L
December |
|
The
Lizards – Ar.che.ol.gy The four piece that features
famous rock drummer, Bobby Rondinelli. 7/10 |
| November |
|
Lanfear - X To
The Power Of Ten
(Locomotive Records - 2008) A 5-piece progpower band from Scandinavia release their seventh CD, which is very typical for this part of Europe. A mixture of power metal with a melodic vocal content, which in my opinion needed boosting up to be a little more aggressive. As with regards progpower, it’s a mixture of Rush, Hawkwind, Osric tentacles with an Ibiza dance feel to it, which fades very quickly into you standard Scandinavian rock. A very bland sort of CD that was as exciting as watching paint dry. This 11-track 53-minute drivel sent my boredom senses into a state of suicidal tendencies, which was hard to control. To say it’s three years since they released their last CD I feel this could have done with a bit more work to make it that little bit more exciting. 4/10 By Tony Watson |
|
Luck Funeral - Luck
Funeral
(Trailblazer Records - 2008) If the style of music you are into is stoner rock and love bands such as Kyuss, Clutch, Wolf Mother and Queens of the Stone Age, this one is a must. Like most stoner rock bands you get that deep heavy churning guitars, deep base sounds with aggressive vocals, but Luck Funeral do add a little twist which may be inspired by Black Sabbath or Motorhead. This 8 track 50 minutes compilation of rock, stoner rock and a mood to go with it, pounds the speakers and shakes the house like a passing coal train. From the start to finish Luck Funeral don’t let go of what they are about and good solid rock music is a force to be reckoned with. 8/10 By
Tony Watson |
August |
|
Laaz Rockit - Left
for Dead
(Wardozer Recordings - 2008) I can remember many years ago watching Laaz Rockit at the Thrash Christmas On Earth Festival in a cattle shed in Leeds, with the likes of Nuclear Assault, Megadeth, Overkill, and Crow Mags to name but a few. But I can’t recall them being as heavy as shit. Left for Dead is a massive surprise to me; I wasn’t expecting a band that has developed for the best turning into Overkill and Testament, with a hint of Pantera and Exodus for me this is thrash metal at its best. From the explosion of ‘Brain Wash’ Laaz Rockit don’t slow down for anything. This 200mph whirlwind rattles everything in its path as it spits out ‘Delirium Void’, ‘Erased’, ‘Turmoil’ and ‘No man’ to name but a few. But the surprise is track 5 ‘Ghost in the mirror’ that is the only ballad on the CD, which still produces the power and rush from such earthly forces. There is only one real thing I can say about this CD and that is:- F*CK*NG BUY IT. 10/10 By Tony Watson |
|
Leaded Fuel - Inhale
And Get Pale
(Costa Ovest Records - 2008) ‘Inhale and get pale’ is a marvellous title to a band who name themselves ‘Leaded Fuel’. Leaded Fuel sound in the first instance like the American cock rock sort of band such as G 'n' R and Hanoi Rocks with their attitude but deep down they are a mixture of ‘Life, Sex and Death’, ‘Hair of the Dog’, ‘LA Guns’ with a mixture of ‘Mother Love Bone’ and new punk metal. From the ripping, furious first track ‘Leaded Fuel’ the speakers pound driving you into a self sense of security, which rattles your cage as it dives into ‘Dirty Bitch Boogie’ but spits you out again with half eaten ballads of ‘231 miles’ and fades away at the end with ‘The way we are’ that would put you kids to sleep, this track would have been better off in the middle some where, which would give the chance of a faster harder track such as ‘Yeah! You Bother Me’ to finish off. Overall ‘Inhale and get pale’ is a good rock ‘n’ roll CD that is full of attitude 7/10 By Tony Watson |
Living
Loud - S/T A supergroup featuring 2
Deep Purple members (Don Airey & Steve Morse), 2 ex-Ozzy members
(Bob Daisley & Lee Kerslake) with Jimmy Barnes.
|
| Jon
Lord with the Hoochie Coochie Men - Live At The Basement The Rock Icon Jon Lord (yes
the dude who previously played Organ for Deep Purple) is to be found
here down-under playing a unique gig (The Basement, Sydney, Australia
Feb. 7th, 2003 to be exact).
7/10 |
January
2008 |
|
LEVERAGE - Blind
Fire
(Frontiers - 2007) As picked up on when I ...erm, picked up a copy of last year’s ‘Roll The Bones 5’ comp, Italy’s melodic rock magnates are now signing more acts in the power metallish region of things as well as their great AOR roster from across the spectrum. Then of course we get those outfits that a mix of the two but being uncategorisable is the only way of spoiling things in the case of Scandi newcomers Leverage. Billed as having
a rainbow and Magnum edge to them, the Finnish six-piece take their
cues, quite strongly from Catley and co but only in the case of ‘Rising’
with the latter. Add the symphonic edge of most Euro acts worth their
salt and then some, with vocals quite similar to Escape-signed countrymen
Prayer and you’re in for a long sweet ride with these lads. 9/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED
IF YOU LIKE Magnum, Ten, Royal Hunt, Helloween, Stratovarius, Rhapsody,
Iron Saviour |
|
LIZZY BORDEN - Appointment
with Death
(Metal Blade – 2007) What a shock when the mail arrived, I thought that Lizzy Borden had hung up the axe many years ago. I like many other metal heads in the 80’s remember the band exploding into the scene with the EP ‘Give ‘em the Axe’ in 1984 and the 1985 album ‘Love you to pieces’. Though Lizzy Borden were considered a part of the Los Angeles glam rock scene, the style of their music was heavier and faster than the other bands around at the time, Lizzy Borden were more musically influenced by bands such as Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, which placed them eventually into a different categorry than the 70’s glam rock bands. This 11 track CD ‘Appointment with Death’ is an insight to how the band has progressed over the years and how proffesional they have become with their speed ond power metal influence. The CD also reminded me of the first Album by Crimson Glory, as well as Flotsam and Jestam’s ‘Doomsday for the Deceiver’whith the vocal techniques and the powerful guitar solo’s. Lizzy Borden have released a very enjoyable CD with powerfull tracks such as ‘Abnormal’, ‘Bloody Tears’, ‘Perfect World’ and ‘(We are) The only ones. This CD also has some slower tracks such as ‘Somethin’s Crawlin’ and the ‘Death of Love’ to add a slight break up within the CD which is then finished of with a power balled ‘The Darker Side’ to compliment the CD very nicely. If youre not familiar with Lizzy Borden, then this is a good starting piont to their capablilities as proffesional musicians. Very enjoyable. 8/10 By
Tony Watson |
STEVE
LUKATHER - Ever Changing Times Frontiers at last bring us an AOR CD - just as I was beginning to wonder if they themselves forgot what the label was for in the first place - not that the offerings from Leverage, St Deamon and Bass Invaders of late are anything bad. Here, we have royalty too in the way of the legendary Steve Lukather, 1 man I am going to have to tread on eggshells with, in the event that he recalls the 2/10 review I gave his Christmas covers album four years ago. All his own material occupies the space of these numbers though and it might very likely be Christmas again already for most of the appreciative majority of those who savour good ol’ fashioned American soft rock. Weighed along by a six-strong backing team including renowned scene sticksman Abe Laboriel Jr, Steve Lukather is at the end of the day his own wheel rudder sails and water with his ever unfalteringly silky performances on guitar and vox alike, throwing in a few little solos Michael Sembello would give his left goolie to get hold of. ‘Ever Changing...’, ‘New World’, ‘Tell Me What Yo Want From Me’, ‘Jammin’ With Jesus’, ‘Never Ending Night’ and ‘How many Zeros’ offer plenty in the context of diversity and there’s a fairly reasonable Magnum air hovering over the disc in general which socres a point or itself for many including oneself. My one complaint is that my promo copy is ruined by the label’s newly adopted anti-ripping creation in which a constant voice over interrupts at minute-and-half intervals to remind us “You are listening to Steve Lukather’s new album Ever Changing Times ”.... yes we know.... . AFM and Nuclear Blast are amongst labels with a much more reviewer-friendly piracy prevention method than this one. Sort it, Frontiers guys as I’m sure Steve himself wouldn’t wish such inconvenience on those trying to review his works. Aside from that, great record from Mr L himself, all being forgiven now after that Chris..... let’s not go there. 8/10
By Dave Attrill |
Dec.
2007 |
|
Leaf Hound –
Unleashed
(Repertoir Records – 2007) Bluesy Rockin brilliance – think Bad Company at their best but with a more up to date feel – a la Thunder, Kiss Of The Gypsy (if you remember them) – or for the newby fans of you out there – a kind of more chilled out version of The Answer. They are a new outfit, well that is partly true, Peter French, the lead frontman and leader of the band had a band of the same name in 1970 who released an album entitled ‘Growers Of The Mushroom’ that has been highly sought after in its original vinyl format at four figure sums. Instead of putting the original line-up together Peter opted to have some new young guys in the band – who consist of Southpaw guitarist, Luke Rayner with Bassist, Ed Pearson and Jimmy Roland on drums – awesome killer sounds ensue for sure. Highlights include ‘Stop, Look Listen’ with its Quireboys/Who (I can’t explain) like riff, the opener ‘One Hundred and Five Degrees’; the crackin’ acoustic ‘Nickels and Dimes’; the ‘Crossroads’ riffed ‘Too Many Rock ‘n’ Roll Times’ – I hear Robert Johnson and Cream crying for royalty payments here and the 7.26mins epic ‘Breakthrough’ that’s dedicated to the memory of Vincent Crane’. Well Worth Havin’. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan |
2006 |
|
Lana Lane – Gemini
(Think Tank Media – 2006) An album featuring a classic set of Rock Covers by an elegant, beautiful lady of Rock – Lana Lane who is joined on this here album by Erik Norlaner (Keyboards); Vinny Appice (Drums); Tony Franklin (Bass); George Lynch (Guitars); Mark McCrite (Guitars/Vocals) & Kelly Keeling (Vocals). Her voice is fine wine – think Grace Slick meets the Wilson sisters (yes I do mean the girls from ‘Heart’) and is poured exquisitely over brilliant musicianship from those guys aforementioned. Great tunes include a magical version of Jefferson Airplane’s ‘White Rabbit’ where she sounds so much like the real thing. There's the awesome ‘Pink Moon Suite’ that arranges some of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon’ cuts like ‘Breath’ and ‘On The Run’ with Hearts ‘Johnny Moon’. I love Lana’s rendition of Crosby Stills and Nash’s ‘Wooden Ships’ as well as her interpretations of the Cream Milestones ‘White Room’ and ‘Sunshine of your love’. Well worth buying as you will fall for her voice immediately. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Last Master –
Master of Self
(Escapi Music – 2006) Up to date sounding nu-metally bunch that’s kinda like Limp Bizkit meets Disturbed meets Korn and Sepultura with a chick on vocals – a better Coal Chamber sorta thing. A feel that runs all the way through the album from ‘I Ache’ to ‘Shout your way out’. Interesting arrangements along the way the way as well such ‘Think of the Day (when you got no freedom) or the tribalesque ‘Monkeys’. Decent enough band but does get a tad tedious to be honest – suppose I’m too old for this sorta stuff. 6/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
The Lizards –
Against All Odds
(Hyperspace Records- 2006) A band that I must say I had never really heard of or knew anything about which is criminal really since the quartet features famed Drummer Bobby Rondinelli as well as vocals Mike Di Meo (who many will recognise as being the voice of Riot) who also takes care of the keyboard action too. On Bass/Harmonica you’ll find Randy Pratt (yes that really is his name !!) and Guitarist/Backing Vocalist Patrick Klein – in fact they actually run the label Hyperspace. An amass of songs await that are enticing moments of rock, blues and fusion – some even featuring Glenn Hughes on back-ups. Highlights include the opening funk-rockin ‘I’m no good’ with that sexy sounding percussion work and the knockout chorus section the Jazz-Rock Deep Purple meets Santana like ‘Can’t fool myself’ with a mind-blowin, racin’ bass-riff; ‘Planck Time’ with the funked up Harmonica brilliance – think of the ‘Theme of The Old Grey Whistle Test’ the duetted with Glenn Hughes ‘Take The Fall’ ‘n’ ‘Revelation No. 9’ not to mention the closing toe-tapping well harmonised ‘The Arrival of Lyla’. It’s little wonder that they have been welcomed onto tours with Glenn Hughes, UFO & Ian Hunter as well as being a backing band for Robert Plant since these guys are incredibly talented supreme musicians and vocalists in a large array of styles. I consider that it’s a crime not to check out these hot soundin’ reptiles. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Lunatica – The
Edge of Infinity
(Frontiers Records – 2006) Melodic Rock Band fronted by brilliant voiced ‘Andrea Datwyler’. Highlights include the awesome ‘Who You Are’ which sounds like a famous number that I can’t put my finger on what it is. ‘Together’ is another great song as well that’s very Viking like – come one ‘raise your swords !!’. A lot of it is the usual thing that you are used to though – I guess they are like a European Vixen with more balls, atmospherics ‘n’ keyboards and I can’t see them cutting the mustard enough to make a massive impact which is sad really. They are excellent at what they do though – god that sounds like a crazy contradiction don’t it - but there ya go. Just wish they had songs that were in my opinion as good as the 2 I mentioned as a lot is very forgetful. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Lebocat – Control
(Aw Class Records – 2006) The ‘cat is back and they’ve been let loose in the studio for the second time – they take ‘Control’ though and deliver some cracking funky blues, metal, rock and more. Highlights include the fast acoustic ‘Red Apple Road’; the rockin’ REO Speedwagon-like ‘Heart and Soul’; the drivin’ ‘Movin In (Rock N Roll)’; the classic Saxon’esque ‘So Move Me’ (think ‘Wheels of Steel with some AOR vocal harmonies at the right moments) and the redneck blues acoustic sluttiness of ‘Full Tank of Gas’ (my fave song on here). Crank up them feline sounds before the kitten gets its claws in you. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
Love
Injections – Breakfast for Champions
(S/R – 2005) Now if you didn’t know any better you’d have said that this was ‘The Rolling Stones’ in their ‘Beggars Banquet’ or ‘Exile on Main Street’ periods as the vocals and the music is so damn similar in fact ‘Dirty Green, Black & Blue’ even has the ‘Gimme Shelter’ woo’s in it. They are from Sweden and they are just simply Rock N Roll – driving fun stuff as it should be. You can’t go wrong with their approach. A label should offer them a decent deal. It’s highlights galore on this CD that include the party vibed ‘Down & Out’; the outstanding ‘Dead Weight’ and the instrumentally Stonesy ‘Glad Handing Dandy’. Love it! 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
June |
|
LOCK VOSTOK - Destruction
Time Again
(Escapi - 2006) I’m wondering if the title has something to do with the style of this outfit as they do sound not unalike the cult 80s thrashers. Yes, it’s another European lot, playing that old favourite of ours which is……, why of course, metal. We’ve travelled down this old road a few times before but the chequered combination of growling your b*****ks off one minute and being God’s gift to Maiden-a-likes the next can almost always be expectant of a warm reception at my door in the Metalliville office – where as in Kerrang’s, it’ll probably end up straight in the bin. Purely eighties throughout, with some classic crunch in those riffs, this as normal will still struggle to touch anyone sub-30 (apart from me), but that’s their loss. Old fashioned music = old fashioned fun. Put this on and effin’ have some. 8/10 By
Dave Attrill |
May |
|
NEIL LEYTON - Dead
Fashion Brigade EP
(Fading Ways Music - 2006) Neil is, wait for it, a Portugese-born-Canadian singer/guitarist who just about no-one has heard of over here, though I think the name of his producer - Ginger from the Wildhearts – might ring the odd bell or two (million).Unfortunately, it has almost resulted, hopefully coincidentally in the fella’s material sounding like a conference-division version of the Geordie act’s prime time produce itself, not aided by Leyton’s ladyish and also dangerously indie-like yelling that accounts for singing though I’ve heard it done miles worse than him. While the latter three tracks, including the two bonus numbers and the hooks are hanging about to grab you, they could do with a bit more of Mr Leyton’s own musical meat on them. Too much shout as supposed to substance I’m afraid.. Should be good stuff live, though. 6/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
LINEAR SPHERE - Reality
Dysfunction
(Hardebaran) O sacred art of musical experimentation beckoneth one and all once again. Our willing acolytes this time happen to be prog and … something industrial and noisy. Er, I don’t think this sounds like a good idea chaps, well at least not from most pedantic purists angles on either of these two seldom integrated genres, and only the most open minded are going to sit up to this offering sans persuasion. Plenty to please the Theater/Threshold faithful, throughout, but trying to add a second division Strapping Young Lad tint of such proportions as herein comes close to totally endangering the commercial stability of the mixture. Listenable but still a shaky combination, a reality dysfunction has indeed been suffered here somewhere. 6.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
Loud ‘N’
Nasty – Too much ain’t enough
(Perris Records – 2005) Not the best vocals in th world – harsh echoe squawkfest but the heart is in the right place – right down in Sleaze Street. This is the first time on CD as it was previously released as a 12” 6 track in 2002 on Hellbound Recordings in Sweden. If you are wondering what you are in for then let me tell you that you are sure to like it if you love the makers of the songs ‘Dr. Feelgood’ and those rodents who brought you ‘Round and Round’. Highlights include the title track; ‘Little Miss Pretty’ and most especially the bonus ‘Wild Side’ guitar like ‘Sweet 16’ and the number called ‘Hellbound that’s very Poisonesque – I’ll let spot the song it sounds most like ! A don’t take yourselves serious partyville band. 6.5/10 By Glenn Milligan
|
|
LOATHE - Up Close
and Personal
(Unsigned) No, it does not feature a cover of that number by Brit AOR faves Kick or relate musically to them in anyway - Loathe are in fact, a death metal band, or something near as dammit. They have three different modes of vocals on the go here - don’t confuse us now – which are the dual pitch death gurning and something that sounds not a million miles different to Pist.on’s Henry Font. Placed atop of some riffery likely to keep Pantera fans happy, you have a less than predictable serving from a genre all too often found guilt of it. 7.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
Lucien –
S/T
(S/R / Empire in Ruins – 2005) Fast slingy rock ‘n’ roll – think LA gutter punk meets the a lot more slamming punk. Nothing more nothing less to be honest. For more info check out www.lucien.cjb.net 5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Lynyrd Skynyrd –
Gimme back my bullets
(Universal Records – 2006) The 30th Anniversary issue of the album and which also marks their induction to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame – about time !! Most fans of these southern rock legends will have the album already with its classic title track that’s actually about not about guns at all, but relates to getting their high bullet positions in the record charts; the skeptical ‘Trust’; the greatness of ‘I got the same old blues’ and off course the live staples ‘Double trouble’ with the blow me away female backing vocals and ‘Searchin’ as well. ‘’Roll Gypsy Roll’ always reminds me of an early ‘Comin’ Home’ due to its lead and rhythm guitar work and because of this I love it; then there’s the bluesin’ ‘Cry for the bad man’ and the gorgeous acoustic ‘All I can do is write about it’ that reminds me of Ronnie Lane’s ‘Anymore for Anymore’. The cd is well worth having for the 2 tracks from a gig in Wales ’75, these being and ‘Double Trouble’ and ‘I got the same old blues’ that were recorded for King Biscuit Flower Hour (no doubt many of you will have the full gig tucked away somewhere – surprised this has never had an official release actually). Oh yeah, how can I not mention the live versions of ‘Gimme back my bullets’ and ‘Cry for the bad man’ from San Francisco ’76 plus an alternate take of ‘Double Trouble’ to round things off. The South will always rise if these boys have got anything to do with it. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
| LEGS DIAMOND -
This greatest hits disc stretches across their full 30-year era from their first brace of albums in the late seventies to the present and yes they do have a new one on the way, before you ask. Their earlier material has a sense of Zeps and Rainbow to it, not least owing to frontman Rick Sandford’s high pitched yells which also have a Blackie Lawless-like range at times. Come the eighties, they appeared to move with the times and adopt the customary arena sound, their numbers from that era sounding quite Dokken- like in ways. Continuing such style into the nineties, they also reverted back to their older self on and off aided by that more bluesier sound by guitarist Roger Romeo and the two brand new numbers here, featuring Sandford’s recent replacement, John Levesque (ex-Wild Horses) hint again towards earlier styles as well as new. Hooks in practically all though one or two numbers still take a bit more listening to, to get into, but still an ideal treat for other new converts. With three of the five original members still present, and a loud reception at Bradford, this Diamond still has legs today. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
May
and Early 2005 |
| LAST
AUTUMN’S DREAM – ‘2’ Six years ago, Z Records would have had almost every Swedish melodic hard rock act worth their salt under their wing. Today, their two rival labels Frontiers and MTM pride themselves on supporting just about all things Nordic. A fast year since their debut impressed all and just about sundry too, Last Autumn’s Dream return like lightning with thirteen more luscious helpings of their pleasant lightweight AOR sound - probably their being this busy is why they didn’t have time to work on a decent title. The fact that two members of legendary countrymen Talisman – messrs Jacob and Borger – are involved does them credit but for first timers be warned, this is almost totally for those appreciating the Journey-ish things in life, and still rocks right the way through. Stunning vocals by Mikael Erlandsson plus big hooks are all around to be found and where last year’s effort made a dent in the earth, this album goes even deeper, almost making a complete crater. A near masterpiece from another great hitherto unknown act on the scene. 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
|
Los Skeletones –
Superealifunkalistic
(Shrunkenheads Records – 2005) A high quality 3-piece funk band from London who sound like a quirky Chilli pepers crossed with Living Colour. 4 tracks in all from the title track to ‘Cut Thoat’ – it’s tight and freaky and will work wonders in a club. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Lovebone – S/T (2 Track Demo) (Self-Released) A killer sleazy glam band who hark back to the good time sounds of Motley Crue and Poison etc etc – ya get them picturz – great looking chicks in LA bars – perfect. B.O.N.E. is one of those classic fun-loving or should that be sex loving ditties from a male point of view – that girl needs his bone – not that he asked if she did. LOL. InsideOut is a kind of ‘All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll’ meets ‘Nothin’ but a good time’ – like it and I wanna hear more. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
| 2004 |
The
Last Act - No Good deed goes unpunished
(S/R - 2004) Canadian Metal band who have elements of Iron Maiden, Dio-era Black Sabbath and Megadeth with a vocalist who sounds like a polished, well-trained Ozzy Osbourne mixed in with Bruce Dickinson and Robert Plant. Highlights include 'The Memory' with its unsuspecting violin solo and the NWOBHM'ness of 'Broken Dawn'. Worth a listen. 6/10 By Glenn Milligan |
August |
Lucid
Fly - S/T (3 track demo) All the way from Orlando, Fl., Lucid Fly have that agressive style of Evanescence without the gothic overtones with blonde bombshell Nikki Layne on vocals alongside Guitarist Doug; Bassist Jamie and Drummer Derrick . They've been together since 1999 and a re a big noise in their hometown and central florida itself. If these 3 tracks - 'Blind'; 'Collide' and 'Center of your space' are anything to go by it's little wonder.
By Glenn Milligan |
Lynyrd
Skynyrd - Lyve (The Viscious Cycle Tour) The Southern US Rock legends caught live in concert in Tennessee on their recent tour (which also brought them to the UK supporting Deep Purple. You can't beat the sight and sounds of Skynyrd - hard, dirty, bluesin' coutry rock at it's ultimate finest played by men in cowboy hats, and confederate regalia. Many of the greatest hits are featured such as Freebird; the feel-good honky tonkin' woman questioning 'What's your name' and other cookin' cuts like the epic ballads 'Simple Man'; 'The ballad of Curtis Leoey' and 'Tuesday's Gone'. Of course no set from these boys would be complete without some good ole 12-bar boogie in the form of 'I know a little' and 'Down South Junkin' not to mention the new material like the anthemic autobiographical 'Red, White and Blue' - oh yeah and of course they've included 'Sweet Home Alabama' or a riot could occur - only jokin'. Doin' the south proud - here's to 30 more years of Rock 'n' Roll from the Greatest band ever to come from Florida. Keep that Rebel flag flyin'. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
July |
LIONSHEART
- Abyss
(Frontiers - 2004) They were one of the UK's best loved melodic hard rock acts in the late 80's-early 90's and with an impending resurgence in the scene's fortunes (plus a deal with Frontiers), Steve Grimmett has decided to give 'em another go. Since their sabbatical, the one-time Onslaught man has been involved in a fair one or two projects, the most noticeable in this scene being the 'Friction' album for Z records a few years back. Still possessive of the knack for penning belters, 'Abyss' sure has them. Ranging from old-school metal to ballsy straight-ahead AOR and taking in a few prog ideas along the way, and practically NO contemporary/alternative styles for their hardcore followers to dread, the decade-plus break did seemingly no damage at all, especially to Steve's voice which I can't help noticing how close at times, to Dream Theater's James LaBrie, it sounds. A bold-as-bold-can-get comeback fro these Lion-hearted chaps, I hope this isn't just a quick one-off. Corking. 8.5/10 By Dave Attrill |
June |
LUNARIS
- Cycle
(Elitist - 2004) A black metal band from Norway. We've never heard the likes of this bef.. Jokes over, Lunaris do actually poke out form the pack with their tone in dark dedications, to bring a style that may appeal to more than just the born and bred believers of the genre. Supporting the as-standard abusements of the oral workings is some strong guitar/keyboard work which gives rise to considerable comparisons with Dream Theater on more than a few parts. Adding a few bursts of Ozzy-esque vocals on a couple of tracks, alternating dominantly with the normally voice-age of the material's functions and you have an album that proves this class of metal less pedantic than is often accused of being. Picking or distinguishing particular tracks off a black metal album has often been an act of near impossibility for me til now but I can this time say that 'I.A.D', 'Lessons In Futility', 'Cyclic' ,'Slaves Of Opinion', 'Casualties Of Piece' and 'Existence Unveiled' are particularly weighty cuts and have a lot going for them, especially live. Which is where we should hope to see these lads before too long. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
April |
| Bill
Leverty's Wanderlust
|
| Lorraine
Lewis - S/T
(Suzy Home Wrecker Music/Jack Factor Records - 2002) The last time I heard anything by Lorraine Lewis was her Industrial Pop-Rock Project 'Snowball'. Since then the blonde goddess has embarked on a country career and this is the result of it in digital world - a gorgeous 8-tracker that proves she's got the rodeo tunes too. Opener, 'American Girl' saw her get noticed on Country Radio and I'm not surprised either. There's a crackin' ditty called 'The Power' that comes as a 'Whiskey Mix' at the end of the CD that's classy almost blues-country. Aside from that, I am convinced that 'Desire' is goona be or maybe already is an epic live standard and is a laid back country song that has hints of 'Lynyrd Skynyrd' in there. George Harrison must have influenced 'Rodeo Clown' (the melody and arrangement at least but pardon me if I'm wrong on that assumption) especially the lead guitar solos. I am so looking forward to hearing more from her soon. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| Loud
'n' Nasty - Teaser, Teaser Hollywood
sounding glam from believe it or not Sweden of all places. It seems
obvious that there's more to this area than Neo-Classical Power Metal.
7/10 |
| March |
| LAST
AUTUMN'S DREAM - S/T
(Frontiers/Now & Then 2004) As I greet another intake of new recruits at the Melodic rock camp, these Swedes walk forward from the pack, seemingly eager for inspection. Although boasting a sound that has about much to do with Sweden as muffins, mounties and ice hockey, they carry a familiar name aboard, bassist John Leven's name having popped up on more occasions than I can care to count. As I might have just mentioned the material brought to me by this highly promising sounding new bunch is about everything a Von Groove or Naro fan could wish for - Mikael Erlandsson has a voice that would make ol 'Phil proud, whilst guitarist Andy Malacek's surname can only be Mladen, spelt horribly wrong because his style is about akin to that of one of Canada's greatest guitarists as one can legally get. If that isn't enough excitement, you also get more than a tingling sensation of Teutonic legends Fair Warning as you get through the album. Stunning melodies from both voice and instruments make 'Again And Again', 'Doin' Time', 'Guardian Angel', 'Blink Of The Eye', 'Talk To Me' and 'High Up' the warning shots of a lethal new weapon in Frontiers's hands. Time will have to tell but we won't need much of it with these boys, we're onto a winner with this platter. Last Autumn's Dream - This Summer's Reality, more like. 9/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE: |
| LAST
TRIBE - Uncrowned
(Frontiers/Now and Then - 2004) Two years ago, Swedish power metal kings Last Tribe unleashed the unbelievable 'Witchdance' album on the unsuspecting and definitely unexpecting population.of planet melodic rock. The following chapter is finally unveiled. So what are our friends up to today, then? The differences can be told from the start. Due to lack of sleeve info, we are unable to identify the additional vocalist that turns up in several of the cuts cut but he sounds astounding like Blaze Bayley. The usual voice arrives though and Last Tribe are back in action. in a way. This is not 'Witchdance 2', let's get that straight, now. There is a lot more slower-tempo material and deeper-accented guitar than before. Think more about Ten and Magnum than about Royal Hunt et al, this time and things will be found a lot easier. Some of the material definitely doesn't string one in as quickly and it will take a few full listens to adapt to their change of direction but it is again another decent disc from the L.T. lads which will merit almost as much enjoyment as its predecessor. A tribe I'll be part of any day. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| STEVE
LUKATHER - Santa Mental
(Bop City Records - 2004) I don't mean to sound like a miserable old bugger here - I do wallow in the same enjoyment of the festive season as most others on this earth but does one of AOR's biggest names have to sink to these depths to do so. Christmas songs are and always will be a way of life at such time of year, along with the trees, the crackers and the Christmas puds but at least most artists write their own tunes today. Mr lukather has decided however that the cheapest and quickest way round it is to rehash the very songs that make us want to yell SHU-U-U-UT U-U-U-U-P!!! at earsplitting volume at anyone we hear uttering them these days. While the immense talent of the Toto man is without question, why should he wan to waste it on these trouser-foulingly turgid compositions that despite having an interesting variation of instrument uses including sax, we have forced down our throats for several weeks on end per annum. This blasphemous misuse of musical abilities is one for the Lukather loony only, or anyone who can't wait 'til the tinsel's out again. 2/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Jan
2004 |
| Johnny
Lima - Made In California
(Now and Then/Frontiers - 2003) Having waited a couple of years for the next Lima instalment I have to say that I wasn't one bit disappointed with this release. He's kept to the same formula of 'Bon Jovi' at their early best (the groove and vibe of their first four albums) and 'Made in California' (the title track itself) starts off the album in good stead - a song that sees Johnny stating that he will only give it to a girl from that said state. You find out about his memorable bit of the old 'wham bam' in 'The best night of my life' or the one about his supposedly fancying a lesbian in the tongue-in-cheek 'Another Girl'. Johnny even provides us with a nice version of 'The Beatles 'Help' and even informs you about his favourite place in 'Welcome to my paradise'. It's an album that has a tip-top excellent standard throughout and I urge you to go out and buy it A.S.A.P. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| The
Loving Tongue - Distant Dreams
(Locrian Records - 2003) An Australian progressive metal band who have a Black Sabbath vibe ('Universal Love' being a good example) as well as many other styles that you can't completely put your finger on - sort of degrees of psychedelia that's interspersed throughout the 2 disc set - especially the track 'Loving Ways today'. CD 2 carries on from where CD1 left off and highlights include 'Lost Princess' that simply echoes the Rainbow version of The Yardbirds 'Still I'm Sad'. There's a dreary number called 'Death' that clocks in at just over 8 minutes that's like listening to an alternative slowed down take of Ministry's 'New World Order' that has repeated screaming samples and deep chugging guitar but obviously has different lyrics. 'Warriors of Enchantment' is a vocal spoken word piece that reminds me of Hawkwind and has phased effects. 'Soft, Lonely love' is similar and the lyrics are also partly Bulgarian. This is an album on it's own for deffo and it makes you wonder what else you are missing out on that never gets heard outside OZ. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| Dec.
2003 |
| LIFE
OF AGONY - River Runs Again
(SPV -2003) One of the most loyally worshipped acts of the 90's era of the American Hardcore/punk metal scene, New York's Life Of Agony left very few dry eyes in the house when they parted ways a few years back, after a short stint with former ugly Kid Joe frontman 'Whitfield Crane' taking the mike. Now back with the best known formation headed by diminutive Keith Caputo, LOA has on the merits of this two-disc life set won back more or less every one of their fans, as the quite noisy sounding crowd might give note. All the band's classics seems to be present, 'River Runs Red', 'Lost At 22', 'Method Of Groove', 'I Regret' and the excellent 'Weeds' amongst songs taking the highest of the applause. The studio tracks from various side/solo projects ain't too bad either and beckon to be checked out. A perfect collection of material from a band welcomed back very warmly, this time I hope to stay a tad longer than they did last time. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| LADY
LEATHER MACHINE - I Want Something (Single)
Yes, I'm sure you do and I might want something at times but I don't always get it. As is the case with Lady Leather Machine, quite frankly. Whilst I'm not a total rookie with this fuzzy-sounded retro-indie matter, I've heard it much better from other bands of late. 'Sulphate & Sunshine', the latter of the three tracks is an improvement on the rest but it does little to make me want to play the whole thing again too often despite some quite groovy guitar lead there. More the fans thing than mine, I'm afraid. 5/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Argen
Anthony Lucassen's 'Star One' - Live On Earth If you've heard the studio album and like it then this live effort will be pleasing to your taste buds also. It's symphonic, bombastic and stacked up with a high end of talent and falls into an eclectic mix of the offerings of artists like Dio, Zakk Wylde, Yngwie Malmsteen's 'Rising Force', Helloween and Hawkwind. This live and conceptual 2-cd set will drag you in and shoot you in to cosmic galaxian realms and at other points completely mellow you out with tranquil balladeering folk music. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| July 2003 |
| Lynch/Pilson
- Wicked Underground
(Spitfire Records - 2003) Two ex-members of Dokken (George Lynch and Jeff Pilson) getting together for a project sounds a really cool idea - it works OK but not to the point of climax if I am to be completely honest about it. The best songs have got to be 'Beast in a box' and the Alice in Chains vibed 'Closer to None' - such a pity that the majority is forgettable and way too average to make any stand-out musical dints in 2003. I only recommend this to fans of Dokken and/or Lynch Mob - but only if you are a completist. I have a feeling you are going to be disappointed with it though. 5/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pre-July 2003 |
| Legacy
- S/T
(Chavis Records - 2002) Good old school metal played by a new name - Legacy, who's vocalist sounds like a slightly lower toned Glenn Hughes and musically kinda Dio meets Alice Cooper & the track 'Underdog' is like 'Skunk Anansie' especially in the chorus section. It's a surprisingly strong album with great songs such as the ballad 'Can't remember love'; the raspy 'My last sunrise' or the racey guitar rhythm of 'Tool' with its immortal lead squealing. These guys could be big if they get enough press. 7/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Lost
Horizon - A Flame to the Ground Beneath
(Music For Nations - 2003) A bright flow of Power Metal to behold that is the follow up to the bands debut ,'Awakening the World' that was reviewed before Metalliville became a webzine. 9 spankin' newies which are similar in sound and style to the 1st release and produced by band member, Wojteck Lisicki himself - this shiny jewel has plenty for him to be proud about. Mammoth mountains of fast paced guitar and piercing grandiose vocals hit you with a supreme 'we will win' attitude such as 'Again the fire will burn'; the excellent melodic arrangement feel of 'Pure'; the almost Gothic Type O Negativeness of 'The Joy of Earth'; the blastin' 'Think not forever' and the spacey 'Deliverance'. Get over here soon. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Lebocat
- Flo's Barbershop
(AII Class Records - 2002) North Californian, Hard Rockin' Trio fronted by drummer Joey Cimino who's played with notable artists like Eric Martin (Mr. Big) and Danny De La Rosa (Babylon A.D.). Imagine an outfit that sounds like Mr. Big meets Boston and Journey with the ballsy rocking edge of UFO and Saxon - well that describes Lebocat if I say so myself. It's definitely a debut full of positive sounding stuff and before I forget, I must inform you that Jonathan Reyes (Guitarist/backing vocalist) used to be in Legend and opened up for artists like Y+T, Huey Lewis and Angel City. On the other side of the stage is bassist Martin 'Fat Cat' Mordes who's beefed up the bottom end with Greg Allman, Pat Travers, Ainsley Dunbar and toured with Buddy Miles. 'Flo's Barbershop' is an enjoyable album that the 30+ will dig with its well worked out rhythms and soft but powerful vocals of the melodic variety. It sounds like a cop-out but it's hard to pick out individual highlights, as it's such a good album. Well worth numerous listens though (not that it all isn't of course) are the cheesey titled, tongue-in-cheek 'Let's Rock', the Bostony 'One on one'; the Strongheart raffish 'Talkin' to You' or the Thin Lizzydom of 'Wild and Fire' with the opening 'Rosalee' sounding riff. Oh yeah, then there's 'The In-Laws' and 'Any Class' (that precedes the blues rock of 'Shakin') that are spoken-word p*ss-take camaraderie's. Not to mention some knockout backing vocals from Eric Martin. Excellent stuff all round 9/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LITTLE
HELL - DEMONIC ADVISORY CENTRE
(DOUBLE DRAGON MUSIC - DD2005CD) Once in a while posted through the letterbox is a band that you know will make it big and Little Hell are that band this year. With their aggressive attitude to punk music Little Hell have released that something different from the rest of the new age punk rock sh*t coming out of America. Demonic Advisory Centre is a twelve track CD full of aggression, attitude and down right full of filth, if I was sh*t in bed I would even say it is as good as sex so to all you masturbator's out there this is a CD for you. From the start of 'Welcome to the D.A.C.' to the new single 'Everybody's cursed' to the last track 'You're all I've got in this lousy world' Little Hell will have you stress free from the shit of everyday life you will feel great and I quote from a news letter sent with this disc of attitude "Some vets play Little Hell's music to ease pain and heal animals". 10/10 By Tony Watson |
| Love
Injections - S/T
(Self-Released - 2002) The Love Injections are a set of 4 from Sweden who formed the tag end of 2001 through the musical love of Thomas (ex-The Jackals) and KJ (ex-plan Nine) alongside Jackals drummer, Tobbe and bass player Rebecca. They perform Good old Glammy Rock brought right up to the mark in the classic styles of Hanoi Rocks, Dogs D'Amour and The Rolling Stones - sweet liquor for sure. You'll be engaged immediately by their 7 glorious tracks that range from the rockin' 'More than a bottle'; the tribute to loving Sleaze that is 'Lost Boy' that's incorporated with wailing blitz 'n' glam all round or take your tastebuds over to the traditional Status Quo meets the Sex Pistols injection of 'Downtown-A-Rockin' coming complete with brilliant melody. Everyone could do with a needle full of these Swedes. 7.5/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LUNARIS
- THE INFINITE
(EARACHE RECORDS - MOSH903CD) From the dark corners of hell we call Norway, Lunaris emerge as a fully-fledged, fully working band with ambition and full frontal dedication to the death metal scene. 'The infinite' is a ten track brutal sonic assault on society with its new breed of metal that clearly breaks every rule in sophisticated song writing. Lunaris start off the CD with what one can only describe as a mixture of early Bathory, Venom and Napalm Death mixed with Cradle of Filth and a slight touch of Iced Earth and Opeth, which progresses and develops throughout the CD. This combination of brutal metal does come across quite entertaining but it will be a minority who will thoroughly appreciate the work that has been involved and this minority will think it's the best thing to hit the market for years. 7/10 By Tony Watson |
| Lillian
Axe - Live 2002
(Red and Gold International - 2002) A full gig that's spread across 2 cd's that comprises of 21 Rocking tracks recorded in Houston, Texas, USA on 4th May, 2002 that includes numbers from the majority of their studio albums - cuts that range from the self-titled 1988's 'Lillian Axe' right through to 1999's 'Fields of Yesterday'. Listening to it will make you wonder why they never reached well into top rock league with bands like Bon Jovi or Def Leppard because musically and vocally the 'Axe are 100% exception - needless to say the penning of incredible songs. The band reign supreme with
Ron Taylor's very impressive gritty 'n' powerful There's so much to choose
from on this set and major highlights include the pounding Not only do you get a great gig in true digital stereo but you are also in awe of the inner cover with a collage of images that span their entire career. One of the best live albums released in 2002. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LOST
WEEKEND - New Religion
(Frontiers/Now & Then - 2002) I've had the name Lost Weekend printed in my knowledge for a few years gone by, now and every time I've seen it printed on gloss, it's been the heading for some rather less-than-charitable write-ups. Their last album got them some friendlier attention, thankfully, and after hearing this third offering from the Brit fivesome, who am I going to side with, I wonder? I direct my decisions more towards the latter as this is a respectable piece from the Halifax-based act who have played the Gods a few times over the years, including 2000 (which I stupidly turned up too late to catch). The style in issue is quite Bailey's Comet-esque with a little less Celt and some surprisingly latter-day Honeymoon Suite-style harmonies on occasions, plus quite a UFO-ish vibe throughout the hard portion of the album. If this band had been formed about twenty-to-thirty years ago, they'd have been huge with their sort of sound and probably one of the select few acts who still cut it big today - doesn't Deep purple and Bad Company both selling out City Hall shows in 2002 tell you something? 'Once In A Moment', 'New Religion' and 'By Now' would have been vital elements in achieving such status cos 'Dead In The Water' is definitely not my way of referring to hard/classic rock, any day at all. As you should know, British bands like Lost Weekend are relied upon in their role to keep this rock genre alive in all its true British glory, with talent and songs like these clearly aiding the cause. As the bloke on the cornflakes TV ad' once said, 'Tasty, tasty, very, very tasty…..' . 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| LA
Guns - Waking the Dead
By far, this is their best studio album in years. Previous effort, 'Man on the Moon' but in comparison to 'Waking the Dead' it's a 7 out of 10 - Tops. 'Waking the Dead' is electric, energetic, fresh and incredibly vibrant and more importantly, it completely rocks - there no slow tracks here - just 10 balls-out blasters. When I first heard the title track on an advance untitled teaser CD, I had no idea it was the LA Guns as it's musically a lot heavier with forceful violent vocals during the chorus, in fact, it sounded more like Iron Maiden. The album overall has plenty to please both old and new fans alike as well as those yet to be converted. Check out the pacey 'OK, let's go', that's pure rock 'n' splendour as is the rest of the album. Other highlights include 'Revolution' - that's classic chunky melodramatic LA Guns at their finest; the new-age punkish G'n' R 'n' gone Buck Cherryness of 'Pyschodelic Eyes'; 'Hellraisers Ball' (that I read was going to be the title of the album) and the closer, 'Don't You Cry' that kinda shows you what Iron Maiden's 'The Evil that men do' would musically sound like if it went glam rock. The Riley/Guns/Lewis team have struck Gold, hopefully Platinum with this release - make sure to go and see 'em when they go out on tour. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LITTLE
HELL - VIRUS WITH SHOES
(DOUBLE DRAGON MUSIC DD2004CD -2002) Virus With Shoes is a three track EP from the re-born Little Hell. This CD is your classic punk meets adrenaline fuelled stoner rock. These angry guys Natasha Moledina, Steve Ludwig and the Dicker brothers will feed your little heads full of pollution and tempt your disillusioned souls with hardcore noise and memorable melodies. It is a shame that record companies release small EP's as I would have, like anyone else, benefited with a good hand full of tunes to get you into that destructive careless mood before going out on the piss. Overall it is too short, three tracks are total waist of time, which does not show of the capabilities of the band. 6/10 By Tony Watson |
| Loaded
- Dark Days
Loaded is the latest Duff McKagan fronted outifit (the original bassist of Guns 'n' Roses). He's swapped the four string to a six string, leaving the bass duties to D. Stuart Dahlquist (Goatsnake/Burning Witch) who contributed to the film soundtrack of 'Contact'. Also in the band is drummer, Geoff reading (New American Shame) amd session guitarist Dave Kushner (Danzig, Infectious Grooves and Dave Navarro's band). Musically, it's very much punky vibes meets G'n'R but with a negative aspect at times. The album is a grower and features some spectacular arrangements such as 'Want To' - a song that looks at a relationship that sounds like it's falling apart and has a Lenny Kravitz funk pop style with a Gunnerish Instrumental section. Elsewhere you get the slammin' punk rock of 'Superman' that goes Beatles at times (circa 'Abbey Road') or the incredibly autobiographical 'Wrap your arms' that looks at Duff's life both past and present. 'Seattlehead' is a great track with a snazzy slice of sampling mixed in with a strong Duff 'n' Roll attitude splattered all over it - Nice. A likeable album that'll please both Duff Mkagan, G'N'R, Punk and Rock fans without a problem - the blonde haired 6 foot plus rock icon is bang on form. 7.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LAST
TRIBE - Witchdance
Some bands release new albums so soon after the last one's had time to settle, that you can't tell which the latest one actually is. Sweden's Last Tribe are like that. But with the quality of material they're prepared to work on for us, their albums can't come soon enough. An example of the wide roster that Mark Ashton's label encapsulates, the band can also maintain a loyal interest from metal-heads and melodic rock fans alike within the scene. Tunes such as 'Witchdance' and 'Behind Your Eyes' are where it's at today, and together with fellow belters 'Bring Out The Brave', 'Dreamer' and 'Messenger' (which just DRIPS Dream Theater from all over its body) are the reasons that this stuff which should be on the front of rock mags nationwide. With the track 'Wake Up The World' - how close can one get to Helloween these days, eh? Instrumental track 'Agadir' is a recommended cut too, if you forgive its title's similarity to that of a hideous 80's pop tune (by the awful party duo 'Black Lace'). A band who know their instruments, Last Tribe play round with a good few ideas here and the keyboards fully audible throughout the entire album fool you into believing they've tried an entire new guitar sound out - watch out for any spies, lads. Let's hope they are not the last tribe capable of this calibre of product because the melodic metal masterwork of the year 2002AD has been officially decided right here. 10/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| Arjen
Anthony Lucassen's Star One - Space Metal
A two disk set with the main album being of an extremely exquisite standard (not that the bonus cd isn't, of course). The term space metal to me is more or less symphonic metal with the odd sound effect every so often - so yes - this is a kind of Malmsteen melodic affair with slight hints of Hawkwind - some of it is even has Deep Purple elements like 'Set your controls' or the Hugh Lloyd Langton era of Hawkwind comes to mind as well in 'Song of the Ocean' that's inclusive of female backing vocals. If you fancy a bit of Pink Floyd styled material then check out 'The Eye of Ra' which has got a nice bit of Jon Lord styled Hammond playing as well. The accompanying bonus CD (which I actually played straight away - if the truth be known) has a knock-out Hawkwind medley where classics like 'Brainstorm', 'The War I survived' and 'Assault and Battery' have been arranged to make a mind-blowing arrangement - to get Dave Brock on lead vocals is completely out of this world as is the dark cover of David Bowies 'Space Oddity'. Overall the material to be found here is nothing new to get excited about - but it's enchanting stuff all the same. 7.5/10 By Glenn
Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LOVE
AS LAUGHTER - Sea To Shining Sea
(Sub Pop Records) Music as Laughter, more like. While the guitar work has been taken seriously enough here with some cracking licks to boot, the search for the right vocalist hasn't. I correct this, the search for A vocalist - that's one who can sing - hasn't been undergone with the adequate enthusiasm, and instead we get this geezer who knows his stuff around the time and tune department but a voice like this belongs in some fourth rate eighties thrash act - even I can sing better than the c*** here does. I do honestly make an effort to enjoy some of the tunes on offer here and the vocals do sound a little more on earth but one or two of the songs definitely outstay their welcome and ten-and-a-half minutes for one of the bl**ders is really pushing their luck. Sup Pop have come up with some decent alternative albums in the past and I'm hoping that this one is just a single embarrassing faux pas for both label and band. A change of singer and this band's next album could get some serious arses kicked. 3/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| January 2002 |
| The
Last Hard Men (feat. Seb Bach) - S/T
8/10 |
| Lacrimosa
- Fassade
This is no way your average band - as Lacrimosa cross deep orchestral backing (the LSO, in this case) with gothic ambience - a forte that they are obviously masters at. It's all in sung in German (from what I can make out), but don't be put off by the language difference, as it's incredible material. The best way to describe their sound is 'imagine combining the soundtrack of an old hammer film with one of a romantic gothic drama - then add in the sinister pastoral styled vocals (of Tilo Wolff especially on 'der morgendanach') and the angelic haunting echo cries of one Anne Numi (e.g. the track 'Senses') and you get something quite remarkable. Haunting highlights include the deep 'n' warm', Warum so tief' complete with trumpets and the Metallica'ish 'Liebesspid' with its double bass drumming style and crunchy guitars. Good Stuff !!! 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LA Guns - Man in the Moon (Spitfire/Eagle - 2001)
Yes, they're back again - this time with a brand new studio album entitled, 'Man in the Moon'. Tracii Guns, Phil Lewis and the rest of the band are doing the glam fans proud with this release. It's L.A. Guns as you like them - right from the track 'Man in the Moon', which has a classy Aerosmith feel about it, a mysterious opening swirling effect and a grooving guitar riff throughout, the album is a glorious listening pleasurable experience. This is 80's styled sleaze that could fit well on there first 3 albums (the self-titled debut, Cocked and Loaded or Hollywood Vampires), despite any particular rock/metal trend that are doing the rounds at the moment. Phil Lewis is sounding better than ever, it's excellent to see him taking up the microphone on-slaught again - no detriment to any other vocalist who's fronted the band - Phil is really the only man for the job - he can deliver the good in the raspy voice which wraps itself around the Glam-Metal mayhem, which these guys are legendary for. Standouts on the album are the Beatle flavoured, 'Beautiful', the in-you-face big-hair funkiness of 'Good Thing' and 'Hypnotize' (that's very AC/DC - but for a rock band I consider that to be a good thing, especially the 'Guns). Take from me, the whole album is a highlight - and how many albums ca you say that about these days. Here's to a date or three in the U.K. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Last Tribe - The Ritual (2001 -Frontiers/Now and Then Records)
If you ever wondered what the style of Steve Vai and Ywngwie Malmsteen would be like in a melodic (almost Power Metal) band then this Swedish band, 'Last Tribe' answer that question. It's an outfit that features 'Midnight Sun's guitarist, 'Magnus Karlsson'. Here you'll find adventurous compositions that are intense and completely mind-blowing. Be it the fret-board attack of Magnus Karlsson, the warm soaring vocal highlights of Rickard Bengt, the throbbing beatings of drummer Kristoffer Andersson or the thunderous bass-work of Par Wallmark. The opener, 'Spellbound' is a splendid example of what 'Last Tribe' can do to impress. Hey, what about 'Tears of Gold', with its majestic keyboards and semi-acoustic guitar-work - and then there's the rich vocals of Rickard who informs us that time is running out on him. 'One of a kind' is a striking slab of Power Metal gone Melodic Rock. If you like a pounding roller-coaster of pompous tic vocals in the style of Malmsteen's band 'Rising Force', which comes complete with flying guitar solo's that sweep all over the place - then you'll love this track. The title track itself - 'The Ritual' has got that Malmsteen meets Iron Maiden vibe flowing through it and you could easy imagine Helloween's 'Michael Kiske' wailing over the top of it. The standout track for me has got to be the next to last number, 'Ready for the Storm'. It's a pure surge of energy that concerns the weather elements waiting to happen - let's call the song a simple act of God!!!! The album is both a laid back melodic rock affair that at other times flies at you with a punch of pulverising power metal. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Lost
Horizon - Awakening the World
Lost Horizon are a new signing to one of the worlds finest Rock/Metal labels, 'Music For Nations', and are pure power metal in the Iron Maiden/Helloween vein. So what's on offer? - Loud Throaty vocals that scream and wail (courtesy of Etherial Mangnanimus a.k.a. - Daniel Heiman) plus complimentary classically orientated guitar solos (from Transcendental Protagonist a.k.a Wojtek Liscki) alongside fast-paced drumming (thanks to Preternatural Transmogrifier a.k.a Christian Nyqvist). As well as thunderous racing bass guitar runs (booming from the fingers of Cosmic Antagonist a.k.a Martin Furangen) and uplifting keyboard string sounds. (And that's just in the 1st full-length song, 'Heart of Storm'.) Hailing from Gothenburg, Sweden, these musical warriors are out to conquer the globe and originate from a band that went under the name of 'Highlander', which featured future members of 'Hammerfall'. Lost Horizon are out to tell the tales of Good Vs Evil in an enslaved world full of uncertainty. Take for example the track, 'The Kingdom of my will', dealing with battles on horseback and being led by spirits or 'World Through My Fateless Eyes' about oneself, the mind and what life is like around you, in your opinion. As you can probably gather, the albums lyrical themes are extremely deep and intelligent as well as very sinister and downright medieval - which makes a pleasant change to the usual over-the-top negative and angry attitude from the current crop of nu-metal bands around these days. Lost Horizon are the 'Real "Metal" McKoy', that gods like Ronnie James Dio or Bruce Dickinson would approve of. No doubt, 'Lost Horizon', will do extremely well in Europe and I hope that they get the credit that they deserve. If the world isn't awake and turned onto this band after hearing this future classic metal album, I want to know why. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| LUTI-KRISS - Throwing Myself
This is a dark brooding band,
with more than a nudge towards the black For 70% of the album you
wonder why they actually bothered, 4/10 By
David Roberts, BA Hons FS |
