G
|
December |
|
GMT –
Evil Twin The 2nd album from Robin Guy, John McCoy and Bernie Torme who belt
out 10 new great rockers.
8/10 |
| Griffen
- Linked in Eternity (E.P.) A nice slab of hard rock
from Sweden that will be appreciated by the old schoolers as this will
take ya back and forward again to the present as well. 8/10 |
November |
Gamma
Ray - Hell Yeah!!! The Awesome Foursome This is what you call power metal at it’s best, a double live CD recorded in Montreal. Being a big fan of Helloween, it comes to no surprise the energy produced on a stage by Kai Hansen and the clarity of the recording. From the start of ‘Gardens of the sinner’ the crowd are encapsulated with the brilliance and professionalism of the band. The enthralled audience relish the 2 hour set put forward and the tightness of the set. The 2 CDs have captured a marvellous energetic, non stop gig with such tracks as ‘Man on a mission’, ‘Blood religion’, ‘Beyond the blackhole’ and ‘Send me a sign’ to name but a few, but they do also add a Helloween classic ‘I want out’ within the set. For all power metal fans this double CD makes you feel part of the gig and will provide many years of entertainment. 9/10 By Tony Watson |
August |
|
Ghost Circus - Across
the line
(ProgRock Records/SPV - 2008) It’s hard to actually put a label on this band but it come across to a unique blend of AOR, Prog, Metal, and classic alternative rock. Across the Line is a progression of man's path from death to the hereafter, this intricate blend of solace with space exploration reminds me in some ways of Hawkwind, Rush and Vangelis mixed in a blender and poured out a beautiful home made soup. The excitement and the passion of this wonderful creation lifts you into a sense of well being to then bring you back down to earth with a landing so soft you would still think you were in heaven. I must admit it’s not usually my sort of thing but this wonderful masterpiece will give me years of pleasant listening. 9/10 By Tony Watson |
| Gillan
- No Easy Way A CD and DVD package - the
DVD is reviewed in the DVD Review section as it came out as 'Edinburgh
1980' a year or 2 ago whereas the CD 'Live Hammersmith 1980' hasn't
been out before.
7/10 |
| Gun
Barrel - Outlaw Invasion A die and love Metal through
and through band from Cologne, Germany who kick as right from the main
song 'Front Killers' to 'Parting Kiss'. 8.5/10 |
April |
|
Ian Gillan –
Live In Anaheim
(Edel/Essential Music – 2008) A gig from Gillan while he’s got a few nights off from his day job in Deep Purple. Caught in California at the ‘House Of Blues’ and banged up on CD – well 2 Cd’s actually with his own band in concert and performing notable numbers of choice. Plenty to get excited about here – well how can you not when you get gems like ‘No Laughing In Heaven’; ‘Into The Fire’; ‘No Worries’; ‘Unchain Your Brain’; ‘Bluesy Blue Sea’ and my favourite all-time DP classic ‘Knockin’ At Your Back Door’. There’s even a brilliant live version of ‘Men Of War’ and ‘When a Blind Man Cries’. See – told you it was a good. 9/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Gillan – Live
At The Marquee 1978
(Angel Air – 2008) An old audience tape by the sounds of its ropeyness and people talking over the gig itself. It’s a really good concert though despite all this – just a pity that Ian Gillan ain’t louder than he is – but this is an officially released live tape on CD I guess. Good to see that it’s a mighty fine set list though and includes knockout version of songs like ‘Child In Time’; ‘Woman From Tokyo’; ‘Dead Of Night’ and ‘Secret Of The Dance’. Not an essential release but one that the hardcore fans will no doubt want in their collection. 6.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
February |
| GLYDER
- Playground For Life Being Irish seems to transpire as another term meaning being successful in the rock n’ roll industry, today at least, and Glyder have had more than a little luck of their nationality, as have up n’ coming countrymen The Answer as well. These lads are on their second full-length fella here but life’s law of course regulates that they have been propelled to this milestone by the momentum of their existing following, which I have to warn, includes moi, and therefore expected to sustain in return. Rendering it therefore a little difficult, inevitably, to break the news that I had to spin this little beauty seven times before appreciating it sufficiently enough to put pen to paper in a positive manner. That debut only took one run and I was shouting for more straight away but their switch here from seventies-infused hard rock to a more alternative/pop –oriented leaning has caused me to stumble along a bit with this one. The opening three cuts are that ‘offending’ body of the album although purely listenable tunes and do finally gel but it’s from the title cut onwards that normal service starts to resume again. ‘For Your Skin’, ‘Dark Meets Light’ and ‘Sleeping Gun’ are the others that become the quickest instant favourites and a few more join the list too eventually with some splendid little solo intervals accounting for the turn-on factors in some cases but there is still something missing in 2008 that wasn’t in 2006 and it shows. There is chart potential aplenty here, more than last time and I must reiterate that there are some above decent components amongst this machine but it functions frankly a little slower than its predecessor. See them live however and you will need to stand back - they are awesome at full decibel. 7.5/10
By Dave Attrill |
January
2008 |
|
GAMMA RAY - Land
Of The Free II
(SPV – 2007) In 1988, guitarist and songwriter Kai Hansen decided to leave the band Helloween after 4 years. Eventually, Hansen decided to form his own project, with long-time friend Ralf Scheepers (vocals), Uwe Wessel (bass) and Mathias Burchard (drums). In the beginning of the project Kai did not have the intention to form a new band but as the recordings with the studio-musicians went so well surrounded by a relaxed atmosphere among the musicians it soon became obvious: Gamma Ray was born. The first album ‘Heading for tomorrow’ was released in 1990 and 17 years on they are still going strong with the 13th release ‘Land of the free II’. This 1 hour collection of 12 new power metal tracks is a definite insight to how Gamma Ray should be perceived. The album has a definitive Helloween sound to it, which is a must for any Helloween fans out there. Land of the free II blasts into your airwaves with ‘Into the Storm’, which is full of power and energy that follows on through the rest of the album with such storm crunching tracks as ‘From the Ashes’, ‘To Mother Earth’, ‘Leaving Hell’ and to finish off with the belting drum intro of ‘Hear me calling’ to the melodic intro to finish of the CD with ‘Insurrection’. Gamma Ray have shown that as years have gone bye they are still a major influence to the power metal scene, which should be taken seriously as they go on tour with Helloween in 2008. 8/10 By
Tony Watson |
|
Gypsy Pistoleros –
Para Siempre
(Bad Reputation – 2008) Spanish styled sleaze which is like a mini Hanoi Rocks in a weird flamenco phase or something which gets rather annoyin’ at times - guess it’s ok if you have a likin’ for that but there’s only so much you can take before it starts to get on your t*ts – especially if you prefer gutsy Sunset strip era stuff. There’s the odd song that’s appealing here and there but anytime you expect to hear the sounds of a bullfight or Herb Alpert trumpeting in at any given moment. Their version of ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’ is decent but when you have heard it times many by Ricky whatever his name it gets too much for comfort. OK but nowhere near vital at all. 5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
Nov/Dec |
THE
GIFTED - Stand Up (EP) Being caught out by the curse of the cover pic again, the row of clenched fists on the front here says ‘aggresive hardcore punk –type matter inside here. The music says something like Frontline Assembly thrown together with a commercialised Strapping Young Lad and Fear Factory, well for the first tow of the three at least, but they are quite superb examples of classic industrial metal. Rhythmical stomping cuts is what we get in this package, and with hooks - yes you read correctly - plus a strong synth overlayer that couldn’t sound more at home than right here. The third and last track
‘Goodbye’, meanwhile is the odd one out, - strictly in style
only -being an alternative-tined goth ballad with vaguely audible female
backing vox. Put all three bits together, not bad at all for an example
of one of rock’s lesser approachable genres. 7.5/10
By Dave Atttrill |
|
Gauntlet – The
Comeback (CD Single)
(S/R- 2007) Great outfit and it’s good to see ‘The Comeback’ – this is metal as I like my metal – striving at ya and not givin’ a f*ck, not too OTT but with plenty enough solo sections and good melodious riffery overall. 2nd track proves the guys have a sense of humour as ‘Sheep In Wolf’s Clothing’ has a sheep to start off this serious astounder of a song – like the lower octave vocal section in the song. ‘Die Away’ rocks too! 9/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| August |
|
GMT - Bitter &
Twisted
(RetroWreck Records – 2006) A hard rockin’ trio made up of Bernie Tormie (Guitar/Vocals); John McCoy (Bass) & Robin Guy (Drums) who between them have played with and been members of bands with the likes of Gillan, Ozzy Osbourne, Dee Snider, Mammoth & Sack Trip. Now it’s time to show us what they can do in their own musical unit. This is an album that is on 11 from the start – it blows up in your face and pulls no punches throughout. There are literally loads of great songs on here - take the heavy-weight opener ‘Cannonball’ as a brilliant example; the deep-rooted ‘Rocky Road (from Dublin) that has Ireland all over it; the old-school Saxon-esque ‘Can’t beat rock ‘n’ roll’ – you never can dude. You can simply not get tired of playing this album from time to time as there is a lot of variety to as opposed to one single rock genre. I love the way in ‘Miss the Buzz’ (excellent play on words by the way) that they mix kinda proggy-blues with a late Beatle-like arrangement or go for an atmospheric Doorsy vibe in ‘Summerland’ that also has the power of a heavy-ripping who number at the right moment. Then there’s the extravagant ‘Vincenzo’ that closes the CD. A real glower and grower of an album – looking forward to seeing them live and hearing the next release from GMT ! 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
GUILE - Rock n’
Roll (4-track EP)
In reply to another review quoted on the cover, these lads don’t
probably need a Radiohead CD in their collection to push them along here
and I’m quite glad of it as the opening title cut is the only one
that ventures along predictability street but their electro-toned garage
punk sound isn’t in any way a major turn off.
From then on though, the three other tunes, namely ‘I Walk Alone’, ‘Love Around Here’ and ‘140 Hurts’ all tell their own tale and move further and further away to mutate into some bluesy acoustic sound by the time we get around to that closing cut itself . Not exactly missing out on the hooks either, Guile haven’t done badly at all here - I just hope their debut album takes on the same diverse form as this offering. 7/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
Gillan – Reissues
(Edsel – 2007) In Spring 2007, Edsel re-issue 7 (Ian) Gillan albums which are ‘Child In Time’; ‘Live at Budokan’ (1981); ‘Mr. Universe’ (1979); ‘Glory Road’ (1980); ‘Future Shock’ (1981); ‘Double Trouble’ (1981) and ‘Magic’ (1982) and the good thing is they ain’t priced over the top either – about £8.95 each and you can’t argue with that can you – bonus tracks et al and new liner notes including words from the man himself. Re-live those days on CD as you’ve probably worn your vinyl versions out by now – look out for those great staples often found in his solo live sets that include ‘Unchain your Brain’; ‘Bluesy Blue Sea’; ‘No Laughing In Heaven’ or a solo live version of Deep Purple classic ‘Woman from Tokyo’. A bit hard to rate the albums as we received a sampler compilation CD only that don’t give much away to be honest – so for the 1st time ever I ain’t givin no scores out of 10 – but I’d love any of you out there to send me your reviews of these reissues and I’ll include them on this here webzine. By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Ian Gillan –
Gillan’s Inn
(Immergent – 2006) Basically these are brand new recordings of some of the highlights from his Gillan years (and a bit of Purple as well) not that the originals were badly played or anything of that nature – it appears to be down to the fact that these are bitterly recorded to what was a couple of decades or so ago. Highlights include ‘Unchain your brain’ (feat. Joe Satriani); ‘No laughing in heaven’ that ianically (sic) features Deep Purple members Roger Glover and Ian Paice; ‘Men of War’ with Steve Morse and Johnny Rzeznik; the slidin and harmonica startin’ bluesy ‘No Worries’ and the brilliant Zydeco’ed ‘I’ll be your baby tonight’ that’s well done with Joe Elliott – man that piano accordion is sweet dude, then the ivories get tickled too and then there’s the Mark Knopfler/Albert Lee like guitarwork to top it off – swell !! The DVD side is great too where you see the songs being pieced together in the recording studio or at Ian Paice’s or Ronnie James Dio’s place, Live in ’94 with Joe Satriani doin’ ‘When a blind man cries’ and ‘Speed King’ in Gent, Belgium (bootleg quality stuff – lol), a pile of pix with the extra track ‘Can I get a witness’ playing over the top. If you like you can always choose who you want to play the solo of ‘Smoke on the Water’ that includes the likes of Joe Satriani and Jeff Healey. Well worth listening to is the commentary about each song on the album from Ian Gillan who explains who played on the songs, how they came to be and his thoughts on them. Needed by every Ian Gillan or Deep Purple Fan. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Giuntini Project –
III
(Frontiers Records – 2006) Great Rock/Metal album from Aldo Giuntini that’s hard, fast, melodic and well worth a spin or 3 if I do say so me’sen. Vocalist is none other than Tony Martin of ‘Black Sabbath’ fame who really sells the songs with the entangled guitar riffery of A.G. especially on numbers like ‘Fool Paradise’; ‘Que Es La Vida’; the stand-out ‘Dysfunctional Kid’; ‘Trouble just keeps coming’ and ‘Tarot Warrior’. If you get bored with song after song there are 2 immense instrumentals mixed into the album as well to break it up a bit. This is like new-age Sabbath meshed in with some Power Metal elements. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Gauntlet – Path
of Nails
(S/R - 2005) Hailing from Madrid, Gauntlet are a full on old school Heavy Metal band of the 80’s breed – high ended vocals and spilling out with guitar solos amass, crashing drumming – just what the doctor ordered. As well as ‘Ivo Galenov’ on vocals they also feature Patricia Tapai (Nexx); Elisa C. Martin (Dreamaker); Alfred Pomero (Dark Moor); Beatriz Albert (Ebony Mark) and Nacho Ruiz (Arwen). Highlights are opener ‘Jack the Ripper’; ‘Silver Bullet’ a love duet called ‘The Light’ and the epic 3-parter called ‘A’. 9/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
David Gilmour –
On An Island
(Columbia Records – 2006) The straight in at number 1 album in all it’s glory – it’s chilled, tranquil and downright melodious – non Gilmour/Floyd fans will hate it but the hardcore won’t be able to get enough of it. The title track ‘On An Island’ is a breathtaking experience, ‘The Blue’ is a mellower; then there’s the experimentive-like ‘Take a Breath’ – well this is an ex-member of Pink you-know-who, so what else would you come to expect. ‘Red Sky at Night’ blends jazz into blues and seems a bit last supperish to me. There’s the quiet relaxing ‘Smile’ with the slide guitar-work and ends with ‘Where We Start’ oddly enough which is completely laid back all the way through the song. Overall it’s an album you’d put on after a long hard day – it ain’t no party get up and goer at all as it’s more likely to send you into a hypnotising trance or deep sleep. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Gotthard – Made
in Switzerland – Live In Zurich
(Nuclear Blast – 2006) The European Whitesnake with elements of Hardline and Firehouse – wonderful ballsy heavy duty rocking boys like in concert showing they can really pull it off outside the studio as well. No fear they are just as good, if not better as they got the crowd to bounce off as well. There’s plenty of ‘Lip Service’ material on here – the only ‘Gotthard’ album I have as well – the show opens up with the racin’ ‘All We Are’ and the last number is the symphonically full almighty ‘Anytime Anywhere’ as well as in the middle ‘Sister Moon’; ‘Dream On’ and ‘Top of the World’. You can’t fault the cover tunes either like Deep Purple’s ‘Hush’ with it’s na na na na, na na na na na na, na na na’ - Ya know how it goes; Bob Dylan’s ‘Mighty Quinn’ as made famous by Manfred Mann and last but by no means least Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song’. Other highlights include the vocoded ‘Mountain Mama’ that reminds me of Tag Graves from Tribal Tongue that’s very ‘Fool for your lovin’ like; the gorgeous quiet crowd pleasing ‘One Life, One Soul’; the audience loving ‘Heaven’ and the glammy bustin’ ‘Lift me up’ I must see this band live some time. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
Jan
- April 2006 |
|
GLYDER
- S/T few facts to get you start here. Glyder are from the Republic Of Ireland. Their melodies sound vaguely celtic at quite a few occasions. They have a singer who plays bass and boasts a voice not too unlike Phil Lynott. Any of this remind you of another band who emerged from this same land some thirty five years before? Either these chaps are using their nationality as an excuse to sound like the Emerald Isle’s greatest export or, like us, we can never have too much of the Lizzy now (can we, kids?). Switch the originality detector on a sec though, and the needle does budge a bit, propelled by their fast, punchy, old school heavy metal rhythms with quite a punky touch on one or two numbers. Glyder combine this with their occasionally Gorham-like stylings to create a hybrid that potentially remains their own. Aided by a similar quantity of hooks to those on the typical classic Thin Lizzy LP, Glyder’s debut album is well worth picking up, and then picking up your guitar too. Also, just to rub it in, it’s produced by one Mr Chris Tsangarides, of whom Lynott and the lads were once customers themselves. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
|
Gene Loves Jezebel
– Exploding Girl
(Track Records – 2005) Gothic pop stuff from the man who is GLJ, ‘Michael Aston’. All the songs are about women and how they have affect4ed his life in one way or another. It’s rather miserable but intriguing as a whole where his whiney voice is like Bono from U2 on downers. Highlights or should that be lowlights include the suicide bomber title track ‘Exploding Girl’; ‘Downhill Bothways’- he ain’t an American but he lives in California; the light relaxing INXS llike ‘Wind and Fire’. This is average stuff that is also complete tedium as well. His voice goes through you a bit like sharp nails down a blackboard . You either love his voice or hate it. There’s no happy medium. 5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Gillan – Mutually
Assured Destruction – Glasgow 1982
(Angel Air Records – 2005) A gig recorded at the sadly not there anymore ‘Glasgow Apollo’ for Radio Clyde on 6th November 1982 by DJ Tony Russell (the main Rock DJ at the station) – good on him too. The radio show was 50 mins long and it appears here officially on CD for the first time ever. It’s probably one of the best Gillan gigs I’ve heard to be honest – playing all the faves like ‘No Laughing In Heaven’; ‘Born to kill’ and M.A.D.’ that features an outstanding guitar solo from Janick Gers (now of course of Iron Maiden and has been for quite a few years). “So is there any Deep Purple on here then”, I hear you asking, well actually there is and the band rock hard on ‘Black Night’ and on the Beavis and Butthead classic ‘Duh-Duh-Duh, Du-Du Du-Duhhhhh’, or as it’s or as it’s more commonly known ‘Smoke on the Water’ ! As always there a nice article with the CD, that’s been written by Jerry Bloom of ‘More Purple than Black’ Magazine and even some bonus tracks recorded at Schwabinger Brau, Munich, German 29th June 1981 which are the brilliant ‘No Easy Way’ and ‘If You Believe Me’ – although his voice does sound rather shot on this performance. Get this CD, fire it up loud and when played, play it again or it file next to ‘Live Wembley 1982’ (that’s reviewed further down in the G section somewhere). 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Girlschool –
Emergency/London
(S/R – 2005) A remake of the classic number that appeared on the St.Valentines Day Massacre E.P when they were Head Girl with Motorhead. Brash ballsy as you’d expect it to be. London is a cracking rocker too. A place where you’ve got everything. 7/10 By Glenn Milligan |
|
Gotthard – Lip
Service
(Nuclear Blast – 2005) Cracking and crucial bright hard rock from Germany’s Gotthard – think Glenn Hughes meets Slaughter, Bad English and Mr. Big. This is top gas mark music, red hot vocals, miraculous 80’s arena friendly melodics. A release that’s easy to rate highly due to it being so damn good right from the opening ‘All we are’ (no it ain’t a cover of the old Warlock ditty) right through to the closing ‘And then Goodbye’ with its acoustic bit of gorgeousness. In between there’s the glam slammin’ ‘Lift it up’ a la Suzi Quatro, come 80’s rock; the breaking ballad ‘Everthing I want’; the cookin’ ‘Cupid Arrow’ the pumping hard rock AOR of ‘Stay for the night ; ‘Anytime, Anywhere’ which appeared on a Classic Rock freebie cd awhile ago (ok, I am late getting this review on – slap my dannies !!) with its cutting keyboard and stabbin’, driving vocals – a future live classic I reckon – or what about the brilliance of ‘The Other Side of Me’. All in All, this is an album that sticks AOR and Hard Rock at the top of the tree. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
|
GZR – Ohmwork
(Sanctuary/Mayan Records – 2005) Brutal. Melodic and heavy with no apologies all the way through. Geezer ids back with a new vocalist because Burton C. Bell has his commitments with Fear Factory to take care of. There’s elements of Machine Head, Pantera and funnily enough a bit of Black Sabbath. The young and old will love it alike. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Ghost Machinery –
Haunting Remains
(Sound Riot Records – 2004) A power metal trio, yes a trio – first one I’ve ever known. Both melodic and symphonic made out of two bands – Vocalist and Guitarist Pete Ahonen of ‘Burning Point’ alongside Tapsa Pelkonen (Bass) and Jussi Ontero (Drums) both of ‘Wildcard’. This is the debut album and there is at least one more to come out on this label. Recorded between Dec ’03 and March ’04 and released in Dec’ 04 (sorry it’s rather late in coming !!) Very Helloween like - so take what you will from that statement – well they stay true to their power metal roots anyway. These 3 guys are ready to fill your room and good songs include the crunchy metallic ‘Down In Flames’; ‘Darkest Hour’; ‘In you (evil) dreams’ and the closing tracks ‘World of Believe’ ‘n’ ‘Temples of Gold’ not to mention a great version of ‘Over the hills and far away’ by Gary Moore to get excited over. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
May
and Early 2005 |
|
GIZMACHI - The
Imbuing Is Coming
(Sanctuary Records - 2005) More unpromising noise from a supposedly ‘hot’new act, Gizmachi’s debut is fun those who enjoy samey scream-laden thrashcore racket but little better than a beermat otherwise. Sounding like a third-rate rage against the machine, they’ve ruined things for themselves a bit as there are some pleasant guitar licks for Machine Head and Pantera fans to take their pick from. Just a pity that they’re wasted under these vocals that almost totally drown them out completely, Gizmachi have made a messy start to things but then bands do that sometimes, don’t they, everyone. And sometimes, we have to suffer the results. 5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| GLOOMY
GRIN - The Grand Hammering
(Holy Records - 2005) In truth they get a little better than that, or than previous subjects, label-mates Natron, due to a few differences here and there but Gloomy Grin’s run-of-the-mill black metal sound is still less than a great deal to roar about. As you expect, high pitched garglings take over the vocal positions this time and there are some proper riffs plus more variation in tempos but I’ve still heard better efforts than this. Again its one that’s likely to be trapped in the completists only category but not as bad as it could be. 6/10 By Dave Attrill |
| GODHEAD - Evolver Gawd, it's been a long time since I listen to a good slab of industry... oh, it was only that first track was it... you little swines! Forgive as I will though, this further helping of nicely-crafted nu-breed noise from thereonin owes mainly to the stonking offering from fellow newcomers Freakhouse albeit with further balls. Aside from bruising Gravity Kills-esque opener 'Hate In Me' - 'The Giveaway', 'Keep Me Down', 'Far Too Long', 'Deconstruct', 'Fade Away' and 'Dream' are contributing factors to this disc being worth 13-odd quid of your hard-earned-bread. Taking the melodies of aforementioned other act to greater heights as well as keeping to the style and delivery of overall feel, plus holding that heavier side up with their fingernail-down-blackboard industrial samples, Godhead will make themselves a lot of friends on the scene with this one. A band to check out in 2005. 9/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
|
Gun Shy – After
Dark + 5
(Perris Records – 2004) A crackin’ bit of Cock Rock from Philadelphia. Fresh ‘n’ rowday vibing material all-round. Kinda like a Warrant meets Black ‘n’ Blue and Skid Row. You’ll have one ‘Helluva Time’ so ‘Don’t Go Away’ or you’ll not end up in ‘Wonderland’ and become ‘Mr. Lonely’. Like the funkier cover of Black Sabbath’s ‘NIB’ – awesome – wonder if it appeared on one of those tribute albums. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
GARWALL
- Black Beast Come off it, you're only using that name because that similar moniker belonging to some old 70s TV drama series would sound less appealing to an extreme metal fan picking this up in the shops or the copyright gremlins caught up. Call 'em what you will but French metal quartet have studied the metal scene's history quite thoroughly before and while writing and pleasing results have been produced. The as protocol black metal shrieks take support from guitar attitude fuelled by everything from latterday Megadeth to classic Slayer and Nuclear Assault and all that lie between and nearby. Kept melodic by some drilling if at times rather recycled sounding solos that keep those clocks turned back about sixteen years, plus other surprises including a six-string rendition of the Halloween film theme, this beast takes a bit more taming than you might expect. Garwall, stronger than BRICK wall, anyday. 8.5/10 By Dave Attrill |
August |
GRIP
INC - Incorporated
(SPV/Steamhammer 2004) It's a general rule of thumb that leave a successful band in the blink of van eye and pitch up tent with another load of 'erberts do not too often regain the success of their last business. As is the case with slayer drum legend Dave Lombardo who parted company with messrs Araya, King and Hanneman in 1991. While Grip Inc may have fought a less than winning battle to level the success of the LA titans, their following has still built despite the constant fluctuations in the course of the music business that were already hindering the scene at that time. A decade or so on and although he's Slaying once again, he still finds time for his 'second band'. Gus Chambers voice has matured
like top quality whiskey over the years, his snarling delivery indicating
how much he stands as one of them most underrated throats in metal.
Quite interesting in most areas, G.I are quite eager not to let themselves
sound like another run-of the-mill combo there just to entertain those
who will settle for a half cooked version of their other bands' produce,
and blend in enough to differentiate themselves adequately from Dave's
day job but no more than is safe to do so. While there is plenty of
his trademark turbo-speed histrionics at intervals to keep the stricter
Lombardo-ites tided over, the guitar work is topped in many places by
a healthy industrial layer and Gus' growls fit down to it without I've lost track of exactly how many albums the Inc have done to date but on listening to this monster, I shall be certainly be pursuing a few more of their past making, before too long. A tasty piece of power metal brutality that should keep fans of both Slayer and themselves far from disappointed. A band who definitely do not need reminding to get a Grip- it sounds like these lads never lost it in the first place. 8.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
July |
GOURANGA
POWERED BAND - Opulence Of The Absolute
(Unsigned - 2004) Surprising as you may find it, I did not pick this one up in a shop nor get it sent in a promo package addressed to Metalliville headquarters but actually obtained it from a young chap giving copies out on Sheffield High Street for a princely sum. Gouranga are, for the un-notified a Krishna monk cult based in Scotland, though these lads hail from south of the border, and have taken the formulas of traditional old-school metal to new highs-of-sorts by steering clear of stale Satanic drivel in favour of their love for his divine grace. The music otherwise is still, as I might just have carelessly forecast, nothing your average ten-a-penny NWOBHM outfit wouldn't have thought of, twenty-five years back, (fans of Cro-Mags or Shelter, you have been warned) complete with crap singer but I cannot find any instrumental or especially lyrical faults to point out. This has been a great idea and provided they can find themselves a decent vocalist, they can then just as soon find a deal too as they deserve the opportunity as they manage to relieve this genre of a large part of its stereotypical ridicule. 7.5/10 By Dave Attrill |
March |
| Gillan
- Live Wembley 17th Dec. 1982
(Angel Air - 2004) Worth having simply for the fact that this was Gillan's (the band that is) last ever gig - not that they were aware it was going to be at the time. The lengthly article by Mick Wall makes it worthwhile as a buy as well. Mussically it's good apart from the dodgy Janick Gers (on of Iron Maiden - not that you didn't already know that of course!!) Guitar solo called 'Gers Medley Volume 11' (as in 'these aren't regular amps - these go up to 11 (This Spinal Tap)). Ian Gillan's voice is worn out and virtually shot to sh*t, falling flat on notes throughout the gig especially in 'M.A.D.' - no wonder he was advised by his doctor to take a well-needed break. In the 16 tracks and 72 minutes of liveness we are given a set that includes the Deep Purple staples 'Black Night' and 'Smoke on the Water'; the epic quiet-starting 'Born to Kill' as well as the retro-purple throbbing 'Dead of Night' and 'Bite the Bullet' with it coming to an end and a great thud with a cover of The Beatle's White Album belter 'Helter Skelter' that has since been bitterly recorded by Motley Crue, Vow Wow and thrashed out live by U2. This is a sad end to a band that could have lead the way of British Hard Rock well into the 80's and maybe beyond. 6/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| Grandma
Moses - Too Little, Too Late
(Perris Records - 2004) Punky glam from Vancouver - Grandma Moses featured ex-Pretty Boy Floyd member, 'Sandy Hazard' plus Mick Wood, Todd Stevens, Mike Abrams and Dave Davidson. As the bio states they played New York street trash a la Deadboys/New York Dolls' but with a modern feel and came out in June 1991. No surprises then by saying a lot of the material is very 2,3,4 Oi with attitude and extremely generic and a bit Green Day in places with shouty vocals and squealin' vocals - done well and no doubt very electric at a gig. One big highlight of rah-rah rock (if you like that sort of thing - I personally find it tedious after a few minutes) and it doesn't let up for a second. I recommend 'River of Tears'; 'Who are you trying to kid?'; 'Sh*t'; the sleaze of 'Workin' Class Whore' and 'Death to the 60's' (not that I agree with the statement but it grabs your attention) with it's radio intro about all the sh*t they play constantly as well as 'Junkie Fixation' and 'Pills'. So where did this band go? 6.5/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| February |
| SHANE
GAALAAS - Primer
(JunkMan Records) Sure, you hate him because four-fifths of the world has to live on only a fraction of that many A's in their name, and maybe you hate him because he's the rock solid dependable drummers to the some of classic hard rock's biggest legends. Now you can hate him even more. Primer is a killer album of rhythmic, modern heavy metal like a clean, clear version of Soundgarden's full slate, and Shane plays every instrument (bass, all guitars, keyboards, programming, drums), and then sings the damn thing too, a bit down that Jeff Pilson/Richie Kotzen end of things, real good, but you somehow get the sense he's not a lead singer (strange - don't know quite what that means). Even the acoustic stuff is classy, the sort of thing you expect out of a guy who pounds out the percussion for demanding (really demanding) axe and vocal icons. Wavered o'er to 8, but toward the back half, there are in and about three tracks that are a little under-appointed, and this on a disc 40 minutes semi-brief. Bloody 'ell though, what an audition tape, especially for a damn drummer (I can make fun of drummers - I'm one too). But it's not like this guy ain't getting the good gigs already. 7.5 By Martin Popoff |
| Tray
Gunn -Untune The Sky
(Inside Out/SPV - 2003) 'Untune The Sky' from King Crimson's Tray Gunn is a pleasant album to listen to. Melodic and jazzy in places, tribal drumming gives an earth born natural feel, but it's the only memorable thing about this album. Which is it's only down side. That it doesn't rise above being pleasant, easy listening background music. Although well produced and composed, Untune The Sky lacks depth; soaring highs and moody, low moment just aren't here to make this album more memorable. 7/10 By Steve Windle |
| Dec. 2003 |
| Gamma
Ray - Skeleton in the Closet (Live 2002)
(SPV - 2003) Live Double release from the ex-Helloween member Kai Hansen. It's very like his previous band - boastful power metal at its finest caught live at Razzmatazz, Barcelona on 31st October 2002 and at La Laiterie, Strasbourg on 2nd November, 2002. The sound production is impeccable and proves that the Europeans or should I say Germans are still forerunners at this. There are 18 numbers in all (well if you count Dan Zimmerman's drum solo anyway as a song). The whole thing is well rehearsed and sequences together extremely well with highlights being 'Rich and Famous' and the stand-out on CD 1 'Heavy Metal Universe' especially when the crowd join in and scream the song-title - you gotta love it, you gotta hear it and scream a long as well. CD 2 kicks off in the powerful almost Maiden meets Dio vibin' 'Razor Blade Sign' and elsewhere there's kickin'.killer cuts like the beautiful ballad ';Shine On' that starts on piano - coming across church-like before burning up into a waving ciggy lighter singalong anithem. Another mesmerising ballad that appears to be a crowd favourite is the vocally exuberant 'The Silence' that reminds me of Slade's 'My Oh My'. The CD ends on a Blackmore'ish ditty called 'New World Order' (that is not a distant cousin of the Ministry classic of the same name). If you listen right to the end of the CD you hear the band commend that they thought it was a good gig - I gotta agree there. I've got to say that I've never heard 'em before but I knew the name and I'm fully turned on by 'em - dare I say it, they are better than Helloween and have been supporting Iron Maiden on the European Tour - just a pity they aren't supporting in the UK. If you listen right to the end of the CD you hear the band commend that they thought it was a good gig - I gotta agree there. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Ground
- S/T
A 5 track from a vibrant Dallas, Texas Metal outfit who have elements of both old and new metal rolled into one - it's extremely eclectic material. Their line-up comprises of Jay Shannon - Guitars, Billy Kovacsy - Bass, and Cameron White on Drums with vocalist Christopher Ryle fronting the band who goes all-out with Ministry type vocals in 'Bi-Polar' with an Ozzy feeling and sounds like Bon Scott in 'The Stain'. Ground won't be underground for long - should be huge soon with an even bigger record deal. Can't recommend them enough. Check out their website for more info on them - www.groundonline.com 9/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| GALLERY
OF MITES - Bugs On The Bluefish
I read the accompanying documents in quite some depth before loading this one into the deck. Amongst the ten members making up this act are four of Monster Magnet's personnel, past and present, none of which include Dave Wyndorf. So I take it that means they can break free from the constraints of their usual space-rock shenanigans and explore another planet, then? Well, it looks like they've plundered the opportunity to some degree. This collection of latterday classic American rock n' roll turns the clock back about twenty five to thirty years, albeit adding some modern essence and what you get for your wonga is something similar to from where current Brit pop faves The Dandy Warhols take their cues. As labelled, ten gentlemen are involved in all with about two or three of the five guitarists featuring on each one of the tracks except for the oh-so-pleasantly titled 'A Man Called S**t' which takes the entire six-string quintet on board. Another familiar name, former Kyuss frontman John Garcia also pinches the mike for '100 Days'. A very interesting album, from a very interesting line-up, in more ways than one. I hope that, should they intend to work together as a live act, that they manage to chalk a visit to the UK into their schedules. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Giant
- Live and Acoustic Official Bootleg
Another band who've released an album called 'III' to critical acclaim - there's was out last year. This album as you may have gathered ain't one from the studio - it culminates from separate performances from European Tours dating from 89 to 92 as well as an acoustic set from The Borderline, London. This is the Giant line-up that is Dan Huff (Guitar/Vocals), David Lyndon Huff (Drums), Mike Brignardello (Bass), Larry Hall (Keyboards) and Mark Oakley (Guitar) with delight the audiences with their classics such as the milestone 'Chains' (both in acoustic and electric forms) and hard rocking stompers like 'Shake me up'; 'Innocent Days' and the ballad that is 'I'll see you in my dreams'. Crackin' stuff. 7/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Green
- Life My first impressions on hearing Green's debut album, 'Life' is that these guys are clearly influenced by a mix of bands like Dream Theater, Pink Floyd and even Giant, combined together. But, of course, without relying heavily on inspirations to create their own strong, fresh sound. Musically strong and lyrically thoughtful, you know that a lot of heart has gone into this album, and their own thoughts and experiences really do come through. Fabrizio Pieraccini proves himself as diverse a singer as any band like this could hope for, his harmonies going down fantastically well within the sharp diverse sound that is Green. Shifting from the heavy to the mellow and all the points in between at any time, this album is a must for any melodic prog metal collection. 10/10 By Steve Windle |
| Pre-July 2003 |
| Peter
Green Splinter Group - Reaching The Cold 100
(Eagle-Rock - 2003) A great bluesy relaxing electric affair from Peter Green and his excellent set of Splinters. It's good to see that around - in fact he's recently done a UK Tour - Feb. 2003 to be exact. You could say that number 13 is unlucky but there's no bad luck on this CD. Right from the opening groove of 'Nothing gonna change' to the closer 'Somebody Cares', it's just one large highlight. It's the perfect album for Sunday night after a great partyville of a weekend. Be sure to put 'Dangerous Man' on repeat and remember not to mess with Mr. Green. The acousticish 'Legal Fee Blues'with the brilliant lead vocals and slide guitar is quite remarkable as is the funky Albert Collins(y) 'Ready' and the cracking 'Smile'. Peter proves that there is indeed plenty more miles left in the blues. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| GLUECIFER
- BASEMENT APES
(STEAMHAMMER SPV 085 74122 CD) These Norwegian rockers rock your environment with their refreshing breath of fresh air through the abundant enjoyment of what they call rock 'n' roll. Basement Apes is the fourth release from Gluecifer who play their music with pure authentic and passionate attitude that will rock any dead head. Gluecifer have comprised a twelve track CD from a twenty-five composition that were written during the year. Basement Apes start the CD with an abrupt opener 'Reversed' through to the first single 'Easy Living' to the omissible atmospheric ballad of 'Little Man' and 'It won't be' to the end track 'I saw the stone move', Gluecifer have released a loud compelling and unpredictable rock CD that will be enjoyed over the world. 8/10 By Tony Watson |
| ADRIAN
GALE - Re-Program
(Kivel Records - 2002) One of the most discussed acts by Melodic Rock fans over the last couple of years, Adrian Gale have merited their rightful attention through their impressive swipe on late eighties/early nineties hard rock with a change of attitude but without forgetting the roots of the trunk style they branch from. In their short life, Kivel Records have already lined up a fine troop of bands destined to deserve success, notably Attraction and TNA in addition to this act. There is seemingly no limit to the reaches of defiance against trends in the rock music spectrum, nowadays. Adrian Gale appear and sound to be waging a full-scale mutiny against fashion's barbarians with this ultra-perfectly moulded party metal record. From the Poley-era Danger Danger feel of 'Closer' and the Def Leppard power ballad prowess of 'If' through to the Bon Jovi/Mitch Malloy might of 'Runaway' and the more modern day dusted-down HR of 'Part Of Me', 'Heart Games' and 'Heartbreak Guaranteed', spotting the flaws is bordering on impossible. Simply superb songs one and all with guitar hooks sharp enough to bury into your flesh and stay permanently embedded when the line's pulled out. 'Heather Please' and 'No More Chances' are two elephantine slabs of hard rock that can only have been saved for the end of such an incredible album. I cannot pick a fave track from this disc, lads - too many contenders - but with the music and musicianship being both very much there where it belongs and the melodies being made to please, one of melodic rock's finest hours - well, three quarters of, to be exact - of 2002 is upon us. I can only hope a slot at the Gods, and I mean one at least halfway up the bill, is not too distant in the foresight.
By Dave Attrill |
| Roger
Glover and The Insiders - Snapshot
(Spitfire Records - 2002) The Bass Player of Deep Purple and famed Producer of many notables like Judas Priest and the late, great Rory Gallagher has found time to record a solo album in his already busy work schedule - especially with Deep Purple. Talking of the Purps - this solo album sounds nothing like them as 'Snapshot' with vocalist Randall Bramblett illustrates different images which will surprise many of you familiar with Glover's previous D.P. work. Here you'll discover Blues, Country, Contemporary Rock (a la Dire Straits) and elements of Paul Carrack and other artists of that ilk. With so many great songs to choose from, it's simply impossible to find a track that stands out further than another so I'll bring a few of the album's songs to the forefront that'll give you an idea of what's on offer. There's the funky blues of 'My Turn', the Dire Straitsy 'What don't you say' or the fusionistic feeling of the blues-rock number 'Somehope'. Much of this album is very blues orientated so it that's your bag then go and buy. It's very relaxing blues at that - kind of white-man Eric Clapton edged stuff on a calm day. 7/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| GRAVE
- Back From The Grave
(Century Media - 2002) Swedish death metal legends have, previously unbeknownst to me, been around on the scene for over twelve years now. In the underground scene they are giants and have brought themselves deservedly to the attention of the scene's followers though tours with Bolt Thrower and Cannibal Corpse amongst others in addition to, from what I gather' rapturously received headline and festival slots. 'Back From The Grave' is as its title might give away, their fist studio album in quite a stretch - well six years isn't exactly a brief wait is it. The line-up is, as it has been for some years, now just a four-piece with guitarist Ola Lindgren inheriting the growling roles, and original bassist Jonas Torndal now on lead. The music is as you very well know, brutal, heavy but meaningful and again not all set to just 100mph percussion, thus allowing for enjoyably frequent gear changes throughout the journey. Some riff rhythms are held suitably for a duration before shifting modes and a few sequences of different speed examples become a tad expectable towards the end of the CD, but the odd surprise is still never far away. I was to understand they'd tried a more laid back melodic line of things with their 1994 album, 'Soulless' as I guessed when I heard its title track at the time - er lads remember what happened to Celtic Frost when they had a go at something too different - and I quite approved but most of their loyal legions would prefer them in this reinstated form. A flagship act of the Century Media label, Grave are a band I haven't managed to take the time to check out properly until now. I think I've made a very grave mistake. 8/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| Gillan
- On the Rocks
This is an OK gig from the band that Ian Gillan fronted in the 80's that included Bernie Torme (Guitar) and John McCoy (Bass) in the line-up. Recorded live in Aachen, Germany 1981, there's over 66 minutes of listening pleasure for you to enjoy. Gillan is in fine voice throughout especially during the opener 'No Laughing in Heaven' from the 'Future Shock' album and the cover of Elvis Presley's 'Trouble'. The Vocal PA ain't too good though and gives nasty distortive hums when the larynx-master throws out a bit of overpowering volume. Bernie Torme lets the side down on this occasion to with his badly slapped together solo effort named 'Torme's Last Stand' - no wonder !! - it's simply a noise !! (Better live guitar work is offered up by him on his album, 'Live Sheffield 1983') But at least it flows into the Deep Purple classic 'Smoke On the Water' - which funnily enough saves the gig. Not a bad live album, but by Gillan standards, certainly not one of their best efforts. There's no doubt that John McCoy has probably got better Gillan gigs still gathering dust under his bed. 6.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| The Great Kat - Wagner's War (The Great Kat Productions - 2002)
This is Kat's attack on the terrorists - more shred metal. Maybe if this had been blasted at the scumbag, bearded Bin Liner - sorry, I mean, Osama Bin Laden, then he might have crawled out of that cave that he was hiding in. There's 3 separate acts to thrill your ears with - War, Revenge and Victory that have Kat's unique blend of offensive, abusive humour crossed with million miles an hour violin and guitar playing. Vocally, it's like the female equivalent of Dani Filth. Stand-outs are Wagner's 'The Ride of the Valkyries' and 'Terror' that incorpates the famous Dracula theme - often played by the instrumental band, Sky. Some of the vocals are silly and inaudible - especially in punishment - but maybe that's the idea. Nice lyrics run-throught the cd that are, as usual included in the Inlay like 'You ugly piece of sh*t, now shut the f*ck up and get out of my sight' from 'Humiliation'. Finishing off with Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 and Sarasates 'Zapateado' this shows what can be adventurously done with guitars and violins - she equals Nigel Kennedy any day and she's better to look at as well. 6/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| The
Great Kat - Digital Beethoven on Cyberspeed
Open up with Thrash Metal, Great Kat style with traditional shouty backing vocals made famous by gurus such a 'Scott 'Notty' Ian' of Anthrax culminating that pure 80's chugga stage-diving mosh vibe - they way it should be. It's entertaining especially the Beethoven inspired 'Cyberspeed'. You know something - this woman ought to be the live staple of 'A Night at the Proms' which the UK's BBC2 television channel air each year. I'd like to see what Kat'd do on the last night - maybe castrate the conductor and feed his privates to the audience - interesting !! The best number is quite easily Paganini's 'Caprice #9' that sees her Greatness burn the strings of both her violin and six string axe - Smoulder, Smoulder, Smoulder. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| February 2002 |
| GIANT
- 3
(Frontiers/Now & Then 2001) One of the two most triumphant returns in melodic rock circles, of recent months, - the other being the reappearance of Sons Of Angels - has to be this surprise comeback offering by these San Franciscan legends. Surprise (A) in that Dan Huff only decided about a year ago, on an offer from Frontiers - to give it another bash. And (B) that surprisingly enough.. it's a surprisingly good record, especially as it is their first batch of brand new material in a ten year gap that has elapsed since the 'Time To Burn' offering. The guitar solo instrumental at the start gives Huff a chance to say 'Hi boys, I'm Ba-ack!' before opening cruncher, 'You Will Be Mine' shows that Giant still mean business after all these years 'Over You cruises in and out in true Huff-ular manner then the stunning ballad that stole the show on the Union 4 sampler last year, namely 'Don't Leave Me In Love' pays homage to the most important American AOR tradition of 'em all - musical sentimentality. 'Love Can't Help You Now' goes in the same direction as Tall Stories before we rock out totally with 'Sky Is The Limit' - quite likely to prompt a bit of pogoing down the front at future gigs. 'It's Not The End Of The World' and 'Oh Yeah' are a tad less catchy, and still not I find myself a tad less desperate to play these two over and over again, but that does not mean they're total arse. 'Can't Let Go' puts up some serious competition with 'Don't Leave Me' for corking ballad of the last year. So far, one of Dan's finest tunes, EVER. The proceedings are brought to a close with a blasting rendition of 'Bad Case Of Loving You'. Me, I've got a bad case of loving this album. You'd think they could manage a bit more than 45 minutes for all these years they've been gone but all is forgiven with a return celebrated with a record of this quality. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| Brad
Gillis - Gilrock Ranch
|
| January 2002 |
| GODFLESH
- HYMNS KOCH RECORDS KOC-CD-8266 (2001) - U.S.
It's about time Godflesh were taken seriously, Music for Nations have probably given them a second breathe of fresh air after departing from Earache. Justin Broadrick is the brains behind this original underground industrial deep slow pounding sound of Birmingham's Godflesh that thuds through every track harder and heavier than a heard of elephants. Hymns is a new beginning for the band, this is their fifteenth CD but their first for Music for Nations has the marks of the earlier industrial material Godflesh released in the late eighties early nineties, this seventy three minute explosive deafening sound that resembles a mixture of 'Black Sabbath', 'Killing Joke', 'Crass' and 'Discharge' pounds through you and the house as well as the neighbors and the rest of the street you live in through tracks like 'Defeated', 'Deaf, Dumb and Blind', 'Paralyzed', 'Anthem', 'Tyrant', 'Vampires' and 'Jesu'. Godflesh have always had a select audience due to lack of promotion, but this CD will definitely put them back on the map, a very entertaining, depressive, morbid and at the same time miserable sound that has you hooked from the start. Well-done Justin. 8/10 By Tony Watson |
| Gillan
- Live Tokyo 23rd October '78
This was the last of four gigs of the band's Japanese Tour (which also included a few television appearances). Gone was the
Jazz-Fusion of the Ian Gillan Band and back was the sound that Ian was
famous for - 'Rock'. The release of the band's self-titled debut album
guaranteed that the Japanese that they were in for something special
- how right they were!! Turning out a splendid version of the progressive
'Bringin' Joanna Back' or the extended 'Dead of the Night' (coming complete
with a corking drum solo and atmospheric guitar string scratching sounds,
not to mention a dirty bass boom from Mr. McCoy) was like a re-invention
of classic Deep Purple. Talking of Purple 'Child in Time' is thrown
in early on in the set (where you hear Ian's voice drop out during one
of the songs screaming sessions). Then there's the Beavis and Butt-head
classic 'Duh-Duh-Duh, Duh-Duh, Duh-Duh' (I mean 'Smoke on the Water
!!!) or the awesome piano-led 'Fighting Man' - which believe it or not
caused the formation of the group - how?, you may ask - All I can say
is buy the CD, read the exquisite liner notes and find out for yourself
!!
By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
|
They have a new lead guitarist
on board named, 'Manni Schmidt' after the leaving of Uwe Lewis who will
please fans of Zakk Wylde due to this album having plenty of those signature
guitar solo phrases thrown in there throughout. The writing of Edgar
Allen Poe influnces the album throughout from the opener, 'Son of Evil'
right through to the closer called 'The Silence' which is a softer,
more melodic affair. Highlights include the slapping title track 'The
Grave Digger', 'The House' with it's quiet introduction before flowing
into Sabbathesque keyboard qualities. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| The
Great Kat - Bloody Vivaldi
'Bloody Vivaldi' is a
7 minute 25 second E.P. and throws in The Great Kat's 'Torture Chamber' is plainly
insane and falls somewhere between the musical 'Hot wax on your little balls ... stick out your flaccid ass' etc. It's nuts (scuse the pun) but completely cool all the same. 'Blood' is a 39 second
blast in which Kat informs us how much she likes the Sarousates 'Carmen Fantasy'
is a speed-metal take on the classical violin So if you like it wacky,
nasty and fast - then The Great Kat is the artist 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Groovenics
- Groovenics
The band are quite original and numbers such as 'She's a freak' and 'Booty Barn' are packed tight with samples, keyboards and some stunning crunchy guitar riffs. If you are into artists like (HED)P.E., Disturbed and a mixture of Clawfinger and The Red Hot Chili Peppers doused with rhythmic vocals, then the self-titled debut album from The Groovenics is an album not keep on the shelf. 9/10 |
