6/10

By Tony Watson

9/10

By Tony Watson

Edenbridge - My Earth Dream

(Napalm Records - 2008)

Symphonic metal has become very popular, the introduction of orchestral arrangements and operatic vocals is hardly new.

Far from joining a trend this is in fact the sixth studio album from Edenbridge after their formation in Austria 1998 by frontman Lanvall and female vocalist Sabine Edelsbacher. Combining Lanvall's guitar and keyboard skills with a quality singer must be paradise (apologies) itself but they've enlisted the backing of the Czech Film Orchestra for this release. Just one more raise of the bar for the band that were first to bring this music style to China and Taiwan on tour.

As hoped, the content on offer is of high quality, the orchestra isn't simply tagged on as punctuation for the songs and is well integrated and utilized. 'Remember Me' and 'Place Of Higher Power' are consistent highlights because the score moves and changes avoiding over repetition without going off on a tangent.

Too many times I felt myself enjoying a riff or melody in the other tracks only to find it submerged and swept away never or rarely to resurface. 'Adamantine' is a lifting number and shows a bit of 'Petrucci-style guitar work' in the middle and a good chorus. 'Paramount', 'Undying Devotion' and 'Shadowplay' have notable haunting elements and in the case of the latter some serious guitar input that reaffirmed a certain hint of Symphony X during this album.

The title track, combining six chapters (don't worry, it's not an epic marathon at a relatively modest 12:37 in total) is indicative of the album proving to be a great musical arrangement but lacking in some good old fashioned hooks and memorable melody.

Edenbridge further explore their spiritual outlet with this album and it's sung and performed with flair and vigour, fans of Nightwish and Within Temptation should definitely investigate further and also try out the live CD/DVDs on offer by this band.

8/10

By Al Hoath

Steve Ellis - Best Of Days
(Demon Music Ground - 2008)

The frontman of the fame 60's outfit 'Love Affair' is here to pleasure us with his latest album that is well and truly splendid.

Each song is well-crafted, warm and highly spirited with 2 versions of the classic hit 'Everlasting Love' - we get a studio and a live in concert version. Elsewhere other highlights include the excellent 'Brand New Start'; the contemporary poppiness of 'As The Crow Flies' and the outstanding bluesy to haunting ballad 'Requiem For A Tyrant'.

Then there's exceptional 'Nu Clear Blues' with Roger Daltrey on harmonica where his also found on the jokey short 'Yellow Rose of Texas'; the killer bluesin' 'Heaven's Word' and the amazing title track, 'Best Of Days'. The album features 2 other well known guests too who are Paul Weller (Guitar/Keyboards) on 'Step Inside' and Nigel Glockler (Drummer of Saxon) on 5 of the numbers - brilliant.

I can't recommend this album highly enough.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

Extreme - Saudades De Rock
(Frontiers - 2008)

Not heard an album from these guys in yonks. They carry on from where they left off so yeah, there's party filled rock and some serious sounding stuff too.

Best songs on here are most definately the fun-time rockers like the opener 'Star' with the bands trademark harmonies back in full force; the band Queen meets the Blues of 'Comfortably Dumb'; the hottied-up 'King Of The Ladies' the funky Zeppy 'Learn To Live' and the closer 'Americocaine' that's actually a demo from 1985.

'Ghost' is a really nice ballad that could have come out from a band like ****play (but it's got great vocals and a strong bright arrangement - unlike those UK slash your wrist dirges that said band always seem to bring out). Then there's the stand on your head sidewaysness vibe of 'Slide' with its weird key and funky groove.

Personally I'd have stuck to the real rockin' stuff and left off the serious material. At least you get a good half plus of what the rock fans really wanted.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

Extreme - Star (CD Single)
(Frontiers - 2008)

F*ck Yeah - Gary, Nuno, Pat & Kevin are back - it ain't been the same without 'em - I remember seeing them at the City Hall, Sheffield in 1991 - what a gig that was !

'Star' rocks like they've never been away with those tademark vocal harmonies and Guitar guru solos from Mr. Bettencourt. It comes alongside the quieter ballad that is 'Ghost' presented as both a radio edit and in full album version.

Looking forward to getting the album now after this teaser.

8.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

EDENSANDS - Living Kills

(2008)

Another one in from the continent, I’m wondering if they British and American scenes we have enjoyed for the last 30-40 years is on its way to being put out of business, as we wonder if this latest outfit display the same upper hand.

Spain’s Edensands do not disappoint for a second with their cheery melodic metal offerings that couple modern day AOR smoothness with the old-school metal approach of Helloween and also Swedish faves Million.

How its all packed into just 38 minutes is unanswered but there’s time plenty to appreciate ‘Golden Fangs hungry Dogs’, ‘You’ll Sink’, ‘Run’, ‘Mother’, ‘Last Will’ and ‘Taste Of Hope’ on the first lap of the lens with Stefan Tudela’s cream-sweet range making it harder to turn off.

In spite of a lack of distinctiveness in style there is however no absence of talent or hooks with all five putting in an solidly able performance, and a deal with one of the scene’s top labels is important to get these guys the profile they are deserving of with this debut attack.

Great stuff all the way, boys.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

7.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

ENTHRONED -Tetra-Karcist
(Napalm Records - 2007)

The name rings a bell from before, either them or the other lot with the ‘Hecate...’ on the front end. Either way, we get the usual business with these Belgian veterans, missing out on not one single element integral to the conventional black metal sound.

One factory that is optional to the genre is their favourable variety of tempos, with some large pieces of rhythm line producing a strong bounce-up-and-down-on-top-of-bed sensation to them - that’s assuming you’ve probably trashed the rest of your sleeping quarters along to the first couple of numbers.

Overall, ‘T.K.’ fails to bore drastically even if they are pretty samey in every other area outside that mentioned hereinto, but a respectable job done overall with this one.
Moshers round the world will approve of course.

7/10

By Dave Attrill

EPICA - The Divine Conspiracy
(Nuclear Blast - 2007)

Female fronted symphonic metal acts always send me swinging for that play button as soon as the disc is loaded and ready to spin, and on noting that Epica are such a thing themselves, I sat down, ready to savour.

Only this time, I frankly found it a little hard going. Credit IS due to this European fivesome in most places as they route themselves towards more of a goth sound from the start, Epica’s frontwoman being equipped with a flawless range, with her attempts at the higher octaves especially gelling.

Throwing her hard work down the proverbial porcelain implement however are the offensively over-worked vocals of her male band-mates who while quite clearly stellar on their respective instruments as is clearly established, succeed in preventing the listener from appreciating her own for a lot of the eighty minute duration.

Ergo a potentially great sounding epic metal album turns into something frightfully akin to a girl fronted version of eighties Russian act Gorky Park . Not overall categorisable as a poor record, Epica have let too many cooks round the stove here and the resulting spoilt broth sometimes struggles to stay listenable, especially for an album this long.

Shame.

6.5/10

By Dave Attrill

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

Eskimo Brit – Paradise (CD Single)
(SJ Records – 2006)

A trio based in Sheffield, UK who have a female vocalist who addresses the audience from behind the drumkit. They are kinda pop rock and have a mainstream thang goin’ down – so good they are that they won ‘Battle Of The Bands’ in 2006.

This main song is very Alanis Morrisette (or however you spell it) – a happy, laid back acoustic affair that grabs your attention with those high yet velveted silky vocals. The other 2 numbers are great too - ‘Don’t wake the neighbours’’ which is more on the Funky Rock-Blues side of things whereas ‘I Don’t Wanna’ is racin’ rock to get you frothing over.

Look out for them. http://www.eskimobrit.com

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Dave Attrill

ALSO RECOMMENDED
SEVEN WISHES - Utopia
(Z Records - 2001)

Six years on, the second album by the Swedes is still as great as was back then. One of the first CDs I reviewed for the site, (10/10 by the way) it is worth chasing up, if not only for the cover of Dokken’s ‘Unchain The Night’.

Check out www.zrecords.net for possible info.

Not played a Stoner Rock for a while – the last one that kinda fell into that category a bit was Sheffield’s ‘Shrine of the Monkey’. This is pacey fast ‘n’ hard rifferey where everything is at the front of the mix – like in the days of the 60’s and 70’s (man there should be more albums sounding like this). I never heard Vol. 1 but if this is an indication to go by I bet it’s damn good.

Healthy helpings of loud distortive deep riffin chuggery guitar work, strong vocals, deep bass and stick-snappin drum smashin’ thoughout that come via Sweden and highlights include ‘Concubine’; ‘Drowning’; ‘Magnetic Soul’; ‘Little Song’ & ‘Leaving the Darklands’.

File next to ‘Monster Magnet’ & funnily enough ‘Velvet Revolver’ – or somewhere like that.

7.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Death8699 (MethylinInfo@aol.com)

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

8.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

Very nice boys,very nice.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

This rather formulaic hrdcore thrash outfit seem content with riding on what's passed 20, 000 times before but they keep their heads reasonably above water and some of these tunes can be told apart after you've studied the disc throughout about seven times.

Seventeen tracks might often be testing with this material but catchy thrash riffage at less than infrequent intervals guarantees headbangers in attendance some quality air time. In the end, a worthwhile effort.

7.5

By Dave Attrill

6.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

EARTH - Star Condemn'd

(Iron Fist Productions - 2004)

Not a lost demo from metal legends Black Sabbath recorded under their maiden moniker, Australian six-piece Earth still like to keep things dark 'n' deathly, though to further extent. You guessed it, it's black metal time again!!!

Going in the commercial direction a little bit once more, the riffs and audible guitar harmonies at not infrequent slots with another useful contribution from the keyboards are trying to tell us once more that this type of metal doesn't have to be 100% racket and % tune.

Nigh on rarely do we hear from the metal scene down under, these days, but when we do, it seems not to disappoint. Time to come down to earth, everyone. (Even the joke I got in my Christmas cracker was funnier than that, Dave)

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE; Most of the top British/European scene acts, with keyboards.

Aussualt on the ears, I take it that means. 8 Foot Sativa's noisy material is not exactly of the sweet, gentle endearing kind or the particularly interesting at that. Treading practically identical lines to those of Slow Roosevelt, this Kiwi quartet come out with produce of practically identical style AND quality.

Bland, predictable, hookless, irritating scream-core, that being of course. Still guaranteed much action in the moshpit, this stuff however continues to lack direction or creativity. Once again preferring to play at being a fourth rate Rage Against The Machine, 8FS are just another fresh-faced offender.

5/10

By Dave Attrill

"One For The money and Two For The Sh….' oh, it's not him. Should have known when I noticed that extra 's' on the end. This hitherto hardly-hear-of foursome's sound is about as far removed from the King, as Rebecca Loos should be from Rooney's missus but all the same a lot more appealing.

Motorhead style riff-lines support 80's/modern day new wave croonings with pleasing effects and hooks abound in most of the three cuts we've been allocated. Give 'em a spin if you can.

7/10

By Dave Attrill

'Live at last', you say? Now, before we get started, didn't Black Sab. oh forget it. In truth, the last two words of such title are quite operative in my case as it's the first time have managed to come by any material by San Francisco prog titans Enchant. As a bonus fro my troubles, I find myself treated to a two-and-a-half-hour live set comprising of a third of each of their albums, according to frontman Ted Leonard.

If this incredible double pack is anything to go by then these albums must be worth pinching as this five-piece offer something serious to the uneducated, especially in Leonards' own roof-lifting output. Keeping epic keyboard histrionics to a minimum, their more straight-ahead arrangements have all the same successfully merited them their sturdy following across the scene, testified by the volume of applause by the occupants of the relatively small venue.

Typically titanium performances from all musicians as is standard in this scene, on songs averaging seven-eight minutes, Enchant would do well to chalk in a few UK dates on their schedules - prog rock may of course be limited in its following over here but those who do still care - it's impossible to stop 'em.

A stunning introduction to a stunning band.

9.5/10

By Dave Attrill

Being off the same label as Drowning pool does have its degree of recommendation - that's recommendation to take the bl**der out of the case and play it in most translations. This offering from fellow Americans Edgewater avoids the anti-climax tag but not by the widest of margins. Stinker it certainly ain't before you panic but I found this number a lot less immediate and less unpredictable than other material from the Wind-Up production line of late in spite of its quite meaningful, gliding guitar/vocal arrangement.

The hooks here didn't exactly show themselves to begin with and lacking anything that drilled in until the third listen, it definitely took its time to catch on but it's still a big one for the main fans.

6/10

By Dave Attrill

Coming from a non English -speaking country has often spelt little deterrent for bands round the world preferring to sing in the world's most universal language rather than their native tongue but as we know, not all bands find it that easy. Japanese rockers Electric Eel Shock are still amidst the doldrums where that is concerned, otherwise their mish mash of messily arranged lyrics in English and their own lingo through these fourteen tunes -some are a mixture of both - would have been less excusable by this review.

That dealt with, some pleasant pop n' roll in the vein of Hellacopters and Blink 182 amongst others is served up by this quite talked-about band and even if you can't translate, there are a few hooks audible, believe it or not. A bit of a bugger to get used to, at first, but worth it.

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

The Love Affair frontman's latest that features artists like Roger Daltrey playing harmonica on 'Yellow Rose of Texas' and 'Nu Clear Blues' (a number that pays tribute to many old well-loved standards); ex-Saxon Drummer, 'Nigel Glockler' and even Paul Weller.

Steve gives you many delights herewith such as two versions of the classic 'Everlasting Love' (studio and live). Overall it's a mighty good contemporary adult orientated album with many songs looking back on when we were younger, now we've grown up a wee bit - 'Turn to Stone'; 'Little One' and 'Best of Days' being perfect examples.

This album is a celebration of memories of a lifetime and how times change. A well recommended fresh, light and loving release.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

I think I've seldom encountered such a bunch of weirdos as the four gentlem... er, excuse me, one woman and three gentlemen who appear on the back of this sleeve. If sight makes you wonder what can be said for their sound- this lot are something else in quite the literal meaning of the expression.

An amalgam of dark metal noises and sometime quite progressive explorations capped by aggressive and at a fair fraction of times, duel-way male/female vocal functionings, Ensoph's offerings are very hard to match as much as twenty percent with any one or number of particular other groups, even within their own corner of the rock n'roll room. Hence to sum this latest promising European lot up, I can only say that they sound as mad as they look - and that's mad enough for me. Er yes, by thew way it is recommended.

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

This label, along with MTM, seems to have become a refuge for ex-Z Records signees of late. Sweden's Eclipse's second album sees them switch contracts but keep standards the same. I couldn't help but have noticed their somewhat alternative leanings on their previous album which are even easier to notice on a lot of these tunes here - some of these numbers may be of appeal to a good few Blink 182 or Offspring fans. However, casting that rather cynical view aside, there's still a lot of meat on the melodic rock bone to be chewed at here.

This is a diverse and entertaining hard rock album from the Stockholm foursome and songs like 'Always Standing', 'All I Do', 'Streets Of Gold', 'Nothing Between Us', 'Road To Forever' - a Poley-era Danger Danger fan's wet dream if ever there was one - and 'Light Of Day' beckon for many listens. On the quality of most of this material, I'm wondering if Mark Alger may have let them go too soon, but hey, at least they're now eligible to play the Gods festival - and we very much hope they do.

Brill

8.5/10

By Dave Attrill

ED GUY - Hellfire Club
(Nuclear Blast - 2004)

This is seriously one of the best power metal acts I have ever heard (this promotional copy having narrative describing each song). There's a dozen numbers in all that range from explosive majestic metal (like 'Mysteria') to orchestral ballads (such as 'Forever').

It's highlights galore on this German bands latest release. Take the Dio-esque 'The Piper Never Dies'; the humourous 'Lavatory Love Machine' about having sex with beatiful air stewardess on a crashing plane; the beautiful 'The Spirit will remain' that's an epic with lone vocals that's very celtic styled with just an orchestra that's full of supremely sung high notes that are real hard to do.

Need I say anymore - just buy it and you'll regret nothing - this is the ultimate.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

Ok, so Donnie never seems to materialise in the UK but he's the lead vocalist when it comes to the studio anyway.

Having been disappointed with them live, the 'blue island album easily matches the epic 'Animals with Human Intelligence'. The melodies are Beatley at times but not too OTT with stand-outs being the sentimentally 'n' romantic 'Sanibel Island' with its girls and alcohol visions imprinted in your head; 'Roll Me' which is rather like The Beatles 'The Word'; 'Man without a heart' plus even bonus tracks like The Beatle's 'Hide your love away' and Donnie performing an acoustic version of Nirvana's 'No Apologies'.

EZN's 12th album is one of those that'll have you saying 'Play it again, Sam'

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

The material's here is initially similar to the band 'Wyzard' but a wider amalgam of the 80's British Metal scene, taking in the early days of the extreme end of it, before our American friends made their moves. That touched on as it may be, it's still at the best of times with the same melody as Wyzard and quality guitar work straight from the good ol' days when you could see stuff like this at your city hall, every other week, and although I'm a generation younger, I'd still recommend it if you find it on release, anywhere.

Just be warned though lads, keep it away from Kerrang,.. they have been known to give the occasional No-K review.

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

Their debut 'Viva' was promising but their second release 'Solid rest' simply comes across like a handful of other albums in the stoner world. All in all, the truth is, is that it is rather depressing and miserable and won't really be appreciated unless you are new to the scene.

It's just chuggy guitars and has no originality to it whatsoever. This band can do better. The only song that really stands out is 'Mrs. Coma' - a quieter number that's like a different band altogether.

4/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

The overall hard-edged sound of 'Tug…' is complemented by the contrast in slow flowing harmonies that add great feel. Ted Allen's clear vocals and thoughtful lyrics keep the album tight and on course with the definite direction that Enchant are going with it. A change in sound direction is a good thing when it doesn't spoil the formula. And 'Tug Of War' undergoes it competently.

8/10

By Steve Windle

Though fast, the song-writing and structure are not sacrificed for the sake of speed. There's an interesting mix further into the album as it goes heavy from the start through to the middle and then mellows out with the bonus track at the end.

Great.

8/10

By Steve Windle

Glenn Hughes loves 'em and no wonder - he even duets with Stacey on the track 'Growing Wise'. Ellis highlight without a problem and I gotta recommend the funky 'Have you seen her', a cover of Stevie Wonder's Superstition' as well as the Zep it acoustically format which works a treat on 'Empty Pockets'.

Ellis are eloquently eclectic and unafraid to break into various contemporary styles that aren't around on the forefront of the marketplace in this day and age.

8.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

This like it's predecessor 'Bring me to life' has that chuggin' guitar rhythm, Amy Lee's amazing soprano vocals and haunting atmosphere that has now become the bands trademarks. A short guitar solo can be heard as well which makes a pleasant change to much of today's output.

The song 'Going Under' although hardish also has a mellow side to it and lyrically concerns giving all of yourself to somebody and receiving nothing in return and then getting over the fact.

It's likely to be a hit but can't see reaching No. 1 but I could be wrong - time will tell.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Kinda Gothic but at the same time in-your-face Nu-metal (but not to the point of brutal noise or anything like that) as well as having the beautifully voiced soprano, Amy Lee in the vocal seat. Evanescence are probably the best act that Wind-Up have signed - they even played at the Download Festival at Donnington Park on May 31st, 2003.

What makes them different are the exceptionally well thought out melodies that are haunting, electrifying and downright outstanding.

'Bring me to life' should be the single of the year (as featured in the film, 'Daredevil') but that's just a glimpse of this amazing album. The Orchestral 'My Immortal' is irresistible; 'Imaginary' is melodramatic decadence' and then there's the weird electronica metal of 'My Last Breath'.

'Evanescence' arethe band that could bridge the gap between Gothic Metal and Nu-Metal.

Completely breathtaking in every way.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Laying down the tracks solid with their hard edged southern hard rock, EMN released this in 2001 (their 3rd album but 1st for Perris). My God, what a ballsy outing it is too. Twelve tracks greet ya and highlights include the aggressively touched burners like the beefy 'Pray'; the brilliantly melodic 'E34 (Unwritten Law)' with its makin' love love led rhythm section that's blues-up with a pumping pre-chorus and the gutsy 'Wire' with its addictive bass-line and lead guitar riff or the haunting title track itself.

Rick Ruhl and the rest of the 'mare returned to the scene and they've been there ever since.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

EVENT - Scratching At The Surface

(Inside Out - 2003)

There have been some wild, wacky, unusual, interesting and bloody impressive cross-styled rock/metal acts on the production belt of late.. Oh, here's another one coming along now. What have we got here then? F***ing hell, what in the name of Gomorrah's goolies is this?! Event sound either like the Police actually bothering to write a full album's worth of above-decent songs or Nickelback, themselves, U2 and umpteen Kerrang-friendly contemporary acts have met each other in a crowd and shared a few ideas.

You can also decipher a smattering of Harem Scarem styling audible in the large half of the album's running time and one or two tracks that have that ever-so-slight Sick Of It All likeness - with that risky album title, you'd think they've be in enough trouble with Koller and Co as it is.

Let's be fair, I've heard faintly similar ideas used on other recent releases such as the barnstorming Yakuza album but they're good ideas, that's what counts. And you should all know the equation by now - good ideas = good music = good album = good mark.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

Dave Evans - One Hell Of A Night (A Tribute to Bon Scott)

(Perris Records - 2002)

The original vocalist of AC/DC performs down under in Melbourne, Australia with a fitting band, 'Thunderstruck' - I you can't guess who they are a tribute to can you This gig took place 20 years after the death of Bon Scott and released for your great devour. He's not the greatest of singers and ropes in a few bum notes - but give the guy credit - not many can say they fronted a band with Angus and Malcolm Young.

What really makes it worth having is a live version of the very hard to find number 'Rockin' in the Parlour' - the b-side of 'Can I sit next to you girl' as well as jewels that you never hear AC' perform like 'It's a long way to the top' - complete with bagpipe sounds and the f*ck you attitude of 'Rock 'n' Roll Singer', one of the band only ballads 'Ride On' and one their only covers, 'Baby, please don't go'.

The sound quality is outstanding but at times Dave is a little bit low in the mix and is over-shadowed by the guitars.

The gig is finished with Bon's fitting epiphany 'Highway to Hell' - well what else!

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

You're gonna hear this a lot at the cinema over the next few months. The female fronted Gothic, Modern Nu-metal outfit features Paul Mccoy (from 12 Stones) on this number. It's haunting material and catchy as well and coming from the recently released film 'Daredevil'.

This is the sounds of dark, velvet coated gothic dreams. It's gonna stick into your memory, like it or not.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Recorded around the various venues in the United States. It's Southern, it's dirty and it's Every Mother's Nightmare banging out kickin' numbers like the bar boogie of 'Long Hair Country boy' (that I remember local Yorkshire/Derbyshire, UK cover band 'Cold Gin' bash out on many occasions - so that is who did the original).

To give the guys a break from their own stuff other artists classics are played such as Alice Cooper's 'Eighteen' and Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Saturday Night Special' but needless to say you get a fine helping of material from the 'Deeper Shade of Grey' and 'Smokin' Delta Voodoo' albums as well.

These boys are still provin' that they are as relevant as they were back in the late 80's/early 90's, when the nightmare began.

7.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Evenfall from Italy, hit our shores with what can only be described as original melodic death/doom metal and a mixture of gothic influences, combined with an angelic vocal delivery of a highly talented female vocalist Roberta Staccuneddu that takes out the tortured vocals of Ansgar Zoschg

.
'Cumbersome' is a new style for Evenfall and comes across through a variety of emotions as it's atmospheric dark influences erupt into the air we breath, this new style of metal is an eye opener for the sort of people who listen to death, doom and black metal with it's gothic and electronic innuendos.

Evenfall have released and interesting and exciting 10 track CD, which has a mixture of bands like 'Sister of Mercy', 'Theatre of Tragedy', 'Bal-Sagoth' and 'Kovenant' to add but a few names. With it's seven member line up, Evenfall have got a stable relationship among themselves that can be heard throughout the 50 minutes of whirlwind feelings and extreme energy.

8/10

By Tony Watson

Most of the songs have that fast chugga-dugga style that at times does get rather tedious but the vocal harmonies do wonders especially when they are wonderfully arranged to melt in and become another instrument around the melody with exploive examples being 'We will Rise' and 'Mandrake's Dream' and the closer, 'Force of the World'.

An exasperating album from 4 guys who all met at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood a few full moons ago- these being Stefan Elmgren (Guitar); Niclas Johnson (Vocalist), Chris Johnson (Bass) and Bjorn Frickland (Drums) - it just had to be done after the success that Stefan had with the first 3 Hammerfall albums.

Next up - the new release from Hammerfall.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Fancy a bit of bluesy grooving, crunching, Sabbath orientated Stoner, then if so, this'll sooth your soul. The Double E is what you need after a round with the Double O (that's Ozzy Osbourne to any of you laymen out there) especially if you want to top it off with a big bag of drink 'n' drugs. This album is the modern soundtrack - this you can be sure.

If the drugs don't get ya, then this band certainly will - and before you ask, no they aren't American, but surpisingly enough come from Japan and here to kick your ass with heavy guts of phased guitar, pendular stregth drumming and wailing harsh vocals. It really is a treat from the stoner rock of 'Shizy' to the poppyness of 'Movements and Vibe' or the Geezer Butler styles blues of 'No Answer'.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

ECHOBRAIN - ECHOBRAIN
(CHOPHOUSE/SURFDOG RECORDS CAT No: SD-67125-2 2002)

To put cut a long story short, we have three extremely talented musicians, two school pals by the names of Dylan Donkin singer/guitars and Brian Sagrafena funk/jazz drums, with also a world famous bass guitarist Metallica's Jason Newstead. It all started off as a bit of a laugh, the jam sessions were loose and strictly for fun. For five years Dylan, Brian and Jason have been playing what they call 'Wonderful soup music' in the Chophouse (Jason's home studio).

This ten track CD is a loose, pop-tangled rock record with a vocal content full of emotion between the likes of Jeff Buckley and Chris Cornell, an irregular funk drummer who has the rhythm that flows like a river, and of course Jason, with his introspective softer vibe, which mixes well with acoustic guitars and the odd noir string work from the San Francisco and National Symphonies.

This is a moody CD that leans towards the likes of Radiohead with the melodic edgy rock beats of Soundgarden and Alice in Chains but also the elements of psychedelia. The CD is a swirling mess with incredible melodic hooks, from the start of 'Colder World' through 'Spoonfed' to 'We are Ghosts' to finish off with 'Crying Shame' it will either hypnotise you or it will end up in the bin.

Don't think that Jason is the main man in this three-piece band, he isn't. Dylan and Brian develop most of the compilations and their own sound, Jason has just pushed it forward. If you are expecting a full on thrash assault because of Jason then be prepared to be disappointed, it won't happen.

There are also guest appearances by Kirk Hammett who plays guitar on 'SuckerPunch' and Jim Martin who plays guitar on 'Spoonfed' and banjo on 'The Crazy Song' a hidden track after track ten.

If you have that open mind to music, be prepared to be blown away with this exciting development that sounds like one massive jam session. Expect to hear more from Echobrain in the future, as this CD will sweep around the world harder and faster than a tornado.

10/10

By Tony Watson

Empire - Hypnotica
(Lion Music 2001)

An all-star Melodic Rock Super-Group of the highest order featuring two former members of Rainbow - Neil Murray (Bass) and Don Airey (Keyboards). The Drummer, Gerald Kloose is a fine player who has a unique snare rolling style - it's almost jazz. Balance of Power's Lance King takes on the lead vocal role and Rolf Munkes is the shredding guitar extraordinaire.

It's very, very musical and so impressive that it comes across as too much at times - but with a line-up like this - who's complaining. Opener, 'Hypnotic' fades up like your witnessing a space-age computer centre which travels into a pounding melodic rocker called 'Fool in Love' about love being longer lasting than you previously thought it would be - Nice solo Rolf !!

'Spread My Wings' - "till the walls come tumblin' down", I hear you say, is a stormer of a song - a ballad at that - then later there's the classy and cheesy'ish 'Bad Bad Boy' that's almost pop-rock (musically, it's sort of Danny Danzi meets Mr. Big, Johnny Lima and Bon Jovi) or 'Here I am' with it's deep voice over section. 'Another time, another place' is pure cock rock - cool - I dig this loads !!

In fact any track on the entire album is well worth checkin' out - quite sincerely the material here is a melodic, musical dream to the ears - perfection and straight to the point professionalism is waiting to greet you.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Every Mother's Nightmare - Back Traxx
(Perris Records - 2001)

Deep South Delta Blues meet C Rock at it's most classiest. Imagine Skid Row meets Cinderella and Jackyl with the occasional burst of violins, like the opener, 'Southern Way' with its heavy ball bustin' blues riff or its dirty hard chuggerishy/stoner styled successor 'Muddy Water' - Originality that's what you get here without selling out of the presumed rock genres.

This album sees Every Mother's Nightmare touch on Redneck Country Blues with
the bango pickin' 'Ride the train' - I'm speechless - it's just soooo good!!! 'Dawg' has G'NR's 'Rocket Queen' riff creepin' in and out - you can imagine Axl Rose screamin' his rocks off at any second - but Rick Ruhl has no competition on this number.

Elsewhere the good old sleazy vocal slingin' is there - complete with to blue-rock perfection on selections such as 'River' that reminds me of the Beatles 'Let it Be' album classic 'I've got a feeling' but bluesier or the arousive hard rocking 'Too far gone' with more of that knock-out banjo pickin' but with an added bonus - some exceptional violin playin', needless to say the awesome short but sweet guitar solo.

Track number 13 - probably called 'Life's been good' (but I may be wrong as it ain't listed on the promo sheet) is a real mother of country rocker that sees the band come across with the British brilliance of The Rolling Stones and The Faces (thanks to the Woody sounding, (perhaps inspired) slide guitar riff), there's even a hint of Steve Harley in there too because the end of the chorus reminds me of 'Come up and see me (make me smile)'.

It's an album that has elements of Drivin' n' Cryin' and Dogs D'Amour in there too - and when you have a band as delectable as EMN then you get the best Sleazy Blues-Rock album that money can buy !!!!

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Every Mother's Nightmare - Deeper Shade of Grey
(Perris Records 2001)

Another new studio album out already - and it doesn't seem five minutes since 'Smokin' Delta Voodoo' was released. It comes across as sophisticated Indie rock as opposed to the old Cock-Rock style that a lot of people know them for. It's far more sophisticated and hardly anything like I expected it to be.

'Hello Darkness' and 'Fly Away' are outstanding melodious numbers especially the latter which is one of those cock-rocking stunner epics with a brilliant wailing guitar solo. The bulk of it just doesn't stand out at all. It's more like the musical equivalent of plain bland old wallpaper which is a shame because their other release 'Back Traxx' is a F*cking awesome blues rock treat that I gave 10/10.

I get the impression that Every Mother's Nightmare are trying to change their direction - but is it the right one - time will tell. Call me stuck in the party, partyness of the 80's - this album did little for me.

6/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

David Glen Eisley - The Lost Tapes
(Frontiers/Now and Then - 2001)

This album is especially for those of you who wish that the hard-edged cock-rockers 'Dirty White Boy' had released a follow up to their one and only release 'Bad Reputation' - not to mention a 3rd album from 'Giuffra'.

Over 13 years on, 13 unreleased tracks land on my lap and I'm pleased to say I wasn't in any way disappointed - in fact I was overjoyed when I gave this a spin. O.K. - the material was recorded around 13 years ago in the period spanning '87' and '88' - but it stands up against any melodic rock or cock rock for that matter that's released these days - in fact it's probably better!!! Hats off to Frontiers for signing David Glen Eisley he's worth his weight in gold!!! and issuing these great numbers as 'The Lost Tapes' - that includes songs which are simply far too good to gather dust like the ballsy rocker 'Slip of the Tongue' (not to be confused with the Whitesnake ditty) or the rootsy live rawness of 'Boothill Blues'.

Check out the swirling zoom guitar effects on the intro of the bangin' 'Golden Town' - which is very reminiscent of the melodic power that's associated with Magnum (when they reach their absolute peak). There's the unmistakable style of Dirty White Boy in 'Are You Ready' - which'll receive a joyous reaction everywhere or 'Lay Down your Love' that's a towering musical inferno of brilliance.

'The Lost Tapes' is an album that many artists will find very hard to match.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Entombed - Morning Star
(Music For Nations - 2001)

A single thud every 3 seconds then single notes. A quick tinkle of the ivories which creates an early ambient feel then after a minute it rips into a pounding of drums and power chords - but what surprised me most was an understandable vocal content of 'Chief Rebel Angel' - Is this really Entombed?

I expected Entombed being like Napalm Death, Paradise Lost and Kreator - not taking on the forms of Slayer, Sepultura, Soulfly and a bit of No Means No thrown in for good measure.

What can I say, from an excellent start to an even bigger finish with drum riffs that you would expect from Dave Lombardo, the vocal quality of Tom Araya with hard hitting power riffs of Sepultura and No Means No. I have not heard a CD for a long time where there are no bad tracks. Starting off with 'Chief Rebel Angel'; an acoustic middle in 'Bringer of Light' and tracks like 'I for and Eye'; 'Ensemble of the restless'; 'Out of heaven'; 'Fractures' and 'About to Die' which hit you like a nuclear blast then finishing off with the slow, hard-hitting, thumping track 'Mental Twin'.

We have 12 tracks of pure brilliance and I cannot see any other CD being as fulfilling as 'Morning Star' this year. This CD goes alongside my top ten thrash CD' list of all time alongside the likes of Metallica's 'Master of Puppets'; Slayer's 'Reign in Blood'; SOD's 'Speak English or Die' and Kreator's 'Pleasure to Kill'

37.02 minutes of love making of the ear drums.

10/10

By Tony Watson