14th, 2006 via The Firm Music.  Army of Anyone was cited as a main influence in the production of the album, but ultimately produced by legendary Bob Ezrin (Lou Reed, KISS, Pink Floyd, Rob Stewart, Peter Gabriel, etc), and Ken Andrews (Beck, A Day To Remember, Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, etc) as mixing engineer.

(Album artwork courtesy of The Firm Music and Army of Anyone)

1. It Doesn't Seem to Matter 
2. Goodbye 
3. Generation 
4. A Better Place 
5. Non Stop 
6. Disappear 
7. Stop, Look and Listen 
8. Ain't Enough 
9. Father Figure 
10. Leave It 
11. This Wasn't Supposed to Happen

“Army of Anyone” meshes the musical influences of Stone Temple Pilots and Filter, but such an outcome should be easily determined. A softer approach than most of his work, Richard Patrick finds his vocal work a touch subtler than his abrasive-yet-melodic tone he features with Filter. Not to mention, he’s working in an environment that doesn’t utilize elements of industrial music (which Filter is partly classified into). The end result, when paired with the talents of the brothers DeLeo and Ray Luzier, comes across as a remarkable debut effort for the group. -Sputnik Music

So what about the possibility of a reunion or [dare I say it] a new album?  Well, it seems that some of the members are on board as well.  Apparently, they all stay in contact with each other and still discuss new tunes and touring plans.  A recent interview between Richard Patrick and Alternative Nation confirmed a lot rumors that could have been made about a reunion.

(Photo found at mail.msopr.com)

“All they need to do is get together, and make some music, and then at the very last minute I come in, and I sing over the top of it, and there you go.  Ray Luzier, Robert, and Dean are an amazing group of musicians who I hold in high regard.  I would have to say that Army of Anyone slowed my career down quite a bit because I went to rehab, and I was supposed to release a [Filter] record a couple years later.

Now Ray is building a studio, he’s been on tour with Korn for the last 6 years or so, he’s taking some of that money and making a big studio in Nashville.  The DeLeo brothers have their own studio, Robert has his in Southern California.  All they have to do is just make some killer music, and I come in at some point, I could probably just sing it at my house, and get in via the internet, and there you go.  It’s that easy, it’s up to them to get together and jam.  I would like to be there when they jam, [but] I really feel like it’s their music.  They should be the musicians, they’re all wonderful, amazing, musicians. I’ll just come in and color it up with some cool vocals, hopefully.  They all 3 definitely are talking, we’ve all had several e-mails about it back and forth to each other about doing it.  It’s like, ‘Okay, do it, I’m with you.'” - Patrick



I guess we will all just have to wait and see.  For now, I will be spinning this album over the next few days to reconnect with four amazing musicians.  Do we need to start a petition online to get these guys back in the studio.  With any hope, STP/Linkin Park/Filter's touring schedules will wind down in in end of 2015 and have some more free time for side projects.

Full Album Stream: Slaves - Through Art We Are All Equals

So one of the newest sections I created was "Full Album Streams".  Not only did this gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to acts as a hub to explore), but also a chance for people to explore new artists, new genres, and new albums before deciding to purchase them (also from links on AFGM's site).

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

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

(Artwork by AFGM.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)


"Through Art We Are All Equals" is the debut album by Sacramento, California's Slaves.  It was released on June 23rd, 2014 via Artery Records.  For this album, Slaves consisted of:

Jonny Craig - Lead vocals/Piano | Alex Lyman - Lead guitar 

Christopher Kim - Rhythm guitar | Jason Mays - Bass | Tai Wright - Percussion

Slaves is currently recording their sophomore album set for release sometime in 2015.  They will also be looking to replace Jason Mays and Christopher Kim as both have exited the group (currently being filled in by Colin Viera and Jonathan Wolfe).

(Album artwork courtesy of Slaves and Artery Records)

1. The Fire Down Below*
2. This Is You Throwing In the Towel
3. The Young And Beyond Reckless (Feat. Tyler Carter)
4. My Soul Is Empty And Full Of White Girls
5. Those Who Stand For Nothing Fall For Everything
6. The Hearts Of Our Young (Feat. Natalie Craig)
7. There Is Only One God And His Name Is Death*
8. The King And the Army That Stand Behind Him (Feat. Kyle Lucas)
9. ASHES.DUST.SMOKE.LOVE.STARS.THE.ONE
10. The Upgrade Part II*
11. Starving For FRIENDS (Feat. Vic Fuentes)

(* = AFGM recommendations)



Like many other long-time fans, I was both excited and apprehensive for what Slaves would be. It’s safe to say that fans can rest easy with their debut release, and Craig seems to be committed to putting his time and energy into this new endeavor. Long time fans can also get a hint of the short-lived post-hardcore supergroup Isles and Glaciers with the guest vocals from Vic Fuentes in the track “Starving for Friends,” which is a nice little trip down memory lane. The album also involves strong guest vocals from Tyler Carter of Issues, Kyle Lucas and even Craig’s sister Natalie Craig. Craig has come a long way from his constant drug use and the infamous MacBook scandal of 2011, and it seems he’s finally found a sense of purpose in music again. -Mind Equals Blown

Review of Bush @ The Sound Academy (February 18th, 2015)

Is it sad or gratifying that I waited a good twenty years to see another legendary grunge band from the nineties?  Whether you are like me and have only gotten a glimpse of Bush once, or multiple times for those die hard fans, there is something encapsulating of Gavin's vocals soaring over hit singles from my youth.

The evening did not start off like I had hoped.  My post-day job festivities at a local pub proved to be in vain as I arrive at the venue without a cell phone.  Good start to the evening eh?  Regardless of losing something like a phone, I reminded myself that the phone can be found/replaced by the next day.  'But for now, there is a band in front of you that you have waited 20 years to see.  DO NOT F**K THIS UP!'  So that's just what I did.

Opening act Theory of a Deadman proved to be a dull momentum.  Not that I have an issue with their music, but someone in the sound department I think needed a few extra songs to get the tweak just right.  Overall, it wasn't the best performance of TOADM in my history of watching them live.  But that just made us more eager to hear the main headliners of the night.  BUSH!

The guys came out in as confident as they would have following a showstopping album like "Sixteen Stone".  From afar, the guys haven;t aged a day and the sound/vocals was top notch.  I remember debating the $50 ticket purchase when they initially went on sale.  Then had my girlfreid metaphorically slap me and said "It's Gavin and the guys from Bush.  How could you not?!"

(
(Random video footage of Bush @ The Sound Academy, February 18th, 2015)

The setlist for the night was:

1. The Sound of Winter
2. Bodies in Motion
3. Everything Zen
4. Greedy Fly
5. Man on the Run
6. The Chemicals Between Us
7. This House Is On Fire
8. The Only Way Out
9. Swallowed
10. Letting the Cables Sleep
11. The Gift
12. Just Like My Other Sins
13. Little Things

Encore:
14. Machinehead
15. Once in a Lifetime (Talking Heads cover)
16. Glycerine
17. Comedown

Gavin, you are more than welcome to visit Toronto again very soon and can assure you my friends and I will be back in full force losing our voices as we sing "I don't want to come back down from this cloud!"


(Random video footage of Bush @ The Sound Academy, February 18th, 2015)

Music Video Round Up For February 20th, 2015

Going through my playlist at the end of a work week is like the toast to the weekend; especially when you have been gone away on vacation for the past week with no contact with the outside world.  YouTube playlists and subscriptions coming out my ears so sometimes it's rather hard to follow each upload unless doing a round up such as this.  I hope this will make the starting of your weekend energetic, whether you are going into work or escaping from it.

Apologies in advance for those who loathe my video articles but there are just too many great clips out there to ignore.  So if you do not have the bandwidth to watch this video, then too bad!  Hahaha just kidding.

So for the slower connections just load the article, go for a coffee/glass of water, return, play and enjoy!  This will surely be one of my playlists for the end of the work day and hopefully doesn't keep your eyes glued to the screen for too long.  Cheers and happy Friday!

*Please click on the hyperlinks of each video to find out more about the artist and album releases.*


Alvita - Galaxy:



"Galaxy" is a new single from Alvita's collection.  The single was released on February 16th, 2015 via Oxygen/Spinnin Records.


Black Star Riders - Finest Hour:



"Finest Hour" is taken from BSR's upcoming album "The Killer Instinct", which will be released on February 20th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.


Drowning Pool - Soul from Sinner (13th Anniversary Deluxe Edition):



"Soul" is an unreleased track taken from Drowning Pool's re-issued album "Sinner (Unlucky 13 Edition)", which was released on November 11th, 2014 via The Bicycle Music Company/ Concord Records.


ERRA - Warrior:



"Warrior" is taken from ERRA's latest EP "Moments of Clarity", which was released on November 10th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.


Motionless In White - Break The Cycle:



AFGM: Motionless In White - Reincarnate

"Break The Cycle" is taken from MIW's latest album "Reincarnate", which was released on September 15th, 2014 via Fearless Records.


The Ghost Inside - Out of Control:



AFGM: The Ghost Inside - Dear Youth

"Out of Control" is taken from TGI's latest album "Dear Youth", which was released on November 17th, 2014 via Epitaph Records.


Down - Conjure:



"Conjure" is taken from Down's latest EP, "Down IV – Part Two", which was released on May 13th, 2014 via Down Records.


Deez Nutz - What's Good?:



"What's Good?" is taken from Deez Nuts' upcoming album "Word Is Bond", which will be released on April 21st, 2015 via Century Media Records.


CHON - Story:



"Story" is taken from CHON's latest album "Grow", which will be released on March 25th, 2015 via Sumerian Records.


The Francesco Artusato Project - Infinite Waves (Guitar Playthrough):



"Infinite Waves" is taken from FAP's latest album "Our Dying Sun", which was released on October 6th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.


Ice Nine Kills - Me, Myself & Hyde (Lyric Video):



"Me, Myself, & Hyde" is the self-titled track from I9K's latest album "Me, Myself, & Hyde", which was released sometime in 2015 via Outerloop Records.


Lee McKinney - Skylasher (Audio Only):



"Skylasher" is taken from Lee McKinney's upcoming album, which will be released sometime in early 2016 via Sumerian Records.

Random Music Quotes: Heine

When words leave off, music begins. -Heinrich Heine

(Painting of Heine by Moritz Daniel Oppenheim.  Courtesy of Wikipedia)

Full Album Stream: Misery Signals - Absent Light

So one of the newest sections I created was "Full Album Streams".  Not only did this gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to acts as a hub to explore), but also a chance for people to explore new artists, new genres, and new albums before deciding to purchase them (also from links on AFGM's site).

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

(Artwork by AFGM.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

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

Formed in 2002, Misery Signals is an Canadian/American metalcore band originating from Wisconsin (and eventually Canada).  "Absent Light" is their fourth studio album and was released on July 23rd, 2013 via Basick Records.  Misery Signals is:

Karl Schubach - vocals | Ryan Morgan - guitar | Greg Thomas - guitar

Kyle Johnson - bass | Branden Morgan - drums

(Album artwork courtesy of Misery Signals and Basick Records)

1. A Glimmer of Hope
2. Luminary*
3. Reborn (An Execution)
4. Carrier*
5. Shadows and Depth
6. Lost Relics
7. Two Solitudes*
8. Departure
9. The Shallows
10. Ursa Minor
11. Everything Will Rust

(* = AFGM recommendations)



Absent Light, however late it may have been due, can be considered the keystone in the band's discography, a foothold for the reinvigorated, reenergized path that lies ahead. Take a look at "Ursa Minor" and "Everything Will Rust," the final two tracks on Absent Light, and by extension, two of the best in Misery Signal's complete body of work. Both showcase untapped potential in melody and performance, which are begging to be explored further in future material. Guest vocals all throughout the album are fantastically delivered, especially that of Bad Rabbit's Fredua Boakye. All of these wonderful features, backed by the demand of fans, reinforce the collaborative effort and the community mentality that can actually make stylized metalcore feel intimate and approachable, and ultimately inspire and cultivate stellar tracks to a high greatness, one that when developed fully has the ability to completely knock listeners off of their feet. It is fitting then to have titled their comeback Absent Light. Misery Signals very well may have filled that role. -Absolute Punk

Music Releases For February 17th, 2014

Are you ready for all the kick ass tunes dropping in store this week?!  I was hoping for more than three in my selection but I will take what I can get (and apparently you will too).  I am going to throw my eggs into the quality basket this week versus the quantity.  Here we have three very established groups all looking to show off some new material here in 2015.  And with good reason as some artists like 36 Crayfists have been without material for 5+ years!

So as usual folks, show some love and pick up a copy of your favourite (or all three) albums at your local record store.  If not, then be sure to buy from an online retailer, or a trusted digital source.  Cheers and have a great week!

(Imagine Dragons - Smoke + Mirrors)

"Smoke + Mirrors," like their premiere album, “Night Visions,” shows that successful albums can be achieved without sex, drugs and profanity. With messages that all people can relate, the album is fresh and unifying.

“Night Visions” left the guys with big shoes to fill, as songs like “Demons” and “Radioactive” earned numerous awards, including Grammys, and got them on the map. “Smoke + Mirrors” not only proves that the band is filling the shoes just fine, but they also are taking listeners on the journey with them. -Las Vegas Sun

(Steve Earle & The Dukes - Terraplane)

Terraplane comes across as a mostly pleasant surprise. This is a blues album that opts to boogie rather than weep, celebrate not commiserate, as Earle pours himself into the genre’s tropes: pining for Ms. Wrong (“You’re the Best Lover That I Ever Had”); striking a deal down at the crossroads (“The Tennessee Kid”); and splitting a comical he-said, she-said duet with Eleanor Whitmore (“Baby’s Just as Mean as Me”). The real heroes of the album, though, are Earle’s backing band, The Dukes, who sound like a genuine blues outfit rather than a group trying to squeeze into the genre. The Dukes prevent this brisk record from ever becoming a slog, deftly shifting between gliding, fiddle-accented ragtime (“Ain’t Nobody’s Daddy Now”) and grittier, more rollicking fare (“The Usual Time”). -Consequence of Sound



(36 Crazyfists - Time and Trauma)

AFGM: 36 Crazyfists - Time and Trauma

Time and Trauma is a very unique and overly gratifying album in its own. The band’s new lineup of mainstays Lindow and Holt is joined by a returning Mick Whitney on bass, and 2012′s addition, Kyle Baltus on drums. Combining their skills, the band put together tracks that bleed massive riffs with a melodic structure that make up their trademark sound. The lyrics are just as positive to hear, as it is a sure look at what this band had to overcome in the past and how they will, and did, prevail. The sound of the album is very reminiscent to their older work, but engage in a more mature and colossal approach. Having already spawned two singles in “Also Am I” and “Swing the Noose,” the first of the two is definitely a track that stands out, showing that maturity can be brought to fans with awesome breakdowns to showcase. It is a powerful song with a motive, to uplift someone to endure the obstacles in life. -Cryptic Rock

Music Video Round Up For February 13th, 2015

Going through my playlist at the end of a work week is like the toast to the weekend; especially when you have been gone away on vacation for the past week with no contact with the outside world.  YouTube playlists and subscriptions coming out my ears so sometimes it's rather hard to follow each upload unless doing a round up such as this.  I hope this will make the starting of your weekend energetic, whether you are going into work or escaping from it.

Apologies in advance for those who loathe my video articles but there are just too many great clips out there to ignore.  So if you do not have the bandwidth to watch this video, then too bad!  Hahaha just kidding.

So for the slower connections just load the article, go for a coffee/glass of water, return, play and enjoy!  This will surely be one of my playlists for the end of the work day and hopefully doesn't keep your eyes glued to the screen for too long.  Cheers and happy Friday [the 13th]!

*Please click on the hyperlinks of each video to find out more about the artist and album releases.*


Chris Rattie & The Brush Valley Rumblers - 3 A.M.:



"This song is an excerpt from Chris Rattie & The Brush Valley Rumblers appearance on The Prava Sessions. On The Prava Sessions, artists come in to the studio to make a live recording, we capture it all on video and release it both as a webisode and a digital E.P."


The Agonist - A Gentle Disease:



"A Gentle Disease" is taken from The Agonist's latest album "Eye Of Providence"  Century Media Records, 2015


Too Close To Touch - Perfect World:



"Perfect World" is taken from TCTT's upcoming album "Nerve Endings", which will be released on March 24th, 2015 via Epitaph Records.


Nightwish - Élan:



"Élan" is taken from Nightwish's upcoming album "Endless Forms Most Beautiful", which will be released on March 31st, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.


coldrain - Evolve:



"Evolve" is taken from coldrain's album "The Revelation", which was released on JUne 24th, 2014 via Hopeless Records.


World to Come - Defier:



"Defier" is taken from World To Come's upcoming record "New World Disorder", which will be released on February 23rd, 2015.

Archetype - Complete:



"Archetype was formed in Nottingham of the UK back in 2011 writing music with an aggressive technical hardcore sound with a punk twist."


Your Mind Is My Puppet - Enough Is Enough:



"In October 2014 Your Mind Is My Puppet made their first Label - deal and so recorded their first full-length album! The album, which is called iIlluminate the Dark', will be released at the end of March."


Seven Year Storm - Dyatlov:



"Dyatlov" is taken from SYS's "Aion I", which will be released on February 24th, 2015.


Upon A Burning Body - Pledge Your Allegiance (Drum Playthrough):



"Filmed at the SOLD OUT "Roxy Theatre" in Los Angeles, CA 1/31/15"

"Pledge Your Allegiance" is taken from UABB's latest album "The World Is My Enemy Now", which was released on August 12th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.


Mouth of the South - Simply Grace (Instrumental):



"We put out this song because we know that we aren't the only people who need constant reminders of what grace truly means. Everyone does. It's been apparent through the feedback we've received on this song that it's powerful. People are really moved by it. We couldn't be more grateful for that. I got the idea of releasing an instrumental version of the song from My Epic, who released an instrumental version of their entire last album. I think that hearing it without the words, while knowing the true meaning of the song, can be worshipful in a unique way." -Micheal Butler

Review: Periphery, Nothing More, and Wovenwar @ The Opera House (Feb. 6th, 2015)

So the evening started off quite confusing but fun.  You know it's going to be a fun filled night when you get to the front of the line and mention you are taking photos for the concert and the response is "I don't see your name on the list".  Keep in mind, bloggers tend to get the short end of the stick when it comes to passes and such.  This has happened on more than one occasion, so I instinctively have my emails on hand to show them.  Thankfully the ladies working the door that night were OK with reading the email thread (between myself and Adrenaline PR) and were OK with adding my name to the list.  No harm, no foul.

So being that I wasn't familiar with the opening act (and honestly wanted to save battery life), I bypassed the set from Thank You Scientist.  Keep in mind I got the chance to check out their set.  They played great and the violin and brass was a nice touch to the band.  The vocals reminded me that of Dance Gavin Dance (Jonny Craig/Tilian Pearson), or Coheed and Cambria (Claudio Sanchez).  Not a bad start to the evening.

Then we got to the bread and butter of why I showed up.  I have been a longtime fan of As I Lay Dying and do not feel that the remaining members of the band should be chastised due to the actions of their former vocalist (Tim Lambesis).  So Nick, Josh, Phil, and Jordan did what any other musician would do...they moved on.  Under the name Wovenwar, the guys acquired lead vocalist Shane Blay (from Oh, Sleeper) and debuted their self-titled record in 2014.  Their stage energy made up for the god awful mixing that was happening in the first half of their set.  Not looking to play the blame game (or even incite one) but the final few tracks saw the 5 guys sounding like they should for respected artists.  Check out photos from their set here.

Check out the rest of Wovenwar's photos HERE.

Then we moved onto one of the co-headliners (or direct support...whatever you prefer) straight from Texas.  Nothing More's reputation has preceded them since their debut album with Eleven Seven Music (their sixth overall as Nothing More).  While I was standing around waiting for the show to start, I was hearing multiple conversations with NM fans talking about stage show and performance.  And they were not wrong by any means.  From the moment the band took to the stage, they were engaged with us as fans.  All smiles and high energy made for a great performance.  This also marked the first time the vast majority of onlookers were experiencing Nothing More.  I think it's safe to say they won over a fair amount of people that evening.

It's worth mentioning that these guys do some pretty crazy stuff during their set as well.  For starters, the four members attach a bass guitar to some sort of contraption that allows all four members to play simultaneously.  That plus the killer quad-drum solo made for not just a concert or set...they put on an entertaining show!

Check out the rest of Nothing More's photos HERE.

Which brings us to the final round and the metaphorical KO of the evening.  I can recall only one time (Summer Slaughter) I have missed Periphery as they pass through Toronto.  I have been hooked on these guys since their opening slot while touring with Kittie (many years ago).  What can be said about the band?  The sound was amazing, the stage performance was spectacular, the members were engaging the audience, Spencer's vocal were top notch, and they picked one hell of a setlist.  I am happy that I had the opportunity to shoot for new bands like Wovenwar and Nothing More, but equally happy to shoot for Periphery once more.

The guys ripped through tracks from old and new.  Starting off with their debut single "Icarus Lives" set the tone right from the starting of the set.  I personally thought it was great piece as it was common, everyone knew the song, and it got people moving right away.  They finished off string with some memorable tracks off Periphery II: This Time It's Personal" with tracks such as "Scarlet", "Ragnarok", and "Masamune".  All in all, a longer set would have been preferred [of course] but did a fine job of blending their discography into their set.

You can check out the rest of Periphery's photos HERE.

Full Album Stream: Frank Turner - Love Ire & Song

So one of the newest sections I created was "Full Album Streams".  Not only did this gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to acts as a hub to explore), but also a chance for people to explore new artists, new genres, and new albums before deciding to purchase them (also from links on AFGM's site).

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

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

(Artwork by AFGM.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

As the former vocalist of post-hardcore band Million Dead, Frank Turner is an English folk singer-songwriter based out of Meonstoke, Hampshire.  Since 2007, Turner has released five stuido albums and 5 EPs.  Turner's backing band (called The Sleeping Souls) consists of:

Ben Lloyd - guitar/harmonica/mandolin | Tarrant Anderson - bass 

Matt Nasir - piano/organ/guitar | Nigel Powell - percussion

"Love Ire & Song" was released on March 30th, 2008 via Xtra Mile/Epitaph Records.

(Album artwork courtesy of Frank Turner and Epitaph Records)

1. I Knew Prufrock Before He Got Famous
2. Reasons Not To Be An Idiot
3. Photosynthesis*
4. Substitute
5. Better Half
6. Love Ire & Song*
7. Imperfect Tense
8. To Take You Home*
9. Long Live The Queen
10. A Love Worth Keeping
11. St. Christopher Is Coming Home
12. Jet Lag

(* = AFGM recommendations)



The album also has plenty of variety; something usually heavily lacking in similar solo releases. Whilst some tracks take the purist approach of man and acoustic guitar, "Impefect Tense" sees the use of a full band and two electric guitars and later tracks use a whole host of different percussion, keys and piano, and some brilliant backing vocals. It's not a repeating formula, its always different and always incredibly easy to listen to. -Punk News

Music Releases For February 10th, 2015

I know what you are all thinking.  You are wondering why the hell I decided to throw the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack into this week's releases.  I thought about that myself when coming across the album.  Then I decided to check the track listing.  I saw names pop up such as Danny Elfman, Skylar Grey (all puns intended), Frank Sinatra, and Annie Lennox and that had me convinced it was at least worth the sample songs.  I also have a feeling this will be a big seller for the upcoming Valentine's weekend.

(VA - Fifty Shades of Grey)

I think the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack will be similar to the film in terms of leaving the audience expecting a little more. While this album is filled with some solid mid tempo tracks and ballads, it’s missing the sensual energy that a plot reportedly revolving around sex should have. That heat can definitely be felt on tracks like “Crazy In Love”, “Where You Belong” and “Meet Me In The Middle,” but more passionate tracks like “Love Me Like You Do”, “I Know You” and “Undiscovered” make up the rest of the album, which makes this soundtrack an impressive yet very unexpected album. Maybe the movie will be more substance rather than flash after all? -FDRMX

So apart from 50 SoG, there are some other very interesting releases happening this week.  Let's acknowledge the dragon in the room though.  This week marks the return of "Thong Song" sensation Sisqo after a 14+ year hiatus.  As you will see in the review (as well as others), Sisqo's sophomore album was clearly rushed after a very successful run with "Unleash the Dragon".  So I am not really sure what happened between 2001 and 2015.  All I know is I am very interested to see what Sisqo has come up with to match modern day music tastes.

(Sisqo - Last Dragon)

Now, approximately 1,000 years later, Sisqo has returned to complete his dragon trilogy with the appropriately titled, Last Dragon. The music scene is completely different than the era he dominated at the turn of the millennium and he spends most of the album playing catch-up. That’s probably its biggest flaw.

Sisqo’s post “Thong Song” career has always been a bit of a rocky road, and that continues with Last Dragon. Occasionally Sisqo picks up steam, other times he’s hindered by huge potholes. But for the most part, his road to redemption is pretty uneventful.  Last Dragon makes for a decent listen, but don’t expect to party like it’s 1999. -Soul In Stereo

And to round it off, there are a few great rock albums dropping this week such as Adrenaline Mob, Blackberry Smoke, Brightwell, Neal Morse Band, Stick To Your Guns, and The Dreaming (formerly Stabbing Westward).  I think most music lovers will be able to appreciate one of these albums during your work week.  So like usual folks, show some love and visit a local record shop when buying these albums.  If not, then an online retailer or a trusted digital source.  Cheers!

(Blackberry Smoke - Holding all the Roses)

By 2015 standards, Blackberry Smoke are probably too rock for the country radio, and too country for the rock stations — but I doubt they’re losing a whole lot of sleep over such pigeonholing. Simply put, if you like no frills, straight ahead ’70s styled southern influenced rock, Blackberry Smoke will be right at home in your collection.  And for those who might be a bit leery of such tags as “southern rock,” don’t worry; there is a lot more here than meets the ear of corn: These guys are the genuine article. -Diffuser

(The Neal Morse Band - The Grand Experiment)

“The Grand Experiment” is a diverse collection of songs, showcasing the players, and the varied sounds that come from a band environment.  The short-and-sweet “Agenda” doesn't sound like anything Neal has ever done before, with it's punchy attack and falsetto chorus, nor does “Waterfall”, which is a different kind of ballad.  The hallmarks of Neal's phrasing are still present, but there are moments where the band's influences are undeniable. -Bloody Good Horror

(Stick To Your Guns - Disobedient)

Disobedient is still very much a Stick to Your Guns album, featuring blistering Hardcore tracks that have more punk influence than any other recent songs, such as track four Revolutionary Mental Attitude, a crushing 90-second Punk track that features by far one of the nastiest riffs I’ve heard in a very long time, as well as track eight I Choose Nothing, which I believe is the heaviest track on the album, as well as the only track with a breakdown. 

There are two things on this album that play very well to the identity of Stick to Your Guns. The first being the choice of guest vocalists. The guest vocalist game on this album is peculiar, yet predictable, featuring vocalists such as Walter Delgado from Rotting Out, Toby Morse of H2o, and Scott Vogel of Terror. Is it possible that Stick to Your Guns have created the most radio-friendly Hardcore album in the world? It’s more than a possibility. -It Djents

(The Dreaming - Rise Again)

For anyone hoping for that same sound/feeling that they loved from SW, get ready to swoon because this album hits it spot on. Hall’s vocals and Flakus’ programming is engulfing and suffocates you in a loving way, putting a delightful chill in your bones while making your heartbeat race until it consumes you.

Gritty, yet clean — this album is perfection and mixes the former sound of SW with a modernized vibe that makes The Dreaming their own entity while still giving SW fans what they would want. Back in October 2014, the band released a video for the opening track “Alone” and I’ve been craving this new album ever since! -Emo At Heart


EPs:

(Adrenaline Mob - Dearly Departed)

Dearly Departed is a clear representation of the views Adrenaline Mob hold on both hard rock and their diverse fans who enjoy different types of rock music. For fans of acoustic music, there are tracks like “Crystal Clear” and “All On The Line.” These songs feature strong vocal performances by singer Russell Allen and soulful acoustic guitars by Mike Orlando and Erik Leonhardt. For fans of more “traditional” hard-rock, there are tracks like “Snortin’ Whiskey,” which closely resembles a stoner anthem talking about consumption of massive amounts of whiskey and cocaine while living the rock ‘n roll lifestyle, and “Black Sabbath Medley,” which sounds like clips from various Black Sabbath songs sewn together with Ozzy Osbourne-style vocals overlaying the band’s old-school metal style. -Skulls N Bones

(Brightwell - Alpha)

*no reviews as of yet