N
August |
|
John Norum – Play
Yard Blues The Europe Guitarist’s latest album sees him show his other side away from the day job. Highlights include the near Beatle like opener ‘Let It Shine’; the funked blues of ‘It’s Only Money’; the Thin Lizzyish ‘When Darkness Falls’; the Hendrix like ‘Ditch Queen’; the well-riffed ‘Travel In The Dark’ and the racing ‘Born Again’. Be awesome to see John do a gig over here in his own right as these songs are bluesy but not to the point where he is simply treading old ground that others have before. An excellent release. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
Nutz – Tightened Up – Live In Nottingham
1977 A hard rock band with plenty of keyboards who may be long forgotten now but were a sought after getting big noise back in the 70’s. This CD sees Nutz live at The Grey Topper Club, Nottingham, England on March 1st 1977 and was recorded from broadcast by Radio Trent. Their singer David Lloyd later did the vocals for the Flake and my old fave, The Yorkie advert with the truck on it, while their late drummer, John Mylett turned down the chance to take the stool for Ozzy Osbourne because it wasn’t his thing! Even Peter Grant wanted to manage them! Anyways, back to the point – this gig features 12 songs in all with the crowd wanting more at the end too. Highlights include a cover of Bob Dylan’s ‘One More Cup Of Coffee’; ‘Loser/Pushed Aside’; ‘Sick & Tired’; ‘I Know The Feeling’; ‘Changes Coming’ and the closing ‘Living On A Knife Edge. Pity they never made it massive but they had fun along the way but stop press as the band are reforming! 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
July |
| NAIL
- Power And Greed Canadian four-piece Nail are formed not of another brooding gang of young whippersnappers hoping to make their mark on the rock n’roll industry but a group of veteran musicians originating from prolific acts in their own right. Guitarist, Rainer Weichmann spent a couple of years in native legends Helix as did sister Cindy who fronts this project with her classy, near punk like, throat and the chemistry looks good from herein. Looking for an album of hair-rock revival attempts will leave you nowhere I have to warn you right now, much as a fan of the scene as I am myself, but the melodic pop metal/ punk sound they explore instead make the album just as much of a treat with the strong and less-than overcooked contemporary vibe the steam gives off. Why these guys haven’t got a deal is a mystery ,especially with Rainer, a veteran Canuck producer of two decades past behind the helm. I recommend it gets sorted sharpish as apart from a couple or so draggy moments, its an impressive first piece from a new machine and stands poised to do pretty healthily for their following to come. 8/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED
IF YOU LIKE: NET: www.nailtheband.com |
New
Riders Of The Purple Sage – Very Best Of The Relix Years Classic rodeo country band whose music certainly wouldn’t be out of place on ‘The Dukes Of Hazzard’ that’s made up from 3 different albums on this here double set. There’s rootin’ tootin’ great in concert material from ‘Live On Stage’ from gigs at The Beacon Theatre, New York and The Keystone in Berkley, California (both from 1975) that include highlights such as ‘Instant Armadillo Blues’ – now that’s a cool f*ck*n’ title if ever I heard one; the gorgious ‘Singing Cowboy’; the excellent ‘Panama Red’ and an almost unintelligable vocalled cover of Chuck Berry’s ‘Nadine’. We then get the studio album ‘Keep On Keeping On’ with some real great numbers here such as ‘Bounty Hunter’ (not the ‘Hatchet number either); the amazingly voiced ‘Barbaric Splendor’ and the acoustically incredible ‘Big Ed’ with jawharp, harmonica and Dobro – killer laid-back country blues! Other highlights on 2nd CD include the album version of ‘Henry’ & Last Lonely Eagle that are to-die-for killer country tunes from ‘Before Time Began’ as well as ‘Taking It Hard’; ‘Diesel On My Tail’ (about a truck getting too close to you on the highway) and the live in Japan rousing acoustic closer ‘Ripple’ (that’s very CS&N) that all appeared on the ‘Best Of’ Album. There’s only one mark for this 2cd set and that’s the top mark. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
|
NINTH CIRCLE - The
Power Of One
(S/R - 2010) Ninth Circle are an American metal band making a very un-American noise, in fact pretty much more one carved out of old Blighty’s musical stone. Ballsy but intelligently made trad metal crafted for the 21st century, they start to show they like doing things different right from the off by not opening with a fast tune , though its not the first time I‘ve come across this lately. Down to business straight away, ‘Frontman‘ - nothing to do with role of a particular band member - is an early Europe - flavoured hard rocker and while obviously a commerical pitch for the album to come is credit itself. The Maiden-like title number features, apart from a leviathan chorus, some suspiciously Smith/Murray/Ger like soloing but that’s far from a bad thing in my book, obviously. Deceiving with a brief Rammstein moment at the intro, ‘The Journey’ is a comparatively less instant tune, taking until the backing vocal at the end of the chorus to get a catch on. The messy chorus structure ruins ‘Where No One Lives’, a decent Scandinavian flavoured number, by its irritating gap halfway through and then a way too dead end-hook. ‘Our Last’ Days’ is totally flawless, a classy stomper with thrashy chugs chipping along the intro and verse, before its Maiden time again as the wavy ‘How Many Times’ lets astray some magnificent old fashioned widdlings again. Old School metal heaven comes in the name of ‘fire Falling, with a beautiful backing vocal sound straight from the NWOBHM belt, before that old Maiden -o-meter is sent hurtling to the limit with the double-headed guitar fest that is ‘Hour 21’ and ‘Obsession’. Taking a three-quarter-way break into other waters, ’If It Bleeds’ the progressive edge finally comes to the fore with a strong depthful number which is an immediate departure from the rest of the list but in keeping less than pretentious, is one of the cd’s top cuts. The ultimate ode to their influences has to be delivered as N.C. treat you to an almighty run of Irons cornerstone ‘The Trooper’ which actually manage to sound like a different band playing it, due to their contrastable vocal style. Closer ’Prisoner Of the World’ looks tame by comparison but a ballad may yet seem the best way to wind down after a night of pure full on metal action - and I mean action for we have had it in big barrels this time. Rarely does a metal band from either side of the pond deliver it with such panache seen last about 1985 and despite the similarities between them and Bruce and the boys, it goes with saying that the influences are impossible to fault there. Excellent. 9/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED
IF YOU LIKE: |
May |
|
Neverwonder –
Let It Out
(S/R – 2010) A Californian band who one hell of an amazing frontess in Megan Bobo who has that zest of Anastasia and Joss Stone with hard, hot, bluesy, soulful, powerful vocals and the ballziness of Skunk Anansie at times. It’s real tight stuff and there’s plenty of highlights here such as the opening bluesy poppin ‘Help Me’ that comes in a remixed version too as well as an acoustic version; the immensely beatiful ‘Spinning’ with a piano version as well – called lounge here – now this is like classy Elton John or such like !! ‘Superior’ is an amazing number too that’s on the same calibre not to mention the Thunderesque’ish ‘Movin’ On’. Love the Greetings message from the band at the end too. I expect big things for this band if they enough international coverage. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan
|
January
2010 |
|
Naughty Boys –
Destiny Calls
(N Records – 2009) A decent album that really rocks like it came right out of about 1988 – big guitars, strong, nice and high in the mix vocals and solid songs on top of that. It’s somewhere in the style of Bon Jovi & Johnny Lima. Some great rocking songs in ‘Walk Away’; ‘Time’; ‘Runaway Train’ and the epic ender ‘Fly with the Angels’. But I can’t forget to mention that nice love ballad that is ‘Eternity’. Wonder if we will see them play the UK in 2010? 7.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
October |
|
NASTY IDOLS - Boys
Town
(Metal Heaven - 2009) Why is predictably so often taken for a negativity? Is it actually a bad thing to get exactly what it says on the tin (like Ronseal’s business has ever been damaged by this theory,). Knowing what you get when you hit the play button is a selling label with Nasty Idols for example. Sleaze metal purists will be the least offended as these four lads belt it out like they’ve just been hit by a car and woke up in 1989. Not letting any Gene Hunts of the musical world tell them what to do, they party their way through 12 pleasant slices of Faster PussyCat/Poison tutored rock n’roll delight that invite us all to just rip open that bottle of Bud’ and ride with it. As the vocals emanate in that all too familiar spitty rasp the gritty low-slung guitar attitude spells the message ‘ you try touching that stop switch and we‘re gonna kick your ass‘ all the way across. ‘Rock Out’, ‘Boys Town’, ‘Method To My Madness‘, ‘Night Like This’, ‘7 Year Itch’, ‘Its Not Love’ and ‘It Ain’t Easy’ are hardly going to win them any awards for depth and soul searching anger but when has this kind of material ever needed to in order to merit its laurels? Classic stuff by these chaps, 20 years too late to get the full share attention it would have earned but nonetheless, compulsory for those who still care even the slightest midge about the genre. 9.5/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED
IF YOU LIKE: |
|
No Consequence - In
The Shadow Of Gods
(Basick Records – 2009) The first thing that came into my head was the confusing complex metal of early The Dillinger Escape Plan. This debut CD is a little over the top with its complexity and technicality. An 11 track CD that has more twists and turns than a 60 lap grand prix race. No Consequence are brutal with their metal and when they are playing a fine tune it’s really good but the complexity of it all lets it down, you don’t know if you are coming or going. A very fast and aggressive 11 track CD that also supplies 37 minutes of confusion. If No Consequence dropped the technical wizardry they would be very enjoyable to listen too. The blood curdling screams, the melodies and the hooks are great but I am trying to understand why they are doing what they are doing. Listeners want to rock and thrash about not think what the hell is going on. 6/10 By Tony Watson |
September |
|
Nothing - The Torture
of The Nameless
(S/R – 2009) Nothing are a very dark force from Melbourne Australia, who have been compared to Celtic Frost, Voivod and Coroner. Unlike Mortal Sin, Nothing aren’t as thrashy, but do know how to beat the living crap out of you. Nothing have released a source of pure energy with the darkest realms of death to engulf the ears with what is one of the most brutal things that have left the shores of Australia. ‘The Torture Of The Nameless’, is an 11 track riff driven collection of heavy tunes that are covered with guitar licks, jack hammer drums and a growl that is very close to Sabbat’s Dreamweaver. Overall this 51 minute collection of metal pushes Australia into a different league, AC/DC and Inxs did their style, Mortal Sin hit our shores with something harder but Nothing have definitely rocked the coastline with a Tsunami of unforgiven power. 8/10 By
Tony Watson |
June |
|
Name In Vain - S/T
(S/R – 2009) A four track EP that shows how this quartet intend to hit the world with their metal music. NIV arrange themselves around the energy and power of Pantera, Godsmack, Black Sabbath and Metallica, with an influence of Downset to supply the airwaves with a full on metal sound with aggressive vocals and pounding beats with violent guitar riffs that will get any thrasher slamming in the pits. For an unsigned band, I don’t think guys will be left on the shelf for long. Good luck 8/10 By Tony Watson |
|
New York Dolls –
Cause I Sez So
(Atco/Warner Music UK Ltd – 2009) Legends in Rock 'N' Roll as anyone who knows the scene will tell you. OK, not the best vocalist in the world, but David Johansen makes up for it in realism and passion for what he’s doing. Some real god songs here that include ‘Making Rain’; the ruling big-brotherness of ‘Cause I Sez So’; ‘Better Than You’ – so don’t try and slag off David’s lady!; the rather excellent bass and harp funkiness ‘Nobody Got No Bizness’ and even a remake of one of their old songs ‘Trash’. Cool album that was produced by Todd Rundgren. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Nightvision - As
The Lights Go Down
(Rocksector Records – 2009) A debut powerhouse of rock from a Lincolnshire four piece that know how to rock the house down. There are a couple of good solid, talented rock bands out at the moment, the first is Heavens Basement and the second is Nightvision. ‘As The Lights Go Down’ is a collection of power rock, metal, wide ranging vocals, energetic riffs, boom blasting drums and thunderous baselines, that jell together like bacon and egg sandwiches, absolutely gorgeous but can be a bit messy if rushed. Nightvision have the influences of Iron Maiden, Metallica and Guns & Roses to name a few that is expressed clearly through their new style of hard rock. The CD has 12 tracks that provide the listener 50 minutes of rock with a good solid base to stand on. This four piece have a long way to go and I don’t think they lack in talent to improve and produce a classic release. A very enjoyable listen. 8/10 By
Tony Watson |
|
No Made Sense - The
Epillanic Choragi
(Basick Records – 2009) This is what I call modern prog rock with a twist. NMS are a talented three piece from Reading, who produce a wonderful array of sound that captures every twinkling star and pushes it through a black hole to hit the world with more force than the heat from the sun. NMS wrap us up in a world of Tool, Neurosis and Mastodon, but hits the ears with the technicality of Voivod with a hint of modern Rush. A ten track epic tail of Syr Azure’s fight to save his own planet Milachis that waves it way over 70 minutes of pure bliss and excitement as one minute we are hit with melodic rock, prog rock but then encapsulated in the realms of thrash and speed that lifts our soul from the depths of hell. A very energetic band with a sound that will be applauded by all that hear. 9/10 By
Tony Watson |
|
Noxious - Revilutia/Timbre
(Destructist Music – 2009) First of all Noxious are an American hard rock/metal band with more power than a years worth of tornados. Influenced by COC, Led Zeppelin, Tool and Clutch to name a few, Noxious released their first EP Revilutia that is hard a fuck with the attitude to go with it. Revilutia I believe has not been released in the UK but if you can get a copy, it will put you in the same league as Drowning Pool, Alter Bridge and Creed but a bit harder. Where as Timbre has come back a step and has landed in the middle of Alice in chains with new versions of Broken and Fish Bowl that were released on Revilutia. Timbre is more melodic than Revilutia but at the same time it shows us two sides of this band, which is a perfect way to keep their fans interested and provide them with a different feel of enjoyment. Noxious are a band that are serious and should be taken seriously as these guys are not here today gone tomorrow sort of band. Both CDs are exceptional in their own right and both provide the listener with good solid rock. 9/10 By
Tony Watson |
|
Numero - Pygmalion
(Bcore – 2006) Apart from 3 years to get to us here at Metalliville.com I do think
this CD is also ten years out of date. This Spanish band have hit the
UK scene with melodic rock, jazz that may have been going around the
scene in Spain when they wrote it. I thought at first the music may be heading down the road of indie of even grunge but after a while I thought not. Numero are very distinctive in what they do, but become too involved with there complexity, which drones on for a bit trying to make up its mind whether to be Quicksand or Pearl Jam but either way it fails miserably. I must admit I got bored after a few listens, as it wasn’t going anywhere. Maybe if it turned up in 2006 I may have had a different opinion on it but today I don’t. 4/10 By
Tony Watson |
|
Nympho –
V.I.P Very Indecent People
(Perris Records – 2009) Immediately Nympho come across to me like a cross between Tuff, Shameless & Pretty Boy Floyd musically with typically styled vocals too. As I love them bands this is right up my street – streamline, well constructed sleazy glam. Main man is a dude called Chris Sexx (is that really his surname – lol) on vocals, Dick on Guitars, Olavo Barroka on Bass and Pablo Pinheiro on Drums who sock it to ya nice ‘n’ easy baby – the way you like it. 12 tracks for roxxing peeps out there to get excited about – it’s very cheesey and the best of Red Leicester, Cheddar and Stilton on offer include include ‘Ignited’; ‘Reason To Rock’; ‘Get Down (Nyphomaniac)’; ‘Green Lights Go’ & ‘T*ts & A**’. If those numbers sound as tacky as cheapo Christmas decorations then what about trying their excellent ballads like ‘Without You Tonight’ & ‘I Ain’t Over You’. Girls get ready if these boys hit your town! 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| March
2009 |
|
Nashville Pussy –
From Hell To Texas
(SPV – 2009) After seeing their recetly released ‘Live In Hollywood’ DVD I was really looking forward to spinning this and I weren’t disappointed either. This is pure sleazy, bluesy, southern sounding balls out rawking roll. Pure autographical and maybe fictional brilliance but with band members like these I wouldn’t like to say is which – lol. Somewhere between early AC/DC and Ted Nugent – this ia totally real, unPC, f*ck it all and see who digs kinda stuff with great numbers being the harmonica filled bluesness of ‘Lazy Jesus’; the get you into trouble ‘Drunk, Drivin’ Man’; ‘Dead Men Can’t Get Drunk’ that comes complete with opening falling beer bottles. Then there’s ‘Why, Why, Why’ that’s all about incestuous wrongness and lying with it’s fun-time 12 bar rockin country riff or the closing ‘Give Me A Hit Before I Go’ or the Stranglehold riffery of the title-track, ‘From Hell To Texas’. It’s one of those albums that can place you in a good mood no matter how bad your day has been. An easy top-marks CD. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Neonfly – Clever
Disguise
(S/R – 2009) Power Metal meets Folk Metal from the UK and more – mmm – these guys have got something here. A 5 track ep with the best numbers being ‘Reality Shift’; ‘Broken Wings; and ‘Ship With No Sails’ that have a kinda Blind Guardian & almost Helloween feeling to them. Check ‘em out. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Nico’s Alchemy
– Fundamental Darkness
(Dirty Dog Records – 2007) A brilliant all round guitarist with a band to match. Blues, Jazz, Rock, Metal or whatever is your fancy – it’s to be found on here. Kinda reminds me of Vai and Satriani all at the same time with many other elements thrown in as well. The many highlights include the opener ‘No Time For Sadness’; the heavy bluesy-fusioned ‘It’s Enough’; the excellent ‘Save Me Jesus’; the ambient with cockney-voice Jeff Beck like instrumental ‘A Leap In Space’; the rockin’ racing ‘Fading Away’ and the closing ballad ‘Miles Away’. Great album. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
December |
|
NOFLAG - Spit English
Or Die
(666 Production - 2008) NOFLAG are five crazy muther f*ck*rs who love hardcore metal. These guys are influenced by Dead Kennedys, Biohazard and S.O.D. With the list of bands mentioned you know exactly what to expect, we have a twelve track CD full of power, aggression, violence, anger and good hard metal. From the start of ‘Sexy 6’ to ‘I Found Your Brain Yesterday After The Party’ through ‘Spit English’ and ‘Deadbeat and Proud’ to finish with ‘Opportunism (S)kills’, gives an all out assault to the ears with pounding drums, power cords and screaming vocals that sometimes sound like Jello Biafra. An absolute must to tame a violent mind, once listened to your violence is directed through the music, which generates your own personal slam pit. 10/10 By Tony Watson |
November |
|
Necrodemon - Allegiance
To The End
(Short Notice Productions - 2008) This is a re-release for the international market. Necrodemon are from Indiana and have entered the market as a death thrash metal band. Allegiance to the end is your typical death/thrash metal that comes from Germany, with it’s grinding guitars, screaming vocals and pounding drums, but without the talent. All the way through this 11 track CD I hadn’t realized the tracks had changed, usually you tend to feel a bit of a change throughout the tracks but I must admit it just droned on with the pounding and screaming. You would think bands would try to be different and not release what had happened in the mid 80’s early 90’s Although the band will have a devoted fan base I do feel that the fan base will also wander what is it they are trying to achieve? It’s not as if we have Paradise Lost, Carcass, Bolt Thrower, Napalm Death or even Death here, we have a poor excuse for what thrash and death metal should be. If you buy CDs for their covers than this is one for the wall 5/10 By Tony Watson |
|
Necrodemon - Haunted
Eons
(Short Notice Productions - 2008) Like Allegiance to the end this is also a re-release for the international market. Necrodemon from Indiana and have tried to enter the market as a death thrash metal band but failing miserably. Like Allegiance to the end Haunted Eons is your typical death/thrash metal that comes from Germany, with it’s grinding guitars, screaming vocals and pounding drums, but without the talent. This 9 track CD is no different from Allegiance to the end, usually you tend to feel a bit of a change throughout the tracks or even the albums but I must admit it just droned on with the pounding and screaming. It’s not as if we have Paradise Lost, Carcass, Bolt Thrower, Napalm Death or even Death here, we have a poor excuse for what thrash and death metal should be. If you buy CDs for their covers than this is one for the wall 5/10 By Tony Watson |
|
Nightshade - The
Beginning Of Eradication
(Rising Records - 2008) French thrash music is a bit like waiting for a bus, you don’t have one turn up for months then three turn up at once. Nightshade are a brutal hardcore thrash band that will rattle the f*ck out of your speaker system with their deep hard heavy riffs and death chilling vocals. From the first note of ‘The beginning of eradication’ to ‘Bury you in terror’ through ‘Tapeworms for breakfast’ and ‘Eden’ there is no rest to the brutality these guys produce through the 26 minutes of horrific torture these guys put themselves through. Overall this is a collection of the most brutal metal around, which will put Napalm Death and Cradle of Filth to shame. 7/10 By Tony Watson |
August |
| Naughty
Boys - R U Naughty Enough A Swedish Melodic Rock band
who originally formed in 1989 with the final lineup complete in 1992
and sound very much like White Lion on this here platter.
8/10 |
| No
Quarter Given - The Embodiment Begins The embodiment begins, which is probably true as a statement reflects the gory side of death. This aggressive 5-piece band explode with more aggression and brutality than a nuclear bomb. With it’s full on hard-core thrash metal that bleeds the ears with every note played and screaming vocals wrenched from the depths of hell. The embodiment begins starts as it means to go on, and for a thrash head this isn’t a bad thing, but it’s nothing new and there isn’t anything that reaches out to say this is who we are and this is what we are capable of. Sorry guys
you only get.... 5/10 By Tony Watson |
May
|
| Nex – A Clockwork Heart Every so often a band falls under the Metalliville radar that, from their albums first spin, leaves us jumping up and down with excitement like schoolchildren on Red Bull. Be it their attitude, their songs, or their sheer machismo; these bands possess that ever important x-factor required to force any and all before them to bow down at their feet in sheer adulation of their greatness. Said band in question here are Huddersfield quintet Nex. Who, since forming in 2002, have been winning over crowds nationwide with their symphonically-tinged hard rock. Now, with a record deal firmly in hand, Nex look set to make 2008 the year they wave goodbye to murky venues and take their first steps towards becoming stadium flattening Demigods. But “Why the praise” you ask? Well, from the opening ivory twinklings of ‘In Pieces’, through to the head-crushing ‘The Revenge’, it quickly becomes evident that Nex offer something far more intriguing than the talentless streaks of piss largely encompassing the British Rock scene. Combining the melodic sensibilities of Avenged Sevenfold and the metallic power of Sweden’s Soilwork with cleverly intertwined orchestral dabblings; Nex have taken a tried and tested formula and remodel it to suit their own twisted ends, with astounding results. With songs such as ‘Tinkerbell’
and ‘Phantoms’ wielding the finest anthemic choruses this
side of Foo Fighters and stomping powerhouse ‘Dansylvania’
destined to batter even the sturdiest of listeners into submission with
its bruising grooves and Ed Dickinson’s stunning vocal prowess.
While sombre acoustic number ‘Ashes & Embers’ serves
as a fine precursor to the moshtastic allure of ‘Before The Storm’,
a vicious whirlwind of punishing Guitars and lightening-fast drumming,
both caustic and brilliant. 8/10 By
Tom Brumpton |
April |
|
Nazareth – The
Newz
(Edel Records – 2008) A decent enough album from some old vintage geezers from Scotland. The mix is horrible though – no bass at all in it – way too high ended for my liking even though some of the songs are pretty cool. Take the opener ‘Goin’ Loco’ for instance is a great song – ok, some of the lyrics are a bit corny but I’ll let them off for that. Highlights on here include the relaxing ‘Day At The Beach’ that’s a definite radio hit with its nice vocal harmonies; the boppin acoustic like ‘See Me’; the funky rock of ‘Mean Streets’; the pure AC/DC and dare I say it Airborness of ‘Road Trip’; the poppy rockin’ ‘Loggin’ On’ about you guessed it – the world wide web or the epic closing ballad ‘Dying Breed’. Be nice to see them play Sheffield this year at one venue or another. 7.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
| January
2008 |
|
Nobody’s Business
– S/T
(Angel Air – 2007) A band who should have been real big but either came too late or too soon – who can tell? Featuring Jerry Franks (Drums/Percussion/Vocals), Tony Stevens (Bass/Vocals), Bobby Harrison (Lead Vocals) & Joe Jammer (Guitar/Vocals) who came from bands such as Foghat, Snafu, Freedom & Olympic Runners. They had a snazzy collection of musical styles that included Southern Rock (‘Bleed Me Dry’ and ‘Tell Me You Love Me’); balladeering rock (Losing You); Slipper Stompin’ Funkin’ Rock ‘Cut in Two’; Disco Funk Pop (Living Up To Love); Blues Rock (Unsettled Dust; ‘Poor Little White Boy’) – you get the picture !! There’s awesome bonus tracks as well with my faves being ‘Rainbow Bend’ &’Highway’ of the Foghat/Hatchet/Skynyrd style all combined into one. You even get a bonus DVD too, that features the guys live in action on a TV show – do bands as goods as this exist anymore? If only they’d reform for a few gigs – I’m a No. 1 fan now for defo! Pity I was too young know about them when they were going. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
| November |
NATION
BEYOND - The Aftermath Odyssey Sweden are at it again as another promising new vehicle drives out onto the metal highway. Amongst those at the wheel here are ex members of other familiar names on Scandinavia’s map, including one geezer from sadly defunct 90’s thrash faves Face Down. Venturing a slightly less heavier road now, Nation Beyond are a dual vocal symphonic metal combo with one voice male, the other being that of a lay-dee, and hell do they work well in their role. Astonishingly more so, in spite of their heavily Dream Theater influenced produce, they lack a keyboard player in their ranks, opting instead for the twin guitar approach of Queensryche, to fans of whom this debut album will also appeal hugely. Tate and co in the mentioning, this conceptual piece begins not unsimilarly to ‘....Mindcrime’, kicking of with two small numbers including an instrumental, afore the full length cuts commence, and what beautiful cuts they are at that. Sara and Niels (seems we’re only allowed first names this time) share the mike as well as alternate in accordance with the direction of every tune and the lush silky string-meistery of their two axemen in both electric and acoustic form leaves both eyes and ears watering. ‘In The Ashes’, ‘New Eden City’, ‘The Council’, ‘Soulmates’, ‘war of The Wastelands’ and ‘Point Zero’ are six of the best but none of the twelve even hint at bad. A stunning mix of melodic metal and strong poetic feel that holds me in all the way through without letting go, N.B.’s first time out sets the standard for their second and all beyond. Superb. 9.5/10
By Dave Attrill |
| NUCLEAR
BLAST ALLSTARS - Out Of The Dark Following in principle what Jeff Waters did with his toasting new Annihilator disc ‘Metal’, the entire Nuclear Blast label’s roster now have a swipe at celebrating their 20 years in business, honouring the word of the genre by assembling an elite entourage of luminaries from across planet metal’s surface. These ten cuts are penned by former Soilwork guitarist Pete Wechers and some may consider the style a little too contemporary at times, given the duration of the illustrious career being spanned. In Flame’s Andreas Friden, Death Angel’s Mark Osogueda and Anthrax/Armoured Saint legend John Bush are undoubtedly the three names people are most likely to latch on to as their initial basis for lending this album their attention. All three sound great for their time, Bush and Osogueda in particular but placed on the same disc space as relative ‘recruits’ like the chaps from Wintersun, Kataklysm and not to mention Wicher’s Soilwork chum Bjorn “Speed” Strid, there is a notably even more meaningful air to it all. Sadly a one-off get together for these fellows, the racks turn out very well composed and surprisingly versatile, offering a blend of modern extreme and alternative metal that the old school men fail to ruin. The lion’s share of latterday troupes in representation on this combo have been subjects of Metalliville press (mostly positive) over the year hereto and it is hoped these impressive treats on the side will tempt you to check out their day trades. A severe Blast from the past ... and the present .... , for the Nuclear people - here’s also to the future, just to complete the set. Get this belter on and get the drinks in. 9/10
By Dave Attrill |
September |
|
Nine Inch Nails –
Capital G
(Interscope Records – 2007) This is more on the pop goth side than on the metal side – sort of more Beck meets Marilyn Manson which you wouldn’t usually expect from Trent Reznor – but then again – he can be rather unpredictable can’t he – catchy and funky sh*t goin’ down here. See the live reviews of him in the Reading 2007 page and also on the N section of Live Reviews. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
August |
|
NOID - Sleepless
Night
(Syncope) Haven’t missed ‘para...’ off the name there have you lads (I’m sure Ozzy wouldn’t mind). This Gallic outfit seem to have gelled together every credible elements of modern day metal and now proceed to sling the lot at us in eleven quite sharply aimed bucketfuls. A more commercially palatable version of Killswitch Engage isn’t impossible to imagine in hearing their resultant amalgam of influences, and their trash-trained guitar sound, not only in the mould of Anthrax but also hardcore/ metal legends the Cro-Mags, align the eras with a contemporary vocal range that, strangely enough, ably tees off on both. The more eagle eared may also be able to listen out for a progression precariously close to the lead riff from Filter’s ‘Hey Man Nice Shot’ on one number which I think I’ll kindly let you stumble across for yourself... and you’ll do this of course when you’ve bought this surprise belter of a European metal album. No one would ever hint without looking at the sleeve notes that these guys are actually French but at the end of the day, being good doesn’t mean being American. Get hold of this one if you can. 8/10 By
Dave Attrill |
Pre-August
2007 |
|
"Blast from the Past" Napalm Death - Harmony Corruption If your desire is to know what an ideal Death Metal album or more particularly
Napalm's best work to date, this one is IT. Some accusations here I've
heard is that Napalm copied the Floridian DM sound of the early 90's.
While I say yes there are similarities, I still feel Harmony is original
as is all the Napalm I've heard. Since I am a guitarist, let's look
If you haven't heard this album, the distortion is similar to Suffocations. Next, the riff writing was not overtly complicated and technical just heavy, fast and insanely intense. Their riffs are composed of bar chord usage, tremelo picked notes and single note grindage. Though yes I am a guitarist, my favorite feature of the album is the DRUMS. Why though? A name that may be long forgotten: Mick Harris. This guy tore it up his next to last effort with the band entirely his energy is astounding but yet his drum lines are basic and well fitting. One thing that will pump you up is the blast beating..If you have Live Corruption you'll know what I mean because you get to see him in action. One of the fastest and most intense experiences are viewed on Live Corruption. Mick kept the band intense, brutal and insane which is something they have lacked since his departure. Barney, his first effort with the band and best one to date. To compare, he's similar sounding to Frank Mullen - Suffocation but seems to have a sustain longer and more parts where he's bellowing: YAARGHHHHHH, THRASH, REIGNNNNNNNNNNNN, etc. It therefore makes things atypical and exciting. Another note here, John Tardy-Obituary and Glen Benton-Deicide are guest vocals for the song Unfit Earth. The promise of Harmony Corruption 2000 has ended without fulfillment yet this album remains in the Death Metal archives forever for being one of the best records ever made. Old Napalm Death is dead, long live old Napalm! 10/10 By
Death8699 (MethylinInfo@aol.com) |
| Erik
Norlander – Hommage Symphonique This ebony and ivory extraordinaire guides us through some of his favourite progressive rock pieces by some of his idols like Rick Wakeman (Sir Lancelot and the Black Night); ELP (Pirates); King Crimson (Starless) as well as a jazzman called Chuck Mangione (Children of Sanchez Overture). Kelly Keeling provides the faultless vocals throughout with another well known notable being ex-David Lee Roth Drummer ‘Greg Bissonette’. If you love your old 70’s cosmic classics then this is the one for you for defo. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
NOSTRODAMUS 0014 -
System Oversize Crashed (3-track sampler)
(S/R - 2006) Oh dear… I believe this band and I have had the misfortune to meet before. Nostrodamus 0014’s brand of sixth-division Strapping Young Lad –like screamcore didn’t quite do it for me last time round so I’m hoping things have pepped up a bit three years on. Well they have, thank f***, though just so. The vocals have changed ….well they haven’t but the guitars have progressed, hence many subtler moments than previously. Just a pity then that the tracks from this other band Neck they are supposed to be sharing this disc with are missing. A surprisingly welcome return for the first outfit, though. 6/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
Naked Beggars –
Spit It Out
(SMA Records – 2006) A new band that’s got two members of Cinderella in the band – these being Jeff Labar and Eric Brittingham. Inga, Erics wife takes care of the vocals, who does a splendid job – a full ‘n’ warm bluesy rock voice comes from that larynx of hers. I had a feeling this’d be a crackin’ album and I was completely right - with highlights strewn everywhere – this is party filled southern rock styled material meets the uptempo glamistry as well – imagine The Black Crowes with a female vocalist or something along those lines, but instead from the West Coast – highlights include the opening ‘Hole in the Wall’; ‘Spit it Out’; ‘Ain’t your mama’; ‘Nothin’ but trouble’ (with the violins – a la Charlie Daniels) and the a la Led Zep quiet number called ‘Lullaby’. They’ve played around the USA, now its time for the UK and Europe. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
Jan
- April 2006 |
|
NFD – Light
My Way (Single)
(Jungle Records – 2006) New release from some of the ex-Fields of the Nephelim members – let me tell ya that this is as good as material on their last album. Crucial Gothic Rock at its best – deep riffed and past paced. You get the radio edit amd another version that’s bracketed as ‘The Fog Descends’ plus another number called ‘Unearthed’ – a somber one at that. Now if this is anything to go by, the ‘Dead Pool Rising’ album looks like it will be the Goth album of the year. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| NASTY
KIXX - Hometown Blues
(Shotgun Generation - 2005)
For such people about to play this, get ready to be heftily disappointed - it is in fact the very scene that most of your type revile, just another yawn-inducing one-dimensional drag through poppunksville that stops not once to offer anything exciting interesting or nessecarily altogether catchy in the case of forty percent of these numbers and after two or three tunes I’m already struggling to find anything worth keeping this one spinning, though I still have to try it once through at least. Avoiding acting the killjoy as usual, fans are beckoned through wide open gates of course but for anyone who merely dislikes bands from this genre for the same reasons as I often do, I’d pass on this one if I were you. 5/10 By Dave Attrill |
|
NEW PROJECT - 2-track
sampler
Are you indeed? New project, eh? Not new IDEAS as well, by any chance? No, thought not, but a sturdy matching of industrial and thrash noise in both vocal and guitar context, stacked accurately on top of a sharp rhythm line, keeps me listening. Picture a more subdued Devin Townsend fronting Rammstein and you should have rough clue. Oh, by the way, lads, that does still mean it’s good. 7.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
NUCLEAR TRIBUNAL -
Attack Of The Salami Smokers from Venus
What….. is this some project by a couple of ex-Lawnmower Deth fellas or somefink ….. well perhaps not but this is the sort of title you’d expect from the defunct Brit Ska metal act, as are most of the sixteen song titles I’m looking at on the back of this sleeve. Anyone excited about content on that note needn’t be: the caption on the back stating ‘True Grindcore’ applies quite literally. Most of the tracks are relatively brief, , one or two lasting only about half a minute or so, and despite common genre associated growling, actually house very Metallica-drenched riffs all along that help evade tedium and allows the platter to pound its way by swiftly. The long and short of it is that these lads are very straight laced, style-wise, in contrast to the cover suggests so if you can stop laughing at the titles for a second and actually take their real musical attitude into account you would be making a wise movement. We’ve heard enough of this stuff before but keep it short and it becomes sweet. Typically angry music for typically angry people. 7.5/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
|
NATRON - Livid
Corruption
(Holy Records - 2005) Further average grumblings from the less-than-always-adventurous world of Death Metal come from another absolutely one-dimensional outfit who provide nothing I’ve not heard on at least several hundred previous occasions. Natron are another lot fooled into thinking that picking up a couple of guitars, just playing them continuously at 300mph and going ‘grrrrrrrr’ along to it is the key to making good music. The usual rule applies of course to people who take this music seriously - go ahead - but I didn’t need to listen further than the first two tracks to know what the story is for me here. No disrespect to the personnel of Holy Records, you didn’t write their songs, guys…. but it doesn’t sound too much like they did either. 5/10 By Dave Attrill |
2004 |
NFD
- No Love Lost It's dark, it's gloomy, it's
gothic and it's 100% attention capturing with enough guitar for the
rockers out there and deepness to suit all you goths. NFD feature members
of Fields of The Nephlim, Sensorium and Nefilim. 10/10 |
August |
NOTHING
- Nothing EP 1
Track 2, 'Rant' has a strongly notable eighties new wave vibe and stands out the easiest from the three accompanying selections and 'You All Ignore Us' sees a band actually trying to do the Beatles thing with feel. One to chase even for a few of the doubters. Don't ever say they give you….. nothing. 7/10 By
Dave Attrill |
March/April
2004 |
| NOSTRODAMUS 0014 - S/T (4-Track Sampler) (Self Produced - 2003) Let's be fair. We know a lot of bands like to make a bit of a somewhat tuneless-sounding din but not literally to such degrees of tunelessness as this French five-piece. Though Devin Townsend's puke-inducing shrieking of his earlier produce earned him legions of fans the world across, he didn't lean it overnight and this lot sound just like some half-baked attempt to cash in on Strapping Young Lad's laurels, despite some promising opening riffage at sporadic intervals. One of the later tracks sounds like taking off to somewhere at last but they're going to have to come up with some tunes that sound more like. tunes to succeed on any commercial circuit, even within their genre. 4/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Nov.
2003 |
| NFD
- Break The Silence EP
By featuring a couple of lads from the legends Fields Of The Nephilim, it's a good start to the roll of appeal, but the opening title cut of this EP leaves more to desire. Nothing to-o-o-o naff, just a rather directionless plodder of a tune that had not even the remotest of extra attractions. Then 'No Love Lost' takes off with a bang and a very 'Two Tribes' -ey feel to it. Goth rock sounds its greatest at this tempo and so it is sustained for 'Unleashed', also a worth selection for when/if we get any live work out of this promising new combo. First impressions are the most important as always and NFD have sailed merrily through the auditions. 7.5 /10 By Dave Attrill |
| Nexx
- Colours
The name Nexx has been of knowledge to me from reading the line-up for the Gods 2001 - which I was forced to miss - and all I've known up to acquiring this, their first album is that they are a female-fronted five-piece melodic rock act from Spain. Z Records have recently become host to hot new lady-let Swedish outfit Shiva with their stunning 10/10-rated debut offering so competition is called for from Z's rival label. Musically they bear passing resemblances for other reasons than just those obvious, to label-mates Dante Fox and Haven, the finger aimed almost straight at the latter. Silk- made melodies, woven by Patricia's stunning voice, and the band's tutored musicianship allows tunes like 'Arches of Faith', 'Get Fire', 'Indifference', 'After The Storm' and 'Good Time Comes' amongst numbers to sit in the front of the shop window with pride. To put you in the picture, think of Honeymoon Suite, Danger Danger, Whitsnake, Street Talk, Naro or also fellow Spaniards 92 Suite, albeit with a woman behind the mike stand, and there's little doubt you'll understand what Nexx's business deals in. Smashing. 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Pre-July 2003 |
| Narcoze
- Genoma
5/10
|
| NOVEMBRE
- DREAMS D'AZUR
(CENTRY MEDIA - CM77464-2) Rome's Novembre are a band that have made a massive impression both on the death metal and atmospheric metal scenes since their first release back in 1995 with 'Wish I could Dream It again'. As the above stated album sold out very quickly copies of the original CD are extremely hard to purchase and people are willing to pay in excessive prices for a second hand copy, Novembre decided to go back into the studio and re-record this wonderful original masterpiece and rename it 'Dreams d'azur'. With a perfect mixture of heavy guitar tunes and progressive death metal and the melancholy of gothic rock, Novembre have re-released a 12-track CD that timeless and at the same time modern, which gives the new fan base a chance to purchase a piece of the past. 8/10 By Tony Watson |
| Phil
Naro - Glass Mountain
(Z Records - 2002) Canada. That country again. That vending machine for some of the biggest bl**din' talent on this earth. And dispensed from the hatch of said proud principality comes one Mr Phil Naro esquire. The man, jointly responsible with Von Groove guitar supremo Mladen for those two brilliant 24K albums, and also that fist solo offering from 1994 which Z recently gave a fresh lease of life on record store shelves. So, yes, it's taken eight years for Phil to paste another one together though I think this chap uses something even stronger than paste to piece together this…. masterpiece. 'Hot For You' warms things up on at least gas mark 7 and as expected, the 24K comparisons become almost immediately legitimate. Minor cracks in the armour aren't far behind though. 'Love Is A Game', despite quite a build up fails to deliver with its chorus - not a dreadful song but it does addle the momentum. 'Glass Mountain', 'Donna' and 'Heartbreak In The Night' are back to form and then some, with Naro doing his very best to sound like Mike Shotton at every turn. 'Bad Boys In The Hard Luck City' is where the plug is pushed about as far into the Von Groove socket as can go and either way is a track conducting very high voltage. 'Find My Way Back To You' does just that. The song of the twelve without contest, that chorus harmony will fry you even through fully earthed wires. 'You & Me', already previewed on Z's 'Rock The Nations 2' sampler, is a damn fine tune despite the chorus lyrics being ever so sli-i-i-ightly on the clichéd side of things. The remaining tunes combine V.G. and 24K (again) with a blue grip as felt on the 'pure' album and are laced with some pleasantly old-style keyboard in the background alongside the guitars doing the job no other than how they should, courtesy of Steve Majors. Brighton Rock's Johnny Rodgers also sticks his strings round the door for a couple of tunes and Stan Miczek and Roger Banks, both known faces on the Toronto scene just had to be involved, didn't they, and why not? Surprisingly, Mladen's name doesn't appear anywhere in the credits (come on, you know he's probably using a false name in there, somewhere) but Phil Naro is man capable of walking it unaided in this industry. A very nice record, by a very nice chap, from a very nice country. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Ted
Nugent - Craveman
(Spitfire Records - 2002) So who's gonna end up getting speared by the Damn Yankee - well basically any Animal in hunting season or any human that gets up Teds back. Anyway, enough of taking the michael out of the simple cover - ye old strangleholdin' wango dango'd catscracher fires out a belter of an album that sees his greatness rub shoulders with drummer, Marco Mendoza and 21 year old Bassist, Tommy Clufetos. The T.N.B. give ya a fine old helping of new numbers such as the bellowing 'Klstrphnky' that's classic Ted gone Black Label Society - think he's been listening to a bit of the Wylde man myself and good on him as well. Ted, you've hit the nail on the head - even the kids'll dig this track. A lot of the album though is Nugent's classic style from the late 70's - good old rock - meat 'n' potatoe style with cracking guitar licks that the man is famous for. Good examples of which are 'Damned if you do', 'Roadogs and Warhogs'. There are also a few numbers though that are very Alice Cooper in his 'Constrictor' or 'Raise your fist and Yell' period like 'Change my Sex' or the in-your-face 'Pussywhipped' - what a video that'd be. The album buzzes with testosterone and ready to explode at any given second, especially on 'My baby wants my butter on her gritz- yet another track that's make an exceptional video - destinned to give the Washington wives something to moan about. All in All - a typical Ted Nugent album - just the way you'd want it to be. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Nasty
Idols - Best Of
Skid Row's Swedish equivalent - that's 'Nasty Idols' with a dose of Shotgun Messiah plus a tad bit of Dangerous Toys creepin' in there - you get the musical picture, Dude? or is that Dudess? They were formed by Andy Pirre and bassist Dick Quarfort. This is a collection from three albums and there's tons of highlights to lift yourself up on. Do you fancy a bit whore house ranting then unlock the door of 'House of Rock 'n' Roll' or the cock rocker complete with female moaning at the beginning titled 'The Way You Walk'. The essential crackin' of the cowbell is there in 'Dance of the Wicked' and then there's the gutsy, fast paced 'Alive 'n' Kickin' or the acoustic 'I can't get you off my mind' (well I presume it's called that as it's been left of the title sheet) with cool harmonica playin' goin' down. The bass led 'Do ya want another?' is a corka of a sex squarka with an warm welocome back return of the cowbell - it can't be beaten. The album only goes negative once and that's during 'Trashed 'n' Dirty' which concerns bad drug addiction. Overall, this album is a must from Glam fans the world over. 8/10 By
GlennMilligan, BA Hons CS
|
| Nebula
- Dos E.P's
8/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Ted
Nugent - Klstrphnky (from new album 'Craveman')
(Spitfire Records - 2002) Ted's gone totally different for this - coming across more like the Sabbathesque soundings of Zakk Wylde's Black Label Society with hard shouting vocals. Who'd have thought the Nuge would have come up with something like this - funky, dirty but very heavy with a few false starts. The kids will love it but I don't know what his fanbase will think of it - there's a fine line between love and hate - it's a case of sitting on the fence and seeing what happens. I reckon it'll get quite a bit of airplay (well apart from Britain - but they play hardly anything anyway) - because it's so cross-over. This number has you thinking - so what's the new album, 'Craveman' gonna be like - add it to the wait and see pile. I think it's preety awesome myself.
10/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Ted
Nugent - Full Bluntal Nugity
Bisons beware, mere mortals beware because Ted's back in town delivering the dirty hard red-neck rock all the way from the swamps of Redford. Captured live on New Years Eve on 31st December 2000 at the Palace of Aubern Hills, Detroit MI, Nug-head provides the answer to why the electric guitar was unleashed on this planet in the first place - quite frankly to provide us with the great sounds of Rock - nothing more, nothing less. We are told that it's '100% live with no overdubs' - the way it should be. 'Snakeskin Cowboys' is earth killing - well to be honest the whole damn gig is - if only he wouldn't keep reminding us how good he is - "Ted there's no need to continually brag - you're the King of the Riffs' on your side of the pond and have been for many years - the US equivalent of Angus Young, so shut up and get on with it". Anyway, back to the point, reviewing the CD or Gig should I say - many of the hits are here, the dirty power blues-rock of 'Free for all' the sleaze lyrical salute of 'Yank me, crank me', the legendary 'Cat Scratch Fever' or the screamin' 'Stranglehold' where Ted says to the audience "watch how simple it is - as long as you got the f*ckin' attitude" and he's got that alright. I best give the old f*cker a good mark or he'll be over the large pond, trackin' me down with his huntin' bag of tricks in hand ready to stick an arrow in my ass !! - well that'd be one way to get him across and while he's here - how about some gigs ? - what do mean we can't afford you ?? Stop press, he's playing London Astoria in June. 8/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| February 2002 |
| 91
SUITE - 91 Suite
(Vinny Records) Obscurity is a fascinating thing, one knows. You dig deep, you come across a disc by a new act, hardly anyone, let alone yourself has heard of, and when you dung it into the deck, their music more often than not, kicks your arse good and proper. That's very much the case with Spain's 91 Suite, and not just because they share part of their name with that of a certain Canadian act. I had a sampler CD from the Fireworks magazine last year which contained a track by this very promising young band and from then, haven't looked back so much as once. Granted, they don't quite push any parameters in rock, apart from the somewhat over-pop second track 'Down To You', and maybe one or two later cuts in the thirteen-strong listing. Within their own circle, 91 Suite are quite free to roam as their likely inspirations look down on them. Melodica, Danger Danger, Winger and Tyketto are but just a few. Stand-outer and aforementioned sampler track 'Time To Say Goodbye' vaguely nods at Hardline fave 'Everything' and 'The Day She Left' is to say the least picked from the 'Poley's Finest' handbook. 'All Is Gone', 'Give Me The Night' and 'Chance Of A Lifetime' rate amongst the golden nuggets but give me the night, and several more afterwards, I'll still be listening to an album like this practically non-stop. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| NUMBER
ONE SON - MAJORITY OF ONE
(VISIBLE NOISE RECORDS - TORMENT 9 CD - 2001) I must admit I have never purchased a CD at a gig until seeing Number One Son, I would say they come across between Korn, One Minute Silence, the heavy side of Incubus and Drowning Pool because of the distinguishing base lines the rhythmic vocals as well as the tight, but at the same time loose rhythms and pounding drum beats. 'Majority Of One' is probably one of the better CD's that are available from an underground band. Number One Son have released a CD that is full of excitement, energy and anger through hard heavy metal rapping vocals and simple beats which pounds through your speakers harder than a nuclear bomb. From the first track 'Contrasts' to 'Hourglass' through to 'Insert' and the mellow track of 'A Moment' Number One Son express themselves as a band with the talent, attitude and professionalism to make it big. I know very little about the band and or what they stand for but I can't wait to hear their next CD, If it is as exciting as 'Majority Of One' then we will have a band that will be around for along time, releasing music that will be enjoyed by millions.
By Tony Watson |
| Pre - 2002 |
| Naughty Naughty - Secret Hiding Place (Naughty Naughty - 1999)
Ernie Carletti
and the boys are here – 4 Metal Maniacs, originally from the ‘Get Away’ is
about an unwanted women and I especially like the line, ‘Off I’m quite astounded that Naughty Naughty aren’t on a well-known label like Music For Nations, Metal Blade or Eagle/Spitfire Records because they deserve to be – a band that have it all to give – and could be extremely successful with large label backing and full-on promotion. For more details check out the bands web site – www.naughtyevil.com
By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| NOCTURNAL
MORTUM - LUNAR POETRY
It's like I'm listening to the same death metal album for the third time today (after checking out the bands 'Coronach' and 'Epoch of Unlight'), but this album has an increase in length and melody. These Russian metallers Nokturnal Mortum can't be faulted for a single iota. Songs are back to being more epic in duration but retain the complexity in riffage. We also have another ingredient this time round - keyboards - which account for a far more interesting if not soothing listen to the cheese-grater-lodged-down-gob vocals that come as standard on black/death metal records. Some tracks herein contain hooks so musically brooding that you'd think they could have only written by Type O Negative only to be robbed by this lot in a dark alley one midnight. Paradise Lost wouldn't have minded one or two of these riffs either lads, but they just got there a bit too late to steal 'em. 'Tears Of Paganism', 'Perun's Celestial Silver' and 'Return Of The Vampire Lord' (predictable title or wha-a-at?) are top of the ten and the cover of Celtic Frost's 'Sorrows Of The Moon' is also worth your ears but the CD as a whole is a corker even if not exactly a million miles away from other stuff of its ilk. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| NOFX ? Pump Up The Valium.
This album has the affect any (good) punk band should have, it near on made me wet my pants. Main man, Fat mikes out of tune childhood brat singing wail is enough to do this alone, but when this is combined with some of the lyrical masterpieces only Nofx could produce its stunning... mom and dad 1 think you ought to quit smoking so much pot, Pure Genius! If you've ever heard Nofx you'll feel you already know this album. Nofx has good all round stupidly amusing songs, that take the pi** out of the music industry, the general public and most importantly themselves. They know they suck and they make the most of this, in their own words they 'aint no musicians', but to be honest this is where Nofx shine ? being so bad their good. In short if you don't like laughing, men that can't sing or accordions avoid Nofx you've been warned! As
far as lesbian obsessed fat men go - Nofx rule 9/10 |
| The
Nomads - Uptight
No they're not a bunch of strange travelling, camel riding weirdo's or whatever else their name might suggest - but are a Swedish 4 piece that could be the European equivalent of MC-5 or Iggy Pop with splashes of The Jam and Hanoi Rocks. With 13 up-tempo rockers to weave around your ears, The Nomads entertain without the need for a hard-faced, angry attitude that pollutes with content of too many bands to mention in these nu-metal days. The only problem with these guys is that you can't simply tell one song from the next and the previous number can be easily forgotten. The songs are played really well (so that's a plus) - but it's like listenin' to the same one over and over again. Pick out your fancy from these babies (which are excellent examples) - 'Can't keep a bad man down', 'In a house of gods', 'The Cold Hard Facts' (which is very Bo Diddly), 'Wish I was dumb' and 'I can't wait forever'. Vocally, Nick Vahlberg sounds like a cross between Kiss's Ace Frehley in a Michael Monroe (ex-Hanoi Rocks) phase. The other members are extremely tight and totally focussed on their punky style. The overall production mix is extremely professional - (this ain't no demo slapped together in someone's bedroom, like many albums of this type often sound like). It's most definitely all hats off to Stefan Boman and Chips K (of Decibel and Polar Studios in Stockholm), as well as the exceptional mastering of Robert Well (from Polar Studios too). This is an album for the up and coming 16-23 year olds who are getting bored with the current breed of nu-metal and U.S. college brat rock. As well as the more authentic of those of you out there still - who like their music a bit more true to its roots. I'm talkin' pure Punk style of course. 6/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
.jpg)
