First Impressions: TD Echo Beach

So on July 19th, I had the pleasure of experiencing TD Echo Beach for the first time.  While the venue has been in operation since 2012, this was the first time an artist [that I enjoyed listening] happened to be playing.  It only took me 3 years...no big deal. haha

So first impressions are always a good indicator.  The venue entrance was the same as the Molson Ampitheatre, so I was quite familiar with the security, ticket scanners, etc.  I did notice that for a venue of 5,000, they seemed to have a similar amount of security that would be used for the ampitheatre.  Maybe overkill?  My perception might have been off anyways about it.  So let's talk about the dynamics of the venue.  Here is a map of the place if you are like me and have not attended this fine place yet.

(Map courtesy of TD Music)

The Layout

Overall, the layout was pretty decent when compared to similar outdoor venues.  One of the first things I noticed when entering was the amount of places to view the stage.  From the front entrance, to the front of the stage, and everything in between was a visible area.  The VIPs were [respectively] on either side of the stage, towards the front.  The main area, which is all sand, can easily hold a few thousand people.  There was also plenty of room along the sides of the venues where picnic tables were set up, as well as a hill for fans to sit and enjoy the show.

The Stage

The stage was set up towards the back of the venue, right next to the water.  One thing I noticed that was a nice bonus was the see through mesh for the stage, and for the sound booth.  While the stage isn't as large as its sister site (Molson Amp), but it still boasted enough room for a five piece group to easily maneuver around.  Going back to the mesh, it really made a difference for fans who were caught behind the sound booth for viewing, as well as a beautiful skyline of Toronto in the background.


The Food

The food was pretty decent.  While both the food and drink still cost an arm and a leg, at least there were a few more choices besides the usual pizza and french fries.  Various food trucks with a variety of cuisine (such as gourmet hot dogs, seafood, salads, etc) made for a better (and more fresh) selection for concert go-ers.  The trucks were all lined up towards the back of the venue so you could actually hear the orders and not have to shout over the music.


The Drink

Well, despite the usual problem with venue beer (aka Coors, Molson, MGD, etc), it was your average drink selection.  While there was about 5+ different spots to purchase alcohol from (and a few beer vendors in the crowd) I was fortunate enough to find [what seemed to be] the only area serving imported beer; and by that, I mean either Stiegl, or Junction Craft Brewery.  For the extra $1.50, it was well worth the price.  Now all they need to fix is the $11.50 for the beer overall!

Bonus points to Echo Beach for having an ADVERTISED water refill station.  Not sure if it was due to a large heatwave affecting Toronto, but security allowed for fans to bring one plastic bottle of water into the venue for refill.  I must say this was a nice touch to promote free water, unlike many other venues I have been to in the past.

(Photo courtesy of TD Music)

The Washrooms

Portable washrooms can be hit and miss.  On the plus side, they are mobile, can be replaced, and cleaned rather easy.  You can add and remove washrooms based on demand of venue, and might be cheaper in the short/long run for venues.  While I have had my fair share of shitty washrooms (all puns intended), the washrooms at Echo Beach were (for the most part) clean.  The nauseous fumes were not present, the necessary amenities were filled on the regular basis, there was actually hand sanitizer, and even some hand washing stations.  In a place where 5,000+ people are sharing germs and sicknesses, it's reassuring that they kept on top of the washroom cleanliness.


The Sound

Outdoor venues are hit and miss.  And even by that notion, the sound techs are hit and miss as well.  So you have two variables such as weather conditions, and the reliance of the sound tech to ensure the show sound goes as planned.  The evening that we attended Echo Beach (Killswitch Engage/Rise Against), the sound was rather enjoyable.  Both bands performed great, and really capped off a great first experience of Echo Beach.

Overall

I would have to put this as a top venue in Toronto (weather pending).  While it did not necessarily make my all -time lost for sound quality, I felt the different aspects of the beach that I mentioned in this article made for a great experience.  No the question is...when will I get to be there again?!

Music Releases For July 17th-23rd, 2015

I felt a disturbance in the force.  It seemed to my knowledge that album release dates have now shifted to Fridays instead of the normal Tuesday release days I was used to when working in the record store.  Nonetheless, go with the flow, and carry on.  From now on, we'll just use a weekly time frame rather than a specific date (in case someone wants to release on Thursday or something like that).

(Artwork by AFGM. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

So for the most part, I am pretty excited about this week's releases.  There are a few names here I have not gazed upon in some time such as Alan Jackson, The Chemical Brothers, and George Lynch.  Between that and the Moonshine Bandits + Sublime with Rome (and rounding out with Powerwolf), it seems like a great mix of genres that I would be thoroughly enjoying throughout the week; in hopes you all enjoy as well.

So if you are looking for a preview of these tracks, then social media, or YouTube would be your best fit.  If you are determined to purchase a copy, then be sure to do it from a local record store, online retailer, or trusted digital source.  Cheers and enjoy discovering new music!

(Alan Jackson - Angels and Alcohol)

Angels & Alcohol has a few bumps in the road—some songs that maybe could have benefited from borrowing a line or two from a co-writer—and then the album has few really good ones. And overall, with that classic voice backed by traditional sounds, there’s just something about an Alan Jackson album that puts a smile on your face, and makes you hope new Alan Jackson albums don’t go away anytime soon. -Saving Country Music

(Moonshine Bandits - Blacked Out)

The album was produced by Ty Weathers and Durwood Black, and the production quality is perfect.  The Moonshine Bandits have always had great production, but there’s a crispness in Blacked Out, I hadn’t heard on the other albums.

There’s no doubt, if you’ve liked what you’ve heard from the Moonshine Bandits until now, you’re going to love Blacked Out.  It’s the best album they’ve put together yet. What this new album should do for the Moonshine Bandits, though is further broaden their fan base.  Blacked Out is a culmination of years of hard work in the clubs and the studio. They sought out the best on the album to collaborate with, and what they got was the most musically diverse album I’ve heard this year. -Hick Hop Music

(The Chemical Brothers - Born in the Echoes)

So on Echoes we get Q-Tip spouting motivational pizza box rhymes over rubberband basslines on future sports montage soundtrack "Go" followed by St. Vincent staring into the suicidal void of a performer’s high on "Under Neon Lights", which peaks with a guitar (or is it a synth?) solo that searingly recalls "Bulls on Parade". We get the viscous funk of "Taste of Honey"—replete with buzzing bee cameo—next to the taut title track, which features a coolly distant vocal from Cate Le Bon and sounds like a worthy tribute to the late, great psych auteurs Broadcast. Then Beck shows up at the end to help Rowlands and Simons create the finest New Order song in ages. "Wide Open" makes the inevitability of losing it—life, love, inspiration—sound terribly triumphant, and just as the track hits its climax, Beck wisely gets out of the way, making room for undulating waveforms that bristle and burst with all-too-human imperfections. -Pitchfork

(Sublime with Rome - Sirens)

As a pretty diehard Sublime fan of course I was ready for a different sound, a different light. A member leaves the band, there’s a name change, things happen, however was I disappointed? A little. Every musician has their own and to compare any musician to Bradley Nowell isn’t fair but as I stated before, the man could write a song about nothing and it was poetic. “Sirens” had its own sense of artistry however could have had a stronger foundation. -Pop Break

(George Lynch - Shadow Train)

The music on Shadow Train certainly sees Lynch reaching for the pinnacle of his career, where all the stars align and that one moment of clarity is achieved. Built upon the backs of his early bands, including The Boys, Dokken, Lynch Mob, his solo work, instrumental albums and projects (KXM, Sweet & Lynch, Lynch/Pilson), Lynch never has stopped striving to attain the elusive carrot. Partnering with Gregg Analla, Gabe Rosales, Donnie Dickman and Jimmy D’Anda, Shadow Train’s self-titled studio album is a defining moment for Lynch and his fellow bandmates. -Hard Rock Haven

(Powerwolf - Blessed & Possessed)

What you can take away from “Blessed & Possessed” is that if it ain’t broke….don‘t fix it! Powerwolf has an established sound that will likely never change. If part of your musical enjoyment is to allow for massively addicting and repetitive choruses, fun and uptempo riffs, then it really gets no better. If you view music as an exploration that needs to constantly grow, show variety and extend over boundaries, then you can skip over “Blessed & Possessed.” If you like both, then you are in a class of fans that music needs the most: the “blessed and possessed.” For this author, music is much about the former, with the flavor of fantasy and witty sarcasm acting as icing on the cake. -Metal Underground

Pan Am: What Was The Big Deal?

I think my rant for the morning will obviously follow on the heels of the Pan Am closing ceremonies.  While I was not in attendance (both at the venue or on the TV), I knew that many friends and family members would surely be paying attention. From what I have read and seen, I am kind of glad I did not.

Pan Am Games closing ceremony: Fans cheer Team Canada, Kanye West's mic cuts out

Kanye West smashes microphone and storms off stage after technical difficulties at Toronto’s Pan Am Games

Now most of you might get the impression that I am not a Kanye fan.  I think my relationship with his music turned after the first few albums of his work.  College Dropout, Late Registration, and Graduation were all top notch albums!  Songs such as "Through The Wire", and "All Falls Down" had me reinvigorated in the hip hop scene.  Hell, I'll even settle for a spoonful of 808s & Heartbreak (such as "Heartless") when the time calls for it.  Maybe it's the ego, maybe its the spotlight, but I can assure you that there is no 'hating' simply because we want to be him.  Far from it; we want him to be an artist that embodies the spirit of music, not the megalomaniac we now see before us.  At least that's what had me bypassing his performance.

(Photo courtesy of PanAm/Parapan, and Wikipedia)



Kanye West wows crowd at Pan Am closing ceremony

Kanye West's 'Mic Throw' Leaves Pan Am Games Closing Ceremony Audiences Confused

While I know Pitbull and Serena's performance seemed to go over very well with the crowd (and honestly, how could you not when Serena was responsible for the official Pan Am anthem), but I think that also.showed something that might have been glossed over.  The crowd wasn't upset it was a pop artist headlining, because if that was the case, then Pitbull would have been as UN-welcomed as Kanye was.  But the difference I found was the approach.  Pitbull didn't need to be there, but he was energetic, optimistic, and thoroughly wanted to be a part of this event.  Not sure I could say the same for Yeezus, especially after that mic throw and walk off.  Craig from AFGM happened to be in attendance for the closing ceremonies.  While he did dive into it too much, this is what I gathered from his sentiments.

I am not one to complain but what was that at the Pan Am closing ceremonies?  Everything was amazing with the organizers...then the music part comes in.  Serena Ryder, and even Pitbull (which I am not a fan) did a great job.  Very personable with the crowd; then followed by Kanye West.  I don't know if that was called a performance or not. 

How much did they pay for this guy to....I can't even say perform, he just jumped around the stage or walked around sang terrible with back up music.  He didn't address the crowd, wasn't personable with them, etc.  Just like him always thinking about himself, and he calls himself the greatest rock and roll star?  After his set he just throws his microphone up in the air and leaves the stage and that was it. Even the TV person from CBC didn't even mention his name.  I honestly don't get it. -Craig (via Facebook)

Kanye West Throws Mic, Walks Off But Still Impresses at Pan Am Games Closing Ceremony

Kanye West closes out Pan Am Games — until faulty microphone doesn’t let him finish

So all in all, I am not here to condemn or criticize people for liking Kanye.  If his music appeals to you, then listen to it!  I have my own reasons why I choose to focus my time and attention on other artists, but different strokes for different folks right?  However, I am still scratching my head at the organizers of Pan Am for their decision to bring such an artist to an international event like this.  The onslaught of social media and backlash are a direct result of poor marketing, lack of ticket sales, and the ultimate need to book a major headliner (whether embodying the game or not) for the sake of filling a venue.

Music Video Round Up For July 24th, 2015

Going through my playlist is the toast to the week/weekend.  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!

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


Steve Aoki - Neon Future (feat. Luke Steele of Empire of the Sun):



"Neon Future" is a stand alone single from Steve Aoki (featuring Luke Steele).  It was released on July 10th, 2015 via Ultra Records.


Night Riots - Oh My Heart:



"Oh My Heart" is taken from Night Riot's latest EP Howl, which was released on January 20th, 2015 via Sumerian Records.


All That Remains - For You:



"For You" is taken from All That Remains' latest album The Order of Things, which was released on February 24th, 2015 via Razor & Tie Records.


Terror - Bad Signs:



"Bad Signs" is taken from Terror's upcoming album The 25th Hour, which will be in stores on  August 7th, 2015 via Victory Records.


Unleash The Archers - Test Your Metal:



"Test Your Metal" is taken from UTA's latest album Time Stands Still, which was released on July 10th, 2015 via Napalm Records.


Dayseeker - The Burning Of Bridges:



"The Burning of Bridges" is taken from Dayseeker's latest album Origin, which was released on April 17th, 2015 via Invogue Records.


Wearing Scars - Stand Alone:



"Stand Alone" is the latest single from Wearing Scars, and is taken from their debut album A Thousand Words, which was released on July 24th, 2015 via Candyman Records.


Phinehas - White Livered:



"White Livered" is taken from Phinehas' latest album Till The End, which was released on July 10th, 2015 via Artery Recordings.


Jason Mraz - Quiet (Live):



An exclusive clip of Jason Mraz performing “Quiet" from Guitar Center Sessions presented by JBL with host Nic Harcourt.


Coal Chamber - Rivals (Live):



"Rivals" is the title track from Coal Chamber's latest album Rivals, which was released on May 19th, 2015 via Napalm Records.


Arch Enemy - Avalanche (Illustration Video):



"Avalanche" is taken from Arch Enemy's latest album War Eternal, which was released on June 10th, 2014 via Century Media Records.


Celldweller - Precious One (Lyric Video):



"Precious One" is the latest single from Celldweller and his latest album End of an Empire - Chapter 4: Death, which was released on July 16th, 2015 via FiXT Records.


Metal Allegiance - Can't Kill The Devil (Lyric Video):



"Can't Kill The Devil" is the debut single from Metal Allegiance.  Their self-titled debut record will be released on September 18th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.


Fear Factory - ProtoMech (Lyric Video):



"ProtoMech" is the latest single from Fear Factory's upcoming album Genexus, which will be released on August 7th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.


Stray From The Path - Badge & A Bullet Part II (Lyric Video):



"Badge & A Bullet Part II" is taken from Stray From The Path's upcoming album Subliminal Criminals, which will be released on August 14th, 2015 via Sumerian Records.


Bring Me The Horizon - Happy Song (Audio Only):



"Happy Song" is the latest single from BMTH's upcoming album That’s The Spirit, which will be out on September 11th, 2015 via Sony/Columbia Records.


Lamb of God - Embers [featuring Chino Moreno] (Audio Only):



"Embers" (featuring Chino Moreno) is the latest single from Lamb of God's upcoming album VII: Sturm Und Drang, which will be released July 24th, 2015 via Epic Records.


Uneven Structure - Funambule (Audio Only):



"Funambule" is taken from Uneven Structure's upcoming album La Partition, which will be released later in 2015 via Basick Records.

Random Music Quotes: Snider

I think that probably the truth of the matter, the answer is to start from scratch and create a whole new playbook. Forget everything — they keep trying to adjust what they knew — throw it out the window and say, “Okay, we’re starting out, now how do we create a new music industry, forgetting everything that went before?” Just get it out of your mind. Because it haunts people, it clouds their judgement and they keep trying to recapture — and it all comes down to economics, you recapture that.

(Photo courtesy of Dee Snider)

Well, forget that — start with a blank piece of paper and say, “Okay, now we’re making a music industry. These are the elements we have, this is the way music is created, this is the way music is transmitted, this is how it’s shared and enjoyed.” Build a whole new business plan off of that. I don’t think anybody, at least that I’m aware of, has done that, started with just a blank slate and just started over. I think that’s really what needs to be done. Just level the f—ing building and build something brand new. -Dee Snider

Full Album Stream: I See Stars - New Demons

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)

Hailing from Warren, Michigan, I See Stars has become a regular household name for electronicore (electronic/metalcore) fans.  Having been on the scene since 2006, the six piece group has produced four studio albums, two EPs, and two remix albums.  They were signed to Sumerian Records in 2008.  The group consists of:

Brent Allen – Guitar | Jimmy Gregerson – Guitar | Jeff Valentine – Bass

Zach Johnson – Unclean vocals, keyboards, synthesizers

Andrew Oliver – Drums, backing vocals | Devin Oliver – Clean vocals

Their fourth and latest album, New Demons, was released on October 22nd, 2013 via Sumerian Records.  It was produced by Joey Sturgis, who has worked with artists such as The Devil Wears Prada, Attack Attack!,  Miss May I, We Came As Romans, Asking Alexandria, Of Mice & Men, Emmure, Born of Osiris, Crown The Empire, and many more!

(Album artwork courtesy of I See Stars, and Sumerian Records)

1. Initialization Sequence
2. Ten Thousand Feet*
3. Follow Your Leader
4. New Demons*
5. Violent Bounce (People Like ¥øµ)
6. Murder Mitten*
7. We're Not In Kansas Anymore
8. Judith Rules
9. Boris the Animal
10. Crystal Ball
11. When I Say Jump, You Say How High
12. Who Am I?

New Demons is the record fans have always believed I See Stars were capable of making, and it sets the bar considerably high for any other group hoping to cash in on their electronic hardcore sound. I’m not foolish enough to think it will win over every naysayer, because the group has not changed entirely, but instead they have evolved over time into a better (and heavier) band that is really going to catch people off guard in the year ahead. -Under The Gun Review



The balance between Devin Oliver’s clean vocals and Zach Johnson’s harsh roars is tilted more than ever in Johnson’s direction, despite the fact some songs are almost as sickly sweet as those on ISS's sophomore album, The End Of The World Party. They’ve got a few new ideas, too, like the dancehall-metal rhythm of the title track and the almost Attila-like bounce of “Boris The Animal,” and several tracks reveal a fascination with dubstep wobbles. But really, New Demons is I See Stars playing to their strengths and rewarding their fans—who’ve had to wait 19 whole months for the band to follow up Digital Renegade, after all. -Alt Press

Music Getting Louder?

Music is artistic and expressive, therefore interpretive, correct?  Most of us hve a hard time (or easy, depending on the circles your run in) understanding the emotional connection one gets with their music choices.  Most musicians will feel that connection when composing the music; almost as if a part of them has been etched into the notes, or the lyrics.  Music lovers, like myself, feel that connection when the proper notes and/or scales are put into that sequence that makes your arm chill with goosebumps.  Think about it for a second; do you remember a time where you knew what the chorus/solo was going to sound like, and those goosebumps gives you that indication this song means something to you on a personal level.

In reading an article posted by The New Yorker, journalist Hua Hsu conveys to his readers that music, in general, has gotten significantly louder in order to create a first impression.  While there are many other variables that Hsu has used to prove the matter, I agree that first impressions are ever lasting.  But in the past twenty years, has music really gotten louder?




1. The Production Quality

My first reaction would be a flat out NO, but then I got to thinking about the progression of music quality, and instruments used for harnessing that sound from the instruments.  We have seen a huge step in the direction of digital production for both studio and live performances.  I agree that software such as ProTools, MOTU, and Garage Band has expanded the playing field of musicians who would not have necessarily has the proper outlets.  This has also given home users (and also stage techs) the ability to tweak sound, and push it to it's maximum potential.  Like Hsu stated in his article:

"The quiet parts of a Taylor Swift song buzz more boldly than the brashest moments of a heavy-metal album from the nineteen-eighties."

That I have to agree with.  The advancement of our recording and production abilities has definitely had an impact on the noise levels.  I advise you to pick an album (form the same genre mind you for equal comparison) from both the 1980's and now.  I can almost guarantee that you will hear a difference in production qualities.


2. Music Festivals and Multiple Stages

There is a huge rise in popularity for mass music festivals.  Many outdoor events [around Toronto and other cities] such as VELD, Riotfest, TURF, Mayhem, and many others generally resort to multiple stages for music to continually play.  The one downside I saw from this is overlapping of sounds.  While our technology has improved the range and direction of the music, sometimes the timing of performers can be off.

For example, when I was at Rockfest 2015, the Budweiser stage and the Jager stage were more or less facing each other, but had the main stage and main stage sound booth cutting off the sound.  As you moved towards each stage, you could clearly hear the music being performed, however, as you moved closer to the middle of the stages, the sound starts to blend in with one another.  One of the main reasons I find this happens is due to amplification.  Both stages were about 200-300 meters away from each other, but since each artist would like to have a loud performance (as some sort of assertion they are heavy/fast/whatever), so they amplify louder to compete with neighbouring stages.
So while it was nice to see multiple bands playing for different genre fans, it can be a bit of a sound booth pissing contest in hopes of being louder than the others, or performers from earlier in the day.  This is one reason I saw the overall loudness of live performances increase.


3. Continual Waves of Non-Loud Music

One statement of the article that resonated with me was, "Noise can be petulant or cleansing, annoying or energizing. It can force us to wonder what we mean when we call something 'music.'"

Going back to the top of this article, I maintain that music (whether loud or not) is based on an emotional connection to the artistry.  I am asked on a regular basis how I can understand the screaming and shredding in metal music.  I respond with a simple comparison:

"I can feel the tones and inflexion of their voice waver just as delicately as any jazz/blues/dance/hip-hop artist."  

Getting past the original UMPH of heavy metal can be a bit difficult for people, but eventually all translates into notes, scales, highs, lows, and everything else that each other genres creates.  They key part in each genre is how it makes you feel.

If you look at our latest Billboard standings, we still see quite a bit of 'non-loud' bands that still ht the charts quite frequently.  While we have our bread and butter genres like rock, dance, metal, hip-hip that generally create loud[er] music, we still see emerging artists like Mumford & Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show, Hozier, and Ed Sheeran who can still silence a 20,000+ audience with the strum of an acoustic guitar.

So in conclusion, while the article touches base quite a bit on a band called HEALTH, I feel the article did a good job of dissecting the reasons behind "loud" music, and why numbers are continually growing.  I feel more variables needed to be explored such as some I touched base on in this article.  I will admit that our technology allows us to push limits of quality, tone, and other areas of improvement.  But once you reach past a certain decibel level (90-95dB+), it can be a bit loud for anyone.

Music Video Round Up For July 16th, 2015

Going through my playlist is the toast to the week/weekend.  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!

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


Avicii - Waiting For Love:



"Waiting For Love" is a stand alone single from Avicii, which was released on May 22nd, 2015 via Avicii Music AB (under exclusive license to Universal Music AB).


Shinedown - Cut The Cord:



"Cut The Cord" is taken from an upcoming [unnamed] Shinedown album.  More details to be released soon.


Marilyn Manson - Third Day Of A Seven Day Binge:



Third Day Of A Seven Day Binge is taken from Marilyn Manson's latest album The Pale Emperor, which was released on January 15th, 2015 via Hell, etc.


The Amity Affliction - Skeletons:



"Skeletons" is taken from The Amity Affliction's re-release of Let The Ocean Take Me (Deluxe Edition), which was released on July 10th, 2015 via Roadrunner Records.


Miss May I - I.H.E.:



"I.H.E." is taken from Miss May I's upcoming album titled Deathless, which will be released on August 7th, 2015 via Rise Records.


Once Human - Terminal (Lyric Video):



Once Human's debut album titled The Life I Remember will be released September 4th 2015 via earMUSIC.


Breaking Benjamin - Angels Fall (Lyric Video):



"Angels Fall" is taken from Breaking Benjamin's latest album Dark Before Dawn, which was released on June 23rd, 2015 via Hollywood Records.


Coheed and Cambria - You Got Spirit, Kid (Lyric Video):



"You Got Spirit, Kid" is taken from Coheed and Cambria's upcoming album The Color Before The Sun, which will be released on October 9th, 2015 via 300 Entertainment.


August Burns Red - The Wake (Guitar Play Through):



"The Wake" is taken from August Burns Red's latest album Found Away In Far Places, which was released on June 29th, 2015 via Fearless Records.


The Agonist - A Necessary Evil (Guitar Play Through):



"A Necessary Evil" is taken from The Agonist's latest album Eye of Providence, which was released on February 24th, 2015 via Century Media Records.


Lynch Mob - War (Audio Only):



"War" is taken from Lynch Mob's upcoming album Rebel, which will be released on August 21st, 2015 via Frontiers Records.


Blessthefall - Up In Flames (Audio Only):



"Up In Flames" is taken from Blessthefall's upcoming album To Those Left Behind, which will be released on September 18th, 2015 via Fearless Records.


Lamb of God - Erase This (Audio Only):



"Erase This" is taken from Lamb of God's upcoming album VII: Sturm Und Drang, which will be released on July 24th, 2015 via Epic Records, a division of Sony Music Entertainment.


Children of Bodom - Morrigan (Audio Only):



"Morrigan" is the debut single from CoB's upcoming album I Worship Chaos, which will be released on October 2nd, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.


Death Angel - Execution Don't Save Me (Audio Only - Live):



"Execution Don't Save Me" is taken from Death Angel's latest live album The Bay Calls For Blood, which was released alongside their "A Thrashumentary" DVD, which will be released on July 24th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.

The "greatest living rock star on the planet"

Why did Corey Taylor's "rock star" rant go viral?  Have we become a society fraught with dramatics?  Has music journalism taken a nose dive and relies solely on negative comments directed towards others?  While I do not want to feed fuel to the fire, you might remember the comments recently made my Slipknot/Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor in light of Kanye West's outrageous Glastonbury performance.

For those not really familiar with the situation, it all started a few weeks ago when Kanye West took the stage at Glastonbury 2015 as a headliner.  He then (to no surprise) took it upon himself to announce the following:

“I’m going to say this tonight because 20 years from now, 30 years from now, 40 years from now, I might not be able to say it, but I can say it tonight: You are now watching the greatest living rock star on the planet.” -West

Well of course news reels can't get to their keyboards fast enough to type this into an article and send it to the masses, hoping for a bite back of drama.  And it worked.  Taylor sat down in front of a camera, and told Kanye exactly what he thought of his recent comments.  You can watch below.



Now what followed was rather interesting.  Initially, Taylor's comments could be taken by some as similar, and that there is someone usually with a bigger mouth.  Even the rebuttal almost seemed preachy, but I can understand the point that Taylor was trying to make.

"Because it's so ridiculous, man. Here's the thing: I've written three books, I've sold millions of albums, I'm in two different bands, I'm in movies and shit. And this is what it took? This is what it took? Me talking about some hardon. I'm, like, you've gotta be kidding me, man." -Taylor

So for someone such as Taylor, I can see why he is a bit disappointed by his comments going viral online.  But then again, for someone who has been in the industry as long as he has, it shouldn't come as much of a surprise.  In one light, I feel we have traded one loud mouth for another.  But on the other hand, I like to think of Taylor as a defender of the faith.  With a megalomaniac such as Kanye making absurd assumptions that he is the "greatest living rock star on the planet".  I am sure that all of you reading this could easily think of a few people who would be taking the icing on that cake.

Dave Grohl, Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Lemmy Kilmister, Nikki Sixx, Ozzy Osbourne, James Hetfield; this list could honestly go on and on.  But now I think you get the picture.

In the end, I guess what I was trying to conclude with was the comments going viral for the sake of a little drama.  Leave it the television stations like HBO, TMZ, Starzz, FX, and other to create exceptional drama.  Leave the rock star attitudes at the door.  Taylor, much appreciated for going to bat for the sake of R&R.  Kanye, be thankful you left Glastonbury unscathed after those comments.

Music Releases For July 10-16th, 2015

I felt a disturbance in the force this week.  It seemed to my knowledge that album release dates have now shifted to Fridays instead of the normal Tuesday release days I was used to when working in the record store.  Nonetheless, go with the flow, and carry on.  From now on, we'll just use a weekly time frame rather than a specific date (in case someone wants to release on Thursday or something like that).

(Artwork by AFGM. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

So for the most part, I am pretty excited about this week's releases.  There are a few names here I have not gazed upon in some time such as Tyrese, Ghostface, For All Eternity, and of course Veruca Salt (I know right?!).  Seems like a great mix of genres that I would be thoroughly enjoying throughout the week; in hopes you all enjoy as well.

So if you are looking for a preview of these tracks, then social media, or YouTube would be your best fit.  If you are determined to purchase a copy, then be sure to do it from a local record store, online retailer, or trusted digital source.  Cheers and enjoy discovering new music!

(Tyrese - Black Rose)

It’s been written that the death of fellow "Fast and Furious" co-star and personal friend, Paul Walker, had a profound effect on Tyrese, with Gibson reportedly going into a deep depression over the untimely loss. If it was from that tragedy that this great blues was born and properly channeled through Gibson’s creative touch, then it can be said that Tyrese has transformed an ocean of painful emotion into the truest album of his creative life. And in that harrowing process, he’s also gifted us what is easily one of the best and most consistent R&B/Soul albums of the year. -Soultracks

(Ghostface Killah - Twelve Reasons To Die II)

The sound on 12 Reasons to Die II follows the vibe Ghostface has been on for the past few years. If you’re new to Ghostface Killah, you may think he’s the bandleader of a Roots-esque group. Both albums from this series, 36 Seasons and Sour Soul all provide soulful, organic production that is more similar to Menahan Street Band, El Michels Affair or The Expressions than anything you hear attached to producer credits. The instrumentals are so good, in fact, that you can listen to them sans-lyrics on the Deluxe version of the record. -Hot New Hip-Hop

(Veruca Salt - Ghost Notes)

Both musically and lyrically, it’s a potent and affecting record, with a deep well of emotional resonance Veruca Salt never really had before. (American Thighs and Eight Arms To Hold You are both excellent albums, but they’re not exactly Leonard Cohen, spiritually speaking.) All of the elements that made those early albums so resonant are back, but the intervening years have lent some potent inner wounds to their sing-song harmonies. Ghost Notes may not have the irrepressible bounce of a youthful band in its prime, but it’s got soul to burn, and when the new songs fire on all fronts, the sound is as superlative as anything they’ve done. -AV Club

(Between The Buried and Me - Coma Ecliptic)

Naturally, expectations skyrocketed when the band announced its follow-up, Coma Ecliptic; fortunately, it surely satisfies them. Another seventy minute odyssey into imaginative soundscapes, mind-blowing arrangements, affective storytelling, and remarkable tonal shifts (both musically and vocally), the full-length retains everything that made their past few opuses so unique, breathtaking, and rewarding. However, as astounding as it is, Coma Ecliptic doesn’t quite surpass its predecessor, as it’s slightly less varied and daring; nevertheless, it comes very close to matching Parallax II, making it another absolutely extraordinary entry in their discography. -Pop Matters



(For All Eternity - Metanoia)

For All Eternity have successfully blended their influences into the music drawing comparison to bands like The Amity Affliction, Parkway Drive and even August Burns Red. ‘Metanoia’ is contemporary with a much needed edge, whether it be unexpected technical solos, crushing guttural vocals or even the electronic programming that is present throughout the album. Put simply, there is not much to hate about this full-length. Instrumentally it delivers competently, featuring beefy guitars that crunch in every track, through mass distortion or eerie clean tones and even surprising solos such as the one featured in ‘Unharness‘. 

Vocally, the album dominates – harsh vocalist Shane Carroll delivers a significant vocal performance sounding suitably brutal, especially on ‘White Flame’, which kicks the record back into overdrive after a clean sung ballad. Guest vocalists, including For Today’s Mattie Montgomary and Kyle Tomosaitis, formerly of Burden of the Day, bring a welcomed and added spark to the release. Lyrically, ‘Metanoia‘ has religious themes and while it may scare some off, rest assured the lyrical content and value of the album is much more than just a token Christian album – everyone can resonate with the themes of facing one’s inner demons. -Kill Your Stereo



(Unleash The Archers - Time Stands Still)

Vancouver, Canada is the cold land where Unleash the Archers resides. With their classic style of power metal, they are not satisfied to be just another band in their genre. Unleash the Archers re-establishes what is sought for and desired when experiencing new music.

A near perfect album with no complaints. Time Stands Still has something for everyone, even if you're not into power metal, the talent and flow cannot be ignored as this organic spirit will evoke that soul you may, or may not, have to thirst for more quality music, and release you from that dark dungeon of solitude that all other death metal bands try to get you in. -Metal Injection

(Cradle of Filth - Hammer of the Witches)

The band’s penchant for extremity juxtaposed with melody and majesty is really given room to breathe in this new environment, and throughout the first half of the album the band refuses to relent on its symphonic black metal approach and slow things down. The singles released before the album’s release were no flukes and fit seamlessly into the overall feel of the album and we’re treated to some of the best  solos of the Filth’s discography and the best vocal performance from Dani in years.

Put simply, this is Cradle of Filth on the very top of their game, and by far their best effort since “Midian”. Those who have been turned off the band in the past 15 years may yet have a reason to come back to them and have hope for the future if this lineup can stick. -Rock Sins


CD/DVD/Blu-Ray:

(Dragonforce - In The Line of Fire: Larger Than Live)

Given that the band decided a few years ago that performing sober was the way forward, the live performance is second-to-none. Tight as a drum and whipping up the 37,000 strong crowd into a frenzy, they sound fantastic in every respect. From the power of ‘Fury of the Storm’ to the beauty of ‘Seasons’ and even throwing in a rare gem in the form of ‘Black Winter Night’ from 2003’s Valley of the Damned, they’re inciting circle pits across the arena floor. Then there’s the big hitters in ‘Cry Thunder’, ‘Valley of the Damned’ and THAT song from the aforementioned Guitar Hero which naturally cause even more bedlam. 

Displaying an abundance of energy and a set worthy of headlining the second stage, it’s a triumph in every aspect. They also found the time to learn a bit of Japanese in order to speak to the crowd in their mother tongue which is a wonderful touch. It’s also expertly shot and edited to give every single viewer as epic an experience as possible. The Behind the Scenes excerpts give an great look into each band member’s own lives, from Sam Totman’s love of pinball machines to Frederic Leclerq jamming ‘Smoke on the Water’ with his parents and their tomfoolery inside the Resident Evil hotel. At no point do any of the members come across as arrogant or stand-offish; they’re incredibly humble and grateful of the opportunity they’ve been given to fly around the world and play music for a living, even thanking the stage crew and the fans for all the support over the years. -Planet Mosh

(Black Veil Brides - Alive and Burning)

In addition to the concert film, Alive and Burning includes a short feature titled “Meet the Fans,” which shows the band during a signature session at Hot Topic. The usual eclectic mix of fans is on display, but the short also shows the dedication of the band to their fans, demonstrating why Black Veil Brides have accumulated more than four million fans on its Facebook page alone.

Smoking guitar licks, a pounding but catchy rhythm section, expressive lyrics with an overall positive vibe, and driving performances are all on display in Alive and Burning. Fans longing for modern rock and roll with no apologies should sample this DVD, and from there begin to explore the music of this hard-driving and fun band. Black Veil Brides are one of the reasons why modern rock still lives. -AXS

Music Video Round Up For July 10th, 2015

Going through my playlist is the toast to the week/weekend.  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!

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

Panic! At The Disco - Hallelujah:

"Hallelujah" is a stand alone single from Panic! At The Disco, which was released on April 20th, 2015 via Fueled By Ramen.

Breaking Benjamin - Failure:



AFGM: Breaking Benjamin Returns In 2014/2015 - Dark Before Dawn

"Failure" is the first single from Breaking Benjamin's latest album Dark Before Dawn, which was released on June 23rd, 2015 via Hollywood Records.

The Answer - Gone Too Long:

"Gone Too Long" is taken from The Answer's latest album Raise a Little Hell, which was released on March 9th, 2015 via Napalm Records.

Seether - Nobody Praying For Me:

"Nobody Praying For Me" is taken from Seether's latest album Isolate and Medicate, which was released on July 1st, 2014 via Bicycle/Concord/Spinefarm Records.

Hell or Highwater - I'll Be Waiting:

"I'll Be Waiting" is the latest single from Hell or Highwater.  It was released [as a single] on July 6th, 2015.

Elitist - Idle Hands:

"Idle Hands" is taken from Elitist's self-titled album, which was released on June 30th, 2015 via Equal Vision Records.

Disturbed - The Vengeful One:

AFGM: Disturbed - Immortalized

"The Vengeful One" is the latest single from Disturbed's upcoming album Immortalized, which will be released on August 21st, 2015 via Reprise Records.

Buried In Verona - Can't Be Unsaid:

"Can't Be Unsaid" is taken from Buried In Verona's latest album Vultures Above, Lions Below, which will be released on August 7th, 2015 via UNFD/Rise Records.

Lamb of God - Overlord:



"Overlord" is taken from Lamb of God's upcoming album VII: Sturm Und Drang, which will be released on July 24th, 2015 via Epic Records, a division of Sony Music Entertainment.

Red Enemy - Anchorless:



"Anchorless" is taken from Red Enemy's self titled album, which was released on November 11th, 2014 via Mediaskare Records.

Celldweller - New Elysium (Lyric Video):

"New Elysium" is the latest single for Celldweller's final installment of End of an Empire series.  The album is titled Chapter 4: Death, and will be released on July 17th, 2015 via FiXT Music.

Diemonds - Over It (Lyric Video):

"Over It" is the latest single for Toronto rockers Diemonds.  It is taken from their upcoming album Never Wanna Die, which will be released on August 14th, 2015.

Soulfly - We Sold Our Souls To Metal (Lyric Video):

"We Sold Our Souls To Metal" is taken from Soulfly's upcoming tenth album titled Archangel, which will be released on August 14th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.

Soilwork - The Ride Majestic (Lyric Video):

"The Ride Majestic" is the title track (and first single) from Soilwork's upcoming album The Ride Majestic, which will be released on August 28th, 2015 via Nuclear Blast Records.

Everclear - Santa Monica (Live):

"Santa Monica" is taken from Everclear's sophomore (and break through) album Sparkle and Fade, which was released on May 23rd, 1995 via Capitol Records.

Everclear - The Man Who Broke His Own Heart (Live):

"The Man Who Broke His Own Heart" is taken from Everclear's latest album Black Is the New Black, which was released on April 24th, 2015 via The End Records.

August Burns Red - Identity (Guitar Play Through):

"Identity" is taken from August Burns Red's latest album Found Away In Far Places, which was released on June 29th, 2015 via Fearless Records.

Sirens & Sailors - Chorus Of The Dead (Audio Only):

"Chorus of the Dead" is taken from Sirens & Sailors upcoming album Rising Moon: Setting Sun, which will be released on August 7th, 2015 via Artery Recordings.

We Came As Romans - Tear It Down (Audio Only):

We Came As Romans will be released their self-titled album on July 24th, 2015 via Spinefarm Records.