Full Album Stream: Conquer Divide - Conquer Divide

The "Full Album Streams" section of this blog not only gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to act as a hub to explore), but also a chance for you all 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 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 three countries (UK, USA, and Serbia), this six-piece all female group rose to the ranks in 2015 with the release of their debut self-titled album, which put them on various supporting tours across the US.  Although the debut was not released until 2015, the group has maintained consistency since 2005, when the initial ladies (Kristen Woutersz and Suzie Reagan) started creating their original tracks.  This caught the attention of producer Joey Sturgis, who also produced their debut album.

After a few changes, the lineup has consistently been:

Kiarely "Kia" Castillo - Vocals | Janel Duarte - Vocals | Kristen Woutersz - Guitar

Isabel "Izzy" Johnson - Guitar | Tamara Tadic - Drums

Conquer Divide's debut self-titled album was released on July 24th, 2015 via Artery Recordings.  As mentioned before, it was produced by Joey Sturgis, who has also worked with bands such as We Came As Romans, Asking Alexandria, The Devil Wears Prada, and more.

(Album artwork is courtesy of Conquer Divide and Artery Recordings)

1. Sink Your Teeth Into This (feat. Denis Stoff)*
2. Self Destruct
3. Eyes Wide Shut*
4. Nightmares
5. Lost
6. What's Left Inside*
7. At War
8. Despicable You
9. Heavy Lies the Crown*
10. Broken

(* = AFGM Recommendations)

Lyrically and musically this album is full of things to love. If you enjoy fast-paced metal with killer female vocalists (such as Kittie) you will definitely find this enjoyable. What’s more is that these gals bring these songs to life in a way you wouldn’t imagine live! Such charisma and energy… go catch them at a show. More importantly, Conquer Divide, is out now on Artery Recordings and you should get out there and pick it up! -New Transcendence



The songs that comprise Conquer Divide are solid musical works, however the beautiful vocal pairings (“Heavy Lies The Crown”) alongside melodic choruses and heavy leads (“Despicable You”)just feel dated. The technical skill and production quality make Conquer Divide a truly fine record, but a record without any remarkable innovation. Now that Conquer Divide have their feet planted in the music scene, though, they may have more room to branch out and create something spectacular next time around. - New Noise Magazine

Full Album Stream: Volumes - Different Animals

So one of the new(er) 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 Los Angeles, California, the six piece djent metal band Volumes has made great success with Mediaskare Records since their debut EP in 2009, titled The Concept of Dreaming.  Their blend of djent, rap, and funk give this group some versatility through their past two albums, Via, and No Sleep.  The group is known for its bouncy riffs, and catchy melody hooks.

The group had a slight change up in vocals, but for the past few years, the lineup has been:

Gus Farias – Vocals | Diego Farias – Guitar, keyboards | Raad Soudani – Bass

Nick Ursich – Drums | Myke Terry - Vocals

Different Animals was released on June 9th, 2017 via (newly inked) Fearless Records.  The album was produced by Brandon Paddock and Diego Farias.

(Album artwork is courtesy of Volumes and Fearless Records)

1. Waves Control
2. Finite
3. Feels Good*
4. Disaster Vehicle
5. Pieces
6. Interlude
7. Hope
8. Tide's Change
9. On Her Mind (ft. Pouya)*
10. Heavy Silence
11. Pullin' Shades*
12. Left for Dead

(* = AFGM Recommendations)

"That’s exactly what you get with the second and second-to-last tracks, with Terry’s vocals bouncing off buoyant hip hop production. “Finite” and “Pullin’ Shades” are two of Volumes’ best tracks to date and push their sound to new and more adventurous territory. The djent/prog metalcore undertone and groove is still there, but these songs are smooth, silky numbers first and foremost. I hesitate to call it urban metalcore because that gives the notion that this is nu nu-metal…" -New Noise Magazine



"I wouldn’t say this is a themed album, so much as it’s really well-balanced. Every song compliments the others without being filler, and they don’t jam all the heavy or all the tearful together. My only gripe would be that they end the album one song late – “Pullin’ Shades” is an incredible album finisher, but then we get another, perfectly acceptable “metal” track to round out the album." -Heavy Mag

Art of Anarchy - The Madness

When the music world lost Scott Weiland, he left behind lots of great memories, and also some fellow musicians that still had the urge to continue on with their music endeavors.  While most people would list Stone Temple Pilots or Velvet Revolver as the first choices for this void, I was referring to his loosely associated band Art of Anarchy.  Now, let's be real, Scott didn't invest much time and effort into this band, despite the lineup having some fame with GnR's Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal or Disturbed's John Moyer.  Once hearing the band put out their debut album, I was very impressed with both the production and the musicianship.  The vocal were obviously awesome, but the band definitely had a good sound going.

So after the untimely death of Scott, the band was left with yet another void to fill.  It's almost uncanny they hired another 90's hit maker, and a singer with his own personal issues to work out.  In a shock to the music world, Creed's Scott Stapp had come out of hiding (after his series of drug abuse and counselling session) and stepped up to the plate.  This was a different dynamic for Scott to work with.  It was heavier, faster, and more along the lines of metal.  I guess that's interesting on how the other members of Creed formed an equally heavier band called Alter Bridge.


(Photo courtesy of Century Media Records)

Anyways, Art of Anarchy came roaring back with their new singer, and a new album.  I was over impressed with the compatibility of the members.  While Scott's voice was recognizable, Scott's deep voice complimented the sound of the band, and can be heard throughout the first few tracks such as "No Surrender", and "The Madness".  Keep in mind that they can definitely keep the ballads coming as well, such as "Let You Down".



While I have always been a Scott fan since his "Human Clay" days, I really hope that Scott continues on with Art of Anarchy.  I think it's a great fit for him, and the band has sounded better than ever (there are a few shredding moments throughout the album that are fantastic).  It also seems like a great mutual benefit for all parties as well; Scott gets to continue making music like he always has, as well as his name bringing a slew of fans and some popularity.

"The Madness" was released on March 24th, 2017 via Century Media Records.

(Album artwork courtesy of Century Media)

1. Echo of a Scream
2. 1000 Degrees
3. No Surrender
4. The Madness
5. Won't Let You Down
6. Changed Man
7. A Light in Me
8. Somber
9. Dancing with the Devil
10. Afterburn

Full Album Stream: Born of Osiris - The Eternal Reign

The "Full Album Streams" section of this blog not only gave folks something to listen to when they are cruising the site (being that the original intention of this site was to act as a hub to explore), but also a chance for you all 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 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)

Born of Osiris is a five piece group hailing from Palatine, Illinois.  The group has put out four LPs, and now two EPs under the current BOO moniker.  While this was expected to be B-sides and rarities (like most bands do for rehashing old material), Born of Osiris took a different path by re-recording their debut EP, adding a new track, and played it in it's entirety during their early 2017 tour.

On Feb. 24, Born of Osiris will release The Eternal Reign, which is a completely re-recorded and re-envisioned version of The New Reign. The release also includes a brand new song titled "Glorious Day". The track, which is available for your listening pleasure, was one of their first originally written for The New Reign, but it didn't make the cut. -AXS

"The Eternal Reign" was released on February 24th, 2017 via Sumerian Records.  The album was produced by Nick Sampson, who has also worked with bands such as Erra, Miss May I, We Came As Romans, Asking Alexandria, and many more!  For this EP, the group consists of:

Ronnie Canizaro - Vocals | Joe Buras - Vocals/Keyboards/Synth

Lee McKinney - Guitars | David Darocha - Bass | Cameron Losch - Drums

(Album artwork courtesy of Sumerian Records)

1. Rosecrance
2. Empires Erased
3. Open Arms to Damnation
4. Abstract Art
5. The New Reign
6. Brace Legs
7. Bow Down
8. The Takeover
9. Glorious Day


Wrapped and topped with a big bow for their die-hard faithful, The Eternal Reign improves upon the debut with polished production that results in a sharper, more punishing attack. While the original sounded like the band was trapped inside a thick fog, the 2017 update reveals more range to the Osiris spectrum. -All Music

Eighteen Visions - XVIII

Not long long ago, back in 2004, I was absolutely cranking this new album called "Obsession" in my home, my old man's car, and on my headphones to and from school.  While this was Eighteen Visions' third album on a major label, this was my first album with them.  I saturated it like a sponge, much like everything when you're 17 years old.

Well as luck would have it, they jumped on a major tour across Canada/US alongside 36 Crazyfists, From Autumn To Ashes, and Killswitch Engage.  It was almost guaranteed to be both one amazing show, and a high grossing tour for all the bands.  Jumping into a car with three of my buddies, we booked it down the highway to London, ON to The Drink Nightclub to watch the chaos unfold.  Eighteen Visions didn't have the pull like the headliners obviously did, but damn did they sound great in their signature black dress attire.

(Photo courtesy of Travis Shinn)

After another partially successful self-titled album in 2004, Eighteen Vision decided to call it quits and move onto solo projects.  I casually followed James when he was doing Burn Halo albums, but at that point my music tastes exploded, and was onto other bands.

However, when I hear that Eighteen Visions decided to 'get the ol gang back together', I will admit I was a bit hesitant.  Not that I didn't have faith they could make music again, but if their age got the best of them, only to cash in on a  little notoriety if you will.  So after a few months of waiting, I finally sat down and listened to "XVIII", the return of 18V.  I was not only happy to hear the return, but daaaammmnnn they kept it heavy!  Tracks such as "Live Again" and "Oath" bring the down-tuned screamo back full circle, just like they did for "Tower of Snakes".



The guys have really hit their mark with their return to the music scene after ten years of bands coming and going.  James' vocals are on point for both pitch and storytelling.  They album cover, the music videos, and the sound are bringing back that black signature look of the band.  It's almost as if they had nothing left to lose when making this new album and just went back to what they knew.  I give them great kudos for this, as this album has been spinning more times than my roommates care to hear. haha

"XVIII" was released on June 2nd, 2017 via [newly inked relationship] Rise Records.

(Album artwork courtesy of coreradio.ru)

1. Crucified
2. The Disease, The Decline, The Wasted Time
3. Underneath My Gun
4. Live Again
5. Laid To Waste In The Shit Of Man
6. Oath
7. Spit
8. Picture Perfect
9. Fake Leather Jacket
10. For This I Sacrifice

Accessing Concert Information / 3 Doors Down Review (March 18th, 2017)

I think access to information is a good thing.

Let me elaborate this and give back ground.  My girlfriend and I were knocking another amazing band off the bucket a few Saturday nights ago.  I recalled many conversations in the past with music fans about the amount of access you can get either with the band (aka social media) or the tour information, such as who's the opening act, what time are the sets, and what songs they will likely be playing.  A fair amount of people I had this discussion with generally like the element of surprise when it comes to their favourite bands.  And who could argue?  Who doesn't want a touch of magic to sprinkle on the evening when some of your favouite bands grace the stage.  So the reason I find a lot of this information is useful is not for the sake of knowledge, but can sometimes be beneficial to your evening.

 

(*No photo pass for this concert, so my girlfriend snapped a few shots from her phone.*)

Take this night for example.  A date night filled with delicious food, drink, and sights to view.  While the night was ultimately reserved for the boys in 3 Doors Down, we read on our tickets that the show as going to be playing until almost 2am.  That had me constantly looking for information to support this theory that they weren't on stage till later in the evening.  I have had many encounters where we get in early for bands, and subjected to 3, 4, 5 opening acts.  One would argue that's all icing on the cake, but sometimes i can be very time consuming for the evening, especially when you have no interest in the opening acts.  Sorry to say it music lovers, but even opening acts can get a little stale at times.

So going back to the show, we decided to forego the hockey game we had planned prior to the concert, simply because we couldn't understand why 3DD was going on so late in the night.  Turns out it was for a good reason.  I have found that if you are having a hard time finding information on the ticket sales site or the official venue website, social media is a great place to find some of that necessary information you might need.  After scouring multiple event pages and official websites, we saw that the show was starting at 8:30pm SHARP.  With finally finding out there was no other opening acts except the one listed on the page, we knew this show would not be running till the 2am time like on the tickets we ordered.


(*No photo pass for this concert, so my girlfriend snapped a few shots from her phone.*)

Thankfully we managed to find out this information on our phones as we're having a drink across the street.  Bill paid, coats on, and across the street juuuust in time to catch the fourth song of their set.  While we were still late to the game, it could have been a lot worse had we followed the information on our tickets.

So what was the reason for this post?  Well, to explain that this information you can find online is a double edge sword.  I completely understand the need to keep things suspenseful, but can also help if you are in a bind.  Places such as Facebook, Twitter, and Setlist.fm serve as great tools for information that you may or may not need.  Use at your own discretion.


(*No photo pass for this concert, so my girlfriend snapped a few shots from her phone.*)

As for the concert itself.  I turned to my girlfriend, and said to her "you can tell these guys have been playing together for many years", as the sound, timing, tone, and interaction were all top notch.  Not necessarily going down in the books as one of the most amazing, but damn did they hold their own.  The venue, The Palace Theater, was also a great venue for this show.  The intimacy felt like it was a big family all waiting around to sing songs together.  The acoustics were great, and got a first hand view of the sound guy doing his thing as we hung around the sound board.  I mean, where else in the venue are you going to hear the show the way it was tweaked to be?!

 I got to relive a lot of songs I sang in my youth ("Kryptonite", "Here Without You", "When I'm Gone", etc.), and came to many point where fans were drowning out the band from singing.  That always makes me feel like it was a successful evening.  The energy and happiness in that place couldn't be more apparent!

Spotify For The Win!

Call me late tot he game on this, but I am really enjoying the versatility of Spotify as a streaming source for music.  I at first was skeptical of using the service because of the cost versus artist availability.  That was until I was given an invitation for a premium account from a family member (Thanks Simon!) to try it out without any ads, or introductory time frames.

What won me over was a combination of many things, especially for the mobile devices.  The accessibility to a huge selection of artists to start.  Spotify has obtained quite the roster of bands and compilations over the years.  This comes in very handy for me when I make my playlists.  So not only can you search for other people's playlists, but you can following top trending ones, radio stations, and also create tons of your own!

(Photo courtesy of Spotify: Design Resources)

Another bonus feature that sealed the deal for me was the ability to download as many songs as I wanted (on the premium account) for offline use when I am in an area that doesn't have WiFi, or signal issues, which can be frequent in the mountain areas nearby.  It's a relatively easy process to download, remove, and add new downloads.  You can do them as a whole playlist, a whole album, or individual songs of your choosing.

So far, the playlists have been a hit. I have been sharing them with a few family and friends, and hoping to add to them as I discover more and more artists.  Add me if you are a member (afgallagher86).  I believe it's also free to sign up!

Alexisonfire - Live At Copps

A wonderful flashback occurred recently.

It was a crisp, cold GTA evening in the end of December, 2012.  After returning from holiday festivities in my hometown, I grabbed our whack of tickets and took off for three nights of Alexisonfire at the Sound Academy.  Being that it was supposed to be their farewell tour, I was looking forward to the band and crowd energy at each show.  Needless to say the GF and I suffered a few bruises and bumps in the mosh pit/entire crowd (haha).

So after they depart from the city after four days of havoc, I received a text message from my buddy John, asking if I was available that evening.  With no idea what he's got planned, or any real plans myself, I was happy to tag along.  I had a slight suspicion anyways, being that he attended previous shows with us.

(Courtesy of theonlybandever.com)

We ended up in Hamilton for Alexisonfire and their [apparent] farewell show after 10+ years as a band.  While St. Catherines is the guys hometown, Copps Coliseum felt the perfect venue for fans all across the Niagara region and the GTA.

With Moneen warming up the crowd as we entered the venue, there was a great vibe in the air, and a huge crowd screaming, eagerly awaiting what would eb the final time anyone was going to see these five on stage together.

Shortly after an energetic show from Moneen, the five gentlemen took the stage, and gave it all they had.  I would normally find myself in the moshpits for something such as this, I decided to lick my wounds from previous evenings and watch the night unfold by the sound booth.

So the flashback came from John a few weeks ago when he shared that concert with me (Thanks John!).  I had noooo idea this was being filmed, but remembered saying something along those lines when I was in Copps.  So, here is that full concert, courtesy of Dine Alone records!

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue Review

So here I am sitting at a computer with a great review in my head to write about, but lacking the creativity to word it together.  I think it's best to start from the beginning of the evening.  Last minute decision by my girlfriend Allison, we luckily snagged tickets hours before Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue was to take the stage at the Jack Singer concert hall.  I like to think it was good karma as I tried to enter a promo password, and managed to knock a couple of bucks off each ticket.  Now thinking about it in hindsight, I would have gladly paid full price for this concert.

We managed to find the entrance quite easily, despite the ongoing construction outside the venue.  I have to say I was both impressed and taken back by the layout of Jack Singer.  It had the aesthetics that resembled both a modern touch, and a throw back to something I would have seen in the 80s.  The gold plated railings I think helped this vibe.  Regardless of aesthetics, the place was beautifully set up, the bar staff were friendly and fast, and the sound barriers were awesome!



As we got to our section, we were greeted by an usher who was very helpful in us finding our seats, and explaining rules of entering/exiting during performances.  We waltzed into the concert about 10 minutes late of starting time.  Needless to say the show was already off to a great start, with a handful of fans.  Both myself and my girlfriend were instantly connected with the tunes going on inside the hall.  The trumpet was flying, the drum beats were getting faster, and everyone was up and dancing in the venue.  Did I mention it looked close to a sellout?  Very impressive Calgary!

(Snapped this from our seats on my phone.  Not a bad view!)

Being that I am not overly familiar with his work, I didn't know many of the songs.  However, there were many times where the improv started to seep through the saxophone or trombone, and seem like it wasn't going to stop.  We loved it!  There was a point where the boys even busted out their own rendition of "Give It Away" from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.  It clicked in afterwards that they recently announced a tour with them in the US, with two Canadian dates (Toronto and Vancouver), so it seemed like a nice tribute to them.

The show lasted just under two hours all together, which seemed a lot shorter than we wanted.  Call us selfish for it, but we have consistently enjoyed Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue so we are always ready for extended performances.  This made it our third time watching his highly energetic performance (the other two were in Toronto's Nathan Phillips Square, and Washington DC's RFK Stadium).  While most of my show reviews tend to be hard rock and metal shows, it's very refreshing to have a change of beat, and get down with something that you can dance to.  The style and approach that Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue give is both throwback, with a modern personal spin.



I would highly recommend this show to most of my readers who are able to appreciate a good love of jazz, blues, and big band.  He has been consistent in his tour schedule, so let's hope he makes a speedy return to Calgary for another performance (coughsummertimeoutdoorscough).

Respect Given, Respect Earned

It was the perfect setting for the summer.  Family and friends paying their visits to our home in Calgary, the weather was sunny, the BBQ was ready for cooking, the fire pit in the backyard was roaring, and on the television we tuned in to the final show of arguably Canada's greatest band.

I was one of 11+ million Canadians that tuned into the CBC to pay respects and watch the farewell that The Tragically Hip gave to their fans.  Now I am sure most of you heard SOMETHING about this before reading this article.  Lead vocalist Gord Downie was unfortunately diagnosed with terminal brain cancer (to lay it out as easy as possible).  Being the true musician he is, he decided, along with the band, to say goodbye in the best way they could...they went on tour!

After a few weeks of sold out concerts across the country, they said their final goodbyes in their hometown of Kingston, Ontario.  It was a pretty memorable moment to say the least.  Our Prime Minister showed up in a typical Canadian tuxedo (aka jean pants and jean jacket), the 6000 person venue was packed to the limit, as well as twenty thousand spectators outside the venue, and our beloved CBC cut live feeds from Rio's Olympics to give Canadians what they really wanted to see that night.

(Photo courtesy of The Tragically Hip Blog)

Let me be honest with you all though, I was never a real Hip fan.  I had numerous opportunities to attend their final shows in Calgary, but thought it would be rude of me to grab tickets for a band that others have waited endlessly to see.  Their tunes were fun, but never in my playlists or catalogue.  However, I ALWAYS sing along to "Ahead By A Century" when it hits the radio waves.

Once the show got underway on Saturday night, and reading multiple articles about this farewell tour, I'll admit I got a little emotional, much like the rest of the country.  Gord and the gang was giving 120% all evening, and they themselves could not hold back a few tears towards the end.  This was a turning point for me, and goes back on a belief I have always had about music.  You may not like the band, the music, or even the musicians, but you HAVE to respect what they have done for millions of their fans, and the effort that goes into their 30+ year career.

In the end of this lil rant, I just hope someone is reading this and thinking "You know what, I may not feel that connection to the music, but I equally respect what they have done over their career".  That is what music should all be about.  Different strokes for different folks, but a sense of respect for a legendary band who have brought smiles, hopes, and dreams to fans.

Now after saying this, I am feeling the urge to go back to my PVR tonight and watching the farewell one last time.

Ticket Stub Doormats?

I am sure that many of you readers have collected ticket stubs from the various concerts you have attended over the years.  I have spent a good portion of my life collecting these artifacts from my teens and early twenties, some of which are residing in pictures frames due to frailty.

So if you're like me and want to try and keep these stubs in your memory, a company based out of Metairie (borderline New Orleans) is now able to print those ticket stubs onto mugs, mats, etc.  While I understand it seems like we've been able to put photos on almost anything, this was on of the first times I have seen a company do this with ticket stub.

 

(Photo courtesy of Lakeside Photo Works)

 

I know what you are all thinking at this point.  You don't want to part with that stub that has been sitting in your collection for 10, 15, 20+ years.  That's quite OK, as I myself had doubts at first.  As it stands, there are three options they provide, which all look pretty safe and secure:

1. Capture your stub using your smartphone.

 

2. Mail your stubs to Lakeside Camera Photoworks.  Mailing in your tickets is the best way to ensure a quality mat. All tickets will be returned with your completed order.  All work is done in house by real live humans. Normal service turnaround is three business days + shipping if we ship.

 

3. If you're in the New Orleans area, bring your stub(s) in to Lakeside Camera Photoworks at 3508 21st Street in Metairie, Louisiana 70002. We are located across Severn Avenue from the Lakeside Mall, right next to Phil’s Grill.

 

Now there isn't any indication on the website that these items can be shipped internationally, but I am almost willing to give it a shot and see how much the shipping and handling costs.  If anyone has the chance to order from them, we'd love to hear your thoughts on the experience!

Hopsin @ Marquee Beer Market

This was my first photo shoot in Calgary, and I couldn't be happier that it was a hip-hop show.  I have to admit at first, Calgary did not strike me as a hip-hop city.  Maybe that is just the perception you get from being an outsider, and from a different part of the country.  My assumption was proven wrong when I showed up to the venue, with a lineup stretching around the corner of the building, and a packed house already inside.

Thanks to a photo pass from Nightshift Entertainment, I was able to walk freely around the venue, backstage, and stick around the wings of the stage to snap as much as I wanted throughout the evening.  It gave me a much better perspective of the concert, and personally, some better photos to paint the picture of the evening.  The entire crew working during the evening (Nightshift and associates) was very helpful, friendly, and great to hang around with.  It definitely made the evening much more enjoyable.

There were a few opening acts for the evening, which all did a great job of getting the crowd warmed up for the headliner.  But the entire evening had chants for the imminent arrival of Hopsin.  Here are a few of the shots I took over the course of his set.  I always believe that evening during a shoot, stop and enjoy the moment that you are in.  I started to watch fans interacting with Hopsin at that moment.  It was a great evening to capture on camera.  Head over to my Facebook page to check out a few other ones I took.

Show Review: August Burns Red @ MacEwan Hall, Calgary

So despite me attending at least a handful of shows in Calgary so far, I have yet to do reviews on them.  It's kind of that debacle between paying attention to the details of the show, or having a couple beers and just enjoying the sights/sounds/people.  More often than none my laziness has taken over and I just want to be one of the fans enjoying music.  On the other hand, August Burns Red's performance on Tuesday night (March 29th) invoked a response.

While touring across Canada/US on a co-headlining tour alongside Between The Buried and Me, August Burns Red hosted many eager fans at the University of Calgary's MacEwan Hall.  Me being the party pooper I am, I missed the opening acts of the show due to my day job.  However, we (the girlfriend and I) managed to make our way in for the tail end of BTBAM's performance, which ended amazing due to their dueling guitar solo(s).  While not being a major fan of BTBAM, this was definitely worth the price of the ticket.  Hint hint, they are some major talented artists!

(Photo courtesy of August Burns Red, and Wikipedia)

Now we move onto the main attraction of the evening.  Being that it has been many years since I have seen them take the stage, I had a million different thoughts going through my head.  My first thought was 'they better play some of the tunes I want to hear', like any other selfish music lover would want.  Despite them not playing "Truth of a Liar" or "A Shot Below The Belt", the entire show screamed of professionalism.  The lighting for the show was perfect, the sound was almost perfect the entire time, the crowd energy was very apparent, and the band had equal tons of energy to expel in their fourteen song set.  Check it out below:

1. Martyr
2. Identity
3. Empire
4. Everlasting Ending
5. Spirit Breaker
6. Cutting the Ties
7. Provision
8. Back Burner
9. Ghosts
10. Marianas Trench
11. Composure
12. Majoring in the Minors
13. Drum Solo
14. White Washed

From "Martyr" to "White Washed", the five members seemed like they were both enjoying themselves, and giving 110%.  All in all, a win in my books, and a reminder of why I pay to see them every time they come through town.

Crystal Lake - Rollin

Well good morning/afternoon to all you fine people out there!  I trust you all have your headphones blasted, and your car speakers pumping out the good tunes.  While life in Calgary has me away from the computer for weeks at a time, I felt the need to drop a well needed video for this Thursday.

(Photo courtesy of Crystal Lake, and Artery Recordings)

Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Crystal Lake have made quite the splash (all puns intended) in the metal world, especially after their newly inked deal with Artery Recordings.  Now I must admit that so many bands fly past my radar, this one might have been on that list.  However, me being the closet Limp Bizkit fan I am, I couldn't help but blast the shit out of their "Rollin" cover.  It was just released back in September, so still rather fresh on the internet.  Check it out below!



If you like what you heard, then be sure to check out their other material on their official website.  Cheers and enjoy the good tunes!

Audrey Horne - Pure Heavy

OK, so there has been one band on my playlist for some time now, and I cannot seem to bring myself to deleting it.  Despite the fact that band members had previously played in black metal bands such as Gorgoroth and Enslaved, Bergen, Norway's Audrey Horne has been honing in their classic rock band sound since 2002.

Their latest album, Pure Heavy, has been a staple on my playlist for well over a year.  I think the overall groove of the album has made it rather fun, even after multiple plays.  For those that find the name familiar, the band was named after famous fictional character Audrey Horne from the ABC show Twin Peaks.  I have not watched the show to find the reason why they did so.  haha



I was rather surprised to find out the group was from Norway after hearing the first couple of tracks, but who knows, maybe their is a huge underground market I have yet to discover?  Pure Heavy is one of those albums you can spin from start to finish, as the tracks all tend to flow together quite well.  The band currently consists of:

Torkjell Rød/Toschie - Vocals | Arve Isdal/Ice Dale - Guitar | Thomas Tofthagen - Guitar

Kjetil Greve - Drums | Espen Lien - Bass

"Audrey Horne are a band that have very much sailed their own vessel since launching and ‘Pure Heavy’ is another strong album on this remarkable voyage." -Planet Mosh

(Album artwork courtesy of Audrey Horne and Napalm Records)

1. Wolf In My Heart
2. Holy Roller
3. Out Of The City
4. Volcano Girl
5. Tales From The Crypt
6. Diamond
7. Into The Wild
8. Gravity
9. High And Dry
10. Waiting For The Night
11. Boy Wonder

Pure Heavy is the fifth LP from AH, and was released on September 29th, 2014 via Napalm Records.  I think any rocker that appreciates a good melody, and a solid riff can appreciate these guys.  They're my go-to group when I need a morning pick me up, or my after work cruise home.



So if there was one album you can get antiquated to this coming spring/summer, it has to be Pure Heavy.  Cheers!

"Pure Heavy is pure joy and if I have a complaint, it’s that it didn’t drop three months ago so it could have been the soundtrack to the summer. Music this much fun almost had to be conceived and recorded by guys half in the bag, and it’ll make you feel like you need to catch up toot sweet." -Angry Metal Guy

Full Album Stream: Parkway Drive - Ire

So one of the new(er) 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 Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia, the five piece group Parkway Drive have undeniably made a name for themselves in the heavy metal world.  Since the band's inception in 2003, the group has released five LPs, one EP, two DVDs, and has toured countless times across the globe for millions of fans.

The group has seen great success with the release of their latest album, Ire, which was released on September 25th, 2015 via Resist/Epitaph Records.  It's nice to note that the recording of this album was done primarily in Mississauga, ON (Metalworks Studio), and Ottawa, ON (All Buttons In Studio).

The group members have remained consistent since 2006 (with a replacement of bass duties), so the lineup for most of their albums has been:

Ben "Gaz" Gordon – Drums | Luke "Pig" Kilpatrick – Guitar | Jeff Ling – Guitar

Winston McCall – Vocals | Jia "Pie" O'Connor – Bass

(Album artwork is courtesy of Parkway Drive and Epitaph Records)

1. Destroyer

2. Dying To Believe

3. Vice Grip*

4. Crushed*

5. Fractures

6. Writings on the Wall

7. Bottom Feeder*

8. The Sound of Violence

9. Vicious*

10. Dedicated

11. A Deathless Song

(* = AFGM Recommendations)

"The Sound of Violence" and "Destroyer" lay Jeff Ling and Luke Kilpatrick's shredding on thicker than helicopter memes on disgraced parliamentary speakers – with McCall's vocals dialled up to strip-paint level – and there's also the now-almost obligatory hardcore 'fuck the haters, this one's for you' cut in the breakdown-laden "Dedicated". As a result, Ire is Parkway Drive in their natural state: uncompromising and brutal. -Rolling Stone Australia

Ire, the fifth album in the band’s growing catalog, is exactly the release Parkway Drive needed at this point in their career. It’s a bold and brash reinvention that finds the band taking every element of their sound to a new level, including the vocals of McCall. Epitaph reportedly invested in a talent coach to help the frontman better his talent, and the results are present on every minute of Ire. The music has matured further as well, bringing together elements of rock, metal, punk and just a dash of everything in between to create a tough, yet inviting sound. “Bottom Feeder,” for example, offers both the heaviest and catchiest song on the record. -Under The Gun Review

American Wake (Nova Scotia)

I have to admit that I have watched this video a few times now, and still cannot get enough of the versatility between AFGM favourite Angel Vivaldi, and YouTube music lover Ben Eller.

Largely known for a track in Riverdance, American Wake (Nova Scotia) is a much different choice of song than what I am used to for these two gentlemen, but I guess that explains my fascination for it.  Not to mention the amazing equipment they are playing, the precision of the song requires quite the finger work when in sync, and these two make it seem easily accomplished.

Anyways, I just thought to throw this video on AFGM for you all to enjoy, as I have.  Cheers!

Crimson and Blue

I couldn't very well jump on the blog today, and not give a shout out to a great friend and musician of mine.  Straight out of my hometown Chatham, now relocated to Toronto, Jeremy de Freitas has spent countless hours putting together a solo career worth mentioning.  It was very often that my visits with him would turn into jam sessions.  You know when you're at a party, and that one guy always has a guitar on hand?  That would be Jeremy. haha

So that being said, he dropped his first solo material a couple weeks ago, and I suggest that you give it a listen.  Without trying to be biased, his single "Crimson and Blue" has a great vibe to it, as the blend of guitar, strings, and vocals had me clicking replay a few times.  "Crimon and Blue" is taken from Jeremy's debut album Crossed Off, which was released on January 6th, 2016.

Cheers!

Respect for Musicians

So it's been long periods in between entries here, and I do apologize.  The relocation to Calgary from Toronto has kept me rather busy, and will continue to do so for quite some time.  However, there has been a large amount of coverage for major music news the past few months.  This of course circulates around the untimely deaths of musicians Lemmy Kilmister, David Bowie, and most recent Glenn Frey.  I want to first and foremost wanted to acknowledge that I was not a big listener of any of these artists, nor did I own any of their records.  I think that point might help me explain the emotional connection to their music.

I think one of the biggest factor in my diversity of music has to come down to respect.  All three artists did not appeal to me with music really.  I admit, I'd dabble from time to time in their hit singles, or leave the radio station on if their songs were playing.  I never went out of my way to listen to them though.  Their deaths sent shock waves through the music industry, and even outside fans (such as myself) felt these guys deserved some respect for the impact they had on society.  Lemmy taught me to just rock, and let the music do the talking.  Bowie taught me that it was OK to listen and enjoy to music that was against the norm, and Frey taught me the connection of music between old and young listeners.  I can't remember how many time I have seen friends/family members all singing "Hotel California" when it comes on the playlist.

Regardless if it was "Ace of Spades", "Let's Dance", or "Take It Easy", these musicians had impact that far stretched beyond their music.  These are great examples of how music influences society in the ways we think and act.  You may not have to enjoy their music, but there is a level of respect that each of them gained over their lives.  The record sales are not my driving factor for this respect, but more the impact they had on people around you.  If you don't believe me, watch one of their live performances on YouTube, and watch the emotional reaction(s) that fans had for their favourite artists.

Rant done.

RIP Lemmy, David, and Glenn.

Black Stone Cherry - Kentucky

Black Stone Cherry has been one of those bands that has grown on me after some years.  The group landed on Roadrunner Records back in 2006 (I honestly thought they were signed to compete with other label mates such as Nickelback and Theory of a Deadman), and made quite the splash with their country twang twist on rock n roll.  Now fast forward almost a decade later, and the four piece southern rockers have produced four albums, three extended plays, toured countless around the globe, sold a substantial amount of albums, and now have plans to drop their fifth album titled Kentucky (where the boys are originally from).  Check out the latest single from them titled "The Way of the Future".



Not a bad start to the album after a very successful run of their fourth Magic Mountain.  Being that the band has turned to more of a heavy side in their last few albums, it was nice to hear some of that heaviness carry on, of course alongside that southern twang.  The fifth album, Kentucky, will be released on April 1st, 2016 (no "foolin" folks).  This will mark the first album after being signed to new label Mascot Label Group.

As of February 3rd, 2016, the band uploaded one of their new music videos for the new single "In Our Dreams".  Check it out below:



Damn if that doesn't have a little down tune fun to it.  I think one aspect of this band I have always enjoyed was the ability of the melody.  They frequently have great hooks, and make the song seem full circle without being bound to the same formula.  Anyways, my thoughts on the new music video, and looking forward to hearing more!

This news was all revealed just a few weeks ago, so be sure to check their official website, or AFGM for updates such as new music, track listings, pre-orders, etc.  Cheers, and keep on rocking!