for more articles of a band, please click on the name of a band
1984 BY GEORGINA – TOP 15 ALBUMS FOR 2023 – THE 69 EYES – ASKING ALEXANDRIA – ATENA – AVATAR – BUTCHER BABIES – HEX A.D. – INSOMNIUM – SEVENDUST – STITCHED UP HEART – THERION – TRIUMPH OF DEATH
Georgina’s top 15 albums of 2023
re-posted from the metal pit
My pick for my favorite album of the year is Swedish Metal band Avatar and their 9th studio album ‘Dance Devil Dance’.
I saw them live in NYC this year and they put on a awesome fun energized show.
The rest of my list is filled with a wide range of genres with some classic bands like Overkill, Saxon and Metallica who continue to put out solid albums and some heavy hitters like Cannibal Corpse and Enslaved.
It has been a great year for metal and looking for more in 2024.
Metal is my lifeblood!!!
Avatar – Dance Devil Dance
Avenged Sevenfold – Life Is But A Dream
Baroness – Stone (Abraxan Hymns)
Cannibal Corpse – Chaos Horrific
Enslaved – Heimdal
Cirith Ungol – Dark Parade
Within Temptation – Bleed Out
Steel Panther – On The Prowl
Godsmack – Light Up The Sky
Overkill – Scorched
Metallica – 72 Seasons
Paul Gilbert – The Dio Album
Dope – Blood Money
Saxon – More Inspirations
Insomnium – Anno 1696
by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
Swedish symphonic metal legend
THERION
released album
‘Leviathan III’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
track-list:
Ninkigal
Ruler of Tamag
An Unsung Lament
Maleficium
Ayahuasca
Baccanale
Midsommarblot
What Was Lost Shall Be Lost No More
Duende
Nummo
Twilight of the Gods
Therion is one of the foremost bands in the symphonic metal scene, and it’s easy to see why.
The group made a huge impact on the genre with its contribution, pushing the envelope and setting the bar higher with its massive wall of sound.
The band emerged in the early 1990s when metal acts were experimenting with incorporating orchestral and symphonic elements into their music.
However, Therion took the concept further by blending metal with classical and operatic elements.
This is something that we kind of take for granted today, and it’s partly due to the impact of this band!
With such a significant background, a new release from Therion is always exciting.
Their upcoming album, ‘Leviathan III’ is yet another chapter in the band’s saga.
Therion is renowned for creating concept albums and ambitious projects that go beyond the typical structure of metal albums, and this is no exception.
This eclectic studio work features 11 tracks, marking the band’s progressive leanings and constant willingness to embrace new challenges while staying true to its aesthetics.
Available through Napalm Records, the album is the third installment in the ‘Leviathan’ trilogy and perhaps the longest and most intense of the three releases.
The sonic variety is truly impressive.
Not only is there room for traditional metal influences and large symphonic sections, but The band also explores unique ideas, such as a the flamenco-tinged melodies of the song ‘Duende’, which are completely unexpected.
The song ‘Twilight Of The Gods’ offers a brooding, doom-infused arrangement, serving as a truly ethereal and raw segment on the album.
Overall, ‘Leviathan III’ denotes Therion’s willingness to evolve and experiment with its sound.
With so many years under its belt, the band doesn’t need to prove anything, but it’s still eager to make steps forward and enhance the creativity of its vision.
Swiss extreme metal band
TRIUMPH OF DEATH
released live album
‘Resurrection Of The Flesh Live, 2023’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
track-list:
The Third Of The Storms (Evoked Damnation)
Massacra
Maniac
Blood Insanity
Decapitator
Crucifixion
Reaper
Horus/Aggressor
Revelations Of Doom
Messiah
Visions Of Mortality
Triumph Of Death
Triumph Of Death is a Swiss extreme metal band formed by Thomas Gabriel Fischer (aka Tom Warrior), a now legendary musician who pioneered the scene with his influential work with Hellhammer and Celtic Frost, among others.
Triumph Of Death/Triptykon is his latest musical endeavor and this time, it is an opportunity for the artist to focus on darker metal with an uncompromising and innovative approach.
The band’s most recent studio effort, Triumph Of Death, ‘Resurrection Of The Flesh’, is a haunting blend of doom, death, and black metal, characterized by ominous riffs, atmospheric textures, and Fischer’s distinctive growls.
More importantly, this happens to be a live album, and it is a really spot-on portrait of the band in a live setting.
The record consists of twelve songs, including heavy hitters such as ‘Massacra’, which stands out for its hardcore influences and grinding bass tone.
Overall, this live release lets the band’s doomier side shine through, particularly when it comes to the massive low end in the mix.
The song ‘Decapitator’ is a perfect example.
The track kicks off with a menacing bass riff akin to some earlier Black Sabbath.
However, the drum beat quickly moves from a slow, shadowy groove to a faster tempo with some prominent double pedal pulses.
There is also room for a more old-school metal approach, particularly on songs such as ‘Horus Aggressor’, which immediately stands out with the urgency of the intro riff as well as its ghostly vocal performance, with a prominent echo effect adding an eerie texture to the singing.
Ultimately, this release is not only enjoyable as a well-recorded (and extremely well-mixed) live album, it is also a testament to a true metal legend and a snapshot of one of his most visceral musical projects to date.
Triumph Of Death, ‘Resurrection Of The Flesh’ is out now via Napalm Records.
review by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
Finnish melodic death metallers
INSOMNIUM
released EP
‘Songs Of The Dusk’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
track-list:
Flowers of the Night
Stained in Red
Song of the Dusk
Finland Tour 2024
Support: Hexvessel
22.2.2024 Jyväskylä – Lutakko
23.2.2024 Tampere – Tullikamarin Pakkahuone
24.2.2024 Turku – Logomo Teatro
01.3.2024 Joensuu – Kerubi
02.3.2024 Lahti – Möysän Musaklubi
08.3.2024 Helsinki – Vanha Ylioppilastalo
09.3.2024 Seinäjoki – Rymikorjaamo
Insomnium are a band with focus on creating music that sets the bar higher when it comes to melodic death metal.
The Finnish band have established themselves as one of the most notable names on the scene, continuing to dish out masterpieces, which includes their ninth full-length, ‘Anno 1696’.
The band’s brand new EP, ‘Songs Of The Dusk’, could be seen as a kind of tangent and an addendum to the album, especially because these three songs have an affinity with the group’s creative direction on ‘Anno 1696’.
It’s almost as if Insominum took the opportunity to load this short, diverse EP with some of the ideas they wanted to pursue on the their last full-length album, but didn’t get the chance to do so for the sake of album continuity.
The EP seems incredibly free of shackles, and it allows the band to branch out and explore different ideas.
Point in case, the EP only features three songs, but it’s actually over twenty minutes of music, a sign that the group actually took the opportunity to really indulge their broad creative range.
The title track itself, ‘Song Of The Dusk’, kicks off with a mesmerizing ambient introduction, which gradually fades into a massive wall of guitars.
The mid-tempo of the intro has a incredibly dense melodic build-up, and the song later delves into one of the band’s most ambitious and massive arrangements to date.
This track alone is a great example of the sheer variety that makes this work so special.
At about five minutes and twenty seconds in, there’s a complete change of texture and vibe, with an atmospheric instrumental segment for the extended song bridge.
The three songs on display are the perfect combination of melody, aggression, ambient and grandeur, challenging the tropes of melodic death metal, but staying true to its archetypes.
review by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
Norwegian metalcore act
ATENA
released album
‘Subway Anthem’
a review by georgina
track-list:
Ultra Ultimate Opus Power
Hard Day
Bargain
Subway Anthem
Poison Pure
Slip Away
Peeling Skin
Leave
Somebody
Oh My
ATENA presents:
‘Subway Anthem’:
A new album that defies genres and styles.
Norwegian band ATENA, is back with its latest album ‘Subway Anthem’.
In this genre-defying collection of songs, the group takes listeners on a very dynamic musical journey that is varied but surprisingly coherent, despite the myriad of directions explored by the band on the songs.
Hailing from Oslo, ATENA has been steadily building a solid worldwide reputation over the years.
With four albums under its belt prior to ‘Subway Anthem’ the band eventually set out to release this project, which feels like a particularly salient moment in their career.
‘Subway Anthem’ is a sonic landscape that combines a huge variety of sound design elements – From the expected big guitars to electronic samples, and even hip-hop influences.
In addition, there’s also an influence from classical composers, leading to a huge, cinematic scope for this release.
The band reportedly had a blast making this album:
the sense of joy and freedom is palpable throughout the album.
The songs feel unhinged and spontaneous, yet they are also meticulously arranged, showcasing the band’s technical prowess and their commitment to delivering a top-notch musical experience.
Aesthetically, the album is well-rounded, especially because of the precision of the modern production, which fits with the futuristic concept of the band’s sound.
The various musical styles blend effortlessly, creating a unique and captivating sonic experience.
To conclude, one of the defining factors of ‘Subway Anthem’ is the power of its melodies.
Each track carries its own distinct flavor, and it’s this diversity that makes the album so infectious and appealing.
ATENA took the opportunity to explore different concepts with each song, resulting in a sonic kaleidoscope that’s edgy, but also expansive.
From brutal, heavy moments that will satisfy even the most discerning metal fans to elements that nod to Pop-Punk, Metalcore, and electronic music, ‘Subway Anthem’ embraces eclecticism with open arms.
In an age where many artists stick to a well-defined sound to appease their fanbase, ATENA‘s willingness to defy genres and expectations is refreshing.
‘Subway Anthem’ stands as a testament to the band’s artistic growth and their ability to craft music that is both adventurous and relatable.
8 Rating
review by georgina
American female fronted alt-metallers
STITCHED UP HEART
released album
‘To The Wolves’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
track-list:
To The Wolves
Thunder
The Hunting
Possess Me
Immortal
Taste For Blood
Conquer and Divide
Dead Inside
The Architect
Part of Me
The End
US-tour 2023
Sun, SEP 10 Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA
Tue, SEP 12 Jergel’s Rhythm Grille Warrendale, PA
Wed, SEP 13 Columbus OH Columbus, OH
Fri, SEP 15 The Crofoot Ballroom Pontiac, MI
Sat, SEP 16 Madison Theater Covington, KY
Sun, SEP 17 Brooklyn Bowl Nashville Nashville, TN
Tue, SEP 19 Heaven at The Masquerade Atlanta, GA
Wed, SEP 20 Iron City Birmingham, AL
Fri, SEP 22 Houston TX Houston, TX
Sat, SEP 23 Dallas TX Dallas, TX
Sun, SEP 24 Vibes Event Center San Antonio, TX
Tue, SEP 26 Tempe AZ Tempe, AZ
Wed, SEP 27 Below at The Belasco Los Angeles, CA
Fri, SEP 29 Riverside Municipal Auditorium Riverside, CA
Sat, SEP 30 Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV
Sun, OCT 1 DNA Lounge San Francisco, CA
Tue, OCT 3 Seattle WA Seattle, WA
Thu, OCT 5 Portland OR Portland, OR
Los Angeles goth-rock and alt-metal powerhouse Stitched Up Heart has recently announced its 3rd studio album.
The new work is titled ‘To The Wolves’ and it is an affirmation of the group’s thread mark theatricality and hard-hitting goth-metal tone.
While this approach to metal is nothing new, Stitched Up Heart offers something special in the form of the lead vocalist’s performance.
Alecia ‘Mixi’ Demner has a very charismatic approach, and her vocals can be soothing and subdued, as well as aggressive and present when the song segments call for it.
The sound of this album is also quite immersive in its own right.
The record’s title track is the perfect opener, with its synth-driven atmosphere.
The song has a cinematic twist, making for an immersive introduction to the album.
Right off the bat, it’s clear that this record is ambitious, and it is meant to sound mesmerizing and darkly beautiful.
The music encapsulates the turmoil of gothica, while never losing sight of modern metal’s sonic intensity.
Another great example is the track ‘The Hunting’.
This is one of the album’s true heavy hitters, spiked with cutting guitar tones and aggressively distorted synthesizers.
The sublimation of electronic sounds, drums, and guitars offers a heavy, industrial-like twist that merges well with the band dark-centric themes.
Still, there is room for all sorts of influences on this album.
Some of the songs even ‘dare’ venture into pop and dance-like territories, showcasing the band’s versatility and utter disregard for labels and creative constraints.
This album shows that Stitched Up Heart is keen on carving its own path, making music with no compromise;
theatricality and hard-hitting goth-metal tone.
Fans of artists such as Halestorm, Motionless In White, or Ice Nine Kills should most definitely check this out, as they’ll undoubtedly be able to connect with the band’s obscure aesthetics and eerie melodic soundscapes.
review by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
British metalcore group
ASKING ALEXANDRIA
released album
‘Where Do We Go From Here’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
track-list:
Bad Blood
Things Could Be Different
Let Go
Psycho
Dark Void
Nothing Left
Feel
Let the Dead Take Me
Kill It with Fire
Holding on to Something More
Where Do We Go from Here?
Asking Alexandria are:
Danny Worsnop – lead vocals, additional guitar
Ben Bruce – lead guitar, backing vocals
Cameron Liddell – rhythm guitar
Sam Bettley – bass
James Cassells – drums
American tour-dates 2023:
Sep 11 Mon Terminal 5, New York, NY, United States
Sep 12 Tue House Of Blues Boston, Boston, MA, United States
Sep 13 Wed Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem, PA, United States
Sep 15 Fri Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center, Harrisburg, PA, United States
Sep 16 Sat 1st Summit Arena, Johnstown, PA, United States
Sep 17 Sun Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ, United States
Sep 19 Tue TempleLive Cleveland Masonic, Cleveland, OH, United States
Sep 20 Wed The Fillmore Detroit, Detroit, MI, United States
Sep 21 Thu Louder Than Life 2023, Louisville, KY, United States
Sep 22 Fri Piere’, Fort Wayne, IN, United States
Sep 25 Mon The Factory, Chesterfield, MO, United States
Sep 26 Tue Riviera, Chicago, IL, United States
Sep 27 Wed EPIC Event Center, Green Bay, WI, United States
Sep 29 Fri The Rave/Eagles Club, Milwaukee, WI, United States
Sep 30 Sat Myth Live, Maplewood, MN, United States
Oct 1 Sun Stir Concert Cove-Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel, Council Bluffs, IA, United States
Oct 3 Tue Fillmore Auditorium, Denver, CO, United States
Oct 4 Wed The Union Event Center, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
Oct 6 Fri Encore Wellness Physical Therapy, South Tucson, AZ, United States
Oct 7 Sat The Industrial Sound, Las Vegas, NV, United States
Oct 8 Sun The Wiltern, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Nov 3 Fri Hell and Heaven Open Air 2023, Toluca, Mexico
Asking Alexandria stands out as one of the most dynamic and mercurial bands to come out of the UK scene.
Their consistent exploration of diverse styles and concepts within their music has been a hallmark, consistently pushing the boundaries while maintaining a steadfast foundation of tone and aggression.
The band’s latest album ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ released in August 2023, perfectly exemplifies their ongoing progression, marked by a continuous pursuit of novel ideas and an expanded creative spectrum.
Comprising 11 tracks, the album includes the monumental opener ‘Bad Blood’.
This track seamlessly oscillates between subdued verses and expansive choruses, enriched by intricate vocal harmonies and subtle background synth elements.
The drumming is particularly noteworthy, showcasing impressive dexterity and speed, especially evident in the skilful use of the double-pedal technique.
On compositions like ‘Things Could Be Different’ and ‘Feel’ the band demonstrates a willingness to steer their sound toward a more mainstream heavy aesthetic, resonating with bands like Bring Me The Horizon, Underoath, and even Linkin Park, among others.
One of the most broadly appealing tracks is probably the tune ‘Holding on To Something More’ which is a nod to Barker-esque pop-punk production and songwriting style.
On the other hand, there is also room for hardcore punk incursions on the song ‘Kill It With Fire’ which offers a breakneck tempo and some primal yet effective guitar riffs in the vein of bands such as Black Flag or Minor Threat, as well as other ‘live-fast-die’ young purveyors of yore.
However, the band’s deep roots in the metal community remain evident, as seen in tracks like ‘Let The Dead Take Me’ which boasts a melodious yet intricately structured arrangement.
There is also room for hardcore punk incursions on the song ‘Kill It With Fire’ which offers a breakneck tempo and some primal yet effective guitar riffs in the vein of bands such as Black Flag or Minor Threat.
Ultimately, ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ underscores Asking Alexandria’s fearlessness in musical experimentation, even if it means unsettling some long-time fans who may prefer the familiar early-days sound.
review by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
American alt-metal band
SEVENDUST
released album ‘Truth Killer’
a review by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
Sevendust is back with its 14th album: ‘Truth Killer’.
After more than 30 years of activity, Sevendust continues to prove why they are considered one of the pillars of modern metal.
Unyielding and hungry, the band keeps fans on their toes with a continuous stream of new releases and electrifying tours.
Their 14th studio album ‘Truth Killer’ once again demonstrates their prowess and showcases their enduring legacy.
Released via Napalm Records, this fantastic piece of music stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the craft.
‘Truth Killer’ features a dynamic collection of 12 new songs that encompass the essence of Sevendust.
From the incendiary opener ‘I Might Let the Devil Win’ to the lead single ‘Superficial Drug’ the album grabs listeners from the get-go.
Those familiar with Sevendust’s signature heavy sound will find plenty to indulge in.
Still, this release also reveals a more nuanced and sophisticated side from decades of honing their skills on the music scene.
The album showcases a perfect blend of intricacy and raw power, seamlessly transitioning between heavy songs driven by bone-chilling screams, mind-bending time signatures, and brutal rhythms.
On the other side of the coin, there is room for more melodic and harmonious moments with soothing vocal harmonies and excellent guitar solos to counterbalance the group’s trademark heaviness.
The result is an album that captivates and engages its listeners, never letting up in intensity while still offering moments of introspection.
The album’s sequencing is great as well, with each track effortlessly bleeding into the next, creating a cohesive and immersive experience reminiscent of witnessing the band’s raw power live on stage.
In essence, ‘Truth Killer’ is a testament to Sevendust’s unwavering commitment to staying true to their roots while continuously evolving and incorporating new elements into their music.
It is one of their most diverse albums to date, showcasing their maturity as musicians and ability to adapt without losing their signature style.
Sevendust’s enduring legacy continues to impress, and ‘Truth Killer’ is the latest gem in their long line of excellent contributions to modern metal.
review by georgina re-posted from The Metal Pit
American metalcore act
BUTCHER BABIES
released double album
‘Til The World’s Blind/Eye For An Eye’
re-posted from the metal pit
Los Angeles-based metal band Butcher Babies has recently made a triumphant return with a massive collection of new songs in the form of a double album.
The first installment, ‘Eye for an Eye’ received widespread acclaim, marking a return to form with some catchy and powerful tracks.
Now, the band has released the second part of this double release, ‘…Til the World’s Blind’ which showcases their versatility and willingness to explore new territories while staying true to the band’s musical roots.
While both albums are complementary, they have distinct origins.
‘Eye for an Eye’ was recorded during a temporary break from their LA home base when the band ventured to Arizona, drawing inspiration from the desert landscape.
On the other hand, ‘…Til the World’s Blind’ was made in Michigan during winter.
The contrasting environments undeniably influenced the music, as the second album exudes a colder, more desolate ambiance that adds an extra layer of darkness to the band’s sound.
‘…Til the World’s Blind’ harks back to Butcher Babies’ old-school sound while incorporating some fresh elements.
One of the standout moments on the album is the band’s unique rendition of ‘Saweetie’ by Doja Cat.
Butcher Babies infused the modern hip-hop song with heavy riffs and Heidi Shepherd’s intense vocals, transforming it into an immensely powerful track.
This unexpected cover showcases the band’s fearlessness and their ability to put their own twist on diverse musical styles.
In addition to their heavier offerings, the album also showcases Butcher Babies’ versatility with softer songs like the ballad ‘This is the Part’ featuring Chad Gray of Mudvayne.
This collaboration adds a different dimension to the album, highlighting the band’s ability to deliver emotionally charged performances and shift the pace of the album.
However, the record primarily shines for its most aggressive tunes, exemplified by tracks like ‘Spittin’ Teeth’ and ‘King Pin’.
These songs are quite visceral and intuitive, embodying the band’s ferocity and raw energy.
Ultimately, ‘…Til the World’s Blind’ is a testament to Butcher Babies’ growth as a band.
It showcases their willingness to evolve while staying true to their old-school vision.
The album’s diverse nature provides a well-rounded listening experience, with elements of mass-appeal, aggression, and experimentation throughout.
Butcher Babies has once again proven their prowess in the metal scene, solidifying their place as one of the genre’s most exciting current acts.
‘Eye For An Eye’ which celebrates the tenth anniversary of their critically acclaimed debut, ‘Goliath’ released on July 9, 2013 via Century Media Records.
For this momentous occasion, BUTCHER BABIES went above and beyond to create one of their best works yet.
‘Eye For An Eye’ is an album that oozes with darkness, pain, and raw emotion, while also delivering an incredible dose of power.
It showcases the band’s versatility by exploring different musical styles.
Ultimately, ‘Eye For An Eye’ is an ambitious and grand album that captures the spirit of a band that constantly aims higher and higher.
It’s not just about groove metal, as the music also features other influences, including thrash metal, and elements of alternative metal, among others.
This diverse studio work is a must-listen for fans and anyone who appreciates powerful and evocative music.
As a band that revolutionized the Groove metal scene, Butcher Babies have been a constant source of inspiration for their fans.
While consistently pushing the boundaries of the genre.
With the release of their monumental double album ‘Eye For An Eye’ they prove that their creative well is far from running dry.
The album serves as a testament to their enduring relevance and artistic growth, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the metal scene.
‘Eye For An Eye’ is not only an amazing step forward, but also a celebration of everything the band has managed to accomplish thus far, becoming one of Groove Metal’s most seminal and iconic acts to date.
Norwegian doomsters
HEX A.D.
to release new studio album
‘Delightful Sharp Edges’
track-list:
The Memory Division
Murder in Slow Motion
…By a Thread
Når herren tar deg i nakken
Radio Terror
St. Francis
Throwing Down the Gauntlet
The Burmese Python
Beyond the Venom Trail
Hell Today
…Gone Tomorrow
Hailing from Norway, Hex A.D. has recently announced its sixth studio album, ‘Delightful Sharp Edges’ available via Apollon Records.
The album features 11 songs, which combine the band’s penchant for old-school metal and psychedelic textures, combined into a one-of-a-kind formula.
The prevalent doom influences of some of the band’s previous work aren’t as predominant, as the group chose to focus on heavier, more ambitious progressive rock songs.
The album is powerful and immersive, combining soaring guitar parts with thunderous rhythm sections and iconic vocals that stand out.
If you’re a fan of legendary bands like Black Sabbath, Candlemass, Saint Vitus, Trouble, and Pentagram, chances are you’ll love this album.
But it’s not just a trip down memory lane – this band stands out for its charismatic personality.
The surreal atmosphere and unforgettable melodies set them apart, and the retro instruments, like the Hammond organ, give the music a timeless quality with a hint of 70s flair.
Hex A.D. is quite well known for its unique blend of mind-bending sounds and heavy, distorted guitar riffs.
This album is no exception, as it will accompany listeners on a journey through complex and otherworldly musical landscapes that still retain the instinctive attitude of true rock and roll.
The lyrical themes also add another, deeper dimension to the album.
This is, in fact, a concept album that deals with the overarching idea of genocide, a topic that is arguably quite difficult to tackle.
The album deals with stories of WWII, as well as exploring other human tragedies, such as the ethnic cleansing in Rwanda that happened in the 1990s and the massacre of the Rohingya people of Myanmar.
The Norwegian band went to great lengths to create a dynamic, one-of-a-kind listening experience, which in a way, channels the long-form album experiences of the 70s when bands really cared about building the nuances of the whole record rather than focusing on singles.
In conclusion, Hex A.D. has done an exceptional job on ‘Delightful Sharp Edges’ as the combination of captivating riffs and grandiose progressive soundscapes is truly mesmerizing.
It’s also admirable that the band has used their music to shed light on important historical events that should not be forgotten.
Review by Georgina
The 69 Eyes present:
‘Death of Darkness’
track-list:
DEATH OF DARKNESS
DRIVE
GOTTA ROCK
THIS MURDER TAKES TWO (feat. Kat Von D)
CALIFORNIA
CALL ME SNAKE
DYING IN THE NIGHT
SOMETHING REAL
SUNDOWN
OUTLAWS
Helsinki legends The 69 Eyes, is a band with a truly distinctive vision.
The group has finally released its highly anticipated new album, ‘Death of Darkness’.
Renowned for their ability to blend classic rock with the darker tones of alternative metal and goth, the group’s latest album offers ten thrilling tracks that capture the pure essence of Goth’N’Roll in a way that no other band can.
Despite being on the scene for over 30 years, The 69 Eyes continue to impress with a record that draws inspiration from a variety of musical influences.
From gothic glam to post-punk, there are no limits to the group’s creativity.
While the album boasts some unforgettable riffs, the music is surprisingly upbeat and groovy, adding a sunny touch to the otherwise gothic vibe.
The 69 Eyes also pay tribute to the local Finnish music scene with a cover of “Gotta Rock” by Boycott – a classic that is sure to delight fans of Finnish rock music.
With this album, The 69 Eyes once again prove that they are masters of their genre.
Each song is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that only gets better with every listen.
Fans and critics alike consider this the best album from the band in years, and it is easy to see why!
The production of the album has a very modern flair to it.
Still, there is room for many retro-inspired tones, including chorused guitars and crooned vocals with an old-school vibe.
Review by Georgina
AVATAR is back with its 9th studio album:
Dance Devil Dance
Avatar ‘Dance Devil Dance’
track-list:
Dance Devil Dance
Chimp Mosh Pit
Valley of Disease
On the Beach
Do You Feel in Control?
Gotta Wanna Riot
The Dirt I’m Buried In
Clouds Dipped in Chrome
Hazmat Suit
Train
Violence No Matter What (duet with Lzzy Hale)
Avatar‘s ninth studio album, ‘Dance Devil Dance’ is finally here and it does not disappoint!
This album is an exciting mix of different genres, with 11 new songs that showcase the band’s versatility.
From melodic death to power metal, metal-core, groove, country, and even nu-metal shades, Avatar explores all possible avenues to create a truly captivating sound.
Each member of the band brings their unique skill set to the table, allowing their musicianship to shine through in every song.
They are not afraid to take risks and try new things, which is what sets them apart from other bands in the genre.
Their open-minded attitude and willingness to experiment have allowed them to create a sound that is truly their own on ‘Dance Devil Dance’.
The album is very vivid, with a sound that is in sync with the visual aesthetics of the group.
The songs are intense and crazy, yet there are also moments of introspection and calmness.
Avatar has managed to overcome many of the clichés of the heavy music scene by creating an album that’s unapologetically diverse.
Many consider ‘Dance Devil Dance’ an excellent new work and one of the band’s best records in recent years.
It is undoubtedly a great follow-up to their 2020 release ‘Hunter Gatherer’ which also received great feedback.
Overall, this highly anticipated studio work offers a very kaleidoscopic and unexpected sound that is truly captivating.
This album clearly depicts Avatar as a group of talented musicians who have a deep appreciation for metal in all its shapes, and are constantly pushing themselves to new heights.
Watch out for their 2023 US Tour and be sure not to miss them live!
the metal year 1984
an article by georgina
re-posted from the metal pit
1984:
Was more than just the title of George Orwell’s novel.
The year was pivotal in the development of heavy metal, as both thrash and power metal became more than just a paradigm archetype.
Meanwhile, the giants of the genre continued to grow bigger than ever, maximizing platinum sales, sold-out tours, and extensive airplay on radio and Music.
Let’s take a look at this historical year in history and music!
Events involving music:
Def Leppard’s drummer Rick Allen lost his left arm in a car accident on December 31.
Deep Purple reunites.
Hanoi Rocks drummer Razzle is killed in an automobile accident in early December. The driver of the car is Vince Neil of Mötley Crüe.
The debut albums of both Saint Vitus (Saint Vitus) and Trouble (Psalm 9) are released.
This is Spinal Tap, a cult mockumentary directed by Rob Reiner about the semi-fictional band Spinal Tap, is released.
the TOP 10:
10 Cirith Ungol
King of the Dead
7 Bathory
Bathory
4 Iron Maiden
Powerslave
9 Metallica
Ride the Lightning
6 Deep Purple
Perfect Strangers
3 W.A.S.P.
W.A.S.P.
8 Dio
The Last in Line
5 Metal Church
Metal Church
2 Judas Priest
Defenders of the Faith
track-list:
A Dangerous Meeting
Nightmare
Desecration of Souls
Night of the Unborn
The Oath
Gypsy
Welcome Princes of Hell
To One Far Away
Come to the Sabbath
Mercyful Faith were:
King Diamond – vocals, keyboards, harpsichord
Hank Shermann – guitars
Michael Denner – guitars
Timi ‘Grabber’ Hansen – bass
Kim Ruzz – drums
You will not find a better combination of highly accomplished and highly inventive guitar wizardry than here.
Some songs are packed with more killer riffs than some bands produce in their entire career.
Incorporating more progressive rock ideas into song structure and performance the band effectively developed their sound and produced some of their best songs from ‘A Dangerous Meeting’ to ‘Come to the Sabbath’.
This is a great album.
A true cornerstone for heavy metal in general.
Fronted by the infamous King Diamond, ‘Don’t Break the Oath’ is truly a haunting journey.
Every fan of metal needs this album….
Historical Events of 1984:
Jan 24
Apple Computer Inc unveils its revolutionary Macintosh personal computer
Feb 29
Pierre Trudeau announces he is stepping down after 15 years as Canadian Prime Minister
Apr 23
AIDS-virus identified as HTLV-III (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)
Jun 5
Indira Gandhi orders an attack on Sikh’s holiest site, the Golden Temple in Amritsar
Dec 3
Bhopal disaster:
Union Carbide pesticide plant leak 45 tons of methyl isocyanate and other toxic compounds in Bhopal, India, kills 2,259 (official figure) –
other estimates as high as 16,000 (including later deaths) and over half a million injured
Dec 19
Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher sign the Sino-British Joint Declaration to transfer Hong Kong back to China in 1997.
1984 in Film & TV:
Sep 20
‘The Cosby Show’ premieres on NBC-TV starring Bill Cosby and Phylicia Rashad.
Oct 26
‘The Terminator’ directed by James Cameron, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton is released in the US.
Nov 9
Wes Craven’s horror film ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ premieres in the US.
article by Georgina Strilakos
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Georgina
Georgina hails from New York City and has been in the music scene for years.
A trained saxophonist , novice bass-player, poet and mom.
A true lover of the arts and technology.
These days she is contributing her free time on various levels and social media platforms.