Photo credit Marty Moffat

Interviewed by Chris (Writer/Contributor) Myglobalmind Webzine

Myglobalmind: Let me get the fanboy crap out of the way and just say I’m a tremendous admirer of your music and thanks for the years of entertainment!

Danny: That’s very kind of you, Chris. Thank you!

Myglobalmind: I remember hearing “Forever Young” on the local radio station years ago. I was lucky in that my station, every Friday night, had two hours dedicated to hard rock and metal. I heard “Forever Young” twice on the show, and managed to get it recorded on tape the second time, and always wondered what had happened to the band. I was an avid music purchaser (still am) and never stumbled across any of Tyketto’s albums back in the day. It wasn’t until maybe 15 years ago that I finally managed to get the Tyketto stuff. The music on those first two albums is absolutely brilliant, and rivals the music of far more popular acts from that time. Why do you suppose the band never managed to catch on?

Danny: I think we came along about 2 years too late. Music was changing at that time (or at least fashion was changing) and we got put into the category of bands that were “on their way out” as far as our haircuts, clothes and sometimes music was concerned. We still did pretty well, all considering.

Myglobamind: What makes me appreciate your music is not only your voice, but the songs. I liken you to more of a Springsteen sort of musician, the whole singer/songwriter perspective. Is this by design or just something that you simply fell in to?

Photo credit Marty Moffat

Danny: First of all, I take that as a huge compliment! Thank you! If you’ve heard any of my solo albums, there are always a one or two songs in there that are just blatantly Bruce influenced. I like story tellers. I like songs with movement and a variety of colors. So, while not everything I’ve ever written is a memorable piece, my goal has always been to try and make something memorable. It’s just the sort of thing that I am drawn to. I love writers like John Hiatt and Tom Waits as well as Springsteen, Don Henley, Bernie Taupin. These guys are all lyricists that I study and then gently try to steal ideas from! lol!

Myglobalmind: My getting back in touch with the music of Tyketto came after a friend turned me on to the Waysted Save Your Prayers album, a record I somehow missed out on prior to this moment. To this day, that still ranks as one of my favorite albums of all-time. How did you get involved with that, and again, why didn’t it catch on? The songs from Waysted and Tyketto both are AOR/hard rock mainstays to folks that are “in the know,” yet anyone that’s a fan of good music should be worshipping those albums, yet so many people have no idea who either of those bands are.

Danny: I was scouted for Waysted by the guy that was playing keyboards for them at the time. They were having internal problems with their singer at the time and didn’t want to do the whole cattle call audition process. I had done some demos with Paul Chapman a year or so before and he got me in for an audition, which was to play a gig in Ramat Gan Stadium in Tel Aviv, Israel in front of about 15,000 people. “If it works out, you’re in” they told me. It worked out.

That band would have gone on to some bigger things but became a victim of it’s own demons and vices, I’m afraid. The drummer, Johnny Dee, and I left when the drugs were more important to the guys running the band than the music was.

Myglobamind: When you parted ways with Tyketto, you were going through some pretty emotional stuff at the time. A couple years later you recorded the Flesh N Blood album Blues For Daze. Was that an outlet for you to pour out the emotions of taking care of your sick wife?

Photo credit Marty Moffat

Danny: No, I don’t think so. I was very tired and burnt out from Tyketto’s work schedule and was very depressed at how close we came. So I wasn’t looking for anything else to do after I left. Flesh N Blood just dropped into my lap by chance. It was already finished but the record company didn’t like the singer they had. Then a friend sought me out and suggested I talk with Mark Mangold, whose project it was, and we hit it off. For me, it was perfect at the time because I didn’t have to write, I didn’t have to plan, I didn’t have to even think! Ha! The songs were there and I just came in and did them my own way. And it’s a music style that I have always loved and wanted to do. I’m a huge fan of Bad Co, The Black Crowes, The Rolling Stones, so it was an album that I’d always wanted to make. It was actually, a very happy experience.

Myglobalmind: From the start of your recording career to the Flesh N Blood album, there are three songs that have been constant companions for me: Waysted’s “Heaven Tonight,” Tyketto “Standing Alone,” and Flesh N Blood’s “Jenny Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” Those three songs have had deep meaning for me, especially “Standing Alone.” It was my theme song during my divorce. I know that “Heaven Tonight” was a re-recorded song from an earlier album, but your version totally kills the prior. The other two tracks exemplify why so many people regard you as one of the most underrated voices ever, and why I consider you to be one of the best writers in the business. What’s the back story on the last two songs and what prompted Waysted to re-do “Heaven Tonight?”

Danny: Well, Mark wrote “Jenny” so I couldn’t tell you if it was a story from real life or just a flight of fancy. Probably a little of both, I would guess. “Standing Alone” was something I wrote after I had left Waysted. I was on a high at the time. I had toured the world, knew the guys from Iron Maiden personally, having opened for them for a month of more, I had done a video, released my first album, single, etc. So, in my mind, it was just a matter of minutes before the phone would ring and I would be off on another adventure. But it didn’t ring. I did one audition soon after that and it was for a band that was coming up named “Skid Row”.

I didn’t get the gig and I really let my ego take a beating over that one. “How DARE they not take me”?? That kind of nonsense. When I heard the first recordings they did with Sebastian about a year later, I understood. THAT was exactly what they needed and I was not that. So you learn and grow stronger. But the loneliness and disullusionment that I felt over it all came out in the song “Standing Alone”. I think a lot of writers do what they do in order to channel their depression. I’ve always found that I can vocalize my pain better than I can vocalize my happiness (which seems really stupid to me and I’m working on that). I think that song was finished in about 15 minutes. The good ones usually do come quickly.

Myglobalmind: Waysted re-released “Heaven Tonight” because the original version had been done on a relatively small record label and we had just been picked up by EMI, who thought it was a hit and wanted to put it out again. Then in 2000 you recorded your first solo album Soldiers & Sailors On Riverside, though you only used your last name. Again, another collection of some of the best songs, yet still vastly overlooked. How was it for you going in and doing your first solo album?

Danny: I had been out of the music business entirely for about 4 years at that point. Michael Arbeeny and I had only just started talking to each other again recently and he had asked what I had been up to. Even though I never planned on recording any more, that never stopped me from wanting to write songs. So I was casually writing when the spirit moved me, with no goals or audience in mind. When he heard the collection of demos I had, he really wanted to get me to work again. So that album was a real labour of love. I was tired, depressed and over weight but as soon as we started working on it, I was back in my element and I realized that I’ll always want to make music in some way or another.

Photo credit Marty Moffat

Myglobalmind: The track “Is That All There Is” pretty much sums up the majority of my past relationships. Was there a particular inspiration for that track?

Danny: Many of my songs do come from a particular incident or experience but that one was just a simple idea. What if you got down on your knees and pledged your heart, your body, your soul and everything else in undying love to someone and she said “Yeah? So? What else you got?” I just couldn’t resist the idea.

Myglobalmind: You released one more album under the Vaughn moniker, and then afterwards went with Danny Vaughn (minus the live album.) What brought about this change?

Danny: I had always wanted to release those albums under Danny Vaughn. They are, after all, real solo albums. But the record company said that a band name would sell better than an artist name. Shows what they know.

Myglobalmind: So now that we’ve done a mini-Danny Vaughn history lesson, we’re 18 years later, and you’re back with Tyketto, and have just released the new album Dig In Deep. On behalf of early Tyketto fans everywhere, it’s about time! I think the album is magnificent. The band reunited in 2004 for some shows, but stated there would be no more Tyketto after that. So what brought about the change of heart?

Photo credit Marty Moffat

Danny: Thank you! I’m so pleased at how well received it has been. It was, by far, the hardest album we’ve ever made.

We had never had any real plans to re-ignite our careers as such and were happy to go out and do a few live shows every couple of years. But after a while, we started to feel like a nostalgia act and we all felt the stirrings of wanting to have something new to play. We had been asked many times before to record a new album but this was the first time that we all really wanted to do it. That’s the way it’s always been in Tyketto.

Myglobalmind: I know Michael Clayton played drums on the Vaughn stuff (as well as Jaime Scott,) but had you kept in touch with the other former members over the years?

Danny: Yes, for sure. We were always friends and after the sting of my leaving the band eased up on both sides, we always kept in touch and looked in on none another over time. It’s like that with families.

Myglobalmind: How was it going back into the studio to write and record Dig In Deep? Was it an easy album to do? Was it nice being back with your old band mates again?

Danny: It was extremely hard. Mostly because of the restrictions that were placed on us by time and budgets. But also because we had to do a lion’s share of the work over the internet, since we don’t live anywhere near one another. Once we started getting into a flow of how to work together again, though, it really was a pleasure. This is, in my opinion, Brooke’s finest work and he really stretched himself in every way to show what he’s capable of as a writer, player, and co-producer (and let’s not leave out that he mastered the album too!). While Michael and I have been in and out of the public eye over the past decade, Brooke has been fairly quiet and he knew he was going to have to come across with something special for this one. And he did!

Myglobalmind: Is Tyketto back full-on now? I realize it’s early on in the album’s release to ask, but I certainly hope so. Will you still continue to release solo stuff?

Danny: It’s hard to say, really. We aren’t at a level where touring isn’t financially feasible. We can do a few shows here and there but it is expensive to get a band out on the road full time and we aren’t playing arenas, after all. So we’ll do what we can here and there. I do hope to release some more solo music before too long.

Myglobalmind: You’re doing an Eagles tribute band in the UK, where you call home these days. How did that come about?

Danny: AS these things often do, the lucky chance of a phone call. I got involved with a different Eagles tribute band several years ago because their singer had dropped out and they had obligations to fill. So I came in for a few gigs. And it worked out. Before long, though, several guys in the band and I felt that we could do a better job than the band we were in so we left and formed The Ultimate Eagles. That was 3 years ago and we just finished a very good UK tour as well as playing gigs in Holland this year. Next year we will be in Holland, Germany, Ireland, the UK, and who knows where else? It’s going well.

Myglobalmind: What are the chances of a US tour in support of Dig In Deep? Tyketto is one of those dream bands I have not seen live and want to before I die.

Photo credit Marty Moffat

Danny: There’s not much interest in us in the States, thus far. Perhaps the new album will change that? I certainly hope so. We’ll have to wait and see. Stick around a while ;-)

Myglobamind: I want to thank you again for taking the time to answer my questions, and definitely thank you for the music. Just as a side note, years ago I started up the very first Yahoo Group for fans of Danny Vaughn to get together and talk about your career. Sadly, I initially misspelled your name as I’m a big Stevie Ray Vaughan fan as well. I’ve been preaching to everyone I can about how incredible your music is no matter what project you’re working on.

Danny: Thanks Chris. Believe me, it is greatly appreciated.

Best wishes,

Danny

Webzine Review for Tyketto – Dig In Deep

 http://myglobalmind.com/2012/04/14/tyketto-dig-in-deep-review/

http://www.tyketto.de/

Released by: GMR Music Group

Release Date: May 14th, 2012

Genre: Sleaze/Hard Rock

Links: http://www.fatalsmile.com

 Line Up:

MR. Y – Guitars

Blade -Vocals

Alx – Bass

Philty – Drums

Tracklist:

01. Welcome To The Freakshow

02. Nailed To The Wall

03. Raisning Hell In Heaven

04. Judgement Day

05. Broken Heart

06. My Private Hell

07. Scarecrow

08. Innocent

09. Break This Chains

10. Take It To The Limit

11. For The Last In Line

First and foremost let me warn you ahead of time, theyre will be some nasty words used in this review and why you may ask? Is fucking Fatal Smile that’s why. Talk about some crazy sons of bitches, not only are the Swedish gun and barrel sleaze/glam/Hard Rock outfit as crazy as they come with they’re “freaks” image and intense live shows, but these dudes can rock the shit out of a crowd and that’s a fact!!!

They wear they’re black belt sleaze attitude in their make up as much as they’re excellent musicianship. The band was started by their guitar player Mr Y, who after 2007 completely changed the entire line up and introduced us to a whole new breed of “freaks”. I say it’s worked out pretty well for Fatal Smile. After some critical appraise from the music scene on their last release ”World Domination”, they landed on touring spots all over the globe and had a chance to tour with legends like Dio, Queensryche, Wasp and many more. And if you ask any of these bands about the Freaks, they won’t shy away about their bleeping crazy live shows, full on intensity with an emphasis on kicking your ass. Who wouldn’t love a band like this? Ohh yeah and they’re from Sweden which translates to the best kept Glam/Sleaze/Hard Rock bands that you probably need to check out. If you don’t know about em then where the hell have you been the last 5 years or so?

They spent 2011 recording their 4th album “21ST CENTURY FREAKS  and with this devilish offering they bring us the careful production that is evident, the stylistic imagery on their first video single “Welcome to the Freakshow” as well as they’re bombs away rhythm section, and that’s not even counting they’re charismatic guitar player and band leader, you have quite a top notch Hard Rock record from top to bottom that SHOULD make waves.

The freaks come out at night

Welcome to the freak show is an explosive slab of sleaze/glam/industrial blend, lead singer Blade’s voice is as evil and brooding as I’ll get out and the thick guitars of Mr Y are delusional and dark as hell. “Raising Hell in Heaven” is an instant kick starter featuring some sick guitar thumping ala old school Wasp, not a surprise some people in the media circles have compared the band to them before. Everyone knows I dig a little diversity in an album, and Fatal Smile does just that with a sharp sounding power ballad titled “Broken Heart” featuring some rising vocals brought to you by Blade once more. The ball keeps rolling with ball and chain on the anthem laden “My Private Hell”, first thing that comes to mind on this tune is that it could of made a hell of soundtrack song for a Rob Zombie horror flix, are you reading this Rob?

These freaks sure know how to put on a great show, forget their brooding, balls out sleaze monster shows image, and just put your guard down as these guys will blow away some folks. I  wasn’t really shocked when I heard this new record as I expected some strong material with more experience under they’re belts, but they have made an excellent improvement from the last two records. I love the intensity, the blend of powerful ballads, the soaring gutted vocals of Blade and the implosion of power of the rhytm section just takes flight with a menacing push. The production is bloody crisp and strong as hell. Hell of an album (no pun intended) that will surely land on my toplist of the year, and we’re not even half way done yet? Seal, lathered and approved with a “shock” seal of approval. Enough said!!!

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys    9/10

Released by: E1 Music

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Trash Metal

Links: http://wreckingcrew.com/Ironbound/

Line Up:

Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth – Vocals

D.D. Verni – Bass

Dave Linsk – Lead Guitar

Derek “The Skull” Tailer – Rhythm Guitar

Ron Lipnicki – Drums

Tracklist:

1. Come and Get It

2. Electric Rattlesnake

3. Wish You Were Dead

4. Drop the Hammer

5. Save Yourself

6. Black Daze

7. 21st Century Man

8. Old Wounds, New Scars

9. All Over But the Shouting

10. Good Night

Overkill is one of the greatest thrash bands of all-time. Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth is the best thrash frontman. Period. There is no one better than him. His voice is powerful and unique, his presence on stage is unrivaled, and his love for his fans knows no bounds. As far as I’m concerned I’d rather they be a part of The Big Four than Metallica. I understand why Metallica are there, but Overkill has consistently put out better music over the years than Metallica. I will concede that it should be The Big Five and Overkill, hands down, would take that fifth spot.

The Electric Age, the bands 16th album, out now on Nuclear Blast, is outstanding. Since Feel the Fire in 1985 until now, the band has put out some of the most blistering trash metal known to man and continues to be just as hard, heavy, and unapologetic as they were when they were young, pissed off, and looking to make a name for themselves. This is why they are the best: they don’t cater to bullshit trends or do what label suits want them to do. They play the music that comes straight from the heart and do exactly what the fans want, play honest, pure, straight forward heavy fucking metal! With classic mind-blowingly savage tracks like “Electric Rattlesnake,” “Black Daze,” “Drop The Hammer Down,” and “Old Wounds New Scars” the band adds 10 more songs to an already powerful catalog. With ever-present mainstay DD Verni on bass, adding to the metallic mayhem of The Electric Age are guitarists Dave Linsk and Derek Trailer, plus Ron Lipnicki on the drums. Though the band has been through some line-up changes over the years (except Blitz and DD) clearly the heart and soul of the band lies in the two originals as no matter who is backing them, the band still sounds like they always have from day onw.

If you’re looking for old school, fast paced, neck snapping thrash metal, look no further than Overkill and The Electric Age. As has been the case for nearly 30 years, Overkill is the real deal and makes being a metal fan worth every second. I give it 10 out of 10.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    10/10

Released by: Steamhammer/SPV

Release Date: May 22nd, 2012

Genre: Heavy Metal

Links: http://www.killdevilhillmusic.com/

Line Up:

Jason “Dewey” Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) – Vocals

Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) – Guitar

Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) – Bass

Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) – Drums

Tracklist:

1. War machine

2. Hangman

3. Voodoo doll

4. Gates of hell

5. Rise From The Shadows

6. We`re All gonna die

7. Strange

8. Time & time Again

9. Old Man

10. Mysterious Ways

11. Up In Flames

12. Revenge

There are very few true super groups that make that big of an impact. On paper when one hears about a conglomeration of big named artists joining forces to create the band of all bands, it sounds like the perfect idea. However, most of the time, they never live up to expectations and vanish into the haze. Kill Devil Hill may be able to change that idea, though I’m sure some will question my veracity in referring to this band as a super group. But let’s face facts: when you combine a drummer who has played with Black Sabbath and Ronnie James Dio plus a bassist that has played in Pantera and Down, that’s pretty damn super to me. Adding anyone else into the mix is just an added bonus, and with guitarist Mark Zavon and singer Dewey Bragg rounding out the line-up you have a very interesting sound.

devil wears black and white

There were two artists that jumped out at me as I listened to their SPV/Steamhammer debut Kill Devil Hill. The first is the most obvious, Alice In Chains. Clearly Bragg is influenced by the late Layne Staley, however the music even has that slow groove that brought AIC into prominence back in the day. The other artist that I was reminded of was Dio during his Strange Highways/Angry Machines period, which was more or less his grunge period, if he were to have one. Though I’m not a raging fan of AIC (or that era of Dio) I don’t hate them. Out of all the bands from that time period, Chains is one of the few I can appreciate. Obviously with the talent possessed by the backbone of the band in Vinnie Appice and Rex Brown, you can pretty well figure that rhythmically this is a solid album, and that it is. The guitar work of virtual unknown Zavon is at once haunting and doomy and next fiery. He’s definitely a hidden talent that is ready to be unleashed onto the world. And as incredible as the band is musically, its Bragg’s vocals that hold it all together. The mix of Staley and Dio gives his voice a certain uniqueness and familiarity all at once. Musically it’s pretty much what one would expect from the combination of Sabbath meets Down- dirty, dark, and plodding yet grooving and complex.

This is a very impressive debut from Kill Devil Hill, and will likely set the metal world on its ear, finally proving that at least in this case the melding of legends actually works creating a sound much needed. This album will not disappoint fans of either Appice or Brown, and if it does, then perhaps you should re-evaluate your previous love of either’s work. Songs like “We’re All Gonna Die,” “Gates of Hell,” “Mysterious Ways,” and “Old Man” are the standouts for me, yet I really enjoyed the whole album. Don’t waste any time: when it hits the street May 28, get it!

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    8/10

Released by: Inner Wound Recordings

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Heavy Metal

Links: http://www.shadowside.ws/en/

Line Up:

Dani Nolden (vocals)

Raphael Mattos (guitars)

Ricardo Piccoli (bass)

Fabio Buitvidas (drums)

Tracklist:

01. Gag Order

02. Angel with Horns

03. Habitchual

04. In the Name of Love

05. Inner Monster Out (feat. Björn “Speed” Strid, Mikael Stanne, Niklas Isfeldt)

06. I’m Your Mind

07. My Disrupted Reality

08. A Smile Upon Death

09. Whatever Our Fortune

10. A.D.D.

11. Waste of Life

I truly have a wonderful girlfriend. For my recent birthday (the big 4-0,) she surprised me with something I really had little use for until the last month or so when I started writing reviews for My Global Mind- an MP3 player. Prior to this new “job” I was pretty much satisfied with my CD’s of MP3’s I carried in my car, as that was essentially the only time I ever really listened to music. Now that I have so much music to listen to in order to write my reviews, having this simple little gadget has made my life a lot more entertained. Thank you baby!

So I’m out mowing the grass with my brand new player loaded up with tons of albums I’m needing to check out to see if I’m interested in writing about it when I come across an interesting band called Shadowside. I’m not a big fan of more modern sounding hard rock/metal. Shadowside definitely has a more modern sound working for them, however unlike most of the other bands of this genre; they actually rock, and rock hard. The band has a definite American sound to them, despite the fact that they’re from Brazil. Fronted by powerhouse singer Dani Nolden they’re not your typical female fronted rock band. It’s not just the heaviness of the music, but it’s the whole feel of the music. I like how they have taken the modern metal sound, yet they sprinkle tons of aspects of classic metal, especially with the amazing guitar work of Raphael Mattos. It’s all brought together by the sonic propulsion of the rhythm section of Fabio Buitvidas on drums and Ricardo Piccoli on bass. On their third album Inner Monster Out they play with such passion. “My Disrupted Reality,” “Angel With Horns,” and “Waste Of Life” exemplify what makes Shadowside such a great band: catchy riffs, powerhouse drums, gritty vocals, and a heavy groove combine to create their sound. They also do an awesome cover of the Motorhead classic “Ace Of Spades.”

If you’re a fan of bands like Sevendust and Halestorm, but looking for something slightly heavier, then Shadowside would be an excellent band to check out. If I had to make any complaint about Inner Monster Out it would be that at times it has a tendency to be a bit redundant, but beyond that it truly is an album worth a few spins.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    7/10

Interviewed by Denys (Site Founder/Senior Staff Writer) Myglobalmind Webzine

Myglobalmind: Hi Stu thanks for taking a few minutes to chat with us here at Myglobalmind about your upcoming third installment in the Empires of Eden series titled “Channeling the Infinite”.

Stu: Thanks for taking the time to chat with me

Myglobalmind: Before we get into the Empires of Eden project, talk a little about your musical background, when did you start playing guitar and what was your first big break in a band?

Stu: I have played guitar now for over 25 years, and my big break was with a band called Dungeon. We toured Europe with Megadeth and also played shows with Edguy, Nightwish, Destruction, Mayhem and many more. It was a great time with touring.

Myglobalmind: How was the metal scene growing up in Australia when you we’re getting started? Which part of Australia are you originally from?

Stu: I am from Sydney, one of the main cites. The metal scene was very small when I grew up; it was hard to get imports for metal. I remember travelling a very long way to find the current (at the time) Manowar album “Hail to England!”. But I think the scene was very dedicated. Of course, we had Mortal Sin who were the biggest metal around in Australia. Great times though in those days discovering metal but you had to work for it to get it..

Myglobalmind: You have been playing guitars for over 25 years, when did you first discovered that this is what you wanted to do with your life? What influences do you draw from in your playing and songwriting?

Stu: Wow, good question.. I think once I saw Kiss as a child I knew Rock N Roll was where my soul was. As far as influences I have many of the usual shredder influences like Vinnie Moore, Paul Gilbert, Yngwie Malmsteen ETC but I was also very influenced by bands and guitar player in those bands – Manowar (Ross the boss), Judas priest (KK and Glenn), Thin Lizzy (Gorham and Moore) ETC. I think now I still get influenced by modern metal, guys like Olaf Lenk from Atvance he is great and of course Chris Impellitteri.

Myglobalmind: How did you manage to join the Aussie power metal/heavy metal outfit Dungeon? Always thought that they we’re extremely underrated, they’re stuff was very technical from what I remembered.

Stu: I was lucky. A good friend knew I was looking for a band and I spent years playing terrible cover bands, so I was looking for a very serious band. He mentioned to contact Tim from Dungeon and have a talk. I remember the audition, I was really nervous.. once I got the gig I was so excited and enthusiastic, Dungeon had just secured a good deal and had touring plans. It was great. I really loved being in Dungeon it was a great experience.

Myglobalmind: What did you learn in Dungeon that you were later able to apply to your own project in Empires of Eden?

Stu: I think a strong work ethic. You know, it’s very hard work on a touring band, and that helped me also understand the industry as well. This industry is VERY tough, so I was able to see a lot of the truth there. Also for me, I have to work with people I like.. so Empires of Eden has this strong ideal as well. Everyone has to be cool people without the huge ego.

Myglobalmind: Let’s get into the Empires of Eden stuff, when did you decide you wanted to introduce this project and what was your idea behind it?

Stu: I started Empires of Eden in summer 2007, I had collected some material from the writing sessions in my last band “Dungeon” that never made those cd’s but I thought were strong. The original plan was to get this material out there for people to hear.

To make it happen, as I am a terrible singer, I ask three very close friends and amazing singers, to help me to bring them to life and the collaboration was born. It’s very important to understand that EOE is a true collaboration between the singers and I, they inject much of their own soul into the song. I just compose and produce the music.

Myglobalmind: I don’t recall if there we’re as many guest vocalists on the first Empires of Eden if any, am I right on this?

Stu: Yes you are, only three singers but it was good for the album. Three different singers and textures to bring the songs to life.

Myglobalmind: At what point did you realize that you wanted to reach out to all these great metal vocalists to contribute to EOE?

Stu: Once we finished the debut cd “Songs of War and Vengeance” the feeling was very good. The album came together very easily with everyone having a lot of fun. We said “Hey let’s do this again and soon!” From there I started thinking how great it would be to write for some of my personal idols and transfer this feeling with them. So, I commenced going through my metal vinyl’s and thinking who I would like to compose music for. It was as simple as that really.

Myglobalmind: Next question would be simply because every album has gotten better with more superb vocalists, how did you end up getting people like the legendary UDO, Rob Rock, Mike Dimeo, Sean Peck, Steve Grimmett, etc on the new Empires of Eden “Channeling the Infinite?

Stu: Thank you for the kind words. You know the answer does link a little to my last comment that I simply thought “who am I a fan of?” you know – very easy. Of course it’s important to approach singers like UDO and Rob Rock with professional material, finished songs and well developed concepts. Sean Peck is a definite legend, great singer and wonderful song writer so we have actually written full songs together.

Myglobalmind: What’s the process behind the writing and the music? I know the guest vocalists have the freedom to add their own individual melodies to each song assigned?

Stu: The process begins by thinking about the singer, their vocal textures and attack. I usually find inspiration in writing for a singer and it comes easily, so for Rob Rocks song, many of the riffs came to me quickly and then the composition of the song begins. Usually I live with the song for two weeks to make sure it’s the exact statement my brain wants to make (Laughs) and then I submit the track to the singer.

Also, yes, the singers have complete control over their own lyrics and melodies. I always think it’s more important for the singer to create their own message and tell their own story. They infuse far more emotion into the track when they own the words. The great thing here is I am not sure what I am going to get, but of course trust the professionalism of the singers which equals the final product.

Myglobalmind: The new album is pure ripping heavy metal, it starts off with a bang and steam rolls all throughout. We’re they any songs that could have been on the new album that didn’t fit or make the cut per say?

Stu: There were 22 songs written during the sessions for this album, only because I just write when I am on a roll. I really felt all of the songs are special and worked well so it was very tough to cut the tracks down to 12. I wanted this album to be more diverse than Reborn in Fire that I released in 2010, and made an effort to create a wider sound-scape. As far as songs not making the cut, I usually kill the crap ideas very early and listen carefully to make sure that everything is worthy of moving forward.

Myglobalmind: How many of the guest vocalists and musicians have you personally toured with, are friends with?

Stu: I have recently toured with Steve Grimmett here I Australia and we have been friends for a while now. I asked Steve to sing on the last cd and we hit it off, he’s just a terrific singer. As far as friends go, I have a great friendship with Sean Peck. I hung out with him in San Diego last year and we are chatting all the time now. Carlos Zema is a great friend, we spent some time in vegas partying up I have some video footage of that which should be out soon, it’s hilarious! – Alessandro Del Vecchio is another good friend, we share the common love to recording studios as we both have commercial set-ups. Of course, the Australian singers are great friends as well.

I have had a great relationship with all of the singers so far. Some of the guys are so busy and involved with so many things. I know we had to fit Udo in between tours for the vocals.

Myglobalmind: How would you describe Empires of Eden new record in two words?

Stu: Majestically intense.

It’s a big album with a lot happening.

Myglobalmind: What’s next for you Stu and Empires of Eden? Any chance you guys hit dates on the road, would be incredible to get all these amazing vocalists in one spot right?

Stu: Yes I totally agree. Everyone wants to tour this.. so promoters note! All the singers involved want to hit the road on this we just need the right promoter. There is some talk of bringing this to the European festivals and my management is looking into that now.

Myglobalmind: Make the readers you’re best pitch on why they should get this kick ass new album from Empires of Eden Stu?

Stu: This is a unique metal experience!, Guys hearing these singers express what they want, no dollars forcing them to be anything other than the perfect singers they are. This album is made with NO compromise or dollars for concern. If nothing else it’s an honest and pure musical statement.

Hahah That’s all I can give you

Myglobalmind: Let’s have some fun yeah? When I say Judas Priest Painkiller, you say what?

Stu: The ultimate statement of heavy metal force power and melody.

Halford is the pinnacle of heavy metal singers of me – I’m a huge fan. Are you reading this Rob?

Myglobalmind: One of my staff writers is from Australia, I asked him once if he ever drank Fosters, here In the USA is the only “Australian” beer they ever advertise on TV. He told me that beers tastes like piss. What does Stu Marshall drink in Australia, name some good beers?

Stu: Yes, it is piss in a can. NO Australian touches it. In fact, Steve Grimmett when he toured here was really surprised that you can’t buy it here in a pub… ;-)

For me, my favorite is a rich tasting “James squire – Amber ale” when had on Tap it is one of the finest beers in the world. I also drink good red wine a lot, Shiraz.

Myglobalmind: What’s the craziest music concert you have been a part of or have attended personally?

Stu: The Bang Your Head festival in Germany was amazing. I could fill an entire hour talking about the stories that day. Dungeon was playing the fest, we got to meet Dio, Twisted sister and the list goes on and on…

Myglobalmind: When I heard the song “Hammer Down” with the all star cast and UDO, I wanted to bang my head against a wall, is this normal for a metal head?

Stu: Yes and that is the expected response. When I thought about writing for UDO that poured out. Seriously UDO! What a dream..

Myglobalmind: In all seriousness Stu thanks for taking the time and I wish you the best of luck on the new album upon it’s release date, and keep it heavy!!!! Last words are yours.

Stu: Thank you for these great questions. Please drop over to www.empiresofeden.com we have handisgned UDO packs as a presale, also check us out on Facebook I am always on there.

Peace – Stu

Webzine Review for Empires of Eden – Channeling the Infinite

 http://myglobalmind.com/2012/04/18/empires-of-eden-channeling-the-infinite-review/

http://www.empiresofeden.com/

Released by: High Roller Records

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Heavy Metal

Links: https://www.facebook.com

Line Up:

John Falzone – Vocals

Phil Grasso – Bass Guitar

Greg Michalowski – Drums

Kevin Curran – Guitars

Mike Mooney – Guitars

Tracklist:

01. God Save London

02. Blitzkrieg Demons

03. The Iron Saint

04. Four Stars Of Hell

05. Bastogne

06. Guadalcanal

07. The Wolfpack

08. Normandy Angels

09. Red Sector A

Concept albums are a bold endeavor for a band to take, whether they’re seasoned veterans like Pink Floyd and Queensryche or new bands like Steel Assassin. Sometimes they work, and then other times they fail horribly. In the case of Pure Steel Promotion’s band Steel Assassin’s upcoming release WWII: Metal Of Honor they got it exactly right. Though not your typical concept album in the traditional sense, the common theme of World War II runs through the whole album giving it just enough concept, but keeping the songs able to be stand alone if need be.

Guitarist Kevin Curran did a ton of research pulling together various ideas when it came to song writing for the album. The songs themselves pool together various influences combining to create the core sound of Steel Assassin. As the name alludes to, there is a very definite old school metal mentality running through the whole album. Twin guitar attacks of Curran and Mike Mooney give it that classic vibe ala Judas Priest and Iron Maiden. The vocals are pure NWOBHM awesome from John Falzone. Going from a clean, but heavy sound to a soaring falsetto, Falzone hits the mark every time. Propulsive bass work by Phil Grasso and booming drums from Greg Michalowski round out the sound of Steel Assassin.

The songs flow seamlessly into the next, that driving beat and passionate singing taking the listener on an aural journey through some of the most important campaigns of World War II. Tracks like “Blitzkrieg Demon,” “The Iron Saint,” and “Guadalcanal” not only tells a story, but present metal tunes at their finest. Then tossing a curve ball into the mix they do an awesome cover of the Rush song “Red Sector A.” Surprisingly, it works well as a metal song, and Falzone’s voice is so mesmerizing you simply don’t miss the distinctive sound of Geddy’s voice. Rush is a band not many bands could pull off, but Steel Assassin do it without missing a beat. WWII: Metal Of Honor is an outstanding release I highly recommend to metal fans.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    8/10

Released by: Lion Music

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Progressive Metal

Links: http://www.lordofmushrooms.net/

Line Up:

Gus Monsanto – Vocals

Laurent James – Guitars, vocals

Luca Mariotti – Keyboards, vocals

Julien Negro – Bass, vocals

Marco Talevi – Drums

Tracklist:

1. Imago

2. Warmth in the Wilderness

3. Grace (Dedicated to…)

4. Circles on the Water

5. The Missing Link

6. Red Queen’s Race

7. Light and Thunder

8. Raindrops on My Wings

9. Nyx’s Robe

10. Awaken

When I sat down to write the review of Lord of Mushroom’s third album Perspectives, I almost didn’t. I noticed that it had been released towards the end of February and I wasn’t sure if it was worth it to review an album that has been out as long as it has. Before I made my final decision I decided to listen to the album again. I freely admit, I have listened to and reviewed a whole lot of albums (some that haven’t been posted yet) so after a while some bands start running together. Once I hit play I realized why it was important for me to talk about this band.

Released by Lion Records, Lord of Mushrooms is an ethereal prog rock band with some heavy tendencies. There are moments on this album that simply leave me breathless. Dreamy and trance-like at times then up-tempo and chaotic at others, LoM are in the same vein as prog giants Spocks Beard then other times they’re akin to the mellow moments of Dream Theater. The musical prowess of this band knows no bounds. Intricate songs like “Red Queen’s Race,” spacey songs like “The Missing Link,” and the driving syncopation of “Raindrops On My Wings” propelled me to other worlds and opened my mind to new musical experiences.

The progressive music scene is at its peak with so many differing bands falling into this category, yet none sounding like the other. A release like Perspectives is why I am a fan of progressive music. As if the vocals of Gustavo “Gus” Monsanto and the spectacular guitar work of Laurent James weren’t enough, but with the spot on drums of Marco Talevi, the moving bass work of Julien Negro, and the mood enhancing keyboards of Luca Mariotti combine to create a sound all their own. I can’t believe I was getting ready to not write this review!

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    8/10

Released by: Pure Steel Records

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Heavy Metal/Progressive Metal

Links: http://www.horaciocolmenares.com/neweden/index.html

Line Up:

Vocals – Rod Arias (ex-RECON)

Guitar – Horacio Colmenares (STEEL PROPHET, AXEHAMMER))

Bass – Luis Sandoval

Drums – Jimmy Schultz (PSYCHOSIS)

Tracklist:

1. Anthem Of Hate

2. Flames For Hades

3. Brainless

4. The Not Self

5. Unsolved Aggressions

6. Live Not Death

7. Searching the Loss

8. Grawling Errect

9. Infecting the Lie

10. Watcher

11. Three Words

New Eden came on to my radar many years ago when a friend of mine added a couple tracks to a mix tape for me. I was impressed, but unable to find any of their music in my area at the local record stores, and this pre-dates the ease of shopping online. It wasn’t until recently that they came back to me though.

Brainchild of former Steel Prophet guitarist Horacio Colmenares, the band released their first album in 1993. Now on Pure Steel, the band has unleashed their latest opus Solving For X. It’s a brilliant mix of Power, Prog, and Symphonic metal that will melt your face. With the driving double bass of the drums of Jimmy Schultz, the aerial acrobats of the guitar wizardry of Colmenares, the nimble fretwork of bassist Luis Sandoval and the soaring vocals of current vocalist Rod Arias you have an astounding sound that you have come to expect from New Eden.

The songs don’t necessarily break much in the way of new ground, but in this instance it’s a case of if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Sometimes when a band sticks to what they do best, it’s exactly what is needed. Though they’re leaning more towards the Power side than in the past, with songs like “The Not Self,” “Unresolved Aggressions,” “Flames of Hades,” and “Searching The Loss” there’s plenty of metal chunk and blazing riffs, crazy syncopated passages, and that driving force in the back, that truly creates a perfect metal album.

That is until the last track “Three Words.” I’m not sure what they were attempting to do here, but they should have left well enough alone. It’s like a slow, dreary lounge act sort of thing, and it’s horrible, and totally detracts from the awesomeness that preceded it. It’s not even humorous if that was their goal. This album went from getting almost a 9 from me to getting 6 out of 10. You simply don’t kill the spirit of an awesome album with crap like that.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    6/10

Released by: Century Media Records

Release Date: May 22nd, 2012

Genre: Melodic Metal

Links: http://www.firewind.gr/

Line Up:

Apollo Papathanasio- Vocals

Gus G. – Guitars

Petros Christo – Bass

Bob Katsionis – Keyboards, additional Guitars

Jo Nunez – Drums

Tracklist:

1. Wall Of Sound

2. Losing My Mind

3. Few Against Many

4. The Undying Fire

5. Another Dimension

6. Glorious

7. Edge Of A Dream (Feat. Apocalyptica)

8. Destiny

9. Long Gone Tomorrow

10. No Heroes, No Sinners

Is a little difficult to say anything bad about the Greek Melodic Metallers Firewind. By this point in their career they are feeling very comfortable in the style of metal they are playing and it shows in their 7th studio album “Few Against Many”. Led by the treacherous shred arrangements of Gus G incredible guitar playing and wails, and by lead singer Apollo Papathanasio, the guys return to shape shortly thereafter their last record “Days of Defiance”. With Gus’s touring duties in Ozzy’s band I’m surprise he still has time to work on his own solo stuff, but for anyone that knows the man personally you know Firewind is his baby, something he grew from nothing up to this point and there’s not much that he puts more effort into then Firewind.

As a fan of the band dating back towards the “Burning Earth” days, I expect to find some unique guitar power driven solos, with a meticulous attention to the overall melody which is something that Firewind has always been great at. If you wanted much change in style you’re not going to find it here, as Gus G and company stick with what they have crafted best.

The opening tune “Wall of Sound” is a prototypical Firewind song with a churner of an opening lead and later dwelling into this sick hell fire chunky groove, pretty hard song . The up tempo predominant riff in “Losing My Mind” is a little updated and sounds a bit too modern, but overall is not too bad as the chorus makes it a worthwhile listen. One of the strongest cuts on the record is “The Undying Fire” with it’s melodic backbone adding a new flair of ingenuity to the record, and the guitars once more flow with conviction alongside the ever uplifting chorus lines.

Every time I hear a song about “dimensions” I can’t stop but to think about Pagan’s Mind the progressive metal giants, the chorus in this one tune here “Another Dimension” sounds like a song off PM’s catalog, a haunting touch to an intriguing number. The duet with Apocalyptica on the power ballad “Edge of Dreams’ is hauntingly well done, added caveat is a touching guitar solo by Gus  for an added melancholy ethereal feel. The rest of the repertoire follow the same vain of style and tour de force as the beginning of the album.

Like I alluded to earlier, is really hard to knock down Firewind here as they feel comfortable in this style of play and I don’t have a problem with it as their back catalog is justifiably strong. I would love a couple of different sounding tunes and more stuff similar to the “Allegiance” era, but overall is not far too distant from what these guys have been doing all along, hard to believe is been that long now. The sound has evolved a bit and sounds a bit modern in spots, but not enough to submerse the overall tempo of the songs. At the end of the day the backbone of the band is Gus and his intrinsic guitar playing, alongside Apollo’s vocal range. See even when I try to say something negative I can’t, just simply because they are Firewind in every sense of the word.

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys    7/10

Released by: Ulterium Records

Release Date: May 11th, 2012

Genre: Melodic Metal

Links: http://www.endofseptember.net/

Line Up:

Elin Redin – vocals

Erik Tordsson – guitars & vocals

Johan Nöjd – bass

Johan Svensson – drums

Tracklist:

01. Isolated

02. Fallen

03. A place to go

04. Exile

05. Inner voice

06. Left in this world

07. Waiting for the rain

08. Silence

09. Autumn breaks

Maybe it’s just me, but it really seems that here has been a glut of female fronted metal bands hitting the scene hard the last couple of years. I suppose this is mostly in part to there being so many fantastic female fronted metal bands taking the scene by storm already with the likes of Lacuna Coil, Nightwish, Evanescence, and even prominent heavier bands like Otep, In This Moment, and Arch Enemy there has never been a time more prepared for such an onslaught. Scandinavian band End Of September are eager to add their name to this illustrious list. And after hearing their debut self-titled album on Ulterium Records I think they stand a good chance of making that happen.

Instantly comparisons to Lacuna Coil popped in my head. Her voice is not unlike that of Christina Scabbia’s and musically they tend to lean more towards the heavier edge with the melodic sense that keeps their sound current. On first listen I was ready to say they were more or less a copy band, which in and of itself isn’t a bad thing. I mean, if you’re a fan of one band, then it stands to reason that you would also enjoy a band doing basically the same thing. However upon further spins, though there is a definite commonality between the two, End Of September gives their own personal take on it. Obviously as with most bands of this style, the voice is what draws the listener in and Elin Redin’s is quite lovely. She truly has a gift, there’s no denying that. On songs like “Silence,” “Fallen,” “Left In This World,” and “Isolated” they certainly have the tools to take them to the top. Her natural voice meshes perfectly with the groove of the band. Heavy guitar riffs with a good groove, atmospheric keyboard work, and a strong backing rhythm create a sound that keeps them current with the scene without being entirely cookie cutter.

There’s really no reason for End Of September to not wind up being spoken in the same breath as the aforementioned bands. Even if someone else was to see them as not necessarily completely unique, their sound certainly sets them apart, if for no other reason than the hauntingly beautiful vocals. She doesn’t sound like she comes from serious training as much as she was simply born with a gift. I hope more people get to hear it.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    7/10

Released by: Legal Records

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Hard Rock

Links: http://www.smilodon.se/DiamondDogs.htm

Line Up:

Sulo (lead vocals)

Fredrik Fagerlund (guitar)

Lars Karlsson (guitar)

Martin Tronsson (bass)

Johannes Drain (drums)

Duke of Honk (keyboards)

Magic Gunnarsson (saxophone)

Tracklist:

01. On The Sunny Side Again

02. Set Fire To It All

03. Mama Let The Mad Dog Run

04. Scars And Emblems

05. Lay Me Down On Solid Ground

06. Bad But Not Ruined

07. Ball Of Lightning

08. The Inner Jukebox Blues

09. Sweethearts For Christmas

10. Burn One Down

11. Nothing Can Change This Love

12. Stand By The Rhythm

As much I try to stay on top of whatever is current, cutting-edge or for lack of a better word “hip” in the world of rock music, there’s no denying that my personal tastes lie more toward the classic rock side of things. As a big fan of all things eighties-inspired it’s fair to say that the last few years have been very good musically and the amount of bands releasing high-quality material in this vein is quite ridiculous really. But so far 2012 has had a little bit of different feel to it. Yes, there’s still been some truly awesome eighties inspired records so far from bands like H.E.A.T, DYNAZTY, SUNSTORM and a few others, but it seems that this year it’s the seventies inspired rock acts that are pumping out the gems.

First we had an extra-special release from FOXY SHAZAM, and while it had modern elements there’s no denying the album was a love letter to all-things seventies, then a great follow-up release from IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC and a couple of other lower-profile gems too. The latest record to tread this path is SET FIRE TO IT ALL, the new one from Sweden’s boogie-rock legends DIAMOND DOGS (always thought that was an excellent band name BTW).

For those that don’t instantly recognize the name, DIAMOND DOGS have been around since the early nineties and the easiest way to describe their sound is seventies boogie-rock. But they also manage to incorporate some folk-ish rock, some old-school blues, some honky-tonk and a touch of glam. Sort of an amalgamation of ROLLING STONES, AC/DC, DAVID BOWIE, CHEAP TRICK, STATUS QUO, ALICE COOPER BAND and a even a touch of DR. HOOK. They are also comparable to a few latter day acts like QUIREBOYS and THE BLACK CROWES. So in the simplest terms, if simplistic, easy to listen to classic rock isn’t your bag then it’s safe to say there is nothing of value here for you, but if the combination of the above mentioned bands excites you then SET FIRE TO IT ALL should definitely be on your purchase list.

I won’t go through every song on offer here, but I will mention a few of the highlights that made this one of my most played records of 2012 so far. First and foremost is the opening track ON THE SUNNY SIDE AGAIN which is one of the best songs the ROLLING STONES never wrote in the seventies, it also features a guest vocal spot from QUIREBOYS leader SPIKE. LAY ME DOWN ON SOLID GROUND is a perfect bar rock tune and a real blue collar cruiser. BALL OF LIGHTNING has a similar effect as the what the occasional acoustic based Keith Richards tune used to offer on a STONES album and is a great little interlude. BURN ONE DOWN is pure blues, and it’s combination of a little bit of honky-tonk piano and a dual vocal that sits apart just enough makes it really feel liker a lost gem from the seventies. STAND BY THE RHYTHM is a real hand-clapping sing-along tune that would be very fun live and had a great message. One last tune I’d like to draw your attention to is NOTHING CAN CHANGE THIS LOVE, which as some of you may guess is a cover of song originally written and performed by soul music legend Sam Cooke. It’s actually a little sad that the modern iteration of soul music has gone more toward the RnB style, as back in the earlier days the best souls stuff was ripe for the picking as far as inspiration for rock bands, and this excellent cover version simply verifies that no end.

SET FIRE TO IT ALL is simply a great album that can be enjoyed by anybody that likes the simpler side of rock music and I am happy to recommend it as a definite purchase for all seventies rock aficianados. One thing that I though was a slight error though was to have a guest vocal on the opening track. I think it would have been better for the overall flow of the album to have had it around the half-way point rather than the instrumental track that is on offer. Do yourself a favor and go check it out now…

Written by Zeezee

Ratings    Zeezee   9/10

Released by: Lion Music

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Melodic Progressive Metal

Links: http://www.statusminor.com/

Line Up:

Markku Kuikka – vocals

Sami Saarinen – guitars

Jukka Karinen – keyboards

Eero Pakkanen – bass

Rolf Pilve – drums

Tracklist:

1. The Wind

2. Hollow

3. Glass Wall

4. Like a Dream

5. Confidence and Trust

6. Stain

7. Smile

8. Flowers Die

9. Sail Away

One thing is certain about the Finnish progressive metal band Status Minor; these guys have solved the equation for delivering some intricate riffing reminiscent of some of the more mainstream bands in the prog metal genre, but the kicker is that they actually incorporate enough layers of diversity into the music to distinguish themselves from the crowd without compromising what they really are.

Founded in early 2002 by the bands guitar player Sami Saarinen who not only was inspired by everybody’s favorites metal bands, he’s also classically trained and a big pianist enthusiast. It shows on the bands second studio album “Outeroboros” which at first I had no freaking clue what the title meant. Come to find out the band’s cover artwork explains a lot, the word itself is Greek for ancient symbol depicting a serpent or dragon eating its own tail. The literal meaning is something having to do with the meaning of life, renewal of life. Interesting concept, I learned something I didn’t know. And thankfully there was more to the conception artwork then meets the eye.

The bands’s first studio album got some pretty decent reviews back in 2010 from online publications worldwide landing the band some touring gigs and a chance to spread their live stage presence, now they are back and I was honestly very surprise to listen to their new stuff. I was expecting your typical dreary vibe I usually get from the excessive at times technicality of some progressive metal bands, but I was wrong Status Minor have more to offer to the listener then the obvious.

First and foremost the lead singer Markku Kuikka has a pretty solid range on vocals despite some rough patches here and there, this adds a new dynamic to the band’s sound, that’s not even counting the added special guest vocals of female singer Anna Murphy of Eluveitie who does a phenomenal job as well, this duo tag team adds an infusion of passion and melancholy into the songs. After a riff display from the first two songs off the album, you get into the slower piano lead of “Glass Wall”, a tremendous song with plenty of emotional kick.  Another similar tune is “Confidence of Trust” which has the piano taking the front and center, and Kuikka does a great job here on this vocal laden song.

Things pick up with a menacing uptempo display which comes via “Stain” producing a mix of all the elements that make this band very noticeable and noteworthy. The battery assault continues on the track “Smile” as it turns into riff city and more resembling bands like Suspyre or Symphony X. The highlights for me come at the end with the slower progressive rock nuances of “Flowers Die”, borrowing a page or two from other Neo Classical Prog Metal bands with a lesson in tempo shift and mood. The last and final Epic song “Sail Away” is a mastery of progressive metal, the slow build up, the elaborateness of the keys an guitars, the smooth vocals and brooding lyrics all add to this majestic song which ends the album on a melodious uplifting note.

An improvement over their debut with solid production and stronger songwriting, Status Minor should now distinguish themselves form the Power Metal label which some gave the band early on, their debut “Dialog” was a bit too repetitious in that style and never did a great job of laying out their own footprints per say. The dual vocals work well and as mentioned before add a nice touch to certain songs, and the band does well mixing the slower moments with the hard riff laden tunes. The guitars and the piano are both key players on “Ouroboros” and that layer of support brings a different dark atmosphere out of the music creating much needed depth for the band. Nice surprising record I will soon revisit.

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys    8/10

Released by: Lion Music

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Heavy Metal

Links: http://www.vendetta-theband.com

Line Up:

Edward Box – Lead Guitar / Lead Vocals

Pete Thompson – Lead Guitar

Gary Foalle -Bass

Lee Lamb – Drums

Tracklist:

1. Convergence

2. Halo In Black

3. Machtpolitik

4. Veil Of Empathy

5. Blast Radius

6. Lord Of Chaos

7. Fragmented Reality

8. The Ghost Inside

9. All Your Setting Suns

10. We Are Legion

They sure don’t make them like they used to. I hear constantly people complaining that the metal scene just doesn’t have the awesome bands that it used to back in its heyday. When metal was proud and fertile, when you could throw a stone and bounce it off a thrash, hair, or plain heavy metal band. And probably a few more after that. Once grunge raped and pillaged the metal scene, most of the bands of the style either changed to fit in, called it a day, or simply fell into obscurity. The thing is, if you dug a little deeper, you would still find top notch music in this vein being released. This has never been truer than now.

Lion Records artist Vendetta fit this description. I’ll likely contradict myself a bit here. I certainly am a traditionalist when it comes to my love of all things metal. My tastes are vast and eclectic. I’m a fan of bands that most people wouldn’t have a clue who I’m talking about. When you get down to it, I’ll likely pull out an old school album. However, there are bands that really do old school metal better than some of those bands from long ago. Bands like Primal Fear, Gotthard, and Final Curse come to mind instantly, all three ranging from various styles. Vendetta’s latest album World Under Fire I’m going to have to add to the list.

I’d say they fall nicely in the same vein as a Riot, but with bits of Maiden, Ratt, and Priest. Songs like “Veil of Empathy,” “Halo In Black,” “Blast Radius,” and “Fragmented Reality” are the ones that truly did it for me, though the whole album is very consistent. There’s nothing groundbreaking on World Under Fire, but it doesn’t need to. It does what it does, and it does it well. Blistering solos, heavy hitting riffs, excellent vocals, and powerful lyrics combine to make an excellent throwback album.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    7/10

Released by: AOR BLDV Records

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Melodic Hard Rock

Links: http://aorboulevardrecords.weebly.com/

Line Up:

Mark Woerpel – vocals and guitar

Steve Daeger – guitar and backing vocals

Cary Kaylan – bass and backing vocals

Jim Winter – drums

Tracklist:

01. Rock ‘N’ Roll Party In The Streets

02. Something To Believe In

03. Fightin’ Boyz

04. Hearts Done Time

05. Let The Good Times Roll

06. Lay Me Down

07. Only Memories

08. Black Mamba

09. We Are Our Only Hope

10. Louie’s Demise

11. Fools Of Faith

12. Clostest Thing To Heaven (2011 version

Warp Drive is one of those bands that most people probably had never heard of. And this particular record wasn’t even released as CD pressing when it first came out in 2010 and only offered as a digital release, as the band’s main man guitar player and vocalist Mark Woerpel who was also in Hard Rock/Southern Rock band Blackfoot didn’t really feel the ever changing scene would welcome this record. I thought the same thing when I first got this promo from AOR BLVD Records (partially because of the  grunge looking cover” it got buried in a sea of promos), but when I put this baby in the player I was surprise and regret not listening to it sooner. Let me explain here because for fans of Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses etc will probbaly rejoice when you hear this one, Warp Drive’s Something To Believe In was actually recorded back in the 90′s but was shelved because of the obvious grunge stink which caused so many of the 80′s Hard Rock sound to spiral into oblivion.

Lucky me I got an actually CD copy of this re-release, and it was an great idea too to dust off and polish this number by Mark Woerpel. Man I can honestly say while I had heard of these guys and their debut in 1989 “Gimme Gimme”, I had never really paid much attention to the band in it’s entirety, I regret that now. This album is full of classic Melodic Hard Rockers that deliver with a time warp of nostalgia if you’re an 80′s fan.

If you like a little oomph!!! in your music, then this record is just for you, form the very onset with the stronger much zastier cover of Axe’s “Rock ‘N’ Roll Party In The Streets” to the kick ass rhythm and bass work on the track “Fightin’ Boyz”, there is enough tight groove to make you wear those old ripped blue jeans…..okay maybe reconsider that last fashion statement. Another tasty feat comes via the wails and hails of the fret on the classic hard rock staple of “Lay me Down”, where Woerpel does his best Ted Poley impersonation and succeeds. The album closes with 2 new bonus tracks recorded in 2011.

Regardless of era and music style changes, it’s always fun to listen to music like this that was intended to come out in it’s appropriate time. The atmosphere, the vocalization, the fun elements in the lyrics and the tight production is something that often goes missing now a days with new era bands in the Hard Rock genre.

It is mind blowing to believe that it took over 20 years for this piece of music to be available on CD for the first time, what a treat and worthwhile wait it was though. The obvious demise of the Warp Drive was the ever changing times of the 90′s like so many other bands trying to cross over from the 80′s, WD became a casualty of the scene, what a shame too because these guys had major talent, so much that Rickey Medlocke then in the band Black Foot helped produced the record with Woerpel. What you have here is an archival gem that thanks to AOR BLVD Records sees the light of day for the masses to enjoy. If you consider yourself a Hard Rock fan, you need to have this in your collection!!!! NOW!!!

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys    8/10

Released by: MusicbuyMail

Release Date: June 1st, 2012

Genre: Pure Ripping Heavy Metal

Links: http://www.empiresofeden.com/

Line Up:

Stu Marshall – Guitars, bass & orchestral arrangements

Udo Dirkschneider (Accept, U.D.O.)

Rob Rock (Impellitteri, Driver)

Steve Grimmett (Grim Reaper, Lionsheart)

Mike Dimeo (Masterplan / Riot)

Sean Peck (Cage)

Carlos Zema (Outworld, Vougan)

Ronny Munroe (TSO, Metal Church)

Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge of Forever)

Danny Cecati (Eyefear, Pegazus)

Louie Gorgievski (Crimsonfire)

Vo Simpson.(Darker Half)

Tracklist:

1. Cry Out (feat. Rob Rock)

2. Hammer down (feat. UDO)

3. This Time (feat. Steve Grimmett)

4. Channelling the Infinite (feat. Sean Peck)

5. Lions For Lambs (feat. Alessandro Del Vecchio)

6. Cyborg (feat. Carlos Zema)

7. World on Fire (feat. Louie Gorgievksi)

8. Your eyes (feat. Mike Dimeo)

9. Born a king (feat. Danny Cecati)

10. As flames scorch the ground (feat. Vo Simpson)

11. White wings (feat. Ronny Munroe)

12. Hammer down All star version (Bonus) (feat. UDO, Rob Rock, Sean Peck, Carlos Zema, Vo Simpson, Ronny Munroe)

13. Born a King (bonus) (feat. Sean Peck)

The all star heavy metal/power metal project of Australian colossal shred master Stu Marshall formerly of the metal band Dungeon; Empires of Eden is back!!! The third installment in the series that last time around featured a myriad of notable vocalists from the metal community, this one titled “Channeling the Infinite” does even one better with metal legends the likes of UDO and Rob Rock leading this all star ensemble. The last project was well received, but this time around the guest vocalists just take it to the next level, with a thundering road of ear shattering performances from all involved, something that Marshall has obviously taken a hold of , since he’s riffs are freaking huge and the’res defiant grooves and hooks the resonate on the whole album from top to bottom.

If you consider that this particular project was relatively unknown when their lat record came out, the intense build up of known vocalists that have joined forces with Marshall has been noticeable and praiseworthy. If you think about successful past metal super groups, well that list is thin and the’re haven’t been many that have left a mark and have consistently dished out sucesfull records, perhaps Avantasia and maybe the Arjen Lucassen Star One project was some of the few exceptions at least in terms of music quality, but on a greater commercial scale there hasn’t been many. I think Empires of Eden can change that and with their new album “CTI” they have taken a big step in the right direction.

The intensity of the music is what gets the record flowing with a charge from the onset. Marshall does a great job of laying down some dominating heavy metal/power metal riffage and lyrics that people like Rob Rock and UDO could just run away with. It shows on the opening track “Cry Out” which is led by a classic Rob Rock proving why he’s the king of melodic metal. The next tune really entwines the listener in the sick verses of UDO on the track “Hammer Down”, the Accept metal legend provides some freaking devilish hails and vocals that make this track jump out and give you shivers. That’s all well and dandy, but wait till you hear the all all star version of the same track featuring UDO, Rob Rock, Sean Peck, Carlos Zema, Vo Simpson and Ronny Munroe, just a sick rendition and real classic metal at it’s best with some molten harmonization.

Another favorite of mine is the song “Cyborg” lead by the great former vocalist of Outworld Carlos Zema, killer track with some more heart pounding hooks and a chorus that is dominated even more by the typical bombastic choruses. The more melodic metal/hard rock groove in “Your Eyes” has Mike Dimeo doing a fine job with this melodic number leaving up to the sultry guitar solos that dominate this tune which is a little more laid back from the rest of the album. The series of riot tunes keep volting forward with stunning intensity and ferocity when you listen to the title track lead by the one and only Sean Peck (Cage), the banshee spitfire vocals of Sean just turn the album inside out and add even more substance to the monster overall groove, as if it needed anymore?

This album was made for Metal fans by Metal prophets, it doesn’t get any better then all the great guest vocalist and musicians involved in this project. This time around the overall production is insanely better and more clean and Stu Marshall has to be commended for his sick guitar playing, the man can lay down some serious battle axe hymns man, holy crap. Is one after another and it doesn’t stop for all the 13 complete tracks, if you’re a big metal fan I can’t see you not buying this record when it comes out, it’s worth the support and the exposure even more so now then in the past. The cover artwork is just eye opening once again provided by artist Alex Ruiz, and yes I’m even giving a plug to the the concept artist. What more do you want from this project? It has all the qualities that any true metal fan needs, intensity…check, vicious and undeniably memorable hooks and wails…….check, pristine and crystal clear production….check, damage to your ears from listening to this ear shattering experience…… PRICELESS!!!!

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys   9/10

Released by: EMI Music Services

Release Date: Marh 16th, 2012

Genre: Hard Rock

Links: http://www.alterbridge.com/default.aspx

Line Up:

Myles Kennedy- Lead Vocals/ Guitar

Mark Tremonti – Lead Guitar/ Backing Vocals

Brian Marshall – Bass

Scott Phillips – Drums

Tracklist:

The DVD and Blu Ray includes the following songs:

1. Slip To The Void

2. Find The Real

3. Ghosts Of Days Gone By

4. Before Tomorrow Comes

5. Come To Life

6. All Hope Is Gone

7. White Knuckles

8. Brand New Start

9. Metalingus

10. Broken Wings

11. I Know It Hurts

12. One Day Remains

13. Coeur D’ Alene

14. Buried Alive

15. Blackbird

16. Wonderful Life

17. Watch Over You

18. Ties That Bind

19. Isolation

20. Open Your Eyes

21. Rise Today

The live CD includes the following songs:

1. Slip To The Void

2. Find The Real

3. Ghosts Of Days Gone By

4. Come To Life

5. All Hope Is Gone

6. Metalingus

7. I Know It Hurts

8. Coeur D’ Alene

9. Blackbird

10. Wonderful Life

11. Watch Over You

12. Ties That Bind

13. Isolation

14. Rise Today

Here’s a feeling that doesn’t usually arise too often for me when it comes to liking certain mainstream rock bands……….a change of heart. Let me explain, first and foremost I think anybody that has read my articles through the years here at Myglobalmind will know that I don’t necessarily have a soft spot for mainstream music in the USA. I don’t care for it and I have begrudgingly tried to ignore it for some time. I have been living in the proverbial bubble where I love to give bands that don’t often get any to none exposure a shot if the music holds enough water, but it comes a time when even myself is taken by a band; but this effect didn’t happen over night, in fact when it came to Alter Bridge the modern Hard Rockers compiled of former members of another mainstream rock band Creed, this took me some time to come to that conclusion. I discovered that these guys and their sound was not an acquire taste, but rather a wrinkle in the rock timeline where most bands that strive to hit it big commercially could take a lesson or two from.

I guess when I really listen to their debut album “One Day Remains” I wasn’t at all convinced that years later I would accept them as of the most talented and savvy bands out there in the mainstream rock. That all changed when I started listening to their singer Myles Kennedy on their second record “Blackbird” which I enjoyed quite a bit. I didn’t make any bull about the fact that AB plays radio rock and whether you want to quantify their sound as modern alternative metal or whatever, the fact remains that their infectious hooks, melodies and overall sound is rather hard to classify completely, therefore making the band appealing in that regard.

I always thought that guitar player Mark Tremonti was sheltered in Creed, and I’m so glad that he decided to start AB because he has simply shown the world that he can wail on the guitar, and alike the other 2 members drummer Scott Phillips and Bassist Brian Marshall have added to that the solid rhythm and bass section that is the core of the band, and what was most unquestioningly missing from the watered down Creed days.

I was never a Creed fan and I honestly I couldn’t stand lead singer Scott Stapp and his over the top irritating vocals, so when Myles Kennedy joined Alter, I was excited about his vocal range which provided that thick, heavy undertone angst similar to that of Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, and closely resembling grunge bands from that frame of time. I thought with Myles on board they add it a piece to the puzzle that most bands struggle to find; a legitimate lead singer, and one in which fit the style of the band very well. Of course this was just one step, the rest came later with the writing process, the harder edgier rock sound and the dedication to building their own fan base and separating themselves from the Creed circle completely.

Needless to say the guys started from scratch and have build quite a fan base by now, of course it took a while but now after their third album “ABIII” released in 2010, the outfit assume the road warriors mentality once again and kept on building up the fan base all over the world. Yes I know it helps they get plenty of radio and TV play worldwide and exposure from a big label, but If you can tap into the current scene musically and have much needed talent, why not? Alter Bridge have done exactly that and they have probably reached their pinnacle of live shows judging from this incredible live set filmed at the prized Wembley Arena in London during their European tour last year.

This night was special because it was the biggest stage the band has ever been on, a crowd over 10,000 people was there on this night, and so was the camera crew with over 16 state of the art high definition cameras that capture some of the highest ever picture of any live concert I have seen, and I have seen quite a few. The guys have stated that it was a nervous time as with any set when you play the first few songs, but after they shook off the cobwebs, they cruised with precision and intensity playing numbers from all their 3 albums and giving the fans a worthy bio trip from their inception to the NOW.

The whole show is a big highlight in itself and it’s even more cataclysmic then their last DVD concert “Live from Amsterdam” in 2010. The boys start things off heavy and tight with the title track from ABIII “Slip into the Void” where you can easily convince yourself that Tremonti is not just a regular novice when it comes to handling the strings, his monster riffs are enough to set a house on fire and here he gets unleashed and on the loose. “Come to Life” is another explosive number with Myles cruising through this effective crisp kick ass track, Tremonti once again hits the pedals with fury and reckless disturbance as he delivers a blazing solo.

Another great vocal song is the rangy style of “All Hope is Gone” where Myles shines with redemption, and live this song sounds even better then the studio version. Is no wonder Slash wanted to work with Myles for his solo projects, and if you haven’t heard the Live from Stokes concert from last year with Myles on vocals on the road with Slash playing all the classics Guns N Roses cuts, as well as Slash’s solo stuff; you should because he does a fantastic job. Another favorite cut of mine from the live set is the hard pomp rocker “Buried Alive” with it’s groovy chorus lines and melodic power bass lines to lead the way. The set ends with a soaring Myles taking over viciously one of the bands most memorable tunes “Rise Today”, killer song killer set and unforgettable night.

The production on this live set is second to none, the HD cameras used here are terrific, the camera angels used during the set are noteworthy, especially the mid level fan camera angle, it gives the visual display of being there in the crowd from a fans perspective looking at the stage, excellent stuff. A nice little factoid that I found out, it turns out Pearl Jam holds the single concert record for most fans at Wembley with over 12,000 fans back in 2007, with Alter Bridge’s undieably grunge influences in their music, I thought it was worth a mention. The bottom line is that all four band members do a great job in the limelight, they play each back catalog song with dynamic and cohesion as if they had played their whole lives. I have come around and had a change of heart, I’m officially on the Alter Bridge bandwagon and I don’t care if it goes against everything I believe in when it comes to the modern rock scene in the USA. I enjoy Alter Bridge, they play to their strong points creating melodies and rhythms that the mainstream fans and media like, and at the end of the line they are a hell of lot more then I ever expected to witness and you will find that out on this terrific live CD/DVD set Live At Wembley which comes out April 26th through EMI.

Written by Denys

Ratings    Denys    9/10

Release by: Atlantic Records

Release Date: Out Now!!!

Genre: Modern Hard Rock

Links: http://www.halestormrocks.com/

Line Up:

Lzzy Hale – Vocals, Guitar

Arejay – Drums

Josh Storm – Bass, Vocals

Joe Storm – Guitar, Vocals

Tracklist:

01. Love Bites (So Do I)

02. Mz. Hyde

03. I Miss The Misery

04. Freak Like Me

05. Beautiful With You

06. In Your Room

07. Break In

08. Rock Show

09. Daughters Of Darkness

10. You Call Me A Bitch Like It’s A Bad Thing

11. American Boys

12. Here’s To Us

There is no singer with more balls and passion in this business right now than the singer of Halestorm. Lzzy Hale has one of the most incredible voices out there performing. Able to go from the most beautiful lilt to a scream that would make Janis Joplin jump up and say, “Damn” she has it all.

Halestorm play a brand of hard rock that ventures closer and closer to the metal realm as time goes. Anyone that has an issue with the fact that this band has a sound that tends to be geared more towards “radio friendly” needs to reassess that decision after listening to their newest album The Strange Case Of… before finalizing that choice. The songs range from all out ballsy rockers like the opener “Love Bites (So Do I)” to the tender “Beautiful With You.” One of the things I enjoy about what they do, besides the excellent songs, is the fact that Hale makes no bones about being confident and cocksure in the lyrics. She has as much bravado as any male singer like David Lee Roth, Brett Michaels or Vince Neil, not afraid to get down and dirty like “You Call Me A Bitch Like It’s A Bad Thing” and “American Boys” where she can get just as misogynistic like the best of them. The tongue in cheek humor is great as well.

Musically the band is more akin to Seether and Breaking Benjamin, though they’re far heavier than either of those groups. Not to take anything away from the band, this is 100% Lzzy Hales’ vehicle. Without her they’d likely be just another band on the rock radio scene. Her voice and delivery is what truly sets them apart from the pack. Now with two full length albums under their belt, Halestorm are due to take over the world. The Strange Case Of… is just another step up the ladder to super stardom. Here’s hoping the average music consumer will realize the greatness that is Halestorm.

Written by Chris

Ratings    Chris    9/10